Thanks to my wonderful friend and beta klovec. If you like mafia type au Klaroline check out her story Queen of the North or if sweet and fluffy au is more your taste, there is Remember that Summer Ten Years Ago.
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"Where are we going?" Caroline asked, practically bouncing on her toes as they walked through the Palace. The marble halls were completely vacant and she wondered if Klaus emptied them on purpose.
"It is a surprise." Klaus tilted his head down to smile at her.
They approached a massive iron gate with sharp, pointed tips made of gold. Like magic it slowly lifted, without even the slightest creak.
The scent of living things, green grass and trees bombarded Caroline. "You are taking me outside?"
"I thought you might enjoy seeing the garden."
"Hell has a garden? How is that even possible?"
Klaus made a tsking sound. "Are they still teaching that Hell exists in the shadows of earth's core?"
"We're not below ground?"
"Yes and no. We are beneath Heaven, but we exist on a different plane than the rest of the world. When I descend with my wings into the earth, I pass through a barrier that leads into a new realm. One similar and different to the Earth."
Caroline took a moment to process this information. It called into question everything she knew of Hell. "What about the fiery pits where souls burn?"
He gave her a sharp grin. "Oh, we do still have those. Within Hell, below us, there are nine rings of fire. Each one caters to a different type of sin."
"This is where your souls suffer in torment?" Caroline tried to keep her sadness in check, only she knew Klaus could see it in her face, hear it in her voice.
"They deserve the punishment they receive," Klaus argued coolly. "They made choices in their lives that brought them here. You cannot purify the darkest of souls. Some of them should never be allowed to walk the earth again."
Caroline's hand pressed to her heart, the pain of those that burned beneath made her ache.
"Spare no pity for them. They are unworthy of your care." Klaus took her hand in his. "Come and see one of the wonders of Hell."
His forbidding tone made it clear he did not wish to continue this conversation further. She knew she shouldn't say anything more, but those poor souls preyed on her thoughts.
"Is there no chance for those most evil? Even if they repent or pay for their crimes?"
Klaus made a noise of exasperation, a muscle in his cheek twitching. "Do you really want to forgo a visit to the garden so we can argue about what is just punishment for the most vile and evil sinners the human race has ever known?"
"No, but -"
"Good. Now, can I show you around?"
"It is not my intent to anger you with my questions," Caroline said carefully. "I am trying to understand your world."
"And, I want you too." Klaus gave her a brilliant smile that chipped at her resolve to try to remain untouched and indifferent to him. When he looked at her like that it was easy to forget about the suffering souls in Hell. "But, this is not an argument I wish to have with you now."
He tugged at her, leading her through the gates and into the sunshine. She tipped her head up into the golden light, letting it blind her. The warm sunrays beat down on to her face and she smiled. For the first time since her capture she felt lightness within. She wanted to bask in the beautiful glow of the sun, let it burn her skin.
Klaus chuckled at her and she realized how silly she must look, staring up at the sky.
"You like the sun?"
"Oh, yes. I am used to seeing it most days. At least, the days when I saw Elijah and worked on fulfilling my assignments," Caroline knew as soon as she said his name she had made a grave error.
He stopped in his tracks. "Do not ever speak his name in my presence again," Klaus growled low in his throat.
Caroline shivered, fear prickling up her spine. "I'm sorry. I won't say it again. But, tell me why it bothers you so? He is an honorable Angel, one of our leaders."
"I know who he is. He deserves none of your honor or respect." The venom in Klaus' voice shocked her to silence. "Someday you will see I am right, love. And when that time comes it will be me who wipes your tears away, not him."
She looked at him, speechless. What could he possibly mean? Elijah would never make her cry.
"Forget, I said anything." Klaus smiled at her, only his eyes were hard. "I don't want to ruin this day for us."
"It is forgotten," she lied. His reaction to Elijah disturbed her. She wondered if Rebekah would give her the answers she wanted. She would have to speak to her.
"Come," Klaus pulled her further into the garden. "I want to show you some of my favorite places."
They walked under the bent arches of trees so tall they looked like they could touch the sun. The branches and leaves filtered the sunlight, decorating the path in shadows.
Caroline paused to stare up at the green canopy above her "These trees must be ancient."
"They were here long before I was conceived. Maybe even planted by Lucifer himself."
She inhaled sharply at Klaus' familiar usage of the Fallen One's name.
He laughed at her reaction. "Do you believe if I speak of him I summon him?"
She couldn't help peering around the garden, a tickle of nervousness in her stomach. "I don't know. When I pray using a Holy name, the prayer takes wing and soars into the Angel's heart.
"It doesn't work that way with Lucifer. No one has seen or heard from him in over a millennia. Not since he built Hell."
"He does not exist here?"
Klaus shrugged. "Who knows where he is of if he even lives anymore. He is removed from the inner workings of Hell."
"Your family rules instead?"
"We have since the Oracle chose Mikael as the heir many centuries ago."
The world shifted under Caroline's feet. Never before had she heard of such things. Did any of the Angels in Heaven have a true understanding of Hell? "There is an Oracle?"
"Yes." Klaus stopped walking. He looked down at her intently, like he wished her to understand the seriousness of what he said. "There is so much I want to teach you of my history and Hell. It is important that you understand how everything fits together and works."
"But why? I am your prisoner and an Angel."
He didn't answer. He led her to a white iron bench in front of a beautiful lake overgrown with white and green lily pads. "I think it might help you with the party tonight and the other Demon's if you have a better understanding of things here," he said at last.
Klaus took a seat on the ornate bench. He waited expectantly for her to sit next to him and when she did, he put his arm around her shoulders. They sat in front of the lake like the real couples she glimpsed on earth and in paintings. His warmth surrounded her and she allowed herself to forget who he was long enough to lay her head against his shoulder. He drew her closer and she snuggled into him, letting herself take a little pleasure in this moment and the peaceful scenery. She promised herself she would think about how wrong this was later when she was alone once more in his bedchambers.
"What I am about to tell you, few outside of Hell know. Before Mikael became heir, Amalech ruled," Klaus explained. "Tired of his immortality and with no children of his own he went to the Oracle. It is how the successors are decided when it is time."
Caroline couldn't believe he was gifting her with such information. Knowledge as an Angel she probably shouldn't have. Even though she could tell no one, Klaus' openness was a direct hit against the walls she built around herself when dealing with him. "What happened to Amalech? Did he die?"
"In a way. He retired and passed on to another realm."
