#& rel.; someone worth knowing // klaroline

[hybriidklaus]

tag drop

[klarolinedrabbles]

what do you think about this statement? (it’s based off this weeks legacies episode) I honestly feel like Julie did Klaroline and Hope dirty. Since Hope was born, Klaroline couldn't happen, BUT we all saw the world in which Hope wasn't born. Yes Klaroline are thought to be married, but the thing is. We hear Ric saying how Klaus has lost his anchor to humanity and switched it off. And him and Caroline started some kind of war and were the enemy of state. 1/2

(actually it’s 3 parts oops! Sorry) ….And the vampire world was in danger since humans knew about vampires. Now, yes Caroline was the first who started the change in Klaus, Camille continued what was started. However, it was Hope and love for her which lead to him changing and his redemption. So basically, if Hope wasn’t born, neither Caroline’s nor Camille:s love wouldn’t have been enough to I courage Klaus to keep on changing.

3/3 …So as I get it it’s like that : Hope= no Klaroline, but no Hope= Klaroline, but Klaus not finding the good in him, the will to change, turning off his humanity and him not finding redemption. I hate how Julie put some of us in this spot. Both the ship and Hope were done dirty

Do I think there’s any accuracy in that statement?

Also who’s statement is this, I don’t want it to come across like I’m talking shit, cause @ whoever wrote this, I promise I’m not. But it’s in my inbox and I shall reply, I guess???

It’s been a hot minute since I’ve seen something about TVD/TO that I’ve overwhelmingly disagreed with like I do right now. I actually have an ask in my inbox somewhere asking if in conclusion would I say that Camille’s character enacted zero change in Klaus. I hadn’t gotten to it yet, and it’ll be some time now before I get back to it cause it’s lost like five pages into my inbox after recent events. But essentially, yeah, that’s exactly what I would say, and I’ll say it now too. 

First of all, it was never Caroline, Camille, nor Hope’s—and contrary to what Elijah believed, it wasn’t up to Marcel either—job to change Klaus. For him to change, that’s something he needed to want for himself. And in Caroline and Hope’s case, it was. With Caroline, it was an ‘I need to know there’s more to you, or we have nothing to discuss’, she wasn’t hounding him to be something he wasn’t. If he had it in him, and he wanted to show her that side of him, then perfect. He didn’t have to, but it came down to how much he gave af about Caroline to make the effort. 5x01 is a fabulous example, finds him in a building full of people he murdered, does not fundamentally give af, but cares for him anyway and says he’s someone worth knowing. She knows him on a level that not everyone can say they’ve seen, that’s about as much change as that relationship required.

In Hope’s case, it was him wanting his kid to know him as someone better than what the world knew him as. And quite frankly his kid doesn’t really know him period cause he did not raise her. She knows him by his choices, which I’m supposed to accept as a man ‘redeemed’. I hate that fucking word, man. 

Redeemed WHEREEEE, HE’S STILL THE SAME MURDER-CRAZED MAN, JUST THAT HE W A N T S AND IS CAPABLE OF MAKING SELFLESS CHOICES WHEN HE NEEDS TO. THAT IS LITERALLY ALL THAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT HIM. And it has nothing to do with redemption and how whoever it was achieved it, it has to do with does he have the people in his life that he wants to be selfless for. AND HE DOES. 

First of all 2.0, Klaus was relatively the same pre-Hope and post-Hope, in neither of those versions of himself did have a tie to humanity, so like @ Legacies, spare me the bullshit. Yeah sure some of his choices you could say were more politically sound when he was trying to form a life that wouldn’t cause massive repercussions for his kid, fine. But he murdered before her, and after. 

The choice Klaus makes at the end of S4, and at the end of S5 are the exact same, let’s just—okay??? Same fucking choice. His life for his kid’s, S4 included other’s making the same sacrifice, but the ring leader was him, the decision was his. And after that decision, Hope astro-projects and catches him mid murder-spree, chats with Hayley on facetime and what’s behind him oh whoops a dead body, so seriously Legacies—cut the shit. He’s never had a tie to humanity, the man couldn’t care less about it. He’s totally whacked, but he does shit for the people he loves. That’s as good as Klaus was ever gonna get, and it’s as good as he got with affection for and from all the people you’ve listed. 

Thank you and goodnight. 

[sailormoonreviewevent-blog]

~ SAILOR MOON FANFICTION REVIEW EVENT ~

(Yes, this is idea is TOTALLY stolen from the Klaroline fandom, BUT… it deserves it!)

From November 23rd to November 30th @uglygreenjacket and I, @floraone are hosting a review event for our fandom.

