war of hearts

ch.4

She was holding a simple faux gold bracelet in her hand when Klaus appeared out of nowhere.

"Have you considered a sapphire necklace instead?"

Startled and upset, she glared at him. "Are you stalking me?"

He chuckled softly. "Stalking is such a dramatic word. Let’s call it... observing."

"What do you want from me?" she demanded.

Klaus leaned closer, his tone smooth. "We can be of mutual help to each other, Andrea."

Her expression hardened, but she remained calm. "I’m flattered you bothered looking into me this much."

He smirked. "I know your identity is also known to no one but Marcel and Father Kieran."

"So that’s where you got the info from," she said, her voice steady.

Klaus shrugged nonchalantly. "Can you blame him? One doesn't have much of a choice when threatened with a massacre in a place of worship."

"You’re a psychopath" she spat.

He found her words amusing. "Labels do not matter." He stepped closer, his eyes intense. "Will you help me?"

Hayley hesitated, feeling conflicted. "Marcel saved my life as a baby, kept me safe. I owe him everything, and you’re asking me to betray him?"

He smiled once more, his gaze penetrating. "Pretty much, yes."

"Go fuck yourself," she snapped.

As angry as he was, he took in the sight of her one more time. “Your true name is not the only thing I've learned about you. I know you’re a wolf, and a royal one at that. I know only Marcel and some of his loyal men know of it. But also, I know you haven’t triggered your curse yet, and you can be compelled.”

Before she could react, he grabbed her arm, forcing her to look at him. His eyes bore into hers as he spoke softly. “You’ll do as I say.”

She felt her body trying to resist his words at first before gradually giving in.
And She knew her fate had been decided for her.

Klaus took one last look at an emerald necklace, picking it up in his hand. "This one isn’t so bad. Perhaps I should treat you for your cooperation."

_________

The image of Klaus’s dark blue eyes, staring intensely into hers, was etched in Hayley’s mind. His instructions echoed clearly in her head.

She couldn’t help but worry about Marcel’s reaction if he ever found out. Whether compelled or not, she was uncertain of his level of mercy for the girl he once knew as a baby. Which would soon be put to the test.

For now, uncovering the secret weapon that had everyone in a frenzy was her top priority.

____________

She nervously toyed with her bracelet when she suddenly felt two strong hands grasp her arms. Startled, she gasped and spun around, only to hear Marcel’s familiar laugh.

Relief washed over her as she exhaled. "You scared the hell out of me,"
Marcel’s expression softened as he affectionately touched her cheek. "Sorry about that," he said, his tone gentle. "Are you still coming to the party tomorrow?"

Hayley hesitated. "I’m not sure,"

Marcel’s smile widened as he urged, "Come on. It’s going to be a great event. Lots of important people will be there, even Klaus and his sister, Rebekah."

At the mention of Klaus, Hayley looked away, clearly displeased.

"I don’t have the money for a fancy dress," she protested. "It’s probably best if I stay home."

Marcel shook his head. "That’s nonsense. I’ll buy you anything you want," he insisted.

Her guilt grew at his generosity, but she managed a smile. "Alright then, I’ll go."