AN: Here's the next chapter, yay! Okay, so since you guys are the only ones that'll understand, I just have a couple issues I need to vent.

Kol said he spent time in New Orleans with his family before Klaus daggered him, but The Originals has him already daggered. So was he undaggered or was this the dagger that Klaus pulled out of him in Mystic Falls? So confused!

Elijah thought Klaus had dropped their family in the ocean in season 2, so was that after New Orleans or before it? Because we know Klaus had the coffins when he was in Chicago in the 20s with Rebekah, so did he bury them and then have to dig them up later?

It was stated that the doppelgängers were made after the creation of vampires and Klaus's hybrid curse so that Klaus could break the curse later on. But on TVD now, they're saying the doppelgänger has actually been around since Silas' time. I just have a big issue with the writers of the show never seeming to go back to make sure their story lines mesh up with what they've already written. It's so annoying!

Also, if I do work in The Originals into this story, some things will be different because I've already written some of Klaus's back story in the first story. So just be warned. Though, I don't actually know if I plan to write that far.

Guest: Sorry for the delay. I hadn't planned it to be so long. My Harry Potter story just took a lot longer to write and then I injured my back and have been having difficulties sitting in my computer chair. Sorry!

Anon: I'm glad you like the story so far and how I'm writing Klaus. He is my number 1 favorite character on the show, so I want to do him justice. And I must say, it made me really happy on the flashbacks of the family in New Orleans that his character really meshed with how I wrote his past in the first story. So yay! I'm sorry for the delay, I was trying to update my Harry Potter story but it just wasn't happening.

Guest: I haven't given up, I promise! It's just taken a little longer than I anticipated. Sorry for the delay but I'm thrilled you like the story!

Guest: Thanks so much. I'm glad you liked it.

Guest: I'm so happy you like the story and how I'm writing it. I hope you like this chapter!

Storylover: I am so in love with The Originals, lol. I'm glad you like how I'm approaching the family, as I want them to be more of an actual family then they were depicted in the show.

Atlafan1286: I'm so happy you liked the chapter! The more I write, the more I wished Sophia was part of the show, lol.

Guest: Thanks so much. I hope you like this chapter.

Disclaimer: I own nothing related to TVD.

Chapter 15: Building new Bridges

"You're in a good mood." Sophia turned from the rack of clothes she'd been pursuing for an outfit in the large walk-in closet, spotting Klaus leaning casually against the open door, his red lips stretched into a smirk.

"Yeah, I am. I feel amazing; better than I have all summer. I think I completed my transition." She gave a bright smile before turning back to her clothes, teeth tugging at her bottom lip when she felt the displacement of air behind her, Klaus's scent invading the closet and making her head buzz.

"Really? How can you be sure?" The Original questioned quietly, leaning forward until his lips could ghost over her bare shoulder, making the doppelgänger shiver.

Smirking to herself, Sophia spun around and pushed the vampire roughly against the wall that housed their shoes, eyes flicking over her shoulder before meeting his.

"Well, for one, I don't have to try to use my abilities anymore. They're just always on hand now." The witch said, leaning forward to nuzzle her face against his throat, lips finding the two moles under his chin that she was obsessed with.

"What else?"

"Mmm, I just feel more in control now." She murmured before pulling back with a smirk, Klaus's eyes widening slightly when his arms were suddenly encased in several of Sophia's scarves, tying him down to the wall. Arching a brow at her, he tested the bounds and found them to be much stronger than they should be, reminding him of the time she'd encased him in spelled shackles.

"I see your magic ability has also increased." He muttered when his clothes seemed to rip at their seams, falling away from his body. Sophia smirked at him, her hands coming up to rest against his chest, nails scratching against his skin.

"Yeah, I don't really know how much has changed, but I don't seem to need to voice spells. Well, at least not simple things like stripping my boyfriend. More complicated spells might be different, especially if they have very intricate chants." The witch leaned forward to lightly nibble on his throat, making the thousand year old sigh before his hips gave a jerk when her fangs were suddenly sliding into his flesh.

Sophia moaned when his blood hit her tongue, giving a couple strong pulls before moving away, her tongue flicking out to catch the drops of blood that escaped before the skin sealed itself. Moving back, she licked her lips and smirked at him, noting the dark look in his heavy-lidded blue-green eyes.

Pulling at her towel, she letting it fall to the floor in a heap, hand gliding up her side, Klaus's eyes following its movement until she reached a breast. Giving it a squeeze, Sophia let out a little mewl, eyes never leaving his as her other hand came up to repeat the actions on her other breast.

Klaus strained against his bindings as her arousal filled the room, his body demanding he ravage her. But the scarves would not give, heightening his frustration until he was ready to snarl as he was denied, making the doppelgänger smirk as she continued to tweak her girls.

Before either could do anymore, there was a banging on the bedroom door and Rebekah's irritated voice filled their ears.

