Gillian's P.O.V.
A week has passed since the kidnapping and dad has been acting weirdly. He doesn't drink any animal blood bag and seems a bit more like... Damon. I ask him everyday if he is okay or if he needs me to do something for him but he would just brushed off my questions and answers positively. I keep thinking that he acts like this because of Elena's blood is his system. I knew this would turn wrong.
I am in my bedroom, trying to do my English paper since an hour but dad decided to put the music really loud. I sigh and groan before vamp-speeding to my father's bedroom. He is exercising on the horizontal beam from the ceiling.
- Dad, I love you very much but please turn this music down before I become deaf, I scream over the loud music. Uncle Damon enters the bedroom with a glass of blood in his hand, annoyment shown on his face.
- Could you turn it up a little bit? It's not annoying yet, mocks Damon, screaming as well over the loud music.
- Sorry, apologize dad. My uncle walks to the hi-fi system and turns the music off. My ears thank him right now. Dad releases the beam and starts doing push-ups.
- When are you going back to school? questions Damon as he comes back beside me.
- Soon, answers dad.
- Oh come on. Just drink already. Come on, this self-detox is not natural, says my uncle while kneeling beside his brother with the glass of blood extremely near my father.
- Seriously Uncle Damon, I roll my eyes. He turns his head around before smirking.
- Can you get that away from me please? pleads dad, mentioning the glass of blood Damon is holding.
- How long did it take you to wean yourself of it the last time you indulged? I watch my dad moving away from my uncle, puting his feet on his armchair and continuing his push-ups. Dad doesn't answer Damon's question which makes my uncle smirking. That's not good.
- I'll be fine; it just takes a little bit of time.
- I don't get it; you know, you don't have to kill to survive. That's what blood banks are for, I roll my eyes again. I haven't hunted in a human in... God way too long, I smirk as I listen to my uncle talking.
- Oh, impressive Uncle Damon, He doesn't move but I heard him smirking again.
- It's completely self-serving. I'm trying to get the town off the trail of vampires which is not very easy considering that there is an entire tomb of them running around. Damon comes back beside me as we both look at my father. Dad stands up and faces us.
- What are we planning on doing about that? questions dad crossing his arms over his chest.
- We're not going to do much of anything if you don't have your strength. There's nothing wrong with partaking in a healthy diet of human blood from a blood bank, Damon approaches his brother again but dad backs away due to the smell of the blood. You're not actually killing anyone.
- I have my reasons, I look down as I know what he is mentioning.
- Well, what are those holier-than-thou reasons? You know, we never actually discussed this. You know, I'd- I'd love to hear this story, tells Damon as he sits in the armchair. If only you knew...
- You're really enjoying this, aren't you? Watching me struggle?
- Very much so, smirks my uncle.
- I hate to break it to you Damon but... I actually have it under complete control, I lightly frown, knowing he isn't saying the truth.
- You do? Well, then you should just carry on, making the rest of us vampires look bad, Uncle Damon stands up and walks to the door, leaving his glass of blood. I stare at the red liquid as I smell it. It smells good but I won't drink any. Have a great day, Stefan. I look up and see that dad is staring at me. I shake my head as I know what his eyes are saying. Damon reenters the room. Oh, hey, almost forgot something, he takes the glass back. Oops. I glance at my uncle not amused by what he is doing with dad. Shouldn't you be going to school? You're going to be late Boo.
- Sounds like you care, I smile and he smirks while leaving.
- I always cared about you, Boo, always, I lightly laugh before looking back at dad.
- Uncle Damon's right. I should go.
- Alright, have a good day Baby, he says as he comes hugging me. Even his hugs aren't the same. They seem feelingless. I smile up at him and vamp-speed to my bedroom before going to school.
Elena's P.O.V.
- Come on Jeremy, going to school! I scream from the bottom of the stairs. Walking out the door now!
- Forgot this, tells me Jenna as she gives me a thermos. I thank my aunt smiling. I open the front door, ready to leave when I almost bumped into someone. Oh my God!
- Elena! says my uncle smiling excitedly.
- Uncle John! Hi. I reply not so happy to see him. I look quickly at Jenna who understand my glance.
- John, you made it, tells Jenna sounding even less happy than I am.
- I said I'll be here before noon, Uncle John enters the house without Jenna or I inviting him.
- Oh what you say and what you do are typically two very different things, Jeremy walks down the stairs and sees our uncle. I was actually scared he would walk away.
- Uncle John, what's up? asks my brother as he slaps John's shoulder and leaves.
- I had some business in town; I thought that a visit was in order.
- How long are you staying? I finally ask him, frowning lightly.
- I don't know yet, he answers me still smiling.
- Okay, well, I'm gonna go to school, I'll see you later, I wave at Jenna and join Jer at my car.
I drive the both of us to school and go to my locker. Stefan is still not coming today. Gillian came though, I saw her walking. I close my locker and walk up the corridors when I see Matt taking a book from his locker. I smile and walk toward the blonde boy. I can't imagine how he must feel since the funeral. Few days ago, we buried Vicki and everyone was there.
- He said his trip is open ended, I say as I explained the surprising arriving of my uncle this morning.
- Uncle John, I never really liked that guy, replies Matt as he closes his school bag.
- Does anyone? I joke and we both laugh.
- I'm here for moral support if you need me.
- Thanks, I think I'll suffer this one alone; you've been through enough.
- Thank you by the way, for just...for everything you did at Vicki's funeral and the memorial. I couldn't have done it without you, I smile nodding.
Gillian's P.O.V.
After I went to my locker, I walked back outside to go sit beside Jeremy. I spotted him sitting at a bench. I also saw Elena talking with Matt. I wonder how he is doing since the funeral? I haven't really see anyone since then. Jeremy's been distant from everyone, I guess... I hope it isn't just with me. Tyler doesn't answer my texts and Matt, well, I don't really talk that much with him. I walk up to Jer who is around people smocking weed. It stinks so bad. I sit beside him and smile. I can hear his loud music. He turns his head and lightly smile when Tyler arrives. He doesn't look at me and hands Jeremy a joint.
