Journalist Problems

by sickgurl13

Caroline is a journalist living in San Francisco. After finding her cheating boyfriend Tyler she starts to notice that her and her neighbor Klaus have a bigger connection then she thought. It all starts with one night, and a growing friendship. Is she ready to be more than just his friend, and is what she sees what she gets, only time will tell what Caroline is in for.

7. Chapter 7

A/N I know I know this update a month overdue and I apologize. I hope this long chapter makes up for it. As usual please leave me a review and let me know if any of this story doesn't make sense.

Enjoy!

Caroline slowly opened her eyes and felt her body moving up and down to the rhythm of Klaus's breathing. She smiled before she looked up to see him sleeping. In an attempt not to wake him Caroling thought she should try to roll off in a quick motion. Klaus twitched awake to her sudden movement thinking she was going to fall off the couch causing both of them to fall on the floor with Klaus landing on top of her.

They both busted into laugher, "So much for that plan" she said trying to contain herself.

"Are you alright sweetheart," Klaus smiles as he lifts his upper body up by his arms as she lies underneath him.

Caroline's laugher slowed to a light giggle as she locked eyes with him smiling. "Yeah," she said softly shifting underneath him.

He stared at her smiling admiring her messy blonde hair that found its way out of her pony tail from yesterday. Shaking his head lightly he was able to snap out of his thoughts, "Oh" he stammers and gets off Caroline and holds his hand out to her pulling her up from the floor.

She giggles, "Thanks and sorry I didn't mean to wake you," she smiled running her hands through her messy hair.

Klaus chuckled, "Its ok I ended up crushing you so I think were even." He smirked.

"Would you like some coffee?" Caroline smiled as she walked toward the kitchen.

He looked at the clock on her wall and it read 8 a.m. "I actually can't stay I have a flight to catch at 10." He picked the blanket off the floor placing it on the couch.

"Oh ok," she stopped by the kitchen table turning to face Klaus.

"Rain check," he smiled walking toward her front door and opening it.

"Of course," Caroline held the door as Klaus walked out. "I'll see you when you get back," she smiled.

"Defiantly, have a great weekend Caroline, I'll call you when I return," he smiled before he started walking toward his apartment.

She bit her lip nervously. "Klaus wait," Caroline said stopping him halfway down the hall.

He turns to look at her, "Yes."

Caroline opened her mouth, but the words didn't come out causing her to panic. She hurried and smiled "Have a safe flight." She said sighing.

Klaus smiled noticing her nervousness; he walked back up to her and kissed her on the cheek. "Thanks love, I'll see you later."

Caroline closed her door and leaned against it in a sigh. You've slept with that man twice already Caroline and yet you can't even ask him on a proper date, she pushed herself off the door shaking her head as she headed to her room.

---

Klaus headed straight to the shower after he got into his apartment. Quickly getting dressed in a black dress shirt and black slacks, he didn't bother to put a tie on as he rolled up his sleeves and grabbed his necklace. He retrieved everything he needed for his trip and started packing. As he zipped up his luggage he heard his phone go off on his dresser.

"Good morning Elijah," Klaus walked back to his bed and sat down.

"Morning Niklaus, why weren't you answering your phone last night?"

"I was occupied last night brother I'm sure you understand," he smiled replaying last night in his head.

"Yes well you know I don't find it amusing to be ignored."

"Of course, but don't worry everything is set for this evening. It will go smoothly as all my jobs have." Klaus said in a stern tone.

"Good this is a sensitive case Niklaus I'm sure you understand my concern. Also I have an update, Kol is already in New York with Mr. Jordan, and he says that he is not conflicted with the sudden denial of his invitation to stay at his pent house."

"Good this whole thing could have been avoided if Damon wasn't such an idiot."

"Yes Mr. Salvatore proves his talents are quite one sided."

A silence fell between them.

"Well Elijah as much I love this pep talk I have a plane to catch," Klaus looked at the clock on his night stand noticing it was almost 9 a.m.

"Niklaus job details were not the only reason I called."

"Well brother out with it or else I am going to miss my flight," he stood up from his bed grabbing his luggage as he headed down the hall.

"Tatiana came to see Katherine and me last night. She was rather distraught to say the least."

"What does that have to do with me brother, I don't care for Tatia anymore and honestly I thought you lot were done with her to," Klaus rolled his eyes as he retrieved his ticket from the kitchen counter.

"She is still Katherine's sister Niklaus, and we better than anyone know the importance of family."

Klaus sighed, "Again what does this have to do with me."

"She informed Katherine that she was moving back to San Francisco for good," Elijah paused. "She is hoping to rebuild what the two of you had."

"WHAT!" Klaus growled as the grip on his phone tightened. "There is nothing to rebuild Elijah."

"I am aware of that Niklaus, but that does not change the fact that she is going to be here."

"Keep her away from me Elijah," he said through gritted teeth. "I have spent the last year getting her out of my life, and I don't need her to come in fucking it up." He said nearly shouting. "I love Katherine as a sister, but Tatiana I do not have a problem making disappear."

"Niklaus! Don't be a fool you loved this woman once, and I understand what happened was not ideal but even you are not that kind of monster."

"Are you willing to test that theory brother?" his tone threatening. "Keep her away from me Elijah, and any information you have about her please keep it to yourself." Klaus hung up his phone the anger boiling inside of him as he flung open his front door to be greeted with a smiling Caroline about to knock.

He sighed, "Caroline…I needed something sweet before I left." He smiled.

She chuckled as she lifted up her hand for him to see his beaded necklace dangling from her finger. "Happy to help but it seems you're missing something," she grinned handing it to him as her eyes admired what he was wearing.

Klaus took his necklace smiling, "yes it seems I was. Thank you darling." He put the necklace around his neck and walked out of his apartment to lock it. Klaus turned around with his luggage in one hand and smiled at Caroline. "I have to go now sweetheart I'm running late for my flight."

"Of course," she shooed him with her hands. "Don't want to miss your flight." She smiled.

Klaus chuckled before he let go of his luggage and gave Caroline a hug whispering against her ear. "Thank you for returning my necklace, I'll call you when I get back."

Caroline smiled against his neck as she pulled away nodding.

He grabbed his suitcase and walked toward the elevator as Caroline went back to her apartment.

Caroline smiled as she closed her apartment door because since she's been hanging out with Klaus it seems butterflies have taken residence inside her stomach. Her phone started ringing in her shirt pocket causing her to twitch. .

She smiled at the caller ID, "Hey Matty, are you on your way over?" After Klaus left Caroline cleaned up, and got ready for the day with a nice shower and fresh clothes. She slipped on black leggings topped with a red and black checkered button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up before slipping on her black ankle boots waiting for Matt to call her. She blow dried her hair so her natural curls would pop more and applied some light make-up.

"Hey Care, yeah I am I just got a cab so I should be there in about 20 minutes."

"Great would you like to go out to eat or do you want me to make something," Caroline pushed herself off her door and walked into her kitchen to investigate what she had to cook.

Matt chuckled, "Why don't you just wait for me outside your apartment building so you can hop in, and will go to the café."

"Oooo do I finally get to meet the mysterious chef that has the hot's for my husband," she smiled leaning against her kitchen table as Matt chuckled on the other end.

"His name is Ben, and he's just a friend Care."

Caroline rolled her eyes mumbling "for now?"

"What?"

"Oh nothing I'll meet you down stairs," she giggled before hanging up her phone.

Matt and Caroline arrived at the café by just after 10, and she loved that her and Matty were seated by the window. It was a beautiful day in May outside and Caroline wanted to enjoy it. She didn't need a jacket today because it was nice out, and she loved the way the sun felt on her skin.

"So," she picked up her menu scanning the page. "What's your boyfriend's specialty?" she peered over the menus to meet a scowl from Matt.

"He's not my boyfriend, he's a friend, and trust me his food is delicious," Matt smiled as he lifted up his menu. He was wearing a black sweater vest with a white button up shirt and the sleeves rolled up showing off his forearms. He topped it off with a pair of dark blue jeans and black boots.

Matt may have been a bartender, but that was just to earn some income while he finished up his law degree at Berkeley Law School. He was only one semester shy of being a lawyer.

"Hmm if he wasn't your boyfriend then why are you dressed to—"Caroline was cut off as she felt him kick her under the table as a handsome brunette in a chef uniform walked up to their table.

"Ben," Matt smiled putting his menu down.

"Matt this is a nice surprise, are you trying to get a free brunch out of me," Ben teased leaning down to give Matt a quick hug.

Caroline smirked when she saw Matt blush, but his eyes light up as the tall built brunette stood next to their table.

"No I'm here with my best friend," Matt motions toward Caroline. "Ben this is Caroline Forbes, Caroline this is Ben McKittrick."

"Nice to meet you," she smiled holding out her hand.

"You're Caroline," Ben said cheerfully as he shook her hand. "I must say with as much as Matt talks about you I was wondering when we'd finally meet, and can I just say you are gorgeous."

"Awww thank you and Matt has mentioned you a bit as well. I was about to twist his arm so I could meet the "hot chef" of café. Oww," Caroline huffed as she leaned down to rub her shin.

Ben started laughing, "The hot chef I don't know about that, but Matt doesn't look too bad himself." He smiled at Matt.

"Yes well now that you both met," Matt said trying to draw attention away from his blushing cheeks. "What's your specialty today Ben?"

Ben clapped his hands together smiling, "You two are in for a real treat. I'll bring you the lunch specials since it's after 10, and lunch is on me today." he opened his arms smiling. "In honor of meeting the lovely Caroline, I'll bring you two a glass of wine." He put his hand on Matts shoulder squeezing it before he left.

"I like him," Caroline leaned forward looking at Matt watching him walk to the kitchen.

"Me to."

"HA I knew it!" she pointed at Matt smiling.

Matt put his hand on his face, "Shit."

"Why don't you go on a date with him Matt, he sounds like a wonderful guy," Caroline tried to contain her grinning as she was talking.

"Because we're just friends Caroline that's all we ever hang out as," Matt said as he put his hands on the table.

Matt met Ben at Envy over 6 months ago when Matt had to break up a fight between some drunken idiots and Ben happened to step in and help him as he was about to get punched in the face. Matt bought him a drink and they've been talking since.

"Pish if you two are just friends then I feel cheated because you don't look at me like that," Caroline grinned.

"Oh Care," he places his hand on hers. "I don't like vaginas."

Caroline busted out laughing pulling her hand from his smacking him. "Jerk, but seriously Matt I see the way you look at each other at least give it a chance." She leaned back in her chair chuckling.

"Like the way you're giving Klaus a chance?" Matt raised his eyebrows at her smirking.

She blushed looking down, "That's different."

"Oh please you two were basically having eye sex that night at Envy."

Caroline giggled, "I like him that's true, but after last night I think we're in the friend zone for now."

"What happen last night?'

