AN: Hey guys, I am very sorry for the delay, it's been way too long. So if you've come back to read, thank you! I hope you like the chapter and let me know what you think.
Chapter 25: Surprise!
When Sophia woke the next morning, she wandered to the music room, the need for her violin outweighing her hunger. She'd had little chance to play outside of class and she needed the caress of the music against her skin, against her frazzled nerves. Not only did she need to keep sharp, but playing was her form of meditation; playing calmed her mind and nerves, allowing her to slip into a peaceful bubble that she dearly needed at the moment.
After being kidnapped and drugged, after her and her unborn child's lives had been put in danger, she needed a reprise. School was definitely not on the menu for today, so she was going to spend her time forgetting her worries and fears. She deserved that damn it; at least for a while. At the rate they were going, she'd only graduate with some heavy compulsion, but she was still going to take today for herself anyway.
Padding into the beautiful room on sock covered feet, Sophia made a beeline for her violin, which had been given a place of honor amongst the string instruments. Klaus had offered her his own priceless violin, the Vieuxtemps Guarneri which was supposed to be owned by Anne Akikomeyers and had ended up in his music room somehow; but, she was content to use the instrument her parents had bought for her. It wasn't a $16 million dollar violin, but it meant more to her than any of its sisters could ever hope to. With each draw of the bow, each vibration of a string, she felt connected to her parents; it felt like they were still there with her and she treasured that above all else and wasn't going to lose it.
Quickly adjusting the strings, Sophia walked to the large curved floor-to-ceiling window that looked out on the backyard and surrounding wood. It was a captivating view and the perfect escape for her mind.
The first note was like a puppeteer cutting her stings, allowing her complete control over herself in what felt like years. The second note drew all tension from her form, leaving her relaxed and at ease. It was heaven.
/*/
"You have a personal chef." Jenna muttered from where she stood in the kitchen doorway, watching the man in a white chef coat work behind the counter.
"Yes, well, we enjoy eating just as much as humans." Rebekah snipped, popping a blackberry into her mouth.
"I didn't mean—" Jenna tried to backtrack, not meaning to offend anyone.
"Please forgive my sister, Jenna, she can be quite contrary in the mornings. We employ Carlos because he is the finest chef in Mystic Falls and, as I'm sure you've noticed, my family likes the best." Elijah said, stepping up next to her, making the human jump at his sudden appearance.
"Oh…that makes sense." She nodded, not sure what to do. She was so far out of her depth in this house full of Original vampires…and a hybrid and her witch-hybrid niece. And Alaric and Elena…man she just wanted to go back to sleep and forget all this craziness.
"If you tell Carlos what you want for breakfast, he'll be happy to make it." The suit waring man commented before doing just that. When he was done, he took the offered coffee and sat next to Rebekah at the breakfast table.
Jenna did as commanded, requesting a simple fried egg with bacon and hash browns. She quietly took a seat next to Elijah, not wanting to offend the blonde again. She'd just taken a sip of her coffee when Klaus came in; she watched him speak quietly with the chef before grabbing a tall glass. The human gasped in surprise when he bit into his wrist and held the bleeding appendage above the cup, filling it before his skin knit itself back together.
"I thought you drank human blood." She found herself saying before she could stop herself. Jenna silently cursed herself for bringing the hybrid's attention to her, his golden eyes and double fangs making her shiver in fear.
"Are you offering?" His smirk stretched wider at the lurch her heart gave before it started pounding in her chest, enticing the vampires.
"Niklaus, do not be such a beast." Elijah reprimanded with a put upon sigh.
"We do drink human blood. That's for Sophia." Rebekah added, drawing Jenna's gaze away from the now normal-looking hybrid.
"Oh. Right."
"So where is dear Jeremy this morning? I don't hear him." Klaus questioned, setting the glass down and waiting as Carlos filled Jenna's plate and then began working on Sophia's breakfast. The human jerked in her chair when Klaus sat the plate down in front of her, not expecting him to show her such curtesy.
"T-Thank you. Um, Jeremy left earlier; he wanted to see Elena." Her voice shook for but a moment before she calmed down, spine stiffening. She wasn't going to show that they unnerved her for goodness sakes, no matter how true it might be.
"Are you not worried about Elena? She is now a vampire and could use her family to help support her." Elijah commented, his tone not giving away of his own opinions on the matter. He would kill at poker.
"Of course I'm worried about her, but there's nothing I can do right now. I figured that the less humans around a freshly turned vampire, the safer it would be for everyone, especially me." She retorted sharply, glaring at the man for thinking she wasn't concerned about her niece.
"She does have a point, brother. Young vampires are so unstable, more likely to tear your throat out then look at you." Klaus murmured with a shrug.
"Perhaps giving Elena some time to get used to the…hunger is for the best. Though, it might be best if she were to stay with the Salvatores until she learns control, to keep you and Jeremy safe." Elijah ignored his brother's words, focusing on Jenna. Before Jenna could comment, a man dressed in a butler suit stepped into the room.
"Excuse Mr. Mikaelson, but a Sherriff Forbes is here to see you." He said, looking at Klaus.
"Thank you Joseph, I will speak with her in the front parlor after I take this to Sophia." Klaus acknowledged before grabbing the tray Carlos had prepared.
"I could take it to her." Jenna spoke up, standing. The hybrid turned back to her with an arched brow.
"I need to speak with her, Klaus, alone." He debated a moment before nodding, holding the tray out for her. She took it carefully, not wanting to spill the glass filled with the dark red liquid.
"She is in the music room on the second floor. Just follow your ears." He said before stepping out of the room, heading towards the parlor. Jenna steadied her hands before leaving, following orders and finding her way to the rounded room that housed priceless instruments and one lonely girl.
