Humanity 3 "The Renewal"

Chapter 22

ASHLEY’S POV

I’m standing outside of the hospital room with Jeremy as we both look in on Elena as she sleeps. Jeremy called me as I was getting into bed. Apparently, Elena fell down the steps after she left my house last night and it was bad enough that she needed to go to the hospital.

I got here as soon as I could to be here for both of them.

“She’s gonna be fine.” Meredith says, walking over to us. “She got a little banged up, hit her head, but it was just a slight concussion, nothing to worry about.”

“But she fell all the way down. There was blood.” Jeremy tries to argue, but I put my hand on his shoulder.

I know he’s upset, but Meredith says she’ll be okay.

“Honestly Jeremy, she’s okay.” Meredith tells him again. “She’s just…she needs some rest. Is there anyone you guys want to call?”

I nod as I pull out my phone and dial Damon’s number. I know they’re on their way to dump Klaus’ body, but they should know what’s going on.

“You’re where?” Damon asks angrily after I fill him in.

“Jeremy told me to meet him at the hospital. Elena was unconscious. What else were we supposed to do?” I ask.

“I don’t know, maybe call up one of the many vampires you have at your disposal with inhuman healing powers.” He scoffs and I roll my eyes.

“Every remaining Original is gonna want you dead to stop Alaric. You are a sitting duck at the hospital with Jeremy. You need to get home.” Stefan tells me through the phone.

“Meredith wants to keep Elena here for observation and I’m not leaving her.” I argue.

“Where’s Jeremy? Give him the phone.” Damon demands and I pull the phone from my ear, putting it on speaker. “Jeremy, get Ashley home, we’re on our way.” Damon instructs before hanging up.

***

I open the front door to the Gilbert’s house as Caroline walks in, supporting Elena’s body. Tyler, Matt and Jeremy walk inside behind us.

“Couch.” I intrust Elena as she tries to walk by herself.

“I’m fine. I just…I want something to eat first.” She says weakly.

“We’re on it. As soon as we make sure no one is lurking in the closets.” Tyler jokes and he, Matt and Jeremy walk upstairs.

“Alright, couch, now.” Caroline repeats my words.

“I told you guys I’m fine.” Elena argues.

“Doctor says rest, you rest.” I tell her as I grab a blanket from the chair and follow her to the couch. She sits down and I pull the blanket over her.

“Now, what can I get you?” Caroline asks with a smile. “Do you want some tea, maybe some vodka? Both will help you sleep.”

Elena doesn’t say anything as she just smiles up at Caroline. “I know, I’m being smothering. It’s what I do.” Caroline says shyly.

“No, it’s…it’s nice.” Elena smiles.

“I’m thinking…maybe tea with vodka.” I suggest and we all laugh.

Caroline and I walk into the kitchen to get the drinks.

***

Caroline and Tyler both got calls from their moms so they left and Jeremy decided to go pick up some food from the Grill for all of us. Matt is sitting in the living room talking to Elena when the doorbell rings.