- Nah, says Jeremy looking at the joint.
- What's your problem? questions Tyler amused by Elena's brother refusing it. I frown at the Lockwood boy.
- I just don't want any, answers Jer.
- All right. They say she OD'd, says Tyler mentioning Vicki. I look down sadly. I know he loved Vicki.
- That's what I don't get, she was doing okay, frowns Jeremy confused.
- Apparently not.
- How did she end up buried in the woods? That's what I don't understand, questions Jeremy sadly.
- By whoever was with her when she OD'd.
- Maybe she wasn't OD'd. Who knows what she's been through while being in the woods, I say but Tyler looks angrily at me while Jer nods thinking.
- You didn't even know her so why are you talking about her? I was about to reply something but close my mouth.
- Calm down man, she's right. Everything is possible, defends Jer. I look at him and faintly smile to thank him. But, logically, you leave her, you don't take the time to bury her, he says coming back at Vicki.
- Maybe she saw something and... Hell man, I don't know, I can tell Tyler is touched by Vicki's lost. He puts the joint to his mouth and smokes. I shake my head before leaving to go to my class.
Damon's P.O.V.
After playing a little bit with my brother's struggleness, I left the boarding house to go to the council reunion. Sheriff Forbes send me a text last night and I say I would come. I park my car beside all the other cars and exit mine. I see sheriff Forbe's police car parked a bit away from mine. I walk up the mansion and join the rest of the council for the reunion. They actually started and Liz is talking.
- The coroner's office has officially ruled Vicki Donovan's death a drug overdose. Her family has been notified, the truth will stay in this room and we can put this behind us, she says as she sees me entering the room. I smile at her to say hi. The Mayor walks up to Liz before she comes standing beside me.
- Thank you Sheriff. And on to a more pressing issue, John Gilbert has asked to say a few words, wait John Gilbert? Who is he? Is he related to Elena and Jeremy? Welcome back John, it's good to see you, The ''John Gilbert'' walks up to Mr. Lockwood.
- Hello everyone, it's wonderful to see you, I wish it were under better circumstances, I frown as I listen to him. I already don't like him. Well, it's not like I like a lot of people either. As a founding family member I find it's my duty to report some very distressing news, I turn discretely to Liz.
- He's a Gilbert? I ask whispering to the blonde sheriff beside me.
- Elena's uncle. His name is John but I call him Jackass, so even her doesn't like him. Good to know.
- A hospital blood bank in the neighboring county of Amherst has reported several break ins over the past two weeks. 7 hunters, 4 campers and 2 states employees have been reported missing as well. All of this within a 75-mile radius of Mystic Falls, Explain this new Gilbert member when the Mayor interrupts him.
- Okay okay, no need to get alarmed right at this moment.
- Meaning he doesn't want to cancel the Founders' Day Kick-off Party, whispers Liz to me.
- You think all of your problems are over but I'm here to tell you, nothing's been solved, I look at the Gilbert uncomfortable.
Stefan's P.O.V.
After Damon went doing his stuff and Gillian vamp-speeded to school, I kept doing my exercises. I'm so hungry but I know I can't drink any blood. I want human blood, I feel it down inside me. But I have to resist. Last time, it ended badly. I still remember Gillian's expressions and all those innocent people who I took life away.
When I saw that school ended, I vamp run to Elena's. I knock and she opens the door before dragging me quickly to her bedroom. She explains me her day before mentioning Jeremy's paper about the vampires that he gave to Alaric.
- Why would he write a report on vampires? Do you think he's starting to remember? she asks me scared and confused.
- Damon took away those memories for good, you don't have to worry about that. I tell you what, I pass my hand in her hair. Why don't you just ask him?
- I...I can't.
- Why not? I mean if he doesn't know anything then it's just an innocent question.
- I don't even know how to talk to him anymore. I mean, we used to be a lot more open with each other, I nod and look down at my hands. But now, with all these secrets just piling up... You know, I haven't even told him that I am adopted yet, I nod again.
- Maybe it's time you start opening up to him. I'm not saying you should tell him everything but at least try to find out what he does know and be prepared for it. She suddenly frowns and rubs my shoulder gently.
- What about you, how are you doing? questions my girlfriend kindly. I smile.
- Much, much better, I lie. I'm still, you know... a little jittery, a little bit on edge but I'm gonna be okay.
- I've been really worried about you and I missed you.
- I just needed to lay low for a little while and let my body readjust. It's only been a few days, she approaches me and smiles.
- It feels like a lifetime, jokes the brunette before kissing me passionately.
- I've missed you too, I respond smiling and kissing her as well.
The kisses start to get more and more passionately. I push and lay Elena down on her bed, throwing a pillow away at the same time. Elena rolls over and lays on top of me, still kissing each other. I, suddenly aggresively, roll her back over, so I'm on top of her body. God, she smells so good. I stop kissing her abrutely.
- Stefan, what's wrong? Stefan? I feel my face starting transforming. No, No! I throw himself back against the wall, accidentally breaking a lamp on my way.
Gillian's P.O.V.
After school ended, I went to a picnic table to work a little bit. I kind stand his loud music anymore. I take a paper and start writing down for my essay. Well, trying to write. Tyler arrives and sits beside me.
- So, what are you doing? he asks me excitedly. Why is he so excited? I arc a brow and remark that he is completely high. I roll my eyes and don't answer him. He grabs my paper and snatches it in pieces.
- The hell are you doing? That was for tomorrow, I scream at him frowning.
- Who cares? he says laughing.
- Well, I did, okay? he scoffs and takes a joint out of his pocket. Don't you think you already had enough of this shit?
- No.
