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Chapter 7

Caroline felt like she had just went to bed when the sunlight woke her. The brightness was almost painful to her eyes as she opened them. They were probably bloodshot considering she had only a couple hours of sleep. Wanting to pull the covers over her head and let the problems of the day get resolved without her was so tempting. One day she wanted to wake up and not feel the weight of the world on her shoulders. To hell with it, she thought as she pulled herself out of bed to face the day. She had to look at the bright side, if there was one. Her mother was safe for now, Sophie was here with her coven to give what help they could and no one had died or been tortured yet. Caroline couldn't ask for more than that considering her history. As she walked down the stairs, she could hear two voices arguing in the living room. Elena and Rebekah got along when Elena had been turned into a vampire, but it looked as if that was over. Sophie and Jasmine were sitting with them eating breakfast at the table, glancing back and forth in amusement at the battle unfolding before them.

Caroline sat down next to Sophie. "What's wrong now?" Not having enough sleep to really care, she started buttering her toast.

Elena turned to Caroline. "What's wrong is allowing strangers to stay here with Silas terrorizing us, as well as Klaus coming back to Mystic Falls." Caroline stared at Elena, losing the patience she really didn't have to begin with.

"So, it's okay for Klaus to come and save Damon's life, but when he wants to protect me, it's a problem?" Caroline asked.

"Caroline, you know how Klaus is, he always has a reason for doing things. Just because he did one nice thing for Damon, it doesn't mean he's changed." Elena implored. Caroline snorted in disbelief. "I remember that was the same thing I said to you about Damon and after everything he did to us, you still chose to be with him." Elena started to respond, but Jasmine wondered out loud. "What did he do?"

Elena snapped. "Let's stick to the problem at hand." Elena took a breath before she turned back to Sophie and Jasmine. "Caroline may trust you, but the rest of us don't. How do we know you won't stab us in the back?" Elena asked, not holding back her suspicions. Jasmine glared at Elena, stroking her butter knife. Caroline figured she was thinking about where she wanted that knife to go. Sophie cleared her throat, trying to get Jasmine's attention to avoid any blood on the breakfast table.

"Oh, the irony." Rebekah said as she examined her nails.

Elena grimaced as she replayed her words in her head. "When it came down to it, you wouldn't have betrayed Klaus. I only did it because we wanted everything to go as planned."

Rebekah nodded sarcastically. "Yes, the ends always justified the means with you, Elena, no matter who gets stepped on in the process. You're not any better than Nik."

Elena moved closer to Caroline, ignoring Rebekah. "Have you forgotten everything Klaus did to us? He killed Jenna and what about Tyler? He killed Tyler's mother, Caroline, remember? How can you trust him after everything he's done?"

Rebekah clenched her fists, livid. "And yet, you conveniently forget all that when you need Nik to save Damon's life." Jasmine and Sophie were quiet, sitting back enjoying the show that Elena and Rebekah were putting on.

"You and Klaus are not even speaking." Elena countered, throwing her hand out to Rebekah to prove her point. "You moved out because of what he did to you. He killed your own mother and lied about it. I was the one who told you the truth-"

"And then proceeded to stab me in the back." Rebekah interrupted with a harsh laugh. "You're so quick to point to Nik about what he's done, what's your excuse for killing my brothers? Finn wasn't a threat to you and considering the mess we're in, Kol was right to try to stop us from going after the cure." Rebekah moved to enter Elena's space, staring hard in her eyes. "My family will fight to protect ourselves and we're not going to apologize for it, just like you."

"Enough!" Caroline growled as she threw down her food, fed up. Elena and Rebekah, surprised by her tone, both turned to her. "We all have done wrong in the name of survival." Caroline stood up and faced Elena, putting her hands together as if in prayer, trying to stay calm. "Look, I trust Klaus and you don't have to agree with it, just like I don't understand the faith you have in Damon. But I have accepted your relationship with him, even though I don't like it. But I'm not some blond ditz, who needs her friends to make her decisions for her. Klaus is a friend who's been there for me and I'm going to accept his help." Caroline confirmed, much to the disbelief of Elena and the pride of Rebekah. She was tired of everybody calling Klaus evil while they excuse their own behavior.

