~ SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2019 ~ MORNING ... REALLY MORNING ~ LILA's HOUSE ~

Lila enters the kitchen, yawning, and to her surprise finds Artemis struggling with pots and pans over the electric stove.

Lila: In God's name! What are you doing here so early?

Artemis turns and smiles at her cousin.

Artemis: Good morning to you too, cousin.

Lila: Do you have any idea what time it is?

Artemis: Seven?

Lila: That's right! What the hell are you doing in the kitchen at seven in the morning?

Artemis: I'm cooking.

Lila: I can see that. The question is, what are you cooking and more importantly, for whom?

Artemis: I'm making a dessert for Stefan's parents. It's my first time going to their house and I can't go empty handed.

Lila: You know, cousin, there are some stores that are full of desserts, they're called confectioneries.

Artemis: Thanks for the info, but do you really think Stefan will let me buy anything?

Lila: You have a point there.

Artemis: And besides, the confectioneries here don't have that particular dessert.

Lila: What are you making?

Artemis: Galaktoboureko. I remember my grandfather telling me that the Prince was crazy about it.

Lila: Oh, my gosh! I love that dessert!

Artemis: If you dare touch it, I swear I'll cut off your hand! This is just for the Prince and his Angel.

Lila: Just for them?

Artemis: What do you mean?

Lila: What about their son? Won't he get a taste of it too? Or will you keep a piece of you for him?

Artemis: Not just a piece. If he wants it, I'm willing to give him everything.

Lila: I see.

Artemis sits down next to Lila at the table.

Artemis: Why are you reacting like this? Do you think I'm wrong?

Lila: No. No.

Artemis: Then what's it?

Lila: What if the child is his, Artemis? What are you going to do then?

Artemis: I'll accept it, Lila. I firmly believe that it's not his, but if it turns out to be his, and especially if Stefan wants me by his side, I'll accept it and help him as best I can. I'm going to try to love this child as if it were my own, because it's a piece of him, so ...

Lila: You can't say all that. It's still too early. You can't love him already, Artemis. You have only seen him once. You don't know him.

Artemis: And yet. I feel like I've known him for years ... Like we grew up together or something. That sounds strange, but it's true. I never thought something like that would happen to me. I used to make fun of my mom for making such a huge sacrifice for my dad without even knowing him, but now I can understand her. Now I know how she felt and why she gave up everything for him.

Lila: So, you're telling me that if Stefan wants you, you're willing to ...

Artemis: To give up everything and stay here with him. Yes, Lila. I am.

Lila: If that's the case ... I'm very happy for you.

Artemis: Really?

Lila: Yes, of course. What were you thinking? That I wouldn't be happy to have my beloved cousin here with me?

Artemis: Thank you, Lila.

Lila: Stop thanking me and finish your dessert. We need to figure out what you're going to wear. You're going to meet your in-laws; you have to impress them.

Artemis: Stefan said this is a simple family meal.

Lila: Don't be so sure, cousin. With this family, you never know what can happen. You have to be prepared for anything.

Artemis: Yes, I know that.

Lila: That's why I'm telling you ... Let's get you an outfit that fits.

Artemis: Give me five minutes to pour the syrup while it's still hot, and I'm all yours.

Lila: Don't forget to tell the Prince how lucky he is. I'll be drooling the rest of the day with all these smells in here.

Artemis: I will.

~ * ~

~ A LITTLE LATER ~ AROUND NINE O'CLOCK ~ STEFAN's HOUSE ~

Stefan is already in the shower when Jason enters the bathroom. He trips over something and falls to the floor before he could even take three steps.

Jason: OUCH! SHIT!

Stefan, in the same pathetic state, turns his head somewhat indifferently.

Stefan: Are you still alive?

Jason: I'm not sure. Maybe. How about you?

Stefan: Barely. What the hell did we do last night?

Jason: I don't remember much but judging by the crap in my stomach and the screams from my liver, I think we overdid it a bit.

Jason didn't even bother to get up after his fall and just leaned back against the wall. Stefan, coming out of the shower, drags his feet and drops to the floor next to him.

Stefan: It's nice here.

Jason: Mmmm ...

Stefan: When you fell earlier, did you hurt yourself anywhere?

Jason: I don't know yet. My body is pretty numb from the alcohol. When I feel it again, I'll tell you.

Stefan: Okay.

Jason: How are you feeling?

Stefan: Like crap. My damn head is killing me and my stomach is all messed up. I really hope Mama has made something light.

Jason: Yeah. Me too.

Stefan: What time is it?

Jason: Around nine. What time is your date with Artemis?

Stefan: At eleven.

Jason: Then we have time for coffee.

Stefan: Yeah, but the question is who's going to make it?

Jason: You.

Stefan: Why me?

Jason: Because I can't move.

Stefan: When is Ceci going to pick you up?

