Darkest Temptations

by Katrina-H-Creates

Caroline discovers that it's possible for vampires to have babies with hybrids. When Klaus learns of this, he does everything within his power to ensure Tyler is unable to get Caroline pregnant. He has his own plans for her.

2. Chapter 2

Darkest Temptations

Chapter Two: The Missing Girls

Caroline Mikaelson

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we were on our way to the enchanting land of Utah.

Even as I ventured beyond the confines of the town, my focus remained fixated on the rear view mirror, a constant need to verify that we were not followed. After all, the arduous task of evading Mystic Falls had merely marked the initial stride in our escape; now, the real work truly began for us.

"Did everyone ditch their phones?" I inquired, my mind meticulously ticking off the items on my invisible list.

"Yeah," Elena confirmed, her voice weary and aching.

Beside me, she gracefully settled into her seat, her delicate movements a testament to her keen desire to meticulously observe the right-side mirror. She remained poised and prepared, just as we had meticulously arranged.

"I did too." April's confirmation brought me immense relief, as it assured me that we were all in perfect harmony.

"Good," I murmured

"Keep it under sixty." April reminded me of the protocols we had established for our journey.

"And keep the headlights off, at least until we hit the freeway." Elena instructed me.

"I will," I murmured, my head nodding in acquiescence.

I observed April through the rear view mirror at her graceful movements as she prepared herself for the arduous task that lay ahead. As I assumed the role of overseeing the driving aspect of our grand scheme, Elena dutifully assumed the responsibility of vigilantly monitoring our rear, while April diligently recorded any cars that persisted in tailing us for an extended distance. Additionally, April warmly guided me in navigating our intended path.

Every one of us would remain alert, our eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of law enforcement. After all, we were crossing the country in a stolen car, and not everyone among us could be easily persuaded to comply with our compulsion. Many people outside of Mystic Falls participated in the use of vervain.

We had thoroughly deliberated over all of this prior to leaving my house to meet up with Klaus last night.

"Remember, no one takes down their hoods or removes their glasses until we're out of the state." I reminded them and checked yet another item off my meticulously organized list.

"Got it," April agreed with a good attitude toward her demeanor, a sentiment that I cherished immeasurably in that seemingly inconsequential moment.

"Ok"

We were well aware that the car was bound to become ensnared by the watchful eyes of road surveillance like every other vehicle in America, yet we endeavored to employ discreet measures to conceal our hair and faces from being captured too.

In a moment of contemplation, I opted to divert my attention away from the rear view mirror and instead directed my attention towards Elena.

"How's it looking back there?" I inquired

"We're good." She confirmed to my immense relief, demonstrating to me that she was keeping watch as she promised.

We crossed the boundary of the town more than five minutes ago, yet the sensation persisted as if only mere seconds had elapsed. My heart quickened its pace within my chest, a fluttering sensation that mirrored my mounting anticipation for what came next in my life. I beseeched the car heater to weave their warmth into my frigid feet and weary knees. Both of my hands were clenched tightly around the steering wheel, my grip unyielding as I fixed my gaze upon the obscure road that lay before me in the darkness. The harmonic rumblings of the wind reached our ears, its icy touch intensifying with my focus as it glided across the car. A wave of admiration washed over me, knowing that I had thought ahead to gather the comforting embrace of blankets and pillows. Without these provisions, our bodies would have succumbed to the relentless shivering that threatened to consume us all.

"Did Klaus text either of you guys to let you know he had left town?" April inquired, her voice as gentle as her nature.

He's not the type of guy who checks in on the regular; be prepared for that.

Instead of disclosing this harsh truth, I simply responded with a gentle denial, "No, I haven't heard from him."

"Did you expect him too?" Elena asked

"No, of course not."

Not that a text would have killed him...

"Let's stay focused." I encouraged them, urging them forward.

"You really think we're going to make it?" April posed the question, weighing heavily in all our minds.

"We better. Because there's no going back." I gently reminded her of our reality.

On the desolate back road leading away from the bustling town, not a single car crossed our path throughout our journey. As we ventured away from Mystic Falls, the tranquil forest roads were devoid of the usual early morning joggers and stationed police cruisers. Uncertainty swept over me as I struggled with my emotions, unsure of how to interpret the eerie stillness that embedded this back road. Could it be that such tranquility was customary for this early hour? We remained equally focused as we remained on our respective tasks, for we knew that even in our fatigue, we must remain on guard if we were to succeed.

"We're doing great," I murmured softly. Yet there was no response from either of them.

I didn't know about them, but for me, I wouldn't shake off the unease until we had put at least two or three states between us and this place. The impending dawn signaled the imminent influx of cars onto the road, compelling us to seize the present moment and harness its potential to our benefit. Elena had already informed us of Stefan's predilection for reaching out to call or text her at approximately seven o'clock each morning, typically around the same time she got up for school. We harbored a theory that it would be approximately nine or ten o'clock when our friends would begin to worry that something had happened to us. And so this crucial moment of our escape hinged on speed alone. Our objective was clear: to seamlessly merge into the bustling stream of morning traffic, thereby guaranteeing our successful blending.

I looked over towards Elena, yet she remained oblivious to my gaze. Consumed by her unwavering dedication to our protection, her eyes remained fixated on the mirror without faltering for even a fraction of a second.

"How are we on gas?" April inquired

I cast my eyes downward, away from the endless stretch of road before me, and directed my attention to the fuel gauge. To my surprise, the gauge revealed that we possessed an abundance of fuel—nearly a full tank.

"We have enough to get us out of the state." I assured her.

"Assuming we don't hit any major traffic along the way," she was quick to point out.

"That's very true." I noted.

We'd been on the road for nearly twenty minutes, yet the surreal nature of it all continued to elude me. I couldn't help but anticipate that at any moment, one of us would experience a sudden shift in convictions and beg to be brought back home. The harsh reality of the situation overwhelmed me as I struggled to comprehend the fact that each of them had married the same man. We were now living the lifestyle of modern-day polygamists; that's how it would appear to anyone who suspected us. Only we knew about the spell that shielded us from our lives before Utah. Our fates were now inextricably linked, destined to remain forever bound as a collective entity. The fact that we had each gotten married and left our childhood homes in a single night was nothing short of extraordinary.

I found myself uncertain, as if it were the spell coursing its way through my bloodstream or not, but I was overwhelmed with a profound sense of guardianship, as if Elena and April were now my sole responsibility. I was burdened with an intense feeling of duty towards their welfare and care, longing for nothing but to ensure that the forthcoming journey of two thousand miles would be rendered as effortless as possible for the both of them. We were left with nothing but each other, bereft of the comforting presence of our parents or the solace of our friends. It seemed, in some peculiar manner, that we had become a family.

This whole thing is insane; stop acting like you're not on edge about to lose it.

My gaze shifted towards Elena. "So, how did it go when you got back to your place?" I asked.

Elena attempted to coax her lips into something resembling a smile before responding, "I compelled him the second I got through the door. I practiced what I was going to say to him in my head on the way back, so I knew I'd be ready. I just figured, the faster I got it over with, the more time he'd have to get further from town."

She's struggling. She's doing an insanely good job of trying to hide it, though. She always does.

"That must have been really difficult." April said

"Yeah, it was, but it needed to be done."

"So what did you end up telling him?" I asked

"Everything I wanted too. How much I loved him, how sorry I was to be doing this to him and promising that we would see each other again someday." Her voice, heavy with sorrow, resonated as she reminisced about their goodbye.

She was bravely maintaining her composure, yet April and I could unmistakably see the immense struggle she must have been enduring.

"You cannot possibly blame yourself; you were in an impossible situation." I said to her.

"I know that, but..."

"No, I mean it. If you entertain the notion that you were wrong about it, then it will consume you."

Elena's gaze shifted in my direction then.

"I know you," I gently reminded her, my voice carrying a certain measure of certainty.

"If it's any relief for you, Elena, I felt such peace when leaving the church today, and that was all because of the power behind your belief when compelling me. I, er, got that word, right? Right?"

April was so naive about our realm of supernatural power, but her motives to comfort Elena were pure of heart. She, too, elicited a smile from each of us as a consequence.

"Right," I confirmed.

I glanced at Elena fleetingly, my gaze swiftly returning to the road that lay ahead, my determination unwavering. With a gentle and soothing timbre, I reminded her, "It's not forever."

"Right now, that's exactly how it feels."

This is going to be more difficult than I thought.

"We'll get something sorted out, and you'll see him again real soon."

"You believe that?"

"I really do."

"This entire night has been exhausting for all of us. You just need to cut yourself some slack." April counseled her.

"I know," Elena agreed with utmost sincerity.

"We've got a lot of work still to do, but we have plenty of time."

"And we've already accomplished the most difficult task," April elucidated.

"She's right, and we came through it together."

"Do you really think that we can do this?" Elena inquired, her troubling eyes fixed upon me, persistent in their intensity.

"I know we can do this." I responded, perhaps with undue haste.

"We've got each other; you need to focus on that. Don't think about the spell and all that other stuff. Just focus on what we're doing right here and now." April said.

And so it was; we all dutifully resumed our critical tasks, redirecting our steadfast attention to where they were most vital. We had plenty of time to work out what lay ahead for us when we arrived in Utah. But for now, we had over two thousand miles ahead of us. And it fell upon me—the responsibility to lead us there, to guide us towards those beautiful houses, and to Klaus.

