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Darkest Temptations

Chapter Forty Four: Impulse Control

Klaus Mikaelson

As I traversed the opulent hallway toward my suite, I became aware of someone seated in the vicinity, immediately drawing my focus. It was April, enveloped in one of those luxurious white robes that the hotel generously provides. Her hair was arranged in a neat, elegant fashion around her face, exuding the kind of effortless grace she often carried with her. The robe appeared overly large on her, almost as though it was consuming her slight frame. As I drew closer, she glanced up, offering a gentle smile that seemed to encompass a complexity I couldn't quite decipher. There was an enigmatic quality to that smile, as if a hidden truth lay beneath its surface. I gradually lowered myself to be at eye level with her, extending a gentle hand, my fingers softly tracing the delicate lines of her cheek.

She inclined her face into my hand, and I found myself unable to resist asking, "What's keeping Sleeping Beauty from her rest?"

Her smile broadened momentarily, yet it was evident that something was weighing on her mind. It was unusual for April to visit me during a night designated for another; she had always been mindful of the boundaries we had established. Her hesitation was palpable as she searched my eyes, seeking some form of comfort or assurance. "I'm not sure if I should tell you," she eventually confessed, her voice laced with an uncharacteristic hesitation.

"Would it keep you from sleep if you did?" I gently inquired, attempting to encourage her to share what was troubling her.

She shook her head, allowing herself a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking once more. "Elena sort of got a call at the airport. I think she's worried about it and she's just not letting on."

I chose not to respond immediately, suppressing the frustration brewing within me over her disclosure. Instead, I placed a gentle kiss on her cheek and softly whispered, "Go to sleep."

April almost spoke out but hesitated, realizing it might be best to keep her thoughts to herself. I had to allow her to believe she was overthinking, to encourage her to focus on herself and not the tightening of my jaw. My sweet girl, always striving to do right by everyone, had almost peered into the eyes of her husband and glimpsed the part of me I knew she would always fear. She was right to inform me, but I doubted it would bring her any peace tonight. I carefully assisted her in standing, watching as she nodded and made her way down the hallway. Her footsteps resonated softly, gradually fading as she disappeared from view, leaving me alone outside my suite, immersed in my own frustration.

As I stood there, a multitude of thoughts swirled through my mind. The opulent surroundings felt strangely hollow, the grandeur unable to distract from the unease that gnawed at me. April's visit was both unexpected and troubling, a reminder of the delicate balance we all tried to maintain. It was as if a subtle shift had taken place, something unspoken yet profoundly felt.

The suite was dimly lit, the soft glow of city lights filtering through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle luminescence on the plush furnishings. The room exuded an air of understated luxury, with its deep mahogany furniture that gleamed under the subtle illumination. Rich, velvet drapes framed the windows, their deep hues adding a touch of opulence. As I stepped inside, the plush carpet muffled my footsteps, yet it did nothing to silence the tumultuous thoughts that echoed in my mind. April's revelation about Elena's secretive phone call weighed heavily on my conscience, a persistent reminder of the uncertainty that loomed ahead. I took in the surroundings, noting the intricate details that defined the room's elegance. A crystal chandelier hung overhead, its delicate facets catching and refracting the light, creating a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights. The suite was a haven of sophistication, yet I felt anything but at ease. The news gnawed at my mind, relentless and insistent, refusing to be ignored.

Vickie was there, stepping out of the bedroom with an almost ethereal grace. Her presence was a striking contrast to the room's decor, a vibrant splash of color and vitality. She was wearing form-fitting black lace lingerie, the fabric catching the light and accentuating her every move. Her hair, a cascade of dark silk, framed her face in soft waves, while her eyes, sharp and inquisitive, held a quiet intensity. Upon seeing me, her expression shifted from surprise to irritation, her brows furrowing slightly, a clear indication she hadn't heard my entrance.

I shrugged off my suit jacket, the fabric whispering against my skin before it fell with a thud onto the polished wooden table. The vase of white roses and lilies sat innocently at its center, their delicate fragrance wafting through the air, but I fought the urge to send it crashing across the room. Instead, I moved to the window, seeking solace in the night air that drifted in through the slightly ajar window. The cool breeze offered a fleeting respite, a momentary balm to the inner turmoil that raged within.

