The early sun spilled like molten gold across the picturesque town of Mystic Falls, its radiant beams casting long, shimmering rays through the dew-laden trees lining the quiet streets. The morning air was crisp, tinged with the sweet scent of blooming lilacs and damp earth, and the world seemed to hold its breath in that enchanting hour when daybreak met tranquillity. For once, there were no signs of violence, no distant cries piercing the stillness, no faint traces of magic twisting the gentle breeze. It was a rare moment of peace, almost surreal, as if the universe had conspired to grant them this fleeting reprieve.
In the heart of the Salvatore Boarding House, Caroline Forbes stood barefoot on the soft carpet of Jo Laughlin's room, gripping a steaming mug of coffee that she didn't truly need. As a vampire, she was immune to the allure of caffeine, but the comforting warmth of the mug between her hands was a soothing ritual, grounding her amidst the swirl of excitement and nerves in the air. This morning was exceptional; it buzzed with unspoken hopes and dreams, for today was Jo and Alaric's wedding day. Caroline took a moment to inhale deeply, relishing the possibility that perhaps, just perhaps, everything might actually unfold as beautifully as they had imagined.
Behind a decorative privacy divider near the sumptuous king-size bed, Jo was tucked away, embodying a mix of nervous anticipation and uncontained joy as she slipped into her wedding gown. Bonnie Bennett flitted about like an elegant whirlwind, a comb precariously tucked between her teeth while her arms struggled to manage the delicate silk and lace of Jo's dress. Meanwhile, at the antique vanity, Elena Gilbert was focused intently on carefully assembling Jo's bouquet—tendrils of jasmine intertwined with peonies and garden roses that whispered of romance. Her face glowed with a soft smile, radiating warmth as she arranged the flowers with a loving touch.
"So," Caroline ventured playfully, her voice attempting to keep a light and teasing tone despite the thrumming excitement in her chest, "how does it feel knowing you're about to become Dr. Jo Saltzman? That's a big title!"
Jo's laughter floated softly into the air, a genuine sound that sent a wave of relief through Caroline's heart, momentarily easing the tightening knot of anxiety. "Honestly? Terrifying. I mean, I can handle a lot, but this feels monumental."
Caroline chuckled, her shoulders relaxing as she leaned against the doorframe. "You've already survived a psychopathic twin, navigated a coven of witches bent on using you, and somehow managed to teach a high school packed with hormonal teens and endless supernatural drama. I think stepping into marriage will be a breeze by comparison. Right?"
From behind the divider, Bonnie let out a snort of laughter. "Don't jinx it, Care. We've had enough drama for a lifetime."
With a grin spreading across her face, Caroline shrugged playfully. "Fair point! But still—you're positively glowing, Jo."
Then Jo emerged from behind the divider, and the world around them seemed to cease its movement for that fleeting instant. She stood before them in her wedding gown, and the air was thick with unspoken admiration. The dress was a beautiful tapestry of simplicity and elegance, designed with off-the-shoulder lace that caressed her figure and gracefully flowed into a delicate train behind her. Her dark hair was fashioned into a romantic braid, soft curls cascading elegantly, while tiny pearl pins scattered throughout sparkled like stars against the backdrop of her hair. In that moment, she didn't resemble a woman marked by her turbulent past—hunted by a brother or shaped by a tragic fate. Instead, she took on the essence of someone standing on the brink of a new chapter, ready to embrace love and a future filled with promise.
Caroline's breath caught in her throat as she blinked hard, overwhelmed by the beauty before her. "Oh my god. You're stunning."
A blush crept across Jo's cheeks as she caught a glimpse of herself in the ornate mirror, her expression morphing into a blend of disbelief and delight. "You really think so?" she asked, her tone laced with a tentative hope.
Bonnie stepped back, admiration in her eyes as she nodded enthusiastically. "Alaric's definitely going to cry. Just wait."
