Title: The Gods of Virginia
Rating: M
Genre: AU/AH, Time Travel/Romance
Pairing(s): Bonnie/Stefan, Bonnie/Damon, Elijah/Katherine, Tyler/Caroline, Rebekah/OC, Matt/Katherine, etc.
Summary: When an accident sends Bonnie Bennett back to 1864, and circumstance forces her into becoming a "kept" woman, she is less than excited to find that Damon Salvatore will be the one for whom she will play placée, but it is the price she must pay to live amongst the gens de couleur, a society that holds the only ancestor she has with the power to send her home. However, Bonnie begins to interest Stefan Salvatore as well and to make matters worse Mystic Falls isn't ready to witness open concubinage between a white man and a black woman especially when that woman is suspected of witchcraft.
Warnings: Time Travel, Non-Canon, Racism, Sexual Content, Violence, Original Character etc.
Part Five: Exposed
It is an odd thing to think that you know someone and then realize that you don't really know them at all. Or maybe you do know them, and there was simply a side of themselves that they didn't bother to show to you before or that they themselves don't even remember having. But what if the person that you think you know, that you don't really know is actually yourself? What if you are stronger than you ever thought that you could be? What if you are weaker? What if you can care about people that you never expected to be able to feel anything but indifference for? What if you can love someone even when you know that you are not meant to love them? What if you can want someone to love you that you aren't supposed to have? What do you do then? When you look into a mirror and stop being able to decipher the person that looks back at you? When you change, and become something else then what happens to the person that you once were? When you see things, terrible things that break you and inspiring things that lift you up so high that you feel as if you are never going to come down, who are you once you reach the ground?
I have been broken in this place. I have been empowered in this place. I have been loved in this time. I have loved in this time. I am not just a girl anymore. Not just a witch. Not just a friend that does more for her friends than they do for her. I am a savior. I am a descendant. I am a rebel who fights degradation. I am the witch who escaped being burned. I am petite sœur. I am cher ami. I am la fille douce, I am l'amour de sa vie. I am un morceau de son âme. I am both less and more than I was before I came and yet…yet I don't know who to be when I come back. I don't know which person will fit into the world that I come back to, the person I was before or the one I am now.
Nearly everyone from this time that I have grown to care about now will be lost to me and the ones that aren't will no longer be human and may no longer care about me….I don't know who I will have left. I am writing to you because I know if nothing else I will have you. We may not be in the best of places in our friendship, but you are my only constant. When I come back I am sure that everything else will have gone up in flames and all that is left will be ashes.
― From Bonnie Bennett's letter to Caroline Forbes written, April, 1864
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
Aimee Bennett-Mercier scanned the letter in front of her with a small frown. She folded the paper, placing it back into the envelope that she had received it in and looked up as her descendant entered her husband's study.
Bonnie had come over the minute that Aimee had told her that she had gotten word from New Orleans. She wished that she had good news to tell the girl. Though, the situation was not entirely hopeless; she knew that Bonnie was itching to go home. No matter how good she was treated in this time or how much the girl had grown to care about the people she had found in this time it was still painfully obvious that she did not belong there.
Bonnie may have had issues with her own time, but this one didn't agree with her either. Then there was the issue of the feelings that Raoul was certain that both of the Salvatore brothers were beginning to have for Bonnie. While Aimee was sure that Bonnie was oblivious to them both being enamored with her, it was rather plainly written on their faces whenever Bonnie was anywhere near either of them.
Aimee studied the girl now as she stood before her looking every inch the creole maiden in the blue day gown she was wearing, her hair pinned up, and a string of pearls around her neck. She wondered what the best way to broach the topic of her not being able to be sent home just yet would be.
"Raoul said you had news," Bonnie's eyes searched Aimee's face, "About the man with the watches."
Aimee nodded. "He's been spotted heading in the direction of Indiana," Aimee told her, "He is moving, but not fast. My acquaintances are tracking him but it will take time. Then once they find him they will have to convince him to give them a watch. Then they will have to bring the watch here, which will…"
"Take time," Bonnie finished with a frown, "I know." She tried to keep her face from falling but she could tell by Aimee's expression that she had failed. "It isn't that I don't like being here some days. I love you and Raoul. And Thomas makes me laugh more than any person I've ever met. Corrine reminds me what it's like to have a mother and Emmanuelle what it's like to have real friend. Damon and Stefan have been kinder to me than I could have ever imagined that they would. But even if this place eventually feels like home, it will never change the fact that it is not my home."
Bonnie was surprised when Aimee came up to her and wrapped her arms around her, embracing her with a hug. "You are bearing this better than most would," Aimee whispered as she patted Bonnie's back, "I just wish that there was more that could be done."
"You have done more than enough. I appreciate it and I am extremely grateful for it. For you," Bonnie said, emphasizing her words as she hugged Aimee back. This was something that she would miss. The care that everyone showed her. The genuine concern for her and her wellbeing. The genuine disappointment that someone felt when they thought that they had failed her. As much as she missed home, Bonnie knew that once she returned to her time that she would not have any of that. "Thank you for caring enough about me to try," Bonnie sighed, as she pulled back.
"We will do more than try," Aimee promised, "It may not happen as soon as you would like it to but we will get you home, Bonnie. And in the meantime, I will teach you everything that I can. Do you feel well enough to go over some of the spells that we have been working on before you leave?"
Bonnie nodded. That was another thing that she would not have once she returned home, real guidance in terms of her powers. While Abby was open to trying, the woman's own powers were weak and even still Bonnie wasn't sure how long her mother would be staying. "Sure," Bonnie nodded, deciding to spend less time mourning about not being able to go home and more time taken advantage of the things that she had in this time that would be lost to her once she was gone while she still had them.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Damon Salvatore looked at the small antique keepsake box in his hands. He had found it in the attic of the boarding house, hidden beneath the floor boards. It had been gifted to Bonnie by him, once upon a time. It was made of rosewood because red was Bonnie's favorite color. The design on the lid was hand painted orchids because they were her favorite flower.
A wistful sort of smile on his face, Damon flipped the lock on box open. He wasn't sure what to expect. Bonnie had always been putting things inside of it, but no one ever got to look in to see what they were but her.
Sighing Damon sat down on the couch he had been standing in front of and lifted the lid. He frowned as he pulled out a handkerchief that had his brother's initials embroidered on the corner. Tossing it aside, he continued to look through the box. A worn copy of The Woman in White, another allusion to his brother, made him roll his eyes. He smiled as he pulled out a hair comb that Aimee had gifted Bonnie with. Next there was another handkerchief that Corrine had embroidered with orchids that had Bonnie's initials in the corner. Next there was a pair of silk gloves that had belonged to Emmanuelle, a small wooden horse that Solomon had carved for her the day that she had learned to ride, and then a silver locket that had belonged to Thomas' sister.
Damon was about to close the box, sure that there was no memorabilia from the time that he and Bonnie had had together but stopped as he reached the things that littered the bottom. Damon laughed as he pulled out a black leather glove. He had thought that it had gone missing, but Bonnie had had it all along.
The next item was a button that had fallen off his military jacket the night that Bonnie learned that he would once again have to go to war. He could remember what else had happened that night as if it were yesterday. It had been the greatest moment of his life up until then and as he thought to himself, he realized that it still was.
