Darkest Temptations

by Katrina-H-Creates

18PLUS Heavy Sexual Content. Caroline, Elena and April make a daring choice. They invite Klaus to participate in a pural marriage spell, hoping to escape their old lives. The spell creates a barrier, isolating them from friends and everything familiar. But freedom comes with unexpected consequences. As they settle into their new life, jealousy soon takes root.

2. Chapter 2

Darkest Temptations

Chapter Two: Stepping into the Light

Caroline Mikaelson

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we were all together again and on our way to our new lives in Utah. In that moment, my heart overflowed with love and I embraced the new experiences that awaited me as a woman, a wife, and a polygamist. As we drove beyond the borders of Mystic Falls, my attention remained captivated by the view in the rearview mirror. I was determined to make sure we weren't being followed, and I was willing to do whatever it took to keep us safe. In reality, our escape from Mystic Falls was just the beginning of our journey. Now that we were together on the open road, the real work truly began.

"Did everyone ditch their phones?" I asked, my thoughts carefully checking off the items on my mental checklist.

"Yeah," Elena confirmed, her voice filled with exhaustion and pain.

Next to me, Elena settled into her seat, making sure she was comfortable before she started her job of keeping an eye on our surroundings to make sure we weren't being followed. I watched her discreetly, my gaze lingering on her as she focused intently on the right side mirror. She exuded an air of composure and readiness, exactly as we had planned.

"I did too," April said from behind us.

April's confirmation brought me immense relief, as it assured me that we were all in perfect harmony. I had a feeling that things might not go according to plan, but to my surprise, everything fell into place flawlessly. It was as if everything had unfolded exactly as we had all wished for. Sitting in my seat I felt so comforted by their presence but also by the invisible cloak surrounding each of us. No one would find any of us now, we were together, we were safe and very soon we would be home.

"Good," I murmured, my voice filled with admiration and appreciation. My eyes pricked with fresh tears which thankfully went unnoticed.

"Keep it under sixty." April gently reminded me of the protocols we had agreed upon tonight. We were determined to avoid getting stopped for exceeding the speed limit, especially in such close proximity to Mystic Falls.

We were also keeping the headlights off until we were on the freeway also. Maybe we went a bit overboard with our preparations, but we didn't care. We were taking all the necessary steps to ensure we all felt as secure as possible. I watched April's movements in the rear view mirror, captivated by her preparations for the challenging work that awaited her. April had held onto the copy of our route that I had printed out for us. She would read out the directions to me as and when required.

We all stayed vigilant, our gaze sweeping our surroundings for any sign of law enforcement. In reality, we were on the brink of starting on a cross-country journey in a stolen car, and many people outside Mystic Falls partook in the use of vervain.

"Remember no one takes down their hoods or takes off their glasses until we're out the state." I made sure to remind them and efficiently crossed off another item from my meticulously organized list.

"Got it" April agreed with a positive demeanor, a sentiment that I deeply appreciated in that seemingly insignificant moment.

"Alright"

We knew that the car would inevitably attract the attention of the road surveillance, just like every other car in America. However, we made a conscious effort to take discreet precautions to hide our hair and faces from being captured as well. This was the suggestion that April brought up and one that I had also been contemplating. Elena was the one who proposed the sleep timetable. It was important to all of that we all rested and arrived in Utah in soon as possible.

In a moment of contemplation, I decided to shift my focus from the rear view mirror to Elena. I had to trust that she was keeping to her word and watching out for us.

"How's it looking back there?" I asked, "Are we okay?"

"We're good." She confirmed to my great relief, which showed me that she was indeed keeping her promise.

We crossed the boundary of the town less than five minutes ago, yet it felt like mere seconds. I pleaded with the car heater, hoping it would envelop my thawing feet and tired knees with its comforting warmth. I held onto the steering wheel with a firm grip, my eyes focused on the road ahead that stretched out into the night. The wind's melodic whispers danced easily over the car. I was filled with awe, relieved that I had planned ahead and gathered the electric blankets and pillows. Without these provisions, our bodies would have succumbed to the cold.

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

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

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

"I didn't expect him too." Elena said

"Not that a text would have killed him." I agreed with them. "Let's not focus on that right now."

"Do you think we're gonna make it?" April posed the question weighing heavily in all our minds.

"We have to make it." I reminded her of our reality. "There's no going back."

Along the deserted back road that led away from Mystic Falls, not a single car crossed our path. The serene forest road was noticeably empty, with no sign of early morning joggers or parked police cruisers. I was filled with a sense of unease, uncertain of how to make sense of the unsettling calmness that permeated this secluded road. Was it possible that this serene stillness was a regular occurrence at this time of day? We continued with strong willpower, fully aware of the importance of staying vigilant despite our exhaustion, in order to achieve our goal.

"We're doing great," I murmured softly.

"I'm not going to feel calm until we put at least two states between us and Mystic Falls." April shared.