"Your Kings retire? Does this happen often?"
Klaus took her hand in his, lacing their fingers together. "Every so many centuries or millennia. You probably have yet to experience it, but immortality has a price. After many lifetimes and so much change upon earth, for some, it becomes difficult to continue on."
"It sounds so peaceful and civilized. This passing on to another realm. Is it like Heaven?" Caroline furrowed her brow and continued, "But, this is Hell. Shouldn't your successions have lots of bloodshed and murder? Like on earth?"
"We are not as bloodthirsty as you would think. It isn't all murder and backstabbing," Klaus laughed. "Generally, the current King rules until it is time for him to pass. Our successions are usually very peaceful. When they happen the old King moves on and I have no idea what the other realm is like, but I assume it to be a place of happiness."
"Then, this...it could happen to Mikael? He could decide to pass to the other realm?" Caroline asked, careful not to call the King of Hell Klaus' father.
"Maybe in time." Klaus tensed next to her, she could feel it in his arm around her. "But, it wouldn't be soon enough for me. He would have rather have me dead than rule when he is gone. And if he finds the lance, he will use it on me."
"But you are his heir. How can he wish you dead?"
"Mikael didn't choose me to be his heir. He went to the oracle, gave a blood offering and the feather from Lucifer's wing wrote my name. Not satisfied, he offered his blood again and again, always receiving the same answer until the Demons forced him to admit defeat. The Oracle's choice stood."
Caroline turned to look at Klaus. She tried to blink back the tears that misted her eyes. "Klaus...I'm so sorry. I don't understand a father that has no love for his son. Who would even seek to murder him."
"Don't pity me Caroline. Anything but that."
The dull anger in his voice, the roughness with which he spoke - it broke her. As if he sensed it, he yanked his hand from hers and stood up abruptly from the bench.
"There are twelve Demon families in Hell," he said curtly, changing the topic "I have made alliances with four of them. They will all be at the party tonight."
"This is where you want my help? I don't understand what I can do. I will not break any Holy rules and I know nothing of your politics."
"It is enough that you are at my side. They will all come because you are there. They will not miss a chance to meet an Angel."
Caroline stood up, walking over to stand at the lake. Looking at the calm water, the lilies waving in the light breeze, she took a deep breath. "So I am your captive, freak sideshow?" The idea hurt her. That everyone would be there to gawk and point at Hell's hostage.
"You are not that. Never that." Klaus joined her and turned her to face him. "And, you don't have to be a captive or a prisoner."
"I don't understand." Maybe he would free her in exchange for her help? Hope fluttered inside of Caroline' and she tried to keep it from sending her heart soaring.
"You can be their Queen, my Queen."
"Their Queen? Queen of Hell?" Caroline froze at what he said, reality plummeting her back to the ground. He wanted her here forever, to be a part of this life. Carved in stone, she couldn't even move away when he gently tipped her head towards him as if to kiss her.
"No. No. Never." Caroline slipped from his touch, backing away.
"What do you mean, never?" Klaus asked, his tone soft, dangerous.
"I am an Angel. I don't belong here...Could never fit in here."
His eyes, black like never-ending night, held not even a spark of life within them. "This is your home. You fit in where I say you do. In my bed and on the throne."
"Please, no. Anything but that."
"You would have all of Hell at your feet," Klaus said, his voice twisted to a dark purr. "Think of the power you would have."
"I care nothing for power. Other than that which the Divine gives me through my light."
Klaus moved towards her, restrained fury within every footstep. Not even thinking, overwhelmed by his proposal, she turned and ran. Her gown flew around her, her curls flying, fear squeezing her chest of breath. Her heart thumped so loud she could hear it over her shoes clicking on the cobblestone path.
"Caroline!"
He was coming. Heaven help her. What would he do if he caught her? She ran faster and faster, not seeing where she went. Through grasses and around trees she went until she reached a small gate. Opening it, she stepped inside what appeared to be a closed garden. Bushes and greenery climbed the walls and the arches above, filtering out the light. Deeper and deeper she went in the shadows until it was too late. The scent of blood roses attacked her senses. They were everywhere. The deathly red carpeted the ground, twined up the walls and hung over her head. Surrounded in crimson, she fell to her knees sobbing.
It came to her like a dream. Klaus's mouth on hers, sweet, hesitant kisses. Like he feared her reaction. Only she didn't pull away, didn't even try to stop him. His lips, firm and soft pressed against hers and she kissed him back. He tasted of brimstone wine and magic and it intermingled with his intimate scent of heady darkness. All of which sent her spiraling into lust. She kissed him with harder, insistent kisses, demanding and taking what she wanted.
Caroline faintly heard the rustle of rose petals as Klaus moved and she wanted to cry at the loss of his mouth and his warmth. Thankfully, the cold didn't last. His kisses returned, arousing her even more when his firm, muscular body settled hard on hers. She wiggled underneath him, enjoying the touch of his form, his hardness on her soft curves. Caroline's body sparked with electricity, her nipples tightening to points, her lower core melting and liquefying. He pressed against her pelvis, finding a sensitive spot and she bucked against him. She wanted something, needed something that she was sure only he could deliver. She threaded her hands in his hair, dragging his head closer to hers, trying to show him with her kisses how much she wanted him.
Someone moaned and it might have been her, only Caroline didn't care. She wanted to devour him, afraid she would never be able to sate the horrible ache within her. Grinding her hips against his, she gasped at the delicious friction. Not content, her hands splayed down his back, caressing the rippling muscles that moved under her touch. She tingled everywhere, her body basking in sensation.
Klaus' mouth left hers; raining soft kisses down her face and into her neck. His body stilled on top of hers and she could feel his breath on her sensitive skin.
"Klaus," she moaned, wanting him to kiss her again, for him to run his hands over her body, to move against her.
"Not like this, love. Wake up."
Gentle hands shook her and her eyes flew open to find Klaus staring at her, his eyes glinting gold.
"What did you do to me?" Caroline accused him. Panting and angry, she pushed him off her and crawled away from him as fast as she could.
"I did nothing. I swear. Nothing you didn't ask for."
"You kissed me. Used these roses to take advantage of me again."
Klaus plucked one and moved closer to her, cautiously like he feared that she would bolt. "You ran in here and your tears, your heightened emotions, triggered the magic of the blood roses. They allowed you to embrace your desires."
"No. That can't be. This," Caroline paused to point to him first and then herself, "I don't want this."