- Well, I think you do. You've been a completely ass since... he doesn't let me finish my sentence and cuts me.
- Don't you even dare saying her name, he threats me.
- I won't but you should think before loosing people around you, I stand up and take my stuff. Starting by me. I actually thought we could have been something. I guess I was wrong, I walk away rapidly when I see Damon's car parked not too far from me. What is he doing here? My uncle honks and I walk toward his car. I enter Damon's engine and close the door hardly.
- What happened to you? he asks starting the engine and driving away.
- Long story, I reply as I think of Tyler. I hope he'll not stay like this very long. I shake my head and just stare at the streets. Why are we in Elena's street?
- Because she asks me to come to talk to me, he responds as he parks and gets out of the car. I do the same and follow him. Last time I saw her was at the funeral as well. We haven't really talked since then. We actually didn't talk. She opens the door and frowns lightly before gesturing us to enter the house. She shows us to go upstairs so we follow her to her bedroom and wait what she has to tell my uncle.
- Ah, just like I remember, jokes Damon. I scoff and smile lightly.
- Stop messing around, she tells him seriously. Elena turns around and looks at me when she finally closes the door. Why are you here?
- my uncle came to pick me up at school, which, I turn around and frown while looking at him laying on her bed with a cute teddy bear on his stomach, I don't know why he did but anyway, is there a problem of me being here? I frown as well and she shakes her head.
- no, it's actually good that you're here? Wait, what? I frown disbelieving that she actually wants me here.
- Did you know that your uncle has been kicking it with the Founders' Council? intervenes Damon all of a sudden. Elena and I stare at Damon. Who's her uncle?
- What? she questions surprised and with a slight hatred. Damon nods while playing with the teddy bear. Perfect, we'll just add it to the growing list of how everything is falling apart.
- Wait, who's your uncle? I ask her lost.
- His name is John Gilbert. If you ever see him just run away.
- Why?
- He's a completely jackass, I laugh to her answer. I remark Damon glancing at something behind me. I turn around and see a broken lamp.
- What happened right there? he asks pointing at the lamp with the arm of the teddy bear.
- Uh...nothing, answers Elena as she seems uncomfortable. Damon and I both stare at her with disbelief shown on our face. Look Damon, Gillian, I'm worried about Stefan. He says that everything's okay but he's clearly struggling, I sigh quietly, knowing she is right. Unfortunately, Damon won't do anything as I know him. How long is it gonna take before he goes back to normal?
- A few days, give or take, simply answers Damon.
- It's been a few days, complains Elena.
- Give then, I don't know. What's the big deal? Damon gets up and gives her the teddy bear.
- Uncle Damon, Elena's right. Dad isn't himself, I can tell. He turns around to stare at me. We all know that he is struggling, why don't you see it? Or maybe you do, then, why don't you do anything? Damon smirks.
- He's not himself, Damon, continues Elena. I cross my arms as I stare at my uncle who is walking toward the brunette's dresser. He opens the drawer and takes a bra off of it. I stop a chuckle in my throat while she snatches it away from his hand and puts it back in the drawer.
- Well, maybe his problem is that he has spent too long not being himself.
- Please don't make me sorry for asking you, Damon takes a picture from the mirror. Elena tries to take it back but she is too slow. I roll my eyes at the scene.
- It is what it is Elena. The Stefan you know was "good behavior Stefan", 'reign it in Stefan", "fight against his nature into an annoying excessive level Stefan" but if you think there isn't another part to this then you have not been paying attention, my uncle pouts at Elena as if he was ready to kiss her. I arc my brows as I feel the rage building inside me. How dare he doing this when he knows that dad is going out with her? Instead, Elena takes back the picture.
- He's not you, not even close.
- Well, he doesn't want to be me. That doesn't mean that deep down though he's not, I watch Elena staring at Damon with annoyment. He gets closer to her, looks at her and leaves, pushing me lightly to exit the room.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I'm looking for a book in the library of the boarding house. I take one off the shelve before throwing it back. I'm shaking. Why is it happening to me again? I walk to get a glass of whiskey. I roughly pour down the liquid in the glass and stare at it. I'm craving of blood. I'm scared to hurt Elena or an innocent person in the street. I quickly drink the liquid down before sighing.
Elena's P.O.V.
After Damon and Gillian get out of my house, I went to Jeremy's bedroom. I have to tell him about my adoption and I have to know what he knows about vampires? Maybe I'll learn things as well or maybe not... I knock on his door and tell him to come with me. My brother takes off his headphones and follows me. We take my car and I drive the both of us to the lake we used to go. Not a lot of people go there so it's a good place to talk in private. I park and we start walking along the lake while I explain the whole adoption thing.
- I just can't believe mom and dad never told you that you were adopted, he says with disbelief.
- I'm sure they would have eventually, I reply hoping it's true. Though, I will never know if it's true or not.
- Why were you worried about what I thought?
- Because... I don't know. It's weird. Going you're whole life thinking you're related by blood to someone, I admit. I'm glad he takes it fine.
- Does it bug you that we're not? he asks while we keep walking.
- No, Jer... you're my brother, that's all that matters, I see him smiling from the corner of my eyes. I smile as well while looking down at the ground. So, Mr. Saltzman said you've been doing great in history now, I tell him changing the subject.
- Yeah, yeah he's really been helping me out. He gave me some extra credit and stuff.
- He loved your vampire paper, I say and wait for his reaction.
- He thought I had a clever angle, responds my brother laughing.
- What drew you to that subject matter?
- I don't know, boredom or maybe I'm just as nuts as the long line of Gilbert crazies.
- Gilberts aren't crazy, I respond laughing. If you knew what crazy life I have since I met the Salvatore.
- Easy for you to say, you're not one, I stop and do a hurt face.
- Ouch, I put my hand on my heart before pushing him lightly with my shoulder and running after him. Like old times.
Gillian's P.O.V.