It’s meant to encourage ALL the Sailor Moon fanfiction authors out there – The writers of all ships, the canon ones and the ones who’ve never met. The new writers and the old. The relatively unknown, and the popular. Those who are just finding their voice in writing, and those who have been around so long that people have started taken them for granted. Those that post regularly, and those that update only sparingly. Those that have written that ONE story EVER which you cherish, and those that have written tons over the past 20 years. The ones with only one review, and those with 400. And those that put out new content weekly, and those that struggle to find inspiration.

Our goal is to encourage you all to give ALL those authors a little spike in motivation, tell them that you’re there and appreciate them, and promote the authors of all those thousands of works of fanfiction that we all love. All the selfless and tireless work of people who give us a constant supply of free fandom content!

So, our main goal, of course, is that over the week you review as much as possible, in any format you prefer (A03/FFnet/tumblr, wherever you can reach your authors!).

Even  - or ESPECIALLY - if you’ve never reviewed before (and remember, FF.net allows Guest reviews, no account needed!). Reviews are the lifeblood of any fanfiction author. Remember that your fanfic authors will ONLY ever be compensated for their work in praise and in thank you’s– and that means reviews. Vloggers and AMVlers can sometimes get the chance to monetize their videos, for some lucky fanartists you get the chance to buy commissions from them, or prints of their work, or buy them coffee - but for the authors of those fan works that keep you entertained, sometimes for hours, sometimes for days, and sometimes for the past 20 years, all they  EVER can get is a thank you. So please – this is what this Event is about. Go and let them know what you loved about their story, and thank them for their time.  

Let’s face it - mostly we don’t take the time to review thoroughly, or every chapter, and this is because we have hectic lives and it’s easy to forget, and sometimes daunting to find the right words, but this week, we want you to give your favorite authors some of your love and time. So, every chapter of every story that is worth to be finished reading by you, putting a smile on your face, during that week (and actually always, let’s be real!) deserves that you stop by and let the author know. And on top of that, if you take time out of your day for it – go back to your all-time favs, even if the story has been posted 7 years ago, and drop them a line, too!

And if your appreciation is not easily shown in words – anything goes, really. Are you into drawing fanart? Make something for your favorite author and let them know (they will love you forever!). Was there a song you know that fit their story perfectly? Send it to them! Are you a person who’s able to make awesome AMVs? Make one about your favorite fic!

To help you along, we’ve selected a few themes for the days, and we will reblog all posts that used the hashtag #SM REVIEW EVENT  on this blog that was created for it.

Day One - Nov 23rd | Rec Lists!

Review any story(or author!) you choose, and make a list out of it to share on your tumblr, and to recommend to others. What is the story about? What’s the ship? What captivated you about the story/made it memorable? Is there something in the author’s writing style that you find to be unique, or especially great? This can be your all time-favorites, and it can be newfound treasures, and it doesn’t need to be only one list!

On top of that, it gives us, and all your followers, the opportunity to discover new, beloved works! And to dive right into new stories to read and love and review!

And, please consider to let the authors know that you’ve included them in your list (even just by adding them as @’s in your post, or by mentioning it in a review on their story!)

Day Two - Nov 24th | Write a review for that one story you keep remembering, that doesn’t let you go.

It doesn’t even matter if you’ve reviewed it before (remember, you can leave Guest reviews!) or if you’ve never reviewed it. We all have read that one story that we keep going back to, that resonated so much with us that it doesn’t leave us alone. And that, for a fanfic author, is one of the biggest compliments you could ever give them! So let them know, and if you want to share which story that is, and why, post it on your tumblr with a link, as well!

Day Three - Nov 25th | Motivate Authors of WiPs

I know it’s tiresome for some, reading works that are still in progress, where you can’t just click on the ‘next’ button and hope for more, instant content … but… Multichapter stories, especially the long ones, require constant motivation, and time out of their author’s schedule. And while reviews are more often posted in the beginning and the end of the story, the middle part, which is coincidently the one most authors struggle with the most, is where motivation ends, when it feels that there’s just barely anyone reading anymore.

So, if there’s the story you’ve been waiting to read until you know it’s finished – go back to it, and give it a go, and cheer that author on as much as you can! You might be surprised how fast the next chapter is out, if you do!

In fact, many abandoned stories are abandoned for exactly that reason – and if enough people go back to that story that you loved and was never finished – who knows, one author out of all the abandoned works just might come back to finish what they started!

Day Four - Nov 26th | Celebrate New Authors

In a fandom that has existed for as long as the Sailor Moon one, it can be daunting to start writing 20 years in. Especially because so many people sort the lists on FFnet and A03 by reviews, or just read the works of authors they’ve been following for years, new authors can struggle to find readers.

