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spitfiretout · 7 years

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#ATravelersCurse

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{When I had died and jumped into Elena’s body it was the most amazing feeling. To be free again, no one chasing me, no one judging me. And best of all #Elena had both Salvatore’s wrapped around her finger. Though her being the impetuous little thing she was kept choosing #Damon. Though I had done many wrongs and was now the gift #Stefan had bestowed upon me on my death bed made me see what others could not. That I was not the monster everyone thought. That I was merely a teenage girl that had her child ripped away from her, banished to a foreign land and attempted to be made into a sacrifice by a monster of a man. Whom of which would never let me go. Being on the run had made me hard and cold. I never got to be a mother, or be in love. Until I fell upon Mystic Falls. When I first saw #Stefan I knew. And upon our first meeting more chivalrous then most could ever live to be. #Damon, he had a bravado for life that drew a lot of women. I cared greatly for #Damon but I was in love with #Stefan. He made me feel alive. When his father found out what I was and things went south it destroyed me to leave him like I did. I could never tell either of them the truth. Having daylight rings crafted for them and knowing they would find their way to the both of them. I could not blame them for hating me. Especially #Damon, thinking I was trapped all those years. But I did not regret making him what he was. A stronger man and vampire, a survivor like myself. If he admitted that or not. And I told him as much before things went so not my way. The local busboy was so easily compelled to help me blend as Elena. But my own desire to be the teen in love got me into trouble; in the end I stood in the Salvatore boarding house. I had watched my own daughter die. The one that was ripped from my arms so long ago. This Was how it went, the end of the elusive Katherine Pierce. Not by the hands of Klaus but by my true love, #Stefan.} I guess this is how our love story ends. {A sharp pain shot through my gut and into my very soul as my spirit was torn from the body I inhabited. Appearing to #Bonnie I more than spoke my peace. Planting my hands lips pursed in a firm line and lashes fluttered shut.} I’m ready. {Nothing, what the hell?} I said I’m ready. {I merely got a perplexed look, #Bonnie telling me she didn’t control things before suddenly being drug away. Appearing back at the boarding house where it seemed sweet innocent little Elena was coming around.} No wait, what the hell is going on here? {#Bonnie finally showing back to check on everyone confirming I had showed but that I did not cross over. Perplexed glances were exchanged as everyone huddled around Elena. “At least the bitch is dead and gone.” #Damon exclaimed. Of course he would say that, dick. A scoff departing as I headed for the door, but I could not leave. Why, why could I not escape this damn house? As time drew on I remained trapped in the boarding house. Watching as a new witch became friends with the "crew" forcing Matt and Tyler to stab themselves with the knife to prove they were not indeed travelers themselves. Arching a darkened brow the girl was crafty. I kind of liked her for making them do that. Though Tyler instantly healed Matty boy however did not. Poor human, sucks don’t it? I was there when Tyler stabbed Sheriff Forbes. Oh, Caroline got her mommy back. How sweet. If I was corporal I have barfed in my mouth at how sickeningly sweet it was that they all cared about each other. But why the fuck was it that everywhere that knife went I had to go? Just as Mrs. Forbes collapsed something odd happened to Tyler. Making way behind him as if some invisible force pulled me along. A strange house he handed the knife over to a man named Markos. He went on to tell him about how this was the last one, the last remaining weapon that could remove a traveler from a person’s body. Killing the passenger and not harming the host. In that moment I hated my father for not telling me more about where I came from, who I was. But he was the reason I was in this situation. Taking my child and casting me out. Watching as Markos threw the knife into the fire, the metal smelting into a puddle as the handle charred and fell off into bits of ash. Suddenly everything went dark. I was cold and felt heavy. Unable to open my eyes when a horrid pain surged, it felt like an eternity. My mind whirling with a range of what if’s. Feeling cold stone beneath me. Suddenly I felt bone and flesh knitting together, nerves and organs seemingly regenerating as I was able to peer open my eyes. Darkness surrounded me; heaving a breath as I felt my heart race. Pushing slowly to sit hands smoothed over long overgrown locks, a groan departing parched lips.} What the hell just happened? {Blurry eyes attempting to adjust to the dim light that seeped through the cracks of the tomb where my body had been lain. I knew where I was. Slender digits feeling around till I found my way to the exit. Some how finding way to wedge an opening large enough to wiggle my lithe frame out of the musty area. The smell of the fall woods tingling my nostrils as I inhaled a deep breath. Tired, sore and hungry I made way to the boarding house. I knew my way around there well enough to know I could sneak in and out with out being noticed, probably. Or I would be killed /again/. Managing to get in and out as it seemed everyone was preoccupied. I made way to a neighboring house and hitched a ride into town. All cleaned up, they thought I was Elena, visiting from school. As I made it into town I had no idea what had happened. The sacrifices of people, the explosion in the center of town. Damon…. was dead? Really dead? Shaking my head I could not believe it. That was when I heard the rumors, rumors of the magic that kept vampires out of Mystic Falls. I knew I had to get gone and fast. Stefan, he was probably a mess. I had to see if he was okay, even if he did hate me.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Immortality, sure it sounded good but at what point does the price just become too much? I'd lost the person who had known me the longest. And Damon had been happy, he finally had everything he had ever wanted. He should be here, not me. Why did I deserve another chance and not him? Everything bad he had ever done was all on me. I was the one who turned him into a monster and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't pull him back from that edge. The only person who successfully managed to turn him into a better man, into /the/ better man was Elena. Now I was forced to watch her suffer through the pain of losing him too.. or at least I was until she had Alaric compel every last good memory of Damon away, locking me away with my grief. No one else felt the weight of his loss as I did. Unable to even set foot in my home of Mystic Falls anymore, thanks to the Travelers and their border spell, not that anything good remained on the other side of the border. Just a whole lot of memories and a suffocating guilt. Both of which I carried with me. Old friends believing I left to seek out a way to bring both Damon and Bonnie back, for awhile that was exactly what I did. Every lead, no matter how small, was looked into. I visited every witch and every sharman around the globe. There was nothing. Damon and Bonnie were dead. I had to accept that. The time had come to move on, forget my past and leave the name Salvatore behind. This wasn't the first time I'd reinvented myself over the centuries and it surely wouldn't be the last. I'd chosen Savannah as the next spot on the map to call my home. Calls from friends went unanswered, I had to erase everything from my past. I was rebuilding, I had a home, a job as a mechanic and a girlfriend who knew nothing of my past, I was happy, for the first time in months. Which of course, would be exactly the moment my past would decide to pay a visit. It came in the form of Caroline and Enzo. Caroline, clearly hurt that I'd given up on my search, while Enzo was pissed. Both incapable of understanding the need we all had to move on from what we lost. My reasoning wasn't enough for Enzo, no. He wanted to hurt me for what he viewed as a brotherly betrayal. His revenge came in the form of Ivy’s death at his hands. The first person who I'd dared to care about since Damon died. The experience brought along with it, renewed pain from Damon's death. I'd rebuilt, moved on, only to once again be left with nothing]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Of course Caroline and her little bosom buddy would know where Stefan was. With no compulsion and no inhuman strength I had to pull out unthinkable things to get what I needed. Some dumbass left their keys setting beside the keyboard in the library. Not that I liked being there, but hey I needed to do research. Not like I had money to buy a map. Dashing outside before the person returned from where ever they waltzed off to. Glancing around the parking lot a slender finger pressing the button on the fob as a blue Toyota chirped. Well, at least it's reliable and it won't stand out. Turning the key I quickly pulled out, a smile quirked on glossed lips realizing there was a full tank of gas, my lucky day. My mind a buzzed with thoughts of what Stefan could possibility be doing, the guilt he was probably holding on his shoulders. I knew how he was. Did he go off the rails, what did Caroline have planned? I was half way to Savannah before needing gas, pulling into a station I pulled on my best southern charm. The car in front of me had already swiped his car in the pump, my eyes started to rim with tears.} Sir, if I may....{sniffing as I talk} I'm sorry it's just.... my mom... {Pulling a total lie} I need to get to Savannah and my purse got snatched a few town back, I don't have time to file everything she's dying. I have to get to her. Would you accept this as payment? {Unclasping my daylight necklace and handing it over, I didn't need it anymore.} It's an antique and pure silver. {He took my sob story and I was on my way, hours later pulling into a small house on the outskirts of Savannah.} Stefan, gee you really can pick them. {Inhaling a deep breath as fingers knocked on the door, through I was sure he heard me long before the knock. Don't kill me. I thought to myself.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With Caroline and Enzo long gone, I had been left to clear out the mess left within my home. Nothing was broke that couldn't be replaced, except Ivy. No matter where I went, what I did, people who got close to me ended up hurt. Was that to be my eternal punishment? Karma's way of ensuring I never found peace after forcing my brother to turn? Ivy, the latest in a long line of victims, didn't deserve that fate. She was a sweet girl, who slowed down the spiral I found myself in, once I finally allowed myself to admit that Damon was gone for good. Retrieving a beer from the fridge, my mind wandered over the numerous places where Ivy could be put to rest. Her body was currently stashed away in my trunk, hardly a fitting place for someone I had cared deeply for. Announcing her passing to any family she may of had would only turn the spotlight upon myself and I couldn't let that happen. I'd have to disappear soon enough as it was. Recent visits having drawn too much attention my way. Taking a swig from my beer, hearing the engine of an approaching car. What was this? Caroline ready for round two already? She didn't give up, I'd give her that] I'm not doing this again, Care.. [Pulling open the door, my words accompanied by a sigh. Emerald gaze, not finding the expected female on the other side of the threshold] Elena. [Thick brows furrowed, the very second I'd uttered the name, I knew I was wrong. The petite brunette standing before me was Katherine, not Elena. How she was here, I had no idea, nor did I really care. Too defeated to even attempt to interrogate her, booted feet simply stepped aside to let her pass] Make yourself at home.

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I didn't know if that was Stefan's wishful thinking or if he was simply too exhausted to even care. Dark eyes rounded with softness stepping across the threshold, the home was simple, very Stefan like. My ride had been long and I was starving. My stomach growled, but I ignored it as I stepped around to meet Stefan's gaze. He was obviously distraught, a deep sigh exasperated from glossed lips.} I know you hate me, I know I've done some bad things...... okay, horrible things, like Klaus level things. But I somehow got a second chance and I came here for you, Stefan. I heard what happened and, {swallows thickly} I know you, you're feeling guilty. {Attempts to ease the tension by retrieving a beer of my own from the fridge. Taking a long swallow to try and calm my growling stomach.} Think, think long and hard. What could you have honestly done to make things any different? {Leaning against the counter, a brow perked in question. Slightly nervous to touch him in his unknown state with my history and now mortality.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With Katherine now inside, I pushed the door to a close. Leading the way deeper into my home in silence, this morning I had believed I'd lost everyone who had known me back when I was human, and now, here she was. Showing up to prove me wrong, like she had so many times before. Leaning up against the kitchen counter in silence, taking a long sip of beer, letting Katherine say whatever it was she had shown up to say. Finding myself unable to hold her gaze, I redirect mine to the floor, emotion welling up in me as her words hit hard. There was no denying the truth they held. Only daring to look up once her back was turned, an emerald gaze glazed over with all that I had been holding deep inside. How was it that she knew exactly what to say? What I needed to hear? Silence returning to fill the air of the kitchen. Katherine knew both Damon and I when we still possessed some semblance of innocence, she knew the bond we had shared then. A bond that over recent years we had strengthen once more. The woman before me wasn't the same as the woman who had turned me so long ago, bringing so much misery and self loathing upon my life. Here was the woman I had believed Katherine to be, when we had first met. The Katherine I had glimpsed when we learnt the truth of the cure to vampirism. While I appreciated what she was trying to do, I wasn't ready to talk about Damon. Instead I set my beer down, making my way over to the fridge] Are you hungry? [A pointless question since the growling of her stomach hadn't escaped my notice. Without waiting for an answer, I began to pull out a few ingredients to make a simple sandwich]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I could almost feel his sadness, it was not the usual broody Stefan everyone knew. Being human again was something that would take some getting used to. This empathy I felt towards Stefan.....it was sincere. I had once promised Stefan that one day I could be that girl again, the one he thought I was. I just didn't plan on myself and Damon dying to do it. I loved Damon too, and Stefan knew that. But it was always Stefan that held my deepest affections, but there was no reason he should feel the need to bear the guilt of his brother's death. A soft smile as my gaze fell downwards, eyeing his retrieval of food. Always so noble thinking of others before himself and also diverting the subject in the process. The sneaky devil.} I can't remember the last time I've been this hungry. I think it's been oh.....roughly five hundred and some odd years. {A small laugh breaking free in attempt to break the awkwardness that filled the air.} Nice way to change the subject Stefan, but you know your soul is still beautiful even when you're grieving. Let the guilt go. {A hand lightly retrieving some items from him.} You don't have to do this alone.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With my mind now distracted by the task at hand, I found myself able to relax in Katherine's presence. Despite the sadness I still felt, I couldn't hold back the low laugh her quip caused. Allowing her to take some of the items from my arms] I can't.. [The only words I had allowed myself to utter in regards to Damon] ..at least not yet. [My eyes returning to look anywhere but at her, for fear of if I did, then everything I had tried so hard to bury would come rushing to the surface. Comfort was found in the latter of her words, although I had taken steps to cut ties with my past, being within Katherine's presence was different. Old friends knew Damon as the monster turned better man, whereas we both knew him before any of that had happened. She cared for Damon in a way that the others didn't, even if certain actions, on her behalf would suggest otherwise] Thank you. [A genuine smile pulled at the corners of my mouth, words spoken with nothing but sincere gratitude. Katherine was showing me a kindness despite me being the one at the hilt of the blade, casting her from Elena's body] What would you prefer as a filling? [Easing the subject back to that of food] Once you've eaten, maybe then you could share, just how you're alive and in my kitchen.