Elena's decision to keep her call hidden felt like a breach of trust, a risk that threatened to unravel everything we had built. The impulse to confront her was fierce, yet I anchored myself to the balcony, inhaling deeply, trying to steady my racing thoughts.

Returning inside, I gravitated toward the bar, my fingers curling around a bottle of scotch, the cool glass grounding me momentarily. Vickie's eyes bore into me, a silent challenge, a volley of unspoken questions. "What? What am I doing wrong now?" she demanded, her voice slicing through the heavy silence, each word dripping with frustration and a hint of vulnerability. I placed the bottle on the counter, carefully, ensuring its fragile surface remained intact against my mounting agitation.

"Not now," I growled, retrieving my jacket with a sharp motion that belied my inner conflict. Vickie scoffed, disbelief etched in her features, her lips curving into a half-smile that held no warmth. "Off out again? Isn't it my turn for punishment?" Her words pierced through my defenses, igniting a spark of anger I couldn't contain.

I found myself crossing the room in swift strides, reaching her in an instant.

Grabbing her by the forearms, "You know what Vickie? Just back off!" I snapped.

I pressed her against the wall, my emotions momentarily overriding reason. Her eyes widened, a mix of fear and understanding mingling in their depths. Yet, as quickly as the anger flared, it melted away, leaving a void that yearned for her, I immediately forced my lips upon hers without giving her time to resist. I kissed her with a fierce passion, my hands moving to tangle in her silky hair. She tasted faintly of mint, her lips soft and supple against my own but she was not kissing me back and that's what stopped me cold.

I pulled away sharply, releasing her as though she were the source of the problem, rather than acknowledging the fault lay with me. Her gaze avoided mine, and the flush of embarrassment on her face was unmistakable. It washed over me with a sense of shame, yet I refused to let it show.

Not in front of her, not ever. She would never witness me at my most vulnerable—such a moment would not repeat itself. I had never before imposed a kiss on anyone, and here I was, with Vickie, who I had always found so alluring and seemingly interested, yet in that moment, she appeared to desire nothing more than to be far from me. She turned away, extricating herself from the confined space I had cornered her in, putting distance between us.

"Vickie—" I began, my voice trailing off.

"Yeah, I know. I'm just the bitch you regret." She retorted, her voice a mixture of hurt and defiance, before she slammed the door to what I assumed was the bedroom, shielding herself from me.

"Fuck," I mouthed the second I could.

The urge to follow after her was strong, but I held myself back. If there wasn't regret already about the blowjob, there was about that kiss. How could a kiss seem more intense?

I gathered my suit jacket, feeling the weight of the fabric as I slipped it on, its familiar texture a small comfort as I gently closed the door behind me. The hallway stretched out before me, dimly lit and quiet, echoing the subdued turmoil within me. As I walked, I shrugged the jacket into place, letting it settle over my shoulders while I headed towards the elevator. I needed space from her, from us, just for a moment. But the reality was that evading our shared space wasn't an option I could entertain for long, not when I had already let so many promises slip away today. The thought of spending the night away from her felt wrong, as if it would somehow deepen the chasm I had inadvertently started to create. No, even if it meant sleeping on the couch, I had to be there. I was the root of my own frustrations, the reason for the distance I had placed between us, and none of it was her fault. She wasn't the one to blame; she probably never was. Yet, I had treated her poorly. Her awareness, her ability to always be a step ahead, mirrored qualities I saw in myself, and perhaps that was what unsettled me the most.

The elevator carried me down two floors, and I stepped out, making my way to the room at the far end of the corridor. The hallway was quiet, the soft carpet muffling my footsteps as I reached the door. I knocked, then leaned against the doorframe, my fingers tapping impatiently as I waited.