So, take your time and go through the new, unfiltered updates. Maybe you stumble upon someone who may be new in the fandom, but who’s definitely worth your time.

Or maybe you already recently found some new authors that have blown you away, and want to write and post and share a short profile about them, and what makes their work worth reading. And if you post it with the hashtag #SM Review Event, we will be sure to reblog it!

Day Five - Nov 27th  | Celebrate Old Authors

If they are still around or not, celebrate all those authors that have started your love with fanfiction, or those that kept the flame going for as long as you can remember! What is the first fanfiction that you remember really, really loving? Who is the author that has written the most amazing stories over all these years? Who is the author or what is the story you’ve “lost” over the years and then been so excited to have found again, years later? Share them with us, please!

Day Six - Nov 28th | Celebrate Unknown Authors and Stories

FFnet has filter functions, as we all know! Set it to Sort by Reviews, and Time Range: Updated within 6 months, or 1 month (or whatever you decide), plus your usual ship and language filters, Apply, and then GO TO THE LAST PAGE! What you get will be all the works with none or one review. Sort through it backwards a little, maybe you stumble upon a little gem that would have been lost forever, and then: Review, and share!

Day Seven - Nov 29th | 18+ readers: Review a lemon you loved!

Here I’ll remind you, again, that FFnet especially allows you to leave guest reviews – no signed reviews necessary! Lemons are some of the most sought-after content in fanfiction, and some of the most sparingly reviewed. We all know why this is; it’s incredibly weird to review a lemon. But – it’s also pretty weird to write it, and INCREDIBLY daunting and scary to POST it. And if you want that content to exist, please cheer it on! After all, no one wants to undress to utter silence.

Day Eight - Nov 30th | Reviewer Appreciation!

Finally, it’s time for the authors to give some love and thanks back to their reviewers! Be it from the Event, or from all your time of writing – reach out to those reviewers that made your day, the ones that made you cry, the ones that inspired and motivated you to work on your story, and let them know they were able to do that for you!

This, like the reviews, can of course also be done in various ways – be it PMs/messages directly to the reviewers in question, or sharing that one review that made your life (or the ten that did) on your tumblr, or even writing a short drabble for them!

For all of these: If you post about it on tumblr, please use the hashtag #SM REVIEW EVENT, and we will collect and reblog all posts here on the Sailor Moon Review Event Blog.

Now, go and spread the word! And review, review, review!

[misssophiachase]

The Flame - a Preview

25 Days of Klaroline preview – day 3 – tropes

It’s the day after the newly appointed President’s inauguration when former first daughter Caroline Forbes and her former bodyguard Klaus Mikaelson have to part ways professionally but can either of them deal with the space given their unresolved feelings?  

Remember, after the fire, after all the rain. I will be the flame.”

“Caroline!” The young blonde had been a thousand miles away, staring out onto the wintery, Presidential parade and only coming to when her mother broke her reverie by tapping on the cold, frosted glass window to grab her attention.

“Huh?”

“I know this is going to be difficult, darling,” Liz cooed, pulling her closer. “After eight years in the White House, life is going to be very different from now.”

Different? Caroline was extremely buoyed by the fact she would have a relatively normal life and wouldn’t have to hide behind Secret Service protection anymore. But at the same time she felt a heavy weight settle over her chest knowing it meant she’d never see him again, including those crimson lips which would frown in frustration whenever she argued back, those dimples that would flash unexpectedly when she thought he had no sense of humour and those dark, knotted, blonde curls that were begging for her hands to comb through.

Caroline had sent her mother the predictable smile she’d mastered over the years and one she was yet to see through. Taking her hand, Caroline made her way towards the front door, knowing it would be her final duties as first daughter.  The relief was immense for the most part but the lack of his presence was eating away at her firm resolve.

3 months later…Harvard University, MA

“This is college, Care, when are you going to start having some fun?” Her roommate Katherine drawled as they made their way from the cafeteria towards their afternoon lecture.

“I’m having fun…”

“Oh yeah, studying in the dorm every day and never coming to any of the frat parties,” she scoffed. “Someone as hot as you deserves to have fun…”

“You’re coming with us now,” a low and equally demanding voice insisted, his fingers finding their way around her forearm. Although she was perplexed by the sudden intrusion, Caroline would know that musky scent and soft fingers enveloping her skin anywhere.  

“Excuse me? We were in the middle of a discussion,” Katherine growled, self absorbed as usual and not even registering the obvious urgency.

“Fine, we’ll continue this back at the dorms,” the other voice suggested, grazing her olive skin and pulling her towards their rooms. 

“You oaf, let me go!”

Caroline was the last person to accept some aggressive male asserting his power but given the serious look on her former bodyguard’s face she knew this was serious.