Back at the boarding house, I prepared myself for the Founder's party kick-off. Everyone is going there. Dad and Damon are preparing themselves as well in their bedrooms. I wonder why they are doing all those Founder's party thing? I put on my red dress after applying my make up and doing my hair.
I put on some perfume and put on my shoes before walking downstairs. I'm the first one ready? Well, that's a first one. I wait few minutes until dad walks down the stairs while finishing his tie. He doesn't look too well which preoccupy me. I smile and hug him as he arrives at the bottom of the stairs. I hear him chuckling while he embraces me as well. He's been through so much and is still going through a lot. Dad never deserves any of this.
- awnhh, father/daughter hug, so cute, smirks Damon while walking down the stairs really fast. Looking hot little niece. You too brother but... he approaches dad and puts his hand on his shoulder, I'm better looking than you. Damon exits the boarding house. I stare at my father before the both of us laugh and follow my uncle outside.
We enter Damon's car and he drives us to the Founder's Party kick-off. We can't vamp-speed there as we have to arrive as normal people. Their are too many rumours about vampires running down the town. Plus with the other vampires that escaped the tomb, it's been even more difficult for us to hide. Damon parks the car and we walk toward the mansion. I'm walking between the two brothers as I hear the music coming from inside.
- Oh god! I shouldn't be here, whispers my father. I frown worriedly while looking up at him.
- Do you want to go back home? I ask him but Damon interrupts dad.
- Come on, don't be a downer, it's a party for the founding families! That would be us, Damon looks at his brother and I. That would be rude to skip it.
- I really liked you a whole lot better when you hated everybody, comments my father which makes me smile.
- Oh I still do. I just love that they love me, laughs Damon before looking at my father. How are you feeling? asks my uncle to my father.
- I'm good, I'm fine, liar.
- No cravings? No urges? Is that whiskey you've been drinking all day doing its job? I look at Damon with angry pleading eyes for him to stop. I perfectly know what he is doing. Damon doesn't react to my expression. I hear dad laughing. We are who we are Stefan. Nothing's gonna change that.
- Ah! Nothing will make you happier to just see me given up hein Damon?
- Whatever, it's inevitable.
- Well, I'm gonna find Elena, tells dad, leaving Damon and I alone.
- Don't embarrass me young man! warns my uncle joking. I look up at him annoyed. What? he asks me. I roll my eyes and walk away but not before hearing him chuckling.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I'm drinking my... umpteenth drink of the day, at the bar, when Elena arrives. She looks so beautiful in her dress. I put the glass on the bar beside me and wave at her. She smiles brightly before walking over to me.
- Hey! she tells me while quickly looking at my drink.
- Hey. How are you? I ask happily and kisses her on the cheek.
- Are you drunk?
- Okay, I know it's a little weird but it's really helping me. The alcohol takes the edge off, I explain to my girlfriend even though it might sounds weird an be a little lie.
- You're totally that drunk high school guy at parties sneaking booze, jokes Elena even though it didn't sounded like one.
- I totally am, yeah.
- How worried do I need to be? she asks frowning a bit.
- Oh no! You don't need to be worried. It's just until the cravings go away. Listen, I think we should enjoy it while it lasts. Would you like to dance with me?
- You hate dancing, reminds me the brunette with disbelief shown in her eyes. I usually have to beg you.
- No, no, no you have to beg the sober me. The drunk me there is no begging necessary. She looks at the dance floor and then back at me.
- There's really no one dancing.
- That's because they need something better to dance to. I'll be right back, I smile at her and leave to go compel the DJ.
Gillian's P.O.V.
I've been walking around, looking at who is here, the drinks, the food,... I saw Matt and Tyler drinking in a corner which is not very discret, Matt's mother is drinking as well like the usual, Damon is at the bar which doesn't very surprise me and I don't find dad anymore. Well, I haven't see Elena either. I enter a room when the music changes. It's more rythmic and better than the previous one. Wait, am I dreaming? My father is dancing! He must be so dunk right now, he would never dance otherwise.
- Have I entered an alternate universe where Stefan is fun? I hear my uncle talking to someone. I look around the room and see him standing next to Elena.
- Is he gonna be okay? she questions ignoring Damon's one.
- Eventually. One way or another, They look at each other, and then watch dad. Damon is smiling while Elena looks worried. She walks away, letting my dad dancing with Matt's mother and I walk to Damon who drinks his champagne.
- Am I dreaming? I ask him before grabbing his glass and drink it in one gulp.
- You shouldn't be drinking, he smirks while taking his glass back. Damon turns to the barman behind us to command a new drink. You're under age remember.
- We both know I am not, it's just apparances, I whisper so lowly that only him can hear me. He chuckles and walks away. I look back at my father, who is having fun, before walking away as well.
Damon's P.O.V
I left Gillian at the bar and walk aroung again when I remark Liz, standing by herself with a glass in her hand. She is wearing a dress, very surprising! I smirk and walk to enter the other part of the hall to rejoin her.
- You know I love a woman in uniform but I have to side with this one. You look... you look smashing, I compliment Liz as I approach her to stand in front of her. She laughs.
- Thank you Damon. Cheers! we clink our glasses. I needed that. You know I had my doubts about you at first but like everyone else on the council you've won me over.
- Thanks Liz. It's really nice how welcoming the council has been. I like my life here in Mystic Falls. Starting to feel like home again, I tell her smiling, playing my best acting card.
- Well, you're not gonna like what I have to tell you, I frown lightly as she pauses few seconds. Johnathan Gilbert's claims check out. Blood bank, the missing people, all of it's true. We might have a problem, I was about to respond to her when Jeremy arrives suddenly.
- Excuse me Sheriff. I was curious if there's been any more information about what happened to Vicki Donovan? he asks her hurt, I can hear it in his voice. Gosh, he really loved that girl.
- It was an overdose, Jeremy, answers Liz looking and lying at the teen.
