Author's babble: Hello all! I'm amazed at how quickly I've managed to update lately. Unfortunately I'd say this was just a sporadic bit of good fortune. Back to delayed updates my friends :(.

Thank you continuing reviewers for your kind words! Wether they're approval, disapproval, impatience or just plain notification that this story has reached your eyeballs, I appreciate them so much.

Katie: Thank you so much :). I am so humbled by your kind words. I can totally relate to the feeling of reading fanfics that fall short in some way. Not that I don't appreciate other works, the ideas are often fantastic. But, well. I do enjoy a fanfic that keeps me hanging on. Wether it's waiting for an update, or taking over my life because I don't want to do anything but submerge myself in it over and over again (I both apologise and salute you regarding the bar I've kept so aloft).

Must give props to Nightlark's (who's been in here ) Blurred Lines for taking over my life with such a fanfic :).

Now...

Regarding the authenticity of the characters in this fic. Which I have tried to maintain (from the tv show), I thought I might give you all a little titbit. Or rather, a little bit of something in nothing... I actually struggled a bit with Elijah earlier on. But I promise there was a reason for him being written the way he was back then (so anyone who found him a bit off might feel vindicated by this, haha). The reason will come to light shortly, and I'm getting excited. I assure you it will be a good thing. Another not-too-dramatic-twist for Elena-Elijah, which will ultimately strengthen them I'm thinking. So there you go! → As I wrote that titbit. My mind though up Klaus using Elijah's body. That, will not be the case. But my crazy mind is finding such an idea interesting...

Enjoy!

CHAP 44:

Away from them both I was free to engulf myself in some self-loathing. What I'd said to Elijah wasn't fair. It wasn't his fault. Not solely. Klaus might have interrogated me in that fashion regardless of whether Elijah had felt inclined to interrupt. Sitting on the bed in only the robe I watched my hand heal through it's changing colours. I felt horrible for being so blunt with Elijah about how I was enjoying my time with Klaus in the shower. Yet at the same time relief soothed me. Surely Elijah would take heed of our little chat and back off. In a way it was also handy that he'd hung around after he left the bathroom doorway. He would have heard me being questioned. So if Klaus confronted Elijah on how I smelled and tasted of him. Elijah should capably keep with the story.

Klaus on the other hand confused me. As I recalled the latter part of his questioning, how Klaus had commented on my lack of love for Elijah, then offered me a chance to explain. I wondered if he expected me to say that I no longer loved Elijah, but him. It was a ludicrous notion. But possible. Though if I had have said that, surely Klaus would have seen right through it. He wanted my affection, but to have it so soon would only be suspicious. Further, he should know when words are just words. No doubt he'd think I was up to something and it would have aggravated him further. Regardless, what I'd said under pressure seemed to have done the trick for him. It helped that I could use how I felt about Elijah killing to my advantage. All though on one hand, I hoped Elijah wouldn't take the use of it as my reasoning with Klaus seriously. On the other, the more I hurt Elijah, the more he might leave me alone.

Though I'd tried to assure Elijah that him killing didn't really bother me. Had said and most certainly believed in the fact that he hadn't had a choice. That everything was for Klaus. It did bother me. I can't help but have an aversion to what Elijah was capable of doing. I could understand, sure. But it still disturbed me. Bringing my legs up onto the bed and moving into the centre as I adjusted my position, I folded them to my side while pondering Elijah's killing abilities again. To me I wasn't so much judging of him. I just couldn't approve of it. It sickened me. But then no one's perfect.

"Where are you?" Klaus questioned within my mind. Startled I sat upright and stared at the door.

"In our room."

"Good. We need to talk." It was strange how his tone and those words in the normal world between two people might introduce the end of a relationship and yet, I knew that wouldn't be the case. Staying silent, unsure about what he was wanting to talk about I waited for his presumed arrival. "Can I come in?" He was asking permission, but really when would I ever have a choice? He'd made up his mind about needing to talk. Not to mention the fact that this wasn't my room alone. There were none of my belongings within and Klaus presumably owned in some fashion, the whole place.

"It's your room too." I stated carelessly. If my tone belied the fact that there was a hint of terror within me at Klaus joining me, then it was pure luck.

When Klaus opened the door a couple of minutes later dressed in his robe my heart jolted slightly and anxiousness crawled down my spine in a shiver. I must have been behaving contradictory to the uninterested way I'd answered him in my head, for he frowned at me while he closed the door. As he did I casually shifted closer to the edge of the bed.

