Grabbing my car keys and wallet I make my way outside and drive over to Damon's house. Walking in not bothering to knock, "Please. Do come in." I hear Stefan say dryly. I just flip him off and walk to the liquor cabinet.

"Shit. Shit. Shit." I keep muttering to myself. "Hey baby doll." Damon says confused, "What ya doin?" he says slowly approaching me. Growling at him, "I fucked up Damon. Now things are going to go tits up." I say in frustration downing my drink.

"I thought the Klaus thing is handled?" I scoff, "Of course it is. That's not what I'm talking about." He gets a confused look and looks to Stefan who just shrugs looking bored. "Care to elaborate Dani?" Stefan asks.

"I just spoke to my fiancé who I haven't spoken in over a thousand years. He knows I'm alive now and he is going to rip this town apart trying to find me if Elijah tells him where I am."

I could see both of them furrow their brows. "How is your fiancé still alive?" I let out a huff, "Because I was supposed to marry Kol Mikaelson." I can see the shock on both their faces. "So Elijah was that Elijah?" I nod my head.

"Holy hell Dani...you really get yourself into some shit." I scowl at Stefan, "Thanks for the heads up dad!" I say sarcastically. "Okay, let's just back up a second. So, your fiancé is Kol Mikaelson who is part of the Original family. You just helped reunite Elijah with his family and now Kol knows you are alive and so they are going to come here?" Damon asks trying to clarify, I nod my head.

"The same family that killed your family." I shake my head.

"Nope. Turns out it was just their bastard father who was behind it. They were innocent." I whisper slamming another drink back.

"Luckily for us, they aren't on speaking terms with Klaus on the account of having them daggered. So, more protection for Elena." I say with false excitement.

"Well that is good news. Guess something good has come from this mess." Damon mutters to himself.

"Hey, that mess you are talking about? Yeah, happens to be my life asshole."

"Why are things never simple with you around?" Asks Stefan dejectedly into his hands.

"Hey. I prefer to think of it as exciting." He drops his hands and give me a look of disbelief.

"Belfast in 1979." I chuckle, "That was fun. Who knew explosives could do so much damage?" He lets out a moan of frustration, "You took out an 8th century castle."

"Wasn't the worst thing I did." I say slamming back another glass of liquor.

"So what do we do now? Shouldn't we be looking for Klaus?"

I shake my head, "He'll find you first. Especially if he sees you hanging around Elena. He can't know I'm here so I will be withdrawing from school for a while. I also won't be able to see Elena till we deal with him. In the mean time I am going to buy a new phone and start looking for a way to save Elena in case he does get his hands on her. Better safe than dead." With that I blur out of the house and take off in my car to Richmond.

Walking into the mall, I make my way to the closest cell phone vendor. Buying a replacement phone and changing my number just in case Kol got ahold of Elijah's phone. I take my purchases and start walking around.

A few minutes into my walk I see Ally's number pop up. "Hey cuz." I say answering, "Hey. Go straight and then hang a left. Two stores down on the right. If you don't buy that dress for the ball on Saturday, I will murder you personally." I hear her say giggling.

Quickly making my way over I stop when I see it. "If I didn't buy that dress, I'd let you murder me. Thanks cuz." I say hanging up. Walking inside I walk up to the mannequin and take a look at the back of the dress.

"Are you interested in this piece?" I hear from behind me. Turning I see a sales lady that is in her fifties with a tight French twist and an immaculate dress suit. "I am actually." She smiles at me, "Wonderful. You do realize that is a one of a kind Alexander McQueen."

I nod my head, "Of course. Wouldn't be the first time one of his pieces has graced my eyes." I say smartly. "Well, let's try it on then, shall we?" I nod my head. As she takes it down I make my way into the dressing room. She helps me into the dress. "It seems it was made for you my dear." I smile, "Of course it does." I wasn't usually this full of myself with my looks but this dress made me feel empowered.

I quickly remove the dress and re-dress. Making my way to the register, I pull out my black AmEx. She cocks an eyebrow at the card and runs it.

"Shall I have this delivered?" I nod my head. "Please have it delivered to Carol Lockwood's home in Mystic Falls." She nods her head. "She is a frequent customer of ours. We have her address on file." As I make my way out of the store, I get an alert to my phone. Looking down at it, it was a text from Alice.

'You won't find shoes there. I'm sending you some 3' Leave it to Alice to make sure everything was perfect. Whispering my thanks to her knowing she will see it, I make my way to the hair and make-up salon. Making appointments for Saturday, I leave the mall and make my way home. As I pull up to the house, I see Tyler Lockwood standing outside getting ready to knock on the door.