Shaking his head he brushed away the memory and continued to look. He came across a folded piece of paper and he realized as he unfolded it that it was the last page of the contract that he had signed with Bonnie. Even more confused he folded the paper once more and set it aside.
There was a stained scrap of shirt and upon closer inspection Damon realized the stain was blood. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion, and then he remembered exactly where it came from. "Why would she keep something like this?" He asked himself before he continued to look through the box.
He came upon a collection of photographs. The first was a worn picture of Raoul and Aimee. There was yet another of Thomas La Belle. Another still of Emmanuelle Fontaine. Another photo of himself and Stefan, an exposure they had gotten done just a few months before Bonnie had arrived. It was the last of the photographs that caught his attention. He set the others aside carefully and picked the last ones up.
After learning that Raoul could no longer protect him, Damon had wanted a picture of him and Bonnie together that he could keep with him. Bonnie had obliged even knowing that she would soon have to run or rather return home. They had had to be careful as the town had set its sights on her by then. They had snuck out in the dead of night and gone to the town over. It had taken a great deal of bribery but eventually the photographer in the town had agreed to take their photograph.
However, the problem with photographs back then was the length of time that one had to sit still before there could be a capture taken. Things had gone fine when Bonnie had taken a few photographs on her own. One of which she had obviously given to Stefan as it had been within the book that had been his favorite. But when it came time for Damon and Bonnie to take a photograph together three of them were ruined by movement, the images blurred, before they had finally gotten one to come out right. The first had been ruined when Damon had decided that he had wanted to be holding her hand the picture, their hands blurring and morphing into one. The second had been ruined by their laughter. The third by Damon kissing her on the cheek. They were all there, the three that had been ruined and the one that they had gotten right.
Damon wondered how she had managed to get all of the photographs from the photographer without him knowing. He ran his fingers over the last photo, but froze as he heard footsteps entering the room. He carefully began to replace the items back in the box as he had found them.
As he closed the box, he scowled as he realized who his intruder was. "What the hell are you doing here?" Damon asked.
Katherine Pierce smiled at him before taking a seat next to him. "I happened to be in the neighborhood," she said, "I needed to make sure Klaus was still too distracted by his family drama to come back after me. I overheard something interesting and I wanted to confirm it."
Damon blinked at her, as he sat the box aside and away from her. She was silently studying his face as if she was searching for something. "Get out," he sighed after a moment.
Katherine continued to watch him for a long moment. "It's true then," she laughed, after she had apparently found what she was looking for, "You were in love with the witch before me and you're still in love with her." She rolled her eyes as he huffed. "Don't bother denying it. It's written all over your face. Apparently she's into brothers too because Stefan is at The Grille waxing poetic about precious little Bonnie Bennett and their tragic love."
Damon winced, but recovered quickly. "Jealous are you?" Damon asked, his lip quirking upward. He didn't care if she was or not. He just wanted to change the subject.
"No," Katherine smirked, "But you obviously are. I thought that I was the first woman that ever came between you two but this is clearly a pattern. Even before me and wee little doe eyed Elena."
"It's not like we remembered her before now so I wouldn't really call it history repeating itself," Damon sighed.
"It doesn't matter what you call it," Katherine shrugged, "It is what it is. You are letting another woman come in between you and your brother. The question is, is she worth it?" Damon frowned as he looked away from her. "I mean you claim I wasn't and looking back on it now I have to agree," she pressed, "And my little doppelganger sure as hell isn't worth it. So I'll ask you again….is the witch worth it?"
"Yes," Damon murmured, opening up to her in spite of himself. It wasn't as if he had anyone else to talk to. No one that would understand. He couldn't talk to Stefan, besides Stefan had Raoul now. There was Alaric but he was too consumed by the good doctor Meredith Fell to listen to Damon's problems. Other than that there was no one. "She's worth it," he said.
"Next question," Katherine said, her face turning serious, "Does she love you? I mean really love you." Katherine may not have been in love with Damon but she cared about him to a point. Besides, there were also Stefan's feelings to consider and she was sure that if no one navigated them through the situation this time, the end would be the worst one yet. "Because I may not be your biggest fan but you deserve that Damon," she nodded, "but you aren't going to get it if you don't think you deserve it. You shouldn't be the second choice or the constellation prize. You shouldn't be the guy that gets the girl because she wants to fix him or because she feels sorry for him or because of any reason less than because she wants and loves you. So is that the case?"
He wasn't completely sure. But the things in the box had to mean something. "I think so," he said.
"Then I say go for it," Katherine told him, standing, "I mean you chased after me for centuries and I didn't love or want you so why give up on the witch." Damon glared at her and she shrugged. She turned and began to walk away. "Let me know if you get any word on Klaus."
By then Damon had stopped listening. Picking up the keepsake box, a plan began to form in his head. He decided to listen to Katherine's advice. It was a rare thing that she showed any concern for anything, but even with the animosity that he now felt for her, he could say that when she did give advice the advice that came out of it was usually right.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
Bonnie Bennett looked down at chess board sitting between her and Damon with a small frown on her face. Days had passed and she had tried not to think about the fact that she was no closer to getting home. Still sometimes it got to her and the others noticed, she was sure of it. She was very rarely left alone and more often than not, when she was given a moment by herself, someone would come and check on her before she had time to hear her own thoughts.
She didn't mind it so much, she liked the distraction, for the most part. In this case, while Bonnie did not mind the company, she did mind the chosen distraction. Damon had spent the last two hours attempting to teach Bonnie the finer points of chess. It was all going over her head. She could hardly keep track of the names of the pieces let alone the rules of the game.
As an incentive, Damon had suggested that with every game, the loser would have to reveal either one dark secret about themselves, two interesting facts about themselves, or three very dull things about themselves. So far Bonnie had been made to reveal three dull things and two interesting facts. Damon had only been made to reveal only three dull things and the game that he had lost had been one in which Solomon had assisted her.
However, Solomon and Corrine were both in the kitchen preparing dinner and so Bonnie was left to her own devices. "This game isn't very fun," Bonnie sighed, as Damon took out one of her knights.
"But I like winning," Damon laughed as he removed his jacket, "Almost as much as I like learning things about you."
"If you want to learn about me then just ask," Bonnie pouted, "The cruel and unusual punishment is not necessary."
Smiling, Damon rolled his eyes. "Well," he sighed pushing the chess board to the side, "What would you have us do instead, Miss Bennett?"
Bonnie tried to keep the impassive look on her face but she caught herself smiling anyway. It was an odd thing but she found that she actually liked Damon, this Damon. It wasn't a matter of simply tolerating him or just grudgingly respecting him in certain moments. She stood running a hand down the front of the pink dress that she was wearing. "You could teach me something useful," Bonnie suggested, "Some dances perhaps?"
Damon shook his head. Still he knew that he would concede, there was not much, if anything, that he would deny her. "My toes have just recovered from the last time that we danced," he grinned.
Bonnie sighed as she retook her seat. She had never had problems dancing before. But the dancing they did in this time was much different and she had really wanted to learn. It was something she had thought about since the ball.
She would just have to join Corrine in the kitchen. Or perhaps she would call on Raoul and Aimee. Or she could always wait for Stefan to get back from riding with his father so that he could amuse her. She couldn't be alone. She knew that the moment she was alone she would think of home again.