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Lips pursed at his words, the small smile still visible at the edges of my lips. Of course Stefan could not just 'move on'. It was Damon, his other half. No one else had been through what they had, had the bond they shared. And I would expect nothing less then the sorrow which was obviously sweeping over him.} I'm not trying to push you, I'm only here to help. {Setting the items upon the counter wanting nothing more than to comfort him but lacking in the intuitiveness of how. Comfort, friendship, empathy, those were skills I never learned. How was I supposed to? Never having time to slow down long enough with an angry hybrid on my ass.} Don't thank me, I don't have anywhere else to go. {Fingers fumbling with the twist tie of the bread as I retrieved two slices. Stefan only ate human food to make human's feel comfortable, there was no need for that around me.} Do you have chicken? Pretty sure I'm not speed aging and dying this time, but still not filling up with junk food. {My body now relaxing more as the conversation shifted and he seemed to be a bit more at ease. My thoughts wondering back to my ride here.} Speaking of eating, have you been, you know, eating properly?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Nodding along with her words, believing, for once, everything she said. There was no hidden agenda, unless eating all the food from my fridge counted. Not that it was of any use to me anymore, there were no pretenses to keep up, no friends who'd unexpectedly stop by. At least none that were alive] That may be true, but you didn't have to come here either. [Shoulders rolling in a shrug. Somehow Katherine had another chance, free of everything that had once held her back and prevented her from setting down any form of roots. She was free. No one knew she was alive, leaving her to go wherever and be whoever she wanted. Out of all the places in the world, she'd chosen here. Chosen to see how I was dealing, risking her life in the process. The last time we'd seen each other was her death. At my hands. Coming here was no small feat, despite her insistence otherwise. Glancing over the items before us, sure there was chicken here somewhere] Here.. [Pulling a plate from the fridge, a few slices of chicken covered with food wrap remained] You're in luck. [Tapping a hand against my stomach] All the furry creatures I can get my hands on. [Keeping my response light. Sorrow had seemed to strengthen my bloodlust of late, I was sure to stick to my diet of animal blood, I'd lost enough lately, the last thing I wanted was to lose myself]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

You're right, I didn't. {I stopped there, not wanting to drone on about love and it being the reason I had to check on him. I had done horrible things, but I said I would never give up, and this was me never giving up. If I had nothing else I had perseverance.} I guess it's just my lucky day. {Retrieving the plate from him, settling into making the sandwich. Mayonnaise, lettuce and the like. Taking several bites before heaving a relieved sigh and leaning against the counter once more washing it down with a sip of beer.} Thank you. To answer your earlier inquiry I don't really know. {Features softening with sincerity as I began telling him the story of how I became attached to the knife. Witnessing what happened to Tyler, what Markos did with the knife and how my spirit was freed.} Then next thing I remember I was in the tomb, it was not pleasant. {Face twisted with a look of asperity as my body shivered.} I made way to the boarding house, cleaned up and when I went into town I heard. I knew I had to find you, make sure you were not off the rails again. Not that it was easy, not having supernatural abilities and the like. {Shrugs taking another bite} A girl's got to do what a girl's got to do.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Hands free of the task of making a sandwich, I retrieved my beer from the top, amusement causing the corner of my mouth to twitch with the faintest hint of a smile. Katherine had spent more time as a vampire than she had a human, yet it appeared being in control was something she preferred, regardless of her mortality. All traces of amusement replaced by intrigue, taking a swig of beer, attention solely upon Katherine, intently listening to the tale she had to share. Thick brows drew together in a frown, learning what she had been through left a mixture of emotions rippling through me. Guilt, as always, was a major theme, after all, I was the one who had stabbed her with the traveler knife, which lead to her soul, essence, whatever you wanted to call it, being linked to the blade. Another was resentment. After everything she had done, she'd managed to escape death, yet again. A part of me wanted to hate her, hating her however, was, as I learned a long time ago, something I was incapable of doing] Make sure I wasn't off the rails? [Chuckles to myself] That was a risky move with my history and your current state.

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I could sense Stefan's mixture of emotions, not only because it was written all over his broody face, but because I /knew/ Stefan. Did I deserve this second chance, a clean slate? Probably not, but I was going to take it and try and make it something better.} Okay, maybe not the smartest thing I've ever done. {A small laughter fell forth and I wondered if that was the laugh Stefan remembered.} But remember when you asked me what love was to me? It's this, it's risking it all to bring the person you care about home. {Not that this was the first time I had risked my life for Stefan, but at least this time he was /not/ hanging on by a thread. He was lost in a sea of emotions, but he was not thirsting for human blood, I think.} I know you can't go back to Mystic Falls right now, but I'm sure we can figure out something. I mean obviously some how I'm linked to them. {Offering him a look that said please have a little faith. Downing the remainder of my beer gee I was starting to feel like one of the gang, disgusting.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With a shake of my head, I dismissed all she has said in regards to Mystic Falls and bringing me home] Mystic Falls isn't my home anymore. [What did I really have beyond that border? Journals having been burnt a long time ago, there was nothing back at the Boarding house that even remotely interested me. True it had been among one of the very few constants I had during my hundred plus years, but it was filled with misery. It was the place I lost my brother, not once but twice. There was no logical reason for me to fight to get it back. If Caroline and Elena wanted to then that was their business. I was done. The time had come to leave what ties I had left to Mystic Falls. Erase it all and move on] Follow me. [With one final swig of my beer, I set it down on the counter and left the kitchen. Leaving Katherine to trail behind me up the staircase, while I led the way to what passed for a guest bedroom] You said you didn't have anywhere else to go.. [Pushing the door to the bedroom open, letting her peer inside] It's not much, but it's yours. At least until I move on. [I may have been unable to help old friends anymore, but I could still help Katherine]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

When I said bring you home I met mostly metaphorically. {A heavy sigh fell, I somehow felt that I had come all this way for nothing other than to be a burden. That was not how I wanted to start my new life. Stefan was nothing if stubborn. Following behind and and up the stairs, eyes settling on a quaint little room. Turning back, soft eyes meeting Stefan as a hand reached to squeeze his. My first attempt at contact.} Thank you. I promise not to be too much of a bother. {It felt awkward, not at all how I wanted things to go, but I could not just give up so easily. All this supernatural mumbo jumbo, there had to be a way to get Damon back. To bring him back for Stefan, he needed his brother, for his sanity. So I lied through my teeth, I would try to make my contacts, see if there was /anything/ anyone knew about what happened to the other side. It could not be simply gone. Damon had to go somewhere.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

And where would my metaphorical home be, exactly? [Brow lifted, hinting curiosity. Judging by the sigh, she misunderstood my current intentions, or at the very least, she failed to understand them entirely. I wanted her here, more than I would let on. Down right crazy when you considered our shared history. Out of all the people who had reached out, wanting to help, she was the only one welcomed. The constant thrum of her heartbeat a constant reminder of the time we'd spent together when she was newly human. A reminder of the caring woman she had started to become. The woman I had naively believed her to be back when we first met. That was the Katherine I wanted to help. Large hand turning, engulfing her own, returning the squeeze of her hand. The smallest spark of hope beginning to flicker within me, the longer I remained in her company. A spark I was not ready to acknowledge. Releases her hand, only now realizing that I still held it within my own] Don't mention it. It's what friends.. or mortal enemies do. [Flashing a brief cheeky smile, hoping to lighten some of the awkward tension which seemed to settle over us both]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Lips lifted in that knowing little smile, one shoulder giving a little shrug feeling him return my gesture after his statement. Perhaps I had lost my ability to read people when I became human again. Having supernatural abilities did have it’s perks. Perhaps I could still help Stefan, maybe we even still had a chance at something more than mortal enemies.} It’s where you make it. {Eyes getting that little twinkle as a hand tapped against his chest.} With the people that are important to you. {Lips pursed, Stefan was the only important person to me that was not dead. Klaus made sure of that, and Tyler killed my sweet Nadia. Maybe, just somehow could I find her too? Make up for all the things I never did with her that she deserved while I was being selfish. Could I be that lucky?} Ah, was there a peace treaty for mortal enemies signed while I was dead? {Returning his grin with a cocky simper.} Do they also buy them some clothes perhaps? {Looks down} I only got one of Elena’s old outfits. I promise I won’t be picky. {Offers my sweetest smile}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Eyes glancing down to her hand at my chest, “It's where you make it. With the people who are important to you?” Not sure I knew who was important to me anymore. Months had been spent ignoring calls, visitors received a frosty welcome. The eagerness I'd felt for the departure not exactly hidden. For so long I'd attempted to push everyone away, I wouldn't be surprised if I'd succeeded. It was what I had wanted anyway, wasn't it? Clearing my throat, forcing aside thoughts of friendships] Something like that. [One corner of my mouth hitching up in a half smile. My gaze lowering, following hers, stopping upon the outfit, rather than continuing on to the floor. Feeling myself being twisted around her finger again, how easily a task she found it, be it vampire or human, she knew how to push my buttons] There may have been some fine print in the peace treaty to allow such a thing. [Returning her smile with a genuine one of my own, grateful the awkwardness between us had evaporated] We'll go first thing tomorrow. For now.. [Gestures to the doorway just across the hall, the one that led to my room] Feel free to take what you need. [My own clothing would be too big for Katherine, I knew that of course, but she was resourceful and would figure something out]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

Mhm, right. {Half ignoring his brushoff, Stefan would come around in his own time. Finding he was finally seeming to grin a little more than brood, that was an improvement. And in that moment I felt.... relief? A warm smile taking place as eyes peered around his, brows arching upward.} Aha, fine print, I see. And thank you, Stefan. {Knowing he knew what I was capable of, I was not a fan of doing things by hand but when the situation called....} You know you’re going to have to re-clean your room after I sack it, right? {Emitting a short laugh, knowing I was always one for leaving a mess behind. Unless it was my own belongings.} I’m kidding, I’ll try not to make a mess. {Resourcefulness set in, drawing my own pattern to make a pair of shorts from Stefan’s shirts, ripping a zipper from a pair of his jeans. He did say I could take what I needed. Picking a matching tee to coordinate with the plaid bottoms, sure it was over sized, but it was all the rage for young girls to knot their shirts now a days. Settling into a hot bath felt more relaxing then I remembered, even with men’s soap. I would have to ask for that too. I half hated having to depend on him now. I was a life long manipulator, but this was different. Drying off to get dressed sure I half smelled like Stefan, laughing to myself before returning to the kitchen.} Not too bad, uh?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Brow hitching, amusement visible within the depths of my eyes. Katherine seemed to be developing a liking to making promises she had no chance of keeping. Bidding a hasty retreat, back downstairs, before I had to bear witness to the complete destruction of my room. Settling into the kitchen clean up, food to put away, dishes to wash, anything to keep myself busy, distract from what was going on upstairs. The rhythmic beat of her heart easily heard. That didn't bother me, not with my ripper tendencies under control. For weeks friends had reached out, wanting nothing more than for me to feel a sense of hope. Caroline having practically begged me not to give up, all protests falling upon deaf ears. Katherine, had accomplished what I had firmly believed was the impossible, in less than a day. Pulling another bottle from the fridge, thoughts returning, despite my best efforts, towards Katherine. What was it about her that made me care? Pulled from my reverie by the dulcet tone of her voice, having been too caught up in my thoughts to register her arrival. Emerald gaze finding her own, head bowing in a gesture of approval, there was no denying that she looked good, even in the oversized clothing] Do you want one? [Sways the bottle within my grasp, already taking a backwards step towards the refrigerator]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{Stefan’s gaze caused an innocent smile to tug on nude lips, both of us feeling more at ease. The down stairs tidied from my earlier visit, of course Stefan was going to keep himself busy and tidy. If he didn’t his mind would trail off on the wrong path, we had the travelers to thank for that and my heartbeat. He was good at hiding how much the absence of Damon hurt, but I knew better. Perhaps he was dealing in his own way and perhaps I was helping some how, but that wound would never close. I would not expect it to, myself never getting over losing my daughter, twice. Pain was something we had to endure, pain was weakness leaving the soul. Human or vampire I would persevere and make sure Stefan did as well.} Why Mr. Salvatore, are you going to try and get me drunk and take advantage of me? {Deploying my best southern accent. A soft laughter following as I leaned against the counter tossing a wink. Stefan would never, to any women, he was not the type.} Yes, thank you. {Clasping the bottle in hand to take a long much needed drink gazing back in his direction.} So, about that mess I said I would try not to make..... {He would not want to talk about the elephant in the room, when we went into town I would use a phone to call my contacts.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Shaking my head on a smile, collecting another bottle of beer from the fridge, passing it on over to Katherine. No retort necessary this time, she knew me a lot better than that. The last thing I wanted was a drunk Katherine on my hands, not that she wasn't entertaining, it was the hangover stage, which was usually tricky] Hmm, let me guess. [Both brows now raising] You went ahead and made it anyway? [Tone remaining void of surprise. I’d spent the better part of my life, cleaning up messes, hers, my own, Damon’s.. Feeling a pang of sorrow as Damon entered my thoughts. Shutting out the feeling, just as quickly as it had arrived. Head tilting slightly in the direction of the living room, subtly suggesting that we should move the conversation somewhere more comfortable, booted feet already leading the way] Can I at least make it to my bed? [Questioning while settling into a chair. If I could crash out on the bed for the night, then any mess could wait until the following day. A hooded gaze watching Katherine as she moved into the room, raising the bottle to my lips for a long slow sip. Struck again by a sense of gratitude for the petite brunette, after everything we had done to each other, the pain we had caused, she had still risked it all, most notably her life, her human life, to come here and check on how I was doing. Lowering the bottle to rest on a knee, my gaze catching Katherine's. I wanted to thank her, to share how much her simply being here was helping. But I couldn't find the words. Choosing instead to offer her a genuine smile]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

Well......{Taking a long drink from the bottle to quell the impending doom, a small smile gracing my lips as eyes twinkled with the slightest hint of sincere innocence. The type of false innocence I gave off back in 1864.} making this {Motions to myself} did make a small mess. {Pinches thumb and forefinger in a small gesture as a genuine laugh slipped past.} Yes, you can get to your bed, it’s not /that/ bad. {Bare feet padded behind before taking a seat on the empty couch. I knew where his thoughts lingered in and out of, it broke my heart. Yet, still he smiled, was that for me? Long legs crossing as fingers lifted the neck of the bottle once more, leaning across to catch those emerald eyes.} I see that smile there. {Finger of a free hand roaming across his face, that handsome visage I fell for all those years ago. A flood of memories rushing by at our simple gaze. The good, bad, ugly and back around. How many people could share that amount of history and still affect each other in such a positive way?} If you can’t find it I’m sure I can help you to your bed. {Dropping a cheeky wink, things were getting easier, we were both more relaxed and I felt as if Stefan saw I was truthful in my actions, no ulterior motives. Well, except maybe to try and steal his heart, was that not always something I secretly wanted?} Or, we could slumber party here in the living room like a couple of teenagers. {Laughing a snort, that was so far beyond anything either of us would do. Grabbing a throw pillow and stuffing it behind his head.} Did you pick these out to coordinate with your eyes? {Hovers, staring between the pillow and that soulful emerald gaze.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Lips pursed, unsure whether or not to buy fully into her display of innocence, it was an act she had long ago been a pro at. Falling for it was not something I wished to repeat. Mind slipping back to her last stint as a human, there had been innocence then, genuine too, for the most part. That was of course until she had found a way to use everyone's feelings for Elena against them.. I could see why she had done it, it ran deeper than the selfish reasons all the others pointed out, not that such behavior could be condoned, the steps I'd taken to end such a possession proved that. Searching her eyes for the answers I sought, while a finger brushed across my face. Her gentle touch not one I had forgotten, leading to awakening of more past memories. Some good, some not so good and some I'd rather not dwell on. Chuckling lowly, eyes cast down, despite the current situation and sadness held within] Sure.. [Gives a slow nod, bringing the bottle neck to lips for a brief taste] ..then maybe we could braid each others hair. [Biting back a laugh of my own, side eying the throw pillow she had reached for] Yeah, cause that sounds exactly like something I would do. [Tone iced with sarcasm, yet void of any malice. Katherine was keen to keep the topic of conversation neutral, away from Damon. Something I was only all too happy to do myself]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