/*/
"Sheriff Forbes, what can I do for you?" Klaus asked, stepping into the room.
"What can you tell me of the explosion at Pastor Young's farm?" Sheriff Forbes questioned, arms held tightly at her sides as she stared at him. Klaus arched a brow before crossing his arms and leaning casually against the wall, ankles crossing.
"If I had set an explosion, it would be justified. Pastor Young and his cronies kidnapped and drugged Sophia, as well as my brother and sister; I would have enjoyed watching them burn. But no, Sheriff, I don't know anything about an explosion. I had planned on visiting the Pastor later tonight and seeing to his punishment for hurting my family, but it appears I've been robbed of such an opportunity. Pity." The hybrid shrugged and smirked, unconcerned with the revelations.
He would have preferred to take his time, demonstrating just how furious he was at the Pastor's actions, slowly flaying the man until all that was left was blood and exposed muscle. It really as too bad he didn't have the chance to follow through on his dark thoughts.
"It seems you'd have more reason than most to want the Pastor and the other members of the Council to die." She said, watching him closely, trying to ferret out the truth. It was hard with the hybrid, his body not giving off any of the usual tell-tell signals that she was trained to look for.
"The Council?"
"They were gathered at Pastor Young's farm last night before the explosion." Forbes provided.
"While I relish in their deaths, unfortunately I can take no credit in their demise. Besides, I would've taken my time and enjoyed killing them slowly, painfully, for what they did to my family. Explosions aren't my style." Klaus shrugged, unconcerned, stepping away from the wall.
"Sorry I can't be of more help, Sheriff; but I think it's worked out for the best, don't you think? Alaric is dead, the Council is dead, now there's no one threatening your daughter or my family. I would take this turn of events as a gift." He motioned for her to follow him, heading out of the room.
"Alaric is dead?" She asked in surprise.
"Yes. I'm sure one of the Salvatores has dealt with the body already."
"Is it possible any of your siblings set the explosion?" The Sheriff questioned as she followed him towards the front door, ignoring the revelation for the moment. She was sad that Alaric had been caught up in the supernatural mayhem, but at least now the vampire was gone and couldn't threaten her daughter.
"No, we were all here last night; Elijah and Rebekah had to recover from their exposure to vervain and being staked and Kol is out of town. If you're determined that they were murdered and it wasn't an accident, you'll have to look elsewhere. Good luck on your search, Sheriff Forbes." Klaus reached the door and held it open for her to step through.
"Alright, thank you for talking to me. Tell Sophia that I hope she's okay."
"I will. Goodbye." Sheriff Forbes nodded before starting for her car, Klaus watching her a moment before shutting the door and going back to the kitchen.
"Well that's too bad; I was looking forward to torturing the man for what he did to us." Rebekah muttered when he entered, making Elijah roll his eyes and finish off his blood.
"Rebekah, please show a little more curtesy." He remarked and stood, wiping at his mouth delicately.
"Courtesy? The Pastor was going to kill us!" She said in outrage, not believing he would take their side. So much for family loyalty.
"I speak of Sophia and Jenna, not the Pastor. They have enough to dwell on without needing to know the details of how you'd torture someone. Now I must be off; are you and Sophia going to school today?" Rebekah rolled her eyes and stood as well, straightening her dress.
"I might as well; I don't have anything else to do now. I doubt Sophia'll be going today though."
Elijah nodded and headed out, clapping Klaus on the shoulder as he passed. It still amazed the hybrid that he was truly part of a family, that he actually trusted his siblings to not betray him. The hurt and hate that'd filled him for millennia for being the bastard brother was finally lifting, leaving room to actually experience joy and happiness. It was something he never believed he'd have or that he deserved.
"Don't kill any teenagers." He said when Rebekah was leaving, earning a stuck out tongue in reply before the two disappeared.
Grabbing the plate Carlos offered him, he sat at the table and ate his breakfast, wanting to give Sophia some private time with her aunt. After everything she'd been though, it was the least she deserved.
/*/
Jenna paused on the threshold to the music room, surprised at just how sad the sounds coming from her niece were. She'd never been very adept at knowing the intricacies of classical music, but even she could tell that it wasn't happy thoughts that were fueling this session.
Sophia's bow slid over the strings slowly, making a drawn-out, melancholy song that made Jenna's heart clench in sympathy. She didn't know what all was troubling the witch, but it was obvious that she was far from happy. Not that there's much to be happy about lately.
Moving quietly, Jenna placed the tray on the closed piano lid, leaning against it as she waited for Sophia to finish. She hadn't heard the girl play since before her parent's deaths and it was nice to hear it again, even with as sad as it was. Though, as she listened, her own heartache made itself known, making her eyes burn.
Alaric had been…well, they might not have been in the best of places when she left with Jeremy, but she'd hoped they could talk things out when she got back. Jenna had planned to sit down with the teacher and hash out their issues to see if they could continue forward or if they were better off as friends.
But, now those plans were useless; Alaric was dead and she didn't really know what to do with that. She wanted to cry and rave, but she had two nieces that needed her and she couldn't afford to let herself feel her grief. At least not at the moment.
"You wanna talk about it?" Jenna asked once the last note had died away, leaving the air still and quiet. Sophia sighed, placing her instrument back in the stand before turning to look at her.
"I wouldn't know where to even start." Jenna patted the piano, waiting for the witch to join her before sitting on the bench. Sophia hopped up onto the top of the piano, shrugging at the arched look her aunt gave her, grabbing the glass of blood that smelled deliciously of Klaus.