“It’s okay, Katherine,” she promised, although still immensely confused. “Didn’t you tell me it was your sexual fantasy to be whisked away by a dominant and attractive male?”

“Fine, but he better be worth it.” Caroline couldn’t miss the smirk tugging at Klaus’ lips and she was so tempted to slap it away but knew that reaction was best administered behind closed doors.    

TBC...

[misssophiachase]

Klaroline Infinity + Fusion

So this is my take on The Wedding Date, not sure if you've seen it but it's a great film. I have changed some of the circumstances to suit my story but the general premise is the same. Words in italics at the beginning are from the film, the title is a song from the soundtrack.

Also, Happy Birthday, lovely Camille (SweetyK and @my-light-into-the-darkness) this is dedicated to you! I know I always say this but you are one of the brightest lights in our fandom and have the awesome ability to keep up our spirits and bring us all together.

Synopsis: Caroline's cousin is getting married, the only problem is that she's marrying her ex-fiance. What's a girl to do in this awkward situation? Enter male escort Klaus Mikaelson...

Breathless (Full version)

The Roosevelt Hotel, New Orleans

Welcome Drinks: Wednesday PM

"Close your eyes. Close your eyes," he murmured, leaning in closer and making her fall back against the elevator wall, his dark blue eyes trained on her. "Close... your... eyes." Caroline hadn't known him long but she figured when he had to repeat himself Klaus Mikaelson meant business. She did as she was told, trying to ignore just how spicy his aftershave was as it infiltrated her nostrils.

"You're safe. You can relax. I'm not going to kiss you." If Caroline was being honest that wouldn't be an altogether bad thing if he did, those crimson lips had been hypnotising her since they first met at JFK the day before.

"He's going to be so sorry he lost you, so stop worrying. Forget the past. Forget the pain." Easier said than done she was tempted to reply but Caroline figured he wouldn't appreciate the interruption.

"And remember what an incredible woman you are. You do that and he'll realise what he lost." Caroline was breathless, not sure if it was his supposedly heartfelt words or his close proximity until she realised he did this for a living and was an expert. She finally peeled open one eye.

"Holy crap. You're worth every penny." She uttered, opening the other one. Caroline couldn't miss his amusement, a smirk tugging at those kissable lips.

"And don't you forget it," he boasted just as the elevator dinged indicating their arrival, Klaus finally moving out of her personal space and adjusting his tie in the mirror on the back wall. If there was one thing she was certain about it was that the man could wear a suit. She wondered what was underneath said suit but mentally scolded herself for even going there, he was a paid escort after all and nothing else. In four days time they'd go their separate ways.

Caroline shook her head trying to get rid of the residual dizziness. She was paying him to distract other people not her. She may have momentarily lost it as they rode the elevator to welcome drinks at the rooftop bar but she wasn't expecting him to get so up close and personal. Klaus was now holding the lift door open and looked over curiously as she smoothed her blonde tresses and took a deep breath.

"You look gorgeous, love," he smiled, those stray dimples she'd discovered by accident on the airplane making an unwelcome appearance given she needed to concentrate. She looked down at her black, Stella McCartney dress hoping that her last minute splurge on such an expense piece of apparel would pay dividends and make that ass wish he'd never broken her heart.

She walked out of the elevator and towards the brilliant, poolside bar. Talk about picturesque. It was a beautiful spring evening and the sun had begun to set in brilliant streaks of pinks and oranges across the sky. People were mingling and it didn't take Caroline long to pick out the future bride and groom in the crowd. They were talking to her Aunt Sarah, his arm slung familiarly around her shoulders, making Caroline's skin crawl.

"That dress just screams skanky ho," a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts. "It's quite fitting though really."

"Katherine," she chided.

"Hey, it's not like you weren't thinking the same thing, Care," she shot back. "I'm just willing to admit it aloud. Oh yummy, I did so good." She purred, perusing her date slowly. Klaus regarded the brunette, his perplexed expression not lost on Caroline.

"Klaus, this is Katherine Pierce and yes she's always that direct," she said. "She's the one who concocted this little plan."

"Well, given the way every female in this room is drooling, I'm pretty certain my plan is already having the desired effect."

"Nice to meet you, Katherine," he replied cordially, giving her a slight nod of acknowledgment. He really was well trained, if only he wasn't just like this because he was being paid. "How do you two know each other then?"

"We've been besties since I pushed her over for kissing Harry Mackenzie during a game of kiss chasey when we were five," she explained, making Klaus raise his eyebrows slightly. "Don't worry Romeo, I prefer brunettes, you're perfectly safe from my feminine clutches."

"I'm certainly relieved," he conceded. "So, given the obvious animosity towards the bride I'm wondering how you scored an invite to this wedding?"