A gentle rustling arose from the back seat, quickly followed by April asking, "Caroline, what's in this bag back here with me?"

Oh my god, the food!

"I can't believe I forgot; I made us some food for the road. It's nothing much; please just help yourselves." I told them

As I sat there, I could hear the sound of her unzipping the bag behind me. A sharp intake of breath escaped her lips as her eyes fell upon the spread of food that I had painstakingly prepared for the journey.

"It's really nothing."

"Are you kidding? Look at all of this!" April's breath caught in her throat: "There's sandwiches, soda, chips, and there's even chocolate."

"I made some soup too; it's in the flask."

I could feel Elena's eyes upon me. I turned my head to meet her gaze and saw a flicker of recognition. There is a silent message of warmth and connection. The knowledge that I had prepared nourishing soup helped us amidst the trials we faced tonight.

"It's still lovely and warm." I told her.

Elena's eyes shimmered with delight. She cast a fleeting glance over her shoulder, her gaze fixating on the bag that held the carefully arranged items I had assembled. A warm and genuine smile graced her lips. It was evident that she was deeply touched by the minuscule gesture I had made to ensure our well-being.

Behind us, April's delicate fingers deftly unscrew the cap of the flask. As she inhaled deeply, the scent wafted through the air, reaching our heightened senses with remarkable swiftness. There was nothing more exquisite than a steaming bowl of soup, for it surpassed mere ingredients and heat. It was a testament to my unrelenting dedication and tireless efforts to support us during our arduous journey.

"This smells absolutely amazing," April commented as she indulged in another deep inhale of the delectable soup.

"There's bowls and spoons for us. And, um, there's, like, this other thing, which is, like, kind of embarrassing." I started to laugh, feeling a bit apprehensive about how they might think of what I said next.

"I don't think any of us will ever feel embarrassed again after tonight." April playfully teased, causing Elena to break into a bright grin.

I indulged in a subtle eye roll, a faint smile gracing my lips, before informing them, "There's another bag in there too; it's got toilet paper, tampons, and other stuff too."

"You really did all of this?" Elena asked beside me as we listened to April rustling through something in the back.

"She did, oh my god, Caroline. You thought of everything!"

"It's really nothing." I insisted.

April gently rested her hand on my shoulder, and without hesitation, I instinctively reciprocated the gesture, my own hand tenderly covering hers.

"I honestly would never have thought to do something like this."

I couldn't help but smile, my hands instinctively finding their place on the steering wheel once again. "I don't know about you guys, but honestly, I could tuck into that soup right now; I don't care what time of the morning it is."

"Me too." Elena concurred.

"Let's do it." April also agreed with unbridled joy.

"I'll keep an eye on the rear," I informed them.

Elena effortlessly turned in her seat, her attention now devoted to aiding April in the delicate task of arranging our breakfast.

We were presented with an equal portion of soup. Elena and April used the provided plastic bowls, while I, in my desire to remain on the move, requested that mine be poured into a plastic cup, allowing me to enjoy it while driving.

"Caroline?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks for doing this for us." April said then, before helping herself to another spoonful of her soup, "I never even considered bringing anything for the trip."

"Don't even worry about it; besides, we've got a lot of ground to cover this morning; we need to focus on that."

I glanced at the time displayed on the dashboard, finding it was five to five in the morning. The dawn was approaching, signaling the start of our first day as Klaus's wives. None of us were prepared to confront that reality just yet; therefore, in the meantime, there existed only warm soup and cozy blankets.

"I still can't believe he agreed to all of this." Elena's words echoed as if she had delved into the recesses of my mind.

I swallowed the soup in my mouth before responding, "I was surprised too."

"He couldn't take his eyes off of you, Caroline," April stated then.

"That's not true," I interjected swiftly.

"Don't get me wrong, I saw the way he looked at you too, Elena."

Wait, Klaus looked at Elena? How did I miss that?

In the corner of my eye, I observed Elena shifting in her seat, a clear indication that she, too, had sensed his gaze.

"He wouldn't look at me, April. Not like that," Elena elucidated.

"He so did. Especially when he first held your hand."

"Well, it was a primal moment." I voiced.

"Maybe for him, but not for me. I just kept waiting for something or someone to jump out at us in the woods." Elena informed us.

"Do you think anyone would believe what we did tonight?" April asked us.

"No one would understand." I was quick with my response, unyielding in its accuracy.

"And if they knew, they'd hate us forever." Elena's voice resonated with sorrow and perhaps even a hint of regret.

"Do you guys regret your decision?" I dared to ask then, completely out of the blue.

"After Jeremy left, I couldn't pick myself up off the floor. And over that next hour, I did regret my decision and wish I could take it back. But then I thought about the reality of what my life would be if I stayed, pretending to everyone I care about that I was happy. And suddenly I felt so exhausted, just thinking about all the lies I would tell them every day." She paused to compose herself for a moment. "But then I started thinking about everything that could be, even if it meant being married to Klaus." She paused again, her focus fixed on the road ahead. "Out there, I don't have to be a new vampire or the girl who lost her parents; I can just be me again, and that's what I want. And I've never been certain about anything in my life."

It had been a lifetime since I last heard Elena speak with such candor, baring her soul and expressing her deepest longings. It was not about anyone else; she spoke solely from her heart, and I admired her for her unfiltered honesty.

I glanced over my shoulder at April in the backseat. With a subtle nod, I silently urged her to express her thoughts on the events that unfolded last night.

"Well, to be honest, I wasn't sure about the whole thing all together, not until I actually spoke to him. I mean, come on, I hadn't met the guy, so yeah, of course I had my doubts."

"He didn't make a great first impression." I said

"No, he certainly didn't. But like I said, I saw the way he looked at the two of you. I mean, no offense to you, Elena, but I could see his attraction for Caroline right off the bat. But like I said, I saw him with the same look in his eye when he looked your way after you were married, and that's when I knew what I wanted too."

"And what's that?" Elena asked her.

April smiled warmly before answering, "I want him to look at me that way someday too."

Elena glanced furtively over her shoulder, her voice coated with curiosity as she inquired, "Do you already like him?"

Wait, does she?

"Course not." April replied, her voice soft and certain. "But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious about him."

"Curious about what exactly?" I questioned

"He's been around for so long, he's probably seen every wonder of this world. He's probably got the best stories."

Elena sighed softly before asking me, "Did you ever have any doubts?"

"I did. I won't lie."

"I'm not talking about Utah."

I drummed my fingers against the shiny surface of the steering wheel. "At first, I thought he had agreed to help us because of the possibility of sex; there I said it," I responded.

I paused for a brief moment. "But then I remembered my research. The spell wouldn't have worked if he didn't believe in his heart that he wanted to marry each of us." I paused to take a breath. "So maybe I doubted him to the very last second, but when I felt that shield wrap around us, I just knew that his heart was at long last in the right place."

"You don't really think he'll expect sex right away, do you?" April blurted out suddenly, surprising both of us.

"No, of course not." I voiced it confidentially.

"He won't have any expectations. Listen to me, Klaus Mikaelson is a lot of things, but he would never force that, not ever." I told her before shifting my attention to Elena.

Elena nodded in agreement immediately, even in the face of Klaus' grave offenses against her and her family. She found herself driven to reveal the truth about his nature, striving to ease April's concerns. She would quickly discover for herself that Klaus took great pleasure in the pursuit of seduction; it spoke to the wolf residing in his heart.

"I wonder if he's thought about us since hitting the road," April pondered aloud.

"He's got a lot to do along the way. He's got to get the deeds for all three properties, arrange the legal documents, and set up our new identities, records, and accounts." I replied

"We've also got more than a few things to arrange too." Elena noted

"She's right." April agreed.

"It's going to be a long trip; we've got plenty of time." I reassured them.

But she was right, for there were numerous arrangements that needed to be made while we were on the road. Such as an agreed-upon back story for our neighbors and any new friends. Constructed lies should the prying eyes of the neighborhood catch any of us going between each other's houses. And above all, we needed to devise a meticulously constructed schedule to determine the days Klaus would be living in which of the properties.

He agreed with our collective accord, wherein he would possess ultimate authority over all aspects of our shared lives in Utah, while in return, Klaus would wield comprehensive control over our new lives and all its associated facets conferred upon us.

A schedule was imperative, ensuring that each and every person was duly acknowledged while simultaneously fortifying the spell that shielded us from harm. In order to accomplish such an endeavor, Klaus needed to spend equal time with each of us.

The notion of Klaus and Elena spending time together filled me with an immediate sense of unease. I worried that neither of them had anything in common and that their histories would ultimately weigh heavily on both of them. April, however, appeared to be resolute in her determination to unravel the mystery that was Klaus, undeterred by all the warnings we had imparted about him.

Their relationships would develop independently, beyond my influence or control.

We finished our soup, and both Elena and April thanked me again for my efforts. In a harmonious display of unity, they worked to clean up the bowls and various utensils, discreetly stowing them away in a concealed plastic bag within the recesses of the backseat. Each of us retreated to our respective stations, ensuring that our priorities remained steadfastly intact.

It was April who inquired about the origins of the car. After sharing my tale of how I had acquired it, I revealed my cunning strategy that ensured that the car would not be reported as missing for a considerable amount of time, perhaps even several weeks. By then, this wretched thing would be nothing but a heap of useless metal, never to grace the world with its presence again. Both of them were impressed by my swift cogitation.