Now that she had been made aware of what the hunter had done to her this morning, it was normal that she wanted to escape her childhood home.

The approaching sunrise indicated the soon-to-come surge of cars on the road, urging us to make the most of the current moment and capitalize on its possibilities. Elena had already let us know about Stefan's habit of contacting her bright and early every morning, usually around the time she got ready for school. We had a hunch that around nine or ten o'clock, our friends would start to grow concerned about our whereabouts. And so this crucial moment, of our escape hinged upon speed alone. Our goal was evident: to effortlessly blend into the busy flow of morning traffic, ensuring our smooth blending.

"What about gas?" April asked breaking the silence "Are we okay or are we gonna have to pull in?"

I glanced at the gas gauge and couldn't help but grin as I saw that we had almost a full tank of gas.

"We're fine, we actually have enough to get us out of the state."

"That's great," April sighed in relief

"Assuming we don't hit any traffic" Elena reminded us both then.

"Right."

We had been driving for almost twenty minutes, but the strange and dreamlike quality of the experience still escaped my grasp. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, as if at any moment, one of us would have a sudden change of heart and want to go back. The brutal truth of the situation consumed me, as I fought with the realization that we had all married the same man. Our current way of life may give off the impression of modern day polygamists to those who suspect us. Only we were aware of the spell that protected us. The fact that we had both gotten married and left our childhood homes in a single night without notice was truly remarkable.

Stop pretending you have it together when you don't. Just talk to them.

"How did it go after you got home?" I asked Elena.

She looked so tired and broken down that my heart broke for her.

"I compelled him the second I got through the door like we talked about." She paused to gather herself "I'd practiced what I was going to say to him on the way home. I knew the faster I got it over with the more time he'd have to get out of town."

How's she even keeping it together right now?

"That must have been difficult." April said offering her comfort, reaching out from behind Elena and resting her hand upon her shoulder for a moment.

Elena closed her eyes then as she nodded her head in agreement.

"It was. And I don't think I'll ever be able to forget it." She paused before opening her eyes "He packed while I gathered up all the money we kept in the house. It was enough to get him where he needed to be. Until Klaus can sort out the rest anyway."

"He will help Jeremy. I believe that."

"And I have to believe it too. I have no choice." Elena told me.

She was valiantly keeping it together, but April and I could clearly see the immense battle she was going through.

"This whole night has been exhausting. You need to give yourself a break, because Jeremy is going to be alright."

"You believe that?"

"We both do." I confirmed. "You'll see him soon. Right now we all just have to be patient. Even if it feels like it's going to kill us."

In that moment I watched Elena, it became clear that she had just realized that I, too, had said goodbye to my mom tonight, and was experiencing the same despair as her. The moment our hands met, I instinctively reciprocated the gesture with a gentle squeeze, before redirecting my attention to the task at hand.

I breathed out a small sigh before telling them "We're going to make it through this."

"Do you really believe we can do this?" Elena asked me

"I know we can." I assured them looking briefly in the rear mirror to April "I know we can do this, we're together and that's all we need."

"You're right Caroline." April said "We need to stop focusing on what happened tonight. We even need to forget about the spell because that's not what's going to keep us together in Utah. It's just us."

"I'm scared." Elena confessed then.

Upon hearing Elena's true feelings, April swiftly unbuckled her seatbelt and positioned herself between the two of us. She tenderly placed her hand on Elena's shoulder, while I extended my arm across to her, carefully tucking the blanket up to her chest to provide warmth. As I reached beneath the blanket, my hand sought hers, intertwining our fingers as a comforting shield. I was taken aback by the tremble I felt beneath my palm.

"Please tell me we're gonna make it there okay." She pleaded to us.

"We're going to make it" April responded promptly.

"Of course we're going to make it and-"

"And no one will find us?" Elena interrupted me before I could finish.

"No. They're never going to find us. We have the spell but more importantly we have each other. We're not silly, we won't make mistakes that could lead them to us."

Elena nodded along with everything we were telling her.

"We are dead." I remind her of the reality "We're dead. And it's better that they grief for us then spend eternity in search of us."

"We're going to look after each other." April said "It's okay to be afraid. We're all scared."

"I'm freaking out too." I confess "I don't know how I'm keeping it together right now. I think if I wasn't behind the wheel I would be a complete train wreck."

"This is a good thing. The three of us being honest with each other. This is the way it should be in Utah. The three of us as a unit." April said.

I turned up the heat in the car as April supported Elena by adjusting her pillow and helping her place a hot water bottle under her blanket to soothe her weary stomach.

And so it was, we all diligently returned to our critical duties. We had plenty of time to work out what lay ahead for us when we arrived in Utah. However, at the moment, we were faced with a daunting journey spanning over two thousand miles. And it fell upon me, the responsibility to lead us there, to guide us towards those beautiful houses and to Klaus.

A soft rustling emanated from the back seat, prompting April to ask, "Caroline, what's in this bag beside me?"

