Ryder's Choice

by Calyp50

Ryder has a hard life as he grows up with his abusive father after his mom dies. He is very smart for his age and this just makes his father angrier. One day a new person come into Ryder's life and he decides to take him in and raise him as his own. Damon Salvatore saves Ryder from his past and decides to help him create his future even though Stefan is against it.

Author note!

Like I said in the story details this is more of a Vampire diaries story than it is paw patrol. The only 2 characters from the paw patrol are Ryder and Chase. The first bit of the story is going to be Ryder's beginning as he lives with his abusive father. Ryder will meet Chase and then he will be rescued by Damon who is a Vampire. Damon will decide to raise Ryder as his own and Ryder will need to come up with a choice as he enters the world in Mystic Falls and learns all about Vampires, Witches and Werewolves.

I am writing this as a fan fic I do not own any of the characters, I am however going to change them up a bit in my story. I do own the story and it is my own original idea, I don't like people who steal anything without asking. If you want to use my ideas just ask please, If you don't like it don't read it as it will not exactly follow the vampire diaries storyline. I am making it up as I go along and it is based on a dream I had so like I said if you don't like it don't read it.

There will be violence, death, gore, and relationships in this story as it progresses I will not be following the dating along with the vampire diaries characters. This is my story and I am writing it how I want, feel free to message me or leave a comment. No hate as I wouldn't write mean things on your stories. I write for fun and don't expect anything out of it, I enjoy writing and do it for me. So no hate please and thank you. I hope you enjoy the story!

Chapter 1 Ryder's Beginning

It was a cold winter night in 1994 as Diane Jackson gave birth to her new baby boy Ryder Jackson, he was 8lbs 13 oz and he was perfect. Ryder was born on January 13th 1994 just outside of a town called Mystic Falls. He had lots of brown hair and brown eyes as he looked just like his mom. Ryder's dad Trevor Jackson was not to happy about becoming a father, he loved his wife dearly but he just didn't like kids. Ryder was not your average baby as he seemed to be very intelligent, even as an infant he strived. Ryder was mastering skills faster then expected, and by the time he was 1 he could speak quite well. Ryder was a very easy going baby as he understood what was expected of him he wanted to be perfect in his mother's eyes as it is what she always told him. Just after Ryder's 3rd birthday Diane left him with his father as she went to Mystic Falls to run some errands. Ryder was playing nicely and his father was ignoring him as there was a knock on the door. Sheriff Forbes from Mystic Falls came and explained to Trevor that his wife was killed, she was attacked by something. Trevor didn't pay much attention to Ryder listening but he caught onto every word the Sheriff said. Ryder knew it was going to be hard without his mom and he was worried how is dad would treat him.

It has been a few months since Ryder's mom Diane died and his father started drinking very heavily, he ignored Ryder most of the time. The times that Trevor did remember Ryder was there he tossed food at him. Ryder mostly relied on himself as he was capable of cooking most things and he could already read books. Ryder was only 3 years old but he already knew he was smarter than his dad who just drank all day long. Ryder would cook and leave some food for his dad just in case he ever did end up eating it. Trevor knew he didn't deserve Ryder as he hated him and he felt Ryder knew it. Yet he was grateful as he still cooked for him and he was not sure how a 3 year old could cook. By the time Ryder was 4 Trevor started to resent him more and more as he reminded him of his wife. His drinking was getting worse and Ryder was always in the way, his dad yelled at him. "You are a waste of space! get out of my sight" Trevor said as he back handed Ryder across the face. Ryder had tears in his eyes but he didn't dare show fear to his father as he ran from the room. It was at this moment Ryder knew things were only going to get worse, Ryder had built himself a computer from scrap parts he found in the house. Ryder would try most of the time to stay out of his father's way as he taught himself knew things with his computer. He was able to build gadgets and read in several different languages, Ryder was teaching himself many different things. From history to geography he could name most countries, and he knew history as far back as he could find on the internet.

Trevor was angry at the world he didn't understand how his wife was attacked by a wild animal, when she went for groceries. It has been a year since she passed and all he really did was drink, he quit going to work and just lived off of his wife's trust fund. Trevor hated his son and he barely remembered he was there. Ryder would sometimes get caught outside his room and Trevor would notice and he would beat him. There were times Ryder didn't really know why he was getting hit. Ryder was responsible for finding his own clothes as he was getting bigger and his dad wasn't helping him.

Ryder had just turned 8 and he was walking around outside and he came across a german shepard puppy who looked scared in the middle of the road. Ryder walked up to him and helped him and said "you really shouldn't be in the street, you could get hit by a car" Ryder said to the pup. The german shepard looked at him with a sad face, "It is okay, My name is Ryder and I am going to take care of you" Ryder said to the pup knowing that it wasn't going to be able to talk back. Ryder took the pup home with him and hid with him in his room, the german shepard played quietly as he chased his tail. "That's it I am going to call you Chase, now I need you to promise me you will never leave this room Chase. It is very dangerous and I don't want you getting hurt" Ryder said knowing it would be pointless as a dog didn't understand. To Ryder's surprise Chase nodded his head and nuzzled Ryder before licking his face. "Did you understand me?" Ryder asked Chase nodded again, "wow I wish I could understand you" Ryder said as he cuddled Chase and they fell asleep together.

The next morning Ryder woke up to Chase licking him, "Morning Ryder sir" Chase said, "Wait did you just talk?" Ryder asked. "I am not sure, umm can you understand me?" Chase asked. "I can that is so weird, maybe just keep it down just in case" Ryder said. "Why what is out there Ryder sir?" Chase asked curious, "my dad, he is not the nicest person in the world. My mom died when I was 3 she was attacked by some kind of animal. My dad drinks a lot and he hates me sometimes he hits me" Ryder said. "That is awful, my parents are dead too, I was abandoned by my owner, if you could call him that" Chase said. "Chase I have a collar for you and I want to give it to you saying you are mine. You don't have to accept it of course I would understand." Ryder said, Chase licked him and said "Are you kidding Ryder sir I would be so happy to be yours!" with a little to much excitement. "Shh Chase you will wake up my dad" Ryder said but it was to late as Ryder could here is father getting angry. "Boy you had better not have a dog! I will fucking kill you" Trevor said. Ryder's bedroom door opened and Ryder shoved Chase under the bed really hoping he wouldn't come out. "Answer me!" Trevor yelled at him, "No I don't have a dog" Ryder lied hoping his father wouldn't catch him. Trevor looked at his son who looked terrified as he slapped him hard as it echoed through the bedroom. "I better not find out you are lying to me" Trevor said as he tossed Ryder forcefully into the wall causing him to get a little dizzy as his father left the room. Ryder sat on the floor holding his cheek as he started to cry, Chase came out and said "Ryder sir I don't like him, I want to go bite him" "You can't Chase, please just stay in this room and be quiet" Ryder said as he went into the bathroom and cleaned himself up.

It has been a week since Ryder brought Chase home and Chase was doing pretty good with staying quiet and hidden. Trevor was very drunk and he kept hearing noises coming from Ryder's room and he was angry. Trevor opened the door to Ryder's room and he saw Chase as he grabbed Ryder and said, "You lying son of a bitch" as he slapped him and forced him to the ground. Trevor started beating Ryder as he lay there helpless as he was to weak to move, Chase growled and tried to bite Trevor. Chase was no match for Trevor though as he was thrown into a wall and knocked out, Trevor continued hitting Ryder who was now bleeding and bruised in many places. Trevor left the room and fell asleep on the couch as Ryder lay there not moving.

Damon was walking just outside Mystic Falls and he smelled the blood, it was hard to ignore as it smelt sweet. Damon followed the scent and thankfully Ryder's window was open and he climbed inside. Damon felt bad as he noticed it was just a young kid, he wasn't going to harm this kid as he sort of felt a connection to him. Damon bit himself and fed Ryder some of his blood, and Ryder woke up and looked around. "Who are you?" he asked a bit scared. "I am Damon Salvatore, you are going to be okay" Damon said. "What do you want?" Ryder asked, "Nothing I came to help, I sensed you were in trouble. What happened to you?" Damon asked. "My dad" Ryder said, "I feel you my dad was abusive as well, what is your name?" Damon asked. "Ryder Jackson" Ryder said, "Well Ryder, I am here to save you. Do you want me to get rid of your dad?" Damon asked. "What do you mean?" Ryder asked, "Well I want to be honest with you as I feel you can handle it. I am a vampire Ryder and well I can get rid of your dad. I promise I won't hurt you and I will take you with me and raise you as my own" Damon said. Ryder thought about it and said "Leave my dad but I will go with you. Can I bring my pup?" Ryder asked pointing at Chase who was now waking up. "Sure I guess, are you sure about your dad?" Damon asked. "No, I don't know" Ryder said, "I can make you forget if you want" Damon said. "How?" Ryder asked, "It is a little specialty of mine but I won't do it unless you want me to" Damon said.

Trevor hearing voices walked back into Ryder's room and noticed Damon and said "Who the hell are you?" "Your worst nightmare if you touch this boy again" Damon said. "He is my son I can do whatever the fuck I want with him" Trevor said. "That is where you are wrong, it is illegal to hurt a minor" Damon said. Trevor went to punch Damon but he was to fast and Damon caught his fist bending his arm back and he tossed him into the hallway wall. "Thanks, let's go before he wakes up" Ryder said packing his few belongings. "I don't trust him Ryder sir he smells funny" Chase said. "He saved my life Chase, and I can't stay here" Ryder said as his pup reluctantly followed not wanting to be left behind. Damon took Ryder to his small home just outside of Mystic Falls he liked to stay close just in case his brother ever decided to come back. "You said you could make me forget" Ryder said. "Only if you want me to" Damon said, "I want you to" Ryder said, "Okay" Damon said as he looked into Ryder's eyes and said "You were never born a Jackson, you are a Salvatore, and I am your father. We live happily just the 2 of us and you have no memory of your past life." Ryder all of a sudden felt different as he felt at peace and finally felt like he had a purpose. Chase felt strange as he knew that what Damon did was not normal and he didn't exactly feel comfortable. Damon looked at the dog and said to Ryder, "You remember the pup, and how you found him" Ryder looked at Chase and smiled as he went to his room.

"Ryder sir are you ok?" Chase asked, "I am awesome Chase, why do you ask?" Ryder said, "I just don't feel safe" Chase said. "Why?" Ryder asked, "I don't know that man made you forget" Chase said. "Forget what, what man you mean my dad?" Ryder said. "Nevermind Ryder sir" Chase said clearly knowing that Ryder truly didn't remember his past. Ryder did seem happier and he would do anything he could to keep Ryder safe. Damon had signed Ryder up for school and he was excited to finally have a purpose, he felt like Ryder was going to mellow him out a little. Damon knew he needed to keep the feeding to a minimum as he didn't want to scare Ryder or have his dog hurt him. "I have you starting school tomorrow Ryder so get some sleep" Damon said. "Okay dad" Ryder said and Damon smiled it felt cool being called dad.

There you have it. Ryder has no memory of his past life and he only has good memories of

Damon. Ryder will start school in the next chapter, and this is where Elena, Caroline and

Bonnie come into play. Thanks for reading. 3

Chapter 2 Life with Damon

Ryder was very excited as he woke up the next morning for school, he noticed his closet was filled with clothes. "Where did these come from?" he said out loud, "I bought them for you, I saw you didn't have many and since you are representing me I needed you to dress the part" Damon said. "Wow thank you" Ryder said as he dressed, he went straight for the leather jacket and Damon smiled as he knew his new son had taste. Damon was about to drop him off and school and said "Ryder when people ask you about your last name, you tell them that you are related but are not part of the founding family" Damon said. "Okay why?" Ryder asked, "it is a little complicated our history and I can explain later if you want but for now just tell people you don't know much" Damon said. "Okay" Ryder said as he hopped out of the car and walked into the school, he was only eight but he was already super excited to start school. Damon had already enrolled him so he was all set, as he walked into the building he immediately stood out. "Woah who is that?" Caroline asked. "I don't know but who cares we are eight" Bonnie said, "Doesn't hurt to start early" Caroline said as Elena was talking to Matt and didn't even notice.

Ryder already felt out of place as everyone was talking about him, he was getting picked on by the football team. "Hey where did you get the jacket? did you rip someone off to get it" Tyler said. "My dad bought it for me" Ryder said, "My dad bought it for me" Tyler mocked him, Elena saw he was being picked on and said "Tyler grow up" as she grabbed Ryder's arm and walked away. "My name is Elena Gilbert, don't let Tyler Lockwood get to you he is a bully" Elena said,

"Thanks I am Ryder Salvatore" Ryder said, "Salvatore? as in the founding families?" Elena said. "I am not sure, I don't really know I just moved here" Ryder said. "Oh sorry I am from the founding families as well, I just didn't know the Salvatore's were still around. It is good though and it is nice to meet you" Elena said. Damon was watching Ryder on his first day from a distance and their was something about Elena that was drawing him to her he just couldn't figure it out. As the school day ended Ryder found Damon waiting for him in his car as he climbed in. "Hi how was your first day?" Damon asked. "It was alright, I met a really nice girl her name is Elena Gilbert, she said something about being in the founding families." Ryder said. "Oh and what else did Elena tell you?" Damon asked. "Nothing I said I just moved here and knew nothing about the founding families" Ryder said. "That's my boy" Damon said as he drove them home, Ryder was greeted by Chase as he walked in the door.

Damon gave Ryder some of his history books and he let Ryder read and he was around for questions if he had any. "So the founding families hunt vampires?" Ryder asked, "Yes, they don't really like them" Damon said. "Aren't you a vampire? How can you walk in the sun?" Ryder asked, "I am yes but we don't tell people that, and I have this ring" Damon said pointing to his ring. "Oh, can I be a vampire?" Ryder asked, "You are to young," Damon said. "How do you become a vampire?" Ryder asked, "You need to die with vampire blood in your system" Damon said. "Are there other things out there?" Ryder asked, "Yes there are witches and werewolves as well but they are not that common" Damon said. Chase was feeling nervous and he said to Ryder, "I am not comfortable with this" Ryder looked at Chase and said "My pup is afraid of you, is there anything you can do to help him?" "You can talk to your dog?" Damon said, "Yes I can understand him" Ryder said. "Hmm that is interesting, I assure you that I will keep both you and your pup safe. I am not going to harm you ever" Damon said. Ryder smiled and looked at Chase he felt slightly better but needed a bit more convincing. "Do you have any questions about the founding families?" Damon asked, "Not really, do the kids know about vampires or is just the adults?" Ryder asked. "Just the adults I believe the kids are not really in the council yet" Damon said. "Are you the only Salvatore left?" Ryder asked, "I have a brother Stefan he is out there somewhere. One day you might get to meet him" Damon said. "Is he a vampire too?" Ryder asked. "Yes, but he is younger than me so only 17" Ryder said. "He is a vampire at 17? stuck at that age forever?" Ryder said. "Yup and I am 23 forever, it really isn't as bad as it sounds" Damon said. "I am not sure how I would feel about being trapped in a certain age" Ryder said, "well you don't have to worry about it as you are only 8, now go do your homework while I

make you dinner" Damon said.

Ryder went off to do his homework, and Damon really had no idea how to cook so he rushed out and stole someone else's dinner. With his super speed he was in and out and no one even noticed, as he placed the cooked meal in the oven, Ryder could smell it from his bedroom. He came out after finishing his homework and said "smells amazing, I never had anything like this before" Ryder said as he looked at the chicken and potatoes. "Well you are going to eat like this everyday now" Damon said as he was so happy that he found Ryder. Damon had been feeling along for a long time and he had always wanted a child. Damon had a purpose in life now and he wasn't so angry at the world. Ryder ate his meal and even shared some of it with Chase, Damon allowed Ryder to watch some TV before saying, "Alright kid it is time for bed" Damon said. "Aw do I have to?" Ryder asked, "Yes you have school tomorrow now march" Damon said as he tucked him in and kissed his forehead, "Night Ryder" Damon said. "Night dad" Ryder said as he rolled over and fell asleep. Chase cuddled next to him as Damon watched him for a few minutes before closing the door and leaving. "Dad it is so weird but so awesome" Damon thought to himself as he drank a blood bag.

The next morning Ryder woke up to the smell of bacon as he showered and dressed. "Eat up we need to leave for school soon" Damon said as he packed Ryder's lunch. "Can Chase come to school?" Ryder asked, "Nope they don't allow pets at school, but don't worry Chase is in good hands" Damon said. Chase didn't seem convinced he still had doubts about Damon but he needed to protect Ryder. Damon dropped Ryder off at school and decided to let him be today as he had some errands to run. Ryder walked into the school and he saw Tyler so he tried to avoid him. "Hey Ryder" Elena said when she spotted him, "Hi" Ryder said as he walked towards her, "This is Caroline Forbes and Bonnie Bennett, girls this is Ryder Salvatore" Elena said. "I thought there were no more Salvatore's" Caroline said, "I am distant relative, new to Mystic Falls. I am not sure where the blood lines crossed" Ryder said. "Okay cool" Caroline said as she was very fascinated by him. Ryder felt awkward as he could feel Caroline just staring at him, as the bell rang indicating school to start.

Damon had done some research on Ryder's past and he realized that his mother died in Mystic Falls. The news report said she died from an animal attack and Damon looked at her picture and realized he was the one who killed her. Damon felt bad but he wasn't going to tell Ryder this ever, as he went back to Ryder's house and killed his father to. Damon just couldn't have any loose ends or anyone who would take Ryder away from him. Damon could taste the alcohol in Trevor's blood as he drained his life, "thanks for giving me an awesome child" Damon said as he left going back to his own place. Damon realized he had to do something with Chase he needed the dog to trust him. "Hey Chase I brought you this" Damon said handing him a few meatballs, Chase took them happily. Damon didn't realize the time had gone by so fast as he drove to the school to pick up Ryder. Caroline said goodbye to Ryder as he climbed into Damon's car, "Bye" Ryder said. "Who is that?" Damon asked, "Caroline she gives me the creeps" Ryder said. Damon laughed "I noticed her eye boggling you, just tell her I said you are to young too date" Damon said. They drove back home and there was a part of Damon that wanted to check out the old Salvatore home he wanted to move in. He knew that the house used to be a boarding school but had recently shut down, Damon was going to find out if he could move back into his childhood home.

Ryder played with Chase as Damon made them dinner, it was the first time ever he bought food. Ryder was already done with his homework as he felt school was a bit easy, "Dad, I think school is easy can I do harder stuff?" Ryder asked. "What do you mean?" Damon asked. "Well I just learn faster on my own, the stuff we are learning in school is to easy, I like harder things. Like this" Ryder said as he showed Damon college material. "This is for college, you are 8" Damon said, "So I find this more fun" Ryder said, Damon knew he was in trouble, "Okay I will let you do this stuff at home but I still need you to go to school" Damon said. Ryder agreed as he did some computer course online. Damon realized that Ryder was gifted and he couldn't be more proud as dinner was ready. Ryder ate while he worked on his computer and he even upgraded it a little from extra parts he found in his new home.

The school year went on and Ryder was happy he had a good life and good friends, he enjoyed school even thought it was easy for him. Chase had finally grown to accept Damon and he trusted him because Ryder trusted him. Damon had found out that his brother had moved to town and was living in their old house. Damon decided to pay Stefan a visit, "Hello brother" Damon said, Stefan was shocked to see Damon. "Damon I never expected to ever see you again" Stefan said, "surprise here I am, my son goes to school here in Mystic falls" Damon said. "Your son?" Stefan questioned, "Yes I adopted him, his name is Ryder" Damon said. "Are you joking?" Stefan asked. "Why would I joke about something like that?" Damon asked, "Umm as he gets older what are you going to tell people?" Stefan asked. "I don't know who cares, I was hoping we could move in here" Damon said. "I live here so no you can't" Stefan said. "This house is part mine and there is room for all of us" Damon said, "I don't trust you" Stefan said. "I have turned over a new leaf since getting Ryder I have been with him for a year, and we are getting along great." Damon said. "Fine but if you do anything bad you are out" Stefan said. "Nice thank you brother oh and he knows we are vampires" Damon said. "Really? you told him" Stefan said, "yes I don't hide anything from him and he is very good at keeping secrets as no one has questioned it so far" Damon said. Stefan wasn't convinced and he had to be honest thinking that Damon was a father troubled him. Stefan knew he needed to see this for himself so he waited as Damon brought him home from school.

how will Stefan react to Ryder? How will Ryder react to Stefan? All exciting things to come? Also which girl will Ryder choose in the future? Anyone you want him to choose over the others?

Chapter 3 Meeting Stefan

Ryder climbed into Damon's car and Damon said "Hello, how was school?" "It was fine but still to easy" Ryder said as he buckled his seatbelt. "We are going to move in with my brother Stefan, he is living in my old house where I grew up." Damon said. "Like your brother Stefan?" Ryder asked, "Yes he is very curious about you" Damon told him. "Should I be worried?" Ryder asked, "I am not sure it has been a while since I have seen him, I promise I won't let him hurt you. We are just going to grab a few things from our old place." Damon said as he speed packed most of their items. "What is going on Ryder" Chase asked, "We are moving Chase to a bigger place, and in with Stefan apparently he is my uncle" Ryder said. "Hmm, I don't know about this" Chase said as he knew that Damon was not really Ryder's father. Of course he never mentioned his past because he was afraid it would make Ryder unhappy. Chase noticed that Ryder was happier since moving in with Damon and he was making friends. He didn't want to make things worse by bringing up a past that Ryder could not remember.

Damon drove them to their new home and Ryder's eye's grew "wow this is our new home?" he asked. "Yup what do you think?" Damon asked, "It is massive I can't believe we are going to live here" Ryder said. "Welcome home little buddy" Damon said as he opened the front door and Ryder walked inside and looked around. "Wow" Ryder said as he ran through each room, Stefan was in the living room watching as Ryder took in every detail of the house. "Ryder this is Stefan" Damon said as he grabbed his son's arm, "Hi nice to meet you, dad did you know there is a dungeon in the basement!" Ryder said with excitement. "Oh my well be careful please" Damon said as Ryder looked around some more. "He seems like a good kid, I hope you know what you are doing" Stefan said. "Hey I have been doing this for a year, and plus he asked me to make him forget his past so what he doesn't know won't hurt him." Damon said, "I don't know he seems pretty smart I have a feeling he will figure it out eventually" Stefan said. "He is actually smarter than you think, and If he figures it out we will cross that bridge when we get there" Damon said. "How old is he?" Stefan asked, "he just turned 9 on January 13th." Damon said, "Dad I found my room it is huge!" Ryder said, "It better not be my room" Damon said as he followed Ryder and he chose the smallest of the bedrooms. Damon had his room as he knew that Stefan preferred the library room as he was a nerd.

There was a knock on the door and Damon looked at Stefan, "I didn't invite anyone" Stefan said.

Damon opened the door and Sheriff Forbes was standing there in her uniform. "Hello Sheriff" Damon said, "Hello, I heard that some Salvatore's moved back into town and I came to see for myself" Liz said. "Well yes I am Damon, and this is my brother Stefan and my son Ryder" Damon said pointing at everyone. "Damon and Stefan Salvatore? as in from the founding families" Sheriff said. "Yes we were named after distant relatives from a long time ago, I am not really that familiar with the history" Damon said flashing Liz a smile. "Well if you are planning on staying in town just be careful and if you want to join the council just let me know" Liz said as she walked away. Ryder seemed confused as he said "I thought you were the original Salvatore's from the council a long time ago" "We are Ryder but remember what I told you we don't talk about that. We are not supposed to still be alive that was over 150 years ago." Damon said, "Right it is just so hard to remember" Ryder said. "I need you to remember because we can't let anyone know we are vampires we could be in a lot of trouble" Damon said. "I know dad I promise I won't tell" Ryder said as he smiled and Damon said "go do your homework and I will make you dinner" Damon said. "Okay, but I already did my homework" Ryder said, "okay go un pack your things then" Damon said. Ryder nodded and ran to his room with Chase following behind him. "You really trust that he won't say anything?" Stefan questioned. "Yes he hasn't so far and, if I feel like he might slip I will make him forget but for now I trust him" Damon said. "Okay well just so you know, I have no food or blood in the house. I drink animal blood and well we don't eat food" Stefan said. "I will go get some but don't touch the dog, he is not food" Damon said, "don't worry I won't" Stefan said. "Watch him please, I will be back" Damon said as he left to get food for Ryder and blood for himself.

Ryder finished unpacking fairly quickly and he received a message from Caroline on msn messenger.

CaroForbes: Hey how are you doing? you understand this homework?

RyderS: I'm good, umm yeah it is easy

CaroForbes: really I am struggling think you could help me?

RyderS: not sure it's getting late and my dad is making dinner

CaroForbes: Oh well maybe you can just tell me the answers then?

RyderS: But then you won't learn anything

CaroForbes: that's okay I don't mind

RyderS: Oh sorry have to go dinner is ready, maybe next time

RyderS has signed off

"Damn I was really hoping to talk to him more." Caroline whined she really liked him and even though they were only 9 she was going to make him like her. Ryder knew he had lied but he just couldn't talk to her he knew she liked him but he wasn't ready to date. Caroline also wasn't who he had feelings for as all 3 of his friends who were girls were very pretty. Damon came back not to long after he left as he used his super speed. He had a whole bunch of groceries and a stash of blood from the blood bank that he stole. "Ryder sir, I don't like this house" Chase said feeling uneasy. "Why? it is amazing there is so much to explore" Ryder said, "It smells funny and the dungeon makes me nervous" Chase said. "Don't worry Chase we won't lock you in there. Do you trust me?" Ryder asked his pup, "Yes Ryder sir" Chase said, "Okay then trust that I won't let anything bad happen to you" Ryder said. "Okay" Chase reluctantly agreed as they both went downstairs for dinner. "Hey perfect timing dinner is served" Damon said handing Ryder his plate and put a bowl on the floor for Chase. "Wow thanks" Ryder said as he ate the roast, carrots and mashed potatoes. Stefan watched and was very curious about Ryder any child he ever met were terrified of vampires. "Ryder I am just curious what you think of vampires" Stefan asked. "I

think they are cool, I mean dad moves so fast sometimes I hardly even know he is gone." Ryder said, "You aren't afraid of us?" Stefan asked, "No should I be?" Ryder asked, "Well no but not all vampires are like us, some might see you as food" Stefan said, "Stefan what the hell stop scaring him" Damon said. "It's okay dad I am not scared, well when those vampires do try to hurt me I have my dad and Chase to help me" Ryder said. Damon smiled as he was proud of his son, "good to know" Stefan said, "I am hoping we can be friends uncle Stefan" Ryder said, "Just Stefan is fine and I actually drink animal blood" Stefan said as he noticed Chase move closer to Ryder. "Don't worry Chase is it, I promise I won't hurt you" Stefan said as he left and went to his room.

Damon was getting Ryder ready for bed when he asked, "Dad, how do I stop a girl from liking me?" Ryder asked. "Well you just simply tell her you aren't interested in dating and just want to be friends" Damon said, "I am not sure that will work, she is very determined" Ryder said. "We talking about Caroline?" Damon asked, "yeah she is always flirting and well if I did like a girl I am not sure it would be her" Ryder said. "I see and which girl is it that you like?" Damon asked, "umm Elena, she was the one who saved me from the bully and she is so pretty" Ryder said. "Well like I said you are only 9 so just wait a bit before liking a girl. As for Caroline just tell her you aren't ready to date and just want to be friends" Damon said as he kissed Ryder's forehead and tucked him in. "Night Ryder and Chase" Damon said, "Night dad" Ryder said as he curled up hugging his pup extra tight.

The next morning Ryder woke up and was getting ready for school and he heard his uncle arguing with his dad. "Damon you can't just steal blood from the hospital blood bank, they are going to suspect vampires are in town. They are going to come straight for us" Stefan said. "First off no one knows it was me and second I have been doing it for years plus I go to all different hospitals" Damon said. "You are going to expose us to this town and I won't help you get out of it either" Stefan said as he walked away. Damon sighed as he noticed Ryder at the top of the stairs, "ready for breakfast?" Damon asked as he had pancakes ready. "Sure, but did you really steal blood? I thought you don't drink from humans" Ryder said. "I don't that is why I stole the blood bags, listen this is not your concern and I want you to forget what you heard okay" Damon said as he looked into Ryder's eyes. Ryder forgot the conversation he heard as Damon had used his mind compulsion. Damon knew he needed to get some Vervain for Ryder so that vampires couldn't use mind compulsion on him. Damon drove Ryder to school as he decided what kind of item he could put vervain in so that Ryder would wear it.

Ryder walked into the school and quickly found Matt as he was also friends with him, "hey Ryder" Matt said, "Hey Matt, where are the girls?" Ryder asked, "not sure bathroom probably, did you get the homework done?" Matt asked, "Yeah it was easy" Ryder said. "I struggled a bit and my mom is no help" Matt said. "Hmm well if you ever need help I could help" Ryder said, "thanks man I appreciate that" Matt said as Elena, Caroline and Bonnie walked up to them.

"Hey" Elena said as she smiled at Ryder, "hey" he replied back trying to stand further from Caroline who was trying to get closer to him. "Caroline stop trying so hard to be with him, he doesn't want to be your boyfriend" Matt said noticing Ryder trying to move away. Caroline went red and felt embarrassed as she stuck her head into her locker. "It is not that I just I am only 9 and I just want to be friends" Ryder said Caroline perked up a bit but was still embarrassed. School started and the kids all went to their classes as Ryder sat in the back and doodled he was bored.

Damon found a nice watch for Ryder and he carefully placed the vervain inside where no one could see it. "You know if you put that there you won't be able to use compulsion on him" Stefan said. "That is the whole point brother, I don't want others to be able to use compulsion on him" Damon said. Chase sat close by and he wondered what compulsion was and he was curious if that is how Damon made Ryder forget. "Did you use compulsion on the dog too? Well I guess it wouldn't matter he can't talk" Stefan said, "He can to Ryder apparently I am not sure how but he understands him" Damon said. "That is weird, so the dog can basically tell Ryder everything then?" Stefan asked. "Yes I guess so I never tried to use compulsion on him but I trust Chase and Ryder so I am not worried" Damon said as he gave Chase a dog cookie. "You really have changed, it is weird seeing you like this" Stefan said. "Yes Ryder has made me a better vampire, I am determined to do everything in my power to keep him safe. What he went through for such a young kid reminded me of what we went through and everything I did to protect you from dad" Damon said. "He was abused then?" Stefan asked, "Yes I found him nearly beaten to death, I could smell blood from miles away" Damon said. "Then I feel for him, I really hope he can keep our secret" Stefan said as he really wanted to stay in Mystic Falls. "He will" Damon said as he knew his dreams of staying in Mystic Falls relied on Ryder.

Will anyone ever find out about the Salvatore secret? What happens as Tyler comes back into play? Will Chase tell Ryder about compulsion? Find out soon!

Chapter 4 The dare

Ryder was so happy when the school day ended as it was the weekend, "hey Ryder a bunch of us are hanging out tonight you want to come?" Matt asked. "Yeah sure" Ryder said as Matt gave him the details and Ryder climbed into Damon's car. "Hey dad there is a bunch of people hanging out tonight can I go?" Ryder asked. "Where are you going?" Damon asked, "I think Tyler's house" Ryder said. "I thought you didn't like Tyler?" Damon questioned, "I don't but I like the others please can I go?" Ryder asked as he pleaded with his brown eyes. "Okay but please be careful, the Lockwood's are vampire hunters so they can't know about me understand" Damon said. "I promise no one will ever know" Ryder said as he ran into the house to change. Damon dropped him off at Tyler's even though he was very worried something bad was going to happen. Damon decided not to linger as he needed to get more blood so he had to hit up other hospitals.

Tyler opened his door when Ryder knocked, "Oh good I have been expecting you" Tyler said as he let Ryder in. Ryder all of a sudden felt super uncomfortable as Tyler and his friends gathered around him, "we are just playing truth or dare and it is your turn" Tyler said as he looked at

Ryder. "I am not sure I want to play" Ryder said, "That is to bad you either play or you leave"

Tyler said, "Come on man leave him alone" Matt said trying to stick up for him, "Listen Donovan this is my house my rules, no Ryder truth or dare?" Tyler asked. "Dare" Ryder said he knew that no matter what it was going to be bad and he didn't feel like answering questions. "I dare you to come into the cemetery and lay in an empty coffin" Tyler said. "He is not going to do that Tyler man come in it is getting dark" Matt said. "He has to do it, it is a dare" Tyler said. Ryder was scared but he wasn't going to show it as they walked to the cemetery. Ryder didn't know how there was an open coffin but he felt like this was planned, he took a breathe as he lay down and Tyler slammed it shut. Ryder who was not expecting that said "Okay not funny let me out" Tyler laughed and said "Nope sorry, you have to stay in there for a few minutes" as him and his friends laughed louder. "Let him out Tyler you are taking this to far" Matt said, Tyler laughed and said "Lighten up Donavan unless you want to go in there with him" Matt didn't want to but he knew Tyler was being an ass. They heard Ryder screaming from inside he was starting to panic now and Tyler and his friends lowered the coffin into an open grave. Ryder screamed as the coffin thudded to the ground. Tyler and his friends took off as there was a loud crash and they saw flashlights coming, Matt was not able to get Ryder out of the grave and he was angry at Tyler for doing this. The coffin seemed to be sealed shut and Ryder could not open it as he started to panic and was having a hard time breathing.

Stefan who was close by heard the faint screams as he investigated not seeing anything he thought it was strange. Then he heard the screams again and some banging as he looked down he saw the coffin and jumped into the hole, he opened the lid and saw Ryder who was super white and he was crying. "Are you okay?" Stefan asked him, Ryder couldn't move he was in shock as he tried to breath in air. Stefan grabbed him and took him to the hospital as he didn't know what else to do. Stefan had called Damon who was at the hospital so fast as the doctor examined Ryder. "He is okay just frightened, I am not sure what happened he won't talk to me but he is asking for you" the doctor said. Damon walked into his son's room and Ryder hugged him tight and cried he was happy to see him. "Ryder are you alright?" Damon asked, "No you were right I should have never gone, Tyler is a bully and I will never be friends with him" Ryder said as he hugged his dad more. Sheriff Forbes came into the room and said "I am sorry to interrupt, Ryder Matt told me what happened are you alright?" "I think so" Ryder said rather weakly, "I am here to ask you if you want to press charges, nothing major will happen as Tyler is young but he will get punished I assure you" Sheriff said. "No its fine, I don't want to give him more reason to hate me" Ryder said. "Are you sure?" Sheriff asked, "Yes" Ryder said as the doctor came back in and said "alright I am discharging you, as there is no medical reason for you to stay" Damon took Ryder home and he so badly wanted to rip Tyler's throat out.

Chase could immediately sense something was wrong as Ryder didn't even say anything and just lay on his bed. "Damon you need to calm down" Stefan said, "It is taking everything I have not to go there and tear that kid into pieces" Damon said. "I know what he did was wrong, but Ryder is okay" Stefan said. "How is he okay? He is terrified, he was locked in coffin and thrown into a grave. They were going to bury him alive" Damon said. Chase who overheard Damon and Stefan talking walked into Ryder's room and said "Are you okay Ryder sir?" "No, Chase that was horrifying, I didn't know if they were ever going to let me out. I felt the coffin fall and I knew I was in trouble. If Stefan didn't show up I feel like I would be stuck in there" Ryder said as he cried. Damon and Stefan could hear him crying and Damon was not sure what he could do as he heard a knock on the door. Stefan opened it and Caroline, Elena and Bonnie were standing there, "Hello" Stefan said. "Hi we heard what happened, is Ryder okay?" Elena asked, "Physically he is fine, he is angry and scared" Stefan said. "He should be angry and so are we Tyler is an ass and he always has been. Can we see him?" Bonnie said. "I will see if he wants to see you" Stefan said as Damon was already upstairs asking him. The 3 girls entered the mansion and sat in the living room, "Ryder there are 3 young ladies downstairs who are worried about you" Damon said. "Really, aw Dad they can't see me like this" Ryder said, "wash your face a little and I will tell them you are coming down" Damon said as he left Ryder too it. Ryder washed up the best he could as he tried to make himself not feel terrified as he walked downstairs with Chase by his side.

"Hey Ryder we heard what happened are you okay?" Caroline was the first to ask, Ryder looked at his dad and said "You can leave" "Oh sorry" Damon said as he chuckled a little leaving the living room. He listened from the next room and so did Stefan, "I am okay, I am not sure why I even went my gut was telling me not too" Ryder said. "Oh you poor thing" Elena said as she hugged him, Bonnie was petting Chase and said "he is cute what is his name?" "Chase" Ryder said as he laughed Chase was really enjoying the pets. "He likes you" Ryder said, "I am in love with him, I love dogs" Bonnie said, "we are going to get Tyler back for this" Elena said, "no its fine I don't want you involved" Ryder said. "Too late buddy we are involved Tyler has gone to far this time. We are going to get him back" Elena said the other girls nodded and Ryder was thankful they wanted to help. It was late and Bonnie said, "well it is late and I think we should go, If you need anything Ryder you call us" Bonnie said hugging him. Both Elena and Caroline hugged him as well and Bonnie hugged Chase as they left. "I like her a lot Ryder sir she smells nice" Chase said Ryder laughed at his pup as he headed upstairs. It was late and he changed into his pj's and crawled into bed as Chase jumped onto the bed as well. Damon came up and tucked Ryder in and said "just holler if you need me" Ryder nodded as he fell asleep.

It was 1 am when Damon and Stefan woke up to screams, Damon who was expecting it was in his room super quickly. Stefan was at the door but he didn't enter his room, Damon held Ryder and said "shh its okay you are home, you are safe shh its okay" Ryder was shaking and crying he dreamt he was trapped again. "Dad it felt so real, it was like I was back in that coffin" Ryder said, "I know shh, you are not it is going to be okay. I can make you forget if you want" Damon said. "No I need to remember all my friends know it would be suspicious if I forget" Ryder said, Damon knew Ryder had a point as he tucked Ryder back in and sat on the edge of his bed watching him fall back asleep. Damon decided not to leave the room this time as he didn't want his son to have more nightmares. Ryder could feel his dad's presence as he was able to sleep the rest of the night knowing his dad was there to protect him. The next morning Ryder slept in as Stefan let Chase out and Damon made breakfast for Ryder. It was 9 am and Ryder could smell the bacon as he rolled out of bed and walked downstairs. "Morning you feeling okay?" Damon asked, "yes I am okay, uncle Stefan thank you for saving me I don't know how you knew I was there but thank you" Ryder said as he took a bite of his toast. "I was in the cemetery already visiting and I heard you screaming, I was glad that I was there at the right time" Stefan said squeezing Ryder's shoulder as he went to go do somethings around town.

There was something about Elena that was bugging Stefan he just couldn't put his finger on it and he needed to do a little digging. Ryder finished his breakfast and went upstairs with Chase as he logged into messenger and did some college work. Ryder received a ding from messenger and noticed he was in a group chat.

RyderS joins the conversation

ElenaGilbert: Hey so we are trying to come up with a plan to get Tyler back

CaroForbes: Yes but we are having a hard time deciding as it needs to be good

BonnieBen: We also don't want him to know it was us

RyderS: you know you don't have to do this, I mean I am just not going to do anything with him anymore that is for sure.

ElenaGilbert: No we want to do this he deserves it he has been a bully for too long. This time he went to far

RyderS: I appreciate it any ideas?

CaroForbes: He is afraid of literally nothing so I have no clue

BonnieBen: Maybe we can get him locked up or something

RyderS: I have a dungeon we can lock him in.

ElenaGilbert: I am sorry you have a dungeon?

RyderS: yeah this is an old house, I am not sure what the dungeon was for but if we were to do it we couldn't tell my dad.

CaroForbes: That was your dad? wow he seems young and he was hot. Sorry

RyderS: umm yeah and I am not sure how to respond to that

BonnieBen: Don't she is literally a walking flirt she forgets she is only 9, we need to come up with a plan involving the dungeon. We will brainstorm and come up with a plan.

RyderS: Okay sounds good I have to go I need to study

ElenaGilbert: Study for what?

RyderS: Umm its a long story talk to you later

RyderS has gone offline

Ryder was hoping that they didn't ask anything else about the dungeon as he was wondering now if he should have said anything. "Chase I think I screwed up" Ryder said, "How Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "I told the girls we have a dungeon, I am not sure if that has to do with vampires or not" Ryder said. "Oh well maybe just tell your dad, I really don't think he would be mad" Chase said. "I don't know, I don't really want him to find out what we are doing" Ryder said as Damon walked into the room. "Listen I am not sure what your plan is but as long as it is not illegal and it won't get you into trouble I am all for it" Damon said. "I may have let it slip about the dungeon, and they might want to use it" Ryder said. Damon laughed, "I will make sure it is set up for our new guest with snakes and spiders or whatever you need" he said. Ryder smiled he liked that his dad was so cool, "thanks" Ryder said. "No problem and I actually came up here to give you this" Damon said as he placed the watch on Ryder's wrist. "Wow thanks, this is so nice" Ryder said not expecting it. "Ryder this watch is very important there is a special herb hidden inside that is very toxic to vampires. It will prevent any vampire from being able to use compulsion on you. As long as you wear this no vampire can get into your mind, not even me" Damon said. " I didn't know there was such a thing, I promise to wear it always" Ryder said. Damon hugged him and let him get back to his college work. "See I told your Ryder sir he is on board" Chase said Ryder smiled at Chase as he scratched behind his ears and continued his college work.

Will they get revenge on Tyler? Will Ryder keep having nightmares? Also Ryder turns 10 all good things to come!

Chapter 5 Revenge plan

Ryder finished dinner and played a game of chess with Stefan and Stefan was surprised how strategic Ryder played. "Check" Ryder said after 7 turns, "what how are you so good at this?" Stefan said. "I am not you just aren't very good" Ryder said with a sly smile, Stefan laughed he was actually really good at chess he was just shocked at how much better Ryder was. Stefan made his next move and 2 turns later Ryder said "checkmate" Stefan said "alright fine you win, but be warned next time I won't play so nice" "we will see" Ryder said he was enjoying living in this big house. "Time for bed Ryder" Damon said as he watched from the couch, "aw do I have too?" Ryder said, "yes it is already past your bedtime, go wash up and I will come tuck you in" Damon said. Ryder ran upstairs to get ready for bed as Chase followed him, "you know I am surprised this kid really has an affect on you like I feel happier when I am around him." Stefan said. "Yes he does, and he does it is weird right 2 vampires turned good over a child" Damon said. "Well I was always good, what is with the weird things in the basement?" Stefan asked. "Oh Ryder is going to get revenge on the Lockwood boy, his girlfriends have a plan. I am just letting them use the dungeon." Damon said, "Be careful Damon his dad is the mayor of this town, if he finds out we might not be able to stay." Stefan warned. "Chill Stefan, it is all just fun" Damon said as he went upstairs to check on Ryder. Damon went into his room and Ryder was already in bed with Chase by his side curled up. Damon kissed his forehead and pulled the blanket up a bit and watched him sleep. "Ryder you really have changed my life, sleep well my boy" Damon said as he closed his door and went back downstairs.

"You think he will be okay tonight?" Stefan asked, "I don't know I am hoping he won't have nightmares again, if he does I might consider torturing the Lockwood boy myself." Damon said. "I have to go do something tonight you going to be okay here?" Stefan asked, "Stefan I have been on my own for a long time now I am fine" Damon said. "Okay I will be back soon" Stefan said as he left, Damon was curious as to what he was doing but he is main focus was on Ryder. Damon poured himself some bourbon and sat down on the couch just thinking about how much better his life is. Chase had woken up as Ryder was thrashing around a lot and he fell off the bed, he sensed something was wrong and he started barking hoping it would wake Ryder up. Damon heard Chase and he was up to his room quickly as Ryder said "No let me out please! I don't like this let me out!" he screamed. Damon grabbed him and said "Ryder you are okay, you are home wake up" Ryder opened his eyes and started to cry. Damon hugged him and said "It is okay, I promise nothing can hurt you here, it is only a dream" "It feels so real, I can feel the coffin it is hard to breathe, I just want to get out" Ryder said. "You are out and safe, I know it is hard but you have to realize it is just a dream. Tyler will never hurt you again Ryder I will make sure of it" Damon said. "What are you going to do?" Ryder said, "well I can't do anything but I just mean I will always protect you always" Damon said. Ryder nodded as he lay back down, he noticed Chase was missing, "Chase!" Ryder said Chase jumped back onto the bed and he cuddled his pup. "Come get me if you need me okay, I am just down the hall. That goes for you too Chase" Damon said. Ryder rolled over and went back to sleep, Damon stayed close by just in case Ryder needed him again. Ryder was able to sleep through the rest of the night and Stefan still hadn't returned from whatever it was that he was doing. Damon slept a little bit as he kept his ears perked just in case Ryder needed him.

The next morning Ryder was eating breakfast as he heard a knock on the door, Damon went and answered it. "Hello how can I help you?" Damon said, "Hi I am a social worker, and I have some unfortunate news" the young lady said. Damon closed the door so Ryder was not able to hear, "I am not sure what you would need to tell me for?" Damon said. "Oh um well I am looking for a young boy actually his name is Ryder Jackson" the lady said. "There is no Ryder Jackson here, just my brother and I with my son" Damon said. "Oh well may I speak to the boy?" the social worker said, "I don't see why you have too but I will get him wait in the living room" Damon said. Ryder had gone upstairs and Damon had to think fast on his feet as he went up to his room, "Ryder there is a social worker here, she is going to try and take you from me. I need you to lie to her and don't tell her anything." Damon said. "Why do I need to lie? What does she need to tell me?" Ryder said. "I don't know anyways just go downstairs and see her" Damon said he wasn't going to feel comfortable he needed Ryder to stay. Ryder walked into the living room and the social worker said, "Hi are you Ryder Jackson?" "No I am Ryder Salvatore" Ryder said, "Oh sorry, um do you know this man?" the young woman showed him a picture. Ryder looked at it and said "Nope who is he?" Ryder said. "Well I thought he was your father, there was a note found with him saying his son was taken from him. You are the only Ryder I could find in the area I assumed it was you" the social worker said. "My dad is alive, I live with him. I am not sure who that is but you have the wrong house sorry. I do hope you find his son though" Ryder said Damon felt relief his compulsion had worked and Ryder really did have no memory of his past. The social worker left and Stefan walked in the door. "Who was that?" Stefan asked, "some lady who thought I was this Jackson kid, had a picture of a man said I was his son, weird right" Ryder said as he went back upstairs. "I told you something like this would happen" Stefan said, "Don't worry I didn't do anything I let Ryder handle it and he did better than I thought. He has no memory of his past and the lady was convinced, hell he had a solid performance" Damon said. "Yeah let's hope that is the only time this happens" Stefan said. "Where were you?" Damon asked, "I had to track down a realtor, I want to put the house in Ryder's name, this way vampires won't be able to enter" Stefan said. "Hmm good plan, how do we make it official?" Damon said. "Ryder just needs to sign these papers then our house will be in his name." Stefan said. Damon at this point was glad he had Ryder's name legally changed as it would actually make it official. "Ryder come downstairs please" Damon said.

Ryder ran downstairs and said "Yeah?" "Your uncle and I want you to have the house in your name, this way no vampires will be allowed to enter unless you let them." Damon said. "Why?" Ryder asked, "Well there are a lot of dangerous vampires out there and we want to be sure you are safe." Stefan said. "Okay, but why can't they enter?" Ryder said. "A vampire needs to be invited into your home, they can't enter a home with out the owner's permission" Damon said. Ryder understood and he signed the paper, Damon and Stefan waited outside. "Why are you outside?" Ryder looked confused. "We are not allowed into the home" Damon said, "Why?" Ryder asked. "Ryder were you not listening, you need to invite us in" Damon said. "You told me not to let vampires in" Ryder said. Damon rolled his eyes he didn't know if he was playing or not. "Haha very funny now you let us in" Damon said. "You can come in" Ryder said,

"something is wrong Stefan why can't we get in?" Damon said. "Ryder you need to invite us in 1 by 1" Stefan said, "Dad come in" Ryder said Damon was relieved as he was able to walk into the front door. "Uncle Stefan come in" Ryder said as he too was able to come in. "Now Ryder this is very important you aren't allowed to just let anyone in. You will know if they are a vampire because they won't be allowed in. Don't say come in to anyone just wait and see if they can enter on their own first" Damon said. "Okay this is a lot" Ryder said, "I know but it is very important we need to keep you safe" Damon said. "Alright Elena, Bonnie, Caroline and Matt are coming over soon Matt is bringing Tyler" Ryder said. "Okay please be careful and remember if they can't come in on their own they are a vampire" Stefan said. Ryder nodded as he waited for his friends to arrive and just after lunch the girls showed up. Ryder opened the door and all 3 walked inside no problem, "What is wrong you look worried?" Bonnie said. "No nothing, I just want this to work" Ryder said. "It will we have come up with a flawless plan" Elena said she was very excited.

Ryder took them to the basement and the girls prepared the room for Tyler, "this is odd I have never seen a dungeon in a basement before" Caroline said, "It used to be a school I think" Ryder said. "Okay that just makes it more creepy" Bonnie said. Matt arrived with Tyler and Matt was carrying him inside as he was asleep. "What did you do to him?" Ryder asked confused, "I um gave him a sleeping pill, one of my mom's he should be fine" Matt said. "I hope so okay set him in there" Elena said. Matt put him on the floor in the room and they locked the dungeon door, Damon was listening from above just in case. The kids waited patiently as Tyler woke up he was super confused. "What the hell!" he said as he noticed he was locked up, Bonnie let the snake in as Tyler coward in a corner. Caroline and Elena were laughing, "whoever is doing this it is not funny" Tyler said with fear, "It is not funny what you did to Ryder either" Elena said, "I am sorry, I won't do it again" Tyler said. "I don't believe you" Elena said. "I am sorry please, I promise I won't bother him again or anyone I swear" Tyler said as the snake moved closer to him. Elena looked at Ryder and he nodded she tried to open the the door and it was stuck. "I can't open it" Elena said, "What do you mean?" Ryder said as he tried and it was stuck. "It is stuck" Ryder said, "Stuck get me out now!" Tyler said causing Damon to hear as he came downstairs "what is the problem?" Damon asked. "The door latch is stuck" Elena said, Damon lifted it as it was nothing and the door swung open. Damon went back upstairs and Ryder gave him a smile as Bonnie picked up the snake and Tyler ran out. "That was so not funny" Tyler said, "neither was what you did to Ryder and you just left him there. At least we let you out" Elena said. "There was someone coming I didn't want to get in trouble, plus it was a joke we never intended for the cable to break" Tyler said. "Our point is Tyler it should have never happened what you did was cruel and Ryder could have died inside that coffin if he wasn't found" Bonnie said. "I know Ryder I am sorry, I took it to far I will not do it again. Please forgive me" Tyler said. "I accept your apology but it will take time for me to forgive, as it is hard for me to forget. I have been having nightmares and it is hard to get over something like that." Ryder said, "I am sorry again, now which way is out?" Tyler said Matt walked out with him as the girls stayed with Ryder.

"I didn't know you had nightmares, Ryder you can call me anytime if you need to talk" Elena said. "Thanks, um I don't have a cell phone though so it would be only on messenger" Ryder said. "No problem" Elena said, "you can call me anytime too" Caroline said as she didn't want to be left out. "Thanks" Ryder said as Elena said "I have to go I promised my mom I'd be home for dinner I will see you tomorrow at school" as she left followed my Bonnie and Caroline. "Sounds like we need to get you a cell phone" Damon said. "Were you listening the whole time?" Ryder asked, "not the whole time, only when there was trouble, and well you were standing within ear shot there so I couldn't help but over hear." Damon said, "I am going to take Chase out" Ryder said, "Okay be careful" Damon said as he started on dinner knowing Ryder needed to eat. Chase was running into the forest just outside the house as Ryder watched he could see something in the distance. Chase felt slightly off as he noticed a figure looking at Ryder and it made him feel uneasy. Chase ran towards Ryder as fast as he could as the figure was getting closer to him Chase started to bark loudly.

Who is this figure? Is Ryder in danger? Find out what happens next? Christmas and Ryder's birthday are coming up!

Chapter 6 Vampire Figure

Chase was barking and growling trying to get to Ryder as fast as he could, "Ryder sir! watch out" Chase yelled. It was to late the figure was close enough to Ryder now and he tried to scream but the figure said "Don't scream, you are not afraid" Ryder looked at her and screamed he was wearing his watch. Damon and Stefan both ran outside and Damon looked at Ryder who looked to be un hurt as Stefan ran after the figure who ran after Ryder screamed. "Are you okay? are you hurt?" Damon said. "No but she tried to use her mind control on me" Ryder said, "the fact that she couldn't means that the watch is working, lets go inside you are safe there" Damon said. "Chase!" Ryder said as his pup ran in behind him. Damon gave Ryder dinner and stayed with him wondering who the hell this vampire was.

Stefan had caught up to the figure and he was shocked, "Lexi?" Stefan said, "Hey Stefan, I didn't know it was you chasing me" Lexi said. "What are you doing here?" Stefan said, "Well It is almost Christmas and I missed you, I came to your house here to see if you were home. I saw the boy and my vampire instincts took over. I don't go after kids at all ever but he smells so sweet" Lexi said. "Well he is off limits Lexi, he is Damon's son so my nephew" Stefan said, "Shut up! Damon's son? your brother Damon?" Lexi said. "Yes my brother Damon, it is a long story that requires liquor come on" Stefan said as they walked back to their house. Stefan entered and said "you will need to wait here for now, just give me a sec" Stefan walked into the living room and Ryder was playing on his computer while Damon sat on the couch. "Did you catch her?" Damon asked, "Yes and it was Lexi, she is right outside" Stefan said. "That's nice she can stay there for all I care" Damon said. "She can't when the sun comes up it will kill her, come on she didn't know who Ryder was. She is my friend Damon and I want her here." Stefan said, "Lexi is a vampire did we not just warn Ryder how unsafe vampires are, we just signed over the house and now you want to invite them in" Damon said. "Not all of them are bad! Lexi saved my life" Stefan said, Damon and Stefan kept arguing not noticing that Ryder had gotten up and went to the door. "Hello" Ryder said, "Hi, I am sorry I frightened you, it is just you have a very sweet scent" Lexi said. "Umm thanks I think" Ryder said, "Listen you don't have to invite me in if you don't want to but I am here to visit with your uncle. I am surprised that Damon is a father to be honest, he sounds like he cares for you a lot" Lexi said as she could hear them arguing. "I trust you as long as your promise not to drink my blood or hurt my dad" Ryder said. "I promise, I just came to visit with Stefan" Lexi said. "You can come in then" Ryder said as Damon was at the door and Lexi walked in. "Hello Damon, nice boy you have here" Lexi said as she walked into the living room.

"Why did you let her in?" Damon said, "she is friends with uncle Stefan and she seems nice" Ryder said. "That is literally what every vampire is going to make you think, the whole reason we signed the house over to you was so vampires couldn't get in" Damon said. "Yes not all of them will, she knows uncle Stefan" Ryder said. "There are lots of vampires that know us but that doesn't mean they all need to come inside our house" Damon said he was a little angry. "I am sorry dad" Ryder said he felt bad and he could tell his dad was upset by his tone. "It is fine just please don't invite anyone else inside unless I know it is safe, Lexi is okay for right now but we need to be careful" Damon said. "Okay" Ryder said he sounded sad, "Ryder I am not upset with you, it is okay I just have issues with Lexi that don't involve you. Go get ready for bed" Damon said. Ryder nodded and went upstairs Stefan had poured Lexi some bourbon and Damon came up into the room. "Damon a father, I just didn't think I would ever see a soft side to you" Lexi said. "Well here it is, but Lexi be warned if you so much as touch a hair on his head I will end you" Damon said. "I promise I won't it was smart giving him vervain though I would have killed him otherwise. You should have him drink it too, just in case someone does try and drink his blood. He does smell really good it is intoxicating" Lexi said. Damon went and tucked him in bringing him a glass of water, "thanks" Ryder said as he drank it. Damon had done what Lexi said and mixed some vervain into the water. "Night Ryder, I love you. we are just downstairs if you need anything" Damon said. "Night dad love you too" Ryder said as he cuddled with Chase and closed his eyes.

"I want to hear the story Damon" Lexi said as Damon walked back into the living room, he poured a glass of bourbon and sat down. "I was lurking around in a town just outside Mystic Falls and I smelt his blood, like you said it is sweet and there was a lot of it. I noticed his window was open and he was laying there almost dead. I gave him some of my blood, and he told me his father beat him. I was furious we talked for a few minutes and he agreed to come with me. He asked me to make him forget his life and he has been living with me ever since. It was almost 3 years ago now as he will be 10 soon." Damon said. "Wow I just never pictured you as a dad type I mean you were always so serious and well it is hard seeing you care" Lexi said. "I care just not for certain people" Damon said. "How do you keep from drinking his blood?" Lexi asked, "easy I care enough for him that I don't have to, plus I have blood bags downstairs" Damon said. "Mind if I grab one?" Lexi asked, "I guess not" Damon said as Lexi ran downstairs and came back with a blood bag. "Stefan how do you keep from drinking it?" Lexi said, "I just don't breathe much around him and I have a lot of self control" Stefan said. "Cool well thank you for letting me stay here" Lexi said. "I am not happy about it but Stefan is glad you are here" Damon said. It had started snowing outside as the night was getting colder. It was 11 pm and Stefan, Lexi and Damon were still sitting in the living room when Ryder came in view, "dad something is wrong" Ryder said. Damon looked at him and said "what is wrong?" Ryder didn't say anything as he vomited all over the floor. "Oh my goodness" Lexi said, Damon was over at Ryder's side quickly as he checked him over. "Are you okay?" Damon asked worried, "I feel awful" Ryder said as he vomited again. Damon looked at Stefan and he said "I don't know man he is your kid" Lexi looked at them both, "Oh honestly do you have a first aid kit? a thermometer?" Lexi said. "No never needed one" Damon said. "You go get one, I will take him upstairs get him cleaned up. He might just have the flu. It might be wise to call a doctor just in case" Lexi said as she took Ryder upstairs.

Damon sent Stefan to get the supplies as he didn't fully trust Lexi and he needed to keep an eye on Ryder. Lexi had Ryder changed into new pj's as she changed his sheets seeing that he puked on his bed as well. Chase was on the floor on his own bed watching Ryder as he was also worried for him. Damon had a bucket by his bed just in case he needed to puke again, Stefan came into the room with a bunch of supplies, Lexi found the thermometer and checked his temperature. "His temperature is up a bit 101. He might just have a flu but I am not an expert" Lexi said as she was a nurse in her past life. Lexi found some Tylenol and gave it to Ryder as she sat him up and he chewed the pills. Ryder lay back down he was tired, "he just needs to rest, if he isn't better in the morning I would get a doctor to come see him" Lexi said. "Thank you Lexi for your help" Damon said. "Your welcome" Lexi said, Damon cleaned up the mess in the hallway as he hoped Ryder wasn't really sick. Damon slept in Ryder's room that night as he was worried and didn't want to leave him alone.

The next morning Ryder groaned as he rolled over, he noticed the bucket and vomited in it again.

Damon sighed Ryder was not any better, "You okay?" Damon asked, "No I don't feel good" Ryder said. "Okay you are staying home today, I will call the school, get some rest I will get the doctor in to come take a look." Damon said. Lexi came up to his room and said "how you feeling sweetie?" "Yucky" Ryder said, "okay I am going to check your temperature again" as she grabbed the thermometer, "hmm still 101, but it isn't any higher." Lexi said as she gave him more Tylenol. "Here drink some of this as well," Lexi said as she had some orange juice with her.

Ryder drank some and just lay back down he felt weak. Damon had gone downstairs and called

Ryder school, "Hello Mystic falls elementary" the secretary said, "Hi, yes I am calling for Ryder Salvatore he is not feeling well and won't be coming in today and possibly tomorrow" Damon said, "Okay I will let his teachers no, hope he feels better soon" the secretary said. Damon hung up and called a doctor's office. "Hello Dr. Fell's office" a lady said, "Hi I need Dr. Fell to come and check my son he is sick. I live in the old Salvatore residents" Damon said. "She is just out on another call right now but I will let her now" the lady said. "Thank you" Damon said hoping she would hurry up as he was worried. Lexi was back downstairs, "You have a lot of windows in your house, it is hard to stay out of the sun" Lexi said, "Yeah its nice that I don't have to worry about it" Damon said not feeling bad for her. "Yes being a day walker must be so nice" Lexi said as she avoided the light in the kitchen and went to the living room. "Is Ryder okay?" Damon asked, "No he is sick, I mean he is young he will recover, but he hurts the flu sucks" Lexi said.

Just after lunch there was a knock on the door and Damon opened it and it was Dr. Fell, she walked inside and Damon was relieved. Damon took her upstairs and Ryder was asleep as Dr. Fell checked his vitals and drew some blood, Ryder flinched a bit but didn't wake up. Lexi had to leave the room as she drew the blood it was to sweet for her, Damon struggled a little to but he knew he wouldn't hurt Ryder. "As far as I can tell he just has a bad case of the flu, if he is not better in a few days call me again. I will have the lab check his blood, but he should recover on his own. Make sure he gets lots of fluids and rest" Dr. Fell said as she left. Damon nodded as he saw her out hoping that it was just the flu. Damon looked at Chase and said "You need to go outside? Ryder will be okay for a few seconds" Chase didn't move as he looked at Ryder, "suit yourself but I will not let you stay in this house if you ruin my floors" Damon said. Chase jumped up and followed Damon outside, "does the dog understand you?" Lexi asked as she noticed the dog obey. "I am not sure Ryder and him have a weird connection, Ryder says he can hear him but I talk to him and he seems to understand" Damon said. "Ryder talks to his dog and it talks back?" Lexi said. "Yes or I am not sure I hear them talking sometimes but I only hear Ryder's side of the conversation, Chase just barks" Damon said as Chase reappeared at the door and ran back upstairs. "This just keeps getting weirder and weirder" Lexi said as she waited for the sun to go down.

Ryder slept most of the day, only waking up to pee and drink liquids as Damon watched over him. At dinner time there was a knock on the door and Stefan answered, "Hi I heard Ryder was sick, I brought him some soup, and his homework" Elena said. "That is really nice of you come in" Stefan said, Elena walked in and Stefan showed her to Ryder's room he knocked and entered, "Hi someone is here to see you Ryder. Are you up for a visitor?" Stefan said, "Umm depends" Ryder said. "It is Elena she brought you soup" Stefan said, "Oh no, I look awful" Ryder said as he ran into the bathroom and tried cleaning himself up, Damon took the bucket and changed it for a clean one, Stefan let Elena into the room and Ryder was sitting up in bed, "Let me know if you need anything" Damon said as he left the 2 alone. "I brought you some soup, my mom always makes this for me when I am sick" Elena said opening the container it was in and handing it to him, "Thanks" Ryder said as he sipped it slowly, not wanting to over do it. "I am sorry you are sick, I did bring your homework" Elena said as she handed it to him, "Thanks Elena" Ryder said as he tried not to vomit in front of her. He didn't feel good and eating the soup was not helping, he set it down on the nightstand. "Is it not good?" Elena said, "No its good I just don't feel very well and" Ryder couldn't finish his sentence as he vomited in the bucket beside the bed. "Oh my goodness" Elena said, "I am sorry" Ryder said he felt like she would hate him now, "Don't apologize for being sick Ryder. It is fine, I feel bad for you" Elena said. "I will leave the soup here just call me if you need anything else" Elena said as she left the room. Damon came back in and said, "well that wasn't very classy" Ryder was embarrassed, "I know ugh I shouldn't have eaten the soup, my stomach just feels so awful" Ryder said. "I wish I could take away your pain bud" Damon said. "Can you feed me your blood?" Ryder said, "I am not sure if it will help, and seeing as how you can't keep soup down, the blood could make you worse" Damon said. Ryder understood he didn't want to feel worse or die and be stuck at 9 forever. "Get better okay Christmas is coming soon and we need you better for it" Damon said as he took the soup and gave Ryder more Tylenol.

Ryder took a few days to recover but he ended up getting better in the end, Caroline also tried to visit him while he was sick but Damon turned her away. The school year ended and Christmas was coming up as Ryder was finally feeling better. Damon and Stefan cut down a tree and they helped Ryder decorate it, Lexi decided to stay for the holidays as she grew fond of Ryder and they were getting closer.

Christmas is the next Chapter! Also Ryder's birthday YAY! I hope you are enjoying this story, I am having a lot of fun writing it. Please remember to vote!