- Yeah, but her body was buried. Somebody must have done that, I take a sip of my drink, feeling quiet uncomfortable.
- We're aware of that. The investigation is ongoing but there's nothing more I can tell you at this time. I'm sorry, Elena's brother nods and leaves, letting me alone with the sheriff again.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I've been dancing for an hour now and I haven't seen Gillian, Elena or even Damon. I drank few more drinks as it's the only thing that keeps me from craving for blood. I see Elena dancing with Matt. She looks happy. I smile and walk toward her while Matt goes away.
- Please dance with your alcoholic vampire boyfriend, I whisper. Elena smiles and I spin her around before she accidentally bumps into a man.
- Wow! Watch it! he tells her rudely. I can feel myself getting angry suddenly.
- I'm sorry, my fault. I'm clumsy, apologizes Elena politely as she smiles at the man.
- Then get off the dance floor.
- That no way to talk to a lady, I tell the man while I step in front of the brunette.
- Whatever, I watch him turning around to leave but I stop him before by catching his arm. He stares at me and I compel the man.
- I think you need to apologize.
- I'm sorry, he says looking at Elena. He starts to leave but I violently grab him again.
- Now say it like you mean it, I compel him again.
- I'm really, really sorry, apologizes the man sincerely.
- Stefan, it's fine, states my girlfriend pulling lightly on my arm.
- Now walk away, I tell him and he does as I push him. I turn around to look at Elena's face and rub her cheek with my thumb. You alright? The brunette nods.
Damon's P.O.V.
- Have you noticed what your brother has been up to? I hear the sweet voice of Elena beside me. I lightly roll my eyes before turning to her.
- No, I have been too preoccupied with yours, she looks at me questioningly. Jeremy has been asking questions about Vicki Donovan's death.
- He knows that her death was ruled an overdose, she tells me while eating little aperitifs.
- Really? "Oh but sheriff, someone buried her. Who would do that?" I say imitating Jeremy's. I know, I know! Me! I mean, I could compel him but he's wearing vervain.
- No, I don't want you to compel him, she tells me suddenly.
- If he keeps asking questions... I started saying but Elena cuts me.
- Damon, no I'm serious. I'm not going to do that to him again. I'll handle it, I grab a rose in the vase beside me, smell it and hand it to her.
- Okay. Don't say I didn't warn you, Elena takes the rose before we exchange a look at each other. I leave her alone at the bar to go on the balcony. Fresh air and night sky, what could I ask for more? I sip up my drink when I hear heels behind me.
Gillian's P.O.V.
I'm bored. I don't want to dance with all those drunk men and women, Matt and Tyler are nowhere to be seen. Elena is dancing with dad and Damon is... well somewhere. I wished that Bonnie or Caroline could be around. I actually miss Bonnie, she's been away for quiet few weeks now. I sent her few texts and she responded to it but still. She's a funny girl. I walk up to go on the balcony when I see my uncle staring at the night sky. I walk toward him before hearing him chuckling.
- Enjoying the night Boo? he asks, not even turning around.
- How did you know it was me? I ask laughing and now standing beside him.
- I just know when you around little niece, he whispers before taking a sip of his drink. I smile and stare at the sky as well. It's peaceful which kinda seems surreal.
- Damon, don't take it in the wrong way but I was wondering, he turns his head to look at me, why are you nice with me? I mean, I know you're my uncle but you're a real dick, let's be honest, he chuckles again. It just bugs me that you are so different with me. I mean, I laugh awkwardly, I don't want you to be horrible with me but... He stares at me before puting his cup on the boarder of the balcony.
- I guess, you just are special. I nod before shaking my head and frowning confusedly. He sighs and looks back at the horizon. I always wanted a kid, you know? If it was a boy, I would have played football with him and taught him man things and if it was a girl, I would always have protected her like she deserved and would gave her everything I have. But I'll never be able or have the chance to have one. Your dad... I don't know how it happened but it did. And I'm happy to be an uncle. I know I wasn't really an uncle to you before months ago but now... I just feel like I have to protect you, like an uncle should do with his niece, I smile and nod before hug siding him. He passes his arm around my shoulders and tighten a bit his grip. I'm happy that I am the only one seeing this side of him. He should show it more. I pull away from him when I hear faint footsteps coming toward us.
- Damon, right? says a man behind us to my uncle. And you are young lady?
- John, says Damon sounding fake. Wait, John as John Gilbert?
- I'm Gillian Salvatore, Damon's little sister, I smile and shake his hand. I already don't like him.
- Nice to meet you, he smiles at me and turns to Damon. We didn't get the chance to meet at the council meeting.
- Yeah. It's a pleasure. Are you enjoying the kick-off? questions Damon smiling as I stare at the two men.
- Oh yeah. I forgot how much fun these small town celebrations can be.
- Yeah. When was the last time you were here?
- Hasn't been that long, my brother's funeral. How long have you two been in town? the man frowns while he stares at my uncle and I.
- Oh, not long at all, answers Damon smiling. Something is off with that man. I can feel an awkward tension building up here.
- So what do you think Damon? You know this vampire problem is real, right? It's a potential blood bath.
- Should I go? I ask Damon but John interrupts Damon before he could responds to me.
- no, please stay. I know you won't say anything to anyone of what we are talking here, he is trying to compelling me. I saw his iris dilated and getting back to normal. Wait, is he a vampire? I nod to act like he did compel me. I then look at my uncle who seems to not have seen anything.
- I wouldn't overreact John.
- Oh, I think it's like 1864 all over again, vampires running amok. I guess we're just gonna have to hunt them down, throw them in a church and burn them to ash, I swallow my saliva with difficulty. I like being a vampire but sometimes, no. Burning a vampire is the worst ending.
- That's the story, huh? questions Damon as he takes a sip of his Bourbon nervously.
- Part of the story, yeah, replies John. I look up at Elena's uncle, just like Damon.
