A/N: I apologize in advance. Excuse grammatical errors.
Disclaimer: Not Mine.
Bonnie lay in her bed watching the sky outside her windows lighten. It felt like it had been ages since she had been here, in her bedroom. It didn't feel like home anymore, just some place from another era, a fading memory.
She had done it. She had sent Silas to Qetsiyah, stopped the resurrection of Amara Maeve, earned her life back, but now that she was here, something was off. She was alive and free, she should be ecstatic, but somehow she didn't fit into her past life. The everyday trappings of Mystic Falls weren't enough anymore.
She told her group of friends she needed a few days to herself to recuperate, despite Kol and Stefan's objections. It had been a week. They called to check in, she texted back. She just needed a moment to figure out what was going on inside her head and heart. She was lucky her dad had gone to some Mayor's convention giving her the solitude she craved, but he was due back today. She guessed today was a good enough day to start the rest of her life. As if on cue her phone chirped.
Stefan's name danced across the screen. She slid the message open. He and Kol missed her, and wanted to say hello. The phone chirped in her hands. Kol's name floated in front of her. How long was she intending on hiding in her bedroom? Bonnie smirked at the message. Her thumbs moved across the screen. Seconds later there was a knock at her bedroom window. Two figures loomed in the oak tree outside. Bonnie shook her head and climbed out of bed.
"When I said I wanted to see you today. I meant later, like around noon." Bonnie said opening the window. Kol climbed into the room. He pecked her on the lips then slung himself on her bed. It groaned in resistance. "Why would you wait five more hours to have me in your arms?" Kol queried. Stefan smirked then leaned over to kiss Bonnie as well. "Hello beautiful Bonnie." Bonnie closed the window and latched it.
"So…you've been hold up here for a week. What have you been doing?" Kol said patting the bed beside him. Bonnie brow rose but she walked over to the bed sitting down. Stefan joined them. "Thinking." Kol scooted towards Bonnie. "About?" Bonnie looked between the two men. "Life."
"Are you okay? Do you need to talk?" Stefan said reaching for her hand. Bonnie looked down at their interlaced fingers. "No…maybe later. So, what have you guys been up to? Has the population of Mystic Falls dwindled in the last week?" Kol was playing with a strand of her hair that had escaped from her ponytail holder. "I wouldn't have any idea." Bonnie narrowed her eyes and turned to Stefan. Stefan smiled. "The only person I have fed from this week is in this room." Bonnie looked between them curiously. "So you're still sharing blood?" She was ignoring Kol's fingers lightly brushing her earlobe.
Stefan blushed. Kol shrugged. "He's quite addicted. I honestly don't think it has anything to do with nourishment anymore." Stefan pursed his lips. Bonnie winked at him. "So why are you still allowing it Kol." Bonnie said slapping away his wandering hands and lying back on the pillows. "Because I'm a Saint darling. I enjoy giving people what they want, bringing them pleasure." Stefan stared at the original. "Since when? Like it has nothing to do with your pleasure." Kol leaned back on the pillows next to Bonnie smiling wickedly. "I never said that."
"So Kitten what has been on your mind? I hope your still not trying to decide how to tell the ripper it's me that you want. I think quick text message will set things right." Stefan jumped on Kol. They wrestled in the bed until they both hit the ground with a thud. Bonnie laughed. She didn't think choosing between Stefan and Kol was an option anymore for any of them. The alternative is what was giving her trouble. She wasn't going there right now. She had other items on her agenda today. Stefan and Kol were still playing on the floor. Kol groaned. Bonnie giggled. She did miss them… in more ways than one. Her dream last night was a little X-rated. It was a welcome change from the sleepless nights she had been having all week.
"Hey. I thought you guys were here to visit me. I'm lonely up here." The two vampires looked at each other in surprise then flashed to the bed, one on each side of her. Kol was suddenly interested in the strap on her pajama top. Stefan cuddled besides her kissing behind her ear. "We can't have that."
-o0o-
"You know Salvatore you're right. Her shoulders are quite beautiful." Kol said removing Bonnie's strap and leaving little kisses all over her shoulders. "Told you. But then again everything about Bonnie is stunning." Bonnie blushed. Stefan's pecked her gently on the mouth. Her lips parted and they deepened the kiss. Kol's tongue trailed up and down her jaw and neck. Bonnie moaned into Stefan's mouth. What had she gotten herself into?
The sound went straight to Stefan's crotch. Stefan pulled away from her reluctantly allowing her to breath. His eyes immediately snapped to her breast. The witch's nipples were budding under the flimsy camisole she was wearing. He reached down running his thumb across one. Bonnie gasped. Again his cock twitched at the sound. Before he knew it, his head had moved south to suckle at the hardened nub. He palmed her other breast playfully squeezing as his mouth teased its mate.
Kol watched mesmerized. The witch's lips were moist. Her eyes were closed as Stefan's head disappeared under her top. He was enjoying watching the ripper pleasure her. Her moans, the need as she grabbed at the younger vampire's head was spellbinding. He couldn't let Salvatore have all the fun. He chuckled when her mouth form an "O" as his fingers slid inside her pajama bottoms. His fingers danced along the top of the lace, and then slipped under her panties.
The original groaned, his dick stiffening, she was dripping wet. His fingers explored the warm folds, stroking her lips, spreading them apart slowly, and then strumming at her core. He delighted when her hips thrust forward involuntarily. He continued caressing her until her hips found a slow rhythm. When Kol looked up again, Stefan had somehow removed her shirt. Clever Ripper.
Bonnie was lost in pleasure as Stefan bit and kneaded her breast. Kol could tell she was reaching her peak. He wanted to taste her. He slid down the bed kissing her stomach while his fingers continually slid over her clit. He eased her bottoms down slowly. Letting his knuckles graze her hips. The witch cried out when his tongue replaced his digits. He flicked as he stared up at her and Stefan. Stefan's tweaked her nipples while his tongue played with her ear. Bonnie was beginning to buck against Kol's face. Her hands were gripping at his hair.