Oh god I completely forgot!

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

I could hear the sound of her unzipping the bag. Her breath caught as she beheld the sumptuous feast I had carefully prepared for our adventure.

"It's nothing really."

"Are you kidding, look at all of this!" April's breath caught in her throat "There's sandwiches, soda, chips, ohhhh there's chocolate!"

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

I could sense Elena's gaze fixed on me, prompting me to turn my head and meet her eyes. In that fleeting moment, a spark of familiarity passed between us. There is a subtle sense of warmth and connection. The fact that I had cooked a comforting soup was a small solace amidst the challenges we encountered tonight. But I knew in that moment it meant a great deal to her that I had considered her wellbeing.

"It's warm" I assured her with a comforting smile.

Elena's eyes sparkled with joy. She quickly glanced behind her, her eyes drawn to the bag containing the delicately arranged items I had prepared. It was a smile filled with warmth and genuineness. April unscrewed the cap of the flask then. The aroma filled the car, captivating our senses with its swift arrival. There was nothing more delightful than a piping hot bowl of soup. It was a remarkable display of my commitment to both of them.

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

"There's bowls and spoons for us. And, um, there's, like, this other thing, which is, like, kind of embarrassing," I began to laugh, feeling a tad uneasy about how they would perceive what I was about to say.

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

I indulged in a subtle eye roll, a faint smile gracing my lips, before informing them, "There's another bag in there too, it's got toilet paper, god, Caroline, I didn't even think to pack any of this." April continued to rustle through the bag "Elena look at all of this, she's amazing."

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

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

"It's really nothing." I insisted.

April delicately placed her hand on my shoulder, and I instinctively mirrored the gesture, gently covering her hand with my own.

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

"Me too." Elena enthusiastically agreed, her complexion brightening.

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

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

Elena smoothly shifted in her seat, fully focused on assisting April. We were served soup, with Elena and April opting for the plastic bowls provided. In my eagerness to stay mobile, I asked for mine to be poured into a plastic cup so I could enjoy it while driving.

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

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

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

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

"That's not true," I interjected swiftly

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

Wait a second, wait, he looked at Elena? How did I miss that?

From the corner of my eye, I noticed Elena subtly adjusting her position, suggesting that she was well aware of his gaze. Was she intending to share this with me? Was this the jealous Edith wrote about in her journal? Was this normal?

I'm not going to go into this jealous. No I refuse.

I tightly held onto the steering wheel, determined to keep my thoughts from spiraling out of hand.

I'm a polygamist. I'm a polygamist now.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elena glanced furtively over her shoulder, her voice coated with curiosity as she asked, "You don't already like him do you?"

Wait does she?

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

"Curious about what exactly?" I I questioned.

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

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

"I did I won't lie."

"I'm not talking about Utah."

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

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

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

"No of course not." I voiced confidentially.

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

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

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

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

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

"She's right." April agreed.

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

However, she was correct, as there were several arrangements that required attention during our journey. For instance, a mutually agreed upon back story for our neighbors and any new acquaintances. We must be cautious about our interactions with each other to avoid arousing suspicion from the watchful eyes of the neighborhood. And most importantly, we had to create a carefully planned schedule to determine which properties Klaus would be living in on specific days.

We reached a mutual agreement where he would have complete authority over our lives in Utah, while Klaus would have full control over the schedule and its related aspects.

It was crucial to have a well-structured plan in place, making sure that every individual received proper recognition, all while strengthening the protective enchantment that kept us safe. To successfully undertake such a task, Klaus had to dedicate an equal amount of time to each of us.

When I heard that Klaus and Elena were going to spend time together, I couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy. They seemed to have nothing in common, and their complicated history could potentially have a significant impact on both of them. April, on the other hand, seemed determined to uncover the enigma that was Klaus, despite our numerous warnings.

Their relationships would evolve organically, beyond my influence or control.

After savoring every last spoonful of soup, Elena and April graciously expressed their gratitude once more for my hard work. With great precision and coordination, they diligently tidied up the bowls and utensils, carefully concealing them in a hidden plastic bag tucked away in the backseat. Each of us diligently returned to our designated tasks, ensuring that our focus remained unchanged. April was the one who asked about the car's origins. As I recounted the story of how I came to possess it, I unveiled my clever plan to delay the car from being reported missing for a significant period, possibly even a few weeks. By then, this unfortunate object would be reduced to a pile of worthless metal, never to be seen in the world again. Both of them were impressed by my quick thinking.

Every woman in this car right now yearned for a brighter future. We were incredibly eager to obtain it, going to great lengths to travel across the country. Honestly, I had no idea what to expect when it came to starting new relationships with Klaus. I was uncertain about his thoughts towards us, unsure if he harbored any emotions for us, whether as individuals or as his wives.