I knew you secretly wanted to play with my hair. {Finger tapped against his chin before once more taking my seat. Long legs slinging up to rest atop the coffee table drawing another drink.} Careful, I might actually start to think you want me here. {Stefan’s demeanor was something he was good at hiding behind. Perhaps others would be so easily misled or pushed away, but I seemed to be an expert at speaking in Stefan. A soft smile rose on now naturally rosy cheeks.} Or maybe it’s just something /I/ would do. {Lifting hands up to braid my own hair down one side as eyes continued to follow his, if he wanted to talk about randomness I would happily oblige.} Well, they do bring out your eyes, and you’ve not yet told me what exactly you’re doing here. For work I mean, are you a male escort? {Lips pursing to contain a laugh, he could totally do that but never would he, that would totally be something Damon would do.} You know, getting all the ladies. {Wiggles my brows playfully} That might make me a little jealous. {Not that any women in this town could possibly compete with me. Especially when it came to Stefan, whether he admitted it or not I was his first real love.} This isn’t working. {Pulling a face to loosen the braid I had made, who could flirt with a braid?}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[A verdant gaze held her own, her comment appearing to be at least partially throwaway, my response however was not] Maybe that’s exactly what I want. [In truth, I wasn't entirely sure what I had wanted, not for the longest time. What I did know was, things seemed to be easier with Katherine around. The reason for this, was a mystery. I wasn't ready for her to not be here] I'm getting that. [Unsurprised by her answer to a question I had yet to ask. Katherine knew me well enough to know what I was thinking, it was a gift of sorts, one she'd developed undoubtedly from years of being my creepy stalker. Lowly chuckling to myself. Leaning forward in my seat, forearms resting upon my knees. Head shaking, unabashed laughter no longer held back] Male escort..? [Questions only once the laughter has subsided] Now that’s an idea.. a terrible one. [Draining the last of the beer, the empty bottle now cast aside upon the table] Considering my last girlfriend is dead and currently residing in the trunk of my car, I'd say there's no need for jealousy. [Eyes darkening at the thought of Ivy, the familiar swell of sorrow beginning to creep back. Shaking it off as quickly as it had arrived] I took a job as a mechanic. Pay’s decent enough. [Nodding thoughtfully, it may seem like nothing to Katherine but it was a job I had grown to love. It afforded me the illusion of a normal life, just like everything else I built up here did]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

Well, you know how to stroke a girls ego. {Leaning forward once more, taking another long drink of my beer, now over half empty. Lips tipping into a playful grin. We both seemed to be getting under each others skin, in a good way.} Finally learned how to speak Katherine did you? {Dropping a lid in a wink before his next response. My face shifting to that of a more serious tone, lips pursed pulling back on the giggles as eyes softened.} Stefan, I’m sorry. {Clearing my throat a hand reached out taking hold of his, not in a manner to say “I feel sorry for you, but in a manner of I’m here for you.” Fingers giving his a soft squeeze before I responded again.} Um....I think taking care of that should come before taking care of whatever I need. {My words sincere, for once I was putting someone else in front of myself without thinking twice or expecting anything in return. It kind of..... felt good.} A mechanic, I can totally see you covered in grease. {A soft hum purring under my breath picturing the scene. I was sure Stefan thought I would scoff at the thought, but I knew Stefan was not extravagant like Damon. He would rather make his own way and live on what he could do by his own hands. If he wanted something he would work for it, and so would I.} That’s a good fit for you, seeing you drive that old car and all. {Lips once more drawing into a small smile trying not to hover on negative emotions.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[It wasn't about stroking her ego, I was about to point out this fact, only to stop myself upon the realization that she probably knew that already. She always seemed to know exactly how and what I meant] They have an app for that now. [Tries out my best poker face, quenching the desire to let slip a laugh. Lost for words soon after Katherine's display of genuine sympathy. She never knew Ivy, or the type of relationship we had. In truth, I wasn't entirely sure how well I had known Ivy. The past wasn't something I had wanted to discuss when we were together and so it wasn't a conversation we'd really had. Thumb pad brushed against the soft skin at the back of Katherine's hand, returning the squeeze with one of my own. Nodding along in agreement, the only problem being, I didn't know where Ivy's eternal resting place should be. She had deserved better than the hand she was dealt, after entering my life. Thick brows raised, the mood lifting once more] This is reality, not one of your fantasies. Try to remember that. [Elicits a brief chuckle from deep within my throat. It didn't matter if Katherine understood or not, I loved my job and this small patch of Savannah, they both offered me a chance at normalcy. The only thing I had wanted from the moment I had turned] It's a good fit for now, eventually I'll have to move on, become someone else. [If anyone was going to understand the life of a vampire then Katherine would]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

Oh, I have my very own language now, they even added it to google? {Primps a free hand through my hair pretending to be so very overly cocky at his pokerface. Once more returning to my previous state of seriousness, Stefan deserved closure and so did this girl’s family. Not that I was usually the type of person to try and half offer such a thing but, I found myself more driven than ever. Not because of my love for Stefan, not that it was not there, but perhaps because I actually was emulating him.} I’m not trying to live in some fantasy. I’m here, I’m with you. {Clearing my throat before speaking once more.} Well, I’m sure whoever I took my car from has already had it replaced. {Eyes falling to the floor then back up to meet his.} I realize this sounds bad, but it’s for a good purpose. I’m still human but you are immortal and she’s already gone. Take this car, wreck it into a tree with her in the passenger seat. Get me a cell phone, I’ll dial 911 and you can compel the missing pieces to the police. Just a stranger giving another stranger a ride home, swerved to miss a deer, tragic accident. Her family gets her body back, she gets laid to rest where she belongs and you get some small amount of closure. {I knew Stefan would always feel guilt for her death somehow, I could tell by the way he spoke. But at least this would be a way to give her family and friends closure and not leave her in an unmarked grave.} Let me help you, Stefan. For now just be you, be us.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Emerald gaze searched the all too familiar face in front of me. Hardly able to believe what I was hearing. I'd seen glimpses of the goodness held deep within her over the years, although even then, there tended to be a hidden agenda. If there was this time then I couldn't work out what it was. Selfless, that was the only word that came to mind in the moment. Okay, so the car wasn't hers, that didn't detract from what she was attempting to do here. She understood the need for closure the family would have. Wondering myself, if this was down to her own experience with Nadia, having lost her not once but twice. The pain that must of caused, I couldn't even begin to imagine and both times she had been completely alone in her sorrow. Fingers flexed, delivering another squeeze to her hand. Nodding slightly along with her, it was the best move available. Ivy deserved more than an unmarked grave and this was the only way to ensure she got it] Be us..? [I'd only been half listening to the last part, mind busy picking out the best road, for Katherine's plan to work. Releasing the hold, I didn't realize I still had on Katherine's hand, rising to my feet] I'll get Ivy, you get the keys? [Even with compulsion, the plan had a better chance of succeeding while it was dark out]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{It was obvious Stefan was fairly sure I had been inhabited by a pod person, that or I had simply lost my mind. But in all honesty I had the one thing I always wanted, freedom. Well sort of. Everyone thought I was dead, I did have to admit I might be a little nervous what would happen if Klaus found out I had cheated death yet again and was human. What he would do for human doppelganger blood. A soft smile gracing fresh faced features, for once not weighed down by loads of makeup. Nodding as dainty fingers finally fell from his, sure he was lost in thought.} Yes, you know just in the here and now. Don't rush off and over think things. {Meeting his glance as I rose as well, a nod following his question.} I’ll meet you out there. {Setting my empty bottle upon the table before heading into the kitchen to snag the keys from the counter. The cool night air bringing goosebumps to my now sensitive human flesh. Unlocking all the doors I leaned against the side of the car and gave a small sigh, this was not really something either of us wanted to do. Sure, I still loved Stefan, wanted to be in his life. But it didn’t mean I wanted him to have heartache and sorrow.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With a firm nod, I left the living room and made my way out to the garage where my car was. Stealing myself with a deep inhale, hands resting against the lid of the trunk, filled with remorse for all that had happened. Unable to stop myself from wondering why I even bothered striving for a normal life. I wasn't normal, I wasn't even human. How could I possibly lead a normal life when the people I cared about wound up dead, some by my very own hands. In essence, I was a blood addict, a ripper, a monster. It would only be a matter of time before I fell over that edge again.. Brows drew together in a frown following the dark turn of my thoughts. Eyes fell upon Ivy, her petite figure barely fitted in the trunk. Strong arms carefully lifted her out, my gaze studying soft features that were once filled with life. Delivering a silent apology before stepping outside to join Katherine at the car she had… acquired. A somber gaze meeting hers] Are you sure you want to be a part of this? [There was still enough time for Katherine to back out, it wasn't like she had any reason to care about what happened here. After settling Ivy into the passenger seat and buckling her in, with care, I straightened up, chiseled features turning towards Katherine. Hand reaching forward for the keys] Let's get this over with. [This was the last thing I wanted to do tonight, much preferring to be back inside with a beer in my hand. Instead, I was about to bring Ivy's parents world, crashing down around them]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

{Stefan’s words said “I really don’t want to do this, but I need to.” My heart was heavy not only for him but for the girl’s parents having lost my child not once but twice. At least the second time I knew, I got to see her, have a moment of closure with her. This girl’s parents deserved that. An innocent girl didn’t deserve to be dumped into an unmarked grave because she got tangled up in the supernatural.} I’m not abandoning you, Stefan. Get over it, I actually care. {Lips pursed watching him set the girl into the car, handing over the keys with a soft sigh.} I know you would rather be doing anything else right now, but once this is all said and over with you will feel better than if you would have buried her in the woods somewhere and left her as a missing person. {Sliding into the back seat, Stefan knew this area and where to go. I was merely a means to an end, this girls final end. Hoping we would help her find her way home, to where she truly belonged then maybe Stefan would be a tiny step closer to that spark of hope. The roads were long, narrow and dark; heavily wooded. It would be easy to believe I had swerved to miss a deer or any variety of animals.I was willing to bet my very new life Stefan would never go hungry out here. Clicking on my seat belt the further we drove, remembering once more I /was/ in fact human as my heart began to race.} You are going to let me out before you wreck the car, right?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

Okay then.. [Palming the keys, deciding not to argue with Katherine over this, she wanted in, then she was in. Listening to all she had to say, features void of any emotion, to get the job done I needed a clear mind. There was no sense in dwelling on things I couldn't change. At least that's what I kept trying to tell myself. Easing into the driver's seat, my gaze set dead ahead, desperately avoiding looking over at Ivy beside me. There were still a mass of memories I didn't wish to relive. Driving away from civilization towards the twisty roads, filled with blind corners. Towering oak trees rising high above us. The particular road I had chosen was known for it's accidents, Ivy would just become another statistic. Keen hearing picking up the thundering beat of Katherine's heart. A verdant gaze meeting hers through the rearview mirror. Unsure whether or not her question was a hundred percent serious or not. Could she be blamed for asking it? No. I was the one who had killed her after all] I'll let you out. [My tone reassuring, even as eyes shifted back to the road. Coming to a slow stop, this seemed a good a place as any] This is where the living get out. [Jaw setting while Katherine exited the car. Pulling a u-turn, a crash would make more sense heading into town, considering the story Katherine had come up with. A booted foot hit the gas, tyres screeching against the tarmac in protest. Bolting forward, purposefully taking the first corner with too much speed. With what little control I had left over the car, I directed it towards the biggest oak tree on the bend. The passenger side of the car taking the brunt of the impact the driver's side untouched. The small cut at my brow already healed as I got out of the car. The temptation to glance back at Ivy was almost too much, forcing my feet forward, away from the car and back towards Katherine. Pulling my cell from my back pocket] You're up. [My tone distant and cold] It's a burner, one I got after… [Words trailed off, she'd know exactly why and when I got it. She knew me better than anyone else. Stuffing large hands into the pockets of my pants, there was nothing else for me to do now, other than wait]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{A small sense of relief settled over me as the car stopped and I slipped out, of course Stefan was not going to do the deed with me in the car. He would never after my show of faith, right? Shaking my head to myself, a well of goose bumps cascading across my body as tires screeched, the sound of twisting metal and breaking glass echoing against the thick trees and brush. Eyes adjusting as Stefan stepped into my field of vision, sighing as I saw he was okay. I mean you never know. Lips pursing seeing the look on his face, but I didn’t know how to comfort him, we both just wanted to get this over with. My now human self flooded with a swell of emotions, swiping the dial pad and frantically calling 911. A trembling voice pleading for an ambulance for my “hitchhiker”. I was surprised at how quickly they arrived, obviously pronouncing the girl dead at the scene. I gave my story to the officers. Being an out of towner here to visit a friend and gave a stranger a ride. Free directions, right? The whole swerve to miss a deer ect, though I had no registration or insurance in my name. Luckily I “had my seat belt on” and needed no medical attention as the damage was on the passenger side. This is where Stefan came in. It was, I’m sure like losing her all over again for Stefan but as the ambulance drove away in silence I simply gave him a tight lipped smile.} She’s going home, Stefan. You gave her that over an unmarked grave. Try to fine peace in that.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Awaiting the arrival of the emergency services in silence, left me with nothing else to do but think. Trying not to think of something in particular only assures that you can think of nothing else, eventually thoughts turned to Damon. Gaze staring off into the distance, seeing beyond the trees in front of me. Not knowing where Damon ended up was the worst past, the other side had crumbled, ceased to exist, so what did that leave? A place of peace? Nothingness? Pulled from my thoughts by the sound of vehicles arriving, I stood back and watched the master of deception at work. You had to give Katherine her due, she knew exactly how to sell a story. As the officers onsight exchanged a knowing glance, I stepped in, encouraging them to one aside. Speaking in a low tone, using the power of compulsion to convince the two that what Katherine had said was the truth. Large strides making their way back to Katherine, after compelling all those in attendance to forget about my presence here. Watching on with an air of anguish, while the ambulance pulled away. Reminded once more, how this was my fault.Offering Katherine a small smile, along with a nod, knowing deep down that she was right] We have a more pressing issue than my feelings of guilt. [Eyes casting down the road] We didn't fetch another car. [Glancing briefly down to the converse Katherine wore, donning an amused smile. Knowing without a doubt that she would never opt for such shoes given the choice] Bet you're grateful you got stuck with Elena's footwear now. [Giving her side a gentle nudge, feet moving forward in the general direction of home]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{Stefan had become good at compartmentalizing, hiding his emotions, his fear of becoming the ripper again. Craving to be a mere mortal once more, but he didn’t have that option and it was my fault. He had a switch he had to constantly fight and I was the one who activated it. If I had never turned him he would not harbor so much guilt and a hunger for human blood, but he would not be the hero he is either. My own selfish desires creating a masterpiece of destruction I now felt regret for. Eyes glancing between the plain dark violet Converse shoes and back up to Stefan before shoulders lifted up into a light shrug.} I guess it slipped our minds in the whirl of “lets get this done”. {Lips pursed as I strode quietly beside him} And, I suppose for this walk they are more comfortable than leather heels. {Silence settling in once more and my mind buzzed with a million questions. Would my witch contacts be able to get Damon back, would Stefan still want me around after? Would they just go back to wanting to kill me? Was there any true redemption for someone like me? Even though much of what I did was propelled by life events, not that that was a legitimate excuse. Was there hope I could get Nadia back? Side glancing towards Stefan, voice laced with sincerity.} I’m not a perfect person, there’s many things I wish I didn’t do. Having this second chance. I'm sorry that I hurt you, it's something I must live with everyday. And all the pain I put you through, I wish I could take it all away.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Footsteps slowed but didn't stop, with eyes trained upon the road ahead I listened intently to the sincere words being spoken. Words I never believed I’d hear from her. Katherine may have been the one who turned me, but my actions were my own. The blood on my hands was exactly that, mine. That didn't detract from her apology though, the weight of it all just wasn't hers to bear. Head turning towards Katherine, an emerald gaze drinking in soft features I was all too familiar with, glimpsing within the depths of her eyes the girl I once believed her to be, though it was clear her mind was working overtime, to what end? I had no idea] It hasn't been all that bad. [Stuffing hands into the front pockets of my pants] I got to see how the world would change. To see Damon happy. [A small sincere smile pulling at the corners of my mouth] I've reinvented myself more times than I can remember, been a high school student more times than I /want/ to remember. [Chuckling lowly to myself, the smile now taking a firm hold of chiseled features] I got to fall in love. [Turning to look straight ahead once more. The words having been spoken bore nothing but truth. Sure, I had carried years of hurt with me, yet there had still been joy to be found. Sometimes in the most unexpected places. Noting the sudden drop in temperature, I pulled my hands from my pockets, shrugging off my jacket to drape it around her dainty shoulders, being human, Katherine was more susceptible to the cold than I was] Besides, vampirism has it's perks too. [Shrugging a shoulder nonchalantly before scooping her svelte physique up in my arms. No further words being spoken, pushing off with all the strength I could muster, I darted forward. Speeding down the road ahead as nothing more than a blur. A large hand cradled the back of Katherine's head to avoid whiplash. Running at full pelt for as long as I was able, stopping just short of home, energy levels now plummeting, the bunny diet, as many chose to call it, didn't allow for sustained running, not like that of a human blood diet. Gently setting Katherine back down on the floor, a hand lingering at the small of her back, waiting until she was steady on her feet] It prevents blisters from running. [Footsteps starting up again, wanting to be back in the house I now viewed as a home]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{The depths of those soulful eyes tried to bore right through me, as if trying to seek out the best part of my soul I thought lost. His words at first seeming to try and reassure me, same ole’ Stefan, bearing his own burden. There were some good things, the world had changed a lot indeed and him with it. From innocent human to ripper to bunny diet hero. Though he did seem to teeter back and forth between the later at times. For the longest time I knew he held a weight on himself for the part he played in Damon’s turning. That was exactly why he had that secret little curve in his smile as he spoke. All the times he had denied loving me I believe he now understood I indeed never compelled him, his feelings for me back then were real. I hated it, but he did love Elena, enough to let her go. A small shiver running through my body as the cool night air took hold, side eyeing him, a soft smile lifting up on glossed lips sinking into the warm jacket.} I remember. {Completely taken off guard as slender legs suddenly hang over his muscular arms, the firm yet gentle caress of his hand protecting my face from the cold wind as the scenery blurred by. I was never this courteous when I dragged people off. Blinking several times as feet came back to the ground, hand steadying against a broad shoulder as soft laughter fell forth.} It seems like only yesterday I was complaining about blisters. {The house in sight as we made the final stride, hand mindlessly falling to take his as we reach the door.} Thank you for saving my feet. {Lifts up on the balls of my feet placing a chaste kiss to his cheek.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