"I hope so," Jo whispered breathlessly, a sparkle in her eyes that hinted at a well of emotion.
As Jo turned to face them fully, Caroline's gaze fell to her hands. She noticed a subtle twitch, a slight movement toward her stomach that seemed almost instinctual—a fleeting flicker of discomfort that she quickly concealed behind a bright smile. In that brief moment, a knot of worry unfurled within Caroline.
"You okay?" she asked, forcing her tone to remain casual as she carefully set her mug down on the dresser, an urgency in her heart.
Jo straightened, her smile remaining intact, yet Caroline sensed a veneer over something deeper. "Yeah. Just—nerves. It's a big day."
Caroline studied Jo for a heartbeat, her enhanced senses heightening an underlying tension. Jo's heartbeat pulsed erratically beneath her calm exterior, quick and uneven—a song of stress playing its own note amidst the harmony of excitement. But perhaps it was simply the weight of the occasion that pressed down on her; wedding days were monumental affairs, especially when the bride carried the weight of impending motherhood with twins, all while attempting to ignore the supernatural landmines that accompanied their lives.
Still, something felt undeniably… off.
"You sure?" Caroline pressed softly, her concern veering into the unspoken.
Jo met her gaze, and for a flicker of a heartbeat, an array of emotions flickered behind her eyes—fear, perhaps, or an echo of sorrow that threatened to spill over. But just as swiftly as it had appeared, it was gone, replaced once more by a reassuring smile. "I'm sure."
And Caroline, wanting nothing more than for this day to unfold flawlessly, wishing desperately for every moment to sparkle with the magic of new beginnings, nodded—reluctantly accepting Jo's bravado and pushing her apprehensions aside for the sake of this precious day.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, honeyed glow over the lush grounds of the Lockwood estate. The soft light bathed the sprawling garden in a golden hue, where blooming flowers rustled gently in the light breeze. Twinkling fairy lights, threaded among the branches of the trees, danced lightly, their glow adding a magical twinkle to the serene atmosphere. Rows of white chairs stood neatly lined along a freshly cut path, strewn with rose petals that crunched softly underfoot. At the end of the aisle, the wedding arch stood proudly, adorned with twisting ivy and clusters of soft lavender and pale peonies, a perfect blend of Jo's love for nature and Alaric's classic taste. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooms, a fragrance that mingled with the anticipation of love and celebration.
Caroline stood at the altar, her heart racing as she gripped Jo's bouquet tightly in her hand. The vibrant colours of the flowers mirrored the emotions swirling in her chest. She felt the fabric of her soft mauve bridesmaid dress brush against her legs as she stood nervously. Her hair was pinned elegantly in a twist, the delicate strands framing her face perfectly. Despite her polished exterior, nerves bubbled beneath her confidence. This day was supposed to be perfect—for Jo, for Alaric, for the twins. For all of them.
Behind her, Elena stood slightly to the right, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, reflecting a mix of joy and apprehension. Across from them, Bonnie sat in the row opposite, casting quick, discerning glances around the venue, a hint of unease flickering on her face, as if she sensed something amiss. However, Caroline barely registered the tension; she was too engrossed in the steady, soothing sound of music drifting from the string quartet—an ethereal, soft classical rendition of "Canon in D" that wrapped around them like a warm embrace. The ceremony had begun.
At the altar, Alaric appeared tall and dashing in his sharp grey suit, his normally tousled hair expertly styled, his face radiating love and anticipation. His eyes were fixed on Jo, who was making her way down the aisle, escorted by Damon; her father's absence was palpable. Jo looked radiant, despite the nervousness that flickered across her features. They had all endured so much. They deserved this—a happy ending, a moment free from the shadows of their past.
When Jo reached the altar, Alaric instinctively reached for her hand, the moment their fingers intertwined dissolving any remaining tension in her shoulders. Caroline felt her lips curl into a smile, the kind that tugged gently at the corners of her mouth, a reaction to witnessing something genuinely good in the world.