Jason: In about thirty minutes.

Stefan: How about we wait for her right here? When she comes, she can make us coffee.

Jason: She'll kick our butts if she sees us like this, but it doesn't matter. I'll go with it.

Stefan: Good!

~ * ~

~ A FEW MINUTES BEFORE ELEVEN O'CLOCK ~ OUTSIDE OF LILA's HOUSE ~

Stefan sits in the car and fixes his hair in the mirror for the ... fourth ... or fifth ... or sixth time!

Stefan: Come on, you stupid tuft! For God's sake, stay put! Damn it! I had to get my hair cut!

When he realizes what he's doing, he bursts out laughing.

Stefan: Way to go, Tiger! Humiliate yourself a little more. You can do that.

He looks at his watch. ... 10:58.

Stefan: Let's go!

He gets out of the car and walks to the door of the apartment building. He stands in the doorway and is about to ring the bell when suddenly the door opens and Artemis appears behind it with a square box in her hands, like the candy boxes in confectioneries. Both are surprised and look at each other for a moment, smiling awkwardly.

Stefan: Uh ... I didn't ... I didn't ring the bell. How did you ...?

Artemis: Uh ... I ... I looked out the window and ... and I saw your car.

Stefan: Oh!

Artemis: I'm doing everything too fast, huh?

Stefan: No! No, no, no! You are ... You're wonderful and the way you act ... I really like it!

Stefan takes a discreet step back and his eyes travel along her body, starting with her black, long hair that falls to her shoulders. The gray blouse that matches her eyes leaves her long white neck and delicious cleavage uncovered. Her tight leather jacket hugs her slim waist. Her skinny jeans accentuate the curves of her hips and great butt in an incredible way. And finally, the ankle boots make her long legs look endless.

But she also can't resist what she sees and her gaze makes a trip to him. She looks at his hair first. How cute is this tuft that doesn't stay in place. As she continues down, her gaze lingers on his neck, especially his Adam's apple, which moves up and down with each breath. With difficulty, she overcomes the broad chest and steely biceps smothered in his leather jacket and stops low to his belly. She's sure there's a package of perfectly sculpted abs underneath. His hands, with his thumbs in his pockets, assure her of how much pleasure they can give her. Her journey ends at the muscles of his thighs, after first tilting her head to the side to get a better look at his incredible butt in his tight, ripped jeans.

Stefan: Uh ... Can we go? We have at least an hour drive to the country ahead of us.

Artemis: Do your parents live in the country? I love the country.

Stefan: Then you'll love my house.

Artemis: I'm willing to do that.

Stefan: Then let's go.

They walk to the car and Stefan opens the door for Artemis. She gets in the car and puts the box she's holding on her lap. Stefan walks around the car and sits in the driver's seat.

Stefan: May I ask what's in this box?

Artemis: A handmade gift for your parents. I made it this morning.

Stefan: You didn't have to go to the trouble. We could get something on the way.

Artemis: Would you let me buy something?

Stefan: No, but it doesn't matter.

Artemis: I knew that. That's why I did it.

Artemis starts laughing and her spontaneous and hearty laugh makes Stefan smile.

He'd resolved never to compare Artemis to Aphrodite, but that's impossible. He can't help but compare Artemis' wonderful spontaneity with Aphrodite's staged theatrical reactions. Artemis laughs from her heart, simply because she wants to and feels it. She laughs because she's heard or seen something funny. The other laughs only when she needs to laugh. Never spontaneously. Never out of her heart.

Artemis: A penny for your thoughts.

Stefan: You don't have to pay me. I was just thinking how much I like your spontaneity.

Artemis: You think I'm spontaneous?

Stefan: Yes.

Artemis: And what? Do you really like it?

Stefan: Very much so.

Artemis: You're the only one, you know. Everyone else usually accuses me of being two marbles rolling around in a tin can.

Stefan: I'm not like the others.

Artemis: I can see that.

They're silent for a while.

Stefan: Do you want me to put on some music?

Artemis: That depends.

Stefan: On what?

Artemis: Do you believe in the motto "Driver picks the music; shotgun shuts his cake hole"?

Stefan: Only with my friend Jason. He has shitty taste in music! Imagine that he has a Celine Dion ringtone on his phone.

Artemis: I don't like Celine Dion. I prefer more rock sounds.

Stefan: Finally, a woman with good taste in music! You can definitely choose.

Artemis: Let's see then!

Artemis searches between the radio stations until the voice of Lou Gram fills the small space of the car.

* I'm gotta take a little time ... A little time to think things over.

I better read between the lines ... In case I need it when I'm older.

Now this mountain I must climb ... Feels like the world upon my shoulders.

Through the clouds I see love shine ... It keeps me warm as life grows colder.

In my life there's been heartache and pain ... I don't know if I can face it again.

Can't stop now, I've traveled so far ... To change this lonely life.