When the door finally opened, I pushed past Bonnie, who lingered at the entrance. Her hand gripped the door as if it were a barrier, a futile attempt to ward off whatever confrontation awaited. It was clear that her usual confidence was diminished in my presence, a realization that she was dealing with someone far beyond the ordinary. She faced not just any vampire but the original hybrid, her new husband.

"So you're still here," I remarked, my voice laced with sarcasm as I stepped further into the room. "I would have thought after almost turning Caroline's world upside down, you might consider retreating to that miserable existence you call home." My words were sharp as I moved through the living space and into the adjacent bedroom.

A lilac thong lay discarded on the floor, a stark contrast to the simplicity of her attire as she followed me into the room. Her pink pajama bottoms and grey jumper, both cotton and unremarkable, suggested she hadn't planned for any kind of romantic getaway, more like a casual night in.

"I'm going to stay," she stated, her voice steady despite the circumstances. "Despite everything, I'm going to make amends."

I couldn't help but smirk at her resolve. "Make amends?" I echoed, closing the distance between us with deliberate, measured steps that caused her to retreat instinctively. "She'll never know you did this, so don't think you can ease your conscience now."

"You won't tell her?" she asked, uncertainty flickering in her eyes as I drew closer.

"Do you think I should?" I mocked, my tone cutting. "Do you think she deserves to know the kind of person she's trusted as her friend?"

"I—" she began, faltering under my gaze.

"You what? Thought you'd convince her to leave me? That's never going to happen."

"I just—"

"Stop," I interrupted, reaching out to take hold of her wrist. My grip was firm but not cruel as I leaned in, my voice low and intense. "Stop trying to have a voice, stop having an opinion, stop trying to make a place for yourself; it's pathetic, it's a waste of time, and do you want to know why?"

Bonnie hesitated, her eyes flicking to where my hand held her wrist, before meeting my gaze once more. "Why?" she asked, her voice almost a whisper, laced with a vulnerability that I could see she was attempting to hide.

I opened my mouth, aware of the impact my words would have, knowing full well the damage they were about to inflict.

"Because you don't matter," I said, watching as her eyes filled with unshed tears. "You're never going to matter."

I let go of her wrist with such force that she stumbled forward, almost falling onto me as I turned to head for the door. I didn't look back; I didn't want to see her tears. I just needed to get out of there and away from her.

Vickie Mikaelson

I'd changed into one of the hotel robes to sleep in. I'd been an idiot and brought things I thought I'd look good in instead of something to keep me warm and comfortable. Just another thing to add to my list of screw-ups. I wasn't the type to feel sorry for myself; I actually did everything within me to avoid stirring emotions like that; they weren't safe for me or for anyone really. Klaus kissed me tonight, a harsh and unexpected kiss that had caught me off guard. But what really hurt was he didn't kiss me out of instinct; it wasn't out of heat; it was out of anger. He'd been so angry since they'd all left, and what made it worse was I didn't think any of them realized it. I think he was to blame for the bulk of the reasons they all took off last month, but at the same time, didn't any of them realize that they'd done the one thing they all promised they wouldn't? They'd left. And while I'd stayed, he'd been out there somewhere angry and alone; maybe that was what drew me to him? He reminded me of me. His eyes were as sad as mine; he just masked it like I did, at least for a great deal of the time.

When I heard the door to the suite open in the distance, I was glad I'd already shut off the lights and was beneath the covers. I kept my eyes closed despite knowing he wouldn't come inside. I listened as his footsteps entered the room, stopping before the door, his weight shifting against back and forth almost as if he were debating whether or not to come and check on me. I could have turned over, told him I was awake, but I didn't; I just lay there motionless waiting for him to decide. I kept my eyes shut and my breathing steady as I listened to him leave and head into the other bedroom, on the other side of the sitting room; in other words, he'd put the largest room between us, but for his benefit or mine remained unclear.

As I listened to the sound of the bedroom door closing behind him across the way, I allowed a single tear to escape my eye at last.