"Do you think anyone will ever find us?" April's inquiry caused Elena and me to exchange a fleeting glance.

I hope not, because in my heart of hearts, I knew I'd be okay if I never saw any of them again. It may have resonated with a hint of self-importance and a touch of conceit, but it was an undeniable truth.

"I don't think so," I responded. "We've covered our tracks; all they have left of us are photographs and memories. There is nothing that can help them now."

"Am I so awful to say that I don't want them to?" April asked curiously.

"No." Elena swiftly consoled her, her voice compassionate and soothing. "You just want a fresh start."

"We all do," I gently corrected her.

Every woman in this car right now wants a better life for herself. We were so desperate for it that we were traveling across the country to achieve it. Truthfully, I didn't know what awaited us when it came to new relationships with Klaus. I didn't know what he thought about us or if he even felt anything for us, either as individuals or as his wives.

I'm never going to get used to calling us that.

But behold the veracity of the matter.

Klaus wanted to sleep with us. He wanted to sleep with me, Elena, and April. Otherwise, he would not have dared to utter a single incantation, and that was the bitter truth that I was gradually beginning to accept. He was the only man we knew who possessed the remarkable ability to compartmentalize his affections, a trait that now binds us all to him.

It was around eight o'clock that night when we were making our way across St. Louis. There were only a handful of cars accompanying us on the road by that point. The clock struck eight, marking the hour with its resolute chime. We had each slept throughout the day, taking turns to rest as the tiredness hit us hard at various points of the day. Elena had been asleep now for about four hours without a sound; she'd even slept right through a thunder storm at one point. When she finally stirred beside me, I couldn't help but offer her a gentle smile, my fingers instinctively reaching for the switch to activate the air conditioning.

"Where are we?" She asked before gazing out at her new surroundings.

"St. Louis," April replied softly from the recesses of the backseat as she unzipped the food bag.

"She's going to make us some dinner." I elucidated.

"What time is it?"

"It's just after eight."

"Wait, how long have I been asleep?"

"Don't worry about it; you need to rest."

Elena released a worn-out groan before she rubbed her eyes. "I was supposed to help with the driving and-"

"Shhhhhhhh"

Elena reclined in her seat, carefully readjusting the blanket that covered her, and fluffed her pillow.

"I feel so much better." She confessed with a delicate sigh.

"I'll bet." I replied cheerfully.

April graciously presented us with two plates containing sandwiches, some chips, grapes, and a chocolate bar.

"We could have some hot chocolate after we're finished with this." April suggested.

"That sounds good." I said this before indulging in a few more grapes.

"How have the roads been?" Elena asked

"Traffic slowed a little just after five; there was a little thunder, but after it cleared, the roads afterwards were relatively clear."

"I don't normally sleep through thunder."

"You were tired. It's okay."

"But other than that?"

"Thankfully, nothing to report." I told her.

April and I had shared a series of glances earlier, anticipating the mounting concern our friends would start to have over our wellbeing. And in that moment, as Elena's silence encased me, I could almost perceive the dawning comprehension washing over her. Our friends would now be aware of our absence; they'd be looking for us. It would be too early for them to suspect we had been killed, but the time would come soon.

"It's alright," I murmured.

"They'll be looking for us right now." Elena said

"I know"

"We did what we had to do." April gently reminded her.

"If we hadn't faked our deaths, they would have never stopped looking for us. Eventually they'll bring in the cops, and all that blood will light up in their initial investigation, and then they'll know that we didn't make it out alive."

April was quick to set up the hot chocolate, pouring an equal amount into each cup. Finally, she very cautiously extended a cup to each of us; her actions are a testament to her thoughtful nature. I was filled with elation upon discovering that it was, indeed, still warm. April then broke up a chocolate biscuit for us all to share afterwards. Once the remnants of our meal were diligently stowed away in the designated place, we jointly assumed our respective roles, carefully restoring our cherished blankets and pillows to their rightful positions.

It was getting darker now, so we switched on the heater in the car as a result of the dropping temperatures outside. There weren't many cars on the road with us now, just a few trucks hauling lumber in the distance. It was somewhat comforting to be alone on a vast, empty strip of highway. We knew we weren't being followed now, yet we remained on guard.

It's time to talk

I cast a fleeting glance in their direction, only to discover that they remained wide awake, their eyes still aglow. The sooner we addressed the elephant in the room, the better. I was acutely aware that if I refrained from broaching the subject, it would inevitably be broached in the eleventh hour of our arrival, resulting in unnecessary tension.

I carefully positioned myself upright in my seat.

"If you guys feel ready, it might be time we talked about a couple of things."

"What kind of things?" Elena inquired

"Klaus," I replied with a swift response.

"What do you mean?" April asked me.

"The schedule—I think it would be better for us to plan it out now, at the very least get the first week sorted out before we get to Utah."

I caught a glimpse of them as they straightened up and arranged their blankets.

"Um, how did Edith and the others handle their lives after casting the spell?"

"She didn't write about how they lived, only that she saw him every day after that, which was enough to keep the spell strong."

"So that throws out the idea of Klaus spending one week with one of us and the next with another and another." April pointed out

Elena exuded an air of unease that was tangible. I couldn't help but empathize with her, understanding the reasons behind her feelings of unease.

"That leaves us alternating on a daily basis." I uttered.

"Well, how about for the first week we keep things really simple?" April suggested.

"What do you suggest?" Elena asked

"Well, for starters, Caroline, if you had to guess, when do you think we'll arrive in Utah?"

"Um," I hesitated, my mind grappling with the numbers, trying to calculate the distance and our current speed. "I guess if we keep up this pace, we'll make it there very early Monday morning."

"That's pretty perfect; we can start the first week on a Monday."

"What are you thinking?" I asked

"Well, like I said, let's keep it really simple the first week. How about Klaus spends each night in the same order he married us?" April suggested to us then

"You mean like, on Monday night he'll spend the night at Caroline's house, then Tuesday at, erm, mine, and then Wednesday with you?" Elena inquired, falling to conceal the overwhelming terror within her tone.

"Exactly, then come Thursday we start all over again, Caroline, then you, and then me on Saturday."

April was making perfect sense.

"But wait a second; that leaves Sundays open, like every week." I corrected her.

"Ah crap, so it does." She groaned in defeat.

Two nights in a row.

"Well, a way around that would be if once every month we each spent two nights in row with him."

"That could work; there's the three of us, so that would mean every two weeks we spend two nights together back to back," April said.

"Well, it all depends on you." Elena said to me

"What do you mean?"

April's laughter echoed from behind me; I had somehow become the unwitting subject of their amusement.

"What's the joke here?" I asked them.

"It seems you missed the part about you taking the first night with him." April told me.

Seriously? How the hell did I miss that?

"Caroline, if you're uncomfortable,"

"It's not that." I stopped April's attempts to minimize my unease.

"Is it too soon to even be talking about this?" Elena asked.

"We have to get it sorted by the time we reach Utah. There's going to be a lot to do on that first day."

"Like what?" April asked.

"We'll need furniture for the houses—at the very least something for us to sleep on. Assuming Klaus has gotten the deeds, that is."

"He'll have them." April replied

"What makes you so sure?" I questioned her.

Her unwavering faith in his capabilities was truly remarkable, undeterred by the multitude of cautionary tales we had shared with her about him.

"I don't know; he just seems like the type of guy who gets things done." April replied.

Perhaps, against all odds, Klaus had managed to leave a favorable impression on her.

I shifted restlessly in my chair, attempting to find a more agreeable position, feeling a little flushed all of a sudden.

I'm not jealous. I'm just pathetic.

"So what do you think about spending the first night with him?" Elena asked

"I know it's a lot to ask Caroline. But let's be real, he seems most comfortable around you anyway," April explained. "Plus, Elena and Klaus have their histories, and let's be honest, it would just be awkward if I took the first night."

I kept my attention on the road as I answered her, "Like you said, the first day we'll have to track down a mega store and get what we need." I paused to gather my thoughts. "Which means he'll be spending time with each of us because, let's face it, we need to make up for the time we've spent on the road to keep the spell strong, but also, Klaus is going to live in all three houses, which means he'll get a say in everything going into them."

I exhaled softly before agreeing, "So I'll take the first night, because I seriously doubt there'll be much left of the first day by the time we've gotten everything necessary for all three houses."

"I can't see Klaus picking out wallpaper samples and cushion covers." Elena said

"He designed his house back in Mystic Falls."

"Did he tell you that?"

"No, actually, at the ball they had, I was getting a drink at the bar, and I heard his brother Finn telling Carol Lockwood that Klaus designed it all, seemingly bringing in a bunch of designers, but in the end he did it himself."

"What did it look like?" April inquired, her mind striving to conjure the image.

My gaze shifted towards Elena, who offered only a nonchalant shrug, clearly desiring to erase memories of that fateful evening and the subsequent events that quickly transpired.

"Have you ever driven by a really fancy house with its outdoor lights and manicured lawns and found yourself thinking it would be a great place for a wedding?" I asked April.

"Yeah, I suppose."

"Klaus's house was like that only on steroids."

"Really?"

"The night their family held a ball, there were swans walking around the grounds," Elena shared.

"The catering staff served champagne in real crystal glasses. I saw a woman trying to put one in her clutch."

"Oh my god, seriously?"