"We're gonna be late if you don't put some clothes on. Not that I care, but you said you wanted to be early to give Caroline her present, Sophia. And you're really beginning to scar poor Elijah!" The blonde said loudly in annoyance before she headed back to the parlor, where Elijah was attempting to read.

"They're like rabbits, I swear." Rebekah huffed as she threw herself down on a plush couch, thankful the construction was finally done and the rooms were beginning to be decorated. Not that she was really bothered either way, as she was still making full use of her apartment, which apparently was a good thing because she didn't have to listen to her brother having sex with her best friend. Ew.

"Niklaus has spent most of his life alone, apart from the whores that've kept his bed warm. I imagine now that he has found someone like Sophia, someone who can actually love him unconditionally, he is insatiable." Elijah murmured calmly, even if he happened to agree with his sister.

He really needed to have words with Klaus about making the bedrooms soundproof, especially if the hybrid didn't want all his siblings to be privy to every little thing spoken or done while behind closed doors. Elijah could certainly do with some privacy.

"Sorry! My bad." Sophia said when she came into the room, dressed in black skinny jeans that were tucked into her dark brown leather boots and a white lace top that showed off the cute camisole she wore underneath.

Now that her body was through its transition, she didn't feel the temperatures the way humans did; meaning, besides a scarf to complete the look, she didn't need a coat. And if the scarf she was wearing was one of the ones that'd kept Klaus prisoner, then that was between the two of them. And she might get a little thrill every time she thought about it, even though their moment had been interrupted. She'd just have to finish what she'd started after school.

"It is no trouble, Sophia. So it is Caroline's birthday? I thought the two of you were not on good terms." Elijah said as he set the book down, hiding a smirk at the irritated look that was on his brother's face, who followed his girlfriend into the room, his lips stretched down in a pout. Niklaus really was too much like a child sometimes.

"Yeah, she's still mad at me…or mad at Nik, really. But we've been friends since we were kids, so I'm hoping we can get past this. I mean, Tyler asked to be a hybrid, so I don't see any reason she has to hold it against Nik. Besides, her birthday is the best day of the year, according to her." Sophia shrugged as she slipped the gold wrapped box into her purse. Rebekah and her had gone to a boutique yesterday and she'd found the prettiest pair of teardrop opal earrings, a perfect gift for her (ex?)bestie.

"You put much faith and optimism in an 18 year old newborn vampire."

"If I don't at least try, then I'm going to lose one of my closest friends, and I don't want that. This town is big enough for all of us. I just hope the others come to see that before too much damage is made. Besides, Caroline seems more mature than she was when she was a human." The witch said.

"You'd really forgive them for what they did?" Rebekah asked in surprise.

"You forgave Klaus for daggering you. After we nearly killed Alaric I realized that I don't want to hold on to that anger and let it eat away at me. I'm not willing to let it fester in me. I'd much rather just everyone get along and be happy."

"I forget sometimes how truly young you are." Klaus murmured as he sat down next to Elijah and pulled his sketch pad towards him.

"I like to think of myself as unjadded and optimistic, Nik. Just because all of you are old and bitter doesn't mean I have to be." She stuck her tongue out at him, making the siblings all crack a smile.

Even when she acted childish, usually on purpose, she was still the most remarkable human they'd ever met. The mere fact that she'd been through everything in her life and could still find the silver lining said a lot about her character and inner strength, something they were all grateful for her having.

After all, it took an extremely strong willed person to put up with the Originals and love them the way Sophia did. They were very lucky to have found her.

"Alright, let's go. I've got to turn a paper in first period and don't want to miss Caroline."

Rebekah sighed before standing, grabbing her own bag while Sophia leaned down to kiss Klaus before the two headed out. Sometimes the blonde really regretted wanting to go to high school, as it was awfully dull when there wasn't a dance or event going on.

Good thing Mystic Falls always seemed to have something going on, or else the vampire would've gone stir crazy by now.

/*/

Caroline looked up with a start at the knock on her passenger window. Sophia gave a bright smile and nodded towards the door, which the blonde sighed at before nodding.

"Happy birthday, Care!" The witch exclaimed when she sat down, holding out a golden wrapped box that had a big bow stuck to it.

"I'm not really in the celebrating mood." The vampire gave a little shrug, not taking the present as she stared out the windshield.

"Why not? I thought your birthday was the best day of the year." The brunette teased.

"Well now it's just a reminded that I'm technically dead. I'll always be 17." Sophia was surprised at the bitterness in her friend's voice.

"Only if you chose that, Care. I know we haven't hung out a lot since I've been back, but—"

"Since your boyfriend turned Tyler into a sired lap dog, you mean." Caroline bit out, the pent up anger and frustration coming out. Sophia had to clamp down on her irritation, knowing the vampire was just lashing out.

"Tyler knew what he was signing up for; I was very clear about the connection the hybrids had to Klaus and he still asked for it. He was tired of letting his curse rule his life; he just wants to actually be able to enjoy life. I don't know why you can't understand that."

