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Chapter 20
"You have to die a few times before you can really live." –Charles Bukowski
When I was ten I killed my first vampire, I witnessed the murder of my mother, I fought alongside a group of werewolves on the full moon, and I've almost died on quite a few occasions. But none of that compares to this. I thought I could get through anything with the same mind-set I went in with, but watching Danny right now, I can finally say she's beaten me.
I sink lower into the uncomfortable hospital chair I've been sitting in for the past hour and a half. When Meredith had come to collect me earlier she found me wearing a hole in the waiting room floor. Kol had left me after an hour of waiting claiming he had things to do, but I knew where he was really going. By now, he's probably drank through half the Grill's alcohol supply. I can't blame him. I could use a drink myself right about now.
I reach out and intertwine Danny's bony fingers with my own. Her face is pale and someone has taken her black beanie leaving her head bare. I've always been able to tell Danny is sick, but now it's like a punch in the face. The hospital gown swallows up her petite frame while the blanket covers her frail legs. I clench my jaw wishing with every bone in my body that she would just open her eyes. Her body might be failing her, but her mind is not. I can see it every time I look in her eyes; they're always alit with enthusiasm and warmth. I need to see that right now, I have to see it.
"You know, love, a call would have been nice." I look up when Klaus's voice breaks me from my trance. He's leaning against the door frame, looking impeccable in jeans and a long sleeve Henley. I give him a half-smile standing from my chair when I feel a lump form in my throat. Now was not the time for water works.
"I didn't want to bother you," I mumble meeting him halfway walking straight into his awaiting arms. I rest my head in the crook of his neck as my arms snake around his waist.
"Yes, because my painting was far more pressing than you." He scoffs running a hand through my hair instantly soothing my frayed nerves. "How long have you been here?"
"A few hours," I sigh reluctantly stepping away from him. I look down at my black and pink pumas glad I went home to change. Meredith had said I should grab a few things for Danny to make her more comfortable. So I went home changing into a pair of yoga pants and a blue tank top with a cream-colored cardigan to go over it. I threw my hair into two braids not really caring about how I looked today. I just wanted to get back to Danny.
"You must be exhausted," Klaus comments gently lifting my chin so he can get a good look at me. "Just as I suspected, still beautiful," He smirks making me roll my eyes.
"Wow, please tell me no girl has ever been stupid enough to fall for that?" I ask turning around to sit down, but surprise surprise Klaus has miraculously appeared in my seat.
"Actually, most women just skip the talking altogether," he smirks cheekily patting his knee. "They know an alpha male when they see one." He answers cockily as I take up his offer and sit down. I sit sideways so my legs dangle over his lap giving me enough room to lean comfortably against him. My head lands perfectly on his shoulder as he wraps his arms around me. It's odd, but it feels so natural to act this way with the original hybrid.
"Did Kol tell you I was here?" I ask suddenly wondering if Kol mentioned anything else to his brother. Luckily, my body remains relaxed in Klaus's embrace so not to tip-off the original.
"Yes he did; of course, this was after I picked him up from the bar completely smashed." Klaus reveals not shocking me.
"I figured that's where he ran off too." I sigh nuzzling deeper into Klaus's body. "I don't think he's quite ready to handle the situation yet."
"Are you?" Klaus asks cocking his head to stare at me. I keep my gaze focused on the slow rise and fall of Danny's chest. I don't think Klaus realizes the loaded question he just asked me.
"I'm ready when she is," I mutter confusing the man beside me. "Meredith said the pain and the blood were complications that arose from her condition. She said it's rare for the pain to be that intense, but the doctors gave her morphine. She should be waking up soon." I quickly go on retelling exactly what Meredith told me. "Meredith said with the cancer and now this," I gesture to Danny's passed out state, "she'll have to stay here until…until…" I bury my head in Klaus's shoulder refusing to finish my sentence.
"I know," Klaus nods turning to kiss me on the forehead. We sit in silence after that while we wait for Danny to wake up. I feel like Klaus has more to say, but under the circumstances he is remaining silent. I don't think he knows about the spell and I can't help, but feel relief at his ignorance. Klaus knowing would just complicate things and I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible. Because to me it is simple and if I'm being selfish then so be it. Whether it is today or tomorrow, I'm going to die for Danny because I always keep my promises.
Kol POV
I scrub a restless hand down my face as I take a seat on the edge of my bed. I kick a hunk of wood near my foot that used to be a part of my chair. I lift my gaze to the rest of my room to find the place in shambles. Wood, glass, and irreplaceable items litter the floor as a reminder of my hot-blooded temper.
After abandoning Alba at the hospital, it didn't take me long to find myself drinking alone at the Grill. I don't know how long I was there, but I remember compelling the owner to let me stay even after he shut the place down. It wasn't until this morning and one hundred and forty-five drinks later that Klaus found me. I don't know how, but he did and he dragged my ass home. I didn't mind at first considering I was happily numb and ready to take on the world, however, now it seems the effects are wearing off.
I shake my head at the thoughts running through my mind. I don't know how Alba can just stay there and wait. Wait for some overly pathetic human to come out and tell her the news. Danny was either dead or she wasn't. Chances are she's dead because let's face it; the girl is barely hanging on as it is. This little incident, no doubt, sent her over the edge and to the other side.
It's for the best I decide as I grab my jacket slipping it on. She was too soft for this life anyway. If she didn't die today then she sure as hell would have died another more painful way. Most likely at my hands especially if she proceeded to grow up and become even more beautiful. I leave nothing, but destruction behind me so death is sparing her considerably. I would have ruined her marking my place in hell permanently. With that thought, I take one last look at the chaos caused by my hands before slipping out the door to find a new pet. Someone who I don't mind losing.
Danny POV
"Danny…honey it's time to wake up."
"Hmm," I mumble slowly opening my eyes at the hand gently shaking my shoulder. The first thing I register is the dark clouds hanging over my head. The heady scent of rain is potent in the air as I sit up rubbing my head. "Where am I?" I question glancing around my surroundings in confusion. I'm no longer in Kol's jeep or at home in bed; I'm sitting in a meadow wearing nothing, but a hospital gown. "What happened?"