Chapter 7 Christmas with the Salvatore's

Christmas time in Mystic falls was always happy as everyone gathered together to decorate the town. The Salvatore's were never one for Christmas cheer but since Ryder was still young they were doing it for him. "Does he still believe in Santa?" Stefan asked, "I don't know last year I didn't do Santa and he was happy either way. I think if we just get him what he wants he will be fine." Damon said. " what is it that he wants?" Stefan asked, "he asked for a computer and a cell phone." Damon said. "Sounds easy enough, I will get the cell phone you get the computer." Stefan said. "Well I already bought him both so I guess we can compromise or you could just get him something else" Damon said. Stefan rolled his eyes, "I will figure something out" he said as he left the house to find a gift. Ryder was out with Elena, and Bonnie buying gifts they were just having lunch when Caroline showed up with her mother. "Hello" Caroline said, "Hey Caroline" they all said, "Ryder do you think I could speak to you for a minute" Sheriff Forbes said. "Umm sure" Ryder said as he stood up and followed the Sheriff. "What is that all about?" Bonnie asked, "not sure my mom just said she wanted to come because she needed to talk to him, maybe he will tell us" Caroline said. "I don't know Ryder has his secrets" Elena said, "but we are his friends he will tell us" Bonnie said hoping that he would.

"Ryder I am going to ask you something and I want you to be honest okay" Sheriff said, "Okay" Ryder said a little confused. "Is Damon Salvatore your real father?" Sheriff asked him, "Yes he is why?" Ryder asked. "I have reason to believe that your real parents are dead, Damon may have found you and took you in convincing you he is your father" Sheriff Forbes said. "Why would he do that? I don't know if I believe you" Ryder said. "That is okay I just want you to know that I think your parents were Diane and Trever Jackson, they were both killed by an animal. Ryder I

am not saying you need to leave Damon if you truly feel you want to stay with him, I just want you to know there are other options out there." Sheriff said. Ryder looked sad as he tried to process what the Sheriff had just told him. He ran over to the table grabbed his stuff and left, he didn't even say goodbye to anyone. "Mom what the hell did you say to him?" Caroline asked. "Language Caroline, and I may have just changed his perspective a little if he wants to tell you he will. The conversation is between me and him for now" Sheriff Forbes said as she sat down with the girls.

Ryder ran into the house and up to his room and slammed the door, Damon noticed and he wasn't sure if should go ask him if he was okay. Ryder sat on his bed and cried he was so confused, Chase came up to him and said "Are you okay Ryder sir?" "I am not sure Chase, I just found something out and I think my whole life is a lie" Ryder said. "What do you mean?" Chase asked, "I just need to figure this out hang on Chase" Ryder said as he opened up his make-shift computer and did some research. Ryder googled his parents names Diane and Trevor Jackson, and he googled himself Ryder Jackson. There was a lot of information on the subject and Ryder read through all of it and printed off a few pages. "Chase I think these are my real parents. I don't think Damon is my father" Ryder said. Chase was silent he knew the truth but did he really want Ryder to know he was so happy before. "Ryder sir does it matter who your real parents are?

Damon is good to us he cares for us. We life in the amazing house and we are happy" Chase said.

"I don't know I guess it doesn't matter but Chase it means that I've been lied to" Ryder said.

"Ryder sir I am going to tell you something but please don't be upset about it okay" Chase said.

"I can't promise you that but okay" Ryder said. "Damon took us in, he found you when you were 8 years old your real father had almost beaten you to death, you were hurt very badly but Damon saved you. He brought us back to his home and he asked you if you wanted to forget you said yes. Damon used his compulsion on you but only after you said yes, he would not have done it if you didn't agree. I never met your mother so I can't speak for her but from what you told me she died when you were really young. Damon is good to us please don't be upset with him" Chase said. Ryder thought about what Chase just told him and he pet him and said "Okay but I need answers" Ryder said as he went downstairs to find Damon.

"Ryder is everything okay?" Damon asked when he saw him walk into the living room. "If you answer me honestly then maybe" Ryder said. "Okay I will try" Damon said, "Sheriff Forbes told me that my real parents are Diane and Trevor Jackson, and that you took me in, she also told me that they were killed by an animal which is code for vampire right? Did you kill them?" Ryder asked him. Damon sighed he didn't want to lie to Ryder but he didn't know if he wanted him to know the truth either, "Ryder I am going to be honest yes they are your real parents, but I took you in after you agreed, your father almost beat you to death. I did make you forget but only after you told me to, I want nothing but the best for you Ryder, I love you and you really have changed my life." Damon said. "You didn't answer my questions" Ryder said, "Yes they were killed by a vampire and if you hate me for saying this then I am really sorry but I killed your father yes. I couldn't stand that he hurt you, I don't know who killed your mother" Damon said he knew he did but he didn't want anyone to know. "Okay I understand, Sheriff told me that I have the option to go live somewhere else as well" Ryder said. "Oh" was all Damon could say, "I just want to tell you that I to love you and in my mind you are my dad, so if it alright with you I'd like to still be a Salvatore" Ryder said. "Absolutely" Damon said giving him a hug, "Dad just one thing please don't lie to me anymore" Ryder said. "I promise only the truth, did you get all your shopping done?" Damon asked. "Yup now I need to go wrap ill see you at dinner" Ryder said as he ran back upstairs.

The next morning Ryder dressed for his last day of school before Christmas as he grabbed his gifts for Elena, Bonnie and Caroline. Damon dropped him off and at school and said "have fun Ryder" "I will thanks dad" Ryder said as he jumped out of the car, Ryder spotted Sheriff Forbes dropping off Caroline and he ran up to her and said "Sheriff, I did some research into what you said and even if these were my parents, they aren't now. Damon is my father and I want to stay with him. My past is my business and I am happy where I am" Ryder said. "Alright, I just wanted you to be aware" Sheriff said. "Thank you" Ryder said as he ran into the school and found his friends who were waiting for him. The teachers let the kids have fun at school today as it was almost Christmas and even Tyler was being nice. "Merry Christmas Ryder, I am sorry that I was a bully in the past. I hope that maybe one day we could be friends" Tyler said as he went to join his other friends. "That was weird, what did the Sheriff say to you yesterday?" Bonnie said. "She just told me that I was adopted but I don't care my dad is my dad and I wouldn't change it either way" Ryder said. "That is sweet" Elena said as they all talked some more and the school day ended. "Bye guys I hope you like your gifts. See you in a few weeks" Bonnie said as she was going away for the holidays to visit her family. Elena was also going away but she was spending it somewhere warm with her family. Caroline was staying with her mom as she was working but she was happy either way. Ryder said bye as he climbed into Damon's car, "How was school?" Damon asked. "It was fun today, all we did was hang out and eat food. It was like a giant party" Ryder said. "Cool, are you excited for Christmas?" Damon asked, "Yes!" Ryder said as they drove home. Ryder was shocked when he opened the door the whole house had transformed into what looked like Santa's workshop. "Woah!" Ryder said, "Do you like it? I may have gone a bit overboard" Lexi said. "This is so cool!" Ryder said as he looked around. Damon rolled his eyes he hated it but if his son liked it then he was game.

Ryder was having a lot of fun interacting with everything Lexi had set up in the house and he spent the whole rest of the day playing. Lexi had a huge smile on her face she didn't know what it was about Ryder that made her feel like a human again. "I am not sure what it is about him, but he makes me feel wholesome" Lexi said to Stefan, "yes he has that weird affect on me too. He is a special kid" Stefan said. "I am glad that I was invited in, I feel like I will always be a part of this magic" Lexi said. "I am glad that Damon found him and that he chose us as his family, even though we don't deserve it" Stefan said. Damon smiled he was happy too for himself and Stefan maybe not so much for Lexi. The doorbell rang and Damon was confused, he answered it and Sheriff Forbes was there, "Hi, wow your house looks amazing" Liz said, "Thank you, what can I do for you Sheriff?" Damon asked. "I know that you aren't Ryders real father but he has assured me that he is happy here. I have here adoption papers from social service's if you sign this and Ryder signs this we can make this all legal. No questions asked as Ryder has shown his true feelings" Sheriff said. "Ryder come here for a minute" Damon said as he explained the situation, "yes please!" Ryder said Damon smiled and they both signed the paper, "Alright I will get this into the system, I am sorry for interrupting your holidays, and Damon who could use someone like you on the council if you are interested" Sheriff said as she left. Ryder smiled and hugged his dad, "Thanks" he said as he ran off to play in the workshop more. "Time for bed Ryder" Damon said. "Aw dad I don't want to" Ryder said. "I know but Christmas won't come if you don't sleep" Damon said pushing him lightly upstairs.

Ryder woke up the next morning with Chase licking his face, "Merry Christmas Ryder sir!" Chase said with excitement. "Merry Christmas Chase, let's go" Ryder said as he jumped out of bed and ran downstairs, the tree had so many presents under it Ryder couldn't believe it. There were presents mostly for him but Chase had some too. "I get presents too" Chase said with excitement, "of course you do" Ryder said as Damon and Stefan came into the living room, "Merry Christmas Ryder, go ahead" Damon said, "Where is Lexi?" Ryder asked, "she will be down soon she wanted us to have some family time first" Stefan said as Ryder dug into his presents. Ryder received the computer and phone he asked for, and a bunch of other gadgets he would play with. "Thank you so much!" Ryder said as he hugged them both, Chase got lots of pull toys and games he could play will Ryder was at school. The rest of Christmas went by as they all had a nice dinner and Ryder said "Okay Chase lets go outside quick" "Okay Ryder sir" Chase said as he followed Ryder outside. Chase took off to the bathroom and a black truck drove up to Ryder and grabbed him and drove off quickly. Ryder screamed but it was so fast he didn't have a chance to react. Chase was barking like crazy as he lost the truck as it sped off, Damon, Stefan and Lexi all ran outside. "Ryder!" Damon called out. Chase as barking in the direction the truck went, "Chase where did Ryder go?" Damon asked him. Chase barked but since Ryder was the only one who could understand him they had no luck. "What happened?" Damon wondered as he sat on the couch feeling depressed. Lexi tried to get information from Chase, she had the computer and said "Chase can you type what happened or anything?" Chase looked a bit confused but he touched the keys with his nose as carefully as he could. His message read, "Big black truck took him, 2 men grabbed him" Damon was furious the 3 vampires set out on a mission to find Ryder as they all went in different directions. It was dark out so Lexi was able and very willing to help.

Who took Ryder? Will his family find him? What will happen next stay tuned!

Chapter 8 Searching for Ryder

Damon was getting annoyed he had Chase with him as they searched everywhere for Ryder, Chase was looking for the black truck. Stefan and Lexi were having no luck either and the sun was going to be coming up soon so Lexi headed back to Stefan's. Damon wasn't going to give up he decided to head over the the police station to report him missing. Sheriff Forbes was there and Damon was happy to see her, "Sheriff, someone took Ryder" Damon said, "What do you mean?" Sheriff said, "There was a black truck, he was in the yard with his dog and the 2 men jumped out of a black truck and grabbed him. I wasn't fast enough to help, someone kidnapped my son" Damon said. "I am really unsure why someone would kidnap a child during the holidays, I will send some guys out to search for him" Sheriff said as she called out to her mean to do a sweep of the town.

Meanwhile Ryder was taken to a cabin deep into the woods, and he was tied to a chair with a blindfold on so he couldn't see who took him. "I am sorry I need to keep you tied up until my boss gets here." the man said. "Let me go!" Ryder said. "I am sorry, I am to keep you away from Damon Salvatore" the man said. Ryder was scared he didn't know if this man was going to hurt him, he heard a door close and he realized he was alone. Ryder wiggled as much as he could and the bindings holding him came loose. Ryder took off the blindfold and saw a window as he opened it slowly as to not make to much noise. He climbed out and ducked he slowly made his way to the front and saw the man on the phone. Ryder ran the opposite direction he had no idea where he was or where he needed to go. The man was angry when he realized Ryder had escaped. "Dammit!" he said out loud as he ran the opposite direction that Ryder did, Ryder kept running even though he was tired. He came to a highway and he ran hoping to see a car or anything so he could ask for help. Ryder saw headlights and he flagged the car down, a lady stopped and said "oh my goodness, sweetie are you alright?" "No this man kidnapped me, I ran away, he said he wants to kill my dad" Ryder told her. "Oh my well we can't have that" the lady said as Ryder climbed into her car.

The lady drove Ryder the opposite direction of Mystic Falls, "you are not going the right way" Ryder said. "No I am not, I am sorry but you can't go back to that town" the lady said. "Let me go right now!" Ryder screamed. "I can't you are not safe there, I don't care if the adoption papers went through" the lady said. Ryder realized the lady was the social worker that came to his house, "You are the one who told me that my parents died. Look I get it I understand they died, I am happy with my new family, please I want to go back" Ryder said in tears, "You are not going back to live with vampires, I am sorry but no I am taking you to live with family" the lady said. "Why does everyone keep saying vampires, they are not real, take me to my dad now" Ryder said. "If you don't know you are living with vampires then you are really not well sweetie" the lady said as she stopped at a red light. Ryder took advantage of this and ran out of the car. "Ugh that boy" the lady said as she pulled over and ran after him. Ryder was fast she lost sight of him quickly. Ryder knew that asking anyone for help wasn't going to be easy. He knew he wasn't to far out of Mystic falls, Ryder saw a cafe and he ran inside as he logged into the computer and sent a message to Elena.

RyderS: Elena please let Damon know that the social worker who came to my house took me. We are in a town outside Mystic Falls, she is trying to keep me from him.

ElenaGilbert: What that is absurd, the adoption papers went through, I will tell him

RyderS: thank you

Ryder had to log out quickly as he could see the social worker searching for him outside, he ran into the back and into the washroom and hid. Elena had told Damon and he drove over to the next town breaking a few traffic laws on the way. Damon spotted the social worker and walked up to her, "Hello, are you looking for someone?" Damon asked, "Oh um no" the lady said a bit frightened. Damon looked at her and said "Where is my son?" "I have no idea, who is your son?" the lady said trying to play dumb. Just then a man walked up to her, "Lydia I am sorry that he ran off, did you find him?" "Shut up James!" Lydia said as he realized Damon was right there, "You know you are both so lucky that I have turned over a new leaf, so I am going to say this once, forget Ryder ever existed, go back to your jobs and delete his file. He no longer is a concern for you" Damon said. Lydia looked at James and said "What are we doing here?" "I have no idea" James said as they both walked away. Damon walked into the cafe and searched for Ryder, there was no sign of him there. Damon went and checked the bathroom just to be safe, it was empty, "Ryder" Damon said just in case. The bathroom stall door opened and Ryder ran into his dad arms. "Are you alright?" Damon asked, "yes she wanted to take me away. I didn't know if I would ever see you again" Ryder said. "It is okay she won't be bothering us again" Damon said, "Why what did you do?" Ryder asked a bit worried. "Nothing I just asked her to forget about you" Damon said. They walked to Damon's car and drove back home, Lexi and Stefan were so relieved to see him and so was Chase as he tackled him and gave him a few licks. "I am okay Chase" Ryder said.

"Can you really understand what your dog says?" Lexi asked him, "Yes" Ryder said, "that is cool, is it all animals or just your dog?" she asked curious. "I am not sure I never tested it on other animals" Ryder said as he was now curious. Damon made Ryder dinner and he ate and decided to go upstairs. He was playing with his new phone when he received a text:

Elena: Hey it's Elena are you alright?

Ryder: Yeah thanks for helping

Elena: no problem, that's what friends are for

Ryder: Yeah what are you doing tomorrow?

Elena: Not sure want to do something?

Ryder: Sure call me tomorrow

Elena: Okay

Ryder played on his computer and fell asleep with it on his lap. Damon came in and closed the computer and tucked him in. Damon had to go see the Sheriff he needed to be sure that no one would come take Ryder from him again. The next morning Ryder slept in a bit and came down for breakfast. "Morning sleepyhead" Damon said, "Sorry I was tired" Ryder said, "it is all good dig in or breakfast will get cold" Damon said. Ryder ate his breakfast and said "is it okay if I hang out with Elena today?" "Sure where?" Damon asked, "I don't know maybe just at the mystic grill play some games" Ryder said. "Sure I needed to go there anyways" Damon said, "you don't have to come" Ryder said. "Sorry I won't be in you way, but I need to be sure you are safe. I

don't trust anyone anymore" Damon said. Ryder rolled his eyes but he knew that he would be safer if Damon was there. Ryder texted Elena and told her to meet him at the grill and she agreed. Ryder gave Chase a few toys and a pet and said "I will be home later, I love you Chase" "I love you to Ryder sir, please be careful" Chase said. "I will" Ryder said as he left, Damon drove them to the grill and he sat at the bar and flirted with the bartender, Ryder spotted Elena and they played a game of pool. Ryder really had no idea how to play but Elena was teaching him and he caught on fairly quick.

Damon noticed that the people who just walked in were vampires, as the sun had gone down.

Damon didn't realize how long they were there, but he did notice Ryder and Elena had dinner. The vampires were starting to cause trouble and they moved closer to where Ryder and Elena were sitting. "Hello there, what are we having today" one male vampire said, "what the hell get away from us" Ryder said as he moved away from him. "No one walks away from me" the vampire said as he tried to grab Ryder. Damon was there and said "Excuse you, but I am sure hurting a child was not on your to do list today" "I am sure you don't want to get involved" the male vampire said. "To late I am involved" Damon said as he tried to hold the vampires off, the Sheriff came in and shot them all with something. "Thank you Damon for your help, we can take it from here" Sheriff said. "What did you do to them?" Damon asked, "We used some vervain it is a drug lethal to vampires" the sheriff said. Damon was glad they didn't shoot him otherwise he would be hauled off as well. "What were those guys?" Elena asked, "not sure, Ryder time to go home" Damon said. There were a lot of targets now on their backs especially if they didn't deal with the vampires properly.

Damon and Ryder arrived home and Stefan was alone as Lexi had decided to go travel for a bit but she would be back. "I heard there was some trouble at the grill" Stefan said, "yeah some vampires came, but the sheriff shot them with vervain, it is not good they know about that stuff" Damon said. "We should be fine, we are day walkers they won't suspect us plus we aren't attacking the people either." Stefan said. "Yeah but everyone wants Ryder, all the vampires are drawn to him for some reason" Damon said. "His blood smells good that's why, he is drinking vervain still right?" Stefan asked. "Yes I put it in his water" Damon said, Ryder was upstairs telling everything that happened to Chase. "He will be fine then, we just need to make sure he stays safe" Stefan said. Damon poured some bourbon and sat on the couch opposite of Stefan, there was a knock on the door, it was late so both Damon and Stefan were curious as to who it could be. Ryder ran to the door as he was going to let out Chase he didn't realize anyone had knocked, "Hello" a female voice said. Damon and Stefan looked at each other and ran to the door. "No way, you are not supposed to be alive" Stefan said, "Why? because you thought you killed me?" Charlotte said. "Yes but I never expected, how are you alive?" Stefan said, "Well I drank vampire blood obviously, why can't I get in?" Charlotte said. "You haven't been invited in" Damon said. "Then invite me in" Charlotte said, "I can't sorry that is not my decision" Damon said. Ryder looked at him and he shook his head, Ryder knew not to invite this vampire in plus she kinda creeped him out. "What is that divine smell" Charlotte said, "I am not sure" Stefan said looking at her. Charlotte's eyes fell upon Ryder and she said, "You are living with a human, and he smells delicious" "He is not to eat, he is my son and you need to go. You are not invited in" Damon said. "Ah I see, okay but just watch your back" Charlotte said as she looked at Ryder when she said this. "Who was that?" Ryder asked, "Just a old girlfriend of Stefan's who clearly is still obsessed with him. We need to do something about her" Damon said, "Yes I will deal with it" Stefan said as he left the house.

Damon sent Ryder to bed and he tucked him in as he wrote a list of all the vampires he knew, so that if they ever did come Ryder would know who was safe and who wasn't. Most of them were not safe as he really didn't want any vampires inside his home. The next week of holidays went by quickly with no more threats and Ryder was ready to go back to school. Stefan had done what he promised and Charlotte was no longer a threat as he did his part to keep Ryder safe. Damon was worried that there was always going to be a threat to his son but he promised Ryder he would be safe. Ryder went to school even though he was worried he was always going to have trust issues.

Ryder will get older in the next chapter? Also more vampires come into play and witches will also come in as Bonnie discovers her powers. Thanks for voting!

Chapter 9 Ryder's Birthday Surprise

Ryder's birthday was in a few days and Damon and Stefan decided they wanted to throw him a surprise party. Damon told Caroline's mother and she told Caroline who of course told Elena and Bonnie and they were excited. "We can't tell him" Caroline said, "obviously not hint the surprise part" Bonnie said. Just then Ryder was walking up to them and they all went silent, "What are you guys doing this weekend?" Ryder asked them. "Oh I have plans with my family we are super busy" Elena said, "yeah I am out of town as well" Bonnie said. "My mom needs my help this weekend some sort of fundraiser" Caroline said. Ryder seemed a bit sad but he tried not to show it. Everyone he was friends with were busy on his birthday and he was hoping at least one friend would come. The rest of the day went by and Ryder didn't even say goodbye to his friends as he was just not feeling it. He climbed into Damon's car and just sat in silence, "What's wrong bud?" Damon asked, "nothing can we just go home" Ryder said, "Sure but I am here if you need to talk" Damon said, Ryder ran up to his room as soon as they arrived home and lay on his bed.

Chase jumped up and said "Ryder sir are you alright?" "Chase all my friends are busy on my birthday. I thought this year would be fun but no one is free this weekend" Ryder said. "I am free Ryder sir, I will celebrate with you" Chase said as he licked him, "thanks Chase you are such a good pup" Ryder said a he cuddled him. "Ryder sir, I am going to go outside I will be back, please stay here every time you take me out something bad happens to you" Chase said as he ran downstairs to the door. Stefan came in and Chase ran out, "be careful" Stefan called to him as he closed the door leaving it open a bit so Chase can get back in. "Stefan, do you think Katharine would be a threat?" Damon asked, "is she a threat yes, but she is inside the tomb with the others" Stefan said, "what if they were to escape, I need to know everyone who is a threat to Ryder" Damon said. "All vampires are a threat to him Damon, I am sure you are aware of this but he has a smell that draws vampires to him." Stefan said, "I am aware it is what drew me to him in the first place, but I worry about him. He seemed sad today and he won't talk to me" Damon said. "I am sure it is nothing, he is not really one to keep secrets. If something were bothering him he would tell you" Stefan said. "I am not so sure but I will let it be for now" Damon said as he had some party planning to do.

Ryder didn't come out of his bedroom for the rest of the evening he was just really sad, as the week has gone by and tomorrow was his birthday. He didn't even really want to celebrate it he just wanted to shut himself off in his room. The next morning Damon woke him up with a special breakfast, "Morning Ryder happy birthday!" he said. "What is so happy about it? none of my friends could come over. It is going to suck!" Ryder said as she covered himself back up. "No none of this moping your uncle is waiting for you downstairs he has a special surprise for you" Damon said as he gently pulled Ryder out of bed. "Fine" Ryder said as he dressed he wasn't looking forward to going anywhere with Stefan. "Ready bud?" Stefan said as they drove for a little bit to get to their destination. "Where are we going?" Ryder asked, "It is a surprise" Stefan said as he stopped the car. "Ryder there is a saying that when a boy turns 10 in my family he needs to learn to shoot and arrow. I have a bow and arrow here and I want you to try and hit the target" Stefan said. Ryder grabbed the bow and Stefan showed him how to aim and shoot, Ryder tried several times and he wasn't very good. After an hour or so he was able to hit the target, "I did it!" Ryder said excitedly, "Awesome you think you can hit the apple?" Stefan said placing an apple on top of the target. Ryder concentrated and he was able to hit it as it fell off the target, "Ryder you have now become a man in the Salvatore house" Stefan said. "Cool, thanks uncle Stefan this was fun" Ryder said. Just then Stefan sensed vampires coming, "Ryder get to the car" Stefan said. "Why?" Ryder said not sensing the danger, "Go quickly" Stefan said. Ryder ran towards the car but before he could get there they were surrounded by several vampires.

"Going somewhere?" James one of the bigger vampires said as he stepped in front of the car door. Stefan was being held up by a few vampires so Ryder was on his own, "I am not afraid of you" Ryder said. "No you should be, you smell amazing" James said as he grabbed Ryder and exposed his neck to drink, James immediately jumped back when he felt a searing pain. "Why does your blood burn" James said Ryder took advantage and pushed him as he climbed into Stefan's car. Stefan was having a hard time fighting off the vampires as he doesn't drink human blood. Ryder called his dad, "Hello Stefan what is wrong?" Damon said, "Dad its me we are being attacked by vampires, uncle Stefan is losing. One vampire tried to bite me but my blood burned him" Ryder said before he could finish the line went dead and Damon was there. Damon was easily able to kill the vampires, "How are you able to walk in the sunlight?" Damon asked him, "You are not the only one with witch friends" James said as he was still trying to get at Ryder. "Back off my son!" Damon said as he staked James through the heart. Even though he drank Ryder's blood James died quicker then he was meant to. Ryder was horrified as he watched his dad kill all the vampires, he knew they were bad but still it was not cool watching his dad do it. Damon rushed back home as Stefan climbed into the car, "well sorry about that" he said as he drove them back. Ryder was a bit shaken still but when he walked into the house everyone in the living room shouted "Surprise Happy Birthday Ryder!" "wow umm I don't know what to say" Ryder said as his friends gathered around him. Stefan was dealing with the dead vampires as Damon watched Ryder have fun with his friends.

Bonnie was talking to Ryder, "I have been feeling like I have powers or something" she told Ryder, "What do you mean like you are a superhero?" Ryder asked, "No nothing like that but I can make fire. Watch I can light this candle" Bonnie said as she closed her eyes and the candle flickered with fire. "Cool, so you are like a witch" Ryder said, "according to my grams yes, I never told Elena or Caroline this but there are vampires to" Bonnie said. "Really?" Ryder said even though he already knew this. "Yes and they are the ones behind all the animal attacks, apparently its vampires" Bonnie said. "Woah" Ryder said trying to act surprised, "I know but shh don't tell anyone" Bonnie said. "I won't" Ryder said as they were joined by Caroline and Elena. The party ended and only Elena remained as she sat and talked to Ryder. "Ryder I want to ask you something" Elena said, "Sure" Ryder said, "Your dad and uncle are they vampires?" Elena asked, "Umm, I don't know" Ryder said he didn't know what to say. "I won't tell if they are it just seems like it. They are beautiful to look at, and the Salvatore's were said to have died a long time ago. I am just putting 2and 2 together" Elena said. Damon came into the room, "Yes Elena, but you are going to forget that you know about us being vampires." Damon said and Elena looked dazed for a second. "What were we talking about?" Elena said, "Nothing important" Ryder assured her, that was a close call and Ryder was not ready to explain. "Well I better get home, happy birthday Ryder" Elena said as she left. Damon told Ryder to go get ready for bed as he heard a knock on the door.

Damon opened it and couldn't believe who he was looking at "No way" Damon said, "surprise! did you miss me?" Katharine said. "You were in the tomb" Damon said, "well no I had someone help me escape, you keep killing my friends Damon I am hurt. I heard you are a father had to come see for myself" Katharine said as she tried to enter. "Hmm you have a human protecting your home. I bet it is that boy" Katharine said looking around Damon as he turned to see Ryder. "I told you to go upstairs" Damon said as Katharine said "No come here and let me in" "Why do you look like Elena?" Ryder asked. "The question is why does Elena look like me? Are you talking about that young girl who just left here?" Katharine said. "Yes you look like her but older" Ryder said. "Well I can't tell you it is a secret but if you let me in we can talk about it" Katharine said. Damon said "Ryder no she is dangerous" Stefan came back and was equally as shocked, "Stefan!" Katharine said as she was happy to see him. "Katharine what a interesting surprise, weren't you in the tomb?" Stefan asked. "No I came to meet this Ryder I keep hearing about Klaus would be interested in him" Katharine said. "Why what does Klaus have to do with this?" Damon asked. "A boy who turned the Salvatore's good, there is something about his scent too, I can't quite describe it" Katharine said. "You are not getting inside this house" Damon said. "That is fine but he will eventually have to leave it" Katharine said as she left for now. "Ryder go upstairs" Damon said Ryder did as he was told he knew that this girl was bad news she made his dad on edge.

"How is it possible she is here" Damon said to Stefan, "I am not sure, but if she does bring Klaus here we are in trouble" Stefan said. "Why?" Damon asked, "Klaus is an original he can't die, and if Ryder is special like Katharine said he might be in even more danger" Stefan said. "Ugh this is frustrating. How do we make his blood less appealing I can't force vervain down his throat" Damon said, "He is already drinking it and wearing it so he should be okay, but if he is a vampire he won't be in danger anymore" Stefan said. "No he is not becoming a vampire he is only 10, if he wants to go down that road he will make the choice himself when he is 18" Damon said. "He might not get the chance to make that choice" Stefan said. "Ryder is not getting the option now he is to young" Damon said ending the conversation. Ryder was listening and he also didn't want to be a vampire at 10. He didn't know he would eventually have the choice, but he liked being human. Ryder didn't know what it was like to be a vampire though he just wasn't sure about the drinking blood part. Ryder crawled into bed with Chase as he had a lot to think about, he would ask Elena about Katharine tomorrow. Ryder closed his eyes and dreamt about becoming a vampire as it was what was on his mind.

Katharine didn't actually know where Klaus was but she was curious about Elena as she stalked her outside her window. "This girl does look like me, she might still be a child but she will be me eventually. Who is she? Why does she look like me?" Katharine wondered. She had a lot of questions as she ran towards where she last saw Klaus, even though she was hiding from him she needed answers. Katharine was on a mission to find answers as Damon was on a mission to find any means possible to protect Ryder.

Will Katharine get answers? Will Ryder always be in danger? Maybe Bonnie will find a way to protect him? Can Ryder put his trust in a newbie witch? Find out soon!

Chapter 10 Ryder's Blood

Katharine even though she was terrified finally found Klaus, "Katerina" Elijah greeted her, "Elijah, there is a few things I wish to discuss with Klaus" Katharine said. "Are you sure?" Elijah asked her, "Yes" Katharine said as she entered their home, "well I can't say I am surprised to see you, come to die have you?" Klaus asked. "No actually, I think what you are searching for is in Mystic falls, there is a young boy there I think you will find very interesting. Also a girl who strangely looks like me when I was younger" Katharine said. "You mean to tell me there is another doppelgänger? She is human? why do I care about this boy?" Klaus said, "Yes she is human although I believe she is only 10 and once you see him you will know" Katharine said. "What is it you want?" Klaus asked, "to live my life in peace" Katharine said. "Possibly if what you say is worth it" Klaus said.

Ryder woke up the next morning feeling strange as he couldn't shake what Katharine had said about his blood. Ryder knew his dad wanted answers but so did he, Ryder dressed and texted Bonnie.

Ryder: Bonnie this might sound weird but I need a witch can you help me?

Bonnie: I am just learning so I might not be much help, but I can ask my grams

Ryder: Thanks

Ryder went down for breakfast, Ryder wasn't surprised that his dad wasn't there as Stefan handed him a couple waffles. "You are going to have to stay here today Ryder, I need to go do something and your dad is out. You are safe in the house as long as you don't let anyone in" Stefan said. "Okay" Ryder said even though he was not planning on staying home, Stefan left and Ryder was alone with Chase. "What are we doing today Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "I am going to get some answers. You can come with me Chase if you don't get in the way" Ryder said. "Ryder sir you are supposed to stay here" Chase said. "I can't I won't get answers here, I need a witch" Ryder said. Ryder received a text,

Bonnie: Grams agreed to see you, meet me at the school

Ryder: Okay I am on my way

Ryder said, "I am leaving Chase are you in our out?" "I am in Ryder sir, someone needs to keep and eye on you" Chase said as he followed Ryder. Bonnie was waiting on the picnic tables outside the school and she saw Ryder. "What is this about first?" Bonnie asked, "After everyone left my house and vampire showed up and it is something she said that has been bugging me" Ryder said. "What did she say?" Bonnie asked. "She said something about this Klaus character who is an original vampire, and that my blood draws vampires to me. There is something about it that she said she can't put her finger on. I want to know what" Ryder said. "Hmm original vampire, Okay let's go grams will know more" Bonnie said as they walked to her grams. Ryder had the feeling he was being watched and so did Chase. They arrived and Bonnie hugged her grams, "Grams this is Ryder" Bonnie said, "Ryder welcome" grams said as she stepped aside, Ryder entered the house and Grams was relieved he wasn't a vampire. "What can I do for you my dear boy?" Grams said. "I want you to test my blood. I want to know why it smells sweet to vampires" Ryder said. Grams looked at him and said "Vampires, how I wish you young kids were not caught up in this world." Grams said as she prepared some things.

"Ryder give me your hand" Grams said and Ryder did as he was told, "You my dear have had a tragic past. I am so sorry for that, I also notice you have a gift" Grams said as she eyed Chase, "there is also darkness in your future and I truly hope that it doesn't come true" Grams said as she took some of Ryder blood. "Give me a few moments" Grams said as she tested and studied his blood, "What is this gift you have?" Bonnie asked, "I think it is that I can talk to Chase, and that I can hear him" Ryder said. "Wait you can talk to your dog?" Bonnie asked. "Yes and he really likes you" Ryder said. Bonnie smiled and continued to pet Chase, "I really like him too" Bonnie said. Chase was literally in heaven as Bonnie continued to scratch behind his ears. "You always surprise me Ryder, I am so glad we are friends" Bonnie said. "Me too thank you for helping me" Ryder said. Ryder's phone was ringing it was his dad, "uh oh I might be in trouble" Ryder said. "Yikes maybe don't answer it" Bonnie said a bit worried, "I have to I could be in more trouble if I don't" Ryder said as he answered, "Hello" Ryder said, "Where the hell are you?" Damon said. "I am with Bonnie, I am safe I promise" Ryder said, "Ryder that is not the point, Stefan said you would be here. I come home and both you and Chase are missing. Come home right now" Damon said. "I will when I get answers" Ryder said, "Ryder I am not arguing with you" Damon said. "Then don't I have to go I'll be home shortly" Ryder said. Damon was pissed when Ryder hung up on him. "He sounded mad" Bonnie said, "he is but he will get over it" Ryder said. "Man If I spoke to my dad that way he would be pissed, I would be grounded for sure" Bonnie said. "He isn't really my dad, I mean he is but he is super cool, I am sure it will be fine. I at least hope it will be" Ryder said as Bonnie's grams came back into the room.

"Ryder you were not wrong about your blood, but it is not what you think" Grams said, "What do you mean?" Ryder asked, "Your blood is toxic Ryder, but not to you. Your blood can kill a vampire if they were to drink it. The reason your blood as you said smells sweet to them, they don't know it but it is toxic. Vampires will forever be drawn to your blood but as I said if they were to even get a taste it could kill them" Grams said. "Wow, So he could never be harmed by a vampire" Bonnie asked. "No he can be as I am not sure if he would survive being attacked by vampires, and it is also unclear how much blood they need to drink. Ryder please I urge you to stay safe, especially in your home" Grams said. Bonnie was curious about what she meant, "Don't worry I am safe at home, thank you for your help. Bonnie I should go before my dad gets even more upset" Ryder said. "Ryder sir, you are toxic?" Chase asked, "I guess so" Ryder said as they ran home. "Ryder sir I think we are being followed" Chase said as he noticed a few people watching them, "Run Chase" Ryder said as he ran faster, it didn't matter at this point as the vampires were faster. "Why the rush? We heard about you and Katharine was right you do smell amazing" Billy said. "Thank you but I am sorry I can't stay" Ryder said as he tried to run, another vampire came right at him and grabbed him. "Sorry we can't let you leave, I wouldn't mind having a drink" Drew said. Ryder was trapped he had no way out, just then each vampire fell to the ground, Ryder looked around and he saw Bonnie and her grams. "Go Ryder quickly they won't be down long" Grams said as Ryder ran home. "Bonnie this town is full of Vampires now, you make sure to practice your magic and keep that boy safe" Grams said.

Ryder finally made it home and Damon grabbed him in a tight hug, "I have been worried sick, Ryder sick!" Damon said a little sternly, "I am sorry dad, I would have been here sooner but I ran into some vampires. Then Bonnie and her grams saved me, but dad I have to tell you something" Ryder said. "I never want you to leave the house like that again, do you hear me?" Damon said. "Yes but listen!" Ryder said yelling a bit to get his dad's attention, "What?" Damon said, "my blood it toxic, if a vampire were to drink my blood it would kill them. Grams was not sure how much of my blood would be needed but the reason it smells so sweet to vampires is because I am meant to kill them" Ryder said. Damon didn't say anything as he just stared at Ryder, "Dad did you hear what I said?" Ryder asked, "he heard you Ryder, how did you find this out" Stefan said as he entered the room. "I had a witch help me" Ryder said, "this is interesting" Damon said. "That is not all, I did some searching into Ryder's past turns out his mother knew a witch, and I believe she might have known about vampires. This toxicity you have in your blood Ryder is not a coincidence I believe it was put there by magic" Stefan said. "Interesting, I wonder if it actually works" Ryder said, "I would rather not test this theory" Damon said, "Why? If I can kill vampires then I won't be in danger" Ryder said. "You would be if you are allowing vampire's to bite you. We are not going to experiment this if one day it does happen then it happens but I am not putting you in danger purposely. Ryder I am grounding you for a few days for leaving the house. Now go upstairs" Damon said. Ryder didn't argue as it was only a few days, it could have been worse.

"Damon this could be a good thing, he could kill Katharine or maybe even Klaus" Stefan said, "we don't know that for sure, and Klaus is an original it might not work on him. What did you find out about Elena?" Damon said. "She is a doppelgänger which means that she is they key to Klaus's hybrid breed, but she is still to young. It is said she needs to be 18 before she can even help" Stefan said. "Well at least she will have her innocence a little longer" Damon said, "I still think we should test his blood" Stefan said, "we will if the time comes but I want him to not be involved in this, I would like to see him live past his 10th birthday" Damon said. Stefan agreed as they talked into the night to figure out how they could send Ryder to school without him meeting vampires. "I mean most vampires are night walkers which means that they can't get to him if he is inside our house at night" Stefan said, "Yes but Katharine has a few day walkers walking around, I don't trust her to not pounce" Damon said. "I doubt they will attack him at school, in front of kids, but maybe we can have a witch put a protection spell on him" Stefan said. "No I don't know a lot of witches willing to help me I have burned a lot of bridges, I think one of us just needs to watch him. From a distance of course so he doesn't know" Damon said. "Okay but I still don't think that will work" Stefan said, "I am going to go tuck him in it is late, and Stefan if you are going to protect him you need to drink human blood none of this animal crap. You are weak" Damon said as he went upstairs to check on Ryder.

Ryder was already asleep he had his computer open and Damon closed it as he put it on the desk, he also covered Ryder and Chase. Damon left the room and closed the door, Stefan was looking at the glass of blood Damon had on the table. "Drink it brother, I won't let you turn into a ripper. Even if it is just a little bit a day" Damon said. "Damon I can't I don't know if I can stop myself, what if I attack Ryder" Stefan said, "Well then we will know if his blood truly is toxic" Damon said laughing a little. Stefan didn't find it very funny as he sipped the blood feeling his body wanting more. "How do you feel?" Damon asked, "hungry" Stefan said, "fight it you are better than this" Damon said. Stefan tried really hard he needed to get out of the house, Stefan left and ran as it oddly made him feel better.

Ryder was having nightmares, he dreamt that both Stefan, Damon and Lexi drank his blood, and they all died in front of him. Ryder was startled awake, "are you alright Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "yeah just a bad dream, go back to sleep Chase" Ryder said, Chase did as he was told, and Ryder stared at the ceiling for a little bit before falling back asleep, dreaming again that he killed everyone he cared for.

Will Ryder's blood ever get a chance to work? How will Bonnie become more powerful?

Caroline and Elena find out about vampires. What exciting things await? Read to find out!

Chapter 11 Ryder trusts Bonnie

Ryder woke up the next morning even though he hadn't gotten very much sleep as he kept thinking about killing everyone. He dressed for school and went downstairs, "you look tired Ryder sir" Chase said, "I am, I didn't sleep good" Ryder said as he ate breakfast, Ryder noticed that Damon was missing and Stefan was there, "ready for school?" he asked, "yeah where is my dad?" Ryder asked, "there was an emergency council meeting he had to go" Stefan said, "is it about all the vampires showing up in town?" Ryder asked. "Yes but that is not for you to worry about now let's go" Stefan said as he drove Ryder to school. Ryder found Bonnie and said, "hey Bonnie, I just wanted to say everything you learnt about me is between us only okay. I don't want anyone else to know can I trust you?" Ryder said. "Of course, I would never tell anyone plus I don't like to talk about what my grams does. I promise my lips are sealed" Bonnie said. "Good, are you any good at magic?" Ryder asked her. "Not really I am still practicing, but I hope to be as good as grams one day" Bonnie said. "If you ever need help let me know" Ryder said. "Thanks" Bonnie said as Caroline and Elena joined them.

"I heard the council meeting this morning apparently there are vampires in town, Vampires I thought they were make-belief" Elena said, "are you sure Elena? Vampires I mean that is absurd" Caroline said, both Bonnie and Ryder looked at each other and Bonnie said, "I don't know strange things have been happening. I believe it" "I thought something was off about those men that came into the grill remember Elena" Ryder said, "Oh you think they were vampires?" Elena said, "yup I sure do" Ryder said, "wow then your dad standing up to them like that he was super brave" Elena said. "Well he would do anything to protect me." Ryder said, "but vampires I mean they drink blood" Caroline said, Ryder didn't really know what to say but Bonnie spoke up for him. "Yes some do drink blood from humans, but others just drink from blood bags, I mean I

heard that the hospitals are being robbed." Bonnie said. "I guess that is better but still really gross" Caroline said. "Your mom shoot them with something Caroline do you know what it is?" Elena asked, "No idea, my mom tends to keep me out of her business" Caroline said. "It is called vervain, it is a herb" Ryder said realizing he should not have said that. "How do you know?" Elena said, "I just read it, apparently vampires just don't like it" Ryder said. The bell rang and Ryder was relieved as they all went to class, Bonnie looked at him and he knew her look was a warning.

More and more vampires were coming into town as they all wanted to meet Ryder, they were all intrigued by him. Of course none of them knew his blood was toxic to them all they wanted was to meet the boy whose blood smelled divine. Everywhere Ryder went he felt he was being watched, he didn't feel safe and he knew that he couldn't say anything. Bonnie noticed and pulled him into a vacant classroom and said, "Ryder I can sense vampires everywhere, are they all here for you?" "I am not sure, I don't think any of them know my blood will kill them. I can feel them too I can feel them all watching me" Ryder said. "I can get a protection spell on you, that way none of them can hurt you" Bonnie said, "No I will never know if my blood does anything if I am protected. I am supposed to have this power, I want to be able to use it if I have to. Just in case my family is ever in trouble" Ryder said. "Okay but I am worried for you" Bonnie said as a teacher came into the classroom. "You should get going the next class will start soon" the teacher said. Bonnie left the classroom but before Ryder could leave the teacher closed the door. "I have heard many things about you, I am not going to try and compel you as I can smell the vervain. I

am not sure what makes you so intoxicating to my species, I don't see anything special. I am however interested in how you managed to tame the Salvatore brothers. Care to enlighten me?" the teacher said. "Who are you?" Ryder asked, "oh sorry how rude of me I am Elijah Mikaleson, I am one of the original vampires." Elijah said, "so you can't be killed, I am not going to tell you anything" Ryder said. "That is brave of you, I will continue this conversation with you later. I know you will come because I know Damon's weaknesses and we wouldn't want anything to happen to him" Elijah said as he left so fast Ryder didn't even have a chance to blink.

"What was that about?" Bonnie asked, "that was an original vampire Bonnie, he threatened to kill my dad if I don't meet with him. I don't know if I can kill an original vampire. I am afraid of what will happen if I don't meet him and also afraid if I do meet with him" Ryder said. "I don't know it sounds like you don't have much of a choice. Ryder trust your instincts, if you want I can come with you" Bonnie said. "No I don't want you to get hurt, just stall my dad he will be waiting for me after school." Ryder said. "What do I tell him?" Bonnie asked, "I don't know anything, please Bonnie I need your help" Ryder said. "Okay Ryder please be careful" Bonnie said as the rest of the school day went by. Ryder found Elijah waiting for him as he walked up to him slowly, "I knew I could count on you to come, now I am going to ask you to come with me" Elijah said. "If I don't?" Ryder said, "well it would be unwise for us to continue this conversation in front of a school, filled with many children. I trust you wouldn't want any of them to get hurt" Elijah said. Ryder nodded and followed Elijah even though every part of him was saying don't. Bonnie found Damon waiting at his car, "Ryder is not coming out for a bit" Bonnie said, "Why what is wrong?" Damon asked. "I am not exactly sure, Ryder trusts me and I know you are a vampire. I can sense it and I trust that you won't hurt me as you know it would hurt Ryder. I am going to tell you that an original is talking to him right now and I am not sure what will happen" Bonnie said. Damon looked terrified he had no idea what an original was doing in town, "Bonnie go home, and thank you" Damon said as he drove back to his house, he found Stefan and said "we have a huge problem, Ryder is talking to an original and we all know they are bad news. If they hurt him I will not be able to to live" Damon said. "An original? Katharine has something to do with this, is it Elijah or Klaus?" Stefan asked, "why does that matter?" Damon asked annoyed by his brother, "If it is Elijah he is going to be okay as he is understanding, Klaus on the other hand is well ill-tempered and we might have a problem" Stefan said. Damon was panicking as he didn't know what he should do there was a knock on the door.

Meanwhile Elijah had taken Ryder to a warehouse, and he said "Ryder, I trust that you are aware of what your blood does?" "It is food for vampires just like everyone else's" Ryder said, "Ah I see that you know how to lie, and at such a young age too. You know that your blood has a toxic venom inside it that is said to be fatal to vampires. I am not sure if it is fatal to me or my family, therefore I can't have it existing" Elijah said, "What does that mean? What are you going to do?" Ryder asked. "I am going to drain you of your blood so that I can use it if I need it and then I am going to leave" Elijah said. "If you drain me of my blood I will die" Ryder said, "that is precisely my point then you will no longer be a threat" Elijah said as he grabbed Ryder and sat him down on a chair. Ryder was tied up tightly and he couldn't move he was scared, he tried to scream but no one could hear him.

Bonnie was worried as she ran to her grams, "Grams I know you still have Ryder's blood, he is in trouble grams. We need to protect him" Bonnie said in tears. "Calm down my sweet child, take my hand" Grams said Bonnie did as she was told and she said a chant and looked at Bonnie, "It is done my child, your friend is not hurt, he is here" Grams said as she pointed on the map. Bonnie called Damon and told him the location of Ryder. Damon and Stefan arrived just as Elijah was attempting to cut him. "That wouldn't be wise" Damon said, "Damon and Stefan what a pleasant surprise I will be with you shortly" Elijah said as he was knocked to the ground. "You don't want to make an enemy out of me" Elijah said. "To late, you took my son and now well I think you will regret it" Damon said as Stefan stabbed Elijah with enough vervain to hopefully keep him down. Damon untied Ryder and he said "Dad wait I want to see if my blood is toxic, I think we should give him some" Ryder said. "No we are not killing and original this way, Ryder he is the least dangerous out of all them. His brother is 10000x times worse, if he knows you killed his brother we are all done for let's go" Damon said. Ryder nodded and they all left and returned home. "Ryder I realize that you enjoy school, but the only place you are safe now is here." Damon said. "You can't keep me locked up here forever, what about my friends" Ryder said. "Your friends will still be there, Ryder I just want to keep you safe, please let me keep you safe" Damon said. "What if I was to have someone I trust put a protection spell on me, would you let me leave then?" Ryder said. "I would have to know that this spell would work" Damon said. Ryder called Bonnie and explained and she came over as soon as she could.

Bonnie knocked and Ryder opened the door for her, "Hi are you alright?" Bonnie asked, "Yes, I

need that protection spell" Ryder said. Bonnie handed him a liquid and said "My grams said that if you drink this you will be protected from any dangers outside of Mystic Falls, no vampire that doesn't know you already will be able to harm you" Bonnie said. "Are you sure Bonnie?" Damon asked, "Yes my grams knows what she is doing, and I am not sure what will happen but I trust my grams" Bonnie said. "Wait before I drink this dad you should take some of my blood" Ryder said. "Why?" Damon asked, "So we can use it against vampires, If I am protected we don't know if it will work. We need to save it" Ryder said. Damon was not comfortable doing this, Bonnie took over and extracted a good amount, Damon felt sick as his blood really did smell good. "I am sorry dad" Ryder said, "Its fine, I am good" Damon said as he looked a way briefly, "I am impressed I have never seen a vampire, with so much self control" Bonnie said, "well he is a part of me and I won't hurt him, no matter how amazing he smells" Damon said. Ryder drank the potion that Bonnie gave him and even though nothing happened it did protect him. "I have to go but Ryder good luck" Bonnie said as she kissed his cheek. Ryder blushed as he said goodbye to Bonnie. "Someone likes you" Damon said as he looked at the blood Bonnie took from his son, and he put in a special blood bag. This one was different from all the others so he wouldn't drink it by mistake. Stefan came back and, a vampire was right behind him even though he couldn't get past the door. Damon told Ryder to go upstairs and he did, "Oh come on let me have some fun" the vampire said he watched Ryder leave.

"Sure have some fun here I even have some blood here, it is fresh" Damon said handing it to him. "That is sweet, it smells like Ryder's what did you do steal it?" the vampire asked. "No he offered it to me told me that he wanted me to try it see what it tastes like. Let us try it together" Damon said as he pretended to pour himself some. The vampire drank his glass and said "What did you do to me?" the vampire asked as his skin started to turn grey and he fell to the ground. "Well I guess we know it works, clean this up and Stefan don't drink the red blood bag. It is

Ryder's blood" Damon said. "Okay, we have a secret weapon I like this, I am curious if it would work against an original though" Stefan said. "We might never know and I would be to scared to try it unless we killed them all" Damon said as he stored Ryder's blood in safe place. Ryder who was watching from upstairs now knew his blood did in fact kill vampires. Even though he was protected he wanted to be able to help his friends. Ryder thought about Bonnie kissing his cheek and as it was getting late he fell asleep thinking about her. Ryder didn't know what it meant but he might have started to have feelings for Bonnie now but he wasn't going to say anything just yet. Ryder fell asleep cuddling with Chase as he thought about Bonnie and how they together would stop all the bad vampires in the world.

Will Ryder's blood kill an original? Will there be more vampires who dare try and drink his blood? Will Bonnie and Ryder ever get together? I am going to speed things up a bit as they will be getting older. Bonnie will also have stronger powers and she uses them to protect her friends.

Chapter 12 First day of High school

Things had calmed down a bit in Mystic falls as vampires had stopped popping up all over town, the council was getting stronger. Vampires were also learning the properties of Ryder's blood and a lot of them were frightened and didn't want to die. Ryder wanted to tell the council that his blood could kill vampires. "No they can't know this, Ryder please trust me the less people that know the better. They are going to do experiments and such and I don't want that" Damon said. Ryder hadn't thought about that and decided to just let it go for now.

*Time skip*

Ryder was now 14 and he was starting high school he was a nervous but not for school, he was nervous to see Bonnie. She had been gone all summer visiting with her family and Ryder felt like it had been forever since he saw her. "Ryder hurry up you are going to be late" Damon yelled, Ryder ran downstairs as he grabbed his breakfast and Damon said "What do you do if you see a vampire?" "let them drink my blood!" Ryder said, Damon looked at him sternly, "Okay okay I call you" Ryder said as he ran out to the car. Stefan was driving him today as he was going out anyways. Even though the vampire situation had subsided a little in Mystic falls there was always that potential threat. Elijah was still out there and they were not sure if he still had plans to kill Ryder or not. Ryder was still being protected now more so by Bonnie as she was becoming a stronger witch, Bonnie had also finally told Elena and Caroline. Even though they were not anything they didn't care and they fully supported Bonnie. Ryder was still keeping his secret as he didn't want the information to be leaked to the council. He trusted Elena but Caroline was another story.

Ryder arrived at the school and high school was a lot more intense already as the seniors picked on everyone younger. Tyler Lockwood had already had senior friends as he was a part of the football crowd. Matt was also going to be playing football and he tried to convince Ryder to join, "No thanks football is not my thing" Ryder said, "you sure we could use someone like you, your small you would be able to run fast" Matt said. "I am good I want to keep my bones in tact" Ryder said. "At least think about it" Matt said, Ryder nodded even though he knew he would never join. Ryder was at his locker feeling a bit overwhelmed and out of place as he didn't recognize anyone. High school students were pushing and shoving everywhere and there was a lot of yelling across the halls. Then he saw her and smiled, Bonnie was walking towards him and he couldn't help but smile. "Hello" Bonnie said when she was next to him, "Hi" Ryder said back, "how was your summer?" Bonnie asked. "It was boring, how was yours?" Ryder asked her. "It was alright it was good to see family, but I am glad to be here. I was worried for you" Bonnie said. "I am good, I missed you" Ryder said before he could stop himself, Bonnie laughed and whispered in his ear, "I missed you too" as she kissed him on the cheek. The bell rang and Caroline saw Bonnie kiss Ryder and she was a bit jealous. She knew that they were getting closer of the past couple years but it didn't stop her from having feelings. Caroline also knew she couldn't force him to have feelings for her she was just jealous that Bonnie was who he chose. "What is with you?" Elena asked noticing Caroline down. "Nothing, I just didn't think they were an item" Caroline said. "Who?" Elena asked, "Ryder and Bonnie" Caroline said, "wait, what since when?" Elena said. "I don't know saw them earlier she kissed him" Caroline said. "Are you sure?" Elena said knowing how Caroline could be. "Yup I am, we better get to class" Caroline said as she walked away. Elena couldn't believe it she didn't want to believe it as she also had feelings for Ryder. She knew he wasn't a prize but she was hoping he would at least choose her, Matt had always liked Elena. She just wasn't sure she felt the same for Matt she had known him for years but if she had to she would.

Elena was in first period with Bonnie and she said "are you and Ryder together?" "What no? who told you that?" Bonnie said. Elena was slightly relieved and said "Caroline" "Elena and you believed her that girl has sex on the brain" Bonnie said. "Yeah you are right" Elena said as she laughed and the teacher started class. Elena noticed Ryder staring at Bonnie throughout the day, as lunch finally rolled around. They were all sitting together and Caroline who doesn't have a filter said, "So how long are you guys going to keep it a secret?" "Keep what a secret?" Bonnie asked, "your relationship?" Caroline said, Ryder almost choked on his food as Elena patted him on the back. "Caroline we are not a couple, we are just friends. Even if we were together who cares. I am not sure how it is your concern anyways" Bonnie said. Ryder stayed silent he wanted to see where this went. "Not my business Bonnie you know how I feel about him and now all of a sudden you like him." Caroline said. "Caroline you like any boy who looks at you and Ryder is not a prize he makes his own choices. If I were him I wouldn't choose you anyways as you are being a bitch" Bonnie said as she jumped up and walked away. Ryder didn't know what to say he didn't want to say the wrong thing. "Caroline, I am sorry I don't have the same feelings for you, I do value you as a friend and hope that we can remain friends. I am not in a relationship with Bonnie, I do however have feelings for her and I am sorry if that hurts you." Ryder said as he got up and followed Bonnie. Elena looked just as hurt as Caroline it felt as if she was punched in the gut as she wasn't expecting that. Caroline looked at her and said, "hurts doesn't it, he chooses our best friend over us" "yeah but he is right you know, it is his choice in the end" Elena said. Caroline was still hurt and pissed with Bonnie as Ryder finally found her.

"Ugh she is such a bitch, I love her but sometimes she just runs her mouth" Bonnie said to Ryder. "Yeah that was a bit awkward, Bonnie I need to ask you something, and I hope it doesn't make this awkward for us" Ryder said. "Okay" Bonnie said as he had her full attention, "If I was to tell you that I have feelings for you would it be weird?" Ryder asked. Bonnie looked at him and shook her head, "Bonnie I like you and I hope you like me too, I feel safer when you are with me and I enjoy spending time with you. I would really like for you to be my girlfriend" Ryder said. Bonnie smiled and said "Ryder I like you too, and I would be honored" Bonnie said as she kissed him lightly. The bell rang indicating that lunch was over and the rest of the day Bonnie and Ryder didn't speak to either Caroline or Elena but Bonnie needed to do damage control with Elena later. Damon was waiting out front for Ryder as usual and Ryder gave Bonnie a kiss and said "I will call you later" "Okay" Bonnie said as he ran towards Damon's car. "Well I take it school went well" Damon said eyeing him up. "Sort of Bonnie and I are together now, but Caroline and Elena are mad about it" Ryder said. "Man girlfriend troubles, at least we don't have other things to worry about" Damon said as he drove them home.

Ryder ran into the house and noticed a blonde girl sitting on the couch and he stopped and ran towards her. "Lexi!" Ryder said giving her a hug, "Oh my how you are grown, Ryder you are a real stunner bet the ladies are just falling all over you." Lexi said. "Actually I am in a relationship with one and I pissed of the other 2" Ryder said. Lexi laughed "they will get over it, one can't stay mad at you forever" Lexi said. "Are you staying long?" Ryder asked, "I am not sure but I will be here a few days anyways" Lexi said. Ryder smiled and run upstairs to put his stuff down and let Chase out. "Ryder sir!" Chase said as he was excited he was home, "Hey Chase, guess what Bonnie is my girlfriend" Ryder said. Chase wagged his tail with excitement he really liked Bonnie and he was happy for Ryder. Chase followed Ryder outside as he did his business and Ryder sat catching up with Lexi. "Do you ever want to be a day walker?" Ryder asked her. "I thought about it I enjoy the night life, I think it would be exciting not to have to worry about going up in flames but I don't mind it. I mean having to wear a tacky ring would be torture" Lexi said as she eyed Stefan's ring. "Hey it is a family heirloom and I don't even notice it anymore" Stefan said. "There are not a lot of witches out there that are willing to help vampires anyways" Lexi said. Ryder knew one but he didn't say anything just in case Bonnie wouldn't help him, Ryder didn't want to get Lexi's hopes up.

Bonnie was at Elena's trying to smooth things over, "Elena I am sorry, I don't want this to ruin our friendship. If it means losing you over him then I will break up with him" Bonnie said. "No don't it is fine. I am not mad I just wish I knew that you even liked him then it wouldn't be so hard" Elena said. "I know I am sorry I honestly didn't know I did until this summer. We were texting over the break and the feelings were just there." Bonnie said. "I get it he's cute but you are so lucky, maybe I will have to settle for Matt Donavan" Elena said. "Hey Matt is a nice guy and he would be lucky to have a girl like you. Elena don't settle for anyone if you don't want Matt then don't get his hopes up." Bonnie said. "I won't don't worry" Elena said, "Okay if we are good I have to go see my grams" Bonnie said. "We are good go!" Elena said as Bonnie hugged her and left.

It was getting late and Ryder was texting with Bonnie he didn't bring up the whole daylight ring thing as he felt it was meant for face to face. Lexi and Stefan went out on the town as it was finally dark and Lexi was free. Damon stayed with Ryder and he still didn't trust anyone being around him. Even though the threat of the vampires was gone they were still out there and then there was a knock on the door. Damon walked up to it and opened the door, "Hello Damon" Elijah said. "Elijah, what brings you by?" Damon said knowing he was in trouble. "Well I think we all know the answer to that. I have given it some thought and Niklaus just doesn't trust Ryder's blood getting into the wrong hands" Elijah said. "Well right now it is in his hands as he is the only one who has it. As long as you don't drink his blood, you will be fine" Damon said. "Do you know how the original vampire works. If I die then everyone that I turned will also die, therefore Ryder's blood is a threat to us and we would prefer not to die" Elijah said. "I assure you that no one will get his blood" Damon said. Ryder came downstairs and said "Elijah I get that you think I am a threat but I will not harm you or your family if you don't harm mine in return" Ryder said. "I am not sure if I trust you" Elijah said, "It has been 4 years since you found out about my blood, I haven't come after you and I have no intention to. I just want to live my life" Ryder said. "Alright but be warned I am watching" Elijah said as he disappeared. Damon and Ryder both knew that the threat was real. Ryder went upstairs and showered before bed and crawled in bed while using his computer. It was 11 pm when he finally fell asleep with Chase curled up on his legs, Ryder thought of Bonnie as he closed his eyes.

Will Bonnie know how to make a daylight ring? Does Caroline ever forgive her friends?

Will Elijah be able to trust Ryder. Which vampires will come into play next? Find out soon

Chapter 13 Threat to Damon

The next morning Ryder woke up ready to start his day as he was planning on getting Lexi a daylight ring. Ryder dressed for school and went downstairs with Chase as Damon gave him breakfast. Ryder ate and said bye to Lexi and Stefan as Damon drove him to school, Ryder didn't see Bonnie right away but he noticed Caroline walking up to him. Ryder braced himself, "Ryder I want to apologize to you, I realize that I was being stupid and you are not a prize, I hope that we can still be friends. I do still like you but I will have to live with the fact that you don't like me back. So I am sorry and I hope we can still be friends" Caroline said. "Yes of course, I enjoy having you as a friend Caroline that will never change." Ryder said, Caroline smiled and gave him a hug. Elena walked up to them "glad you guys made up" she said as she looked a little bummed out. "You alright Elena?" Ryder asked her, "yeah fine my uncle is in town and I really don't like him. He is so negative about everything. Says this town is falling apart and we are letting vampires take over. I didn't know vampires were taking over I never see any do you?" Elena asked. "Vampires? that is weird" Caroline agreed, Ryder just nodded he lived with 3 vampires at the moment. Bonnie came up and said "Elena I am sorry your uncle is in town" "How did you know?" Elena asked. "I dreamt it last night, Ryder I need to speak with you" Bonnie said.

Ryder and Bonnie walked away leaving Caroline and Elena talking about vampires, "Ryder I am going to ask you something and I want you to be honest, I swear you can trust me" Bonnie said. "Okay, I am not going to promise but I will try answer" Ryder said, "Is your dad and uncle a vampire?" Bonnie asked, Ryder looked at her he really didn't want to answer but Bonnie continued, "If so then they need to know that they are in danger. Elena's uncle is not in town to visit her. He is here to activate a device that will literally expose every vampire within a 20 mile radius." Bonnie said. "Wait what?" Ryder said confused, "I dreamt it and my grams confirmed that yes it is true. Ryder your dad could be in a lot of trouble but only if he is a vampire, I just wanted to warn you. I am not sure when he will activate the device but I just wanted to prepare you" Bonnie said as the bell rang indicating that class was starting. At lunchtime Ryder waited for Bonnie and they sat together, "Bonnie, can you make a daylight ring?" Ryder asked her, "I am not sure, why do you know a vampire that needs one?" Bonnie asked knowing Ryder avoided her question earlier. "I am not going to say, I made a promise and I can't but just know that I am trusting you." Ryder said, Bonnie nodded and said "I have never tried to but I can look in the memoires that my grams gave me" "Thank you, I am worried about this device" Ryder said as Elena and Caroline joined them.

"Hello" Elena said, "Hi, so how long is your uncle in town?" Ryder asked her, "I don't know hopefully not long he is so annoying" Elena said. Caroline was off in space staring at Tyler for some reason she was finding herself looking at him more. Now that Ryder was off limits she needed to concentrate on available boys. The rest of lunch was spent talking about vampires and they all wondered what other supernatural creatures were out there. Ryder was super nervous for the rest of the day and Bonnie's efforts to try and assure him he didn't have to worry during the day weren't helping. The school day ended and it was Friday, and Ryder made a promise to tutor Matt tomorrow as he was struggling. Bonnie went with Ryder to his house as they climbed into Damon's car she said "Damon I just want to tell you that you and Stefan are in trouble. Elena's uncle is in town and he is planning on using some sort of device to expose all the supernatural within an 20 mile radius." "What makes you think I would be affected by this?" Damon said eyeing Ryder. "Please I am a witch I can sense it and I know all about the Salvatore's history from my grams" Bonnie said. "Alright thank you Bonnie I appreciate it then" Damon said as they arrived at their house. Ryder and Bonnie went upstairs where Ryder helped Bonnie with her homework. Bonnie then looked up a spell for a daylight ring not really sure where to start.