- Oh, there's more? asks my uncle surprised. God, he is such a good actor.
- Oh, there's a lot more. See, it seems there was a tomb under the church, where vampires were hidden, waiting for someone to come along and set them free. But then you already knew that didn't you? Damon looks uncomfortable at the man and so do I. John smiles as he stares at the both of us. I don't like the twist the conversation is taking. I mean, you're the one that did it.
- And you're telling me this why? smirks Damon. How can he smirk at this right moment?
- I just thought we get the introductions out of the way, mocks John.
- You know that I could rip your throat out before anyone would notice? John nods and smiles devilishly. I frown at the man. But you probably ingest vervain so...
- Why don't you take a bite to find out? proposes Elena's uncle, not scared of anything.
- It's not worth my time, responds Damon while the two of them exchange a long glance. My uncle pushes me lightly to leave but he stops abruptly. I turn around and see him vamp-speeding toward John before breaking his neck and throwing him over the balcony. I vamp run to be beside my uncle and look down with him. John's body is laying on the ground, broken. I look back at my uncle, sighing.
- Damon, he tried to compel me, he stares at me, thinking before nodding and pushing me back at the party.
Elena's P.O.V.
After Damon told me about Jeremy's thoughts on Vicki's death, I went to look for him. Where is he? I've been looking everywhere. I walk in a numerous corridors and see him sitting on a couch in a quiet, dimly-lit room. A little candle is in front of him to lighten up the room. He looks so sad that it hurts me. He doesn't deserve any of this.
- Jer? I heard about your conversation with Sheriff Forbes, I tell him as I sit beside my brother.
- No one is trying to figure out what happened to her. They all want to believe that she OD'd.
- The coroner's office confirmed it. If that's what they said happened then...
- Is that what you believe? questions my brother obviously thinking of something else.
- What do you think happened?
- I think somebody killed her and buried her body and I don't think we should write it off just 'cause it's easy, argues Jeremy.
- They're just doing what they can to move on, I say trying to convince him.
- The truth is the only thing that's gonna help people to move on.
- Jer, just let it go, okay? Whatever it was she's gone now.
- Whatever it was? he asks frowning. So you don't think it was an overdose?
- Yes... I do, I answer feeling quiet nervous. He can't know anything. I've done everything for him to not be aware of this.
- Is there something you're not telling me? I don't respond and stare at the floor uncomfortable. Why aren't you looking at me?
- Stop it, that doesn't mean anything, I tell him sharply.
- If there was something else you would tell me, right? I stare at my brother few seconds before nodding and smiling, or at least trying to smile. He looks suspicious, I can tell and it's not good at all.
Gillian's P.O.V.
I walked back down to the main room where people are still dancing and drinking. I'm so ready to go home. Even though, I'm wondering about Elena's uncle. Why is he here? Why did he came back only now? what happened? How did he became a vampire if he really is one? Does he know my mother? so many questions are burning my brains that it gives me a headache. I walk outside passing quickly between people. I open the door and a fresh wave of air slap my face. It feels good. I can't help but smile as I feel the wind cooling me down. I turn my head to the right and see Tyler kissing Matt's mother. Ouch! Why do I feel like I've been wrecked by a truck? Tyler is just a friend obviously, we are nothing more. And still, I feel like I love him. I frown and was about to walk angrily to him when Elena and Matt come out of the mansion. Oh no! They both see the scene in front of them and Matt starts walking, almost, running to his mother and his best friend.
- Matt! I call but he doesn't listen or turn around. Matt!
- What the hell are you doing man? he asks Tyler as he snatches him away from the woman.
- Matt?! questions Matt's mother while looking at his son.
- Mom!!!! he screams at her and she backs off a bit, scared and surprised.
- Whoa dude calm down, tells Tyler puting his hands up. Not even a second later, Matt punches Tyler's face. They begin to fight each other before accidentally pushing Kelly to the floor, breaking glasses and a table in the process. Tyler hits Matt again and again and again.
- Matt! Stop it! Tyler! Stop it, you're hurting him! Somebody help us, screams Elena watching the two teens. I walk up to them and grab Tyler's arm before pulling him back. Mr. Saltzman grabs Tyler and pushes him against the wall behind him.
- What the hell is that? asks our history teacher. Tyler doesn't seem to calm down. Why is he this.... violent? I step in front of him and stare at his eyes. Elena runs to Matt's side and kneels down.
- Tyler, stop! Stop! Tyler! Stop now! I put my hand on his face and he calms down when his eyes meet mines. Calm down. I say lowly and nodding. I hear someone running behind me. I turn around and see the Mayor. He frowns as he sees me but doesn't say anything. Well, last time, he wasn't really happy to see me either.
- I'll take it from here; I'll take it from here, he tells to Mr.Saltzman. Are you hurt? Go get cleaned up. It's okay. Go get cleaned up, he asks Tyler gently which is weird. Tyler looks one last time at me before leaving. Thank you for your help, he thanks Mr. Saltzman and leaves as well. I glance at Elena and Matt quickly. God, he is in a bad state. Where's his mother though? Everything's fine. Everything is fine, I hear the Mayor saying loudly. Come on, everybody, back to the party. Let's go. Come on, have a good time! He enters the mansion and I follow him behind.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I keep walking around, drinking and dancing. I lost Elena is this crowd again, she must be somewhere around. OR with Matt maybe. I drink up my glass when my brother arrives smiling.
- You wanna hear the bad news or the really bad news? he questions me before clearing his throat.
- Actually, I don't want any news Damon, I respond looking at him.
- Alright, let me rephrase. Do you want to hear how the council is back in vampire mode or how I just killed Uncle John Gilbert?
- What? I ask him with disbelief.
- Great party by the way, huh? Damon smiles and walks away. I go after him, walking fast to join him when I smell blood. Where does it come from? This is not good at all. I hear cries as well. I turn around and see Matt's mother sitting on a chair crying, an open wound on her forehead bleeding. I approach her slowly.