"Say what you want, sweetheart. Some part of you desires me, wants what I can give you."
He handed her the rose, practically grinning at his statement and Caroline wanted to slap it right off his face.
"These things are evil." Caroline started to shred the rose and the rich fragrance wrapped around her.
"Just because you don't understand the blood roses, that doesn't make them evil." Klaus sat next to Caroline, taking one of her hands to stop the massacre of the rose. "They are more than a symbol for my family. They were the first thing my mother created with her magic. She made them for protection, to see others true desires. Most of all her husbands. Sometimes they were her only protection and weapon. They were dear to her heart. With her gone, they are all that is left of her legacy."
"That can't be right. How can they bring out my true desires? I am an Angel. I have no desires of the flesh."
"Trust me, love. You do." Klaus smirked. "I just witnessed them myself."
Caroline thrust her head into her hands. "What is wrong with me?"
"Nothing." Klaus took her in his arms, holding her against her will until she relaxed. "Not a thing."
She tensed against him once more, trying not to give into the temptation to curl into him. For some reason, she craved his touch and taking comfort in his arms couldn't be harmful, could it? As long, as she didn't kiss him? With a long sigh, she rested her cheek against the softness of his shirt.
"I won't play at being Queen, but I told you I would help you tonight and I still will. Tell me what I need to know."
Klaus stiffened and she knew she angered him, but she couldn't be Queen of Hell. Not even for one night.
"I won't give up, sweetheart."
Caroline swallowed dryly. She knew he meant it. He had decided she would be his Queen and he would never stop until she wore the crown at his side. "Klaus, please understand -"
He cut her off, "You only need to smile tonight and be friendly when I introduce you the other families. What is most important is that you be at my side."
"That, I can do." With delicate touches Caroline stroked the petals of the rose. "Tell me more about your mother?"
Klaus didn't speak and she worried her questioning hurt him. "It's just that I never had a mother. I don't know what that is like. Angel's come into this world fully formed by the Divine's own hand."
"My mother's life was not a happy one," Klaus replied rigidly. "She married my father at a very young age and was soon pregnant with Finn."
"Still, she must have found happiness in her children?"
Klaus stroked her hair back from her face, silent before speaking, "Maybe at times. We were also her greatest weakness. We kept her tethered to Mikael."
"I'm sure she didn't see it that way."
"Oh, but I think she did. Before she died, she plotted to leave us."
Caroline's heart clenched at the cold, hollow sound in his voice. "I'm sorry. Was that why Mikael, why he -"
"That was one of his many reasons, I am sure."
"Were you your mother's favorite? Is that why Mikael hates you so?"
"Is it not reason enough that the oracle chose me as his heir?" Klaus asked icily, his hand stilling in her hair while his body coiled in anger around her.
Caroline fought the tears gathering in her eyes. She knew how terribly he suffered from the simmering fury he tried to control. "Forgive me, I shouldn't have asked."
"There are some things I will not talk about and that is one of them. Do not bring it up again."
She nodded, afraid that if she spoke he would hear her sadness in her tone.
Klaus took a deep breath, a long shudder passing through him until at last he relaxed and resumed stroking her hair.
"Will you wear a blood rose for me and my family?"
Caroline shivered. Such a simple request and while it didn't horrify her like it did before, she didn't want to be anywhere near them. Still, they were his mothers. That Klaus kept her memory alive with them softened her heart to them and him. "It means a lot to you doesn't it?"
"More that you know," he answered and she could tell he spoke honestly.
"Yes, I will wear one. Besides, Rebekah already suggested I wear them in my hair."
Klaus became very still. "She said that?"
"Yes. Why?"
"No reason," he murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. He was silent again for a moment. "My mother practically raised me here in the garden. I played swords with my brothers in the meadow, climbed trees with Rebekah and practiced my first sketches here among the roses."
"Sketches? You draw?"
"A little. I will show you some day."
"That is why you have all the art books. You do more than study it."
Caroline inhaled the scent of the rose she still carried and waited nervously for something to happen. When it didn't, she released the breath she held. Maybe it did work as he said.
"Yes. It is a hobby of mine."
"Will you show me sometime? I would love to see it." Caroline asked shyly.
"Now? Or would you prefer to see the rest of the gardens?"
"Both would make me very happy."
He chuckled and stood up, holding out a hand for her. She took it, letting him help her to her feet.
"What other secrets does Hell hold that I should know?"
Klaus walked her out of the gated garden. "So many, love. It seems we breed secrecy here."
Outside on the cobblestone path, a tall blonde figure awaited them, tapping her foot, a furious look on her face.
"There you are!" Rebekah grabbed Caroline's arm. "How on earth do you expect me to get you ready for the party if you are off gallivanting with my brother?"
"I...I'm sorry?" Caroline looked at Klaus for him to explain that the entire situation was his fault. He only smiled, an amused look in his eyes.
"You should be. I have been waiting forever for you. We don't have a lot of time." Rebekah started to drag Caroline towards the palace. "Nik, go get cleaned up and dressed. I will let you know when she is ready."
Chattering about dresses and hair, Rebekah lead her back to Klaus' bedchambers.
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Caroline took Klaus' gloved hand and let him lead her up the marble stairs. She shyly peeped at him from up under her lashes. Once more, he wore an elegant black and white tuxedo perfectly fitted to his muscular form and it did fluttery things to her heart. These strange, new sensations were happening more frequently and it worried her. Her fears dissipated upon reaching the landing to the ballroom. Only to be replaced with nervousness.
Crystal chandeliers hung from a ceiling painted in murals depicting pastoral scenes. Two sides of the ballroom were paneled in floor to ceiling mirrors. They caught and refracted the light from the chandeliers, painting everything in a golden glow. In front of one mirrored wall stood a table laid out with refreshments and on the other side sat a throne like chair. Directly across her, a wall of glass doors led to the garden she walked in earlier with Klaus. Floral bouquets, on tall stands, perfumed the air and musicians played soft tunes. Standing in colorful groups, wearing formal finery were the most influential Demons in Hell. At Klaus' appearance, the music stopped.
Klaus lifted her hand to place it on his arm and she turned to look at him. He smiled at her, his eyes gleaming and she knew he enjoyed this. Liked showing off his power.
Holding her head high, she walked by his side into the ballroom. Before them, the Demon males bowed, the females falling into graceful curtsies.
Rebekah made her way towards them, an excited smile on her face. Her deep, blue gown swished around her ankles, the sapphires she wore around her throat sparkling under the light. "What do you think? Doesn't everything look perfect? I told you I could plan a party of this size."