Just last night she had cried herself to sleep thinking about her father. About the possibility of him coming home and not finding her there. About how worried he would be. About him having to eat out like he did on the road because she wasn't there in order to cook for him.
"How about you show me a dance that you know," Damon suggested, "I've been in your company for some time. Watched you move." Bonnie raised an eyebrow at the statement but he continued anyway. "You are very graceful. Very conscious of your movements. You must know some dances."
Bonnie blinked, surprised at his words. She hadn't realized he had paid that much attention to her. "Well," she murmured, "I do dance…but not any dances that you know." She had always been a good dancer and then there was the cheerleading. But those things weren't something that she could show him. Then a thought came to her, but she shook her head a moment later brushing it away.
"You were thinking something just now," Damon pointed his index finger at her, his cerulean eyes narrowing, "What was it?" He had gotten much better at reading her since her arrival, though there was always something that she tried to keep hidden. If one watched her long enough, she was quite transparent.
Were it anyone else, Bonnie might have attempted to drop the subject but she knew better than to try and brush Damon off. He was stubborn as a human and even more so as a vampire. "I suppose," she began, carefully, clearing her throat, "We could maybe….try slow dancing."
Damon frowned, his eyebrows furrowed. He had never heard the term before. "Is that so different from what we did at the ball?" He asked.
Bonnie nodded. "Kind of," she bit her bottom lip and titled her head to the side, "I guess. It can be." She glanced around the parlor room until her eyes landed on the cylinder music box that sat across the room. "I'll show you," she offered.
Walking over to the music box she picked a melody and then turned it on. It was odd to her when there were such advanced musical technology in her time but she was getting used to the simplicity of the time. In a way she admired it. Admired that people took the time to have actual conversation and found more entertainment in each other's company than outside sources. If her time had still been like that then she likely would have been much closer to the people she had left behind.
She turned back to Damon and held out her hand. "Come here," she instructed.
Damon hesitated as she looked at him expectantly. It was one thing sitting across the table from her, and another being close to her, touching her. He swallowed as he considered his options.
The decision was made for him as Bonnie walked up to him and took his hand, tugging him to his feet. He allowed himself to be pulled toward the open space in the center of the room. "What now?" He asked, as she stood in front him.
She took his other hand and then guided both of his hands toward her waist. "Your hands go here," Bonnie said, realizing belatedly that this was much closer than they had been when they had danced at the ball. Still she had said that she would show him and they had danced once before in her time with him as a vampire. It was drastically different circumstances but the closeness had not been that far from how close they were now. Forging ahead, Bonnie wrapped her own arms around Damon's neck. "Mine go here," she murmured.
"Are we meant to be this close?" Damon asked. He could smell the softness of her scent and their faces so close that if he leaned down just so…
"Yes," Bonnie answered, breaking the direction of his thoughts. Nodding, Bonnie looked down at the floor. "Sometimes," she whispered, "People are even closer." She was about to explain the context in which it would occur when Damon tugged her gently forward.
"Like this?" Damon asked, as she fell against him. He felt emboldened as she looked at him with wide eyes.
Bonnie cleared her throat, there was something in the way that he was looking at her, equal parts intense and confusing. "That type of closeness," Bonnie explained, taking a step backward, "Is usually reserved for those that are romantically involved."
"Have you danced that close to anyone?" Damon asked, feeling slightly affronted at the thought.
Bonnie nodded. "Once or twice," she smiled, as he frowned, "If I hadn't then I wouldn't be able to show you."
"Then perhaps we should remain close," he said, pulling her against him once more, "For learning purposes." He knew that he was pushing boundaries. They were friends and Bonnie seemed to be adamant about how important that was to her. However, he could not help what he was beginning to feel for her. A need to be closer. A need for more, even as he was unsure of what exactly it was that he wanted.
He ran his hands up and down her back and she realized that the music had stopped before they had even had the chance to begin dancing. "Damon," Bonnie frowned, her eyebrows knitting together in bewilderment, "What are you doing?"
"I am not really certain," he revealed, "I just know that I enjoy being close to you."
Bonnie blinked at him, not sure how she felt about the statement. She didn't mind the closeness either. But there was something about the time they were in that made it all slightly off-putting. She was contracted to him. In essence he owned her. So if there was ever a time that he decided that he desired her, he could take her if so chose. She didn't believe that he would, but he hadn't been beyond compulsion as a vampire and she wondered how much of that had carried over from when he was still like this, still human.
Bonnie took her hands away from him and took a step away as she heard someone entering the house and heading toward the parlor.
"Bonnie?" Damon frowned, looking at her in concern.
She knew what he was asking. He needed to know if they were still alright. If he had not overstepped too far. "It's fine Damon," she murmured.
Bonnie looked toward the parlor entrance as Stefan walked inside. He smiled at them as he stopped in front of Bonnie. He didn't seem to notice the tension in between his brother and Bonnie as he took her hands. "I have it on good authority that father is retiring one of the plow horses. Which means that if you wish it then you may learn to ride and I would be more than happy to teach you."
Bonnie smiled, surprised by the new development, but happy nonetheless. Still she was sure that Giuseppe had not retired the horse for her use. He had likely planned on selling or killing the animal. However, even with the current animosity, Stefan still had a way with his father. "I would love to learn," Bonnie, beamed, all the while aware of Damon's eyes on her.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Thomas La Belle missed the days of the old, when one could get their magical supplies in one place. The apothecary had always been the witch's best friend. Since they had stopped existing outside of highly populated witch cities like his beloved New Orleans, witches had had to find other means of collecting spell supplies. That was why he was currently roaming through the forest.
In general Thomas hated the outdoors. It was an odd thing for a servant of nature, but he preferred not to roam in wooded areas unless completely necessary. His sister had always been the opposite and so as children when they played Thomas made an exception for her.
The reason that he was in the forest in that moment had to do with another person he was always willing to make an exception for, Bonnie Bennett.
The spell that they were performing in order to protect her upon her return required a certain species of burdock root that only grew in specific environments and wooded areas. As luck would have it, Mystic Falls happened to be a susceptible environment.
Thomas walked near the ruins of Fell's Church and looked along the barely standing stone structures where Aimee had told him that he would be able to find what he was looking for.
He spotted the spiked, purple flowering plant that he was looking for. Pulling the plastic bag he had brought with him out of his pocket, he kneeled down and picked the plant and placed it inside. As he stood up straight he frowned as he felt the presence of someone just behind him.
He turned around and frowned harder as his eyes met the grayish blue eyes of statuesque blonde. She eyed him with open disdain as she stopped in front of him. She crossed her arms over her chest and glared. Thomas sized her up, sensing something off about her. He reached out his powers and felt her out in the way that Aimee had taught him. Subtlety without her noticing.
Images flashed through Thomas' head and he frowned as he realized who she was. A vampire. An original. "Can I help you?" He asked blandly as he placed the burdock root into his pocket.
She tilted her head to the side, her stance defensive. "I don't know who you are but you have something of mine and I want it back," she said.