"Hayley doesn't have any friends, not surprisingly, so she invited mine. Where is Bonnie by the way?" Caroline asked.

"Late as usual," she replied, rolling her eyes. "She has always wanted what Caroline has so inviting us to her ex-fiance's wedding is typical. I came here to support Caroline but if I'm being honest, I wanted to be present if and when that cow falls flat on her bony ass."

"You really do say exactly what you think," he commented. "Reminds me of my little sister."

"By the tone of your voice, I'm not sure being compared to your sister is a very good thing," she drawled.

"Katherine stop interrogating Klaus," Caroline hissed.

"Truthfully it's probably not the best compliment I could have given."

"I like him, that honesty is surprisingly refreshing," she chuckled. "Unlike your sleazy excuse for an ex-fiance. I'd pay to see him ass up too and so much more."

"Katherine."

"What? I'm being so reserved right now, you have no idea about all the other scenarios that have been going through my mind. In fact, how about we play some games of our own at the Bachelorette Party tomorrow night?"

"Katherine, I told you I'm not interested. I intend to be the bigger person."

"Well, that's not difficult," she snorted. Before Caroline could respond her mother appeared. Given her sister was Hayley's mother she was determined to try and repair the family rift, not that Caroline blamed her but begging her to attend after her initial refusals had been a surprise. She'd always been the type of person to shy away from drama but she also wasn't one to defy her family. Hence part of the reason she was here and with the much needed support of an escort.

"Oh darling, you're here," she exclaimed, pulling her into her arms. If she was being honest, Caroline and her mother hadn't always been very close. She was always daddy's girl but after Bill died they'd attempted to bond. You could say it was still very much a work in progress. "And don't you look so pretty."

"Thanks mom," she answered awkwardly, feeling like she was five years old again.

"And who is this?" She asked, staring her date down. Caroline had endeavoured to prepare herself for the situation but it was still so weird. Caroline didn't like to lie, it wasn't in her make-up.

"I'm Klaus," he interrupted noting her brief silence. It was as if he could read her emotions. "Caroline's date."

"Well, it's nice to meet you Klaus," she smiled. "I had no idea you were seeing anyone, darling."

"I..," Caroline stuttered.

"We actually met at Central Park, my pet husky Bear wouldn't leave her alone. I figure that's the best endorsement I could ever hope to get," he joked, interrupting. Caroline couldn't believe how good he was at this lying thing, she really needed some tips.

"Isn't that so sweet, Liz?" Katherine cooed, her acting skills on point as usual.

"It is," Liz agreed. "I must say Caroline has always been so picky, so it's nice to see the two of you here together."

"I'm just honoured someone amazing like your daughter chose me, Mrs Forbes," he murmured, placing his arm protectively around her shoulders and pulling her closer. Caroline was trying to ignore the reverberations that were coursing through her body as he verbalised those thoughts. She had to keep reminding herself that he was actually her employee and nothing else.

"Well, aren't you a keeper. In fact, I have so many family members here who would just love to make your acquaintance, Klaus." Before Caroline could object he'd been dragged away. She felt sorry for him but on second thought she was paying for his services after all. She'd much prefer he schmoozed while she sat quietly in away in the corner.

"Caroline! It's so lovely to see you!" Hayley interrupted, throwing her arms around her. Caroline couldn't miss Katherine's raised eyebrows as she all but suffocated her.

"Yeah, uh thanks," was all she could manage. When things ended abruptly between her and Stefan they'd both been quick to deny any cheating claims when they announced their relationship only three months later, but Caroline knew the truth. It was all too much of a coincidence.

"This is going to be such an amazing five days, starting with the Bachelorette Party at Republic tomorrow," she squealed. It was taking all her willpower not to slap that silly smile off her face, it was the very least she deserved.

"Yeah, I hear that Republic is a burlesque club, I'm assuming you're going to wow us with some of the pole dancing skills you've acquired from working at that strip club," Katherine interrupted, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Oh Katherine you're hilarious, I know I invited you to my wedding for a reason," she giggled. "I better get back to my other guests, I'll speak to you both later." Before either could reply, she'd sauntered away and was latching herself onto another poor relative, she always did love being the centre of attention.

"I vote we take a picture of her mid pole dance and post it on social media."

"Katherine," she growled. "I told you, I'm trying to be the bigger person here so no unauthorised photography of any kind, promise me."

"You're no fun," she mumbled. "I have every intention of letting loose tomorrow night and I can't be responsible for my possibly drunken and unkind remarks. Uh, hello Caroline?" She'd been a little distracted watching intently as Klaus was interrogated by her immediate family. Given what she knew about him he was more than capable but Caroline couldn't help but be a little anxious about the whole situation.