Caroline Mikaelson

I'd been awake for nearly two hours, fully immersed in my morning routine. Rather than making my way to the hotel gym, I chose to use the ample space within my suite to work out. It's a luxury I'm not used to, being accustomed to the constant flow of people at my home back in Utah. There, my house is always bustling with activity, a hub where we all went about freely. I've grown to love the chaos, knowing the basement is a shared storage space for everyone. Opening my doors meant embracing this lifestyle, and I wouldn't change it for the world.

As I conclude my exercise, a sense of satisfaction washes over me. I head to the suite's bathroom, ready to transform for the day ahead. With practiced precision, I curl and pin my hair, letting the curls take their shape while I apply makeup. Today, I'd planned for a leisurely day of shopping or perhaps indulging in a spa visit. Elena and Klaus would have their own plans, a rare day to themselves since Elena's return from New York, marking the true beginning of their honeymoon. I doubt our paths will cross today, which is perfectly fine by me.

Knowing they were sleeping together didn't change anything; however, my thoughts often drift to the secrets we all kept during those months. I know Klaus held back some things from Elena at my urging. Our shared relationship isn't a game, but I feel an urge to establish my presence. The idea of starting fresh in Utah with everyone by my side is both enticing and invigorating. There would be more than just boxes to unpack when when we returned home I wanted to be there for Bonnie, but I wasn't going to hold her hand and guide her on the path of how to be a wife. No one had done that for me, and it was a blessing because there was no perfect way to learn how to be married; you just did your best and brought everything you had inside of you to the surface.

Once my makeup is completed, I release the pins from my hair, coaxing the curls into place. Slipping into the white sundress I laid out the night before, I pair it with elegant six-inch pumps. A gold watch graces my wrist, and I grab my handbag from the bed. The final touch is a sprits of perfume, a delicate fragrance that lingers in the air. Just then, a soft knock at the suite door catches my attention.

I couldn't help but smile as I walked through the suite, opening the door to reveal Klaus standing there with a playful smirk.

His Stone Island shirt clings just right, and his scent is as intoxicating as ever. "Good morning, wife," he says with a teasing glint in his eyes.

I grabbed my room key, stepping closer to him. He leans in for a kiss, but I turn my cheek, offering a playful smile. He chuckles softly, settling for a gentle peck. As I make my way toward the elevator, he follows closely, his knuckles brushing against mine in a subtle, familiar gesture.

"Is this a deliberate attempt to tease me, or should I hold your new dress responsible?" he asks in a lighthearted tone.

I return his smile, replying, "It's not my day for mischief."

He leans in, whispering near my ear, "Do you think you can keep me at bay? It won't be that simple."

I plant a swift kiss on his cheek as we reach the elevator, the doors sliding open before us.

Inside the elevator, he presses the button for the lobby, his gaze fixed on me with that trademark sparkle in his eyes. "We've got to respect the schedule, even during our honeymoon," I remind him with a playful lilt.

"Or all hope will surely be lost forever," he echoes, prompting a laugh from me, one that resonates through the small space.

I meet his gaze, and he winks, drawing another laugh from my lips. "Do you ever take anything seriously?" I ask, amusement lacing my words.

He nods, his expression softening. "When it comes to us, I'm always serious. And I'm serious about needing—I gently place a finger on his lips, silencing him, and he kisses it with a tenderness that warms me.

As we exit the elevator, he takes my hand, lifting it to his lips. "I love you," he mouths, and I roll my eyes with a playful flair.

"Go fetch us a drink, cowboy," I tease, making my way to find a table in the restaurant.

Elena Mikaelson

As I slowly opened my eyes, the gentle light filtering through the curtains welcomed me into the new day. The hotel suite was a masterpiece of elegance, with every detail crafted to offer the utmost comfort and luxury. I lay in the king-sized bed, feeling the soft sheets and pillows that seemed to embrace me. Everything about the bed was gentle and inviting, making it hard to summon the will to leave its warmth. I was grateful for my decision to unpack the previous night. Nothing cluttered the pristine space; no stray laundry or disheveled luggage disturbed the serene setting. It was as if the room had maintained its picture-perfect state from when I first arrived, offering a small sanctuary amidst the chaos of travel.