Getting out of the car, I make my way up to him. "Hey Tyler, what brings you here?" I say smiling at him.

"I came to drop this off to you." He says handing me an envelope. I take it from him and open it. "I was hoping to get one of these. Especially since I just dropped fifty grand on a dress."

"If you aren't going with anyone, would you want to be my plus one?" I smile at him and receive a text. Holding up my finger

'Change of plans. I have to take Barbie as my plus one since Tyler flaked on her.'

Well isn't that just freakin' convenient.

I look up at him, "I'd love to Tyler. I will just have my dress delivered to your home and get ready there if that is alright with you?" He nods his head and smiles, "Absolutely beautiful." Walking away he gets in his truck and leaves. Walking inside I go into my study and flop down at my desk letting out a heavy sigh.

As I start to let my mind wander my phone rings. Picking it up, I don't recognize the number and answer. "Hello?" I hear a growl, "I heard you took something of mine." I chuckle, "Hello to you too Klaus. What can I do for you?" I hear him take a deep breath trying to calm himself, "You could start by telling me who you are." I chuckle, "Sorry Klaus. That's not how this works. Although, mind telling me how you got this number when I've only had it for a couple of hours?" At his lack of response, I sigh, "Fine. I was only helping a very old friend get his family back. Don't worry, they will be joining you in Mystic Falls quite soon."

"Is that so? Well, I guess in the mean time I will just have to find my doppelganger and break my pesky curse." I let out my own growl, "You won't get anywhere near her Klaus." I hear him chuckle, "Is that so?" With that he hangs up.

Calling Damon immediately, "Hello?" He says warily into the phone, "Klaus is in town." I rush out. "He got my number somehow but he doesn't know it's me. Where's Elena?"

"She's with me and Stefan at the house." I sigh, "Bring her here. Convince Jenna to let her stay with me. I can ward the house so they need invitations to come in and keep her protected till the rest of the Mikaelsons get here."

"Okay. We'll be over in an hour." With that he hangs up. I pull out Elijah's number and text him,

'Klaus just contacted me. He doesn't realize it's me.'

A few minutes later he responds,

'Can I call? It's safe to talk'

Not waiting for him to call, I call him. "So how is my brother?" He says answering. "You know. The usual. Grr, give me back what's mine, grr" He lets out a chuckle, "Well, I have good news and bad news. Good news, Kol isn't sure if it was you but he does suspect something." I roll my eyes, "And that's the good news? What's the bad news?"

"Bad news, we are at a gas station refueling. We are on our way there." I let out a groan of frustration, "That's not what I want to hear Elijah. Can you keep them distracted long enough, till at least Friday? There's a ball at the Lockwood's on Saturday. We can have our grand reunion then."

I hear him chuckle, "Of course. I can show Rebekah Mall of America." I giggle, "I'm sure they will all love it. Elena will be staying with me for the week. That's the easiest way to keep my existence up in the air to Klaus and keep her away from him. Call me when you are in town on Friday."

With that I hang up. Making my way upstairs, I open one of the guest rooms and start putting bedding on it and preparing it for Elena. A half hour later I hear the doorbell ring. Going downstairs I open it to find Elena, Damon and Stefan. I pull Elena into a hug, "Hey you." I whisper. "Hey." I pull back and invite the boys in. "I prepared a guest room for you upstairs. On Saturday you and Stefan will be joining me at the Lockwood's to dress for the party."

I say it in a way that obviously leaves no room for argument. "I'll convince Carol." I shake my head, "No need. I am Tyler's plus one since someone ditched me." I say raising an eyebrow at Damon.

"At least it's not New York all over again." I roll my eyes, "Yeah. We'll see how Saturday goes down."

I can tell Stefan and Elena are confused. I wave my hand, "For another time. So, who's hungry?" I say. Walking into the kitchen I start pulling things out for Spaghetti.

After everything is out I turn to Damon, "Okay. Hop to handsome." I say with a pat on his shoulder. Pulling out a bottle of wine I pour us each a glass. "Yummy." Elena says as she takes a drink. Smiling at her I take my own sip.

"So Dani, Damon and Stefan gave me the run down. Why are you so hesitant to see Kol again?" I let out a heavy sigh. "There are several reasons. The main one being, I disappeared and ran the day we were to get married." I say taking another sip of my wine.

"Never pegged you for the runaway bride, but I can see how that would make someone hesitant." she says with a nod. "But Dani, you can't hide from him forever."