"Because now he's more interested in pleasing his master than being with me." Caroline spat, glaring at her childhood friend.

"Klaus hasn't asked Tyler to do anything, so I don't know how you can say that. I'm sick and tired of you blaming Klaus for everything that goes wrong in this town. You and Tyler are the only ones responsible for the state of your relationship and I've had enough of constantly being attacked by you.

"I'd thought being a vampire had actually been good for you, as you seemed more alive than ever before. But I guess it hasn't changed you as much as I'd originally thought. I'm sorry I wasted my time even trying to keep our friendship alive, because it's perfectly clear that you no longer wish to be my friend."

Caroline's mouth fell open at Sophia's strained words, her eyes watching in disbelief as the witch exited the car, the door slamming behind her. The vampire watched the other girl clutch her bag to her chest and hurry into the building, tears sparkling on her cheeks.

Sighing, Caroline leaned her forehead against the steering wheel, wondering how her life had gotten so complicated. Was she really the reason she'd lost Tyler and not Klaus? Had she just ruined her oldest friendship? Was it even possible to get forgiveness from Sophia? Did she want to be forgiven?

Groaning at the lack of answers, the vampire started her car and pulled out, not being able to face a school day. The sunlight glinted off the small gold box Sophia'd left behind and Caroline felt an intense stab of remorse.

She might be angry with Tyler for letting himself be changed, but that didn't mean she wanted to be at odds with Sophia. Even when she had trouble understanding how the witch could love someone as vile as Klaus, she was still Sophia. Had she completely destroyed their friendship?

/*/

Elena's attention shifted from Caroline's locker when her sister dashed by, cheeks stained with tears as she entered the bathroom.

"I'll be right back." She said to Bonnie and Matt, who both nodded as they finished decorating for the birthday girl.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Sophia looked up in the mirror to see her twin's concerned face, the human doppelgänger standing uncertainly just inside the door.

"I—" The witch shook her head, shoulders slumping as she gripped the sink tightly, the porcelain groaning under the strain.

"What's the matter? Did…did something happen with Klaus?" Elena questioned after a moment.

"No. Caroline…I don't think we're friends anymore." Sophia muttered, eyes clenching tightly as her heart felt like it was being squeezed.

"What? Why?"

"She blames Klaus for her and Tyler breaking up. Apparently, Klaus is responsible for everything that goes wrong in her life." She replied with a scowl, her hurt beginning to turn to anger.

"I'm sure she's just…looking for someone to blame." Elena tried to placate her sister, her own hopes of reconciliation rising as they continued to talk.

"Yeah, but why does it always have to be my boyfriend? It's like I don't know any of you anymore; like the minute I left town everyone just changed. And I get that that's what happens, especially with our lives, but it just sucks that people I've loved and trusted my whole life have turned against me." Sophia said sadly as she turned from the sink to lean against it, her arms wrapping around her stomach.

"Soph, I'm so sorry. I didn't know what else to do. Mikael threatened to kill Stefan and Damon. And Katherine wouldn't let any of us mess the plan up." The human said a little desperately.

"I know. And I know you pulled the dagger from Rebekah so she could wake me. But you drugged me, Elena. And while I understand why you did it and have moved past my anger, I don't know if I'll ever trust you again." Elena's face fell at the words.

"I—I understand." Sophia grabbed her bag and slung it over her shoulder before heading for the door, turning back to address her sister before she left.

"You're my sister Elena and I'll always love and protect you. But you and Bonnie betrayed my trust and I don't know if I'll ever get it back. It seems that the only people I can trust are a bunch of vampires, as crazy as that seems. But I don't want to be at odds with any of you, even Caroline. I hope we can rebuild our relationship over time."

"Me too. I miss you." Elena whispered, whipping at her cheeks where tears had fallen.

"I miss you too." Sophia said softly before ducking out of the bathroom, heart a little lighter. She might not get why Caroline was so hell-bent on blaming Klaus for everything, but at least she seemed to be on better terms with her sister. Truth be told, she'd always pick her family over everyone, even a childhood friend.

"You alright?" Matt questioned when she reached them, Elena trailing behind her.

"I'm getting there Mattie. Care and I just seem to be taking a break on the friendship front." The brunette gave a small, sad shrug.

Matt wrapped an arm around her shoulders and gave her a squeeze, making her smile. Everyone else seemed to be wary of her on some level, but she could always count on the footballer to stay a true friend. There was no one else like Mattie and she was thankful she was lucky enough to have him in her life.

"You know Caroline. She'll get over it in a few days."

"I hope so. But I don't think she's coming to school today. She wasn't in a very celebrating mood apparently."

"Really?" Bonnie asked in shock, as no one had loved October 10th more than Caroline Forbes.

"Yeah." Sophia nodded, not missing the distance that was between the two of them.

While Matt and Elena were quite close, the other witch was at least two arm lengths away and hadn't made a move to diminish the space. And it couldn't be her imagination that she was getting weird vibes off her.