Klaus wanted to sleep with us. He wanted to sleep with me, Elena and April. Otherwise, he wouldn't have had the audacity to utter even a single incantation, and that was the harsh reality I was slowly coming to terms with. He was the only man we knew who had a unique talent for keeping his emotions separate, a quality that now connects us all to him.

As the night fell, we found ourselves navigating through the streets of St. Louis. There were only a few cars accompanying us on the road at that point. At the stroke of eight, the clock resolutely chimed, marking the passing hour. We had both dozed off during the day, alternating our rest periods, as fatigue overcame us at different times. Elena had been peacefully asleep for approximately four hours, undisturbed even by a raging thunderstorm at one point. As she woke up next to me, I couldn't resist giving her a warm smile, while my hand automatically reached for the air conditioning switch.

We really need to talk about the schedule. The sooner the better.

I quickly glanced in their direction, only to find that they were still wide awake, their eyes shining brightly. It would be best if we confronted the obvious issue as soon as possible. I couldn't help but sense that if I avoided bringing up the topic, it would inevitably come up at the last minute when we arrived, causing unnecessary tension.

I carefully positioned myself upright in my seat.

You need to be the one to do it. So just do it.

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

"What kind of things?" Elena inquired

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"What do you suggest?" Elena asked

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

I paused, my thoughts consumed by the remaining miles ahead, attempting to estimate our progress and the time it would take to reach our destination. "If we maintain this speed, we should arrive early Monday morning," I stated cautiously.

"How about Klaus spends each night in order that he married each of us." April suggested to us then

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

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

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

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

Wait two nights in a row on alternate weeks. We could make that work.

"Well, an easy way around that would be once a month we each spend two nights in a row with him." I explained.

"That could work." April agreed "Course none of it works if you're not comfortable spending the first night with him."

Seriously? How the heck did I miss that?

"Caroline if you're uncomfortable-"

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

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

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

"Like what?" April asked.

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

"He'll have them." April replied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Maybe he'll surprise all of us." I replied. "I mean let's not forget he left his home tonight too."

In that moment, the harsh reality struck us all, leaving us unable to muster the courage to look into each other's eyes. Klaus had also bid farewell to his home tonight, just to be by our side. He had abandoned his aspirations of owning that dream house and his ambitions of governing Mystic Falls to expand his hybrid population. He had sacrificed everything, all his plans, just for us. There was an undeniable intensity to this arrangement, a deep and pressing desire. He craved our presence, yet he had made a commitment to approach with care and tenderness. Klaus had no fear, his power unmatched. Despite this, he chose to spend his life with only us. He made it clear that he found everything he desired in a woman within us. I wasn't certain if I could fully comprehend that just yet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I guess" Elena murmured in a hushed tone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

"What about them?"

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

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

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

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

"I'm trying not to." Elena replied

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

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

"Me neither. It's just…beyond words I guess." I replied

"There is something I wanted to ask you guys. If it's too much then just say hell no and it's totally fine."

Elena and I exchanged a glance at each other then before we each began to nod in response.

"I know we're not like old school polygamists, but…I was wondering if we could be a little old school or respectful, however you want to word it." April paused "How would you feel about calling each other sister wives?"

My first thought was to outright reject her request, and I sensed that Elena shared the same sentiment. However, as I paused and truly began to contemplate what she was requesting, I felt a gentle sense of calm. The request seemed quite unconventional, but it was not entirely unattainable. If we were to refer to Klaus as our husband, then what harm would there be in referring to each other as sister wives?

"As long as its behind closed doors I don't see the harm" I said before glancing to Elena for her answer.

Elena stared blankly ahead for a moment before glancing over her shoulder to April for a moment, before she finally began to nod in agreement.

We took turns sleeping over the next two days, looking out for one another and being diligent while traveling. Through our actions, we showcased our strong bond and determination to support each other's welfare, even in the face of adversity. As we answered nature's call, we made sure to find a peaceful spot to rest, avoiding any communal restrooms along the way. Even when we did come to a stop our respite was fleeting, for we would swiftly find ourselves back on the open road in a mere span of five minutes. The group was incredibly grateful, recognizing the care and attention I had put into packing toilet paper for our journey. We conducted ourselves with the utmost respect, not only by taking turns behind the wheel but also by ensuring the car remained in impeccable condition. Whenever possible, we diligently disposed of any refuse, ensuring a spotless environment. Furthermore, we took care of each other's comfort by shaking out blankets and fluffing up pillows, fostering an ambiance of serenity and togetherness.

As we journeyed through the expansive landscapes of Kansas, the captivating melodies flowing from the radio filled our ears with enchantment. Every station we came across appeared to conceal a precious find, a melodic jewel just waiting to be unearthed. Nevertheless, most of our exchanges revolved around deep and meaningful discussions, exploring the profound moments that brought us together. We would engage in lively conversations about the enchanting state of Utah, and fondly recall the deep connections we had with our beloved friends back home. Klaus, the schedule, and our individual plans for our new lives were skillfully sidestepped in our conversation, as if they were delicate subjects best saved for another time.