Thomas blinked at her. He had obviously not been as careful as he thought when he had robbed their home. He had obviously left something behind that could be traced back to him, or the mother was more powerful than they had initially thought. Still he decided to play it cool. Aimee had taught him well and even if they found the necklace they wouldn't be able to access it with the charms protecting the box it was now in. "I'm assuming you mean the necklace I stole from your humble abode," he sighed, "But as much as I would love to help you out. You can't have it back until I'm done with it."
"Excuse me," she said, her expression clearly telling him that she wasn't used to being defied.
"Listen," Thomas said, waving his hand dismissively, "What's your name?" She looked confused as he looked at her expectantly.
It was clear to her that he knew who she was, at least to the extent of what family she came from. He had readily referred to her necklace. Still he didn't seem at all afraid or intimidated and she didn't know what to make of that. "Rebekah," she muttered.
"Rebekah," Thomas nodded, "Nice name. Listen Bex…Can I call you Bex? You just seem like a Bex to me." When she didn't respond he continued just the same. "Listen Bex, I don't want to hurt you and I don't have time for this little dance so how about I take a rain check? I mean I have places to be, spells to do….a general schedule to uphold."
"You don't want to hurt me?" Rebekah laughed. She sped forward a moment later, wrapping her hand around his throat and lifting him from the ground. "I'll give you five seconds to tell me where my necklace is before I kill you," she hissed.
Thomas rolled his eyes. He had never liked fighting girls, not even vampires. He was a creole gentlemen, raised to treat women with respect. When it came to females, Aimee normally fought his battles for him. However, this one was leaving him no choice.
Rebekah loosened her grip and screamed as a sudden jolt of pain shot through her head. She fell to her knees a moment later as the pain increased.
The pain stopped as Thomas steadied himself on his feet and he wasn't surprised when she came after him once more. With a wave of his hand he sent her flying into the nearest tree, the vines growing up the trunk, moving to wrap around her and hold her in place. She cursed and struggled to no avail.
"Don't worry, sweetheart," he told her, "They'll loosen up when I'm gone. It was lovely meeting you. Let's do this again sometime."
He turned to leave, but stopped as she called out to him. "Wait!" Facing her once more, he raised a brow in question. "What's your name?" she asked, eyeing him oddly, "I'd like to know exactly who it is I plan on hunting down and killing when I get out of this."
"Thomas La Belle," he grinned, "And I must say I would take no issue with being your prey." He winked and even though she attempted to hide it, he saw her lips twitch upward just a little. "Adieu, ma chérie," he called over his shoulder as he walked away.
"Au revoir, monsieur," she yelled after him, "Until next time." Thomas shook his head and in spite of himself he smiled.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
The apothecary was never a crowded place which gave Thomas ample opportunity to show Bonnie different herbs and their properties. Bonnie was relieved to find that they were the only ones in the small shop as it gave her a break from the staring that she had faced from the townspeople upon leaving the house.
She was listening attentively to Thomas when suddenly the shopkeeper came out from the back of the shop. He was old with a long white beard and pale skin. He nodded toward Thomas, his head gesturing for him to follow him.
"I will be just a moment," Thomas whispered, "The old man has something that Aimee needs. I will return shortly."
Bonnie watched as Thomas followed the man behind the counter and to the back of the apothecary. Once they disappeared she walked over to the shelves around the shop, picking up the jars of odd herbs, animal parts, and fluids. It was like something out of a horror movie in some sections but Bonnie wasn't frightened. She had seen much worse that a jar of dead beetles.
She placed the jar on the shelf and turned as the door to the shop opened and someone entered. She frowned slightly when she saw who it was. George Lockwood smiled as he walked toward her. She glanced around the shop and saw there was no one else there. She wondered if she should call for Thomas but figured that she could handle him for a few moments.
"Miss Bennett," George said, "It has been a while. Not a day has gone by that I had not thought of you since the ball."
"Mr. Lockwood," Bonnie nodded, not liking the predatory way that he was eyeing her. She walked over toward the counter to wait for Thomas and he followed, walking way too close for her comfort. She could hardly say anything about it however, it wasn't her place, not in this time.
"I had even hoped to make an arrangement with you myself but your relative Aimee was dead set against it," he sighed, "It seems her husband is friends with the Salvatore brothers and she favored Damon because of it. A shame really."
Bonnie made a noncommittal noise but didn't respond. She looked toward the back of the shop and frowned when she saw no sign of anyone.
She turned and frowned deeper when she realized just how close George was to her. "I understand from certain sources that your and Damon's attachment has not reached any level beyond friendship."
Bonnie took a step away from him and found herself pinned between him and the counter. "I don't see how that is any of your business," Bonnie said, in spite of knowing the possible repercussions of her words. It wouldn't do well for her to provoke any white man in this time, least of all one with a dormant werewolf gene.
"I had hoped that meant that you were not entirely happy with the decision your guardian made for you," he continued, positioning his hands at Bonnie's waist, "That you would still be open to forming connections elsewhere."
Bonnie pushed at his chest, but he held fast to her. "I don't wish make any arrangements with you or anyone else," she said, "Please let go of me."
"I understand that this is not the place for such things," he said, ever persistent, "How about we go for a walk and you can tell me your true feelings."
Bonnie felt her anger rise and at the same time she felt powerless. It wasn't as if she could use her powers on him or even try and fight him. There was a chance that he would force her. But if she used her powers she would expose herself and put not just herself but Aimee and Thomas in harm's way. "I have told you my true feelings now please let me go," she said.
"Just a walk," he said, "A few moments of your time and I could convince you otherwise."
Bonnie knew that he could not be reasoned with. She knew that she had to be careful, but she had to end the situation before things got too far. "Thomas is here with me," she said, "And he will not be pleased to find us in this situation."
"All the better reason for us to take that walk," he said.
Thomas could do no more than she could. She had just been grasping at straws. If Thomas did intervene who knows what would happened to him later. She could possibly lure him outside and then wait in the apothecary for Thomas to return, but what if he would not go outside without her or if he came back for her. Bonnie was beginning to feel desperate and scared.
She had never had to fear it from Damon but she knew that he could have her if he wished due to their contract but she realized in this time with her skin being the color that it was, that it would not take a contract. Anyone could take her if they so choose and they would not be stopped. She would not even be considered the wronged one if Lockwood decided to force himself on her, Damon would. Because she was his property on paper and in the eyes of these people in this place that was all that it would be, Lockwood defacing his property.
Bonnie wanted to scream and cry all at once. Then she heard footsteps and her relief was palpable as she suddenly felt hope. It didn't matter who it was that had entered. She knew that there was a chance that it would be someone who was sympathetic to her situation, someone that could help her. Someone that could get her away from these unwanted advances.
She looked toward the sound and was even more relieved to see exactly who it was. "I suggest that you unhand her, Lockwood," Damon Salvatore said, his voice leaving no room for argument and Bonnie had never been so happy to see him.
Bonnie closed her eyes in relief as George finally let go of her. When she opened them again he was holding up his hands defensively. "Do not misunderstand Damon," he said, "I was simply saying hello to Miss Bennett."
"Your hands were a little too familiar for such informal a greeting Mr. Lockwood," he said, and Bonnie saw it then, the familiar anger. She had not seen it since she had been in this time but now she could see that his anger was a trait that had been present as a human. It just needed the proper provocation to come to the surface.
