*Cassie's POV:
As Nik left the cafe, the warmth of our conversation lingered in the air, but it couldn’t entirely dispel the growing unease that crept into my chest. I stayed for a while longer, sipping my coffee and doing my coursework. The cafe slowly emptied, and the once bustling atmosphere quieted to a soft murmur, making me realize how late it had gotten.
When the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the street, I decided it was time to head home. I stepped out into the cool evening, wrapping my arms around myself as I started down the familiar path. The streets were almost deserted, save for the occasional car passing by. The night had an eerie stillness, broken only by the sound of my footsteps.
Halfway home, a strange feeling settled over me—a prickling at the back of my neck, as though someone was watching me. I glanced around, but the street was empty. Still, the sensation didn’t leave. It grew stronger, heavier, making my heart race.
I quickened my pace, the sound of my footsteps echoing in the quiet night. The feeling persisted, creeping up my spine like cold fingers. My mind raced with possibilities, none of them comforting. I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone, dialing Maya’s number. The ringing only made my anxiety worse, and when it went to voicemail, a knot tightened in my stomach.
"Maya, pick up," I whispered to myself, trying to keep the panic at bay. But there was no answer. My breath hitched as I looked around, realizing just how alone I was.
I didn’t have anyone else to call, not anyone who would pick up at this hour. I felt the weight of isolation press down on me. Every sound seemed amplified, every shadow more menacing. Instead of heading home, where the streets were empty, I turned towards the lake. There were usually people there, even at night, and the thought of being around others gave me a small sense of comfort.
As I approached the lake, I spotted a figure standing near the water’s edge. My heart leaped into my throat, but then the figure turned, and I recognized him immediately. Elijah.
Relief flooded through me, and without thinking, I broke into a run. My feet pounded against the pavement, and my breath came in ragged gasps. Elijah’s head snapped up as I approached, his eyes widening in surprise.
"Cassie?" he called out, concern lacing his voice. I didn’t respond, too focused on reaching him. When I finally did, I was breathless, my chest heaving from the sprint and the fear that still clung to me.
He stepped towards me, his hand reaching out as if to steady me. "What happened?" he asked gently, his voice soothing, but I couldn’t find the words. Instead, I collapsed into him, wrapping my arms around his waist and burying my face in his chest.
Elijah stiffened for a moment, then his arms came around me, strong and reassuring. He didn’t press me for answers, didn’t say anything at all. He just held me, his presence anchoring me in the midst of my fear.
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Forbes sister || (Elijah & Stefan)
FanfictionCassiopeia Forbes has spent years distancing herself from Mystic Falls-a town steeped in memories of her younger sister, Caroline, and the mother she never truly connected with. Leaving at just nine year old to live with her father, Cassie vowed nev...