"I have to amend the rules I gave you when I first brought you here." Klaus announced while picking out some clothes. "No longer will you spend as much time as you wish with Elijah. Not unless I invite you two to do so. You will not touch him. Nor will you allow him to touch you. There will be exceptions of course." He continued while dressing. "I had assumed, judging by your interactions with him at the Villa last night, and how he behaved that you wouldn't want anything to do with him." Was that the point of having Elijah there? To show him in a bad light before me. "I now see that it is necessary for me to instruct you to steer clear of him." Fully dressed Klaus moved toward me. "Am I clear?" Watching him warily as he came closer I nodded my head as the tension grew in my body. "Answer me." He barked, causing me to jump slightly.

"Yes."

"Yes what?"

"No touching, and limited contact."

"Will you find that difficult?" He asked when he stopped next to where I sat. His gaze meeting mine with ferocious intensity, like a lot weighed on my answer.

"No."

"So it wasn't easy for you to spend time with Elijah. To kiss him, today?" It seemed Klaus wasn't letting this go just yet.

"No it wasn't," I replied. My voice toned as though such a notion was ridiculous.

"If it was difficult to do so, then why did you?"

"Which one? Spending time or the kiss?" Came my timid desire for the specifics while averting my eyes. I traced an invisible pattern with my left index finger on the bed covers.

"How about you tell me how you overcame the difficulty of both?" The bed shifted and in my peripheral vision I could see Klaus' pants next to the bathrobe still covering my upper legs. Clearing my throat softly I frowned as Klaus covered the hand I was tracing with with his own. I wasn't sure what story I was going to spin. If I told Klaus something along the lines of Elijah pestering me, would Klaus put a stop to Elijah's actions once and for all? I didn't want that. Not if doing so involved a dagger.

"What can I say? I've had to become a very tolerable person lately. Not to mention behave in ways not my own. I don't know how much you overheard of Elijah and I talking last night, but he, thinks he may have done something to cause my unusual behaviour."

"Could you be more specific of what behaviour he's referring to? It can't be what I ask of you, because that would quite obviously be my influence." I shifted awkwardly and felt when Klaus' hand gripped mine slightly as though expecting to need to restrain me.

"I'm not so friendly, with him."

"Friendly, as in romantic?" I raised my face to find him scrutinising me. So fierce was his expression it nearly made me want to run from him. Or at least attempt to.

"Friendly as in being agreeable to his company." I stipulated slowly.

"I see. So you no longer enjoy his company?" His question was accompanied with a smirk.

"Does it matter?"

"Infinitely." His tone pushed.

"I don't enjoy his company when it means that it causes problems for me." I outlined bluntly and narrowed my eyes at Klaus.

"Ah. No argument there. From your conversation with him upon leaving the bathroom I don't think he'd take much offence from that knowledge. It seems the amended rule will be a welcome relief for you my love." Klaus said smugly while he raised a hand to my face. I didn't shy from it's approach. But I sat even more statuesque. "Now, now. None of that." His tone was sad. "I'm not going to hit you." He soothed. While his words had the allure of a promise in them I merely raised an unimpressed eyebrow.

Having guided some of my falling strands of damp hair back over my left ear Klaus' hand dropped to take the hand he'd hurt not long ago in his, before cradling it on his lap and stroking it with his other hand. I picked a spot on the floor to glue my gaze to while trying to ignore Klaus' touches. He kept trailing his fingers up and down the bones and circling the pad of his thumb over any knuckles that took his fancy. I didn't bother trying to resist him.

"What happened in the bathroom, was awkward." He began after we'd been silent for a while. I kept my mouth shut. "I'm a little embarrassed with myself," again he paused. "I would like you to know, that, it wasn't my intention to hurt you." Klaus was apologising. Or as close as not meaning to do something came to an apology. "Is there anything I could do to ease any particularly hard feelings you may have toward me?"

"You don't have to worry. I won't flinch or fear you in front of everyone tomorrow night." I said with a minute glance at him.

"You think that's all I'm concerned about? Appearances?" He enquired slightly affronted. "We had formed an agreeable relationship since I began treating you by less damaging means. I don't want to lose all that because I lost my temper." Losing your temper falls short in describing what happened before. "Keep it out loud love. Tell me how you're feeling about that." I hated how he wanted everything out loud when he could read minds and it therefore wasn't strictly necessary, on top of the fact that a thought needn't be out loud. Hence why I kept it in my head.

"There's nothing to tell. Nothing that matters."