"You did all of this?" Caroline hand left Klaus' arm as she looked around the ballroom. She could only imagine the work that must have gone into preparing such an event.
"Don't sound so surprised." Rebekah pretended to pout.
"No. I don't mean it like that," Caroline rushed to tell her. "I am impressed."
Rebekah threw her a teasing look. "I know. It looks amazing, doesn't it?"
"Nik, what do you think? Didn't it all turn out beautiful?"
Klaus looked at Caroline, his fingertips drifting to touch a curl that fell over her shoulder. "Yes. Beautiful."
"I didn't mean Caroline, you dolt." Rebekah rolled her eyes. "Although, she does look nice."
Caroline hoped she did after the all the time the woman had spent getting her ready. There were silky underthings to put on, a sturdy corset to nip her waist in and then the heavy gown itself. White like the dress from last night, this one differed by the weight of the thick embroidery in dark red and gold thread. True to Rebekah's word, patterns of blood roses were stitched into the dress and real ones were tucked into her hair piled on her head. On her feet were white, satin high heels that she hoped she wouldn't topple over in.
"You outdid yourself, Rebekah."
At her brother's praise, the woman's cheeks pinked with pleasure.
"Make sure the brimstone wine keeps flowing. Loosened tongues are always helpful."
"Of course, I will." Rebekah looked around and smiled at the staring Demons. "And, I have hidden servants by all the nooks and hidey holes near the ballroom and in the garden. We will see who we can catch being unfaithful and what their price is for us to stay silent."
"You are spying on people?" Caroline asked, a hitch in her voice.
"Don't be naive, Caroline. Of course, we are. Nik needs every bit of blackmail he can get to move against the throne."
"But -,"
Rebekah touched Caroline's shoulder and smiled at her like said something funny. "Don't argue. They are watching us and these Demons are not innocents."
A tall man in a tuxedo similar to Klaus' with brown eyes and longer, dark hair approached them.
"Nice of you to finally join us, Finn" Rebekah said sarcastically. "It's not like I couldn't have used your help earlier."
The man she assumed was Finn ignored Rebekah and smiled warmly at her. "This is Caroline, I presume?"
Caroline breath snagged in her throat and she caught Klaus' eye. "Does everyone know my name now?"
"Right now only the family does, but everyone will know soon enough," Rebekah answered with a shrug.
"It is my Holy name. You will allow every demon in Hell to use it against me?"
Klaus touched the small of her back. "Don't worry, love. Rebekah bound your name with magic. No one else will ever be able to use it against you again."
Caroline knew he meant to reassure her, which made the evil that they used to protect her even more horrifying. If no one could use her name for nefarious purposes, it also meant she would never again hear another prayer addressed to her or receive a call from another Angel. They made her deaf to the Holy qualities of her name. "You seek to destroy me," she whispered.
"No. I seek to protect you." Klaus' stroked slow circles with his fingertips on the bare skin above the back of her gown and she shivered.
"Protect me from those that suffer and call out for me?"
"This is not the time, Caroline. We will discuss it later."
She tried to move away from him, intending to stalk out of the ballroom and spend the rest of the evening alone in his bedchambers. Klaus retaliated, grasped her around the waist with his arm, drawing her close.
Finn cleared his throat. "Caroline? May I call you that?" He didn't wait for an answer. "I'm Niklaus' brother Finn."
"You have another brother? Besides Kol?" Surprise temporarily overshadowed her anger and frustration with Klaus.
"Yes," Klaus answered. "Finn is the oldest of the family."
"Then there is -," Finn started.
"Myself, Rebekah Kol," Klaus interrupted. "That is all of us."
Finn frowned and the smile on Rebekah's face for the first time looked insincere. The siblings all looked at one another and Caroline knew there was something they weren't sharing.
"You know about Kol?" Finn finally asked.
"I met him a few days ago when he visited."
Finn glared at Klaus. "Why did Kol get to meet her first? I have been here this whole time. Working."
"Don't be ridiculous." Rebekah toyed with the large sapphire ring on her finger. "You're meeting her now."
"Yes, but I am the last one to meet her. Last. Like always. You never include me."
Klaus' older brother genuinely being upset at meeting her last made Caroline want to laugh. She was a prisoner of Hell and he was acting like he lost a prize.
"I wouldn't have met Kol before you if he hadn't barged in on our sleep," Caroline told him, hoping that might make him feel better about the situation.
Rebekah snickered. "Sleep? Sure you were."
"That is so mature, Rebekah. You're going to embarrass Caroline." Finn smiled at her, but his gaze was on Klaus. "Kol might have met you first, but I doubt he has had the privilege of dancing with you?"
"You're not dancing with her," Klaus growled.
"You're so smarmy, Finn. Like she wants to dance with anyone but Nik. What would Sage think?" Rebekah teased.
Finn drew himself up to his full height, giving his sister a disdainful look. "I am sure she would approve it seeing as how Caroline is going to be -".
"Be interested only in me," Klaus finished smoothly. "Now, Caroline. About that dance?"
Caroline looked from one sibling to the other. They were sniping and trying to outdo each other. Acting like children. Five-year-old children. And who was Sage?
"First of all, I don't know how to dance so that takes care of that," Caroline threw at all of them. "Second, Klaus and I really were sleeping when Kol visited. Third, Finn - I am very pleased to finally meet you. Now if you can all behave, your guests are staring at us and we have a plan, with work to do at this party."
All three of them stared at her.
"We do." Klaus answered with a smile. "But first we're going to dance."
"I told you -", Caroline gasped as he swept her into his arms.
"A waltz!"
The orchestra immediately burst into a song at Klaus' words. Violins and cello's hummed in the air along with the tinkling chords of a piano.
"Everyone can dance, love. I shall teach you." One hand low on her back, his other holding hers, Klaus swung her into the center of the ballroom.
Caroline tried to catch her breath as she fell into him, her gown floating around her.
"Follow my lead and you will be fine," Klaus said.
Everyone watched them and a flash of nervousness struck her. She couldn't fail and look stupid. Not with everyone there to laugh and snicker. Caroline tried to follow his movements and not trip over her feet. They moved slowly at first and then faster and faster. The world shifted, fuzzed in front of her eyes. Everyone becoming a blur of shape and color. Dizzy, she clutched his hand tighter.
"Focus on me, Caroline."