"They had water fountains and tennis courts around the back," I told her.

"And next to those tennis courts were garages containing not one but four brand new Bentleys." Elena added.

"And he gave up all of that for us," April said with a hint of melancholy, nestling back into her seat.

The harsh truth hit us all in that moment, yet none of us possessed the audacity to meet each other's gaze. We weren't the only ones who said goodbye to our homes tonight; Klaus had done the same in order to be with us. He'd given up that dream house and his plans to take over Mystic Falls and create more of his hybrids. He'd given up all of that, every scheme, just for us.

There was something primal about this arrangement, something dark and urgent; he wanted us, yet he had agreed to exercise patience and gentleness. Klaus wasn't afraid of anything; he didn't have to be; he was the most powerful creature on the planet, and yet he had agreed to be with us for the rest of his life. He was basically telling us that everything he could ever want in a woman he found in us. I wasn't sure if I could fully grasp that just yet.

"Do you think he's got the new IDs yet?" Elena asked, shattering the stillness.

"Probably, he would have kept all his underground sources pretty close by."

"So he could be out there right now with the keys to our lives sitting on the seat next to him." April said then, almost as if she were picturing it in her mind as she did.

"Uh, so anyway, I'll bite the bullet and be the one to tell him about the schedule and how it will be for the first week and how it will alternate after that."

"For which we'll discuss in our wives," April stopped to clear her throat. "Our wives meetings."

"We don't have to label it." I told her, fearing that it would cause a slight unease to settle upon Elena.

"Well, it's what it is, and we'll probably be having them every day, so it's worth while, I think."

"What do you think he'll make of the schedule?" Elena asked us.

"He agreed we'd have control over it. He gets control and overall say of everything else that was the agreement." April was gently reminding her.

"I guess," Elena murmured in a hushed tone.

When you took into account everything that Klaus had done to secure everything so far, it made sense that he should be given this in exchange. Besides, like we said back in the woods, we had to take into account the values and the way of life that Edith would have lived through in her marriage, and back then, sadly, the man of the house would be addressed about what was going on in the home or homes. In a peculiar manner, I found solace in the fact that Klaus would possess ultimate authority, for deep down, I recognized that there were bound to be moments when harmony eluded us. That was just the way of life, sadly.

"I just can't see Klaus adapting to life in the suburbs."

"He'll adapt just as quickly as us. Besides, we're hardly moving to a street composed of white picket fences and shattered dreams. It's a brand new build; some of the houses aren't even on the market yet."

"We're going to have to build everything from the ground up." Elena said

"We don't even have lawns yet." I reminded them.

"Guys, what about the neighbors? I mean, when we eventually get some." April inquired

"What about them?"

"What if they suspect we're...polygamists?"

"We'll just do our best to make sure they don't even entertain the idea. Klaus will only move between the houses through the backyards, never the front doors; we'll put a fence up around all three properties, and on top of that, we'll just be great neighbors; we'll take the trash cans in the same day they go out; we'll keep holiday decorations tasteful; and we'll keep the lawns in good condition all year round."

"We do all that, and they won't care what goes on behind closed doors." Elena said

"I just want to know what he is thinking right now." April confessed.

"I'm trying not to." Elena replied

"He wants this life; if he didn't, the shield wouldn't have taken hold." I reminded them.

"I just can't believe I'm married." April admitted

We all slept in shifts over the next two days, taking care of each other and being responsible on the road. In this way, we demonstrated our unwavering commitment to one another's well-being as well as our unyielding dedication to maintaining a sense of responsibility amidst our difficult journey. When the call of nature beckoned, we discovered a quiet place to stop, never daring to pause and avail ourselves of a communal lavatory en route. Even when we did come to a stop, our respite was fleeting, for we would swiftly find ourselves back on the open road in a mere span of five minutes.

The collective gratitude emanated from the group, their hearts brimming with appreciation for the meticulousness with which I had attended to the essential task of packing toilet paper for our journey. We conducted ourselves with the utmost respect, not only by taking turns behind the wheel but also by maintaining the flawless state of the car. Whenever possible, we diligently dispose of any refuse, ensuring a spotless environment. Additionally, we attended to each other's comfort by shaking out blankets and plumping up pillows, encouraging an atmosphere of tranquility and unity.

The enchanting melodies coming from the radio captivated our ears as we traveled through the vastness of Kansas. Each station we stumbled upon seemed to hold a hidden treasure—a musical gem waiting to be discovered. However, the majority of our interactions consisted of engaging in heartfelt conversations and delving into the depths of our shared experiences, which led us to this very moment. We would passionately discuss our feelings towards the captivating state of Utah and even reminisce about the cherished bonds we left behind with our dear friends back home. Klaus, the schedule, and our individual plans for our new lives were delicately avoided in our conversation, as if they were fragile matters best left untouched for a later occasion.

In the blink of an eye, we found ourselves going through the vast expanse of Wyoming, drawing nearer to Utah.

Klaus would most likely arrive at the houses at the same time as us, if not earlier. Given that, he was making a detour along the way to pick up our new IDs. In his intriguing manner, he refrained from disclosing the precise location of his stopover, merely emphasizing its indispensable role in shaping our new lives. The plan was that Klaus's contact would construct new IDs for us, and six months from now he would erase all of our previous records—our school records, birth certificates—all of that stuff would be gone, and it would be as if we never even lived. No doubt all of this was going to cost Klaus a pretty penny, but they'd be the best quality you could possibly get. So by the time Klaus arrived in Utah, he'd have it all: the deeds to all three houses, bank accounts, birth certificates, passports, driver's licenses, credit cards, utility accounts, employment records, high school diplomas, and medical records.

Our arrival in the picturesque state of Utah transpired on a radiant Monday morning.

Our hands joined together, creating a tangible connection as we crossed the state line, knowing in our hearts that all the hard work was worth it for this exact moment. Deep within our souls, an unspoken understanding resonated, affirming that every arduous endeavor we had endured had led us to this very instance.

From this very instant on, a profound transformation would envelop each one of us, rendering our lives unrecognizable. We would vanish into the depths of obscurity, forever eluding the grasp of those who sought to find us. We embarked upon the state, our windows rolled down, our arms leisurely draped over the frames, basking in the caress of the sun upon our skin, as we commenced our journey to behold the splendor of Utah and the multitude of wonders it held in store for us.

The scent of cleanliness permeated the air, a testament to the pristine nature of our surroundings. It was as if everything had been reborn, a symphony of freshness that captivated our senses. Our lives, fresh and untarnished, commenced at this very moment.

At this juncture, I wasn't exactly sure how long we'd been stuck in the car for. It was a unanimous decision amongst us all that it would be utterly inconceivable to present ourselves at our new homes in such a disheveled state. Both Elena and I had our hair artfully gathered and secured in a carefree updo. Meanwhile, poor April's hair had lost its volume, she was now yearning for a sanctuary where she could lavish it with double conditioning treatments and infuse her roots with volumizing magic. Since none of us had a phone right now and the car didn't have its own GPS, we asked directions to the nearest hotel from an older woman we passed by on the way into Sandy, who helped us out. We had thought about getting directions to the nearest public pool, but there was a lot of work for all of us to do before we could show up at the houses.

As we arrived at the hotel, we deliberately chose to park the car discreetly in the secluded depths of the parking lot, far removed from the bustling presence of other cars. We unbuckled our seatbelts and got out of the car, shaking off any crumbs from our clothes before locking up and making our way around to the trunk, each of us determined to find our bag of products and a change of clothes. I didn't look at whatever the others picked out to wear; I was too busy trying to remember where I packed the stuff I needed now, like a toothbrush and body wash, as I acquired all the necessary items and discreetly stowed them away within the confines of my handbag. My gaze shifted towards April, my eyes keenly observing the multitude of things she was carrying as she made her way into the luxurious hotel. Elena, however, was leisurely contemplating her choice of clothes.

April eluded my knowledge, but Elena, in particular, was not exerting herself for a specific individual. April, with her heart set on leaving a lasting impression on Klaus, was a predictable sight to behold. I couldn't help but suppress my astonishment at her incessant chatter about him during our journey.

Fortunately, the hotel was of considerable size, allowing us to effortlessly elude the watchful eyes of the reception staff. There was no need for any form of coercion, as our movements remained undetected. With the aid of the informative displays adorning the walls above the reception desk, we swiftly ascertained the precise location of the spa on the designated floor. April, a bundle of nerves, clung to the space between Elena and me, her anxiety palpable. We trudged forward, our gazes fixed ahead, as we ventured deeper into the hotel.

The spa's changing facilities were truly exceptional; for the very instant we entered, the delicate fragrance of lavender wafted through the air, permeating every nook and cranny. The women, adorned in ethereal white robes, graced the room with an aura of purity. Every detail, from the opulent furnishings to the gilded door handles and delicate light shades, exuded an air of grandeur. The lockers, crafted from sturdy oak, are protected by a unique pin code. The three of us indulged in the luxury of the guests' towels, perhaps acquiring a few more than strictly required, as we embarked on our search to locate the showers. To our immense relief, we discovered that there were five shower blocks allotted to each room. Hastily, we sought solace in the first vacant one that crossed our path, promptly securing ourselves within it.

"Ok, let's try and be in and out of here in under an hour."

April's smile stretched from ear to ear as she responded, "As long as I get to condition this grease ball of hair, you've got a deal."