I chuckle, "I've done it pretty well over the last thousand years." She gives me a look that obviously meant she didn't buy it.

"I get it. I know I am going to have to see him. That's why I am securing invites to the party on Saturday. That way, when he does see me again, it will be in a room full of people and we can avoid a blowout." I say tapping the side of my head thoughtfully.

"So, what do we do about Klaus?" I let out a heavy breath, "Stop him from killing you." I say honestly.

"I actually have been thinking about something. Hear me out before you freak." She nods her head hesitantly. Even Damon stopped cutting vegetables to listen.

"What if I said that I could make sure you came back, completely human, if he were to complete the ritual?" She takes a long drink of wine and scrunches up her face, "Would it get him to leave me alone?"

Shrugging at her answer, "I can do my best to make sure that he does. If he doesn't, I'll desiccate him and drop him into a hole so deep no one will ever find him."

She lets out a heavy breath, "Okay. We will approach him with the deal and if he doesn't take it, we put him down." I nod my head. "Exactly." I can see Stefan is skeptical, "Are you sure you can pull this off?" I nod my head.

"I have leverage." He cocks an eyebrow, "I have the only thing that can permanently kill an Original. But don't even think about trying it. They used to be my family, I want them back as my family. If you play nice with them, they will play nice with you."

They all nod their heads thoughtfully. "Wait, if I'm stuck in the house, how am I supposed to get a dress?" Elena asks.

I laugh, "Great topic change. But also, a very valid question." Just then my phone goes off, "Hello?" I hear a chuckle, "Smash another phone?" I smile, "You know my temper Rose. The smallest things always seem to set it off. What can I do for you?" She snorts, "Temper is putting it mildly. Alice just took out of here like a bat out of hell complaining that she has to do everything. I tried asking her what's up and she said call you and gave me your new number."

I laugh, "I know what's wrong. A friend needs a dress and we both need shoes so she must be taking care of that." I hear a booming laugh in the background and Emmett teasing Jasper about some game they were playing.

"Give your hunk of husband a kiss for me Rose. I'll talk to you later." She giggles, "Will do babe. Stay safe. Let me know if you need back up." With that the line goes dead. I smile at the phone and couldn't help to think how much I missed my extended family. Looking up, I can see a look of confusion on all three of their faces.

"Alice is a seer. She saw Elena's predicament and is taking care of it." I could see a sense of fear that every teenage girl gets when someone else is picking out their outfit.

"Trust me, you will love whatever she picks out. She's already seen it." Elena nods not quite following but shrugs her shoulders and pours herself another glass of wine. Just then Damon plates the food.

"Dinner is served." I clap excitedly, "Yum!" I quickly grab forks and everyone starts eating. The second I take a bite I couldn't stop the moan that escaped my lips.

"This is so good Damon. I change my mind, if you weren't my best friend, I would totally marry you just for this." I could see Elena choke on a noodle and Stefan pats her back to help it go down.

Once she catches her breath she gets a confused look on her face, "Did you two...you know...sleep together?" I giggled at the snort that left Damon's mouth.

"Sure did. For about, what? Thirty years?" I nod my head, "Yep. Worst three decades of my life." I say. He takes my plate away from me, "No food for you." He says standing up.

I jump up, and try to get my plate from him. But, after a minute of trying I shrug my shoulders and sit in his spot and start eating from his plate.

I could see Stefan and Elena were surprised at his playfulness. They follow him with their eyes and Damon takes my spot and starts eating from my plate.

After a few minutes he gets tired of their staring, "What?" He says chewing a bite of food. Elena shakes her head, "Nothing. I've just never seen you so, relaxed and open before." I smile at Damon and ruffle his hair, "He's her Lexi." Stefan explains and Elena nods her head in understanding.

Quickly finishing our food and cleaning up, we make our way into the library and all sit down with our wine. "So, what are we going to do about Katherine?" Stefan asks. Damon and I both let out identical groans, "Always the buzz kill." Damon says.

"He does bring up a good point." I nod my head at Elena's observation.

"If you boys can trap her; I can hold her downstairs in the basement. I have reinforced steel cells that I built for my wolves. I can spell her into a coma essentially if we can get her down with vervain."

"We'll start working on it tomorrow."

"Just don't tell her Klaus is in town. If she gets wind he is, she'll run."

"Why?" Elena asks.

"She was originally supposed to the be the sacrifice to break Klaus' curse. Long story short, she tricked two vampires into turning her. The two who grabbed you as matter of fact." She nods in understanding, "They took me as a bargaining chip for their freedom because when Katherine became a vampire, she was useless."