"Then I'll ask something instead. How…how did Alaric die?" Sophia winced at the question, staring into the red liquid for a few moments before sighing and straightening, looking Jenna in the eye.
"That's kinda a long story, really. It started the first time he died and the ring brought him back; apparently when you die with the ring on, it sends you to the Otherside where most supernaturals end up after death."
"So he went where Jeremy's ghost girlfriends are?"
"Yeah, pretty much. Ester manipulated him every time he died; creating the crazy, vampire-hating alter ego that was set on the destruction of every vampire in the world. She performed the same ritual that she used to turn her children into vampires, making Alaric an Original. I…" Sophia trailed off, gaze dropping to the glass again, still struggling with what she'd done.
"What?" Jenna watched the witch take a deep gulp of the blood, trying not to cringe at the gross factor of her niece now needing blood to survive. It might not be human, but it was still nasty.
Sophia took a fortifying breath and finished off the blood before setting the glass down. Crossing her legs underneath her, she got comfortable and launched into the full story. Jenna already knew some of it, but there was so much that she still didn't know, that Sophia hadn't wanted to share over the phone. It was a long story, but she wasn't going to school, so she had time; plus, it was nice to finally talk about what'd happened with someone who wasn't so involved. It was therapeutic.
"You killed Ester." Jenna said slowly, her mind trying to wrap around that bit of information. The witch's shoulders slouched as she nodded.
"Yeah." The human nodded and stood, walking until she was standing in front of Sophia.
"You saved your family and friends from death, Sophia. While I hate that you had to do that, I'm just glad that you're alive." Jenna said quietly, wrapping her arms around her niece and pulling her into a hug. It was a little awkward with their height differences, but Sophia melted into the embrace, holding Jenna tightly.
"You don't hate me? For Alaric?" She mumbled against Jenna's shoulder.
"Of course I don't, Soph. You did what you had to to survive and that's all I care about. As for Alaric…" She trailed off, her throat tight, eyes welling with tears. Sophia pulled away to look at her, her own eyes red and cheeks wet.
"I'm sorry I couldn't save him." She whispered. Jenna shook her head, rubbing at her eyes.
"No, there's nothing to be sorry about. The Alaric I loved died when he completed the transition; it's good that the monster he turned into isn't roaming the world, threatening you."
"How can you be so understanding?" Sophia arched a brow, wiping at her own face to rid herself of tears.
"I—I know that Alaric wouldn't have ever wanted to be a vampire, especially not one as dangerous as what Ester made him into. I'm trying to keep that in mind, to remember that he'd be happier to be gone than to be that." Jenna explained, leaning against the piano, resting her chin in her palm.
"You're stronger than I am."
"No, I'm just better at accepting the things I can't change. You'll learn as you get older that there are just some things that you can't change, like unexpected deaths. Like your sister's." Sophia sighed heavily, uncrossing her legs to let them swing over the side of the piano so she could place the food tray in her lap.
"It was only a matter of time before she was turned; it just worked out that it stopped Alaric before he could kill any of the Originals."
"That might be so, but you know she didn't want to be a vampire any more then Alaric did. I know what they did to Klaus was horrible, but shouldn't you be helping her? I mean, she is your sister after all."
"Oh Jenna, if it were only that simple. This wasn't the first time they've tried to kill Klaus or subdue him in some way; they were going to let Mikael kill him, remember? And yes, I know that Elena didn't always have something to do with these plans, but at this point, I just can't forgive anymore. Especially not now." She said quietly, picking up a blackberry and popping it into her mouth.
"Why "especially not now"? What's changed? I thought you and Elena were working things out."
"We were, Jenna, but then they desiccated Klaus and Elena didn't do anything to stop it; even though Klaus was going to take her away from Mystic Falls to keep her safe, knowing full well that Alaric's life was tied to hers. He was going to protect her because he loves me and they stopped his heart for it and planned to hide his body away, most likely until Elena died and took Alaric with her.
"I heard them talking about it, you know, everyone celebrating the demise of Klaus in my family home. They didn't care what doing that would do to me, how it would make me feel to have the man I love ripped away from me with no warning. It's more than just love, Jenna, between Klaus and I; we have a literal bond between each other and I felt it when his heart stopped. It was the most painful experience of my life, and then nothing. Nothing. I was completely numb on the inside; well, until my rage took over, and then that's all I felt.
"Imagine what it was like to go through that, and then when you come to find answers, instead you find people who are supposed to be your friends gloating that they finally got rid of Klaus. They were happy that he was gone, even though he hasn't done anything to them since we've been back; of course, that doesn't matter, because they don't like him or his family, so they're the enemy and they don't deserve human decency. Even Stefan helped, and he was my best friend; Klaus's best friend.
"I am done being betrayed Jenna, I cannot take anymore." Sophia finished passionately, making Jenna swallow at the anger she could see in her niece's gaze.
"Sophia—"
"I know that I should help Elena because she's my sister, but I just can't; I can't stand to be around her. I have been kidnapped, drugged, my life threatened and not once has Elena put me before herself or her precious Salvatores. So she can rely on them to help her being a vampire because I won't." Jenna looked away, hating the animosity that had developed between the twins. But, she did see Sophia's point and she might even agree with her.
"Alright, I understand and I won't make you go see her."
"Thanks, Jenna. It's nice to have at least one family member that agrees with me. I guess Jeremy doesn't see it that way." She commented, eyes locked on her nearly empty plate.
"He just wanted to make sure Elena was ok; I'm sure he'll come see you later. He loves you both, as do I." Sophia looked up and gave a small smile.
"I love you too."