"Well we're both kind of damaged from our exes and as much as I would enjoy actually going on a date with him I think for now it's best we stay friends for a bit," she shrugged her shoulders a little.

Matt shook his head, "I'm sorry Care but that is a lame ass excuse from both of you. Everyone's got baggage and if both of you are in the same boat what makes that such a bad thing?"

Caroline sighed, "I don't know." She paused twiddling her thumbs. "I almost asked him on a date this morning."

Matt's eyes widened, "Really…what stopped you?"

She threw her hands in the air, "I don't know the words just didn't find their way out of my mouth."

Matt laughed, "Oh Care you got it bad. If I recall correctly you were the one to ask out Tyler. Hell you asked me out."

He grinned recalling how he met Caroline when they were still undergraduates 6 years ago. They were at a college bar near Berkeley where he worked as a bus boy it was his first job in San Francisco before he discovered he had a knack for making drinks. She was there with her friends and smiled at him throughout the night. Being a nice guy Matt returned her gestures not thinking much of it, until she came up to him a little drunk and started flirting with him shamelessly.

Caroline laughed, "Oh my god I made a complete fool of myself that night, and trust me that girl's confidence has been shaken thanks to the last guy she asked out."

"That's understandable, but she's still in there. She's just hiding a little," Matt smiled as he reached for Caroline's hand. "Care I'll make you a deal. When you finally go on a date with Klaus or a date in general, I'll ask out Ben."

Caroline grinned mischievously, "You got yourself a deal Mr. Donovan."

"Ok Caroline, Matt, lunch is served," Ben walked up to the table with a tray. "Today's special is a turkey warp with corn and sun-dried tomatoes with a side spring salad topped with olive oil dressing. It is fresh and if my instincts are right with you Caroline I think you'll enjoy it," he smiled placing her plate in front of her.

As the smell of fresh salad and turkey hit her nostrils Caroline smiled at Ben, "It looks delicious Ben thank you."

"I'll bring you two a glass of white wine, enjoy" Ben said lightly as he winked at Matt walking away.

Caroline giggled noticing Matt blush as he placed his napkin in his lap, "Hey Matty." He looks up from his plate raising his eyebrows at Caroline. "Enjoy" she winks seductively with her fork in hand before taking a bite of her salad.

Matt chucks a piece of lettuce at her laughing.

Matt and Caroline sat and talked at the café for hours with Ben joining them after they finished eating. Caroline found out that Ben finished culinary arts school back in Boston, where he's originally from, and he moved out to San Francisco on a whim and never looked back. When she told him about her job he was impressed telling Caroline that he's has more reason to pick up the paper.

"Well Caroline it was lovely meeting you," Ben stood up from the table as Caroline and Matt stood up to get ready to leave.

"Yes Ben we should do this again," she smiled leaning over to give him a quick hug. "Maybe you can cook for me at my apartment." She smirked.

Ben chuckled "I have a feeling you're going to want me at your apartment more often."

Caroline giggled, "Maybe, Matt I'll go get us a cab." She tapped his shoulder and left the café.

"Well," Matt clapped his hands together. "What did you think?"

Ben smiled, "I like her she's got spunk."

Matt chuckled, "She's a great friend. Well Ben thanks for lunch it was wonderful."

"Oh no problem," Ben smiled as he stepped toward Matt. "Let me walk you out." He places his hand on the small of his back guiding him outside stopping by the café door. "Ok Matt this was fun and I hope to see you and Caroline again." Ben leaned in and gave Matt a hug and kissed his cheek. "Call me later."

Matt smiled as he watched Ben walk back toward the kitchen rubbing his cheek before he walked outside.

Caroline was standing at the edge of the side walk hanging up her cell phone noticing it was after 1 p.m. "Hey I just called a cab they'll be here in a few minutes."

"Ok sounds good, so what do you want to do now?" Matt shrugged as he stepped next to Caroline.

"Well are you in a hurry?"

"No Tyler knows I am bringing him his stuff, but I never told him when," Matt smirked. He was still sour toward his best friend for what he did to Caroline, but Tyler was still someone Matt cared about.

She chuckled "Well since you're in no hurry, would you like to watch a movie?"

"Hmm not really it's such a beautiful day outside," Matt scrunched his nose a little.

"True, well are you up for a little history?" she lifted her eyebrows at Matt smiling.

"What did you have in mind?"

"I have been meaning to visit the Cable Car Museum again. I haven't been there since I first moved to San Francisco," Caroline smile faded when she saw Matt look at her with one of his eyebrows lifted. "What, do you have something better in mind?"

"As much as I would love to go to the Cable Car Museum, how about we do a little shopping down at union square instead?"

Caroline grinned as their cab pulled up in front of them, "who doesn't have time for shopping?" Caroline stepped off the sidewalk and opened the cab door.

She and Matt haven't been shopping together since she got hired at the Chronicle and she needed to update her wardrobe. She was in need of new lady garments and Union Square had the best lingerie stores she ever came across. Oh what the hell she thought as they sat in the back seat of the cab; maybe I'll buy me some new shoes.

"I know that smile," Matt chuckled. "Planning your attack?"

Caroline nudged him with her shoulder, "I am determined to find me a cute pair of shoes and some nice lady bits."

"Oh getting some new lingerie, I didn't know it was going to be that kind of shopping." Matt chuckled. "Are we going polite school girl or temptress?"

Caroline giggles, "Let's say a little of both."

Matt smiled as they made their way downtown. He didn't shy away from fashion. It was a guilty pleasure because even though he could watch a football game or enjoy a night out with his dude friends, he could always be Caroline's main fashionista.

Caroline's phone started ringing as soon as she and Matt got out of the cab. "Hey Elena what's up?" she smiled as her and Matt walked down the sidewalk toward Belle Prima Lingerie, a fine French lingerie shop in Union Square.

"Hey Care I was wondering if you had any plans are the moment?"

"Actually I'm downtown with Matt, we're about to go shopping" Caroline chuckled when she heard Elena scoff on the other side of the phone.

"Ugh without me, how dare you to. I am you're best friend where was my invite?"

Caroline giggled, "I haven't heard from you in a few days I thought you fell off the face of the earth."

"I have just been crazy busy the past few days, I got a new client and everything but I'm free the rest of the day. Where are you two I want to join in this little outing? I can't remember when I last went shopping with Matty."

Caroline smiled, "We're walking toward Belle Prima in Union Square."

"Oooo I could use some new lingerie. I will see you in 15."

Caroline looked at her phone laughing as Elena hung up "Elena will be joining us. She didn't take it lightly that we're out shopping without her." She slipped her phone in her front shirt pocket.

Matt chuckled, "The more the merrier. I haven't been shopping with my wives in a long time so this should be interesting. As long as you two don't fight for my attention." Matt lifted his eyebrows at Caroline recalling the last time they went shopping. Elena and she basically did a fashion minute so fast competing for Matt's attention as he sat in the lounge chair with a glass of champagne.

Caroline chuckled, "Don't worry we were still 'kids' and plus I was way hotter than Elena."

Matt wrapped his arm around Caroline as they continued to walk down the street, "I love both of you and you two have looks that could kill."

Caroline smiles as she wrapped her arm around Matt's waist as they slowly walked down the street killing time by window shopping.

"Oh look at those boots," Caroline stopped in mid stride as she looked into display of a small boutique. "I want."

Matt looked at the black 5 inch suede boots that went half way up the calf with blood red under covering, "They suit you, do you want to try them on or head to Belle's first?"

Caroline looked at her phone Elena was meeting them in a few minutes. "Let's go look at Belle's first but I will come back for those." She smiled as she linked his arm with hers noting the closing time of the store as they walked off.

They made it to Belle's right when they saw Elena getting out of a cab. "Elena" Caroline waved her hand in the air seeing Elena's long hair flip with her movement.

"Care," Elena waved excitedly as she gave her money to the cab driver and walked up to her and Matt hugging them both. "I miss you two. It's been forever since we had a girl's day."

"I know," Matt and Caroline said in unison before giggling.

"Shall we?" Caroline motioned toward Belles grinning. She hasn't shopped for cute lingerie in a while, even when she was with Tyler because he never appreciated the effort. He thought that it was unnecessary because the garments were to 'hard' for him to take off.

Elena held open the door as Matt walked in followed by Caroline. They all stood at the entrance of the store smiling as their eyes scanned the small boutique.

Caroline saw some cute sexy black lace on a manikin off to the side and went to go investigate as Elena walked to the cute corsets and Matt sat in a lounge chair by the dressing rooms waiting for his girls to decide.

Caroline and Elena weren't ashamed or scared of trying on intimates in front of Matt because he always had the best opinion about which one worked best. It started out with swim suits when they were in college and grew from there, they run by most of their major shopping choices by him.

When they found out that Matt was studying to be a lawyer it was shocking because he could have been a great fashion writer, but he loved the law it was something he wanted since he was a kid. His sister Vicky was always in trouble growing up, and him still being a kid himself never really knew how to defend her. He would often end up in the cell next to her because of his arguments with the judges and cops of their small town, and now he wanted to get it right with an education.

Matt was in the middle of texting Ben when he saw Elena and Caroline make their way into the fitting rooms. He smiled telling Ben "it begins." Matt sat there giggling hearing Caroline and Elena talk about work and how stressed they've both been. Matt enjoyed being a bartender but his job wasn't stressful, exciting at times and tiring but not stressful.

School on the other hand was what took up most of his free time when he had it, he was happy the semester was almost over and by the end of May he would only need Fall to get through, he was also going to start his paralegal job at the Lockwood firm in June.

He would be working close with Tyler and his father, it was a wonderful opportunity that he earned himself, even though Tyler offered to just give him the job he wanted to earn it, and he did through the interview processes with the other partners and his work.

Since he worked a lot of nights and weekends he made sure his weekdays were spent in the library or his apartment finishing up school work. He was happy to find that today was the day he didn't have work or homework because it gave him time to see his friends.

"Matty, are you ready," Caroline yelled snapping Matt from his daydream.

"Of course, bring it on ladies," Matt chuckled as he crossed his legs and waited for them to fling back the curtains.

Elena counted down from three and both of them flung the curtains open as Caroline was wearing a cute black lace set where the bra had a small red bow in the middle and ruffles lining the cup area. She topped it off with the garter belt attached to fish net stocking and some black lace panties with red bows on her hips. Elena was wearing a black lace top that stopped just above her belly button and topped it off with black and yellow ruffled boy shorts. Caroline and Elena smile and twirl around for him.

Matt smiled and clapped "Well done ladies, you're getting better at this. I love both of them."

"Next?" Matt shooed them away with his hands causing them to laugh. Caroline gave Elena a high five before they strutted back into the fitting room and smiled at Matt closing their curtains.

Caroline and Elena modeled several sets of lingerie before Matt decided the top two for them. Caroline smiled as she purchased her intimates because she couldn't help but think if Klaus would be the first to see them.

Matt smirked at her as he slipped his phone in his back pocket, "So are you looking forward to modeling those for someone other than me?"