I loved that Elena was so smart. She always caught onto things without much explanation. "Hey Dani, quick question. In the house when you told me to come up the stairs, you had an accent. Why?"

I smile, "My family was originally from Italy but I spent over five hundred years in England before returning to the New World. We came to the New World before it was the New World and settled. The leaders of the Cold Ones were blindly slaughtering humans at the time. This was the only safe place that they couldn't reach."

"Have you been back to Italy?" I chuckle, "Oh yeah. Needless to say, Caius was not happy. He has a personal vendetta against werewolves. Long story short, the Cold One leaders aren't too happy with me after some crap I helped Bella and her family with." I say smiling into my wine glass.

"Leave it to you to piss off the Volturi. You know they don't let that shit slide."

"Of course they don't Damon. They'll come knocking one day and I will send them with their tails tucked between their legs once again."

That's how the four of us spent every night. Eating dinner together, drinking wine and telling stories. Mainly Elena listened and laughed at our antics and the things we managed to get ourselves into. I could tell part of her wished she had those types of memories but she took it all in stride. I could tell as the week went on, she may actually be considering becoming a vampire. If not for any other reason but to have a chance to see the kinds of things we have seen and experience what the whole world has to offer.

Soon Friday was rolling around and I was nervously pacing in my library waiting for my phone to ring. Elena was taking a nap and the Salvatore brothers were downstairs harassing Katherine. So translation, I was left alone to my thoughts and they were never a good thing for me to be left alone with.

After what seemed like ages my phone rings and I couldn't help the sigh of relief at seeing Elijah's name on my caller id.

"Hello Elijah." I say at an even tone. "Hello Ella. So, we are in town and settled. We've already had one run in with Klaus." I snort, "What I wouldn't of given to been a fly on the wall during that happy reunion."

"Yes, it was most…liberating for our siblings. But on the brighter side of things, Klaus is going to agree to your deal. It was a very hands on discussion." I couldn't help the smug feeling that came from his words. Don't get me wrong, I didn't want any serious harm to come to Klaus but he did need some type of payback for daggering his siblings for so long.

I had texted Elijah earlier in the week with my idea on the ritual and he said he would make sure his brother agreed. No white oak stakes needed. "Fabulous." I say making my way up to my room.

"How are they settling?" I hear a heavy sigh, "Kol has been watching me like a hawk. He's convinced I'm hiding something from him. Rebekah has been shopping and moping. You being brought up didn't have the best reaction. She did take your leaving almost as hard as Kol and Finn has left searching for Sage."

I smile, "I hope they reconcile. I wish I would have known; I happen to be good friends with one of her protégé. So, where are you staying?" He sighs, "With our brother. We aren't the happiest but we are enjoying tormenting him."

I chuckle, "As pissed at Klaus as I am for keeping Kol daggered, I'm sure he did it because of Mikael. The spirits told me he's been hunting you all for the past thousand years and if we want to brutally honest, your youngest siblings aren't exactly the most discreet." He chuckles, "Don't I know. Kol wasted no time reverting back to his old ways."

I couldn't help but feel sad at Elijah's claim. "So booze, blood and bitches?" I say trying to hide the hurt but I suspect some may have slipped through. I mean, Elijah and I were best friends for a very long time. He would be sure to pick up on it.

"So, Carol Lockwood has already extended invites. We will all be there tomorrow. Are you ready for this?" I sigh, "No. But what choice is there? I can't keep running. I have too much at stake."

"So, I take it you have a plus one already?" I chuckle, "I'm far too beautiful not too Elijah. I am being escorted by Tyler Lockwood. I will actually be getting ready at the Lockwood house. Well, after Elena and I run into Richmond to get our hair done."

He sighs, "Well, at least you and Rebekah will have something to bond over."

"Goodbye Elijah. I will see you tomorrow." With that I hang up the phone. Looking at the clock it's close to dinner time and feeling super lazy, I decide to order a couple of pizzas.

As the doorbell rings Elena comes downstairs yawning and still tired. Paying for the pizza, I make my way into the kitchen Setting everything down, I grab enough plates and glasses. "How was your nap?" I ask as she tiredly makes her way into the kitchen and flops down on her stool. "Like I could sleep for weeks and not wake up. I haven't been sleeping well given everything going on and it's starting to catch up with me.

I could understand where she was coming from. Sleep had eluded me most nights because my mind wouldn't stop running away with me. Thinking about all the possible outcomes and what my reunion with Kol will be like.