"I guess I should go see Elena and find out what they've done with Alaric." Jenna said after a moment, shoulders slouching at the prospect. Sophia moved the tray and hopped off the piano, pulling her aunt into a tight hug.
"If they haven't taken care of it, I can call and have a spot dug for him and a headstone made. He might have ended up a vampire, but he was a good man before that and he deserves a place to rest." Pulling away, Jenna gave a wobbly smile.
"Thank you, that means a lot. I'll let you know."
"Okay. See you later?"
"Of course." They hugged again before Jenna stepped back, wiping at her wet cheeks before leaving with a wave. Sophia watched her go, the weight lessening from her shoulders with finally being able to talk with Jenna. She still had a secret, but she felt better none the less.
"You didn't tell her about the baby." Rolling her eyes, Sophia sat on the piano bench, lifting the lid and stroking over the smooth ivory keys. Klaus sat next to her, their sides pressed together, his own fingers settling on the keys.
"I want to see the midwife before I tell anyone." Sophia replied quietly, smiling softly as he began to play. Pulling her hands away, she leaned her head against his shoulder; content to just be there with him. After the upheaval of the last few weeks, it was nice to have this moment of peace to relax and just be. They were few and far between and she was going to relish in every one she was granted.
"She'll be here by midweek; the equipment is being delivered tomorrow and will be set up and ready for her arrival." Klaus said just as quietly, fingers dancing over the ivory, producing a beautiful melody that soothed away her worries and frazzled nerves. Her music had been sad and troubled; his was hopeful and lifted her spirits.
"I still can't believe it. I never even imagined…" She trailed off, eyes closing, letting the music wash over her.
"You and me both, love. I've been a vampire for over a thousand years; the thought of procreating never even crossed my mind once I'd turned."
"Sometimes I wish that I'd been alive back then, that I'd known you when you were human. Do you think we would've fallen for each other?"
"Yes. If I'd known you when I was human, I would've fallen faster for you than I did as a vampire. You are…good and beautiful and so full of passion; I wouldn't have stood a chance." Klaus answered, resting his head against hers as he continued to play.
"Even with Tatia there?"
"I never loved Tatia; she was something I couldn't have, so I desired her all the more. But when Elijah made his intentions clear I wanted to end things, to be a better brother. I failed at that, so perhaps you wouldn't have given me the chance to know you; I wouldn't have deserved you. I still don't."
Sophia nuzzled into his neck, lips skimming over the sensitive skin, breathing his scent in deeply. The stubble on his jaw tickled her lips, making her smile.
"I decide who deserves me, Niklaus Mikaelson, and you're the only one I want. I think that if I would've known you back then, I'd have seen you just as clearly as I see you now, as I saw you when we met. I would've treasured you and made you never doubt how much you were loved, how much you deserved to be loved."
Klaus swallowed around the lump in his throat before turning, hands settling at her waist and lifting her to sit across his lap with him straddling the bench. Sophia wrapped her arms around his neck, fingers sliding into his hair, giving the strands a light tug.
Smirking, the hybrid pulled her against him, claiming her mouth with his, his tongue curling over hers deliciously. She held onto him, letting herself be swept away in the sensations he always brought out in her; she relished the connection she felt, the bond she could now feel between them strengthening.
"I will never tire of kissing you." He muttered against her lips, pulling away to allow them space to take a breath. Sophia's fingers left his hair to skim over his face, following memorized lines and hollows; she would recognize him by touch alone he was so well known to her.
"Considering the witches said I'm immortal now, that might come in handy." She replied, earning a smirk, his dimples flashing. Pushing her hair away from her face, he kissed her nose lightly, making her smile at the gentle gesture.
"An eternity will never be enough time with you."
"Charmer." Klaus grinned, fingers trailing down her neck to her shoulder, sliding under the strap of her tank top and pulling it down. Leaning down, he pressed kisses to her soft skin, blunt human teeth following the path with little nips.
"Once you graduate, we will leave this hell of a town behind; we will go to New York for Julliard if that's what you want or we can go anywhere in the world. We have all the time in the world and I plan to make use of every moment." He said, his voice quiet and husky as he switched to the other side.
"You do realize that I probably won't be able to travel then, right?" He pulled away to give her a confused look; Sophia rolled her eyes and laughed, amused at how clueless he could be. Men.
"I'm due in June, remember? I can't fly that far into the pregnancy."
"You're also a witch –hybrid, the normal human conventions probably won't apply to you or our child." He countered, fingers massaging up her spine, making her shiver.
"Hmm. I guess we'll know more when the midwife can look at me." Sophia replied, leaning forward to bite at his scruffy jaw, delighting in the way his stubble scratched at her lips and tongue. She'd grown to love the feeling, even when it left her skin red and raw; thankfully she always healed after a little nip to his throat.
"So have you heard from Kol?"
"You want to talk about my brother now?" Klaus arched a brow, glancing down at where she was pressed against him. Sophia smirked, nails biting into his shoulders.
"I was just wondering if he planned to be home anytime soon." The hybrid scowled, not pleased with this train of thought at all.
"No, he won't be back for a few days. I believe he's enjoying his freedom from the rules." He replied sharply, getting an amused giggle in reply.
"There's no reason to get snippy, Nik. I was just wondering."
"What do my brother's whereabouts matter?" He demanded.
"Well, it just made me think…Elijah and Rebekah have both left for school, so besides the hired help, we're alone. And with a quick dismissal, the servants would leave. We'd be alone, really alone." Sophia explained, smirk widening as the lightbulb clicked on in his eyes.
"No one to interrupt us."
"We've never been fully alone in this house, Nik. I think it deserves a proper christening, don't you?" Klaus smirked and stood, depositing her onto of the piano, her socked heels hitting the keys and making an uncoordinated racket.