Chase was curled up on Bonnie lap as she stroked him, "Ryder I am seriously in love with your dog" she said. Ryder laughed, "Yes I can see that, the feeling is mutual, Chase is literally in heaven right now" Ryder said. Chase could have stayed with Bonnie all night and not moved, "Where did you find him?" Bonnie asked, "He was in the middle of the street, I ran into traffic to save him" Ryder said. "Oh you poor thing" Bonnie said giving him a kiss, "Ryder can I ask you about your past?" Bonnie said. "I don't remember much about it, I know that my dad abused me but I can't remember it. Damon saved my life and brought me here, and there is nothing really to tell. I am much happier where I am and I know that my dad loves me and that is all I ever wanted." Ryder said. "This might be weird but can I do a reading on you? It will essentially give me a look into your past" Bonnie said. "Sure" Ryder said knowing he couldn't say no to her, Bonnie grabbed his hands and sat silently as she felt his heartbeat. Bonnie shuddered and a few minutes later said "you know what it is a good thing you don't remember, I am glad you are here too" Bonnie said. "Was it bad?" Ryder asked a little curious, "yes if Damon hadn't saved you, well there would be no you" Bonnie said. "I figured, I am glad you are here with me Bonnie" Ryder said. "I am glad too, I think I found the spell for a daylight ring" Bonnie said as she flipped the page. Bonnie said the spell and the ring sort of danced in the air for a few minutes before falling back onto the bed. "Will it work?" Ryder asked, "I am not sure I have never done one before. If it doesn't I will keep practicing, but I should go before it gets to late" Bonnie said as she kissed Ryder. Chase jumped off her lap and he and Ryder walked Bonnie to the door, as Stefan drove her home. "Thank you" Bonnie said to Stefan as she walked up to her door, she felt the device and knew it was almost active.

Bonnie sent a text to Ryder,

Bonnie: I can feel the device it will happen soon, please be safe

Ryder: thanks night

Bonnie: Night

Ryder warned his family of the device and they all talked about it for a while, "What is it?" Lexi asked. "I don't know but us being exposed would not be good for Ryder, as I do not want him parentless" Damon said. There was a knock on the door, Damon went to answer and he was shocked, "Hi and you are?" Damon asked even though he knew. "I am John Gilbert, and I am asking members of the council to help tomorrow evening. We are holding an event and we need all council members to help. What do you say Mr. Salvatore?" John said. "Turns out tomorrow is not good for me, I wish you luck though" Damon said. "It is mandatory Mr. Salvatore, I expect you to be there" John said as he walked away. Damon knew that he wasn't actually going to go, or he would risk getting exposed. "Dad you can't go" Ryder said, "I might have to make an appearance just so he sees me. I can get out of there fast I assure you, I will not get caught" Damon said. Ryder was super nervous as he went to sleep thinking about it and he tossed and turned all night.

The next day Ryder didn't let his dad out of his sight as he was worried that he would just drop dead in front of him. "Ryder relax, I am going to be fine you are making me nervous and I need to concentrate on not getting caught today" Damon said, "Sorry I just wish I knew what this device did so I could protect you" Ryder said. "Don't worry about protecting me, protect yourself" Damon said. The event was starting soon as Ryder and Damon made their way to town, when the arrived Bonnie noticed Damon, "I thought he was going to stay away" Bonnie said, "Yes well Elena's uncle needed council members, and said it was mandatory, he was scary" Ryder said as she watched his dad. John said a few words as he the night walkers gathered around not knowing anything about this device. Damon noticed a few of his enemies and was really hoping that they would get caught. Damon made sure that John noticed him as he slowly tried to make his exit before this device was activated. All of sudden Ryder noticed people were dropping holding their ears, "what is going on?" Ryder asked, "You can't hear that?" a vampire said as she cried out in pain. "Oh no the device where is my dad?" Ryder said as he looked around. He didn't see his dad anywhere and he was super nervous. Bonnie noticed that the council members were taking all of the vampires into a warehouse. "Ryder did you find him?" Bonnie asked, "No and he is not answering his phone" Ryder said. "I think all the vampires who were caught are in there" Bonnie said pointing at the warehouse. The device at this point had stopped as all the vampires in the area had been caught.

Ryder tried to go into the building but Bonnie stopped him, "No you can't, that building is on fire" Bonnie said. "Bonnie I can't lose him, he is my dad!" Ryder said as he saw Stefan run into the building. Bonnie helped him as she channeled Ryder essentially keeping Ryder safe but also allowing Stefan to not get burned. Stefan was able to grab Damon and bring him out as the building exploded. Stefan thanked Bonnie and took Damon home, "Thank you, I can't thank you enough" Ryder said as he kissed his girl and followed his family home. "I am sorry I wasn't able to get away" Damon said as Stefan gave him some blood, "It is okay you are safe" Stefan said, "Ryder?" Damon asked. "I am here dad, are you okay?" Ryder asked, "yes thanks to your girlfriend, I owe her my life" Damon said. "In a way yes but she just expects you to keep me safe and no need to pay her back. I almost forgot though she made a daylight ring for Lexi" Ryder said. "Really?" Lexi said looking at the ring, "Yes although I am not sure if it will work as it is her first one but we will find out tomorrow I guess" Ryder said. "Thank you Ryder, I am just glad that we are all still alive and that the device has not killed us" Lexi said as they all cheered a glass of bourbon except Ryder who had pop. "Where is Chase?" Ryder asked noticing his dog was missing, "I am not sure I haven't seen him since we left" Damon said as they looked around.

Ryder became instantly worried as he called for Chase but he never came, "You don't think the device worked on him do you?" Ryder asked. "No I never saw him in the building" Stefan said, as they all looked around. Ryder was super sad he had no idea what happened to his pup and he was super worried. "CHASE!" Ryder screamed outside hoping his dog would come running. There was no sign of Chase anywhere, Ryder didn't know if he would ever be the same. Damon instructed him to wait in the house as they continued searching for him. As Ryder was not safe with Elijah out there somewhere and they needed someone at home just in case Chase came back. Damon, Stefan and Lexi searched all night for Chase but they were unable to locate him, Stefan even searched the building all the vampires were killed and there as no sign of him in their either. Ryder never slept that night as he was worried about his pup and he made posters knowing that they never usually worked. He cried he was just so worried as he texted his friends and no one saw him. Bonnie also became very worried as she promised to do a locator spell on him in the morning.

What happened to Chase? Will John figure out Damon escaped his plan? Will Bonnie be able to find Chase? Stay tuned for more!

Chapter 14 Where is Chase?

Ryder did not sleep he was so worried about Chase, where could he have gone? Then Ryder received at text from an unknown number.

Unknow number: If you ever want to see your pup again meet me at the cemetery alone in 20 min or he dies.

Ryder was now mad how was he supposed to leave the house alone, when there were 3 vampires living with him. He needed to come up with a plan and he needed to do it quickly as Chase's life depended on it. Ryder snuck quietly downstairs and noticed his uncle Stefan in the study, he didn't see his dad or Lexi. He crept passed the living room and Lexi was sitting in front of the fire reading something. Ryder heard the freezer open downstairs which meant his dad was getting a blood bag. Ryder quickly went to the front door and he was super thankful the door didn't creak when it opened. He didn't shut it completely as the click would have been heard by everyone. Ryder ran as fast as he could as he didn't have much time and the cemetery was not close to his house.

Damon came back with 2 blood bags and handed one to Lexi, "I am worried, Ryder is not taking this well. I mean where did he go?" Damon said. "No he is not Chase is his best friend, I am going to assume he was taken. I mean it is the only logical explanation otherwise we would have found him." Lexi said. "The my next question is who would take him? Someone who wants to get to Ryder?" Damon said. "That would be my guess, it could have been Elijah?" Stefan said as he entered the room. "Why though he said he wouldn't bother us if we didn't bother him" Damon said. Lexi went to the kitchen and said "Um guys the door is open" "What do you mean?"

Damon said as he went to the door and it was in fact open. Damon ran upstairs and said "Damn it Ryder!" he was now angry as it was dark and Ryder could be anywhere and in danger from vampires.

Ryder arrived at the cemetery just on time as he heard, "Ah perfect our guest of honor has arrived" Klaus said. Elijah was also there and he had Chase with him in a cage, "I trust you know who I am?" Klaus said. "Elijah's brother?" Ryder asked, "Indeed and he has told me all about you. Ryder tell me how is it your blood kills vampires?" Klaus asked. "I don't know, I have only killed one that I know of" Ryder said. "I see and how is it that you happen to live with 3 vampires at the current moment and none of them have died?" Klaus asked. "Well they don't drink my blood, and they are family." Ryder said. "Family yes something I am very fond of, Ryder you see I have a fascination with you. I also can smell the sweetness in your blood, I can see how vampires would be drawn to it. I am going to need a few things from you today young Ryder" Klaus said. "You aren't going to get anything from me until you let Chase go" Ryder said. "Ah we have a risk taker on our hands, I am a man of my word Ryder and no harm will come to your pup if you do as I say" Klaus said. "Fine but I don't trust Elijah" Ryder said, "Ah yes but I do and Elijah will do as I say, now Ryder tell me do you know this woman?" Klaus said as a woman appeared who looked to be trapped. "Yes that is Katherine, she looks like my friend but older" Ryder said, "Yes the young Elena. I am going to have you step into the circle in a moment and you are going to allow Katherine to drink your blood" Klaus said, "Won't that kill her?" Ryder said, "You tell me will it kill her? I am intrigued to find out" Klaus said as he walked up to Katherine and said "You will drink from the boy, you are not to kill him, just enough to get a real taste. Understand?" Klaus said. "Yes" Katherine said even though she didn't want to do this. "Now Ryder if you will get closer to Katherine please" Klaus said. Ryder had many questions as he walked closer, Katherine grabbed him and bit his neck as she drank his blood. Ryder was nervous as it felt weird and he didn't know how much she would drink.

Katherine pulled away and immediately felt the burn in her throat as she said "Please I don't want to die" "Katarina you should have thought of that before you betrayed me" Klaus said as Katherine slowly turned grey and fell to the ground. "That is very interesting, I am curious if your blood would kill one of us, our father is after us and I would very much like for you to let me have some of your blood so I can test it" Klaus said. "How were you able to compel her she was a vampire" Ryder asked. "Ah good question you see Ryder I am an original which means that my blood created her and therefore I and all my siblings are able to compel other vampires" Klaus said. "Let Chase go" Ryder said, "I will as soon as I get some of your blood, now please Ryder have a seat here and my witch is going to take some blood from you" Klaus said. Damon showed up and said "Let him go Klaus" "Damon I am sorry you were not invited to this party, Greta if you will please" Klaus said as Damon dropped to the ground. "NO!" Ryder said as he stopped, "he is fine, just asleep now please sit" Klaus said. Ryder didn't move and all of a sudden his feet were moving for him and he walked unwillingly to the chair. "Ryder please you are not obeying my rule, now give Greta your arm" Klaus said. Ryder reluctantly gave Greta his arm as she extracted some blood. Ryder was beginning to feel weak as he heard Elijah speak for the first time, "Klaus I believe we have enough, he is not a vampire we are going to kill him" he said. "Alright, Greta enough let's go" Klaus said as he grabbed the bags of blood he took from Ryder and Elijah opened the cage allowing Chase to escape.

Ryder was so tired, Chase ran up to him and said "Ryder sir are you alright?" "Chase, I am so tired." Ryder said as he closed his eyes. He lost a lot of blood and his body couldn't take it, Damon woke up and ran to his son. Damon gave Ryder some of his blood and he hoped it would help as he picked both him and Chase up and ran back home. "Oh my is he alright?" Lexi asked, "I don't know Klaus took a lot of his blood. Katherine is also dead" Damon said. Lexi checked him over and said "He has lost a lot of blood, I can give him a transfusion but I am not sure if it will mess with his blood or not" Lexi said, "What do you mean?" Stefan asked. "Well If he received blood that isn't his it could mess with his blood making him not a threat to vampires" Lexi said. "I don't care I just want him alive" Damon said, Lexi was about to give Ryder blood to replace what he lost when Ryder woke up and said, "Don't I don't trust it" "Ryder you need it, you are weak" Damon said. "No, my mom said don't please" Ryder said. "Your mom?" Lexi asked a bit confused. "Yes she spoke to me said no foreign blood, I will be fine" Ryder said. Lexi looked at Damon who said, "I trust him" as he carried him upstairs, Ryder cuddled Chase extra tight as he was not letting him go ever again. "Ryder sir, you are squeezing me to tight" Chase said, "Sorry" Ryder said as he eased up a bit falling back asleep. Chase stayed awake watching over and listening to Ryder's heartbeat as he was worried.

Ryder woke up the next morning and Chase licked his face, "I am so happy you are live Ryder sir" Chase said. Ryder hugged his pup and said "I am glad you are alive too" as they both went downstairs. Damon, Stefan and Lexi were all waiting for him and Lexi hugged him and said "I am glad you are okay" "I am too, although what you did was extremely stupid" Stefan said. Ryder looked at his uncle then back at his dad and Damon sighed and asked "Why Ryder? What were you thinking?" "I was thinking that Chase was in trouble and he needed me. I wasn't going to let him die! I honestly had no idea who texted me but he said to come alone, I did as I didn't want to risk it" Ryder said. "Klaus is the worst of all the originals, he could have killed you tonight, and you never told us where you were" Damon said a bit sternly. "He didn't and as I said he would have killed Chase if I told you. He wants to kill his father an original vampire, and I know what I did was dumb but its done. How did you find me anyways?" Ryder said. "Bonnie did a locator spell for us, listen you are not to do something like this again okay please Ryder. I

love you and I can't stand the thought of anything happening to you" Damon said. "Okay" Ryder said as Lexi handed him so food and said "eat you need your strength back" Ryder ate in silence as he didn't know what else to say. Ryder was getting ready and Damon said "Where do you think you are going?" "I am tutoring Matt I am just going to the grill, I promise" Ryder said. "Okay but you text me if anything changes or seems strange got it" Damon said. "Yes dad" Ryder said as he ran out of the house. Chase looked at Damon and looked back at Chase and said "he will be fine" Chase didn't seem convinced as he waited for his owner to come home.

Ryder arrived at the grill and ordered a coke as he waited for Matt to arrive, Ryder was watching the people walking the streets. Matt arrived and said "Sorry I am late, my mom was drinking again and well she was out of it this morning" "It is cool, I wasn't here long" Ryder said. "Thanks again for helping me getting myself kicked off the football team is not a good idea" Matt said as he was the quarterback. Ryder helped Matt in math and English as those were the 2 subjects he was struggling with. After 2 hours Matt was finally done and he felt ready for the test tomorrow, "thank you Ryder, it makes so much sense when you explain it. How are you so good at this stuff?" Matt asked. "I am not sure but I had a lot of time on my hands, and I enjoy learning so maybe that has something to do with it" Ryder said not remembering that he used to just read books and study on his computer as a kid before Damon. Matt tried to give Ryder money and said "it is not much but it is what I have" "No, I don't need it I did it because we are friends. I can't and won't accept this" Ryder said pushing it back towards Matt. "Thanks, he do you think Elena likes me?" Matt asked her. "I don't know we don't really talk about that stuff, but I can ask Bonnie?" Ryder said. "Nah I will just ask Elena out I mean what is the worst that can happen she says no" Matt said. "Well yeah" Ryder said as they both laughed. It was getting late and Ryder said "Well I'd better get home, see you tomorrow" as he ran back to his house. It was beginning to get dark and Ryder didn't want to run into any vampires.

Damon paced around waiting for Ryder when he heard the front door and Chase tackled him, "sheesh I am fine" Ryder said as his pup licked him. "We are just glad you are okay" Damon said. "Honestly you knew where I was and nothing happened, I am 14 dad I can take care of myself" Ryder said. "Yes normally I would believe that but this town is full of vampires and threats, I mean you nearly died last night so excuse me for worrying" Damon said. "I am a threat to vampires and I know you are worried but you can't keep me locked up forever!" Ryder said a bit angerly as he ran upstairs. "I damn well can!" Damon said loudly so Ryder could hear him as Ryder slammed his door shut. "Well he is just going to grow to hate you and become distant if you baby him" Lexi said. "Shut up Lexi" Damon said, "hey I am just trying to help I did it to my parents as they never let me do anything fun. It did get me killed one day but good thing I had vampire blood in my system" Lexi said. "That is exactly what I want to avoid, I don't want him to become a vampire at a young age, he deserves a life. I am damned and I will not let him make the same mistake I did." Damon said walking away and heading upstairs. Damon stopped at Ryder's door and listened.

"Chase, I know he is just protecting me but I need to be allowed to make my own choices" Ryder said. "He is only looking out for you Ryder sir, he doesn't want you to become a vampire" Chase said. "I don't want to be a vampire either, I mean who knows what will happen but I want to grow old with Bonnie and potentially have a family. It is just life is unpredictable and we can't always control it" Ryder said. Damon could only hear Ryder and he felt as though Ryder had a point but he was going to try his best to protect him. Even though he knew life was unpredictable as Ryder put it he would try his best. Ryder played games on his computer before crawling up with Chase and falling asleep.

Will Damon ease up on his rules? Will Ryder grow more distant? Will Elena date Matt?

Chapter 15 New Discovery

Damon was talking with Lexi in the living room, "he said I need to give him more freedom" Damon said. "Well maybe you do, he is 14 and he has been really good with keeping other vampires out. He has a witch for a girlfriend who will literally do anything to save him. I feel like he should be allowed to have a bit more freedom" Lexi said. "I want to Lexi I really do but what if more vampires come into town, he is literally a vampire magnet" Damon said. "Yes but remember his blood kills vampires" Lexi said. "So we think, I mean I have never seen it and there could be something else to it" Damon said. "I think you are just afraid to lose the little boy, he is not a little boy anymore. Ryder is growing up and you can't accept that" Lexi said. "I guess you are right, I am being paranoid for no reason." Damon said, as he headed up for bed while Lexi waited for Stefan.

The next morning Ryder was up and getting dressed for school as he ate breakfast and said goodbye to Chase. Lexi drove him today as her knew daylight ring totally worked and she was interviewing for a job at the school as a teacher. Ryder was excited to have Lexi around as she was like a big sister to him, and she was way more understanding then Damon. All the guys thought the new teacher was hot as she received the job. "Dude did you see the new history teacher she is smoking hot" Tyler said. "She is way out of your league" Ryder said as he walked by, "Oh yeah what makes you so sure?" Tyler said. "I know her and she has more class plus she is to old for you" Ryder said, "You are asking for me to punch you right now. You little punk you have no idea what I can do" Tyler said. "Go for it Tyler I am not afraid of you anymore, and you don't have the guts" Ryder said. Tyler was about to punch Ryder when Lexi noticed and said "Tyler Lockwood, detention" Lexi said. Tyler glared at Ryder and walked away he would get him back later. "Did you really have to provoke him?" Bonnie asked, "yes he needs to understand that I won't stand for it, he promised he wouldn't be a bully anymore. He is still a bully and I knew Lexi was listening" Ryder said. "Still you could have been hurt" Bonnie said, "I knew you wouldn't let him hurt me. You would have used some witchy magic on him." Ryder said, "Ryder my magic only works on the supernatural Tyler is human" Bonnie said. "Oh well I didn't know that. It is fine though crisis averted" Ryder said. "Yeah until after school" Bonnie said, "Where Tyler will be in detention" Ryder said with a smirk. Bonnie rolled her eyes as she gave up talking to boys was impossible.

History class started and Lexi introduced herself "Hello students, I am miss Branson, I expect good things from you this year. I will expect full attention and no talking, I know all you gentlemen over there are talking about how what is it smoking hot I am? Well I just want you to know it ain't going to happen. Now if we could please turn in our books to page 50." Lexi said. Ryder smirked at the guys trying to check her out as the class opened their books. Lexi knew everything they were doing before they even did it. Ryder enjoyed having her as a teacher as she didn't put up with bullshit and actually cared what the students were learning. She was honest with them which made the class more enjoyable and as she lived through most of the history in the book she could relate and provide facts.

The school day ended and Lexi drove Ryder home as she was already there and Damon was busy with the council. John Gilbert was not to happy that Damon wasn't inside the warehouse but he never said anything to the others. Carol Lockwood was clearly upset as her husband was caught and she didn't even know he was a vampire. Even though he was a werewolf that never triggered his curse but still the device affected him either way. Ryder was doing his homework in the living room and there was a knock on the door. Stefan opened it and he was shocked at who he saw. "No way!" Stefan said, "I know you are surprised to see me, I was just a shocked when I woke up in a grave of all things" Katherine said. "How are you alive? I saw you and I buried you" Stefan said. "Thanks for that by the way" Katherine said as she gradually walked into the house without being invited. "Wait how did you get in?" Stefan said, "Weirdest thing I can suddenly enter houses!" Katherine said with excitement. Ryder looked at her and he wasn't sure if he should be afraid or not he knew she died from his blood he was there. "I am going to have a shower do you mind?" Katherine said a she went upstairs. "How is this possible?" Lexi asked, "I don't know but we need answers" Stefan said as he called his brother. Damon looked at his phone and stepped out of the meeting and said "Stefan what is it John is really putting on the vampire emphasis here" "You need to come home now. We have a situation" Stefan said, "Can it wait?" Damon asked. "No there is someone here that should not be as in they were dead" Stefan said. Damon hung up and told Liz he had a family emergency and left as he drove home rather quickly.

Damon arrived at the house just in time to see Katherine come down the stairs fully dressed and showered. "What the hell!" Damon said, "Hello Damon, did you miss me?" Katherine said. "How are you here?" Damon asked. "I am not sure but I suddenly don't crave blood anymore either, like I can't smell Ryder's blood" Katherine said. "Are you human?" Stefan asked, "I don't know but I am starving" Katherine said as she grabbed the glass of blood and suddenly gagged and said "Ew no, I want food like real food that is disgusting." Katherine said a she grabbed food from the kitchen. Ryder in the meantime called Bonnie and she was on her way over as she could tell if Katherine was human. It took her a little bit to get to the Salvatore house but she made it and knocked on the door. Ryder answered as did Chase and he said "Okay before you freak out Katherine does look like Elena but she was a vampire and after drinking my blood we don't know what happened" Ryder said. "Okay I will see what I can find out" Bonnie said as she spotted Katherine for the first time and said "Wow you really do look like Elena" "She looks like me as I was born first" Katherine said, "No one cares Katherine" Damon said, as Bonnie took her hands and closed her eyes. After a few minutes Bonnie said "I don't feel anything, I can't tell if she is human as she has a darkness inside her like she has no soul." "I do have a soul, this is ridiculous what are you going to know anyways" Katherine said clearly offended. Bonnie touched Damon just to test her theory, "Yes when I touch you I can feel the vampirism it is strong but when I touch Katherine it feels different. I don't think she is a vampire anymore" Bonnie said. "Wait so does this mean Ryder's blood is a cure?" Lexi asked.

Everyone stared at her as if what she said was idiotic and Stefan said "If it does then he is going to have every vampire in the world wanting to come here. His blood is going to be in more danger than ever" "This is not good as I was just going to ease up on the rules too, Ryder you understand that you are in more danger now then ever" Damon said. "We don't even know if this is true, I mean Klaus could have given Katherine something before she drank my blood" Ryder said. "Nope just vervain to keep me weak, but I only had a small amount of your blood, maybe in order for it to kill someone they need a decent amount" Katherine said. "Either way I think we should test this" Ryder said. "How are we going to do that?" Damon said, "We do have some of his blood, one of us could drink it" Lexi suggested, "I am not willing to risk it on a hunch it might work are you Stefan?" Damon asked his brother, "I mean I don't know it would be nice not to be a vampire anymore." Stefan said. "This is ridiculous" Damon said not wanting to believe it. Katherine who was eating said "I mean it might seem ridiculous but I feel great" Damon said "Shut up Katherine, I say we get a random vampire first just in case this is all bullshit" "Okay and it is almost evening so vampires are starting to come out" Lexi said, "Ryder sir if your blood is a cure then does that mean Damon and Stefan don't have to be vampires anymore?" Chase asked. "I don't know Chase" Ryder said as he was now more confused then ever. "Ryder I would like to try something with you, I think it can give us answers" Bonnie said. "Okay" Ryder said as

Bonnie said "Lay down for me and close your eyes" as she took his hands and said a small spell.

Ryder was asleep but awake at the same time he was in some sort of alternate world, "Hello Ryder" he heard a woman's voice. "Mom?" Ryder asked, "Yes oh my you have grown into a fine boy" his mother Diane said. "Mom what is happening?" Ryder asked her, "It is complicated I am shocked that you are caught up in vampires, the one who killed me nonetheless" Diane said. "Wait who killed you?" Ryder asked, "that doesn't matter sweetheart, your blood is in fact a cure for vampirism but it comes with a price. As many vampires will want to drink it it doesn't bring back every vampire. Only ones who have a mission in life to fulfill." Diane said, "What do you mean?" Ryder asked, "Klaus as a purpose for Katherine that is why she was brought back, this way your friend Elena will remain safe. I don't know which vampires it will cure and which one it will kill." Diane said. "So it won't cure everyone?" Ryder asked, "Only those with a purpose, or those who are pure of heart" Diane said. "I don't understand" Ryder said, "I am sorry honey are time is up I love you" Diane said as she faded away and Ryder was back on the couch. "Was that real?" Ryder asked, "depends what did you see?" Bonnie asked. "My mom she told me that my blood doesn't cure all vampires only those with a purpose or pure of heart" Ryder said. "Well we know Katherine is not pure of heart" Damon said. "hey!" Katherine said, "she also said that Klaus has a purpose with Katherine and with her being human again it keeps Elena safe." Ryder said, as Katherine looked scared, "No you can't give me to Klaus please I will do anything" Katherine said. "You are not staying here so you are on your own" Damon said. Lexi and Stefan looked at each other and Damon knew what they were thinking. "You want to drink his blood and risk it don't you" Damon said. "I do I miss being a human and I would love to be able to grow old" Lexi said, "Stefan?" Damon said, "I am not sure I would love the chance to grow old too but if it doesn't work then who is going to look out for you" Stefan said. "I will" Ryder said as he looked at his uncle.

Damon was clearly sad but he wasn't going to deny his brother a chance to fulfill his dream, even though he knew it was a risk. "I am not going to tell you not to do it as it is your choice, but Stefan please think about this before you decide" Damon said, "I will" Stefan said, Chase was curious about something and he said "Ryder sir, if it doesn't work on them will you be okay?" "what do you mean?" Ryder asked his pup, "will you be okay knowing your blood killed your uncle and Lexi?" Chase asked. "I don't know I am hoping it won't come to that, I believe they are pure of heart" Ryder said. "Who is he talking to" Katherine asked, "his dog now Katherine it is time to go" Damon said. "Go I have no where to go" Katherine said, "I don't care you are not staying here good luck out there it is a big world I am sure you can stay hidden from Klaus" Damon said as he kicked Katherine out. Bonnie went home and she wished everyone luck on their choices.

Stefan and Lexi needed to come up with a choice, Damon also wanted to decided but was he pure of heart? Does Damon risk it? Will Katherine escape the clutches of Klaus? Plus Caroline has a choice to make in the next chapter!

Chapter 16 Damon's Decision

Ryder had gone up to bed he had a lot on his mind as did everyone in the Salvatore household. "Ryder sir" Chase said, "Yes Chase?" Ryder said looking at his pup, "If they do decide on becoming human will that change things? Will they get older?" Chase asked. "I am not sure Chase, I mean I assume they would age just like everyone else but I don't know if it will be faster then normal" Ryder said. "I only ask because they have been alive a really long time, and well I just don't want to lose them you know" Chase said. "I hear you bud I don't either, It is weird to think about" Ryder said as he hugged his pup. Ryder showered and crawled into bed as Damon came up and said "goodnight Ryder" "Dad?" Ryder said, Damon entered the room and said "Yeah bud?" "Are you going to drink my blood too?" Ryder asked. "I don't know, I am not sure what I expect from it, I admit yes I would love to be able to be human and raise you properly but I admit I am scared" Damon said. "It's okay I understand when I saw my mom she told me that you killed her is that true?" Ryder asked. Damon's hurt sank he didn't want to lie to Ryder, "Yes but it was before I met you and I was angry back then, I am sorry please don't hate me" Damon said. "I don't I understand, my mom also said you are forgiven for the way you raised me" Ryder said. Damon smiled and gave Ryder a hug as he rolled over and closed his eyes.

Damon went back downstairs to Lexi and Stefan discussing whether or not they were going to take the cure. "Stefan, are we sure that we aren't just going to die and never wake up?" Lexi said. "No we can never be sure I mean I have definitely done my share of bad choices. I may not be pure of heart and if it is my time I wouldn't mind dying as a human instead of a vampire" Stefan said. "I am just not sure about this" Lexi said, "I know it is a big decision and we have time to think about it. Let's go to sleep and we can figure it out tomorrow" Stefan said. Lexi and Stefan said goodnight to Damon. As the night came Damon sat drinking his bourbon and deciding whether or not he wanted to be cured. He obviously didn't want to disappoint Ryder but he also didn't want to die.

Katherine in the meantime was having a hard time getting around being human was not something she was used to. Katherine struggled to just get around and her feet were sore from walking. She finally saw a car and managed to flag it down, "Katarina" Elijah said Katherine tried to run but as she was human she didn't make it far. Elijah grabbed her and shoved her into the car as he drove away. "Please I am not what I used to be" Katherine said, "Precisely you are going to be able to be sacrificed now for Klaus's curse" Elijah said, "No please I don't want to die" Katherine said, "I am sorry Katarina I really am" Elijah said as they drove to New Orleans.

Ryder woke up the next morning he felt uneasy he wasn't sure he wanted his family to drink his blood. Ryder was comfortable with the way things were he didn't want it to change, as he dressed for school he sighed. Ryder went down for breakfast and everyone was still discussing the possibility of becoming human this made Ryder feel even worse. Only Chase seemed to notice and he wished he could speak to everyone instead of just Ryder. Damon drove him to school and said "you okay Ryder" "yeah I'm good thanks Dad see you after school" Ryder said as he jumped out. Damon could tell something was off and he didn't know how he felt about it, there was a lot riding on his shoulders especially if the cure didn't work on his family. Bonnie noticed Ryder seemed sad and she said "Ryder what is wrong?" "Bonnie my family is debating if they want to drink my blood to be cured. Bonnie what if it doesn't work? What if I kill them? I can't be responsible for that" Ryder said. "Oh Ryder, I knew this was going to be a problem, I am sorry you are going through this" Bonnie said as she hugged him.

Caroline knew she liked Tyler but the way he had been treating her friends especially Ryder made her feel angry. She couldn't help how she felt and she can sense that Tyler may have felt the same way. Caroline was at her locker when she felt a hand touch her shoulder, "Hello beautiful" Tyler said, "Hello" Caroline said trying to play hard to get, "Oh come on admit you like me and let me take you on a date" Tyler said. "Stop being a dick to Ryder and I might consider it" Caroline said. "That clown made me look like an idiot Caroline and he doesn't deserve to be friends with you. I would treat you like a queen if you were with me" Tyler said. Caroline looked at him and said "Tyler that is not the point, Ryder is a good person and he doesn't deserve to be bullied no one does. You are better than that too I know it" Caroline said as she walked away giving Tyler something to think about. Tyler wanted Caroline but did he want her enough to stop picking on Ryder who in Tyler's mind deserved it.

The rest of the school day went by quickly and when the final bell rang Bonnie said "Ryder don't let it get to you okay, If they make this choice it is on them not on you. Just know that they died happy" "That is what I am struggling with Bonnie, I don't want them to die, what if I am left alone? Where would I go?" Ryder said. "You can come stay with me, don't worry my grams loves you and she would take you in" Bonnie said. Ryder sighed "Thanks but I want to stay with my family I like things the way they are this whole thing is just messy now and I don't like it" Ryder said as he walked away. Lexi had overheard and she felt a bit of guilt as she really wanted to become human again. She hadn't thought of how it would affect Ryder and she felt bad, she would need to tell Stefan. The Original vampires have heard about Ryder and Rebekah was very interested in his blood she wanted to be human more than anything. "Rebekah think of the consequences of this what if you don't wake up. Katarina had a purpose but what if you don't I can guarantee you are not pure of heart" Klaus said. "Thank you Klaus but this decision is not up to you and I am ready to die if it comes to that. I never really liked being a vampire much anyways living for over 1000 years has taken its toll on me" Rebekah said. "Please don't do this we are family forever and always" Klaus said, "says the guy who had us daggered for nearly 500 centuries, Niklaus this is my choice to make and I need you to let me make it" Rebekah said. Klaus was not happy that his sister was deciding to become human he never wanted to be human he enjoyed being a hybrid it made him feel superior.

Lexi beat Ryder and Damon home as she told Stefan what she overheard, "man I never thought of that. I never even put his feelings about the situation into my decision. I feel awful worst uncle award goes to me" Stefan said. "You are not the worst uncle, I think we just need to talk to him about it first" Lexi said. "You are right, we should make sure he is comfortable with this" Stefan said. "Does that mean you made up your mind?" Lexi asked, "I think so I would love to not be affected by blood and have it control me anymore" Stefan said. Lexi smiled all she wanted was for her best friend to be happy, she also hoping they would be together as humans. Ryder walked in the door and was greeted by Chase who said "Ryder sir, they know that you are sad, they want to be human but only if you are comfortable" Ryder looked at his pup and nodded as he didn't want them to know Chase just spilled the beans. "Ryder do you mind if we talk to you for a sec" Stefan said as they entered the living room. Ryder sat down and Stefan said, "I know that for you this isn't easy and if we aren't lucky enough to survive you will feel responsible, I want to assure you that is not the case. This is our choice and we don't want it to affect you in a negative way. We will understand if you don't want to do this as you are very much apart of the process" Stefan said. "It is not that I don't want to, I do want you to be able to become human again. I just don't want to lose the only family I have, I like living here and I don't want to be left alone" Ryder said. "We don't either Ryder I promise you that you will never be alone" Stefan said, "I will be if you are all dead" Ryder snapped not meaning to sound harsh, "I am choosing to think of it in a positive light and that we aren't going to die" Stefan said. Ryder didn't know what to think he wasn't going to say anything though.

"I am going to try first that way if it doesn't work you still have your family" Lexi said getting a nod from Stefan and Damon. Lexi drank some of Ryder's blood and it honestly to her tasted like the rainbow it was amazing. Lexi stopped as she felt the burning and knew her time was coming, "If this doesn't work Stefan just know that I love you and I always have" Lexi said as she turned grey and fell to the ground. Stefan caught her before she hit the floor and placed her on the couch. As they didn't know how long this process would take they went on about their evening causally glancing in Lexi's direction. "Dad have you decided if you are doing it?" Ryder asked him again. "I am still thinking, I am just not sure" Damon said, at least Ryder had that to hold onto, knowing his dad was still unsure. It was getting late and Ryder was getting tired as he let Chase out quickly before heading upstairs. Ryder checked his phone and noticed a message from Caroline.

Caroline: Hey Ryder, I just want to know if we would still be friends if I was to date Tyler?

Ryder didn't really know how to reply or if he even should as it was late. Ryder didn't care who Caroline dated as he never had feelings for her but Tyler was a jerk and he thought she deserved better. Ryder texted back,

Ryder: Sorry it is so late, Caroline it is your choice who you date, it won't affect our friendship just be careful

Ryder didn't receive a reply and he was hoping he wouldn't as Chase jumped onto the bed and Ryder cuddled him close. "Night Ryder sir" Chase said, "Night Chase" Ryder said as they both fell asleep. Stefan stayed up and sat with Lexi he was really hoping that this was the right call and she was not actually dead. Damon decided to go to bed as well he knew that Stefan would wake him if something did happen. There was no sense in them both being tired in the morning when Ryder was awake. It was going to be a long night as Stefan paced around praying even if he thought it wouldn't work. Stefan watched as all he wanted to say to Lexi was "I love you too" knowing she died before hearing it really tore at Stefan's heart.

Will Lexi wake up? Will Stefan take the cure? Will Caroline date Tyler even after Ryder's warning. John Gilbert comes back into play in the next chapter.

I know this is not how the vampire diaries goes but like I said in the first chapter it is my story and I am writing it how I want. I hope you all still vote and enjoy it!

Chapter 17 The Aftermath

Stefan paced and looked at the clock it was almost 6 am and he was starting to worry that Lexi wouldn't wake up. Lexi was in an alternate universe after she died and a voice said to her "Lexi Branson as a vampire you have done many terrible things why do you deserve to live?" "I turned myself around and I want a chance to live a better human life. Ryder deserves people who love him and I very much want to be there for him. I also love Stefan and want to see him again please" Lexi said praying. The voice never said anything as Lexi sat in darkness wondering whether or not she would reawake. It felt like hours before Lexi saw a glow and everything went blank and she could not remember being in the alternate universe. Ryder came downstairs and noticed Lexi still laying on the couch and sighed. "Ryder it is going to be okay she knew what she was getting into" Stefan told her feeling a bit sad. "I know but it still hurts just the same, plus she was a great history teacher" Ryder said. "I am sorry Ryder, I promise that I will always be here for you even if it means I am a vampire forever." Stefan said knowing it pained him as he really hated being a vampire.

Damon drove Ryder to school even though he tried to stay home, "Ryder it won't do you any good sitting at home sulking. Go to school get your mind off of what happened" Damon said. Ryder was not happy about it but he went in the end as he climbed out of the car he saw Caroline and he put on a smile. "Hey Ryder" Caroline said, "Hey" Ryder said back, "Thank you for what you said, but why did you so be careful?" Caroline asked. "I don't know because I care about you and don't want to see you hurt" Ryder said. "You care about me?" Caroline said confused, "well yeah you are my friend and I care about my friends" Ryder said, "oh and you think Tyler would hurt me?" Caroline said. "Well he has certainly done his fair share of hurtful things. I don't know how he feels towards you though so it might be different" Ryder said. "Okay thanks again" Caroline said as she walked away towards Tyler. "Why were you talking to him?" Tyler asked, "I told you he is my friend and I wanted to know how he felt about us dating?" Caroline said. "Ok first off I don't care how he feels if I want to date you I will. And second I would rather he not be your friend" Tyler said. "Tyler I can be friends with whomever I want and if this is how our relationship is going to be I am going to have to pass" Caroline said. Tyler looked at his buddies then back at Caroline "Okay I am sorry, but I don't have to be friend with him do I?" Tyler asked. "Nope" Caroline said kissing him on the cheek and walking away.

Ryder was at his locker and Bonnie came up to him and said "Hey how are you doing?" "I may have killed Lexi. She took it last night and still hasn't woken up" Ryder said. Bonnie hugged him she really didn't know what to say. Elena came up to them all upset and said "My uncle is in town again said he has business to take care of. Like good for you but why stay at my house honestly he is just annoying." Ryder texted Damon,

Ryder: Dad, John Gilbert back in town said he has business to take care of be careful please

Damon: Thanks

The bell rang and class started and everyone noticed they had a substitute in history and they were not to pleased. "You all can call me Mr. Saltzman and I will be here for a while, so don't get to mad that your previous teacher is gone." Alaric said as he started class. Ryder kinda liked the new teacher as well as he didn't take bullshit and he gave Tyler detention and Ryder didn't even have to do anything this time. History ended and Alaric said, "Ryder stay for a minute I have something to talk to you about" as the class laughed and made ooohh sounds being really immature. When it is was just Alaric and Ryder he said "Ryder I have noticed your assignments not only in this class but all classes are exceptional. You are doing work well behind your years" "Yeah I like school" Ryder said. "I can see that, I am just wondering why you are not at a higher level in education? Are you not bored?" Alaric asked, "I am I do college work at home, I currently have a degree in engineering and computer tech" Ryder said. "Wow okay why come to school here then?" Alaric asked, "all my friends are here and I like hanging out with them" Ryder said. "Alright then, I guess I will mind my own business" Alaric said. "Its cool Mr. Saltzman I like that you care" Ryder said. "I also have one question your last name is Salvatore any relation to a Damon Salvatore?" Alaric asked, "Yes he is my dad, well he is my adopted dad why?" Ryder asked, "Oh um no reason I just might know him that's all" Alaric said dismissing Ryder. Ryder told Bonnie and Elena everything that Alaric said and Elena responded, "That is so cool do you actually have 2 degrees?" "Yup and I am working on my third right now, I could technically build a new computer from scraps, in fact I have" Ryder said. "That is awesome, I am very impressed" Elena said Bonnie smiled at him as she already knew this. "Thanks" Ryder said blushing a little, he remembered about Lexi and texted Damon.

Ryder: Dad my new history teacher says he knows you Alaric Saltzman, do you know him? How is Lexi?

Damon: Umm not sure name doesn't ring a bell, no change yet

Ryder felt sad because he knew that if she didn't wake up this was on him and even though she said it was her choice Ryder felt guilt. Damon picked Ryder up as he pointed out his new history teacher and Damon said, "Nope don't know him" even though he did as he turned his wife into a vampire. They arrived home and Ryder walked in the door and into the living room but he noticed Lexi was not on the couch. "Did you get rid of the body?" Ryder asked a little sad, "Nope because I am right here!" Lexi said as she came out of the study, Ryder light up and ran to her and gave her the biggest hug ever. "You are alive!" Ryder said with excitement. "I sure am and I am human too" Lexi said as she could no longer smell his blood. "How do you feel?" Ryder asked, "weirdly I am tired but I feel good, and I never knew as a vampire but humans have to pee a lot, like it is so weird. I also am always hungry" Lexi said, "haha so am I" Ryder said looking for a snack. "Oh speaking of Lexi now that you are human, and you will also be eating food, you can contribute to the grocery bill" Damon said. "Sure Damon" Lexi said as she was quite happy to do so as she felt great. Ryder looked at Stefan and said "You going to try tonight?" "I want to but I am a bit nervous to be honest" "I was to babe but look at me I am alive and I have never felt better" Lexi said. "So I am assuming this means you are a couple then? Like you are staying Lexi?" Ryder asked. "Only if you will let me" Lexi said mostly looking at Damon, "oh please dad can she stay please!" Ryder begged. "Well I guess so" Damon said, "Yes!" both Lexi and Ryder said together. Damon rolled his eyes knowing that if Stefan didn't wake up from the cure then he would be stuck with her and she would be sad.

After dinner Stefan had finally made up his mind and said "I am going to do it, but first Ryder please know that I am making this choice for me. I accept the consequences if I do die and I don't want you to feel any guilt understand" "I do but I am still going to be sad" Ryder said, "Okay are you ready?" Stefan asked. Lexi kissed him and said "I love you and I know that you will be just fine" "I love you too always remember that" Stefan said. "I am ready" Ryder said as Stefan took a breath and drank his blood. Stefan was shocked, Ryder's blood to him tasted like his favorite food as a kid pancakes with whip cream and strawberries. Stefan stopped and he looked at his family and said "I love you all" as he slowly turned grey after being placed on the couch. Knowing that it took at least 24 hours everyone went on with their day as Ryder did his homework and caught up with his college work as well. Chase was playing with a chew toy and Lexi was sitting by the fire reading a book drinking some wine as she now enjoyed it even more as a human. "Ryder sir, Do you think Damon will try this too?" Chase asked, "Dad are you going to become human too have you decided?" Ryder asked for Chase. "I still don't know let's see how tonight goes, I have done a lot worse things than both Lexi and Stefan combined" Damon said. "Yes but you have also redeemed yourself when you took me in, that has to count for something" Ryder said. "Maybe but lets still see okay" Damon said, "Okay" Ryder said looking at Chase. "I hope this all works out" Chase said, "Me too" Ryder said both Damon and Lexi looked confused but they realized he was talking to Chase.

It was getting late and Ryder went to get ready for bed and both Damon and Lexi tucked him in, she felt more of a connection to him now oddly. "Goodnight" Ryder said to both of them, "Night Ryder" Lexi said, "Night my son" Damon said. Ryder cuddled Chase and fell asleep praying to his mom and anyone else listening for his uncle to wake up as a human. The next morning it was Saturday so Ryder didn't have to go to school and he honestly just wanted to stay at home to see Stefan wake up. Lexi had made breakfast for them both and made some extra for Stefan just in case he did wake up. Stefan woke up in the alternate world, "Stefan Salvatore, you have done some terrible things as a ripper, you were ruthless why should we allow you to come back as a human?" the voice asked. "Well I changed a lot since my ripper days I tore myself away from humans and became a vegetarian as you would call it. I hated myself for everything I did to those people. I still feel the guilt and I honestly wouldn't blame you for killing me and just ending it. I did however make a promise to Ryder and I do love that boy and Lexi I would love to grow old with her and have kids of our own" Stefan said. The voice never said anything and Stefan was confused as he saw the light and everything went black as he to forgot he was in the alternate universe. Ryder received a text from Bonnie,

Bonnie: Hello, did Lexi wake up you never told me?

Ryder: yes oh sorry, she did and we are waiting for Stefan to wake up as well!

Bonnie: That is great news, I will pray Stefan walks up too

Ryder: Thanks come over?

Bonnie: Soon, I am just with grams right now

Ryder: K tell her I said hi

Bonnie: I will 3

Ryder: 3

Lexi was growing impatient waiting for Stefan to wake up and she said "did it take this long for me? Damn it I need to pee again" "Yes" Damon said laughing as he was grateful he didn't have this problem. Lexi went to the bathroom and came back she was have expecting Stefan to be awake as she sat and finished reading her book. She kept glancing over in his direction waiting for her chance to pounce on him. Ryder also sat impatiently although he was more or less waiting for Bonnie to arrive he was hoping she would have answers. There was a knock on the door and Ryder ran to answer as he was hoping it was Bonnie it wasn't. "Ah Hello Ryder, I am John Gilbert. May I come in?" John asked, "Um no sorry now is not a good time" Ryder said trying to close the door" John stopped it with his foo as he was not a vampire and he could enter, Damon was there quickly, "John what an unpleasant surprise, what are you doing here?" Damon asked. "Damon I was hoping to talk to you about the new thing I discovered" John said, "Oh well like Ryder said now is not a good time" Damon said, "well as your son's blood is a cure for vampirism when would be a good time?" John said. "Never" Damon said pushing John out the door and closing it. "He knows does this mean he is going to send vampires after me?" Ryder said, "No he is definitely not ever going to touch you" Damon said as he watched John walk away but he knew this wasn't the end of it. Damon knew he needed to do something about his vampire status so John would leave his family alone even if it meant risking his life and leaving Ryder in the care of Lexi and Stefan. Bonnie arrived and Damon let her in as he contemplated his decision and wished he had his little brother to talk to right now.

Will Stefan wake up? Will John become a bigger threat? Will Damon decide to drink Ryder's blood? What about Rebekah? Find out soon!

Chapter 18 Tough Choices

The whole house was tense as they waited watching Stefan, "Ok this is ridiculous let's all go do something. I feel like he will wake up soon if we stop staring at him" Lexi said. No one really wanted to leave but they did. Ryder and Bonnie took Chase for a walk and Lexi was cooking in the kitchen while Damon tried to figure out a plan. "So Elena's uncle wants to use you as a test dummy?" Bonnie said, "I don't know what he wants all he said is he wanted my blood and Damon just about lost it. I mean if he become human he can't protect me like he wants to, and I think that is what he is struggling with." Ryder said, "Yes also that he might not wake up, then what happens?" Bonnie said. "Well a part of me is hoping it doesn't come to that but I would assume he would leave me in the care of Lexi and my uncle if he wakes up." Ryder said. "He will wake up I feel good energy in the room, and if Katharine woke up so will he" Bonnie said. "Katharine only was cured so Elena was safe I feel like that wasn't a hard choice since Elena hasn't done anything wrong." Ryder said, "Yes but what are we going to do about John?" Bonnie said. "I am not sure but all I know is if he doesn't leave soon my dad will never stop worrying and therefore him being human is out of the question" Ryder said. Bonnie squeezed Ryder's hand she knew how much he wanted a normal life with Damon.

Ryder and Bonnie were getting close to the house and they heard a scream and they ran inside as fast as they could. Lexi was hugging a very much alive Stefan, "I knew you would wake up, Oh my god!" Lexi screamed as she hugged him. Stefan gave hugs to everyone and noticed Damon was struggling with something. "I am so glad you are alive" Ryder said, "me too bud" Stefan said as he pulled Damon aside and said "What is wrong?" "Later" Damon said as he nodded towards Ryder. "Everyone dinner is ready!" Lexi said and Stefan was grateful as for some reason he all of a sudden was starving. Bonnie stayed for dinner and everyone had nice polite dinner conversation even though Bonnie could sense Damon's tension she never told Ryder. She was going to do something to get John Gilbert out of town as she didn't want Ryder used as a lab rat. Ryder said goodbye to Bonnie as it was getting late and she didn't want her grams to worry, "bye Ryder" Bonnie said a she kissed him. Ryder kissed her back and said "Bye", "Things are getting serious between you too?" Lexi said. "What? No" Ryder said all flustered, "hey I am not judging I think she is good for you, and she makes you happy" Lexi said. Ryder smiled Bonnie did make him happy, "just be careful, you are still only 14 years old" Lexi said. "I know" Ryder said as he went upstairs to get ready for bed. The nights were getting colder as winter was approaching Mystic Falls quickly, Bonnie shivered as she walked from Ryder's house. She noticed a figure following her and she was frightened. "Bonnie wait up!" Elena yelled, "Jeez girl you scared the crap out of me!" Bonnie said as she stopped to wait for Elena. "Sorry I just can't be at my house right now, my uncle is obsessed with Ryder for some reason. He is talking about him on the phone to someone and it is making me uneasy." Elena said. "Do you know what he was saying?" Bonnie asked, "I don't know something about a cure, I am not sure I wasn't paying attention is Ryder okay?" Elena said a bit sad now.

"Elena, I am going to tell you something but you have to swear not to say anything to anyone ever! I mean anyone not even Ryder can know I told you" Bonnie said, "Okay I swear" Elena said a bit nervous, "Let's go inside my house it is freezing, you can sleep over" Bonnie said as they walked into Bonnies grams house. Her grams was out at a witch convention so the 2 girls were alone for a little while. Bonnie made some hot chocolate and began, "Elena vampires are real, I know that you heard this but it is true. They are literally all over Mystic Falls, there are vampires called the Originals who were basically the first vampires created, they are unable to die. Klaus who is the the only vampire hybrid is also part werewolf and he wants to break the curse and create more hybrids. He needs to use what is called a doppleganger to do this and she just so happens to look exactly like you. She was a vampire until the night Klaus came into town forcing Ryder to go to the graveyard where she drank his blood. Now we all thought Ryder's blood killed vampires but it turns out that it not only kills the vampire but it cures them. Therefore if the vampire was needed for a purpose or they were pure of heart before they died they are able to come back as human. Katharine was brought back so that you don't have to be sacrificed by Klaus" Bonnie said. Elena looked at her as if she was crazy as she absorbed the information, "okay let me get this straight, Ryder's blood cures vampires, and I have another version of me out there somewhere?" Elena said. "Yes a doppleganger, but his blood only cures some vampires" Bonnie said she wanted to make that clear. "Wow! and what does my uncle want him for?" Elena asked, "that we are not sure of, I am assuming to use as a lab rat to experiment on his blood. Damon is pissed that he keeps showing up at their house, he is trying to get Ryder to come with him" Bonnie said. "Oh my gosh, ugh I just hate him even more now. I am going to try and find out what he wants" Elena said. "Right but remember you don't tell anyone what I told you" Bonnie said. "I swear I won't tell" Elena said as she sipped her hot chocolate, "Thanks Bonnie for trusting me with this, I should go home and find out my uncle's plans" Elena said grabbing her jacket and running home.

Ryder had fallen asleep with his computer on his lap and Lexi came in and made sure it was safe as she tucked him in. Damon was downstairs pacing and Stefan said "Okay tell me what is going on? "John Gilbert wants to use Ryder's blood as some sort of experiment, I feel like if I drink it now then I am useless against protecting him. As a vampire I can protect him as a human I can't" Damon said. "Are you kidding! as a human you can protect him even more as you are at an equal playing field, imagine how he reacts when you walk into his home without being invited in, or you can actually bleed without healing" Stefan said, "yes all that would be nice but then he will know Ryder's blood works, which will make him want it more" Damon said, "Not unless we can convince him Ryder's blood doesn't work" Stefan said, "How do we do that?" Damon asked a bit curious now, "We need to find a vampire who isn't pure of heart and make sure that once he is killed he won't wake up" Stefan said. "That is not exactly easy to do" Damon said as they heard a knock on the door. Lexi who was closest answered and she was shocked, "Rebekah Mikaleson" Lexi said, "Hello Lexi, I see that his blood worked on you, I have come here even though both my brothers tried to convince me otherwise. I would like the opportunity to become human please if you will let me" Rebekah said. "Alright Rebekah, I will allow you to drink my son's blood if you do me a solid and remove John Gilbert from this town" Damon said. "Alright I assume Ryder is the only one who can invite me in, I will return soon" Rebekah said as she set out on her task.

Elena in the meantime was eavesdropping on her parents conversation with John as they said, "We are not sure about this, he is just a young boy same age as Elena, we can't risk his life because you want his blood" Elena's dad said. Elena gasped slightly as John said, "I don't want to risk his life I simply want to use him as a weapon in my pocket" "He is not a weapon, he is teenage boy who probably doesn't know what is going on" Elena's mother said. "Oh I assure he does, I bet your daughter knows to as she is listening to our conversation" John said spotting Elena. "I wasn't I just Ryder is my friend and you Uncle John are a jerk!" Elena said as she ran upstairs. "Not so innocent are they" John said as the doorbell rang, John opened it and Rebekah said, "John Gilbert, I have heard you put a target on a boy I would very much like to keep alive." "Rebekah Mikaleson I assume you want to be cured?" John asked, "That is really not your concern, I will get what I want either way but for now you are in my way" Rebekah said. "What are you going to do you can't come into this house" John said. "Sure she can come in" Elena said, as Rebekah stepped inside Elena had enough of her uncle and she didn't realize what she had just done. Rebekah grabbed John and forced him to drink her blood and then she snapped his neck. "Thank you Elena, and I am sorry you had to witness that but he will wake up a vampire and you tell Ryder to stay away from him." Rebekah said as she left the home. "We should kill him once he come too, him being a vampire will be even worse for that boy" Elena's mother said. "Don't worry I will deal with my brother" Elena's dad said as he took John into the basement.

Rebekah went back to the Salvatore house and said, "Alright it is done John Gilbert will turn into a vampire and his brother will make sure he is not a threat" Rebekah said, "Him being a vampire makes him a threat!" Damon said. "No Mr. Gilbert and I have a understanding as I was the one who made sure Klaus sacrificed Katharine instead of Elena, he owes me and I assure you John will no longer be a problem" Rebekah said. "Oh did you know Katharine was alive?" Damon asked, "I have been watching your family for months now, I knew what Ryder's blood did before any of you. I hear conversations from witches as they talk, and I knew Katharine would be resurrected as a human for the purpose of the sacrifice. I was the one who took Chase and made sure Ryder made it to the cemetery." Rebekah said. "You put him in danger!" Damon said, "No I kept him from the danger, as I stopped Klaus from killing him that night, and just so you know his blood is useless when it is outside the body. The blood we took from him has turned black as if it was dead. In order for the cure to work the blood needs to be drank from him directly" Rebekah said. "How do I know I can trust you?" Damon asked her, "you don't but I did what I

did not only for you and for me but for Mr. Gilbert whom I made a promise to long agon when he tried to kill me" Rebekah said. "Yes being an original must be nice, but aren't you worried you are going to die?" Damon asked. "I have accepted the possibility I lived for a long time Damon, and I just want a chance to prove myself, If it makes you feel comfortable as I know you want to become human as well. I will watch over Ryder until I know John is no longer a threat so you can drink his blood" Rebekah said. "You would do that? Why?" Damon asked her, "because I want a family and I know it won't count for much but it will give me a fighting chance. Plus Ryder seems like a good kid and I would hate for him to get caught up with John Gilbert" Rebekah said. "Alright Rebekah you have yourself a deal, but Ryder is asleep and he won't be able to let you in" Damon said. "I don't need to be let in just yet I will watch the Gilbert house tonight and figure out what the plan is" Rebekah said as she left. Damon was grateful but did he really trust her, this was a huge decision as he decided to go to sleep and think it over.

Will Rebekah come through with her promise? Will John be even more of a threat? Will Damon's life be spared if he takes the cure? Find out soon!

Chapter 19 John's Revenge

John Gilbert woke up after being changed into a vampire and right away he was struggling as he was inside a house that he wasn't invited into. Grayson Gilbert said "hurts doesn't it, you can come in John" John growled at Grayson who laughed and he said "No brother since you are transitioning I am going to run a few tests just to be safe. I am actually going to try and get you interested in vampire blood rather than human blood. This way you will only kill vampires instead of humans doesn't this sound better" "No it will never work, and I can easily kill you right now" John said. "Aw yes but you won't" Grayson said as he received a text from his wife indicating they needed to leave. "I will be back soon" Miranda said "Hi Elena needs us to come pick her up she is not having any fun at the party" As Grayson and Miranda left John was able to free himself from the ropes binding him and he left the house and found the first human. He drank all of their blood and now was a full fledged vampire and his first target was Ryder Salvatore as he ran to the Salvatore house.

Grayson and Miranda decided to take wickery bridge home as Elena complained in the backseat how she couldn't find a decent boyfriend. When Grayson saw someone dart in the middle of the road as he swerved trying to avoid them and he crashed into the railing and the car went into the water. He told his family not to panic as he tried to escape, the car filled up with water quickly. Everyone started to lose consciousness as the water took over the car then Rebekah pulled Elena out of the car. She went back for Elena's parents and she had everyone out as the ambulance arrived. Only Elena survived as they drove her to the hospital, Elena's aunt Jenna was there to meet her as she cried praying her niece was okay. Bonnie and Caroline also went to the hospital to see their best friend and make sure she was alright. Ryder was about to leave but he was stopped at the door but a one John Gilbert.

"Hello Ryder just the boy I wanted to see, Now you are going to give me what I want or I will snap this girls neck" John said brining a young girl into view. Ryder didn't know who she was but he also didn't think she deserved to die either, Damon came to the door and said "Ryder go upstairs now" "If Ryder leaves this girl dies" John said as he needed Ryder for his plan, Ryder didn't leave he really didn't want the girl to die. He texted Bonnie as she would probably know a way to help,

Ryder: Bonnie stuck at home John Gilbert is a vampire holding girl hostage, send help

"Ryder I need you to give me your blood" John said not knowing that it only worked if it was drunk straight from the vein. "It won't do you any good" Ryder said, "Oh it will, I will be able to cure vampires everywhere I can sell it for money" John said as he tried to enter the home. Since he wasn't invited in he wasn't able to get passed the door. Bonnie arrived shortly after being texted and she used some sort of witch spell making John grab his head in pain. Thus releasing the girl as she ran into the house and was safe from John, Bonnie was also able to enter the house and Rebekah came up behind John and took him away. She had some revenge plans of her own. "Elena is okay Ryder she says not to worry" Bonnie said, Damon looked at the girl and said "you are going to run home and not remember any of this, you were simply out taking a walk" The girl nodded as she ran back to her house and thankfully the compulsion worked and she didn't remember the events that just happened.

"Thank you Bonnie for helping" Ryder said, "no problem, where do you think Rebekah took him?" Bonnie asked. "I don't know but it was her promise to keep Ryder safe so I hope she kills him" Damon said. "Dad that is not a nice thing to say, I mean yes he is a bad person but he doesn't deserve to die" Ryder said. "You are right no one deserves to die but John literally wants to kill you so in my opinion he should die." Damon said, Bonnie agreed with Damon as she wanted Ryder to live as well and having vampires constantly wanting to kill him sort of made it a problem for her. "Have you decided if you are going to take Ryder's blood?" Bonnie asked Damon, "I have a lot of hesitancy towards it yes I want to but also in way I don't. One I can't protect him if I am human and two I will die eventually thus again being unable to protect him" Damon said. "Yes but will get to age like a normal dad, and still be there for me no matter what, plus you would not have to drink blood anymore" Ryder said. "Yeah that part never bothered me I don't mind drinking blood" Damon said, "Okay but you will be an actual member of the council and help find and hunt vampires rather then be hunted" Bonnie said. "True but I enjoy the freedom of being a vampire, humans are weak. I just really don't know what to do" Damon said. "Dad no matter what you decide to do I will always love you, I am so thankful to you for saving my life that day and I know how hard it was for you. I may not be the easiest to raise but you are always there for me. I won't be made with whatever you decide to do as it is your choice" Ryder said. Damon hugged him and decided to drive Bonnie home as it was late and he didn't want her walking in the dark alone.

Before Bonnie left the car she said "Damon I am not supposed to say anything as it breaks rules but I see a future for you and it doesn't involve being a vampire." as she left the car. This gave Damon a lot to think about as he drove back home he still wasn't sure and it was making it hard because he knew Ryder wanted him human. Rebekah took John out the waterfalls in Mystic Falls and said "John why do you want Ryder's blood" "To sell it" John said, "It doesn't work outside his body, you can only be cured if you drink it from his vein" Rebekah said. "What is your point?" John said. "Well you said you wanted his blood so you were wanting to take it" Rebekah said. "Well yes I said that but I never said I was taking his blood, my plan was to take Ryder and have him come with me. We would make millions as he cured vampires everywhere" John said with a bit of an evil laugh. "Sorry I can't allow that to happen" Rebekah said as she pulled John's heart out and he fell into the falls. Rebekah being satisfied he was dead as his grey body hit the water went back to the Salvatore house. Damon was sitting on the porch as Rebekah walked up and sat beside him.

"John is dead here is his heart" Rebekah said as she handed it to Damon. "Thanks but I don't want this" Damon said handing it back. Rebekah tossed the heart as far as she could throw and looked at Damon and said "What is wrong?" "I can't decide what I want to do" Damon said, "don't you want to be human so you could raise Ryder the right way and have more kids?"

Rebekah said. "Honestly Rebekah I just don't know anymore, I can't protect him as a human" Damon said. "Are you kidding me, you can protect him more as a human. You will never have to worry about wearing your daylight ring, or exposing yourself as a vampire when you are around humans. Vervain will not affect you anymore and you can function in the world as a normal human. You will eventually be able to die and not have to live on past everyone you love anymore" Rebekah said. "I don't mind being a vampire though, in fact I enjoy it I feel so free and I can do anything and come out of it alive" Damon said. "You will be able to enter homes without being invited therefore no one can suspect you are a vampire" Rebekah said. "Yes that is basically the only benefit" Damon said with a laugh. He looked at Rebekah in a way that he hadn't before and he thought she was beautiful in a way. Rebekah was also looking at Damon and she never thought it before but his blue eyes were melting her on the spot. They ended up having sex right there on the porch as no one was around for miles and Ryder was asleep upstairs. Damon may have felt something for Rebekah and being a human could change how he actually feels as he was being drawn to it more and more. He never thought he would find a woman let alone anyone to love him. Rebekah was feeling hopeful as she felt attraction towards Damon, she always thought he was handsome she knew her brothers would never approve but this made it all the more appealing to her.

The next morning Ryder woke up and was surprised to see Rebekah sitting on the porch with Damon as he let Chase out. "Morning" Ryder said as he stared at them both, "Morning Ryder how did you sleep?" Damon asked a bit cheerful. "Good, everything okay?" Ryder asked, "Yes actually John is dead and will no longer be able to hurt you or attempt to hurt you" Rebekah said. Damon took Ryder aside even though he knew that Rebekah could hear them, "Ryder I would really like for you to invite Rebekah inside" Damon said. "Really? but she is an original and I thought they were dangerous?" Ryder said, "well yes I did say that but Rebekah is different, we talked all last night and I genuinely feel like she is good" Damon said. "You talked?" Ryder said rolling his eyes, "hey stop that, you are to young to know any of that, please invite her inside" Damon said. Ryder laughed as he went back in and said "Rebekah you can come in" as he sat down to the breakfast Lexi had prepared for them. Rebekah kissed Damon before entering as she did hear what he said and she needed him to know. Stefan eyed Damon as Rebekah walked in behind him as if he was saying "what the hell" Damon voiced "later" to him as he didn't want to explain.

After breakfast Damon decided to take his chances and drink his son's blood so he could become human. Ryder was very excited but also extremely nervous at the same time, Damon handed his will over to Stefan and indicated to line 5. It read "In the even that I am to die, I give full custody or Ryder Salvatore to my brother Stefan Salvatore and Lexi Branson his partner" Stefan read it and said "Of course but you are coming back brother, lets not worry about the future as you are coming back" Stefan said giving him a hug. Damon took a deep breath and said "Ryder I love you and you really have changed my life, I hope to see you again if not remember I will always be watching out for you" as he hugged him tightly. Ryder hugged him back just as tightly and Damon gave Rebekah a kiss in front of everyone and said "just in case I don't get to do that again, Ryder you ready?" Damon asked. "Yup are you?" Ryder asked, "Nope" Damon said as he drank Ryder's blood. To Damon his blood tasted like, vanilla cupcakes and spearmint as well as a hint of bourbon. Damon stopped and he looked at his family and said "I love you all" as he turned grey and fell to the couch he was sitting on. Rebekah sat close by not knowing how long the process took as she waited for her potential future husband to wake up. She felt odd thinking that but it felt nice knowing there was a chance.