"It does to me." His tone was dangerous suddenly.

"Fine," I bit back at him sharply. "That wasn't fair."

"How so?"

"I hadn't done anything wrong. You said that you would be nicer to me, but that if needed you would be forceful to keep me in line. You took out your own problem on me. How was I to know you don't want Elijah and I to spend time together? I know now that you've amended your precious rules. But it's your own fault for not telling me what I can and cannot do concerning him in the first place." He'd wanted me to be honest and my mouth hadn't run away with me. But I still held my breath once I'd said my peace.

"It is," he conceded. "I was wrong. Which isn't something I enjoy. Combined with my brother it brings back memories of his disloyalty. I have quite an accumulation of anger I still hang on to regarding him. I shouldn't have allowed it to creep up on me and affect you. But you smelling and tasting of him, and overcompensating during our generally daily deed stoked that anger. I need control in my life Elena. When I find it hard to grasp I can become, self -destructive. I'm aware of it. I also endeavour for it not to affect you. I honestly do."

"You mean to say you showed restraint just now?" I asked with some outrage in my voice. "And I was overcompensating? I was just doing what I thought you'd like. You did seem to like it."

"Yes." He looked down at our hands, as though ashamed. I wondered whether his yes was all encompassing. Both the restraint query and that he'd liked what I'd endeavoured to do. It was hard to believe, that he'd hurt me within a planned extent and had no intention of passing that barrier. But I had to be appreciative of it whether it was true or not.

"Umm," I began unsure. "Thank you?" He looked up and smiled at me brightly before leaning in close to kiss my forehead.

"And thank you, my love. You compliment me exceptionally." He mused. "It amazes me how accommodating you can be when you want to." Klaus moved his lips to mine then we kissed while he let a hand wander through the front of my robe to stroke my skin and cup my left breast. I complied with his actions with some bewilderment. Klaus was acting as though his repenting had been met with some understanding or forgiveness. I wasn't aware I'd given either. Was it possible my thank you was misinterpreted? It wasn't like I was saying: In that case, my abuse is forgiven.

The fact that Klaus had seemed to open up about his reason for hurting me was almost like we were come sort of functional couple. Sharing with me through an apology for his behaviour was slightly liberating when I further considered it. Klaus was controlling. Yet. In the manner of the relationship we'd come to be in I had some subtle form of upper hand. He wanted to keep me happy. At least that's what it seemed like at the moment. Although time would tell. It could all be circumstantial with his Reveal so close. Though he denied it, his little bit of remorse could still be all for appearance sake.

When Klaus left me he requested my company in the main hall in a little while. By the time I entered and found Klaus, all the walls were covered with the red velvet, and the ceiling had black velvet draped along it and secured in places to give it a soft and billowing appearance. I could almost imagine the black was the underside of storm clouds.

"Well. What do you think?" Klaus murmured as he put his arms around me. I hadn't paid much attention to the transformation when I'd come back inside earlier. But seeing it now, the main hall was unrecognisable. No one would guess that there was stonework covered up. Even the second story had been curtained and the bannister along the front decorated. I took note that the stairs leading up to it had been made to look like the same stonework as the floor only suspended. It all looked so classy in a rustic way.

"It looks very classy," I commented honestly. "What's with the stairs? They're like stone in mid air."

"Do they not suit?" he asked frowning.

"Oh they suit, they're very nice. It's just they don't look physically real."

"Ah. Well. It's an illusion Jonas did for me." Looking to the far walkways I hadn't walked down in my time here I saw that the walls weren't curtained. The walkway I'd entered the hall from hadn't been either.

"What about the walkways? Are they getting lined?"

"I haven't decided yet. It will depend on how the lighting affects the look of the stone. I like the stone, but it doesn't look it's best in bright lighting. Tonight Jonas will play around with how I'm going to illuminate the place. This area," he gestured to the hall around us. "It will be quite bright, golden lighting. Either from magically enhanced candelabra, or chandeliers. Perhaps a combination. But for the walkways I want shadows. Everyone can appreciate another's company in a secluded location with low lighting. What better way to use the walkways and spare rooms than for my guests?

"You're just going to let them do whatever they want in private areas?" I asked dubiously.