"I may not be the most righteous of men," George said, "But I would never do something as unwholesome as you are suggesting." Bonnie rolled her eyes even as the disgust she had been feeling was so very prevalent. "Besides," he said, "Everyone knows that a horse that has been mounted serves of no use once it has been worn out by another."
Bonnie's eyes narrowed and she felt the urge to slap George Lockwood across the face, damn the consequences but Damon moved forward and punched the man across the face before she could even move to defend herself. George struck back a moment later and an all-out fight broke out. Jars were knocked over and clothes were ripped.
Bonnie screamed for them to stop just as Thomas and the shopkeeper came up from the back. The shopkeeper's yell got both men's attention and George was quick to flee. Damon turned to her and he ignored the shopkeeper's cries about the damage to his store in favor of placing his hands on her shoulders and searching her face. There was a bruise on his jar and his lip had been busted, the blood from it staining his shirt but that seemed to be the extent of the damage. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Bonnie nodded stiffly. She ran a hand down the front of her dress as if to fix it. "Thank you," she whispered.
He nodded in turn, before finally turning his attention to the shopkeeper. "I promise I will pay for all of the damages Mr. Miller," he said, his hands falling to his side. It was clear he was still angry but he left Thomas to tend to Bonnie as he followed the man to back of the shop.
"What happened?" Thomas asked, once Damon and the shopkeeper had disappeared.
Bonnie ignored him momentarily distracted by blood stained scrap of shirt that had landed on the floor. Bonnie knelt down and picked up the scrap of shirt. She closed her fist around it and decided to keep it. She would always remember what had happened and she would always remember what Damon had done for her.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Aimee Bennett-Mercier looked up as Thomas La Belle walked into the living room of Sheila Bennett's home. Her expression was expectant and she smiled as Thomas pulled the burdock root from his pocket and held it out to her. Standing from the couch she took it from his hand.
"It was exactly where you said that it would be," he told her, "I did run into a little trouble but it was nothing that I couldn't handle."
Aimee raised an eyebrow at him. "Do I want to know?" She asked.
Thomas sighed. "Probably not but I should tell you anyway, mon ami," he frowned, "I had a run in with an original. The daughter, Rebekah. She found out about the necklace."
"Then we'll just have to work more quickly," Aimee shrugged, not seeming at all worried. She tossed her hair over her shoulder as she picked up a stack of papers from the coffee table. "If you were able to get rid of her without any trouble then they aren't as strong as we initially thought. But still, we have to be careful. She'll probably be back."
"I'll be ready," Thomas nodded. He gestured toward the papers in her hand. "What are those?"
Aimee smiled. "I found these today when I was looking through Bonnie's old house," she said, "Letters, the ones that you advised her to write to her friend. They were still in her desk where she left them. I think that it's time that they were delivered."
"And of course you want me to do the honors," he sighed as he took the papers away from her. She gave him a look and he rolled his eyes. "Heaven forbid you do something for yourself."
Aimee smirked. "Why would I need to when I have you and Raoul to do my bidding for me?" she asked, "It isn't my fault that you can't say no to me."
Thomas shook his head as he stuffed the letters into his jacket pocket. "Just tell me where this friend lives before I change my mind."
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
Aimee Bennett-Mercier scanned the spell book in front of her, her mouth pressed into a thin line. In truth she wanted to kill George Lockwood, or at the very least make him pay. However, Raoul had convinced her there was too much of a risk and Lockwood would get what he deserved once the werewolf curse that she had sensed on him took hold. Besides, the priority at the moment was on protecting Bonnie. What had happened could never happen again. It should never have happen in the first place.
She started as she felt a hand on her shoulder. "Aimee," Bonnie said quietly, "You have to calm down."
Of everyone Bonnie was taking the situation the most in stride. She had actually been more worried about Damon, as his fight with George Lockwood could have easily triggered the man's werewolf gene and gotten him killed. But that was how she was, more worried about others than she was herself. Still she would be lying if she were to say she wasn't affected by what had happened.
While Damon was gone, explaining the situation to his father as he was sure that the town would be talking, Thomas was somewhere letting his guilt haunt him. He was angry with himself for not being able to protect her. But Bonnie understood. He was not in a position to. Not in this time. Had he done what he had wanted and fought George or worse used his powers on him, not only would Thomas be dead but Aimee and the others would be placed at risk as well and Bonnie didn't want that.
Being that they were the color that they were, Damon had been the only one in the position to fight back. That scared her more than she was willing to let on. The fact that someone could do something like that to her and it wouldn't matter to most and she would be powerless to stop them.
"How can you tell me to calm down," Aimee frowned, "That scum tried to force himself upon you? If Damon had not been there…you could have been raped or killed or both. I am supposed to be protecting you and I am failing and you want me to remain calm."
"You didn't fail me," Bonnie sighed, "You can't control George Lockwood. Besides I'm the one who went off on my own. I should have stayed with Thomas. But even if I hadn't the person to blame isn't you or me it's the one that did this. I knew I had to be careful but I hadn't fully processed the position I am in being in this time and how dangerous it could be for me. Now I know."
"You shouldn't have to find out that way," Aimee said, turning back to the spell book, "But I will make sure it does not happen again."
There was fierce determination in Aimee's eyes and Bonnie had no problems with believing her. When she finally found the spell that she was looking for she turned back to Bonnie and gestured toward the locket the Thomas had given her. "The necklace," she said, "Give it to me."
Bonnie frowned. "But Thomas gave it to me to help with my control," she said, "I promised him that I would never take it off."
Aimee sighed. She took a calming breath and tried to sustain her patience. "I will not harm it and the spell will not change the properties of the passionflower," she promised, "All I am doing is charming it to better protect you as well. It is something that we should have done in the first place."
Bonnie nodded. She reached up and took off the necklace, carefully placing it into Aimee's outstretched hand.
Aimee pointed to the page in the book. "I will say the first incantation and you will say the second," Aimee said. She raised one hand over the locket and Bonnie watched as it levitated into the air. As Aimee said the incantation Bonnie sought to memorize the one still one the page.
So focused were they on the spell, neither of them noticed when Stefan walked into the parlor. He opened his mouth to greet them but stopped when he came upon the scene.
The necklace floated over to Bonnie and she said the incantation that would bind the spell. A blue light engulfed the necklace and then it fell into Bonnie's hands. "It is done," she said, "Now if anyone has ill intentions against you they will be unable to enact them."
"Thank you," Bonnie murmured as she put the necklace back on. When she brought her hands back down to her sides her eyes caught sight of Stefan who stood frozen by the door. "Stefan?"
Aimee's eyes widened and she turned toward the direction Bonnie was looking in. She could tell that Stefan had witnessed the whole scene by the shell-shocked look on his face.
Stefan shook his head as if he were attempting to clear it. "I apologize for intruding," he muttered.
Bonnie almost laughed at the fact that he was still attempting to be a gentlemen after what he had just witnessed. She would have to tell him the truth. There was no choice. "I can explain," she said carefully, "Will you let me?"
Her eyes were so full of hope that Stefan nodded blindly even though a part of him was terrified. Aimee gave him a comforting smile as she grabbed her grimoire and quietly left the room. Bonnie sat down on the sofa that sat in the center of the room and clutching the package in his hands, Stefan followed suit.