Caroline exhaled her frustration as she looked around. "Where is everybody?" Elena huffed and threw up her hands as Caroline moved the conversation to a safer one.

Rebekah responded, smirking at Elena. "Stefan had to hunt and Damon went with him for protection. Tyler and Matt needed fresh clothes, so Jeremy decided to go with them. Katherine's still in bed or hiding since Nik is on his way."

"Did my mom already leave for the station?" Caroline asked Sophie, who nodded in response. "She left early this morning. Ebony is with her." Caroline was relieved that there was one less thing to worry about, now they could focus on taking care of Silas. We still hadn't come up with realistic plan to trap him.

"Are you guys okay? I imagine last night was hard." Caroline asked, sitting back down to finish her breakfast, hoping that would be end of the arguing for now. When they had seen Lucy, even though it hadn't been her, had to have brought the memories of their friend back to forefront.

"For just a second, I thought it was her." Sophie said, her eyes filled with regret. Along with the pain, the guilt was always there underneath. At least Ebony hadn't been there to see Silas impersonate Lucy, she blamed herself more than Sophie did.

Caroline wished she had better prepared them for what Silas was capable of. He had played the same game with her when he had been searching for Bonnie, terrorizing her through the woods with Klaus and Matt. He had created a hell on earth before trying to kill her mother. She, better than anyone, knew how convincing Silas could be. The knock at the front door interrupted her thoughts. Caroline glanced at the time and had a feeling who was here. "I'll get it, I think I know who that is."

When she opened it, Klaus was relaxed against the doorway, dressed in all black. The high cheekbones and his full lips were complimented by the black. It made him look devilish and Caroline had to admit, sexy. He smiled, happy to see her. As she met his eyes, she wanted to return his smile, but she was cautious after last night. "On our only date, what did you steal of mine and read to me?" Klaus was confused by the question, but he recovered quickly. "Your Miss Mystic Falls application." She nodded as she felt the tension leave, believing that it was really him.

Caroline stepped back, sweeping her hand to invite him in. Klaus shook his head as he entered the house, amused. "More than just a pretty face." She smiled, realizing that she had missed him. Caroline tilted her head, wondering. "You never did tell me how you got my application." Klaus rocked back on his heels, pleased with himself. "I have my ways. I just wanted to know more about you. I'm glad I did, the look on your face was priceless. It was the first time you really laughed with me." They shared a smile, remembering the day. Caroline had been surprised that she actually had fun with him. If only things hadn't gone to hell soon after. She sobered as the memories of what happened next came to her. Caroline was happy to see Klaus, but she couldn't help herself, she was concerned about how Tyler would feel.

Klaus noticed, sighing. "I'm not here to cause problems." Caroline raised a eyebrow in disbelief. "Really, I will be on my best behavior. Scout's honor." He said, holding up a hand, trying to look as innocent as he could.

Caroline snickered. "Like you were ever a Boy Scout." Whenever she was around Klaus, she felt lighter, more at ease. She didn't understand it half the time, how the person who's caused so much damage can make her feel at peace when he was around.

Klaus moved closer, wanting to inhale her scent. He looked deep in her eyes, almost getting lost. "I promise not to make this harder for you than it already is. I just want to make sure you're safe." Caroline had to remember to breath. She escaped his eyes as she was almost hypnotized. She did believe that he was here with good intentions, but his presence was going to be an impact. That was something that couldn't be avoided. They stood by the door, taking a moment to enjoy each others company after a long absence.

Caroline smiled. "Thank you for sending help for my mother and I am happy you're here." Klaus couldn't help himself, he reached to give a small stroke of her cheek. "Not as happy as I am. I'm glad I could help."