"Do you like that Bonnie?" Stefan whispered in her ear. His lips sucked at her jaw. His hands were still very occupied with her chest. Bonnie was beside her self. It was too much sensation in too many places. "I like it." Stefan whispered licking her lips. "I want to see you come. I want you to come all over Kol's face."
Bonnie almost lost herself in that moment. Her hips moved faster as the wave built. Salvatore I need your assistance. Kol thought. One ofStefan's hands lowered until he was rubbing at Bonnie's swollen clit. Kol's hands wrapped around her thighs to hold her steady as his tongue entered her, working her into frenzy. Bonnie bucked and thrust until warmth spread over her, coating Kol's tongue. Her limbs were noodles. She collapsed into the pillows. Stefan kissed her as Kol climbed back up the bed. They all paused when they heard the front door open.
"Bunny?" Rudy called out. "Oh shit." Bonnie whispered. Bonnie watched her lovers blur beside her. "Hey Bonnie are you awake?" Rudy said climbing the stairs, and then he was knocking on the door. He opened the door. "Hey Bon!" Bonnie's eyes bulged, then she realized she was again fully dressed and tucked under her covers. All traces of Kol and Stefan were gone.
"Hey Dad." She looked around nervously. "Did I scare you?" Rudy said walking into the room. "A little." Bonnie said sitting up. Her camisole was on inside out. "I got some breakfast downstairs when you get dressed, your favorite-a banana, a croissant and a giant mocha. I got a little time before I head into the office this morning. You can catch me up on your trip with your mom." Bonnie smiled. "Sounds great. Just let me grab a shower first." Rudy smiled heading for the door. "And Bunny. I missed you. I'm glad your home."
Bonnie waited for Kol and Stefan to miraculously appear from where they were hiding. She jumped when her phone chirped instead. She looked down at the screen. They were outside. She didn't even feel the cool air when they went out the window. Sure enough her window was unlatched.
They were headed to the diner for breakfast and would return when her dad went to work. Bonnie typed into the screen. If they came back she would never do what she planned today. She told them so and promised them she would meet them that night so they could talk, and talk is what she meant. This morning shouldn't have happened, especially since she had made a decision about their relationship days ago.
Bonnie switched screens and texted Caroline to confirm their plans then went to shower. She looked into the mirror smirking thinking about the sappy cliché that was circling in her head. Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Bonnie sighed. Maybe it wouldn't suck as much as she thought it would.
-o0o-
Bonnie and Caroline spent the morning shopping for costumes for the Tri-Delta Halloween party coming up. Caroline being Caroline wanted there to be a theme. After shooting down a number of Caroline's outrageous ideas she finally agreed to superheroes. She would be Cat Woman and Caroline would be Wonder Woman. Bonnie wanted Storm but they were sold out. Go figure. Caroline tried to call Elena to see if she wanted to be Black Widow but she didn't answer. Bonnie knew Tyler and Matt would be forced to don tights very soon. She wondered if she could talk Kol and Stefan into it, if they would be speaking to her after tonight.
"We should go look at some dorm stuff. Just because you can't start classes until January doesn't mean you can't move in now." Caroline said while they were waiting to be rung up. "I don't know. My dad might disagree. He's trying to be more parental." Caroline scrunched her nose. "Really? That sucks." Bonnie rolled her eyes then thought better of it.
"It does but it's kinda nice, to at least have one parent. I give him a hard time for working so much but he never left. He always came back." Caroline looked at her friend. "You okay Bon?" Bonnie looked up at the blonde surprised. "You don't think I know when your faking it. You've been going through the motions all day. I know I can get distracted but…" Bonnie shook her head. Her little talk with Caroline had hit home. The Blonde was still trying to show the witch that she was important to her. "You're a great friend Caroline. I'm fine. Its just…Silas got into my head on that mountain. I haven't been able to shake him loose. He's probably being hung by his toenails in purgatory and the bastard is still haunting me."
"Don't let him get to you Bon. That's what he does. Play mind games." Bonnie nodded. "I know. I should actually be thanking him. The problem is not the cruel things he said it's what happened after. He gave me a moment of clarity that I haven't had in years. Scratch that. I have never been so clear about what I want. I realized who I wanted to be and I'm just trying to figure out how to get there now. And I don't know how. If that makes sense."
"It does. If there is anything I can do to help or if you need to talk." Caroline said putting her costume on the counter. Bonnie watched her friend pay for her outfit. "Actually there is something that might help." Caroline took her bag from the salesperson as Bonnie laid her selection on the counter. "I was going to go alone but could we stop by the Boardinghouse on the way home. I need to talk to Jeremy." Caroline grimaced figuring Bonnie's conversation was going to be rough. "Sure."
-o0o-
Bonnie sat on the huge leather couch avoiding the eyes of the man across from her. The man she once loved enough to defy Mother Gaia… twice. At least Qetsiyah got her act together after she messed up the first time. As much as she hated it, she needed to close this chapter of her life. She felt she owed him some sort of explanation. He meant that much to her.
"Jeremy I wanted to talk to you, explain…" Bonnie began feebly, her fingers twisting in her lap.
"You fell in love with someone else." Jeremy said. His eyes glued to the wall behind Bonnie. The witch was at a loss. What could she say to the cold hard truth? Nothing. The young man had done a lot of thinking over the past week and realized a few things on his own.
"I was a jerk. I should have helped you." Jeremy said finally looking at Bonnie. Bonnie was surprised. This was not what she was expecting after the incident in the cabin. "I hope you know I was trying to protect you. Stop you from making another sacrifice in the name of loyalty and friendship. What you did for me and my sister…there are no words…thank you doesn't even begin…"
"It's alright Jer." Bonnie said quickly, falling into her old habit of coddling the Gilberts. She regretted it after the words left her mouth. He was right. 'Thank you' was inadequate for what she ultimately sacrificed. She knew that now, but that was on her, not Jeremy or Elena.