She smacked his arm as the cashier handed her a bag. "I bought these for me Matt. I needed a little spice in my life and these," she held up her bag. "add it."

Elena started laughing, "Is she denying how much she wants Klaus to rip her clothes off?"

"Elena!" Caroline yelled a little as her eyes widened.

"What, you know that's what you want," Elena shrugged taking her bag from the cashier. "Right Matt, you saw the way they acted together at Envy."

Matt smiled but stopped when he saw the glare Caroline was giving him, "What? Care it's true you two have something and if I am not the only one that sees it that says something." He held his hands up in defeat.

Caroline looked at her feet smiling shaking her head, "You two don't' know what you're talking about. Klaus and I are just friends and that is where it's going to stay. So stop with the hints of me wanting him to rip my clothes off."

"But you don't deny it do you," Elena smirked with her eye brows raised staring at Caroline.

"I don't deny that I like him, but as a friend," Caroline walked past Matt and Elena hoping to avoid this conversation a little more and the blush creeping up on her cheeks.

Matt and Elena chuckled as they followed her out of the store.

Caroline looked at her phone and noticed that they were in the lingerie store for a long time because it almost 5 p.m. she picked up her pace because the shoe store they passed closed at six and she wanted those suede boots.

"Care slow down," Elena yelled as her and Matt picked up speed to catch up with her.

"She must really want those boots," Matt chuckled as him and Elena finally caught up to her.

Caroline smiled as they reached the shoe shop walking in searching for an employee.

"Hello, how can I help you?"

Caroline smiled at the nice salt and peppered hair lady, "Yes I would like to try on those black and red suede boots from the display window in a size seven please."

"Yes those boots are beautiful. Let me go check in the back for your size. Please have a seat," she motioned to the seating area with a couch and lounge chair.

"Thank you," Caroline replied happily as she placed her shopping bag on the floor next to the chair sitting down and unzipping her boots.

Elena started looking around the shop and saw a pair of black strappy 5 inch heels that crisscrossed just past her ankle.

"Excuse me," she stopped the lady before she was out of sight.

"Yes?"

"Can I get these in a size seven please," Elena smiled as she handed the older lady the shoe.

"Yes of course, I'll be right back."

"Thank you," Elena said excited as she walked back to the seating area and plopped next to Matt on the couch.

"I like this store they have cute shoes," Matt said as he scanned the little store with shoes displayed along the walls.

"Right, those boots are to die for. When I saw them in the window I had to have them" Caroline giggled as she wiggled her toes free from her boots.

"I needed a new pair of heels and those strappy heels look gorgeous, maybe they'll be what I wear for Damon when he comes back from his business trip." Elena smiled as she ran her hands through her long hair.

"Damon, so are you two dating now?" Caroline asked because the last time Elena and she hung out when they were redecorating her living room she didn't really mention her time with Damon. Caroline figured it was a one-time thing.

Elena shrugged, "We're hanging out and fooling around, but I wouldn't say we're dating."

Caroline chuckled, "So he's just another guy?"

"Yes, a very hot one."

"You've dated plenty of hot guys Elena and every one of them never lasted as long as him," Caroline raised her eyebrows at Elena. "So what makes Damon different?"

Elena scuffed, "Care you're thinking too much into it."

"Do you like him, like actually like him?"

Elena avoided the question, "So Matt how's school and work. The semester is almost over isn't it?"

Matt looked between her and Caroline holding up his hands, "Girls I love you both but I'm not coming between this conversation. Elena you have a better chance of just answering her."

Elena rolled her eyes turning her attention back to Caroline who was sitting with her arms crossed. "This is an unfair situation so I will make you a deal Caroline." She smirked. "I will answer your questions about Damon if you answer mine about Klaus."

"What, what does Klaus have to do with what we're talking about," Caroline sat back in the chair.

"Oh he has everything to do with it. We went to dinner with Damon and Klaus that night, and now here we are with both of them still in our lives," Elena smiled as she slid off her cardigan.

Caroline rolls her eyes, "Fine. Ask away Elena."

Elena smiled in glee as she rubbed her hands in front of her. "Alright, for starters have you slept with him?"

Caroline eyes widened, "What, no."

Elena shrugged, "That's disappointing, do you—"

"Hey hey it's my turn," Caroline held up her hand. "Do you like Damon as more than just a fuck buddy?"

Elena narrowed her eyes, "Yes, but that doesn't mean anything. We like each other's company and that's good enough. Now my turn," Elena pushed her hair behind her ears. "Do you want to go out with Klaus?"

Caroline just stared at Elena not knowing how to answer that question.

"Well," Elena said lifting her eyebrows.

"It doesn't matter if I want to go out with him or not, we're just friends."

"That's not answering my questions Caroline. Do you want to go on a date Klaus?" Elena said emphasizing on each word as she asked her again.

Caroline started twiddling her thumbs before whispering, "yes."

Elena grinned in triumph, "Well that's that then."

Caroline straightened up her posture and looked at Elena, "One more question, do you want to be in a real relationship with Damon, the monogamy, the whole nine yards."

Elena leaned toward Caroline and narrowed her eyes, "Do you want that with Klaus?"

Matt was sitting there watching both of them stare each other down, "Alright ladies I think that is enough you two got the answers you wanted. Oh look she's bringing your shoes." Matt pointed toward the lady carrying their boxes hoping to lighten up the tension. He thought it was entertaining to see Care and Elena get into a show down until the tension between the two of them got to intense. Both of them are hard headed so they never back down.

Caroline broke her gaze with Elena and leaned back in her seat with Elena following suit.

"Alright ladies here are the suede boots," she hands the box to Caroline. "And here are the strappy heels," she hands the box to Elena. "If you need different sizes or any help just let me know. My name is Nicole by the way." She smiled before walking away from them.

Caroline took her suede boots out of the box and smiled running her hands along the fabric of the shoe and admiring it before she slipped them on. She stood up and walked around for a bit smiling. "I like these they're not too bad on my feet."

Elena stood up in her heels and smiled walking around, "I love these shoes, and they tone my legs like crazy." She said smiling as she looked at herself in the mirror with her skinny blue jeans and off the shoulder white top. She looked at Caroline and smiled seeing her boots. "Care those boots look killer."

"Right, those heels look great," Caroline smiled looking down at Elena's feet. "I think we're sold."

"I think so," Elena giggled as she sat back down on the couch.

Caroline walked around one more time before taking a seat and sliding off the boots. "I can't wait to take these out for a night in San Francisco." She giggled as she started zipping up her boots.

Elena smiled as she put her heels back in the box and slipped her flats back on. "So what are you two doing for the rest of the evening/"

Caroline picked up her box and stood from her chair smiling, "Matty is coming over to my place for a bit other than that I don't have anything else going on this evening. Why what are you up to?"

"I have a business dinner tonight with my new client, I don't know why he wanted to meet on a Saturday night but as his rep I'm obligated to go," Elena sighed picking up her shoe box after she slipped on her black cardigan.

"That sucks," Caroline said as she walked toward the cashier. "I'm on editor duty for the next few weeks because Jessica is preparing for her vacation next week, she'll be gone for a month. My intern is going to be the one taking over a lot of my reporter assignments. Well the ones she can handle anyway." She giggles handing Nicole her shoe box.

"I am so thankful to have an assistant, she works wonders with my schedules," Elena smiled handing Nicole her box.

Caroline nodded in agreement, "My intern April has the techniques of a journalist down, she's definitely got that writers itch but she has yet to tap into her writer spirit. I'm hoping her time spent with me at the Chronicle will light that spark."

Elena giggled, "I wish I was as enthusiastic about writing as you are."

Caroline shrugged smiling as she pulled out her wallet from her purse handing Nicole her Credit Card. "Oh this is going to be the last shopping trip I go on for a while. I went way over my usual limit this time." She chuckles signing the receipt. "But…" she grabs her new boots. "worth it."

Elena chuckled as she signed her receipt and grabbed her shoes. They both look at Matt smiling as he puts his phone back in his pocket by the door.

"Ladies," he holds open the front door.

Caroline and Elena linked arms and walked out of the shop yelling thank you to Nicole as they exited.

"Matt can you call us a cab," Elena smiled as she grabbed his arm.

"Sure," he pulled his phone out of his back pocket.

"Care you know I love you," Elena smiled as she stopped the group at a bench.

"I know Elena I love you to," she smiled as they took a seat.

"I really think you should give Klaus a chance Care."

Caroline sighed as she put her bags down by her feet. "Elena it's not that simple. It's only been a few weeks since what happen with Tyler, and I don't know I just don't think I'm ready.

Elena rolled her eyes, "yes it is that simple Care. You like him and from our night out with him he likes you. I think you owe it to yourself to find out if you two have a shot together and I know what happen with Tyler sucked, but it was for the better because you got Klaus."

Caroline shrugged her shoulders, "Why are you giving me advice when you can't even do that with Damon. You haven't dated anyone seriously since college Elena."

"I know, I'm just protecting myself. Why do you think I just date and dump guys so quickly, I don't want them to stick around long enough for me to get hurt physically or emotionally anymore I'm stronger then that now. After what happen with Noah I swore I would never be in that type of relationship again."

"Care, Elena" Matt interrupted their conversation standing in front of them. "I have been with you two for a long time; I know everything about you two. I was there when Noah happen, hell I remember beating him senseless when Elena came home with bruises. I was also there for Tyler, Care I saw how you loved him but I also saw how you wanted more and Tyler was never going to give it to you."

He grabs both their hands and leans down in front of them. "Look you two have been through a lot there is no denying that but that is what makes you so strong. You have both been victims of violence, but that doesn't scare you away from living your life. I love you two to death but both of you need to stop being so stubborn and give those poor guys a chance."

Caroline and Elena had tears in their eyes and without hesitation they leaned forward and hugged Matt. Caroline twitched when her phone started ringing in her shirt pocket; she pulled back giggled as she answered it.

"Hello."

"Hey Caroline it's Ian."

"Ian…Ummm hi what's up?"

"Not much I called because I wanted to know what you were up to tonight."

Caroline moved her hair behind her ears looking at Elena and Matt. "Well I will be hanging out with a friend but other than that no plans. Why?"

"I was wondering if you'd like to join me for a drink."

"A drink…" she looked at Matt and Elena's eyes go big. "Umm…hold on."

"What should I do, it's Ian my press contact from the Warfield Theatre. He asked me out when I covered The Strokes concert, but I said no but I told him maybe we could be friends."

Elena giggled, "It's just a drink Caroline, what's the worst that could happen?"

Matt chuckled, "I agree with Elena it's just drinks Care."

She smiled. "Ok under one condition," she looks at Matt. "You and Ben have to come with me."

Matt's eyes widen, "Uh…ok."

Caroline grinned in triumph and put the phone back to her ear. "Ian."

"Yeah."

"Drinks sound great, but do you mind if my friends join?"

