Cassiopeia 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...
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After Kol left me, I wandered through the grand ballroom, feeling the weight of the evening pressing down on me. The space was filled with murmurs of conversation and the clinking of glasses. I noticed Elena slipping away with a purposeful stride. She must have gone to meet someone important, likely Esther. Damon was nowhere to be seen, and Stefan appeared only briefly before vanishing again, leaving me feeling adrift.
I spotted Rebekah standing near the edge of the room and decided to approach her. "Hey," I said, trying to sound upbeat despite the turmoil I felt inside.
Rebekah's eyes lit up when she saw me. "You look stunning," she complimented, her tone sincere.
"Thank you," I replied. "I'm sorry I didn't help you with the undaggering earlier."
Rebekah shook her head, her expression soft. "Don't worry. I know what to do", she winked at me.
I appreciated her reassurance but couldn't shake the sense of unease. As I continued to survey the room, Esther made her entrance, commanding attention as she announced, "Thank you all for coming. Tonight is not just about celebrating our reunion, but about something far more significant."
She held up a glass, her gaze sweeping across the room. "The champagne toast will be a crucial part of the evening. I ask that you all partake in this ritual, as it will link us together in a way that ensures our unity."
The room buzzed with murmurs of confusion and curiosity. I felt a pang of jealousy as I noticed Elijah and Elena talking closely. There was a connection between them that stirred something uncomfortable within me.
A few minutes later, Caroline slipped out, and Matt and Rebekah followed her. With most of the guests preoccupied, I felt the night dragging on and my patience wearing thin. Just as I was about to leave, Elijah approached me with a warm, reassuring smile.
"Elijah, would you mind if I left?" I asked.
He offered a warm smile. "Actually, I was going to suggest I drop you off. I thought you might appreciate the company."
Before I could respond, a sudden commotion drew my attention. Damon and Kol tumbled from the balcony, crashing into the front door. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to the dramatic scene unfolding before us.
Stefan and Damon began a tense exchange, their voices raised in heated arguments while everyone watched in stunned silence. The air crackled with tension, and I felt a mix of frustration and helplessness as the confrontation played out.
Once the dust settled, and the crowd dispersed, Elijah turned to me. "Please wait here," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "I need to speak with my mother."
I waited, my thoughts racing. After a few minutes, Elijah returned and led me to a private room where Esther awaited us. Her demeanor was calm, but I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more beneath the surface.