"No it's not. I wish I could go back. Then maybe…" Jeremy's voice broke. Bonnie looked down. The guilt, the sorrow she was trying to avoid showed up and had taken her voice. Jeremy sat, trying to collect his thoughts, tears sliding down his face. Bonnie's eyes were wet as well. "I love you Bon and I want you to be happy." Jeremy choked out. "Even if it's not with me." He said strangled. This was by far the hardest thing he had ever had to do. Tears blurred the witch's vision. She stood walking over to him.
She sat wrapping Jeremy in her arms wondering if it would be the last time. They stayed that way until they both sobered. She pulled away from his embrace and smiled, wiping his face. "I want nothing but happiness for you too." She kissed him on the cheek, and then rose, starting to leave. "They don't deserve you." He said, stone-faced. "Neither of them." Bonnie turned and smiled at him again and then walked out the door.
Caroline waited in the car. She had heard everything. Maybe she was a little hard on Jeremy. Bonnie reached for the door handle. Bonnie slid in the seat, looking over to Caroline.
"That was intense." Caroline said trying to lighten the mood. Bonnie's face crumpled and tears begin to flow. "He was my first love." Caroline nodded rubbing Bonnies' back. "I don't want to hurt his feelings." Caroline pulled her compassionate friend into a hug.
"I know but you are being true to your feelings." Bonnie nodded. They sat there in silence until the waterworks slowed. Caroline wiped at Bonnie's stray tears. "Come on heartbreaker…I got some Ben and Jerry's with your name on it. I may be even persuaded to watch Independence Day." Bonnie shook her head buckling her seat belt. "I hate you." Caroline giggled, and started the car.
-o0o-
It was dusk when Caroline pulled up to Bonnie's house. The witch wasn't surprised to see her dad's Audi missing from the driveway. "Are you sure you don't want to hangout tonight?" Bonnie opened the door and turned to face her groveling friend. "It's a double date with Matt and Rebekah not the end of the world." Caroline huffed. "It would be better if it were a triple date." Bonnie sighed. "And who am I supposed to invite? Kol or Stefan without hurting the other's feelings." Caroline stared at Bonnie like she was an imbecile. "Why can't they both come?"
Bonnie shook her head grabbing her bags out of the back of the car. "Yeah…that wouldn't be weird." Caroline rolled her eyes. "Newsflash no one cares except you Bon." Bonnie leaned down pinning her friend with a look.
"Yeah right…Hey Dad, these are my two boyfriends, and by the way they're both vampires. Sure Tiki, I would love to come to your wedding but I need a plus 2 instead of a plus 1. Sorry Doc, I don't know whose name to put on the birth certificate. Cause I'm a big ol' freak." Caroline giggled. "You can't get pregnant by a vampire. I doubt Kol would attend Tiki's wedding. It doesn't seem like his thing. And, you can introduce Kol and Stefan as your best friends." Bonnie pursed her lips.
"You talk a good game Care, but I remember your two week rant about Blake Lively and how the mighty had fallen when she stared in Savages." Caroline eyes popped out of her head. "That is a completely different situation. They treated her like a trophy. She was literally a warm wet whole in that movie. The movie was horrible and gross. Kol and Stefan respect you."
Is that why Kol was ready to kill Elena at Silas's behest, Bonnie thought. She hadn't forgotten. It just wouldn't matter after tonight. Bonnie exhaled. "It doesn't matter Care. I've made up my mind anyway, and you're going to be late for your dinner date. Tell everyone I said hello." Caroline face wore disappointment as she observed her friend.
"Bon, don't get so caught up in what's 'right and respectable' that you throw away your happiness." A part of Bonnie wished she could give in. She wished she could let go and give herself over to her selfish desires to have both of them, ignoring what people thought, what her family would think, and ignoring what it meant to be a witch, a Bennett witch, but she was afraid that would lead her somewhere she didn't want to be, or rather make her someone she definitely didn't want to be.
All the other part of her wanted was a simple life. Kol Mikealson and Stefan Salvatore were not simple. Combined, they were overly complicated. She had made her decision and beyond that she was working on trying to be the Bonnie she imagined in the clearing.
"The happiness I seek is not contingent on the love of some man, Caroline." Caroline started the car. "That's all well and good Bon, but being loved for who you, Right, Respectable and a big ol' freak sure wouldn't hurt your definition of happiness." Bonnie smiled at her friend. "I have that in you. You're late. Go hang out with the man who makes you happy." The witch closed the door before Caroline could respond.
She climbed her porch steps shuffling her shopping bags around reaching for her purse. She cursed when her foot hit a package that had been left by UPS. Bonnie got the door open dropping her stuff in the foyer and went back out for the parcel. It was small and addressed to her. She had only been home a week. She hadn't had the opportunity to restart her love affair with Amazon. She had other things on her mind. She flipped the package in her right hand looking for a return address, closing and locking her front door. Maybe she ordered some trinket in early May and it was just getting here. That had happened to her once before.
Bonnie grabbed today's bounty and started for her bedroom. She really needed to be getting mentally prepared for the shit storm that was about to go down, but she was curious. She dropped her bags by the closet door and went to her bed, the small brown box in her hands. She tore into it with the help of her scissors she kept by the bed. She groaned when a velvet ring box tumbled from the depths of the cardboard container.
She hoped they hadn't brought her jewelry. The anxiety was already tearing at her insides. She opened the box and stared down at the ring. The gem was a deep purple set in antique silver. The teardrop clouded then turned midnight blue. Bonnie pulled the ring out of the box. She could see tiny cursive writing on the inside of its band. The inscription read Amelia Lucinda Bennett. She shook the box and a letter fell into her lap. She opened it slowly as emotion swept over her. She already knew whom it was from. She glanced down at the signature on the back and her suspicions were confirmed.