She swiveled her neck to look at him. His deep blue eyes met hers and she was enchanted by the happiness that twinkled within them. He looked so carefree, like nothing existed but this sliver of a moment, them together dancing. She caught a glimpse of a Klaus whose father didn't want to kill him, who didn't wish to possess all of hell and she smiled.
Klaus pressed her tighter into his chest and she settled her head against his heart. Closing her eyes, she let him spin her, their feet moving together in time to the music. She floated, soared above the room into the stars.
He came to a gentle stop and she lifted her head to look at him to find out why. Then she realized what she didn't notice before. The music no longer played. They were standing in the middle of the ballroom, their arms around each other intimately. The room burst out into applause and heat rushed into her face.
"Why are they clapping?"
"It is for us. It is a form of respect and honor."
"What do I do to get them to stop?" Caroline looked around the room, anxiously trying to locate Rebekah or Finn. She could join them and then the applause would have to stop.
"Just smile and nod, accept what they offer."
Caroline pasted a smile on her face and politely inclined her head like she thought a Queen would.
At last the clapping stopped.
"I am going to take you around to the various families and introduce you." Klaus pressed a kiss to her hand and she swore she could feel the sear of his lips through her glove. "Just be yourself and they will love you."
Herself. She didn't even know who that was anymore. An Angel, a captive or a Devil's mistress? Still, she didn't argue when he led her away.
They stopped in front of an elderly demon with white hair and a thick, bushy mustache. Next to him stood a slender, dark haired woman.
"Caroline. I would like you to meet Xaphan, head of the Gamgin family and his lovely wife Thalia."
The couple lowered their heads in respect.
"Thank you for inviting us tonight. It is an honor to have a chance to meet your lovely companion and see you again, Your Highness," Xaphan said.
Klaus inclined his head and Caroline smiled at the couple.
"Truly an honor to be here," Thalia murmured.
Xaphan cleared his throat before speaking, "I must tell you first, I am aware of your plans. The Patriarch of the Laelian family came to me when you first presented your offer to him. He sought advice from me and I will tell you what I told him. The oracle has already named you successor. Does it matter if you inherit now or a thousand years from now?"
"My preference would certainly be for earlier," Klaus answered wryly.
"Exactly. So I will take the souls you offer happily."
Caroline looked to Klaus, shock setting her heart thundering. Souls? What souls?
"I have always been told of the intelligence of the Gamgin Family and now I see it firsthand." Xaphan bowed at the compliment and Klaus continued, "I will keep you in mind when I form my cabinet upon assuming the role as your new King. Such men as yourself shouldn't have their talents wasted."
"It would be an privilege I never dreamed of , Your Highness."
The Gamgin's backed away and Caroline realized there was now a line of Demon's waiting to speak to them. She tried not to think about the souls that Klaus promised. They would have to talk about it later. Right now, she had a job to do.
"This is the Eiseth Family. Hantin and his wife Naevina," Klaus said, introducing the next couple. Short and squat with dark hair and eyes, Hantin looked rather like a troll. His wife was tiny as well, with reddish hair and deep green eyes.
Hantin looked at Klaus boldly, not a single sign of respect about him. "Your Highness, don't bother to present me with your plan or your offers of souls. I have served your father for centuries and I am no traitor."
Klaus clenched his jaw and Caroline laid her hand on his arm to calm him.
"You would speak this way to me?" Klaus snarled. "Your Prince and the heir to the throne?"
"I would. Plot and plan, as you will. I'm not interested."
"Remember this, if you are not with me - you are forever against me. When I have the throne I will not hesitate to remove you from your position."
Klaus' words unsettled Hantin. Caroline could tell from the brief flicker of fear in the Demon's eyes.
"I am no traitor. Come, Naevina."
His wife disobeyed and stepped away from her husband to stand closer to Caroline. "I have never seen an Angel before," she said quietly, her eyes downcast like she was afraid to look directly at Caroline.
Caroline swallowed back the horror she still felt about the souls and fixed a bright smile on her face. "I am pleased to meet you, Naevina."
"They say you can heal the sick? Is it true?"
"Naevina," Hantin scolded, shooting his wife an ugly look.
"I - I don't know?" Caroline stammered. "I can purify souls and send them home to Heaven."
"Then you must be able to heal. You can purify him."
Hantin took his wife's hand, trying to drag her away. "Forget she spoke, Your Highness."
Naevina's composure broke and she looked like she might cry. "Please."
"Stop." To Caroline's surprise Hantin stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her. "You know someone sick? Someone who needs help?"
"Yes. My son. He is afflicted with a wasting disease. He is not long for this world. Please, will you see him? I have nothing to offer you, but my devotion and allegiance." Naevina started to kneel before Caroline, reaching her hand out to touch her dress in reverence.
"She is not well. Please, ignore my wife." Hantin tried to yank Naevina to her feet.
Caroline stepped towards the woman. "Please stand. I don't deserve your devotion or allegiance. I am only a servant of the Divine and I am not sure I can even help."
"He has human blood. You are the only one who could possibly help him," Naevina pled.
"You are human?"
"Partially. I come from a long line of witches. All of my magic and I can't even heal my son."
Caroline turned to Klaus. "I wish to see him. Maybe there is something I can do to help him or at the least ease his suffering."
Hantin opened and closed his mouth. "You have this power?"
"I might." Caroline didn't know if she did or not, she only knew she had to try.
"Help my son and you will have my loyalty," Hantin said gruffly. "I need no souls. Nothing else from you."
To Caroline's annoyance the man looked to Klaus when he spoke. Hantin was attempting to cut a deal and she had no idea if she could deliver.
"Caroline, this is agreeable to you?"
Startled that Klaus bothered to ask her, she looked to him for a sign of what he wished her to do. His face told her nothing. If he had an agenda and wanted to use her gifts, she couldn't tell. He seemed to be honestly asking her opinion.
"Yes. I will see their son."
"Have your boy prepared to travel to the palace tomorrow," Klaus directed. "You are very lucky that Caroline has compassion where I do not."
With great respect Hantin and Naevina bowed and moved away.
Klaus introduced Masish Baelberith and his wife Orona next. The couple looked very young. The husband, attempting to grow a scraggly, light beard seemed eager to have Klaus' attention. His wife, tall and lovely with raven, black hair and dark eyes stared at Caroline with interest.
"I am honored to meet you, Your Highness," Masish said with a bow. "My father spoke highly of you before he passed."
"My condolences. Your Father, Ragnda, was a wise Demon and leader. He once did me a great service."