Reaching for my phone on the nightstand, I hoped to find a message from Klaus, a good morning text perhaps. Instead, there was only a message from Caroline, inviting me to join her for breakfast downstairs. A glance at the clock revealed it was already eight, and my day with Klaus was set to begin in just an hour. His silence was strange, leaving me to wonder why he hadn't sent a word. Rising from the comfort of the bed, I reminded myself about last night and Klaus's time with Vickie. It had been their night, and I tried to dismiss any further thoughts, choosing instead to focus on the day ahead. This was our honeymoon, and I was determined to make it memorable.

Crossing the room to the en suite bathroom, I admired its luxurious features—a stand-alone tub, a spacious shower, and dual sinks. I began my morning routine, brushing and flossing with care. Today was meant for closeness, and I wanted to be ready for every embrace, every missed kiss from our time apart in New York. Washing my face and straightening my hair, I took extra care, ensuring each strand lay perfectly. The fine-tooth comb helped achieve a smooth finish, sealed with a spritz of hairspray. My makeup followed, light and natural, just as I preferred. Even now, I wanted to remain true to my everyday look. As I worked on my makeup, memories of yesterday flooded my mind. Talking with Caroline, April, and Bonnie had been cathartic. Bonnie's struggle was more significant than she'd let on, and I resolved to be more understanding. I remembered my own challenges, the difficult decisions, and the guilt of leaving behind loved ones. I vowed to support her as best as I could.

Finishing my routine with a touch of body spray and perfume, I left the bathroom and headed to the closet. Only my clothes hung there for now, but with nine more days here, I knew Klaus's belongings would soon join mine, just like our first vacation together. I selected a white woven boatneck top, paired with dark blue jeans and beige sandals. Collecting my white handbag, I placed my phone and purse inside. A final check in the mirror showed a reflection ready for the day, hair adjusted perfectly. With my room key in hand, I stepped out into the hallway.

The freshness of the corridor was a testament to the staff's early work. The air smelled clean, and I marveled at how they managed to vacuum without disturbing my sleep—a rarity for me. Descending in the elevator to the bustling lobby, I couldn't help but smile. Guests and staff filled the space with a harmonious energy. Their smiles were contagious, adding to the welcoming atmosphere of the hotel.

At reception, I received directions to the restaurant with ease. Entering the dining area, I was greeted by an impressive open layout. The breakfast buffet stretched across the room, a feast for the senses. White tablecloths draped elegantly over the tables, while hot trays, a cereal bar, a pastry display, juice and smoothie sections, and fruit arrangements awaited guests. An ice sculpture of a fairy stood proudly, admired by many as they entered. Once again, Klaus had exceeded expectations in planning this vacation. Today was ours, and I felt a thrill at the thought of spending it with him. I needed us to be alone, and I hoped he wanted the same.

I spotted Caroline almost immediately, and she waved from a table in the center of the room, alone. I smiled back at her, but my eyes continued to scan my surroundings until I saw Klaus; his back was to me as he was ordering drinks at the corner bar. I waved politely to Caroline, who kept her eyes on me and a gentle smile upon her lips as I saw me begin to walk in his direction instead of hers.

"Hey," I said softly, my voice wavering slightly. He was so focused on the task at hand I wondered if he'd even heard me.

I came to his side and leaned in for my kiss only to stop when he turned away to accept his drink order from the bartender. "Thanks," he said firmly, nodding politely to the man before him.

"Is everything okay?" I asked when the bartender left us.

I felt my stomach sink to the floor when Klaus didn't respond; instead, he collected what was probably his and Caroline's drinks before turning and heading toward her table, leaving me where I stood.

What had I done? Why was he ignoring me?

I waited for him to get to her before I headed that way as well. I sat next to him; a place setting had been placed before me, yet I didn't feel welcome.

"So how'd you sleep?"Caroline asked me after I'd settled in beside Klaus.

He wasn't talking to me; he was sipping his drink and looking out at the other guests instead. But he didn't look angry as he did at the bar when his eyes had briefly met mine. He retrieved his phone from his pocket, checking it before he leaned down and kissed Caroline's exposed shoulder once before returning to it.