- Is everything alright? I ask while trying to control myself.
- No. I ruined it, I always ruin it. What is wrong with me? I slowly kneel down to her eye level and stare at the blood coming out of her forehead. It smells so good. I touch the blood on her forehead by the tips of my fingers. What are you doing? I stop what I was doing and apologize to her. I need to leave now. I stand up and exit the mansion to go at the parking.
Outside, I walk near the cars, in the parking lot, to be alone. Even the fresh night cool air isn't cooling me. I need blood. Human blood. I look down at my shaky hand with the blood on it. I shouldn't do this... I lick the blood off of my fingers. Oh no!
Damon's P.O.V
After killing John Gilbert, which I'm proud of, I walked back down with Gillian to enjoy the kick-off. I already lost my little niece is the crowd. I drink a new glass of Bourbon, listening to the music when suddenly, a man enter the room. John Gilbert.
- You got to be kidding me.
Gillian's P.O.V.
I walk in the main room, where Mayor Lockwood asked everyone to be. He is going to do a speech. I stay at the back of the room with my arms fold over my chest while listening to the man.
- Thank you all, thank you very much, thank you. Thank you all for joining us tonight in just a few moments we will officially begin the countdown to our upcoming Founders' Day celebration and it's a very special one this year. The one hundred and fiftieth birthday of our town, everyone claps their hands as two other men wheel a bell next to the Mr.Lockwood. I clap my hands as well when I feel someone standing beside me. I look up and see Tyler. He doesn't seem too good. I sigh and look back at his father. Tyler gets near my ear before whispering an apology. I stare at him surprised and was about to say something back. But nothing came out. I nod to him and look back again at the Mayor. And... and I would like to welcome back one of our town favorite's sons to do the honors of ringing our official charter bell. John Gilbert, Wait, what? I knew something was off with him and not only because he tried to compel me. Did he actually? Would you please join me up here? Elena's uncle applause and rejoins Tyler's father.
- hum, I'm going to my brother few seconds, I'm coming back, I whisper to Tyler who nods. I walk between people before standing at Damon's right. My uncle looks down at me nervously and angrily.
- One hundred and fifty years of community, prosperity, family. We take care of each other, we look after each other, protect each other, John stares at Damon and I. It's good to be home. The crowd applauds when I feel Damon pushing me to the right. I follow his push and we arrive in front of Mr.Saltzman.
- Look at his right hand, tells my uncle to my teacher.
- Whose?
- Towns favorite's son. Look at his ring, we all look at John's ring. It's the same as Mr.Saltzman's. Wait, so he isn't a vampire? How could he do this with his iris?
- Well, it looks like mine, comments Alaric.
- Yeah, and that would be a big coincidence if he didn't just came back from the dead five minutes ago. Where the hell did you get that ring? questions Damon sounding angry and nervous at the same time.
- Isobel, my wife, explains my teacher.
- Who gave birth to Elena, under the medical care of the esteemed DR Grayson Gilbert, John's brother! exclaims Damon. the three of us turn to stare at John who is smiling.
- Do you think John knew Isobel? I ask my uncle.
- I think John knows a lot of things, he answers me with venom in his voice as he stares at the man.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I need to calm down or else, I'm going to kill the first person walking down here and I'll regret it. I take deep breaths as I pace around. This is so wrong. I'm still in the parking lot when the man I compelled earlier arrives. He comes furiously towards me and pushes me with his shoulder.
- Sorry about that man. I really am terribly sorry, mocks the man which aggrevates me.
- You don't want to do this man, I warn him. He pushes me again which makes me step back a bit.
- I'm sorry about that too. All I can do is apologize. What's that about?
- Get out of my way. Please, I plead him as I feel like I'm going to lose myself. I really need to get away from him and quickly.
- No girl to show off for now? I see what this is, he turns around before trying to punch me but I catch his fist mid-flying. I crush it slowly and push the man on the ground. My face changes, I can feel it, but I don't care. What are you, man?
Jeremy's P.O.V.
After talking with Elena, I'm definitely sure that something is missing about Vicki's death. Elena seemed like she was hiding something. She doesn't know how to lie. I drove back home and went up the stairs to my sister's bedroom. I need to find her journal. I look everywhere, in her drawers, under the pillows, the bed window, her boxes,... I pull a frame and finally find her diary. I begin to read it, page by page. One page contains "But how can I deny it?", another one "Bodies drained of blood". I turn another page and read "Take away Jeremy's pain..." and "...that Vicki was a monster?"
Elena's P.O.V.
After I helped Matt cleaning up his wounds and listened to Mayor Lockwood saying his speech, I tried to find Stefan. I can't see him anywhere and it's been more than an hour. I hope nothing happened. I knew he wasn't alright. I go outside to the parking lot and call him. Nothing as well. Where is he? What is that between the cars? Oh my God, it's a man! I run to him and kneel beside him. I shake his shoulder and he groans. Wait, I recognize this man. He is the one who was rude to me earlier. What did you do Stefan? I sigh as I see he is alright.
Gillian's P.O.V.
The kick-off party is really getting more and more weird. First Uncle Damon kills John Gilbert and he comes back to life, then, Tyler kisses Kelly and fights with his best friend and now John has the same ring as Mr.Saltzman? Things are crazy! What else is going to happen now? I walk down the main corridor to find dad or Damon but instead I see Tyler pacing around in a room. He looks sad and scared. I was about to go see him when I hear the Mayor coming. I hide behind the wall behind me and let Mr.Lockwood pass.
- Let's go, says Mayor Lockwood sternly to his son. I get off of my hide and look at the scene.
- Dad, I'm sorry. I don't even know what happened. I was drinking and... I lost control. I can't explain it, Tyler's father nods before slapping him hardly on the face, making his son losing his balance. I put my hand over my mouth in shocked.