Within moments, we were crossing the expansive landscapes of Wyoming, steadily approaching the state of Utah.

Klaus would probably reach the houses around the same time as us, if not before. As he was making a detour along the way to pick up our new IDs, it was clear that he had everything under control. In a captivating manner, he chose not to reveal the exact destination of his stopover, instead emphasizing its crucial role in shaping our future. We had a plan in place. Klaus's contact would create new identities for us. In six months, all traces of our past would be wiped clean - our school records, birth certificates, everything. It would be like we never existed. Undoubtedly, all of this was going to come at a significant expense for Klaus, but he was determined to acquire the highest quality available. Upon Klaus's arrival in Utah, he possessed an extensive collection of essential documents and possessions, including property deeds, bank accounts, identification papers, financial cards, utility accounts, employment records, educational certificates, and medical records.

We reached the beautiful state of Utah on a sunny Monday morning.

Our hands intertwined, a palpable connection as we crossed the state line, filled with the certainty that all the effort had been worthwhile for this precise moment. In the depths of our beings, a silent connection reverberated, confirming that all the challenges we had faced had brought us to this very moment.

From this very moment, a profound metamorphosis would envelop each and every one of us, completely altering the course of our lives. We would disappear into the depths of obscurity, forever evading the clutches of those who sought to locate us. We set off on our adventure, with the windows down and our arms casually resting on the frames, enjoying the warm touch of the sun on our skin. Our destination: Utah, a place filled with countless marvels waiting to be discovered.

The air was filled with a refreshing scent of cleanliness, a clear indication of the immaculate environment we were in. The words flowed effortlessly, painting a vivid picture that transported us to another world. A new chapter of our lives began in this very moment.

At this juncture, I wasn't exactly sure how long we'd been stuck in the car for. We all agreed that it would be unacceptable to arrive at our new homes looking so untidy. Elena and I both had our hair elegantly styled in a relaxed updo. Meanwhile, April's hair had lost its volume, longing for a place where she could pamper it with luxurious conditioning treatments and give her roots a boost of volumizing magic. As we were without a phone and the car lacked GPS, we sought assistance from a kind older woman we encountered on our way to Sandy. She graciously provided us with directions to the nearest hotel. We had considered obtaining directions to the nearest public pool, but we had a significant amount of work to complete before we could visit any residences.

Upon our arrival at the hotel, we made a conscious decision to discreetly park our car in a secluded area of the parking lot, far away from the hustle and bustle of the other vehicles. We unfastened our seatbelts and stepped out of the car, brushing away any crumbs from our attire. After securing the vehicle, we walked towards the trunk with a shared determination to locate our bags of products and fresh outfits. I paid no attention to what the others chose to wear, my focus consumed by the task of recalling where I had packed my essential items, such as a toothbrush and toiletries. With precision, I gathered all the necessary belongings and carefully concealed them within the confines of my handbag. I couldn't help but notice April, gracefully navigating through the opulent hotel with an array of belongings in tow. Elena, on the other hand, was calmly considering her choice of clothes.

April slipped by unnoticed, but Elena, in particular, wasn't putting in much effort for anyone in particular. April, determined to make a lasting impact on Klaus, was a sight that could easily be anticipated. I couldn't help but be amazed by her constant talk about him throughout our journey.

Luckily, the hotel was quite large, which made it easy for us to avoid being noticed by the reception staff. Our movements went completely unnoticed, without any need for manipulation or force. Thanks to the helpful displays above the reception desk, we quickly found the spa on the designated floor. April, visibly anxious, positioned herself between Elena and me, her nerves on full display. We pressed on, our eyes locked on the path ahead as we delved further into the hotel.

The spa's changing facilities were absolutely remarkable. From the moment we stepped inside, a delightful scent of lavender filled the air, creating a soothing atmosphere throughout. The women, dressed in elegant white robes, brought a sense of purity to the room. The attention to detail in every aspect, from the luxurious furnishings to the exquisite door handles and elegant light shades, created an atmosphere of sheer grandeur. The lockers, made from durable oak, safeguarded by a one-of-a-kind pin code. We thoroughly enjoyed the plushness of the towels provided for the guests, maybe even taking a few extra as we set out on our quest to find the showers. We were pleasantly surprised to find that each room was equipped with five shower blocks. Quickly, we found comfort in the first available one that came our way, promptly settling ourselves inside.

I found myself torn, uncertain of which prospect filled me with greater anticipation. On one hand, there was the enchanting allure of Utah, beckoning me with its captivating beauty. On the other hand, there was the exhilarating idea of finally seeing my new house, a place I had longed to call home. And to top it all off, there was the anticipation of seeing Klaus within the hour, a person who never failed to ignite a sense of excitement within me. Deep within my soul, I held an unwavering conviction, a profound understanding of what consumed my every contemplation. Positioned just beyond the edges of the shower cubicles, a line of sinks stood in place. Together, we placed our bags in a designated spot and began our respective tasks. Elena, displaying a strong sense of resolve, was the first among our group to bravely enter the showers. I found myself lingering behind, hesitating until I was the last one to follow suit.