"I…," Stefan said slowly, "I came because I wanted to drop off the riding gear I picked up for you and because Damon told me what happened with Lockwood and I thought you might need me…I just…what was that?"
Bonnie cleared her throat. "I guess there is no other way but to say it," she sighed. This had been a long day and she just wished that it was over. She wasn't sure how he would react and she had already dealt with so much. She couldn't lose his friendship as well. "Aimee and I are witches," she blurted, "From a family of witches. There are others as well. All over. Thomas is one as well. Most of us are good, but some have bad intentions. What you just saw…it was a spell. Aimee wanted to protect me that's all."
Stefan nodded. He wasn't sure what to say. He had heard things, whispering of things in the town. John Gilbert had approached his father more than once about talk of the supernatural but he had not ever thought that any of the talk was true.
"Will you say something?" Bonnie begged, "I know this is a shock but it doesn't change anything. I'm still me. Still your friend."
Stefan came out of his own thoughts and noticed the look of fear on her face. Setting the package in hand aside he took her hand in his. "My silence is because I needed a moment to adjust to the idea," he said, "Not because I am looking at you differently. I've heard things….things about beings that aren't completely human but I had never…never thought they were true. But if this is a part of who you are then I can accept it. And if your gifts…?"
"My powers," Bonnie nodded.
"If your powers can be used to protect you then all the better," he said, "I was worried about you. And if Damon hadn't been there today...Lockwood could have…." He shook his head, not wanting to think about it. "More than anything I want you safe and happy. I don't care about the means in which it is done. Are you alright?"
"That's it," Bonnie said, "You're just going to take everything I just told you at face value? Don't you have any questions?"
Stefan nodded, squeezing her hand. "I am a bit confused and cautious and I do have a lot of questions but I'll just ask you the most important one," he said, "Are you alright?"
Bonnie smiled and nodded. She was surprised that she was his chief concern and that he could accept this part of her without fear. Nearly everyone in this time who knew or thought they knew of witches feared them. "I'm alright," she told him, "Thank you for accepting me. For a minute there I thought I had lost you. "
Stefan smiled. She had been afraid for no reason. He cared for her so much already and because she had shared this part of herself with him, he felt even closer to her somehow. He could never fear her, not with feeling the way that he felt, even if he could not explain everything that was growing steadily inside of him, them more time that he spent with her. "You will never be in danger of losing me Bonnie," he said, seriously.
She had been feeling so powerless all day. She hadn't been able to protect herself from George Lockwood, and had fully realized the weight of the time that she was in. But now she was beginning to realize something else. Aimee had prioritized protecting her and had not seemed to regret it even after it had exposed her to Stefan. The same way Bonnie had risked herself for others again and again. Damon had jumped in to save her, not knowing the full extent of the danger he was in. Thomas was guilty for not being able to protect her and Raoul was ready to kill. Would have killed had Bonnie not told him that her friend Tyler's existence depended on the existence of George Lockwood. Now, Stefan had accepted her even quicker than Bonnie had accepted Caroline when she had been turned. It was clear to her that she was more important to everyone around her than she realized. She had never thought that she would know what that felt like.
Stefan was surprised when Bonnie hugged him, her arms wrapped so tightly around his neck that he was nearly choked. Still he returned the embrace and ran his hands soothingly up and down her back. After a moment he realized that she had begun to cry. "Bonnie," he whispered, "Everything will be alright. I promise."
"I would never survive here without all of you," Bonnie said quietly, "I didn't think it would mean so much to matter to someone. But it means everything."
"There will never be a time that you do not matter to me," he said, "I care about you in ways that couldn't imagine."
She wished that she could believe him completely. She knew that there was a time in which she would not matter but she could take comfort in mattering in that moment. She would treasure it now because knew that she would miss it when it was gone.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Stefan Salvatore sat at a booth in the back of Mystic Grill, his head down and mind on the past. Raoul was sitting next to him, waiting for him to speak but he wasn't in the mood the talk. He was in the mood to brood.
"You can't do this," Raoul sighed, "You can't walk away. You keep saying that you pushed things with her and you did, but not for long. You bowed out and you regretted it. That's why what happened before she left happened and that is why you can't give up now. No matter what happens or what she chooses you need closure."
"What happened before she left was the closure," Stefan said staring down at the table.
"If it were then there would be nothing for you to brood over," Raoul sighed, leaning back against the booth, "Lying to yourself won't do you any good. It didn't before and it won't now. What is it? Are you afraid that she's already made her choice? And when are you going to tell Damon the truth about what happened that night?"
Stefan closed his eyes. He always did this. Always made him face the things that he did not want to face. "Damon doesn't want the truth," he said, "He wants to think that he knows everything. And no matter what Bonnie chooses, someone gets hurt which means she'll walk away."
"Only if you let her," Raoul pressed.
"What do you want me to do?" Stefan spat suddenly, his frustration getting the better of him. He glanced around as people began to stare. Turning to Raoul he lowered his voice. "If I walk away I'm wrong and I'll regret it," he said, "But if I fight and she chooses me then Damon is alone again. I can't keep doing this. Turning myself inside out to make him happy. At the end of the day the choice is Bonnie's I get that. But what if she doesn't choose me. The more I think about it…I loved Elena and a part of me still does but I don't know anymore. I think a part of what both Damon and I saw in her was the chance to make the lie that we had with Katherine into something that was the truth. Into something real. But the realest thing, the truest thing I ever felt was with Bonnie and I…can't walk away from that." As soon as the last words left his mouth, Stefan found his answer.
"Good," Raoul said, "You realized it finally. You were starting to get on my nerves. I know that you and Bonnie are all about altruism and martyrdom but I can tell you that Damon is not of the same mind. Not that he would like seeing you hurt but the possibility isn't going to keep him from going after what he wants so I suggest you get off your ass. In the meantime I'm going to thank whatever higher power there is up there that I am not stuck in a love triangle and go find my wife."
Stefan laughed as Raoul stood from the table. "You have such a way with words and people, old friend," he commented.
"I do try," Raoul winked and Stefan watched as he left.
Stefan moved to leave as well when suddenly a shadow passed over the table. Frowning he looked up and was surprised to see Klaus standing over him.
"From doppelgangers to witches," Klaus grinned, "I approve but I have to ask what brought on the change of heart."
Rolling his eyes Stefan stood and moved to walk around him. "Go to hell," he muttered, "And make sure you stay away from Bonnie on your way there."
Klaus grabbed his arm and Stefan paused. "I can't make any promises," he sighed, "I was actually looking for her just now. She seems to have disappeared and I happen to need a favor. Whenever she returns from wherever you have her hidden….do send her my way old friend."
Before Stefan could respond, Klaus released his arm and a moment later he was gone.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
Damon Salvatore paced the length of the parlor, his mind racing. Bonnie had asked to see him about something important. A number of things had passed through his mind. He had not seen her in a few days due to his father's anger of the incident between himself and George Lockwood. While Stefan and Raoul had assured him the other man had stayed away, he was sure that it was possible that the incident had scared Bonnie off and that she could possibly be wanting to discuss the option of her returning home.
Damon turned as Raoul walked into the room and frowned a moment later as he realized the man wasn't Bonnie. "She will be down shortly," Raoul said, "No need to look so glum."