I found myself torn, unsure of which prospect filled me with greater anticipation: the enchanting allure of Utah, the prospect of finally seeing my new house, or the exhilarating idea of seeing Klaus within the hour. In the depths of my heart, I possessed a steadfast certainty, an in-depth awareness of that which captivated my every thought.

There stood a line of sinks, positioned just beyond the edges of the shower cubicles. In unison, we deposited our bags in this designated area, each of us embarking on our own individual tasks. Elena, with an air of quiet determination, was the first among our group to venture into the showers. I found myself lingering behind, hesitating until I was the final one to follow suit.

I had meticulously assembled all the necessary items, ensuring that by the conclusion, I would experience a rejuvenating sensation akin to that of a fresh new flower. I had meticulously gathered my array of essentials: the plush towels, the fragrant shampoo and conditioner, the indulgent coconut body scrub, and the delicate cotton-scented body wash. Alongside these, I carefully packed my trusted moisturizer, the captivating body spray, and a fresh set of clothes to change into.

I adjusted the shower dial to its utmost limit, craving the sensation of scalding water against my skin, even if it meant obscuring my vision amidst the dense veil of steam. The facilities were truly splendid, in such impeccable condition that one could hardly fathom. And within the shower block, the expanse of space was abundant, allowing for indulgence in the most luxurious of showering experiences.

I carefully arranged my fresh attire, ensuring that not a single crease would mar its pristine appearance. With utmost precision, I proceeded towards the shower, gracefully shutting the transparent door behind me and finally immersing myself beneath the cascading water. I used a generous amount of body wash in an enthusiastic scrubbing motion, but the gratifying sensation of liberated impurities and accumulated oils relinquishing their hold on my skin made every moment of this endeavor worthwhile. I had indulged in a bath prior to leaving Mystic Falls, yet it paled in comparison to the sheer bliss of this invigorating shower. The scorching heat cascading upon my skin was simply unparalleled, prompting me to instinctively crack open the shower door, allowing a gentle breeze to infiltrate the steam-laden enclosure.

As I concluded my task, I delicately enveloped my dampened form with a voluminous, pristine hotel towel, ensuring its gentle caress enveloped both my body and hair. With a graceful flourish, I proceeded to coat my underarms with a copious application of the timeless Dove body spray, its original essence permeating the air around me. I could discern the faint sound of the other two showers, their gentle cascades echoing through the cubicle. It seemed that ample time lay before me, a precious opportunity to indulge in my own pursuits. I wasted little time getting dressed, wanting to get as much time at the sink counter as I could before they finished up with their showers. I had put this outfit together back home for this moment. I wanted these to be the clothes I wore when I entered my new house for the first time. I had selected my favorite dark blue jeans; they hugged tightly around my thighs and highlighted my curves perfectly.

Along with my favorite jeans, I had carefully handpicked a captivating camisole top adorned with a mesmerizing black and white floral pattern. Gone were the familiar comforts of my modest undergarments, replaced instead by the allure of my finest push-up bra and its accompanying black lace thong. I gathered my belongings, meticulously arranging them, and gracefully departed from the shower block. The sound of another shower ceasing reached my ears. I made my way back to the sink counter, deftly fastening the plastic bags that the hotel had graciously provided for damp towels. With one of them, I carefully bundled up my worn clothes, tightly knotting the bag before disposing of it in the waste bin nestled in the corner of the room. I wanted to rid myself of any lingering remnants from my final night in Mystic Falls, desiring a clean slate and a fresh start.

April moved swiftly behind me, her hair elegantly coiled atop her head. She gave me a diminutive smile, emerging from her shower and exuding an aura of pristine purity. She was now dressed in a pair of ebony leggings, gracefully paired with elevated heels that added a touch of allure. A pristine sleeveless nylon blouse, as pure as freshly fallen snow, enveloped her form, while a delicate brown leather belt, no wider than a pencil, cinched just beneath her bosom, accentuating her feminine curves. I proceeded to diligently engage in the task of brushing my teeth, while April commenced the indulgence of pampering herself with a rejuvenating facial scrub. Elena emerged from her shower next in a mere fraction of time, her lustrous hair enveloped in a delicate blush-hued fabric.

Elena had changed into a pair of blue jeans similar to mine, wearing a spotless tank top with a white zipper that gracefully extended down to her chest, but without any indication of ulterior motives. The sheer delight of my presence in this very moment, coupled with the weight of remorse slowly seeping into my conscience, proved to be an overwhelming burden to bear. The last thing I needed was the addition of further inquiries to complicate matters.

Over the next thirty minutes, we got rid of all the trapped dirt and oil from our road trip. I cleansed and toned my skin, put whitening strips on my teeth, and flossed before finally applying my makeup. I watched April and Elena in the mirrors as they applied their make-up, neither going overboard with it. I didn't know April's everyday make-up routine, but Elena for sure was sticking to her daily colors and technique. April had gone for some eyeliner and a clear lip gloss. I decided to stick with my typical colors; although I did want to try a little something different, I didn't want to overwhelm Elena. Her nightmare was that we would arrive here and everything would change overnight.

We took advantage of the hairdryers graciously provided, mounted on the wall brackets. Elena, in particular, skillfully wielded the device, deftly smoothing her locks as she targeted the warm gusts, ultimately attaining a flawlessly sleek and straight appearance. As I wielded my trusty circular brush, its bristles gliding through my tresses, I sought to attain the signature curls that adorned my locks with a rather enchanting allure. April meticulously ran her fingers through her hair, which now appeared to be expertly blown out, ensuring that every strand fell into place with utmost precision. With a delicate touch, she gently coaxed the ends of her hair into a subtle curl, adding an extra touch of elegance to her already impeccable appearance. It brought to mind the manner in which it had been fashioned on the day of the memorial. I delicately massaged a dollop of hand cream onto my hands, allowing the silky texture to envelop my skin. With a gentle touch, I then spritzed a hint of perfume onto my wrists, neck, and hair, savoring the delicate fragrance that danced through the air. In my quest to complete all my preparations, I found myself in need of April's hair spray to ensure my curls remained perfectly in place for the rest of the day.

We were all undoubtedly more fragrant; that much was certain. Now that we were all immaculately cleansed, our breaths infused with the refreshing essence of April's mints, we gracefully emerged from the shower block. Both April and Elena made the choice to relinquish their clothes as well, disposing of them in bags just as I had done. Each of us departed with nothing but our products, for we had no desire for further reminders of that night.

When we returned to the station wagon, we gently unlatched the doors, allowing the crisp air to permeate the vehicle's interior. We meticulously rearranged the contents of the trunk, ensuring every item found its rightful place, before embarking on the arduous task of tidying up. With great care, we vigorously shook out each blanket, banishing any lingering dust particles, before delicately folding them into neat squares.

These pristine bundles were then tenderly nestled alongside the plush pillows, creating a harmonious scene within the depths of the trunk. We meticulously removed each and every wrapper, delicately crumpled napkin, forsaken raisin box, and hollowed bottle from the vehicle, depositing them with care into the nearest trash can. Subsequently, we indulged in the gratifying act of availing ourselves of wipes, meticulously wiping away the accumulated grime that had besmirched every nook and cranny of the interior, a dire necessity after crossing a staggering eighteen hundred miles.

With a graceful motion, we delicately shook out the floor mats, ensuring that not a single speck of dust remained. Our thorough focus then turned to the seat belts, which we diligently wiped down, erasing any trace of imperfection. As the gentle breeze caressed our faces, we gracefully rolled down the windows, and with a sense of purpose, we elegantly climbed back into the car, ready to embark on our next adventure.

I silenced the radio, determined to fully immerse myself in the present moment. I ignited the engine, its rumbling vibrations permeating the air as I prepared to navigate out of the parking lot. Elena's gaze betrayed a hint of unease, though she mustered a feeble smile in my direction. April, on the contrary, wore an exuberant grin that stretched from ear to ear. It was not an exorbitant display of jubilation, mind you, but rather a subtle affirmation of her resolute choice to join us in this new life.

I bided my time, mustering the courage to broach the delicate matter out loud.

"Nervous?" I inquired, my voice striving to maintain a steady composure.

"Yeah," Elena replied.

She's going to be fine; we're all feeling this right now.

"How are you doing, April?" Elena asked her

"I'm okay, a little nervous now."

In our newfound town, a plethora of signs adorned the streets, graciously guiding us towards the path that would lead us to our new homes. The individuals we happened upon during our journey were simply engaged in their own affairs, and we seamlessly assimilated into the surroundings, as was appropriate. There were no girls parading about with their skirts adhered to their bodies as if they were painted on, much like the ones I had observed in Mystic Falls. Nor were there any gentlemen endeavoring to exhibit their well-toned physiques through the donning of sleeveless shirts.

As our car glided onto our new street, April gracefully released herself from the confines of her seatbelt and effortlessly maneuvered her way between us. Rows upon rows of houses stretched out before us, their pristine facades gleaming in the sunlight. Some boasted prominent signs, proudly proclaiming their availability to prospective buyers, while others displayed the triumphant mark of being claimed by their fortunate owners. We drove past a grand total of five homes, each adorned with newly laid sod. One particular house caught our attention, as the owners were diligently engaged in the act of soil placement precisely as we glided past in our vehicle. It marked the dawning of a fresh chapter in the lives of many, a fortuitous turn of events that would undoubtedly aid our transition into this new environment. It was an exquisite tapestry of novelty, unrefined and pristine, surpassing all that I had envisioned it to be for us. I found comfort in the fact that we had chosen to leave the windows open, allowing the sweet fragrance of the air to permeate our senses, granting us the opportunity to embrace it, to feel its gentle caress, and to witness the auspicious signs of a prosperous future.