September 29, 2013
Dear Bonnie,
I don't know where to begin or how to begin. I have been meaning to write for months now. I have been meaning to call many times as well, but I just couldn't seem to find the right time. I know that good intentions amount to nothing, but I wanted you to know that you were thought of. You are never far from my thoughts. You're probably thinking what's the occasion? That would be a very long conversation with the ancestors I had last night. I have been calling to them for years. Since I lost my magic, but I never got much of a response. I was chanting last night and then they were just there: Qetsiyah, Ayanna, Emily, my grams, and my mother. It was like coming home and one of the most humbling experiences of my life… until they told me why they were there.
They told me about a witch, a powerful witch that had vanquished the most powerful wizard of all time. She wielded elemental magic like it was second nature, performed and perfected her ancestor's signature spells, and saved her friends, loved ones, and hundreds of witches that would have fell at Maeve's hands. They told me about a witch who honored her ancestors, paid tribute to Mother Gaia, and who was the embodiment of the Bennett Legacy.
Then they told me she was my daughter, my Bunny that loved to 'go high' on the swing set. My Bunny that tried to save every injured bird, stranded cat, and dirty dog in the neighborhood. My Bunny that would be perfectly happy existing on cheese sticks and Yoo-Hoos. My Bunny that loved to dance, almost as much as she liked to giggle. My wonderful, beautiful, and brilliant daughter, Bonnie Sheila Bennett. Humble does not convey what I felt. I am so proud of you. It may not be much coming from me. I won't pretend I've been the greatest mother, but please know that you are the greatest magic I have ever cast.
Your grams stayed longer than any of the others. Be warned, she keeps a close eye on you. She's worried Bonnie. She's worried that you're sacrificing your happiness because you don't want to turn into me. She's worried that you have been pulled into a supernatural world prematurely that forces you to use magic out of fear and defense without any of the wonder and excitement it can bring. She feels you're a witch out of duty instead of out of love for the craft. Magic is so much more than duty and honor, saving your friends, and the "Bennett Legacy.' I know. I threw away my magic on a selfish whim and tried to get it back for years.
I can imagine the ancestral moniker Daughter of Abigail might bring up a lot issues and feelings that you neither care for nor desire. And though I am honored that my daughter bears that name, I need you to know that you are not me. You don't need to worry about that. My choices are just that, my bad choices. One day, I hope we can sit down again and talk about those honestly. I don't think we sorted everything out. I didn't explain myself fully. I need to get my self together first.
Until then I have been talking to our cousin Lucy. If I could Bonnie, I would show you how wonderful it is to be a Bennett Witch, to wield magic. Unfortunately, I am unable, but your cousin Lucy jumped at the opportunity. I know you have college and your friends. And from what I hear a few suitors, but if your interested, she'd be glad for you to come visit. Think about it. Her number is 678-345-5678.
Give her a call if you interested. Call her if you're not and need a witch to talk to. If you need me you have my number as well. I would give you an address but I'm never in the same place for long. The ring was my Gram's. It holds powerful protective magic. Don't freak out when the stone changes color. It's binding itself to your magic. I thought it was time you had it.
Love,
Abigail Emily Bennett "Mother of Bonnie"
Bonnie moved the letter before she ruined it with her tears. Her relationship with this woman was so dysfunctional. It bothered her that her words meant so much to her-so much, even though Abby was still shying away from her own flesh and blood. Instead of rehashing the mommy issues that were not going to be solved tonight, the green-eyed witch decided to treasure the gift her mother had given her. The ring was lovely. She would gladly wear it to honor her Mema and honestly to feel closer to the mother she did not understand, but Abby's true gift was Lucy. She knew as soon as she read the line that's were she headed. That was her path to happiness or at least peace.
Bonnie sat on the floor candles and incense positioned around her. Bonnie prayed to her ancestors, thanking them for their insight. She sent blessings and prosperity to her mother wherever she was, and then she asked for protection and guidance for the journey she was about to take. She stood feeling secure in her decision and made the call that would change her life.
-o0o-
At nine O'clock, Bonnie walked into the cabin that had been her home for the last few months. Candles were lit everywhere and soft music drifted through the air even though she did not see a radio or remembered one during her time here. She was nervous, but that feeling of doom and gloom was no more. She felt the best she had in a week. She hoped Kol and Stefan would understand her decision.
"Hey Bon" Stefan called from the kitchen. "Have a seat on the couch. Kol stepped out to get something. There is wine, cheese and fruit on the coffee table." Bonnie sat in the familiar spot and plopped a few grapes in her mouth. She grabbed the already opened bottle of wine and poured herself a glass.
It was delicious. This felt like a celebration to her, although Kol and Stefan might not see it that way. "This is quite the romantic setting for a meeting to seriously and objectively discuss our relationship." Stefan smirked. "Come on Bon. You know me and the Original don't fight fair," Stefan said stepping into the seating area. The vampire leaned over and quickly captured her lips then proceeded to pour himself a glass a wine. Bonnie watched him pour a third, and shouldn't have been surprised when the front door swung open.
"Honey, I'm home." Kol bellowed coming through the door. Bonnie giggled, "Are you talking to me or Stefan?" Kol wiggled his eyebrows. "Wouldn't you like to know, Kitten?" He teased, leaning over placing a chaste kiss against the crown of her head. Kol reached into his jacket and pulled out a small bottle and tossed it to Stefan. "There. Your precious saffron." Stefan smiled heading back into the kitchen.
"That was quite a bit you know. I'm not sure you're worth it." Kol quipped, pulling off his jacket and tossing it into a chair. Stefan winked at Bonnie and Kol. "He will be when he tastes this chicken." Kol flopped by Bonnie on the couch, grabbing his glass of wine. His arm immediately snaked around her. Bonnie continued to nibble as Stefan made his way back over to the couch, his hand coming to rest on her knee. Bonnie found herself once again wedged in between the two vampires. Why did she always end up in the middle?