I wanna know what love is ... I want you to show me.

I wanna feel what love is ... I know you can show me. *

Artemis hums the lyrics and looks out the window.

Artemis: It's strange what goes on with some songs. They're like a description of my life.

Stefan: Yes. Tell me about it. There are songs where I think the lyricist knows me personally and wrote the lyrics just for me.

Artemis: Like this one, for example?

But Stefan doesn't answer. He looks at her and leaves the answer to the singer ...

* I'm gonna take a little time ... Α little time to look around me.

I've got nowhere left to hide ... It looks like love has finally found me.

In my life there's been heartache and pain ... I don't know if I can face it again.

Can't stop now, I've traveled so far ... Τo change this lonely life.

I wanna know what love is ... I want you to show me.

I wanna feel what love is ... I know you can show me. *

They look at each other so intensely that the temperature in the car rises a few degrees and Artemis feels her body burst into flames.

Artemis: Can I open the window? It's suddenly getting very hot in here.

Stefan: You don't have to ask. You can do whatever you want.

Artemis: Thank you.

She opens the window and lets the cold air soothe the redness on her cheeks. Stefan continues driving, curling his fingers around the steering wheel.

They spend the rest of the drive in silence until the car reaches the gate of the house. Stefan honks the horn and the camera in front of the gate turns to the car and scans the license plate. A few seconds later, the gate opens and Michael, the head of security, greets them as the car passes in front of his canopy. The five identical houses appear in front of them. Artemis' eyes widen.

Artemis: Wow! There's one ... two ... three ... four ... five! Why are there five identical houses?

Stefan: Welcome to the nest of the pack.

Artemis: Who lives where?

Stefan: Well ... My parents live in the main house. I have two sisters, Cecilia and Eva, and a brother, Nicolae. On the right is my uncle Alexander with his husband and my godfather Matt and their daughter Lucida. On the left is my aunt Isabella with her husband Simon and their twin boys Adam and George. Even further to the right is the home of my Aunt Lois and her husband Sebastian. They have two children, Damon, and Elena. And finally, Jared and Chloe live with their daughter Margaret. Jared is Sebastian's best friend.

As Stefan speaks, Artemis' face takes on a startled expression.

Artemis: Will everyone be at lunch?

Stefan: Yes. And my best friend Jason, who is Cecilia's boyfriend.

Artemis: Cecilia ... uh ... one of your sisters?

Stefan: Exactly. You're a fast learner. Good job!

Artemis: You know what? When you told me that your family was really tense, I told you that I would handle it.

Stefan: Yes.

Artemis: I changed my mind! Let's go somewhere, just you and me. Please, Stefan! If you do that, I'll let you eat all the dessert!

Stefan bursts out laughing.

Stefan: Believe me, I'd love to be alone with you and eat the ... hmmm ... dessert, but if we don't go, we'll have to face my mother's wrath and believe me, you don't want that!

Artemis: Oh! This just keeps getting better!

Stefan: Come on, don't worry about it. You're going to be fine.

Artemis: I'm terrified!

Stefan: Don't be! I'll be right beside you. I won't leave you alone for a minute.

Artemis grabs Stefan's hand.

Artemis: Do you promise?

He turns his hand and intertwines his fingers with hers.

Stefan: I promise.

Artemis: Very well. Then let's go.

Stefan drives the car into the parking lot, gets out and helps Artemis get out by opening her door. They walk up to the threshold. Stefan opens the door with his key and they enter the hallway. Behind the closed door of the living room, they hear voices ... Voices of many people ... Adults and children.

Stefan: I forgot to tell you. If Damon and Elena come up to you and start smelling you, let them. I'll explain why later.

Artemis: Okay ... I guess.

Stefan: So ... Are you ready?

Artemis takes a deep breath.

Artemis: Yes. Bring it to me!

Stefan: That's the spirit, baby!

Stefan, putting his hand on Artemis' back, opens the living room door and they enter the room.

Stefan: Hello, Adams family!

The voices instantly fall silent and all heads turn towards them. For a few seconds, no one speaks. All eyes are on Artemis, who breaks out in a cold sweat. Her fingers squeeze the box she's holding and her body tenses. Stefan notices immediately because he still has his hand on her waist.

Stefan: Oh! Come on, you cartoon characters! Start acting normal. At least as far as you can! Greet our guest properly.

As if someone had splashed cold water on their faces, they wake up from their slumber and one by one start greeting Artemis, who gets more and more comfortable with them as the hour goes by. Even as Damon, holding Elena's hand, approaches her and begins to smell the air around her.

Damon: I don't recognize the smell. What's it, Dad?

Sebastian: Gardenia, Puppy.

Damon: That's incredible!

Elena: Yeah. Tati smells amazing!

The last ones left are Jace and Mary. They come closer, smiling.