Klaus, please be there; don't let us down. Don't let me down, and don't let yourself down.

The sight of the houses in front of me, standing shoulder to shoulder in perfect harmony, caught my breath and made it tighten inside my chest. The sight before us caused April to emit a high-pitched squeal of surprise. We were gracefully gliding in from the left, and lo and behold, my house emerged first, with its quaint charm and inviting aura. Following suit, April's house materialized, while Elena's residence, nestled at the very end, made its grand appearance, captivating all with its undeniable allure.

The houses had taken over my thoughts to the point where I was oblivious to the sleek, black Range Rover that was obediently waiting in my driveway.

"Wait a second, is that Klaus?" April asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

"Um, yeah, I think it is." Elena responded

With the utmost caution, I inched my way towards the edge of the pavement, my gaze fixated on the pristine black Range Rover that lay before us. I found myself uncertain, for a Range Rover did not seem to align with his personal taste. No, it simply couldn't be him. In a mere breath's time, the door to the driver's side swung ajar, and Klaus effortlessly materialized onto the driveway.

"Oh my god, it's him," April gasped.

"He can hear you." I reminded her, my gaze unwavering, as Klaus cast his gaze in our direction.

Klaus wasn't wearing the same clothes he had left Mystic Falls in. He was now dressed in a pristine white dress shirt, its top buttons left tantalizingly undone, revealing the reflecting necklaces that decorated his neck. The sleeves were casually rolled up to his elbows, showcasing his robust forearms. Completing his look were a pair of black jeans, hugging his form in all the right places, and black wingtip shoes that added an air of sophistication to his overall look. Gazing in our direction, he gracefully removed his sunglasses, delicately cradling them in his palm before bestowing upon us a nod of assurance, indicating that it was indeed permissible for us to approach, assuring us that no one had trailed him and that the situation was precisely as it ought to be.

"I guess we should, uh, pull in." April said behind us.

Stop looking at him! You're making it weird for Elena and April!

Klaus's lips curled into a sly smile as his eyes fell upon the car we had chosen for our journey, comparing it with his own. He gracefully navigated the perimeter of his car until he was on the other side and out of sight. I clung to the steering wheel with an iron grip, refusing to release it until his figure vanished from my line of sight. Only then did I dare to redirect my gaze towards the girls once more. To my astonishment, I discovered that their eyes were fixed on him, oblivious to the fact that I was looking their way. Elena was in shock that everything had come together, but I don't know what April's excuse was for looking as she did.

Ok, I am not starting this thing feeling jealous. Restart right now.

I maneuvered the car into the driveway along with his, happy to find that there was indeed plenty of space for two cars comfortably.

When, at last, their gazes met mine, I gave them a gentle smile, an attempt to convey my unwavering composure and eagerness to get started. I couldn't bear the thought of them knowing how nervous I was now that we had found ourselves here. So without a moment's hesitation, I unlocked my door and swung it open, concealing my anxiety with practiced finesse.

We emerged from the car as one, our synchronized movements a testament to the unbreakable bond that held us together. Elena trailed behind me on my right, her presence a comforting reminder of our unbreakable bond. April, on my left, matched my every step with an air of anticipation. Together, we ventured around the sleek curves of the Range Rover, our gazes fixed on the majestic structures that awaited us. These were not mere houses, but symbols of our newfound destinies. The front doors of each of the houses were adorned with a vibrant, eye-catching SOLD sign in a striking shade of red. Klaus, true to his word, had gone to great lengths, sparing no expense, to secure our utmost joy and contentment.

Klaus stood on the other side, his hands casually tucked into his front pockets. His sunglasses dangled from his shirt. A subtle fragrance wafted towards me, reminiscent of the intoxicating scent of a brand new car. Could it be that he had indeed made a recent purchase of his own? Had he gone into any of the houses yet? I couldn't fathom that he had, for he appeared just as eager to behold them as we were in that very moment. Had he truly waited for us to arrive before venturing inside? Was this a motive devoid of self-interest? Did he, in truth, harbor a genuine desire to conduct himself as a gentleman and commence our new lives in the most proper manner?

As Elena and April gracefully glided ahead, I found myself entranced by the exterior of my new house. The same house that was in Klaus's name and with whom I would be living for the rest of my life. Klaus, in that moment, seized my attention, his gaze meeting mine as he observed me casting my longing eyes upon the house. I mustered a feeble smile, but the moment it escaped my lips, a wave of regret washed over me. Tyler's image materialized in my thoughts, erasing any trace of positivity and casting a dark shadow over my soul.

As our steps drew us nearer, Klaus turned to meet us head-on, his gaze unwavering. Halting in unison before him, he advanced towards me, a surge of anticipation seizing my lungs, leaving me breathless as he inched nearer. I sealed my eyes shut as he delicately pressed his lips against my cheek, promptly opening them again before he could discern my response to his abrupt display of tenderness.

He did not just kiss me...

I watched with rapt attention as he gracefully approached Elena, his movements imbued with an ethereal elegance. In a fleeting moment, he tenderly pressed his lips against her delicate cheek, mirroring the swiftness with which he had bestowed the same affection upon me. However, unlike my own reaction, this gesture failed to elicit the involuntary fluttering of her eyelids. She, in turn, manifested a countenance of astonishment, perhaps even unease. There, her gaze fell upon me, her expression betraying a distinct lack of admiration for this modified version of Klaus.

I watched him kiss April's cheek, a gentle smile gracing her face as she reciprocated his affection. In return, he bestowed upon her a warm smile, undoubtedly attempting to make amends for the regrettable initial encounter he had with her in Mystic Falls.

Klaus's gaze swept over each of us, his eyes lingering on our faces one by one, a mischievous smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"I see you survived," he said.

I had a thousand questions going through my mind at once. I wanted to hear about his trip here, the origins of our new IDs, the states he encountered during his journey, and whether our arrival had occupied his thoughts while on the open road. However, I found myself unable to do so. Our relationship lacked the casual banter that typically accompanies friendships, or any form of unity, for that matter. And yet, despite this absence, we were bound together; we were married.

I really can't believe this... I might lose it right here and now.

"Hello," April murmured softly to Klaus, her voice barely audible as he slowly distanced himself from her after their tender kiss.

He had bestowed upon us his tender kisses in the very order that he had married us. Whether this was a deliberate act or merely a coincidence, I could not fathom. Yet, an insatiable curiosity gnawed at me, compelling me to ponder whether the others harbored the same inquisitiveness. In the context of his decision, he had elected to confer the first kiss on me.

"How long have you been here?" Elena inquired

"Not long." Klaus replied, his gaze fixed elsewhere, his voice devoid of any interest in acknowledging her presence.

I cast a fleeting gaze in Elena's direction, noticing the unmistakable curiosity etched upon her face as she pondered the enigma of his deliberate avoidance, perplexed by his steadfast refusal to meet her gaze.

"How was your trip?" April inquired, a delicate smile gracing her lips.

"It was fine, sweetheart." Klaus responded, gracing her with a modest smile before shifting away from her to cast his gaze upon the houses.

"So you really did it? They belong to us." I asked, crossing my arms as I studied what was now my home.

"Technically, love, they belong to me."

"Seriously?"

"Where did you get this car?" Elena asked

"I bought it this morning on my way into town."

"It doesn't seem like your style." I commented.

"And what is my style, love?"

April and Elena both gravitated towards my side, their gaze not directed towards my house but rather fixated on their own. The pristine footpaths, crafted from white sandstone pavers, adorned our front gardens with an air of elegance. Unfortunately, all three houses lacked the grandeur of front lawns or ornate garden ornaments.

"So you haven't been inside any of the houses yet?" I asked Klaus.

Klaus cast his gaze in my direction, a playful smirk playing upon his lips as he posed the question, "Does it astonish you that I would actually wait for you?"

He did not just ask me that in front of them.

From the corner of my eye, I detected April's gaze fixated upon him, yet Klaus skillfully eluded her penetrating stare. She was absolutely correct in her unwavering gaze, for he was indeed flirting with me. This did not faze Elena in the same manner; whether she had grown accustomed to it or was merely so wrapped up in the uncertainty of our lives.

"Um, so, the paperwork and all that stuff for the houses has been sorted out?" I asked

"I took care of everything."

He was so confident, completely unfazed by the situation that had left the rest of us shaken. Although something within told me he could sense all our uncertainty, Perhaps this was the reason behind his arrogance this morning; he wanted to come across as an arrangement for now rather than marriage in an effort to ensure we didn't feel pressured.

"Has anyone stopped by?" Elena inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity, causing each of us to turn on our heels, our gazes collectively fixating upon the expanse of our humble street.

I shielded my eyes from the sun's harsh rays, just as we did, allowing my gaze to wander over the neighboring houses. Amongst them was the one that stood directly opposite April's house, or rather, Klaus and April's house. This particular house was the only one adorned with a prominent sold sign.

"No one," Klaus responded.

"It works for us. Less neighbors, fewer questions about all of us moving into three different houses on the exact same day." I said.