"When you were on your way home, you started to experience pain in your stomach. Alba and Kol rushed you to the hospital where you've been sleeping ever since." I stare in shock at the woman sitting beside me. Her wavy brown hair that used to match my own hangs in a loose pony tail at the back of her head while her brown eyes shine with glistening tears. There's an air of familiarity and comfort about her that I just can't shake.
"I'm sorry, but…who are you?" I ask unconsciously leaning toward her. She smiles softly in response reaching out to clasp my hand in hers.
"My name is Alexandria Martinez." She explains, her eyes running over me in awe. "I'm your mother."
"What?" I gasp using my other hand to cover my mouth in astonishment. "But…am I dead?" I cry my lip trembling as I whip my head furiously from side to side. I can feel Alexandria move her hands to my shoulders to steady me, but it doesn't work. I'm shaking like a leaf. "I didn't even get a chance to say good-bye!" I exclaim fat crocodile tears escaping down my cheeks.
"Danny, no, shh," my mother coos pulling me to her in a bone crushing hug. "You're not dead, you're just dreaming." She reassures me doing nothing to stop the little tremors from sliding down my back.
"But I'm going to, right? This is just a warning?" I sniffle rubbing angrily at the tears still falling. I knew this would be coming I should have prepared myself, but there was still that small part of me that hoped Alba would find a way to save me.
"I wish I could tell you baby," she sighs running a soft hand down my cheek. "But the future is still undecided."
"No it's not," I hiccup looking around at the thousands White Lilly's and Red Roses that populate the small field. All of them are dead except for two that stand tall and proud in the center of the meadow. There's one White Lilly and one Red Rose unwavering against the wind that has picked up considerably.
"The future is never for certain," she responds following my gaze to the flowers. "Just see for yourself," I watch in fascination as the stems of the flowers begin to intertwine. The rose comes out on top receiving the ruthless force of the winds power.
"I don't understand," I mumble tilting my head to the side just as the skies open up. Rain falls in sheets across the meadow soaking everything in its path except us. I watch as the rose curls back so the Lilly is receiving as much water as possible.
"You will," my mother says kissing the top of my head right before a flash of light obscures my vision.
"Danny!?" Fluorescent lights are the first thing I see when I finally come to. The second is Alba hovering over my bed with the most haggard expression I've ever seen on her.
"Alba," I rasp touching my throat at the itchy and dry sensation.
"Oh, here," Alba quickly picks up a plastic cup next to the bed bringing it to my lips. I take slow sips that quench the burning. "How are you feeling?" She asks grabbing my face in between her hands. The warmth is welcomed against my cold skin.
"Tired," I mumble giving her a half-hearted smile just as Klaus pops his head over her shoulder. He has his usual grin turning up his lips and I can't help, but find it comforting. "Hi, Klaus."
"Good morning, love." He nods his head in greeting as I run my eyes around the room looking for one person in particular. The disappointment must be clearly written on my face when I don't find him because Klaus is quick to continue. "Don't worry Danny, if I know my brother he'll be back. He can never stay away from something he wants." I merely nod returning my eyes to the ceiling.
"How long have I been out?" I finally ask after a moment of silence. I turn my head to find Alba's exhausted blue eyes peering at me closely. I know she can see it; the difference in me. I can feel it.
"You've been out for about nine hours," Alba answers sitting on the edge of my hospital bed. "You were in so much pain that the doctors had to give you a sedative to knock you out." She smiles sadly reaching under the bed, "but while you were out it gave me time to go home. I didn't think you would want to wear that hospital gown so I brought you some pajamas." I stare wearily at the clothes in her hand as I think about what she just said.
"I'm not leaving here, am I?" I ask looking from Alba who is picking at my clothes to Klaus who nods softly. "I figured," I shrug pushing the golf size lump in my throat down. I'm not really in the mood to say much else as I try to sit up. I can't, not until Alba reaches behind me and picks me up bridal style. "Don't you ever get tired of carrying me?" I ask her getting comfortable in her embrace as she walks us to the bathroom.
"Are you saying you'd rather be in a wheelchair?" Alba asks setting me down on the toilet and shutting the door. "Is this some kind of scheme to get me to wheelchair race you? Because if so…" she whips around with narrowed eyes, "I thought you'd never ask." I giggle for the first time since waking up and my goodness it feels good.
"No, but now that you mention it, we should." I smile making a move to lift my arms; however, I don't make it far before I'm pulling them down in pain. "Oh wow," I hiss grabbing my sore stomach and hunching at the waist.
"Hey now," Alba is kneeling by my side in an instant. She rests her hand on my shoulder, the pain subsiding almost as quickly as it came.
"How do you do that?" I ask lifting my eyes to her face. She just smiles taking my gown off and replacing it with my favorite pair of pink polka-dotted pajama bottoms and a white shirt. I know she's not going to answer me and I really don't have the energy to press her on the matter. "Thank you," I whisper once she's pulled the light grey sweater over my head.
"Always," Alba gives me a crooked smile grabbing my hand and slipping my infinity ring on my finger. She then proceeds to grab my face in between her hands and give me a big kiss on the forehead. "I love you Danny."
"I love you Alba." I say as she pulls me to her chest. It's in that moment sitting there in the bathroom that I realize what the flowers meant. Alba and I's fates are entangled meaning when I die so will a part of Alba.
Damon POV
As I walk through the corridor of the hospital I can't help, but think of the conversation I had overheard not even an hour before. So Elena asked Stefan to the dance. If she is trying to make me jealous she's doing a damn good job of it. Not that I would ever admit that to anyone. I'm Damon Salvatore; I can have any girl in the world…just not the one I want. But none of that matters now as I spot Meredith up ahead. Just the woman I need to see. I flash so I'm standing behind her when she turns around. I smirk when she jumps out of her skin.
"Don't do that, it's not funny!" She scolds me making my smirk widen.
"Oh, come on, it's a little funny." I reason which only earns me an eye roll in response.
"What do you want, Damon? Are you here to see Danny?" She asks surprising me with the last question.
"I need medical advice. For a friend. Alaric, you remember him, right? About 6'2", tried to hack you into pieces." I explain doing my best to land on the good doctor's last nerve. However, it seems to have the opposite effect as her face contorts into concern.