"Yeah," she replied, unconvincingly.

"He can handle this," Katherine offered, looking over at Klaus. "In fact, I'm pretty certain they are trying not to openly flirt with him right now. It's those dimples I tell you."

"Or those lips," she murmured, thinking that she had already been equally affected, not that she'd ever admit that aloud. "All I know is that I need a stiff drink, like right now."

W Hotel - New Orleans

Post Bachelorette Party - Friday AM

The hotel room door slammed shut waking Klaus from his deep slumber. He opened his eyes and searched the dark room trying to gain his bearings. After a moment of uncertainty he realised he was in their hotel room in New Orleans. It was an occupational hazard but for some reason he still felt slightly confused.

Klaus had always wanted to be a corporate attorney growing up and never imagined he'd ever take this particular career path back then. He'd been struggling with his college tuition costs and found the escort business to be an easy way to make the cash he needed quickly. Once he'd graduated, Klaus had gone on to work as a lawyer but found himself frustrated by its inflexibility and the fact he could earn more being a full time escort.

Some would consider what he did to be morally questionable but Klaus knew he was helping people in his own way. Plus it also gave him an excuse not to have to emotionally invest in a real relationship. He'd been there once before and had no intention of ever getting hurt like that again. It wasn't until he'd heard her voice over the phone that Klaus had felt something.

She was beautiful as he found out at JFK but it wasn't just that. When she called initially, Klaus had immediately sensed her fragile tone. It wasn't unusual given most people who used his services had some emotional baggage, but to Klaus she also sounded strangely hopeful and that had stuck with him. Her innocence was charming but it was her deep convictions and that rare but playful element of feistiness she showed which had slightly thown him off his game. He didn't do weddings as a strict rule for personal reasons but she'd convinced him otherwise and here he was playing the role of the perfect wedding date.

When they'd first arrived in their room a few days earlier, she'd been adorably coy and equally distracted pretending that they weren't in fact sharing a bed. Klaus knew she would have preferred separate rooms but it was necessary to keep up their facade.

Caroline had left for the bachelorette party earlier, his jaw had just about dropped and Klaus was trying not to stare at just how amazing she looked poured into a white, fitted, dress highlighting her spring tan. The bride to be had absolutely nothing on her. Klaus would be lying if she hadn't crossed his mind multiple times over the course of the evening. He'd begrudgingly agreed to go to the Bachelor Party, regretting it immediately when he found himself surrounded by Stefan, his insufferable brother Damon and his drunk college mates at the Omni Bar.

"So, you're the new guy?" Stefan had asked, slurring as he said it. Klaus had noticed him eyeing him from across the bar for most of the evening. They'd so far only exchanged curt greetings and Klaus had no intention of talking to him any further after how he treated Caroline.

"New guy?" Klaus said, feigning innocence.

"Caroline's latest distraction to try and get over me."

"Sounds like somebody who obviously spends way too much time in the mirror doing his hair and his over inflated ego is jealous."

"Why would I be jealous, have you seen my wife to be?" Just when Klaus didn't think he could hate this guy anymore he had to go and prove him wrong.

"She's got nothing on Caroline and you and I both know that, mate. You can't buy the sort of grace, intelligence and beauty she possesses." Stefan was silent momentarily almost like he was trying to work out how to rebut something he knew was true.

"Fellas?" Damon, interrupted throwing his arms around them both. 'Are we playing nice? How about another drink?"

"Suddenly I'm not so thirsty anymore," Klaus responded. He'd left shortly after, what Caroline saw in that idiot he'd never understand. He was just happy that she wasn't marrying him.

"Someone's being boring," she sing songed, making her way into the bedroom. Klaus could tell by her slurring that she was indeed plastered. "Wake up, sleepy head!" Before he could utter some response about waking him the bedside lamp had been turned on, illuminating the room. Klaus attempted to bury his head under the pillow but his drunken roommate pulled it away from him.

"Someone's being a tad inconsiderate," he growled, attempting to wrestle the pillow from her playful grasp but failing. He was also trying to ignore just how beautiful she still looked after a big night her blonde waves slightly messy but at the same time sexy as hell. He also couldn't ignore the swell of her creamy breasts peeking out teasingly from her dress from this angle.

"How about if I make it up to you? You know I learnt some moves tonight that I think you might like," she teased. Klaus was initially excited and every fibre of his being was trying to stop imagining her naked. She pushed down her dress strap slowly and this was when he knew he had to intervene even when every part of his body was screaming for her to continue.

"No, we shouldn't do this, Caroline."