"Great the more the merrier."

"Awesome, where do you want us to meet you?"

"There is a bar downtown called Mickey's why don't you meet me there at 9."

Caroline looked at her phone and saw it was almost six. "Ok nine will work perfectly. See you then," she said hanging up her phone.

"This is just drinks with a friend nothing more." She looked at Matt and Elena grinning at her.

"Hey it's a start, maybe this is the push you need to go out with Klaus," Elena smirked as she stood up. "Well our cabs are here. Have fun you two and call me later." She hugged Caroline and Matt before she headed to her cab waving at them one more time before the cab drove away.

"Matt what am I doing?" Caroline opened the cab door with her bags in hand.

"It's just drinks Caroline. This Ian knows that you only want to be friends," Matt slides into the cab with Caroline following. "Plus I'll be there with Ben." He smiled.

"You're right, well this gives me a chance to wear my new boots," she smiled.

---

Klaus and Damon landed in New York that evening after over a 6 hour flight, and went straight to their suite at the Plaza to prep for their business meeting that night. As soon as they checked in and got settled in the room Klaus sat on his suite bed and called Lexi, there handyman, well woman, she handled all the details of their jobs. From equipment to back stories, she was a genius.

"Lexi how is New York treating you?" Klaus smiled when he heard her scoff because Lexi hated New York thanks to her last recon visit with Damon, and that didn't end well, for the both of them because Lexi fell for Damon's charms resulting in a one night fling.

"Shut it Klaus everything is prepped for this evening, and if you need me I am staying a floor below you but since I am a genius this trip should run smoothly."

He grinned, "Have I told you how incredible you are lately Lexi."

Lexi laughed, "Yeah yeah I know, be careful tonight Klaus. I've read up of this Conner fellow and he seems like a piece of work."

Klaus laughed, "Why so worried Lex, when have I never been careful."

She chuckled because she could practically see him smirking, "Right do I have to remind who it is that cleans you up if it gets to messy, and I don't want you to ruin any more of my clothes with your blood Klaus."

"Here I thought you just loved putting your hands on me," Klaus chuckled when he heard her snort.

"You—"

"Killer get a move on we are supposed to meet up with Galen in an hour," Damon shouted interrupting their conversation. Klaus looked down at his watch and it was half past seven, they are supposed to meet Galen at 8:30 for updates before the dinner at 9 p.m.

Lexi sighed, "Damon always a charmer. Be careful tonight Klaus if you need anything you know where to find me."

"Of course, but tomorrow we're going to have some fun in the big apple," Klaus smiled as he ended the call because Lexi was a good friend she has worked for his family since she was in college. Elijah recruited her because she had a rough background, but a good heart. She was perfect for this type of work.

Klaus opened his luggage and pulled out a nice three piece black suit with a white shirt and red tie. After he got ready he took off his necklaces and put them on the stand next to his bed. Klaus didn't like wearing his necklaces on jobs because they meant a lot to him and he feared of losing them. He laughed lightly as he thought of Caroline when she returned one this morning, so much for not losing them, he told himself as straightened his tie before walking out of the room.

Klaus and Damon caught a cab to the restaurant for dinner not surprised it took over 20 minutes to get their thanks to traffic. As they walked into the bar area Klaus noticed Galen sitting in a lounge chair with a glass of whiskey. He rose to his feet as Damon and Klaus approached him. Klaus has never met Galen in person until now, but thanks to Kol he knew what every person looked like that worked for the man.

"Mr. Mikaelson it's nice to finally meet you," Galen held out his hand for Klaus.

"Mr. Vaughn," Klaus shook his hand. "I am not Mr. Mikaelson please call me Mr. Walker, and you know my partner Mr. Davies." He motioned to Damon as Galen reached for his hand.

"Of course," Galen nodded shaking Damon's hand. "Please have a seat gentleman." He motioned to the empty lounge chairs next to him. "Can I get you a drink before dinner?"

"Yes I'll take a Jameson thank you," Damon said as he unbuttoned his suit jacket to take a seat. Damon was wearing a dark grey suit with a white shirt and black and grey striped tie.

"Mr. Walker would you like a drink?"

"Disaronno," Klaus stated as he took his seat, he didn't want anything strong tonight.

Galen gave their drink orders to the waitress before he took a seat. "Well Mr. Walker and Mr. Davies I'm glad to see that you made it to New York without any problems. How is the suite?"

"It works," Klaus said. "Mr. Vaughn my partner and I are set for tonight's events I asked for this meeting to make sure that this is what you want because once this is in motion there is not stopping it, even if you decide to change your mind."

Galen took a sip of his whiskey as he stared at Klaus. "I don't intend on stopping it. Once I found out of Conner's intentions for me and our little business I would prefer this then what would come of New York if he takes over. So please Mr. Walker, proceed." He motioned his glass toward Klaus.

"Alright then I was just making sure you are on board. Do you understand the role you will be playing tonight?" Klaus stated as he took the glass of Disaronno from waitress.

"Yes Kol—" Galen stopped when he saw Klaus' eyes narrow. "Excuse me Mr. Ryder explained your instructions to me carefully and it is all prepped for the night. It can be found in the top drawer of Conner's night stand before the guests leave."

"Good I'm happy to hear Jason prepped you. That saves me time," Klaus sipped his drink glad that his brother did his part. He looked at Damon. "Do you have any requests of Mr. Vaughn, Kris?"

"Yes," Damon said as he adjusted in his chair. "I just want to confirm that my space in the next building is secure, no cameras, glares and light?"

"Yes those will be taken care of during the party and your package will be waiting in the area."

Damon smirked, "Well then I'm good. Mr. Walker I believe we have a job." He raised his glass toward Klaus and Galen. "Shall we enjoy the rest of our evening?"

Klaus smirked as he lifted his glass, "Indeed until the real work begins."

Each of them relaxed and enjoyed their drinks in the bar until Conner showed up.

"Conner," Galen said happily as he stood from his chair and hugged his partner. "Let me introduce you to our guests." He motions toward Klaus first. "This is Mr. Dean Walker and his business partner Mr. Kris Davies."

"Gentlemen I am glad you could make it. I hope you had a pleasant flight from London?" Conner held out his hand toward Klaus and then Damon.

"Yes it was enjoyable," Klaus smirked because even though they never flew in from London they had a paper trail that indicates they were on that flight thanks to Lexi.

Conner smiled and brought his hands together, "Well shall we have dinner," he motioned toward the hostess waiting at the end of the bar.

As soon as they were seated for dinner they all engaged in small talk and ordered their dinner before Conner brought up the business proposal between them and Klaus.

"Well Mr. Walker as much as I enjoy your company why don't we get down to the business portion of this meeting that way we can enjoy the rest of the evening," Conner stated as he picked up his glass of scotch. "I have a wonderful party waiting for us at my penthouse."

"Of course Mr. Jordon that is why we're here," Klaus smiled.

"Well as you know Mr. Vaughn controls the supply and we are reasonable men so why don't you purpose what you would like with our product and how it will benefit us."

"Of course I will have my partner Mr. Davies start off our proposal." Klaus looks at Damon.

"Yes of course," Damon nods at Klaus. "Mr. Jordon, Mr. Vaughn I understand that you have been trying to break into the European circuit for quite some time since you've developed your product."

"Yes we have been, but not many interested parties have taken a liking to our 'American' product. They continue to tell us that it may not be a fit for their circuit," Galen said plainly as he took a sip of his whiskey looking between Damon and Conner.

"Well that is understandable your drug is different and completely manufactured here in the states. It would require a lot more risk to get it transferred overseas," Damon smiled taking a sip of his Jameson.

"Well our product is worth the risk because there is nothing like it anywhere else in the world," Conner stated looking at Klaus.

"Indeed Mr. Jordan that may be true but in the end it's just a drug, and once someone gets a hold of your product it won't be hard to duplicate," Klaus stated his gaze never leaving Conner's.

"Are you threatening to duplicate our product Mr. Walker?"

"Me, no of course not," Klaus leaned forward interlacing his fingers on top of the table. "What I am suggesting is that you go through us to make a breakout in the European market and you do this by letting us start developing the product overseas opposed to having it shipped to us."

Conner face turned stern as he looked at his partner. "You knew this is what they wanted to discuss Galen?"

"Yes and I think it is a great idea because it will cut out the risk of being made by transporting," Galen stated to Conner.

"No our products recipe is not for anyone but us Galen. If I would have known this is what was going to be proposed I wouldn't have wasted my time," Conner stood up forcefully.

"Mr. Jordon," Klaus stood suddenly. "If you would please have a seat and listen to the rest of our proposal. I'm sure as a businessman you will at least grant me that inch of respect." He motions to his seat as Damon stood and Galen. "Please I am sure you will enjoy what I have to say."

Connor looked Klaus and nodded taking his seat. "I'm listening."

"Thank you," Klaus unbuttoned his suit jacket and sat back down as he did the waiter brought their dinner, distributing it among the group and re-filling their drinks before Klaus proceeded his discussion.

"I won't make this to long so we can soon enjoy our dinner," Klaus stated as he placed his napkin on his lap. "I understand your hesitant with our proposal, but trust me when I say that we are the people to work with when it comes to moving your product anywhere in Europe especially if you plan on setting foot in London."

"Oh really, I'm sorry but I have never heard of you two until now," Conner said his voice defensive to Klaus' tone. "I took this meeting out of courtesy to my partner."

"Why do you think that is Mr. Jordan?" Klaus smirked as he sipped from his drink. "We don't need to make ourselves known for people to know who controls the trade in Europe. This is a family business Mr. Jordan it is protected and only known to the people that matter, and we want you in that loop of people. We want to start sharing your product with Europe this is why we contacted you."

Conner looked between Klaus and Galen. "How do you plan on doing this?"

Klaus smiled and looked at Damon. "Well Mr. Jordan its simple really all we need is your recipe, with your permission of course?"

"What's going to happen once you get the 'Hunter' drug?"

"Well we would develop a line of it and then start distributing it, starting with London."

Conner looked at Galen wondering why he has yet to intervene with their business discussion.

Galen sipped his drink, "That sounds good in theory Mr. Walker, but like any business our product relies on revenue. What are you looking to profit us if we allow you to take our product with you to London?"

"I'm glad you asked Mr. Vaughn." Damon smiled as he picked up the brief case Elijah had waiting for him and Klaus in their hotel room and popped open the top. Damon faced the brief case to Galen and Conner smirking. "This is just a safety deposit, to show that our business proposition is completely serious. Half a million dollars a token of our gratitude, this should cover the first 6 months of production."

Conner's smile grew as he looked at Galen. "Well Mr. Walker, Mr. Davie actions do speak louder than words." He lifted his glass and titled his head. "It seems we have a deal."

"Excellent," Klaus smiled as he motioned for Damon to close the briefcase. He picked up his glass. "Mr. Jordan, Mr. Vaughn I look forward to working with you in the coming months."