I knew no matter what I did, I would have to face him. At least this way, it would be on my own terms for the most part and I could actually control the situation. I didn't want to feel powerless. I didn't want to feel backed into a corner when the time came to finally see him again.

"Well, tonight, you need to try your hardest to get some sleep. I have a feeling tomorrow may be a pretty long night depending on how everything goes down."

As I handed Elena her plate, she started piling it with pizza. As I took a bit from my own slice, I hear my front door open and close. Stefan and Damon come stomping into the room and don't even bother with plates.

"Please, don't worry about knocking and make yourselves at home." I say sarcastically with a mouth full of pizza.

"So, what time do you guys head to Richmond tomorrow?" Damon asks between bites.

"Noon. That will give us enough time for our hair and makeup. Leaving plenty to spare for making it to the Lockwood's before anyone shows up." Elena started fidgeting in her chair and had a nervous look on her face.

"Your dress and our shoes along with my dress are already there. I spoke with Carol this morning." She lets out a noticeable sigh of relief, "Thank god. I can't believe I had totally spaced."

"Well we have been pretty busy. Me showing you magic, drinking...me showing you drunk magic." She laughs. "I about lost it when you turned that bird into a bunny that cawed."

It felt good knowing that I was building memories with Elena. Memories that would stay with us for the rest of our lives. She had so much to offer the world and I know she would be a fabulous immortal.

After dinner and goodbyes, Elena and I went up to bed with half-hearted goonights. Changing into my pjs and throwing myself into bed, I quickly found sleep was hard to come by.

My thoughts were on how tomorrow night would play out and what everyone's reaction would be to seeing me again. It was well after midnight before I could finally fall asleep. However, if I knew what my wake-up call was going to be like, I might have stayed awake.

Because let me tell you. Being woken up at nine in the morning by Damon, was not my idea of a good time. "Come on sleepy head. Time to get up." Damon says smacking my ass really hard.

"OW! Fuck Damon. You are the worst alarm clock. I'm returning you for a full refund... as soon as I get a few more hours of sleep." I say mumbling into my pillow.

"Not a chance baby doll. But you might like to know that there is a certain Original that is downstairs destroying your kitchen." Knowing only Elijah knew where I lived, I let out a huff and made my way out of my room and down the stairs. Hearing voices coming from the kitchen, I walk in to Elijah. In an apron? Cooking pancakes?

"Umm...what are you doing here?" I say utterly confused.

"Making you breakfast. You, have a big day ahead of you. Need your strength." He says with a smirk on his face. "Yeah, yeah. Do they have any idea?" I say taking a bite out of my pancakes that Elijah handed me.

"They do not. They have been so busy getting ready for the ball and exploring town, they haven't had much time to dwell on your phone call. Although, I believe Kol still suspects something." I nod my head and pray to a god that I wasn't sure even existed anymore that everything will go alright tonight.

"Are you sure you don't want to meet them again in a more private setting?" Elijah asks in all seriousness.

"No. It's like I said to Damon, Elena and Stefan. There is less likely to be a scene with people around. I know your family prides themselves in having respected reputations. Regardless how big of a shock seeing me is going to be for them, they won't make a big deal out in the open."

"I cannot argue with you about that. Still, I had hoped for a more romantic reuniting."

I shake my head, "You are a romantic at heart Elijah. That is one thing that obviously hasn't changed about you and it couldn't make me happier. However, there is something you need to understand. There is no guarantee that your brother and I will rekindle a dead flame that went out centuries ago. We are different people and with how different I am; I don't want your brother pursuing me under the impression I'm still that love sick girl."

Elena had kept quiet through our entire exchange but I could see the curiosity in her eyes. She was just as curious as everyone else who knew about Kol and I, on how it would all play out. I figured it will be like a car wreck. You couldn't help but watch, no matter how awful it may be.

Quickly finishing my food, I look at the clock and notice it's almost eleven. "Come on Elena. Let's get ready and hit the road." She looks at the clock and hops up and dashes out of the kitchen.

"I like her." Elijah says. Turning to him I wait for him to continue, "She is nothing like Katerina. She's a breath of fresh air honestly." I smile, "The girl didn't even utter a word but she's also spoken for Elijah. Even if I do think you would be the better man for her." I say whispering the last bit.

He nods his head in understanding. "I'm going to tidy this up and I will see you tonight." I make my way into my room and decided Not to bother with my hair since it was going to get filled with a bunch of product anyway. I pull on a pair of shorts and a button up shirt with short sleeves. Putting on sandals, I make my way out of my room grabbing my purse and keys on the way out.