"You don't want me," she rasped drunkenly. They'd only met a few days ago but Klaus knew this wasn't the real Caroline. Her emotions were all over the place, not that he blamed her and the added alcohol wasn't helping things either. His instincts were willing him to move closer, kiss those pink lips and then wrap his arms around her but it wasn't professional and Klaus knew it.

"How about a bedtime story instead?" He offered, her surprised expression not lost on Klaus. "I happen to know this amazing story about a girl named Cinderella and some dwarfs, possibly seven."

"Cinderella and the seven dwarfs? I think you've got your fairy tales mixed up."

"Hey! Who's telling this bedtime story? Anyway, call it creative license. I might even get a little crazy and throw in a big, bad wolf," he smiled. "Interested at all, love?"

"Strangely, yes," she chuckled. "Let me change and I'll be right with you."

The Creole Queen - Mississippi River

Rehearsal Dinner - Friday PM

Caroline rested against the railing as the riverboat slowly made its way down the Mississippi. She shouldn't have been surprised that Hayley chose to have her rehearsal dinner on a boat, she always liked to make a statement. Although you couldn't get more New Orleans than this and she had to admit the passing scenery was pretty and better than what was inside for sure. She'd been seated at that dinner table desperate to escape, much like the rest of this wedding circus.

It also didn't help that she'd been seated so close to Klaus all evening, especially after throwing herself at him. Caroline still couldn't believe she'd done that, yes she was drunk but it still didn't make what she did any better. As she woke up with a blinding headache and dry mouth the events of the previous night had flooded back and she froze with fear, hoping to god that Klaus wasn't lying beside her. She'd been relieved to realise he'd already gone out for his morning jog. Caroline had gotten ready as fast as she could given her hangover and had left the room determined to get some space between them.

"Do you think anyone would notice if I pushed Hayley overboard?" Caroline shook her head and turned around.

"You have been around Katherine too long," she drawled, looking into her friend's familiar brown eyes.

"You may be right but I still think the idea has merit. If we're lucky maybe Stefan and his stupid hero hair will follow her overboard."

"One can hope," she sighed.

"What's wrong, Care? Well, you know besides the obvious, unholy ex-fiance slash cousin union?"

"I think that's enough to be upset about don't you?"

"Probably but that doesn't explain why you've barely spoken to your supposed date all through dinner, not only that you could hardly even look him the eye. Given just how pretty that face is, I have no idea how you can not stare."

"You really have been around Katherine too long," she quipped.

"Did he do or say something wrong? I hope he's keeping things professional."

"No, that was all me doing wrong things and being completely unprofessional," she mumbled, the embarrasment of earlier that morning rushing back all over again.

"Well, that was a guess but now I'm intrigued. What the hell happened? You my dear are the epitome of professional."

"You know how we were ridiculously drunk last night..."

"I can't exactly remember it so I suppose the answer to that is a definite yes."

"I sort of came back to the hotel and propositioned him," she whispered, too ashamed to admit her drunken actions any louder. "I may have even tried to pull out some burlesque moves."

"Oh sweetie, now that explains the whole non communication thing tonight."

"It was mortifying Bonnie," she whined. "Granted I was too drunk at the time to fully realise just how embarrasing the situation was but as soon as I woke up this morning it hit me, along with that unattractive hangover."

"Maybe it wasn't as bad as you think. What exactly happened? What did he say? What did he do? What did you do?"

"Could you ask any more questions, Bonnie? He just said we couldn't do it and then offered to read me a bedtime story instead."

"Okay, that response I wasn't expecting. A bedtime story? What are you, five?"

"It was actually kind of adorable and funny, especially given I'd just thrown myself at him and he'd had to reject me. Klaus has some interesting takes on fairytales that's for sure. I'd say that's the last time I'm going to drink but god knows I need it to deal with this whole wedding situation."

"Adorable and funny? Oh, I see what this is, you like him."

"I don't."

"Yes because I proposition people I don't like all the time. Come on Caroline, you'd have to be blind not to find the guy attractive."

"He's my escort, you know the guy I'm paying for his services..."

"Who also happens to be coming this way," she warned gesturing behind Caroline. "I'll make myself scarce."

"Bonnie, please don't leave me alone," she pleaded.

"You're going to have to clear the air sometime, Care," she whispered, sending him a smile and walking away. Some friend she was leaving Caroline to fend for herself.

"So, this is where the party is?" He asked, joining her by the railing, his arm accidentally grazing hers in the process. Caroline shivered involuntarily, moving it away quickly. "Are you okay, love?"

"Uh yeah just a little cold I guess," she replied feebly. Given the current temperature it was probably a story too difficult to believe.

"I'd give you my jacket if I had one."

"Such a gentleman, is that all part of your escort services?"