"As do we Mr. Walker," Galen smirked as he nodded his head.

"Yes," Conner smiled. "Cheers for the 'Hunter'."

All the men toasted to what appeared for Conner a growing partnership. All the money in the brief case is forged, printed and created by the talented Lexi. Galen was the one responsible for the partnerships finances and once he got the briefcase it was to be destroyed. They finished their dinner by 11 and headed to Conner's penthouse for a party.

"Gentlemen, welcome to my home," Conner opened his front doors allowing Klaus and Damon to walk in. They were greeted with a butler holding out champagne. The lower level was the living room, balcony, kitchen and dining area. The upper level was the master bedroom and bath plus two guest rooms and full baths.

Galen nodded to Klaus and Damon before he excused himself from the group with the briefcase.

"Dean I would like you to meet a good friend of mine," Conner smiled tapping on Kol's shoulder at the bar in his penthouse. "Jason."

Kol turned around smirking with a glass of scotch in his hand, "Conner mate where have you been?" Kol patted Conner's shoulder as he glanced at Klaus. "Who's your guest?"

"Jason this is Dean Walker, Dean this is Jason Ryder, head of security for our little business," Conner smirked as he motioned between the two.

Kol held out his hand to Klaus before firmly shaking it. "The new business partner?"

"Yes" Klaus nodded before narrowing his eyes at Kol's grip. "I wasn't aware that our partnership was made public information?"

"Only key members of our organization know of the rumor of our partnership," Conner smiled as he motioned for the bartender to pour him a drink. "Is that a problem?"

"No, no problem." Klaus waved at the bartender. "Can I get bourbon please?"

"Well gentlemen it was nice doing business with you, but I have guests to attend to," Conner smiled at Klaus and Damon as he sipped his drink. "Please enjoy yourselves and if you need anything let me know." He looked at Kol. "Jason I'll see you later."

"Sure thing mate, I have plenty of people to keep me company," Kol tipped his drink toward the brunette walking toward the balcony.

Conner laughed as he patted Kol on the shoulder and walked toward the stairs.

Klaus watched Conner walk up the stairs and disappeared. Damon was on the balcony talking to a blonde by the pool. He turned his attention to his younger brother.

"So Jason I am assuming you'll be going home with that lovely brunette tonight?"

"Mr. Walker that would be correct all my plans seem to be falling in place, and I have nothing in the way," Kol smirked at Klaus. "I'm sure there is another brunette lingering in the crowd eager to please the head of the household."

Klaus smirked as his eyes scanned the living area and balcony in search of Rose, a woman the Mikaelson family used in their business often. She was a beautiful young woman that came to work for the family when Klaus saved her from a traffic ring in Europe while he was working a job. She was hooked on heroin and wanted to die more than try to live her life.

Klaus cleaned her up and was ready to send her on her way but she wanted to stick around and help out the family business anyway she could. She proved to be a valuable asset when it came to jobs that needed a good female distraction. Klaus found her leaning against the balcony railing in a silver backless dress.

"Well Mr. Ryder I seem to have spotted a beautiful woman in need of company. I hope we cross paths again," Klaus smirked finishing his drink before he walked away from the bar heading toward Rose.

Klaus looked up to the second floor and saw Conner leaning over the upstairs railing with his eyes fixed on Rose. He smirked, nothing wrong with a little competition, he thought as he walked out onto the balcony picking up two flutes of champagne from a passing butler.

"May I offer you a drink?" Klaus smiled holding up the glass as Rose turned her attention to Klaus.

"Sure," Rose took the glass and held out her hand. "I'm Erica by the way." She smiled.

"Dean," Klaus shook her hand and smiled. "So what brings a beautiful woman like you here tonight? Do you know Conner?"

"Oh no," she giggled. "I came with a friend," Rose points to a blond in a strapless black cocktail dress talking to one of Conner's business partners at the end of the pool.

Klaus chuckled, "Well she looks like pleasurable company."

Rose laughed, "We both are."

Klaus smirked, "Good. I was wondering do you have—"

"Dean, I hope I'm not interrupting," Conner came up behind Klaus causing him to smirk.

Klaus turned his attention to Conner. "No of course not Mr. Jordan I was just talking with the lovely Miss…"

"Miss Smith," Rose held out her hand to Conner.

"Smith, of course," Klaus smiled as he motioned between Rose and Conner.

"Well Miss. Smith I am Conner, welcome to my home," Conner smiled as he kissed Rose's hand. "Can I interest you in a tour of the house?"

Rose looked at Klaus and then Conner. "That would be great. You don't mind do you Dean?"

"No of course not," Klaus smiled and stepped out of the way. "Conner is a wonderful host and I'm sure his home is beautiful."

"Thank you Mr. Walker," Conner held out his arm to Rose. "Shall we?"

Rose looped her arm with Conner's and smiled at Klaus before she left.

Klaus smirked as he downed the rest of his champagne in a ploy to show Conner he was upset.

"Erica seems to know her way around the penthouse," Damon chuckled as he handed Klaus a glass of scotch.

"Indeed she does," Klaus watched the two descend up the stairs.

The party carried on for the next couple of hours. Galen joined the party at midnight and kept Damon and Klaus company until Conner stumbled onto the Balcony announcing that the party was ending just after 1 a.m. Rose stood close by him with a drink in hand as Conner arm wrapped around her waist when he asked his guests to kindly leave. Conner walked down from the second floor up to Klaus and Damon.

"Gentlemen thank you for your business and I hope you enjoyed yourselves this evening."

"Yes it was a fabulous party Mr. Jordan," Damon said as he slide on his suit jacket.

Klaus smiled, "Yes Mr. Jordan thank you for having us." He held out his hand.

"My pleasure," Conner shook it with a firm grasp.

Klaus turned his attention to Rose. "Miss. Smith it was lovely to meet you," he picked up her hand and placed a kiss on it. "Maybe will see each other again in the future."

Conner's smiled faded as he watched Klaus.

"Dean it was a pleasure." Rose nodded.

Conner stepped between the two and looked at Klaus. "Enjoy the rest of your night Mr. Walker."

Klaus nodded as he buttoned his suit jacket and walked out with Damon.

"I'll see you back at the hotel Dean. I'm going for a walk." Damon smirked as he stepped onto the elevator. Klaus nodded as he waited for the next elevator.

"Mr. Walker I hope Conner's party was to your liking," Kol stood next to Klaus smiling.

"It was."

"It's a good thing the penthouse below is vacant or else we'd have a noise complaint on our hands," Kol smirked as he leaned against the wall next to the elevator.

"Yes, good thing," Klaus smiled.

As they waited for the elevator Galen was the last to leave Conner's penthouse. "Mr. Walker," Galen held out his hand to shake it to give Klaus Conner's penthouse key. "I hope you enjoyed yourself this evening."

"I did thank you." Klaus slide his hand in his pants pocket as the elevator dinged. "Well gentlemen it was a fantastic evening but I must call it a night."

"Of course," Galen smiled. "Jason and I will take the stairs we have some things to discuss."

"Right, well Mr. Walker it was pleasure meeting you," Kol shook Klaus' hand.

Klaus smiled at his little brother and squeezed his hand to settle his nerves, "Likewise Mr. Ryder."

Klaus stepped on to the elevator and pushed the lobby button as the elevator doors closed. He rode the elevator all the way to the lobby and exited the elevator before he got a text from Damon confirming the security cameras are on a loop showing he left. He smirked as he quickly stopped the elevator doors from closing stepping back in hitting the button back to Conner's.

He jumped up and removed the lighting from the elevator shaft and retrieved a black duffle bag with his clothes and supplies. Klaus hit the stop button the elevator a few floors from Conner's penthouse and quickly changed into black jeans, black long sleeve shirt and a jacket he slipped on a pair of gloves before sliding the needles inside his coat. Klaus shoved his clothes into the bag and wrapped the duffle bag full of supplies around his neck as he released the stop button.

Klaus stood outside Conner's penthouse door and listened. He slide the key into the lock and cracked the door open to hear where Conner was in his house. He smirked when he heard faint laughter coming from the balcony, happy Rose was still his guest for the night.

Klaus stepped inside and made his way up to Conner's master bedroom.

Klaus waited in the walk-in closet of Conner's room after he retrieved the Hunter drugs from Conner's nightstand. After Conner cleared everyone out of his pent house he ended up in the hot tub with Rose.

Damon was set up at the building across from the pent house with a sniper rifle in case anything went wrong.

Klaus stood idly by as he heard Conner and Rose stumble into the room laughing.

"Come on sugar don't be shy now," Conner said as he threw Rose on the bed.

Rose laughed and got up slowly, "I need to freshen up first, but I'll be right back." She placed a light kiss on Conner's lips and walked toward the bath room.

"Hmmm don't take too long," Conner flopped on the bed.

Klaus waited until he heard the door click, he cracked open the closet sliding door and saw Conner lying flat on his back with an arm over his eyes. Klaus slipped out of the closet and approached Conner with needle in hand.

"Oh are you ready now?" Conner moved his arm but was met with the force of Klaus' body as he held him down.

"Dean! What the fuck are you doing?" Conner asked in shock as he tried to push Klaus off him.

Klaus lifted up the needle, "your partner gives his regards." And stuck the needle in his left arm near the vain emptying the syringe. Klaus felt him stop struggling and started to get off him but before he was fully off Conner slipped his hand under his pillow quickly drawing a hunter's knife and swung it at Klaus. Klaus grunted as it connected with his ribs.

"You don't think I can handle my own drug, it's going to take a lot more than that to kill me you son of bitch," Conner rolled off the bed with knife in hand a little shaky but lucid enough to keep his ground. "Come on Dean, show me what you got?"

Klaus smirked as he threw the empty needle toward the night stand and pulled another from his inside jacket pocket, "let's top off that dose," he takes the cap off. "Shall we," Klaus side stepped as Conner lunged at him with knife in hand, Klaus reacted by elbowing him in back of the head causing him to crash to the floor.

Klaus wanted to keep his damage to a minimum or else it wouldn't look like an overdose so his punches weren't with full force or else he'd bruise. Klaus approached him again and grabbed the back of his neck pulling Conner to his feet.

"Make this easy on yourself mate," Klaus wrapped his arms around Conner's neck in an effort to put him to sleep. Conner started thrashing against Klaus' grip as his elbow met Klaus' ribs causing him to release Conner.

Klaus leaned over gripping his ribs as Conner's knee connected with his face forcing him to stumble backwards.

"You think you can come into my house and try to kill me with MY DRUG!" Conner kicked and then punched Klaus in the face causing his knees to hit the floor. "Mr. Walker with all your talk tonight I thought you would be smarter than that." Conner lifted up Klaus' head by his hair to see his mouth bleeding.