"How is he? Are those herbs that Bonnie made for him working?" She asks giving me an opening for the whole reason I'm here.
"I don't know," I drawl holding up the glass jar of herbs. "Can they work if he doesn't take them? I found these in his loft untouched." I wiggle the jar watching Meredith's face fall.
"Damn it," she mutters shaking her head. "What can I do for you?"
"I need to know if there is any other way to save him." I ask letting the urgency of the situation seep into my voice. "Is there a drug we could inject him with that would magically get rid of his other half?"
"No, there's nothing else. No drug in this hospital will be able to help Alaric." Meredith crushes my last remaining shred of hope with her words. "I'm sorry Damon. If there was something I could do, I would. You know I would." I only nod brushing past her to leave, but before I can talk myself out of it I double back around.
"Why is Danny here?" I ask coming up behind her once again. This time I don't scare her, but my question seems to bring on a whole new wave of sorrow in her.
"She came in last night with severe stomach pains and she was coughing up blood. We put her on morphine and gave her a sedative, but it's not looking good." Meredith swallows rubbing her forehead. "She's just a kid."
"Which room?" I ask ignoring her little pity party. She glances at me out of the corner of her suspiciously.
"ICU, room 123."
"Thanks," I reply briskly turning on my heel and heading in that direction. I haven't seen or thought about Alba since last night. After she nearly killed Elena and led us right to Kol I was more than ready to cut the cord. But let's just say when I came home last night, it wasn't exactly a warm welcome.
"What in the hell were you thinking, Damon?" I groan when Stefan's incessant voice hits me as soon as I walk through the door.
"Seriously? I haven't even had time to pour myself a drink." I bite walking to the alcohol cabinet and grabbing my drink of choice. Bourbon.
"How could you forget Danny? What were you thinking?" Stefan repeats his question from earlier. I take a sip of the Bourbon in my glass watching Stefan pace in front of the fireplace.
"I was thinking that I had just staked an original and I had to get Elena out of there." I shrug not seeing the harm in it. "I don't see the big deal."
"The big deal is that not even a week ago you were kicking my ass because I ruined your chances with Alba. Now do you see why?" I lean against the couch daring him to continue and he does. "You left her little sister that is dying, by the way, in a town where anything could have happened to her!"
"But everyone is failing to see that nothing did happen to her. She was fine. Kol found her and took care of her. Why is everybody getting their panties in a twist?" I snap downing the rest of my drink.
"What if Kol hadn't found her, Damon? Huh? What then? What if another vampire had found her?" Stefan asks crossing his arms; judgment is just pouring from him.
"Oh so now we're doing what if scenarios?" I ask rolling my eyes. "Honestly, I don't care. She almost killed Elena tonight and almost had Jeremy put a shard of glass through his leg. Tell me, Stefan, how are you defending her?" I ask in disbelief wondering if this is the same Stefan I left behind.
"Let me ask you something Damon. If the roles were reversed and Alba had left Elena behind; what would you do?" Stefan questions making me clench my jaw. "Because I know for a fact, you wouldn't have almost killed someone; you would have definitely killed someone." Stefan chuckles darkly shaking his head, "she trusted you Damon and you let her down. That is exactly the reason why I didn't let you into their lives."
"Well if it isn't my least favorite Salvatore." The voice I've grown to loathe pulls me from my thoughts. My suspicions are confirmed when I look up to find Klaus standing in front of me.
"Klaus, I'm surprised to see you here. I figured you would be long gone by now seeing as you have your stake." I glare not in the mood for the original today.
"Yes, well, it seems my sister has some unfinished business here as does Alba. So, it looks like I'll be staying in town for a little bit longer." He smirks cockily watching me through amused eyes.
"Hmm," I smile humorless looking over his shoulder to see the room Danny is staying in. "On your way out?" I ask noting the direction he's heading in.
"I am. My sister is insisting I attend your little high school dance tonight so I have to go get ready." He states rather darkly when I start to chuckle.
"That's cute." I smirk brushing past him. But I only get so far before his hand flashes out to wrap around my wrist stopping me in my tracks.
"I'd be careful Salvatore," Klaus warns squeezing my wrist until I hear the bones snap. "I'm only playing nice for Alba's sake, but mark my words, if you keep trying my patience I will not hesitate to rip your heart out." He grits giving me one last warning glare before releasing me and strutting down the hall. "Good luck in there. You'll need it." He smirks disappearing around the corner.
"Dick," I mutter holding my wrist as the bones fuse back together. I'm really going to enjoy killing him.
I walk into Danny's hospital room like I own the place stumbling at what I find. Danny is lying in bed watching the T.V. with Alba in a chair beside her. Both are oblivious to my arrival which is probably a good thing because I don't think I'm doing a good job of hiding my shock. It wasn't even twenty-four hours ago that I saw Danny, but looking at her now I'm left speechless. Her skin is a transparent white and her face has managed to sink in a little deeper making her eyes really pop. She has tubes coming out of her nose to help her breathe and I can hear the rasp in her breaths from here. I can hear and see her body working double time to keep breathing and for the first time I realize what a mistake I made.
"Damon?" I shake my head of all thoughts when Danny finally notices me. I smile taking a step towards her, but the iciness of Alba's blue eyes has me stopping from going any further.
"Hey little Martinez, how are you feeling?" I ask watching Danny shrug her shoulders.
"I've been better. Did you come all the way here to see me?" She asks sounding so genuinely happy that I lie on the spot.
"Of course, I had to come check on my favorite girl." I lay it on thick walking to Danny's side. The one opposite Alba who if looks could kill I'd be dead. "Listen Danny about yesterday-"
"Don't worry about it Damon," Danny waves me off shocking me when she takes my hand. "I understand. Kol told me what he did and I can't blame you for wanting to save Elena and Jeremy. I'm just glad everyone is safe." She smiles acceptance present in her big brown orbs. I stare down at the young girl in awe not sure how to continue. Out of everyone, Danny should be the truly angry one yet here she is forgiving me so easily.