"Hey, I resent that," he scoffed. "I would give you my jacket even if I wasn't an escort. You know chivalry isn't completely dead, Caroline."

"Is this the part where you say that romance is still well and truly alive too?"

"Romance is another matter entirely, I'm not sure I'm the best person to talk about it," he admitted.

"Well, given my past and the fact that my former fiance and cousin cheated on me and now I'm a guest at their wedding, I wouldn't have any clue about that sort of thing."

"It's not your fault, love."

"Well, excuse me if I don't feel partially responsible for not seeing what was in front of my face the entire time," she murmured. "Which also kind of takes me to the elephant in the room. I'm sorry that I tried..."

"Don't," he interrupted holding his hand to her lips. "You have nothing to be ashamed about. The fact you have come here even after everything that happened and can be so strong is inspirational. You are one of the stongest women I've ever met, Caroline Forbes."

"I wouldn't go that far," she murmured, her cheeks flushing slightly.

"I would," he reiterated, their gazes locked, blue eyes on blue. Caroline knew she was in trouble all over again. Why did she have to hire such an attractive date? "It's not that I don't find you attractive, because I do so much. In fact, it's killing me not to tell you that I really..."

"You're only saying that because I made a fool of myself last night." She looked at him wordlessly.

"You have to undertsand that I need to be professional in my work. But I can't help..." They stared at each other for a prolonged period before some unwanted noise from nearby interrupted their reverie.

Before Caroline could reply to the obvious sexual tension, a very familiar brunette approached them in all her glory. "I may kill myself from this prolonged pain, why isn't this unholy union final yet? I have way more important things I could be doing right now."

"You and me both," Caroline joked, excited to see the equally pleased face on her fake date. "Maybe we should all be jumping overboard."

"I don't like cold water," Katherine offered, looking into the river below. "Plus my hair doesn't look so good wet."

"I'm with you Katherine, these curls are an absolute bastard to control, you have no idea," he joked. His crimson lips turned into an adorable smile. When he said he was attracted to her Caroline wasn't quite sure what to take from it. After last night she had every intention of being well behaved, unfortunately his expression though was telling her something very different.

The Chicory - St Peters Street, New Orleans

Wedding - Saturday PM

"What the hell is going on?" Bonnie whispered to Katherine, their looks turning to Caroline seated nearby.

The groom was standing at the makeshift altar in the converted warehouse but his bride hadn't shown yet making the crowd whisper in interest. Obviously in Katherine and Bonnie's case they were overjoyed by the bride possibly leaving her groom at the altar. Caroline was silent trying to focus on the unfolding events but her thoughts were on the guy next to her. He was apparently attracted but couldn't act on those feelings given their working relationship even if his brief touches and looks were telling Caroline otherwise.

Caroline respected professionalism but was having trouble trying not to touch or talk to him. The fact he was taking her attention away from the wedding was a gift in itself, even if nothing would ever eventuate. The bride eventually made her way up the aisle in a white, meringue, type dress. Caroline barely noticing if she was being honest. The rest of the ceremony went much the say way, until the vows.

"It's time for the vows," the priest said. "Now repeat after me, I Stefan take you Hayley..." Caroline fought the urge to roll her eyes hoping this would be over soon so she could have some much needed champagne.

"I Stefan, take you Caroline..." Surely she heard that wrong but given the surprised response from the guests around her it was most definitely her name he uttered. Klaus looked at her, placing his hand over hers obviously trying to provide some comfort. By the astonished reaction from Bonnie and Katherine nearby, Caroline knew they were excited by his very public and humiliating mistake.

Caroline knew at that moment she didn't care, her thoughts were squarely focused on Klaus as his blue eyes gazed into hers. Even as the bride-to-be stormed away from the altar leaving a very embarrased groom in her wake. Right now it was all about those crimson lips, those eyes and those dimples.

"Well, this is all sorts of awkward. It's certainly a wedding I'll never forget" he chuckled, his hand still on hers. "For a number of reasons."

"I know. What could be better than this?" Katherine asked, Caroline was trying to ignore the feeling the warmth his hand was causing and the way he was staring at her, his gaze unwavering.

"I think stealing some of that cake before we get out of here," Bonnie offered. "It looks absolutely delicious."

"How about you guys get your sugar fix on while we have a little chat," she murmured, her eyes still trained on Klaus. Katherine and Bonnie shared knowing glances and followed the rest of the guests out of the room.

"Given the wedding's over in more ways than one, I think it's about time we ended this contract, don't you?"

"You realise I'm still charging you right," he said watching her shocked face. "But I'll give you a discount."

"Lucky me."

"I was just kidding," he replied, placing his arm around her and pulling her closer to him. "I think meeting you has been payment enough, love."