Klaus's rough voice when he spoke told Caroline that this Demon, this Ragnda, must have meant something to him.
"It is my hope to follow in his footsteps," Masish replied, a glow of pride lighting up his face. His wife cleared her throat pointedly and he nodded at her. "If you don't mind, Your Highness, Orona would like to speak to your -" he paused, looking to Klaus for a hint as to what he should call Caroline.
"Caroline, you may call me Caroline," she interjected, realizing as soon as she spoke, what she did. She used her name. Gave it out, like it wasn't Holy. Her action shocked and scared her. Made her ill. It was another step further and further away from her Angelic nature, who she was.
Masish nodded and beckoned to Orona to come forward. "Caroline, this is my wife, Orona."
Orona eagerly stepped to Caroline's side. "You are truly an Angel like they say?"
"I am." Caroline pushed aside her shame and tried to focus on her job.
"There is so much I want to ask you about Heaven," Orona said, a childish quality to her voice.
"My wife," Masish chuckled. "She is always full of questions."
Orona giggled and moved closer to Caroline, leaning in like she wished to share a great confidence. "Tell me, what intentions do you have towards us?"
"Excuse me?" Caroline looked to Klaus to see if he heard Orona, but he was already engaged in conversation with Masish.
"What are your intentions?" Orona asked, a calculated look in her eyes. "It is clear to all of us that you are here to stay. Whether by your own will or not. I want to know what your plans are when you are Queen and on the throne?"
Caroline shook her head, the Demon's bluntness taking her by surprise. "I have no plans to ever be your Queen."
"But if you were on the throne, where would the Demon families stand? What changes would you institute here?"
"I am not who you should be speaking to about any of this. You need to talk to His Highness."
"Like he would speak to me about this. Demon men are all the same," Orrin scoffed. "I want to have Masish support Mikael's overthrow, but before we make that decision we need assurances."
Caroline glanced from Orona to her husband. He actively nodded his head at Klaus while at the same time he kept glancing back at his wife. She realized this couple were equals and worked together as a team. She wondered if this was unusual for Demon Society? With the two other couples she met, the husband appeared to be head of the family.
"What assurances do you want? And why do you want them from me? I am nobody here."
"I want them from you because I expect you have much greater influence over His Highness than even he would like to admit and I believe that you could help our plight."
"Plight?" Caroline asked, lowering her voice. "Do you need help of some kind?"
"All of us Demon females do." Orona looked up at Caroline, not bothering to hide her agitation. "The last Queen was murdered by her husband. Do you have any idea the effect this had on all Demon wives, all females in Hell?"
Caroline took a look at Klaus, remembering his pain and loss at his mother's murder. She never gave a thought to the political ramifications of the killing. At the time, she only wished to soothe Klaus and give him some kind of peace."
"Husbands and wives used to be equals in marriage," Orona continued ruefully. "Our oaths given at the binding ceremony make us one, but now wives are disposable. Our King has made that clear."
"I didn't realize that."
Orona nodded. "Which is why it is so important I have your assurances for the future. That you will not allow this kind of marital relationship to continue."
"I don't think you understand. I have no power. I am here against my will."
"A woman always has power," Orona said with a small smile. "It is the nature of things. One only need look at our Prince, to his actions where you are concerned, to come to the conclusion he wishes you as his Queen and with that comes unlimited power."
"Why do you say that? I am his prisoner."
"You might be a captive, but his eyes follow your every movement with longing. Even when you are not near him, he turns towards you, leans into your presence, and when he does look at you, it is like he is gazing at Lucifer's oracle."
Caroline turned her head to look, only to find Klaus' gaze on her, his eyes dark and unreadable.
"More than that, it is how he is presenting you to court," Orona continued. "He has never allowed any other female to accompany him to social functions and here he is, attempting alliances with you at his side. He is treating you as if you were bound together already as husband and wife."
"I didn't realize."
"Of course not. How could you considering he most likely dragged you off like some caveman." Orona rolled her eyes. "You must make allowances for our Prince. He has not had a happy upbringing. There are tales I could tell...but that is not what is important. We have little time before Masish and His Highness are done talking. Give me your promise, that as Queen, you will use your influence to help restore the balance between Demon men and women."
"I want to give you what you want, truly I do, but you must understand I don't wish to be your Queen. I want to return to my home."
Orona smiled, a smug expression on her face and in that moment she almost looked like Klaus. "I think you are home, Caroline."
"Are you still pestering Caroline with your questions, Orona?" Masish teased, joining his wife's side. "Heaven can't possibly be as interesting or as wonderful as Hell."
"There is no comparison." Orona looked up at Masish coyly. "Caroline was just telling me how interesting she finds our binding ceremony. How refreshing and important she finds it that Demon marriage emphasizes equality between a husband and a wife unlike some of the human ceremonies.
"Is that true?"
Klaus' voice held an unfamiliar tenderness and Caroline knew he wanted more than anything for what Orona said to be true.
Caroline didn't know what to say. If she spoke her mind, she would give the Demon couple the assurance they looked for and Klaus unfounded hope, but to lie seemed the greater evil. "I...I think equality is very important. Especially, in marriage or a binding."
Klaus caught her gaze, his blue eyes lit with happiness.
"Your Highness, I want you to know that my wife and I will do anything in our power to support your ascent to the throne," Masish said with a smile at his wife.
"You will not regret your decision, Masish," Klaus replied with a pleased smirk firmly in place. "You and your wife should dine with us sometime."
It was a royal request, which meant a command, and Caroline wondered if it had to do with Masish's acceptance of Klaus' offer or Orona forcing her into a position where she had to admit her feelings on the binding ceremony.
Orona clapped her hand with excitement. "We would love that."
"Anytime Your Highness and Caroline, of course, wishes," Masish replied, with a small bow. Together they backed away, leaving room for their next guests to come forward.
Klaus next introduced the Ifrit Family. Haagenti, his daughter Eishenta and her cousin Dontelina. Klaus and Haagenti started speaking about past hunting events they had gone on together and the two of them were soon laughing.
Caroline stepped over to the two girls and smiled. "Hello," she greeted, hoping to start a conversation.
The women remained silent. They glowered at her and unease settled in Caroline's chest. She stared back at them, lifting her head a notch.
Practically joined together, the women moved in step to each side of her.
"You will not last, little Angel," Eishenta said softly near Caroline's ear.
"We grew up with Niklaus, know what he likes. It's not washed out blondes." Dontelina curled her lip, her gaze roving over Caroline in an insulting manner.