"No it's not," I shake my head ignoring Alba's intense gaze as I bend down to get on Danny's level. "I should not have left you. I was only thinking about Elena and myself. I was being selfish and that is unacceptable. You should have been the first person I grabbed and you weren't. I'll forever be ashamed of that." I answer honestly hanging my head when I don't have it in me to stare any longer into Danny's forgiving eyes. "I'm sorry."
"Apology accepted." Danny says squeezing my hand until I look into her face. She's smiling at me with so much kindness I feel the first twinge of sadness at her state. "Do you have anywhere else to be?" She asks looking at the jar in my hands. I do the same contemplating how much time I have to spare.
"Nothing pressing at the moment," I smirk placing the jar on the nightstand. "Scoot over," I demand when I don't find another vacant chair in the room. Danny happily obliges leaving me enough room to lie beside her as she lays her head on my arm. "What are we watching?"
"Twilight," Danny giggles sounding like her old self. I smile looking over her head to find Alba's eyes. She doesn't say anything, but she nods gifting me with the tiniest of smiles. I do the same as I get comfortable.
Danny POV
"Alba, can't you just compel someone to let me go home?" I ask for the third time in over an hour. Alba just gives me a look shaking her head.
"Not this time. At least here the doctors can dope you up when you're in pain. I may be able to help, but not that much." She bites almost like she's angry at herself for not being able to do more.
"You help me enough," I say grabbing her hand in mine. "I just wish I didn't have to stay here, is all."
"I know, Danny." Alba nods in understanding repositioning herself in the chair she's been in since I woke up. I watch her curiously from her disheveled hair down to the puma's covering her feet. She's been awfully quiet since Damon left and I noticed that while he was here the two didn't say a word to each other.
"What happened between you and Damon? Are you mad he left me?" I ask catching Alba's weary eye roll.
"Of course I'm angry he left you. He's lucky I didn't stake his ass on the spot." She huffs looking out the lone window in my room. I can tell she's not just angry; she's hurt that Damon disappointed her once again.
"You know Alba, Damon isn't a bad guy." I hold up my hand when she gives me an incredulous look. "Yes, he doesn't make the best decisions in the world and most of the time he acts before he thinks, but he's trying. That's all anyone can ask for."
"He's selfish, arrogant, and doesn't care about anyone, but Elena." Alba fights me on the subject crossing her arms. She props her feet up on the edge of my bed looking down at her knees.
"Think about it this way. If things had been different, would you honestly remember to grab Elena if I were I in danger?" I ask watching as she keeps her gaze determinedly focused on her knees. "If someone more powerful than you was threatening us and we had to make a quick escape, who would you be more worried about? Me or Elena?"
"You, of course," I hear Alba mutter under her breath. She doesn't look very happy with my reasoning, but I can tell she's starting to get it.
"Face it sis, at the end of the day, you care for me just as much as Damon cares for Elena. You both would go to the end of the world for the people you love." I reason waiting in silence as Alba collects her thoughts. After about three minutes of hearing only my machines beeping Alba sighs.
"Well played Danny. Well played." I just smile pleased with myself at a job well done. That is until Caroline and Bonnie walk into the room.
"Danny!" Caroline beams running over and tackling me to the bed in a bear hug. "I'm so happy you're okay!" She cries stepping back to make room for Bonnie who is gentler with her hug.
"Hey Danny, it's good to see you." Bonnie smiles softly bending at the waist to wrap her arms around me. After a beat, she pulls away to stand next to Caroline so I can get a good look at them.
"Oh my gosh, you guys look awesome!" I cheese looking over their outfits in awe. Caroline is dressed in a red flapper dress that falls to just below her thighs with a string of pearls adorning her neck. Her blond curls are done up around her neck creating a cute bob with three tiny red feathers in her hair. "What is this for?" I ask turning my eyes on Bonnie. She looks classy in a black and silver dress with black gloves and a matching black feather boa that drapes around her shoulders. Her hair is bunched up around her head with a fancy headpiece in the back.
"Tonight is the decade dance," Caroline smiles, "it's the 20's!" When Caroline informs me of this I instantly turn accusing eyes on Alba. She's watching Caroline and Bonnie through calculating eyes.
"Why didn't you tell me? Better question, why aren't you going?" I ask looking back at the girl's dresses in envy. What I wouldn't give to go with them. To have one last night on the dance floor, but I can already feel the exhaustion weighing my body down. It isn't going to happen for me.
"I don't do dances," Alba answers quickly and simply. "Besides chances are they'll need me soon enough." She mumbles drawing every eye in the room to her. "It's not uncommon for your little dances to end in disaster." She shrugs looking down at her nails.
"Well this one isn't," Caroline smiles a little too forcefully as she looks down at me. "We better get going, I just wanted to stop and see you. I'll be back tomorrow, okay?" I nod as we go through another round of hugs.
"Hang in there Danny," Bonnie whispers hugging me extra tight. Then she does something that surprises me. "Alba if you change your mind Diane's on Fifth Street has some really nice flapper dresses. You might like some of them." Bonnie smiles, a real genuine smile.
"Thank you Bennett," Alba nods watching Bonnie leave.
"I think Bonnie is finally warming up to you." I grin, sinking lower under the covers as my eyes start to get heavy.
"It seems so," Alba murmurs rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "I'll be back I have to make a call." Alba says bending down to kiss me on the cheek. "Get some sleep." I only nod already drifting into unconsciousness.
Klaus POV
I adjust the tan jacket covering my torso enjoying wearing the old suit. It reminds me of my time in Chicago with Stefan. Yet as I watch people entering the high school in their costumes it becomes painfully obvious that the twenties are over. A red carpet has been laid out front to give the students a "glamorous arrival." In reality, it just looks tacky and Rebekah better be happy that I'm even making an appearance. Its right when I spot Caroline Forbes making her way inside that Alba calls me.
"You're timings impeccable, love." I smirk watching Caroline disappear inside. After her little antics with my young hybrid I think I'm going to have some fun with her.
"Let me guess, you're standing outside the school right now in your classiest suit watching the Scooby gang arriving for the dance." She chuckles making me raise a curious eyebrow as I scan the area for her.