"More or less. Though it'll only be that wraparound walkway and the rooms that lead off of it. The walkway that gives access to our room and some of the other's here will be off limits." It was good to know that there would be places I could escape to if given the chance. There were people, presumably all vampires still adjusting how the extra length of velvet sprawled on the floor. Other's were bringing in some stunning but simple gold bar tables that Klaus' guests would no doubt stand around. They were setting them up along each of the long sides of the hall. I felt uncomfortable just watching them. It wasn't like everyone else was preparing for my party while I did nothing. I didn't even want to attend this Reveal. But still. When had I done something so simple and normal as move furniture or anything domestic like the others were? It had been a while.

"Can I, help?" I queried. Klaus' looked at me surprised before smirking.

"You want to help?" The way he said help agitated me. It was like being human my help was useless compared to everyone else's.

"If I'm allowed." I replied. Like the true submissive partner to him that I was. His smirk grew and he gave me a look I wasn't sure how to take.

"You can help." He began, nodding as if to himself while turning his body from me slightly. "Elijah!" He called. Why is he calling Elijah? He has nothing to do with helping.

"What are you doing?" I murmured quickly before Elijah's head appeared in the direction Klaus was looking. Elijah was up on the second story and had come to stand at the balcony.

"Elena's going to help you with the VIP tables." I am? Why am I? I don't want to help Elijah. I couldn't understand why Klaus would pair us together when he'd been unhappy of us being together earlier. And further, had gone ballistics and tightened Elijah and my social rules. Elijah's head turned minutely to look down at me I gave a quick quirk of my mouth in offer of a smile, but was sure it looked more like a grimace. I should have just grimaced instead of trying to keep up appearances. This would no doubt be awkward. The next moment he stood before us having used him vampire speed to come down to our level.

"Very well." He accepted before inviting me to step away and out of Klaus' hold with an extension of his left arm towards the staircase. "After you," he invited politely. Softly I cleared my throat then levelled my gaze with Klaus.

"This wasn't what I had in mind." He just smirked, so I kissed him then stepped out of his hold.

"You wanted to help."

"I didn't want to help with Elijah though." My inner voice grumbled at him unhappily as I began walking with Elijah by my side to the stairs.

"What you want, doesn't always achieve anything my love."

"And what are you trying to achieve?" I asked unhappily as I stared straight up at the ceiling.

"Just a little more of your displeasure at Elijah's expense. Oh, and Elena? Don't leave Elijah until the upper story is complete." He chuckled. Annoyed I didn't respond and was distracted when one of Elijah's hands cupped my elbow closest him as I took the first step. I tolerated his support but hoped the rigidity it my arm would emphasise my wish to be distant with him.

"That's not necessary." I stated coolly.

"No. But it is chivalrous. You could, just be appreciative?" Elijah suggested gently as we made it a third of the way up the stairs. I heard Klaus chuckling in my head. Get lost.

"I would, except that you're touching me." I countered in a near silent voice. Not that it would matter. Anyone and every one would hear if they really wanted to.

"Klaus has permitted you and I to conduct a task. There's going to be touching involved to a degree."

"If that's the case, that touching would be accidental. What you're doing is not. You didn't even need to come down and walk me up."

"Of course I did." Elijah assured me. "Klaus might order you here and there, like you've no value nor mind of your own. But I happen to cherish the person you are and will always support you. Even if just by being a friend by your side." I had no comeback. "You can have a friend you know. Unless you feel that even having a friendship with me will put me in danger."

"Allies can be friends." I agreed despite not liking how he intended to push the boundaries Klaus had made.

When we reached the top of the staircase and Elijah still held my elbow I jerked my arm from him and put some distance between us.

"So, what are we doing?" I enquired while gesturing to the exposed higher level and the clutter of tables and chairs that looked to have been just deposited up here and left.

"And yet, your behaviour isn't all that friendly." He spoke wistfully. I ignored him.

"Can we just get on with this please? I offered to help out because I wanted something to do. Something to keep my mind off everything."

"Let's start with the tables. Klaus wants them towards the back to keep the front and balcony clear." I went to the table closest the back and took my place at one end while Elijah took the other. It made me feel more useless than ever. Knowing that he could lift any and all of the furnishings by himself, and probably even have it all set up in a few moments made our slow progress feel like my fault. It probably felt that way because it was. Elijah's silence. While welcome, added to the feeling I was wasting my time doing this. Not to mention his. But of course Elijah seemed to be enjoying himself. His eyes stayed on me and he kept trying to make eye contact whenever possible. Before relocating each table Elijah would look at me as if to ask if I was ready. But the more repetitions occurred, the more his features would become expectant. Optimistically so as he'd tilt his head slightly and appeared to be offering me to speak first. As though he knew I had something to say. Despite the fact that I didn't.