Then you remember why I'm keen to avoid such a repeat. [Lowers a lid in a cheeky wink, attempting to leave this evening's earlier feelings of sorrow behind me. Sorrow could so easily lead to despair if I allowed myself to dwell for a moment too long. Then I’d be of no use to anyone. Focusing instead on the memories I had of Katherine when she first became human, just as struck now as I had been back then by the resilience this woman possessed. Even as a human she was difficult to pin down and any who viewed her humanity as a weakness was a fool. If she wanted she could destroy all in her path, dead or alive, it made little difference. She was a powerful, resourceful woman who would do whatever it took to survive. The last five hundred years had proven that. Fingers instinctively tangled with hers before I even realised what I was doing. Pausing at the door to retrieve the key from my front pants pocket, caught off guard by the tentative kiss at my cheek, not that many would notice] Anytime. [Lips displayed a sincere smile, while fingers delivered a gentle squeeze to her hand. Letting Katherine step inside first, following close behind] I think we could both use something a little stronger than beer. [Foot falls leading me to the kitchen to collect two glasses from one cupboard and a bottle of scotch from another] Possibly not as refined as you're used to, the good years all being stuck on the other side of that pesky border. [Pouring us each a healthy measure and settling the bottle to one side. Passing over Katherine's glass] Don't feel like you have to stay up with me. It's been a long day for us both.

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{A short laugh at his words, who would want to listen to my complaining after all? Even if he was making a joke, it was his way of showing he remembered the little things. Lips drawn into a soft smile as fingers slipped from his, stepping through the door and into the house. Stefan was always the chivalrous one, one to be tentative always thinking of others above himself. He never ceased to surprise me, and when he thought he lost his way, well I came to drag him back onto his path again.} That sounds really good actually. {Following his lead into the kitchen, eyeing him as he drew down the glasses and bottle. Hand clasping the glass of amber liquid before taking a healthy drink.} Mhm, it’s not all that bad. I should have grabbed some. {Laughing before taking another sip.} It has been a long day. {Eyes him suspiciously.} Are you trying to get rid of me? {Lips twisting in a joking smile} I’m not leaving you to sit here and brood, I came to make sure you weren't. That little sprint took it out of you. {A hand smoothing over his shoulder, clearing my throat.} Are you, um hungry?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Taking a long slow sip from the glass, as if the amber liquid within would somehow cure me of the growing thirst. The thirst however was not something which would so easily be sated. Head shaking while I lowered the glass from my mouth] Not trying to get rid of you, just remembering that your stamina, along with your tolerance isn't what it once was. [In truth though, a part of me was attempting to shoo her off to bed and allow me to slip out to hunt. Why I felt the need to conduct my feeding habits in secret baffled me, my chosen diet was hardly a secret from anyone. And since Katherine had checked in on me over the years, even if I wasn't aware of her doing so at the time, she would know exactly what I had in mind] I’m not feeling all that bad. [Playing down my current level of hunger and exhaustion, the last thing either of us needed was her worrying about a recovering ripper. Hand raising, brushing fingertips against the back of her hand, offering a reassuring smile, Katherine was nothing if not persistent] I'll head out later, see what's around. [Keeping the details vague, us both knowing exactly what I meant. Eyes flickering towards the fridge as I continued] Help yourself, if your own hunger should return. [Attempting to smoothly redirect the conversation away from what I needed. The ripper lurked just beneath the surface, it was a daily battle just to keep him at bay. A battle I was determined to win. If I lost control, who knew how long it would be before I found my way again? Especially now that Damon was gone]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

You know you can’t lie to me, Stefan. {Eyes meeting his with all sincerity, Stefan was always afraid of losing control. Keeping himself at a lower level of strength because of his fear of losing that control. But here I was, able to offer him instant nourishment and full strength. I knew he would be reluctant, thinking he would not be able to stop, it’s me of course he would. I had pulled him from the edge as a dying human. Now I was a perfectly healthy 17 year old girl. Not some aging cured vampire. Fingers lifting to capture his hand, setting the glass down as a free hand clasped his cheek.} I’m not hungry but I know you are. {Sweeping long chocolate strands aside, body moving in close to his.} I’m not scared, Stefan. You need real food not some forest animal. {Fingers smoothing against his jaw, a million questions running through my mind. I had watched Stefan, he was his strongest when he was in control. He could do this, I had seen him do this.} I’m not going to try and force you. I’m simply saying, what if someone comes again and tries to hurt you or me? Maybe if you were at full strength things would have went different with the Ivy situation before I got here. {Eyes rimming with empathy and concern, heart beginning to thrum with anxiety. Something I’d never felt before. Dropping my hand to take another drink from the offered glass.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Although I didn't intend for it to happen, my gaze veered from soft features to admirer the curvature of her now exposed neck. The kind of admiration a predator paid its chosen prey before swooping down to take what it wanted. The thrum of the sweet nectar being pumped through her veins, the only sound I could hear. Emerald eyes darkening with need, black pulsating veins webbed out beneath lower lids. How easy would it be to simply take the nourishment I needed from her? She was right, of course. Human blood was the only sustenance that offered true strength, all else was a poor imitation of what a vampire truly was. This way, I’d be able to guarantee her safety as well as my own. Setting my glass to one side, large hands eased around her waist, drawing her in closer. Remembering how sweet her blood had tasted the first time around, back when I had been the human. Would it taste as sweet now that she was no longer a part of the darkness? Gums ached with longing, blunt incisors lengthening and sharpening, head now dipping forward until my lips were but a hair's breadth away from the silky smooth skin of her neck. Feeling the rush of bloodlust, I closed my eyes, letting out a long exhale of breath, until it passed. It wasn't worth the risk. Pulling away to capture her gaze with my own, hand raising to smooth chestnut locks back from her face] I don't want to hurt you. [While others showed confidence in my ability to keep the ripper caged, I failed to have confidence in myself. Knowing all too well, how easily I tended to fall from the precipice]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{The look on Stefan’s face, I knew that look, it was the one he had when he felt he was about to lose control. Eyes lifting through dark lashes, meeting that all too familiar face, the face I used to have. The web of veins that came with the hunger, my body buzzing with both anxiety and luster at his closeness, causing my heart to beat harder. The warmth of his lips, the cool breath against sensitive flesh causing a shiver to run along my back. It was almost too much, feeling him this close and being freshly human. Eyes easing up once more as a hand eased over his.} You won’t hurt me, Stefan. But I will not try and force you into something, I’m not that girl anymore. {Lifting up on the balls of my feet, lips pressed supply against the curvature of his jaw, my heart still fluttering. Not because I was scared, because I cared so deeply. I still loved Stefan and seeing him like this when I could help was....... well, I didn’t know what it was. Never having actually stuck around long enough or caring enough about anyone to develop a true attachment. Drawing back to finish the remainder of my drink.} I’ll head up and let you take care of things, okay? {A soft smile eased on glossed lips turning to head up the stairs. He would not take it I would give it. Finding a cup in the bathroom, tearing apart a razor to knick a vein. It would bleed but not too much. Bandaging it with a scrap of cloth from my earlier “resourcefulness”, setting the cup of blood on the table beside his bed before heading to my own.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@spitfiretout

[Relieved that Katherine didn't intend to push the matter. Emotions had been in turmoil for months, who knew what the consequences of consuming human blood would be now? The hunger had been awoken now, making it's presence known, it was almost impossible to concentrate on anything that wasn't the thrum of her heartbeat. Turning once more to the liquor at hand, having learned a long time ago it helped with the cravings. Grateful for Katherine's willingness to let me drink from her, not to mention the show of trust. My past binges were well documented and let's not bring up the rather large role I played in her death.. For her to put her safety in my hands.. that was no small feat. It was better all around if I stuck with my earlier plan, stuck to the bunny diet. Head dipping into a short nod] Goodnight, Katherine. [Lips curving into a small smile, hopefully conveying the gratitude I felt through the smile. She had gone out of her way to help, when she had no reason, no hidden agenda. She couldn't have reached the top of the stairs before I had began the clear up of our glasses, along with the bottle. The living area was practically untouched even after our visit. A large hand pulled my jacket from the back of the chair, shrugging it on. Footsteps faltering on my way to the front door. Nasal passages assaulted by an all too familiar scent] Katherine.. [A rush of concern propelled me forward and up the staircase. Thick brows drawing together in a frown, following the scent of blood, which surprisingly lead me to my bedroom and not hers. There in the doorway, my gaze fell instantly to the glass on table beside my bed. Not needing to take another step forward to know her blood resided inside. Turning from my room to lightly knock on her door, stopping myself before knuckles could tap against the wooden panelling, if Katherine had wanted to talk, then she would have waited across the hall from me. Shrugging out of my jacket, returning to my room. Blindly tossing the jacket on the nearby chair, thoughts returning to earlier conversations regarding my strength. Fingers picked the glass up while I took a seat upon the bed. Eyes closing once the rim of the glass connected with my lower lip, knocking back the contents without a second thought. The hunger within quieting almost instantly. I needed to be strong, not just for myself but for her. After setting the glass back down and kicking off my boots, I settled on the bed, an arm easing beneath my head, the other settling across my chest. Sensing the first bloom of hope within myself]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

{How good it felt to wake to the sunlight on my skin, in a bed that I was welcomed in, one that was I was not squatting in. A place where I was wanted, perhaps even needed. The first thing on my mind, did Stefan take my offering, did it sooth the beast or merely make him rear his ugly head? Shaking my head to myself a hand smoothing over his door. Of course he was there, sleeping peacefully, he was in control, I didn’t need my supernatural abilities to know that. A warm smile slipped across my lips, he would wake when he was ready. Padding down the stairs, my stomach once more a rumble, how annoying that truly was. I was certainly no master in the kitchen as Stefan was, but surely I could cook a few eggs and some toast. But breakfast would not bring back meaning to life, Stefan needed more, I needed more for him. Eyes scanning the living room and dining room areas, dammit he must have took his phone upstairs. Finding a pen and paper I began a note..... “Agatha, I hope this letter finds you in good health, this is your dear friend, Katherine and I need a favor.” Leaving the ending vague and the return address blank. This witch would know how to contact me, or how to get me to contact her. Folding the piece of paper and sliding it beneath a lamp, I would grab it to mail when we went out later. Breaking two eggs into a skillet after dropping a slice of bread into the toaster. My mind traveling to the unspoken words that still lingered between Stefan and I, the closure I hoped he had found with his recent ex situation, my untold secret, I knew he could sense I had intentions even if they were not ill intentions. Eyes slipped closed for a moment, embracing the stolen touches we had shared since my arrival, the way he /still/ made me feel. The way he made me feel now as a human woman. Was this how he felt back then when the roles were reversed, was this karmic payback? Being pulled from my thoughts as a piercing beep resounded and the smell of burning bread invaded my nose.} Shit.... {Popping up the bread and frowning at the black slice.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@spitfiretout