"Hmm keeping tabs on me now, darling?" I ask still searching for her figure. I wouldn't mind if she showed up, honestly, it would make this night a whole lot more bearable.
"Nope, lucky guess," she sighs as I hear the distinctive sound of Danny's machines beeping in the background. "Caroline and Bonnie stopped by earlier in their get-ups and seeing as you ran out of here so quickly I just assumed." I can hear the smirk in her voice as she says this.
"Yes, well, Rebekah is quite persuasive when she needs to be." I grin leaning against the tree I'm standing under. "What are my chances of persuading you to be my date tonight?" I ask already anticipating her answer before she voices it.
"No can do. I have better things to do like jump off a cliff or saw off my own arm." She teases making me chuckle.
"Arm or no arm, love, you would still look unbelievable." I smirk picturing the eye roll she's giving me right now. She's never been one to fall for my charms and that's what I like best about her.
"Flattery gets you nowhere." She says a hint of amusement in her voice.
"I beg to differ. I've heard flattery gets you everywhere."
"Nowhere worth remembering though," she fires back feisty as ever.
"I couldn't agree more, love." I grin looking down at the leaves littering the ground. "I wish you would reconsider joining me this evening. The twenties were my favorite. You would have loved it; the girls were reckless, sexy, fun." I goad her which only earns me a hum in response.
"Ah so that's why you like me so much. I remind you of the good ole days." She laughs as I do the same. I don't know which is worse, the fact that, I'm actually begging her to be my date or that I'm giving serious consideration to spending the night with her at the hospital. "But have fun reliving you're glory days Al Capone." She taunts clearly having a good laugh at my expense.
"Please," I scoff, "Capone was a buffoon that had an IQ of ten. He wouldn't be this famous without a little help." I smirk, thinking about my days with Capone.
"Wait, so you're saying, the greatly feared and all-powerful Al Capone and you were friends? I'm shocked." Alba laughs as I watch the last of the students enter the building. I still have yet to see Rebekah anywhere.
"I know the news has that effect on a lot of people. But I must be going love before Rebekah has my head."
"Alright…but Klaus," she says taking a deep breath. "Save me a dance." And just like that she hangs up leaving me with a grin.
"Always," I whisper to no one in particular.
Kol POV
The bar is full tonight of fresh pickings. We have blondes, red-heads, and my personal favorite brunettes. All of them are drinking their sorrows away; waiting for that one guy to give them exactly what they want. Fortunately, I can give them what they want; unfortunately one or two of them won't be making it home.
I stride across the room aware of every female eye trailing me to the seat I take at the bar. Instantly, the pretty bartender appears in front of me with a big smile on her face.
"What can I get you?" She purrs leaning forward so I get a good shot of her cleavage. I frown when I don't get the same adrenaline rush that comes with the hunt.
"Scotch," I demand turning my back on the woman. I rest my elbows comfortably on the bar behind me while I find dinner. I catch the eye of a blond in the back corner that is openly ogling me in front of her date. I give her my pantie dropping smirk watching as she bites her lip seductively. I sigh when I feel nothing.
I move on to a girl dancing in the middle of the floor with her friends. She looks young and carefree as I cock my head to the side getting a better look at her. Nice firm body, long black hair, smooth moving hips. She's exactly what I would usually go for except I find this woman unappealing. With a growl in frustration I twist back around to my drink. I have it downed in a second slamming my empty glass down on the counter. It jars the woman sitting a few seats down from me as she glances up from her book.
She sends me a quick glimpse showing me her deep brown eyes that instantly draw me in before going back to her book. Her brown hair is neatly curled over one shoulder revealing a tempting caramel neck that is calling my name. Not to mention, this woman is one of the only girls in the bar not looking at me and for some reason I find that incredibly enticing. In an instant, I'm taking the seat beside her.
"Hello darling, my names Kol." I smile causing the woman to look up in surprise. "What's your name?" The girl blinks rapidly looking behind her like she's checking to see if I'm really talking to her.
"Mindy," she answers hesitantly still looking unsure. I find it adorable. Wait, adorable? Get your shit together Kol.
"Well Mindy, I was just wondering why a pretty girl like you is sitting all alone?" I ask grinning when a crimson blush rises to her cheeks. It makes me want the girl even more. She holds up her book sheepishly. "Ah I see. Well what do you say to putting the book down and dancing with me?"
"Oh I can't really dance," she shakes her head looking down embarrassed.
"That's quite alright, sweetheart." I say lifting her chin until her eyes are fixed on mine. I have every intention of compelling this woman until her face changes. Her brown eyes become a little deeper and more beautiful, her hair is quickly replaced with a black beanie, and her cheekbones get a little higher. Before I know it, I'm looking at Danny's face. The same beautiful face that has managed to worm itself into the little humanity I have left. I curse loudly to myself when Danny's eyebrows scrunch together.
"Kol?" And just like that I'm looking back into Mindy's ordinary brown eyes. "Are you okay?"
"Sorry, love. Maybe next time," I smirk getting up from my chair and walking out the door. I have somewhere to be.
Klaus POV
I stop just inside the door to the gymnasium as I look around at the body's gyrating against each other. Does no one have class anymore? I have to say Rebekah did a good job with the decorations though the place would have been much more lavish if she had, had her way in the beginning. I smirk when I spot my hybrid dancing with Caroline from across the room. It's not even a second later that Tyler senses me before lifting his gaze to mine.
"What is it?" Caroline asks just as I come up behind them.
"Where've you been mate?" I ask placing my hands casually behind my back enjoying Caroline's annoyed glare.
"I just got back in town." The boy answers making my blood heat up.
"That's funny; I don't recall giving you permission to leave in the first place." I say with a warning lacing my words. "You don't mind if I cut in, do you?"
"Yes! Actually we do." Caroline pipes up looking ready to kill. Well, I have to say my plan is working perfectly if she is already on edge.
"No, it's fine." Tyler reluctantly takes a step back once I stare him down. I smirk stepping up to take Caroline's hand.
"Why do you always have to prove you're the alpha male?" She asks stubbornly refusing my hand.