"Pretty great." I replied to Caroline's question before I picked up the glass of water before me and took a sip.

"Same, I think I and my tub are going steady." Caroline laughed, and I saw Klaus's lips curl up at the sides.

So he was acting his usual cool self in front of her, but I was getting a hard time? It was like a knife to my heart, something I thought only he could ever cause me.

"Aren't you eating anything?" Caroline asked.

"Maybe in a minute. Where is everyone?"

Caroline shrugged and finished her mouthful of food before answering, "I think Klaus texted April, but I haven't heard from Bonnie or Vickie."

Beside her, I noted how Klaus shifted in his seat at what appeared to be at the mention of Vickie's name; I studied his face for any clue as to why, but nothing came.

"Do you want me to go and check on them?" I offered.

Caroline shook her head. "They'll be here," she said before settling down her napkin. "I'm going to get some strawberries."

I watched her thigh brush Klaus's arm as she rose from the table, her gaze briefly meeting his. Something passed between them, and it pained me to know it was a language I wasn't a part of. Klaus smirked at her touch, but his eyes remained fixed on his screen. They were flirting; I just had to deal with it. This wasn't my honeymoon; it was our honeymoon. But it still hurt that he was being so cold to me when I hadn't done anything to deserve it.

"Klaus—" I began, but he didn't look up from his phone. "Klaus?"

"Yes, Elena," he replied curtly.

I bit my lip to stop it from trembling before I asked, "What's wrong?"

His eyes met mine then; I watched his jaw tighten before he said, "You tell me."

I let out a long sigh before I asked, "Why are you acting like this?"

"Like what?" he mocked before he downed his drink in one.

"Right, so it's all in my head?" I asked sarcastically.

"I'm not doing anything." Klaus answered with a shrug of his shoulders before he looked back down at his phone again.

"You're not doing anything?" I repeated incredulously. "You're ignoring me."

"Does it matter? You never listen to me, so I'm not sure why you'd expect me to do it now." He shot back harshly.

I looked at him shocked. "That's not true." I whispered.

He laughed humorlessly, "Right, because you're always so innocent."

"Now you're just being a jerk. What is going on?"

Klaus met my gaze finally, and he smiled warmly. "Good morning, baby," he said to me.

"I got so lost." I heard April's voice say behind me, and I glanced back at Klaus just quick enough for her and him to kiss in greeting.

"I'll get you some breakfast," he said as he stood.

I felt my heart clench in my chest.

"Really? You don't mind?" April asked him as she took her seat.

"Not at all, I'll be right back." Klaus told her before he made his way to the buffet, Caroline joined him, and they headed that way together.

April smiled over at me before she looked at the centerpiece between us. "Oh my god, they carved strawberries into flowers. Would you judge me if I ate it or took a picture of it?" she asked.

I forced a smile at her attempt to make light of the situation.

April smiled back and slipped her bag over the back of her chair. "You look pretty," she complimented.

"Thanks, so do you." I replied, hoping my voice didn't sound as hollow as it felt.

She smiled and looked down at her white cotton top. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's his," she laughed.

I smiled and nodded before I said, "You seem close."

"Who? Me and Klaus? Well, we're kind of married, so yeah, we're getting there." April teased before she added, "What about you? You guys are still in that honeymoon phase, right?" she asked with a smile before her expression froze. "I mean, if it's alright for me to ask that, I know we haven't really talked about everything, but I'd really like it if we could." She offered kindly.

I returned her smile, "It's fine; I want us to be able to talk about it too." I told her honestly.

"But with boundaries." April laughed, and I joined her.

"Exactly, no sex talk."

April nodded. "Done," she agreed with a smile.

As we waited for Klaus and Caroline to return to the table with the food, I felt relieved that she wanted to move past this, and if we could talk about it openly, then it would help me not feel so awkward. I doubted Caroline would think the same.