The trio sat quietly, drinking wine, eating cheese and fruit, and listening to the somber melody. They let the stress of the day slip away from them. Kol had built a fire earlier. They all watched the flames lick at the wood, pressed into each other's sides. It was relaxing. Bonnie felt like she was safe, like she was home. The original and vampire did not play fair.
At the sound of Stefan's buzzer they moved to the dinning room table. Stefan placed several platters on the table while Bonnie oohed and awed. It looked and smelled fabulous. Kol was too busy piling his plate high. After Stefan sat, he and Bonnie dug in, filling their plates. Stefan watched and waited for them to take their first bites. Bonnie moaned reminding both vampires of their predawn rendezvous. Stefan's face lit up at her reaction.
He turned to Kol quirking his brow. The original stared back at the vamp taking another bite chewing his food slowly, making a show of tasting it. Bonnie playfully pinched Kol's hand. "Kol!" A smirk formed on the original lips. "It's not complete rubbish."
Stefan's eyes narrowed. He stabbed his chicken taking a bite ignoring Kol. He nodded in appreciation at his own cooking skills. It's delicious mate. Quite possibly the best chicken I ever had. Stefan couldn't help but smile. He nodded at Kol.
Bonnie watched their little exchange drinking her wine. She imagined that's what they looked like when they were sharing blood. It reminded her of their predawn rendezvous. "Y'all need to get a room." Both vamps were pulled out of the spell and laughed. "Not without you, Kitten." Kol said stealing a carrot off her plate. "Hey!" Stefan blew the witch a kiss. She puckered back at him. Bonnie smiled, trying to hide the onslaught of emotion. She would miss them terribly. She returned to her plate dreading the approaching conversation.
-o0o-
After dinner Stefan and Kol seated themselves on the couch while Bonnie sat in the chair across from them. She took a deep breath and was about to launch into the speech she had rehearsed in her head but Stefan stopped her.
"Bonnie before you start we would like you to know that we've been talking and there is no choice to make here. Me and Kol have become…close and we consider ourselves a trio."
"Unless you were going to pick me darling, then in that case we don't need the ripper." Kol said grinning at the witch. Stefan sighed at Kol. Oh stop pouting she knows I'm kidding. She's not stupid. She's known this for a while, which is why I told you your speech was pointless.
Bonnie looked at both men with tears in her eyes. "The truth is my choice tonight wasn't between you and Kol, Stefan. It was between wanting to be with you both or neither. I wouldn't be able to chose between you two and wouldn't want to because you have become so close."
Kol watched Bonnie and fear began to swirl inside his chest. "You don't want to be with us." Kol said, standing, walking to the other side of the room. Stefan looked from Kol to Bonnie. Kol knew she had reservations, she had always been such a prude but he thought she had gotten past that. Then another thought occurred to him. "Is this about the cave?" I knew that was going to come back and bite me on the ass.
Bonnie shook her head. "I won't lie and say I didn't take that and other things about our relationship into consideration, but no, this is more about how would this work? This is crazy. We've been trapped in this bubble, this wonderful cozy bubble, but now we have to go live in the real world."
"Bonnie, how much can a witch and two vampires live in the real world? Look at how much we all missed high school last year." Stefan argued. He glanced back at Kol who looked lost.
"I want to try. I want some semblance of normalcy. I love you-" Kol sneered at her words. Bonnie eyed him. "I do, but I don't know how to make this work."
"You don't want to make it work. You're still caught up in everyone else and what they think instead of what matters. I. Love. You. He. Loves. You. Relationships take work. They're not the pretty ideals you have stuck in your head." Kol said staring at the witch.
"Hey." Stefan directed at Kol. "Bonnie, I feel like we have something special here. It may take some getting used to but I know we can make this work. We belong together." Stefan finished pleading with his eyes.
"Also, I'm fallible. I make mistakes. Yeah I should have trusted you, but I remember not long ago you having a problem trusting me. I detested the ripper. Now we're inseparable. We worked through that because we love each other. That's what matters. Nothing else matters."
"I matter." Bonnie said forcibly. "How the hell am I going to be in this complicated and convoluted relationship when I can't figure out what's going on inside my head? I'm eighteen years old. I haven't been alive for eons or centuries discovering the world. I have dreams. I have desires, and I'm afraid if I agree to this I will end up losing myself. Never again. I've been a witch for two years, and honestly I am so tired of the villains, and curses, and sacrifices, and everyone looking to me."
"We'll leave. We'll go somewhere else. We can travel the world together." Stefan offered. Bonnie shook her head. "And how long before Damon will come looking with Elena in tow? How long before Klaus comes for his little brother? Please understand…I have never loved anyone the way I love us. I come here and I feel like I'm at home."
"Exactly" Kol said with tears in his eyes. Bonnie closed her eyes afraid to admit her true feelings to the men she loved. It seemed like she was hurting everyone she loved today. "No. It scares the shit out of me. Like I would never be able to escape." Stefan knelt before the witch. "Why do you want to escape it? If we make you feel the way you're saying. If we bring you that much happiness." Bonnie sighed. "Because this is not the life I wanted."
Kol laughed harshly. "Give it a rest ripper. She wants to be ordinary. Marry some bloke like Jeremy Gilbert. Squeeze out two kids. Adopt a dog, and fade away into oblivion. How boring and pathetic. She doesn't see what we see, the witch goddess. She only sees the life she never got to live as a child." Kol moved to leave. He reached for the front door.