Stefan: And now, Artemis, it's time for you to meet the Prince and his Angel.

Jace: What are you saying, Tiger?

Stefan: Wait until you know exactly who Artemis is, then you'll understand.

Mary: What do you mean, baby?

Stefan shows the photo on the wall of Jace lying under the sun, with the endless blue behind him ...

Stefan: Where did you get this photo, Dad?

Jace: In Santorini.

Mary: Wait a minute!

Mary moves even closer to Artemis.

Mary: Jace, look at her eyes. They remind me of someone, but I can't remember.

Jace approaches as well.

Jace: No! It can't be! Old-Stelios.

Mary: But of course! The good old man with the tavern.

Jace: And the incredible stories.

Artemis: Yes. My grandfather.

Mary: Your grandfather? Is old Stelios your grandfather?

Artemis: Yes. He was.

Jace: Was? Did he pass away?

Artemis: Unfortunately. We lost him five years ago.

Mary: Oh, my darling! I'm sorry to hear that!

Jace: Me too! He was a great man. He made our vacation memorable.

Artemis: He never forgot you. Your photo still hangs on the wall in the tavern. He raised me by telling me stories about the stubborn Blond Prince and his brave Brunette Angel.

Mary: Really? He used to make fun of our nicknames.

Jace: But how did you two actually find each other? I mean, it's a funny coincidence, isn't it?

Mary: Not so much, Prince.

Jace: What does that mean, Angel?

Mary: I'll explain later.

Stefan: Actually, it's not that strange. Artemis is Lila's cousin.

Jace: Lila? The girl with the photos?

Stefan: Yeah. I was at her house for lunch and Artemis was there too. When she saw me, she thought I was you.

Mary: Shocking!

Stefan: Yeah. Tell me about it! Anyway. We cleaned up, of course, and because she really wanted to meet you, I invited her here.

Jace: And you did very well.

Mary: I think so too! I'm very happy to meet you, Artemis.

Artemis: I am, too, Mrs. Harronate.

Mary: Oh, please. Call me Mary or like all the other kids around here ... Mama Mary.

Artemis: Whatever you want, Mama Mary.

Artemis hands Mary the box.

Artemis: This is for you. It's fresh. I made it this morning.

Mary: Thank you, sweetheart. You shouldn't.

Jace: What's it?

Mary opens the box.

Jace: Is that what I think it is?

Mary: Yes, Prince. This is ...

That moment...

Sebastian: I can smell cream, phyllo, and syrup. This is definitely galaktoboureko. Where is it? Where is it? I haven't eaten this since my honeymoon!

Sebastian approaches, but Jace stands in front of him.

Jace: Stay back, Wolf! It's mine!

Sebastian: Are you going to eat the whole pan?

Jace: The girl made it for me, so yeah!

Matt: You know if you keep this up, you're going to look like a truck, right?

Jace: That's my problem, Sweetheart. Everybody stay back! This pan is mine!

Matt: You're being ridiculous!

Jace: You still like me!

Matt: Keep telling yourself that, you pervert!

Artemis watches in horror at the mess her gift is causing. After all, she doesn't yet know what it's like in this family.

Artemis: Please! Don't fight! I can do more for both of you.

Lois: Look what you've done now, you lunatics! You've frightened the girl. Honey, explain to her what exactly is going on here.

Mary: Yes, baby. Explain to her that the youngest boys here aren't Nicolae and Damon, but your father and uncle, who are fighting over a dessert.

Jace: He started it! He wants to eat MY gift!

Mary: Prince, STOP!

Sebastian: No! He started it! I just asked for a little piece!

Lois: And you, Wolf. Stay put!

Matt: I have a better idea. Let's lock them in the basement so the rest of us can enjoy our meal in peace. What do you think about that?

Alexander: I agree!

Simon: Me too!

Jared: I'm in!

Margaret: Damon? If Uncle Matt locks Uncle Jace and my godfather in the basement, can we eat the dessert?

Damon: I'm afraid not, Maggie Pie. I'm sure Uncle Jace will take it with him.

Jace: You bet I will!

Artemis: Oh, God! What have I done?

Stefan: You know what? THAT'S ENOUGH! Because I want to see Artemis again and I don't want her to run away screaming, I'm going to take her for a walk in the backyard until you are a normal family again! Come on, Artemis.

Stefan takes Artemis' hand and drags her outside, running. She follows him. Not that she had a choice. Jason then leans over Cecilia's ear.

Jason: You are under the impression that the whole thing was an act, right?

Cecilia: Yes. It was really very obvious. He just wanted to get her alone.

Jason: Not that I blame him. That girl is smoking hot. The bastard knows how to choose.

Cecilia: Excuse me?

Jason: Looking at it objectively, baby.

Cecilia: Is that so? Hmmm ... Suddenly Uncle Matt's idea of locking up in the basement doesn't sound so bad.