Damon rolled his eyes and then his face became more serious. "How has she been?" He asked.
"Fine," Raoul nodded, "Better than can be expected. But she's strong. Stronger than most. She can handle anything. Just like Aimee."
Damon nodded. Then something occurred to him. He wasn't sure why but his thoughts went toward the conversation he had had with Bonnie some time ago about love. "About Aimee," he said, "How did you know that you loved her?"
Raoul shrugged. "I did not know at first," he said, "Stefan knew before I did I believe. Or perhaps I knew and did not allow myself to accept it."
Damon shook his head. "Bonnie warned me that love was too complicated a thing to be explained," he said, "She told me to ask you but I don't believe it really matters who I ask."
Raoul laughed. "That is because love isn't meant to be explained," Raoul said, "It is meant to be experienced and should you ever find it then my only advice to you would be to experience it for as long as you can no matter the risks and damn the cost." Damon was about to respond but his focus changed immediately toward Bonnie as she entered the room. Raoul noticed and shook his head slightly. "I'll leave you two alone then," he said. He left the room, kissing Bonnie on the cheek as he went.
She smiled at Raoul as he left and then turned to Damon. "Thank you for coming," she said.
"You wanted to see me," he said, "But to be honest I would have come even if you had not. I wanted to make sure you were alright after what happened. I would have come sooner but my father-"
"I know," Bonnie nodded, "Stefan told me." Sighing she decided to bite the bullet and tell him what she had called him there for. After talking to Stefan she had decided to tell Damon the truth. She didn't want him to have to hear it from somewhere else and she wanted him to know exactly who he had risked himself trying to protect. "Will you sit down with me?" she asked "There's something I have to tell you."
Damon sat down slowly, sure that he knew what would come next. "I understand if you feel as if what happened means that you cannot safely stay here," he said as she sat down next to him, "But I promise you that I would protect you with my life if necessary. You don't have to leave here. Not if what happened is your only motivation."
Bonnie blinked at him, surprised by the declaration and then shook her head. "Damon," she said, "That isn't what I wanted to talk to you about and you shouldn't say those things. Not when you don't know who I really am."
He grabbed her hand, relieved that he had been wrong about her wanting to leave at least. "I know exactly who you are and nothing that you could ever have to tell me would ever sway my opinion of you," he said.
"I'm a witch," Bonnie said quickly before she could talk herself out of it.
Damon understood her words but he found himself unable to process them. "I don't know what you mean by that," he said, "I know your temper is a little bit much at times but surely you shouldn't insult yourself in such a fashion."
Bonnie sighed, running her free hand over her face. "No," she said, "I didn't mean…Damon I have magical powers. I'm a witch. So is Aimee and Thomas and there are others out there as well. Lots of others with these gifts."
Damon waited for her to show some sign of humor but she didn't. She simply stared back at him her face and eyes serious. "You're telling the truth," he said. When she nodded, he knew that she was. "How is this possible?"
Bonnie shrugged. "I was just born this way," Bonnie said, "Everyone on my mother's side of the family was. I'm not dangerous or anything so I don't want you to be afraid of me. I didn't want to tell you but Stefan found out and so I knew I had no choice. I understand if you want to end our arrangement. I know you must regret protecting me the way you did-"
"Stop talking so foolishly," Damon frowned, "You keep making assumptions about my feelings and how I would react but you are not giving me enough time to actually react and establish feelings." Bonnie's mouth snapped shut and they were quiet for a moment. He used the quiet to process the information before he spoke. "I knew when I first met you that there was something special about you," he said, "Perhaps this was part of it. But you must be careful. This town wasn't safe for you before and these people fear the unknown. Fear can be a dangerous thing and if something ever happened to you I would never forgive myself. I will never tell a soul about your gifts, though I might like to see them for myself one day."
"You and your brother are far better people that I ever dreamed that you were," Bonnie said quietly. She wished that they would stay this way but she knew that they wouldn't, especially not Damon. "I want you to know," she said, "In case I never get the chance to tell you again…you are a good person Damon. Better than most and I respect you and I'm grateful to be your friend. I feel fortunate to be someone that you care about. I didn't think that would be a good thing, but it can be….I know that now. What you did for me is no small thing and I won't ever be able to repay you for it and I hate that you were hurt because of me." She reached up and touched the fading bruise on his cheek. "And accepting me now even after all that happened means a lot to me, it means everything."
"I know how it feels to care about someone and get nothing in return," he said, "I know how it feels to want someone's acceptance and not have it. Those things are things you never have to fear happening with me."
It might have been true in that moment but again Bonnie knew that would not be once she left and went home. She already cared much more for both him and Stefan than either of them cared for her in present time and she knew that things would be a mess when she came home but she couldn't help it. No one had ever taken care of her and taken the time to know her in the way they were doing and she could not force herself to feel nothing no matter how hard she tried. "I really want to believe you," she said, tears stinging the corner of her eyes.
He let go of her hand and took her face in his hands. He leaned down and for a moment Bonnie though that he might try to kiss her lips, but he kissed her forehead instead. "Then believe me," he whispered, "No matter what happens, you'll always have me. Okay, little witch?"
Bonnie's eyes widened at the nickname, and for some reason it gave her hope. But there was something else in his eyes, something she had never seen before. Something that reminded her of the lost look on his face in the days when he was still pining after Katherine. Something that she could almost place but she wouldn't let herself. "Okay," she murmured back and she meant it.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Matt Donovan blinked at his ex-girlfriend as she finished her tale. He was sure that she was joking but her face was completely serious. Caroline Forbes was never serious unless the situation called for it and that had Matt worried.
He sat across from Caroline at her kitchen table and went from waiting for the punch line to trying to process exactly what she was trying to tell him. "So Bonnie is still in Mystic Falls but she's in the eighteen hundreds?" At her nod, he asked the next pressing question. "Is she safe?" Matt asked, "I mean not only is she in a time she isn't familiar with but she's in a time in which slavery still existed so…."
Caroline looked almost relieved at his bringing it up. "Finally someone besides me seems to see the problem," she sighed, "Elena is acting so blasé about the whole thing. But I talked to Stefan and apparently she has relatives from back then that took care of her and well…"
Matt frowned as Caroline paused. "What is it that you don't want to tell me?"
"It isn't exactly bad I guess," Caroline revealed, "Not exactly a good thing either though. Apparently she was involved with Stefan and Damon when they were human pre-Katherine and they kind of fell in love with her."
Matt thought about it for a moment and then sort of nodded to himself. "That makes sense," he said, "Do they still have feelings for her?"
Caroline held up her hands. "Wait a minute," she said, "What do you mean that makes sense? In what realm does it makes sense for Bonnie to fall in love with Stefan and Damon?"
Matt shook his head. "I didn't say that," he said, "I said it makes sense for Stefan and Damon to fall in love with Bonnie. I mean its Bonnie and if it was before Katherine I could totally see it. She's kind, loyal, and giving in a way that even the Salvatores as vampires can appreciate which is why they spend so much time taking advantage of the fact. I mean it's not like she would be mean to them if they're human and have no history with her. Besides a part of Katherine's appeal was probably because they had never met anyone like her before and she was probably liberal by their standards, Bonnie is from a whole other time and so that likely holds even more truth in her case."