"Will you stop looking at me like that?" I asked quietly.

"Like what?" He feigned innocence and gave me the same look he had been all along.

"Like that." I hissed.

"If you were a bit more specific then I might be able to oblige your wishes."

"Let's just get on with this." I murmured and we moved the next table into position.

Two tables after and becoming even more aggravated with Elijah's continual staring I was getting close to my limits.

"Will you stop looking at me like you're expecting something from me?"

"Ah. While I comprehend the cause of your discomfort, I cannot do as you ask. Not when it's serving me well."

"What do you mean by that?" We moved the next table while talking.

"It's gotten you to talk to me."

"Why would you even want me to talk to you after what I last said to you?" I replied with a bored tone.

"How can I hold that against you when you're just trying to protect me? Unnecessarily mind you. But it's very sweet. Besides, it's all communication. Not as open as our kiss earlier, but welcome all the same." Elijah reasoned happily. I gave him a dirty look so he'd know how unimpressed I was with his thick skin and acceptance.

"What are you talking about that here, now, for? Klaus might hear you. Are you trying to get yourself killed?"

"No. I believe if anything my intentions are likely to cause you more harm. That is a more concerning result than my death. I do wish you'd prioritise your situation realistically. Furthermore, Jonas has kindly set up a silent zone here for you and I. No-one can hear us." Positioning the table we left it then walked back to the remaining cluster for the next. "I could run through the memory of you kissing me aloud all I want and Klaus wouldn't know unless he comes up here himself."

"Please, don't." I said seriously. "Won't Klaus get suspicious if he hears nothing?"

"Perhaps, but it's a worthy risk."

"No. It isn't. Get him to take it down, or whatever. Jonas will be found out and you'll be roped in with the consequences if Klaus finds out the reason Jonas set it up in the first place. That's the reality Elijah. If that happens you'll both be useless. Besides. I'm sorry, but I just don't want to talk to you." Elijah cocked his head slightly.

"Why not? We've been allowed time together. Can we not take advantage of it?"

"No." I replied with tired impatience.

"Why?" I made a face.

"Because I don't want to talk about what you do. I don't even want to be up here alone with you." Elijah's features saddened and my chest ached but I continued. "Not to mention the fact that you're interfering again. Klaus has put us together because he knows I don't want to be with you. Not because he thinks we need some time alone to work things out. By taking advantage like you're trying to, though it's useless, you're doing the exact same thing you did when walking in on Klaus and I earlier. You need to stop it."

"If you expect me to sit idly by when Klaus abuses you, I cannot. Granted, I cannot accomplish anything productive at the moment. But nothing will keep me from supporting you through everything Elena."

"It's not supportive if it's damaging. And it will be. In fact it already has been. He hadn't abused me until you interrupted. Now get Jonas to take down the silencing thing."

"No." He shook his head resolutely.

"Why not?"

"I don't want him to. Besides if you feel you have more freedom of speech with it up and will talk to me more as a result, then as I said, it is worth it."

"I can't believe you." I spat. "You were so careful a while ago. Now everything you do is for little kicks whenever you can. I'm not worth it. Stop being reckless. Ignoring Klaus isn't the way to go."

"How can you say that?" His voice conveying hurt. "You are more valuable to me than anyone. Everything. Everything I do is for you Elena. You need me." Elijah assured and glued his gaze to mine for emphasis. My heart leapt into my throat and I couldn't stop myself from blushing. When he began smiling, having picked up on my reaction I gathered myself together.

"Don't make me responsible for your actions. I haven't asked you to do any of this."

"You would never need to." He spoke softly and stepped around the final table we'd positioned and closer to me. "I'm sorry but you don't get a choice in my actions, my efforts on your part. If you can't have a rational truthful conversation with me. How can I trust that you're acting in your own best interests? Someone has to look out for you." He'd stepped closer and closer until I found myself stepping away from him.

"Klaus looks out for me. I'm alive and healthy after all. Any damage I receive heals."

"Perhaps. To a degree. For his own purposes though. He does not care for you."

"He thinks he does." I protested and crossed my arms over my chest.

"And you're well aware of how he shows it. By using kind words and force alternately." Elijah retorted haughtily.

"If you're trying to argue that you're better for me than your brother it's a waste of time. It's irrelevant."

"On the contrary. You cannot choose one or the other. But you can choose to accept both of us. You do not want to give yourself away to him willingly without me around Elena."

