Force of Gravity • NM

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The next few weeks were a rare lull in the chaos of Mystic Falls. For once, there were no immediate threats looming, no vengeful ancestors, and no schemes spiraling out of control. The Mikaelsons, Salvatores, and the Mystic Falls gang had settled into an unspoken rhythm. Rebekah was progressing steadily in her pregnancy, her radiant glow accentuated by the loving care of her family and friends.

The idea of throwing a baby shower for Rebekah was sparked one evening as Caroline, Bonnie, Naira, and Elena lounged in the Salvatore living room.

"I mean, it's Rebekah," Caroline said, flipping through Pinterest on her phone. "She deserves something extravagant but classy. Think pastel florals, vintage china, and"

"...a ridiculously long guest list that screams 'royalty,'" Naira teased, grinning.

Elena smiled, chiming in, "I think we should keep it intimate, though. You know, just the people who've been with her through this."

Sage, sitting on the arm of the couch, crossed her arms. "I'll bring the wine...well, for the non-pregnant crowd. Rebekah deserves something fun, even if she can't drink."

"Why don't we have a vintage theme?" Bonnie suggested. "Something that reminds her of....uhm...her time??! Maybe 1920s-inspired decor?"

"Genius," Caroline beamed. "Flapper dresses, pearls, and soft jazz in the background."

As the girls began listing out ideas, Kol and Kai, who were lounging nearby and eavesdropping, couldn't resist jumping in.

Kol, ever dramatic, threw himself onto the couch beside Naira. "You're all so boring. Why not a theme like... Ancient Rome? I'd look excellent in a toga."

Kai smirked from across the room. "Or, hear me out, what about a Game of Thrones vibe? Thrones, crowns, and maybe a wolf for Klaus to pet?"

"You're both insane," Naira shot back, laughing.

Still, Kol and Kai managed to throw in some fun ideas. Kol suggested  games for them to play. Kai, on the other hand, offered to create quirky keepsakes like spell-sealed bracelets for everyone.

As the baby shower plans took shape, so did Rebekah and Stefan's relationship. Their bond had blossomed over the weeks, fueled by quiet moments and shared understanding.

One afternoon, Rebekah was sorting through baby clothes that Caroline had forced her to pick, when Stefan walked in, carrying a cup of tea for her.

"Do you think he'll like blue?" she asked, holding up a soft onesie.

Stefan chuckled. "He won't care, Bex. He'll probably just spit up on it anyway."

Rebekah rolled her eyes, though she couldn't help but smile. "You're so practical. But... do you really think I'll be a good mother?"

Stefan sat beside her, placing a reassuring hand on hers. "You'll be amazing. You've spent centuries protecting your family. You'll do the same for him—just with fewer daggers, and threats."

That earned a laugh from Rebekah, who leaned against him. "You're not so bad at this whole supportive boyfriend thing, you know."

"Good to know," Stefan said, grinning. "But for the record, I'm not going anywhere. You and Henry—" he paused, his voice soft, "—you're my family now."

Rebekah teared up, blaming it on hormones, but Stefan just smiled and kissed her forehead.

Meanwhile, the dynamic between Katherine and Klaus was an entertaining mix of tension and banter, as she and Elijah grew close.

One evening, Katherine had the audacity to waltz into Klaus's study, holding a glass of wine like she owned the place.

"Relax, big bad wolf. I'm just here to check on Rebekah," she said, smirking.

Klaus leaned back in his chair, a sly grin on his face. "And here I thought you'd finally come to grovel for mercy."

"Please," Katherine shot back, though there was a flicker of fear in her eyes. "You'd never kill me. I'm far too entertaining."

"Entertaining, yes," Klaus replied smoothly. "But expendable, too."

Their exchange was cut short by Naira walking in, glaring at them both. "Do you two ever stop?"

Klaus immediately softened, his smile turning genuine. "Ah, love, you're here. Tell Katerina to stop invading my personal space."

Naira just rolled her eyes, pulling Klaus out of the room to spare Katherine any further threats.

Later that night, as everyone settled in for dinner, Klaus caught Naira sneaking an extra dessert onto her plate.

"Planning to eat all of that yourself?" he teased, sitting beside her.

"Maybe, I need the energy to deal with you." she cheekily replied.

Klaus chuckled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You're the only one who can handle me, love. I'm starting to think you're stronger than Elijah."

"Don't you forget it, you said it!" she said, leaning her head on his shoulder.

The day of the shower arrived, and the Mikaelson mansion was transformed into a stunning 1920s-inspired venue. Soft jazz played in the background, fairy lights adorned the walls, and the girls had gone all out with vintage decor.....well now, in the morning the house was a mess.

Rebekah walked in, her face lighting up at the sight. "You all did this for me?"

"Of course," Caroline said, beaming. "You only get to be a first-time mom once!"

Kol, ever the dramatic one, pretended to wipe a tear. "My little sister, all grown up and waddling around like a penguin."

Rebekah threw her tongue out at him, but everyone laughed, the atmosphere light and joyful.

As the group played games and shared stories, Finn watched from the side, a rare smile on his face. Sage noticed and nudged him. "You're allowed to join in, you know."

"I'm perfectly content here, watching you," he replied, his voice soft.

Sage rolled her eyes but smiled, leaning against him.