The Vampire Dairies [Hiatus]

{𝟭𝟲}

Three months later, on January 13, 2012, Jacob was sitting alone in his room, completely focused on a canvas in front of him. He carefully moved his paintbrush across the canvas, adding the final details to the painting, something he had always enjoyed doing but rarely shared with anyone. Just like Klaus, Jacob found peace in painting, using it as a way to escape everything happening around him.

A knock came from the door.

Jacob: In here.

The door opened, and Hayley stepped inside. She stopped when she saw the room, her eyes immediately drawn to the dozens of paintings covering the walls and the new painting Jacob was working on.

Hayley: What's going on?

Jacob: I'm painting.

Hayley looked around the room in surprise.

Hayley: I never knew you painted. I've never even seen this room before.

Jacob smiled as he placed his brush down.

Jacob: I do. It's where I come when I need peace and quiet. Painting helps me relax, clear my head, and think.

Hayley slowly walked around the room, looking at the paintings hanging on the walls.

Hayley: Wow. You painted all of this?

Jacob: Yeah, I did.

Hayley continued looking around before her eyes landed on one particular painting. She stepped closer, studying it carefully.

Hayley: Is that me?

Jacob looked at the painting before looking back at her with a small smile.

Jacob: Yeah.

Hayley smiled as she stared at the portrait, realizing how much detail he had put into capturing her.

Hayley: Jacob, this is beautiful.

Jacob: I wanted to paint you because you're important to me.

Hayley looked at him, her expression softening.

Hayley: You really are full of surprises.

Jacob smiled.

Jacob: There's a lot about me you still don't know.

Hayley walked over and gently wrapped her arms around him.

Hayley: Well, I think I'd like to learn everything.

Jacob: Yes.

Hayley looked at the portrait again, studying it with a curious expression.

Hayley: I do not remember doing this pose.

Jacob smirked.

Jacob: You didn't have to.

Hayley rolled her eyes and shook her head before walking over to another painting on the wall. She studied it for a moment, recognizing Caroline in the portrait.