I see Elena already at the bottom of the stairs dressed similar to me. Only instead of blue jean shorts she is wearing tan and instead of a pink top she is wearing a green one. "Alright. Let's go get beautiful."

The ride to the city was filled with tons of questions from Elena about the Original family and what they were like as human. I answered her questions to the best of my ability but I also warned her that time changes people. Living as long as we have, you don't go through life without some really horrible things happening. She seemed to get disheartened by that. To make up for it, I also clued her into the fact that a lot of amazing things happen as well. That seemed to instill her sense of excitement much to my relief.

Once we get there, we have a quick snack and make our way to the salon. "Hello, two appointments. Elena and Daniella." The pretty girl behind the counter checks her sheet, "Okay. Let's head on back."

Sitting down, one girl begins working on our makeup while the other does our hair. A third comes out and begins doing our nails. I kept my nails simple with a black coat. Elena had her own done purple. My hair was curled and pulled back on the sides and pinned up. Elena had her hair done in an intricate twist and pinned just behind her ear. Her eyeshadow was silver with a thick line of eyeliner and fake lashes.

My eyeshadow was brown and tan with a smoky grey eyeliner. No false lashes need for me. My lip was painted red and Elena's was kept nude. Paying the ladies, we make our way back to the car. Making sure the windows were rolled up, I speed back to Mystic Falls noticing that we are half an hour behind.

Pulling up to the front, I park my car and toss my keys to the valet. As we reach the door Carol Lockwood opens it, "Hello girls. Your things are upstairs in the last bedroom on the left."

"Thanks Ms. Lockwood." We say together. Running up the stairs we dash into the room. "That was close." Elena says with a hand over her heart. Walking over to the garment bags, I hand Elena hers and she steps into the bathroom to change. I pull mine out and slip it on quickly. The dress has a nude under lining with a black lace over the top. The back stops at the bottom of my back and hugs my hips, flaring out halfway down my thighs. The sleeves are sheer lace and reach my wrists. Pulling out the shoes, they are studded black pumps that have a five-inch heel. The jewelry is simple. A large onyx ring for my right middle finger and a pair of black square cute diamond chandelier earrings.

Elena steps out and her dress is absolutely gorgeous. It is a column shaped dress that hugs her to her waist and falls gracefully to the floor. The lavender brings out the brown in her eyes and paired with her olive skin tone, she looked like an exotic princess. Touching her dress in wonder and I couldn't help but thank Alice a billion times in my head.

"I feel so pretty." She whispers. I smile at her, "You are absolutely stunning. Come on, check out your shoes."

She walks over and pulls open the box and gasps. The shoes are four-inch heel sandals with silver rhinestones on the straps. Her jewelry is a hair comb that I place in the middle of her twist shaped like a butterfly.

Her bracelet, since the dress doesn't have sleeves, is a cuff bracelet with amethysts that create the shape of a butterfly. Her earrings match. Opening the last box, there are two masks, hers is of course, a butterfly mask that I knew were going to make her eyes pop.

My mask is black lace with black feathers on either side. Slipping them on we check ourselves out. "We look amazing."

"I don't know Alice, but I love her." I giggle, "Alice is amazing when it comes to fashion. I remember the first time she picked out an outfit, I threw a fit but like everyone else when it comes to her, I caved."

There's a knock on the door that interrupted me going into the story of that day but I knew that there would be plenty of chances to tell Elena about it.

Opening the door, I wasn't at all surprised to see Stefan and Tyler are standing there. Stefan in a black jacket with a purple shirt that is the same shade as Elena's dress and purple rose in his front breast pocket. I couldn't help but think maybe Alice had a hand in that. Knowing her, she most likely did.

Tyler is dressed the same only with a red button up and a red rose. After seeing him, I knew for a fact she had a hand in their clothes.

"Wow. You two look amazing." Says Tyler in wonder. I smile, "We clean up alright."

Stefan holds his arm out for Elena who takes it. I take Tyler's and we start making our way down the halls. "Wait, where are your masks?" Stefan and Tyler pull them out of their pocket and put them on. "How do men fit such large things in their pockets?" I say in wonder. I hear Elena giggle at my question and her only answer was to shrug.

As we round the corner, the party was already in full swing. I was surprised I didn't hear all the noise when we were upstairs. Guess this house had pretty damn good sound proofing.

"I have to admit. I do have the most beautiful date tonight." I smile over at Tyler, "Well, I can assure you that I will have plenty of girls sending glares my way for being your date." I could see him blush a bit at my compliment.

