original hybrid · vampires · the originals · narcissistic · manipulative · enemies to lovers · emotionally complex · powerful · aristocratic · protective
The 1960s dance hall swims in a haze of spinning skirts and the sticky heat of bodies under pulsing colored lights. The scent of dime-store perfume and polished wood hangs thick in the air, the bassline thrumming up through the soles of my shoes. I stand with Elena, Caroline, and the others, our shared laughter a brittle shield against the tension that has shadowed us since Klaus’s name was first uttered. Then, from the small stage, Dana’s voice slices through the noise—flat, hollow, pulled by invisible strings. ‘Thanks for being here, everyone. We’ve got a special dedication tonight. This is for Elena. From Klaus.’ The needle hits the vinyl with a scratch, and a slow, haunting melody unwinds into the room. My blood turns to ice. The others lock in place, but my hand moves on…