"Then we'll just have to surprise her at home. Take her to the Falls or something." Elena said.

"I'm up for skipping." Matt shrugged.

"I have a test third period, but I'm clear afterwards." Bonnie nodded as they started walking down the hall.

"I'm gonna have to pass. I don't think my presence would lift her mood any."

"Are you sure?" Elena asked, her face adopting a doubtful expression.

"Yeah. I think we both need some time and space. I'll see you guys later." Sophia waved as she saw Rebekah waiting outside their first period, separating from the group.

"See you."

"Bye."

Sophia didn't miss that Bonnie hadn't said anything, her mind whirling with possible reasons for why her friend was giving her the cold shoulder. But she couldn't think of anything, as she'd thought they were cool.

And besides, if anyone should be angry it was her, as she was the one who'd been locked into the cellar by the other witch. Maybe Bonnie shared Caroline's feelings and didn't want to be her friend anymore either.

The possibility hurt Sophia, as she didn't want to lose anyone she cared about. She didn't understand how people she'd know most of her life could so easily turn against her for no reason. It just didn't make sense, like at all.

Sophia just hoped her friends dealt with their issues so they could all move past them, as she really didn't want to lose their friendships.

/*/

"So is this the 'being shunned by an ex-girlfriend' table?" Sophia asked as her and Rebekah sat down in front of Tyler and Jeremy, both of whom looked up from their conversation at her words.

"Yeah, Bonnie's still not talking to me." Jeremy gave a shrug.

"It's not just Caroline. Everyone is treating me like I have the plague or something." Tyler added, a scowl taking over his face as he thought about his 'friends'' treatment of him.

"Why?" Rebekah asked as she pulled out a thermos, arching a manicured brow at the hybrid.

"I don't know. I guess they all don't like that I'm a hybrid now. Apparently being sired to Klaus is worse than killing someone."

"They'll get over it Tyler, eventually. I mean, I think they will. Caroline isn't too fond of me right now either. But you still have us, so you're not alone." Sophia reached out until she could grip Tyler's large hand, giving her old flame a firm squeeze that had him wincing a little before pulling away.

"Been lifting weights Soph?" The hybrid asked as he shook out his hand, making the girl blush.

"Sorry. I think I finally finished my transition and I forgot my own strength." Sophia said, embarrassed.

"Why didn't you say anything?" The Original asked, as she'd had no idea.

"How do you know you completed the transition?" Jeremy asked at the same time, still fascinated with the changes his sister was going through. He'd been a little worried at first that she'd be too similar to vampires that he'd not recognize her anymore, but was pleasantly surprised to realize Sophia was really just Sophia with extra strength.

"Oh, uh, I got caught up in trying to find the right gift for Caroline. Even though that was apparently a waste of time." Sophia muttered before clearing her throat and looking to her little brother. Well, technically he was her cousin, but tomato tomatoe.

"I just feel more comfortable in my body; like I'm back in complete control of it now, not being controlled by my new abilities. And my magic seems to be on a new level now. I don't have to say my spells any more. It's like the magic just responds to my thoughts and will." Sophia explained, her cheeks a rosy pink at the thought of how she'd experimented with it that morning

"So what exactly does that mean?" Jeremy asked.

"I'm still not really sure. The witch I spoke with was more vague than was needed, leaving me with more questions than before. But apparently I'm only the first of my kind and others will be changing. She didn't tell me how they'd undergo the transition though.

"It has to be something different than what I underwent because the elixir I drank is extremely difficult to make and requires a coven of at least twenty to infuse it with power. It'd be way too hard and time consuming to have to make one for every witch." Sophia shook her head, eyes flicking up to spot Stefan coming through the school doors. When he spotted the picnic table they were seated at he made his way over, Sophia pulling a thermos identical to Rebekah's from her bag.

"Hey." Stefan slid in next to her, taking the container gratefully.

"Where've you been?" The Original demanded as she finished off her blood.

"Sorry. I was having an argument with Elena. She doesn't like that we're friends or that I'm hanging around Tyler." The vampire shrugged before uncapping the thermos, inhaling deeply as the delicious scent tickled his nose. Sophia laid a hand on his arm and gave him a hard look, telling him without words that he needed to calm down and just drink the blood without getting so excited.

"That might have something to do with Rebekah threatening her." Jeremy piped up.

"I wasn't going to hurt her. At least not then. I simply wanted to make it clear that she should think hard before she ever betrays Sophia like that again." Rebekah retorted, grabbing one of Tyler's napkins to wipe her mouth.

"She's jealous of you spending time with Rebekah." Tyler said.

"What?" Stefan looked at the hybrid, his attention being pulled from the blood momentarily.

"Everyone can see it. Elena's worried you'll hook up with Rebekah since she's got the hotts for Damon." He shrugged and shoved several fries into his mouth, missing the irritated look Sophia sent his way.