Caroline considered his words and then shrugged. "I guess you could be right," she said, "And to answer your question I know at least Stefan still has feelings and Elena thinks Damon does too. They're pining after her as we speak. I don't know what's going to happen when she gets back."
"When will she get back?"
"A week our time," she told him, "A couple months in the one she's in now. That's what I was told. But if it doesn't happen then we'll have to go and confront them."
Matt was about to respond when they heard a knock on the door. Caroline stood and walked out of the kitchen. When she reached the front door, she hesitated before she opened it. Looking through the peep hole, she saw an unfamiliar man on her doorstep.
Frowning she opened the door. "Caroline Forbes?" The man smiled as she gave him a once over.
"Who exactly is asking?" Caroline said. He didn't seem to be put off by her attitude but she wasn't going to let her guard down.
"My name is Thomas La Belle," he said, "I'm a friend of Bonnie's. We met during the eighteen hundreds and I'm here along with her ancestors to help her. I have something for you." He pulled a stack of papers out of his jacket and held them out to her. 'They're letters," he told her, "She wrote to you all the time. Whenever she was sad or confused or happy or she missed home. She called you her constant. She said that no matter what happened when she went home she knew that you would be there."
Caroline smiled feeling a mixture of emotions and she took the letters from his hands. She wasn't sure why but she trusted him immediately. Perhaps it was his speech or perhaps it was the fact that he seemed to be the only one she could likely get information on Bonnie out of. "Thank you," she said, "Did you know her well?"
Thomas nodded. "She was and still is very dear to me," he said.
"Then would you mind coming in?" Caroline asked, "I know I'll probably learn a lot from the letters but….the Salvatore won't tell me anything. I'm worried, and so is Matt, our friend. He's inside. If we could hear exactly what happen from someone who was there then we could better believe that she's really alright."
Thomas nodded. "If you're a friend of Bonnie's then you're friend of mine," he grinned, "I'll tell you whatever it is that you want to know."
Smiling in gratitude, Caroline stepped aside and allowed him to enter.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 1864
The pieces of paper and ink that Thomas had given her sat on the desk in her bedroom. She had told him that she had wanted to get some things off her chest. Things about this time and the one that she had left that she could not talk to anyone about.
Thomas had at first suggested that Bonnie write a journal. However, talking to herself never worked. Things were getting complicated. Not only had she been through so much already but there seemed to be no real end in sight as there had been no more word on the watches.
It was becoming more clear to Bonnie had Damon was developing romantic feelings for her and according to Aimee, Stefan was not far behind him. She wanted to distance herself from all of it but she valued their friendship, needed it in the time she was in as selfish as that sounded. Besides she knew that no matter what she said, neither of them would stay away completely.
Then there was the fact that a part of her could not take either of their feelings seriously. She saw them as something passing. Something temporary. Katherine hadn't arrived yet and there was no reason for Bonnie to believe that she still wouldn't. It had been her that had changed them and their relationship. Katherine whose behavior had dictated the entirely of their existence for decades, especially Damon. So she knew that whatever this was that either of them felt would not last long.
That was why she was forcing herself to feel nothing. Nothing beyond friendship. Beyond fondness. Nothing that would break her own heart or cause herself pain. That was why she needed to get away from herself and out of her own head. A journal would not really help her do that.
So Thomas had suggested something else. He had suggested that she write to someone from her time. Someone that she was used to talking to. Someone who would reserve judgment and understand. Someone who could remind her of home without having it cause her pain. There was only one person that Bonnie could think of.
Sitting down behind her desk Bonnie picked up the pen and dipped into the ink well. Taking a deep breath, Bonnie began to write. "Dear Caroline….," she said out loud as she scrawled the words across the page.
:::
Mystic Falls, Virginia, 2011
Abby Bennett-Wilson frowned as she heard noise coming from the back yard of her mother's house. She walked through the house and into the kitchen and found Aimee leaning against the doorway, looking out the screen door and into the yard.
The witch was calm as she sipped her tea, a wistful sort of smile on her face as she looked out at whoever was outside. Abby considered the woman for a moment. There was a look of pride and almost sisterly affection on the woman's face.
"What are you looking at?" Abby asked, "Who's out there?"
Aimee turned toward her, clearly not having noticed her before. "Come and see for yourself," she laughed, before she turned back toward the scene.
Abby walked up to stand behind her and raised an eyebrow as she looked outside. She had only encountered the vampire, less than a handful of times but she recognized Damon Salvatore immediately. She looked on perplexed as he began to hang a handmade swing from the oak tree in the middle of the yard. The seat was made of rosewood and even from where she stood she could see the carved orchids on the surface.
There had been a swing there when Bonnie was very young, one in the back yard of the home that she had once shared with Rudy as well. However, while the one at the home she had shared with Rudy was still intact, the one that Sheila Bennett used to push her granddaughter on had broken long ago.
"What in the world?" Abby muttered. While Thomas had briefed her on the fact that her daughter had had some sort of involvement with the Salvatore brothers as humans, he had been vague and had only told her what she needed to know and nothing more, though possibly less. "What's with the swing?"
"He's making his intentions known," Aimee explained, as Damon finished his task. She had been worried that things would remain unresolved, but it was clear that she shouldn't have been. Damon had grown as a human through his feelings for Bonnie and she could see that he remembered that. That he was embracing it now the same way that he had embraced it then.
Abby opened her mouth to respond but stopped as Damon picked up a small rectangular box from the ground and began to walk toward them. He stopped just short of the door and nodded at Abby before smiling at Aimee. "Hello Aimee," he said.
"Damon," Aimee greeted as she opened the screen door and stepped outside. She walked down the back steps and stopped in front of him. "What brings you here?"
Damon held the box out to her and Aimee recognized it immediately. The keepsake box that he had given to Bonnie so long ago. "I wondered when you would find it," Aimee grinned.
"When she returns," Damon said, "Please give this to her."
Aimee frowned, glancing at the swing. "Why don't you give it to her yourself? It's clear you plan on pursuing her when she returns."
"I plan on giving her something else," Damon explained, "Something more important. Something that she refused once but that I hope that she'll take one day." Aimee nodded, but Damon was not sure that she understood what he was referring to. Still she took the box from him and he nodded his thanks.
"You don't have a message for her?" Aimee inquired as he began to walk away.
Damon shook his head. "I would tell you to tell her that I'm not giving up," Damon said, "That I'll never give up. But I plan on telling her that myself." Aimee smiled at his words and he smiled in return. "There's something you can tell Raoul though…tell him…tell him I said that he was right…about love."
"I will," Aimee agreed. She turned as he walked away and went back inside of the house. She gripped the box in her hands as she looked up at Abby. "There's a lot we didn't tell you about the past. But your daughter…he loved her….so did his brother. I believe they still do. She had…a great effect on them."
"It's weird," Abby sighed, "Just now…he seemed almost human."
"In the face of your daughter, it's very hard for him to hide his humanity," Aimee shrugged, "Or perhaps it is simply that Bonnie is his humanity. Whatever the case, things should be interesting when she comes home."
Abby watched as Aimee left the kitchen. She wasn't sure if interesting was the right word but she was sure that whatever her daughter had to look forward to when she returned, she would be the one that would help her through it.