[The morning found me in a state of calm, waking from a sleep that was nothing but peaceful. Sleep blurred eyes fell to the glass upon the nightstand, my mind replaying the decision I had made although I would allow myself to dwell upon the euphoric taste. Pushing myself up from the bed, heading for the bathroom to shower and freshen up. Hearing Katherine moving around downstairs brought a sense of relief, she hadn't skipped out on me during the night. Not that I had expected her too, you just couldn't be sure with her. The warm, pressurised water was refreshing, successful in my aim to steam away the dark cloud that had seemed to settle over myself. A lot had happened over the past few months, all of it bad, that was until yesterday.. Was it odd to view yesterday as a small victory, after giving Ivy the best send off that I could? Probably, yet the wins had to be found even in the smallest of accomplishments. Drinking human blood without letting it consume me, that was a win. Though I knew there was more to my current state of mind than just blood. It was her. Katherine. The only woman capable of burying herself beneath my skin and making me feel, even when I didn't want too. Dried and dressed I made my way downstairs, the sound of the smoke alarm beeping throughout the house, leading me to a perplexed looking Katherine in the kitchen, staring at what I could only assume was meant to be toast] There are faster ways to burn down a house, ya know? [Chuckling lowly to myself while adjusting the heat on the stove before the eggs managed to burn too] Here, let me. [Taking the inedible toast from her grasp, tossing it into the trash before popping a fresh slice of bread into the toaster. Am emerald gaze finding hers] Sleep well? [Not really requiring an answer, she looked good, rested. Turning away from her to pop up the bread, placing it on a plate before serving up the eggs] There you go. [Lips curved with a smile, the plate now set before her. Consuming food only as a cover myself, something that wasn't necessary within present company]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@corrupthumanity

Oh, ha ha. {Sarcasm filling my tone at Stefan’s comment as he tossed the mangled bread into the trash, what an idiot I had made myself look like.} Yeah? I could have burnt some bacon and stared a grease fire. Boom, human torch. {That was really not all that funny, perhaps I should get Stefan to teach me the basics of cooking. Eyes following what he was doing as I pulled orange juice from the fridge and poured myself a glass, assuming he would not want any. A warm smile as the plate was set before me, fingers dipping up the egg with the toast.} You managed to save the eggs. {A mocha gaze lifting to meet his, savoring the human taste of food in a non-hostile environment made it better somehow. Swallowing my bite before speaking once more.} Maybe I should just wait for you from now on, or you could attempt to teach me to cook. {Busting out in an amused laughter, picturing myself trying to run two or three things going on a stove. Briefly remembering the letter I had written earlier before swallowing back a few more bites to ease my hunger.} So, are we still on for the shopping date or am I tearing up more of your closet and sleeping in your shirts? {Brows bouncing playfully as I downed the glass of orange juice. My hunger now satiated Stefan’s came to mind. Brushing past as I brought the glass, plate and pan to the sink, he saved the kitchen from my disaster, least I could do was wash them. I was sure this was a site Stefan never thought he would see. A sliver of hope residing in my chest, turning to rest against the bar, clean dishes behind me.} And by the way, last night.... Did you find what you were looking for?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[There was something oddly charming about her failed cooking attempts. Not that anyone could hold her inability to cook against her, she'd never needed to learn, vampirism and years spent running made sure of that. Brows raising along with a shrug, unwilling to draw too much attention to my capabilities in the kitchen] Teach you? [Cants my head aside, unsure if I had heard correctly] Sure, if you think you have the patience for cooking. [Offering a subtle challenge, once her laughter had stopped. I knew how much she valued her own independence, learning to cook would be good for her] I'm not sure my closet could take anymore of your visits, the date is still on. [Nodding along as I spoke] Besides, my shirts look so much better on me. [Chiseled features flashing a cheeky grin. A grin soon to be wiped from my features at the sight of Katherine washing up. Who'd have thought such a day would come? Thoughts going back to the offering she had left in my room last night, a glass of her own blood. Despite my protestations of not wanting it, the reality being the very real fear of hurting her, she had ensured my hunger was taken care of. A selfless move on her part. She turned out to be full of surprises. Stepping forward, emerald eyes holding her gaze while a large hand raised to cup her cheek, the pad of my thumb gently brushing against her soft skin] I did, thank you. [Tone filled with sincerity. Hand now dropping to the makeshift bandage she had created with part of a shirt] Does it hurt? [My first instinct was to offer her some of my own blood but who knew if she could even keep it down now? All past attempts hadn't ended well. Deciding to add bandaids to the ever growing shopping list] I'm ready to head out whenever you are, just say the word.

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

{A petite frame leaning against the counter as soft features were caught by a strong hand, a hand that made my body melt. Head leaning into the embrace as eyes rimmed with emotion and lips curved into a smile.} I only wanted what was best, really. {Now second guessing myself as the moment was shortly over. Did I do the right thing, what if Stefan was too afraid of losing control, what if I was pushing him away? Gaze dropping down now cupping my bandaged wrist.} Not too bad, it’s just a small wound, I’m fine. {Hand moving behind me to scoop up the letter I had written earlier, folding it into my back pocket.} Word. {A cheesy taunting grin once more taking place on glossed lips, tossing him a wink.} You said.... {Laughter falling forth as I headed towards the door. Pausing mid step as my hand rested on the knob.} Are you coming? Last one to the car has to buy lunch. {Bad joke as he knew I had no money and he was buying everything. Even if that was him trying to get rid of me, at least I would have clothes to take when I went to visit my friend to try and find Damon. Maybe, just maybe then I could earn some redemption. Racing out to the car as if I had not a care in the world, sliding into the passenger seat to lean over and unlock his door, sliding the key into the ignition, wondering how long it would take before he realized I had taken the keys.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Eyes rolled in a playful manner] Cute. [An amused smile displayed across chiseled features, watching her lithe frame as she sauntered off from over a shoulder. Snatching up my wallet and jacket with a shake of my head, following her lead. Beginning to wonder what the hell I had let myself in for, taking Katherine shopping for clothes and other necessities. In a way, I was the very reason she didn't have any of those things. Expelling her very essence from Elena's body, linking her to the traveler knife, even if I didn't know it at the time. That was an act I had to learn to live with, adding to the weight of guilt upon my shoulders. Thick brows drew together in a frown, large hands patting down pockets for car keys, only to come up empty. Glancing behind me as though they would somehow magically appear. I had a near perfect memory of slipping them into my pocket before rescuing Katherine from her attempt to cook. Katherine.. Footsteps pushing me out the door, suspicions confirmed as I eyed Katherine up in the passenger seat of the car. She'd snaked the keys from my pocket at some point, although when, I had no clue. Settling into the driver's seat, spotting the keys now in the ignition, giving them a turn] Nice move. [The drive into town was one of comfortable silence. Who'd have thought such a thing was possible with how things had been left, the last time we saw each other. Katherine was obviously trying to change, maybe in time she would be the girl I had always believed her to be. The girl I had fallen in love with. Pulling up into the nearest free parking space, emerald eyes settling on her soft features] Where to first? [The roadside littered with quaint boutiques, none of which I’d set foot in before. With no clear idea on what exactly it was Katherine wanted, it was up to her to take the lead on this one. Stepping up onto the sidewalk, patiently waiting for her to join me and point me in the right direction]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

{Lips drew into a the smug little grin as Stefan easily slipped in, dark gaze catching his as I clicked my seat belt into place. How easy it was to get caught up in playing with him. Being completely human again had changed me, as if I lost those rough edges, or maybe they only smoothed around Stefan.} It was, wasn't it? {Eyes paying close attention tot he roads leading to town, I needed to learn my way in and out. Long legs lifting me out of the car as we arrived, mocha meeting that verdant gaze that I so adored as lips eased into a nervous smile. I had never done this, and certainly not with someone I loved who killed me. Stefan was living a “human” life here and he wanted to keep that, I would not ask him to compel me things that were beyond his means. And to be honest, I knew I didn’t need or deserve any of those things anyway. Nervousness pushing at the back of my mind, grabbing his hand, sure steps leading over to a resale boutique named ‘The Snooty Fox’. Being versed in hiding my true emotions and busing off the nervousness.} This way. {Making a bee line for the size 2/4 rack as fingers began flipping through the clothing. Finding a few pair of jeans, one in black, and two denim colored. A few blouses, different colors and styles, a jacket because everyone needs a jacket and one lovely red sweater with a drop V neckline. Holding it up as I turned to look at Stefan, eyes glittering with mischievousness.} What do you think of this one? {long lashes fluttering only slightly, emphasizing my flirtations.} Oh, heels. I still need a pair. I’m just not me if I don’t wear heels.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Booted feet moved forward, hitting the sidewalk almost soundlessly, following Katherine's lead. Large hand releasing her own as we stepped inside one of the boutiques, here she would undoubtedly be in her element, whereas I was little more than a bystander. Lips curved with a small smile, noting how carefully Katherine chose from the clothing on offer, suspecting it was out of respect for the way in which I chose to live. What other explanation was there, when technically money was of no object. Emerald eyes falling across the red sweater, taken aback by the sudden request for my opinion] I think.. it's very you. [Speaking with a small nod, there was a lot more I could have said, stemming from the reawakening of memories, along with feelings. Yet I chose to remain quiet. There was just too much going on for me to even begin to process anything new. A low chuckle broke free of my throat, taking a step forward to relieve the clothing within Katherine's delicate arms. The weight of which she would have felt soon enough. With a steady hold on the items she had collected, my gaze returned to the “borrowed” converse strapped to her feet, agreeing with her on this one] You go on ahead, I'll get this ringed up and paid for. [Standing off to one side while she shopped for clothes was one thing, but heels… A guy had to draw the line somewhere. Watching as she sauntered off before I made my own way over to the till. Setting down the objects for the store clerk to scan, offering nothing but an agreeable smile and nod in response to her comment about me having one lucky girlfriend. An easy assumption to make, yet a confusing one to put straight]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

Mhm, you seem surprised I asked. {A small shrug as I added it to the small pile of clothing. Offering Stefan a sincere smile as strong arms relieved me of the clothing. A small laugh as both our gazes fell downward, Converse was not my style. Gently used clothes I could do, used heels was a no go. Sensing his lack of desire to go into a shoe store I simply gave a flirty smile over my shoulder as I headed out. Stepping through the door of the upscale shoe store, eyes scanning the rows of strappy stilettos, platforms, peep toes, heeled boots, wedge heels; passing those, not my style. Stopping dead in my tracks as a pair of cutout stilettos caught my attention, fingers caressing the curvature and inspecting the workmanship. If there was anything I would ask Stefan to pay for it was shoes. Not wanting to wait, pulling a box from the shelf to slip my feet into the little gems. The black leather fitting over my feet perfectly, inspecting myself in the mirror. I instantly looked a hundred times more like myself. A pleased smile slipping across glossed lips, placing the Converse into the box as eyes caught Stefan now awaiting me outside. Striding up to the door and pecking at the glass motioning for him to come in, the clerk just about to stop me before she realized he was coming in for me. Posing a foot outward.} Much better, yes? {Brows perked as lips took on that classic simper before pecking his cheek. Placing the box upon the counter before eyeing him with sincerity.} Thank you, Stefan. {Toiletries could be picked up on the way home, I wanted to smell like a lady now too, not Stefan’s man soap.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[With a small dent made to my balance, large hands collected up the bags before making a hasty retreat from the store. Shopping in an all female store was bad enough with Katherine at my side, without her, things reached a whole new level of weird. Sure that a few other shoppers now believed I was into cross dressing. Releasing a heavy sigh once back out on the street, eyes scanned the sidewalk in each direction for Katherine, of course she was nowhere in sight, she was on the hunt for new heels after all. A keen sense of smell caught her scent, trusting in my abilities I followed her trail, coming to a stop outside a store that screamed expensive, a brief look in the window revealed her curvaceous physique within, curving lips with a small sigh. Here she was truly in her element. Passing by numerous pairs of shoes, which to me looked just as good as the previous pairs, not that I knew anything of female fashion. Pulled from my thoughts by her light tap at the glass window, pushing the door open with a free hand, nodding in agreement to her query as I did so] You're welcome. [Returning her smile with one of my own, handing over my card to the clerk, without a single glance towards the total. This being the very least I could do, although it didn't alleviate any of my guilt] Feel more like yourself yet? [Side eyeing Katherine on our way out. Purposefully filling the silence with small talk to avoid the subject I wanted to discuss most, Damon. Since she had arrived, I had been adamant that my brother was gone and there was no getting him back. Refusing all her offers of help out of misguided stubbornness. Things had changed now. Katherine made me feel.. she just made me feel, and with the sudden rush of emotions came hope and a strong desire to find out where Damon was. Find him and bring him back. How to broach the subject now? I had no idea. Setting the bags down in the trunk, moving around the car to open the passenger side door for Katherine] What's next?

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

{I had not forgotten about Damon or my attempts, sending out the letter in a drop box before I entered the shoe store, while Stefan had his back turned of course. A wave of ease settled over as Stefan asked me that uncanny question. I was me, but I was not the old me. I had a new lease on life, it was as if I had been completely reborn. Yes, I remembered my past life but my body and mind were renewed. Perhaps it was the traveler magic, a weird doppelganger loophole? I didn’t know. A warm smile offered slipping through the door.} A bit, yes. {Stefan was trying to hide his broodiness behind small talk but I knew better, all that guilt was still resting just below the surface. Guilt for things that never would have happened had he never have met me, had he led a normal human life. Settling into the seat and reaching across to unlock Stefan’s door in the antique Porsche. How everyone used to harass him about that old car, but I found it now to be not only classy but a reminder. A reminder of his past life, a life he had with his brother in it. Eyeing him as he slid in, lips lifting into that secret little grin I only ever shared with him.} Now, now we go home and wait. {Home, that was a relative term. That was Stefan’s home not mine, I didn’t have a home.} Are you ready to talk now? {I could see that he was feeling more at ease, but how to bring up such a sensitive subject? I didn’t know for sure my witch friend could find Damon, but I made Damon and though I was no longer a vampire my blood still ran in his veins and I was still a doppelganger. Which met I had both a connection to Damon and powerful magic for her to draw on.} I know you, Stefan I know you miss him. {Eyes casting over, hoping that he would open up, maybe I could tell him, maybe if he went with me that would give Agatha a stronger connection as Stefan is Damon’s brother.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

And wait? Wait for what? [My eyes trained on the road outstretched before us, wondering exactly what it was that she had planned, knowing that I hadn't forgotten any plans. Chewing over the loaded question, was I ready to talk? Yes, but more than that. I was ready to act. Since settling down in Savannah, I had given up in my search to find out any information on Damon, much to the dismay of my friends. Giving up on Damon had meant giving up on Bonnie too. While there was no love lost between Damon and my friends, their love for Bonnie had never wavered. The silence continued, while a fight for the correct words played out in my mind] I do. [Jaw clenching with those two words, finally allowing myself to utter the truth. Of course I missed Damon, every second of everyday. He was blood. The one person in this world who had known me my entire life. Our past may not have been a checkered free one but that didn't matter. Not where family was concerned. We'd fight like dogs, yet no matter what, we would always be there for the other. Without my big brother I was adrift. We'd lost contact before of course, sworn to visit nothing but misery upon the other. There was a difference between losing touch however, and dying. While I spoke of moving on, convincing all those around me, it wasn't something so easily achieved. Not in my heart] I want to bring him back, from wherever he is. [Gaze lingering a little longer on Katherine, than was entirely necessary] He can't just be gone. [With home now in sight, I pulled over, parking the car out front. The engine continuing to tick over] And I can’t just leave him. [Killing the engine, whilst turning my upper torso towards Katherine] I'm just not entirely sure where to start up again. All the previous leads turned out to be a bust. No one knows anything. [However, none of them were Katherine, with what appeared to be an eternal ace up her sleeve]

