The Balance

Chapter 9

The next morning, we are all standing in Elena's kitchen, Stefan and Damon are listening to Elena explaining how Rebekah tried to kill her last night. I am zoned out until I hear Elena say "it was their mother Esther who was sealed in that coffin."

"As in the Original Witch?" I ask.

Damon looks confused, "What? How is she even alive? Thought her hybrid freak show of a son ripped her heart out a thousand years ago."

"I don't know. I'm guessing she has a couple of connections in the witching community. Elijah said that she wants to live in peace with her family," Elena eyes me, "including Klaus."

"She was supposed to be the weapon to help us kill Klaus." Stefan points out.

"Well, not anymore..." I trail off.

Damon groans, "That coffin was the only thing stopping Klaus from tearing us to shreds. Anyone else feeling a little used right now?"

"Look," Eleana ignores Damon, "Elijah promised me that his family wouldn't hurt any of us."

The doorbell rings, "I believe him." Elena goes and opens the door. No one is there, but on the doormat is an envelope with an ornately handwritten "Elena Gilbert" on the front.

"What is it?" I ask, as she opens the envelope and removes a card.

"It's an invitation, Please join the Mikaelson Family, this evening at seven o'clock. For dancing, cocktails and celebration." She hands it to me to look over.

"It's not bad enough they're moving into town, now they want a housewarming gift?" Damon rolls his eyes.

I pause, there's writing on the back. "Wait, there's a note on the back. "Elena, I think it's time that we finally meet, Esther."

Damon looks at me, then Elena, "Absolutely not. We don't know what she wants to do with you."

"I'll go," I offer.

Both my brothers snap their attention away from Elena, "no," they both say together.

"The invitation doesn't say "Allison Salvatore" so you clearly aren't on the invite list" Damon states.

I roll my eyes before I can respond my phone buzzes and I see an unknown number, I walk out onto to the porch, closing the door behind me to tune out Elena and Damon's argument.

"Hello?"

"Allison," a unfamiliar voice comes through the phone, " you don't know me but I know you. I've watched you with my son for decades."

"Esther?" my voice is soft, to ensure my brothers don't hear me.

"Yes, I'm glad my son mentioned me," I hear people in the background, sounds like workers setting up for the event.

"How did you get my number?" I ask, stepping off the porch and I begin to pace back and forth.

"My darling Rebekca was kind enough to share it with me. I know you didn't get an invitation tonight and I feel it is because my son thinks he needs to continue to give you space." She pauses, "I however want to meet you."

I look at the house and can see through the window as Damon and Elena look like they are still arguing and Stefan looks neutral as he leans against the doorway of the kitchen.

I know going to this dance is something brothers clearly don't want.  At the same time, I need to know what Esther wants. "What time is this stupid dance?"

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Digging through my closet I yank dress after dress. "I have nothing to freaking wear.." I groan to no one.