I had carefully gathered all the required elements, making sure that by the end, I would feel a revitalizing sensation like that of a blossoming flower. I had carefully assembled my collection of necessities: the luxurious towels, the aromatic shampoo and conditioner, the indulgent coconut body scrub, the gentle cotton-scented body wash. In addition to these essentials, I made sure to include my reliable moisturizer, an alluring body spray, and a spare set of clothes.

I turned the shower dial all the way up, yearning for the feeling of hot water on my skin, even if it meant losing sight in the thick steam. The facilities were absolutely magnificent, in a state of perfection that was truly awe-inspiring. The shower block offered a spacious and indulgent environment, perfect for a luxurious showering experience.

I meticulously arranged my fresh attire, making sure that not a single crease would spoil its flawless appearance. I approached the shower with careful attention, closing the see-through door behind me in a graceful manner, and allowing myself to be enveloped by the flowing water. With a liberal amount of body wash and an energetic scrubbing motion, the satisfying feeling of impurities and oils being washed away made this experience truly rewarding. I had treated myself to a bath before departing Mystic Falls, but nothing could compare to the pure delight of this refreshing shower. The intense heat enveloping my body was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I couldn't help but open the shower door, inviting a refreshing breeze to enter the steam-filled enclosure.

As I finished my work, I carefully wrapped myself in a soft, clean hotel towel, making sure it covered me from head to toe. I elegantly applied a generous amount of the classic Dove body spray to my underarms, filling the surrounding air with its timeless scent. I could hear the soft sound of the other two showers, their gentle streams echoing through the cubicle. There appeared to be a generous amount of time ahead of me, a valuable chance to immerse myself in my own interests. I quickly got dressed, eager to spend as much time as possible at the sink counter before they finished their showers. I carefully selected this ensemble with great anticipation, envisioning it as the perfect attire for the momentous occasion of stepping into my new home for the very first time. I had chosen my beloved dark blue jeans, which fit snugly around my thighs and accentuated my curves flawlessly.

Accompanied by my preferred pair of jeans, I had meticulously selected a captivating camisole top embellished with a captivating black and white floral design. I left behind the comfort of my usual undergarments and embraced the elegance of my finest push-up bra and its matching black lace thong. I gathered my belongings, carefully organizing them, and gracefully left the shower block. I heard the sound of another shower coming to an end. I returned to the sink counter, skillfully securing the plastic bags that the hotel had kindly given for the wet towels. I meticulously gathered my worn clothes, securing them in a tightly tied bag before discreetly discarding it in the waste bin tucked away in the corner of the room. I yearned to purge any remnants of my last evening in Mystic Falls, longing for a blank canvas and a new beginning.

April glided silently behind me, her hair gracefully arranged in an intricate updo. She greeted me with a small smile, looking refreshed and radiating an air of absolute cleanliness. She was now wearing a pair of sleek black leggings, elegantly paired with high heels that added a hint of allure. She wore a sleeveless nylon blouse that was immaculate, like a blanket of snow. A slender brown leather belt, barely wider than a pencil, hugged her waist, highlighting her graceful figure. I proceeded to brush my teeth diligently, while April indulged in pampering herself with a rejuvenating facial scrub. Elena emerged from her cleansing ritual in a short amount of time, her hair covered in a soft, pink fabric. Elena had become a mirror image of me, wearing a stylish pair of blue jeans and a sleek tank top with a subtle white zipper running down the front, exuding an air of effortless elegance. The immense joy of my existence in this precise instant, combined with the heaviness of regret gradually infiltrating my moral compass, proved to be an overpowering load to carry. The last thing I wanted was more questions to make things even more complicated.

Within the next thirty minutes, we successfully eliminated all the accumulated dirt and oil from our road trip. I diligently prepared my skin, ensuring it was clean and refreshed. I took care of my teeth, using whitening strips and flossing, before meticulously applying my make-up. I observed April and Elena in the mirrors as they skillfully applied their make-up, striking a perfect balance without going overboard. I was unaware of April's usual makeup routine, but Elena was definitely committed to her consistent colors and technique. April had gone to purchase eyeliner and a clear lip gloss. I opted to stick with my usual colors, although I did consider experimenting with something new, I didn't want to overpower Elena. She feared that our arrival would bring about sudden and drastic changes.