Klaus looked at Conner and smiled as the blood covered his teeth, "Oh Mr. Jordan you really are a fool. Do I look like a Dean Walker to you?" Conner's eyes narrowed as he leaned down to look at Klaus in the eyes only to see his smirk grow bigger as Klaus quickly grabbed Conner's loose arm and jammed the needle into it. He was only able to get half the drug in before Conner kicked him away.

"Ahhh…you son of bitch," Conner yelled rubbing his forearm. He stepped forward and grabbed Klaus' head by his hair only to see fangs start to form. He shook his head knowing that it was the drug hallucinations taking effect until he saw Klaus' eyes turn a deep yellow with vines forming underneath them. Conner stepped back as Klaus got to his feet. "What are you?" Conner asked his voice shaky.

"What are you so scared of Conner?" Klaus stood up chuckling as he gripped his ribs and wiped the blood from his mouth on his sleeve. He saw that Conner's eyes were dilated. "Never seen a wolf before?' he smirked as he steps closer to Conner, needle still in hand.

Conner's eyes grew wider as Klaus stepped closer. Klaus' teeth were sharp fangs and his eyes were burning yellow, Conner didn't know what to think. He knew it was the drugs taking affect in his body but it felt so real. "Who are you?" he asked as he stumbled backwards toward his floor length windows.

Klaus chucked as he moved in on Conner as if he was about to consume his prey. "I am the last person you will see alive, and you have your partner to thank for that."

"Galen, he's isn't going to live to see tomorrow…" Conner saw Klaus smile as blood started dripping from the corner of his mouth and the fangs peered over his lip.

Klaus clicked his teeth, "That's where you're wrong. He would've been dead if he didn't hire me." He smiled opening his arms as he walked toward him. "Or if you chose to hire anyone other than Kol Mikaelson."

"Kol…how did you know about that?" Conner stammered as he inched toward his bed to get away from the wolf.

Klaus chucked, "Take a closer look Conner I'm sure you can see the family resemblance."

Conner's eyes grew wide in horror, "No…you can't be him."

"Oh but I am," Klaus smirked as he watched Conner trip over Rose's heels next to his bed.

Conner crawled on his bed and watched Klaus get closer. "You're 'The Wolf,' Kol's older ruthless brother?"

"In the flesh," he opened his arms before looking at the drugs in his needle. He had half a syringe left, and it was just enough to do the job. "As much as I like watching my victims squirm you gave me a nasty cut so if you don't mind, I'm going to kill you now." Klaus lunged at Conner before he got the chance to get off the bed and pinned down his arms.

"Please whatever Galen is paying you I'll double it," Conner stated quickly, he didn't have the strength to fight off Klaus the drugs having time to circulate in his system causing his body to weaken.

Klaus laughed, "This is not only about the money. For once I agree with Galen, you can't take over the business without New York turning to shit." Klaus stuck the needle directly in his vein this time and pushed the syringe down.

"You'll both pay for this," Conner coughed as blood covered his teeth. "Even if I die, this isn't over." Conner stared at Klaus who still had his fangs drawn and eyes yellow and laughed before everything started to go dark. "You can't kill an original hunter, someone will take my place."

Klaus checked his pulse and it was gone.

"Rose!" he shouted as he got off the bed and looked around the room.

Rose came running in from the bathroom still in her underwear, "Yeah."

Klaus was holding his bleeding ribs looking around the room to check if any of his blood got anywhere. "I need you to get the ammonia out of the black bag in the walk-in closet and spray some on the blood drops and wipe them up." He pointed the ones on the floor tiles next to the bed, he was thankful Conner didn't have carpeting in his bedroom.

Rose did as she was told while Klaus repositioned Conner to the right side of the bed. He laid out the syringes on the nightstand alongside the hunter drugs. Klaus inspected Conner's body for any bruising and luckily there was no major damage. He then cleaned his fingernails and all the other places that came in contact with Klaus before he stripped Conner of his clothes leaving him in his boxer briefs.

"Ok all the blood is cleaned up and the smell will disappear before morning," Rose stated as he put everything back in the bag.

"Fantastic," Klaus scanned the room one more time before looking at Rose. "Are you ready?"

Rose nodded as she laid in bed next to Conner and held out her arm.

Klaus pulled the third syringe full of the 'Hunter' drug from his pocket and sat next to Rose prepping her arm. "I am going to have to administer the entire dose in order for you still be high when the cops arrive in the morning." Klaus looked at Rose as she nodded. "Are you sure you're ok?'

"Yeah, it's not like I haven't done drugs before," Rose shrugged.

"Rose this isn't like Heroin it's much stronger. I promise I won't let you get hooked on anything again," Klaus looked at her and saw relief fill her eyes. "Do you trust me?"

"With my life," she smiled and leaned back in the bed. "Do it."

Klaus stuck the needle in her vein and administered the drug. When he saw Rose's eyes glaze over he knew it was taking affect.

Rose rolled over and put her arm and leg over Conner's body and let the drug take its toll as her eyes started getting heavy.

"Just let it run through your system Rose, and in the morning as soon as you wake up make the call," Klaus stood up from the bed.

Rose was only able to nod as her body felt warm and heavy.

Klaus kissed her forehead and retrieved all the supplies before he exited the room. Klaus got his phone out of the bag and dialed Damon.

"Everything's done."

"Good the loop won't last that much longer they switch back on floor by floor. In fact the security cameras on Conner's floors are functional now. I think you have about 7 minutes until the security cameras come back on in the floor below you."

"Great no pressure, how am I supposed to get out of here now?" Klaus sighed in frustration.

"Yeah about that," Damon chuckled. "Kol is waiting in the Penthouse below you you just need to get there."

"If I can't get outside of Conner's, how the hell am I supposed to get their?"

"Hmmm the drop isn't that far from Conner's balcony to the one below you."

"How far of a drop?"

"20 feet or so."

Klaus sighed as he looked at his wound and it was still bleeding and luckily it was soaking his shirt. "Alright I'll call you as soon as I'm on the ground."

"You got it Killer, and don't die or else Elijah will kill me," Damon stated before hanging up the phone.

Klaus chuckled as he walked on to the balcony. He dialed Kol.

"Ahhh brother it's nice to know you're still alive."

"Yes, Kol what is my exit strategy?"

"Right well it's quite simple really. You just need to climb over the balcony railing and jump."

"You want me to just jump off the top floors balcony? Are you mental?"

Kol chuckled, "Oh big brother ye have little faith in your little bro?"

"I have no faith in you Kol I have had to save you on more than one occasion."

"True, but trust me just jump. It's about a 20 foot drop but you will land on the balcony below you."

Klaus sighed as he leaned over the balcony as far as he could and was able to see the edge of the balcony below them. "And if I don't?"

"I'll catch you. I am standing directly below you right now."

Klaus looked down again and saw Kol leaning over the edge below him waving and smiling.

"Right, if I die Kol I swear I will find a way to come back and kill you."

Kol laughed, "Don't be so dramatic brother and just jump already." Kol hung up the phone.

Klaus took a deep breath and put the bag over his neck as he climbed over the balcony railing gripping the side of his ribs. He looked around the area he was in making sure he left no trace.

"Just jump already," Klaus heard Kol yell. He took a deep breath and stepped off the balcony railing.

It took only a second for Klaus' to feel the balcony railing below him as his feet hit them. Kol grabbed on to the bag around Klaus and pulled him on the balcony both of them falling to the ground.

Klaus' breathing caught as he hit the balcony floor.

"See that was easy wasn't it brother?" Kol patted Klaus' shoulder as they got on their feet.

Klaus sighed as he stood and grunted when the pain from his ribs surged through his body.

Kol grabbed his brothers other arm and wrapped it around his shoulder. "Well aren't you a bloody mess, let's get you back to Lexi so she can patch you." Kol started walking Klaus out of the penthouse.

Klaus changed back into his suit while they were in the elevator and ran his hands through his hair. As they exited the elevator Kol was carrying the bag and Klaus walked with as much composure as possible.

"Ahh good evening Mr. Ryder," the door man tipped his hat to him.

"Good evening James," Kol smirked as him and Klaus walked out of the building.

Kol hailed a taxi as Klaus gripped his ribs noticing the blood soaking through his shirt as he pulled away his hand.

"I'll just drop you off at your hotel; will you be able to make it to your room alone?" Kol asked as they entered the taxi.

Klaus nodded, "I'm fine it's just a scratch. Call me as soon as you get cleared by the cops you understand." Klaus looked at his brother.

Kol nodded, "Of course."

The cab arrived at Klaus' hotel and he leaned forward and gave his brother a quick hug before exiting the cab. "I want details."

Kol nodded as he closed the cab door, waving to his brother as the cab drove off.

Klaus stood up straight with the duffle bag in hand and entered the Hotel and headed straight for his room.

---

Caroline walked into a small bar called "Mickeys" where Ian asked her to meet him for drinks. She looked at her phone and saw a text message from Matt, "running a little late but Ben and I will be there.J"

Seriously she mumbles to herself as she walked up to the bar. As soon as she and Matt got to her apartment Matt stayed only long enough to get all of Tyler's things into a cab telling her to get ready and he'll meet her at the bar.

---

Matt pulled up to Tyler's apartment; it was in the financial district of San Francisco. He hasn't been there since him and Caroline officially started living together. It was a graduation gift from his parents so he could be close to the firm. Matt sighed as he unloaded the boxes on to the curb he was thankful there was only four.

"Ahhh Mr. Donovan let me help you with those," Tyler's doorman George smiled as he picked up two boxes from the curb. "I'm assuming these are Mr. Lockwood's belongings."

"Yes, and thanks George," he smiled as he took out the last two boxes from the trunk and paid the driver asking him to wait if possible.

They walked into Tyler's apartment complex together and took the elevator to his floor.

"So what happen to the nice blonde girl that Mr. Lockwood was always with, she was a real sweetheart," George smiled as the elevator dinged.

Matt sighed, "Yeah, Caroline is a great girl but her and Tyler aren't together anymore."

"Aww Caroline yes that was her name," he smiled as they walked off the elevator. "What a shame they looked like they were in for the long run."

Matt only nodded as they walked up to Tyler's door and knocked.

Tyler swung open the door, "HEY! Matt what's up dude." He looked at him and George holding boxes. "Nice you got the rest of my stuff great, come in come in."

Matt rolled his eyes as he walked past Tyler with George following close behind. Matt dropped the boxes in his living room turning on his heel. "Alright there were only four boxes," Matt clapped his hands together. "I'm going to head out now."

Tyler raised his eyebrows, "Whoa whoa what's with the rush dude, we have hardly seen each other in past few weeks." Tyler held up his hands.

Matt stopped by the door and looked at George, "Thank you George for the help." George nodded walking out of Tyler's apartment closing the door behind him.

Matt turned at look at Tyler crossing his arms. "Why do you think it is we haven't been hanging out lately?" he shrugged a little watching Tyler look down at the floor.

"Matt come on man you saw that me and Caroline were over," Tyler kneeled down by his boxes.