"Stefan's made it perfectly clear that we are not getting back together." Rebekah said as she shoved her thermos back into her purse.

"Alright, let's not talk about this right now. Stefan, drink your blood." Sophia spoke up before anything else could be said, too worried about her friend letting his darker side get the better of him. It was always a slippery slope and you could never know what would send him over that edge, so she thought it best to just not even tempt fate.

"So, uh…you're basically an Original, right?" Jeremy asked after a moment, trying to find something to talk about. Sophia gave him a grateful smile.

"Yeah, I think so. Like I said, the witch spirit wasn't very clear, but she did say I was the first of my kind. So that makes me an Original, I think. I don't know if that means I'll have different abilities than the others." She shrugged, not really sure of anything.

"So how's the…drinking going? Do you have to feed as often as vampires?"

"Sort of. I actually hadn't had any blood since Klaus left; besides the amount Rebekah gave me to heal those burns. So when he was punishing Damon the other day, I got taken over by my hunger and I couldn't control myself. I won't die from not feeding, at least not immediately, but the longer I go, the more…vicious I get when I do drink."

"Oh." Jeremy mumbled, not really sure what to say to that. He was happy his sister wasn't a vampire, but he still hated that the twins were so caught up in the supernatural world.

"Don't worry Jer, I'm on a strict diet now. Klaus has made sure I feed every morning before school." She smiled, which the human slowly returned, still uneasy about the course their lives had taken.

"Good."

The group fell into a small silence as they finished their lunches, all of them getting lost in their thoughts. Each wishing for times when things were simpler and yet thankful that they at least had each other in this very complicated life they led.

/*/

"I am surprised, pleasantly so, that you've kept your word, brother." Klaus looked over to where Elijah was leaning against a table, a small smile on his face.

"I did give you my word I would wake him when we dealt with Damon. Finn will have to wait until we find something for him to live for, as I don't relish the thought of him attempting to get himself killed again. Besides, he's such a bore." The elegant brother shook his head at Klaus and stepped forward, looking down at the open coffin that housed their baby brother, sans dagger.

"I believe Sophia has brought out the best in you. You're the man I always knew you could be with her."

Klaus's throat got tight at Elijah's words, as he'd never heard such pride in his older brother's voice directed towards him. The two shared a look before the older man settled a hand on Klaus's shoulder and gave it a squeeze, thankful he'd been there to actually witness the change.

"She is remarkable."

"Yes. You are one lucky man." Klaus nodded and returned Elijah's shoulder squeeze before stepping away, not liking how soft he was getting.

But even as a part of him was demanding he do something to reinforce his dominance, he couldn't help but enjoy in the closeness he felt towards his brother. All he'd ever wanted was a family that loved and accepted him, and it seemed like he was finally getting it. And it was all thanks to Sophia. He just had to be careful not to fuck it up, which he tended to do.

"I'll move Kol to the sitting room. There's nothing in there that he'll be able to break when he comes to."

"Yes. It may be prudent to have Sophia bind the room until he is aware of everything. Kol is not the most…self-restrained vampire." Klaus commented, getting a nod of agreement.

"When will the items you've had sent from your other house be arriving?" Elijah asked as he pulled his brother from the casket, the man's body stiff and cold.

"In the next day or so. Eric called to report an unexpected stop, so the trip was delayed a day."

"Eric is the one who told you about the dead vampire?" The two headed towards the unfurnished sitting room, Elijah being careful not to hit Kol's head on the doorframe.

"Yes. Hopefully we can find some answers. I don't like the thought of something being able to kill vampires without leaving a trace."

"You don't think whatever it was could kill us, do you?"

"There's no telling, Elijah. It is best to not to be caught unawares. Especially if what killed the vampire could potentially harm Sophia." The older brother gave a curt nod, hearing the underling harshness and worry in Klaus's tone. If there was something out there that could hurt Sophia, then there was no telling what Klaus would do to prevent that from happening.

"I'm sure we'll figure it out before anything happens to Sophia. Have faith, brother."

"You and Sophia really are too cheerful sometimes." Klaus rolled his eyes.

"That's because we know there isn't anything we can't overcome as a family, Niklaus. I never thought I'd see the day you willingly gave our siblings back their lives, and yet, here we are. If you can grow because of the love you share with Sophia, then anything is possible."

/*/

"Alright, Kol won't be going anywhere." Sophia announced as she came into the parlor, where the Originals were seated, all in various states of entertainment.

Elijah had a large leather journal out that he was writing in, Klaus was reading The Game of Thrones and Rebekah was on a laptop. They looked like any normal family and it was a little unnerving that they were capable of such brutality when the urge struck.

"Good. Elijah and I will be attending the Founders' Council meeting this evening to make our presence known; we'll deal with Kol once we return." Klaus said and sat his book down, giving the witch a small smirk as she settled next to him in the loveseat, snuggling into his body when he wrapped an arm around her.