Katherine Pierce @spitfiretout

@CorruptHumanity

{The silence was more awkward for Stefan than I as I knew what I was going to say, just not how. I could see his mind half racing, reaching through for the hows and if’s. Eyes training on his as a finger pointed towards the road.} Lets get us home safely first, yes? {Taking a deep breath as we reached the house, un-clicking my seat belt, body turning to meet Stefan, a hand taking his.} I know you want to and I also know you want to bring him back. Why do you think I came here, besides to check on you? You really think that I thought you would just move on without Damon? You know I turned you both because I knew, even back then. Do you really think I don’t have a plan, Stefan? {My gaze completely sincere as fingers gave his a squeeze.} I could not come in guns blazing, I knew you needed time, you needed to heal. I’ve already contacted a powerful witch friend in New Orleans who owes me a favor. {Lips pursed before speaking any further, retracting my hand. I in no way wanted Stefan to think I had any agenda for doing this.} I sent out a letter, I was waiting to hear from her. I didn’t know if you would be ready. I was going to do it on my own. {A swell of nervousness washed over me, I could very well be signing my death sentence /again/, but at least if I did this time I would be doing something good. Bringing Stefan his brother back, even if he did kill me on sight.} So, do you want to take a road trip?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Katherine's words bringing a smile to my lips, earlier suspicions proved true. Of course she had a hidden agenda, she always did, this time though there was no malicious intent. Eyes falling to her hand following the reassuring squeeze of fingers. She spoke of time to heal, yet what I had really needed, above all else, was her. Not time, not patience. I’d had all those things for months. Friends had pushed and left, there was nothing from me. Not until her. Everything changed when she arrived. It always did. Even after all these years, the reason for the change remained a mystery to me. Something's you just couldn't pin down, I guess. The small flicker of hope within myself growing with each word uttered. Katherine had a new starting point for us, an avenue I hadn't yet explored] New Orleans..? [Brow hiking quizzically, unsure if Katherine knew the risk there. It was after all where Klaus and the rest of his family had chose to settle down after leaving Mystic Falls. For five hundred years she had been on his hit list, as far as Klaus was now concerned, she was dead. Allowing him to learn otherwise, I wasn't sure that was such a good idea] Of course I want Damon back.. [Emerald eyes searched mocha] ..but I don't want to risk your life in the process. Maybe I should go alone? [Even as the words were uttered, I knew what her response would be. She wasn't exactly the “take a backseat” type. Not to mention that she cared for Damon too, if not loved him. Then there was the added twist of the witch possibly being hesitant to help a stranger. A stranger who was a vampire]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Eyes softened, the concern in his gaze obvious. But I was not one to start a plan and not follow through. And it was Damon, the words spoken to him before I was expelled from Elena's body nothing but truth. He truly was who he was because of me, the man waited for me for a hundred and forty five years. If that’s not loyalty.... Then he hated me, I can’t blame him. That passion was obvious, I drew on the bravado he had. And right now, Stefan needed that. Deep down a part of me still loved Damon, not the way I did Stefan, but I cared. Neither of them had ever believed a word out of my mouth and they had every right. But now, now was different. Being back with Stefan as human was connecting me with my humanity in a whole new way. Making me feel things I had not felt in over five hundred years, the way I felt long ago with Nadia’s father. When my body sparked with nervousness at each touch and my stomach filled with butterflies at every kiss. Before our families found I was with child and I became an outcast. Eyes now stubbornly set on his.} You most certainly will not go alone. One, Agatha would not help some random vampire, and two Klaus thinks I’m dead. It’s not like I plan on parading around the town. {I knew Stefan was stubborn when it came to protecting human’s, especially ones he cared for. Another reason I had offered my blood, had faith he could keep control. The hope of finding Damon, the need to keep me around in order to do so. Though I hoped it was also because he /wanted/ me around not just needed me.} And /if/ something happens you will be there. {Dons a charming simper.} So what are you waiting for? Lets get a move on.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Mouth opening to list all the reasons why Katherine joining me on the trip to New Orleans, wasn’t such a good idea. Though the words never made it off my tongue. I knew that look in her eyes, one of stubbornness, there would be no getting around it. Once she set her mind on something there was no stopping her. Katherine was smart, smart enough to know how to move around without drawing too much attention to herself. She'd been close to Klaus before without him even knowing it, the skill laid within her, regardless of whether she was human or vampire] Right, I'll be there. [Nodding once, turning back in my seat while the engine roared to life once more, we were in for a long drive, with any luck we'd make it to New Orleans before nightfall. With home now on the rear view mirror, thoughts traveled back over what Katherine had said. She held such belief in my ability to protect her from Klaus. Getting one over on Klaus was never easy, guy was smart and that wasn't even counting his inherent strength as a hybrid. To even be able to hold my own against him, should things go off course, then I’d need to be a lot stronger than I was right now. Thick brows furrowed, while eyes remained focused on the open road, I’d once taken a little human blood everyday, just a drop, to make me stronger, build up my tolerance and my ability to control the bloodlust. There was no time for such small steps now. A thin line would have to be walked, a thin line between taking enough and going full on ripper. Katherine's life wouldn't be the only one that hung in the balance if I screwed this up. Fingers tightened their grip upon the wheel, making a silent vow to myself. I wouldn't let the bloodlust control me, I’d take only what was required from the locals. Enough to keep me strong. Whatever it took to keep those I cared about safe, is exactly what I would do. Chancing a glance towards Katherine] How're you doing? Do you need a stop, for food or anything?

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Lips drawing into a easy smile, of course he was not going to argue further with me. I always got what I wanted, plus this was Damon we were talking about. It’s not like he was going to risk a possibility of not getting him back. And I would not let him. We both knew our way around Klaus, sure he was smart, and had superior strength, but we had the element of surprise. Clicking my seat belt into place as we drove out from the Savannah home, glancing only briefly in the passenger side mirror. That may be where my new life began, but I don’t think we would be going back there, deep down I had faith that Agatha would be able to find Damon and bring him home. Making Stefan whole again, bringing him back to the man everyone knew him to be. Pulled from my thoughts as Stefan spoke and I noticed we were verging out towards the highway.} Hum? No, I think I can wait till we are closer to New Orleans. What about you, are you good? {A brow arching in question. I was sure he was okay, but Stefan always had the internal struggle and I didn’t want to put anyone else’s life in danger anymore than he did. He could keep taking from me, but I was only one person and he would need more than I could give. Of course this could create a dilemma, but Stefan was now on his own with me being human. I could not help him get what he needed, be the bad guy and ease his guilt with my deeds.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[The hunger was quietly stirring within me, the gift from Katherine had sated it for far longer than any furry critter could. I should be good for a few more hours] I'm good, really. [Lips displaying a reassuring smile, there was no reason for either of us to worry over my impending hunger, despite the recent indulgence in human blood, I remained in control of the bloodlust. Silence descending upon the interior of the car, possibly in an attempt to reserve what energy we had. While my mouth was quiet, my mind was not. Katherine's plan didn't come risk free, in fact, it put us both in danger. Not that I feared my own death, I’d lived, far longer than anyone should. Katherine's own mortality concerned me more, loss of life was not something I wanted to happen, there was enough blood on my hands. Clearing my throat to grab her attention, an emerald gaze passing back and forth between Katherine and the road] Look, if something goes wrong, with Klaus, or me.. [Words left unfinished. We both knew the lengths I would have to go to in order to be strong enough, just like we knew the risk involved. All I could hope for, should the bloodlust become too much for me to bear, was that Katherine finished the job my father had started over a hundred years ago]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{The silence normally would have been drown out by a million other sounds, but as a human all I heard was the purr of the engine and the wind whistling through one of the old windows. Knowing that this was risky, not only for Stefan, myself but also for Agatha made me not want to think. But I could not keep my mind from racing in a million different directions, the life I always wanted would never happen. I could have just run away, but being ‘reborn’ so to speak had giving me a pesky conscience and I was not sure how to react to it yet. Pulled from my inner thoughts by Stefan’s voice, head turning to catch his gaze, a look of stubbornness taking over.} What something, you mean if you become a ripper again? {Brows perking} No, I’ve pulled you from the edge before, I can do it again. I’m not losing you after going through all this to bring Damon back to you, Stefan. {Pushing back in my seat with a look of pure defiance, Stefan was stubborn but I was more so. And I would be damned if I would be stuck with Damon with out the man I was in love with.} Nothing is happening to you, end of story. {Eyes set back on the road, droning on exit after exit as we drew closer to New Orleans.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Jaw set with determination, even as eyes remained on the road ahead, unsurprisingly Katherine was wholly against my insinuation. Yet what choice would she have, against the monster within me?] Katherine.. [Tone low and remaining calm, to fight this out would be pointless, she'd only dig in her heels] Do you even remember the last time I gave in to the hunger? The death toll I racked up? What I did to Elena.. [Voice lowering on the last. There was no love lost between Elena and Katherine, but even she had to realise how hopeless her trying to pull me back would be. Trust, love, loyalty. None of that mattered when all you could see was the blood and without Damon.. Well, I wasn't sure I’d be strong enough to make it back to myself] You've been given a second chance. [Emerald gaze briefly meeting her own] Don't waste it on a foolish endeavour. [Wholeheartedly believing that the very next time I lost control it would be finale] You have a shot at a normal, human life. For the first time in over five hundred years you are truly free. [Finding myself pleading with her in the hope that she would see sense. I didn't want to lose control, lose myself, nor did I want to hurt her. Laughable when you thought about it, it was my hand behind the blade which drove her essence from Elena's body, casting her into, what we had all believed was oblivion. Things were different now, neither of us were the same people we were then. Memories awakened, feelings rediscovered, some of which I was hesitant to even admit too. A large hand left the wheel to settle on top of hers, thumb pad brushing lightly against bare skin] Just be a survivor. [Head turned to allow an emerald gaze to meet mocha, the hint of a smile playing at the corners of my lips. We'd never fully agree on the topic of putting me down, her own survival, though? A completely different story]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Eyes kept on the road as I spoke.} I do, but Damon is coming back and between us both /if/ something happens, and that’s a big if because I have faith for well the first time ever. We will bring you back. {I didn’t think Stefan understood just how much being brought back had changed me, truly changed me. I don’t think I did either. Here I was willing to risk almost everything to bring back Damon, after all we had put each other through, things we’ve said to each other I still cared.} You think I don’t know that, Stefan? That I’m not grateful for this chance? {Lips pursing as I drew a deep breath, sometimes Stefan was overly selfless, I had lived much longer than him. What, I deserved a second chance more because I was not a ripper? I refused to accept that, going on without him was not an option. Coming home without Damon or at least knowing where Damon was was not an option. Stefan needed this and I was going to find a way. Eyes lingering over to catch his brief gaze.} I’m not wasting anything, I’m saving everything I took for granted. {Sincerity washed across my features, I was not even sure how that just came out of my mouth but somehow it felt right. Once upon a time Stefan and Damon both loved me, both vied for my affections. I never compelled them to do so, but I played them against each other then sold out all my friends and abandoned everyone to save myself. Of course there was no way any of them would have survived against Klaus but I could have went about it differently. His words truly hitting home as I relived every moment I had put my life above everyone elses. Finger lifting to brush against his own.} It seems fate has created me to be a survivor this time. {Lifts a shoulder in a small shrug and laughs lightly.} I didn’t even do it this last time.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Heart sunk in my chest, the weight of it almost crushing. Despite my best efforts to convince Katherine to see sense, to do what was necessary, she wouldn't let me go. It wouldn't matter what I said, or do, she'd never give in. Didn't a part of me know that already though? Know that she would do everything in her power to bring me back, should I nose dive off my eternal perch upon a knife edge. With little hope of changing her mind, the only thing I could hope for now, was strength. Strength for myself, to endure the awakened craving for human blood. The last of her words, pulling me from my own thoughts. The corners of my mouth twitched with the tell of an amused smile. Fate, destiny, had been a running theme for us all over the past few years. Doppelgangers destined to find each other and fall in love, as though it was all part of the grand design. A design I hadn't believed in then, and I certainly didn't believe in now. I’d grown to love Elena because of who she was, not because of how she looked. The same went for Katherine, despite there being a hidden side to her. Inexplicably drawn to both, maybe, for reasons even I was unsure of, everything else? Now that was down to us, nothing more. Nothing less. Fingers delivering a firm squeeze to her hand, stealing myself a brief glance in her direction. The way I felt now, just like before, had nothing to do with fate and more to do with who we were. A shadow self prophecy holding no power over us. Silence had fallen over the interior of the car once more, with nothing more to add to our stubborn fueled conversation. Despite us being unable to agree, there wasn't a trace of awkwardness. We were now only a couple of hours outside of New Orleans, with answers soon to be found, with any luck] Do I even want to know how you know this witch, Agatha? [Thick brow raising in a display of mild curiosity, her past being colorful to say the least] More importantly, is she going to be pleased to see you? [Needing to know exactly what we would be walking into, if I had any hope of protecting her]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Stefan knew all too well how stubborn I was, did he really think I would ever give in? That I would not do everything in my power to pull him from that proverbial cliff? The silence settling in answering my unspoken questions. We were both such different people then we were last we saw each other. Stefan had moved on completely from Elena and I was actually doing something selfless. We would never agree on everything much less this, but somehow we worked so well together when it came to dire situations. Drawing ever closer to New Orleans, Stefan breaking the silence with the laced question. I could not blame him for asking, especially considering my history.} If you must know I crossed paths with her while I was hunting down and getting my information on little Jane Anne Deveraux. Her niece had been taken by a pack of rouge vampires and well, I’m always one to have a witch owe me one. {Lips drawing into a broad grin as eyes stole a glance at him.} So I took my bad ass self in and rescued said niece, reuniting them earned me a favor and now I’m collecting. {Shifting up in my seat, taking a steady breath knowing Stefan would think ‘Yeah, right, I bet there’s more to that story’ but that would suffice.Stefan was more than aware of my skills and ruthlessness as a vampire, not something I was sure either of us wanted to go into detail about right now. I wanted Stefan to love me for who I was now, not some false persona he may think I’m putting up. I didn’t want to be judged by my past actions, Stefan was the /only/ person I was sure would actually give me that. } I’m sure she’s not going to be up for feeding us, especially you, so you might want to stop so we can eat.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Lips pursed with a nod, not forgetting the last time Katherine had a witch in her pocket, although for one not to be a Bennett made a change. Further details in regards to her history with this Agatha, didn't matter, what mattered was that I wouldn't be walking into a brain aneurysm. A go to move for many a witch when dealing with supernatural entities and a sure fire way to put most down] Right.. [Tongues tip running across blunt incisors, the all too familiar itch at my gums made it's presence known. The hunger deep within had been stirring for awhile now, although I had tried my best to ignore it. Knowing the renewed danger each time I fed. The euphoria experienced from human blood was incomparable to that of animal. There was a reason why a vampire’s true strength was to be found when feeding off of humans. Where best to stop? Became the question that overtook all else. Our stay in New Orleans, was one I hoped would be short. The longer Katherine stayed, the greater the risk of Klaus discovering her presence, concern over my own safety was lesser, Klaus and I had an odd sort of on going friendship. My mere presence would arouse questions though, ones I'd be unable to answer. Catching a glance at a road sign declaring the presence of a roadside diner up ahead, my decision quickly being made. The less meals sought within the city walls, the better. Pulling off the highway, guided only by the road signs, I pulled the car to a stop outside of the small building. There were a handful of cars parked around the lot, giving hope that we'd both be able to eat without too much of a fuss, although that depended entirely on the menu as far as Katherine was concerned. Emerald gaze sought out hers] Are you sure you want to do this? [Not meaning the upcoming meal in the diner, but the trip to New Orleans. Concern over her safety overriding my own desire to get my brother back. If needs be then I’d find another way] This is possibly your last chance to back out.. [Her answer was apparent before she even opened her mouth] Never mind. [Canceling out my question, not leaving her with a chance to speak. She cared for my brother, a part of her always had. Of course she was sure, Katherine was hardly the type to act on impulse alone. Stepping from the car, long strides guiding me around the car to open the passenger side door for her] Let's go get you something deep fried and dripping with calories. [Lips curve to display a teasing smile, aware of how meticulous she could be over the food she put in her body. A large hand reaching forth, in offering to her]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Brows arched at his words, he had good reasoning for letting that hang, but in the end he let it drop knowing I was not leading either of us into a trap. Knowing the hunger had to be nagging in the back of his mind, that itch in his gums and the burn in the back of his throat. Having all the faith that he could control his urges as we veered off the highway and into a small diner near the exit. My eyes narrowing at his next remark, we had been over this again and again. He knew I would be more than relentless, I might not want Damon back as badly as he did, but I did want him back. I needed him, not for my own schemes, but so the man I love could be the man he was supposed to be once more. To fully ignite the lingering ember of hope that lay behind those soulful eyes of his. Eyes now lifting to meet his gaze as a hand extended to grasp his, lifting from the seat and closing the door behind me as we lead into the diner.} Right, and let it go straight to my thighs so I can be your heat this winter? {A soft laugh departing glossed lips as we strode through the doors of the sparsely filled diner. A young woman telling us to sit where ever we liked, picking a booth in the far corner. It was fairly isolated from the other customers so as not to drown Stefan in so many pounding heartbeats.} You know, it’s really touching how you’re so concerned for my safety, Stefan. You do realize without me, without this trip you’re back to a dead end. {Not wanting him to go back to that disheartening state I found him in.} I’m in this for the long haul, Stefan. {Interrupted as menus were placed before us, giving the waitress a warm smile in thanks and asking for a water.} So stop asking me if I want to turn back, because I don’t. {Dropping my voice to a low whisper, eyes scanning the half empty diner painfully aware of Stefan’s desire to preserve human life.} Maybe you should try feeding from me again, you won’t hurt me. Then you don’t have to hurt anyone. {Offering him the same pleading look he had myself earlier, appealing to his softer side. If he fed from me that might weaken me some, but then he would be strong enough to protect me and I was smart, smart enough to protect myself.} Then by all means just top off with a furry friend or something. {Shrugging as I had never gotten that, I always drank from the vein when I was a vampire. I never struggled the way Stefan had. Sifting back up in my seat as the waitress appeared once more, greeting her with another warm smile.} I’ll have the house cob salad, light dressing please. Do you want anything? {Eyes falling to Stefan as if in question if he was going to pretend to be human in front of the customers.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Shoulder lifts in a small shrug] It's an idea, although the cold doesn't phase me all that much. Which you are more than aware of. [Flashing a knowing smile, able to find humour within the bleak moments. Katherine's choice of booth and the reason for it didn't go unnoticed or remain mystery. She knew very well what she had awoken within me last night, the struggle I lived with even without the taste so fresh within my mind. Determination had began to settle over myself, after the conversation back in the car. I could hold it together, be strong for Damon, for her. Thumb pad absentmindedly tapped against the tabletop while pushing the thrum of beating hearts as from my thoughts as was possible] Are you surprised that I'm concerned? [Brow raising with mild curiosity. It wasn't all that long ago that Katherine's fate, either way, would have meant very little to me. Much had changed since then, not just circumstances but our very personalities, who we were at our core. My concern for Katherine's safety didn't exist because she could help with Damon, feelings ran deeper than that] I’m aware. [Solemness taking hold of chiseled features whilst head bowed in a small nod. In reality I knew the task ahead would be an impossible one without her aid, all I needed was the reassurance that she was indeed helping of her own free will and not feeling pressured into doing so. Lips parted to argue with Katherine, to take from her again would leave her at a disadvantage when she'd need all the strength she could get. Words froze unspoken on my tongue though as emerald met mocha, the silent plea in her eyes screaming at me. With another nod and a small half smile, I silently accepted her plea. The need I held within to keep her safe made her safer than anyone else in the diner. Eyes shifted from Katherine to the waitress] Just a coffee, thanks. [Using the caffeine to keep myself warm to the touch, having little interest or appetite for the food on offer. Gaze returning to Katherine once the waitress had slipped away with our orders] What happened to the thigh and warmth plan? [Raising a brow] Having second thoughts already?