"I already have and will continue to do so. I don't get a choice. If you stay you die." I countered while still backing. "And will you stop coming closer!" Elijah chuckled and raised his eyebrows.

"I'm after the chairs behind you." Glancing back I took note of the chairs he was referring to.

"Oh." My fire left me as I averted my eyes from him sheepishly.

"Indeed," he murmured them smirked charmingly before stepping around me to grab a five-tiered stack. Following suit I grabbed a three tiered stack and followed him.

I was happier putting the chairs out. Elijah and I went our separate ways to set them up at separate tables. We'd both done three tables and Elijah had started on his fourth. So I let him finish that one by himself and took a seat at one of the other tables as I waited for whatever our next task might be.

"If you truly feel so strongly against me and my presence, why are you here? I can't restrain you at present or Klaus will know should I hold you. You have helped some, so you could leave."

"Because Klaus told me I was to stay until everything was done. So I have an annoying obligation to be here."

"I see." He replied. I laughed a short sharp bark.

"No you don't. Otherwise you wouldn't keep nagging at me to resist Klaus or take advantage of any loopholes he unintentionally, or knowingly allows. I can only handle being ordered around by one vampire. Please stop trying to force me into acting like we're two normal parties. Let's just get this done as soon as possible so I can go be by myself again. You could use your vampire speed," I suggested. "We both know I'm slowing you down."

"You are a welcome handicap. I'm hardly going to speed things up just so you can escape me." Elijah replied and lifted the corners of his mouth slightly. I didn't respond. Just watched him put the last chair beneath it's table.

"Are we done?" I asked hopefully.

"No." He smiled. "We need to cover these. Both the chairs and tables.

"Right." My unhappily flat voice commented. Like I'd have been lucky enough to be done and dusted with Elijah so soon.

"Don't hold back now Elena. Tell me how you really feel to know you're stuck with me a while longer." Elijah encouraged humorously. I didn't respond straight away.

"Where are the covers?"

"There down stairs."

"I'll get them-." I began brightly, about to stand up. In the back of my mind I hoped I could run into Klaus and get out of helping Elijah.

"I don't think so." Elijah countered smugly then vanished. He was back a second later with a large pile of cream linens in his arms which he deposited on the table I was sat at.

"I could have got them you know."

"You could have. But you might have had the opportunity to not come back up here if you'd gone downstairs." I couldn't help but scowl up at him

"I wish you would stop forcing us Elijah." I spoke softly. Surprising myself with how maturely I was speaking of the topic. Something about my voice must have revealed something to Elijah for he pulled the chair next to me from the table and turned mine outwards so that when he sat his legs were either side of mine and we were facing one another.

"I wish you would stop casting us aside. Everyone in every relationship has hardships. That's all Klaus is and we can overcome him." I levelled my gaze on him. His was referring to us as though we were still in a romantic relationship.

"We're not in that sort of relationship any more." I said simply. "Hell, you've seen me with Klaus." His lips pursed then unpursed.

"That's a matter of perspective. From where I sit we most certainly are. From your position, it's too hard to comprehend that we can have anything where Klaus is concerned. But we are still blood bound. We are still of the utmost importance to each other. Why else would you be pushing me away like you are if you did not care for me?" I didn't answer, just unfocussed my gaze on him. I hated how he knew me so well. He was so persistent. How was I going to get him to listen to me, if he never took my words alone seriously? "Hmm? Why else?'" Casting my eyes down to my lap I saw Elijah's hands come down to rest just above my knees. They belonged there. As much as my mind raced that Klaus would know and that he would be suspicious. Elijah's hands belonged to my person. "Will you answer me?" He pushed gently. Exhaling slowly I bore some weight on my feet as I decided half heartedly to stand or at least slide my chair backwards away from Elijah. But he gripped my knees and I stilled. Instead I ran my hand through my hair and over my right ear and rested that elbow on the table next to me.

"You shouldn't still want me. I'm with your brother."

"Not completely." Slowly I shook my head. He wasn't getting the point.

"He's touched me more than you have."

"His touches mean nothing. They're unwanted. There is no quality in any of Klaus' so-called affections." He rumbled softly. My eyes secured themselves even more so on my lap.

"That's not completely the case. I-. I don't mind him. What he does. What we do. It's not that bad. We generally get along. What I'm saying, is that, I really am, with your brother."