"Dearly beloved," the officiant began, his deep voice ringing out over the assembled guests. "We are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of Josette Laughlin and Alaric Saltzman in holy matrimony."
Caroline barely registered the words, her eyes anchored on Jo, who shot her a brief, nervous smile. Caroline responded with a gentle nod, silently conveying her support. You're doing great. You're almost there.
Above them, birds chirped cheerily in the trees, their joyful sounds punctuating the moment. A soft breeze rustled the fabric of the tented canopy above, creating an inviting atmosphere that wrapped around them, an almost tangible reminder of the love surrounding them. Guests—humans, vampires, and witches alike—watched with hushed reverence and admiration. For a fleeting moment, time seemed to align perfectly, and peace, however temporary, descended upon them.
"You may now say your vows," the officiant announced, his voice steady and calm.
Alaric stepped forward first, his voice initially trembling with emotion, but as he focused, he steadied himself. "Jo," he began, sincerity pouring from every word. "The moment I met you, I knew my life had changed. You made me believe in things I thought I'd lost—the possibility of peace, of family, of love again." His gaze deepened with earnestness. "I promise to protect you, to honor you, and to raise our children together with love and strength. I am yours, always."
Jo blinked rapidly, a rush of emotions threatening to overwhelm her as she fought to keep tears at bay. Caroline felt a tightness in her throat, resonating with the immense weight of the moment.
"It's my turn," Jo whispered, her voice shaking slightly. "Alaric, you saved me. Not just from the dangers of this world, but from myself. You believed in me when I couldn't. And in you, I've found a partner, a friend, and the father of my children." Her emotions swelled as she spoke, and the sincerity in her voice joined the warmth of the sun around them. "I promise to stand by you, in chaos and calm. I love you. Always."
A fond murmur rippled through the crowd, appreciation for their vows hanging in the air. Damon leaned forward in his seat with an amused smirk, whispering something sardonic to Stefan, whose expression shifted into a playful disapprove. Even Matt wiped at his eyes, pretending it was just dust that had gotten in his way.
Caroline glanced over her shoulder once more to see Elena beaming, her joy infectious. In that moment, they all dared to believe that this beautiful, sun-drenched moment might endure, that the veil of happiness could shield them from the darkness that so often loomed.
The officiant continued, his voice weaving through the still air. "Jo, do you take Alaric to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health—"
"Yes," Jo whispered, her voice barely above a breath.
The officiant smiled warmly. "And do you, Alaric, take Jo to be your lawfully wedded wife?"
"I do," he replied immediately, though his voice cracked slightly, a mixture of joy and uncontainable emotion.
Caroline's heart swelled at the sight. She would never admit it aloud, but this moment was the kind she had once envisioned for herself—back when life hadn't been overshadowed by death, immortality, and magic that stripped away the simplicity of happy endings.
The officiant turned to Alaric and with a smile said. "You can now kiss the—"
Then, abruptly, the atmosphere shifted. A sudden flicker rippled through the garden. Every candle along the aisle trembled, the flames sputtering violently. A hush fell over the guests, an ominous serenity sucking the warmth from the air. The string quartet hesitated, their notes faltering as unease swept through the crowd like an electric current.
Bonnie's brows knit together sharply, a look of acute worry flashing across her face as she twitched her fingers instinctively at her side. Caroline's spine straightened, an irrefutable intuition prickling at her senses.
A second flicker rocked through the air. The wind shifted, whispering of an impending storm.
Something was wrong.
Jo paused, her expression shifting from bliss to confusion. She glanced toward Bonnie, and then to Caroline, her lips parting as if to voice her concern. "What—" she began, but the words were abruptly cut off.
A deafening crack of air pierced the serene ambiance, echoing through the garden like thunder rumbling ominously overhead.
Screams erupted.
Panic bloomed amongst the guests, a chilling wave crashing against the temporary peace they had held so dear. Caroline's eyes darted to the altar—and then, behind the altar.