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

Of course I’m not surprised. I just know I have you and I’m not worried. {Lifts shoulders in a small shrug, the grin from his prior comment still lingering. Was he going to be shocked that I had so much faith in him, that I truly believed he had my back? We were both such different people than we were last we parted. Able to find small moments of comic relief even in the worst of times. I was not doing this because I thought it would bring me some advantage, or because I thought it would change the way Stefan felt about me. I was simply doing it because I cared. Because I wanted to see Stefan happy again.} Just like you have me. {A warm smile taking claim once more upon glossed lips. Hand reaching across to smooth over the edge of his tapping finger.} And I never agreed to the thigh gain. {Laughing before suddenly pinching is hand.} I’m too vain to get fat, and besides you’re on a budget now, remember? No money for new clothes. {Teasing had seemed to become my new way of avoiding awkward subjects, here I was about to eat and I knew Stefan was hungry too. But to feed him I had to eat, to find Damon we both needed this. Damon, that was a subject. Something I had avoided talking about since it was brought up. My last words to him were something else, the things I did I could not take back. Who was to say he would not want to kill me again on site? Not that I could really blame him. Hand retracting as our food and coffee were set down, instantly beginning to dig at my salad, hungrier than I thought.} Look, it’s the bunny diet. {Wrinkles my nose poking fun at everyone’s poking fun of him. Though it really was not that funny, I was not some animal he could drain and leave for some other animal to finish off. I was a human, and he cared. Clearing my throat, my plate already half empty.} I’m sorry, that was distasteful.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Her warm smile now mirrored back at her from chiseled features, a truer statement had never been spoken, she did have me and I her. There was no lengths that I wouldn't go to to ensure her safety along with her survival. The motion of my tapping finger coming to a stop under the gentle touch of her hand, seeming to always know how to calm the monster within without uttering a single word. Was that because she knew me? Probably better than anyone else, or simply because she was the one who had turned me? Casting aside such thoughts since it really didn't matter, all that mattered was that she was here, we were together. Schooling features in faux disappointment, unable to fully hide the smile that played across my lips. The small moment of playful teasing seeming to lighten the mood for us both. We both knew all too well the risks involved here, what was at stake should we make even the smallest of mistakes. Hands pulling back from the centre of the table to encircle the coffee cup, palms absorbing the warmth that was on offer, content to simply sit in comfortable silence while Katherine ate. Thoughts turning towards the feelings I know had, feelings I had believed to have been buried long ago. Unable to recall the precise moment when my hatred for Katherine had turned to dislike, tolerance, caring, friendship and finally to… no. Unwilling to yet fully accept such a notion. The timing of it all was off, not to mention the small measure of fear that accompanied the idea of it, so much had happened between the two of us. Not all of it good and while we might be different people now, there was no knowing if we'd even fit. A large hand brought the cup to parted lips for a small sip, a pact made with myself to only continue the direction my thoughts were heading when this was all over. Settling the cup back down upon the table, pulled from my thoughts by the dulcet tone of Katherine's voice. A thick brow raised, eyes falling across her half empty plate of salad before raising to settle on soft features] Not disrespectful, the timing was just off. [Any other time, I may even have chuckled at her words. Since she had so bravely offered me her blood, this time straight from the vein, it was of no joking matter, not to me, she had to know that, know the depth of my gratitude. Reclaiming the cup of coffee, consuming the last of it's contents while silence fell across us]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Stefan had this uncanny way of making me feel like I could do nothing wrong lately. Was it because I was doing things right this time around or because he needed me to get Damon? No, pushing that thought aside, Stefan was not a user. That was my department in the past, I had no right to try and push that kind of belief onto him. What was I thinking? Eyes drifting from him back to my plate, the small smile still in place.} My timing seems to be off lately. {Finishing my salad in silence, thoughts not so much racing now, but more of a calm. Stefan had in fact become more of a touch stone for me. I had nothing since I came back, everything I had I owed to him, but I didn’t want him to feel as if I was doing any of this because I felt indebted to him. Stefan would give a stranger the shirt off his back if needed. That was just the kind of guy he was, selfless when he was not off the rails and the last thing I wanted was to push him in that direction. Suddenly my thoughts shifting to how close we were to New Orleans and how things might fall if we were unsuccessful. That couldn’t happen, Agatha was the most powerful witch I knew. Not only was I some weird magic doppelganger talisman, but I had come back from the dead through some mystical loophole to screw over the travelers. That had to be of some benefit, maybe, just maybe bringing Damon back would break the spell that kept all magic out of Mystic Falls. Maybe I was some kind of key. Would the little witch be able to hitch a ride too? I knew Stefan would want me to bring them both if possible. Setting the silverware on the now empty plate pushing it forward, washing it all down with a large sip of water.} Well, I think it’s time to get this show moving, yes? {Waving the waitress down, sure Stefan was anxious to get to New Orleans, but didn’t want to rush feeding. There would be a heavy wind of emotions with human blood, and what was to come after. The waitress coming offering to refill Stefan’s coffee and take my plate.} Nothing else for me, thank you.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[It appeared as though Katherine had become lost in her own thoughts, just as I had, part of me wondering if she was thinking the same as me. If there was a part of her that still felt for her murderer the way that I felt for her. Holding back a chuckle, finding amusement in the thought. Our circumstances proving just how odd we truly were, human or not, our lives had been and would probably always be complicated. To bring voice to feelings now may cause doubt of their honesty, the timing was a little suspect. Proving my early decision to not think on them any longer, to be the right one. Pushing the cup to the centre of the table, the last of the coffee long since gone. The sound of cutlery meeting china, the last of her meal now consumed. Anxiousness thrummed away within, knowing what was to come next and wanting to say no. No wasn't an option, as ridiculous as that may have sounded to anyone who knew me] I'm good thanks. [Declining the offer of a refill, hand poised over the rim of the cup as I spoke. With the waitress moving on to the next table, emerald moved across the open space to find familiar features] If you're sure you don't want anything else, I'll go settle up. [Quietly dismissing myself from the table, large strides directed towards the till where I offered payment for the food and drink. Always wanting to appear as human as possible to the world, as if playing the part would make it true. It made it real enough for me] Are you ready to get back on the road? [Offering a hand to Katherine without even thinking about such an act. With the weight of her hand in mine, fingers flexed, taking a proper hold of her hand while leading us out from the diner and back towards the car. Words failing me at this point. Any query over her meal may be perceived as me pushing to feed]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I could sense Stefan’s anxiousness, not that I was not anxious as well. I had no idea if this would work, how Damon would feel when he saw me, the rage I might incur upon his return. A soft shake of my head at his words as eyes followed him, always the opposite of Damon. Not simply taking what he wanted or needed, but earning it. Yearning to lead life as a decent human, the human part I stole from him so long ago. The part he fought to keep alive every time he fed, that he would have to fight for now. Not only for himself, but for me, for Damon and for everyone he cared about. I was more determined now than ever to make his fight worth it. Fingers gliding into his offered grasp as we exited the diner, half wondering how we must have seemed like an odd pair. He watching while I ate, laughing silently to myself as eyes lifted to meet his own.} Aren’t you forgetting something? {A single brow arching as a hand guided to his shoulder. I was not about to let Stefan go starve. I knew he had to be hungry by now, especially watching me eat. If we were to survive this he needed his strength as much as I needed mine, maybe even more so. Eyes now growing stern.} You don’t have to treat me like some delicate little flower just because I’m human now. {Hand departing from his as I shuffled into the car.} Come on, if anyone happens to see they will think we’re making out. {Flashing Stefan a lighthearted wink as I closed the door, I had no fear of Stefan or his ripper side. I could tell feelings were bubbling, that my confidence and his desire to see Damon again would secure Stefan’s control.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Eyes lowered to her hand on my shoulder before slowly travelling the short distance up to her own gaze, hand lifting to rub at the back of my neck, no verbal response to offer her. I was still a mix of contradicting emotions when it came to the topic of me feeding from her. Concern being more than fairly warranted in such circumstances. Yet we were traveling into the lion's den, without the strength human blood would give me, I’d be unable to protect her] That's not what I’m doing. [A small lie on my behalf, it was partly what I was doing. Katherine's safety wasn't the only one I was worried about. I was concerned about the safety of everyone should this prove too much for me to bear. Given half the chance I’d tear the people of New Orleans apart. Settling myself into the driver's seat of the car, eyes searching her own for any hesitance or doubt. Finding only trust laying within the mocha depths. Chuckling lowly to myself from her last comment, even now she managed to pull me from my inner turmoil. An arm stretched across the open space to take her hand in mine, guiding her wrist towards me while eyes fell to a close, allowing myself to succumb to the bloodlust. Dark pulsating veins webbed out from beneath lower lids while incisors lengthened and sharpened. My parted lips hovered above her wrist for a moment before teeth sunk into subtle skin. Powerless to stop the low appreciative groan for the ambrosia which flowed effortlessly into my mouth. Despite her confidence and trust, I couldn't bring myself to drink from her neck, knowing that such close proximity, combined with a rush of emotions would leave me wanting nothing more than to kiss her. Head pulling back from her wrist having taken all I safely could from her. Features once again hiding the monster I truly was] Thank you. [Words steeped with sincerity, hand delivering a gentle squeeze to her own]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{There was no fear residing within as Stefan drew near, knowing this was what was needed and what would hold his strength whether it need to be physical or emotional. This was the first time since I had come back that Stefan allowed me to see the darkness that he constantly held at bay. He didn’t need to be afraid, it was nothing I was scared of nor anything I had not seen before. I accepted Stefan for all he was, not only the parts I wanted to see. That appreciative groan a familiar sound as I attempted to keep my arm from stiffening, not used to being on this end of the biting. A new fondness found in the care taken with such matters as fingers returned the soft squeeze.} Don’t hank me yet, Damon’s not here. {Lips drawing in a soft smile. Would he still be so grateful if this didn’t work, would he still want me around? Drawing on my seat-belt as the engine once more purred to life.} Next stop, New Orleans {Of course I was nervous as I was sure Stefan was, and anxious to get this all done and over with. But also hanging on a edge of what if’s. What if it didn’t work, was there anything else, would Stefan ever be okay without Damon? The silence of the car filled with nothing but the hum of tires over the black top, fingers suddenly coming to rest atop his as my voice sliced through the silence.} You won’t let Damon kill me either, right? {Another one of my half attempts to lighten the mood, though I was only half sure. Maybe once Damon was back he would not care anymore and I was reading things that were not there, Stefan hated me for a very long time. hand retrieving to my lap, finally entering the outskirts of New Orleans.} Take the exit for Canal St. veer right and take a left on Bayou Rd. It’s the white brick apartment building.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[The pad of a thumb wiped any traces of blood from the corner of my mouth] That's not what I was thanking you for. [Whether Katherine realised it or not, her offering a vein, knowing all that she did about the struggles I battled daily, meant a lot more than I could ever put into words. The act itself utterly selfless on her part, with nothing to gain and everything to lose. Straightening within the seat, buckling the belt into place, more out of habit than any need for the safety it provided. Head tipping forth in agreement, the engine roaring to life. It wasn't too long before we were back on the road and well on our way to New Orleans. Able to sense the shift in my companions mood led me to steal glances her way whenever I believed her attention to be elsewhere. Leaving me to wonder if I’d unintentionally hurt her while I drank, careful not to take too much, yet unable to recall the force behind my bite. Thick brows furrowing, unable to take the curiosity any longer, lips parted to speak, the words becoming frozen on my tongue at her own question, hand turning beneath her own to take a delicate hand within my large one. Unsure how serious her question was. On the one hand she should know me better than that. Yet on the other, I was the one who had previously killed her] I won't let anything happen to you. [Emerald meeting mocha in all sincerity. Up until this point I’d thought my feelings had been obvious, despite my attempts at concealing them. Attempts now proved more successful that I’d first thought] If we're successful, then Damon will simply have to suck it up and thank you. [Pausing momentarily to take a breath, part of me unwilling to even consider that this might all be for nothing] And if we're not, nothing changes. You'll still be welcome in my home. [Eyes returning to the road ahead, still hesitant to bring up certain feelings. There was clear insecurity within the depths of mocha, if I spoke of feelings now it was highly unlikely that she'd believe in the truth of them. Silence remained on my part while Katherine gave instructions on the direction in which to take. Eyes searched ahead for the necessary signposts indicating street names. Pulling up in front of the white brick apartment she had described. Without uttering a word, I got out of the car, eyes searching the faces of those who walked the street for signs of anyone familiar. With no sign of the Mikaelsons, I stooped down to speak to Katherine through the open door] It looks clear. Let's be quick. [Closing the door, footsteps hurried to the sidewalk to meet Katherine. Approaching the apartment building a hand fell to rest protectively at her lower back. Knowing she wasn't safe out in the open like this]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I could not help but allow a soft laugh to slip at Stefan’s words. Damon, thank me? That would be a cold day in hell. The latter part of his reply I didn’t want to accept, he needed Damon and as much as Damon and I fought I still cared. Not only because of his relationship with Stefan, I loved him once too. And in that moment my heart sank, a breath drawn as my hand retrieved from his.} I can’t accept that, if this fails I don’t think I can face you. {Only words spoken in the remainder of the drive the directions to Agatha’s home. It was an awkward feeling sitting back, waiting for someone else to assure my protection. But being I was the one thing needed to procure this link to where ever we thought Damon might be what choice did we have? Nodding at his words as I slipped from the car, hurrying to the door of the building and allowing Stefan to guide me inside. It was a small building, only eight apartments, mostly filled by witches that protected each other. Agatha was in apartment seven. Winding up the stairs till we were met at Agatha’s door. Knuckles brushing a knock upon the painted wood, a soft smile greeted me as her face appeared. “Katherine Pierce arises from the dead.” The door graciously being opened for us, my eyes motioning back towards Stefan.} He’s with me, he’s Damon’s brother, Stefan. “Stefan, please come in.” {The door frame was lined with sigils on the inside, hiding her magic from those that would bring her harm. The smell of sage strong as she purified the home for the ritual. An alter set in the cleared out living room with a rather large brass bowl, a circle of salt lined with more runic sigils I didn’t quite understand.} Are you sure you can do this, Agatha? “If I can’t no one can, but I do require some of his blood.” {Her eyes falling to Stefan. I didn’t know that a head of time, but I suspected as much, they were brothers and that would give her a better connection. I was simply a magical link between the here and there.} Not mine? {A curious brow rose wondering what all this entailed.} “I have a mixture ready, it needs his blood. When you drink it, it will send you into limbo. To whatever other side you came from, you may search for his brother there.” {Eyes darted to Stefan, that sounded a lot like being half dead. But I would be able to find Damon for him, bring him back.} Hand it over, Stefan.