"I'm leaving." Bonnie said before he could make it over the threshold. "I was hoping we could spend my last two weeks together." Kol turned to her with tears in his eyes. "What for, Darling?" Then slammed the door. Bonnie broke into a sob. Stefan pulled her into his arms. I hope the citizens of Mystic Falls will be safe tonight. Stefan thought. No more than usual, Ripper. Let me know when your guest has gone. Stefan sighed. How was he going to fix his family?
-o0o-
"Wait wait wait. You broke up with Kefan. You're moving to California. In two weeks. With your cousin Lucy? Who you met for all of three seconds two years ago? Wasn't she the bad guy?" Caroline questioned pacing her dorm room. "Seriously?" Bonnie was wrecked. Kol wasn't talking to her. Stefan was still trying to talk her out of it, and now Caroline was throwing a hissy fit.
"When are you coming back?" Caroline said glaring at her friend. Bonnie bit her lip and shrugged. Caroline eyes grew to saucers. "Seriously? What does that mean? You'll be back for spring semester right?" Bonnie grimaced at her friend. Sadness washed over the Blondes' face. "What about college? We were going to take over campus and the Tri-Delts. What about all of our plans?" Bonnie sighed.
"I know, and I really wanted to experience all of this with you and Elena, but I'm not sure that this is where I need to be right now. I really feel that hanging with Lucy for a few months will clear some things up. Give me a moment to breathe." Caroline huffed flicking at the teardrop on her cheek. "This isn't forever right? You just need some time?" Caroline asked sitting on the bed grabbing her hand. Bonnie smiled.
"Forever without you? Not a chance. It's like a little vacation." Caroline shook her head. "Yeah except you don't know when you will return. I don't like it, but I guess I don't have to. I know you have been struggling with yourself lately and all this crap. If this is how your going to find the happiness you deserve then I guess I will help you pack." Bonnie smirked pulling her friend into hug. "But I don't like it." Caroline said over Bonnie's shoulder. Bonnie let go of her friend.
"You said that already." Caroline pouted for a few more minutes then her eyes lit up. "We need to go shopping. Your wardrobe is so east coast, and I know for a fact your still rocking last year's tankini. You definitely need a couple of swimwear options if you're going to Cali." Bonnie shook her head. Then smiled at her friend. "I'm going to miss you Caroline." Caroline closed her eyes and put her hand up.
"Don't even. You have already ruined my makeup. I finally got my mascara to wisp at the ends like we saw in Cosmo, and you ruin it with your journey of self-discovery." Bonnie smiled. "It's still a little wispy on your right eye." Caroline pursed her lips. "Uh-huh. Flattery will get you nowhere. Get a move on Missy. We got some damage to do to your checking account."
-o0o-
Elena walked into her dorm room surprised to see Stefan and Kol there. Bonnie must finally be moving in. She was glad. She had kept her distance after the mountain not sure how to approach the witch, but now that she was going to be staying with her and Caroline she was sure they would be fast friends once again. Except she didn't see any of Bonnie's things, and Stefan, Caroline, and Kol looked as if they were upset. "Hey guys." She said dropping her bags on the bed. Despite their differences if they were seeing Bonnie then Elena would try, besides she really wanted Stefan's friendship back. God, Bonnie was sleeping with two guys at the same time. Who would have thought? Caroline, her, but never Bonnie.
"Where's Bonnie?" Elena said cheerily. She had the odd feeling that she was interrupting something. Kol narrowed his eyes at the brunette then walked out of the room. Caroline gave Elena the not now look. "Stefan, let it go. She needs her space. She loves you both. You have to believe in that. Love her enough to let her do her own thing." Stefan shook his head. "I can't believe you're on her side. Lucy was Katherine's BFF." Caroline rolled her eyes.
"Kol tried to kill Matt not one year ago. Her mom set this up with help from Ms. Sheila and Qetsiyah. You know how much this must mean to her. Let it be. Before you drive her away for good then you'll really piss me off. She loves you, and Kol. He's being an idiot." Stefan sighed. "Let it be." Stefan walked to the door glancing back at Caroline. "Hey, at least you have each other to keep you company." Caroline said with a smirk on her face. Stefan blushed, sliding on his shades. "Later."
Elena looked at Caroline curiously. Caroline sighed looking over to the brunette. "You were out of town with Damon. Bonnie is moving to California on Wednesday." Elena mouth dropped open. "What!? She didn't even tell me. She was going to leave without saying goodbye." Caroline shrugged. "I got Econ in fifteen. I'll talk to you later." To say the doppelganger was hurt was an understatement. She was losing her best friend and she didn't even think to tell her. I mean I know our friendship has been strained but… Elena grabbed her purse and keys. Then dashed out the door.
Forty minutes later she was letting herself into Bonnie's house. She heard movement upstairs and bounded towards the witch's room. "Bon." She said opening the door. She closed it quickly when she saw Stefan had her pinned to the wall his jeans at his ankles. Bonnie's legs was locked at his waist. Her head was thrown back in bliss.
After much shuffling Stefan walked from the room. "That was kind of a dick move Stefan. I know you heard me." Elena whispered. Stefan looked at the brunette bored. "Elena get over yourself. Everyone except my slow ass brother has. As you could see I was a little preoccupied. I couldn't hear, see, feel, taste or smell anything except Bonnie Bennett. You have a nice day." She watched the vampire march down the stairs and out of the house. Elena took a deep breath and walked into the room.
Bonnie stood biting her lip. "That was awkward. I know we haven't had a chance to talk about things." Elena set her bag on Bonnie's bed, looking around at the suitcases and trunk being filled. "Yeah. A lot of things…so you're moving to California?" Bonnie looked up from rolling her t-shirts. "Yeah. I wanted to tell you but I had to deal with Kol and Stefan, and then you were gone with Damon, so I hadn't got around to it." Bonnie said placing items in her bags. Truth be told she kind of forgot about telling Elena. She was going to tell her eventually, it just wasn't a top priority.