"I don't have to prove anything, love. I am the alpha male!" I exclaim wondering how this girl has the audacity to ask me such a question. "Come on, one dance." I present my hand one more time. "I won't bite." I smile when she unenthusiastically accepts. I start twirling her around the room wishing I was spinning Alba instead of Caroline.
"If you're planning on telling me how much you want to show me the world, you can save it. I don't care." Caroline bites making me chuckle.
"Strong words for a weak girl." I smirk roughly pulling Caroline to my chest. I hear the slight gasp she lets out when her face lands inches from my own. "You mark my words. A small town boy, a small town life, won't be enough for you. But when the day comes that you're ready to leave, don't come calling my name. I won't care." I smirk when her nostrils flare in pure rage.
"Go to hell," she spits causing a small chuckle to leave my lips.
"Where do you think I've been for the past eight months?" I smile releasing her to Tyler who is fast approaching. "Enjoy the rest of your evening, Caroline." With that, I walk out of the gym and through the school doors dialing Rebekah's number. "Rebekah," I snap when I get her voice mail yet again. "Call me immediately. I only came to this ridiculous dance because you begged me to and now you're nowhere to be found." I finish closing my phone and stopping in my tracks when I find the salt line blocking my exit. "What is this?" I ask sensing Stefan approaching behind me. His next words send my blood boiling.
"Your mother is back."
Alba POV
I stare at the ceiling listening to Danny's labored breathes. I'm not an idiot I can hear the squeak of her lungs as they work to pump oxygen. I can see the toll it's taking on her mentally and physically to use so much energy. Yet she puts on a smile for the world and acts like it's not fazing her. She's strong, I've always known this, so much stronger than I am. Kol is right. I can't live without Danny; I don't know what I would do.
"Alba?" Danny calls my name groggily as I sit up so she can see my face.
"Hey bud, what's wrong?" I ask leaning forward, "are you in pain?"
"No, I just wanted to make sure you were still here." She smiles a little dazed. I raise an eyebrow as I look at the dreamy expression crossing her face.
"Danny?" I ask just as something clicks underneath my hand. I look down to see I accidentally administered her one dose of morphine. "Oh shit," I mumble quickly taking my hand off the button.
"Did you know I look like mom?" Danny suddenly asks out of the blue. She sounds a little loopy as she peers up at me through her lashes.
"I did. She was very beautiful just like you." I nod smiling softly recalling a very faint memory of mom holding Danny as a baby.
"Alba…who's my father?" Danny speaks the words in a quiet whisper, but it still manages to stop my heart. I look at my little sister that is currently high on morphine and I have no idea what to say. Danny has only asked about her father once and at the time I had avoided the question. Now looking at her, I don't have the heart to tell her that he was some loser mom met that bailed on us.
"Oh you know," I mumble taking a deep breath as I decide what to say.
"On second thought, don't tell me." She mutters her eyes closing shut. "I'm just going to pretend that Damon's my dad too." And with that, she's out like a light. Danny really knows how to pull at my heart-strings, I decide as I rest my head on her bed. I have just closed my eyes when my phone vibrates. I look down to see I have a text from Stefan.
Need help! Ester's back. Meet me in the school cafeteria.
I read the text twice to make sure I understand it correctly. Ester is back? Why didn't I know? I shake my head in confusion as I stand from my chair only to abruptly sit back down. I can't just leave Danny here by herself. But one look at her conked out face lets me know I have time. So with a quick kiss on her forehead and a promise to be back as soon as possible, I flash out of the hospital.
I arrive at the school fifteen minutes later barging right past the salt line and into the building. I run straight into Matt who looks surprised to see me.
"Alba! What are you doing here?" He asks looking over my shoulder. "Where's Danny?"
"Hospital," I answer curtly walking down the hall with Matt hot on my heels.
"Is she okay!?" He questions jogging to keep up with my fast pace.
"She's fine for now." I grunt coming up to the cafeteria doors before swinging them open so hard they smash against the wall. The people in the room which consists of Damon, Klaus, Bonnie, Jeremy, and that guy Jaime all look to me in surprise. Only Stefan is smiling at me when I walk farther inside. "What the hell is going on?" I jump straight to the point already pissed.
"Ester is back and has managed to lock the vampires in the school with a binding spell." Stefan provides usefully.
"That explains the salt." I say walking over to where Bonnie is trying to perform her spell. "What else?" I ask finding Klaus's eyes which are filled with more fury than my own.
"Ester mentioned something about helping Alaric so Elena would go with her." Jeremy speaks up stepping forward. A familiar tingle starts to stir in my stomach as my eyes flash bright blue.
"What the hell?" Jaime gasps taking a large step away from me. No one else in the room seems surprised by it, but they are all openly staring. "What are you?" He keeps talking making me growl at him.
"I would stop talking now." Klaus warns him as he shuffles over to me. "Love, are you alright?" He asks looking worried gripping my face between his hands. I nod taking deep breaths as I try to control myself.
"Listen, Matt and I can leave. We can stop Ester ourselves, we just gotta find out where she is." Jeremy says sounding sure of himself as Stefan is quick to protest.
"It's suicide, Jeremy." He says just as another pain racks my body.
"Damn it!" I hiss as I fall to the floor on all fours.
"You cannot be changing right now!" Damon barks from somewhere in the room.
"I can't help it!" I snarl looking up as my teeth elongate and my eyes flash blue. I can feel my tendons snapping while my bones are gearing up to reshape me. As I look around the room at the panicking faces I know I have to leave.
"Alba, you need to take a deep breath. You can control this." Klaus appears next to me laying a comforting hand on my back. However, the moment he touches me; my whole body begins to quake as three of my ribs snap.
"Aah!" I scream flying away from Klaus smashing in to the wall opposite him. My breathing is coming in ragged puffs by the time I look up. Jeremy and Matt have left the room while Damon and Stefan guard the doors leading into the cafeteria. Bonnie is trying to complete her spell, all while keeping an eye on me. Jamie stands fearfully behind her and Klaus just stands in the middle of the room watching me through curious eyes.
"Alba," Stefan calls from the doorway as he cautiously approaches me. "Alba, you can beat this."
"No, she needs to change." Bonnie calls surprising us all. I grunt hunching over in unbearable pain as everything starts to come apart.