Vickie Mikaelson

That morning, the sun had barely begun to rise when I awoke at six, determined to keep up with my daily exercise routine. Klaus was already nowhere in sight, although I hadn't truly expected him to be there. He had a day planned with Elena, and it seemed likely he was already with her. I didn't bother to check his room, but as I passed by, I noticed the door was ajar, and the bed appeared untouched, as if he hadn't slept in it at all. This left me wondering whether he had stayed up all night or had left after I had finally managed to fall asleep. I decided to leave yesterday's events behind, focusing instead on the invigorating workout that awaited me.

Heading to the hotel gym, I felt a wave of excitement about the prospect of engaging in physical activity. The gym was impressive, and I spent almost an hour on the treadmill, allowing my muscles to feel the satisfying burn that I had been missing for ages. Afterward, I was grateful to have brought a change of clothes, enabling me to shower and refresh myself before heading back up to my suite. As usual, my phone was devoid of any messages—a fact that no longer surprised me.

Upon returning to the suite, my mind was singularly focused on breakfast. I considered ordering room service, my appetite growing by the minute. Just as I was about to make a decision, a knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. Reluctantly, I left the bathroom to answer it, discovering one of the hotel staff waiting on the other side. They greeted me with a polite smile and wished me a good morning before handing me a small, elegant package wrapped in red leather. The name 'Cartier' was embossed on the front in exquisite gold lettering, causing my heart to race with a mix of excitement and curiosity.

I had never owned anything from Cartier, but I knew enough to understand that it represented luxury and opulence. Inside the bag, I found a note penned in elegant cursive that unmistakably belonged to Klaus. Clearly, he was behind this gesture, as there was no one else who would have done this. Taking a deep breath, I opened the envelope to read the brief message inside.

The words were straightforward: I WANT TO SEE YOU WEAR IT

Gingerly, I reached into the bag and retrieved a red velvet box. My fingers trembled slightly as I unclasped it, revealing a stunning piece of jewelry: a white gold bracelet adorned with heart-shaped links, each encrusted with diamonds. The sight of it left me momentarily speechless. I slipped it onto my wrist, marveling at its beauty, yet feeling a pang of emotion as I reread Klaus's words. This exquisite gift was clearly meant as an apology, but for what exactly? Was it for last night's events or for everything since I had relocated to Utah to be with them?

The bracelet was undeniably beautiful, and it complemented nearly everything I planned to wear during the remainder of the trip. Despite this, a rebellious part of me wanted to defy Klaus's wishes and do the opposite of what he intended. He had angered me, and I felt compelled to express my frustration.

With a mischievous grin, I carefully removed the bracelet and placed it back into its box, setting it on my nightstand where it would be safe and clearly visible. I then hurried to the bathroom, spirited on some perfume, and began applying my makeup, ensuring that my lips were perfectly lined to enhance the clear gloss I had chosen for the morning. If any of them were awake, they were likely downstairs at the restaurant by now, enjoying breakfast. I decided to join them, choosing to remain in my current outfit—a soft pink camisole that left my arms bare, conspicuously free of any jewelry. It was an unmistakable message to Klaus that he couldn't always have things his way.

My heart was racing at the idea of his reaction to my defiance as I left my hotel room once more armed with my bag and phone this time. I continued to adjust my hair all the way to the elevator. He really thought he could make me wear jewelry? He had amazing taste, but if he thought I was that easy, then he was sorely mistaken. I got directions to the restaurant from someone at the front desk before I began to make my way there armed with nothing but my spine and my glossed lips, no jewelry and no concerns.

I found them easily, especially with a waving April ushering me toward their table where she, Elena, and Caroline sat together. I wanted to look around for Klaus, but I couldn't bring myself to do it just yet; instead, I pulled back the chair beside April and took my seat.

"Good morning," April said cheerfully. "Did you sleep well?"

I nodded and gave her a genuine smile. "Yeah, I slept pretty great." I replied honestly.

She grinned, "So did I; these beds are to die for."

I looked across to Caroline and Elena and nodded, "Hey." I said softly.

"Morning." Caroline replied humanly enough while Elena just merely nodded with a small smile.