"Why do you and Elijah get to go? If anyone should go, it should be me since I actually know the members. Besides, I don't want to just sit here waiting for Kol to wake up." The hybrid nipped at her pouting lips, getting an eye roll and amused smile from his siblings.

"Yeah, Nik, I'm not staying here like a child. Besides, wouldn't it be better to present a united front?" Rebekah arched a brow over the laptop screen, getting a nod from Sophia.

"They do have a point, brother." Sophia smiled over at the older vampire, getting a smile in response and making Klaus tighten his hold on her.

There was no part of him that thought Sophia would fall for his brother, but that didn't mean the opposite wouldn't happen. In fact, he thought the doppelgänger was quite irresistible and wouldn't be surprised if others fell for her. Not that it would do them any good. Because he did not share. At all.

"Fine. But what of Kol? He'll wake up before we get back, as this event is supposed to go till this evening." Klaus pushed the luscious locks out of Sophia's face, her deep brown eyes locked on him and filled with an emotion he still found shocking to be on the receiving end of. After more than a thousand years of being emotionally dead, it still caught him off guard sometimes how much he loved Sophia and she him.

"Well, he can't get out of the room. But I can put a sleeping spell on him so he doesn't wake up before we get home, if you want. That way he's not stuck in the room all night and building up his anger. I'm sure he'll be plenty mad already."

"Oh, Kol is going to be more than angry. Our youngest brother has issues controlling himself; he has the habit of lashing out." Elijah murmured, closing his journal and tying the leather cords.

"Sounds like he fits in perfectly with the rest of you." Sophia muttered, getting a pout from Klaus and a pillow to the face from Rebekah, making her laugh. The oldest Original just smiled, still so thankful this slip of a girl had brought his family back together.

When he'd first met Sophia, all he'd seen was Klaus's lover and someone who couldn't be trusted. But now he couldn't thank the gods enough for sending her to his brother, for providing just the right person that was capable of reuniting a torn family. He hadn't seen either of his siblings this…happy and content in centuries and knew there was nothing they could ever do to repay the witch for all she'd done for them.

"It is true we all have varying tempers. Kol, however…he's very unpredictable and detests being told what to do. He'll go against you just for spite. Or in Klaus's and Rebekah's cases, to see how far he can push them before they crack and retaliate."

"Maybe we'd be better off leaving him daggered." Klaus muttered, getting a sharp elbow to the side and a hand pushing his face away, making him smirk.

"Too late for that, Nik. Speaking of daggering, when are we gonna wake Finn?" Sophia asked, the hybrid tugging on her hand until her wrist was against his lips, making her shiver at the gentle feeling.

"Finn is…well, to be blunt, he's on a suicide mission. It'd be pointless to wake him before we figured out how to keep him from wanting to kill himself." Rebekah answered, softly closing the laptop and setting it on a side table.

"Wasn't he in love with that Sage woman? Couldn't we just find her and have her come here so he can see there's something worth living for?" Sophia's voice had gone slightly throaty as Klaus's blunt teeth moved along the sensitive skin.

"Sage was a trollop. I doubt she'd come if we did track her down." The blonde said, her tone going snotty the way it did when the Originals thought they were better than others. Sophia just rolled her eyes at her friend and tugged her wrist away, her cheeks flushed with arousal and making the hybrid smirk to himself.

"We won't know if we don't try. Can't your contacts find her?" She asked Klaus, getting an uninterested shrug.

"Sure. I don't see the point, but I'll have her found."

"It's settled then; Finn'll be awoken as soon as Sage is found and brought here. If you two wish to join us, I'd suggest you go get changed. I doubt school casual is an appropriate dress code for tonight's event."

"Elijah is right. C'mon." Rebekah was pulling her out of the loveseat before the witch had a chance to blink, the vampire smirking at the irritated look Klaus sent her as she looped her arm through Sophia's. He really was too easy to irritate sometimes.

"So what're we gonna wear?"

/*/

Sophia settled on a cute floral and mesh fit and flare dress by Jessica Simpson. It was dark with a large rose print that was pretty while not being overly formal. Paring it with black pumps, she left her hair down to curl around her to give her a relaxed look.

The council meeting wasn't anything but a ploy to get money for the Whickery Bridge rebuilding, so she didn't want to stand out too much, especially since no one was going to be happy to see her, as she was just 18 and not supposed to even be in the know. Well, except for the Mayor and Sheriff, as they both knew that their children and their friends were neck deep in the supernatural world.

Sophia wasn't sure if the sleeping spell she'd cast on Kol would actually work, seeing as he wasn't fully restored to life yet, but she kept that to herself as the four piled into Klaus's SUV. They needn't know there was a possibility that their temperamental younger brother might be stuck in a room for the entire night, stewing about his revenge. It wasn't like it was going to change anything, so there wasn't a point worrying them.

They arrived at Founders' Hall to see people still entering in droves, most of them not actually from any of the founding families, which just went to further prove this was more about money than the council meeting.