"What are you talking about? Do you want her to eat us? Is that it?" Damon bites as I hear Bonnie's heartbeat spike in anger.
"She's the original guardian. Obviously, her power is speaking to her. My bet is she can find Ester and stop her once she's in her animal form." Bonnie says her words dripping with venom. The pair continues to argue as something snaps inside of me like the last time. And just like that I'm no longer Alba, but the beast that lurks inside of me.
3rd POV
"This is ridiculous!" Damon yells throwing his hands up. "She is not changing, end of story!" He growls finally tearing his attention from the witch when no one says a word. He looks around the room to find everyone's stares focused on Alba in the corner.
No one moves or speaks when the only sound that can be heard is Alba's harsh breathing. Even Bonnie has ceased chanting to watch the girl. Alba's head is on the ground obscuring her face from view while her hair creates the perfect veil. The change in the air has everyone on edge as they wait.
"Hey guys!" Suddenly Jeremy bursts through the doors carrying one of Alaric's cross bows. "I have an idea!" He shatters the silence metaphorically setting off the bomb. Just like that, Alba rears back her head, blue eyes glowing as she lets out a ferocious roar. Instantly, every vampire in the room drops to the floor holding their heads in pain; even Klaus. Bonnie, Jeremy, and Jaime only watch as Alba stands on her feet before flashing out of the room.
"What the hell was that?" Damon groans still on the floor. Damon, Stefan, and Klaus have blood dripping out of their ears as they try to get the ringing to stop. Bonnie is the first one to answer.
"I think-I think she just made you all submit to her." Bonnie gasps in disbelief.
Danny POV
There's only one thing worse than dying and that is someone waking me up when all I want to do is sleep.
"Hmm," I groan blindly swatting at the hand currently shaking my shoulder. The shaking stops almost immediately as I sigh in my sleep. It is probably some doctor trying to poke me with another needle, well not tonight mister. However, it soon becomes clear that it is not a doctor when I'm suddenly being lifted into the air. "Hey!" I gasp, my eyes flying open when I'm safely laid back on the bed. But now it seems I have a body underneath me.
"Well, you wouldn't wake up. What was I supposed to do, sweetheart?" Kol grins amused when I finally look up at his face.
"You're back." I state quietly searching his eyes for some flicker of emotion. I find a hint of remorse, but other than that I can't tell what he's thinking or feeling.
"What can I say? I can't stay away," he smirks cockily before the smirk is wiped off his face. He sniffs the air before leaning down and sniffing my hair.
"Kol, what are you doing?" I ask when his grip on me tightens. As of right now, I'm curled into his side, my head on his shoulder. Not the worst position I could find myself in.
"Why do you smell like Damon Salvatore?" Kol growls surprising me he would notice something like that.
"He came by to see me this morning. He stayed for a little bit." I shrug not seeing why it's such a big deal.
"In the bed!?" Kol growls, his nostrils flaring in complete and utter anger. "And after what he did to you!"
"Hey, it's okay." I say resting my hand on his chest. "He was in the bed with me, but we only watched Twilight together. I don't see what the problem is." I say scrunching my eyebrows together when Kol glares at the door like he would love nothing more than to leave. "I would have much rather been with you." I whisper looking away from his eyes. I can feel him watching me now, the tension slowly leaving his body.
"I'm sorry, Danny." Kol sighs putting his fingers under my chin and lifting my face to his. "It's just Salvatore's scent is all over you and I don't like it." He growls lowly almost possessively. I stare up at him in confusion still not understanding what he means.
"Kol," I only say his name, but it seems to be enough. Because before I know it, his lips are covering mine and he's kissing me.
Elena POV
I fall next to Alaric's lifeless body my hand shaking when I take the white oak stake out of his chest. I can't believe this is happening right now. Alaric can't become a vampire, he just can't!
"He'll wake soon. When he does he may for a time be his old self. If so you can say your goodbye before his transition is complete." Ester informs me walking into the crypt.
"You said you wanted to undo the evil you created!" I yell climbing to my feet standing protectively in front of Alaric. "But this…this is just as evil!"
"Alaric will never be what my children became. I have granted him enough power to complete his task. Then when the time is right, he will die." Ester says confusing me.
"How, if he's immortal?" I ask looking down at Alaric's body in sorrow. This should have never happened to him.
"All you need to know is that when this is over we will have rid the earth of vampires once and for all." The witch speaks with so much certainty that is disgusts me.
"Yeah, but you'll be killing the good along with the bad, you're no better than Klaus!" I shout in anger watching Ester reel back like she's been slapped.
"Am I not?" She asks. "I desire a world where you and your loved ones will not suffer at the hands of vampires, like your Aunt Jenna did." She has the gall to bring Jenna into this.
"Don't you dare use Jenna as an excuse for what you've done." I bite darkly putting every ounce of hate I can muster behind my words. It seems to work as Ester looks down in shame.
"You may draw comfort knowing that your aunt is not in the place that I was. She doesn't know the torment of The Other Side. Though made a vampire, she remained pure. She knows peace. Which is all any of us can hope for." Ester says sending a wave of relief through me as tears pool in my eyes. However, Ester soon gets this faraway look on her face as she turns around and walks towards the door. She goes outside only stopping when Matt comes out from behind a tree pointing a gun at her.
"Don't move!" He barks staring the original witch down.
"Where's Elena?" I hear Jeremy's voice causing me to run down the steps of the crypt in full view.
"Jeremy!" I yell fearfully not completely sure what Ester will do.
"Let her go!" Jeremy demands of Ester as he points a crossbow at her face. Ester merely stares between the two boys in disbelief.
"How foolish of you, to risk your lives in defense of those who will kill you; but if that is your choice." Ester remarks holding her hands out towards Matt and Jeremy as their weapons slowly start to point at each other.
"Matt!" Jeremy yells his arm shaking from the strength he's using to drop his crossbow. "Drop you're gun!"
"I can't! I'm not controlling it!" Matt shouts just as a roar slices through the night momentarily stunning everyone including Ester who drops the spell. I watch Ester's body tense as her eyes fly around the woods before landing right in front of her.