Damon's future is unsure right now, will he wake up? What about Rebekah? How will

Klaus and Elijah feel about her and Damon? How is Elena doing after her parents death?

I know that Rebekah doesn't save Elena in the actual show, but as I said this is my story and I am changing the style a bit. :)

Chapter 20 Damon's transformation

Inside Damon's head he entered the alternate dimension as he heard a female voice, "state your name and why you think you should come back as a human?" "I am Damon Salvatore, and to be honest I don't. I have made some serious mistakes in my past as a vampire, I was terrible to the people that I loved. I never thought that I could ever change my ways until the day I met Ryder, he has made me a better vampire. I hope I get the chance for him to make me a better man as well. I honestly don't feel I deserve to go back but I admire and love Ryder so much and want the opportunity to raise him right and make sure he succeeds in life the way I never could" Damon said. Damon was transferred back out of the dimension as the female voice being Ryder's mom discussed with the other witches.

"He sounded sweet but does he deserve it I mean Diane he did kill you" Jill said, "I know this but he has made up for it in taking care of him. Looking at my son now I think he is a better person for being raised by Damon. His father was useless and Ryder would not be who he is without Damon. I say we give him a chance" Diane said. "Well since the final ruling is yours I guess you made the decision" Jill said. Diane was worried this would come back to bite her in the butt as she pressed accept indicating Damon would return.

As it did with everyone else it was going to take 24 hours for the process to be completed. Rebekah waited impatiently as there was a knock on the door, Stefan answered it to see Elijah and Klaus both standing there. "Hello Stefan, you are human I see, have you seen my sister Rebekah?" Klaus said. Rebekah came to the door and Stefan walked away as he felt this was a private matter for family. Ryder and Chase stayed within earshot as Ryder was being nosey, "Elijah, Niklaus" Rebekah said. "Rebekah I am pleased you are still a vampire, I am however annoyed that I can't get into this house, who needs to invite me in?" Klaus said. "No one is inviting you in as there is no reason for you to enter, I am going to become human soon in fact and there is nothing you can do to stop me" Rebekah said, "Please Rebekah, consider coming back to New Orleans with us stop this nonsense of becoming human" Elijah said. "Elijah out of all people I thought you would understand I don't want to be a vampire anymore. I found someone who loves me and we are going to be human together" Rebekah said. "I'm sorry who loves you?" Klaus asked rather rudely, "Damon and he is in transition right now" Rebekah said. Klaus snorted as he was laughing so hard, "I am sorry did you say Damon as in Damon Salvatore, Rebekah you can't be serious" Klaus said. "I am serious Niklaus and I am excited to start a new chapter in my life even if it means I die" Rebekah said. "I can't and won't accept you being with Damon Salvatore" Klaus said. "You don't get to choose whom I spend my life with I am not a child and you will not harm him once he is human or I will end you myself" Rebekah said. "You can't harm me Rebekah as a measly human I am the only hybrid and I can't and won't be stopped!" Klaus said angerly. "Oh I will find a way to put you down, and Klaus I sincerely mean that but I hope you leave and let me be" Rebekah said. "Niklaus let us leave, our sister has made up her mind and there is no changing it. We tried but I for one would like to keep my brother" Elijah said as he tried to pull Klaus away. Klaus went willingly even though there was a part of him that hated this more than anything.

"Ryder I am ready to do this" Rebekah said Ryder nodded and said "Are you sure? Don't you want to wait for my dad to wake up?" "No I would rather wait to know if I wake up, I enjoyed our moment and I want to be human the next time I see him" Rebekah said. "Okay" Ryder said as he let Rebekah drink his blood, to Rebekah it tasted like skittles, and fresh homeade bread with a hint of coconut. Rebekah entered the alternate dimension and heard "state your name and why you should come back as a human" "I am Rebekah Mikaleson, and I never wanted to be a vampire in the first place. I was forced into this life as an original because my mother was afraid to lose me. I have never had the opportunity to live a normal life and living for over 1000 years has taken it's toll. I understand if I don't go back I will die but I wanted at least to have the opportunity. I have also met Damon Salvatore and his amazing family who all have something i desperately want. I have always wanted a family of my own that I could treasure forever" Rebekah said as she was forced out of the dimension. "Wow she sounds awful" Jill said, "She was honest and I felt sort of bad for her, she is right though she never had a chance at a real life" Diane said. "Again with this we can't just accept everyone who decides to drink your son's blood, I mean an original vampire I can't even begin to tell you the bad things she has done" Jill said. "I know I get it but I am curious if every vampire that she has turned will also become human again. An original sire bond is broken as she is technically dead which means that every vampire she has turned is also dead." Diane said. "I don't think that will happen like that I mean technically she is the only one who took the cure" Jill said. "Yes that is true she is therefore every vampire she has turned will just drop dead that is rather tragic." Diane said, "really who cares we have never liked vampires anyways are we going to let her come back?" Jill asked. "Yes we are I feel like Damon needs her and so does my son" Diane said as she pressed the yes button and let the magic do its work. Jill settle back into her book as Diane watched over her son.

The next morning Damon woke up and he was immediately attacked by Ryder who literally leaped into his chest. "Hello" Damon said as he felt the hug from his son and as a human it was warmer and felt more genuine and real. "Dad!" Ryder said excitedly, "I am glad you made it back" Stefan said also getting in on the hug. Damon noticed Rebekah laying on the opposite couch. "She couldn't wait eh?" Damon said, "Nope but I did some research and I think that everyone that Rebekah turned also died with her" Ryder said. "What do you mean?" Damon said looking at Ryder. Ryder showed him his research on his computer and indicated the 1000's of people that just randomly dropped dead. "This is just coincidence I mean she really killed that many people?" Damon said a bit nervous for her. "It could be more we don't know but this is what was reported" Ryder said. Damon was nervous as he sat beside Rebekah really hoping that she would come back. He was not sure why but as a human he thought she was even prettier and he actually had feelings for her. "Ryder how would you feel if I was to date Rebekah when she comes back?" Damon said. "You mean like she could be my mom?" Ryder asked curiously, "well we will start with just dating for now but yeah maybe" Damon said. "Awesome, she is pretty I think she would be great for you" Ryder said as he decided to go hang out with Bonnie. They were going to go check on Elena as she was still struggling with the loss of her parents.

Lexi smiled at Damon and said "You really like her?" "Yes I do, I never thought that I would but

I felt something with her last night and I feel a connection there" Damon said. "That is so cute!" Lexi said hugging him, Stefan laughed and said "I am happy for you man but I am a bit worried for you if she doesn't wake up" "She will I know it" Damon said trying to sound positive as Lexi brought him some food. Damon didn't realize it but he was actually hungry and the food looked amazing as he ate it quickly. "Woah slow down you're going to get a stomach ache" Lexi said, "It will be worth it this is amazing, I mean who knew food could be so good" Damon said. Stefan laughed and said "Don't worry you have a years to make up for the lack of food in your life" "Good thing we are rich as we would never be able to afford to feed everyone now" Damon said.

"Yeah speaking of which Lexi and I were thinking we would move out and get our own place" Stefan said. "Why?" Damon asked, "Well we want to have a family and we don't want to be in the way of you potentially expanding yours" Stefan said indicating towards Rebekah. "Okay but you know you don't have to leave as there is plenty of space in this house" Damon said. "I know but we want to, and we promise to stay close by" Lexi said as she noticed Rebekah was moving.

"Hey beautiful" Damon said giving her a kiss, "Oh my god! it worked it actually worked!"

Rebekah said with excitement. "I am so glad that it did" Damon said as he kissed her again, "okay you have to let me breathe" Rebekah said as she tried to catch her breath. Damon could not believe that Rebekah was actually in front of him and that they were both human. Ryder looked into the sire line and said "Rebekah how many people did you turn?" "Um I lost count after a while why?" Rebekah asked, "well I am looking into the people and since you technically died everyone you turned did as well, but none of them took the cure like you" Ryder said. "Oh my gosh! I never thought that oh god! so what does that mean?" Rebekah said. "Well a bunch of vampires literally just died" Damon said. "Well there are few people my brother will be pleased about but there is nothing we can literally do right now" Rebekah said. Rebekah decided to call her brothers to let them know she was human and that she still loved them. Klaus refused to speak to her but Elijah said he was at least happy she was alive. "Thank you Elijah I hope that one day you can forgive me" Rebekah said as she hung up. Damon saw that she looked a little sad and gave her a hug. "I just wish that Niklaus was as forgiving as Elijah as he knew how much I wanted this. He said he is pleased a few of our enemies are dead though" Rebekah said. "I am glad you are here with me and we can be together" Damon said. "Do you really mean that?" Rebekah said, "Yup and Ryder approves too" Damon said giving her a wink. Rebekah smiled she finally could have a family of her own.

"All we need now is to find Chase someone to play with" Rebekah said, "what do you mean?" Damon said, "Oh I just mean he needs a pup friend, I can't imagine how bored he is all alone at the house when Ryder is at school." Rebekah said. Ryder looked at his pup and said "Chase is this true?" Chase whined a little and said "Yes Ryder sir but I didn't want to say anything" "Chase! I never thought you would be bored I am so sorry" Ryder said. "No Ryder sir don't feel bad I love being here with you" Chase said. "Don't worry Chase I am going to get you a pup friend as I have always wanted a dog but never thought as a vampire having one would be good" Rebekah said. "Two dogs?" Damon said, "Don't worry this one will be mine and Ryder doesn't have to take care of her" Rebekah said. "A girl dog wow" Chase said and Ryder laughed as everyone looked at him. "Nothing sorry" Ryder said giving Chase a pet, Stefan and Lexi were looking into finding another house while Rebekah searched pups for sale. Damon also decided to try looking for a job as he would need something to keep him focused.

Christmas is next plus Ryder turns 16! Stay tuned for more to come!

Chapter 21 Bad Choice!

It was the last week of school before Christmas break and Ryder was excited for Christmas. His new family would make it an exciting end to the year. Ryder dressed for school and he said goodbye to Chase as he climbed into Damon's car. "You think I will get the job" Damon asked his son, "of course you are human now and you know a lot about alcohol they have to hire you" Ryder said as he climbed out of the car. Damon drove to the Mystic Grill as they were hiring a bartender and he thought he would give it a try. Ryder was walking up to the school and he bumped into Tyler. "Watch it punk" Tyler said, "sorry" Ryder said, "Yeah I bet you are" Tyler said giving him a shove. "Look I said I was sorry, I slipped on the ice give me a break" Ryder said. "I will give you a break how about a broken nose" Tyler said. "Lay off Tyler he didn't mean to" Matt said. Tyler let Ryder walk away this time but he still hated him, Ryder knew it wasn't over and he hated that Tyler was such a bully. "You okay?" Bonnie asked, "yeah fine, just ran into Tyler" Ryder said. "Ugh that is so frustrating we obviously didn't get through to him the first time, we need something more" Elena said. "No its fine we aren't kids anymore, I can deal with it" Ryder said as he grabbed his books and walked away. "I'll talk to Caroline" Elena said as she hoped she would be able to help.

"Hey Care" Elena said sitting next to her friend in English, "hey" Caroline said back, "Can you do something about Tyler?" Elena said. "What do you mean?" Caroline asked, "he is bullying Ryder again" Elena said. "I can't prevent that, Tyler is having issues and he is taking his frustration out on everyone else. I will talk to him but I can't change him" Caroline said as class started and everyone took their seats. The morning went by fairly quickly and Ryder was at his locker when Tyler walked passed him, Ryder turned around at the wrong second and bumped him again. "Dude what the hell is your problem?" Tyler said, "nothing it was an accident I'm sorry" Ryder said. "This is beginning to be a habit with you, you think because you are nerd and have everyone wrapped around your finger, you could just do whatever you want." Tyler said angerly, "No I don't" Ryder said, "you are dead, you hear me after school" Tyler said shoving him. "I am not going to fight you" Ryder said, "you will have no choice" Tyler said as he walked away. Ryder was just going to avoid Tyler for the rest of the day, Tyler had is buddies ready to grab Ryder after school. History Class was the last class of the day and Mr. Saltzman sprang a pop quiz on them and everyone moaned except for Ryder, he was probably the only one to ace it. The bell rang and Bonnie waited for Ryder but he didn't come and she said to Elena, "where is Ryder?" "He went out the backdoor I think he is avoiding Tyler" Elena said. "Yeah I know but I thought he would walk with us" Bonnie said as they heard, "Tyler is going to fight him right now lets go" from several people. "No he wouldn't" Bonnie and Elena said together as they ran out of the school. There were a lot of people gathered in the courtyard as Elena and Bonnie tried to get closer.

Tyler's buddies threw Ryder at Tyler and Tyler said "I bet you aced that little pop quiz didn't you?" "Who cares what I did, I am not fighting you" Ryder said as he tried to walk away but Tyler's friends wouldn't let him. "You will fight me and you know why? because I am sick of looking at you" Tyler said as he punched Ryder. Tyler realized Ryder wasn't fighting back and this was making the fight unfair, "you scared or are you just a pussy? you probably fight like a girl" Tyler said causing everyone to laugh. Ryder was getting annoyed he just wanted to leave Tyler shoved him again. This time Ryder reacted he wasn't going to let Tyler win as he shoved him back, "there you go, a bit girly but at least we have something" Tyler said as he let Ryder try and punch him. "You missed and it probably wouldn't have even hurt you punch like a girl" Tyler said as he punched Ryder again. Ryder felt his eye swell as he tried to regain his balance after that blow. The principal of the school finally came out as someone told him what was going on, they were both taken to the office. Damon was there as well as Tyler's mom who did not look happy. The principal heard both sides of the story and said "Look fighting is a zero tolerance at this school and since the semester is over in a week, you are both suspended." The principal said as Tyler and Ryder left with their parent.

"Fighting really Ryder?" Damon said, "not like I did it on purpose, his buddies grabbed me and I tried to walk away" Ryder said. "Still not like you what happened?" Damon said as they drove him, "I bumped into him in the hall and he freaked out said that because I am smart I deserved to get beat up" Ryder said. "Well Tyler is in idiot just be thankful you are not him right now, his mom did not look happy" Damon said. "Is he going to be okay?" Ryder asked, "you are concerned for him?" Damon asked, "no well sort of" Ryder said, "he will be fine his mom is under a lot since her husband was killed and she doesn't have a lot of time to deal with Tyler. I

am thinking he is taking his dad's death a little hard to try to move past this" Damon said as they pulled into the driveway. Rebekah saw Ryder's eye and said "Oh my lord what happened?" "Nothing I am fine" Ryder said as Damon gave him an ice pack, "Ryder sir are you alright?" Chase asked. "I am good Chase" Ryder said as he ran up to his room and lay on the bed with ice pack on his face. Ryder heard his phone ping and it was from Bonnie,

Bonnie: You okay? I heard you are suspended

Ryder: I am fine, just a little black eye, yeah but school is over in a week anyways

Bonnie: yeah I guess you sure you are okay?

Ryder: I am sure

Bonnie: ok see you soon

Ryder: k bye 3

Ryder put his phone down and said "Chase I don't know what I am going to do" "About what Ryder sir?" Chase said. "Tyler, I can't let him keep treating me like this, I never did anything to him he is jealous of me" Ryder said. "I can bite him for you if you want" Chase said, Ryder laughed and said "Thanks buddy but I am not sure that is going to cut it, might make things worse" Ryder said. Tyler's mom yelled at him and grounded him but Tyler didn't really care he texted Caroline as he needed her for something and she came over. They hung out for a bit and when she went to the bathroom Tyler stole her phone and texted Ryder from it.

Caroline: Hey you alright?

Ryder: Fine

Caroline: Tyler can be a jerk, want to meet to talk?

Ryder: I am okay Caroline no need

Caroline: I want to talk to you about something though can we meet at the park?

Ryder: Sure I guess when?

Caroline: In like 20 min?

Ryder: Okay

Tyler deleted the messages as he didn't want Caroline to know he texted him from her phone, "hey babe sorry but my mom will he done her meeting soon and I am grounded" Tyler said. "Oh okay" Caroline said as she grabbed her things and kissed him before leaving, Tyler told his mom he was going to his room and he snuck out his window. Ryder told Damon he was going to meet Caroline and Damon looked at him suspiciously, "why?" he asked. "She said she wants to talk, I don't know" Ryder said. "Be careful please" Rebekah said as Ryder left and she looked at Damon, "you think something is up?" she asked him. "I don't know seems weird that his bullies girlfriend wants to meet him" Damon said. "Maybe she is going to apologize on his behalf, if you are worried go with him" Rebekah said. "No he doesn't like when I meddle and he is tough he will get through it" Damon said trying to convince himself this was not a trick. Rebekah went back to decorating the house for Christmas as she was going to experience it as a human again and she was excited.

Caroline went to Bonnie's as she was meeting Elena there to study for their final History test tomorrow. "Hey I thought you were coming later?" Elena said as she met Caroline at Bonnie's door. "I did too but Tyler said he was grounded not sure why he asked me to come in the first place" Caroline said. Bonnie who opened the door looked at her and said "Did you leave your phone at all?" "I did when I went to the bathroom but Tyler didn't do anything" Caroline said as she opened her phone and checked. "May I?" Bonnie said as she pressed a few buttons and the conversation that Tyler had with Ryder popped up. "What I never sent these?" Caroline said, "No but Tyler did, Ryder taught me how to get old messages back, come on we better hurry" Bonnie said as she grabbed her coat and the 3 girls ran to the park.

Ryder arrived at the park and Tyler was already there waiting for him, "I didn't think you were going to show up" Tyler said. "I should have known, I almost didn't come" Ryder said, "but you wanted to make sure my girlfriend was okay right cuz having your own isn't enough" Tyler said. "No because my friend asked me to meet her but I realize now that was a mistake" Ryder said as he tried to walk away. Tyler ran at him and tackled him as they fell into the snow, Tyler flipped Ryder over and as he was a lot stronger than Ryder he was able to hold him down quite easily. There were a lot of people in the park and one of them called 911, Tyler wasn't paying attention as he punched Ryder a few time in the face and stood up and kicked him in the ribs as well. Ryder held his face as Tyler continued to kick him, Tyler stopped for a few seconds and Ryder moved his hands as Tyler kicked him in the head. Ryder lost consciousness and Tyler walked away realizing he made a mistake and he tried to run. The police arrived and the Sheriff stopped Tyler and said "Tyler Lockwood, what did you do?" "Nothing Sheriff?" Tyler said trying to act innocent, "Tyler I have several witnesses and several videos sent to me, you are under arrest" Liz said as she cuffed him and one of her deputies took him away. Bonnie, Elena and Caroline arrived just as Ryder was being loaded in to the ambulance and they wouldn't give them any information. The ambulance drove away and Bonnie called Damon as they hopped into a cab to take them to the hospital.

Damon answered the phone, "hello" "Damon it is Bonnie, Ryder was beaten up pretty badly he is on his way to the hospital" Bonnie said. "Beaten up? By who?" Damon said grabbing his coat, Rebekah followed, "Tyler" Bonnie said and now Damon was furious, as they drove to the hospital. Damon and Rebekah arrived and the nurse was not being helpful and Damon was getting angry, Rebekah said "Damon calm down, she doesn't know lets just wait a minute I am sure we will find out something soon" Just as she said that Dr. Fell came out and said "Damon, Ryder is okay, he as a few broken ribs a broken nose, and a concussion. He is awake and is a bit sore but he will be okay" "Can I see him?" Damon said, "of course" Dr. Fell said taking Damon and Rebekah back with her. "Ryder" Damon said as he looked at his son's face, Ryder started to cry he was angry and honestly he was in pain. Damon hugged him lightly as he didn't want to hurt him more. "I am so stupid, I should have known it was a trick" Ryder said, "hey don't do that, you didn't know and Tyler is in a lot of trouble for this" Damon said. "I am just so annoyed like why does he hate me so much?" Ryder said. "I don't think it is you that he hates, he is just taking out his anger on you" Damon said as Sheriff Forbes walked in, "Hey Ryder mind if I ask you a few questions?" she asked. "Sure" Ryder said, "Okay so what lead to this?" Liz asked, "Tyler texted me from Caroline's phone and told me to meet him in the park" Ryder said, "okay then what?" Liz asked, "He was pissed off that I came to meet his girlfriend and when I tried to walk away he tackled me and then he did this" Ryder said pointing to his face. "You never hit him back?" Liz asked, "no he is stronger then me and I had no reason too" Ryder said. "Okay Ryder since he assaulted you I need to know do you want to press charges?" Liz asked, "If I do what does that mean?" Ryder said. "It means he will go to juvie and have a record, he will serve time and account for what he did" Liz said. "I do want to but I am afraid if I do it will only make things worse" Ryder said. "It might also teach him a lesson, and he needs to stop acting out, this isn't the first time his aggression got him into trouble" Liz said. "I am more worried about Caroline" Ryder said. "Don't you worry about her she is pretty upset with him right now" Liz said. "Okay I want to press charges" Ryder said. Liz nodded and left the room leaving Ryder with his dad and Rebekah.

Dr. Fell came back into the room and said "Ryder I am going to let you go home, given that your dad watches over you to make sure you are alright, if he falls asleep make sure to wake him every 3 hours. If he doesn't wake up bring him straight back here" "Okay, thank you Dr. Fell" Damon said. "I also have here some pain meds, now these are strong so only take half and only if you need it" Dr. Fell said handing them to Damon. Ryder went home with his dad after telling Bonnie, Elena and Caroline that he was alright and they were satisfied enough to go back to Bonnie's. It was going to be a long night for everyone as Ryder was recovering, and Tyler was on his way to Juvie.

Ryder has a long night ahead, and as I promised Christmas is coming in next chapter! thanks for reading!

Chapter 22 Ryder's horrible night...

Once they arrived home Ryder just went up to his room and cried he was just so frustrated. He was worried about what his friends were going to think, also he hurt everywhere mostly when he took a breath. Chase followed him upstairs but didn't say anything as he jumped onto the bed hoping that Ryder was okay and would talk when he was ready. Ryder sensed Chase and scratched behind his ears as he lay there wondering how to get through this. Given that it was late and Ryder was tired he fell asleep. Damon came to check on him and woke him up, Ryder groaned as he tried to roll over. "Hey bud just making sure you are okay?" Damon asked, "No" Ryder said, "Okay I get that your angry but are you okay physically?" Damon asked, "My head hurts a bit but I am fine" Ryder said. "I brought some water and a bit of your pain meds if you want it" Damon said. Ryder took the pill and drank water as he tried to get comfortable, "I am also concerned about your face it is very swollen, Rebekah and Lexi insist you put some ice on it" Damon said. "Ugh I just want to sleep" Ryder said, "I know bud tonight is going to suck, but we are all here to make sure you are alright" Damon said. Ryder sighed and took the ice pack from him and put it on his face. "Chase in 20 min make sure that ice pack comes off okay" Damon said, Chase barked indicating he understood as Damon went back downstairs.

Damon set the timer and Rebekah handed him some bourbon as he sat in the living room with Lexi and Stefan. There was a knock on the door and Damon was annoyed someone would be calling this late. He went to the door and was a bit shocked, "Is there something you need?" Damon said, "Yes I want to help" Elijah said, Rebekah hearing her brothers voice came to the door. "Elijah what are you doing here?" Rebekah asked, "Niklaus is just so angry and I needed to get away. Rebekah he is not pleased that your sire line is dead, there were certain people he needed for his little experiment" Elijah said, "Well that is to bad, Elijah I am finally happy why can't he see that" Rebekah said. "I don't know, he was under the impression we would be together always and forever" Elijah said. "We still will be I will just be human, I never said he couldn't be my brother. I still love him always and forever I just have a new life without him" Rebekah said. "I think it is just he hates that you are going to die, it would be easier if I could come inside" Elijah said. "I know but the only one who can invite you in is Ryder and he just went through a horrible ordeal. So tonight is not a good night for this, can we talk tomorrow" Rebekah said. "Sure I will come back" Elijah said as he walked away, "I am not allowing Ryder to let him in this house" Damon said. "I know I will try and figure out what he is really up to, don't worry I wouldn't ask Ryder to do that" Rebekah said. They both went back to the living room and Lexi had made snacks as they sat and talked about Christmas.

Chase bit the ice pack and pulled it off Ryder as he watched his owner sleep, he was very worried about him. Chase knew he wasn't going too sleep at all as he knew Ryder was in danger since he had a concussion, so Chase just watched as Ryder snored a bit. It was hard for Ryder to breath as his nose was broken so he was breathing through his mouth. The timer went off downstairs and Lexi came upstairs to check on him, she was a nurse and is now studying to be one again. Lexi gently shook Ryder and said "Hey sweetie, I need to know you are okay" Ryder moved but didn't wake up, "Ryder please say something to me" Lexi said. He still hadn't woken up and Lexi shook him a bit harder and this caused him to scream, "AHHHHHH" Ryder said, as he opened his eyes. "I am sorry I didn't mean to scare you" Lexi said, Damon ran upstairs after hearing the scream, "No you didn't I was having a dream, this every 3 hours things is going to be a pain" Ryder said as he rolled back over and closed his eyes. "You sure you are okay?" Damon asked. "Yes dad" Ryder said trying to get back to sleep. Damon and Lexi left and she said "I am pretty sure he is going to have nightmares but he seems okay just really tired. I feel bad that we have to keep waking him up. The meds are making it harder to wake him as well, I think we should just use Advil tonight if he needs it" Lexi said. "Okay sounds good" Damon said as he set another timer.

Tyler was getting processed as he was placed in a cell with a older teen making Tyler a bit nervous. "What you in for" the teen asked, "I beat someone up" Tyler said, "sick I just robbed a store, I am Jason" Jason said, "Tyler" Tyler replied, "yeah I know who you are the mayor's kid" Jason said. "Yeah" Tyler said as he sat down on his small bed, "you being charged? or is the kid you beat up letting you off?" Jason said. "I don't know" Tyler said as he lay down being that it was late. Tyler was kicking himself for being so dumb, he let his jealousy get the best of him. Tyler knew Ryder wasn't after Caroline and now he was in juvie and would have a record for being stupid. Who knows what would happen with school and Tyler knew his mom would be so angry.

Chase was watching Ryder and grew concerned as Ryder started shaking, "Ryder sir are you okay?" Chase asked not getting a response he started barking loudly hoping that Damon would hear him. Thankfully Lexi heard and she and Damon ran upstairs to see that Ryder was having a seizure, "Damon go call 911" Lexi said as she rolled him over onto his side, Damon called the ambulance and they were on their way, "Lexi talk to me!" Damon said a bit panicked, "he had a seizure and I can't get him to wake up, I am not sure what it means just yet, but we need to get him to the hospital fast. Chase may have just saved his life" Lexi said giving him a pat. The ambulance arrived and Rebekah let them in as they ran upstairs and Lexi explained everything she knew. The paramedics allowed Damon to ride with them and everyone else drove in Damon's car, Lexi brought Chase too as she knew he was worried. Once they arrived at the hospital, they were taken straight to CT and the can showed a small bleed in the frontal cortex of his brain. Dr. Fell explained the situation and went to meet Ryder in surgery, Damon was pacing he was super nervous. "Why? why does this have to be happening? If I was a vampire I could have healed him, now I can't do shit!" Damon said with anger. Elijah appeared and said "I can heal him if you would like?" Rebekah looked at her brother and then at Damon, "I don't know I am worried if something happens and he becomes a vampire" Damon said. "I understand just know the offer is there if you need it" Elijah said as he sat down. Damon didn't like that he was there but Rebekah was happy he was and she was trying to figure out why he was here.

After what felt like forever to Damon Dr. Fell came out and said "we were able to stop the bleed, it is a good thing you were able to get him here so fast. It could have been a lot worse, we are going to monitor him closely over the next few hours and see how he does" Damon nodded as he really didn't know what to say, "One of you can stay with him" a nurse said as they were all in his room, "we will go Damon let us know how he does" Stefan said as they left. Damon looked at the nurse and said "is it okay of Chase stays too, if it wasn't for him Ryder would have died. He is a hero tonight" pointing to Chase. "I will have to see, I am not sure dogs are allowed in the hospital" the nurse said. "He is not your average dog I can assure you he will not be a problem" Damon said. "Okay" the nurse said as she left the room, Ryder was on a ventilator as he just came back from surgery, Dr. Fell wasn't going to remove it until he was awake as she didn't want to risk it. Damon sat on a chair close to Ryder and held his hand as he closed his eyes, Chase lay on the foot of the bed and just stared at Ryder. Damon felt relief Chase was there knowing that he might miss something, as he checked his phone and the timer wasn't even halfway when Chase barked. If they hadn't heard him Ryder could be dead right now so Damon was grateful to Chase and he was glad he let Ryder keep him.

It was 6 am when the juvie hall was woken up for morning rounds, Tyler didn't really feel like he slept at all. He knew he deserved everything he was getting as honestly he had no reason to attack Ryder he was just angry. Carol Lockwood was trying to get her son out on bail as she really didn't want him exposed to the prison life. Sheriff Forbes said, "Carol I know you are upset but he physically assaulted Ryder who is currently on life support. I am not sure he will learn his lesson if he just gets off" "I know but I have different plans for him, I signed him up for military school this way he still gets his education" Carol said. "I will see what I can do Mayor but I am not going to promise anything" Liz said. "Thank you" Mayor Lockwood said as she honestly was just fed up with her son's actions.

It was 7 am when Ryder opened his eyes he looked around and was super confused, Chase moved and licked Damon awake. Damon pressed the nurse button and nurse came in and saw Ryder was awake and she called Dr. Fell. Shortly after Dr. Fell entered the room and removed the vent and said "Can you tell me your name?" "Ryder Salvatore" Ryder said, "Good and do you know the date Ryder?" Dr. Fell said, "It is Dec 22nd" Ryder said, "Good, do you feel any pain?" Dr. Fell said, "a little but it is not that bad" Ryder said. "Okay, I will be back to check on you in a little bit everything looks good." Dr. Fell said. "Dad what happened?" Ryder asked his dad, "you had a seizure, caused by a small brain bleed, Chase here saved your life" Damon said. Ryder smiled at his pup and said "Am I going to be okay?" Ryder asked, "I hope so, I can't heal you so I have to wait and see how god handles things from here and it honestly scares me" Damon said. "It scares me too, and I don't want to be healed by vampire blood, it apparently is not good for my cure. When I was dying or seizing my mom came to see me, she told me that my blood was activated into the cure the first time vampire blood entered my system. I guess in a way your blood made mine into a cure and if I were to drink someone else's blood it could either kill me or something worse" Ryder said. "Great something else for me to worry about now" Damon said as he noticed Ryder's friends outside. "I will go get some coffee, I think they want to see you" Damon said as he left the room. Bonnie, Elena and Matt all came in and Bonnie kissed him and said "Are you okay? you look awful" "Thanks, I am okay" Ryder said, Bonnie pet Chase as she looked at her boyfriend. "I am so sorry this happened to you, I don't know why Tyler is such a dick" Matt said. "It is okay Matt, I don't hold it against him he was hurting after his dad and he needed to let go of some steam. I am not sure why I was his target but I am okay" Ryder said. "No don't you forgive him like that, he doesn't deserve and honestly I hope he rots in jail" Bonnie said. "I heard he is going to military school from Caroline" Matt said. "Well at least I can have a peaceful year in high school then" Ryder said as he yawned. "We will leave so you can get some sleep" Bonnie said as she kissed him again. "Bonnie can you do me a favor and take Chase out?" Ryder said. "I am okay Ryder sir!" Chase said, "Chase go please, I am not going to risk you getting sick because you refuse to go outside" Ryder said. Matt looked confused as Ryder was talking to his dog but Chase jumped off the bed and went with Bonnie as if he understood every word.

"Ryder has a connection with his dog, apparently they can talk to each other" Elena explained to her boyfriend. Damon came back into the room as Bonnie brought back Chase and said goodbye. Ryder was asleep, and Damon called Stefan and told him Ryder was okay and that they should get the house ready for Christmas.

Will Tyler go to military school? Will Christmas go okay? How will Caroline take to her boyfriend going away? What are Elijah's intentions?

Chapter 23 Another Salvatore Christmas

Ryder was released from the hospital the next day and he was shocked when he was home as to how Lexi and Rebekah decorated. "This reminds me of our first Christmas together in this house, when I was 10" Ryder said. "Yes it does doesn't it" Damon said giving a wink to Lexi, she put it together as a reminder they were family always. Now that Ryder was feeling better and was out of the woods for now Lexi and Stefan decided to share their news, "Everyone I just want to say we are very happy to be spending Christmas with everyone, and that we hope we can create Christmas's like this for our baby" Lexi said. No one really understood the meaning behind Lexi's message. Stefan laughed and said "Guys did you hear what Lexi said?" "Yeah she said to create memories like this with your baby, what are you pregnant?" Damon said. "We are, baby is due this summer" Lexi said. Everyone hugged and cheered, Damon drank an extra glass for Lexi, Damon even gave Ryder some bourbon. Ryder was excited he never had it before he took one sip and spit it out, "blech that is gross" Ryder said. Damon laughed, "pity now I can't drink that as you spit in the cup" Damon said. "Sorry, I will just stick with coke" Ryder said as he grabbed a glass and poured his soda into a cup.

Rebekah went into the kitchen and said "Ryder I haven't told Damon this yet but I wanted to see how you felt about it first. Elijah is in town and he wants to speak with you, he promised not to hurt you and said I can be there too" "What about?" Ryder said, "I don't know he won't tell me until he can talk to you first" Rebekah said. "Dad isn't going to like me talking to him he doesn't trust him" Ryder said. "I know but I do trust him, and Elijah is not angry he appears to be after something but he won't tell me what" Rebekah said. "Okay I trust you Rebekah and this better not be a trick" Ryder said. "Thank you and I don't think it is, Elijah said he would call me when he is ready to talk" Rebekah said. Ryder nodded and went back to the living room he received a text from Bonnie.

Bonnie: hey babe, how you feeling? So wish I didn't have to be away for Christmas

Ryder: I am okay, I am still a bit sore but nothing I can't handle. Me too I miss you

Bonnie: I miss you to my dad's family is so boring I am dying

Ryder: Wish you could see this place it is incredible

Bonnie: me too, k have to go talk soon 3 you

Ryder: bye 3 you too

Rebekah received a text from Elijah that he was outside and Rebekah indicated to Damon who was honestly a bit drunk so he didn't notice. Chase however did and he followed Ryder just be sure he was okay. Rebekah and Ryder stepped outside and Elijah said "Ryder thank you for agreeing to meet me, I am sorry that you were hurt" Chase growled and Ryder said "Chase stop it" Chase stopped but he was ready to jump into action if needed. "Ryder I have something to ask of you and I know it is going to be asking a lot as you could get hurt. I would like for you to cure Niklaus" Elijah said, "What!" Rebekah said, "Rebekah he is a hybrid so it will only kill the vampire side of him therefore killing his sire line, I then will ask you Ryder to give me the cure ending the vampire race all together." Elijah said, "Wow, I don't know if I trust that Klaus won't kill me or if you won't for that matter" Ryder said. "I understand and I will allow you time to think about it and spend Christmas with your family. I assure you that Niklaus will not kill you as he is unaware that I want this done" Elijah said. "Elijah you might die, and Nik as a werewolf only he would transform every full moon" Rebekah said. "Yes Rebekah but we should never have been allowed to live this long and if I die I die, I will take the risk like you. I don't believe that vampires should exist and we honestly do more harm then good" Elijah said. "This smells like trouble Ryder sir" Chase said. Ryder didn't say anything to Chase but he looked at Rebekah and then to Elijah and said "I will think about it" as he went back inside having Chase follow behind him. "Elijah are you crazy this will never work Nik will not agree to it" Rebekah said, "that is why we must force him to do it Rebekah, it needs to be done" Elijah said. "He will know something is up when he is drinking blood from Ryder as you know the cure can only be drunk from his vein" Rebekah said. "I am aware that is why I will use vervain to sedate him then have him drink it without him knowing and only by a little bit as to not kill him" Elijah said. "I hope you know what you are getting yourself into" Rebekah said as she went back inside as well, she noticed Ryder was not downstairs in the living room and she hoped he was okay. Damon was dancing and Stefan was laughing at him as he really wasn't that good. "Rebekah welcome back Damon is all yours we are going to bed" Stefan said as he pulled his girl upstairs.

"Honestly Damon, you can't drink as much now as you are human and your tolerance level is lower" Rebekah said. "Hi you are pretty" Damon said as Rebekah rolled her eyes and forced him upstairs to bed. It took her a bit but she managed to get him undressed and in bed as she went to check on Ryder. Rebekah opened his door to find him already asleep and she pulled the blanket over him and said "Chase make sure he is safe, come get us if you need too" as she left the door open a little just in case. Chase was hoping Ryder was going to be okay overnight as he was really tired and he closed his eyes. Ryder woke up with a panic as he tried not to wake up Chase he rolled out of bed and went to the kitchen. Lexi jumped as she heard Ryder enter the kitchen "Jeez kid you scared me half to death" Lexi said, "sorry just couldn't sleep" Ryder said grabbing some milk and pouring a glass. "Anything you want to talk about?" Lexi asked, "No not tonight, Merry Christmas Lexi" Ryder said as he took his milk and went back upstairs. Lexi didn't realize that today was Christmas she smiled as she rubbed her belly. Chase was relieved that Ryder was back in the room as he closed his eyes and went back to sleep. Ryder took out his computer and did some research on the Mikaleson's as he really didn't know if this was a good plan. I mean of course he wanted to wipe out vampires completely but to ask a vampire to drink his blood against there will was suicide. Ryder knew his blood was rare and that vampires were drawn to it as it would taste to them like their greatest desires and he just didn't trust Elijah enough. Ryder put his computer away and fell back asleep quickly, there was something about warm milk that just did it for him.

The next morning Ryder slept in as he really honestly needed to catch up on his sleep, Rebekah made breakfast. Lexi and Stefan organized the presents as they waited for Damon and Ryder, Damon was a little bit hungover and he was still sleeping as well. Chase licked Ryder and he stirred and opened his eyes, "Merry Christmas Ryder sir!" Chase said, "Merry Christmas Chase" Ryder said as he hugged his pup tightly. They both went downstairs and Chase ran outside as Ryder poured his breakfast giving him a few pieces of bacon as well. Damon finally came downstairs and everyone ate breakfast, as Lexi and Stefan did the dishes and then met everyone in the living room. Opening gifts didn't take very long as everyone bought something for Ryder and a little something for each other. There wasn't much to open as Ryder received a new cell phone as his was cracked from Tyler attacking him. Ryder also received a PlayStation 5 and a Nintendo switch. "Thanks everyone this is awesome" Ryder said extremely excited about his gifts, he also received a bunch of games for each. Ryder set up his new systems in his room as he also had a TV in there and he was excited to play. Damon brought out a box for Rebekah and said "this one is for you babe" Rebekah opened and cried as she saw what was inside a small golden cockapoo puppy with pink bows. "Aw Damon she is so sweet, thank you" Rebekah said as she picked her up and was licked like crazy. "What are you going to call her?" Damon asked, "Skye!" Rebekah said as she put her down and let Chase sniff her, Chase and Skye became acquainted and were immediate friends. Chase was excited to finally have a play mate and he ran to get Ryder. "Ryder sir come meet my new friend Skye!" Chase said, "Skye?" Ryder said, "yes she is our new puppy" Chase said as Ryder followed him downstairs. "Ryder can you understand her too?" Damon asked. "I have no idea" Ryder said as he walked up to Skye, "Hello Skye, I am Ryder" Ryder said as he bent down to pet her. Skye licked him and barked a little, but Ryder didn't understand her he looked at Chase, "She says hi Ryder I guess I am Skye" Chase said. "I can't understand her directly but I can through Chase" Ryder said as he gave his dog a pet and went back upstairs.

The rest of Christmas went by quickly and Bonnie was coming home tomorrow and Ryder was excited to see her and give her the necklace he bought her. Ryder was unsure how Caroline felt about him and he knew he was supposed to meet them all at the grill tomorrow he was a bit nervous. Ryder was responsible for her boyfriend being set away to Military school and even though he deserved it Ryder felt bad. He didn't know why but he did, he knew Tyler was a good person he was just dealing with some stuff. Ryder's face was finally starting to heal and the bruises were going away. After dinner Ryder said "Rebekah we need to talk to my dad about what Elijah said" Ryder said. "Okay but he is not going to like it" Rebekah said. "I know but I am not doing anything behind my dad's back especially when it involves my life" Ryder said. "I understand completely" Rebekah said as she respected Ryder's choice. Ryder and Rebekah sat in the living room with Damon and Rebekah said, "Sweetie, Ryder and I met with Elijah yesterday and he wants to get rid of the vampire race" "He wants to what now?" Damon said, "He wants to force Klaus to drink my blood and kill off the vampire controlling him as he can't die since he is also a werewolf, and then drink my blood himself. Therefore killing of both sire bonds and the entire vampire race" Ryder said. "No absolutely not, Klaus didn't even want Rebekah to turn I highly doubt he is willing to kill off his vampire self" Damon said. "Well he isn't that is why Elijah said force" Rebekah said. "How are we to know that Klaus won't kill Ryder in the process?" Damon said. "We don't we have to trust that Elijah knows what he is doing" Rebekah said. "I don't trust Elijah I am sorry, I really don't want you doing this Ryder" Damon said. "I know and to be honest I am not sure what I want either, I am going to meet with Bonnie tomorrow and I will ask her. If it does come down to it dad do you trust me enough to let me make my own choice?" Ryder asked. "Yes I trust you" Damon said, "Thanks" Ryder said as he hugged his dad and went upstairs to play more games before bed.

"I have a bad feeling about all of this" Damon said, "Don't please I trust my brother and he is willing to die for the vampire species to be extinct" Rebekah said. "Thus making the werewolf species even worse" Damon said. "I don't think it would make Nik violent, but he will turn every full moon without the vampire curse. I suppose if he was angry he would come after us" Rebekah said. "Exactly my point why rock the boat, he is not bothering us now. Do we really want to poke the bear?" Damon said, Rebekah laughed, "I don't know maybe not" she said as she curled up next to Damon who was sitting by the fire. Stefan and Lexi who finished with the dinner dishes joined them and Stefan said "I heard the conversation and Rebekah I to agree not to poke the bear" Rebekah sighed she really wanted her brother to be human with her but Nik was another story. It was after midnight and Damon and Rebekah decided to call it a night, as they walked past Ryder's room his light was still on. Damon pushed the door open and Ryder was playing games still, "Ryder bed now!" Damon said sternly, Ryder looked at the clock and paused his game "sorry dad" as he saved it and shut everything off and crawled into bed. Damon noticed Chase was curled up with Skye on the foot of Ryder's bed, "looks like she is going to be more Ryder's than yours" Damon said. "That is okay they are cute together" Rebekah said as they too went to bed.

How will Caroline feel towards Ryder? What will Bonnie think of Elijah's plan? Will Ryder decide to poke the bear or not? Find out soon!

Chapter 24 Feelings of Betrayal

The next morning Ryder woke up and showered, his nose felt better and his black eyes were starting to heal nicely. He almost looked like a normal person again, Ryder dressed and went downstairs with Chase and Skye in tow. Rebekah had breakfast ready and everyone enjoyed the peaceful morning. "Have you made a decision yet Ryder?" Rebekah asked, "No, when I do I will let you know" Ryder said as he loaded the dishwasher and took Chase out for a walk. "Are you going to do it Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "I don't know Chase, a part of me does want vampires wiped of the earth but a part of me also doesn't. I mean if I do cure Klaus then I have an angry werewolf out for me and in my opinion that is worse" Ryder said. "I agree Ryder sir much worse" Chase said. "Chase I think someone is watching us" Ryder said as he could feel eyes following him. Chase looked around but he didn't see anyone or hear anything, "maybe we should head back to the house" Chase said. "Yup let's go" Ryder said as he started to jog watching behind him just to make sure. By the time Ryder arrived back at the house he was out of breath but he felt like whoever was watching him didn't follow.

"You okay?" Damon asked his son as he entered the house out of breath, "yeah good I was just racing Chase" Ryder said not wanting to worry him. Chase gave him a look that went unnoticed by everyone. Around 12 Ryder and Damon drove to the Mystic grill, as Ryder was meeting his friends and Damon was starting his first shift as a bartender and he was really excited. Once they arrived Ryder waited inside as no one was there yet, he was a bit nervous to talk to Caroline.

Sheriff Forbes walked in and said "Ryder how are you feeling?" "I am good Sheriff" Ryder said, "Good, I just want you to know that Tyler is leaving town today as he heads off to military school, I am still so sorry for what he did to you. I always thought he was a good kid" Sheriff said, "It is alright, I am already moving on" Ryder said, "Good" Sheriff said as she headed over the bar, "Damon I was wanting to speak to you about John Gilbert, he kind of just up and left have you heard from him?" Sheriff asked. "No I haven't, weird that he would just leave like that. Did you ask Elena?" Damon asked her, "yes I did her and her aunt have no idea where he is and they both don't seem to care much" Liz said. "Can one blame them I mean John was a nosey guy" Damon said. "Yes he was, alright I will let you get back to work" Sheriff said as she left the grill. Bonnie, Elena and Matt showed up and they all started a game of couples pool.

"Do you think Caroline will show up?" Ryder asked, "Who knows she is saying bye to Tyler before he leaves. I think she is pretty upset" Elena said. "She better be upset with Tyler, I mean he almost killed Ryder. I can't believe that she is so selfish and is angry at Ryder who didn't do anything" Bonnie said. "Bonnie chill, she can be mad at me if she wants to be, I chose to meet him" Ryder said. "Yes but you thought you were meeting Caroline" Elena said, "Doesn't matter i should never have agreed to meet her in the first place. I mean why would she need to talk to me?" Ryder said. "Please don't blame yourself for this man, Tyler had it coming to him if it wasn't you it would have been some other kid. He has been so angry these past few months I am surprised it took him this long to snap" Matt said. "Losing his father doesn't give him a free pass to treat everyone like crap" Bonnie said as she started to get a little worked up. Damon brought them all cokes and said "This conversation needs to take a hiatus as his mother is right over there" as he walked away. The teens all looked over and did indeed see Carol Lockwood it looked like she was having a lunch meeting with someone. "Ryder when did your dad start working here?" Elena asked. "Today is his first day actually, he interviewed before I was hurt, he would have started sooner but they gave him some time" Ryder said. "Hey is that Mr. Saltzman" Bonnie said. "Yeah weird seeing your teachers as normal people" Matt said. Mr. Saltzman looked to be in a deep conversation with Damon. Ryder hoped he was alright as he knew that his teacher knew Damon and from the sound of it didn't like him very much.

They teens finished their game of pool and decided to walk around outside and do a little shopping. Ryder told his dad he was leaving and Damon said "Okay be careful" as Ryder headed out the door. Bonnie and Ryder walked holding hands just in front of Matt and Elena who were walking a bit slower. "Ryder I need to ask you do you forgive Tyler?" Bonnie asked, "I don't know, I am not exactly ever going to jump at being friends with him but I don't hate him for what he did" Ryder said. "Why? he could have killed you" Bonnie said. "Yes but I did go out essentially to meet his girlfriend and he felt threatened by that obviously, I can't change what he did but I don't think holding a grudge is the answer" Ryder said. "Okay" was all Bonnie said, Ryder looked at how far back Matt and Elena were before he asked Bonnie. "Bonnie I have been faced with something and I could really use your advice on what I should do" Ryder said. "Alright" Bonnie said as she waited for Ryder to tell her. "Elijah came to my house last night and basically said that he wants to force Klaus to drink my blood forcing the vampire part of him to die. As he is also a werewolf he won't die but will be forced to turn every full moon. Then Elijah wants to drink my blood as well killing all vampires in existence making them extinct" Ryder said. "Wow, that is something" Bonnie said. " Yeah Rebekah obviously wants me to do it but my dad on the other hand doesn't want me to" Ryder said. "Honestly this is a huge decision and wiping out vampires completely would change the way witches do magic, I for one would not want to piss off the only hybrid vampire in existence but ultimately the choice is yours Ryder" Bonnie said. "I know I don't really want to poke the bear, but what do you mean it changes the way you do magic?" Ryder said. "Witches came before the vampire obviously as we date back to many years ago. The way we practice magic now is different from back then, we used to use our magic for good and health. Now it is used for curses and making sure that vampires can stay in existence and out of the human eyes." Bonnie said. "You mean like daylight rings?" Ryder said, "yes but there is more to it then that, some vampires have witches use protection spells on them and more powerful things like cursed objects." Bonnie said. "So if all vampires were said to die, then witches would go back to doing good and health" Ryder said. "Some will yes others who choose to practice evil magic will try and figure out a way to bring vampires back but in a more powerful way" Bonnie said. This made Ryder shudder he honestly didn't know what to do now at all as his decision just became harder.

They walked around for a bit more and Bonnie was getting cold so they headed back to the grill and Ryder treated Bonnie to dinner. Caroline was there sitting with a few guys from the football team. Ryder and Bonnie sat in a booth wondering if they should invite her over but decided if she wanted to she would join them herself. Elena and Matt came shortly after and joined Bonnie and Ryder. The football team tried to get Matt to join them but he turned them down, after a ordering their food Ryder couldn't help feeling a little guilty. "Maybe we should ask her to join us?" Ryder said. "Nah she is literally staring daggers at you right now Ryder, best we leave her alone" Matt said. It didn't take long before Caroline made her way over to their table as most of the football team left. "Hey" Caroline said as she sat beside Elena, "hey how are you?" Elena asked her hoping she wouldn't make a scene. "I could be better, school is going to suck with Tyler gone" Caroline said. "He deserved it, I think he got off cheap if you ask me" Bonnie said. "How dare you! He doesn't deserve anything that is happening" Caroline said, "Caroline are you delusional, he almost killed Ryder! He deserves everything that is happening to him and more!" Bonnie yelled at her. At this point everyone was watching as Matt grabbed Caroline before she could attack Bonnie and Ryder grabbed Bonnie. They took them outside and hoped that this was the end of it. "Screw you Bonnie if it were the other way around you would be just as pissed" Caroline said. "That is the thing Caroline it will never be the other way around as my boyfriend doesn't beat other people up because he feels like it" Bonnie said. At this point Ryder stepped in, "Caroline do you honestly think that I deserved to be treated the way I was treated?" Ryder asked her. "No of course not but it was a misunderstanding" Caroline said. "Oh so it was a misunderstanding when he intentionally stole your phone and asked me to meet him, or was it a misunderstanding when he broke my nose. Or maybe it was when he kicked me so hard in the head that I was knocked out?" Ryder said to her a bit aggressively. "I never really heard your side of the story, I am sorry I guess it was more than that" Caroline said. "You think? I did nothing to him and I honestly don't think military school is enough but being the mayors son I guess comes with perks." Ryder said. "I feel like I was betrayed" Caroline said, "By who Tyler?" Ryder said. "No by you, I mean you don't understand how he feels about me and you going out to meet me when he has jealousy issues. In a way he felt betrayed because he thought I was cheating on him." Caroline said.

Ryder started to laugh, "you felt betrayed, Caroline you are supposed to be my friend, I would never do anything to hurt Bonnie. I went to meet who I thought was you because you sounded sad and I for one like to help my friends. If anyone was betrayed it was me" Ryder said. Caroline started to cry she never really heard any other version of the story other than Tyler's and right now she felt like an idiot. "Ryder I am sorry for what he did, I can't take it back and I wish that he hadn't over me. I am sorry" Caroline said. "Caroline you are not the one who needs to apologize to me Tyler is but if we could put this all behind us please I for one don't want to talk about it anymore" Ryder said. "Sure" Caroline said as Ryder gave her a hug, "Bonnie I am sorry" Caroline said. "Water under the bridge Care" Bonnie said hugging her as well. It was getting dark and Elena, Matt and Caroline all headed home. "I should go to Ryder grams is expecting me" Bonnie said. "Okay thanks for today" Ryder said giving her a kiss as she walked away. Ryder looked up at the sky and had that feeling again, he looked around but didn't see anyone. He knew he was being watched though, he never knew for how long or by who as he never could see anyone around. Ryder headed back inside the grill as he waited for his dad to finish his shift, "Ryder you can head home I might be here a bit" Damon said. "Well you are my ride, and I'm good waiting" Ryder said. "Are you sure you never had a problem walking before" Damon said. "yeah I just have a bad feeling, I am not 100% sure but I feel like I am being watched" Ryder said. "Really?" Damon said with concern, "yeah I never see anyone though so it is weird" Ryder said. Damon texted his brother and he agreed to come and pick Ryder up.

Who is following Ryder? Will the sheriff every find out what happened to John? What will Ryder's choice be about curing Klaus and Elijah? Find out soon!

Chapter 25 Ryder's Choice!

Stefan arrived shortly after Damon texted him and he looked around but didn't see anyone, "You think someone is following you?" Stefan asked. "I know someone is I can feel it, they have to be a vampire because they are fast" Ryder said. "I am wondering if it could be Elijah" Stefan said, "No it is someone I have never met before, it feels different. Like this vampire is experienced in hunting" Ryder said. "You think he is hunting you?" Stefan asked as they drove back to the mansion. "I am not sure but I feel threatened, like they have a purpose. I feel this is someone who either needs something from me and they are making sure I am the person, or they want me dead" Ryder said. "Well let's hope it is not dead, I will try and figure out who it is maybe we can ask the only vampire we know now who needs a favor from you" Stefan said. "You mean Elijah?" Ryder said. "Yes" Stefan said, "the only problem I have with all of this is that if he keeps doing me favors, I am going to have to do what he wants and I haven't decided yet" Ryder said. "If you want my advice Ryder, it is a bad idea, Klaus enjoys being a vampire if he loses that he will become angry" Stefan said. "I know but not having vampires at all would be nice" Ryder said. "Well it is something to really know for sure" Stefan said as they pulled into the driveway.

Chase was relieved to see Ryder was okay, as he licked him. "Hi Chase how was your day?" Ryder asked him, "I worried about you Ryder sir, that feeling someone was watching you made me worry. I really like Skye she is a lot of fun" Chase said. "I am okay Chase we are going to try and figure it out, I am glad you have a playmate" Ryder said. "Skye says she likes me too" Chase said with some excitement. Ryder laughed as he went and had a shower, "Rebekah, do you think you can ask Elijah who is following my nephew? Or if he can sense anyone?" Stefan asked. "I have texted him haven't heard back yet" Rebekah said. "Do you think that means he is trying to figure it out?" Stefan asked. "Maybe but Elijah is unpredictable he really doesn't care about anyone but his family and it is hard to get him to open up" Rebekah said. "Well knowing Damon he won't want Ryder to leave the house until we figure out who this vampire is" Stefan said, "are you sure it is a vampire?" Lexi asked, "Yes Ryder says he is fast and that there is a darkness to him" Stefan said. "I can reach out to some of my contacts see if they would know of anyone" Lexi said. "The more info we have the better, see if you can get someone you really trust to offer us protection" Stefan said. "Okay I will ask" Lexi said as she left to try and get a hold of some of her old contacts. There was a knock at the door and Rebekah looked at Stefan and he shrugged as he wasn't expecting anyone.

Rebekah opened the door to a very disgruntled looking Elena, "are you okay?" Rebekah asked, "Yes I just need to talk to Ryder" Elena said, he is upstairs, let me go get him. Stefan said as ran upstairs Rebekah told Elena she could come in and she hesitated but came inside. "Ryder, Elena is here and she looks really upset about something says she needs to talk to you" Stefan said. "Okay I will be down in one sec" Ryder said as he had just finished his shower. Stefan came back down and said "He will be down in a minute" Elena nodded as she waited for Ryder she looked around the house and it felt different to her, not as cold and eerie. Ryder came down and

Elena said, "Ryder we need to talk about something, is there somewhere we can go that is private?" Elena asked noticing all the adults in the room. "Yes we can go to my room" Ryder said as Elena followed him upstairs, "Is everything okay?" Ryder asked her, "No, Ryder everything is messed up" Elena said as she started to cry. "What is going on?" Ryder asked her as she sat on his bed, "Ever since my parents died I felt this hole, and now I am pretty sure my uncle is dead too, but my aunt Jenna just told me I was adopted. So my parents weren't even my real parents" Elena said. "Elena I am sorry, but I am adopted too remember, and if you want I can help you find your parents" Ryder said. "I am not even really sure I want to know who they are, I mean I am literally just so upset they never told me. This whole doppleganger thing also makes me nervous, what if Katherine is what Klaus needs. I could be killed all because of this stupid hybrid curse, I mean was a created just for this stupid purpose." Elena said. "First how do you know all about this? I didn't know you knew so much about Klaus and stuff" Ryder said. "Some guy named Elijah came to be and told me everything said that there was a possibility that Katherine's blood wouldn't be enough, Ryder I am scared I don't want to die" Elena said. "I won't let anything bad happen to you Elena, I promise even if it means that I have to get rid of Klaus myself" Ryder said. "You would do that? How though?" Elena said, "I would cure him just like I did with my family, of course it would make a target forever as his wolf side would be more deadly then his vampire side. I would do it for you though just to keep you safe" Ryder said.

Elena thought about what he said then she looked at him and said "wait so your dad and uncle are not vampires anymore? Rebekah is also not a vampire? How does that work?" Elena said. "No they are human, Elena my blood is a cure, so when a vampire drinks it they are killed almost instantly if they are pure of heart or they have a purpose they will be brought back as humans" Ryder said. "Wow, so you are supernatural then?" Elena asked, "I am not really sure I mean I can age like a human, I just don't think I can be turned into a vampire as my blood will obviously cure me" Ryder said. "You said you can help me find my parents?" Elena asked, "only if you want me too, it might take me a little bit but I will try" Ryder said. "Okay please help me find them, also are you actually going to kill Klaus?" Elena asked. "I honestly don't know I am not sure if I am more afraid of him as a hybrid or as a werewolf" Ryder said. "The werewolf part scares me more, but that is just my opinion, thank you Ryder" Elena said as she hugged him. She felt super close to him right now and she was looking him in the eyes and she decided to go for it and she kissed him. Ryder was taken a back a bit by the kiss and said "woah Elena, I am with Bonnie, and you have Matt" "I am only with Matt because you are taken, Ryder I love you I always have to be honest. I am not sure if I will ever feel the same way about Matt. I know you are with Bonnie and I respect that I am sorry that I kissed you. I just felt like you need to know how I feel, I hope this doesn't change things. Please don't tell Bonnie, I promise to not ever do it again" Elena said as she got up to leave. "Elena, I am not offended by he kiss, I am surprised a bit but if I am honest there was a part of me that liked you first. I just had a chance to get close to Bonnie and it turned into something. I hope we can be friends still and it doesn't get awkward and maybe one day we can be something but for now I am sorry but I love Bonnie" Ryder said. "I understand and thank you for listening and looking for my parents" Elena said as she left.

Ryder looked at Chase and said "well that was weird" "you are telling me Ryder sir, do you have feelings for Elena?" Chase asked. "I am not sure right now Chase, everything is so confusing. I love Bonnie but man I just don't know" Ryder said. Skye yipped and Chase translated for her "Skye says that you should follow your heart, don't let your head get in the way" Chase said. "Thanks Skye" Ryder said giving the small cockapoo a pet, Ryder opened his computer and did some research into Elena's past and he was hoping he would be able to find any information. It was getting late and Ryder hadn't been able to find anything out and he was getting tired as he closed his computer and climbed into bed. Damon was still not home and Ryder was a little bit worried so he sent a text.

Ryder: you okay dad?

Damon: yes you should be in bed, I will be home soon

Ryder: I am I was just making sure you were okay

Damon: Thanks, night Ryder

Ryder: Night

Damon was done work hours ago he was just talking with Alaric and he was beginning to think that they would become friends. Alaric had forgiven the fact that Damon killed his wife as he was no longer a threat, he felt that Damon was a genuine person. He never expected Damon to be a father and the way he knew Ryder was going places and how each of them talked about each other was touching to Alaric. He never had that with his wife as she never did want kids but he hoped that one day maybe he would find someone and have kids of his own. Damon came home shortly after texting with Ryder and noticed that everyone was still awake, "Everything okay?" Damon asked. "Yes we are just trying to figure out who is following Ryder" Stefan said, "I have a theory about that" Damon said as he sat down, "I think it might be Mikael" Damon said. "You mean my father? How can you be so sure?" Rebekah said, "he is a vampire hunter, and Alaric said he as been studying him for years, he wants to get rid of the vampire race and he can do it in one fellow swoop with Ryder. He is just waiting for the right moment to strike" Damon said. "If it is my father that is not a good thing, Ryder would be in a lot of danger, my father will stop at nothing to get what he wants" Rebekah said. "Man everything is just getting to be more and more complicated. I worry so much about him I feel like since I am human now too it has magnified as I can't protect him from everything. He will be 16 soon and keeping him cooped up in the house is just going to get harder" Damon said. Everyone agreed and they needed to come up with a plan to keep Mikael away from Ryder so he would he safe.

Ryder had a dream and it startled him awake enough to knock Chase off the bed, "Sorry Chase" Ryder said apologizing. "It is alright, you okay Ryder sir" Chase asked, "Yes I just had a dream it felt so real, I think I made my choice. Klaus needs to stay a vampire as he needs to protect me from his father. Mikael is the one who is following me, and the only one who can take him down is Klaus" Ryder said. "Sounds frightening, how are you going to get Klaus to protect you?" Chase asked. "I am going to tell him everything that I know, I will wait till morning though so I can figure out what to tell my dad" Ryder said. "What about Elijah?" Chase asked, "I have a feeling he will want to stay a vampire if Klaus is one, so that way he can keep an eye on him but I don't know" Ryder said as he closed his eyes again and fell asleep.

What will Klaus think of Ryder choice? Will Elijah also be angry or understanding? Is

Mikael the one searching for Ryder? find out when you keep reading :)

Chapter 26 Klaus's Decision

The next morning Ryder had no idea what he was going to tell his dad in order to get himself out of the house. It was still winter holidays and he was hoping maybe he could use one of his friends as a decoy. Ryder didn't want Damon to know he was really going to see Klaus as he knew that his dad would never let him go. Ryder came down for breakfast that Lexi and Rebekah had prepared. "Morning" Rebekah said, "Morning is it alright if I hang with my friends today?" Ryder asked, "Who and where are you going?" Damon asked, "I don't know where we are going, Elena and Matt maybe Bonnie if she can come" Ryder said. "Ryder with the threat out there I am not sure I feel comfortable with you being out in the open" Damon said, "I will be fine, plus if I have Bonnie she can do a protection spell on me, please If I sense trouble I will call or text I promise" Ryder said. Damon agreed to let him go only because he trusted he would do the right thing in keeping himself safe.

Ryder made sure to confirm with Elena that if needed he could use her as decoy and she agreed to have his back. Ryder called the last phone number that Klaus had texted him from and he answered "Hello, what can I do for you?" "Klaus it is Ryder, we need to talk" Ryder said, "Alright it just so happens that I am actually in Mystic Falls meet me in the cemetery" Klaus said. Ryder was unsure as to why Klaus always wanted to meet in the cemetery but he went there as fast as he could. Ryder didn't feel like he was being followed right now and he hoped that meant whoever it was wouldn't know about this meeting. Klaus was already there waiting for him "Ryder what is it I can do for you?" Klaus asked in a eerie way, "I think you know what is going on behind your back. I want to tell you that your siblings are planning on killing your vampire side by forcing you to drink my blood. Then Elijah plans on taking it himself and therefore killing off all vampires. I am asking for your protection in order for me to keep you safe from my blood" Ryder said. "Protection? from whom?" Klaus asked a bit curious, "I believe that your father has been following me, trying to figure out a way he can use me" Ryder said. "Yes Rebekah also mentioned his name, that is essentially why I am here, but this news of them wanting to kill me is new. Ryder I am not sure how much protection I can offer you as my father is dangerous, I can assure you though you are not a threat to him unless we can get him to drink your blood. It will be easier to kill him if he is human, I just don't know if he would stop before draining all your blood. My father is ruthless and I am willing to stick around in the shadows for a bit and keep you safe. Only if you do the same for me in order to keep my hybrid side intact, and I want to assure you that your friend Elena will also be safe." Klaus said. "Thank you, I hope that Elijah isn't to upset" Ryder said. "I will deal with my brother don't worry, he keeps forgetting that we have Finn and Kol as well, who are also vampires but I have them daggered in a safe place" Klaus said. "You have more brothers?" Ryder said, "Yes and a witch sister named Freya although she has been gone for many years" Klaus said. "I am sorry" Ryder said, "I do not think she is dead, she is just not with us as she was taken at a very young age by my aunt who deemed to protect her from all of this" Klaus said. "I see well thank you" Ryder said as he started to walk away.