"Let's do this."

The Originals all shared an amused look at Sophia's words as she opened her door, Klaus vamping out of the vehicle so he was in front of her before the door finished opening, holding a hand out to help her down. Elijah repeated the gesture for Rebekah, the four sharing a look before they headed towards the party, the girls' arms looped through the men's and presenting a united front to the world.

Making their way through the threshold, they garnered the attention of those around them, sending the guests into murmurs of trying to guess who they were, as Sophia was the only recognizable one.

"I'll go get us something to drink." Elijah said, looking ever the refined gentleman in his Armani suit and styled hair. Sophia swore there could be a tsunami and he'd still find time to change into a designer suit and make sure he looked amazing. Maybe it was just a Mikaelson thing, as they were all ridiculously good looking and always seemed put together, no matter what they were wearing.

"Sophia! Whatever are you doing here dear?" The three turned to see Carol Lockwood approaching them, eyes scanning Klaus and Rebekah in confusion before landing back on the teen.

"Mrs—I mean Mayor Lockwood, I thought I'd come represent the Gilbert family, seeing the council has not granted access to my aunt. And my new friends wanted to make their presence known, so I came to support them." Sophia replied with a tight smile, Klaus's hand settling at the small of her back and soothing her.

"Mayor Lockwood, Klaus Mikaelson." The hybrid held out his hand and the woman took it after a moment, her heart rate accelerating. The council didn't know exactly what'd happened last may when the man had come into town the first time, but she'd learned the basics about the man and how dangerous and powerful he was. It did not put her at ease, to say the least.

"Pleased to meet you." Carol replied, throat tight as her eyes flicked over to Sophia, who gave a small smile.

"This is my sister Rebekah. And I believe you've already met my brother." Klaus continued, taking the tumblers Elijah handed him, passing the one holding simple soda over to the doppelgänger.

"E-Elijah! I had no idea you were…" The mayor trailed off, her mind putting the pieces together. She really should have known the elegant man she'd met last spring had been a vampire.

"Mayor Lockwood, it's a pleasure to see you again. And under better circumstances." Elijah held out a hand, bringing the one she gave him up to give a brief kiss on the back of. Sophia bit down on her lip to keep from laughing at the flush that colored the middle-aged woman's cheeks, taking a sip of her drink to keep from letting her amusement show.

"Y-Yes, pleasure. So what brings you to our little town?" The older brother grabbed a glass of white wine from a passing waiter and handed it to her, giving a grateful look as she took a sip, needing the boost. It wasn't everyday she found herself in the presence of the oldest vampires in the world.

"It's Sophia's home and she was insistent of returning to it to finish her schooling. And where Sophia goes, we go." Rebekah answered, holding her own flute of champaign.

"So you're planning on staying?" They all heard the slight waver in her voice and Sophia felt a pang of sympathy for Tyler's mom.

"At least until I graduate. But you needn't be worried, Mayor. They're not here to cause any problems." The witch spoke up, reaching out to give the woman's free hand a gentle squeeze of reassurance.

"Yes, we mean this town no harm as long as we ourselves are not targeted by this…council of yours. We merely want peace." Elijah added with a nod.

"Good. I'm not sure what we could do against you, but if you kill even a single person, I'll ensure you're driven from this town. Sophia included." Carol said, her voice going firm and her gaze hard as she looked at each of them in turn. She may be a mere human, but she wouldn't let these monsters threaten her town.

"Then we're all in agreeance. So tell me Mayor, what is this fundraiser for?" Klaus quirked a brow as he motioned around the room.

"We are hoping to raise enough money to restore the Whickery Bridge. As it is now, most of the wood is beginning to rot and it needs an uplift."

"So it's a beatification fundraiser." Carol gave a nod at Rebekah's words, as it really was merely a way to make the town that little bit prettier. The steel of the bridge was still strong; they just wanted to tear the outer wood off and replace it so the bridge didn't look so dreary.

"I—I think it's a good idea. The bridge could do with a rehaul." Sophia said quietly, her heart tightening as she thought about the place her parents had died. Klaus wrapped his arm around her and brought her against his body, not liking the way she'd gone from happy to sad so quickly.

"To make sure you raise enough money, I'll personally match every dollar raised."

"Yes, we'll be more than happy to contribute." Elijah nodded at Klaus, the two brothers in complete sync when it came to wanting to cheer Sophia up.

"Really?" Carol's eyes went wide at the promise.

"Yes. And while we're on the subject of this town, I give you my word that we'll protect it and its people." Sophia gave him a bright smile that he returned with a small smirk, giving her side a squeeze.

"Why?"

"Like we said, this is Sophia's home and as such under our protection." Rebekah supplied.

"Even Tyler? He told me he's…a hybrid now? Is that right?"

"Yes, he's part vampire now. But he's only drank from blood bags, I promise." Sophia rushed to reassure the mother, getting a grateful smile in response.