- That is the last time you ever embarrass this family, he says pointing at Tyler while standing very near him. Mr. Lockwood is coming back. I hide behind the wall again and watch him exit the mansion.
I get out of my hide again and enter the room where Tyler is. I stay near the door and stare at him pacing left to right while passing his hand in his hair. He didn't see me yet and I don't want to disturb him. I was about to walk away when he calls me. I turn around to look at the black hair boy. He has glassy eyes. It breaks my heart to see him like that. He might have been a jerk lately but still, he is Tyler, the arrogant, player footballer. He puts his hand on the table in front of him and lowers his head. I walk slowly toward him, frowning sadly. I stand beside the teen as I pass my hand on his back to rub it. None of us say a word. Suddenly, Tyler straightens himself and hugs me. I was surprise at first but immediately respond to his hug. I can feel that he needs it. We stay like this few minutes in the silent room, alone, while people are leaving the mansion slowly.
Damon's P.O.V.
- Going somewhere, hm? I ask my new ''friend'' who is leaving. Alaric is following me.
- I've never liked to be the last one to leave a party. It's too desperate, answers John still walking. You're going to kill me again or you're gonna let Mr. Saltzman do your dirty work? he questions mockingly.
- Okay, you obviously know who I am, tells Alaric frowning.
- I do. Alaric Saltzman, a high school history teacher with a secret.
- Sure know a lot for someone who just got to town, I state as I stare at the man.
- More than you can imagine, Damon. My knowledge of this town goes beyond anything that you, John looks at me, or you, and then looks at Alaric, or the council knows. So, if you're planning on some clever high speed snatch ring vamp kill move, know that if I die, everything I know goes to the council including the fascinating little tale of the originals Salvatore brothers and their present day return to Mystic Falls. I look surprised at him and don't say anything. I actually don't know what to say. Even you little niece is included in this. I frown angrily when Alaric asks him about his ring.
- How did you get that ring?
- I had inherited one, my brother Gray had the other. This was his, he says showing his ring, and I wouldn't have given mine to Isobel if I had known she'd hand it over to another guy.
- So you did know her? I ask him confused.
- Who do you think send her your way when she wanted to become a vampire? he questions smirking.
- You sent her? I ask him surprised this time.
- Guilty. Why, did you think someone else send her? Maybe Katherine Pierce?
- How do you know about Katherine?
- How do I know anything Damon? I approach him more as my rage is building more and more inside me.
- What do you want?
- So many questions. It was a pleasure meeting you, Ric. I've heard so much about you, he tells looking at Alaric before walking away. I glance at the teacher and the both of us turn to John who is still walking.
Stefan's P.O.V.
I vamp-speeded to Elena's and waited in her room until she comes back from the kick off party. I can't do it anymore. I need to stay away from her a little bit before I hurt her. I hear footsteps coming toward her room. I stay hidden when I remark it's her. She looks into her mirror when she suddenly sees me.
- Oh my god you scared me! she tells me relieve and puting her hand over her heart.
- Sorry. I'm sorry that I ran off earlier.
- What happened? Is everything okay? I shake my head as I stare at the brunette. Talk to me, Elena closes the bathroom door, to be sure no one hears us and rejoins me. Stefan, tell me. I sit down on her bed before sighing.
- I tried so hard to keep it together tonight and it was working, it was working but then Matt's mom, she got hurt and she was bleeding and I had her blood on my hands. She looks at me with shocked. I can tell her eyes tell me to go on. And then that guy in the parking lot, I wanted to feed on him and it took everything inside of me not to do it.
- But you didn't?
- No, but I wanted to, I pass my hands in my hair as I feel the tears coming. Elena, my head is pounding. I feel like my skin is on fire. I have this hunger inside of me that I've never felt before, she tries to touch my face but I grab her wrist and stop her, in my entire life and all I keep thinking about is how I promised that I would never keep anything from you, and so I'm telling you this.
- That's okay; I need you to tell me these things.
- But I don't want you to see me like this, I don't want you to know that this side of me exists, I explain her.
- Stefan, you're gonna get through this. I'm gonna help you pull through. It's gonna be okay, you're gonna be okay, she takes my face with her hands but I reject her before getting up.
- No, no, no, no, no. I'm sorry, I can't, I'm afraid of what I could do to you.
- I'm not, I watch her walking towards me and taking again my face between her hands. Stefan, I'm not. Elena looks into my eyes and kisses me. I'm not, okay? she whispers kissing me again. she embraces me and I do the same, puting my head on her shoulder.
- I love you so much, I whisper almost crying.
- I love you too.
Gillian's P.O.V.
After being sure Tyler was okay, I left the mansion and vamp-speeded back to the boarding house. Damon's car wasn't here anymore so I guess he was gone. Dad wasn't there either. I enter the boarding house, my shoes in my hands when I hear my uncle's voice. I walk up to the living-room and see my father walking to stand in front of Damon who is sitting on the couch.
- We have a problem Stefan and when I say problem I mean global crisis. It seems Uncle John has... starts saying my uncle but stops as he see my father. Dad looks really bad. You don't look so good. Its different this time, isn't it? The need is too strong. Of course it would be after all these years. Damon put the glass of blood on the table, looks at his brother and gets up. He touches dad's shoulder while looking at him. Have a good night brother. Damon leaves, passing beside after smirking. Why is he like that with his own brother? Damon should help dad.
I stare at my father who hasn't see me yet. He is staring at the glass. Don't do it dad, please. My father grabs the glass of blood and drinks it. I shake my head when I remark that he finally saw me.
Heyy guys!! How are you? 😁 I know, this one is a bit longer than the other chapters but I really enjoyed writing it😁🤩 What do you think of the story so far?😊 I apologize for the mistakes😏 Thank you so much for reading this chapter! Please, feel free to vote and/or comment! 😁😘😘