It didn't take long for Ryder to be attacked, as he fell to the ground, Klaus reacted as well and tore the figure off of Ryder. "So weak, Niklaus, you think you can protect him" Mikael said, "Yes he is just a boy" Klaus said, "He is the only thing that can kill you, making my life a lot easier" Mikael said. Ryder was to stunned to move, as he texted Damon just like he promised, it didn't take long for everyone to show up at the cemetery. Klaus was still fighting with his father, "Ryder what the hell!" Damon said as he pulled him away from the fight "Father stop this please" Rebekah tried to plead with him, "Rebekah, I see you are no longer a vampire I am not sure whether or not to be proud" Mikael said as he held Klaus down, the werewolf in Klaus started to get stronger as he bit his father causing him to let go. Klaus jumped out of the way and grab Ryder forcing Mikael to drink his blood, Klaus was quick enough to pull Ryder away as well so Mikael wouldn't kill him. Damon grabbed Ryder back as they watched Mikael, fall to the ground turning grey. "Ryder I am so sorry that I did that, but I will take care of this and I wish you luck Rebekah" Klaus said, "Niklaus wait, why are you wishing me luck?" Rebekah asked, Klaus walked up to his sister and whispered, "You are pregnant sister, I can hear the heart beat" Klaus said as he grabbed Mikael's body and took off. Rebekah was stunned she couldn't believe what she had just heard.

Everyone went back to the house and Damon was slightly furious as he said "Ryder did you even go out with your friends?" "No but I knew Klaus would save me" Ryder said, "How on earth could you have known that Ryder?" Damon said raising his voice, "I met with Klaus I told him what Elijah was planning, he promised to keep me safe from Mikael if I kept his vampire side alive" Ryder said. "You are insane you could have been killed, Mikael could have killed you, Klaus could have been lying. You didn't think of your options! I am so angry at you right now Ryder did you not think of anyone but yourself" Damon said. "I did what I had to to protect myself and my family, Elijah's plan was suicide for me even Klaus himself said that had he been betrayed it would have not been pretty. Yes what I did was stupid but we stopped Mikael and now Klaus won't bother us." Ryder said. "Still the consequences of your actions could have been catastrophic for everyone, I am glad you are safe but you are grounded for the rest of break for lying to me." Damon said, Ryder didn't say anything as he ran upstairs, Ryder tossed his jacket across the room he was annoyed. "Ryder sir everything okay" Chase asked, "No, my dad is stupid!" Ryder said. "How so?" Chase asked, "he doesn't understand why I did what I did, I saved everyone's lives but telling Klaus about Elijah's plan. Especially mine, yes it means that vampires will continue to exist, but I did what I thought was best for me! My dad doesn't get it and he grounded me!" Ryder said kicking one of Chase's toys, "maybe he did it because you put yourself in danger, your dad only wants to keep you safe Ryder sir, and I am sorry you are grounded but I am glad you are alive" Chase said nuzzling his owner. Ryder hugged his pup and said "Thanks Chase, now let me see if I can find Elena's real parents" Ryder said as he did some research.

Rebekah still couldn't believe what Klaus had told her, could it actually be true, could she in fact be pregnant. Rebekah hadn't planned on getting pregnant and she just found out that Lexi was pregnant this would mean their babies would be close together in age. Rebekah didn't know if she wanted to tell Damon at the moment as he was still annoyed with Ryder and now he was freaking out about Elijah. "Damon don't worry about Elijah, he will not hurt Ryder as he is my family and Elijah doesn't hurt family" Rebekah said. "I sure hope you are right, I still can't believe he lied to me" Damon said, "had he told you the truth would you have let him go?" Stefan asked. "Absolutely not!" Damon said, "then that is the reason he lied, Damon I get you are upset and you should be. If you think about it from Ryder's perspective though he did so that not only he would be safe but all of us would. Had Klaus been cured he would have wanted revenge on all of us. Meaning no one would be safe, and since we are all just restarting our lives Ryder did what he had to in order to keep us safe. For that I think he was very brave and shouldn't be punished" Stefan said. "I am not punishing him for saving us nor am I dishonoring his bravery, I grounded him for lying as I thought we would always be honest with each other" Damon said. "Maybe you should go tell him that he looked pretty hurt" Lexi said.

Damon walked upstairs and knocked on Ryder's door, "come in" Ryder said as he set his computer aside. "Ryder can we talk" Damon said, "I guess" Ryder said as his dad sat beside him, "Look I know that what you felt you were protecting us all, and I am not angry at you for being brave. I am angry because you lied, I know that had you told me I would never have let you go but Ryder you need to understand. I love you more than life itself, you are my whole reason for living. If anything would have happened to you it would destroy me, I am glad everything worked out the way it did and you are safe, but Ryder I want for you to always be honest with me, as I can't keep you safe if I don't know the truth. Keeping you safe is my job, and even though I am human now I am still your father and it is my job to protect you" Damon said. "I am sorry I lied, I just knew that I needed to do this. I was careful when I called Klaus, I knew that Mikael would follow me as I was leading him to Klaus, I didn't expect the outcome quite like that. I wasn't expecting Klaus to give my blood to him, but I have a feeling he will not be returning as a human, and I knew that keeping Klaus a vampire was better in the long run for everyone" Ryder said. "I agree about Klaus, and you are forgiven for lying just try not to do it again or make a habit of it. I am still keeping you grounded as you need to at least learn your lesson, but only for the weekend so you can enjoy New years with your friends" Damon said as he left the room.

Ryder hadn't even really thought of New years as he never heard anything about it, he decided he would need t figure that out. Ryder had found out something interesting about Elena and he said "holy shit" causing Chase to look at him, "What is is Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "I hope Elena is ready to hear this, I didn't think that I would find anything but what I did find out is even more shocking then not finding anything at all" Ryder said. "Huh?" Chase said a bit confused, "nothing it is alright Chase" Ryder said as he kept reading, Ryder found sealed documents of Elena's official adoption and he wasn't sure how he was going to tell her. Ryder thought about what he was reading and texted her.

Ryder: Elena I found some info on your parents Elena: Really? can we meet?

Ryder: It will have to be on Monday I am grounded

Elena: Oh jeez, I am not sure I can wait that long

Ryder: I will talk to my dad see if I can figure something out

Elena: Okay and thanks Ryder

Ryder: Your welcome

Ryder closed his computer and went downstairs for dinner as he tried to think of a way to tell Damon about Elena. He wanted to meet with her even if she was to just come over there in order to tell her the news in person. "Dad is it alright if Elena came over for few minutes, she asked me to look into her adoption and I found some stuff out" Ryder said. "You are grounded remember" Damon said, "I know but this is news she should hear in person and it will really only be for a few minutes" Ryder said. "Fine but only for a few minutes" Damon said, Ryder texted her to let her know as he finished his dinner. Elena was on her way there and Ryder was not sure how she would take the news.

How will Elena react? Will Mikael become human? Where is Elijah? How will Damon take the news about Rebekah? Keep reading to find out!

Chapter 27 The truth about Elena

It didn't take long for Elena to get to Ryder, as she knocked on the door, Ryder took a deep breath and opened it stepping outside. "Oh are we not going inside?" Elena asked, "No to many adults in there, Elena I found somethings out" Ryder said, Elena took a deep breath and sat on the porch not sure if she was ready to hear this. "Okay just give it to me straight" Elena said, "Elena your real dad was your uncle John, and the only thing I could find about your mom was that her name was Isobel" Ryder said. Elena didn't say anything she was just trying to process what was said, "wait my uncle is my father?" Elena said, "according to this yes" Ryder said giving her the info he had printed off. Elena read the information and said "all this was sealed, how did you get it?" "You told me to do what it took, so I might have hacked the adoption agency database, but I did it in good faith" Ryder said. "Ryder if John really was my father why did he never tell me? Why did he have his brother raise me?" Elena asked, "I don't know the answers to these questions Elena, maybe your aunt Jenna will know?" Ryder said, "She doesn't but my real father will, I wonder where he is? Why did he just take off?" Elena said. Ryder knew he was dead but he decided that now wasn't the best time to say anything. Elena continued to stare at the paper as she just couldn't believe what she was looking at. Just then a figure ran onto the porch and withing in a second Ryder was gone.

Elena was stunned "What the hell? Ryder where did you go?" she said trying to figure out what just happened. Elena ran inside and said "Ryder is gone!" "What do you mean gone?" Damon said, "We were talking then this flash like someone running fast and I was trying to figure out what happened and poof he was gone. It happened so fast like I don't understand" Elena said, the adults exchanged glances at each other, "Elena, Stefan will take you home" Damon said as he went out to find Ryder. "What does he think he is going to do?" Lexi asked Rebekah as they were the only ones left in the room. "I don't know" Rebekah said as she tried calling Elijah who wasn't answering. She then called Klaus and was surprised he answered, "Hello sister, have you told your boyfriend yet?" "Nik we have bigger problems, Ryder is missing, he was snatched by a vampire" Rebekah said, "Not sure why this is my problem" Klaus said, "Nik you are the only vampire I know that would help, and Elijah is not answering." Rebekah said, "Fine I will come but Rebekah this really is the last time I help understood" Klaus said. "Thank you Nik" Rebekah said, it didn't take long for Klaus to arrive and he was immediately frustrated that he couldn't be invited inside.

"How am I supposed to help stuck out here?" Klaus said, "Ryder was last outside when he was snatched" Lexi said. Klaus looked around and said "he was definitely taken by a vampire, but I can't figure out who, I will look around but I honestly don't know what you are expecting me to find" Klaus said as he went searching. Meanwhile Ryder didn't have much time to react as he was swooped off the porch and was running through the trees so fast he had to close his eyes. He couldn't recognize his kidnapper as he tried to break free, but this vampire was strong and he was not letting go. They had finally stopped running and Ryder was put down inside a cell, "Where am I? why are doing this? Who are you?" Ryder said. "Wow with the questions, I am Enzo and this is Augustine's and well I am sure you are here because Dr. Whitmore is curious about you" Enzo said. "Who is Dr. Whitmore?" Ryder said, "I am and I have heard all about you, the boy who can cure vampires. An unknown supernatural, I want to know what sort of other abilities you have" Dr. Whitmore said. "What are you talking about? I have no abilities, I am just a normal teenager" Ryder said a bit frightened. "We are going to have to see about that, we will start running tests in the morning, Thank you Enzo" Dr. Whitmore said as he left leaving Ryder scared and confused. Ryder looked around for anything he could use as a means of getting out, then he remembered his watch. Ryder programmed Chase's collar to connect to it so that if he ever needed something he could just call him. Ryder pressed the button on his watch and said "Chase, record this so you can play it for my dad. I am in some sort of prison called Augustine's, a vampire named Enzo brought me here. A Dr. Whitmore wants to run tests on me hurry please!" Ryder said hoping no one heard that and Chase did.

As soon as Chase's collar beeped he knew it was Ryder and he immediately recorded the conversation and ran downstairs. Chase played the message for who was left in the room and Lexi called Damon. She told him everything and Damon said "No way", "What?" Lexi said, "Enzo well let's just say I thought he was dead" Damon said a bit worried the way he left things with Enzo. Rebekah had called Klaus and he agreed to look into it and asked that everyone else just stay put. Damon paced he was not one to be useless, his son was in danger and here he was a useless human. "I am regretting being human more and more" Damon said out loud, Rebekah knew it wasn't the best time but she wanted him to be cheered up. "Damon I have something to tell you" Rebekah said, "unless it is a way to save Ryder I don't care" Damon said he was angry and used a hurtful tone. "Well fine if that is the way you feel, your baby and I will just leave!" Rebekah said as she left the room hurt. Damon didn't fully understand what she had said and he wasn't really paying attention. "Damon!" Lexi said, "What?" Damon snapped at her, "Did you not just hear her? She said your baby! meaning she is pregnant you jerk" Lexi said. Damon looked at her stunned "How?" Damon said, "well Damon when 2 people have sex" Lexi said as Damon cut her off. "I obviously get the concept, I just mean like how when? are you sure?" Damon said. "No go to talk to her" Lexi said. Damon went to find Rebekah as this was very bad timing but he didn't want to lose his girl too.

Damon found Rebekah in their room crying, "babe I am sorry, I am just stressed about Ryder. I do care are you pregnant?" Damon asked her. "Yes, I am sorry the timing of me telling you was awful but I thought you needed to be cheered up." Rebekah said Damon hugged her and said "I am thrilled, I mean I never expected to ever be a dad then Ryder came into my life and well this is all knew to me" Damon said. "It is for me too, I have been a vampire for ever and now my dreams are finally coming true" Rebekah said. "I love you Rebekah and I am glad we are having a baby but I am also worried for my current son who is literally missing" Damon said. "I get that I am worried for him too and I have my brother out there searching for him I just really hope he finds him soon" Rebekah said. "You and me both" Damon said as he tried to remember where the Augustine vampire headquarters was as he had escaped from there years and years ago. The whole night Damon sat trying to remember as his son was in danger right now and he couldn't do anything to help.

Elena was still trying to figure out where Ryder had gone but she was also curious as to who her mother was and she was at the school looking into her. Mr. Saltzman was at the school grading paper's and he noticed Elena, "What are you doing here during the holidays? And so early in the morning?" Alaric asked her. "I am trying to find my mom well my birth mom all I have is her name Isobel Flemming" Elena said. Alaric was shocked, "wait my wife is your birth mother?" Alaric said, "you knew here she was your wife? Where is she?" Elena asked, "Oh Elena I am sorry she is dead, she was killed by an animal" Alaric said, "You mean a vampire right? that is code for vampire? can you tell me about her?" Elena asked now really wanting to know more. Alaric said "Okay but not here I have some pictures and things at my house" Alaric said as he left with Elena.

The next morning Ryder woke up after only sleeping for like 5 minutes as he was terrified of this Dr. Whitmore. "Morning how did you sleep?" Enzo asked him, "Screw you" Ryder said, "Oh a bit grumpy this morning I see come on Dr. Whitmore is ready for you" Enzo said grabbing him a little forcefully. Enzo was really strong and Ryder's struggles were useless, Enzo put Ryder down on the table and strapped him down as Dr. Whitmore entered the room. "Thank you Enzo now let us see what this blood can really do" Dr. Whitmore said as he took samples of Ryder's blood, he wanted to study it in detail. As you put the blood under the microscope he saw nothing as it had already turned black. "Interesting, I see that no one can test your blood. I wonder what happens if we test it will it is still on your body" Dr. Whitmore said as he cut Ryder, "MMMMppphh" Ryder said under the tape that was covering his mouth. "I see that you don't heal like vampires so that is something, can you be healed by a vampire?" Dr. Whitmore said as he took of the tape wanting Enzo to give him his blood. "No I can't be, I can't drink vampire blood it messes with my blood and the cure will be useless" Ryder said. "I see that is very interesting, I would like to see what it does to your blood, Enzo" Dr. Whitmore said as Enzo bit himself ready to pour the blood into Ryder mouth. He kept it closed not wanting to mess with the cure, Dr. Whitmore pinched his nose and Ryder was running out of air quickly as he was about to open his mouth to breathe both Dr. Whitmore and Enzo were knocked out.

"You alright?" Klaus asked, "Yes thank you" Ryder said as Klaus untied him and said "Go your dad is waiting outside, I will take care of these two" Klaus said as Ryder didn't need to be told twice. He ran from the room and saw his dad and ran at him hugging him. "Are you okay?" Damon asked him looking him over. "I am okay, just scared he almost ruined the cure" Ryder said. "I am glad he didn't Ryder are you sure you are ok?" Damon asked, "Yes I am sure, just shaken a bit. They didn't hurt me" Ryder said as Damon looked at the cut on his arm, "It is just a scratch dad I promise I am okay" Ryder said. "Alright let's go home" Damon said as they got into his car and drove back home. "Ryder, Rebekah told me something last night it was terrible timing but I want to know how you feel about it" Damon said. "Okay why was it horrible timing?" Ryder asked. "Well you had just been kidnapped by lunatics and I was angry we sort of had an argument" Damon said. "Is everything okay?" Ryder asked, "yes we worked it out but Ryder she told me something and well you are going to be a big brother" Damon said. "Are you serious?" Ryder said, "Yup we are having a baby something I never thought would ever be possible" Damon said. "That is cool dad I am happy for you" Ryder said, "Are you sure you are okay with it?" Damon asked a bit worried. "Are you kidding, I am have always wanted to have a sibling I am super okay with it" Ryder said as they pulled into their driveway. Ryder ran and hugged Rebekah and said, "Awesome news I can't wait to meet them" Rebekah smiled and said "Thanks and neither can I" Ryder ran into the house and hugged Chase, "Thank you Chase" Ryder said, "you should thank yourself, your gadget is what saved you Ryder sir" Chase said. "I know but thanks for being my pup" Ryder said and Chase licked him causing Ryder to laugh.

Both Rebekah and Lexi are having babies! What is Klaus going to do with Enzo and Dr. Whitmore? What happens with Alaric and Elena as they get closer? Also school will be starting back up after New years what happens find out soon!

Chapter 28 Unexpected Visitor

The year was nearly at its end and Ryder was sad that he had no plans for new years he wondered why none of his friends were having a party. Ryder was on his computer and he received a text, it didn't say who it was from it read:

Random text: Hey if you are looking to party tonight wild one happening at the Lockwood Cellar be there or not

Ryder thought about it and he texted Bonnie first,

Ryder: Hey babe you going to the party?

Bonnie: At the Lockwood cellar sounds freaky not sure if we should go

Ryder: It is better than doing nothing

Bonnie: I will think about it

Ryder: Okay...

Ryder then decided to text Elena,

Ryder: you going to the Lockwood cellar party?

Elena: Only if you go with me

Ryder: Of course

Elena: K see you tonight then

Ryder: Yup

Ryder knew that Elena had a huge crush on him but he wasn't going to let Bonnie ruin his new years. Ryder went to his dad and said "Dad can I ask you something?" Damon said "Sure" "I was invited to a party and Bonnie doesn't want to go, but Elena does. I want to go as well and Elena asked me to go with her. Do I go with Elena or be a bummer with Bonnie?" Ryder asked. Damon laughed "well the question you need to ask yourself is will my dad let me go to said party?" Damon said. "Dad please!" Ryder begged, "sounds like you already made up your mind if you are begging me to go" Damon said. "Huh I guess I have so can I go?" Ryder asked, "Sure where is it?" Damon asked. Ryder knew he would be in trouble if he lied but he really wanted to go, "Lockwood Cellars" he said hoping it wasn't a big deal. "Ryder are you serious, the Lockwood's always have a major rager and someone either gets killed or hurt and Tyler isn't even here so why do you want to go?" Damon said. "I was invited and Elena wants to go" Ryder said. "I am not happy about this, Ryder promise me that you leave if anything bad happens, or if it is out of control" Damon said. "I promise" Ryder said giving him a hug, Rebekah overheard their conversation and she stopped Ryder in his room. "I heard what you were saying about Elena and Bonnie. Ryder do you like Elena?" Rebekah asked, "Yes she is my friend" Ryder said, "I understand that but you have been seeing her a lot more than Bonnie lately, do you like her more than a friend?" Rebekah asked. "I am not sure, I mean I love Bonnie, she is my girlfriend but she is super boring sometimes. Elena has been through a lot lately and I am not sure" Ryder said. "Well be careful it would suck to break up a friendship between the 2 girls, and trust me when I say this making a witch angry is not the smartest move" Rebekah said.

Ryder really hadn't thought of Elena as more than a friend for a long time but lately he just didn't know. I guess tonight would be a test to see if there night be something there or maybe Bonnie would show up and prevent anything from happening. Ryder dressed and spiked his hair up as he gave Chase a pet and said bye to his dad. Ryder met Elena at the edge of the property and together they walked to the Lockwood Cellar, "I am a bit nervous, I hear bad things about these parties" Elena said, "Don't worry I won't let anything happen to you" Ryder said Elena smiled and they made it to the party. Everyone seemed to be having a good time, Ryder didn't see Bonnie anywhere and Elena grabbed them drinks. Ryder didn't really ever drink before so he was hesitant but accepted it anyways.

There was a knock on the door and Damon answered it, "Hello, I am looking for a Ryder Jackson" a woman said. "Sorry no one with that name lives here" Damon said closing the door, but the woman stopped him and said "I am sorry he might go by Salvatore now" the woman said. "Like I said no one here with that name" Damon said worried as he had no idea who the woman was. "I am Claire Jackson, my brother was his father. I am not trying to take him from you. I just want to make sure he is safe" Claire said. "He is safe" Damon said as he closed the door again but Claire didn't budge, "I am sorry to just show up like this but I would really like to talk to him" she said. "He is not here" Damon said, "Do you mind if I wait for him then?" Claire asked, Damon really didn't want to but he opened the door and waited for her to enter. Claire didn't enter and Damon said "What is wrong?" "Are you going to invite me in?" Claire said, "I thought opening the door meant I did?" Damon said. "Oh well I prefer to hear it, makes it more polite" Claire said. Damon at this point knew she was a vampire and since Ryder was the owner of the house he said. "I am sorry I can't invite you in" Damon said, "Why?" Claire asked, "First I don't allow vampires into my home and second I am not the owner." Damon said slamming the door in her face. He knew there was no threat except for Ryder he looked at Chase who nodded as he heard everything. Chase activated his pup tag and said "Ryder sir, there is a woman here says her name is Claire Jackson, your aunt, she is a vampire and your dad thinks you are in danger. Stay safe and be careful" Ryder heard all this and he never remembered a Claire Jackson. He did a lot of research on his parents after he found out about them and he didn't ever remember his dad ever having a sister.

"You okay, Ryder you haven't really touched your drink" Elena said, "Oh um yeah I'm fine" Ryder said as he downed the drink wishing he hadn't. The beer was terrible and he honestly didn't want it in the first place, Elena laughed and handed him another one, Ryder accepted it but only pretended to drink it. Ryder was thinking about this supposed aunt and he wasn't sure if he should go home but he didn't want to abandon Elena. Then he spotted Caroline, "Hey Caroline" Ryder said as he pushed Elena towards her. "I don't want to talk to Caroline" Elena said but Caroline spotted them and said "Hey you two are the last people I expected here" "What is that supposed to mean?" Elena said, "Nothing I just didn't think it was your scene" Caroline said, "Whatever" Elena said as she finished another drink, going for more, "Elena maybe you should slow down on the drinking" Ryder said following her. "What are you my mom, oh no wait she abandoned me as a baby, then the woman who I thought was my mom died" Elena said in a hurt but awkward tone. "Elena I am not trying to mother you, I am just concerned. If you need to talk I am here" Ryder said. "Talk Ryder you want to talk okay how about you telling me that your new step mom or whatever she is killed me dad. Or how about the fact that your whole family used to be vampires" Elena said. "Elena shh lets not do this here" Ryder said, "Why are you afraid that people might judge you" Elena said. "No I just don't need people knowing my business" Ryder said as Elena started to walk towards wickery bridge. "Elena stop you are drunk" Ryder said concerned she might do something stupid. "My family is dead and I have never met my real mom Mr. Saltzman said she is dead too, I have no family. My aunt Jenna isn't really my aunt did you know that. I have no reason to live" Elena said as she looked over the edge. "Elena you do have a reason to live, you have all your friends, you have me" Ryder said. "You don't even love me you love Bonnie, and you are only saying this to get me to stop" Elena said as she climbed the bridge. "Elena stop!" Ryder said as he called his dad. "Hello" Damon answered, "Elena please don't do this, you are going to fall" Ryder said, "This is where my parents died, I should have died here too" Elena said. "No! don't jump. Dad help at wickery bridge please!" Ryder said. Damon was already out the door and Chase went with him. Elena leaned forward and was about to go over but Ryder caught her jacket.

"I love you Ryder" Elena said as she took her jacket off and fell into the water. "NOOOOOO!" Ryder said as he jumped in after her. He instantly regretted it as the water was freezing and the current was so strong. Damon arrived at the bridge and didn't see any sign go Elena or Ryder and he was about to jump in too but someone beat him to it. Chase jumped into the water and he was able to find Elena and pulled her out as she coughed up water. The current was pulling Ryder every which way and he was having a hard time keeping his head above the water. He instantly thought why did I do this, then he knew for Elena as she dove under trying to find her. Chase jumped back into the water as his best friend was down there somewhere. After several minutes Chase finally found Ryder as he dragged him out of the water, Ryder was so cold at this point and tired and he closed his eyes. Damon had called 911 and they were getting Ryder in the ambulance and warming him up as his body temp was way to low. Elena was doing okay as she was not in the water as long. Damon was pissed as the only reason Ryder was in this mess was because Elena tried to commit suicide or whatever she was doing. Damon went with Ryder to the hospital as Chase shook himself off and went back home waiting for an update.

It took the doctors a while to get Ryder' body temp back up and they were trying to restart his heart as he was currently unresponsive. Rebekah had come to the hospital and sat with Damon who was currently freaking out. He was beating himself up for letting him go to this party, "Damon it is not your fault" Rebekah said, "No it is Elena's fault, I should never have let him go" Damon said with anger. Elena was currently getting evaluated as she was awake and talking to a doctor. "Were you trying to kill yourself?" the doctor asked her, "I don't know I was drunk, and maybe a little angry. I didn't intend to kill myself" Elena said. Damon waited for news as the doctor who was working on Ryder came out and said "Your son has been through an ordeal, once we warmed him up we had a bit of trouble getting his heart to restart. He is currently stable but we won't know if there are any neurological deficits until he wakes up" "When will he wake up?" Damon asked, "that is up to him" the doctor said as he walked away. Damon and Rebekah walked into Ryder's room and it was hard seeing him like that.

Elena felt bad for what she did, she didn't intend for Ryder to jump in after her did it mean he might like her after all. She texted Bonnie hoping her best friend would make her feel better,

Elena: Bonnie I did something stupid, now Ryder is in trouble

Bonnie: What did you do? Is he okay?"

Elena: I am not sure, I may have jumped off wickery bridge and Ryder jumped in trying to save me. He is not good Bonnie

Bonnie: ELENA!

That was all Bonnie said as she rushed over to the hospital, she checked on Ryder first, she saw that Damon and Rebekah were there. "Is he okay?" Bonnie asked, "we won't know until he wakes up, if he wakes up" Damon said in tears, "he will wake up" Rebekah said trying to comfort him. Bonnie went to Elena and said "What the hell happened?" "I sort of freaked out, I was angry that all of my family is dead. Then I sort of told Ryder I love him and jumped. I never expected him to jump after me" Elena said. "The fac that you jumped in the first place irritates me! Ryder is one of your best friends of course he is going to jump after you. Elena why are you in love with my boyfriend?" Bonnie said with a bit of anger. "I am sorry Bonnie I have always been in love with him. I don't ever intend for anything to happen, I know he is with you. Please don't let this affect or friendship. I am sorry I really am" Elena said. "You better hope he is okay" Bonnie said as she left the room. She didn't hate Elena but she was very upset with her right now as she went to sit with Ryder.

Will Ryder be okay? What will Elena do next? Will Claire get to meet Ryder? Is she really his aunt? Find out soon!

Chapter 29 Elena's Guilt

It had been a couple of days and Ryder was still in critical care as he was not off the ventilator yet, Damon was beginning to worry. "Damon I wish there was something I could do for you" Rebekah said as she tried to comfort him knowing he wouldn't relax until Ryder was better. "I just hate that I am useless, I sit here but what good is that. Why did he have to jump after her?" Damon asked. "He is a good person, Ryder is the type of person that won't let his friends get hurt. He thought he was doing the right thing" Rebekah said. Elena came into the room and said "I am truly sorry, I know that you may not be able to forgive me but I was drunk and Ryder was just trying to help." Damon just looked at her he wanted to say so many things but he didn't want to cause problems as he knew she was just a kid. Elena left crying she felt so guilty about all of this and to top it all off her 2 best friends hated her. Well Bonnie did anyways she didn't know how Ryder felt as she nearly killed him.

Caroline saw Elena leaving and stopped her, "Elena are you alright?" she asked, "No, I messed up big time and Ryder might be dead and it is all my fault" Elena said as she fell to her knees on the grass outside. "Elena, this is not your fault, Ryder is also not dead, just because he jumped into the water doesn't make it your fault" Caroline said. "You don't get it Caroline he jumped in because I did, he was trying to save me and ended up getting sucked into the current. I am the reason he is here" Elena said, "So he would have jumped in to save anyone that is the type of person he is. Elena I admit what you did was stupid but you were drunk and I truly believe that Ryder is going to be okay" Caroline said hugging her friend. "Thanks Care" Elena said hugging back, Caroline walked into the hospital as she was visiting Carol, she half hoped Tyler would come. His mom had fallen down the stairs and she hoped to see Tyler, as she went to her room.

Dr. Fell came into Ryder's room and checked his vitals, "I would like to try taking him off the vent to see if he can breathe on his on. His lungs are clear of fluid and I think if he can breathe on his own it is a sign he will wake up" Dr. Fell said. Damon nodded as all he wanted was his son back, Dr. Fell gave Ryder some meds and turned the vent off and she watched as his breathing decreased, she was really hoping it would go back up. After a few seconds Ryder's breathing stabilized and it appeared he was breathing on his own. Dr. Fell removed the tube completely and said "it looks promising, we are just waiting for him" as she left the room. Damon grabbed Ryder's hand and said "hey bud, I need you to open your eyes for me" nothing happened and Rebekah said "Chase is really worried about you, he is sad that he saved your life and you can't even thank him" "you think guilting him awake is the best move" Damon said to his girl. Rebekah looked at Ryder and then back at Damon and said "yes look" as she pointed to Ryder who had his eyes open. Damon hugged him and said "kid you had me so worried are you okay" "I'm okay what about Elena?" Ryder asked concerned for his friend, "she is fine, beating herself up that she hurt you" Rebekah said. "Oh no my watch" Ryder said as he noticed he wasn't wearing it. "It is okay we can get you a new one" Damon said, "no this one allowed me to communicate with Chase. It was connected to his collar" Ryder said. "Okay but you can just do the same thing to a new one can't you?" Damon asked. "I guess" Ryder said frustrated and annoyed, "what is really bugging you?" Damon asked him. "What do you mean?" Ryder asked, "I mean you have something on your mind and it is not your watch" Damon said to him as Bonnie walked in.

"Hey I am so happy you are ok" Bonnie said giving him a kiss, Rebekah pulled Damon up and out of the room giving them a bit of privacy. "What I was trying to get him to tell me what is bugging him" Damon said. "Damon you really are a guy, Ryder is feeling guilt as he went to that party with Elena. He is dating Bonnie but he might have feelings for Elena and is feeling guilt for it" Rebekah said, "Wow" Damon said as he had no idea, "yup but don't say that I told you" Rebekah said. "I won't say anything at all" Damon said as he noticed Elena now coming back, "this should be interesting" Damon said. Elena walked into Ryder's room noticing Bonnie and said "Sorry, I just came to apologize Ryder I am sorry. I was being stupid, I was just upset over certain things and I should never have jumped. I hope we can still be friends and you can forgive me one day" Elena said as she walked away. Ryder looked at Bonnie and said "Elena wait, I am not mad. I know that you were hurting. I forgive you please don't feel sad or guilty, I am fine and I am here if you want to talk" Ryder said. "Thanks Ryder, I truly mean that" Elena said as she left, and Ryder turned his attention back to Bonnie. "Don't be mad at her okay, she is going through a lot right now and could use her best friend" Ryder said giving Bonnie a kiss. "Okay fine, I will go talk to her" Bonnie said as she left after Elena. Damon came back in and said "well well, mister fix it over here" "I just don't want them fighting" Ryder said, "okay" Damon said. "You asked me what was bugging me nothing I am fine" Ryder said. "It is cool you don't have to tell me but like you told Elena I am here if you want to talk" Damon said.

Ryder was discharged the next day and he was tackled to the ground by Chase who could not be happier to see him. "Chase stop, thanks for saving me" Ryder said as he pulled his pup away and was covered in drool. "Ryder sir! don't ever do that again, I almost didn't save you! I could have died too!" Chase said, "Sorry buddy, my friend was in trouble" Ryder said to his pup, "you are my friend Ryder sir my best friend, and I am not ready to lose you" Chase said. "Aw Chase" Ryder said giving him a hug and whispering "You will never lose me" into his ear getting another lick. "They really are so cute" Rebekah said, "better call your uncle Stefan, he and Lexi are worried about you" Damon said, "Where are they?" Ryder asked. "They went on a little trip they will be back soon" Damon said. Ryder called his uncle and assured him that he was fine, as there was a knock on the door. Ryder went to answer it but Damon stopped him, "remember you are not wearing vervain, go drink some or something" Damon said as he opened the door. Damon was not surprised to see Ryder's so called aunt Claire.

"Look lady I don't know what it is you want but I will call the police if you don't leave" Damon said. "I am here for my nephew, I just want to talk to him please" Claire said, "he is not your nephew" Damon told her as Ryder came to the door. "Wow you sure grew up, I am sorry I have been away for so long" Claire said. Ryder stared at her and didn't say anything, did he know her he couldn't quite place where he has seen her. "Are you going to say something to me or just stare" Claire said. "Sorry I just don't remember you" Ryder said, "that is because he made you forget" Claire said. Ryder looked at Damon as if asking him what he should do, "okay you saw him bye now" Damon said as he closed the door. Claire was not happy but as she was a vampire she could not enter the home. "Do you know her?" Damon asked Ryder, "I don't know I feel like I have seen her, but it could be a weird coincidence" Ryder said. "Well we need to get you that vervain watch back as soon as possible" Damon said as he went to go find something. Ryder went upstairs to rest as he was still pretty tired. Ryder fell asleep and woke up to his phone pinging.

Elena: Ryder I am outside your house can we talk?

Ryder: Elena it is late

Elena: I know it will only be for a minute

Ryder: okay

Ryder climbed out of bed and realized how quiet the house was, as everyone was asleep as he snuck downstairs. Chase was sleeping in his bed with Skye and didn't noticed him leave, Ryder opened the door and he didn't see Elena. He felt unsafe as he tried to go back in but he was grabbed, Ryder screamed hoping someone would hear him, Chase did as he ran downstairs barking like a lunatic. This woke up everyone else as they went to see what was going on, "Chase what is going on?" Damon asked. Chase continued to bark into the night as his best friend was once again gone. Damon ran upstairs and checked Ryder's room and he was of course missing, and his cell phone was laying on his bed. Damon checked it and noticed the texts from Elena, "he received a text from Elena, maybe they are out walking?" Damon said as she put some shoes on and walked around the property and didn't see any sign of them. Damon knew it was late but he called Bonnie from Ryder's phone hoping she would answer. "Hey Ryder its late are you okay?" Bonnie asked half asleep, "Bonnie it is Damon Ryder is missing I need you please to do a locater spell please" Damon said. "Okay give me a sec" Bonnie said as she grabbed something that belonged to Ryder and a map. Bonnie said a chant and the locater spell was activated, "that is weird it can't find a location" Bonnie said, "What does that mean?" Damon asked, "It means he is either dead or under a protection spell." Bonnie said in tears, "Bonnie he is not dead he hasn't been missing that long, can you do a locater spell on Elena?" Damon asked. "Why?" Bonnie asked, "she was the last person to text him asking him to meet her outside" Damon said. Bonnie was starting to get annoyed with Elena as she knew that she liked Ryder and she just wanted Elena to leave her boyfriend alone. Bonnie did the same spell for Elena and said "it says she is in her house, I am assuming she is asleep" Bonnie said. "Damn it, okay thank you Bonnie please try breaking that protection spell" Damon said as Bonnie promised she would try.

Damon called Stefan and they agreed to help look around, as they were human now and could only do so much. Rebekah tried Klaus and Elijah but of course they didn't answer and Damon started to pace. Meanwhile Ryder woke up in a room, it was very small and had no windows, there was one door and Ryder examined it trying to think of a way to escape. Claire came into the room and said "Ryder please don't be frightened I needed to bring you here to get your help. Your father was making this difficult, I am not actually your aunt but I think you figured that out. My name is Isobel and I am Mr. Saltzman's ex-wife, I disguised myself from your dad because he turned me" Isobel said as she pulled off the mask and wig she was wearing. Ryder recognized her instantly from the photos he found for Elena, "It said you were dead" Ryder said, "yes and I would like Elena to continue to think that as I will be soon, Ryder I need your help" Isobel said.

"Why?" Ryder asked, "because you are the only person that can bring her back" Isobel said. "Bring who back?" Ryder asked, "This is going to be a long story, Ryder your blood is a cure for a reason, a very powerful witch made you this way. Your mother was actually a descendant of hers and she asked her to keep you safe. This was the only way she knew how, the cure was activated the first time vampire blood entered your system. Damon being said vampire was brought back because he is your savior. Damon's purpose in life is to keep you safe, and he will do just that as his blood technically runs through you. Anyone who Damon has a physical relationship with will be saved or brought back as they are essential in keeping you safe. Ryder I

need you to bring back Katsyia" Isobel said. "Why who is she? why do you need her?" Ryder asked. "I will explain in time but for now I need the vervain to leave your system. I promise Ryder once I bring her back I will let you go" Isobel said as she closed the door. Ryder was left wondering and trying to think if he remembered this name.

Will Isobel be able to bring Katsyia back? Will Ryder actually be okay? Why is Katsyia being brought back? Only time will tell!

Chapter 30 The return of Katsyia

Damon didn't get any sleep as he had no idea where Ryder was, and there was nothing Bonnie could do as he was under a protection spell. "Damon you are going to make yourself crazy at least sit down" Stefan said. "Stefan what if he is hurt? What if he is dead? What if we never find him?" Damon said as Rebekah cut him off "Damon honey stop with all these what ifs, I don't know what has happened but I trust my brothers to figure it out. Ryder is going to be just fine" she said as she wanted to sound confident. Damon looked at her a bit angerly and said "you can't possibly know that, I wish I never took this stupid cure!" Damon said as he went upstairs and slammed his door. Rebekah was in tears and Lexi said "don't let it get to you, he doesn't mean it he loves you. He is just worried we all are and he won't be okay until Ryder comes back" Rebekah knew she was right as she sat down and snuggled with her pup, Chase being close by too as he was just as worried.

The next morning Isobel came back into the room and said "Ryder I am ready to do the spell now, but I would like to do it without restraining you. It will go smoother if you cooperate with my witch Freya here okay. If we need to restrain you we will and it will be harder" "Is it going to hurt?" Ryder asked. "Only for a second, but I assure you that you will be fine" Isobel said. "Okay" Ryder said not wanting to be restrained, "sit in the chair for me please" Isobel said as

Ryder sat down. Freya began the enchantment as she extracted memories from Ryder's head, Ryder wanted to move as whatever Freya was doing was hurting him. Isobel noticed this and she had to restrain him as Freya needed complete concentration or the spell wouldn't work. Freya completed the first part and Isobel took some of Ryder's blood and Freya continued her spell, Ryder had passed out from the extraction. Isobel untied him and put back into the room on the bed and closed the door.

It took several more minutes but Katsyia was resurrected as she appeared in the room, "Well done ladies, you actually managed to do something right. Where is the boy?" Katsyia said. "He is in the room" Isobel said, "Good kill him" Katsyia said, "what why? that wasn't part of the plan" Isobel said. "His blood is my cure, I can't have it curing all the vampires now can I. We as I know are already 1 original down, and I need Klaus and Elijah alive to complete my plan" Katsyia said. "I don't think either of them plan to drink his blood" Isobel said, "Fine I will do it myself" Katsyia said as Klaus and Elijah entered the room. "You will not touch the boy, and I will be taking my sister as well" Klaus said. "You think you can stop me?" Katsyia said as she closed her eyes and both Elijah and Klaus were in agony as she was torturing them with her mind, "I am powerful, and you can't stop me" Katsyia said as she was hit from behind and she lost her concentration. Freya realized her brothers were alive as she was told they were not and she wanted to go with them. Elijah ran and grabbed Ryder and they left Katsyia with Isobel to come up with a plan they couldn't let her remain alive.

"What are we going to do? Is he okay?" Elijah asked, "Yes he will be fine he is just exhausted I

had to extract memories, he will have no memory of what just happened. As for Katsyia I am sorry I was told you were all dead, she said she used white oak to kill you" Freya said. "She can't I destroyed all the white oak" Klaus said. "She has some Klaus I have seen it and she plans on killing you both after she breaks your sire bonds to every other vampire" Freya said. "Can she do that?" Elijah asked, "Yes absolutely she can, she is the most powerful witch I have ever studied, she uses expression magic which is why she can use her mind. She was the witch that created the blood that runs in Ryder's veins. She only had one dose and she met it for her lost love so he would take it and become mortal. She never expected for another witch to find it and manipulate it activating it to become a super weapon" Freya said. "How do we stop her?" Klaus asked, "I am not sure but she doesn't want Ryder alive so lets take him somewhere safe so I can protect him" Freya said. Klaus brought Ryder home and put him on the porch as he knocked and ran off. Stefan ran to the door, he found Ryder and said "Oh my god, Ryder are you alright?" as he shook him a bit. Ryder opened his eyes and said "Uncle Stefan? Where am I?" "you are home now, but where were you?" Stefan asked. "What do you mean?" Ryder asked confused as he was tackled by Chase. "Ryder you have been missing for 2 days" Stefan said as Damon had also come down and literally squeezed his son to the point he said "Dad I can't breathe" "Sorry" Damon said letting go.

Rebekah walked over and said, "Nik brought Ryder back, but he couldn't stay as we are now under a giant protection spell. He told me that a very powerful witch named Katsyia wants Ryder dead as her cure runs in his veins. She never meant for it to be turned into a weapon, Nik found my sister Freya and she has a protection spell on Ryder and no vampire or witch can get close to him" Rebekah said. "What about Bonnie!" Ryder said, "what about her?" Rebekah said, "she is my girlfriend I can't not have her around me" Ryder said. "I am lost here" Rebekah said, "Beck she is a witch" Damon said, "Oh right um well it is just for the time being Ryder until my brothers deal with Katsyia" Rebekah said. "Who is she?" Ryder asked, "apparently she was the witch that Freya as working with and they resurrected her using your blood, and how she wants you dead" Rebekah said, "You are not leaving this house" Damon said. "You can't keep me here" Ryder said. "I can and I will" Damon said, "I hate you!" Ryder said as she ran upstairs to his room Chase followed Ryder slammed the door almost squishing Chase all together but he squeezed through just in time. "Sorry Chase" Ryder said as he locked his door as he really didn't want to talk to anyone.

"Ryder sir what is going on? Why are you so angry?" Chase asked, "This all sucks Chase, I am being punished because some stupid witch is after me. I mean my whole life has been someone after me, I can't see my girlfriend and I can't remember anything from the last 2 days. Like I feel like everything is going wrong, My birthday is in 3 days" Ryder said as he looked at the calendar. "Your family is just trying to protect you Ryder sir, they love you and you promised me that you would always be here. I don't want this witch to kill you" Chase said, "They technically aren't my family Chase right I mean I was adopted my family is dead, why because Damon killed them! This is all bullshit and I for one am not staying locked up in this house"

Ryder said as he packed some of his things. "Ryder sir please don't go" Chase begged him, "Sorry Chase" Ryder said as he opened the window but there was a barrier and he couldn't leave. "What the hell!" Ryder said as slammed the window shut breaking the glass. "Damn it!" Ryder said loudly scaring Chase a bit. Damon was knocking on the door, "Ryder is everything okay?" he asked, "Leave me alone!" Ryder yelled back at him, "Ryder I get you are angry but I heard glass break and I am concerned please talk to me" Damon said. "No! Just go away" Ryder said. Damon was slightly heart broken as his son was missing for 2 days and now that he is back he is super angry and it is not like him at all.

Katsyia on the other hand new exactly why Ryder was angry as it was his blood that brought her back and she was manipulating him. She is able to see in his mind as she is trying to bring him back to her so she can end him. However the barrier spell was going to be a problem as Freya was also a powerful witch it was going to take her time to break it. Katsyia set to work as she continued watching Ryder needing him to remain hateful. "Ryder sir why are you so angry?" Chase said, "Chase stop with all the questions, if you want to leave go" Ryder said, this broke Chase's heart Ryder had never spoken to him like this they were best friends. "I am sorry Ryder sir if I upset you" Chase said lowering his head in sadness, "Ugh you didn't but I just want to be left alone please" Ryder said as he opened the door kicking Chase out and locking it again. Chase sat on the other side super heartbroken as he walked downstairs, everyone noticed how sad he was. Damon kneeled down and said "Chase I am sorry, we are going to figure out what is wrong with Ryder. For right now this protection spell keeps him trapped, we are going to figure this out hang in there" as he stroked Chase trying to cheer him up. Chase just lay on his bed in the living room he was sad and broken Skye lay beside him as she rested her head on his paws.

Freya was trying her hardest to keep the barrier spell up and now she needed to figure out a way to stop Katsyia as she was affecting Ryder. Rebekah was speaking to her on the phone, "his blood brought her back so technically she is controlling him. I assure you his anger is all Katsyia, I can feel her poking at my barrier spell, I need another witch to help me" Freya said, "Ryder's girlfriend is a witch I can ask her" Rebekah said. "Perfect get her there fast, I can work from the outside and she can from the inside, If Katsyia breaks this spell Ryder is as good as dead." Freya said. Damon was already on the phone with Bonnie and she agreed to come over, as Freya would allow her access. Bonnie arrived not to long after and was brought up to speed on what was going on. Her grams also gave her some spells and this she thought would work in getting Katsyia out of his mind. "Where is he?" Bonnie asked, "he is super angry and has locked himself in his room" Damon said, Bonnie waled upstairs and knocked on his door. "Ryder its me are you okay?" Bonnie said, there was no answer as Bonnie heard a crash, "Damon!" she yelled and he came running and slammed into the door. It broke off its hinges and Ryder had tried to hang himself. Damon grabbed his legs as Bonnie cut the rope and Damon caught Ryder as everyone else came running up. Bonnie said her enchantments and made the barrier spell even stronger trying her hardest to protect her boyfriend.

Lexi was trying to bring Ryder back as she said "I have a pulse he is alive" as she gave him some oxygen. Lexi was going to school to become a doctor as she has always loved medicine and Damon was super grateful to her right now. Ryder opened his eyes and looked at Bonnie, "I thought you couldn't be near me?" he said, "Freya did some adjusting she needed help keeping you protected as Katsyia is manipulating you" Damon said. "What?" Ryder said, "Ryder do you realize that you just tried to kill yourself?" Lexi asked him, "No I didn't mean to I just what is happening to me?" Ryder said as he buried his face into his hands. "Ryder it is going to be alright, drink this" Bonnie said handing him a mix of herbs that her grams gave her. "What is it?" Ryder asked, "It is just a little something to keep Katsyia out of your head at least for a little while" Bonnie said. Ryder drank the herbs and gagged as it tasted awful, he forced himself to drink it as he wanted to control his own mind. Ryder noticed Chase and said "Chase I am so sorry, I didn't mean anything I said, I love you Chase" Chase perked up and ran at Ryder who was expecting it and he hugged his pup tight. Ryder was super glad that Bonnie was hear as he was not looking forward to not seeing her. "Ryder I realize your 16th birthday is in a few days and If this whole Katsyia thing doesn't get worked out it might suck" Damon said. "It is fine dad, I mean I have everyone I love right here" Ryder said as he hugged Damon, "there is the Ryder we all know and love" Damon said hugging his son back.

Katsyia was annoyed as she was not close to breaking the barrier spell and now she lost control of Ryder. She was determined to get him back though as her plan failed, she thought she could kill him inside the barrier and she failed. Katsyia was underestimating Freya and the Mikaleson's but she will figure out how to get rid of them all.

Will Katsyia figure it out? Will she break through the barrier spell? Will Ryder's birthday be a bust? Find out soon!

Chapter 31 Breaking The Barrier or...

Everyone was afraid for Ryder and they were making him feel on edge, not because he was being controlled but that they wouldn't leave him alone. "You are all making me annoyed, like I get it you are worried but I don't need to be watched by everyone" Ryder said. "Sorry it is just we don't know what she will do" Damon said. "I hate to say it but Ryder I do have to go home, I have school in the morning I assume you aren't coming but I love you. There is enough herbs here for a few days I will swing by soon and bring more" Bonnie said giving him a kiss. Ryder kissed her back and said "Do I really not get to go to school?" "Ryder the barrier is for the house only, so no you have to stay here until we have dealt with her" Rebekah said. "Well that is just great" Ryder said angerly as he ran upstairs and slammed the door. "Was that him or her?" Damon asked, "Let us just assume it was him for now, Chase you are on Ryder duty" Stefan said. Chase whimpered a little but went upstairs, Chase barked and Ryder opened the door. "What are you working on Ryder sir?" Chase asked. "I just think you need a little pup door, so I don't have to keep opening my door for you" Ryder said as he continued building. "Cool" Chase said as he watched, "did they send you up here to spy on me?" Ryder asked. "No I came up here to be with you but yes they are concerned" Chase said. Ryder rolled his eyes he was hoping they would get rid of Katsyia soon.

Ryder finished building the door and he cut a small hole in his door and installed it. "Chase you can use this door to get in and out just simply touch it with your nose and it will open. If it is locked well I am busy" Ryder said. "Understood Ryder sir, can Skye use it too?" Chase asked. Ryder laughed "yes I guess so" he said as he looked at the time. "Jeez it is almost midnight guess it is bedtime Chase" Ryder said as he changed and crawled into bed. Chase jumped onto the bed as well and they were both asleep fairly quickly. It was 3 am when Ryder woke up his head was hurting and he could barely see. "You okay Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "Fine Chase just have a headache going to go get some water" Ryder said as he climbed out of bed. All of a sudden Ryder's vision changed and Katsyia was looking through his eyes, "Good now I can see your house" Katsyia said as she moved Ryder around. It was dark and he kept bumping into things and Stefan woke up to him moving around.

"Ryder everything okay?" Stefan asked, "what yeah I was just getting water and I tripped" Ryder said. Stefan was unaware that Katsyia was currently controlling Ryder as she tried to figure out a way to kill him. Stefan watched as Ryder was headed to the basement, "where are you going?" Stefan asked. "Oh I just need to get something" Ryder said, Stefan at this point knew something was up and as Ryder went downstairs he grabbed the herbs Bonnie made and poured a glass. He followed Ryder downstairs, and he was worried when he couldn't find him, he looked around everywhere. Finally after a few minutes he found him in one of the cells staring at the chains, "Ryder what are you doing?" Stefan asked, "Sorry I am busy" Ryder said as he walked up to the chains and tried to wrap them around his neck but Stefan was fast he grabbed Ryder. "Sorry buddy" Stefan said as he tackled him and forced his mouth open and poured the herbs down his throat. Ryder coughed for a second but then sat up and looked at Stefan, "what the hell? where am I?" Ryder said. "You don't remember?" Stefan said. "I was asleep upstairs, why am I down here? and what is going on uncle Stefan?" Ryder said a bit scared. "What is going is is that Katsyia can literally get inside your head this is going to get worse, come on lets go" Stefan said as he brought Ryder upstairs and plopped him on the couch. Stefan woke up his brother and explained what was going on. Damon was up and sitting with Ryder, "sorry man, until this situation is resolved someone will be with you at all times." Damon said. Rebekah was on the phone with Freya hoping she had any news.

It was a long night as Damon kept waking Ryder up to give him herbs as he didn't want to chance it. Katsyia was frustrated she was going to have to act quicker this time and she might have to do it through someone else. Katsyia went to the high school and observed anyone that could help her she knew Bonnie was out of the question as she was a witch. Then Katsyia spotted Elena and said to herself, "ah the doppleganger now this I can work with" Katsyia said a spell allowing herself to channel the doppleganger blood line. "Elena are you okay" Bonnie asked as her friend nearly fell over. "Yeah tripped I guess, did you hear from Ryder?" Elena asked, "Yeah he is going to be out for a couple of days he is sick" Bonnie said not sure if she could tell her what was going on. "Sick with what?" Elena asked, "not sure they are still trying to figure it out his whole house is on lockdown" Bonnie said. "Oh are they all sick?" Elena asked, "maybe they don't want to chance it" Bonnie said. Katsyia had planted the seed in Elena's mind that she needed to visit Ryder and then the details would commence. Katsyia was still unable to get into Ryder's head as the herbs were working she was frustrated as she waited for Elena.

Ryder was exhausted as he barely got any sleep, everyone else was just as tired as they all took shifts watching him. Freya still hadn't figured out a way to get rid of Katsyia as she was more powerful than her. There was a knock on the door and Stefan answered it, "hey I just came to check on Ryder, heard he was sick" Elena said. "He is fine, now is not a good time Elena" Stefan said. "Oh I will just be a sec, can I talk to him" Elena said as Katsyia was now controlling Elena, "ok just for a sec wait here" Stefan said as he went to get Ryder. Damon was hesitant but he allowed Ryder to go talk to Elena. "Hey" Ryder said as he walked to the door, "hey can you come talk to me?" Elena said, "Yeah but I need to stay here" Ryder said as he couldn't get past the barrier. "Why can't you come outside?" Elena asked, "I just can't okay, what is it you need?" Ryder asked. "I just need you to come a little closer" Elena said as she walked towards him, Klaus came up behind her before she could enter the house. He shoved herbs down her throat and Elena coughed. "What is going on? Why am I here?" Elena said, "it is a long story love, now run along home" Klaus said as he used his compulsion on her. Elena left confused, "what was that?" Ryder said. "She is a doppleganger, which means she is a magical being that Katsyia created and therefore she can manipulate her. Elena is not safe to be around right now, Ryder I need you to invite me in" Klaus said. "I can't" Ryder said, "I can't protect you if you don't Freya will drop the barrier so I can enter. I need to do this to protect you" Klaus said. "Why do you want to protect me?" Ryder asked, "because my sister cares for you and I care for my sister" Klaus said. Ryder nodded and said "come in" Klaus said "now Freya" as the barrier fell and Klaus entered the Salvatore home. "I am in" Klaus said and Freya reactivated the barrier.

"What the hell?" Damon said as Klaus walked into the living room with Ryder, "I thought you were talking to Elena?" Stefan said. "He was but Elena was being controlled by Katsyia I just saved his life. Now I have come to do a ritual if you will, Freya needs some ingredients" Klaus said. Without saying a word Klaus took blood from both Damon and Stefan, then from Rebekah and Lexi and lastly from Ryder. "What are you doing?" Damon asked, "What I was told" Klaus said as he dropped a few drops of his own blood into the mix. Freya then dropped the barrier again as she entered the house and said a spell. When Freya was done she looked at Ryder and said "Okay I know this might be gross but I need you to drink" "there is vampire blood in there it will deactivate the cure" Ryder said. "I assure you it won't Ryder please trust me, this is the only way" Freya said. Ryder was hesitant but he looked to his dad who nodded all he wanted was Ryder safe. Ryder drank the blood and fell to the floor, "what is going on? you said it would help him" Damon said angry, "it will Damon, Ryder will be fine but right now Katsyia is trying to enter his mind but he is in control now" Freya said. "How will he be okay if he is with her?" Damon said, "because he has the blood of everyone who loves him and the only original hybrid in his system. He will be fine just trust me" Freya said. "Hard to do since I don't know you, he better be okay" Damon said as he watched as Ryder lay motionless on the floor.

Ryder woke up inside his own head or that is what he thought, "Ryder nice of you to join me" Katsyia said. "You can't keep doing this" Ryder said, "Doing what?" Katsyia said, "trying to kill me it won't work" Ryder said. "That is what you think, I am powerful Ryder and I can do what I want. I simply just have to touch you" Katsyia said as she touched him. Katsyia immediately pulled away as she felt her skin burn. "What was that?" Katsyia said, "what was what?" Ryder asked confused. Katsyia was annoyed as she tried to strangle Ryder but she was burnt once again, "how are you doing that?" Katsyia said, "Doing what?" Ryder asked as he was still confused. "You are burning me" Katsyia said, "I am not doing anything, as I am not really here, you see this is my reality and I control you. For example if I wanted you to stab yourself you would" Ryder said. Katsyia grabbed a stake and stabbed herself with it, "Stop this" Katsyia begged, "Sorry no can do you messed with the wrong family" Ryder said. As Katsyia stabbed herself again and she knew she was in trouble. Ryder may have been inside his head but Katsyia was not and she actually stabbed herself. Even though Ryder had no idea what he was doing as he would not remember this in the end. Freya made it so Klaus could control Ryder as it was his blood that allowed him to get to Katsyia.

Ryder woke up a few minutes later super confused, "what happened?" Ryder asked, "nothing

Freya just created a spell so Katsyia can't control you anymore, Stay safe" Klaus said as he and Freya left. Ryder looked at everyone but no one said anything, "so it is over I can leave?" Ryder said, "sure but where are you going to go?" Damon asked, "for right now to bed I am tired, and maybe I will see where to go later" Ryder said as he ran upstairs and passed out on his bed. "Let us hope this really is over" Damon said as he to was exhausted. Everyone relaxed for the rest of the evening as they hoped Ryder was out of danger.

What happened with Katsyia? Is Ryder really out of danger? Is his blood still a cure? what will happen next stay tuned!

Chapter 32 Katsyia Vs Ryder

The next morning everyone was up pretty early as they all had a really good nights sleep, Ryder rolled over and Chase fell off the bed. "Sorry Chase" Ryder said, "No problem Ryder sir, how are you feeling?" Chase asked, "better I can't wait to leave the house" Ryder said. Ryder showered and went downstairs to the house decorated and his favorite breakfast of french toast. "Happy birthday!" everyone said as he walked into the room. "Wow I totally forgot today is my birthday, thanks this looks awesome." Ryder said as he ate, "what are you doing today?" Damon asked, "Not sure I was planning on seeing Bonnie, maybe some of my other friends" Ryder said, "Awesome I work today at the grill I can drive you if you want to go" Damon said, "yes thanks" Ryder said as he cleared his plate and put it in the sink. "Damon we are ready" Stefan said as he walked back outside. "Ryder turning 16 is a huge deal and well we thought we would get you a little something so close your eyes" Damon said. Ryder was excited, he closed his eyes and Damon lead him to the driveway and everyone else followed. "Okay Ryder open them" Damon said. Ryder opened his eyes to see a blue Bugatti Veyron and he couldn't believe it, "are you for real? This is mine?" Ryder said. "Yup Happy Birthday Ryder, now all you need is your license and you can drive it" Damon said. "This is not a joke?" Ryder said. "No why would this be a joke?" Damon asked. "This is car is sick! I mean holy crap it is freaking amazing! Thank you I love you all!" Ryder said. Ryder was checking out his car and he couldn't believe the details and he couldn't wait to drive it.

"I need to go to work you ready to head to the grill?" Damon asked, "Yes I am ready" Ryder said as he got into Damon's car sad to leave his behind. Damon laughed and said "You can drive it as soon as you get your license I promise" Damon said. "Can I get it today?" Ryder said, "Sure" Damon said as they arrived at the grill. Bonnie was already there and said "Happy Birthday!" as she kissed him and handed him a small box. "Thanks you didn't have to get me anything" Ryder said. "I know but I did" Bonnie said as Ryder opened it to find a really nice watch, "it is to replace the one you lost" Bonnie said. "Thank you Bonnie this is amazing" Ryder said as he put it on, "It even has the vervain inside just in case" Bonnie said. "Thank you now all it needs is my device so I can talk to Chase" Ryder said. "So cool how you can talk to your dog, I have always wondered what they are thinking" Bonnie said. "It was weird I went to sleep and wished it and then the next morning he was talking" Ryder said. "You truly are a rare incredible human" Bonnie said, "thanks I think" Ryder said. The rest of Ryder's friends also came to the grill and Ryder was showing them pics of his new car. "Wow you are so lucky dude, that car is sick" Matt said, "yeah wow your dad must be loaded if he can afford that, why is he working here?" Jeremy said. "He likes it and they didn't get it brand new my uncle is just really good with fixing cars up." Ryder said. "Super cool" Caroline said even though she really had no idea what kind of car it was. "Where is Elena?" Matt asked, "Yeah weird she isn't here" Caroline agreed. "I am sort of glad she isn't, I mean I love her she is best friend but ever since she told me she was in love with you. I can't look at her the same" Bonnie said. "She is in love with me?" Ryder said, "you sound surprised" Bonnie said. "Well I am I mean I know she was but I didn't think she still was she is with Matt" Ryder said. "Nope she broke up with me a few days ago said she liked someone else.

Didn't think it was you though" Matt said. Ryder felt awkward as he didn't know if he had feelings for her as well.

"Ryder you okay?" Bonnie asked, "what yeah I am fine, I just thought I saw someone" Ryder said as he just lied to his girlfriend. "Okay we will be back" Bonnie said as her and Caroline went to the bathroom. "He was acting strange when you told him about Elena" Caroline said, "I know and it worries me a lot" Bonnie said. "Do you think it is a coincidence she didn't show up?" Caroline said. "I don't know but she is not going to win him that easy" Bonnie said. "She shouldn't have to, he chose to be with you remember" Caroline said. "Caroline we are only in high school he doesn't have to be with me forever and to be honest, if he wants to be with her I can't stop him" Bonnie said. "Are you going to break up with him" Caroline said, "no I love him and it would break me if he left me for her. I don't know if I could ever face them again" Bonnie said. Caroline felt bad for her friend she gave her a hug and said, "I will always be here for you" and they left the bathroom and the conversation behind. They didn't know that there was someone listening the whole time. Katsyia was hiding behind a door, she might not be able to control Ryder anymore thanks to Freya but she could still get to Elena. She had almost died but thankfully she had some vampire blood in her system and well she was now a full blown vampire. Katsyia never felt better and killing the only cure for it was her only goal, as she wanted to turn the entire town into vampires. Her first victim was going to be poor little Elena as she felt it was her best bet to get Ryder.

The rest of the day with his friends went well and Ryder even passed his drivers test and he was super excited to learn. "When can we go?" Ryder asked his dad, "when the sun comes up, I don't want you learning at night" Damon said. "Please just a short drive" Ryder said, "tell you what I will drive and you can ride shotgun" Damon said. "Ugh okay fine" Ryder said as he climbed into the passenger seat. Damon drove them around and Ryder had a smile on his face the whole time, "thanks dad best birthday ever!" Ryder said, Damon laughed as he saw Elena walking up the drive, "not to long okay Ryder" Damon said as he left the two of them. "Hey, sorry I missed the grill party. I just didn't know how to face you after everything" Elena said. "Why? Nothing has changed between us Elena" Ryder said. "That is the thing Ryder it has for me, I don't know if I

can just be your friend. I know you are with Bonnie and I know she says she doesn't but I know she does hate me. I feel different and I can't just be your friend" Elena said, "Elena I don't know what to say here" Ryder said. "It is fine just think about it, Ryder I love you and I always have. You are the one that I want and if you choose to be with Bonnie fine, just don't expect me to always be there" Elena said as she started to walk away. "Elena wait please, don't do this. I am not going to lie I have thought about it. I just don't know how I feel, things have been pretty chaotic these past few days. I mean I can't deny there is something between us" Ryder said. Elena smiled and kissed him Ryder was taken aback but he welcome it and he fell limp into Elena's arms. Katsyia was there and she said "Thank you Elena, you may go home now and forget this ever happened" Katsyia said. She had given Elena a special herb lipstick that put Ryder to sleep. Katsyia being a vampire now was easily able to carry him away and she was very excited that her plan worked.

Damon went back outside to tell Ryder to come in but he was no where in site, "Ryder?" Damon called out his name a few times. He then tried calling his cell phone but realized it was on the porch. "FUCK!" Damon swore so loud that everyone came running outside, "what?" Stefan asked. "Ryder is missing again! it is always Elena" Damon said beginning to not like her. "I am sure he is fine" Rebekah tried to assure him. Chase was sniffing around and he wished he could talk to everyone else. He smelled a vampire an unfamiliar one, Skye was with him she was not sure what to do. Chase tried calling Ryder with his pup tag, "Ryder sir are you there?" Chase said but all he received was static. He forgot that Ryder hadn't created and new device yet after his was lost in the river.

Ryder woke up not to long after and realized he was tied up he had no idea where he was. The last thing he remembered was kissing Elena, "nice of you to wake up" Katsyia said as she sat in front of him. "I thought you were dead?" Ryder said, "yes well that is the great thing about vampire blood, I may no longer be a witch but I never felt more alive" Katsyia said. "What do you want from me?" Ryder said, "well Ryder I want you dead, you see your blood interferes with my plans for this little town and I can't have that" Katsyia said, "My family will stop you" Ryder said, "you mean your pathetic little human family. They can't do anything to me and when I am finished with you I will break all their necks." Katsyia said, "what are your plans for this town?" Ryder said. "Well I guess it won't hurt telling you since I plan on killing you soon anyways, I am turning everyone into vampires and then creating armies and taking over every town I can" Katsyia said. "Not everyone is going to want to become a vampire" Ryder said, "you see they won't have a choice, I am creating a new way to distribute my blood. Everyone will be sired to me and no one can stop me" Katsyia said as she left the room. Ryder tried so hard to escape but he was just making the ropes tighter. He really didn't want to die and he didn't want his family to die either he needed a plan as he scanned the room for anything that could help.