"No I didn't actually, and I didn't expect my best friend to screw my other best friend by cheating on her," Matt yelled at the end. He was pissed at Tyler this was the first time they actually talked in person since it happen. "She deserved better than that Tyler and you know it."

Tyler sighed, "What's done is done Matt," he picked up his box and put it on his dining room table. "So can we please move on from it."

Matt shook his head, "You're unbelievable. I'm leaving." He turned to back toward the door.

"Matt come on dude," Tyler walked up to him and stopped him from leaving. "I screwed up, bad. I tried to make things right between Care and me, but she made her stance very clear. She wants nothing to do with me." He shrugged as he stood in front of Matt.

"Can you blame her Tyler," Matt narrowed his eyes at him. "Four months dude and you did it with Amanda none the less."

"Amanda what?" Amanda stepped out of the hallway smiling at Matt. "Hey Matt." She wiggled her fingers at him walking into the kitchen.

Matt turned his attention back to Tyler and shook his head. "Hey….Amanda. I was just leaving." He pushed past Tyler and opened his door.

Tyler followed him to the elevator. "Matt come on don't go lets hang out and let me make this up to you. I'm sorry man I wish it didn't happen this way but it did. You're still my best friend and I don't want to lose that." He grabbed his shoulder to stop him from walking.

Matt stopped sighing, "I can't hang out tonight I already have plans," he paused. "With Caroline."

Tyler's eyes widened a little, "Oh…ok."

Matt patted Tyler on the shoulder, "Look I am not going to sugar coat this Tyler. You're my best friend but you really screwed up and Caroline is better off without you. I'm not going to lie she was always too good for you."

Tyler nodded. "Yeah I know. I still love her Matt and I wish this didn't happen but I can't change it." he shrugged.

"Yeah well she's dealing with it and she's got me," Matt pushed the elevator button. "I'll text you later."

Tyler nodded, "Alright, so what are you doing tonight anyway?"

Matt debated if he should tell him the or not, "We're going out for drinks with my friend Ben and a friend of hers."

Tyler's eyes narrowed, "Is it that neighbor guy?"

Matt looked at Tyler confused, "Klaus?"

"Yeah…that guy," Tyler said a little angry.

Matt chuckled, "No it's not, but if it was that's not your problem anymore."

"Hmm…I don't like that guy," Tyler crossed his arms. "Is Care dating him?"

Matt shook his head and walked into the elevator. "Tyler that's none of your business anymore and I think Klaus is a nice guy."

Tyler stopped the elevator door from closing and looked at Matt in shock, "Wait what when did you get to know him?"

Matt sighed and pushed the lobby button, "Dude that doesn't concern you, I'll text you later." Matt pushed Tyler's hand from the door letting the door closed.

Matt sighed as he went down the elevator. He took out his phone from his back pocket and dialed Ben's number.

"Hey Matt, I was wondering when I'd hear from you."

Matt smiled, "Yeah well I was wondering what you are doing tonight?"

"Oh nothing planned I just got home actually. Why what's up?"

"Caroline has invited us to drinks tonight, with her date?" Matt smirked.

"She wants us to go on a date with her," Ben laughed.

"Yeah a guy named Ian asked her to drinks and she only agreed to go because I said we would join her," Matt smiled as he walked off the elevator.

"Oh I see," Ben chuckled. "That sounds like fun. Let me get ready and then I can meet you there."

"We can ride together I need to go home and change afterwards I'll pick you up in a cab." Matt opened the door to the cab he came in thankful the guy waited.

"Sure let me know when you get here." Ben smiled and hung up the phone.

Matt smiled and gave the driver his address.

---

Caroline wore her new suede boots with black skinny jeans, a red off the shoulder top and a light long sleeve cardigan. She curled her hair, fixed her eyeliner and applied mascara with a light shade of red eye shadow, put on her heart pendant necklace and a pair of black dangling earrings. She put her phone back in the purse she was carrying and waved the bartender down.

"Caroline!"

She looked around the bar in search of who said her name when her eyes finally landed on Ian who was sitting at a booth near the window. She smiled and waved at him putting up one finger asking him to wait as she turned her attention back to the bartender.

"What can I get you?"

"Yeah I'll have an Asian Sensation," Caroline smiled as she took her wallet out of her purse. It was a martini that consisted of Malibu rum, pineapple juice and sprite.

"I got it."

Caroline looked to her right and smiled. "No it's ok Ian I can pay for my own drinks."

"Don't be silly Caroline I invited you therefore I am paying for your drinks," Ian smiled as he reached for his wallet in the back pocket of his black jeans. He was wearing a black vest over a dark grey "The Clash" t-shirt and a pair boots.

Caroline smiled at him because he looked cute tonight, his hair was fixed a little messy and his outfit suited him. "Thanks," she smiled taking her drink from the bartender.

"Shall we," Ian motioned toward the table by the window.

Caroline nodded and walked in front of him and felt his hand land on the small of her back. It sent chills down her spin as they walked to the table. Caroline noticed the leather jacket and motorcycle helmet at the table and looked at Ian.

"Are those yours?"

Ian chuckled as he pulled out a chair for her. "Yes I ride a bike during the summer, it beats cabs." He smiled as Caroline took her seat.

"Really I didn't take you for a guy to ride motorcycles," she said sipping her drink.

"Well now you know, and maybe I can drive you home on it." Ian smiled as he picked up his beer.

Caroline grinned, "Really! That would be awesome. I haven't ridden a bike since I lived back home."

"Really?" Ian lifted his eyebrow taking a swig of his beer.

"Yeah, I went through a rebellious stage growing up that landed me a bad boy with a bike," she smiled even though that relationship got her more then she bargained for. She never forgot the feeling of riding it was a rush, but when she finally ended things with Trevor after graduation she's never been on a bike since.

Ian laughed, "Well I'm glad to see the bad boy didn't last, but your love for riding did."

Caroline chuckled. "Yeah well I enjoyed the riding most." She shrugged taking a drink of her martini. "So…how is the Warfield?" she smiled hoping to keep the conversation going before it got awkward.

Ian chuckled, "it's good were actually expecting a nice line up of shows for the month of June. I'll keep you posted." He smirked.

"That would be great, I have been on editor duty lately so if a good show is my first job out of the office I'll take it," she smiled as she heard her phone go off in her purse.

Caroline fished it out and saw it was Matt calling. "Hey Matt where you at?" she smiled as she notice Ian's smiled fade a little.

"Hey Care I'm actually just getting out of the cab with Ben this little bar is quite packed," Matt chuckled. "Why don't you come outside and get us so we don't have to search for you."

Caroline chuckled, "Be right there." She hung up her phone and slipped it back in her purse. She stood up and took off her cardigan draping it on back of her chair. "I'll be right back my friends are just right outside." She smiled.

"Sure I'm not going anywhere," Ian smiled as he watched her turn on her heels and make her way through the crowd. He admired how beautiful she looked tonight and thought tonight would be a chance for him to get to know her a little better than just someone he works with.

Caroline maneuvered through the crowd of people piled by the bar and the others waiting by the door to be seated. She smiled when she saw Matt and Ben waiting by the street curb talking. "Hey" she shouted waving her hand as she held the front door open.

Matt looked up and smiled waving as him and Ben walked toward her.

"This is quite the place your date picked out Caroline," Ben chuckled.

Caroline rolled her eyes, "it's not a date. He's just a friend from work."

Ben looked her up and down, "Oh sweetie you're torturing this friend by dressing like that."

Caroline looked at herself as they walked past her into the bar. "What it's just a simple outfit."

Ben smirked, "Sure it is."

Caroline chuckled as she led them to the table.

Matt stopped Caroline before they reached the table and pointed at the cute man sitting by the window. "Is that Ian?"

Caroline nodded.

"Oh who is that cute guy sitting by the window?" Ben leaned over and smirked at Matt.

Caroline giggled and led them to the table. "Ian I'd like to introduce you to my friends"

Ian stood up and smiled.

"Matt, Ben this is Ian."

"It's nice to meet you," Ian held out his hand.

Matt and Ben shook his hand as Ben lifted his eyebrows at Caroline before taking a seat.

"So how do you know Caroline?" Ian asked as he took a sip of his beer.

Matt chuckled as he took off his sweater. "We've been friends since college."

"I just met her officially today actually," Ben chuckled.

Ian looked at Caroline confused. "Matt is my boyfriend, and Ben is the 'hot chef' he wanted me to meet." Caroline giggled taking a sip of her drink.

"Boyfriend?"

"Yeah didn't Caroline tell you I was her boyfriend?" Matt chuckled as he put his arm around Caroline.

"No she actually said you were her friend," Ian leaned back in his seat and took another drink of his beer. "How long have you two been dating?"

Caroline and Matt started laughing as she shoved him away. "We're just screwing with you Ian. Matt's not my boyfriend in the actual sense, he would be if he didn't find Ben more attractive than me." Caroline chuckled as Matt nudged her side.

Ian sighed in relief as he looked at Caroline and smiled.

"We're gay dude," Ben said in deep voice as he put his arm around Matt laughing. "We're all friends; no one bumping ugly's at this table." Ben chuckled as he patted Matt on the shoulder.

Caroline couldn't contain the snort that escaped her mouth after Ben's comment. "I think we're not drunk enough to handle this conversations." Caroline waved a waitress down.

"Hi," the red headed waitress smiled. "What can I get you?"

"Hi I will have a Disarono on the rocks and…" she motioned to everyone else at the table.

"I'll have a white Russian," Ben smiled.

"I'll take a 1957 Chevy," Matt smirked at Caroline.

"Oh, you're serious aren't you," Caroline giggled because that drink was nothing but shots with a little bit of sweetness.

Matt shrugged before he slipped off his sweater.

"And for you sir," the waitress said slowly as she smiled at Ian.

"Yeah I'll just have another Blue Moon," he smiled but only looked at Caroline.

Caroline returned his smiled but looked away as she fiddled with her hands.

"What about you Ian, how did you met the lovely Caroline?" Ben smiled.

Ian leaned on the table and smiled, "I met Caroline when she wouldn't let me leave the Warfield Theatre until I put her on the press list."

"It's not my fault you weren't taking my calls or answering any of my emails, I had to bribe one of your bouncers just for them to point out who you were," Caroline sipped her drink pointing a finger at him.

Ian chuckled, "Yes well I have worked with people at the Chronicle before and they have never ended well and when she cornered me introducing herself I thought 'great another crazy reporter'."

"Ugh …I prefer the word passionate," Caroline stated looking at Ian. "Thank you."

Ben and Matt laughed, Matt waving his hands in front of him. "Wait wait wait is Ian the cute tenacious nerd of Warfield you told me about a while back."

Caroline's eyes widened because she didn't even remember telling Matt that as she kicked him under the table while Ben took the drinks from the waitress.

Ian started laughing, "A tenacious nerd?" lifting his eyebrows at Caroline who was smiling shyly before she downed her drink.

