Force of Gravity • NM

•19•

The day finally arrived when the Mikaelsons moved into their newly renovated mansion. The atmosphere at the Salvatore boarding house felt bittersweet. Though Damon and Stefan were grateful to have their space back, they'd grown accustomed to the lively presence of the Mikaelsons. 

As the Mikaelsons packed up, Rebekah gave Naira a warm hug. Kol, ever the troublemaker, attempted to convince Damon to let Naira stay with them, much to Damon's annoyance.

"Just imagine, Salvatore," Kol smirked, "all the fun we'd have. I'd even let you visit your little sister."

Damon rolled his eyes but secretly appreciated the friendship that had blossomed between Kol and Naira. Elijah, the ever-courteous gentleman, reassured them all. "You're always welcome at the Mikealson Manor. Think of it as an extension of your own home."

As Naira bid Klaus goodbye, they shared a quiet moment. His gaze softened, and he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Don't be a stranger, love. You're practically down the block," he said with a half-smile.Naira returned his smile, warmth filling her expression. 

Over their weeks stay, there was a shift between Stefan and Rebekah, their friendship evolving into something deeper. Kol made sure to tease Damon every chance he got, joking that he'd miss "poking the bear" but always saying it with genuine fondness.

 Finn, quiet and reserved as always, politely bid them goodbye, though his presence was still enigmatic and distant.

That night, all the Mikaelsons experienced a troubling dream. They saw someone approach their mother Esther's coffin, opening it only to find it empty. Waking with a start, they shared a collective sense of unease. Klaus's worry turned to anger, and he couldn't shake the feeling of a looming threat.

The next day was Caroline's birthday, and a celebration was set up in Mystic Falls. However, Klaus, acting out of frustration from the dream, compelled Tyler trying to make a hybrid. He used Elena's blood from the first stash, his attempt a success.

 But in a haze, Tyler caused chaos at the party. Tyler's aggressive instincts took control, and he lashed out. In his confused state, Tyler bit Caroline, and just as he turned towards Naira, Rebekah intervened, snapping his neck. But Tyler's teeth grazed Naira's arm, leaving a painful mark.

The party guests, including Elena, Bonnie, Jeremy, Matt, and Kol, quickly tended to Caroline and Naira. When news of the attack reached Klaus, Elijah, and the Salvatores, they rushed to the scene, their concern palpable. 

Klaus was deeply worried for Naira, yet she insisted, "Klaus, cure Caroline first. She needs it more."

Klaus hesitated but, seeing her determination, complied. He bit his wrist and let Caroline drink his blood, healing her instantly. Only then did he turn to Naira, who was still bleeding from the graze on her arm. Damon and Stefan hovered protectively, but Klaus approached her gently, his remorse clear.

That night, as Naira rested in the Salvatore house, there was a knock on the door. Damon answered, eyebrow raised when he saw Klaus standing there.

"Well, well, if it isn't the 'Almighty Hybrid' gracing us with a visit. Come to apologize?" Damon quipped.Klaus, usually one to brush off Damon's remarks, simply nodded. "Yes. And to check on Naira, if you don't mind."Damon, recognizing the sincerity in Klaus's eyes, sighed and waved him in, muttering, "She's in her room. Don't make me regret this."

Klaus found Naira curled up on her bed, reading. She looked up as he entered, her face lighting up. But he could see the hint of exhaustion in her eyes, and his heart clenched. He sat beside her, his usually stoic mask slipping as he reached for her hand.

"Naira... I'm so sorry," he whispered, his voice breaking slightly. "I never meant for you to get hurt. I was foolish and reckless, letting my anger control my actions. I... I was afraid you'd hate me."

Naira squeezed his hand, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding. "Klaus, I could never hate you. I know you didn't mean for this to happen. I'm not angry."

Klaus's shoulders slumped with relief. A single tear escaped, and Naira gently wiped it away, pulling him into a comforting embrace. "I forgive you, Nik," she murmured.

In her arms, Klaus felt a rare sense of peace, his usual facade melting away. The weight of centuries seemed to lift, if only for a moment, as he held her tightly. This kindness, this forgiveness—it was something he had not known in a long time. And for the first time in centuries, Klaus Mikaelson felt truly accepted, flaws and all.