"You know Rebekah, as much as I love you this is really getting old. Ryder is more trouble than he is worth" Klaus said as he was being called back to mystic falls again. "Nik! you don't have to come just send Freya" Rebekah said, "Well seeing has how I need Freya I guess I am coming as well" Klaus said. It wasn't too long after Klaus and Freya arrived and Damon was still annoyed that Ryder invited Klaus inside as he walked in as if the house was his. "I need something of his" Freya said, Damon handed her Ryder's favorite jacket and she began her search, "really nice place you have here" Klaus said knowing he was getting under Damon's skin. "Thanks" Damon said as he glared at him, "Don't think just because you are dating my sister I like you, and now that you are human I can easily just snap your neck" Klaus said. "Nik stop threatening my boyfriend" Rebekah said as she glared at him. "Sorry sister it is just so easy" Klaus said as he walked towards her, "have you heard from Elijah?" Rebekah said a little worried for him, "Yes he is fine, doing a little soul searching right now" Klaus said. "Ryder is here" Freya said interrupting the conversation. "Best if you stay here" Klaus said as he pushed Damon aside, "No he is my son I am coming" Damon said. "Honestly fine just stay out of the way, I don't need to save you tonight as well" Klaus said as Damon drove them. "Would have been faster if I went alone" Klaus said. "Klaus stop" Freya said from the backseat as they arrived at the location.

What will happen next? Will Katsyia finally be stopped? Will Ryder figure out his feelings? Find out soon! Thanks for reading

Ryder's car:

Chapter 33 Katsyia Vs Klaus

Katsyia heard the car pull up and said "Here we go" as she prepared for what was about to come. Ryder was scared he knew Katsyia was dangerous as she didn't want to drink his blood she physically wanted him dead. She also wanted everyone he loved dead, this worried him as Katsyia cut his ropes and grabbed him. Klaus entered with Freya and Katsyia said, "before we start this little party, I want you all to remember Ryder as he will not be joining us." Katsyia said as she shoved him. Ryder hadn't realized he was standing over a trap door as it opened and he fell, he grabbed onto the ledge and tried to hang on. Klaus ran towards him but Katsyia stopped him, "No this makes it more interesting, there are several ways this can go, you stop him from falling and he dies slowly. Or you let him fall and he dies quickly" Katsyia said. "I would rather he not die at all" Klaus said as he tried to grab him. Katsyia stepped in causing Ryder to lose his grip as she stepped on his hand. Klaus was unable to save him but another figure appeared out of no where and was able to catch Ryder and fling him up as he fell into the pit instead. Freya took advantage of this and but a barrier around Ryder so Katsyia couldn't touch him. "Go Ryder run" Freya said and he didn't hesitate as he ran outside and saw Damon waiting.

Klaus took advantage of Katsyia distracted and bit her causing her to lash out and fight Klaus. The figure jumped out of the pit and said "My family will not be harmed" "Elijah, nice of you to drop in" Klaus said as he bit Katsyia again. Freya was able to weaken her as well causing her to collapse. "Now this is going to go 2 ways, you can either die a slow painful death with my werewolf venom in your system. Or I can stake you and kill you that way decide" Klaus said. "Or I can kill you" Katsyia said as she pulled out the white oak stake and tried to stab Klaus, but he was quicker then her. "Did you really think that was going to work?" Klaus asked, "No but now you are the one distracted" Katsyia said as her army of vampires joined her. Klaus, Freya and Elijah were outnumbered by a lot. "Well this isn't going well, I can't control them all" Freya said. "You don't have to" Bonnie said as she joined the battle along with her grams and a few other witches. At this point the vampires were all falling one by one and Katsyia grew angry. She was still weak from the werewolf bite but she was able to jump down the pit. She knew the way out and she wasn't going to let a werewolf bite stop her. Bonnie and her grams lit the building on fire and all the vampires inside were killed as they were created for evil. "I hate that they all have to die, some of them are young" Bonnie said, "yes I know but it is better this way" her grams said. "For who? they are someone's child or brother or sister" Bonnie said, "Bonnie they made the choice to become evil, not all vampires are good" Grams said, "you don't know that they couldn't be good" Bonnie said, "yes darling I could feel their energy and their aura it was all negative in the room" her grams said. "I could feel it to Bonnie and as you get older your witch senses will be able to tell as well" Sabrina said. Bonnie still didn't like it but she wasn't going to argue with the elders.

Damon drove Ryder home and he was again frustrated to be under a protection spell as Katsyia was still out there. "She should die though soon if my brother bit her" Rebekah said, "or she finds a way to cure herself" Ryder said, "they only cure from a werewolf bite is Klaus's blood and I don't see him curing her" Rebekah said. "Oh and Ryder maybe stay away from Elena for a little bit please" Damon said. "What why?" Ryder said, "well she has gotten you kidnapped twice now and I am not about to lose you again" Damon said. "Neither of those times were her fault" Ryder said. "Listen it is just until Katsyia is dead then you can do whatever you please with her" Damon said. "We are just friends dad" Ryder said, "mmmhmm and I will pretend I don't know you may or may not have feelings for her" Damon said as he left Ryder in his room. "This is stupid" Ryder said, "What is stupid?" Chase said, "nothing Chase" Ryder said. Chase knew something was bugging Ryder but he didn't want to say anything as he didn't want to be kicked out again. Ryder closed his laptop and went into the bathroom and locked the door, he needed to think and showers helped him do that. Chase took the time to leave the room and go outside as he couldn't wait any longer.

Katsyia could feel the venom working against her and she needed to find a way to get it out, she knew Klaus would never cure her. She found a local witch place and said, "White oak stake that will kill an original to anyone who can cure a werewolf bite" A few witches came out and one looked her up and down and said "Only known cure is the original hybrid blood" "Yes darling I am aware and since he is the one who bit me I doubt he will give me the cure" Katsyia said. "You are Katsyia I assume, I was told that if you came poking around to let you suffer" Vincent said. "That is nice, I want what all you witches want to kill the Mikaleson's and the cure for vampirism" Katsyia said. "See that is the thing we don't want the cure for vampirism to die we happen to want him alive" Vincent said. "Alright I assume you don't want the Mikaleson's alive though, I can help you kill them" Katsyia said. "No that isn't going to work, they are not harming no one and they have saved more lives then you have" Davina said. "Young witch, allow me to demonstrate how it feels to be bitten" Katsyia said as she rushed towards her. Davina was more powerful then Katsyia expected as she stopped her mid run, "No you listen here, I am not going to allow you to live. Innocent lives will not be shed anymore, as the werewolf venom is now making its way through you quicker" Davina said. One of the witches called Klaus and he said "Davina enough" "I don't answer to you" Davina said as she never much liked Klaus herself. "In this case love you do" Klaus said as he grabbed Katsyia and stabbed her with the white oak stake that she meant for him. Katsyia looked at him and said "I will find a way to get you back" as she turned grey and died. Klaus left leaving her body but taking the stake with him as he didn't want it in the wrong hands.

"Love how he expects us to clean up his mess" Davina said annoyed with Klaus, "well she originally was a witch so we will burn her" Vincent said as they carried her away and burned her body. Klaus phoned Rebekah and told her that the Katsyia was officially dead and that Freya has lifted the barrier once again. "Let's not tell him just yet, he has had a rough few days and I want him to get some sleep" Damon said before Rebekah could tell him. Ryder was on his computer and he received a text.

Elena: Ryder I feel like something has happened between us can we talk

Ryder: Sure

Elena: I am outside your house

Ryder: okay hang on

Ryder ran downstairs and noticed the adults were in the living room as he slowly crept by them and went to the front door. Damon heard the front door and he saw Ryder with Chase he assumed he was just letting Chase out. Ryder slipped through the door surprised he was able to get outside as he expected a barrier. "Thanks for coming out Ryder" Elena said, "No problem what is going on?" Ryder said. "I am not sure I can't remember much the last few days and I feel like I was here a lot" Elena said. "You were but it is a long story" Ryder said, "look I need you to know this as I can't get it out of my head. Ryder I love you and I don't think I ever stopped, I want to be more than friends" Elena said. "Elena I know and I have actually been thinking a lot about this. I did at one point have feelings for you as well but things for me have changed. Although I think you are beautiful I have formed a deep connection with Bonnie and I love her. I thought I loved you as well but I am sorry Elena my heart is with Bonnie" Ryder said. "It is okay Ryder I understand and although I can't be upset about this I am slightly. I love Bonnie she is my best friend and I am happy for you both" Elena said as she hugged Ryder. He wasn't expecting it but he hugged her back and Elena walked away, Ryder sighed but he heard, "that was sweet, and you know what my heart belongs to you as well" Bonnie said. "Hi beautiful, I wasn't expecting you" Ryder said. "I know I was following Elena, I knew she was in love with you and I sort of half expected you to be in love with her" Bonnie said. "Why?" Ryder said, "well she can be very charming and I knew you liked her at one point" Bonnie said. "Well you have nothing to worry about miss Bonnie Bennet" Ryder said as he kissed her. Damon came outside and said "alright enough, Bonnie go home it is late" "Dad please" Ryder said as he was 16 years old. "You upstairs now, Bonnie goodnight" Damon said a little sternly. "Goodnight" Bonnie said giving Ryder a quick kiss and disappearing. "Dad really?" Ryder said, "yes really you look liked you haven't slept for days and you actually have school tomorrow so go bed now" Damon said. Ryder rolled his eyes but went upstairs and got ready for bed.

The next few months went by without any problems for Ryder and summer was fast approaching, as both Lexi and Rebekah were getting ready for their babies. Ryder was able to drive on his own now and he loved his new car and his freedom. "That boy is going to give me a heart attack" Damon said as he watched Ryder speed out of the driveway for their last day of high school before summer break. "You just wait your next one will be even worse as they will be half Mikaleson" Rebekah said. "Can't wait to meet him or her, I wish you would let us find out I hate the suspense" Damon said. "Nope I like the surprise plus does it matter?" Rebekah said, "I guess not, either way I will love them but still Lexi and Stefan know" Damon said. "I am not Lexi and I don't want to know you will find out in 2 months" Rebekah said as she felt a kick. "Here feel" Rebekah said as Damon placed a hand on her stomach and felt the kicking. "I still can't believe this is actually happening, I mean I never expected to ever have kids. Now I am a father of a teenage boy and a soon to be baby" Damon said. "You are a great father to Ryder and I can't wait for you to be a father to our baby" Rebekah said as she kissed him. Damon had a surprise for Rebekah as he planned on proposing to her very soon.

Damon went inside leaving Rebekah on the porch as she felt the warmth of the sunlight on her skin. She heard a very familiar voice one she didn't think she would hear again, "Well I would have never suspected this, Elijah told me you were human but I had to come see for myself. Not only are you human but you are with Damon Salvatore and pregnant" The voice said. Rebekah couldn't believe it as she hugged the person tightly as she was very happy to see him.

Who is this person? Find out in the next chapter...also the babies are coming and Ryder

has a interesting summer ahead!

Chapter 34 Summer Begins

Rebekah let her brother go and said "Kol, I would invite you in but since the only person who can is at school you will have to wait." "It is okay sister, I don't expect you let many vampires into your home. I am here however to talk to you about this cure. I have been thinking a lot about it and might want to give it a go" Kol said. "Oh Kol, as happy as I am to hear that you haven't exactly been a model vampire and I would be afraid you wouldn't wake up." Rebekah said, "and I suppose you were a model vampire?" Kol said. "Well no but I assume it was because I finally had a purpose and I did help save Ryder a few times who is the cure holder. I am not sure on this but I believe someone close to him is making the choice" Rebekah said. "Who?" Kol said, "I believe the person who gave him the cure his mother is the one who decides people's fates" Rebekah said. "I see and if I were to save her son's life I would come back?" Kol said, "Kol I never said that and I don't know exactly how it works. The first time Ryder was cured with vampire blood via Damon it activated the cure which in doing so made Damon his guardian. I assume the people the cure has brought back so far are people that are close with Ryder and his family. You are not close with any of us and I just don't think you would come back. You are welcome to try but I would hate to lose you" Rebekah said. "Klaus kept me daggered for nearly a century and when Elijah brings me back, my sister is human and doesn't think I can be" Kol said a little sad. "Jeez Kol I just didn't think you wanted to die" Rebekah said, "I don't and I actually like being a vampire" Kol said. Rebekah rolled her eyes as Damon came back out, he studied Kol and Kol studied him.

"I came to see what was keeping you, now I know" Damon said, "nice to see you too, Kol Mikaleson" Kol said. "Yes I am aware of who you are, sorry if I am not a fan" Damon said. "The feeling is mutual" Kol said. "Boys enough please, Damon he is my brother and Kol he is my babies dad and my boyfriend so be nice" Rebekah said. "I still can't believe it, anyways I have places to be. Later sister" Kol said as he ran off. "Damon, do you like any of my brothers?" Rebekah said. "No but Klaus is growing on me as he has helped us out a few times, I just don't trust them Rebekah" Damon said. "You don't have to I trust them, although my brother Finn is another story" Rebekah said. "Never met a Finn" Damon said, "yeah he was mother's pet, he is the one that I don't trust as he always hated being a vampire" Rebekah said. "Well the he should take the cure" Damon said smiling a little, "he would have the best chance of coming back, as he has killed the least amount of people" Rebekah said. "Enough brother talk lets eat" Damon said as he prepared a meal for the two of them.

Ryder was cleaning out his locker when Caroline ran up to him, "Ryder my mother is outside she would like to speak to you" she said. "Why?" Ryder asked, "I don't know she doesn't tell me anything" Caroline said. Ryder walked outside and spotted the sheriff he was a bit nervous as he really didn't know what to expect. "Ryder, I have to ask you something and I don't want you to worry but it is important we get your feelings first" sheriff said. "Okay?" Ryder said confused, "Tyler is wanting to come home, the military school said he is making progress and they feel he is ready to come home. The mayor wants to make sure that you are comfortable with it as she would like him back at school" Liz said. "I mean I am going to be honest the thought of seeing him again scares me. I can stay away from him but it is a matter if he stays away from me, and seeing as how is girlfriend is a friend of mine it might be a problem" Ryder said. "I assure you Caroline will not tolerate him hurting you, and like I said he has made progress. His anger should be under control. I don't want to pressure you Ryder" Liz said. "I guess but I am honestly just going to avoid him. I really don't care to be his friend" Ryder said. "Understood and he will be under surveillance as he is not allowed to break probation so even if he does do something he will not get away with it" Liz said. Ryder nodded as he went back into the school, "so what did she want?" Caroline asked. "Nothing" Ryder said as he didn't know if Tyler wanted to surprise her or not. "Ugh you are so awful, no one ever tells me anything" Caroline said, "there really isn't anything to tell Caroline, she was just asking me about something from my past" Ryder lied. "Okay fine, what is up with Elena?" Caroline said noticing she was avoiding them. Ryder felt bad as Bonnie said "Ryder broke her heart, and now she is avoiding us" "Wait what?" Caroline said, "She confessed her love to Ryder and he turned her down" Bonnie said. "Not exactly, I just told her that I loved Bonnie and I wanted to stay friends, she didn't take it well I guess" Ryder said. "Wow!" Caroline said missing Tyler a little more.

Finally school was out and Ryder was walking to his car when he noticed someone watching him, he never saw they guy before. Ryder knew instantly it was a vampire as he was getting closer to him. Ryder didn't know whether or not to be afraid as the vampire was right beside him now. "Hello Ryder, I have heard so much about you, I am Kol Mikaleson and I assume you know my siblings" Kol said. "Yes, is there something you need?" Ryder asked, "don't be rude I can easily snap your neck. I need to know how I can come back to life after you cure me" Kol said. "I don't know that decision is not up to me" Ryder said, "yes but I am sure you have some sway in it, like how every vampire you cured has come back to life" Kol said. "Like I said I don't make that choice, now if you will excuse me" Ryder said as he tried to climb into his car. Kol didn't move and Bonnie came outside and noticed as she used her magic to torture Kol's mind. "Ugh" Kol said as Ryder climbed into the car and sped off. Kol didn't know who did that but he was annoyed as Ryder drove home. He sped into the driveway and ran into the house, "Jesus Ryder you need to slow down in that car" Damon said. "Sorry I was running from a vampire" Ryder said. "What who this time?" Damon said. "Kol, he says he is Rebekah's brother" Ryder said. Rebekah rolled her eyes, "he is harmless unless you piss him off, then I would watch out but what did he want?" Rebekah said. "For me to tell him how to come back after he is cured. I

honestly don't have an answer to that so I am not sure what he is expecting" Ryder said. "He just told me today he didn't want the cure, man he is up to something. I will talk with Klaus and see if he can figure it out" Rebekah said as she went to call her other brother.

The next day as Ryder was getting ready to go hang out with Bonnie there was a knock on the door. Since he was the closest he answered it, he was not expecting the visitor, "Ryder I came here to apologize to you. I know I don't deserve it as what I did was horrible, I have come to terms with it and you didn't deserve anything. I know you weren't trying to steal Caroline from me, I was angry about other things and I took it out on you. I truly am sorry and want to try and make peace. I understand of course if you don't want to, but I am having a party tonight at the Lockwood Cellars, come I promise I won't do anything and bring Bonnie if you like" Tyler said as he walked away. Ryder just stood there he didn't know what to say and I guess Tyler never expected and answer as he left rather quickly. "Who was at the door?" Damon asked his son who was still standing there. "Um Tyler Lockwood" Ryder said, "what? I thought he was at military school?" Damon said. "Yeah he was but apparently he made good progress and the sheriff asked me yesterday if I was okay with him coming home. I didn't really think much of it as I never expected to talk to him so him showing up here was a surprise." Ryder said, "to you and me both, you stay away from him you got it" Damon said with authority, "No problem I don't really want to be his friend anyways" Ryder said as he grabbed his keys, "where are you going?" Damon asked, "Out with Bonnie" Ryder said, "okay, be safe and your curfew is 11" Damon said. "Alright bye" Ryder said as he left, then two minutes later he was back inside. "Forget something?" Damon asked. "Yup Chase! come on bud lets go" Ryder said, Chase came running and said "where are we going Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "Bonnie says she misses you and wants you to come with us" Ryder said. "Awesome," Chase said, Ryder laughed and said "Bye dad" as he left once again.

Ryder drove to Bonnie's house as Chase stuck his head out the window, "Never understood why dogs do that" Ryder said. Chase looked at him and said "The cool air feels nice" Chase replied as he stuck his head back out. They arrived at Bonnies and she came out with a picnic basket and Chase moved to the backseat. "Hello babe, Hi Chase!" Bonnie said giving him a good scratch, "ooohh that's the spot" Chase said. Ryder laughed and pulled out of the driveway, "where are we headed?" Ryder asked, "I thought we would go to the waterfall, it is a bit of a hike but I figured it would be nice since it is a beautiful day" Bonnie said. "Sounds good" Ryder said as he drove in that direction. Once they arrived Ryder locked his car, "are you sure it is safe here?" Ryder asked, "Ryder it is mystic falls your car will be fine" Bonnie said, "I hope so" Ryder said as they walked up to the falls. Chase was way ahead of them literally sniffing every tree along the way, "dogs are so weird" Ryder said, "but they are so cute!" Bonnie said back. It took them an hour to hike all the way to the top and Bonnie set up the picnic basket as they sat together and Ryder put on some music. Bonnie even brought snacks for Chase, "wow!" Chase said, "Chase says thanks" Ryder said. "No problem Chase, couldn't forget about my favorite pup" Bonnie said petting him again.

Bonnie was looking over the falls and she gasped, "what?" Ryder said as he ran over to her, "Oh my lord I think that is a body" Bonnie said. "Ryder looked down but it was to far to tell, "how do you know?" Ryder asked, "I can see the hair, and there is a hand" Bonnie said, "what do we do?"

Ryder asked, Chase found a path and went to check it out, "Chase be careful!" Ryder said to him,

Chase made it to the body that Bonnie saw and he said "Ryder sir, it is John Gilbert's body" Chase said. "What!" Ryder said, "what did he say?" Bonnie asked, "if I tell you please don't freak out" Ryder said. "I am a witch how bad can in it be?" Bonnie said, "Chase said it is the body of John Gilbert" Ryder said. "What he has been dead this whole time?" Bonnie said, "yes" Ryder said. "Wait did you know?" Bonnie asked, "well yes Rebekah killed him when he tried to kidnap me to force me to cure vampires everywhere" Ryder said. "Oh my lord why is it everyone wants to kidnap you" Bonnie said. "Well I am the only cure for vampirism and a threat I guess" Ryder said. "Yeah do we tell someone about his body?" Bonnie asked. "I don't know I mean dealing with the cops will ruin our date" Ryder said. Chase ran back up and said "Ryder sir he looks like he has been eaten by wolves or somethings, his body is very mangled" "Maybe we should Chase said he looks like he has been eaten by wolves" Ryder said. "Yikes, okay I will call the sheriff" Bonnie said as she dialed the number.

What will happen when the sheriff arrives? will they tell Elena? Does Ryder go to Tyler's party? Find out soon!

Chapter 35 A Familiar face

The sheriff agreed to come out there right away and asked that both Bonnie and Ryder stayed as well. Ryder was a bit nervous to be honest as he actually knew what happened to John but he was hoping it wasn't going to be asked. The sheriff along with some of her deputies arrived not to long after and they were able to get the body up the ravine. "What are you two doing up here?" sheriff Forbes asked. "We were just having a picnic, and I saw what I thought was a body" Bonnie said. "I hope you two didn't climb down there to look, that ravine is high" Sheriff Forbes told them, "no Chase went down to look and he confirmed it was a body, and well we called you" Bonnie said. "I see and how exactly did you get this info from a dog?" Sheriff Forbes asked, "He barked" Ryder said not wanting to tell her he spoke with him, he didn't think the council needed to be aware of his cure or special abilities. "Okay, how did you know it was John gilbert? You said on the phone Bonnie that you found his body?" Sheriff Forbes asked, "I um don't know I recognized him a little" Bonnie said now feeling nervous. "Right I feel like you are both hiding something but since I don't think either of you killed him you may go" sheriff Forbes said and Bonnie and Ryder ran down the mountain. Chase was not far behind and he said "Ryder sir, why didn't you tell her I told you it was John?" "Chase she is a police officer and part of the council that hunts supernatural things. Don't you think it would be weird for me to say oh I can talk to my dog?" Ryder said. "I guess everyone else knows though" Chase said, "just people that are close to me know" Ryder told him.

Once they were at the bottom, Bonnie turned to Ryder and said, "do you really think you are supernatural?" "You don't? I mean I can talk to my dog, I can cure vampires, and I can bring dead witches back to life" Ryder said. "I mean I never thought of you as supernatural, I guess I figured you were unique. I will ask my grams see what she thinks but I don't think you are as weird as you think" Bonnie said as she received a text from Caroline.

Caroline: OH MY GOD! Tyler is back in town he just surprised me! I am so excited and he is having a party tonight! you should come

Bonnie: Caroline as I am happy for you, I don't much like Tyler and I am not sure I am with Ryder.

Caroline: Tyler told me he invited Ryder to his party after he apologized he wants you both to come. Think about it at least

Bonnie didn't reply as she climbed into Ryder's car and said "So you never told me that Tyler is back and he invited you to a party" "Oh um well it was weird and I don't even know if I am going to said party" Ryder said. "Oh Caroline wants us to come" Bonnie, "last time I did something I thought Caroline wanted I ended up getting my ass kicked. I am not exactly sure I really trust that Tyler has changed much" Ryder said. "I am too but this time you have me as back up and I won't let Tyler touch you" Bonnie said. "Sounds to me like you want to go" Ryder said, "well we have nothing better to do and I don't know a bonfire party sounds like fun" Bonnie said. "I don't like it Ryder sir" Chase said, "Okay but if things get weird I am leaving, let me drop off Chase first" Ryder said. "No Ryder sir I am not letting you go to this party alone" Chase protested, "I am not alone Chase I am with Bonnie" Ryder said. "Ryder sir please take me with you, I can protect you" Chase said. "Chase no I don't want you to get hurt" Ryder said, "What if you get hurt?" Chase said. Bonnie thought it was funny Ryder arguing with his pup or course she could only hear Ryder's side of the story but it was cute. Ryder drove into the driveway and managed to get a squirmy Chase into the house. "What is with him?" Damon asked, "he doesn't want to leave me, I am going to a party be back later" Ryder said. "Tyler's party? I thought I said you couldn't go to that" Damon said. "Bonnie is with me and she wants to go, I promise if things get weird I will leave. I will be fine please" Ryder said. "Last time you said that you jumped off a bridge and nearly died" Damon said. "That was different and I promise no bridge jumping" Ryder said, "Fine but you be home by 11" Damon said, "Dad" Ryder said, "Okay 12 but no later!" Damon said. Ryder nodded and ran back to his car Damon held back a very angry Chase.

Ryder and Bonnie arrived at the party and everyone was admiring Ryder's car, "sick car man" one kid said. Tyler came over and said "Damn nice wheels Ryder, glad you could come, feel free to grab a drink or don't and have fun" Bonnie and Ryder exchanged glances but both decided not to drink as they walked around. "Have you spoken to Elena lately?" Bonnie asked him, "No not since I told her I wasn't in love with her. She is avoiding me I think" Ryder said. "I am a bit worried about her, I know things for her a rough right now and she won't talk to me either" Bonnie said. "Do you think she will do something stupid again?" Ryder asked. "I don't know I really hope not" Bonnie said. Ryder was now a bit worried but he didn't see Elena around anywhere so he hoped she was going to be okay. He may not be in love with Elena but he did still care for her. Bonnie was talking to some girls from school and Ryder saw him and Ryder knew he was looking at him. Ryder walked casually over to Bonnie and whispered "I have to go" Bonnie looked at him and Ryder looked frightened. "Why what is wrong?" Bonnie asked, "I can't say, look you can stay I just have to go" Ryder said. Bonnie wanted to go with him but Caroline grabbed her arm as she needed to tell her something. Ryder ran to his car and drove off he wasn't sure if he was being followed he called his dad from the car, "Ryder?" Damon answered it was late, "Dad sorry if you were asleep, I am driving home but I saw someone today and I am not sure if I am in danger" Ryder said. Damon sat up rather quickly and dressed as he said, "Who did you see?" Ryder slammed on the breaks and said "Holy shit!" and the line was cut off as Ryder swerved off the rode and drove into the ditch. Damon swore as he ran out the door and drove down the road hoping Ryder was close.

Damon arrived at Ryder's car but there was no Ryder inside, he found his phone and he was pissed. "FUCK!" Damon swore loudly, he called the sheriff as he really honestly didn't know how many more times he could ask Klaus for favors. The sheriff met Damon and Damon told him everything Ryder did. "Who did he see?" the sheriff asked, "I don't know he never said, and it obviously was someone bad as Ryder is missing" Damon said. "Calm down Damon we will find him, I have guys searching the area, go home I will call you if we find anything" Sheriff said as Damon followed the tow truck to his house, as they towed Ryder's car so Stefan could fix it. Damon also called Bonnie and she agreed to come right over to help and she was sorry that she didn't go with him. Meanwhile Ryder was in the trunk of a car and he knew he was in trouble, he didn't have his phone. He looked around trying to find anything that could help him get out, he looked at his watch and he knew he could call Chase. He hesitated as he knew Chase was right and he of course is in trouble once again, "Chase it is Ryder, I am sort of in trouble, you were right, tell my dad Enzo has me. We are driving I am in a trunk of a blue sedan. I am not sure where we are going, but I am not hurt" Ryder said hoping his dad could do something. Chase barked frantically he was pissed he knew Ryder should not have gone to that party alone. Bonnie arrived at Chase was annoyed at her and Bonnie could tell, "Sorry Chase I was all set to go with him but Caroline grabbed me and then 2 seconds later Ryder was gone" Bonnie said as she knelt beside him. Chase ran over to the laptop on the table and pushed a few keys Lexi opened a word program for him and he pushed the letters Enzo. "Enzo?" Bonnie said, Damon looked at Chase, "is that who has Ryder?" Damon asked him Chase barked, "who is Enzo?" Bonnie asked, "A old not so close friend from my past he has taken Ryder once before for experiments. He is a vampire" Damon said, Bonnie grabbed the necklace Ryder gave her and concentrated on him, "he is in a car right now they are moving, I can't tell where as his location is being blocked" Bonnie said. "Blocked?" Damon asked, "yes Enzo has a witch or something protecting him" Bonnie said.

Damon was frustrated why was his son always in danger, "he said something to me today, and well now I am wondering" Bonnie said. "What did he say?" Damon asked, "he said that he is supernatural and he didn't want the council to know, is that why John Gilbert is dead because he knew?" Bonnie asked, "I don't know whether Ryder is supernatural, and John Gilbert is dead because he as a threat and a vampire, and how do you know he is dead?" Damon asked, "Ryder and I found his body today in the ravine, and well we called the sheriff" Bonnie said, "Why would you do that?" Damon said a bit angry, "he was getting eaten and well Ryder told me too" Bonnie said. Damon rolled his eyes right now he had more important things to worry about and finding Ryder was number one. Rebekah had called Freya and she was doing a locator spell on him, "I just did that" Bonnie said annoyed they didn't trust her. Freya was on speaker phone, "Ryder is okay from what I can tell, his location is being blocked, but it isn't witches it is travelers, and if they want Ryder for something it is not good" Freya said. "Travelers?" Damon asked, "they are hard to explain, they are basically passengers as they can travel from on body to another they can basically take over another person" Freya said. "Why would they want Ryder?" Damon asked, "I don't know but we need to find him because if he does have a traveler it can't be good" Freya said.

Enzo had arrived at the location and he opened the trunk, and he tied Ryder up so he couldn't escape. Ryder was confused as he saw all these people around chanting and he had no idea what was going on, then he saw Elena and his uncle Stefan. "Elena, Uncle Stefan?" Ryder said hoping they could hear him, "that is not your uncle love, that is another doppleganger but don't worry your little friend Elena as been given vampire blood and she will wake up needing a friend" a traveler said. "What are you doing? Why am I here?" Ryder said, "we are going to resurrect a dear friend of ours and we need doppleganger blood to do so, and a little bit of yours to sweetie" the traveler said. "Go to hell" Ryder said, "oh my dear I have been there it isn't pleasant, no Enzo if you could tie him next to his friends" the traveler said. Enzo did as he was told, and Ryder's mouth was taped so he couldn't ask any more questions scream. The travelers cut Ryder's wrist and started to drain him of blood, he noticed that Elena and this other doppleganger who looked like his uncle had already been drained of their blood. Ryder tried to not lose consciousness because he knew he would not wake up if he lost all his blood. "Okay we have enough, help him we need him alive" the female traveler said. Enzo tried to give Ryder his blood to heal him, "No I can't it will deactivate the cure, why are you doing this?" Ryder asked, "she is helping me find my family" Enzo said, "I assure you she isn't, I will help you find your family, please Enzo let me go and Elena too" Ryder said. Enzo put a bandage on Ryder's arm to help stop the bleeding. Enzo was debating on whether or not he wanted to help, "I know my dad wouldn't want you to do this" Ryder said, "your dad left me to die, he doesn't care about me" Enzo said. "You are wrong he does, he told me he turned his humanity off in order to leave you, he is human now and he does care for you. I can make you human, just please let me go" Ryder said. Enzo didn't know he watched the travelers with their blood and he was worried as to what might happen.

Will they find Ryder? Who are the resurrecting? will Elena be okay? find out soon!

Chapter 36 An unexpected helper

Enzo was just about to help Ryder when another vampire came into view and grabbed him first. Enzo followed with Elena and Ryder said "what the hell!" "A simple thank you would have been nicer" Kol said. "Thanks but you left my friend there" Ryder said, "Nope I have her" Enzo said as he ran up placing her on the ground. "Is she okay?" Ryder asked examining her, "well they did give her some of my blood, and she was drained of all of hers. I am to assume she will wake up shortly as a vampire" Enzo said. At that Elena opened her eyes, "where am I? What is happening?" she said a bit scared. "It is hard to explain Elena, but you are in transition and are becoming a vampire" Ryder said. "What! No I don't want to" Elena said, "If she doesn't drink human blood she will die" Kol said. "She can drink mine will it cure her?" Ryder asked, "I don't know you tell me" Kol said curious, let's just wait can you get us back to my place?" Ryder asked Enzo. "Sure" Enzo said as grabbed Elena who was still freaking out, "Can you help?" Ryder asked Kol, "how exactly?" Kol asked, "Oh I don't know run?" Ryder said a bit sarcastically, and Kol ran, "I mean with me!" Ryder yelled. Kol laughed as he came back, "I was just kidding, you need to calm down" Kol said as he grabbed Ryder and ran with him. They arrived back at his house quicker then he thought. Ryder saw his car and and was sad as it was damaged pretty good,

Ryder ran into the house and was tackled by Chase immediately and Bonnie as well, "I am okay, jeez" Ryder said. "What the hell happened?" Damon asked also giving Ryder a hug, Bonnie put a protection spell up so the travelers couldn't find them. "I am not sure Enzo can maybe explain better" Ryder said. Damon walked to the door and saw his old friend Enzo, "Damon good to see you, I was angry at you for a long time but Ryder explained" Enzo said. "I am sorry I left you, I had to turn off my humanity in order to do it, I felt terrible." Damon said, "it is fine all in the past" Enzo said. "Ryder says you can explain" Damon said, "Well the travelers found me said they needed the doppleganger and Ryder to bring someone back by the name of Marco. I believe he is the head traveler, anyways they told me they would help me find someone if I helped them. Ryder told me he would help and well a part of me trusts he is better then these travelers, plus this guy here helped to" Enzo said pointing to Kol. Damon rolled his eyes and he said "Ryder come here" "yeah dad" Ryder asked, "Invite Enzo inside" Damon said, "uhm are you sure? I thought I am to keep vampires out" Ryder said, "I am sure" Damon said, "Okay come in Enzo" Ryder said and Enzo was able to walk in the door, "Nice place you have here" Enzo said, "What a brother?" Kol asked. "Sorry Kol" Damon said as he closed the door, "I did just save your son's life!" Kol yelled. "It is true dad he did" Ryder said. "Leave him out there I am not sure what he is up to yet" Rebekah said. Bonnie was trying to calm Elena down, "I don't want to be a vampire" Elena said, "well since you haven't killed anyone your chances of being human again are very good." Stefan said, "How? If I am a vampire how do I become human again?" Elena said. "You drink the cure" Bonnie said, "there is a cure?" Elena asked confused, "yup" Bonnie said indicating at Ryder. "Ryder how he is the cure?" Elena asked, "it is a complicated story, but you need to drink some blood first" Damon said.

"Can't she just drink mine?" Ryder asked, "I am not sure it would work as Elena is not technically a vampire until she drinks human blood" Stefan said, "Well we don't have human blood" Damon said, "You are all literally humans, are you not?" Enzo said a bit confused, "we are now but we all were once vampires and I don't know if our blood will work. Bonnie is a witch and I don't know if hers would either" Damon said, "she is still human, but if you want I can go get someone else" Enzo said. "I don't want to kill anyone" Elena said, "maybe just a blood bag?" Damon said. Enzo nodded as he ran towards the hospital, he grabbed a blood bag for Elena and a couple for himself. He was back at Damon's so fast it didn't even feel like he was gone, "thanks" Damon said as he took one blood bag and gave it to Elena. She was nervous but she drank it anyways, and she immediately felt strong and kinda liked it. She felt the sunlight burn her and Bonnie pulled her out of the sunlight. "I kinda like this feeling" Elena said, "too bad you are not going to be a vampire" Damon said. Ryder knelt down beside her and said "Okay Elena, please try not to kill me" "what do I do?" Elena asked, "drink his blood" Damon said, Elena really didn't want to do this she was scared it wouldn't work, as she bit into Ryder's neck and she was surprised he tasted so good. To Elena he tasted like popcorn, chocolate and icing, and she didn't want to stop. "Elena stop you are going to kill him!" Bonnie said as Damon pulled her away, Ryder felt a bit dizzy as Elena drank more then he expected, and she immediately fell to the floor. "You okay Ryder?" Damon asked. "Yeah, I thought she wasn't going to stop" Ryder said, "I don't think she was" Bonnie said now annoyed at her. "Do you think she will wake up?" Enzo asked, "well she hasn't killed anyone" Damon said. "Except for almost killing Ryder" Chase said but only Ryder heard him.

Bonnie needed to leave as it was getting late but she kept the protection spell up for now and Freya agreed to come and put a stronger one up when she could. "I will explain to her aunt that she is okay and with me so she doesn't worry" Bonnie said kissing Ryder and leaving. "If she isn't okay?" Ryder asked, "I guess we will cross that bridge when we get there" Bonnie said as she left. Ryder was worried for Elena what if he killed her he knew she didn't really do anything to deserve to die. "So someone please explain to me this cure" Enzo said as he sat down on the couch, Damon sat beside him and said "8 years ago I found Ryder almost dead his father had beaten him pretty badly. I am not sure really on this part but Ryder's mother apparently had some of her witch friends place a cure inside Ryder. When I healed him with my blood it activated it making his blood the cure for vampirism. I am not exactly sure how it works but his scent attracts vampires to him and when they bite him they die. Then if they are pure of heart or have a purpose they are brought back as a human" "Interesting, I do have to agree with you about his scent it really is hard to resist" Enzo said. Damon said "unless you are ready to die then I suggest staying away from him" Damon said. "You don't think I will be brought back, jeez Damon I am hurt" Enzo said. "Honestly no I don't, I am surprised I was even brought back. Once you are human you can never go back, I did it for Ryder but what is your reason?" Damon asked his friend. "I don't necessarily want the cure, I just want to find Maggie" Enzo said. "That girl you told me about years ago?" Damon said, "yes I would assume she is older now but I still want to make sure she is okay" Enzo said. "Jeez, Enzo she came to find me was asking about you and I still had my humanity off and well you don't wan to know the rest" Damon said as Enzo tackled him. "You killed her!" Enzo said he was angry, "I didn't know she was your Maggie until after, I

am sorry" Damon said. Ryder and Stefan were trying to pull Enzo off but he was a lot stronger than them.

Freya arrived at the right moment as she stopped Enzo as he slumped to the floor, "you okay?

Freya asked. " I am good, is he?" Damon asked, "he will be fine but seeing as you invited him in,

I would be worried" Freya said as she set to work. "I am going to put the protection spell on Ryder himself, I feel keeping you cooped up is just going to make you rebel. I know my aunt did it to me and I hated her. So it will take me a few minutes to prepare" Freya said, "Is it going to hurt?" Ryder asked, "No but I am going to need you in a few minute to lay very still for me no matter what or it won't work." Freya said, "Okay" Ryder said as he waited for her to be ready, Rebekah watched her sister she was glad she was back in their lives. She never knew her when she was younger but having only brothers was hard for her. "Okay Ryder lay in the circle" Freya said, Ryder did as he was told and Freya said, "This might feel weird but it shouldn't hurt, just lay very still for me" as she began the enchantment. Ryder felt a coolness pass through him almost like he had a ghost walk into him. He felt a tingling in his body and he so badly wanted to move as felt weird. After a few minutes Freya said "Alright it is done, Ryder how do you feel?" "I am good, it was cold and I felt tingly but now I think I am good" Ryder said as he sat up. "Okay so this will keep you protected from anyone trying to locate you, it will be super hard for anyone else to track you. I will be able to as I am the one who put the protection spell on you, but Ryder I can't express this enough please try and stay out of trouble. I am having a hard time finding things to keep you safe" Freya said. "It is not like I try to get in trouble, it usually finds me" Ryder said, Enzo came to and said "What the bloody hell happened?" "you tried to hurt family and if you try it again you won't wake up next time" Freya said as she left. "Enzo, Maggie wasn't human when I killed her and if I didn't kill her she would have staked me in the heart" Damon said. "I guess it is fine I didn't expect much to be honest, I am gonna go however good luck" Enzo said as he ran out the door.

Elena was coming to and she said "what happened? Ryder why am I here?" "what do you remember?" Ryder asked her, "honestly being at school and the going home" Elena said, "well you were taken by these things called travelers, and they made you drink vampire blood and then took all your blood. They turned you into a vampire and then we brought you here and gave you the cure" Ryder said. "What? I was a vampire oh no I didn't hurt anyone right?" Elena asked all scared. "No you didn't we cured you, well I did and you are fine and now you won't be able to be a vampire anymore" Ryder said. "Okay but how did you cure me?" Elena said, "well if you promise not to tell anyone, my blood is the cure for vampirism" Ryder said. All the adults left giving Ryder some privacy with Elena, "really? so any vampire who wants to come back can just drink your blood and they are human?" Elena said. "No, I mean any vampire can drink my blood, but not all of them will be brought back. I am not sure how it works but only those with a purpose or those that are pure of heart will come back" Ryder said. "I see and I was brought back?" Elena said. "Well yes you didn't kill anyone Elena, and you still have a purpose and even though you doubt it I believe you are pure of heart" Ryder said. Elena started to cry, "Ryder why can't you love me?" "Oh Elena, please don't do this, I do love you just not in the way you want me to. Please just try to be my friend again I don't want to lose you" Ryder said. "I don't know if I can Ryder it hurts to much seeing you with Bonnie." Elena said as she stood up, "Elena I am sorry I never meant to hurt you, I don't know how to fix this our what to say" Ryder said. "I don't either but I am going to go home, I just can't be around you right now it hurts to much" Elena said as she left. Ryder felt awful and Chase hugged him, "I am sorry Ryder sir" "nothing for you to be sorry about pup, lets just head up to bed" Ryder said as he suddenly was feeling exhausted.

Will Elena be able to be friend with Ryder again? Will the protection spell keep Ryder safe? When will the babies come? Something will happen in the next chapter that no one expects stay tuned!

Chapter 37 Ryder's unfortunate choice

Ryder was getting ready for bed but he honestly felt like crap as he didn't want to lose Elena as a friend. Lexi came into the room to check on him and said "you alright Ryder? Damon said you might need a girl to talk to" Ryder sighed and said "I am just not sure aunt Lexi, I mean I hurt Elena and she hates me. There is a part of me that does care for her and maybe even love, but I love Bonnie too and I just either way one of them is hurt. I don't know what to do" "Aunt Lexi I

kinda like that, anyways sorry, Ryder being a teenager is hard you are still so young and you are not ready for this kinds of commitment. Sure you love Bonnie now but who knows how you will feel a year from now. Elena is young too and she will be alright, she is just going through a lot right now and trust me teenage girls have a lot more to deal with. Ultimately Ryder your feelings are your choice in the end, and you decide who you want to be with. If it is Elena then Bonnie will have to understand if it is Bonnie then Elena will come to terms eventually give her time" Lexi said as she kissed Ryder's forehead and left. "Thank aunt Lexi" Ryder said even though he didn't really feel like she helped him, Chase was already asleep and Ryder's head was spinning. He needed some air so he put his clothes back on and went downstairs and slipped out the door. He was hoping that this protection spell really worked as he didn't want to be kidnapped again he just wanted to be a normal teenager.

Ryder walked a bit trying to clear his head and it was weird as he found himself walking towards Tyler's. He made it to the Lockwood cellar and Tyler was still there with a bunch of his friends and he said "Ryder, didn't expect you to come back" Tyler said, "honestly I don't know why I am here" Ryder said. "Want a beer" Tyler said as he tossed him one, Ryder caught it and decided what the heck have some fun. Ryder ended up drinking a few more beers and he was starting to feel it, "you good Ryder?" a guy he didn't know asked him, "yeah I am good, what is that?" Ryder asked pointing to the drugs. "This is cocaine but honestly not something for beginners" Tyler said hitting his friend. "Who says I am a beginner?" Ryder said, "you have done cocaine before?" Tyler asked him, "no but let's give it a try?" Ryder said, as he watched Tyler's friend do it, "I don't know Ryder maybe you shouldn't" Tyler said. Ryder was tired of people telling him what to do as he took the paper and snorted the cocaine like the other guy. Ryder didn't expect it to burn so much as he coughed as he inhaled some. "See like I said not for beginners" Tyler said as his buddies laughed. Ryder didn't feel to awesome and he immediately regretted his decision, "you okay?" Tyler asked him. "Tyler he is good just needs more beer" Dylan said as he handed him one, Ryder didn't know if he wanted it but he took it anyways. "Guys just let him be this will violate my probation especially since he is the one I hurt" Tyler said. "No one needs to know it was you, I mean come on Tyler he has no idea what he is doing it is funny" Dylan said as Ryder stumbled a little. "I want no part of this" Tyler said as he walked away, Dylan laughed "Ryder here take these it will make you feel better" Dylan said handing him some painkillers. "What are these?" Ryder asked. "Just a little something to help" Dylan said Ryder wasn't sure but Dylan shoved them into Ryder's mouth and gave him some more beer. Ryder was super drunk and very high, and he couldn't even tell where he was. Dylan laughed as he left him there, Tyler knew this was bad he managed to get Ryder to his yard but he didn't want to get in trouble. Ryder walked but the painkillers had kicked in now and the cocaine mixed with them made him fall and he smacked his head on the porch.

Chase woke up and noticed Ryder was not in bed he was very confused as he thought he was getting ready. Chase ran out of the room using his pup door and sniffed for him, he followed his scent to the door. Chase went out the pup door there too and found Ryder passed out on the porch, Chase tried to wake him, "Ryder sir" Chase said as he shook him Ryder didn't move, Chase ran back into the house and was thankful Damon's door was open he barked loudly and jumped onto the bed. "Chase what is going on? Go get Ryder" Damon said rolling over, Chase barked again, and jumped onto the bed grabbing Damon's arm, "Chase what is wrong?" Damon said waking up Rebekah this time, Chase jumped off the bed and Damon put some clothes on a followed him. Chase went through the pup door, and Damon opened it and saw Ryder, "What the hell Ryder" Damon said as he knelt down. Damon didn't know what was going on Ryder was completely out if it, "Dammit Ryder what did you do, Chase get Lexi" Damon said as he carried Ryder into the house. Lexi came out and checked Ryder, "Damon we need to get him to the hospital now" Lexi said as Damon put him in the car. He drove so fast it took them only 2 minutes to get there. Damon carried him in and Dr. Fell took him right away, Lexi went to help as she was a med student. Damon paced he was pissed because he thought Ryder was asleep and he had no idea what was going on. He was also very worried as again he didn't know what was going on. It was a few hours after when Lexi came back out, "Damon sit" Lexi said, "No just tell me" Damon said, "Ryder is stable, but Damon there were a lot of drugs in his system, and his alcohol level was way to high for a kid his age. I am not sure what happened but he almost died this is serious" Lexi said. "What drugs Lexi?" Damon asked, "he had cocaine and a high trace of oxycodone, I honestly don't think he knew what he was doing. All three of these mixed together I am surprised he is not dead" Lexi said. Damon threw a magazine across the floor, "Damon stop you are in a hospital" Lexi scolded him, "this is not Ryder, honestly he would never do this. How did I not know my teenage son was even out of the house. You saw him last was he not going to bed?" Damon said with anger, "he was yes but I don't know what is going on, this is something you need to talk to him about. Damon I suggest not doing it here as you are angry and Ryder needs to rest" Lexi said as she went back home.

Damon walked into Ryder's room and he was in fact asleep, Damon was so angry but he was just happy that Ryder was alive. Damon sat down in a chair next to the bed and watched Ryder sleep as he didn't really know what to say. Ryder started shaking and Damon became nervous as nurses and doctors piled into the room. They kicked Damon out and this made him even more nervous, "please let him be okay" Damon prayed as he didn't know what else to do he watched as his son was fading away from him. Dr. Fell came out and said "Damon he is not out of the woods, we were able to stop his seizure, I am honestly concerned about the amount of alcohol that was in his system. It might have done some serious damage, has he ever done anything like this before?" Dr. Fell asked, "No and I am not sure what even happened, I thought he was asleep" Damon said as he cried, "Listen it is not your fault, we are keeping a close eye on him, I am going to take him for a CT here and just make sure everything checks out" Dr. Fell said as Ryder was taken out of the room and for a CT. A few minutes later Ryder was back in his room and Damon was beside him again, "Ryder why did you do this?" he asked, as he didn't get a response he held Ryder's hand. Dr. Fell came into the room and said, "the CT came back normal, but again as I am still concerned about the alcohol we won't know more until morning." "Thank you Dr. Fell" Damon said as she left the room. Damon didn't get sleep as he watched Ryder and the machines that were keeping him alive. The next morning, Lexi, Stefan and Rebekah were there and they were all waiting to hear news. Dr. Fell came into the room and said "I am going to take this out and see if he can breathe on his own. I won't know anymore until he wakes up" Dr. Fell said. She removed the breathing tube and the machines went crazy but Ryder was still breathing on his own as his numbers stabilized.

Tyler didn't know if Ryder was okay and he was scared something would happen. "Tyler are you okay?" Caroline asked him, "Care I did something stupid" Tyler said, "what I am sure it can't be that bad" Caroline said. "It's bad Caroline I could end up in jail bad" Tyler said with panic, "Tyler what did you do?" Caroline asked now worried, "After you left some of the guys stayed and they were doing drugs. I honestly didn't suspect it but Ryder showed up. I gave him one beer, he ended up having a few more he was loosening up a bit. The Dylan was doing drugs and Ryder thought he would give it a try. I told him not to but he did it anyways, Dylan gave him more alcohol and who knows what else. Ryder was wasted Care and not just a little bit I was able to get him home but I was to afraid do anything and I just left him there. I don't even know if he is alive" Tyler said. Caroline slapped him, "Tyler you are an idiot!" she texted Bonnie.

Caroline: check on Ryder something is wrong

Bonnie: What is wrong?

Caroline: just check on him please

Bonnie texted Ryder but didn't get a response, so she called Damon. "Hello" Damon answered, "Hey is Ryder okay?" Bonnie asked, "No Bonnie he isn't, I can't talk right now" Damon said as he hung up. Bonnie was super confused and she texted Caroline back.

Bonnie: Caroline start talking what is going on?

Caroline: is he okay?

Bonnie: His dad said no but that was it

Caroline: I am coming over just hang on

Caroline looked at Tyler, "you better pray he is okay, I will not stop anyone from killing you if he isn't" Caroline said as she walked away. Caroline was over at Bonnies and she explained everything to her, "are you kidding?" Bonnie said, "No, Tyler is worried" Caroline said, "well forgive me if I could care less about Tyler, what drugs did they give him?" Bonnie asked, "Tyler only know cocaine he doesn't know what else Dylan gave him" Caroline said. "Dammit did Tyler learn nothing" Bonnie said, "First Tyler didn't do anything and second Ryder was the one who showed up there so you should ask him what his intentions were" Caroline said. "Ryder has never done drugs ever, and I can't just see him willingly going back to Tyler's party" Bonnie said. "Tyler said he was surprised to see him as well he said Ryder looked bummed about something" Caroline said as she left. Bonnie was left stunned as she prayed her boyfriend was okay.

Ryder opened his eyes and he felt like the room was spinning and he didn't know where he was he panicked. "Ryder you are okay, you are in the hospital" Damon said. Ryder looked at his dad and he couldn't remember what happened, "Why am I here?" Ryder asked, "you tell me? what did you do last night?" Damon asked him, "I had a lot on my mind I went for a walk, then I don't know" Ryder said. "So you are telling me that the drugs and alcohol were in your system just randomly?" Damon said with a bit of a tone. "No I know about the alcohol but not the drugs" Ryder said. "Ryder I am not going to argue with you here, you are in so much trouble. Just get better and I will see you at home" Damon said as he left. Ryder looked at Lexi, "Ryder I am disappointed to be honest, you had cocaine, and oxycodone in your system and enough alcohol that could have killed you. What were you doing?" Lexi said. "I don't know I don't even remember doing drugs" Ryder said he started to cry. "I am on shift today I will come check on you later" Lexi said as she went to do her rounds. Stefan and Rebekah left with Damon, Ryder tried to remember what happened. Ryder looked up and saw Tyler standing in the doorway, "glad you are okay" Tyler said, "I almost died! what happened?" Ryder said, "you don't remember?" Tyler asked. "No I remember coming back to the cellar but nothing after that" Ryder said. "Well you had a lot of alcohol, I am not eve sure what Dylan was putting in those drinks. I was surprised you were still standing, then you saw Dylan do cocaine and you wanted it. I tried to stop you but you did it anyways, then Dylan gave you something else I don't know and more alcohol. I brought you home but I didn't stay I am sorry, I was scared. I didn't want to break my probation and I hope that you won't say anything" Tyler said. "I can't really be mad as you didn't force me to do anything, I came to your place so this is on me I guess." Ryder said, "well I am glad you are okay" Tyler said. "I am okay as in alive for now, my dad is pretty pissed at me so I

will probably be grounded until I graduate" Ryder said. Tyler laughed as he walked away, Lexi came back and checked on him.

"You seem okay Ryder, what is on your mind? Why did you leave?" Lexi asked, "I just had a lot on my mind, I should not have gone back to the party. I honestly don't know why I ended up there I just wanted to clear my head" Ryder said. "Well did it help?" Lexi asked, "no I think it just made it worse to be honest, I feel like shit and dad hates me" Ryder said, "Okay I get the shit part, but Ryder trust me on this Damon will never hate you, yes he is pissed off but he loves you. I am not certain what your punishment will be but Ryder don't ever do this again understood" Lexi said. "Yes I understand" Ryder said as Lexi left and Ryder fell asleep hoping to feel better.

How angry is Damon? Will Ryder ever be allowed outside? What will happen with Tyler? Find out soon!

Chapter 38 Ryder's consequences

Dr. Fell came into the room that evening and checked Ryder Lexi was with her, "Lexi you can take him home, he seems to be doing better. Ryder don't do this again" Dr. Fell said, "okay" Ryder said as Lexi finished her shift and she drove Ryder home. They both entered the house and Damon was in the living room, Ryder didn't know what to expect as he looked at his dad. Damon didn't say anything he was still pissed off, Ryder went upstairs and took a shower hoping his dad would calm down some. Chase waited in Ryder's room and Ryder came out, "Ryder sir? is everything okay? Where did you go?" Chase asked, "Chase I did something stupid, if you come downstairs, I am sure you will hear it all. I am in a lot of trouble and well I am afraid to face my dad but I have to" Ryder said as he opened his door and walked downstairs. Chase followed as he was curious but he also wanted to protect Ryder as he didn't know what to expect. "Ryder dinner is on the counter" Rebekah said to him, Ryder ate in silence and it was awkward as he could feel his dad staring at him. "Remember honey he is a teenager, we will leave so you two can talk but be nice" Rebekah said giving him a kiss. Ryder sat on the couch opposite of Damon and waited as he was afraid.

Damon looked at him and said "I am waiting to hear from you first, as I honestly don't know what to say here" Ryder took a deep breath and said "Okay, I was all set to go to bed but after talking to Lexi I don't know. I just wanted to clear my head, so I went for a walk. I ended up back at Tyler's party and to be honest I don't know why that is where I went, I didn't expect anyone to be there it was late. I took the beer he offered and honestly it helped, I didn't expect to keep drinking and I don't even remember taking the drugs. I was really drunk and I know it was stupid" Ryder said he looked at his feet. "Ryder it was more than stupid, first you left the house without telling anyone. Second the amount of crap in your system could have killed you, and third I honestly never expected this from you. I thought I wouldn't have to worry but I don't even know what to say here. I am so angry at you I don't want to say something I will regret" Damon said. Ryder cried he knew he disappointed his dad and he hated that, "I am sorry" Ryder said. "That doesn't even begin to cover it Ryder, you have no idea what you were doing. I guarantee

Tyler and his friends didn't either. They are just lucky you didn't die, I will be talking with Tyler's mother and the sheriff about this tomorrow. Ryder you are not to leave this house for anything, I mean anything. I am taking your computer too, and your phone. You will do chores and anything else I need done. You are grounded until I think you learned something understood?" Damon said. "Yes but it wasn't Tyler's fault" Ryder said. "I don't give a shit whose fault it was, it is mostly yours but it was on her property that this happened. How you made it home is a miracle honestly and if Chase didn't find you well you would be dead. Ryder I want you to get your computer and your phone bring it down here and then go to bed" Damon said Ryder nodded and ran upstairs. He did what he was told and ran back upstairs and crawled into bed and cried Chase wanted to comfort him but he was still absorbing the information.

Skye nudged him to go and comfort his owner and Chase was hesitant but he jumped onto the bed. Ryder grabbed his pup in a tight hug and cried himself to sleep, Chase decided to just leave it for tonight as Ryder had been through enough. Ryder woke up the next morning and he knew it was going to be a rough summer. "Ryder sir?" Chase said, "yeah?" Ryder said, "Why? I had no idea you left. Why did you leave?" Chase asked. "Honestly Chase because I am confused this whole thing with Elena and Bonnie I just don't know. I love Bonnie but there is a part of me that also loves Elena and my head is spinning. I didn't expect what happened to happen and regret it big time but I don't want to talk about it" Ryder said. "Okay" Chase said as he followed Ryder downstairs and went outside. "Morning how you feeling?" Rebekah asked him, "stupid" Ryder said, "well I am sure things will blow over soon, here" Rebekah said handing him some breakfast. "Thanks where is dad?" Ryder said, "he went to work, he is still pretty upset but he will get over it. He left this for you" Rebekah said pointing to the note. "Is he really going to tell the sheriff and Tyler's mom?" Ryder asked her as read the chores list. "Yes Ryder, you could have died. I doubt the mayor even knew what was happening on her property had this turned out differently the mayor would be held responsible for your death" Rebekah said. "I just don't want Tyler in trouble he didn't give me the drugs" Ryder said, "doesn't matter sweetie they were there and he was there. Either way it won't be good for anyone, eat your breakfast you have lots to do" Rebekah said. Ryder sighed as he ate his breakfast so he could start on the chores, they were going to take him all day as their house was huge.

Damon called the sheriff and the mayor over to the mystic grill and explained what had happened the night before. "Seriously? Is Ryder all right?" Liz asked, "yes he is very lucky, he says it wasn't Tyler who gave him the drugs but the fact that he had enough in his system could have killed him. I am more just disappointed in him, I am just letting you know Mayor Lockwodd because had he died on your property this could have been much worse" Damon said. "I completely understand I am sorry that this happened. I am relieved that Ryder is alright, and trust me Tyler will not be having anymore parties I can promise you that. I hope this doesn't disrupt his probation but I will not hesitate to send him back to the military school if need be" Carol said. "Ryder assured me that Tyler was not responsible for the drugs, I do not hold him accountable he said Tyler even tried to stop him. I am not sure where the drugs came from but I do want someone held responsible. I believe Tyler was the one who brought Ryder home it would have been better if he actually knocked or something as he just left him on the porch. Had Ryder's dog not found him he would have died." Damon said, "I will figure out where the drugs came from, for now I won't do anything with Tyler unless Damon asks me too." Liz said, "No just find out where the drugs are from. Ryder is grounded so he isn't doing anything as of right now" Damon said. "Tyler will be grounded as well I am very upset I thought he learnt something at this military school but I guess stupid was not covered" Carol said as she walked out of the grill. Damon chuckled a little, "I will figure out where the drugs came from and hold whomever responsible, Caroline will have a lot of explaining to do as well. I am glad Ryder is alright" Liz said as she also left. Damon's friend Alaric came and sat down, "I heard a bit of that, I never expected Ryder to do something like this. He seems like a good kid, I am surprised" Alaric said, "you and be both, what you having?" Damon asked, "Bourbon" Alaric said. "wise choice" Damon said as he poured him a glass.

Ryder wasn't even half way through his chores and he was already tired, "don't we have a maid for this" Ryder complained, Rebekah laughed, "yes we do but Damon cancelled her this week, he said you need to learn something" she said. "How is me cleaning the house going to make me learn something" Ryder whined. "I am not sure it keeps you busy and I guess it is working as you are hating it, keep going Damon said he wants it done before he gets home" Rebekah said as she went back to her book. Ryder continued to work as he was not ready to disappoint his dad again, he needed to try and fix their relationship. The doorbell rang an Ryder was going to answer it, "Nope you keep working" Rebekah said as she went to the door. "Hi is Ryder home?" Bonnie asked, "Yes he is but he is very busy" Rebekah said, "Oh, I just want to talk to him for a minute" Bonnie said. "I am sorry Bonnie but he is in a lot of trouble and he is not allowed guests. You will have to wait until he is allowed to have visitors again." Rebekah said, "okay it is just he is not answering his phone" Bonnie said. "I know Damon took it and his computer as well, Bonnie Ryder is fine he will contact you when he is allowed" Rebekah said as she closed the door and Bonnie walked off. Ryder sighed he wished he could talk to his friends again he was already bored and it was only day one. Stefan and Lexi were having a hard time finding a house they liked and they really liked the idea of a big family. "Why can't we just fix the basement up into an area for us?" Lexi said. "Lexi that is genius, I never thought of that, or we could even have Ryder move down there and we can take his room as it is right beside ours" Stefan said. "Well let us talk to Damon and see what he says" Lexi said. "Okay I will go over to the grill, do you want me to drive you home first?" Stefan asked. "Yes please I am not about to walk home being 8 months pregnant" Lexi said. "Sorry didn't think, make sure Ryder is alright" Stefan said. "I will" Lexi said as Stefan dropped her off at home.

Lexi walked in the door and said "wow smells nice in here" "Ryder is very good at cleaning, how did the house search go?" Rebekah asked. "We are having no luck, we are going to ask Damon if we can fix up the basement and stay here. Maybe we can have Ryder moved down there or something" Lexi said. "I am glad you are staying it is nice our babies will grow up together" Rebekah said. "Yes and having 2 screaming babies is better than one" Lexi said. Rebekah laughed as Lexi helped her prepare lunch, "how is Ryder?" Lexi asked, "He is not taking this well, he is frustrated" Rebekah said. "He should be more than frustrated, I mean I am just happy he isn't dead. I will go and talk to him where is he?" Lexi asked, "He was cleaning upstairs" Rebekah said.

Lexi made her way upstairs and found Ryder cleaning Damon's bathroom, "Hey sweetie how are you?" Lexi asked him. "This is disgusting I mean seriously" Ryder said holding up a clump of hair, Lexi laughed, "yes girls do lose a lot of it, Ryder can we talk about last night?" Lexi asked him, "I feel like there is nothing left to say I mean dad is going to hate me forever, I am stuck doing nothing until I die. I am just tired and I am done talking about it" Ryder said with frustration. "I get that but Ryder I just want you help me understand what happened after we talked" Lexi said. "Everything you said to me had my head spinning, I honestly don't know how I feel about Elena, I know I love Bonnie but I don't know if I love her more than Elena. I hate that I am hurting her and I hate that if I decide to be with Elena I am hurting Bonnie, like it all sucks" Ryder said. "Ryder you are only 16 slow down a little, give yourself a break you don't know what love is yet, and you have a lot of time to think about it. I do just need to say that Damon doesn't hate you and he will come around I promise" Lexi said as she hugged him and left him to finish cleaning. Rebekah called Ryder down for lunch and he ate silently as he was all talked out and just wanted to eat and finish cleaning so he could lock himself in his room.

Ryder's summer is going to suck! Will he ever decide between Elena or Bonnie? What will happen when the Sheriff finds out where the drugs are from? Will Tyler be punished? All good things to come!

Chapter 39 Terrible Summer

Ryder finished cleaning just after 5 and he was tired he locked the door to his room and just lay there contemplating. "How am I going to last all summer, I couldn't even last day one" Ryder said to himself. Ryder jumped as Chase climbed onto the bed, "Jesus Chase you scared me" Ryder said. "Sorry Ryder sir, are you alright?" Chase asked, "I wish everyone would stop asking me that. I am fine, just angry at myself I don't even know why I did it" Ryder said. "Alright sorry Ryder sir, I will leave you" Chase said. "You don't have to leave Chase, I just don't want to talk about it anymore" Ryder said. Chase lay on his bed and just watched Ryder he was worried about him. Stefan knocked on Ryder's door, "Hey bud, dinner is ready" he said, Ryder didn't care he honestly didn't want to face everyone right now he just didn't have it in him. "I am not sure he is coming to eat" Stefan said, "Whatever let him starve then" Damon said he was still a bit angry. "Damon you don't mean that, Ryder is hurting just as much as you. He thinks you hate him" Rebekah said. "I don't hate him, I am angry at him, and I just didn't think he was capable of being so stupid" Damon said. "Listen Ryder has been through a lot as a teenager, being the cure and how may times has he been kidnapped. Ryder is tough and he may have not known what he was doing but he regrets it. He has a lot on his mind he has 2 girls that he cares a lot about and he can't decide which one" Lexi said. "That is the reason he took drugs and almost drank himself to death?" Damon said a little angry. "I am not sure it is the reason he left the house, but Damon does it matter, he if fine and he regrets it enough. Don't punish him by not talking to him you are his father go work this out!" Lexi scolded him. Damon knew she was right, "Fine I will talk to him, and I am cool with you fixing up the basement Lexi, either way if you want it for your or for Ryder" Damon said as he grabbed a plate and went upstairs. "I think we should let Ryder have it might be cold down there for a baby" Lexi said. "I agree but we need to get on it if we are hoping to have it down before our baby arrives" Stefan said as he called some contractors.