"Bon, I don't know what to say." Bonnie shrugged looking up at her friend. "There is nothing to say that Caroline, Stefan, Kol and Matt haven't already said." Matt? Matt knew before her. "Bon, Are we okay? I feel like your kind of putting me on the sidelines." Bonnie was speechless, and was trying not to laugh at the irony. Bonnie exhaled. "Elena we're fine. We've just grown apart and that's okay."
It wasn't okay to Elena. There was a time that Elena would be the first person she told, on a road trip with Damon or not. The last time she checked phones still worked. "Is there something I've done?" Bonnie couldn't hide her smile at that one. "I'm just a different person now. We've been through a lot. And that changes people. I'm going to California for me. It has no reflection on you or Kol or Stefan or Caroline. I just need to do me. You understand?" Elena nodded but she didn't understand. Where was her friend?
"Is there anything I can help with or do?" Bonnie looked around the room. "Nah. Not really. You're going to be at the Grill tomorrow right?" Elena knew nothing about the Grill tomorrow. "Yeah." Bonnie smiled going to hug her friend. "Then everything is great." Bonnie looked at her bewildered friend. "Shouldn't you be in class?"
-o0o-
Stefan walked into the cabin with several bags in his hands. Kol lay on the couch shirtless. Beer and liquor bottles were everywhere. Stefan shook his head. "Hey. I brought some Indian from that place you like. You need to eat something." Kol opened his eyes slowly scratching his stomach.
"Are you volunteering Salvatore? Stefan placed the food in front of Kol and the rest of his shopping in the chair. "I've got some time." Stefan said taking off his jacket and Henley. The vampire sat by the original offering his wrist. Kol took it then pushed his armed away. "I'm not touching you while your covered in her scent." Stefan pursed his lips. "You're being a dick." Kol sat up reaching for the nearest beer bottle. "Go take a shower then we'll feed." Stefan stood up. "No can do. Bonnie's going away party is tonight. After I shower, I need to do my hair and get dressed. You're not touching me after I'm ready. You get blood everywhere and there is no telling what my hair will look like. So stop acting like a baby and let's do this." Kol opened the food container taking a bite of Naan.
"What is with you and your hair? You can't wait fifteen minutes after you shower to start on your hair." Kol said scooping rice and vegetables in his mouth. Stefan started picking up cans and bottles and putting them in the trash. "My hair has to be wet for it to look right. I can't let it air dry too much or the sculpting conditioner won't work." Kol looked up disgusted. "Do you hear yourself right now?" Kol said taking a swig of warm beer. "Stefan sat down beside the original again.
"I'm hungry too." He said offering the original his arm. Kol glanced at the vampire. "You stink of her." Stefan got up grabbing his bags. "You're an asswhole. I haven't seen Bonnie since this morning. There is no way her scent is as strong as you claim. And before you start, don't give me that 'I'm an original' shit. You're just being a stubborn child." Kol bit into the pork.
"At least I'm not a pathetic git. What do you think if you spend every last waking minute with her she'll stay. I don't want any of her pity fucks." Stefan shook his head. "I could try your method, guilting her into staying, even though she has stated over and over this is something she needs to do." Kol scoffed forking peas in his mouth, ignoring Stefan's brooding. Kol noticed The Minds Eye's logo on one of Stefan's shopping bags.
"What's in the bag?" Stefan looked down at his hands. He walked back over to the couch pulling out the leather bound book. "Her going away present: her very own book of shadows. Yeah…I got it. And Yeah…I'm going to tell her it was your idea. Are you going to sign the card?" Kol finished the food on the plate closing the container.
"What for? She wants to be ordinary. Ordinary people don't need a book of shadows. They certainly don't run off to California to hang out with the infamous Lucy Bennett." Stefan stood. "You know this little tantrum your throwing is getting old. You can be hurt and belligerent all you want but tomorrow she's leaving. The woman you love. Maybe you need to tell her how much you love her. Maybe you need to say goodbye before it's too late." Kol yawned.
"I've been meaning to tell you, darling. I'm leaving as well. I need to do my own soul searching." Stefan eyed the original. "Let me guess your going to New Orleans." Kol smiled. "Play your cards right ripper and maybe you'll get an invitation." Stefan nodded. "Oh, I have a standing invitation…from Klaus. Something about showing me a whole new world and his blood being more potent. But yeah, I'll think about it." Kol scowled at the vampire's back retreating to the bedroom.
Stefan put Bonnie's gift, and his new boots on the bed. He went into the bathroom, flipped the light switch and started the shower. He turned and Kol was there, crowding his space. The original pinned him to the wall staring into his eyes. Then Kol lunged for his throat. Stefan expected a pinch then delight but the original was sniffing the spot Bonnie had been licking at early this morning. Stefan opened his mouth to speak when Kol shoved his wrist to the vampire's lips. Stefan knew that was all the talking they would do for the rest of the night. He sighed, and then let the bliss wash over him.
-o0o-
"Omigod. Remember that week we decided we wanted to take swing dance lessons and go out for softball because of League of Their Own." Bonnie and Elena faces lighted at the memory. "Yeah…what happened to that?" Bonnie asked taking a sip of her sex on the beach. Elena snorted. "We sucked at softball, and there were no hot guys in swing dance." Bonnie shook her head.
"Remember that time in eighth grade we played spin the bottle with Jaime Heredia and he spun you Bon." Caroline said. "We were so jealous." Elena added. "But you were on cloud nine for like a month." Bonnie laughed. "That was like my first kiss." Matt nudged the witch. "Hey, no it wasn't. I was your first kiss." Everyone looked at the former quarterback. Matt looked at Bonnie. "Sixth grade behind the concession stand. I worked hard for that kiss. We were boyfriend and girlfriend for like two whole days."