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[Incapable of arguing with her words since I was unwilling to fully face that this whole trip may have been for nothing. I’d made many trips just like this one over the past months, tracking down any and all leads I could in the hopes of bringing my brother back from whatever hell he was trapped in, along with Bonnie. It'd had taken the last shred of hope I possessed to even agree to this, in truth, I wasn't sure what would happen if we failed. Would I spiral? Become the ripper once more? There was just no way of knowing. In that moment I made a vow to myself, should the unthinkable occur. If Damon was lost to us all for good, then I would do all I could to ensure Katherine was set before I’d allow myself to fall apart. Once inside the building, my hand dropped from the base of Katherine's back, allowing her to lead the way up the staircase. Eyes fixed upon the door in front of us, a simple brass number seven nailed to it. A sense of anxiousness set in the pit of my stomach, the witch beyond the wooden door was truly our last hope, Damon's last hope. Head tipped forward in a motion of gratitude, taking a single stride over the threshold, allowing Katherine to do any necessary talking, witches weren't known for being very fond of vampires. Emerald gems taking in the items on what appeared to be an alter. From what I had seen over the centuries, Agatha clearly knew her stuff, although Katherine had assured me of such. The mention of my blood had me ready to offer up my hand there and then, yet the exchange of information that followed had me concerned for Katherine's welfare. The traveler knife had bound her to limbo once before, without such a talisman to destroy, just how would she be able to make it back? Thick brows furrowed, gaze moving between the two women. Noting the resolve upon soft features, even though she didn't know the risks, she was still willing to risk it all for Damon. Eyes shifted to settle upon Agatha, hand rising to my mouth, where pointed incisors sunk into the fleshy part of my palm, causing the blood to effortlessly flow. The witch was quick to retrieve a shallow bowl form the alter to collect my blood] How does she get back? [It was a question that needed answering before Katherine's lips went anywhere near the concoction Agatha had created]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{Of course Stefan handed over without hesitancy, this was his last hope to get Damon back and I wanted to do this for him. His question was a good one, one that I wanted to know as well. And in that moment I knew, Stefan loved me. He didn’t need to say it, I could hear it in the tone of concern in his voice. As Agatha started mixing the final ingredient she began to explain. “This is a very complex spell, requiring much energy. Not only on my part but Katherine’s as well. Her now being human she is also a traveler. I will harness her mystical power as a doppelganger to send her, your blood will act as an anchor and an attractant towards your brother while she’s there. Once she’s found him she will have to use a special incantation combined with Damon’s blood to bring her back. Damon and your self are bonded through blood, though she is no longer a vampire she sired you both and there for her blood continues to course in your veins. You are all connected in one continuous circle of life and death.” Blinking in disbelief, I had no idea how to do any kind of magic, my father had terrified us from a very young age. Deep breath drawn, doey eyes meeting Stefan’s with all confidence. With all hopes I could do this, I was a survivor I could do anything, deal with any situation. I didn’t come this far just to travel to some hell dimension and get trapped there trying to save the man that hated me above all others, save Klaus. Listening intently as Agatha told me the spell, how it would allow me to also draw on my own power. As a doppelganger I was the talisman. Once Agatha was sure I had the incantation down properly her gaze met Stefan’s as did mine, a confidant smile reaching my lips.} Does that answer your question?

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[The blood flow soon stopped, the wound having taken but seconds to fully heal. Eyes never shifting from Agatha as she busied herself at the altar, myself ready to sweep aside the offered elixir should her reply be anything but satisfactory. Risking Katherine to save Damon just wasn't an option. Not anymore. Everything had changed. The deep inhale on Katherine's part had my gaze instinctively shifting to hers, eyes speaking words my mouth would not. If there was even the smallest part of her that didn't want to do this, then we'd turn around and walk straight out. Silent question met with nothing but confidence on her part, had I really expected anything less from her? Perhaps Katherine viewed such an act of selflessness as a means to start down a path of redemption. It certainly couldn't be born from a sense of debt, she owed me nothing. Our past had been put to rest, her new lease of life afforded us that second chance. The chance to draw a line and start fresh. Emerald gems passed between the two women, only once I was certain that Agatha had no hidden agenda, such as luring us both into a sense of security, only to have Klaus bursting through the door, did I nod] Just, come back to me.. [Taking a step back, giving Agatha and Katherine the space they required to get the spell underway. Unwilling to move off too far in case my assistance was required]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I was more ready now than I would ever be.} We will. {Nothing but pure confidence in my tone, my gaze now shifting to meet Agatha’s as she moved back to her alter. Bowl perched against my bottom lip as I tipped it, the blood tinged elixir gliding down none too easily. Being human again deterred a taste for blood. A fog settling over my mind as Agatha began chanting, seeming like the air was being sucked out of it as I gasped for breath and finally collapsed within the confines of the salt circle. Head pounding as heavy lids began to open. What happened? My mind was still a fog hand coming to rub the back of my head, eyes trying to focus on the surroundings. I felt strange..... as if every molecule of my body was forcing me up off the ground. Gathering my bearings, I was in Mystic Falls. But it was empty, no one else was here. Feet carrying me forward, passing places that brought memories of more things I had done than I cared to remember. Continually propelled forward passing the school, the grave yard. Damon could have had reason to be at either I suppose, but obviously he was not. Pausing to glance up at the clock tower, not my finest moment. Nadia had every right to be angry with me. If only she was here somewhere too, I doubted it. A swell of sadness pricked the edge of my mind, shaking it off. I didn’t have time for that, back tot he task at hand. The sheriff’s department, he was close to little sheriff Forbes. But no, my body kept propelling me forward. Was he at the most logical place, the boarding house? At least when I was trapped there was entertainment, now there was just nothing. It was a virtual ghost town. Was I even going to find Damon? My mind began wondering in a thousand directions, worry over how Stefan would react if Damon was lost to him forever. Eyes glancing into the window of The Grill, nope not at the bar drinking himself into oblivion, shocker. Drawn towards the housing district, more specifically Maple St. This is the street Elena lived on, but she had burnt her house down after I killed Jeremy. Why would Damon be here, visiting a vacant lot? Shoulders shrugged continuing with my walk, arriving at 2014 Maple St. slack jawed as eyes fell on the white pristine two story Colonial style home. How was that possible? Drawn closer, doey eyes fell upon a familiar figure, simply not the one I was looking for.} Bonnie? {Brows furrowing} “Katherine, shouldn't you be in hell?” Really Bonnie, is that any way to talk to someone that’s here to bring you home? {Her face coated in utter disbelief.} Where’s Damon? I need him to get out of here. “I’m not telling you a damn thing until you tell me how the hell you’re here.”

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

[The corners of lips twitched with the slightest hint of a smile from the confidence in Katherine's words. The survivor in her had and always would refuse to go down without a fight, leaving no doubt in my mind that she would return. Of course, I hoped she’d return with Damon, how could I not? He was my brother, our relationship was a rocky one at times yet he was the only constant I had, the only person left, Katherine aside, who knew the real me. We were family. Unable to do anything except for simply watching the scene unfold before me, Agatha's increased chanting seemed to charge the air around us. My first instinct as Katherine's knees began to buckle was to rush forward, capture her within my arms before she ever hit the ground. Yet doing so would break the circle of salt surrounding her, I couldn't break the circle, who knew what consequences we would face should that happen. The electrifying charge to the air dissipated along with Agatha's chanting, still unable to make out a single word she had spoken. Emerald gaze rose from Katherine's unconscious frame upon the floor to Agatha, eyes searching hers for answers. Had the spell worked? How long would it be before she returned? Silent questions met with a simple shrug of petite shoulders, Agatha now turning away from me to face the altar. A large hand raised to scrub across my face, there was simply nothing else to do but wait.. and worry. There was a pit in my stomach, had been for a long time, almost from the very moment Katherine had suggested this little road trip of ours. New Orleans was not a safe place for her to be in, more so now that she was a human. Sure, she had fed me her blood, made me stronger, faster, than any forest critter would have, yet I would still be no match for Klaus or any one of his siblings. Without even realizing it, booted feet had began to pace back and forth the small living space of the apartment. Shoulders tense, keen hearing listening for even the slightest change to Katherine's heartbeat, not to mention any approaching footsteps out in the hall. The sooner she returned, accompanied by Damon, or alone, the better.]

Katherine Pierce @SpitfireTout

@CorruptHumanity

{I was beyond irritated, not that Bonnie didn’t have good reason to question me. But I didn’t know what would happen the longer I stayed here, I know knew what I had to do. Explaining to Bonnie the whole long tale about the traveler's knife, how it somehow brought me back and I was now newly human. Not a cured vampire human, but truly human it seemed. Explaining to her how I had brought Stefan to New Orleans and my witch friend, Agatha, the spell using Stefan’s blood that drew me here. She seemed to understand it more than I did, even though I was sure I left out some important points.} Now I need Damon’s blood to get back. {Face coated in complete honesty.} I know Stefan would want you to come back too. {Again telling her the rest of the story, the chant, how I as the doppelganger was the talisman and being part traveler gave me an extra loophole to get here. Bonnie’s conclusion being that the traveler’s magic created this alternate universe. Things existed here that did not exist in our Mystic Falls. Now for the scary part, Damon. Following Bonnie in, not that I was too at ease taking this step. Could I even die here? Easing up the stairs and would you know it, into Elena’s room. Of course that’s where Damon was. “Katherine” He hissed lunging forward only to be stopped by Bonnie. The look on his face one of pure disdain. Not that I could blame him after what I did, but I was here to bring him back. That had to be worth something. He bit the bullet after Bonnie explained to him why and how I was here, that Stefan was waiting for us. “Any way we can leave her here?” Damon snarked. Of course he would say that. I just kept my mouth shut for once, I didn’t feel like standing here arguing, I only wanted Stefan to get his brother back regardless of what that met for us. For the first time finding myself honestly grateful for Mystic Falls favorite witch as she was well versed in all that was magic. Damon still being the ass that he was, biting into his own wrists before shoving it against my mouth. A link was formed, Bonnie taking it upon herself to pull through me and hitch a ride. We figured that was the best way to get all of us out together, my mind once more fading into a fog at the words resounded in my thoughts and I hit the ground with a mindless thud hoping to wake on the other side with Damon and Bonnie.}

Stefan Salvatore @CorruptHumanity

@SpitfireTout

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