I watched then as a plate of pancakes, sliced banana, and eggs was placed down in front of April. I had barely a second to register before I felt Klaus's lips upon my cheek. I turned my face, feeling his lips linger for a moment on mine before he stepped back, and I watched him sit beside Caroline, leaning in to kiss her shoulder before he slipped his arm around her back while she took a sip of her drink. The second he looked my way, his eyes immediately shifted to my arms, and I had to hold back my smirk as I witnessed his reaction.

His eyes went wide before he turned his attention back to April, who smiled up at him and said, "Thank you for getting me food."

He winked at her before he turned to whisper something in Caroline's ear, making her smile. That's when his eyes met mine once more; his unassumed only made me smirk further.

I shrugged my shoulders slightly with his eyes still on me while the rest of them were distracted.

If he wanted to play, we were going to play.

Bonnie Mikaelson

Waking up in Hawaii that morning felt like a rare gift. The air was warm and gentle, wrapping around me as if it were trying to soothe the exhaustion that had clung to me for days. This was unlike any other place I had ever been, where the very atmosphere seemed as if it were designed to cradle your worries and relieve you of your burdens. I was surprised to find that I had slept until nine, uninterrupted. It was a luxury I was unaccustomed to, and I relished the feeling of waking up naturally, without the intrusive sound of an alarm. Perhaps it was the comforting presence of the ocean, with its rhythmic whispers, or simply the weariness that had finally caught up with me, but I felt a little more rested than I had in a long time. The island had a way of making time feel different, as if each minute stretched a little longer, giving you more room to breathe and think. Determined to start the day right, I got up and took a long shower, letting the water wash over me, as if it could cleanse away the worries and doubts that had been gnawing at me for days. The shower became a refuge, a place where I could momentarily set aside the tangled web of thoughts that had been occupying my mind. I even went the extra mile, putting on some makeup and jewelry, an effort to reclaim a piece of myself that had felt distant lately. It was a small act of defiance, a way to assert my presence and remind myself of my own worth.

Yesterday had been tough, especially after what Klaus had said. His words had left me feeling like I was on the edge of an implosion, unwanted and on the outside of his plural family. It was as if a line had been drawn in the sand, and I found myself standing on the wrong side of it, isolated and confused. But today, I was resolved to prove him wrong. I would find my place, no matter what he thought. I refused to let his harsh comments define me, to let them shape my reality. Instead, I would use them as fuel to drive me forward, to carve out my own space in the world.

Just as I finished getting ready for breakfast, a knock came at the door. It was unexpected, a little jarring in the peaceful silence of the room. I checked through the peephole, spotting a hotel staff member. Her presence was reassuring, a reminder of the hospitality that was such an integral part of this island. After a polite good morning, she handed me an envelope with my name on it. I thanked her, a slight unease creeping in as I closed the door. The envelope felt heavy in my hand, not with physical weight but with an ominous sense of foreboding.

When I opened it, the message inside was written in sharp, almost angry strokes.

The words DON'T JOIN US stared back at me, their meaning as clear as the handwriting was elegant.

My heart sank, my resolve from just moments ago wavering. The note was like a tangible manifestation of my fears, a reminder of the doubts that had been lurking at the edges of my mind. I held the note tightly, the paper crumpling slightly in my grip. Each step back into my room felt laborious, as if the distance had multiplied tenfold.

I carefully slipped off my shoes, the act almost ritualistic in its slowness. It was as if I were trying to ground myself, to find stability in the familiar routine. After securing the lock on the door, I retreated to my bed, feeling the familiar comfort of the covers beneath me.

Closing my eyes, I tried to shut out the uncertainty that now loomed over me. Where did I belong? What would my future hold now? The questions swirled in my mind, unanswered and daunting.

OMG 😱 I really hope you guys enjoyed this chapter! It took so much work 💪✨ and I put my heart into it ❤️. Please leave me a comment 💬 because it would be amazing to know if the pictures helped , if you liked this latest story 📖, and what you'd love to see going forward 🔮.

I need to know who your favorite wife is now 👰 and exactly why because I absolutely love writing each of them ️. Klaus just seems to have his hands full with each of them 😂.

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