Jason: I love it when you get jealous!

Cecilia: We will talk about it later when we are alone.

Jason: Oh! How nice!

~ OUT IN THE GARDEN ~

Stefan runs off, dragging Artemis behind him until she digs her heels into the ground and forces him to stop.

Artemis: Enough, Stefan! You have worn me out!

He turns and looks at her.

Stefan: I'm sorry. Sometimes I just ... don't know what I'm doing.

Artemis: It's okay, but I don't understand what happened to you out of the blue.

Stefan: Didn't you see what happened in there?

Artemis: I saw it. So what?

Stefan: So what? Are you telling me that you haven't regretted it yet?

Artemis: What would I have to regret?

Stefan: Your desire to meet my family.

Artemis: You are kidding me now, right?

Stefan: What? Did you like everything that happened in there?

Artemis: I loved it! Your family is amazing, Stefan. Don't ever doubt that. But now tell me the truth behind your outburst.

Stefan: The truth? I don't understand. What truth?

Artemis: The real reason you dragged me here.

Stefan: I still don't understand it.

Artemis: If you don't, that's too bad.

Stefan: What's too bad? Come on, explain it to me!

She steps closer to him, puts her hand on his chest and starts playing with his T-shirt.

Artemis: I thought you would have jumped at the chance and brought me here to be alone with me. Just you and me.

Stefan: Oh! You'd prefer that, wouldn't you?

Artemis: Much more!

He stands before her and she looks deep into his stormy violet eyes. His lips twist into a devastating, dangerous smile that takes her breath away. When he lifts his hand and brushes a strand of hair behind her ear, stroking her cheek, she feels her whole-body shiver.

Stefan: Are you cold?

Artemis: No.

Stefan: But you were shivering.

Artemis: It wasn't because of the cold.

Stefan: Then what was it?

Artemis: Touch me again and you'll see.

Stefan takes her hand, brings it to his lips and kisses her knuckles while his thumb strokes her racing pulse. A surge of heat spreads through her body, gathering deep in her stomach. A surprised laugh escapes her mouth and she places her hand on her stomach.

Stefan: What?

Artemis: Butterflies.

Stefan smiles even more.

Stefan: What is it with you? I touch your cheek and you shiver.

Artemis: Yes.

Stefan: I kiss your hand and you get butterflies in your stomach.

Artemis: Yes.

Stefan: I'm just wondering ...

Artemis: Yes?

Stefan: What are you going to do when I do this ...

He clamps her face between his palms and leans forward until he is only inches from her mouth. His breath is hot and burns her lips. He burns her so gently and that fire reaches her core. His closeness is maddening. That's it! She can't wait any longer.

Artemis: I'm going to do this!

She grabs his T-shirt and throws him back into the grass, falling with him. He bursts out laughing.

Stefan: I didn't see that coming!

Artemis: Stop it and kiss me already!

Laughing, Stefan opens his mouth and kisses her so intensely that the heavens open ... Have you ever heard of those sudden downpours that start completely out of nowhere while the sky is crystal clear and cloudless? That was exactly what happened when their lips met ... Heavy rain set in, drenching everything in its path and interrupting their kiss. Stefan looks at the sky in amazement and quite irritated.

Stefan: What the hell? Where did that come from? The sky was clear. Come on, baby. We should cover up.

He wants to get up, but Artemis holds him down with her hands on his chest.

Artemis: No. Stay here. Please!

Stefan: But baby ... you are going to get wet.

Artemis: I'm not made of sugar. I'm not going to melt! At least not because of the rain. After all, I don't want to let a little rain spoil our first moments together.

Stefan: You are so determined to seduce me, huh?

Artemis: You can't even imagine how much.

Stefan: And you can't even imagine how much I'm willing to let you seduce me.

Artemis: Even in the rain?

Stefan: Even in hell, baby.

Rolling his body, he places her underneath him to protect her from the rain as much as possible. With his fingers he brushes the wet hair from her face.

Stefan: I've spent thousands, thousands of empty nights ... Nights waiting for you to come.

She raises her hand and touches his lips.

Artemis: Kiss me again, Stefan and let me drown in your deep kiss.

Stefan leans down again and this time nothing interrupts their kiss. Their first real kiss. Their first real wet kiss ... That first kiss where you know the lips you're kissing now are the lips you want to kiss for the rest of your life. Stefan had heard so much about that first kiss. From his father, his uncles, his friend. They all talked about the feelings that overwhelmed them. About the racing heartbeat. About the knot in the stomach. About the trembling hands. All these years, Stefan looked for all these things in every kiss, but he never found them. Not even with Aphrodite. He had begun to believe that the others exaggerated or simply lied. Until now. The kiss with Artemis is just that. The kiss that completely changes your life and makes it impossible for you to return to where you once were.