Hot anger exploded in Caroline and without rational thought, she retaliated, "I doubt he cares for childish, snotty brunettes who don't know who they are speaking to."
"Oh, we know exactly who we speak to." Eishenta's wide mouth formed a monstrous grin. "The Prince's new whore."
Caroline inwardly gasped, shrinking at hearing the vulgar term so openly thrown at her. It stung. She shrank inside, only to find anger once again rising in a tidal wave inside of her. "No, you deal with His Queen," Caroline threw at her in her coldest voice. "You saw the crown, didn't you, last night at the opera? Have you ever worn one?" She tried to ignore the terrible satisfaction her taunt gave her. Especially, when the girls both inhaled, glaring daggers at her.
Dontelina flicked her hair back from her face. "He will tire of you soon enough and when that happens, we will be here. Willing and waiting for him."
"Caroline! There you are. You must be so tired of all of this. You need to join Finn and I for some champagne," Rebekah demanded, grabbing her by the arm. "Nik, you really need to let the poor girl have some fun."
Klaus looked at Caroline and she was sure he would refuse. She knew he wanted her with him. He joined her side and Dontelina and Eishenta smiled at being close to him.
"Your Highness," they greeted, both of them falling into curtsies.
"Eishenta, Dontelina," he greeted, hardly even looking at them.
Caroline smiled and immediately cursed her ridiculous pride. Why did she care what those Demon girls thought?
"Would you like to join Rebekah and Finn?" Klaus asked, his tone gentle.
"That depends on if you need me here, Klaus." As soon as she said his name, she wished she could take it back. She did it on purpose, just to provoke and it worked. Eishenta's and Dontelina's mouths fell open at her use informal use of his given name. Worse yet, she laid her hand on his arm when she said it, a horribly possessive gesture that left her ashamed of her actions.
"I always need you, love." For some reason, though he had called her love before, this time it resonated within her. His voice, deeper than normal held a raw, sexual quality to it that sent her blood pumping wildly through her veins. "But, go have a drink. I will join you shortly."
"Wonderful!" Rebekah grabbed Caroline's arm, practically dragging her to the table of refreshments. When they were out of earshot, she leaned close to Caroline's ear. "What were those shrews saying to you?"
"Nothing of importance."
"Good. I'm glad you didn't let them get to you." Rebekah nodded at her in approval. "They have been trying to get their hooks into Nik since they were kids and stupidly he was flattered and once showed interest in them. Now, they think they own him."
Caroline's stomach jumped into her throat and she felt sick. "He has been with them?"
"In what sense? I mean he spent time with them in the past. We grew up together."
She mentally kicked herself. What Klaus did in his past, even his future, it had nothing to do with her. "Forget I said anything."
Rebekah laughed before speaking, "You are so transparent. And, don't worry. Nik only sees you."
Relief and disgust at her ridiculous reaction to all of this warred within her. What was wrong with her?
Reaching the table, Rebekah picked up two crystal glasses filled with champagne. "Here have a drink. You will need it. Finn is coming over."
Caroline took the glass, swallowing more of the champagne then she should have. The bubbly liquid did nothing for the strange, heated frustration she had within.
"Ah, Caroline," Finn greeted. "I was hoping to have a conversation with you."
"That is my cue to find someone to dance with," Rebekah said, setting down her glass. "Enjoy."
Finn stood next to Caroline at the refreshment table. "I have wanted to meet you. Ever since Nik brought you here."
Caroline smiled and took another drink of her champagne.
"I can't tell you how happy I am that you are with him. He needs the love of a good woman and it makes sense it would take an Angel to mellow him out and make him bearable."
She almost spat out her drink. "Your brother - he and I aren't together."
"Of course you are. It's just like when Sage and I first starting seeing each other."
"Sage?" Caroline knew that name.
"My fiancé," Finn said proudly.
That was where she heard the name. From him, earlier in the evening.
"Congratulations. When is the ceremony?"
Finn sobered, his eyes flooding with pain. "Not until Nik is King."
"What? Why?"
"My father has locked her away. He didn't approve of our attachment and he showed up at our binding ceremony to take her. Nik has promised to rescue her."
"He has?"
"Well, in exchange for my help overthrowing our father. But, I sometimes think he would have helped anyway. The four of us, we are family. As messed up as we are, we stand together."
Sadness overtaking her, Caroline finished her champagne. "I have a family too. A heavenly one far from here."
"We shall be your family now." Finn patted her awkwardly on the shoulder. "You will come to our binding ceremony. It will be a wonderful time. Sage knows how to throw a party."
A sob built up in Caroline's throat, slowly escaping.
Finn looked at her, lines of concern in his face. "Are you all right? Did the champagne go to your head? Shall I get you something to eat?"
"Please." She needed to be alone. It was all too much.
"I'll be right back."
Caroline nodded, watching him wander off to get a plate of food and when his back turned she walked with haste towards the gardens. Surely, she would find solace there, surrounded by the peace found in nature.
Stepping into the chilly night air, she looked up to the sky. Not a star to be found. To compensate for the darkness, paper lanterns with candles in them hung from poles in the ground. Taking a deep breath, she leaned up against a huge oak. What was she going to do? Tears streamed down her face. Where was Elijah? Why hadn't he come for her yet? She couldn't go on like this forever. She constantly walked a tightrope over a minefield of dangerous emotions. Ones she didn't dare explore.
Footsteps came towards her and she didn't look up to see who came. She already knew who stalked her. Klaus was never far.
"Caroline? Are you all right? Finn said you were unwell?"
With trembling hands, she wiped her tears away. "I am fine. I felt lightheaded from the champagne and I decided to get some fresh air."
Klaus walked to her, tilting her chin up with his fingers, he observed her. "You've been crying."
His voice, flat and displeased wrought a shiver from her.
"And cold." Klaus took of his jacket and with tenderness wrapped it around her.
"I'm fine," Caroline argued.
Klaus took her in his arms, resting his head against her hair. "You did well tonight."
"And you? You got what you needed from the families?"
"With your help, I have allied myself to four more with the possibility of another three. It will take some negotiating, but with everyone's backing Mikael doesn't stand a chance."
"You will hand over more souls?"
She must have sounded accusatory, because he tensed against her. "You don't understand."
"You're right, I don't. How can you bargain with people's souls? What's wrong with you?"