Bonnie punched him in the shoulder. "No one was supposed to know that Matt. I swore you to secrecy." Caroline narrowed her eyes at the duo miffed that she had been left out. Elena scrunched her nose. "So you've like dated all of us." Tyler slapped him on the back. "Pimpin." Bonnie shook her head. "I don't think our top secret liaisons to hold hands counts." All the guys looked at one another then said in unison, "It counts." Bonnie laughed then glanced back at the door the hundredth time that night. Caroline pulled Stefan to the side.
"Is he coming?" Stefan shrugged. "I don't think so." Caroline pulled an impressive scowl. "I'm going to kick his ass. Jeremy Gilbert is here, and he can't man up and show his face." Stefan sighed. "He's a thousand year old vampire who's used to having his way. He's hurt." Stefan said. Caroline narrowed her eyes. "Is that supposed to excuse his behavior? Because it sounds like to me he's just a big ol' baby." Stefan nodded. "Yeah told him that." Caroline exhaled. "Your hair looks really good by the way." Stefan ran his hands through the locks. "Thanks. I'm trying a new shampoo."
"Let's make a toast." Caroline said picking up her beer when she returned to the table. "To Bonnie, my sister, confidant, and kickass BFF. I love you and wish you all the best, even if I don't like it and will miss you. You deserve some me time." Bonnie blew Caroline a kiss.
Matt raised his mug. "To Bon, the most loyal person I know, have fun but not too much because you need to bring your ass back home." Bonnie reached over and hugged the blond. Damon cleared his throat. "I wouldn't say we have had the closest of relationships but in the end you were always someone I could count on. I hope you find what you're looking for." Everyone looked at Damon shocked. "Is he drunk?" Bonnie said looking at her friends. "Give me some of what he's having." Damon pursed his lips as everyone laughed. Bonnie nodded her thanks.
"To Bonnie, the most beautiful person I know, inside and out, the hero. We're going to be lost without you. Take this time to enjoy life, you've earned it." Jeremy finished as Matt clapped him on the back. Bonnie tried to hold back the tears. Elena wasn't as successful. She wiped at her brown eyes then began.
"To Bon, my family, my sister, my… partner in crime. All my life you have been there, always. I can't imagine Mystic Falls or home without you. I hope you find your happiness." Bonnie smiled at the brunette threw tears while Tyler raised his bottle in the sky.
"To Bonnie, one of the most courageous people I know. I know you will get were you wanna go. Just don't take to long, cause I'm the one who's going to have to deal with Caroline." Bonnie laughed aloud. "Hardy Har Har." Caroline threw at her boyfriend. After a few moments of mocking Caroline, everyone turned to Stefan.
"To Bonnie, the amazing friend, beautiful woman, and witch goddess. I'm not sure what your after, but I hope you find it on this journey. Know that you are loved and cherished and will always have a home right here." He said pointing to his heart. A collective swoon went out over the room as Bonnie pulled the vampire in for a kiss. "Calm down kiddos were in public." Damon quipped. After Bonnie released Stefan, everyone clinked their glasses and drank.
"Thank you all…" The witch started to cry. "I love you all, and I am going to miss you so much. I don't know how this is going to go, so I may be back next week or it may take a little longer. I'll call and email everyone my new info when I get there. And Ty, feed her Ghirardelli peppermint chocolates and she'll be all right."
"What time are you leaving?" Elena asked eating a bit of Bonnie's bon voyage cake. "Stefan's is taking me to the airport at 5am. So I want hugs before everyone leaves." The witch said pointing to some of her friends. Bonnie glanced at the door again. Elena put her hand on Bonnie's. "He'll come around. They always do." Elena said winking at the witch.
-o0o-
Bonnie walked into her bedroom and took a deep breath. She couldn't believe she was doing this, but she knew that this was the right step. Movement caught her eyes in her old rocking chair. Kol was there with a bottle of Jack in his hands. She was so relieved to see him.
"How was the party?" Bonnie walked closer, but stopped when she realized he had bathed in liquor. "Great. It would have been better if you had shown up." Kol chuckled. "I wasn't in the party mood. Unlike your pathetic excuses for friends, I'm not going to pretend like I agree with your choices of late." Bonnie sighed rolling her eyes. "Then why are you here? I thought I was pathetic and ordinary." Kol took a swig from the bottle in front of him.
"You misunderstand me, darling. You're not pathetic and ordinary you just want to be, but that is beside the point. There's something I can't figure out." Bonnie sat on the bed facing the original. "If you want to be normal so badly. Why are you going off with Lucy Bennett, one of the most notorious witches in the country?" Bonnie exhaled. "My mom-"
"The one who abandoned you?" Kol sniped taking another sip. Bonnie glared at him then continued. "My mom wrote me a letter. When I read it, something clicked. I knew that Lucy would be apart of my journey no matter of how notorious you say she is."
They sat in silence staring at one another. Bonnie would not apologize for doing something for herself, but she wanted nothing more than for him to hold her, even though she could kill him in this moment. She would dive into his arms, liquored up and all, if he would just give an inch.
Kol was too hurt to heed Stefan's advice, although it was the reason he came. He wanted to tell her that he loved her. He would miss her. That she was the blood in his veins. Deep down he understood. Deep down he was proud that she had finally stood up for herself. He wanted to say she was the reason he had not already abandoned this cesspool of a town. He could not physically leave until she was no longer there, but the pain gnawing on his insides was almost unbearable. He could not open his mouth. He couldn't swallow the hurt and his pride enough to tell her he loved her like the sky loved the earth. He could only function on his default setting-asswhole.
"I'm going to miss you." Bonnie said to the floor. "You don't have to miss me, you're the one who rejected me. You're the one flying across country to find yourself." Bonnie huffed. "Why are you acting like this?" Kol lifted the bottle to his lips. "How should I act when my heart is broken?" Bonnie's stomach flipped. Tears welled in her eyes. "Kol" she whispered. She turned when Stefan opened the door to her bedroom. She turned back to her rocker but the original had vanished.
One More Chapter...Hope you Enjoyed It.