We made use of the hairdryers provided, conveniently mounted on the wall brackets, to dry our damp hair. Elena, in particular, expertly handled the device, effortlessly taming her hair as she directed the warm gusts, ultimately achieving a perfectly sleek and straight look. As I skillfully handled my circular brush, its bristles effortlessly gliding through my hair, I aimed to achieve the captivating curls that adorned my locks with a touch of enchantment. April carefully ran her fingers through her hair, which now looked perfectly styled, making sure that every strand fell into place with great attention to detail. With a masterful finesse, she skillfully coaxed the ends of her hair into a subtle curl, enhancing her already flawless appearance with an extra touch of sophistication. It reminded me of the way it was crafted during the memorial ceremony. I gently applied a dollop of hand cream to my hands, savoring the smooth sensation as it caressed my skin. I delicately applied a touch of perfume to my wrists, neck, and hair, relishing the subtle scent that filled the air. As I diligently attended to my final preparations, I realized that I required April's hair spray to guarantee that my curls would stay flawlessly intact throughout the day.

We all exuded a captivating aroma, that was undeniable. After thoroughly cleansing ourselves, our breaths filled with the invigorating scent of mint, we elegantly stepped out of the shower block. April and Elena also decided to discard their clothes, just like I did, and put them in bags. Each of us left with only our belongings, as we had no interest in keeping any mementos from that evening.

As we made our way back to the station wagon, we carefully opened the doors, letting the fresh air fill the inside of the vehicle. We carefully organized the contents of the trunk, making sure that each item was placed in its proper spot, before beginning the challenging process of cleaning up. We meticulously attended to each blanket, ensuring that not a single speck of dust remained, before carefully folding them into perfectly squared shapes.

The carefully arranged bundles were gently placed next to the soft pillows, creating a serene tableau inside the trunk. We carefully disposed of all the wrappers, napkins, raisin boxes, and bottles from the vehicle, making sure to place them in the nearest trash can. Afterwards, we took pleasure in using moist towelettes to thoroughly clean the interior, removing the dirt that had accumulated during our long journey of eighteen hundred miles.

We carefully shook out the floor mats, making sure to remove every last speck of dust. We dedicated our full attention to the seat belts, meticulously cleaning them to ensure they were flawless. As the soft breeze brushed against our cheeks, we smoothly lowered the windows and with determination, we gracefully returned to the car, prepared to embark on our next thrilling journey.

I turned off the radio, determined to completely engage with the present moment. I started the engine, feeling the powerful vibrations fill the air as I got ready to maneuver out of the car park. Elena's eyes revealed a touch of discomfort, although she managed a weak smile towards me. April, in contrast, had a wide, joyful smile that reached from one side of her face to the other. The display of jubilation was not extravagant, but rather a subtle affirmation of her resolute choice to join us in this new life.

I patiently waited, gathering the strength to address the sensitive issue aloud.

"Nervous?" I asked, trying to keep my voice calm and composed.

"...Yeah," Elena responded.

"Me too."

"Really?"

"Of course I am. I can't even think right now."

"What about you?" Elena asked April

"Nervous. More nervous than I thought I'd be."

"I thought it was just me." I confessed.

In our new town, an abundance of signs decorated the streets, kindly directing us towards the street that would lead us to our new homes. The people we encountered during our journey were deeply engrossed in their own pursuits, and we effortlessly blended into the environment, as was fitting. There were no girls parading around with their skirts clinging to their bodies as if they were painted on, similar to the ones I had seen in Mystic Falls. There were no men trying to show off their muscular bodies by wearing sleeveless shirts.

As our car glided onto our new street, April smoothly freed herself from the confines of her seatbelt and skillfully navigated her way between us. The sight before us was a breathtaking display of neatly lined houses, their exteriors radiating a brilliant glow under the warm rays of the sun. Some displayed prominent signs, proudly advertising their availability to potential buyers, while others showcased the victorious mark of being claimed by their fortunate owners. We passed by a total of five houses, all of them beautifully landscaped with fresh green grass. As we drove by, we couldn't help but notice a house where the owners were meticulously laying down sod. It signaled the beginning of a new era for countless individuals, a fortunate twist of fate that would undoubtedly assist us in adapting to this unfamiliar setting. The book was a masterful creation, with a unique and captivating storyline that exceeded all of my expectations. The open windows brought a sense of solace, as the delicate scent of the air enveloped us, inviting us to fully immerse ourselves in its soothing embrace and witness the promising omens of a bright tomorrow.

"We can be anyone now." I reminded them "Don't forget that."

Klaus, please be there. Don't let us down. We're counting on you.

The sight of the houses before me left me breathless, as they stood in perfect harmony, shoulder to shoulder. April couldn't contain her excitement as she let out a high-pitched squeal of surprise at the sight before us. We approached from the left, and there it was - my house, exuding a charming and welcoming atmosphere. April's house appeared, followed by Elena's residence at the very end, captivating everyone with its undeniable allure.

I was completely engrossed in the houses, their charm capturing my attention so much that I didn't even notice the sleek silver Range Rover parked in the first driveway. Which was technically now my driveway.

"Wait a second, is that him?" April asked, her voice filled with hesitation.