"I'll have cameras installed on the front and rear of all three properties, home security systems in place, and flood lights put in between each of the houses." Klaus informed us.

Each of us looked his way, but he did not look at any of us. Instead, his attention remained focused on the neighboring properties and the potential risks that could arise if prompt preventive measures were not implemented. It was truly heartwarming to know that his motivations were solely focused on ensuring our well-being and providing us with a sense of security in our daily lives. In regard to our ability to protect ourselves, both Elena and I were undoubtedly well-equipped. However, it is important to note that April, being human, held a different perspective on the matter, which carried a deeper significance for her.

"Do you really think it's necessary?" Elena asked him

"I believe no unnecessary risks would be best. Don't you?" Klaus inquired, sending her a fleeting glare.

"We're going to need to come up with a back story before any neighbors come knocking. I can almost feel a welcome basket being prepared as we speak." I said

"What sort of back story?" April asked.

"Something that would protect us should anyone see Klaus." I took a moment to shift my attention towards Klaus and subsequently redirected my gaze towards April. "If anyone saw Klaus inside one of our houses, we need a reason as to why."

"Oh, I hadn't even thought of that." She confessed.

"We shall keep the arrangement simple. To the outsight of the world, Caroline shall be my wife as she was first. And should anyone obtain the influence to look into our records and find that I indeed own all three properties, we shall tell them that Caroline and I rent out the two additional properties for income." Klaus explained his solution so easily that the words merely rolled out of his mouth. "That way, should anyone ever see me inside the additional houses, I am there discussing home repairs or dealing with a tenant issue."

"That's actually brilliant." I pointed it out aloud accidentally.

"She's right." April agreed very quickly.

"But if we stick with that story, you'll need a source behind the wealth that allowed you to buy all three houses, totaling over a million dollars."

"There's already a plan in motion for when such a time presents itself," Klaus informed Elena.

"Care to share with us what that plan is exactly?" I asked

"In time, love." He told me before making his way towards the passenger door of his new car.

During our observation, we witnessed him carefully and discreetly placing a black leather binder under his arm. Afterwards, he retrieved three sets of silver keys from his front pocket and proceeded to rejoin us. Our attention was focused on his actions as he meticulously examined the keys in his possession. He proceeded to distribute the initial set to Elena, followed by myself, and ultimately to April. During the brief moment, we each took a minute to carefully examine the items in our hands before redirecting our attention towards Klaus.

"What?" Klaus inquired, seeking clarification.

"I don't know." I confessed

"It just feels real now." April confessed to not taking her eyes off the keys to her house.

Klaus cleared his throat before asking us, "I'm sure the journey here allowed you all ample time to discuss; what was it you called it again? The schedule?"

Seriously? We've only been here for five minutes.

"We did, but nothing is really set in stone yet." I told him.

"We've planned the first week only." April told him before noticing my intense gaze, which made her uncomfortable and caused her to withdraw slightly.

I locked eyes with Klaus. "Today is my day." I told him without the slightest hesitation in my voice. "For this week only, we'll be going by the order we, um, you know, got married." I conveyed.

"I see."

"Then we'll start all over again."

Klaus furrowed his brows. "Even if you did, it would constantly leave Sunday open each week."

"We already thought about that." Elena informed him.

"And?"

"We decided we'd work around that by placing two nights in a row together, alternating each week."

"So each month we get two nights in a row with you each." April said with a warm smile.

Hearing about our mutually arranged endeavors, Klaus exhibited a discreet smirk and purposefully evaded meeting my gaze, diverting his focus elsewhere.

"You agreed we'd be responsible for the schedule." I reminded him then.

"Do you hear me complaining, love?" He asked, his gaze locking with mine.

"Well, no but."

"There's also some other stuff." Elena interrupted, then, to my relief.

"Yes? What might that be?" Klaus asked

"It's just a small thing, really," April told him.

"Our days begin at nine a.m."

"What exactly does that mean?"

I let out a sigh and answered, "Basically, every morning you need to be out of the house you spent the night before by nine, because that's when the next wife's day begins with you."

I cannot believe those words just came out of my mouth.

"That's the decision we've made."

To my surprise, he was still wearing a smirk on his face as he looked back at me.

"What do you think?" April asked Klaus then.

"Lots of things." Klaus sent her a small wink, which elicited a smile from her.

So basically, he's not going to tell us what he thinks of the schedule; he's going to leave us guessing.

"We better head inside, check everything out, and get an idea about where we're going from here." I suggested taking a step backwards.

"Shall we?"

Klaus approached me while we simultaneously redirected our attention towards the house. His warm hand promptly rested on the small of my back. I noticed that when I looked in his direction, he avoided making eye contact with me. When I glanced behind us, I noticed Elena and April walking down the driveway towards the sidewalk to avoid the dirt. It seemed that neither of them were aware of his current actions. During that moment, I focused on maintaining composure despite feeling my heart pound against my chest in response to his touch. From a broader perspective, it can be argued that he did not exceed any boundaries.

After all, we were married.

As we approached the diminutive front porch, I meticulously scrutinized his every movement. His touch left my back, a sensation that sent a shiver down my spine. With a graceful movement, he reached into the depths of his jeans' front pocket, retrieving a gleaming silver key chain. The key chain, a delicate assemblage of six unique keys, dangled from my fingertips. There, before me, lay three sets, each adorned with a unique rubber cover gracing their summits. One set boasted a gentle hue of velvety brown; another set adorned itself with covers of deep emerald green; and the final set exuded a delicate tone reminiscent of a serene summer sky. In my first fleeting glance, I swiftly ascertained that the unique hues aligned with the individual houses.

Wait, he has his own key to my house! OF COURSE HE DOES, IT'S HIS HOME!

With a gentle touch, Klaus unlocked the door, his chivalrous nature shining through. He then extended a gracious gesture, inviting me to enter before him. He was a true gentleman in every sense. In the course of events, our arms unintentionally brushed against each other as I walked past. I couldn't be certain if his attention was drawn to it, but I, without a doubt, found myself acutely aware of the matter at hand.

"Not the type to be carried over the threshold, love?" he inquired after closing the front door.

"Stop flirting with me," I cautioned him, steadfastly refusing to cast a glance over my shoulder. I sensed his gaze fixated upon my ass in that very moment.

"Not now, I have you here."

"You don't have anything right now, but..." I found myself utterly incapable of completing my train of thought, rendered speechless by the breathtaking sight that unfolded before my very eyes—the front room of my new home.

"I have everything," Klaus said gently from behind, his voice velvety and attuned to my emotions, observing me engage in a sensitive interlude.

However, I found myself unable to respond, my senses overwhelmed by the lingering fumes that permeated the air. The walls, freshly coated with a layer of paint, emitted a distinct odor that consumed my attention entirely.

We crossed the small corridor, seamlessly moving into the expansive sitting room on the right. Every room boasted an identical beige carpet, harmoniously complemented by walls adorned with a delicate eggshell hue.

Every step we took reverberated through the empty house, the absence of furniture in each room igniting my imagination with fervor. In an instant, my mind began to conjure vivid images of my heart's desires, blissfully disregarding the fact that I would not be the sole resident of this newfound home. Immediately, a fear crept into my mind, whispering that our tastes may not align harmoniously.

The expansive sitting room revealed itself, seamlessly flowing into the inviting dining area, which in turn led to the culminating kitchen at the far end. A delightful surprise awaited as yet another sitting room graciously extended its presence, nestled to the left of the culinary haven. The kitchen cabinets, crafted from the finest cherry wood, exuded an air of class and refinement. Their rich, deep hues perfectly complemented the sleek black marble back splash, which mirrored the opulence of the counter surfaces. In the heart of the kitchen, a distinct space unfolded, housing a secluded laundry area and pantry. Nestled within this enclave, a door beckoned that descended into the depths of a grandiose basement.

We headed up the stairs next, our footsteps echoing softly against the polished wood. The second floor beckoned to us, concealed within a smaller, more intimate hallway that branched off from the elegant dining room. There were a grand total of four bedrooms, with the master bedroom graciously positioned at the far end on the left, boasting its very own en suite bathroom. Down the hall, two additional bathrooms awaited, both with their own corner showers and meticulously designed triangle corner tubs.

Inside the master bedroom, there was a breathtaking view of the street, and the trio of our driveways unfolded before me. Naturally, my attention fixated on every conceivable detail as we crossed the threshold into that room. I was resolute in avoiding his gaze, yet an undeniable sensation informed me that his eyes trailed my every move from the very instant we stepped inside. I found myself unprepared to broach the subject of bedroom arrangements, pondering whether he might desire a separate room of his own.

Oh my god, what if Elena and April had thought about sleeping arrangements? Elena won't share a bed with him; I know that much already. But what about April?

Silently, we returned downstairs, our thoughts unspoken regarding the house. Together, we absorbed its essence, envisioning the possibilities that lay within its walls and contemplating the transformation that could be achieved through diligent labor and unwavering dedication.

"It's even bigger than in the pictures." I murmured softly as we made our way into the kitchen.