But for Artemis, everything is exactly the same. Ever since she was a little girl, she heard her mother tell her about the first kiss she shared with her father. How that kiss knocked her socks off. How it made her forget her entire life. How it made her give up everything and follow that man. But Artemis is nothing like her mother. She could never ... Or could she? Could she leave everything behind and follow this man? Stefan? Her heart cries out yes. He's the one. The only. This man is the sun and Artemis has always loved the sun.

The kiss ends, leaving them breathless. Stefan leans his forehead against Artemis'.

Stefan: The second I met you, I knew I needed something from you. In the end, it turned out it wasn't something from you at all. It was you. All of you!

Artemis: Oh, Stefan! I ... I ... Achooooo!

A sneeze shakes her body and makes Stefan laugh.

Stefan: God bless you!

Artemis hides her face behind her hands, red with embarrassment.

Artemis: Oh, my God! Stefan ... I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to ... My God! What a shame!

Stefan: It's okay, baby. You were so cute!

Artemis: What are you saying? You say something so wonderful and I ... What? I... I ... Achooooo!

Stefan: You sneeze in my face ... again! Bless you, by the way.

Artemis: Oh, my God! Somebody kill me now!!!

Stefan: Come on, Sneezy! That's enough of that. I think it's time for us to go somewhere drier.

Artemis: No! Leave me here! After what I've done, I deserve to die!

Stefan stands up, laughing and pulls Artemis with him.

Stefan: I'm sorry, Sneezy, but now that I've finally found you, I'm not going to leave you so easily. Even if you sneeze in my face all the time.

He hugs her and they run back home.

Artemis: Will you call me Sneezy for much longer?

Stefan: Forever, I'm afraid!

Artemis: Achooooo!

Stefan: Yes. That's exactly what I meant!

Laughing and soaked to the skin, they enter the living room.

Mary: My God! Stefan ... Artemis ... You're soaking wet! You'll catch a cold!

Stefan: I'm afraid it's too late for that, Mama.

Artemis: Achooooo!

Stefan: See?

Mary: I don't believe you, Stefan! I thought you were mature enough.

Artemis: Mrs. Harron ... Uh... I mean, Mama Mary, please! It's not Stefan's fault. I insisted on staying out in the rain.

Mary: You're willing to take the blame for him, aren't you?

Jace: Come on, Angel. Don't scold them. Remember what we did when it rained.

Mary: Shut up, Prince! I'm trying to be a good mother now!

Jace: Oh! Okay! Keep going!

Mary: Ceci, take Artemis upstairs and give her some dry clothes to wear. If she stays like this, she'll get a fever.

Cecilia: I'd love to. Come on, Artemis.

Lucida: Hey! Wait for me!

The three girls go up the stairs.

Stefan: What about me, Mama?

Mary stares at her son, whose soaked clothes are dripping and filling the floor with water.

Jace: Uh ... Tiger, you'd better not irritate her anymore. Go to my room and change.

Stefan: Yeah. I think you're right, Dada. Come with me, Jay.

Jason: I'd come with you anyway! Damn it! This is so much fun!

Mary: JASON!

Jason: I'm sorry, Mama Mary.

Mary: Get out of my sight, you silly boys!

Stefan and Jason run up the stairs, laughing.

Matt: John-John is right, you know. This really is so much fun.

Mary: Matt, please. Not now, okay?

Jace: What's the matter, Angel?

Mary: Can't you see what's happening?

Alexander: See what, Sugar?

Lois: I know.

Isabella: So do I.

Chloe: I've my suspicions, too.

Sebastian: Okay, ladies. Tell us what you see while we can't see it?

Mary goes and stands in front of the fireplace where a bright fire is burning. The same fire she saw burning in her son's eyes.

Mary: He's about to fall in love.

Jace: So? That's what we want, isn't it?

Matt: At least she seems like a good girl.

Mary: Aphrodite seemed good too, Matt, and we saw where that got him.

Sebastian: Come on, Mary. Apples and oranges. Not all women are the same.

Simon: If that were the case, no one should fall in love again after a bad breakup.

Jared: Besides, we can all see that Artemis isn't like the other one.

Jace: At the end of the day, Stefan has learned his lesson. I'm sure he'll be much more careful this time.

Lois: I'm worried about something else.

Sebastian: What else, Kitten?

Lois: That this sl ... Aphrodite won't leave Stefan alone. If she finds out about his new relationship ...

Matt: There's is no if, Watermelon. It's going to come out sooner or later. We're talking about Stefan here. He's the most eligible bachelor in town.

Lois: Exactly!

Jared: What can she do?

Lois: Anything.

Jace: I don't think so.

Mary: I really hope she stays back ... For her own good. Because otherwise ... I swear to you, if she tries to hurt my son again, I'll wipe her off the face of the earth!

Jace: That's my Mary, folks! The Angel of vengeance!