Damon knocked on Ryder's door, "Ryder I brought you dinner" Damon said, "I'm not hungry" Ryder said, "alright but we need to talk can you unlock the door" Damon said, "I am not in the mood" Ryder said. "That doesn't matter Ryder, unlock the door" Damon said sternly, Ryder sighed he rolled over and unlocked it and went back to his bed. "Ryder you did a nice job on the house, but this room is disgusting." Damon said trying to make a joke, Ryder didn't say anything, "Ryder look at me, we need to work through this" Damon said Ryder sat up he didn't want to talk but he felt he didn't have a choice. "I don't hate you, I love you so damn much that what you did hurt me. Ryder did you think about how we would have all felt if you died?" Damon asked, "No" Ryder said, "What was your intention going to Tyler's? Were you expecting something to happen?" Damon asked, "I didn't intend to go to Tyler's, I just wanted to walk, and I heard the music and then Tyler invited me to have a beer. I at first didn't want it but I was thinking to much and I thought it would help. Things did get a bit out of hand after that, Dylan was mixing a lot of things together and I should not have did it I know but I was trying to shut my brain off" Ryder said. "Well you almost did permanently, Ryder please don't do something like this again, I get you have a complex mind. I am not sure what it is you are struggling with but we are all here for you and we all love you" Damon said. "I know I am sorry dad, I just feel so alone right now" Ryder said. "You are not alone Ryder, and whatever you do decide on between Elena and Bonnie they will understand. You are 16 years old please don't let 2 teenage girls ruin your life, they might not be the ones you decide to be with forever" Damon said. Ryder started to cry, Damon hugged him and said "eat you will feel better, and Ryder we are going to have you move into the basement before they babies come" Damon said. "Why? am I honestly in that much trouble?" Ryder said. Damon laughed, "we are not going to leave it as a dungeon Ryder, Stefan is getting some contractors in we are going to make it like a little getaway for you. It will have a bedroom and a bathroom as well. I just think it will be easier with the babies, as Lexi and Stefan decided to stay" Damon said. "Cool okay thanks" Ryder said, Damon handed Ryder his phone, "Bonnie is worried about you, but when you are done bring the phone back you are still grounded" Damon said. Ryder nodded and hugged his dad as he left the room.

Carol was angry with Tyler as she said "Caroline go home, Tyler will not be having visitors for a while." "Mom!" Tyler said, "No Tyler I thought you learned something at this military school, do you have any idea how much trouble I would be in if Ryder had died!" Carol yelled at him as Caroline left. "No, and I tried to stop him" Tyler said, "It doesn't matter I didn't know you were having drunks and alcohol at this party! Tyler you are no longer allowed parties at the cellars, and you are grounded. You are just lucky Ryder didn't die or I would have killed you myself" Carol said as she walked away. Tyler had hoped his mom wouldn't find out and he was annoyed that Ryder told them. Ryder called Bonnie just to assure her he was alright she wanted to know more but he said he was tired of talking about it. Ryder said goodbye to her and took his plate and phone back downstairs. Lexi and Rebekah smiled at him and each gave him a hug, then Ryder went back to his room and took a shower and just went to bed. He had nothing better to do and he was tired from cleaning.

It was 1 am when Chase knew something was wrong, Ryder wasn't moving much and he threw up without even doing anything. Chase barked and ran out of the room, Damon heard him as he came running, "Ryder!" Damon said as he tried to wake him up, he noticed he was burning up and he screamed, "LEXI!" she heard and ran to his room as fast as she could. Lexi checked on Ryder as Damon changed his sheets. "I sort of half expected this, he is going through a withdrawal." Lexi said as she tried to get him up, Stefan came in and helped her, "withdrawal from what?" Damon asked. "the oxycodone it is a very strong pain killer and his body is not used to it and well it is reacting now. Stefan help me get him in the shower" Lexi said. "Stefan lifted him and they managed to get him in, Lexi turned the cold water on and this startled Ryder awake he panicked. "Ryder you are okay, your body is fighting the drugs as they are not fully out of your system yet." Lexi said, Ryder stood up and Damon handed him some dry clean pajamas as they let him get dressed. Ryder felt terrible and he wished he didn't make this stupid mistake it was costing him to much. He came out of the bathroom only to have all the adults staring at him, "I am okay" Ryder said. "You are far from okay, here drink this" Lexi said handing him some medicine and some juice. Ryder drank it, "what is it?" Ryder asked, "just something to help fight the drugs, I didn't realize how much you took. You owe so much to Chase Ryder this is now the 4th time he has saved your life" Lexi said as they all left the room. Ryder looked at his pup and said "Thanks Chase" "your welcome Ryder sir, but please stop doing stupid things" Chase said. Ryder laughed, "I will try" Ryder said as he climbed back into bed and he cuddled Chase as they both fell asleep.

The next morning Ryder still felt pretty awful but he managed to roll out of bed and get dressed.

He made his way downstairs and didn't see anyone, "Where is everyone Chase?" Ryder asked confused. "I am not sure" Chase said, there was a note, on the counter.

Ryder,

I went to work, Rebekah is at a doctor's appointment will be home after, Stefan and Lexi are out shopping not sure when they will be back. You are still grounded so don't do anything stupid, hope you feel better.

Dad

Ryder made himself some toast and gave Chase some breakfast as he sat on the couch. Rebekah cam home shortly after Ryder finished eating, "Morning" she said, "Hey" Ryder said as he helped her bring some groceries inside. "Thank you did you eat? I can make you something" she said, "I am good I had toast, not feeling to good still don't want to push it" Ryder said. "Fair enough, the contractors will be here soon to create your room and such downstairs do you have anything specific?" Rebekah asked, "You mean like I can design it?" Ryder said, "sure it is your space you can do whatever you want" Rebekah said, "Cool" Ryder said as he ran downstairs and started to think of how he wanted it to look. The contractors arrived shortly after and Ryder told them what he wanted. "Okay kid I will see what we can do" the head contractor said as they started working.

Stefan and Lexi came home and they had lots of things for their baby, Ryder helped them carry it all inside. "Wow" Rebekah said, "yeah we might have gone a bit over board" Lexi said. "This makes me think, Damon and I haven't really gotten anything for our baby" Rebekah said. "You still have time" Stefan said as he carried everything upstairs. Rebekah started panicking a little as she realized her baby was due in 3 weeks and she had nothing for him or her. Ryder noticed this and he texted his dad.

Ryder: Dad, Rebekah is freaking out just realized you have zero stuff for your baby

Damon: Oh um don't worry Ryder I have it covered

Ryder: Okay

It was just before dinner when the doorbell rang and Ryder opened it, "Hello Ryder, glad you are alright" Klaus said as he carried a few things inside. "Oh please allow Elijah and Kol inside"

Klaus said. Ryder hesitated, "he doesn't trust me let me take Rebekah, you get everything ready"

Kol said as he pulled Rebekah out of the house. "Get what ready Kol what are they doing?" Rebekah asked, "It is a surprise becks just calm down" Kol said, "Ryder I get you don't trust him but he will be a lot more useful inside then outside. I promise he will behave" Freya said, "Okay Elijah you can come in" Ryder said. "Thank you" Elijah said as he entered carrying the rest of the stuff upstairs. It didn't take them long to set up the nursery for Rebekah and Damon, Ryder checked it out and it was actually really cute he was excited to be a brother. Freya and Elijah left and waited for Klaus who stopped and said "Ryder I heard what you did and well I won't lecture you about it as I can see you have had lots of that. As your potential uncle don't ever do it again, I happen to need the cure to stay alive" "Okay" Ryder said, "alright I will take it" Klaus said as he clapped him on the back and followed his sister and brother. Rebekah came back shortly after they left and said "What was that?" "follow me" Ryder said as he took her upstairs and into her babies new nursery. Rebekah was shocked, "some of this was mine" she said as she remembered her baby stuff. "Your siblings must really love you" Ryder said, Rebekah cried as she felt someone grab her from behind. "Thank you Damon this is amazing" Rebekah said turning to kiss him, "well I had it planned for weeks just took Klaus some time to find it all, I am glad you like it" Damon said. Lexi had finished the dinner and they all sat down together to have it as they couldn't wait for the babies to arrive.

Someone has their baby...Ryder does something stupid again and Damon finally proposes to Rebekah.

Chapter 40 A baby and a dumb decision!

Ryder was going stir crazy in the house he was literally so bored he didn't know what to do. His dad was always at work and he was stuck at home with Rebekah and she didn't pay much attention to him as she was almost ready to have a baby. Stefan and Lexi were also upstairs they were getting their babies nursery ready. Ryder who was now down a bedroom until the contractors were doing with the basement was pretty annoyed. He was stuck on a mattress in his siblings nursery for right now and it was small and it had animals all over the walls. Damon had eased up on his grounding a bit as he did have his phone back. Ryder received a text from Tyler and he was surprised.

Tyler: hey I am not sure if you are still grounded but I think we need to talk

Ryder: yeah still grounded not sure if I will ever not be

Tyler: can you meet me outside your place for like 10 minutes

Ryder: maybe I just have to sneak around my step mom and uncle

Tyler: Okay I will wait for you

Ryder went to see what everyone was doing and everyone was distracted so he was able to sneak outside. Chase was onto him however and followed him, Ryder didn't see the harm in Chase coming. "Ryder sir you are going to get into trouble" Chase said to him, Ryder ignored him as Tyler didn't know he could talk to his pup and he wasn't going to make it weird. Tyler arrived shortly after and said "hey so I first again want to say sorry, Dylan is an idiot and I had no idea where he got the drugs. I should have done more to stop it my mom is not allowing me to have any more parties. I feel like you came back for a reason" Tyler said. "I am not mad Tyler, and my dad was the one who told your mom sorry, he just was angry. I don't know why I ended up back there I was walking and heard the music." Ryder said. "I am not pissed my mom found out and the sheriff told me that you are the one who prevented them form punishing me more, so I guess I owe you for that. Why were you out walking?" Tyler asked him, "I had a lot on my min and I needed to clear my head" Ryder said. "Hmm well did it help?" Tyler asked, "nope still have the same problems and being stuck inside all the time makes it worse as I can't figure it out" Ryder said. "Anything I can help with?" Tyler asked really hoping they could be friends as he actually did like Ryder. "I am just stuck figuring out girl problems" Ryder said, "I get it man, Caroline is a handful" Tyler said. "Mine is a bit more complicated" Ryder said, "You mean Bonnie and Elena?" Tyler asked, "yeah, how do you know?" Ryder asked. "Caroline has a big mouth, and to be honest Ryder I always pictured you with Elena, but I should go my mom is going to be back soon" Tyler said as he left. Ryder walked back to the house with Chase and Stefan said "where did you go?" "just outside for a minute needed some air" Ryder said as he just wanted to go hide somewhere and think. Since his room was now a nursery he really had no where to go so he sat on the couch in the living room.

"He seems depressed" Lexi said, "he is just bored, its been a long month for him literally being able to do nothing" Stefan said. "poor kid and now he has no bedroom I feel bad" Lexi said, "his will be done soon and Damon is taking him tomorrow so he can be surprised" Stefan said. "Where is Damon taking him?" Lexi asked, "I don't know it is his day off and he said he needs a day with him. It will be good maybe he will ease up a bit let Ryder have some fun again" Stefan said. Ryder was thinking about what Tyler said he was just so confused he really needed to stop thinking about it. Damon came home just before dinner again and Stefan told him Ryder left for a bit, but he was only gone for 10 or so minutes. Damon didn't seem to concerned as he could tell something was bugging him and he was hoping tomorrow would help him open up a bit more. Ryder was having a hard time falling asleep in the nursery as the mattress sucked and the room creeped him out. Ryder went downstairs and sat on the couch in the living room, it wasn't long until he fell asleep there. Damon went to wake Ryder for their day today and he panicked when he wasn't in the nursery, he came to the kitchen and saw Lexi. "Lexi I can't" Damon started to say but Lexi hushed him and pointed to the couch. Damon's relief was shown on his face, Lexi had their lunch packed as she knew they were going to need it today. Damon woke Ryder up and Lexi gave him breakfast. "Ryder today you and I are going to do something" Damon said, "you mean I can leave the house?" Ryder asked, Damon laughed "yes but you are coming with me" Damon said. "Cool" Ryder said as he went to get dressed, "alright let me know when it is ready and I will bring him back" Damon said as Lexi, Stefan and Rebekah were getting the basement ready for him.

Damon was taking Ryder fishing as he used to do it once and he felt it was quiet enough for them to talk. "This is where I learned how to fish, when I was younger, I may not be very good at it but I thought we could talk" Damon said. "I never fished before" Ryder said, "It is okay it really isn't that hard" Damon said as they climbed into the boat and Damon drove them out a bit and showed Ryder how to cast the line as they waited for something to happen. "Dad can I ask you something?" Ryder said, "sure anything" Damon said. "I am stuck in my head about this and it is driving me nuts, I am not sure who I want to date Elena or Bonnie. I obviously love Bonnie but a lot has happened between me and Elena this past year and I liked her for a long time. Once she told me she loved me I don't know those feelings sort of came back. I just don't know what to do because I am hurting someone in the end" Ryder said. "Jeez this is tough, okay well I was always told to follow your heart, I get someone will be hurt but you need to ask yourself who do you think makes you happier. Bonnie is a nice girl and she has done a lot for us, and as much as I don't really like Elena I feel like you wouldn't be asking me this if you didn't feel the same way. I

know Bonnie will be hurt but Ryder if you aren't happy with her don't keep leading her on, it won't be good for either of you in the end." Damon said, "Ugh I just don't want to hurt her" Ryder said. "I think you just made your decision Ryder, and either way someone is going to end up hurt just don't let it be you" Damon said. Ryder felt his pole move and Damon helped him reel in the fish. Ryder was stoked he caught a fish he didn't think he was going to, it was nice hanging out with his dad. "I hope we can do this more, I feel like when the baby comes you are going to be busy" Ryder said. "Ryder I will always find time for you" Damon assured him, he felt that him and his dad were finally getting back to a good place despite his stupidness. Damon received a text that the room was ready and they packed up and headed back. Ryder left for a brief moment to use the bathroom before getting into the car and he felt a breeze and a cold sensation pass through him. Ryder didn't think anything of it at the time and went back to his dad's car.

They drove into the driveway and Ryder said "hey my car is fixed" with excitement, "yeah look at that, still grounded though" Damon said. "I know but I am glad it is fixed" Ryder said as they walked into the house. Ryder thought it was weird that everyone was staring at him, "Ryder, we know we took over your room but we worked hard today for you. Go and check out your new place" Lexi said. Ryder's eyes grew as he ran downstairs, he was so excited, "this is freaking awesome" Ryder said as there was a huge TV with video games galore, and a pool table, a foosball table, and air hockey table. Ryder's room was huge and even his bathroom was pretty awesome. "Thank you for this I love it" Ryder said, "your welcome and Ryder I would like to see you upstairs once in a while" Damon said and Ryder laughed. Ryder was happy again at least for now until he broke Bonnie's heart then who knows. "Let him have some friends over tonight" Lexi said to Damon. "Why? what is that going to teach him?" Damon asked, "Nothing it will show that you love him, it is summer and he's learned a lesson I think" Lexi said. "Okay but I better not regret this" Damon said as he went back downstairs, "Ryder please don't make me regret this but if you want to have few friends over to show them your room you can" Damon said, "really?" Ryder said excited. "Yes but only a few" Damon said, "Thank you" Ryder said as he hugged his dad. Ryder texted his friends, as he thought about what he would say to Bonnie or if he was going to even do it.

Ryder: hey all um so my dad said I can have a few people over, so come when you can, I have something cool to show you.

Matt: Cool, I can come good to have you back dude Caroline: I want to come but is Tyler coming?

Tyler: I am in this text weird, Caroline I am coming

Caroline: Cool

Bonnie: I will come too

Elena: Maybe

Ryder texted Elena privately,

Ryder: Please come Elena, I want you here

Elena: It hurts Ryder

Ryder: I know but it won't forever

Elena: What does that mean?

Ryder: Just come please

Elena: Okay

Just after dinner Ryder's friends arrived, and Damon directed them to the basement, "really the dungeon" Caroline said as her and Tyler walked down. Damon was surprised Tyler was invited but he was trying to trust Ryder. "Holy shit" Caroline said as the room was completely transformed. "This beats the dungeon you locked me in" Tyler said, "yeah well I was kicked out of my room for a nursery so this was their solution" Ryder said. "This is sick" Matt said as they all started playing pool. Bonnie and Elena also came over and Bonnie was surprised Elena came as she thought she hated them both. They were all having a good time when Ryder heard commotion upstairs he went to see. "Everything is good Ryder, Lexi is just in labor. It will be a while go have fun with your friends" Stefan said. "Are you sure?" Ryder asked, "yes go Ryder, we will come get you when the baby is here" Stefan said as he drove Lexi to the hospital.

"My aunt is having a baby" Ryder said as he came back downstairs, "aw do you want us to go?"

Caroline asked. "Nope it is fine, my dad and Rebekah are upstairs" Ryder said, he looked over at

Elena and Bonnie and he knew he needed to do this. He pulled both girls into his room and said "I can't do this anymore, no matter what I say or do here one of you is going to hate me. I care for you both and I am just not sure I can keep lying to myself. Bonnie I care for you I do, and I know you will probably hate me for a while but I hope that we can be friends. I am sorry I hate that I am hurting you please don't hate me." Ryder said, "are you saying this because you are want to be with Elena?" Bonnie asked, Elena perked up a bit, "I don't know Bonnie, I haven't been able to stop thinking about her since she told me, and even though I said I loved you, which I do don't get me wrong I just can't help but feel something different for her" Ryder said. Bonnie was pissed she stormed out of the room and left she didn't hate him she sort of expected it to happen. She left without saying anything to anyone and Tyler sort of had an Idea, "what was that?" Caroline asked, "I think Ryder just broke up with her for Elena" Tyler said, Caroline's mouth fell open she couldn't believe it. "Elena, I am not saying that I want to be in a relationship right away but I want to see where things go for us" Ryder said. Elena walked up to him and kissed him, Ryder kissed her back this time as he knew he wasn't cheating. "I will wait for you forever" Elena said as she walked back into the game room and sat on the couch. Ryder answered his phone as it rang and he heard "Vite" Ryder's mind changed and he said "It's me" "Good now act like Ryder it will make things easier and I will let you know when I need you

Luke" Dylan said. Luke walked out and Tyler fist bumped him, "It may have been hard but Bonnie will be alright" Tyler said. "I am shocked, I didn't expect this" Caroline said. "Did she leave?" Ryder or Luke asked trying to be Ryder was going to be hard, "yeah she was pretty upset, but knowing Bonnie she will be just fine" Matt said. "I hope so I don't want her to hate me" Ryder said. "We need to make this party a little more interesting" Tyler said and Caroline pulled out some ecstasy. "Drugs Caroline are you nuts" Matt said, "it is fine Matt chill, these are happy pills, and we could all use some fun. I got them from Dylan" Caroline said handing one to everyone. Luke hesitated but since he was not Ryder but he took them for fun, Chase was asleep and had no idea.

The baby is coming! What did Ryder do? Will something happen? Find out soon!

Ryder's game room:

Ryder's bedroom:

Ryder's bathroom:

Chapter 41 Damon's Rage!

Luke was really feeling the ecstasy he didn't know how to explain it but for some reason the drugs were affecting him weird. Ryder who was not used to drugs his body was having a hard time handling it all. Damon and Rebekah had gone to bed, as Tyler, Matt and Caroline left. Luke as Ryder was with Elena and he snuck upstairs and grabbed some bourbon and something else he didn't know. Caroline left a few more pills of the ecstasy and he drank it along with some bourbon. "Ryder maybe you should stop" Elena said growing concerned for him, she never took the ecstasy as she didn't like drugs. "Dance with me Elena" Ryder said as he tried to dance but he was drunk and high and he was tripping over everything. "Why is everything spinning?" Ryder said, "because you are drunk and high, and seriously so stupid!" Elena said. "Shh don't tell anyone" Ryder said as he laughed and fell over. Elena was worried and she didn't know if she should tell his dad, she went to get Chase. Chase woke up and looked at her "I am not sure if you understand but Ryder needs help" Chase was up and went over to his owner. "A dog! why is there so many of you?" Ryder asked him. "Ryder sir are you alright?" Chase asked, "I am just fine, wow you are so soft" Ryder said as he grabbed Chase's fur. Chase looked at Elena and she said "I don't want him in trouble but he might have took some ecstasy and had some bourbon" Chase was furious had Ryder not learned from the first time. He ran upstairs and woke up Damon, "I think your dog is telling on you" Elena told Ryder, "My dog?" Ryder said as he drank more, Elena pulled it away from him as Damon walked downstairs. "Elena go home, there is a cab waiting for you" Damon said to her. "I am sorry" Elena said as she ran upstairs, Chase had recorded what Elena said as he played it for Damon. He knew something was up and this was the only way he could tell him. Ryder was still not sure what was going on as he was watching his hand float in front of him. Ryder was half aware of what was going on as Luke was in control of his body.

Damon was beyond angry and Ryder did the exact same thing as he did last time and he assumed Tyler was the one to blame. This time though Ryder did it as Luke and after everything his family just did for him Damon was furious. Rebekah called Freya and she was on her way to help as Lexi was busy giving birth. Damon was packing up everything they just set up for Ryder, all the video games and he even disconnected the cable. Ryder was laying on the floor he was completely oblivious to everything the ecstasy was really taking its toll. Freya arrived and she took Ryder into the bathroom and gave him something, "Ryder drink this" Freya said, he did as he was told because he thought it was something good. As soon as he drank it he immediately felt sick and puked he was in the bathroom and Freya was ready as she had him by the toilet. Ryder puked a few more times and he finally came back to reality as whatever Freya gave him knocked the drugs out of his system. "You okay?" Freya asked, "I am in a lot of trouble" Ryder said, " I would say so, your dad just packed up everything in that room" Freya said. Ryder sighed even though he was Luke he as trying to act as if he was afraid. "Drink more of this please" Freya said, Luke only did it to not blow his cover. Ryder puked again, and now he was completely sober she walked out of the bathroom. "Thank you Freya" Damon said as he stood in the doorway of the bathroom, "Go easy on him Damon, he is a teenager and well they are rebellious" Freya said as she left. Damon honestly didn't even know where to start, "I am not sure I can even say anything right now, I was just beginning to think you learnt your lesson. I honestly have no idea what you were even thinking and don't tell me Tyler had nothing to do with it this time. Ryder after everything that happened a month ago I thought you would have learnt something. This room we all made for you and I am so close to tearing it all down and locking you in the dungeon. I am so angry at you, I don't know if I will ever be able to trust you again. If you thought your punishment before was bad this one will be 10 times worse. Ryder go to bed we will talk more tomorrow" Damon said as he left. Ryder just stared at the floor of his bathroom and didn't move for several minutes.

After he regained his composure Ryder stood up and brushed his teeth, he looked at the game room and wasn't surprised everything was gone. He crawled into bed and knew that this was going to be much worse. Chase was certain Ryder was angry with him this time so he slept in the game room on the floor. He knew he did the right thing but Chase felt horrible because Ryder was in a lot more trouble this time. Although Ryder didn't know he actually had a traveler inside him as it was pulling on the strings at the moment. He might be aware of everything but the traveler was making all the decisions. Damon and Rebekah woke up the next morning and went to the hospital, as Lexi and Stefan had their baby at 4 am. "Are we just leaving Ryder alone?" Rebekah said, "Honestly Rebekah I can't even look at him right now. Ryder is in so much trouble after last night he is lucky I didn't destroy his whole bedroom" Damon said. Rebekah didn't push the subject further as she didn't want Damon angrier, they arrived at the hospital. Stefan greeted them and they walked into Lexi's room, "Damon meet your nephew, Mylo Oliver Salvatore." Stefan said as he handed him over, it was a good thing that the baby calmed Damon a bit.

"Where is Ryder?" Lexi asked Rebekah, "he is at home, there was a little incident last night and Damon is not happy" Rebekah said. "Little incident Rebekah, it was more than just little" Damon said. "Okay care to explain?" Stefan said, "Ryder decided to take some ecstasy and drank half of my bourbon" Damon said. Lexi was shocked, "are you serious? is he alright?" Lexi asked, "he is fine Freya gave him something and he puked his guts out. I am just I don't even know I can't believe him" Damon said. "I am shocked, why? did he not learn from his first mistake?" Lexi said. "This one he took purposely the first time I am not sure it was willingly but I am not surprised that Tyler was involved both times" Damon said. "Damon don't be to hard on him" Stefan said as he took back his son. "Congrats he is beautiful" Rebekah said as she took Damon home, she wasn't comfortable leaving Ryder alone for to long.

Ryder woke up to his phone ringing and he answered, "hello?" "Luke?" the voice said, "yes" Luke said, "everything working out?" the voice said. "Yeah I may have gotten the kid in a lot of trouble," Luke said, "Honestly whatever, be ready soon" the voice said "Okay" Luke said. Luke dressed and went upstairs as Damon and Rebekah walked back inside, "Morning" Rebekah said hoping Damon wouldn't be to hard on him. " Your uncle Stefan and aunt Lexi had a baby boy, his name is Mylo" Damon said. "Oh" Luke said as he really didn't care. "Oh? is that what you are going to say?" Damon said he was still angry and Ryder's lake of communication was making him angrier. "Cool" Luke said, "Ryder I am so flipping angry and you are just making it worse. Do you even realize how stupid you were last night? Did you not learn anything from the first time that drugs are bad?" Damon said. "I did" Luke said. "You did what?" Damon said angry, "I did learn, and I am just trying to have a little fun" Luke said. "Fun? you think doing drugs is fun?" Damon said now raising his voice, "Everyone else was doing it and I had fun yes" Luke said, "I could honestly just slap you right now, I can't even believe what you are saying. Do you hear yourself?" Damon said really angry now. "I do and I don't care anymore, you are not my father and I am not staying here" Luke said as he grabbed the keys to Ryder's car and ran out the door. If Damon wasn't mad before he was about to be over the top. Luke took off in the car and he realized that he was supposed to act like Ryder and what he just did was definitely not Ryder. Luke drove over to the Lockwood cellar as he knew that was were Dylan would be.

"Damon before you go all ballistic, I think something is wrong" Rebekah said, "What?" Damon said still angry. "I don't think that was Ryder, I mean I am not sure but I just don't hear him saying those things or doing the drugs again" Rebekah said, "How was that not Ryder?" Damon asked her. "I don't know but just let me call Freya" Rebekah said. Damon was so pissed off with Ryder right now and he was a bit hurt by his words. He took his keys and went to go and find him as even though he was mad he still cared for him. Rebekah explained everything to Freya and her and Klaus agreed to come and check it out even though she didn't think anything was wrong. Damon looked everywhere for Ryder but he wasn't able to find him and he went home even angrier.

"Luke what are you doing here?" Dylan asked, "His dad was pissed I might have said something that might have blown my cover" Luke said. "Go back and fix it, this plan needs to work and we need Klaus for it. So go fix it!" Dylan said and Luke even though he was worried he drove Ryder's car back home. He tried to sneak back in but Damon was waiting for him, "What the hell was that?" Damon asked. "Sorry, I just didn't want to talk" Luke said, "Ryder I am not sure what has gotten into you lately but you are in so much trouble you will not see the outside again for a long time. Go downstairs and stay there till I come get you" Damon said. Luke listened and ran downstairs he laughed when he reached the bottom. Chase knew something was up as Damon was angry and Ryder was laughing about it he was worried.

Will they figure out about the traveler? Will Ryder ever be able to have his dad trust him again? Or will it all blow over? Find out soon

Chapter 42 Traveler's Plan

Chase stayed upstairs he was afraid of this Ryder he was super worried he knew something was wrong. Freya and Klaus arrived and Chase listened to the adults talk as he cuddled with Skye. "I didn't notice anything off last night, but then again he never spoke" Freya said. "I just feel like he has changed like he doesn't care, there is something really off" Rebekah said, "Damon how do you feel?" Klaus asked. "I feel like my son is an idiot" Damon said, "alright then where is he?" Klaus asked, "downstairs" Rebekah said, Freya and Klaus walked downstairs and noticed Ryder was drinking what looked like bourbon. "Well I am going to assume that you are not allowed to have that" Klaus said as he took it from him, "Why I mean I am already in trouble why not make it more fun for myself" Luke said. "Do you want to give your dad a heart attack, he is already angry" Klaus said. "Who care he isn't my dad, he killed my real dad or did you not know that" Luke said. "Okay Freya what do you think?" Klaus said, "I think Rebekah is right" Freya said as she said a spell and Ryder fell to the floor. Luke was still in control but now he couldn't move as Ryder's body was frozen. Klaus carried him upstairs and lay him on the couch, "what is wrong with him?" Damon asked, "Nothing I just froze him, he is aware of everything he just can't move. Like he is paralyzed, I think Rebekah is right, I don't think Ryder is alone" Freya said. "What do you mean?" Damon asked. "I mean I think he has a passenger inside him, a traveler that is controlling him." Freya said, "where did he get this traveler?" Damon asked, "well did he leave the house before his party?" Freya asked, "yes I took him fishing" Damon said, "and you didn't notice anything off?" Freya asked, "No I mean he was only alone for 2 minutes when he went to the bathroom" Damon said, "that could be when the traveler entered his body, I am not sure when he was brought forth. I do feel like Ryder took the drugs but he didn't do it willingly the traveler was the one on control" Freya said. "Can you get this traveler out?" Damon asked. "Yes but Klaus needs to go find a specific blade first as it is the only way to kill it." Freya said Klaus was already gone and looking for the blade.

"I thought you put a protection spell on him?" Damon said, "I did but if the traveler's have info from outside sources they can still find him. I didn't make the spell strong enough to prevent the traveler from entering. I will work on that as we wait for Klaus" Freya said. Luke was pissed he tried so hard to move but he was stuck in place. Ryder who was not even in control had no idea what was going on. "Are you still angry at him?" Rebekah asked, "yes he knew he was taking the drugs, he invited Tyler over knowing he would bring drugs. I know he is not Ryder right now but until I get an explanation I am still angry" Damon said. "Fair enough but you don't know it was Tyler" Rebekah said as she went to make lunch. Klaus had no idea where to look but he went to this Lockwood cellar as he felt it was a good place to start. "Klaus Mikaleson" Dylan said, "As interesting as I feel your conversation might be I am looking for something" Klaus said, "I know you are looking for this" Dylan said holding up the blade. "Yes as a matter of fact, what is it I can do for you?" Klaus asked, "Do you know what I am?" Dylan asked, "I can smell the werewolf so yes I am aware" Klaus said. "Good I want you to make me a hybrid like you" Dylan said, "I haven't been very successful in that yet as you all keep dying" Klaus said. "I think I have the solution" Dylan said holding up some blood. "I see and why do you supposed that will work?" Klaus asked, "This is the blood of the doppleganger which you used to break the curse, I

believe if I drink her blood after you turn me I will be a hybrid" Dylan said. "What the heck lets give it a try, let me have the blade first" Klaus said. "No I don't trust you" Dylan said, "No, well let us change that" Klaus said as he bit himself and forced Dylan to drink and then snapped his neck. Dylan fell to the ground and Klaus grabbed the blade and ran back to Damon's leaving Dylan lying on the ground with his pathetic plan.

Klaus returned with the knife and Freya was ready with a different protection spell that would prevent traveler's from entering his body again. "This is the tricky part I am going to unfreeze him but then I will have to kill the passenger" Freya said. "Okay" Damon said, "I have to stab him Damon, but I will heal him after alright" Freya said. "Okay" Damon said, Freya said her spell and unfroze the passenger and before he could do anything Freya stabbed him. Ryder coughed and felt a odd sensation as the passenger inside him was expelled and gone. Freya began her healing spell as she was able to fix the wound. Ryder sat up "how do you feel?" Freya asked, "confused" Ryder said, "you had a passenger inside you, a traveler, when did you start to feel different?" Freya asked. "At the lake, I felt colder like something was inside me" Ryder said. "That was the passenger, Ryder he is gone now do you know what he wanted?" Freya asked, "Klaus" Ryder said, Klaus felt awkward all of a sudden, "I will deal with this" he said as he fled the room. "Why did he want my brother?" Freya asked, "Not sure he did but his friend Dylan did" Ryder said, "the same Dylan that gave you drugs before?" Damon asked. "Yes" Ryder said,

"Ryder what is the last thing you remember?" Freya asked, "I remember talking to Bonnie and Elena and then my phone rang, then nothing" Ryder said. "So do you remember taking the ecstasy?" Freya asked. "No, I had no idea I swear Ryder said. "Go downstairs Ryder we will talk later" Damon said, "Okay, did Aunt Lexi have the baby?" Ryder asked, "yes a boy Mylo" Rebekah said, "Awesome" Ryder said as he went downstairs, Chase followed an Ryder said "Chase?" "I am sorry Ryder sir" Chase said, "Why are you sorry it wasn't your fault this happened. I am in a lot of trouble Chase. I took drugs again and seeing as the video games and such are gone I feel like dad is very mad" Ryder said. "It is not your fault Ryder sir you had this passenger thing inside you" Chase said, "not sure if that will matter, I am really certain I will be grounded forever" Ryder said as he was really sad. Chase hugged and and said "I should not have been asleep, I could have stopped you" Chase said, "no I am not sure you could have, even though I wasn't myself I take full responsibility for my actions Chase. I am never going to see the light of day again, and I probably won't ever get to do anything again. My dad said he doesn't trust me and I don't even trust myself anymore. I am supposed to be smart, I could I not know there was someone inside me, I feel like I am not myself. I am not sure it makes a difference but ever since Freya put the protection spell on me I haven't felt like myself. I am doing stupid things and I can't explain why" Ryder said. "You think she did something?" Chase asked, "I am not sure Chase Ryder said "I want to do the spell and you sent him away" Freya said, "oh right Ryder come back up here" Damon said, Ryder heard his name and ran back upstairs and Freya said, "Ryder I am going to put a stronger protection charm on you. This one is going to be different, it will make it so no one can control you anymore, no one will be able to enter your body." "Okay" Ryder said, "I am not going to lie this one is going to hurt a little" Freya said. "Okay" Ryder said as he lay in the circle on the floor again. Freya said her spell and brought a lot of power into the room. Ryder felt like something was stabbing him, he closed his eyes and took a breath. The stabbing pain only seemed to increase as Freya kept chanting her spell and Ryder didn't know if he could take it anymore. "AHHHH" Ryder screamed out and Freya placed her palm on his chest and it was like a glow of light went inside him. "It is done" Freya said, Ryder opened his eyes, "you okay?" Damon asked, "yeah" Ryder said. "Good" Damon said. Ryder went back downstairs as he hoped him and his dad could work this out.

"Try and keep him out of trouble this time, I am dealing with enough problems in New Orleans and don't want to come back here again" Freya said. "Not even to meet your niece or nephew?" Rebekah said, "okay maybe for that" Freya said as she left, "Damon you can't still be upset with him?" Rebekah said, "I don't know anymore, I need to think about things before I talk to him, even though he had a passenger he was still aware. He knew he was talking drugs, he is strong and I don't feel like he tried very hard" Damon said. "Damon, Ryder is a good kid he is sorry I know it give him a chance" Rebekah said. Damon sighed he knew she was right he needed to go talk to his son as he walked downstairs. Ryder was sitting on the big couch staring at the TV even though it was turned off. "Ryder are you alright?" Damon asked him, "yeah just thinking" Ryder said as Damon sat on the couch as well. "What are you thinking?" Damon said, "I am thinking that I disappointed you again, and as much as I want to say it was the traveler that was doing it I can't. There was a small part of me that was doing it as well. I know I could have said no I could feel myself in my body, then when Caroline gave us the ecstasy I didn't stop myself from taking it. I let this passenger just take over me and I knew if I fought a little I could break through. I was sad I just broke up with Bonnie and and part of me didn't want to fight it. I knew the drugs were bad and I knew the alcohol was making it worse, then the drugs weakened me and the passenger was stronger. If Elena didn't wake Chase and Chase didn't get you he would have kept drinking. Dad I knew something was wrong but I couldn't say anything because the wrong part took over. I am not sure what happened after I puked my guts out but I am sorry" Ryder said. Damon listened there was a part of him that felt bad as Ryder was being super honest even though he knew he was still in trouble. "Ryder I am glad that you were honest, I am not going to be harsh on you as much as I want to kick your ass. I feel like the traveler was doing most of the work here and I can't be mad over that. No more friends over until school starts, and you are still grounded until summer is over. You can go outside but you can't leave the yard, and I am taking your keys until school starts as well. Ryder I want to be able to trust you again but you are going to have to earn that." Damon said, "okay" Ryder said, Damon hugged him and said "Ryder go get changed, I will take you to see your nephew" Ryder smiled and ran to his room.

Damon unpacked all the video games and set them back up, he didn't think Ryder needed to spend the summer super bored. Ryder noticed his dad setting them back up and said "thanks dad" "Don't make me regret it" Damon said as they both went to see Stefan and Lexi. Once they arrived Lexi was pretty shocked as she didn't expect it, she thought Ryder was in a lot of trouble. "Hey sweetie, meet Mylo" Lexi said as she handed him over, Ryder sat in the corner and looked at his nephew. Damon explained everything to Stefan and Lexi and she said "I knew something was up" "well hopefully this protection spell works, I am not sure I can take anymore" Damon said. Mylo started crying and Stefan brought him back to his mom as he was probably hungry, "Ryder lets go let the parents have their time" Damon said as he drove them back home and Rebekah had dinner ready. They sat down to eat and spent the rest of the evening in silence as a newborn was going to be added to the mix. Soon to be 2 newborns as Rebekah was due with her baby in just a few short weeks.

What will happen now that Lexi had her baby? Will the spell Freya use work? Is Ryder finally out of danger? Damon will finally propose as well!

Chapter 43 Newborns and Proposals

After dinner Ryder went downstairs and played some games, and Damon was finally going to propose to Rebekah. She had gone to bed as she was very tired and Damon set up his surprise for her in the living room. He put roses around the room, and went to check Ryder before heading to bed. "Ryder don't stay up all night playing games" Damon said, "I won't night dad" Ryder said. "I am proposing to Rebekah tomorrow are you okay with that?" Damon said, "You bet!" Ryder said with a smile, "night Ryder" Damon said as he went upstairs to bed. Ryder was super into his game and when he looked at the clock it was 2 am. "Oops" he said as he noticed some pills on the floor. Ryder looked at them and he wondered if they were the ecstasy that the traveler made him take. Chase noticed Ryder looking at them and really hoped he wasn't about to do something stupid. Ryder went into the bathroom and flushed the pills down the toilet, and brushed his teeth. Chase was proud of him as they went into Ryder's bedroom and fell asleep, Skye also managed to get onto the bed and fell asleep on top of Chase.

The next morning Damon woke up a little earlier then Rebekah and finished setting up his plan, he made Rebekah pancakes and tea as she couldn't handle the caffeine right now. He waited for her to come downstairs. Ryder heard his phone ping and he rolled over and saw it was only 8 am and he was annoyed. He grabbed his phone and saw a text from Elena,

Elena: I am worried are you still alive?

Ryder: Yeah it is a really complicated story...

Elena: You can explain it to me over breakfast Ryder: As much as I would love that I am still grounded

Elena: Darn is it to long to text?

Ryder: Yeah but don't worry I will try talking to my dad and see if I can see you

Elena: Okay!

Ryder climbed out of bed and showered as he felt he needed it and went upstairs at the perfect moment. Damon was down on one knee and said "Rebekah Mikaleson will you marry me?" She squealed and said "YES!" as Damon gave her the ring and they had breakfast. Ryder walked in and said "Congrats" and Rebekah hugged him, "thanks, how are you feeling?" she asked, "I am okay, I still feel stupid but I guess the drugs do that" Ryder said. Damon eyed him, "Why are you feeling stupid?" Damon asked, "I don't know I just don't feel connected with myself anymore, it is hard to explain. All these spells and things that have been happening to me I just don't feel the same" Ryder said. "That worries me you know" Damon said, "I am fine dad, I just need time to recover I guess, Freya's last spell really did something and I can't describe it" Ryder said. Damon looked at Rebekah and she shrugged, "If you feel off in anyway you would tell me right?" Damon said. "Yes, I am not going to lie anymore, I want you to trust me again and I really hate you being mad at me, plus I want to see Elena and I am hoping you will let me" Ryder said. "I will think about it" Damon said, "Cool" Ryder said as he ate the pancakes and gave Chase some of his bacon. Ryder finished and went back downstairs, "do you remember did he say who had the drugs?" Damon asked Rebekah. "Yes and he said it was Caroline who brought them" Rebekah said, "Hmm wonder if the sheriff would like to hear about this" Damon said as he went to call her. Rebekah rolled her eyes her now fiancée really like to meddle in things, Ryder's phone rang and he answered it a bit cautiously. "Hello" he answered, "Ryder I am just making sure you are okay, I heard there was a traveler inside you." Bonnie said, "yes and they were expelled, I am okay are you?" Ryder asked, "I am a bit hurt, I mean I am not sure it was really you last night and if we are actually broken up" Bonnie said. "Bonnie I really am sorry, I am not sure what is going to happen between me and Elena as I am still grounded, but I do need to be alone. I have a lot of things to think about and how I feel about both you and Elena is complicated. I think it is best if we stay just friends for now" Ryder said. "I understand, I still want to be friends but I am going to need time, and are you saying the same thing to Elena?" Bonnie asked, "yes as I won't be seeing anyone until I am back in school so I guess I will see you then" Ryder said. "Yeah grade 11 should be fun, take care Ryder" Bonnie said. "Bye" Ryder said as he hung up he felt like that went okay as he still wasn't sure who he wanted to date.

"Ryder!" Damon yelled from upstairs, Ryder ran up and said "yeah?" "Rebekah's water broke lets go" Damon said. "Really!" Ryder said he was excited he was finally going to meet his brother or sister. Stefan and Lexi were just getting ready to go home when Damon and Rebekah rushed in, "nice they will be so close together" Lexi said. "Good luck!" Stefan shouted at them, as he took his family home. Rebekah was taken straight to labor and delivery as her labor was moving a long quickly. Ryder waited in the waiting room he was nervous, after a short time Damon came out holding a baby. "Ryder meet your sister" Damon said, "wow!" Ryder said as he held her, "man so weird, she is so little" Ryder said. "Yeah come on lets go see Rebekah" Damon said as they walked back into the room, "what is her name?" Ryder asked, "we are still working that out" Rebekah said. "Any ideas?" Damon asked Ryder, "oh um no" Ryder said as he never really thought about it. After a few minutes of discussing it Damon and Rebekah decided to call their daughter, Orianna Stephanie Salvatore. "I am going to drive Ryder home, Rebekah I will be back" Damon said as he took Ryder home. Stefan was in the kitchen and said "well?" "It is a girl, her name is Orianna Stephanie Salvatore" Damon said. "Awesome, can't wait to meet her, our house is going to get super loud" Stefan said. "Yeah I am glad I am in the basement" Ryder said as he ran down there. " I worry so much that he is just going to get worse" Damon said, "He will be fine go be with your fiancée! and daughter, Ryder is good here" Stefan said. Damon left to go back to the hospital he was really trusting that Stefan could handle Ryder.

It was just before dinner and Ryder was hungry and he noticed no one was cooking anything but he heard Mylo crying so he had to fend for himself. Ryder poured Chase and Skye food and made a sandwich and went to sit on the porch. After he was done Ryder was watching the sun go down as someone walked up the driveway. Ryder was surprised, "I heard a little story about you" Dylan said, "oh yeah? Why are you here?" Ryder asked, "well Ryder your family killed my friend and I am a little hurt" Dylan said. "Who was your friend?" Ryder asked confused he felt like he was in trouble. "Luke" Dylan said, "not sure who that is" Ryder said, "he was the traveler that was inside you" Dylan said. "Well he could have killed me" Ryder said, "that was his intention but your witch friend keeps screwing things up" Dylan said. "Why does everyone want me dead?" Ryder asked as he pressed his watch so Chase could hear. "Well Ryder our leader Marco can't come back to life unless the cure is dead. You are still alive, and we can't kill you forcefully as it is against our code. Since you are protected by magic now we are going to have to get creative" Dylan said as he was now a hybrid vampire he was quite strong. He pushed Ryder down and forced something into his mouth and put his hand over. "Swallow it Ryder" Dylan said, Chase couldn't get outside as Dylan blocked the dog door with his foot, he knew he would come. Chase barked like crazy trying to get heard over the babies crying. Ryder finally swallowed as he honestly didn't have a choice, Dylan ran off as fast as he could. Ryder had no idea what he swallowed but it was a lot and it was working quick he was in trouble. Stefan came down and opened the door and Ryder had passed out on the porch, "what the hell" Stefan said as he dragged him inside and called Lexi. "He didn't want to worry Damon but he felt that he needed to" Chase was worried he knew something bad was happening.

"Lexi what is going on?" Stefan said as he called 911, "I have no idea, his heart is beating so fast Stefan he needs to go to the hospital" Lexi said, "Man I was supposed to be watching him, what happened?" Chase remembered his pup tag and pressed it and they heard part of the conversation. "Why does everyone want me dead?" Ryder asked "Well Ryder our leader Marco can't come back to life unless the cure is dead. You are still alive, and we can't kill you forcefully as it is against our code. Since you are protected by magic now we are going to have to get creative". "Who the hell was that!" Stefan said, then they heard "swallow it Ryder" and Lexi had to get Ryder to throw up but as he wasn't moving it was hard. "What did they give him?" Stefan asked. "I don't know, let's just hope this ambulance gets here quick" Lexi said as they heard the sirens. "Damon is going to kill me" Stefan said, "there was nothing you could do, Ryder was on his own porch not like he left or anything" Lexi said as she told the paramedics he may have taken something orally. They drove off with him and Stefan called Damon really hoping his brother wouldn't be pissed.

Damon answered, "Damon please don't be angry, Ryder was on the porch and well we were dealing with Mylo and I heard Chase barking like crazy and when I checked on Ryder he was passed out. Chase played something for us and I think someone tried to kill him, he is on the way to the hospital" Stefan said. "FUCK all these assholes trying to kill my son!" Damon said a little to loudly waking up Orianna and she started to cry. Damon handed her to to Rebekah and she said "what is going on?" "Ryder is in trouble again" Damon said as he left to the emergency room to get some answers. Damon waited to hear anything as he stressed and paced the waiting room, Dr. Fell came out and said "Damon, I am not sure what is going on with your son lately but he is again extremely lucky. The amount of fentanyl in his system was lethal and I am afraid that it might have caused problems. I won't know anything until he wakes up but he is stable for now and we have pumped his stomach. If he doesn't stop with the drug taking he is going to wind up dead he really is to young to be messing with this stuff" Damon nodded he wasn't going to explain it all to her as Ryder was not taking it willingly and least he hoped he wasn't. Damon walked into his son's room and Ryder was on a ventilator and he sat beside him, "why does this keep happening? Ryder please be okay, I am not ready to lose you yet" Damon said as he started to cry.

Stefan came into the room and tried to comfort his brother, "I am sorry Damon, I was not keeping a close enough watch. Did they saw what was wrong?" Stefan asked, Damon looked at him, "Dr. Fell thinks he is a drug user as he had an extremely high level of fentanyl in is system she said it was lethal. Who keeps trying to kill him?" Damon asked, "the message Chase played for us was some young kid, we don't know who it was but he said something about his leader Marco and Freya said he is the leader of the travelers. In order for him to be resurrected Ryder needs to die. They can't kill him by force so they are trying different things. Freya is trying to work on a spell to get rid of the travelers as they could be anyone" Stefan said. Damon just cried as he held his son's hand, "I will go fill in Rebekah" Stefan said, "Okay room 344" Damon said as Stefan left and went to the maternity floor. Damon prayed silently to anyone who would listen as he only wanted his son to be okay.

Will Ryder be okay? Will he ever be out of danger? Will the travelers be destroyed? How will the babies change everyone's lives? Find out soon!

I realize this story is a lot longer then I ever intended but I keep getting ideas! so I am going to keep it going for a bit. Hope you all still like it.

Chapter 44 Freya's plan

Stefan filled in Rebekah and she was just as upset as Damon, "this poor boy just can't ever live a normal life" Rebekah said. "He is not doing good and Damon is taking it hard, I somehow feel responsible" Stefan said. "Stefan it is not your fault, Ryder is strong and I believe that there are good people watching out for him. Please don't blame yourself for this, we will get through it as a family." Rebekah said, "I hope for you and your daughters' sake that Ryder pulls through this because Damon will not do well if he doesn't" Stefan said. Rebekah sighed because she knew it was true, Rebekah climbed out of bed and carried her daughter they needed to see her brother. Rebekah walked into Ryder's room and of course Damon looked up immediately, "I am sorry Rebekah, I just can't bring myself to leave" he said. "I don't expect you too, Damon he comes first. I want to make sure you are alright, I am hoping his sister can bring him back to us" Rebekah said as she placed Orianna close to Ryder.

Meanwhile Ryder was in an alternate universe, "my dear boy I am sorry things have not been going well for you, I am running out of excuses to keep bringing you back" Diane said, "Mom I have to, I just had a baby sister! I didn't even do this one on purpose! I am sick of people trying to kill me!" Ryder said. "I know so am I, this will be the last time that I can do this Ryder, please try to stay out of trouble" Diane said as she faded away and Ryder was sent back to the real world. After a few minutes he opened his eyes and Damon was relieved as he pressed the call button. A nurse came in and noticed he was awake and she went to get Dr. Fell. A few minutes later Dr. Fell came in and removed the breathing tube and said "Ryder how are you feeling?" "I am alright, what happened?" Ryder asked, "you don't remember taking the fentanyl?" Dr. Fell asked, "No I remember talking to Dylan on the porch and then he tackled me and shoved something in my mouth. He was strong like really strong and I couldn't get him off, he made me swallow and then I don't remember after that." Ryder said, Damon and Rebekah exchanged looks this Dylan character needed to be stopped. "Well you are very lucky your family got you here so quickly, It sounds like you were forced but Ryder I do have to say that if you keep going down this road not even a miracle will bring you back" Dr. Fell said as she left the room. "Not like I meant to take another drug" Ryder said a bit annoyed as he hugged his baby sister.

"I am glad you are okay Ryder, but what were you doing outside alone?" Damon asked, "I was eating a sandwich and I was just on the porch, not like I was leaving the house." Ryder said a bit annoyed. "Don't give me tone, I am just trying to figure out why this keeps happening" Damon said, "sorry it is just Dylan was different, I am not sure if there was a traveler in him but dad he was strong like really strong" Ryder said. "I don't know what to tell you, once we get home we can figure this out" Damon said. Rebekah satisfied that Ryder was going to be alright took Orianna back to their room. Damon called Stefan and Lexi and filled them in, they were both relieved he was alright. Rebekah called Freya and said "Freya we need to do something, I feel like they are just going to keep coming after him, they know where he lives. They know what school he goes to it is only a matter of time before someone attacks him again. I am not sure how much more he can take" "I get I am currently working to figure something out, give me time Rebekah and I will have a solution. Congrats my niece is beautiful and I can't wait to meet her, please take care" Freya said.

The next day both Ryder and Rebekah were released from the hospital and the house was loud as both newborns were crying. Lexi was not only responsible for her baby but she was to make sure Ryder didn't have any problems either. "I will be fine just worry about Mylo" Ryder said as he noticed Lexi watching him. "I would but Ryder the amount of drugs your body has taken in the past few days is going to take its toll. You might have withdrawal symptoms and I can guarantee you they will not be pleasant" Lexi said. "We can cross that bridge when we get there" Ryder said he just wanted to leave as the babies were giving him a headache. "Okay but if you feel anything different come tell me please" Lexi said Ryder agreed as he ran downstairs and it was slightly quieter. "Chase keep an eye on him" Lexi said as his pup ran down after him, "Ryder sir are you alright?" Chase asked as he noticed his owner laying on the floor. "Yes Chase I am fine" Ryder said. "Why are you laying on the floor sir?" Chase asked, "I don't know, my head hurts and I needed to lay down and it was the closest place" Ryder said. "Your head hurts? Is that a sign?" Chase asked. "A sign of what?" Ryder looked at him confused, "this withdrawal thing?" Chase asked. "I think it is just the babies Chase, I am just going to take a nap" Ryder said as he stood up and walked to his room. Chase watched him very close after this as he was now super worried.

Freya found a solution and she told Klaus, "I think I know how we can stop this" she said, "How?" Klaus asked, "In order for the travelers to leave Ryder alone Marco needs to come back right? Well the only way to do that is to kill Ryder" Freya said. "Okay, I am not sure where you are going with this" Klaus said, "You turned Dylan he is a hybrid he will tell the travelers as he wants Marco back as well. I can stop Ryder's heart long enough to bring Marco back, then when I bring Ryder back you can kill Marco" Freya said. "This will never go well with Damon, he is not going to allow you to kill Ryder" Klaus said, "I will only kill him briefly, I can bring him back." Freya said, "alright say hypothetically it works why is it that I have to kill Marco?" Klaus asked, "because you are the strongest vampire I know and since he is not a vampire and will be weak after being resurrected he will be easy to kill. Marco can't stay alive Klaus he is a threat to Ryder and I can't keep saving him, it is against the rules of nature" Freya said. "This plan sucks Freya but if you can convince Damon I will follow through" Klaus said. "Thanks now let us go meet our niece" Freya said as they were to travel back to Mystic falls.

Lexi finally managed to get Mylo to sleep and she went down to check on Ryder. "Chase how is he?" she asked as she sat beside him on the bed. Lexi noticed the sweat first and Ryder was on fire she sighed, "I knew this would happen, Chase go get Damon and Stefan" Lexi said as she tried to wake Ryder up. Chase ran upstairs barking and both Stefan and Damon ran down with him, "what is wrong?" Damon asked, "he is showing signs, I need help getting him to the shower" Lexi said as Damon and Stefan lifted Ryder and carried him over to the shower. Lexi turned the cold water on Ryder opened his eyes, "I am sorry Ryder how are you feeling?" Lexi asked him, "tired and cold" Ryder said as he tried to stand up, "No please sit the cold water is helping your fever, Ryder I need you to stay awake for me" Lexi said as she noticed he was closing his eyes again. Ryder groaned and shivered, Damon and Stefan lifted him out of the shower and tried to get him to stand. "Ryder please stay awake I need you to take this" Lexi said handing him a pill and some water. "What is it?" Ryder asked, "it will help I promise" Lexi said and Ryder took it still feeling weak as Damon had to hold him up. "I am not comfortable with him downstairs alone" Lexi said, "neither am I let's bring him upstairs" Damon said, Ryder would have protested but he really had zero energy. Damon put Ryder on the couch and watched as Ryder closed his eyes. "Is he going to be okay Lexi?" Damon asked, "yes he will be okay, I can get him through this" Lexi said. "Okay, I just don't know how much more my heart can take here" Damon said as his concern for Ryder grew. Damon held his daughter as he watched his son, he knew getting sleep at this point was never going to happen. Ryder lay on the couch and Damon watched his chest move up and down, he was at least breathing.

It was 2 am when Lexi came down to check on him, "Damon have you slept at all?" she asked, "No I can't" Damon said, Lexi checked Ryder's temperature and it was normal, she tried not wake him as she checked the rest of his vitals. Ryder stirred for a second then rolled over and puked on the floor. "Sorry" he said, "Don't be this is a good sign, how do you feel?" Lexi asked him, "I am okay I am hungry" Ryder said, "well you did sleep for 12 hours, so I guess you would be" Lexi said as she brought Ryder a sandwich. Ryder ate as he noticed his dad closing his eyes. "He hasn't slept since you were out" Lexi told him, she took Orianna from him and placed her in her bassinet as Damon slept on the chair. "Lexi am I going to be okay?" Ryder asked her, "yes you are already improving, and as long as you promise to never do drugs again the other stuff we can figure out" Lexi said. "I promise, but how are we going to keep the travelers away?" Ryder asked. "Freya is working on it, for now just take this and don't let the bad stuff worry you" Lexi said handing Ryder more meds. Ryder took them as he watched his baby sister sleep beside him, Lexi went back upstairs to feed her baby as he was currently crying. Ryder who was now awake warmed up a bottle for Orianna and fed her so her parents could sleep. Orianna cooed at him and Ryder was hooked, he was so happy to have a sibling.

It was 7 am when Rebekah came down she was concerned but it faded quickly when she saw

Ryder asleep on the couch holding his sisters hand. She took a picture and started on breakfast,

Damon woke up shortly after and joined his fiancée in the kitchen. Orianna woke up and Rebekah fed her while Ryder went and showered before breakfast. Everyone ate breakfast together while the babies slept close by, there was a knock on the door. Damon went to answer it and Freya, Klaus and Elijah stood before them. Since they could all enter the house now Damon had no choice but to let them in, Klaus and Elijah hugged Rebekah and both took turns holding their niece before talking about their plan. "So is there a solution?" Damon asked, "Yes but I feel like you aren't going to like it" Freya said. "If it keeps Ryder safe I am all for it" Damon said, "wait till you hear the plan first brother" Klaus said. "In order for the travelers to be satisfied they need Marco alive, the only way for him to come back is for Ryder to be dead. Klaus and Elijah are going to find Dylan and let him know that Ryder is dead, then Marco will be resurrected and they will kill him." Freya said. "Wait hold up Ryder is not dead" Damon said, "Not yet" Freya said, Damon looked confused and concerned, "No absolutely not" he said, "I can stop his heart long enough for this plan to work" Freya said, "No" Damon said sternly, "told you" Klaus said to Freya. "Dad can I say something here" Ryder said, "No this out of the question!" Damon said, "I want you to do it Freya, I trust you. I am tired of having to fight for my life and I just want to go to school and live my life. If this gets them off my back then please do it" Ryder said. "In order for this to work Ryder I need Damon on board, he is your life link" Freya said. Damon looked at Ryder with worry, "Dad please, I just want this over I trust her and I know our trust is sort of on the rocks right now but please let her do this" Ryder said. "Okay" Damon agreed, and with that Klaus and Elijah set out to find the travelers to let them know.

Will this work? Can Freya bring him back in time? Will Marco ruin this plan?

Chapter 45 Ryder's life is on the line...

Damon looked as if he might be sick as he watched Freya prepare her spell to kill her son. He knew it was only brief but the worry he felt was never going to go away. He was worried they wouldn't be able to bring him back and he didn't know if he could lose him, Klaus texted and said they found Dylan and to get started. "Alright Ryder are you ready?" Freya asked, "No, but Yes" Ryder said as he lay in the circle, Chase closed his eyes as he worried as well. "Damon hold his hand for me" Freya said as Damon grabbed his hand and Freya said a spell, she placed her hands on Ryder's chest and he stopped breathing, "I have 3 minutes to bring him back" Freya said as she told Klaus in a text it is done. Klaus told Dylan, "Ryder is dead" and with that the travelers all started to chant and drop 1 by 1 as they all died as well bringing their leader back to life. Marco stood before both Klaus and Elijah as his followers sacrificed themselves for him, Klaus texted Freya now.

Freya said another spell as her 3 minutes was almost up as she tried to bring Ryder back. Meanwhile Ryder was on the other side and in the purgatory of supernatural beings. "Ryder I never expected to see you here" Katsyia said, "I won't be for long" Ryder said as he tried to get away from her. "Dear boy let me come with you, I will protect you from everything" Katsyia said Ryder was scared as not only was she after him but all the vampires that Rebekah had killed were coming towards him, "he is the reason we are all dead" they said as Ryder tried to run he screamed but no one heard him. He felt the vampires grabbing at him and all of sudden he was gasping for breath as Freya brought him back. Ryder took a breath and coughed as his eyes opened and he cried. "Ryder are you okay?" Freya asked, "yes please don't ever do that again" Ryder said as he hugged Damon. "Are you sure you are okay?" Damon asked him, "yes" Lexi checked him over just to be sure, Klaus was able to kill Marco although it took a little extra effort and another brother Kol to help. "Is this finally over?" Kol asked, "I hope so I am tired of saving his life, I mean is the cure really worth it?" Elijah asked. "I think so I am not sure about the 2 of you but I am with Rebekah, I am tired of being a vampire" Kol said. "Kol I highly doubt that you would be human" Klaus said, "well then I guess I will die knowing I tried, I have nothing left to live for" Kol said. "I will remain a vampire for everyone's sake but Kol, Elijah I will not ask either of you to stand with me. I will understand if you both decide to take the cure." Klaus said, "Really Niklaus? What about always and forever?" Elijah said, "I still strongly believe in always and Forever but I can tell you are unhappy Elijah and I can't stand in the way of that" Klaus said.

"What happened Ryder?" Damon asked, "I went to this awful place, it was like hell but for supernatural things. I am assuming it where they go when they die, Katsyia was there and she wanted to come with me. Then there was a swarm of vampires and they were all attacking me saying I was the reason they were all dead. They were trying to kill me it was awful" Ryder said. "Sorry Ryder, but Klaus just texted me and all the travelers and Marco are dead so it worked" Freya said. "Good, Dad I know I am grounded but I could really use a friend right now" Ryder said. "Okay 1 friend Ryder" Damon said and he nodded and went to text Elena, as he wanted to tell her everything. Elena agreed to come over and she would be there soon as she was also very worried about him. Klaus, Elijah and Kol all came back to see Rebekah, Klaus and Elijah entered but Kol was not yet invited in. "This is ridiculous please let me in?" Kol begged from the doorway, "he has proven himself Rebekah and has been very helpful today, and we all have something to discuss" Klaus said. Rebekah looked at Damon who sighed knowing he wasn't going to win this and he called Ryder upstairs. "Dad, Elena is coming over" Ryder said, "Okay please let Kol inside" Damon said, "are you sure?" Ryder asked him, "Yes" Damon said, "Come in" Ryder said to Kol as he ran back downstairs. Kol entered and went to see his niece, "she is beautiful Rebekah" Kol said, "thank you, what is it we need to discuss?" Rebekah said as the doorbell rang. Damon opened it and told Elena that Ryder was downstairs.

Ryder was relieved to see Elena as he hugged her she smelled amazing, "I am sorry for the other night. I am glad you are alright though" Elena said, "No I am sorry, I had a traveler inside me and well I wasn't myself. I have had to deal with a lot these past few days and I am exhausted." Ryder said. "I am listening tell me everything" Elena said as they both sat on the couch and Ryder explained it all. Meanwhile upstairs, "Are you saying both Kol and Elijah want to take the cure?" Rebekah said, "yes I however will not as I have things to take care of, and I enjoy being a hybrid, I assure you I will not hold a grudge" Klaus said. "If they don't come back?" Freya asked, "that is their choice and I am going to allow them to make it" Klaus said. "Are you sure about this?" Freya asked her brothers. "I am, I have had enough of killing and living if I die at least I was able to meet my niece" Kol said. "I am a little hesitant as I am not sure what to expect but I agree I am also done living as a vampire" Elijah said. Rebekah was nervous but she respected her brother's choices and she hoped that they would return. "As I am for this I am going to have to ask it to wait a few days as my son as been through a lot and needs time to just be a teen" Damon said. "Agreed we will be back in a few days after we get our affairs in order" Elijah said as the 3 of them left. Freya stayed behind as she wanted to visit with Orianna a bit more and would return with Klaus in a few days.

Elena gasped in all the right places as Ryder told his story, "I for one am glad you didn't die, and the purgatory place sounds awful" Elena said as she hugged him, "it was but at least now I know that I am supernatural" Ryder said, "what do you mean?" Elena said, "the place I went was purgatory for all supernatural beings when they die, they are stuck there until they either find peace or get their revenge. Since I ended up there when my heart stopped I am supernatural" Ryder said. "That is terrible" Elena said, "I would assume you would end up there to being the doppleganger and all, but at least neither of us can ever be vampires" Ryder said. "We can't?" Elena asked, "Well no because I am the cure and well it just isn't logical, and you took the cure therefore you won't be able to ever be one again" Ryder said. "Well that is a good thing then, I am not sure I would have made a good vampire" Elena said. "Me neither the thought of killing and drinking blood makes me feel sick" Ryder said. "Have you talked to Bonnie at all?" Elena asked, "yeah she called me a few days ago, but she said she needs time, I am hoping we can all still be friends" Ryder said. "Me too, Ryder are we together?" Elena asked him, "I don't know Elena I want to say yes but I just am not sure yet" Ryder said. Elena looked at him and kissed him she really wanted him to say yes. Ryder accepted the kiss as Elena became aggressive and tried to have sex with him. "Elena we can't do this" Ryder said, "please I want to" Elena said, "my dad is upstairs" Ryder said. "Then lets go into your room" Elena said as she pulled Ryder with her, he wanted to do this but he was nervous because he didn't know what he was doing. Elena locked the door and pushed Ryder onto the bed as she took her clothes off, Ryder was mesmerized as he thought she looked amazing and Elena took over and Ryder finally started to get into it. After a few minutes they both lay there in awe as it was a first time experience for both of them, "wow" Elena said, "yeah" Ryder said as there was a knock on his door, "Ryder you all good?" Lexi asked him, "yeah we are good" Ryder said a little out of breath, Lexi laughed, "Okay um dinner is ready" she said knowing what they were just doing. Ryder really hoped she wasn't going to tell his dad. "I should go, thanks Ryder I will see you soon I hope" Elena said as she quickly dressed and left. Ryder dressed to and wasn't sure how to go about this and he was nervous Lexi told his dad.