He was just there. Standing among the petals scattered like fallen hopes, where there had been nothing just moments ago.
Kai.
His grin stretched across his face, a grotesque smile that felt inexplicably wrong, his teeth gleaming unnaturally beneath the fabric of his dark suit, bloodlust glimmering in his eyes. The moment seemed to freeze in time, horror wrapping around them all like a suffocating blanket.
"No!" Jo screamed, panic rising as she clutched her belly, instinctively protecting the life within her.
Caroline barely had time to process the horror unfolding before her.
The glint of a blade in Kai's hand sliced through the air with magical speed and precision, plunging cruelly into Jo's abdomen.
Time stopped.
Jo gasped—a horrible, wet sound—blood pouring from the wound, staining her pristine white dress in a brutal bloom of scarlet. She collapsed forward, the world collapsing with her, into Alaric's outstretched arms, who caught her as she fell, a choked scream escaping his lips.
"Jo? Jo! JO!"
The crowd erupted into chaos. Guests shrieked, vampires instinctively vamped out, chairs tipped over as people scrambled to their feet. Damon was already vaulting over the front row, fangs bared in furious determination, with Stefan hot on his heels.
"KAI!" Bonnie shouted, her voice sharp as she began to summon a spell—too late.
Kai's hand shot out, releasing a pulse of raw, chaotic magic that struck Elena in the chest. She crumpled to the ground like a marionette deprived of its strings, unconscious. Bonnie screamed as she dropped beside her friend, hands trembling with panic and fear.
"No—Elena!" she cried, desperation twisting her features into something almost unrecognizable.
"I linked them," Kai stated nonchalantly, casually brushing the blood from his hand as if he were merely shaking off dust. "If one's asleep, the other's awake."
Caroline stood frozen in a state of shock, her mind screaming for her to move, but her feet refused to obey. Jo's blood was everywhere, dark and vivid, soaking through Alaric's hands, staining the earth beneath them.
"Stay with me! Stay with me!" Alaric begged, cradling Jo's face as tears streamed down his cheeks. His voice was thick with emotion, a raw edge that echoed Caroline's own despair.
"I—I'm sorry—" Jo gasped, her body convulsing as the life began to slip away from her. "The babies—"
Her voice cut off mid-sentence, leaving nothing but a chilling silence in its wake.
"No," Caroline whispered, her voice breaking as tears filled her eyes, blurring her vision. "No, no, no—"
Fuelled by a devastating surge of anger and grief, Alaric lunged upward, abandoning all semblance of restraint or caution. "You son of a—!"
With a fiery determination, he charged at Kai, wielding the kind of rage only a grieving man could possess.
And Kai—without a moment's hesitation—plunged the same knife straight into Alaric's heart.
Alaric froze, breath hitched in his throat. His mouth moved silently, struggling to form Jo's name one final time.
Then he crumpled, collapsing beside Jo, his hand still reaching out toward her, straining against the encroaching shadows. Caroline's scream tore through the chaos, raw and anguished.
Bonnie was sobbing, her spell now a frantic attempt to counter the binding magic. Damon, possessed by fury, nearly reached Kai—but in that moment, he vanished. With a swirl of malevolent magic and smoke, Kai disappeared, leaving nothing behind but blood, ruin, and a heavy, suffocating silence.
Everything around Caroline was painted in red.
Everything.
Elena lay unconscious, her body limp. Bonnie held her tightly, fear etched deep into her features as she fought against the sorrow invading their lives. Damon stood still, fists clenched at his sides, his body trembling with rage, while Stefan placed a steadying hand on his brother's shoulder, eyes dark with fury and disbelief.
Caroline dropped to her knees, the world muffled and distant as if she were submerged beneath the surface of a dark ocean.
Jo's bouquet lay crushed in the aisle, soaked in crimson—a tragic emblem of the shattered dreams that had filled the air just moments before.
The wedding was over.