Mary: When it comes to my children and my husband, yes, that's me!

Matt: We all know that, Biscuit.

We'll let our heroes laugh and head upstairs to see what exactly is going on there.

~ CECILIA's ROOM ~

Artemis is in the bathroom, Cecilia is looking in her closet, and Lucida is holding up Artemis' grass-stained blouse.

Lucida: This thing can't be cleaned. This t-shirt is doomed. What the hell were they doing out there?

Cecilia: Come on, Lucy. It's obvious! They were rolling in the grass and it was raining. Don't tell me that doesn't sound romantic?

Lucida: Okay. Yes. It's romantic, but I'd rather get wet in a different way.

Cecilia: Mercy, Lucy! Can't you think of anything but sex?

Lucida: Tell me something better than sex and I'll start thinking about it.

Cecilia rolls her eyes.

Cecilia: We have to tell Johnny to come as soon as possible, because otherwise we'll all be in danger from you! Sex addict bitch!

Lucida: I don't know what you are saying, but when my Johnny finally comes, I'm going to lock myself with him in a room for at least three days. God! How I miss him!

Cecilia: Don't forget to feed him from time to time, because you know what they say ... A hungry bear doesn't dance. Fuck in your case.

Lucida: I'll definitely keep that in mind!

Cecilia: Whatever! Do me a favor and try to keep your volcanic temper in check somehow, because you're going to scare Artemis.

Lucida: Nah. I don't think so. There's something about this girl. Something that I really like. She's like me.

Cecilia: And what? Is that a good thing?

Lucida: Of course!

Cecilia: For who? For Stefan?

Lucida: Not just for him. For all of us! Do you remember what Daddy Matty said about Mama Mary? About how she helped them when Uncle Jace brought her into the family? I think the same thing will happen with Artemis. She'll save Stefan, but she'll also help the rest of us.

Cecilia: Listen, Lucy. After what happened with you being the only one to realize what a bitch Aphrodite is, I've learned to trust you completely. So, now I'm going to ask you something and I'm going to believe everything you tell me. Aren't you worried at all? I mean, are you absolutely sure that Artemis isn't like the other?

Lucida opens her mouth to answer, but ...

Artemis: Actually, that should offend me, but because I understand that you're just saying that because you love your brother so much and don't want him to get hurt again, I'm going to pretend I didn't hear it and assure you with the hand on my heart that I'm not like the other. Aphrodite, I think?

The two girls turn to see Artemis standing at the bathroom door with only a towel wrapped around her body and wet hair falling heavily on her shoulders.

Cecilia: Artemis? Oh, shit. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to ... Oh, God! Stefan's gonna kill me!

Artemis: Don't worry, Cecilia. I won't tell him anything. I told you I could understand. I'd do the same thing if I were you.

Lucida: Do you know anything about the bitch?

Artemis: Not much. Just the basics.

Cecilia: Has Stefan spoken to you?

Artemis: No.

Lucida: How then?

Artemis: I know how to use a tablet, Lucida. And my cousin told me a few things, too.

Cecilia: Oh! So, you know things from Aphrodite's perspective then.

Artemis: I know what's in the media.

Lucida: And yet you want to be with him? I mean, the media portrays Stefan as an unfaithful playboy who only cares about himself.

Artemis: Yes. That's a fact, but the Stefan I've met isn't like that. Look ... I know your brother a little bit, but I know he's good. His eyes are very clear. And then there's his aura. Auras are like a signature. Each one is as individual as the person it surrounds. And Stefan's aura is as bright as the sun. He can't be the way he's portrayed in the media. No. I'm sure of that.

Cecilia: And you should be. He's not like that. He's just the opposite.

Artemis: You can't imagine how happy I am about that, and I'll do everything I can to gain his trust, but also yours. I want to be your friend, girls or even more. I'm an only child and I've always wanted to have siblings.

Cecilia: We want that too, Artemis, and if you are what Stefan needs, we are more than willing to be your sisters.

Artemis: Thank you.

Lucida: Well, well, well! You and the Pretty Boy. Come on, tell us everything! What exactly were you doing out in the garden, and you ruined your pretty blouse?

Cecilia: In God's name, Lucy! Maybe the girl is ashamed or doesn't want to tell us.

Artemis: It's all right, Cecilia. I'm not ashamed at all and I've absolutely no problem telling you everything.

Lucida: You see, Ceci? I told you! She's just like me.

Cecilia: Lucky us!

Lucida: Bitch!

And so, Artemis tells the girls exactly what happened with her and Stefan out in the garden, and they in turn tell her what happened with Aphrodite in the past. Let's leave them to their conversation and go two doors down to see what Stefan and Jason are doing.

~ JACE AND MARY's BEDROOM ~

Stefan takes off his wet clothes and gets ready to go to the bathroom while Jason snoops around in Jace's closet.