"You know, you are one of the few girls that is pretty without makeup, when you get all dolled up like this, you are an absolute knockout." He says quietly.

"Are we just going to keep complimenting each other all night Tyler or are we going to join the party?" I say as we make our way down the stairs.

"Oh my god Elena!" I see Caroline make her way over, "You look stunning! Dani? Is that an original Alexander McQueen?" I chuckle, "You would be correct."

I can see the envy on her face, "I wish you were my cousin." She whined.

"Caroline what are you talking about? You look gorgeous." Elena says and I took the time to look at her dress. She was the epitome of Cinderella.

"Thanks. Tyler." She says sternly. "Hi Caroline." I could feel the tension and it was making me uncomfortable. "Why don't the two of you talk this out?" I say and making my way towards the bar. As I sit down to order a drink, I am interrupted by my phone going off and see Elijah's name glaring at me from the screen. I decided it was probably in my best interest to ignore the call. His siblings at to be close by and this was probably some ploy to get Kol riled up.

"What can I get you gorgeous?" I smile at the older bartender, "The lady will have a crown on the rocks."

"You seem to know me Mr. Salvatore."

"I never forget a beautiful face." Turning to him, "Well, for that, I guess you will have to allow me to buy you a drink. Bourbon for the gentleman." I tell the bartender.

Taking our glasses, I hooked my arm with his, "So, Elijah keeps shooting looks over here. Not one for subtlety is he?" I laugh, "No. He isn't." As we start heading towards the balcony Carol stops me. "Damon, if I may borrow Daniella here." I smile at Carol, "How can I help?" she smiles, "My husband was a huge fan of these functions. The masquerade was always his favorite. Generally, he and I would lead the first dance but since he passed, I was hoping you would be willing to do so with Tyler." I smile, "Of course. When does it start and what type of dance is it?"

She smiles and lets out a sigh of relief, "Generally a waltz but Tyler was hoping to do something more 'hip', as he likes to call it. So he was considering the tango." I raise both eyebrows at her suggestion.

"Really?" She gets a worried look on her face, "You do know how to tango don't you? Damon said you did." I smile sarcastically at Damon. "He would be correct." He smirked and took a sip of his drink, "I am going to announce it in a few minutes. Join me on the back stairs with Tyler?" I nod my head.

Slamming back my drink and then taking Damon's and slamming it back, "You are on my shit list Salvatore." I growl out. Handing him both glasses I turn and see Tyler standing next to his mother at the back door.

People were already making their way outside and down to the dance floor. Who does an inpromptu tango? Shit like this doesn't happen in the real world. I mean sure, crazier shit happens all the time but this? There was no rehearsal or time to prepare for this. How can anyone be expected to pull this off without any prep?

I couldn't help but look over at the front doors. My freedom and salvation from all of this mess. I mean, I didn't want to leave Tyler in a shitty position considering how nice he's been so far tonight but I don't want to have to dance in front of everyone. Damon already picked up on my train of thoughts after he followed my gaze and saw the longing look on my face.

"Oh no baby doll. I volunteered you for this and I will not have you make me look bad in front of one of the council members. Besides, I know you'll do great."

I leveled a glare at him that, with a few uttered words from me, would set his smug ass on fire. "Firstly, I'm being volunforced to do this because you know I would have shot it down if you actually asked me. Secondly, how am I supposed to keep a low profile with Kol if I am the center of fucking attention Damon? This is not how things are supposed to go down."

With a wave of his hand dismissing my rant, he leads me to the top of the stairs to stand next to Tyler and makes his way to the bottom going to stand next to Stefan, Elena and Caroline. I stop on Carol's right side and Tyler is on her left.

Grabbing the mic, she clears her throat to get everyone's attention. "Ladies and gentleman, thank you for joining us here at Lockwood Estate on this beautiful night. My late husband loved masquerades and tradition would be he and I would lead the first dance of the evening. With his recent passing, that has been passed down to my son and his lovely date. Please join me in giving them a round of applause."

She begins clapping and so does everyone else. "Tonight, they will be gracing us with a tango." She gestures to the two of us.

"Start up here and then work your way down in the first 16 beats." I wave his hand off, "I know how to do this Tyler." Once again praying to a God I don't believe in, I beg that he doesn't let me screw up. Tyler nods his head and makes his way to the bottom of the stairs. As he reaches the bottom a spotlight goes on the both of us. The music starts, and I begin making my way slowly down the stairs moving my body in beat to the music.