Caroline sighed as traces of desire were left by his small touch. She shook her head to clear it, feeling like she had to prepare him for what he was about to face. "Tyler's going to be here soon and he's pretty angry right now." With everything that was going on, she hadn't had time to think of Tyler's demand for her to choose between him and Klaus. How does she make that choice without hurting someone?

"As long as he doesn't try to kill me again, we'll be just fine." Klaus said, folding his hands behind his back to avoid touching her again. He had to fight hard not to give into the temptation that she created.

"I don't think it will ever be 'fine' between you and Tyler. But if it could get to a point where you're not trying to murder each other, I would consider that a win."

Klaus arched an eyebrow, highly doubting that would happen, but he didn't want to dash her hopes.

She didn't see how this was going to end well, Caroline thought as she led him to the living room, resigned to whatever came next.

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As they entered the room, Caroline noticed Elena was giving her a searching look. She figured Elena had been listening to the conversation, which was probably going to lead to more questions asked when Elena got the chance. Sophie and Jasmine stood up from the table when they saw us come in. Rebekah crossed her arms as Klaus met her eyes. The tension between the siblings had gotten better, but it was still there.

"Hello, Nik" Rebekah said as she came closer.

"Rebekah." Klaus responded. "How's the boyfriend?" He smirked as Rebekah rolled her eyes at him. Although he would never admit it, he missed his sister. Besides the years when he had her in a box, Rebekah had been the only one that had stood by him. He didn't know how to fix it though, he wasn't that big on apologizing even when he was in the wrong. Elena stood up, drawing his attention. "Hello, Elena. How's Stefan or is it Damon still?" Elena glared, not seeing the humor. Klaus grinned as Caroline smacked his arm. "Best behavior, remember?" Klaus shrugged. "That Boy Scout thing takes some getting used to."

"How's Davina and the others?" Sophie asked. She was still not comfortable with being away from her sister.

"They're fine. Elijah is keeping his eye on them. He'll call if there's a problem." Klaus moved to the bar and made himself a scotch. "So, with the Mystic Falls gang track record, I'm assuming Silas is still running around?"

Elena scoffed with disdain. "Like you really care about Silas. Why are you really here, Klaus?" Jasmine snorted with disgust. "You know, I'm thinking we should let her handle this on her own. Caroline can come back to New Orleans with us."

Klaus glanced at Caroline, who sighed with frustration. "That was my idea, but I doubt she'll leave. I'm here to make sure Caroline stays safe, Elena." He made himself comfortable on the couch. Elena crossed her arms as she moved closer. "You sent your powerful friends and came all this way just to protect Caroline? From your track record, that's a little hard to believe."

He smirked before taking a drink. "I personally don't care what you believe. I'm going to be here until Caroline is out of danger, so if you want me gone, I suggest you focus on Silas." Klaus picked up the familiar scent as he turned his head towards the stairs. "Katrina, I heard the distressing news." A small gasp came from the top of the stairs. Caroline followed his gaze and could see Katherine hiding around the corner at the top of the stairs, listening to the conversation. She could see the fear in her eyes as Katherine moved to the stairs. Caroline had a feeling she had been trying to sneak out of the house. For the first time, a smile of triumph spread across Elena's face as Katherine's misery was increased.

Klaus stood up to set down his drink and approach Katherine, who was trying to put on a brave face. "Come closer, I want to see for myself." He waved his hand, wanting her to come down the stairs. He took note of the heartbeat, the flush of her cheeks and the scent of blood running through her veins.

"Well, if there's one good thing about you being here, it's taking Katherine and draining her blood like you did me." Elena said with disdain. Katherine's hate-filled eyes swung Elena's way as she moved down the stairs, trembling with fear at Klaus's presence. Caroline didn't know if she felt comfortable with this. Yes, Katherine deserved to feel misery, but Caroline knew what it was liked to be used and she wouldn't wish it upon her worst enemy.