"Elena. Stop this. Don't try to make sense of how you've come to survive. If not for his and my blood sharing certain properties, you wouldn't already be so accepting of his touches. You've had to view what he does with, and to you in any way you can make it more bearable. That does not automatically mean he's taking the form of a partner for you. I won't ever judge you for how you're currently feeling, but know this. I still want you. And always will, just as you will me." Moisture stung my eyes, but I blinked it back and heaved a shaky breath.

"You can't know that." I whispered. He simply couldn't. Who knew what would happen?

"No, I can't. I can feel it," he paused. "I'm sure you can too. If only you would stop fighting it as well as Klaus. Please stop fighting me. Let me help you." His tone was begging. Slowly I shook my head. Not in answer, but to shake free the emotional haze that Elijah'd conjured around me. It was in my lungs, my heart, even fogging up my brain.

"What's it like being a vampire?" I asked suddenly while still avoiding eye contact.

"What's it like?" Elijah confirmed my question. His unsure tone told me he hadn't expected our conversation to lead this way.

"Yes. What's it like?" I repeated and glanced up to his eyes then back down

"Elena. Don't give up hope. It's not all over yet-."

"Just tell me." I pleaded softly.

"We may yet find a way to keep Klaus from sacrificing you."

"Please Elijah. It's just a simple question. You want to talk, so let's talk. This is all I'm willing to talk with you about." I implored him with direct eye contact. Elijah slowly chewed in his lower lip while considering me.

"It's, an, experience." He began. "For myself, it is a double edged sword. Certainly, I am extremely pleased to have seen so much history. To marvel at the many great people that have come to pass in my multiple lifetimes." He paused. "So it has it's advantages. However," his features darkened, "It comes with a price. I have lost so very much just because of living longer. That is without all my regrets eating away at me from centuries ago. The more you're capable of doing. The longer you have the reality chasing you in every moment. There was a time I never regretted anything. My bad choices, missed opportunities were what I referred to as character building. That's all well and good when you only carry them around for something like one hundred years. But the longer you're around the heavier that baggage can become. That is without even acquiring anything in addition along the way. Some moments, some days can be excruciatingly painful. Emotionally and physically. Because of our senses being heightened. Some noises can be splitting, the weight of gravity, while perfectly normal to yourself, can be felt to bear down on me crushingly. In the early days of turning if can seem like you can't move about for there is resistance in everything. Just breathing is more difficult if you take the time to notice." He fell silent, while the expression on his face showed he was lost in thought.

"So are you happy?" Coming back to himself he raised his eyebrows then looked back at me with adoring eyes.

"Since meeting you, yes. On most days. Despite the circumstances."

"I didn't want you to work your own angle here Elijah. I just wanted to know."

"I'm simply being honest." I bit my lower lip.

"Will it change me? Being Turned?" Nodding Elijah took a deep breath.

"It can change some. Their characteristics and emotions are heightened, which can result in personality changes. Although a person will usually just seem more."

"Did you change?"

"No." he said sombrely. "I didn't want to become like some of my siblings. It didn't take a mountain of effort to keep myself within set parameters, but I was conscious of it. We were both silent for a little while and Elijah took to rubbing my legs comfortingly with his firmly planted hands.

"I don't think I want to become a vampire." I said finally, with a near silent voice. Nearly choking on the word vampire I looked down at the floor. I didn't think lowly of Elijah being one, I didn't want him to get that impression. But I couldn't see myself happily seeing so many people die while I kept living. It was hard enough as a mortal. To know that I would always remain while other's would leave me, regardless of the fact that Klaus probably wouldn't let me associate with my loved ones much. The knowledge of their passing would upset me.

"No-one should be forced. It should be a choice to be Turned. I understand your sentiments regarding your position. I myself was unknowingly forced. As were my siblings and father. We had no choice. Our mother, who was a witch wanted to keep us safe. Making us vampires was her solution." My mouth parted in silent sombre disbelief.

"She made you vampires." I restated in awe. "A witch, made the Original vampires." As mind blowing as it was I managed to move on pretty quick. "Safe from what?"

"The werewolves."

"So they were first."

"Yes, they were. My mother couldn't bare to lose her family to their lunar attacks. Even their non-cyclical violence and extra strength. Accidents can happen when you're stronger than everyone else. So she found a way with magic to give us a fighting chance." Elijah pushed his chair back and stood. Then casually picked up and unfurled some chair covers and began dressing the chairs at our table. I joined him.

"What about your mother? Was she safe from the werewolves?"

"Yes. Until my father killed the man, the werewolf she had an affair with. As a witch she could protect herself, but because of her history with Klaus' biological father. There had been a sense of comradery between her and the local werewolves."