"You are too late, the spell is already complete." Ester booms causing my heart to skip a beat as a white tiger steps into view. Its massive body is easily the length of me and its eyes look deadly as they stare at Ester. "Alaric is going to be the original vampire hunter before the night is through and you will be just another obstacle in his way." Ester bites as the tiger slowly stalks towards her.
"Elena!" Matt whispers as I tear my gaze from the tiger to find him and Jeremy off to the side. I quickly run to them as Jeremy wraps me in a protective hug.
"What is going on?" I whisper watching as the tiger begins to circle Ester who hasn't moved an inch.
"That's Alba." Matt says nodding to the tiger as my mouth drops open in shock. The glowing blue eyes should have been my first indicator.
"If you think you can stop him, you're just as stupid as my children." Ester snarls making Alba growl in response. "But then again, we won't have to worry about you for much longer." My eyes widen when the tiger or Alba launches herself at Ester tackling her to the ground. I have to look away, but it doesn't stop me from hearing Ester's neck snap.
"Oh my god!" I gasp quickly turning around when Alaric's voice cuts through the silence. I watch as he comes running out of the crypt only to quickly stumble backwards when he spots Alba. "Ah hell," he mutters stopping when Alba lets out a low growl.
"Alaric!" I scream running towards him until something knocks me back. But luckily, Matt is there to catch me before I land on my butt. I look up to find Alba's hulking form pacing in front of Jeremy, Matt, and me.
"Elena, what is going on?" Alaric yells watching Alba carefully as he tries not to make any sudden movements. "Where's my ring?"
"It's okay Ric, I'll explain everything." I breathe taking a hesitant step forward to which Alba backs up blocking me. "It's okay Alba, he hasn't changed yet." I breathe causing her to blow air out of her nose like a snort. I look back at Matt and Jeremy who give me nods to go ahead. So I take one step forward and Alba does the same. I take another step and another until I'm as close to Ric as I can get with a massive tiger standing between us. I look up to find his face paralyzed with fear before I reluctantly lean down. "Thank you Alba, but I think I can handle it from here." I whisper into her ear as she looks at me out of the corner of her eye.
"Alba?" Alaric asks when suddenly he's being pinned against the wall with a giant paw on either side of his head.
"Alba!" I hear Jeremy shout, but I quickly hold up my hand silently telling him to stop.
"She's not going to hurt him, Jeremy." I say distractedly observing Alba as she sniffs Alaric. I almost laugh when she nudges his face with her nose to get him to turn away from her. It's only when she stops looking him straight in the eyes before giving a nod that she steps down. Before anyone can say a word she has disappeared leaving just the four of us.
"I think I need to sit down." Alaric says walking back into the crypt as I follow him.
Klaus POV
The house is quiet tonight as I walk into the coffin room. I go to Rebekah first pulling the dagger out of her chest. I wonder if she'll ever make it to a dance without something coming up. While I wait for her to wake up I go to my mother's coffin. I look down at the one person in the world that is supposed to love me unconditionally, the one person that is supposed to never let me down. It used to pain me to look at her now it just angers me.
"Your trap failed, mother. I live and I will go on living. Let your beloved spirits try to preserve you again; I dare you to come after me!" I growl leaning down to get in her face. "I will build an army so big; no one will ever touch me. My survival will haunt you through eternity. You will never destroy me!" I yell out in a fit of rage.
"That's not exactly what I had in mind for tonight." I suck in a breath as I spin around in surprise. I feel myself go slack-jaw at what I find behind me. Alba is standing in the doorway wearing a red and silver flapper dress that falls to just above her knees. Pearls hang from around her neck complimenting the satin white evening gloves that cover her hands. Her hair is done up held together with a red sequined headband that has a red feather sticking out of the top. I'm left speechless as I run my eyes over her again and again. "I was told I would like the twenties so I thought I'd give it a shot." She smiles looking even more breathtaking.
"It looks good on you," I grin finally taking control of my feet as I walk over to her. "You're a vision, love." I murmur seriously gently grabbing her waist and pulling her into me. I cup her face in one of my hands ghosting my thumb across her cheek. "You're unbelievable."
"Yes, well you still owe me a dance." She smirks reaching up softly capturing my lips with her own. She makes a move to pull away, but I hold her still deepening the kiss. I decide right then and there, I'm not letting her go. She pulls away taking a breath before grinning up at me her blue eyes shining. "Dance with me." She demands taking my hand and leading me into the parlor. I take her hand in mine as the music begins to play in the background.
I walked across an empty land
I knew the pathway like the back of my hand
I felt the earth beneath my feet
Sat by the river and it made me complete
"What made you decide to come back, love? I'm sure you'd much rather be with Danny." I ask sweeping her around the room; impressed when she keeps up with an elegant grace.
"I wanted to surprise you," she shrugs brushing it off like it means nothing when, in fact, it means everything. "Plus I found her and Kol asleep in bed so I thought I'd give them some time."
"That sounds like my brother. We Mikaelson men are just irresistible" I smirk, twirling Alba around in circles.
I came across a fallen tree
I felt the branches of it looking at me
Is this the place we used to love?
Is this the place that I've been dreaming of?
"I wouldn't say irresistible." Alba remarks making me raise an eyebrow.
"No?" I ask amused watching her shake her head stubbornly.
"I would say persistent…overly cocky, conceited, egotistical, va-"
"Now, love, if you're trying to get me in bed it's working." I grin suggestively down at her as she chuckles softly shaking her head.
"If I wanted you in bed, Klaus, you'd be in bed." She smirks, the challenge burning brighter than ever in her eyes.
"Is that so?" I ask puckering my lips in thought when she nods. "Hmm okay then," I say leaning down, purposefully brushing my lips against her cheek. "Prove it." I whisper into her ear. I watch as a wide smile turns up her lips lighting up her face. She looks every bit ready to prove herself and I find it exhilarating. She's strong, she's confident, and she's above all else, loyal. As I look into her eyes, I can't think of a better person to show the world to. She's my endgame.
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
Somewhere only we know?
Somewhere only we know?
Somewhere only we know?
Thank you for reading! Let me know what you think! I also have their outfits and Alba's flapper dress on my polyvore page! Hit it up! Thanks!