Klaus stepped back from her, his hands on her shoulders. "These aren't the souls like you know. The ones I am giving away are nothing but energy. The person in them burnt away in Hell's fires centuries ago. Nothing remains of who they once were. In a way, you could say they are purified."
"How can you be sure?" Caroline thought of the suffering the pour souls went through, how nothing remained of what they once were and it horrified her.
"I will show you. There is nothing left of the souls. Only energy."
"No hope of an afterlife or to be reborn?"
Klaus sighed in frustration, ran his fingers through his hair. "You must forget what you were taught. These people don't deserve what you speak of. They were broken and damaged to begin with. Have you ever considered that we serve a purpose, the same as you in Heaven?"
The very idea left Caroline speechless. How could that be? Everything about Hell and what it did had to be evil. But, what if it wasn't. What if what he said was true and they too served a purpose like heaven?
"The souls, what are they used for once they are energy?" Caroline asked.
"They are currency for magic, power and status. The Demons depend on them."
"Not you?"
"Why would I? All of Hell is at my disposal. I am Royal born, chosen successor by the Oracle." Klaus skimmed his fingers along the side of her cheek. "We could argue and discuss this all night, but I would prefer to kiss you. Show you how happy I am."
Caroline tried to turn her head away, but when she did he captured her mouth, slanted his lips over hers. With delicate touches, soft brushes he seduced her. She didn't fight it, she kissed him back. For some reason, it seemed right. Their kiss became slow and measured, an exquisite tasting of each other. He worshipped her with his mouth, his hands cupping the back of her head, his fingers tangling in her hair. She wondered if this time, she kissed Klaus and not the Devil. Their mouths mated again and again and a delicious lightness invaded Caroline. She floated carefree, bubbled inside like she swallowed a whole bottle of champagne. Without thinking, her hands slid up his head, her fingers fisting his curls, tugging him closer to her. She tingled everywhere and her body reacted, that wondrous heat flaring to fire within her. Heavens, she wanted him. Wanted something more than kisses.
"Nik! Nik!" Shouted a voice nearby, breaking the spell.
Klaus untangled his body from hers with a groan. "I am going to throw you into Hell's fire, Finn!"
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but it is important. I swear it on Sage's life." Klaus stilled next to her, his body tightening, like a wild animal about to spring. "What is it?"
Finn glanced pointedly at Caroline. Something terrible happened. She knew it and Finn meant to keep it from her.
"Tell me," Klaus demanded.
"That thing we talked about earlier today, it's approaching."
"Always, perfect timing. It must be a talent," Klaus laughed, the angry, bitter sound scaring Caroline. He took her hand, rushing her back into the ballroom where Rebekah waited, her features drawn. "Take Caroline back to my room and have Rajanak watch over her. I will not have her left alone."
Rebekah went to her brother and touched his shoulder. "Don't worry we'll take care of it. Do what you need to do."
"What's happening? What aren't you telling me?" Caroline yanked her hand from Klaus. Worry sending her heart crashing into her ribcage. Why would Klaus leave such an important event like this? And why couldn't she know about it?
"Everything is fine, Caroline. I will be back soon." Klaus took a step closer to her, giving her such a strange look it sent chills into her bone marrow.
"Nik. We need to go."
Klaus nodded and stalked out of the ballroom, Finn at his side.
Caroline faced Rebekah. "What's going on? Where are they going?"
"It is not for me to tell you." Rebekah crooked her arm through Caroline's. "I need you to smile and nod, like it is perfectly normal that we're leaving the party early."
A horrible thought came to Caroline and she stopped in her tracks. "Mikael. He is here."
"Shush. Don't say his name. Not with everyone watching," Rebekah snapped, tugging Caroline forward.
"Then what would have Klaus so worried? I have never seen him like this?" Caroline pulled at the pieces of everyone's reactions and what was said, turning it into a puzzle. Putting it all together, it made shocking sense. "It's the Angels, isn't it? They have come for me at last."
Rebekah walked faster, dragging Caroline from the ballroom.
"Klaus and Finn are meeting them," she said more to herself than Rebekah. "Can you take me to them?"
"Absolutely not." Rebekah snapped, confirming Caroline's suspicions.
She shook off the woman's hold on her arm. "You have to take me to them. There is one among them I must see. Someone I do work for."
"Elijah," Rebekah said, her voice so bitter it took Caroline aback.
Panic sucked the breath from Caroline's lungs. "His name. You know his name."
"Of course, I do! He is the worst kind of traitor."
"Traitor?" Fear seized Caroline's heart. Like Klaus, Rebekah reacted just as strongly to the mention of Elijah. What weren't they telling her? "You don't know what you are saying. He is one of our most Holy leaders." She clutched Rebekah's hand. "You have to take me to him."
"You little fool. You will never see your precious Elijah again," Rebekah replied icily. She yanked at Caroline's hand to get her to walk.
"You can't keep me here. Don't any of you understand? An Angel doesn't belong in Hell!"
Rebekah face contorted with anger. "You belong wherever Nik says you do."
Caroline mulishly refused to move.
"Stop acting like a child. I am beginning to wonder why, but for some reason my brother wants you, even cares about you. Are you stupidly willing to throw away everything that has happened between the two of you - your place here in Hell, for a lifetime of virginal servitude?"
"I have a duty." Caroline refused to even think of Klaus and her complicated feelings for him. They couldn't be right, shouldn't even exist. She had a calling to the Divine One that superseded everything.
"Duty? Duty to Elijah?" Rebekah laughed, the sound bordering on hysterical. "He will break your heart like everyone else's."
"What has he done to you, Rebekah?" Caroline shook like a leaf, dread gnawing at her, attacking her perfectly constructed world. She knew deep within that Rebekah spoke the truth to her about Elijah. She wouldn't fake this kind of pain. "What are you hiding from me?"
"Nik will tell you when he is ready. And until then you are going to stay locked in his rooms."
"I'm not going anywhere until you give me some answers."
"You will or I will have Rajanak carry you kicking and screaming."
Caroline swallowed and starting walking again. They reached the door to Klaus's bedchambers in silence. "Rebekah -"
"Don't even speak to me. Until you change your mind about leaving us I have nothing to say to you."
Speechless, Caroline didn't say a word when Rebekah shoved her into Klaus' rooms and slammed the door shut.
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I hope the chapter worked for you. And for my anon on tumblr, I hope the Klaroline dance was satisfying. Also, thank you so much for all the reviews and messages. I have the most wonderful readers and your inspiring comments keep me writing. Thank you.