"I get that she was protecting you all, but it must have been hard for some of you to be grateful for what she did." I offered.

"It was. There was much resentment at times. Most of which was between my mother and father. It was passed onto Klaus as well, due to his illegitimacy. Sometimes," he paused, his voice deep and sad. I looked up from the chair I'd pulled the cover down. "Sometimes I have loathed what she made me. But then elements will fall into place, that give reason to my existence. For instance, I would have missed out on meeting you if I wasn't made immortal." Elijah's eyes were deep and gentle, praising my existence. Our gazes remained locked for many moments and my skin prickled with goosebumps before I broke the connection and moved onto another chair wordlessly.

We dressed the furniture in companionable silence from then on, until we were both working on the last table and chairs.

" I know I haven't handled myself well since you were allowed back. I didn't know how to end things with you. It's much harder to shut someone out when they've gotten under your skin. I can't communicate with you with the respect you deserve because my emotions and the stress of this situation gets in the way. But you seriously need to consider what I'm asking you Elijah. Leave." I finally looked up then to find him. I'd found it easier to not look at him while I'd said my peace.

"I've no desire to leave you. Not now. Not ever." I sighed.

"You may not want to die. But you will leave me if Klaus daggers you." I grumbled. He moved closer to me, his face sympathetic. My heart ached for him and despite my best efforts I remained rooted to the spot as Elijah came to stand right before me and leaned in. His face passed mine and travelled to my ear.

"Not if I dagger him first." He said so very silently. Looking at him curiously while he stepped back from me. I tried to gauge his intention. He wasn't hopeful, nor was he smug about the notion. Trying to comprehend wordlessly I nearly wanted to grab his arm as he moved swiftly away from me. He couldn't let slip of something he had planned like that and say no more. I scowled after him as he began unfurling the last table cloth for the one we were finishing. Before I managed to form a questioning: What are you on about? Some fresh company announced themselves at the top of the stairs.

"You two are intriguingly quiet." Klaus commented and held his hand out toward me. With an unimpressed glance at Elijah I stepped toward Klaus.

"Not much to say." I quipped carelessly.

"That so?" He mused happily. I watched him look over at Elijah and my gaze followed as I stood next to Klaus while an arm of his slithered around my waist. Elijah having finished the table stood tall and expressionless. Almost disappointed Klaus returned his gaze to mine. Maybe he was expecting some entertainment from Elijah and I. "Your choice of dresses have arrived. How about a floor show?"

"What, me?" I asked surprised.

"Certainly not Elijah." I smirked.

"Alright." I managed to accept before squealing slightly when Klaus suddenly picked me up bridal style. Reverting into my character, I laughed happily while taking hold of his neck as he turned and began stepping down the stairs. Elijah and my gazes met. I lowered my eyebrows and narrowed my eyes at him in suspicion. The last I saw of him, he'd simply raised his eyebrows indifferently. But I took note of how he was wearing his charming smirk. Like he had something up his sleeve. Boy did I want to know what it was. Though maybe he had that look on his face because he'd piqued my interest enough for me to to want to talk to him.

"I have legs you know." I announced softly to Klaus.

"I'm well aware of that fact. How else would you have managed to run from me when the opportunity allowed you to?" He looked at me smugly.

"Well, you could let me use them now. I think we've established I'm not going to run." I said persuasively with some sexiness in my voice.

"I'll let you down soon enough."

"Now?" I queried cheekily and gave him a flirtatious look. Just coming down the stairs I saw we were getting looks. It just made me uncomfortable. I wished I was on my own legs.

"No." He managed though a breathy chuckle. I joined our mouths and kissed him roughly, making him growl.

"Now?" I repeated.

"What's gotten into you?" Klaus mused, pleasantly surprised. Whatever had got into me he obviously liked.

Glancing down at the presumed vampires intermittently watching us I looked back and lost my cheek.

"You're attracting attention. They're looking at us," I murmured. "I don't like it." He rolled his eyes at me.

"Get used to it, my love. You'll be on your own feet tomorrow and everyone will be watching you."

"Great," I stated less than enthusiastically and pouted my lips at him. Sarah caught my eye with some male assumed vampire I hadn't seen before. Her behaviour was so obviously seductive and the man seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. But when Sarah saw Klaus and I her features darkened and even with the distance between us I was sure her eyes blazed with anger. "What's with Sarah? Seems more angry than usual." I muttered into his ear.

"Jealous." He said simply.

"Isn't she always?"

"Touch'e."