As I reach him, he pulls me to him and starts to lead me across the floor. As the music speeds up he begins spinning me and if I weren't a vampire, I probably would have fallen over. At moments we are just inches from touching which added to the sexual tension effect the tango is supposed to give.

As the music goes into a slow instrumental break, Damon steps forward and taps Tyler on the shoulder, I can see them share the same smirk. They planned this shit didn't they? When in the hell did they have time to plan this? Damon was basically living at my house for the past week drinking up all my booze.

However, I had to admit, Damon is the best partner in dancing I have ever had. He dances like he hunts, and I always enjoyed watching him hunt. As he starts to step towards me, I back up, each step in time with the music.

Turning to 'go' up the stairs, I feel him grab my hand and spin me to him. Leading me in the rest of the tango he ends it with a dip and my leg wrapped around his hip. Everyone starts applauding and cheering. Thankfully I kept my face turned away from the crowd for most of it which was a pain in the ass. With a low curtsey I stand and exit the floor with Damon towards our group.

"Holy shit Dani! That was hot." I smile at Elena's words, "Thanks. Damon and I used to tango all the time when we drank. He's the best partner I've ever had. Although," I say giving Tyler a wink, "Tyler may be better."

I could almost hear Damon roll his eyes, "As if. I'm the best at everything I do and you know it." I shrug and was immediately ready with a retort to knock him down a peg, when I hear a throat clear from behind me.

"Mr. Salvatore, perhaps you will introduce us to your friends." I frown, damn it Elijah. Your meddlesome bastard and I hope you know that. Before I could even start pleading with God to get me out of this, my phone rings. Pulling it out and keeping my head down, "Excuse me." I say rushing through the crowd in the opposite direction from them.

Looking at the caller id, it wasn't God, but it might as well have been divine intervention.

"Thank you Alice." I say to her. She lets out a giggle, "You are so going to let me plan your wedding too." I snort, "I have no plans on getting married."

"Whatever you say cuz. Don't turn around. Love you." She hangs up. Stupid cryptic pixie. Walking forward I could catch a faint whiff of Kol from a breeze that blew his scent in my direction. Turning to take in the crowd, I see Tyler talking to Matt.

I walk up and loop my arm with Tyler's, "Hello Matt." I say smiling at him, "Hey Dani. Haven't seen you much. I know Bonnie is around here looking for you." I take a quick glimpse around me and notice Stefan is occupying Kol and they seem to be getting along. "If you see Bonnie, let her know I'll be at the bar." With that I take my leave and make my way over to another bartender. "Crown and coke please."

"My brother is very determined to find you." Says Elijah with humor in his voice. "Well, if I have my way, he won't get the chance to talk to me. I have several people running interference. So, even though you are trying your hardest to get this reunion to happen, it seems luck is on my side." Taking my drink and making my way towards the fountain on the back of the estate, I take a seat on its edge.

"Well, I can honestly say, you are the most breath taking creature I have ever seen."

"Well, I must say you are most dashing in a suit. It suits you. No pun intended." He chuckles at my awful joke.

"That was terrible." I nod my head and laugh, "Indeed it was. I have a feeling I won't be able to dodge him much longer considering I should be paying more attention to my date. I came here with Tyler but I haven't been a very good plus one thanks to you and your brother." I say with a shrug of my shoulders.

"Well you know the only way to face this is to just accept the fact you can't dodge him forever. What is the humans say? Oh yes, treat it like a band aid." He says.

"I've done a pretty good job for the last thousand years." He nods, "That's true but you must have figured out that if you run, I will chase you. Which would lead to my siblings following me and honestly, I would hate to uproot them when they are just settling down."

I shake my head, "I'm done running. At least from you, Kol on the other hand..." I trail off and make my way to the house. As soon as I step into the house I hear my name being called by Bonnie. I stop and turn to her and see a worries look on her face.

"Bonnie? What's wrong?" She starts breathing heavy, "I'm so sorry Dani. I tried to stop Caroline but she was adamant." I give her a confused look, "Adamant about what?"

"She was kind of pissed that Tyler brought you as her date and even though she doesn't mean anything malicious behind it, she's taking a bit of payback." Giving Bonnie a look of confusion, she points towards Caroline and I see the Mikaelsons staring at her in shock except Elijah who is looking at me with a smirk plastered to his face.

I let out a low growl. "Caroline, I am going to murder you." She looks at me and smiles while shrugging her shoulders. At that moment all the rest of the Mikaelsons turn to look at me but my eyes connected with only one person. Kol Mikaelson.