Instead of a humble backdoor nestled within the kitchen's confines, there stood a pair of grandiose patio doors, resplendent in their double glory, beckoning one towards the charming backyard. Much like its frontal counterpart, this outdoor haven was devoid of any paved pathway; its terrain was adorned solely with untamed earth. There existed no gates or fences to separate the three yards, and despite the considerable expanse that lay between our homes and our neighboring houses, it was imperative to build a formidable fence so as to safeguard the sanctity of our respective yards from prying eyes. I found myself standing at the kitchen sink, my gaze fixated on the garden window just above it. Through the glass, I beheld the mesmerizing sight of the freeform pool, its boundaries adorned with a delicate frame of red brick, nestled within the confines of April's backyard. If it were mine, I would already find myself immersed within its depths, for it appeared to intensify in its scorching heat with each passing moment.

I turned on my heel, my gaze locking with Klaus's, only to discover that a smile had already graced his lips.

"You should probably go over and check that everything is okay at the other houses." I suggested.

"I was just about to suggest the same thing, love. There is much to discuss."

"Well, yeah, we need furniture for a start."

"There will be plenty of time for that. There are much more pressing matters."

"Such as?"

"You shall see."

I observed Klaus as he carefully tucked the supple leather binder beneath his arm. With a graceful stride, he made his way towards the patio doors and seamlessly towards his house with April. I observed intently, my eyes fixed on the scene unfolding beyond the glass pane. Klaus, with an air of quiet confidence, effortlessly gained entry through yet another home, adorned with a delicate patio door, using his key. It was a challenge to fathom that I would bear witness to him doing this, going from house to house, day in and day out, indefinitely.

A few minutes later, she still remained there, leaving me to ponder the perplexing machinations unfolding behind closed doors. Only to roll my eyes at my own insecurities, Klaus had been over here with me, going through every inch of the house for the past ten minutes. He wasn't in Utah solely for my sake; I had to regain composure. He took us all as his wives, and though the notion may have seemed unconventional to some, it was only logical that each of us should be granted an equal share of his time as we set out upon this new chapter in our intertwined destinies.

I'm married now. I'm his wife...

I slowly retreated from the sink, my senses suddenly attuned to the world around me. It was in that moment, a moment of profound clarity, that I finally allowed myself to fully absorb the scene before me. This is the culmination of our arduous journey, the precise instant we have longed for, where we can finally release ourselves and surrender to tranquility.

And with each passing day, ever so gradually, the weight of our transgressions would diminish, as if carried away on a summer breeze. In time, we would discover the path to redemption, a path that would lead us towards solace and restoration.

I wandered aimlessly for the next thirty minutes, my footsteps echoing through the empty halls of the house. As I made my way back towards the kitchen, a peculiar noise caught my attention, emanating from the recesses of the backyard. Swiftly, I hastened my steps towards the familiar window, where I beheld Klaus emerging from April's house, or rather, his home with April. She joined him, but instead of obediently trailing behind as he veered towards Elena's home, she gracefully veered towards my humble home. The sound of the patio doors opening and closing reached my ears, drawing my attention. I kept my gaze on Klaus, who was successfully entering Elena's house.

Although I couldn't say for certain, it seemed like for a moment that he had locked the door behind him.

What's that all about?

"Oh my god, your kitchen is twice the size of mine." April commented after letting herself in.

She disappeared upstairs, and I could hear her making her way between the rooms before she finally rejoined me in the kitchen.

"Glad I didn't pick this house; the kitchen would have been completely wasted on me."

"You don't like to cook?"

"I can't cook; I burn corn flakes."

I couldn't help but release a soft laugh, my body gracefully finding its place upon the smooth expanse of the countertop. April, with her effortless charm, swiftly joined me, perching herself upon the kitchen island opposite, her beaming grin enveloping me in a comforting warmth.

"Are you okay?" She asked, then

She was so innocent and gentle in nature, and her eyes were so full of love and concern for my wellbeing.

"I'm doing okay, but I'll admit I'm a little tired now."

"That's not surprising; you did most of the driving."

"We all did our part."

"I guess."

"What about you? Are you coping okay?"

"I mean, yeah, I guess. When I first went into my place and was alone, it kind of hit me a bit, and I started to think about my dad."

"Of course you did. You've not had a second to stop and think these last few days."

"But then Klaus showed up." She stopped to smile.

"He wanted to check on you both." I lied, but it was a kindness.

April nodded.

"So what did you guys talk about?" I asked

Don't make her tell you that. Don't do that to her.

"Erm, not a lot I guess. He said he's going to get a stronger air conditioning system installed because the house is really hot."

"Ah"

"Yeah, he said your place was fine, but over there is like an oven." April groaned before rolling her stiff neck.

"I wonder if it's the same case over at Elena's place."

"Should we go over there?"

"No, probably not." I said

"I just figured with their history together, they shouldn't be left alone so quickly."

"No, I get it too, but we have to remember that in order for this to work, we have to give ourselves these little daily pushes."

"I just hope they try their best to get along because, for all we know, their tension could do things to the spell."

"Oh my god, don't even say that." I warned her.

Why the hell didn't I think of that?

"You don't think that deep down the two of them are secretly hot for each other, do you?"

"What?!"

"Oh, you know what I mean, the two characters that pretend they can't stand each other until their passions take over and suddenly they have like the perfect I've got to have you right now kind of kiss."

"I think you're way off on that one."

"Yeah, probably." April huffed.

"Klaus killing Jenna changed Elena; after she was gone, she became a legal guardian to Jeremy, and she had to grow up fast. Leaving her very little time to grieve."

April nodded her head, recalling Klaus and Elena's sketchy past.

"I don't suppose you guys got onto the subject of sleeping arrangements for tonight."

In that very moment, the patio door glided open, and Klaus gracefully entered the room. Both of us sat there, our eyes widening with shock as we beheld his presence. Klaus, with an undeniable air of amusement, struggled to conceal his malicious smirk, undoubtedly having caught wind of that intriguing little revelation.

"Join us outside." He said his gaze was lingering on me for a fleeting moment before he turned away, leaving us behind.

Elena found herself perched upon the traditional picnic bench, her gaze fixed on Klaus, who occupied the other end. In a silent exchange of understanding, I conferred upon her a subtle nod, which she reciprocated with equal grace. April swiftly claimed the seat beside me, compelling me to settle by Klaus's side as he deftly unfastened the leather binder he had been toting along.

He extracted the foremost of three voluminous ivory envelopes from within their confines. He settled his attention on April before handing her the top one in the stack.

"As much as it would have pleased me to legally make you all Mikaelsons, we have to remain under the radar. So meet the new April Young," he said as she delicately accepted the envelope from his outstretched hands.

We beheld her as she unveiled its contents, delicately extracting a passport and an assortment of various official documents.

April gingerly opened the passport. "I'm now twenty-two?" She asked and glanced at Klaus, seeking confirmation of her newfound age.

He nodded.

"You can pull it off," I said.

"You made my birthday one month after my real one?" She asked with a small smile on her lips.

"As I did for all three of you." Klaus explained it to us.

He proceeded to hand Elena the next envelope, and then finally mine.

"None of you were born in the same state; you're all from different states, so we keep our back story clean."

"Jesus, you got it all." A gasp escaped my lips involuntarily as my eyes beheld the extraordinary sight of the meticulously forged documentation laid out before me.

"You'd swear these were real." April commented as she presented Elena with what I surmised to be her recently acquired birth certificate.

"Now onto the financials." Klaus said this before presenting us with three sleek black envelopes.

"I was deliberating upon the best course of action with regards to expenditures. I have contrived a cunning scheme to bestow upon each of you a monthly stipend, for which you will be responsible for covering your household expenses, clothing, and utilities."

"Well, I was thinking of getting a job," April said as he handed her envelope to her.

Klaus's lips curled into a partial smile, a glimmer of amusement dancing in his eyes as he observed the mirrored reflection of uncertainty etched upon my face.

"You are all welcome to live your lives as you wish, as per the agreement. However, I will be taking responsibility for all financial matters; the money shall be your own to use. On this subject, I am unmovable."

"But..." Due to the overwhelming magnitude of what lay before her, Elena's voice faltered. The contents of the envelope held her captive, as if time itself had frozen in reverence.

Her reaction came to a sudden halt, causing April and me to follow suit. Taking a look at what lay inside each envelope

"There's got to be over five thousand dollars in here." April said as our collective gaze fell towards Klaus in unison.

"None of you have ever run a house; believe me, you will soon find out how quickly it all disappears."

"Even if we ran every power socket in each of the houses night and day for a month, this would still be too much. We can't accept this."

Klaus looked from one of us to the other and said, "You are my wives." He said to us then, his voice a bit more stern now, like it had been back in the forest, "You will be given comfortable lives."

"This isn't comfortable; this is memory foam. And not what we agreed." I told him.

"I'm sure you'll learn to live with it, love." He refused to meet my gaze.

In an instant, a resounding ring echoed through the air, causing Elena April and I to flinch in unison.

"You said no phones." I said to Klaus

"It's new"

Klaus emitted a low, pained sound as he delved into the depths of his denim trousers, extracting it. With a swift motion, he made his way back into the kitchen before finally answering the call.

We've been here for one day; who had he given his new number to so quickly?

---

Klaus Mikaelson

I navigated my way through the kitchen, its comforting scents enveloping me, until I found myself in the sanctuary of the sitting room. It was imperative that I position myself at a safe distance from both Caroline and Elena, ensuring that their prying ears would not intercept my conversation. With a measured breath, I finally succumbed to the persistent call, my voice poised to respond.

"I didn't expect to be hearing from you so quickly." I answered before biting my lower lip. "Start talking, sweetheart."

---

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