Sophia laughed when she was suddenly by herself, having no doubt that Klaus left to see to the servants. Pulling her tank top off, she made quick work of wiggling out of her pajama bottoms and socks, closing the piano's fallboard to protect the keys.
Lying back on her elbows, she waited for the hybrid to return to her, looking forward to having time alone to worship the man she loved above all others. They deserved this time and she was going to make damn sure they enjoyed it before the world outside demanded their attention. Right now all that mattered was that they were together.
/*/
"I don't know how I let you talk me into these things." Klaus grumbled, watching Sophia place the white oak dagger inside the fire-proof box, along with all the silver daggers.
"I think you're blaming me when you really know that you don't actually want to dagger your siblings anymore." She retorted, closing and locking the box. Taking a breath, she held her hands over the metal, eyes shutting as she concentrated on spelling the box so it couldn't be opened by anyone but her.
"They could use a good daggering every decade or so; it keeps them in their place." Klaus muttered, but it was mostly bluster. Turning, the witch quirked a brow at him in amusement.
"It really must get under your skin that you've changed more in the last year than in the last thousand."
"I don't know what you mean, love. I'm still the same man I've always been." Rolling her eyes, Sophia crossed her arms.
"If that were true I wouldn't be here and neither would your siblings. You've changed, Nik, and I love that you've finally gotten everything you've ever wanted. Family; people who truly love you and who you aren't afraid to love in return. You're…softer." She knew it was the wrong thing to say the moment the words passed through her lips.
"Soft? You think I've gone soft?" He growled, eyes narrowed. Biting her lip, Sophia stepped in front of him, hands stroking over his chest.
"I just mean that the man I met last year was…uncaring, unfeeling. Now, you've allowed yourself to open up and accept the love we have for you instead of shutting us out and ruining it. You're letting me lock the daggers away because you trust your siblings, me, now and you don't have to threaten them with the daggers to get them to do what you want."
"I'm still a predator, still dangerous." He rumbled, hands settling on her hips and holding tight.
"And I wouldn't have you any other way, Nik. Knowing you would destroy any who'd hurt me, us; well, it makes me burn." She whispered with a smirked, fingers digging into his shirt, pressing herself flush against him. Klaus growled low in his throat and jerked her up by the hips, her legs wrapping around him tightly as their mouths crashed together. They had time for one more round before the funeral.
/*/
The casket containing Alaric had already been buried that morning, leaving the freshly overturned dirt in place and an engraved tombstone above it. Sherriff Forbes had reported it as a fatal car accident that morning with a private funeral so there weren't any curious or mourning students hanging around the cemetery. Instead, a small party gathered around the fresh grave to pay their last respects.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Klaus asked quietly, leaning against the driver's side door, eyes watching the witch carefully. Sophia shook her head, looking over at the small crowd, hating how separated she was from them. But she was done forgiving them; the only reason she was here was for Jenna and Jeremy.
"No, I'll be fine. Love you." She smiled and leaned up for a kiss, which Klaus gave her happily. He hadn't wanted to leave their den of debauchery, but Sophia was adamant on being there for her aunt, so he had insisted he at least drive her. He didn't trust her to be alone with the others, not with the precedence they'd set on attacking his family.
"I'll be here when you're ready to leave." She nodded and pulled back, straightening her jacket and dress. She was wearing a simple black lace dress that came down to above her knees, paired with black heels and a Bolero top; her hair was pulled back into a messy braid and her makeup light.
Backing away, Sophia gave one more small nod before heading towards the cemetery, shoulders back and head high. She wasn't going to be intimidated by anyone; she didn't have a reason to be cowed by anyone, anyway. It wasn't her fault that Alaric had died or that Elena had been turned; the only thing she was guilty of was falling victim to a trap and not getting there in time to stop Ester; something they all had in common.
"What are you doing here?" Damon demanded angrily, stepping forward, ignoring the restraining hand Stefan placed on his arm. He'd only taken the one step when he suddenly clutched at his skull, groaning as his brain erupted in pain.
Sophia ignored the vampire, walking until she reached Jenna, ignoring everyone else. Those gathered included Jenna, Jeremy, Elena, Damon, Stefan, Bonnie, Matt, Caroline, Tyler and Meredith Fell, only two of which she was on speaking terms with and one who she didn't care about one way or the other. Taking her aunt's hand, she gave a squeeze.
"How're you doing?" She asked quietly, ignoring everything else; not caring that Stefan was supporting his brother as he continued to moan, the pain still bursting through his head.
"Sophia! Stop it!" Elena pleaded, but it fell on deaf ears. Jenna glanced over at the huddled vampires, heart aching that her niece was now one of them; Jeremy remained silent, feeling a dark pleasure at the man's suffering.
"I'm dealing." Jenna said after a moment, turning away to look back at the grave. She regretted that she hadn't gotten to see Alaric before he died; regretted being on uncertain terms with him about their relationship. She'd loved him and now she'd never get to tell him that.
Sophia let her aunt move away, not taking it personally that she probably wanted some space. Jeremy came up to her, taking her hand, filling her with a sense of family that she'd been missing. She loved the Mikaelsons and they were her family; but, there was something calming about being with her brother once more, with blood that hadn't ever betrayed her.
"Jenna told me what happened; are you okay?" He asked quietly. Sophia leaned her head against his shoulder, silently releasing Damon.
"I thought turning into this witch-hybrid…whatever I am, I would be safe, you know. But there'll always be someone who wants to kill me or those I love. I'm tired of always being in danger." She whispered, her free hand drifting to her stomach unconsciously. Her being in danger meant the life that grew within her was also in danger and it was something she detested.