"And yes, I will protect Tyler. Not only is he Sophia's friend, but he is now one of my hybrids and I realize the responsibility that falls upon me as such. No harm will come to him Carol."

"Thank you." The mayor gave a relieved smile, thankful something seemed to be turning out alright. She hadn't known what to think when Tyler said he wasn't just a werewolf anymore and was just thankful that her son didn't have to suffer through a full moon again.

"Look what the cat dragged in. Nice vest."

"Well, thank you very much. Good to see you, Damon. You're looking fully recovered from the last time we met." Klaus's voice had gone as hard as steel, his gaze never leaving the younger vampire's. Rebekah came up to stand to Sophia's left side while Elijah stood on Klaus's right, the message crystal clear.

"Carol and I were just discussing whether you'd be tonight's other big benefactor." Carol's eyes darted between all the vampires before settling on Damon, deciding to play along.

"What do you say, Damon? Klaus and his family have made a very generous pledge. You know how we're chomping at the bit to begin the renovation."

"Hmm. Carol, don't take this the wrong way, but do you realize you've been kissing the ass of an immortal hybrid who ruined your son's life?"

"Excuse me, that is not what happened Mrs. Lockwood. Tyler asked to be turned and so Klaus turned him." Sophia bit out, glaring at the older Salvatore.

"Yes, Tyler is no longer beholden to the moon, which was his wish. Throwing around accusations such as this could lead to another meeting you will not relish, Damon." Elijah said quietly, the calmness of his voice more scary than if he'd yelled. Sophia ignored the fact that she found that hot, as she so wasn't like her sister and falling to two men, let alone brothers. He was just a really attractive man.

"I never had to go through the change more than twice myself, if I'm honest. But still…I'm very sympathetic." Klaus gave her a look that had Carol nodding before turning back to the vampire.

"They've promised to protect Tyler, Damon, and our town."

"From who? They're the ones the town needs protection from."

"Hey now, we've not caused any problems so far that were not brought about by someone's own stupidity. And I doubt the Mayor'll be too heartbroken if anything were to happen to you." Klaus replied with a glare.

"Please Damon, I just want peace." Carol said.

"Yeah, give peace a chance." Rebekah smirked at him before grabbing Sophia's hand and pulling her towards the buffet, the other Originals trailing behind them.

"He is so annoying." Sophia grumbled as she grabbed a plate.

"Yes. It really is too bad he's Stefan's brother, as I'd happily tear his head from his body if I had the chance." The blonde replied, making the witch smile as they filled up their plates. Damon really was too annoying and nosy for her liking and she could only hope he didn't do anything else to piss her family off or they'd all have a serious problem on their hands. Here's to hoping.

/*/

"So does Jenna know you're out flirting with another woman?" Alaric turned, startled. Sophia was standing behind him with an arched brow, arms crossed over her chest as she glared at him.

"W-What? It wasn't like that. I was just helping her." The history teacher stuttered, not sure why he felt so panicked at her having seen the exchange. It wasn't like they'd been kissing or anything.

"Yes, being her 'hero'. I heard." The witch bit out.

"Sophia, it really wasn't like that."

"If you hurt my aunt, I'll make you regret it. Do you understand me?" She asked in a low tone, the threat crystal clear as her eyes burned with anger on her aunt's behalf. The human swallowed thickly before nodding, having no doubt that Sophia'd keep her word; and having seen what she was capable of, he really didn't want any of that anger pointed towards him.

"Good." She gave him one last glare before walking off, his gaze following her until she reached where Rebekah was standing.

The others were off schmoozing the locals, leaving the girls to entertain themselves until they could finally go home. It was all rather boring and Sophia almost regretted insisting she come. At least they'd made an alliance with the Mayor out of the evening. So it wasn't a total waste of time.

/*/

When they returned it was almost midnight and Sophia was ready to drop. When they checked on Kol he was still sleeping, Sophia's spell having worked spectacularly as it appeared the undaggered man hadn't moved an inch.

After talking it out, they'd all agreed to just let him sleep until morning so that the rest of them could get some sleep before having to deal with the whirl wind that was Kol.

Sophia was just thankful, as she didn't think she could deal with having to confront the youngest brother when she was this worn out. It wasn't that she was physically weak, as her body was perfectly fine; but mentally, all she wanted to do was curl up and let darkness take her. It'd been an eventful day after all.

Which is exactly what she did, snuggling into Klaus's side and letting herself relax. There really was no other place on earth she felt as safe and warm as she did when she was with the hybrid. Lucky for her she didn't have to convince him to snuggle with her, as he seemed to enjoy it just as much as she did. Not that they'd ever reveal that to anyone. No ever.

But it was still nice.

AN: Okay…so was it worth the ridiculously long wait? I hope it was alright! Let me know.

PS: Who else is so freaking excited for the episode on the 26th? I am so…I can't even express how excited I am. I want Klaus to kill them all, lol.