Ryder came upstairs and Lexi eyed him and she walked over, "I won't tell him, but I hope you were safe" she said. "Yes, and thanks" Ryder said as he grabbed some food and sat down with the others to eat. Damon could tell Ryder looked nervous and Lexi was watching him, something was up but he would figure it out later. "Thanks for dinner" Ryder said as he tried to run back downstairs, "hey, you are on dish duty" Damon said, Ryder whined a little as no teen likes to clean but he did them anyways. Ryder was finally starting to feel better and he hoped he didn't have anything else to worry about. After he did the dishes he went back downstairs and played games, Chase and Skye were close by watching him. "Something happen when you went to get him Lexi?" Damon asked, "what do you mean?" Lexi asked, "well he came up here all nervous and Elena left in a hurry" Damon said. "I have no idea" Lexi said as she went to feed Mylo, Damon knew she was lying but as his daughter was crying he had to tend to her.

It has been a month since the babies were born and there were no more surprises for Ryder and actually felt like he could finally be normal. Elijah and Kol ended up having to deal with something so they haven't taken the cure yet. Ryder would be going back to school tomorrow and he was excited, he missed his friends and he was finally not grounded anymore. Ryder played video games before heading to bed and he fell asleep to the babies crying faintly. He was super glad to be in the basement as he fell asleep quickly.

The next morning Ryder was up and ready for school, his dad still didn't know he had sex with Elena and Ryder was glad. He finally knew how he felt as he spent the last month really thinking about what he needed. Ryder grabbed his lunch and his keys as he was super excited to drive his car again and he sped out of the driveway. "He really needs to slow down!" Damon said loudly, Stefan laughed, "he is just like you" he said. "I hope this school day goes smoothly, I am exhausted Orianna does not sleep and I can't deal with anything right now." Damon said, "Yes let us pray nothing happens!" Lexi said. Orianna and Mylo were laying on the floor together staring at each other and Lexi was taking pictures and it really was the cutest thing. Ryder arrived at school and the first person he saw was Tyler, "hey man, how was the rest of summer?" Tyler asked, "It was okay, I didn't do much as I was grounded, but I have a baby sister" Ryder said, "cool that must be interesting" Tyler said, "yeah it is she is really cool, how was yours?" Ryder asked. "Nothing exciting, I was grounded to and so was Caroline so it was lame" Tyler said as they walked into school together, Bonnie was surprised. "Are you friends now?" she asked Ryder, "I am not sure, we are talking, I don't know" Ryder said, "Oh, just be careful" Bonnie said. "Bonnie are we friends till?" Ryder asked her, "we will be Ryder but for now just give me time" Bonnie said. "Understood" Ryder said as Elena walked up to him, "Hi!" she said as she kissed him, Ryder felt bad as Bonnie walked away. "Elena" Ryder said, "what you are my boyfriend now and she is going to have to deal" Elena said. "I never said I was your boyfriend" Ryder said, "I assumed since we had sex that we were together" Elena said. "I feel like the sex was a bit soon, Elena I just want to friends for right now. I need to concentrate on myself, but I do love you and I just need time to figure out things" Ryder said. "You had all summer and this sucks" Elena said, "I know we can still hang out all the time and stuff, I just don't want the label as boyfriend just yet" Ryder said. "Okay, fine" Elena said as she kissed him again and the bell rang starting classes.

How will the rest of things go? Will Elijah and Kol finally take the cure? I think this story is finally almost done! Thank you everyone who has read it. 3

Chapter 46 Ryder meets Silas

The first day back at school went well for everyone and Ryder really felt like for the first time he had nothing to worry about. Well at least that is what he thought but a new enemy to him was currently watching from afar. It was lunchtime and Ryder was sitting with Caroline, Tyler and Elena when he felt a chill. Ryder looked around but didn't notice anything out of the ordinary, he looked at noticed Bonnie sitting alone. "I will be back" Ryder said as he got up and went to sit with Bonnie. "I thought they broke up?" Tyler said, "they did" Elena said rather annoyed. "Hey Bonnie" Ryder said as he sat down, "Hey, your new girlfriend won't like you sitting with me" Bonnie said. "Elena is not my girlfriend, I told her the same thing I told you I just want to be friends for now. She just is having a hard time accepting that" Ryder said. "Okay I still don't think I am ready to be your friend" Bonnie said, "I get that but I actually have a favor to ask if you are still willing to help me" Ryder said. "Of course I will always be willing to help as long as it is not illegal" Bonnie said. "It isn't I promise, I just feel a weird sensation like someone is watching me" Ryder said, "I don't feel anything supernatural around except for you as right now you have magic radiating off you" Bonnie said. "Yeah well I have about a dozen protection spells on me, but I just can't help but feel like I am being watched" Ryder said. "Well I will keep my eyes out but you might just be on edge after everything that has happened" Bonnie said. "Yeah you might be right, you know Bonnie I really do care about you. It hurts me that I did this and I am just so confused about my feelings" Ryder said. "Let me ask you this when you look at me do you feel a stronger connection than you do when you look at Elena. If not then she is the one you should be with." Bonnie said, "I feel that I can talk to you about certain things more so than I can her, I feel like you understand what I am going through. I also feel like I may have made a mistake" Ryder said. "Sounds to me like you have a choice to make, and this time maybe do it without a traveler inside you" Bonnie said as the lunch bell rang and she walked away leaving Ryder alone.

"What happened Ryder? You didn't eat lunch with us" Elena said, "I know I just needed to talk to Bonnie" Ryder said, "but I am your girlfriend now not Bonnie" Elena said. "Elena I told you earlier you are not my girlfriend, I feel like everything is wrong and this wasn't meant to happen" Ryder said as he decided to skip the rest of the day and go home. "Where did he go?" Caroline asked, "I don't know he is in a mood" Elena said as she didn't want to accept Ryder not being her boyfriend. Ryder sped into the driveway shocking everyone as they didn't expect him home so soon. He came into the house and ran downstairs and slammed his door, "what was that about?" Lexi asked. "I don't know, but he is skipping school so something must be up" Rebekah said. "He technically just goes to school for fun he literally is years ahead of everyone else, he already has 2 degrees" Damon said. " Really?" Rebekah said as she grabbed her crying daughter, "yeah, I am going to go see if he wants to talk" Damon said as he headed downstairs, he waited as he could hear Ryder talking to Chase. "Everything is wrong Chase, I screwed up and I am not sure if I can fix it" Ryder said. "What did you do Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "I had sex with Elena that night I died and now she won't leave me alone. I don't know if I even wanted it, I was caught up in everything. I see Bonnie and I miss her and it hurts me so much that I hurt her, I am not sure anymore" Ryder said. Damon knocked, "can I come in?" he asked, "I guess" Ryder said, Damon walked in and said "Ryder what is going on?" "I am assuming you heard some of it?" Ryder said, "I might have" Damon said, "Dad I am just so confused, I care about both Elena and Bonnie but there is something about Bonnie that is pulling me back. I thought I like Elena, but I don't know I just feel like my connection with Bonnie is mor real and I can actually talk to her about certain things" Ryder said. "Sounds to me like you made your choice Ryder, whether it means you never speak to Elena again. As for you having sex well I wish you would have waited but if you are more connected with Bonnie than why did you break up with her?" Damon asked, "I feel like everything that happened over the past few months with Elena got me confused, then the traveler was inside me making choices and I don't know I just didn't feel like myself. Now that I do I wish I could take everything back. I just no I will lose friends in the process and I am not sure I

am ready for that" Ryder said. "Well Ryder you don't have to go to school, Alaric told me that you have more than enough credits to graduate and you already have 2 degrees so why even go?" Damon asked. "I don't know I went before to be with my friends, then it was to be with Bonnie now I just don't know" Ryder said, "Well think about it while you are cleaning this room it is disgusting and if you do decide not to go to school I can arrange something with Alaric" Damon said. "Okay" Ryder said as he hugged his dad and lay onto his bed he really didn't feel like cleaning.

Meanwhile in the distance Silas was watching Ryder, he knew that Ryder was the cure for vampirism but there was a part of him that wondered if he could cure immortality all together. Silas really felt he would come out on the other side as he never killed for his blood, he always felt like he did it discreetly as he was able to get inside people's heads. Ryder felt he needed a different perspective he needed more, he lay there for a while just thinking. He looked at the clock and it was 430 he knew school was out, he ran upstairs and grabbed his keys. "Hey where you going, dinner will be ready soon" Rebekah said. "I'll be back, just need to go for a drive" Ryder said as he ran out the door. "Something is up with him" Stefan said, "he is having girl problems, can't decide what he wants" Damon said. "Man to be 16 again and worry about which girl loves you more, you Mylo my sweet will not be dating until you are 19" Stefan said. "Good luck with that, these kids will give us a run for our money" Rebekah said.

Ryder didn't know where he was going but he ended up at Tyler's families cellar, and he was surprised Tyler was there. Although it wasn't Tyler it was Sylas but he didn't know that, "Hey Ryder what brings you by?" Tyler said he was drinking blood but Ryder didn't know that. Silas poured Ryder a drink of some thing he had around, "thanks, I am just struggling with something and I can't decide what I want" Ryder said. "Maybe I can help" Silas said, "Well as you know I broke up with Bonnie which I thought was the right thing to do, then Elena and I well we sort of hooked up. She is now all over me but I can't get over how I hurt Bonnie, I just don't know why but I keep thinking about her" Ryder said. "Let me get this straight, you had sex with Elena but you keep thinking about Bonnie?" Silas asked, "Yes and it is driving me nuts" Ryder said as he finished the drink. Silas made him another one, "well if you want my advice, sounds like you want Bonnie. You thought there was something there with Elena but you found out that you truly love Bonnie, I say beg her to take you back no matter what it takes" Silas said. Ryder thought about it and he knew who he thought was Tyler was right. Ryder finished his drink, and Silas made him another one. Ryder accepted it and at this point was getting drunk, he didn't even know why he was drinking it. "I should get home though thanks" Ryder said as he walked towards his car, he realized he was pretty drunk and probably shouldn't drive. "Maybe you

should just walk" Silas said. "I'll be okay, it is not far and I'll just drive slow" Ryder said, Silas didn't like this idea as he didn't need Ryder dying on him. Silas stood up and put Ryder in the passenger seat as he drove his car home. Ryder was really out of it and hadn't really noticed as Silas quickly turned into Ryder and walked into this house. Silas had dinner with the family as the real Ryder was passed out in his car. " I am just going to go out for a bit be back later" Silas said as he took off and took the real Ryder with him.

After a few hours Silas had made sure Ryder had a few more drinks as he needed to make his point that Ryder could not be trusted. Silas really wanted to make sure that his plan to get rid of the protection spell on Ryder worked. He was not able to control Ryder the way he could the other because he had a protection spell on him and it was quite strong. Silas needed to find someone who could help him and he needed Ryder to stay safe while he did it. "Ryder you are home now, go inside" Silas said to him, "home" Ryder said as he stumbled into the house. Ryder fell to the floor with a thud as Silas closed the door. Ryder tried to stand up but couldn't he just needed to make it downstairs without anyone noticing. Ryder heard a baby cry and he needed to hurry as he managed to crawl to the stairs, as he slid down them making a lot of noise. Ryder swore as he quickly stood up and made it to the bathroom and closed the door. Chase was concerned but he couldn't get into the bathroom. "Ryder sir are you alright?" Chase asked, "Yup just fine, having a shower" Ryder said as he turned it on. He tried to remember how he got so drunk, "I was talking to Tyler then I don't remember after that. Did I even eat dinner?" Ryder asked himself as he realized he was starving. Damon came down and looked at Chase, "Ryder are you alright I heard thumping?" Damon asked. "Fine dad" Ryder said as he didn't want to get in trouble, he felt sick and didn't want them to hear him throw up. "Are you sure?" Damon asked as Ryder puked but he hoped they didn't hear as the shower was on. Ryder undressed quickly and jumped into the shower as he heard the door open, "You alright?" Damon asked, "yeah just showering" Ryder said. Damon wasn't convinced, he looked around and noticed his clothes he could smell alcohol. Damon left but he waited outside in the game room, Ryder thought he was clear as he wrapped a towel around himself and went into his room and changed. He didn't know his dad, "that was close" Ryder said out loud. "What was close?" Damon said scaring Ryder half to death. "Nothing" Ryder said, "where were you?" Damon asked, "just out with friends" Ryder said as he sat down he still felt like he was spinning. "I see and what were you doing?" Damon asked, "just talking, nothing exciting" Ryder said. "Are you alright Ryder you look like you might be sick" Damon asked. Ryder did feel like he needed to puke again but he didn't want his dad to know he tried to hide it. "Ryder I can tell you are drunk, go get yourself figured out and then come talk to me" Damon said. Ryder ran to the bathroom and puked again a few times when he was sure he was done he met with his dad even though he was nervous.

"I am sorry dad, I don't even remember what happened, I went to Tyler's and I asked him advice about Bonnie and Elena. He made me a few drinks and I don't know what happened after that, I don't even remember how I got home and I am sorry it was so late I meant to come back for dinner" Ryder said. "What do you mean you were here for dinner?" Damon said, "I was I don't remember, ugh I am sorry" Ryder said. "Ryder why is it you are hanging out with Tyler all of a sudden? I thought you hated him and I am not sure I like you hanging out with him" Damon said. "I don't know honestly he is different, I feel like he has changed and I still can't remember being here for dinner are you sure?" Ryder said. "Yes we talked even I am sure, you didn't seem drunk then" Damon said. Just then Rebekah came downstairs with a crying baby, "she is fed, changed and burped and I am going to bed" Rebekah said a she handed Orianna over to Damon. "Well I

am giving your brother here a lecture can you please keep it down" Damon said as he rocked her, it didn't work as she continued to cry. Damon tried walking with her as Ryder tried to remember coming home for dinner and he said "here let me" as he took Orianna and she stopped crying almost instantly. "Well look who has the magic touch" Damon said, "Ryder I don't like that you came home drunk, this was against our rules so I am grounding you for 2 weeks, school, home and that is it understood" Damon said. "Yeah understood" Ryder said as he handed his sleeping sister back over to his dad and went to bed himself. Damon took Orianna back to her room and went to bed himself.

Will Silas figure out how to break the protection spell? Will he find the person he needs?

Someone new comes into the story as well can you guess? hint.. Bonnie does not like him.

Also Kol and Elijah take the cure finally will they wake up? Stay tuned.

Chapter 47 Silas and Kai plus Ryder

Ryder tossed and turned all night he was angry at himself as he tried to understand why he kept going to Tyler for help. Ryder gave up on sleep as he went and sat in the game room, Chase followed him and said "Ryder sir are you okay?" "I guess so Chase, I just can't sleep I am trying to figure out when I became friends with Tyler. I mean last year he beat me up and now I am going to him for advice. I just don't know what I am doing anymore" Ryder said as he lowered his head. "I was going to ask you the same question Ryder sir, I mean every time you leave the house and end up with Tyler you come back either drunk or on drugs. I am not sure he is a good influence on you" Chase said. "The thing is Chase I am not sure what even happened today, my dad said I was home for dinner but I don't remember coming back. I don't remember leaving the Lockwood cellar." Ryder said. "You were home Ryder sir I saw you and you ate then went out again, you seemed okay then" Chase said. "I don't know Chase I am not sure it was me, I just am so confused." Ryder said, "It couldn't have been a traveler as they are all dead, is there something else out there that can turn into you or get inside you without you noticing?" Chase asked. "I have no clue, but I can't sleep I am good Chase if you want to sleep" Ryder said, "Nope I am not letting you out of my sight, every time I do something bad happens to you" Chase said. Ryder didn't press the subject further and seeing as it was just after 2 am he didn't think texting anyone would be a good idea.

It was just after 4 when Ryder fell asleep on the couch, and Damon was shaking him awake after he felt like he slept for 5 minutes. "Did you not go to bed after we talked?" Damon asked, Ryder groaned, "I tried but I just couldn't sleep" Ryder said, "well you have school in about 30 minutes" Damon said. Ryder pulled a pillow over his face and Damon laughed, "Ryder you don't have to go, I am just saying if you are 30 minutes" Damon said as he went back upstairs. Ryder debated with himself as he rolled off the couch, he walked into his room and saw his bed and collapsed onto it. Damon knew that Ryder probably wasn't going to school, and he was going to let him sleep as he really did look tired. Orianna cried as she was frustrated with no one paying attention to her. "My girl daddy would take you out but your brother is sleeping and well I can't leave him today, something is bothering him" Damon said to her as he picked her up. Rebekah was also currently still sleeping as she dealt with Orianna all night and Damon was giving her a break. Damon fed his daughter as he rocked her in the chair they had placed in the living room, Ryder came upstairs shortly after and Damon was surprised. "I thought you would stay home" he said. "I thought about it but I need to deal with something, see you after school" Ryder said as he grabbed his keys and took off in his car. "Well now I guess I can take you out" Damon said to Orianna as he burped her.

Ryder arrived at school just on time as he ran inside to history class, Mr. Saltzman had already begun and he didn't seem to care Ryder was late. Ryder passed Tyler a note asking him what happened last night he needed answers. Tyler read it he was confused as he wrote something and passed it back, "Not sure what you mean I was not at the cellar last night, I was with Caroline at the grill" the note said. Ryder passed it back "never mind I am not sure what is going on" he wrote. Mr. Saltzman said "Tyler and Ryder if you aren't going to pay attention you can do it in detention after school" Ryder apologized to Tyler for getting him into trouble after class and he said "whatever he finds a reason to put me in detention everyday anyways" Tyler said. Elena came up to Ryder and tried to kiss him but Ryder pushed her away, "Elena look I am sorry I can't do this. I know something happened between us but I just don't have the same feelings for you that you do for me. I am sorry I don't want it to ruin our friendship but I can't change how I feel" Ryder said. "Screw you" Elena said as she ran off, "Don't sweat it bro, girls are high maintenance, guess I will see you in detention" Tyler said as he walked off. Ryder walked up to Bonnie and said "I need help" "Why? what is wrong?" Bonnie asked, "I am not sure I thought I was with Tyler last night but he said he was with Caroline, whoever I was with definitely made me drunk. I can't remember anything and I swear it was Tyler" Ryder said. "As far as I know there is only one Tyler, I am not sure how I can help" Bonnie said. "I am so sick of this I can't stop feeling like someone is coming after me. I just want to be a normal teenager like I am so angry and I hate it" Ryder said. Mr. Saltzman overheard and said "Bonnie do you mind if I borrow Ryder for a moment?" "No not at all" Bonnie said. Ryder followed Mr. Saltzman he didn't know what he was going to do but he listened. "Ryder I am sorry I overheard your conversation with Bonnie, I think you had an encounter with Silas" Alaric said. "Silas? who is he?" Ryder asked, "he was the first immortal being, he can change his face so as to appear as whoever he wants to be. Ryder he is very dangerous as you don't know who he is and he is not a vampire either so I am not sure your blood can cure him. I suspect he is curious about it though, I

am going to suggest that you go home and stay there. I will let your dad know what is going on if Silas does have a plan with you it will not be good" Alaric said. "I would rather face this then run from it if he wants me so bad he can have me" Ryder said as he was just frustrated. "Ryder that is not wise, please go home I feel you are in danger" Alaric said as he called Damon to explain.

Ryder was annoyed he didn't want to go home and be stuck there as yet another threat was after him as he walked to his car. Ryder was stopped by someone he had never seen before, "hello, my name is Kai and I was hoping to run into you" Kai said. "Yeah and what is it you want?" Ryder said with an angry tone. "Wow no need to be rude, I want to help you out with your Silas problem" Kai said, "not sure you can help me" Ryder said, "well that isn't fair you don't know what I can do, in fact I can feel you are protected by lots of magic" Kai said. "You can feel magic?" Ryder asked confused, "yes and if I were to touch you like this you won't be protected" Kai said as he grabbed Ryder's arm absorbing all the protection spells that were currently protecting him. Ryder felt like his energy was drained as he collapsed Kai put him into his car and drove off with him to meet Silas. "Well done Kai now when he wakes up I can see if I can control him" Silas said as Kai brought him to Silas.

Damon began worrying as Alaric told him Ryder was on his way home and he wasn't back yet, Damon tried calling him but his phone was off. "Chase can you get a hold of Ryder?" Damon asked, Chase pressed his pup tag and said "Ryder sir are you there?" he didn't receive a response either and Damon was annoyed. "Rebekah I will be back Orianna is asleep" Damon told her, "Okay" Rebekah said from the kitchen, as Damon climbed into his car to search the town. He had no idea where Ryder could be but he didn't think he was in danger although he was and Damon just didn't know it. Ryder woke up he had no idea where he was and he was seeing Silas as Alaric. "What happened?" Ryder asked, "I don't know you tell me, I thought you were going home and I found you outside by your car" Alaric said. "Where are we?" Ryder asked, "my place sorry it is a big mess, I told your dad you are with me I thought we could figure out this Silas mess" Alaric said. Ryder felt something was off, "I think you are Silas and you are just messing with me" Ryder said. "You are really smart Ryder, and now that you are no longer being protected by magic I need a favor from you" Silas said. "I am not doing you any favors" Ryder said as he tried to leave but Kai was still there as well and he blocked the door. "I am not sure you really have a choice, tell me Ryder who is that keeps protecting you" Silas said able to get into Ryder's head freely now. "I figured as much Freya Mikaleson, well Ryder I think you are going to come in handy as I actually need Freya's help with a little spell of my own" Silas said. Ryder was nervous he hoped Freya would be okay and he felt like he was going to help Silas no matter what as he felt Silas was able to control him. "Ryder please call your aunt Freya and tell her you are in trouble" Silas told him. Ryder really tried to fight Silas but he was just to strong and Ryder called Freya.

"Ryder are you alright? Your dad just called me said you are missing?" Freya answered, "I am in trouble and I need you" Ryder said as the words came out of his mouth effortlessly like he had no control. "Where are you?" Freya asked and Ryder gave her an address, Freya was on her way and she had Damon with her which was not part of the plan. "Ryder your aunt will be here shortly and I need you to stand right her and don't talk, move or do anything unless I say so" Silas said as he handed Ryder a gun. "Now Ryder please hold the gun up to your head" Silas said Ryder couldn't stop himself as he did what Silas told him. Ryder was scared he knew he was in trouble but he couldn't move or talk Freya and Damon entered the room and saw Ryder. "Now Ryder will not be harmed if I get what I want" Silas said still as Alaric. "Ryder what are you doing?" Damon asked him, "Sorry Ryder is not going to listen to you, he is under my control and will do what I ask him, now Freya I called you here to help me with a spell" Silas said. "What makes you think I want to help you?" Freya asked as Damon looked at how scared his son looked holding the gun. "Well as I can ask Ryder to pull the trigger at any moment I feel like you want him alive therefor you are going to help me" Silas said. "Fine what do you want me to do?" Freya asked knowing she didn't want Ryder to die. "First Damon I am going to ask you to leave the room as you are not a part of this" Silas said as Kai pushed him out. "Now Freya if you could please read this spell for me and do what is says" Silas said. "This is a resurrection spell who are you trying to bring back?" Freya asked, "My true form now if you will please" Silas said, Freya read the spell and gathered the ingredients that Silas had gathered and the only thing left was Ryder's blood. "Perfect Ryder if you will please come here" Silas said as Ryder walked over, Silas drank the potion Freya just made and then drank Ryder's blood as Silas fell to the ground and Freya grabbed Ryder away from him. "Are you okay?" Freya asked, "yeah but he had that guy get rid of the protection spell then I was doing things without wanting too" Ryder said. "Silas is a bad person" Freya said as Silas stood up in his true form, "you look like my uncle" Ryder said. "No Ryder your uncle looks like me as this is my true form, thank you Freya and I believe that I am still immortal which means that your blood will not cure me" Silas said a bit disappointed. "I am curious though Ryder please come here" Silas said and Ryder moved even though he tried not too. Silas drank more of his blood now that he was in his true form and Freya had to pull him away before Silas killed him, "Sorry I just never expected it to taste so amazing" Silas said as he fell to the floor. Freya imprisoned Kai before he noticed and said "Ryder run go" Freya said as Ryder didn't hesitate and he ran out the door where his dad was waiting relieved that Ryder was okay.

Will Silas come back human? Will Kai be more of a threat as they realize who he is? Can

Freya deal with everything that is going on? Find out soon

Chapter 48 Kai becomes a problem

Damon drove Ryder home in Ryder's car as he was still grasping everything that just happened. Freya knew who Kai was and she said a spell trapping him and knew she needed to get him back into a prison world. Freya left Silas as she hoped he would not be back but she needed to put yet another protection spell on Ryder as she worried for him. Freya made it back to the Salvatore house and everyone was in the living room Ryder looked scared still and she said "Ryder I am sorry that you went through that, I am not sure what will happen with Silas. I want to put the protection spell back on you if you will let me" Freya said. Ryder nodded but didn't say anything as Freya prepared her spell, "okay Ryder when you are ready" Freya said Ryder looked at his dad and lay in the circle for Freya. She began her spell and Ryder felt the pain he did last time it was hard to stay still but he knew he needed to. Freya finished the spell and placed her hand on Ryder's chest and the light went inside him again and he could feel the magic once again making him not feel like himself. "You okay?" Damon asked Ryder, "yeah" was all Ryder said as he went downstairs. "He will be okay I must go and deal with Kai and Silas please keep him safe" Freya said as she left the house.

"I am so tired of everyone trying to hurt him, I feel like he is just never going to be normal. I wonder if there is a way to get rid of the cure altogether" Damon said. Elijah and Kol arrived and Elijah said, "let us drink it first before it is gone forever" as he hugged his sister. "Freya just told us he has been through a lot, we don't want to force him if he needs more time" Elijah said. "I will go get him" Damon said as it really was Ryder's choice in the end. "Hey bud you alright?" Damon asked, "I don't know I just want to be normal" Ryder said, "I know it is tough when there are so many damn threats out there, Ryder Kol and Elijah are here and they don't want to drink your blood if you aren't ready" Damon said. "Ugh I just wish I wasn't the cure! Like I am tired of all of this dad, why do I have to deal with all of this" Ryder said in frustration. "I don't know I feel like this is my fault, I am the one who made you the cure. I couldn't leave you like that if I

did you would have died" Damon said. "I am not mad that you saved me, I am glad you did being your son is not the problem. It is dealing with all the threats like you said, as long as I am the cure I am never going to live a normal life" Ryder said. "Once we cure 2 more vampires I am going to try and figure out a way that this cure can be gone for good" Damon said. "I am not sure there will ever be a way. I guess we might as well get this over with" Ryder said as he followed Damon upstairs.

"Ryder thank you for allowing us to do this, we understand that the timing is terrible but we also understand that you might be considering getting rid of the cure altogether" Elijah said. "Let's just do this" Ryder said as he was still not feeling like being social. Both Kol and Elijah said their goodbyes to Rebekah and Orianna just in case they didn't wake up again. Kol went first and he couldn't believe how incredible Ryder tasted, it was like caramel and ice cream with a hint of bubblegum. Kol fell to the floor and Damon put him in the study for right now as he wouldn't be in the way. Elijah went next and drank a little bit and it was an interesting taste for him, like black licorice and coffee with subtle taste of wine. Elijah turned grey as well and was also placed in the study as Rebekah prayed her brothers would be alright, Ryder didn't even say anything as he went downstairs and into his room closing the door. Chase didn't know whether or not to go down with him as he knew Ryder was going through a rough time. Ryder knew Elena hated him and he wasn't sure if Bonnie wanted to be his girlfriend anymore but he needed a friend and he couldn't stay at home. Ryder changed his clothes and walked back upstairs all the adults were busy with the babies and he was able to leave without anyone noticing. Ryder started his car and this got the attention of Damon as he walked outside, "where are you goin?" he asked him as Ryder had the window open, "out" Ryder said as he drove off. Damon was annoyed that Ryder would leave without telling him but he was going to give him some space hoping he was going to be okay.

Ryder drove back to the school and saw Bonnie walking home as school was now out, "hey want to go for a ride?" Ryder asked. "Sure, where did you go?" Bonnie asked as she climbed into his car. "I will explain it all once I am not driving" Ryder as he noticed Elena see him leave with Bonnie she looked pissed off. "Don't worry about her she already told me that we are no longer friends, and well I don't care to much" Bonnie said. "I feel bad I mean she sort of forced me to have sex with her and then I told her that I wasn't interested. I mean I feel bad that I let it happen I am not sure I was even ready" Ryder said. "Well I for one am glad that you changed your mind,

I love you Ryder and I am not asking you to feel the same way" Bonnie said. "I love you to Bonnie and I am sorry I should never have broken up with you in the first place, I made the mistake as I feel safe with you. Elena has gotten me into more trouble then I can count and I always find myself thinking of you" Ryder said Bonnie smiled she missed Ryder and she for one was glad he was hers again. Ryder stopped the car at the waterfall lookout and they got out and walked a bit as Ryder explained everything to her he finished once they reached the top. Bonnie sat down as Ryder sat beside her, "well it sounds like you are going through somethings. I for one am glad Silas is gone he sounds frightening, I hope that he doesn't wake up and I think I heard of Kai as he killed his entire family and was placed in a prison world. I wonder how he escaped, I do have a question why do you keep going back to Tyler for advice?" Bonnie asked. "I have no idea I ask myself the same question every time, I am just going to come to you for advice" Ryder said as he kissed her. Bonnie kissed him back and they ended up having sex overlooking the waterfall.

"Sorry" Ryder said as the moment ended, "don't be I enjoyed it and I am glad we are together again" Bonnie said as she kissed him. They walked back to Ryder's car and Ryder treated her to dinner at the grill. Damon was there as he was working and he was relieved to know Ryder was okay, as he brough them dinner. "Thanks dad but we didn't order anything yet" Ryder said, "it is on the house" Damon said as he walked away happy knowing he was with Bonnie again and not Elena. "I still don't understand what Kai's purpose was in all of this?" Bonnie said, Alaric was in the booth next to them with his date who looked over and said "I am sorry did you just say Kai?" Jo asked, "yeah do you know him?" Ryder asked, "Oh um I knew a Kai, but it can't be the same one" Jo said. "Bonnie, Ryder this is Jo Laughlin" Alaric said, "nice to meet you" Bonnie said as her and Ryder ate their dinner. "I am sorry I just need to know more about Kai" Jo said Ryder looked at her and said, "he was working with someone name Silas, and he sort of absorbed magic out of me." Ryder said hoping he didn't sound crazy. "Where is he now?" Jo asked, "My aunt Freya took him she said she was going to try and trap him again but I don't know if she has yet or not" Ryder said relived she didn't think he was crazy. "Let us hope he is trapped as Kai is not a good person" Jo said a little bit worried. Just then Kai walked into the grill and noticed Ryder. "Well if it isn't the person whom I have been looking for, Ryder I see you are filled with magic again" Kai said. "Kai don't touch him" Jo said trying to protect him, "My Josette how you have aged, I will take what is mine in a moment as I need to take the cure out of Ryder as it is the strongest magic known right now" Kai said as he tried to grab Ryder who ducked under the table. Bonnie put a barrier around Kai and Ryder was safe for right now, Freya entered the grill and indicated for everyone to leave as she put a barrier around the grill once all the innocent bystanders were out.

"This is magic you know I can just absorb it" Kai said, "yes we know but you will not be here for long" Freya said as she grabbed Bonnies hand, they started chanting a spell and Ryder was curious as to how Bonnie knew exactly what to say. Kai was annoyed as he felt himself fading away and then he disappeared all together. "Where did he go?" Ryder asked, "We sent him back to a prison world, and hopefully he stays there and Ryder just so you know Silas as not woken up and I feel that he probably won't" Freya said as she dropped the barrier spell and left. Alaric looked at Jo all confused and said "what was that?" "Kai was my twin brother he was trapped in a prison world stuck in the same day over and over again. He never aged and he tried to kill me as I was a Gemini twin and we were supposed to merge on our 21st birthday but my younger sibling Luke and Olivia were growing stronger making Kai angry. My coven placed him in the prison world, I have no idea how he escaped" Jo said. "Wow alright then let us hope he stays in this prison world then" Alaric said as he and Jo decided to finish dinner. Ryder looked at Bonnie and said "thanks again for saving me" "Always Ryder" Bonnie said as she kissed him and Ryder drove her home. Ryder drove back home himself and decided to spend some time with his baby sister as he finally felt happy.

Elijah and Kol still hadn't woken up and Rebekah was beginning to think that they wouldn't as she felt a bit sad. Klaus promised to come soon and deal with the bodies as he also was a bit sad but he was relieved to know Ryder was out of harms way. Rebekah watched how Orianna lit up when Ryder played with her, "she really does love you" she said, "the feeling is mutual she is super cute" Ryder said as he made a face at her causing her to laugh. "The best sound" Rebekah said as she was happy to have both of them in her life. Rebekah warmed up Orianna's bottle and gave it to Ryder as he fed her. She just loved looking at her big brother and Rebekah was glad to finally have a small break as she made dinner. Stefan and Lexi were out with Mylo and the house was oddly peaceful. Chase lay close by as he watched Ryder while Skye lay on top of him making Chase happy.

Will Elijah and Kol wake up? Is Kai really gone? What will happen as Bonnie and Ryder are back together? Find out soon

Chapter 49 Ryder's next problem

Damon came home just before dinner to a sleeping baby and Ryder was downstairs playing games. "Did he do anything today?" Damon asked Rebekah, "yes he played with Orianna for a while and it was nice as it allowed me to get things done" Rebekah said. "How is he doing?" Damon asked, "he seems okay, I mean I think being with Bonnie again is bringing up his spirit a little" Rebekah said. "Good I never liked Elena, Bonnie is useful at least" Damon said as they heard a crash in the study. Both Rebekah and Damon went in there and Rebekah squealed as she hugged her brother. "Wow I never thought I would be alive" Elijah said, "I am so glad you are" Rebekah said as she hugged him tight, Elijah hugged back noticing that Kol was still not awake. "I have a feeling he will not be waking up" Elijah said, "since he took the cure before you and you are awake first I don't think so either" Rebekah said as she cried a little both sad for Kol and happy that Elijah was alive. Elijah called Klaus and he was thrilled to hear that he was alive, as he promised to come soon and deal with Kol. It was getting late and after dinner Elijah decided to head back to new orleans he had a few things he needed to do. Klaus came as promised and took Kol with him after Rebekah said her goodbyes. Damon went downstairs to check on Ryder and he was in the middle of one of his games. "Ryder" Damon said getting his attention, "yeah?" Ryder said as he paused the game. "How are you doing?" Damon asked, "I am good dad I promise" Ryder said giving him a smile. "Okay it is getting late finish up what you are doing and head to bed" Damon said. "Okay" Ryder said as he went back to his game, Chase went upstairs as he went outside getting ready for bed himself.

Ryder finished his game and had a shower before crawling into bed, he smiled at Chase and hugged him tight as he fell asleep. It didn't take long before Ryder woke up from a nightmare he fell off his bed. "Ouch" he said as he stood up, "you okay Ryder sir?" Chase asked, "yeah I am good, not sure what happened there" Ryder said awkwardly as he climbed back into bed. Chase knew he had a nightmare although he didn't know exactly what happened with Silas and Kai he knew his owner was struggling. Chase watched him closely as Ryder tried to go back to sleep, he tossed and turned and finally just gave up. "Man I am never going to get sleep" Ryder said as he went into the bathroom, he opened his medicine cabinet and saw the pain killers he was given when Tyler beat him up almost a year ago. He knew they would help him sleep but they were a drug and he was hesitant, he put them back and went upstairs to get a drink. Lexi was in the kitchen warming up some milk for Mylo, "can't sleep?" she asked him, "No and I know I am tired, is there something that I can take?" Ryder asked. "You mean like a sleeping pill?" Lexi asked, "I don't know anything, I keep waking up and I am having a hard time falling asleep" Ryder said. "Hmm well I don't have anything right now but I could get you sleeping pills when I go to work in the morning" Lexi said. "I found those pain killers from when Tyler beat me up would they work?" Ryder asked. "Pain killers are not a sleeping pill, they will not do you any good if you are not in pain, Ryder please don't take them" Lexi said. "I won't I am just going to go for a drive okay I will be back" Ryder said as he grabbed his keys and left. Lexi was worried for him but she heard her baby screaming upstairs so she went to feed him.

Ryder drove his car around Mystic Falls and saw who he thought was Elena and he pulled over, "what are you doing?" Ryder asked her, "what do you care?" Elena said, "Elena I do care, I just it is complicated" Ryder said. "Yeah I am sure it is Ryder leave me alone" Elena said. "I can't you are my friend and you look like you need someone" Ryder said, "I don't need you, not only did you take my virginity but you also lost me my best friend, my family and my whole reputation, I don't need you so just fuck off" Elena said. "First off you are the one who seduced me so that was on you, and second Bonnie is still your friend it is you who chooses to not speak to her and third I am not responsible for anything that happened to your family, they are the ones who came after me" Ryder said. "Oh poor you news flash Ryder life doesn't revolve around you, I don't care about you anymore you ruined my life and I for one don't want to be in it anymore" Elena said as she pulled out a gun. "Where did you get that? Elena please don't do something you are going to regret" Ryder said. "The only think I regret Ryder is ever being friends with you" Elena said as she pointed it at him, "okay calm down, I am sorry I never meant to hurt you. I will leave if you put the gun down" Ryder said. "You want to leave now? we are just getting things going Ryder. I feel like not only should I end my life but yours too, since you are the one who caused me the most pain" Elena said. "Please don't do this" Ryder said now feeling a bit scared as he pressed his watch hoping Chase would send help. "I can do whatever I want Ryder, you see I don't care anymore and I hate you so much at this point shooting you would make me feel better" Elena said. Chase jumped up as soon as he heard shoot and he ran upstairs to get Damon. "Elena think about what you are doing, killing me is murder and I know you don't want to do it otherwise you would have already" Ryder said. "Shut up Ryder! you are making this easier and easier for me" Elena said as she closed her eyes and pulled the trigger. Ryder didn't have anytime to react as he felt the bullet hit him, just then Damon and Chase came into view and Chase tackled Elena before she could shoot herself. Damon ran to Ryder and said "hang in there bud help is coming" as he held Ryder in his arms. "Stay awake for me Ryder" Damon said as he noticed Ryder's eyes closing.

Chase held Elena down until the cops arrived and they took her away, the ambulance also took Ryder to the hospital where he was taken into surgery right away. Damon paced the waiting area he just couldn't believe what just happened. How could someone that Ryder was friends with do this, Damon just didn't want to believe that Elena was capable of this. He called Freya and she answered, "hello Damon" "Freya did Silas ever wake up?" Damon asked, "I am not sure I never noticed as I buried him why what is going on?" Freya asked, "Ryder was shot by his friend Elena and I am just trying to figure out why she would do this. I just can't picture it actually being her is there anyway to check?" Damon asked. "I can do a locator spell on her just hang on" Freya said as she concentrated on the doppleganger and said a spell, after a few moments she said "she is at home it looks like, I think you might be right. I will have Klaus help me figure out if Silas is alive or not" Freya said as she hung up. Ryder was in surgery for hours and Damon was growing impatient as he worried about him. Damon's phone pinged and it was Freya, "Silas is still dead Damon, he is still where we left him, I am not sure it was him" she said, "Who the hell did this then?" Damon asked. "I have no idea but we are looking into it how is Ryder?" Freya asked, "I don't know he is still in surgery" Damon said. "Okay keep us updated and Klaus and I will figure this out" Freya said. Damon didn't know who would do this he was angry and frustrated because once again his son was fighting for his life.

Ryder was hanging on for his life as he tried to figure out if Elena would actually shoot him, he was in his own head. "Hello? anyone there Mom?" Ryder asked as he was in a place he didn't recognize, "I am sorry Ryder your mother no longer controls this realm, I do and I for one can't understand why you keep coming back to life" Katsyia said, "Katsyia how are you here?" Ryder asked, "I am flattered you remember me, well when you killed Silas it was originally my purpose in life and therefore I have moved on. I am now the guide to the other side I guess you can call it, as I now who decided who lives and dies" Katsyia said. "Please I don't want to die, I still have a life I want to live" Ryder said. "Ryder it is not my intention to kill you however I will need a favor from you when you awake" Katsyia said. "So I am going to remember this?" Ryder said, "sort of, the person who shot you was not your friend Elena Ryder it was someone whom I thought was dead, but Silas had made her immortal and she is another doppleganger her name is Amara she stole Silas from me a long time ago. Now she is dangerous but she can't change form so she will still look like Elena. I need you to cure her Ryder I need her to die as a human" Katsyia said. "How am I supposed to do that?" Ryder asked, "I am sure you will figure it out, our time is up Ryder and I wish you luck" Katsyia said as Ryder faded out of the realm. "We have him back" the doctor said as they finished his surgery and he was taken to recovery. Dr. Fell went out to speak with Damon, "It was touch and go there for a little bit as we did lose him, he lost a lot of blood but we were able to get the bullet out. Ryder is stable and on his way to recovery you can go and see him soon" Dr. Fell said. "Did he get a blood transfusion?" Damon asked a bit concerned as he knew it would mess with the cure. "There was no need, we were setting it up when the bleeding suddenly stopped and he stabilized, it was really very strange" Dr. Fell said. Damon was relieved as Dr. Fell took him to Ryder's room.

Ryder was awake and he looked at his dad, "I am sorry I left, I did tell Lexi though" Ryder said,

"It is fine I am not mad, are you alright?" Damon asked. "I am okay, a bit sore dad it wasn't Elena that shot me" Ryder said, "I know but we don't know who it was and that is worse" Damon said. "I do her name is Amara and she is the original doppleganger the one who Silas was in love with. Katsyia told me she wants me to cure her so she dies as a human and she can control her fate" Ryder said. "What? Katsyia?" Damon said, "yes she is now the one who decided who lives and dies I guess, when I cure someone they will pass over and see her, she wants me to cure Amara so that she can decide where she goes." Ryder said. "I am not sure I understand this has it been her the whole time?" Damon asked, "I don't know this is the only time I remembered but I need to cure Amara" Ryder said. "You need to recover first Ryder, you were just shot take a

breath for a minute" Damon said. "Where is she dad?" Ryder asked, "she was arrested" Damon said, "oh no you need to go to the police station dad, she is immortal and Katsyia said she is very dangerous." Ryder said. "I am sure everything will be fine, Ryder get some sleep and I will see what I can do" Damon said as Ryder fell asleep. Damon didn't know what it was he was supposed to do as he called the police station and there was no answer. He called Freya next, "Damon everything okay?" she answered, "yes Ryder is fine, listen he said that the person who shot him was Amara the original doppleganger and she is very dangerous, she was taken to the police station but no one there is answering" Damon said. "Amara, Klaus looks nervous we are on our way hang tight" Freya said as her and Klaus made their way to Mystic falls police station. Damon suddenly thought of Liz and he called her and she answered, "Hello Sheriff Forbes" "Liz it is Damon just making sure you are safe" Damon said, "safe? why what is going on?" Liz asked, "nothing just don't go to the police station okay" Damon said. "Why? I am on my way there now" Liz said, "Please sheriff just trust me go back home be with your daughter" Damon said, "Okay is everything okay?" Liz asked a bit worried, "It will be just trust me" Damon said as they hung up and he hoped the sheriff listened to him.

Will Liz listen? Can Freya and Klaus contain a very unstable Amara? Will Ryder recover and move past all his trauma? Find out soon

Chapter 50 Dopplegangers

Freya and Klaus made it to the police station and noticed all the police were unconscious but they were still alive. Amara was smiling when she saw Klaus, "Hello" she said in a sweet sing song voice. "Amara, it has been a long time" Klaus said, "take me away Klaus" Amara said, Freya rolled her eyes as she could tell Amara was flirting with her brother as she used her witch power to put Amara to sleep. Klaus picked her up and carried her and asked "are they all going to be okay?" indicating to the police. "Yes they will be fine" Freya said as they left with Amara. Freya trapped Amara in a hotel room with a barrier spell for now until they could figure out what to do. "She is the last doppleganger other then Elena right?" Freya asked, "Yes Tatia, was killed by my mother, Katherine I killed and Amara was missing for many years I assume Silas found her, and Elena is the last" Klaus said. "How do we kill Amara?" Freya asked knowing she was immortal, "we cure her" Klaus said. "Ryder cures vampirism though she is not a vampire" Freya said, "Ryder cures immortality Silas was also not a vampire. Ryder truly is a fascinating human if I do say so myself" Klaus said. Freya felt dumb she forgot Silas was not a vampire, "well we need to wait until he recovers he was just shot" Freya said. "I am curious though, Amara how did you convince Ryder you were Elena?" Klaus asked. "I look exactly like her it wasn't hard" Amara said, "yes but you knew things how?" Klaus asked, "Well Klaus I have been watching Ryder for a long time, I had a little help for Silas and I was able to tap into Elena's mind and get a few ideas from her" Amara said. "I see well hang tight here will we get you the cure" Klaus said. "I don't think I want to be cured, I enjoy my life now that I am so strong" Amara said. "Sorry love you don't have a choice" Klaus said as he left leaving Freya to deal with her.

Ryder was having a hard time falling asleep he was uncomfortable, "you alright?" Damon asked him. "No I can't get comfortable, my side hurts a lot" Ryder said, Damon called a nurse and told her Ryder was in pain. Dr. Fell came a few minutes later said "I heard you are in pain, we already have you on pain killers. Ryder I am not sure I can give you anything stronger as your body reacts to it differently." Dr Fell said. "What do you mean?" Damon asked confused, "Ryder's past even though the drugs may not have been his fault, the stronger the pain med, the more it absorbs into his blood stream the bigger his reaction. Ryder's tolerance is very low which means that he absorbs the medicine a lot quicker giving him a stronger high which in turn makes it a lot more dangerous for him. I am not comfortable giving him stronger pain meds as I fear it might kill him" Dr Fell said. "It is fine I can deal with it" Ryder said even though he clearly looked uncomfortable. Ryder closed his eyes trying not to think about his pain but it was hard as it was impossible to get comfortable. Damon was concerned he knew his son was struggling, "Ryder are you sure I can't do anything?" Damon asked. "I am sure, it just feels like my whole side is being squeezed in a vice and there is no getting out" Ryder said trying to describe the pain. "I will be back hang tight" Damon said as he went to find Dr. Fell she needed to do something he couldn't watch his kid suffer. "You need to do something he is in pain, I can tell he is holding back trying to be brave" Damon said. "I can give him over the counter pain meds for now and a sedative it will help him sleep" Dr. Fell said as she gathered the meds and followed Damon into Ryder's room. When they came back he was gone, "Where did he go?" Dr. Fell asked confused. "I have no idea" Damon said. Dr Fell noticed that Ryder took out his IV as well and now he was in a lot of trouble as he was not getting any pain meds at all.

Ryder was confused how he left the hospital it all happened so fast as he was now in a hotel room. "I am sorry I did that Ryder, I can see you are in pain I will have Freya help, but we can't delay the inevitable Amara must be stopped." Klaus said, "I need to cure her" Ryder said, "yes you do but first we need to deal with your pain you can barely stand" Klaus said as Freya came in and tried to help. Meanwhile Amara was doing her mind tricks as she channeled Elena and called her to her. Elena was confused but she was able to enter the hotel room Amara was in and Amara hid knowing they would cure her. She had no idea that Elena had already taken the cure and it would have zero affect on her. Ryde felt slightly better as Damon called Freya, "Ryder is missing" Damon said, Freya rolled her eyes at her brother, "Damon Ryder is fine he is with us, Klaus took him. I am sorry my brother can be very insensitive but I assure you Ryder is fine and we will have him with you soon" Freya said. Damon was furious Klaus could have at least said something as he would have been willing to help. Once Ryder was feeling better they took him to see Amara. "Why are you doing this?" Elena asked, "Stop it Amara, and lets just get this over with" Klaus said forcing Ryder into the room. "Stay away from me Ryder, you ruined my life once already" Elena said, "like you haven't ruined mine, and I know you are not Elena so stop talking" Ryder said. "What do you mean I am Elena, why am I even here?" Elena asked, Ryder looked at Klaus confused. "Amara love come out, we all know your little game is not going to work" Klaus said. Amara came out even though she knew what was going to happen, "Freya if you will drop the barrier" Klaus said as he entered the room and grabbed Amara so she couldn't react, "Ryder if you will" Freya said as he walked up to Amara and being so close to her she couldn't resist. Amara drank his blood and Klaus pulled her away and she turned grey and collapsed to the floor. "Elena darling you will go home and forget you were here, and cut Ryder some slack he has been through a lot" Klaus said as Elena left. "Thanks" Ryder said as Klaus took him back to the hospital and convinced the nurses and doctors that Ryder had been there the whole time. Dr. Fell gave Ryder the sedative and he slept through the night with Damon by his side.

Freya and Klaus dealt with Amara knowing she would not come back as well at least the hoped she wouldn't. Amara was in the alternate universe with Katsyia, "Hello Amara" Katsyia said, "What happened? where am I? Amara asked. "You are in my world now and you will suffer like

I did. Silas is gone forever and soon you will be to and as far away from him as I can get you" Katsyia said with an evil laugh. Ryder was allowed to leave from the hospital a few days later and Lexi was keeping an eye on him at home. Damon really hoped there wasn't anymore threats out there as he was tired of watching Ryder suffer.

Ryder went back to school and everyone saw that he was back with Bonnie, Elena watched from a far she was no longer friends with any of them. Ryder felt bad for her as she looked really sad, "Bonnie I want to assure you that I love you, but I have to do something about Elena I can't just sit here knowing I hurt her so bad" Ryder said. "Okay, go talk to her" Bonnie said knowing she could trust him. Ryder walked up to Elena and sat down, "What?" Elena said a bit rude, "I am sorry please don't shut everyone out, we all still care for you and we hate watching you suffer alone" Ryder said. "Screw you, I mean you took so many things from me Ryder I honestly can never get back. I hate you and there is a part of me that says I should care but I look at you and see nothing but betrayal and pain" Elena said. "I am sorry for that but you took a lot from me too, I never asked you to have sex with me that was on you. I never did anything to your father he tried to kill me and I also did a lot for you. I helped you when no one else did, I risked my life trying to save you when you stupidly jumped off the bridge. You also took a lot from me Elena, and even though you hate me that is fine but don't shut Bonnie and Caroline out they are your friends" Ryder said. "I didn't shut Caroline out, and Bonnie can go to hell, no one asked you to save me Ryder I wanted to die that is why I jumped. You keep interfering in my life and I just wish you would leave me alone" Elena said. "Fine I will but you will not hurt Bonnie anymore, she misses you I can tell. Just because I am with her doesn't mean anything. I will stay away from you like you want but please just talk to Bonnie I know you want to" Ryder said as he walked away from her. Elena knew Ryder was right she really did miss Bonnie she could talk to her in different ways then she could with Caroline and Bonnie actually listened.

"How did it go?" Bonnie asked, "She is angry and really hates me but I can live with that. I told her she needs to talk to you straighten this out. It is stupid that she is shutting you out because I am your boyfriend" Ryder said. "We can't force her to talk to me" Bonnie said as Elena walked up to her and said. "Bonnie we should talk after school" and walked away, "See that is at least a start" Ryder said. Bonnie kissed him and said "thanks" as she really missed Elena they have been friends for a really long time. The rest of the school year flew by and Ryder was told he didn't need to come back for grade 12 as he technically had enough credits and high enough grades to graduate. "I appreciate that but I kinda want to stick around for senior year I think it will be fun" Ryder said to the principal. "Alright but there really isn't anything more you can learn here. Ryder your grades are exceptional I have never seen a student in all my years here do so well in school. I want to offer you a tutoring position here and instead of learning you can help those that are struggling. This way you will still be enrolled at the school but as you already have all your credits to graduate you can help the less unfortunate" the principal said. "Cool sounds like fun" Ryder said as he left and went home. He told everything to Damon and he couldn't be more proud of his son.

"Damn it!" Rebekah said from the kitchen, "what is wrong babe?" Damon asked, "the microwave just died, now we have to heat up bottles differently" Rebekah said. Damon looked at Ryder and he laughed as he went to check out the problem. Ryder flipped the microwave over and opened up the back panel, he saw the problem and replaced the burnt wire and the microwave came back to life. "Wow you really are amazing" Rebekah said, Ryder laughed, "thanks" Ryder said as he headed downstairs to play some games before hanging out with Bonnie. Orianna and Mylo were almost 1 now and there were baby gates everywhere as they tried to keep them at least contained. Mylo was really close to walking and Orianna crawled so fast that her parents had to keep a very close eye on her. Chase hated the gates as he could never get downstairs or get back upstairs he whined at the top of the stairs. Damon laughed, "sorry bud" he said as he lifted Chase over and he ran down the stairs to be with Ryder. "Chase I am sorry, these gates are hard for you, I will have to invent something to help you get over them" Ryder said. Chase licked him he really felt like he had the best owner ever.

Now that all the threats are gone Ryder can live his life normally. Senior year is next and Everyone can finally move on in life. There will be 1 maybe 2 more chapters for this story and it will be complete. Thank you for those who read it. 3

Chapter 51 Summer and Senior year!

Elena decided to forgive Bonnie and they became friends again, Bonnie tried to find Elena someone she could be with. "I have no one to go to prom with" Elena whine, "you have Matt but you refuse to go with him, and I mean there really isn't any other option" Bonnie said. "Mystic Falls sucks, I really can't wait to leave here" Elena said. "Are you going to Ryder's party tonight?" Bonnie asked. " No" Elena said, "Why everyone is going and you don't have to talk to him, you can hang out with me and everyone else" Bonnie said. "He will be there and that is enough, Bonnie you don't understand I really do hate him he took everything from me" Elena said. "You're right I don't get it but I think that he genuinely is sorry and you did take a lot from him as well. As you are my best friend I won't push it but don't be a nobody at home and get all depressed" Bonnie said. "I will think about it okay" Elena said, "okay" Bonnie said.

Rebekah and Lexi were planning out their babies first birthday party as they were so close together they were going to do a joint party. Damon was talking to Ryder setting some rules, "Ryder how many people did you invite?" Damon asked, "Umm like 20 I think" Ryder said, "Okay everyone stays downstairs, no loud music, absolutely no drugs and I mean that for everyone. If someone drinks they will not drive home, and no girls in the bedroom" Damon said. "Dad" Ryder said as he rolled his eyes. "I mean it Ryder, I am not going to be responsible for anything going wrong" Damon said. "Nothing will go wrong" Ryder said, "you don't know that, everyone has to pass through me before going downstairs, as in empty pockets and everything I will not have drugs in my house" Damon said. "I know but please don't embarrass me" Ryder said. Damon laughed as the doorbell rang, Bonnie was the first to arrive and Damon let her pass as he knew she didn't have drugs. Bonnie kissed Ryder and went straight for a cuddle with Chase, "man my dog gets more love than me" Ryder whined, "yes he does" Bonnie said as she kissed Chase and he licked her. "I love her Ryder sir" Chase said wagging his tail happily, "me too bud" Ryder said as he and Bonnie went downstairs. Tyler, Caroline and Matt came next and Damon made them all empty their pockets. "We don't have drugs" Tyler said, "I just need to be sure, I will not have anything go wrong, there babies in the house now" Damon said. They were clean and allowed to go downstairs. The rest of the guests arrived and everyone was clean and Damon was satisfied as he would now make and appearance every once in a while just to make sure.

"I feel like Elena won't be coming" Bonnie said, "I didn't think she would" Ryder said, "You did invite her right?" Bonnie asked, "I told her about it and said she was welcome to come, she said fuck you and walked away" Ryder said. "That girl really needs to get over her grudge like she is being ridiculous" Bonnie said. Both Ryder and Bonnie were shocked when Elena came down the stairs, the first thing she did was grab a drink. "Looks like I will be doing a lot of Elena watching tonight" Bonnie said rolling her eyes. "I'll help Bonnie, I don't want to see her get hurt" Matt said as he also saw her. "Thanks Matt" Bonnie said, the boys had a epic video game battle and of course Ryder won because it was his game. "I think you cheated somehow" Tyler said, "haha no you just really suck" Ryder said. "Oooohhh" some of the guys said, "whatever man, let's play a drinking game" Tyler said. They set the game up and everyone ended up having a few of the shots and some were getting pretty drunk. Chase watched Ryder like a hawk, he didn't want him getting hurt. Ryder stumbled as he had a few to many shots and Chase said, "Ryder sir don't you think you had enough?" "Chase, shhh" Ryder said as he fell on his face. Bonnie helped him up and said "okay time for you to drink some water" as she handed him some. Ryder drank it and said "this is not good" "To bad mister drink it" Bonnie said. Ryder obeyed his girl and drank the entire bottle of water. He then realized there was a line up for his bathroom and he said "Bonnie why is there a line, I have to pee" Ryder said. "Well we are not allowed upstairs and you only have 1 bathroom down here" Bonnie said. "I can go upstairs though" Ryder said as he tripped walking up them. Bonnie went with him as she knew that the babies were asleep, Damon watched from the living room and shook his head. He knew Ryder was drunk but he didn't say anything he was choosing to trust him plus it was a summer party so he was cutting him some slack.

Everyone ended up passing out somewhere in the big room and Ryder lay on his bed with Bonnie and Chase. The next day everyone went home and the party was a success and no one ended up hurt. Ryder had a lot of cleaning up to do and he was not looking forward to it, Bonnie and Caroline stayed to help him and he was grateful. Orianna and Mylo had their first birthday and both babies were now walking. Each of them had a few words that they could say, Orianna called her brother Ry but pronounced it why. Ryder was downstairs and Orianna was standing at the top of the stairs but the gate was up. She stood there and yelled as loud as she could "Ry Ry Ry" over and over again. Ryder laughed as he was getting ready for school, he ran up the stairs and said "Boo!" and Orianna giggled like crazy. "Ry pay me" Orianna said, "I have to go to school Ori but I will later okay" Ryder told her. She didn't like that and she cried, Damon scooped her up and said "I will play with you little lady" Ryder kissed her and ran out the door he needed to pick up Bonnie. "Dada Ry pay me" Orianna said as she cried, "Oh sweet girl he will but Ryder needs to go to school he will be home to play with you later." Damon said. Orianna didn't understand but she decided to play with Chase instead as much as he didn't like it he allowed her to pull his fur and stuff. Mylo was more laid back and didn't much like being held, he was independant and wanted to play on his own.

Ryder picked up Bonnie and she kissed him, "Hi" she said, "Hi" Ryder said back as they drove to the school. "So how is it going to work for you this year?" Bonnie asked, "I guess I am like a teacher's assistant I help whoever needs it, I am not really sure. I technically have nothing else to learn which is weird" Ryder said. "Well you are like super smart" Bonnie said, "I guess so but I always like to learn" Ryder said. "Super smart and sexy" Bonnie said, Ryder kissed her and they walked into the school. Alaric pulled Ryder aside and explained to him his role "This year you are to help anyone who needs it. There are a few students that need a little bit of help in order to do well, if you have questions just ask" Alaric said. "Alright" Ryder said as he sat up front and he felt super awkward as everyone stared at him. Ryder noticed a new student at the back and he didn't know who he was at first. The student waved and Ryder's mouth fell open, he had no idea how he was there. The student put his finger up to his lips and mimicked shh as he didn't want to blow his cover. Bonnie was watching Ryder and she noticed he looked scared for a second and she raised her hand as if she needed help. Ryder walked up to her and she said "You okay?" "Yes, just put the x here" Ryder said pretending he was helping her on her paper he wrote Kai is here. Bonnie said "Thanks" and waited a few seconds before looking back and sure enough there was Kai and he also waved to her.

Kai had absorbed some magic so he was slightly strong at the moment and he wanted to take the magic out of Ryder. He didn't know if he could but he knew that the cure was magic and it was very strong powerful magic and he wanted it. Once class ended Kai left very quickly and both Bonnie and Ryder couldn't find him, Ryder texted his dad.

Ryder: Dad Kai is back!

Damon: What? How?

Ryder: Not sure

Damon: You should come home

Ryder: NO I am not running from this, if he wants the cure so bad he can have it

Damon: Please be careful

Ryder was still typing when he noticed Kai walk up to him, and he noticed Bonnie was still looking around. "Ryder so nice to see you again" Kai said, "Kai, how did you escape?" Ryder said, "well you see they didn't do a very good job with their spell and I found magic of my own and well I figured it out" Kai said. "How does Bonnie not see you?" Ryder asked, "I have us in a little spell, you actually disappeared too and Bonnie can't see you. I have us invisible if you will. Now I would rather do this outside of the school" Kai said. "I am not going anywhere with you" Ryder said. "Yes I had a feeling you were going to say that so I have a back up plan" Kai said as he said a spell and put a sleeping curse on Ryder and he fell to the ground. Kai grabbed his legs and pulled him out of the school.

Bonnie was mad she knew Kai did something and she couldn't find Ryder now, she called Damon. "He just vanished, he was right beside me then he was gone" Bonnie said, "Rebekah is calling Freya, I have no idea why how escaped. I hope Ryder will be okay all he wants is the cure" Damon said. "Damon, if he absorbs that magic out of Ryder it will kill him, when he was dying it was your blood that saved him. So if that was to absorbed out he will not survive as your vampire blood is what is keeping him alive" Bonnie said. "Well fuck, we need to find him he doesn't know that" Damon said. "I know and I am trying a locator spell now" Bonnie said as she touched Ryder's car and said "that is weird it says he is at school, but I can't find him" "Freya said he is using an shield spell making them invisible" Damon said. "I don't know how to break that" Bonnie said. "Freya is coming" Damon said, Bonnie was worried if Kai was to take the cure magic before Freya could get there then Ryder would die.

Ryder woke up a few minutes later and Kai said "Good now are you ready?" "No I just have one question" Ryder said. "What?" Kai said, "Why does it matter if you are taking the cure out of me like what will it do for you?" Ryder asked. "It will make me powerful, and that is all I really want then I can become the strongest Gemini witch and destroy my sister" Kai said. "That sounds awful, why would you want to kill your sister?" Ryder asked. "There can only be one gemini witch Ryder. I was supposed to merge with Josette on our 21st birthday but Luke and Liv were born and it messed with everything. I tried to kill everyone but Josette stopped me then my dad put me in a prison world and well here I am. So if you will give me your magic I can get this over with" Kai said. "Don't you have your own magic?" Ryder asked, "No I can only syphon magic as I am part vampire so I can absorb your cure and get rid of my vampire side therefore making me the strongest witch" Kai said. "I see well I am sorry but I can't let you have it" Ryder said as he tried to run. Kai didn't want to play games and he chased Ryder but suddenly he couldn't move and both Freya and Bonnie were saying a spell. "Seriously with this again" Kai said, Ryder ran at Kai and took the device he had in his pocket, "Now you can't escape your little prison world" Freya said as they sent him away again hoping this time he would be gone for good. "Ryder you alright?" Freya asked. "Yes thanks, I had a feeling you would be called so I stalled as long as I could. Here you can have this" Ryder said handing her the descendant. Freya took it with her as she went to Ryder's house to visit with her niece since she was there.

Ryder came home from school and played with his sister as he promised. "She really is super happy when he is here" Rebekah said. "I am too something about Ryder just makes the room feel different" Damon said. "Orianna's going to never forget him" Freya said, "I hope not she adores her brother" Damon said. "They really are so cute, he can stop her from crying instantly I am almost tempted to stick her crib in his room" Damon said. "No please don't" Ryder said, Damon laughed as he wasn't expecting Ryder to be listening.

There were no more threats as no one else wanted to take the cure and Ryder could finally live his life. Ryder and Bonnie finished high school and went on to the same college together close to Mystic falls, even though Ryder already had a few degrees he didn't think getting more would hurt.

I think this story might be finished. I have run out of ideas for it, Thank you for all the support!3 I am going to leave it ongoing for a bit just in case I think of something.