"You should learn self-defense; you need to know how to protect yourself." Jeremy replied, his hate for vampires growing with every passing day. Vampires had ruined his family; now Elena was one and he didn't know if he would ever accept that or the fact that Sophia was in a relationship with the worst of the lot. Why did his sisters have to like bloodsuckers over humans? What was wrong with being human, being ordinary?
"It's not fighting that I lack skills in, Jer; it's being blind sided constantly. That cop poisoned me because I wasn't expecting it; Ester got to Alaric because I didn't know she was back in town. I just want to be able to live without constantly being in danger."
"Is that ever going to happen with you shacked up with the Originals?" Moving away from him, Sophia met his eyes.
"I know you don't like vampires Jer, and with good reason. But the Mikaelsons are my family and I hope that you accept at least that much. I'm safe with them; it's everyone else that I have to look out for." She replied, glancing over to where everyone else was gathered. Jeremy looked over, seeing Damon giving Sophia a dark glare, his body barely restrained from unleashing the violence that was so clearly painted in his expression.
"I would kill any of them before they could hurt you." He said fiercely, glaring at the vampire. Sophia pulled on his shoulder, drawing his attention back to her.
"You don't worry about me, Jer-bear, I'll be fine. But you do need to look out for Jenna, keep her safe; you humans are outnumbered and need to stick together." She said, smiling at the eye roll she got at the nickname. Pulling him to her, she wrapped him in a tight hug.
"It's so good you're home." Jeremy embraced her just as tightly, having missed her dearly.
"I missed you too." He mumbled against her hair. They held each other for a few minutes before pulling away.
"Are you and Jenna going to be safe in the house with Elena? I know newly turned vamps are really dangerous." He shrugged, looking back to where his other sister was watching them, a look of hurt stamped on her face.
"I don't know, honestly; but she's still Elena, still our sister." Sophia looked over his shoulder to meet her twin's eyes before looking away.
"Yeah. If you don't feel safe or if she tries to feed off you or Jenna, I'm sure she'll agree with me to turn the house completely over to you."
"What?"
"If the deed is only in your name, then no vampire can get inside, no matter that they have an invite right now. I just want you guys to be safe." Jeremy gave her another hug.
"We'll be fine, Soph; I'll protect us." She nodded and pulled away, giving him a pat on the cheek before going back to stand with Jenna. She'd offered her help, so now all she could do was be there for her family in their grief. And if her stomach churned and her heart clenched at ignoring her friends and sister, well, that was just her little secret.
/*/
Sophia went to school the next day, ignoring the whispers about the sudden deaths, keeping her mind focused on her lessons. There was going to be a wake for the Pastor and the eleven other victims of the explosion the next day and it was all anyone could talk about. She wasn't planning on attending, what with them wanting to kill her; so the witch ignored them and concentrated on making sure she was going to pass her classes. Something compulsion helped with, she was forced to admit.
Kol was still gone, so Rebekah was her constant companion, walking with her between classes and keeping her old friends away with a hateful glare. Caroline made no move to approach her, the young vampire once more blaming her and the Originals for everything that'd gone wrong, but Sophia was past caring and just pretended she wasn't there. Elena and Stefan both tried to speak with her, but had been rebuffed; the new vampire teared up at the hurt and disappointment her twin held for her, but that didn't sway her.
Sophia did sit with Jeremy during lunch, a much welcome distraction to how lonely she felt. Sure, Rebekah was always with her and Elijah was now teaching history full-time, but it wasn't the same as having the friends she'd had most of her life. She was left feeling ostracized, even when it was them that betrayed her, not the other way around. She'd get used to it, but it was hard right now, so it was nice to still be on speaking terms with her brother. Hopefully she wouldn't lose the faith or trust of anyone else she loved; she didn't have enough left to lose anymore.
The medical equipment was installed in what had been the drawing room when she got home; it was a room that Sophia hadn't even stepped in before, so there was no big loss at converting it to a hospital room. All the furnishings were placed in the office Ester had claimed, transforming it into a sitting room and erasing the crazy witch's presence completely, for which Sophia was grateful. The fewer reminders of that woman, the better; plus, now there was a place to sit and relax away from the TV and very loud gamers. Not that she didn't enjoy video games, because she did; but, Kol and Elijah were ridiculously competitive and it could get tiring listening to them bicker like school children.
She spent the evening in this room, reading through grimoires and taking notes on spells that would increase her power, while Klaus lounged on the sofa reading. It was nice to just have some quiet time with each other without it leading to sex, even though she did love that too. Rebekah was at her apartment and Elijah was out with Jenna of all people, most likely consoling her on the loss of Alaric while giving her an adult to talk with. Sophia was thankful the elegant Mikaelson was willing to be there for her aunt, to give her someone to work her grief through with, because she knew Jenna was going to need it.
This is where Sophia had placed her grimoires, using the desk in the corner as a place to study the countless spells and curses recorded in the tomes. She might hate that it was once Ester's office, but it provided her with a quiet place to study the craft, so Sophia just had to get over her hatred of the evil Original witch. Something that was helped by her vindictive pleasure of using Ester's own grimoire to enhance her power and skill with magic. Serves the bitch right.
At the moment, Sophia was practicing said magic in the greenhouse, surrounded by a sacred circle as she attempted to unknot a rope that was magically linked together. Sure, she could've called on the spirits' power and just snapped her fingers, but she didn't want to become dependent on that connection. She was a very powerful witch on her own and she needed to get back to using her own power. There was no telling what might happen in the future and she didn't want to be caught unprepared because she'd gotten too comfortable letting the dead witches' power bulldoze through her enemies. It was time to stand on her own two feet, thank you very much.