"Um, yeah I think it is." Elena responded not believing the sight before us now I imagined.

I approached the edge of the pavement with great care, my attention completely captivated by the sleek black Range Rover in front of me. I found myself unsure, as a Range Rover didn't seem to match his personal style. No, it just couldn't be him. With a swift motion, the door on the driver's side swung open, and Klaus smoothly appeared on the driveway.

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

"He can hear you," I reminded her, my gaze steady, as Klaus glanced our way.

Klaus had changed his attire since departing Mystic Falls. He was now wearing a crisp white dress shirt, with a few buttons left undone at the top, showcasing the shimmering necklaces adorning his neck. His sleeves were nonchalantly pushed up to his elbows, revealing his strong forearms. Finishing off his ensemble were a sleek pair of black jeans, perfectly accentuating his figure, and sophisticated black wing tip shoes that elevated his overall appearance. With a gaze fixed on us, he smoothly took off his sunglasses, gently holding them in his hand before giving us a reassuring nod, signaling that we could come closer. He made it clear that no one had followed him and that everything was under control.

We were safe. We were home. We were finally home.

"We should probably pull in." I heard April suggest then.

Stop looking at him! Don't make this uncomfortable for Elena and April.

Klaus's lips curved into a mischievous grin as his gaze landed on the car we had selected for our adventure, carefully assessing it against his own. He moved with elegance around the edges of his car, disappearing from view as he reached the other side. I held onto the steering wheel tightly, unwilling to let go until he disappeared from my view. Reluctantly, I mustered the courage to look back at the girls. I was taken aback when I realized that all attention was directed towards him, completely disregarding my presence. Elena was astonished by how everything had fallen into place, but April's appearance left her puzzled.

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

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

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

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

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

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

He did not just kiss me...

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

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

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

"I see you survived" He said

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

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

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

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

"How long have you been here?" Elena inquired

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

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

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

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

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

"Technically love, they belong to me."

"Seriously?"

"Where did you get this car?" Elena asked

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

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

"And what is my style love?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I took care of everything."

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

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

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

"No one" Klaus responded.

"Works for us. Less neighbours, less questions about all of us moving into three different houses on the exact same day." I said.

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

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

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

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

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

"What sort of back story?"April asked.

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

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

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

"That's actually brilliant." I pointed out aloud accidently.

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

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

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

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

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

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

"What?" Klaus inquired, seeking clarification.

"I don't know." I confessed

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I see."

"Then we'll start all over again."

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

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

"And?"

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

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

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

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

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

"Well no but-"

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

"Yes? What might that be?" Klaus asked

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

"Our days begin at nine a.m"

"What exactly does that mean?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Shall we?"

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

After all, we were married.

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

Wait he has his own key to my house?! OF COURSE HE DOES THIS IS HIS HOUSE TOO!

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

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

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

"No. Not now I have you here."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Well yeah we need furniture for a start."

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

"Such as?"

"You shall see."

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

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

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

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

Indeed, we found ourselves entwined in a barrier spell that bound us to Klaus for eternity. Our destinies remained uncertain, our futures shrouded in ambiguity, yet such trivialities held no significance in the grand scheme of things. What transpired was an agreement that henceforth, the days ahead would be devoid of the familiar dread that plagued us before their arrival.

The incessant worry regarding the arrival of unknown creatures in our humble town would dissipate, leaving us with the simple task of embracing the present and surrendering ourselves to the serenity of our surroundings. And with each passing day, ever so gradually, the weight of our transgressions would diminish, as if carried away on a summer breeze. In time, we would discover the path to redemption, a path that would lead us towards solace and restoration.

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

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

What's that all about?

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

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

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

"You don't like to cook?"

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

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

"Are you okay?" She asked then

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

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

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

"We all did our part."

"I guess."

"What about you? Are you coping okay?"

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

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

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

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

April nodded.

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

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

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

"Ah"

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

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

"Should we go over there?"

"No probably not." I said

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

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

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

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

Why the hell didn't I think of that?

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

"What?!"

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

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

"Yeah probably." April huffed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"As much as it would have pleased me to legally make you all Mikaelsons we have to remain under the radar. Caroline and I were the first to marry therefore she is legally now Caroline Mikaelson." He paused "Now meet the new April Young" He said as she delicately accepted the envelope from his outstretched hands.

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

April gingerly opened the passport, "Twenty-two?" She asked and glanced at Klaus, seeking confirmation of her newfound age.

He nodded.

"You can pull it off." I said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"But..." Elena's voice trailed off, her words swallowed by the sheer magnitude of what lay before her. The contents of the envelope held her captive, as if time itself had frozen in reverence.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Any other surprises you have in store for us?" I asked

"Perhaps." Klaus said boldly, sickly confident and desperate to get under my skin.

He stood upright all our eyes upon him as he folded his arms across his chest.

"Now, I believe it's time you all put my credit cards to good use." He said before his eyes found mine "Let's make this happen."