"Sorry to disappoint you, Elena." Klaus smirked at Katherine's fear, thinking that was enough revenge. "But I won't be using her blood." Katherine's head turned fast, meeting Klaus's eyes. "What did you say?" Her voice was almost lost in Elena, Caroline, and Rebekah's "What?" Klaus picked his drink back up and sat back down on the couch.

Elena glanced at Katherine's shocked expression. "Why not?" Elena strutted. "Are you joking? You need her blood to make an army."

"I did, but Elijah was concerned and asked that I don't do it." Klaus noticed Katherine's face soften as Elijah's name was brought up. "For my brother, I'll let it go." Rebekah and Caroline exchanged surprised looks while Elena seemed to be filled with rage.

"I told Elijah I would look out for you, so stay in the house. You don't leave with anyone but me, understand?"

Katherine nodded hesitantly, still unsure. Elena grabbed her head in frustration, almost ready to pull her hair out."This has got to be a nightmare." Klaus gave a small chuckle as Caroline, once again, stared at Klaus like she had never seen him before. The door opened, interrupting the moment.

"Making yourself at home, I see." Damon said as he walked in the room with Stefan following behind him.

Klaus saluted Damon with his drink. "The Salvatore brothers, how nice to see you again."

"Too bad we can't say the same." Damon snarled. Klaus laughed in response. "I'll remember that the next time you need my blood." Damon glared, but what could he say? That was twice now that Klaus had given his blood to save his life. Knowing Damon's ability to find trouble, it probably wouldn't be the last. Stefan noticed Katherine's daze expression. "What did you say to her, Klaus?"

Klaus shrugged a shoulder, having fun. "Nothing. She's probably still in shock."

Stefan rubbed his hand on Katherine's arm, thinking he was easing her anxiety. "I won't let you hurt her." Klaus laughed as Elena curled her lip in disgust. "Ask her yourself. I'm not going hurt her." Klaus could see a spark of jealously in Elena's eyes as Stefan faced Katherine

"Elijah asked him to protect me. Klaus said he would." Katherine replied in wonder. Stefan glanced over his shoulder at Klaus with suspicion. "Really? You're not going to take her blood to create your hybrids?"

"I don't need those hybrids. I have all the help I need to protect my territory. I used kindness, forgiveness, and pity to get what I want." Klaus smiled at Caroline, who was trying to keep from returning it, but folded as she met his eyes. There was pride and joy for all to see on Caroline's face. Damon gagged as Klaus and Caroline's silent communication went on longer. "Why am I surprised? Caroline has a thing for werewolves who can kill her, she was never very smart." Stefan shook his head at Caroline, who exhaled, but choose to let it go. Elena crossed her arms as she continued to glare Katherine's way. Jasmine put her hands on her hips and exchanged looks of anger with Sophie.

Klaus looked at her friends as they said nothing and calmly set his drink back down. He flashed off the couch and threw Damon into the wall. Elena screamed. "Are you crazy? What are you doing?" She tried to move to Damon's side, but stopped as Klaus swung his head her way. Caroline looked to Rebekah, who shrugged a shoulder. "Klaus, don't. It's just Damon being Damon."

Klaus picked Damon up by the throat and held him against the wall. He stepped closer as he put his face an inch away from Damon's. "If I ever hear you disrespect her again, I will cause you so much pain. You will be begging me to rip out your heart when I'm done with you." He squeezed his throat harder as Damon gasped for breath. He slammed his head into the wall. "Do you understand me?" Damon tried to nod and failed, but eventually got it out. "Yes, fine." Klaus released him and stepped away as Elena flew to his side in concern. He faced Caroline to explain his outburst. "While I'm here, he will respect you. And it would be nice if your friends would demand the same." Klaus glared at Stefan and Elena to emphasize his point, walking out of the room to calm down as everyone watched in silence.

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Sorry Damon fans, while I like Damon, I think he gets away with the insults that he throws Caroline's way and no one calls him out on it. Tyler and Klaus will come face to face in the next chapter. I'll update soon. Thanks for reading!