"You've gotten very skilled since I saw you last." Sophia jerked at the sudden voice, her concentration snapping. Turning, she was about to snap at the intruder when she was met with a surprise.
"Gabby? What are you doing here?" The witch quickly got to her feet, stepping out of the circle to give her mentor a hug.
"I'm the midwife the coven sent to help you. I was very surprised to get that phone call, let me tell you." Gabriela stated, pulling away and giving the girl an assessing once-over.
"It's so good to see you; I've missed you." Sophia smiled, hands pushing at the sides of her knit sweater, uncomfortable under the intense stare.
"I've missed you too cher, but I think there are things we need to get caught up on." She said, glancing again down at the hidden swell.
Sophia sighed and nodded before going back to the circle to release it and blow the candles out. Once that was done, Gabby took a seat on one of the benches placed in the botanical garden, patting the seat next to her.
"Start from the beginning." Nodding, Sophia sat next to her mentor and caught her up on the drastic changes that had occurred in her life over the last year. It was quite a long tale when she laid it all out there.
To say Gabriela was shocked at everything that the young witch had had to endure would've been an understatement; she certainly wouldn't have let her leave to head back home on her own, that's for damn sure. It was hard to comprehend just how much had changed in such a short period of time; that the girl she'd once mentored had been forced to grow beyond her years.
"I never wanted any of this for you." Gabriela said quietly, holding Sophia's hand. The younger witch sighed and squeezed her hand.
"I know. And really, if I'd been given the choice, I probably wouldn't have chosen this; or at least, not right now. But this is my life now and I can either wallow or I can embrace it and make it the best that I can."
"You're only 18, a child; you shouldn't have to raise your own."
"I'm hardly the only teen that's gotten themselves into this situation, Gabby; and yes, I'm not ready to be a mother, but I've come to accept it as best as I can. And I have Klaus and the family to help me; I'm not alone." Her voice trembled a little at the end, thinking of all the people she had lost. She no longer had her parents or her sister, her twin, to draw strength from; nor her best friend Stefan, or Caroline. She might not be truly alone but that didn't stop the losses from hurting.
"What about college? Are you still going to Julliard or are you giving that up?"
"We still plan to go to New York; I have an audition in January."
"What are you going to do with the child while you're in class?" Gabriela questioned, releasing her hand so she could stroke the petals of an orchid. She could feel the magic that ran through the greenhouse, keeping the plants in peak health longer than would normally be possible.
"We haven't figured it all out yet, Gabby, jeez. We just found out a couple of months ago that I was pregnant." Sophia grumbled, arms crossing over her chest stubbornly.
"I'm just asking; these are questions that you're going to have to think about."
"I know; but I'm just trying to focus on right now so I don't freak out. Again." She mumbled, getting an arched look from the older woman.
"You've had a freak out? That's a relief; I was starting to worry the resurrection potion had altered your personality when it brought you back from the dead." Gabriela smirked, getting an eye roll from the teen.
"My personality is one of the only things that damn potion didn't change."
"Did it…did it make you fall for Klaus?" Sophia sat up straighter, wide eyes meeting worried ones.
"What? No, of course not. Why would you ask that?"
"I just…it's hard to believe you'd willingly be with someone as evil as him." She shrugged.
"Look, I've had this conversation with just about everyone I know; I'm tired of telling it. Just know that I know who Klaus is, completely, and I accept and love him. And he loves me, absolutely and without reservation. What more could I ask for?"
"Maybe someone who hasn't killed millions of people?"
"I have forgiven Klaus for his past, as I have all the Originals. It matters what they do now with the second chance they've all been given; not what they did in the past. If it's too much for you, I would understand you leaving; I won't make you stay if you're uncomfortable." Sophia said, standing and moving away from her mentor, spine straight and head held high. She was tired of constantly having to justify herself and her choices.
"I'll stay Sophia, to ensure the safety of you and your child; and I'll try to accept your decision. But if he hurts you, I will find a way to kill him." Gabriela stood up, hand going to the girl's arm to bring her attention back to her. Sophia gave a small smile and hugged her.
"Thank you, Gabby." The two hugged for a moment before pulling back.
"I think your hybrid might go into a frenzy if we don't return; let's go see how your baby is doing." Gabriela said, linking her arm through Sophia's and leading the way back towards the house. The younger witch chuckled, reaching out with her free hand and calling the grimoire into her grasp, not wanting to leave it outside. She'd have to return later to practice that unlinking spell.
When they reached the kitchen, Klaus was sitting at the breakfast table, sketchpad laid out and an array of pencils within reach. He looked completely relaxed and at ease, but Sophia could see the tension around his eyes and the slight down turn of his red lips, signaling he was anything but at ease. He'd probably been eavesdropping the whole time and only now started sketching so it wouldn't appear that he'd been nosey. Men, really, they're ridiculous.
"Hey." The young witch said with a smile, walking to him and leaning down to press a kiss to his lips, setting the grimoire down next to his sketchpad. Klaus wrapped an arm around her middle, making her lean into him, his hand setting on her stomach.
"Is everything okay, love?" His voice whispered over her, making her nerve endings zing in pleasure. It was still so strange how something as simple as his voice could have such and effect on her, even when she wasn't turned on; it was a little annoying, truth be told. Everything about him shouldn't have such power over her, really. Jeez.
"Yep. Gabby's ready to look me over; is the equipment ready?" She asked, running her fingers through his hair, enjoying how the short curls wrapped around each digit as if reluctant to lose her touch.
