Eclipsed Hearts

Chapter 6: Family Ties

As the sun fully set, casting a cool breeze over the city, Caroline and Klaus made their way toward the Mikaelson house. The sprawling mansion loomed ahead, its dark silhouette a stark contrast against the twinkling lights of the French Quarter. Caroline felt a mix of excitement and nerves. Meeting Klaus's siblings had always been a significant moment, and tonight, it felt particularly important.

Klaus opened the door, and they stepped inside. The interior was just as grand as she remembered, filled with rich wood, lavish furnishings, and an air of history that lingered in every corner. Caroline marveled at the way the house seemed to pulse with life and stories, even in the quiet of the evening.

“Hope they’re not too much trouble,” Klaus said, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes as he glanced at her. “They can be quite… enthusiastic.”

Caroline chuckled, trying to picture what “enthusiastic” meant in the Mikaelson family context. Before she could dwell on that thought, a voice rang out from the living room.

“Klaus! Is that you?”

It was Rebekah, her tone sharp and cutting. She appeared in the doorway, her blonde hair perfectly styled but her expression radiating disdain. “You actually decided to show up for once, and you brought a guest?”

Klaus rolled his eyes, clearly used to her antics. “I see some things never change.”

Rebekah stepped closer, her gaze sweeping over Caroline with a mixture of scrutiny and disapproval. “Well, I hope you’re treating her better than the last one. Though I have my doubts,” she said with a sly smirk, crossing her arms as she studied Caroline.

“Don’t mind her,” Klaus interjected, a hint of irritation lacing his voice. “She’s just jealous she doesn’t have someone like me to show off.”

Caroline held back a laugh, taking the jibe in stride. “I can handle myself,” she said confidently, meeting Rebekah’s sharp gaze. “No need to worry about me.”

Rebekah raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but not ready to let her guard down. “Let’s see if you can keep up with the family,” she said, her tone still tinged with sarcasm. “Come on, dinner is ready, if you can stomach it.”

As they made their way to the dining room, Caroline felt a strange mixture of amusement and wariness. Rebekah was definitely more intimidating than she remembered, but there was something compelling about her, too. They entered the dining room, where the rest of the Mikaelson siblings were gathered.

Elijah stood by the fireplace, his expression calm and inviting, while Kol lounged in a chair, a playful smirk on his face. Hayley, now part of their family, cradled a baby in her arms, a symbol of their love and resilience.

“Ah, the prodigal son returns,” Kol teased, raising a glass in their direction. “And with a lovely lady no less! Must be serious.”

Elijah approached, extending his hand to Caroline. “It’s a pleasure to see you again, Caroline. I hope Klaus has been treating you well.”

Caroline shook his hand, feeling the weight of his gaze. “He has, actually. I’ve had a wonderful time.”

“Good,” Elijah said, nodding approvingly. “We were all hoping he would.”

Klaus rolled his eyes again, clearly unamused by his siblings' relentless teasing. “Can we skip the inquisition and just eat?”

As they settled around the table, the atmosphere shifted to one of familial warmth and laughter, though Rebekah’s barbs still lingered in the air. Caroline listened intently as the siblings shared stories and exchanged playful jabs.