"The glasses aren't helping," Caroline smiled sweetly as Ian chuckled shaking his head.

Ian adjusted them smiling, "Well at least you said 'cute' I don't know about tenacious though."

Caroline smacked his arm playfully, "You were totally being a stubborn ass when I approached you at the Warfield. I had to buy a ticket just to get in that night because my press pass wasn't approved."

Ian laughed, "Yeah well you're approved now." He smiled taking a drink of his beer.

Caroline lifted her eyes brows, "Yeah and it took me lightly threatening you to get it." She grinned picking up her glass of Disarono.

Ben chuckled, "You do have a winning personality Caroline." He raised his glass to Caroline smiling.

"Awwww Thank you Ben, you're sweet." She nudged Matt. "Isn't he sweet Matt." She winked at him.

Matt chuckled, "Yes yes Ben is adorable." He took a sip of his drink smiling as his eyes locked with Ben's.

Ian leaned over and whispered in Caroline's ear, "You're personality was definitely a bonus but I think once you smiled there was no way I could say no."

Caroline blushed, "didn't stop you from giving me trouble." She smirked as she sipped her drink.

Ian chuckled leaning back in his chair.

---

Klaus walked into his suite to see Lexi sitting on the couch in the living area with a first aid kit.

"I thought you said you would be careful tonight you jackass," Lexi stood up and put her hand on her hips.

Klaus chuckled and threw the duffle bag on the ground next to the couch and peeled off his suit jacket. "How was I supposed to know he would have a hunter's knife under his pillow? I mean I'm paranoid but I don't sleep on a knife." Klaus sat next to Lexi and put his feet up on the coffee table.

"Hey killer," Damon said as he walked through the front door. "I see you made it back in one piece." He placed the bag he was carrying on the floor next to the lounge chair before taking a seat.

Klaus nodded, "I thought you would be out on the town tonight Damon."

"Yeah picking up your next bed mate," Lexi spat as she took out the first aid supplies for Klaus' wound.

Damon shrugged, "Eh nothing really catches my eye in New York, plus it was a long day I figured I get some shut eye."

Lexi scuffed as she turned to Klaus, "Take your shirt off so I can stich you up."

"Already having me strip," Klaus giggled as started unbuttoning his shirt before throwing it on the floor. He grunted as he looked at his wound it was deep and ran along his rib cage.

"Wow he got me good didn't he?" Klaus looked up at a glaring Lexi as she poured alcohol onto a gaze and wiped his wound. "Ahhhh….bloody hell Lexi a little warning will you."

"Oh I thought 'The Wolf' didn't know pain," Lexi rolled her eyes as she wiped it again.

"Ahhh…why are you so angry love. I'm alive this is just a scratch," Klaus sucked in the breath well Lexi took a needle to his cut.

Damon clapped his hands together and got out of his chair, "Well I'm going to leave you two to it," and he walked back to his room.

"There all done," Lexi tied the last stich before packing up all the first aid supplies.

"Thank you Lex," Klaus smiled to her as he ran his fingers along the cut.

"Yeah well that's what I do," Lexi smiled. "I'm glad this was the worst of it."

Klaus smiled, "I can't be killed that easy Lex." He nudged her side. "Now let me get some rest because we have some sightseeing to do before I leave tomorrow."

Lexi chuckled, "You shouldn't be doing anything but resting until that turns into a nice scab."

Klaus rolled his eyes, "Oh come on Lex I'll be fine." He stood up and grunted a little in pain.

Lexi smiled and gathered her things. She kissed Klaus on the cheek. "You see no sightseeing tomorrow. New York will always be here Klaus, will see it another time." She looked at him with concern.

Klaus rolled his eyes, "Fine can we at least go do something tomorrow while were still here."

Lexi laughed, "Fine you big baby will go to the Guggenheim," she smiled when she saw Klaus smirk. "Good night Klaus. I'm glad you're not dead because that would leave me to work with Damon and Kol." Lexi scrunched her nose as she walked to the door.

Klaus chuckled, "What kind of friend would I be if I left my best mate behind." Klaus opened his hotel door. "Night Lex." He closed the door behind her.

---

It was after midnight when Caroline walked out of "Mickeys" laughing with her arm linked with Ian's for balance and Matt's linked with Ben's. She and Matt were the only two that got drunk because Ian and Ben were being the responsible ones.

"You have got to be joking Ben that can't be the worst date you have ever been on. I don't believe that he took you home to meet his mother the first night," Caroline's laugh turned into a giggle as they stood by the street curb.

"Oh trust me Care it was, and she was horrifying. She already had plans for me as her son-in-law and most of which involved being a housewife since I am a chef," Ben chuckled as he put his arm around Matt to keep him stable. "His good looks weren't enough to save that date."

Caroline put her hand on her stomach laughing, "Awww poor guy I bet he had no clue either."

Ben shook his head no and chuckled, "This was so much fun Caroline but I think I need to get Matt home, it's not good when he goes quite." Ben smiled to the smirking Matt leaning into him.

"Hey I am not that drunk," Matt slurred standing up right. "I think Caroline is more drunk then me."

Caroline laughed, "Ha! Not this time Matt." She pointed her finger at him. "I am tipsy not drunk, there is a difference." She giggled as she stuck her tongue out at Matt who did the same in return.

"Alright children," Ben laughed. "Ian will you be able to take Caroline home?"

"Yeah it's not a problem. I had two blue moons that's it so I'm good." Ian smiled as he looked at Caroline. "Would you like me to give you a ride home?"

Caroline smiled, "That would be awesome."

Ian smiled as he looked at Ben and Matt. "Well gentlemen it was nice meeting both of you." He shook Bens hand first. "Matt maybe we can catch a game together sometime?"

Matt chuckled "Definitely Ian you have my number."

Caroline laughed, "Oh god Matt found someone to watch football with."

Matt scrunched his nose at Caroline.

Caroline let go of Ian's arm and hug both Matt and Ben. "I'll see you two later. Ben you better text me more often now that Matt has introduced us." She pointed her finger at him.

"Of course I may even try to take Matt's place as your husband," Ben chuckled.

"Oooo, did you hear that Matty," she smiled stepping back from both of them. "You have some competition to keep me a happy wife."

"Yeah yeah you love me too much to replace me, even if it is for Ben," he waved her off as Ben walked them toward the waiting cab. "I'll call you later."

Caroline waved to both of them as they got into a cab and drove off, when she turned around Ian was sitting on his bike holding out a helmet for her to wear. She smiled walking up to him, taking the helmet and putting it on.

"Is this right," she giggled as she put the helmet on and tried adjusting the straps.

Ian chuckled, "Come here let me help you."

Caroline stepped closer to Ian as his hands adjusted the straps to helmet.

"There," he smiled. "Some people usually look goofy in my passenger helmet, but you look rather cute." He chuckled.

Caroline blushed, why do you have to be so adorable. "Thank you." She smiled as she stepped behind him and flung her leg over his bike and adjusted behind him with her purse in her lap. "Ready." She grinned she was excited she hasn't been on a bike in over seven years.

Ian chuckled, "I forgot you've been on these things before." Ian started his bike and looked back at Caroline. "Where am I taking you?"

"Oh right," Caroline gave Ian her address.

"Hold on sweetheart," Ian glanced at Caroline smiling.

Caroline just looked at him thinking of Klaus. She shook her head and wrapped her arms around his chest.

Ian smiled and pulled out on to the streets of San Francisco. He wanted her to enjoy the ride so he took the long way back to her apartment complex. He liked the way her arms felt wrapped around him and how soft her body felt pressed against his back. He always liked Caroline but he never thought he'd have a chance with her, but after tonight and the way they talked he figured it would be worth a shot.

Caroline got off Ian's bike in front of her apartment building and took off the helmet smiling. "That was amazing."

Ian smiled as he unhooked his helmet, "Maybe I can take you for a longer ride next time."

"Maybe," she smiled handing him back his helmet. "Thanks for the drinks Ian and for bringing me home."

"Oh no problem," Ian smiled as he got off the bike and stood next to Caroline. "Let's do it again sometime."

Caroline nodded, "Will see maybe we can have lunch sometime this week?" Caroline smiled as she looked up at Ian.

He really was a nice guy and she found out they had a lot in common. He always planned on being a writer when he got older and they had some common interests. He wasn't bad looking either, in fact he was gorgeous any girl would be happy to have him. She hated to admit it she just didn't feel like she was that girl. Caroline was lost in thought and didn't notice Ian lean down and peck her lips. Caroline stepped back in shock and put her hands up when she felt his lips touch hers. It was a quick peck but she just wasn't prepared for that.

"I'm sorry," Ian said nervously as he ran his hand through his hair. "I shouldn't have kissed you I just thought that after the way we connected tonight and we had so much fun—"

Caroline held up her hand smiling, "No no it's ok," Caroline smiledwaving her hands in front of her. "Tonight was fun Ian I'll text you when we can have lunch."

Ian nodded, "Yeah that would be great."

Caroline smiled and turned on her heel walking into her apartment building.

"Miss. Forbes did you have a good night," the doorman asked as she walked across the lobby.

"Yes, thank you," she nodded to the new doorman and walked to the elevator. She pushed her button to her floor and fished out her phone to check for any messages noticing it was one in the morning, a small frown appeared on her face when she didn't see anything from Klaus. She let out a sigh before putting her phone back in her purse. "Oh well."

Caroline stepped out of the elevator and walked to her apartment. As soon as she got into her apartment she threw her purse onto her kitchen table, along with her keys. She walked down to her room and changed into her pajamas and prepped for bed. She walked back into the kitchen to get her phone and make sure everything was locked. When she got back in the room she pulled her phone into her charger by her bed and got comfortable. She played with her phone a little and decided to be the bigger person. She opened up a text message to Klaus and sent it. She put her phone back on her night stand, turning off her light and closed her eyes.

---

Klaus sunk into the bed in his hotel room after a long hot shower. He put a fresh bandage over his wound and picked up his phone it was after 4 a.m. It would be after one back in San Francisco and he was wondering if Caroline was still awake.

He picked up his phone and opened a text box until the sudden movement caused him to grip his ribs in pain. He looked down at his bandage happy there was no blood seeping through it. Lexi did a great job stitching you up Klaus, he said to himself as he put his phone back on the night stand.

He settled on seeing her when he got home right now he needed to rest because he still wanted to see some of New York tomorrow with his best friend, and he was ecstatic Lexi chose the art museum. Klaus adjusted the pillows under his head and was ready to sleep when he heard his phone beep.

I hope you're having a good trip. Good night Klaus J

Klaus couldn't contain the smile form his face as he hit reply.

Eh…it was all business I look forward to getting back to SF. Good night sweetheart ;-)

A/N Well what did you think? Where should they go from here? Or is Ian going to get in the way? Let me know what you think in a review. I will try to post more on a regular basis but if i do that the updates will be shorter then they usually are. Just FYI.