The older witch watched the interaction intently, taking note on how they acted with one another. They appeared to orbit around the other, as if gravity pulled them together. Sophia had been telling the truth at least; they did indeed love each other, from what Gabriela could see. That was a relief at least.
"No. I didn't know what would be needed."
"That's fine; Sophia needs to drink at least 16 ounces of water an hour before I can do an ultrasound. I'll get my things settled in the guest house while we wait." Gabriela said, still unsure if she was comfortable sleeping so close to a house full of Original vampires. But it was ideal, being close enough incase Sophia had a problem while not actually being in the same house; and it was free rent, so it had that going for it.
"Thanks Gabby; I'll drink some water and wait for you to get back." Sophia said, leaning against Klaus's shoulder, contented to just be near him.
"Good and make sure you don't go to the restroom; you'll need a full bladder for a clear image."
"Alright." The witches exchanged another look before the older one headed out, grabbing her bags from the stairs and following a servant that popped up out of nowhere to the guest house located around the back.
"Should I be worried about finding myself cursed for eternity?" Klaus asked, pulling her down to sit across his lap, fingers running over her curves. Sophia shifted to get comfortable and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"No, she just worries about me. It's nice to have her here, to have someone I know and trust to be looking after the baby." She said, smiling when he leaned forward to kiss her. She hoped to never tire of it, even if they had the next thousand years together.
"I know my presence has caused you some sorrow and lose; I am grateful she agreed to come despite knowing my family would be here, for your sake." Klaus murmured, holding her close.
"Hey, I chose you, and if they can't understand that, then that's their problem. I miss them, obviously, but I don't miss the judgments and constantly having to explain myself. You are my family Nik, our baby is my family; if I have to give up a few relationships to keep that, then I will. Besides, if they loved me as much as they claimed, they'd stop trying to destroy my family." She said firmly, unwilling to let him take on that guilt. It was remarkable really, how much he'd changed and grown since she'd met him; and usually Klaus feeling guilt over anything was incredible, but this was an instance where it wasn't needed.
"I just want you to be happy and safe."
"As I do you." They smiled at each other and shared another kiss before Sophia had to get up to grab a bottle of water. The sooner she was full to bursting the sooner she could get examined and she could let go of her worries.
/*/
"So what has you worried?" Gabriela asked once Sophia was situated on the bed, her sweater pulled up and pants pushed down enough to expose her entire abdomen. The midwife had the sonogram machine ready to go, but she wanted to get a feel for what was going on first.
"I should be about two months pregnant, but I'm already starting to show. I mean, every movie I've seen says women don't start popping out until at least the second trimester." Sophia pouted, fighting down her embarrassment at how exposed she was.
"I told her not to worry; the pregnancy book said every woman develops differently." Klaus muttered from his position next to the witch, hands running down her arms to calm her. Gabriela tried not to gawk at the thought of the Original hybrid reading "What to Expect When You're Expecting", but it was a close thing.
"He's right, every pregnancy is different. A woman can show early due to genetics, the size of the fetus, multiple pregnancies and so on. There's no set standard, so I'm sure everything is fine. But to be sure, I'll do an ultrasound to check the fetus's development. Have you had one done before?" She asked while she grabbed the gel.
"No. I went to the doctor's for stomach pain and they uh…put a wand up…yeah, but no ultrasound. We were worried that something unexpected might show up, what with me being a witch hybrid and Klaus being a mix between vamp and wolf, so we didn't want a normal doctor doing anything." She was rambling, but she was nervous. This was the first time they were going to see the baby and she wasn't sure if she was ready.
"This will be cold. What kind of stomach pain?" The girl jumped at the first drop of gel, hand gripping Klaus's tightly.
"Oh, it was like a warning system. Every time something bad was about to happen or I was around someone who meant to hurt me, my stomach would cramp. We figured it out after the whole Alaric and Ester thing."
"Has your stomach always cramped that way or only since the pregnancy?" Gabriela asked, intrigued.
"Only since I got pregnant."
"That's remarkable. If your child is already aware enough to sense danger…it shouldn't be that developed already." She commented, brow furrowing.
"Another reason we needed you to come."
"Alright, let's take a look." The midwife grabbed the wand and rubbing it against the glob of gel, working it around until she found the amniotic sac.
"Here's the fetus. It looks good, maybe a tad small for 8 weeks." She said, moving the wand again, trying to get a cleaner picture. She was perplexed at how the child managed to warn Sophia of danger when it hadn't even developed ears yet, so she didn't understand how that was possible.
Sophia couldn't breathe, her eyes glued to the monitor, amazed and weirded out. That tiny little blob was her baby; in seven months it'd be a real, live baby. Klaus was just as speechless, his grip nearly crushing on her hand as he watched the image flicker. It was incredible and petrifying all at the same time. They were going to have a baby.
"Wait." Their attention swerved to Gabriela, whose face held a startled expression.
"What? What is it? What's wrong with the baby?" Sophia demanded, sitting up slightly to gaze at the monitor, as if it would answer her questions.
"No, there's nothing wrong, sorry, I just wasn't expecting it."
"Expecting what?" Klaus growled, beyond fed up with the witch.
"I think I found why your womb has swelled more than expected." Gabriela said, motioning towards the monitor, where there was now a second sac.
"I don't understand." Sophia said in confusion, throat tightening painfully as her brain tried to supply the answer and she refused to let it. Klaus couldn't look away from the small screen, eyes wide as he waited for the woman to confirm what he was thinking.
"You're having twins."
AN: Okay, so I was planning on making this longer, but I like where I left it, so I hope you don't mind. Let me know what you thought! Thanks and I hope you enjoyed.