Jason: Dude, your dad has some fucking awesome clothes. Check out this shirt! I'm definitely going to check that out.

He takes off his shirt and puts on Jace's shirt.

Jason: Well ... How do I look?

Stefan: Like a dead man if my dad finds out you're trying on his clothes. And especially his favorite black silk shirt.

Jason: No. He'd never do that. Daddy loves me!

Stefan: That sounds a little weird, don't you think? You'd better not tell anyone.

Jason: What? ... Oh! Screw you, idiot!

Stefan: Who's your daddy, baby?

Stefan laughs and Jason sits down on the bed and rolls his eyes.

Jason: Okay. Okay. We've been laughing a lot. You're a funny boy. Now leave that and tell me about the other one.

Stefan: What other one?

Jason raises an eyebrow.

Jason: Seriously now, buddy? Are you going to pretend like you don't know?

Stefan: No, buddy. I'm not pretending. I really don't know.

Jason: All right. I'll set it straight for you. Did you kiss her?

Stefan doesn't answer and turns to go to the bathroom, but Jason doesn't give up. He follows his friend.

Stefan: Why are you following me like my sins?

Jason: Tell me! Did you do it?

Stefan: If I told you, would you leave me alone?

Jason: No, but you tell me anyway.

Stefan rolls his eyes and goes to take a shower. Jason sits on the toilet.

Jason: That's weird, you know.

Stefan: What now?

Jason: You usually tell me everything in the first five minutes when you're making out with a girl. Normally I should know everything about Artemis by now. How tight her ass is, how big her tits are, etc.

Stefan: To tell you all that, you'll have to wait until I figure it out first.

Jason: Wait! Wait! You mean you didn't feel her up?

Stefan: No, you pervert. I didn't.

Jason: But you kissed her.

Stefan: Yes. I did.

Jason: And how was it?

Stefan: Fucking great, man.

Jason: I see. And what did she do?

Stefan: She sneezed in my face.

Jason starts laughing.

Jason: What? Oh, my god! That would be awful!

Stefan: Actually ... It was cute. She was cute.

Jason: Cute? She sneezed in your face ...

Stefan: Twice.

Jason: Twice and she was cute?

Stefan: Incredibly cute.

Jason: Fucking hell! You love her already!

Stefan: How do you come to that conclusion, Einstein?

Jason: You kissed her, but you didn't grope her. You respected her. She salivated on your face twice and you think she's cute. Plus, you haven't mentioned fucking her once, so you're willing to wait. You want more?

Stefan: It's not that simple, buddy.

Jason: Yes, of course it is. She's single, you're single. She's smoking hot and you are ... Just the way you are.

Stefan: Asshole! I'm hot and you know it.

Jason: Yeah. Yeah. Whatever. She wants you; you want her. There's nothing complicated here. Why don't you let yourself go, man? What the hell is holding you back?

Stefan: Not what, but who.

Jason: Oh, no! Don't tell me about that bitch again! Come on!

Stefan: I need to talk to her about Aphrodite, Jason, but I'm afraid she'll run if she finds out.

Jason: Do you really think she doesn't already know?

Stefan: How could she possibly know?

Jason: Oh, man. What parallel universe are you fucking living in? Yesterday I read on a website what size my underwear is and I'm just your best friend.

Stefan: Really? My poor boy! Now everyone will know about your little problem.

Jason: My little what? ... Hey! There's nothing little about me. Okay?

Stefan: Yeah. Sure.

Jason: Ask your sister about it!

Stefan: You son of a bitch!

Jason: You asked for it! Whatever! I'm sure Artemis has googled you. That's why you need to talk to her and tell her the truth.

Stefan: Yeah. I know.

Jason: Do it soon.

Stefan: I will.

Jason: Perfect. Now tell me all about the kiss.

And while Stefan tells Jason exactly what happened outside, we'll go back down ... Where something will happen!

~ DOWNSTAIRS ~ LIVING ROOM ~

The dining room table is set and the family is waiting for the girls and boys to come down to eat together. Suddenly the door opens and Michael, the head of security, enters the room.

Michael: Mr. Harronate, I'm sorry to bother you, but we have a problem at the gate.

Jace: What's going on, Michael?

Michael: That girl who used to come here with Mr. Stefan ...

Jace: Aphrodite?

Michael: Yes. She's here and she insists on seeing you.

Mary: What? Did she dare to come here? Throw her out, Michael.

Jace: Wait a minute, Mary.

Jace stands up and walks towards the guard to whisper something to him.

Jace: What the hell, Michael? Why didn't you throw her out? You have your orders about her.

Michael: I know, sir, and I would, but ... I can't.

Jace: And why is that? That's what I pay you for, Michael. That's your damn job.

Michael: Yes, sir, but she's got a little boy with her. I can't ... The kid. You understand that, don't you?

Jace: Did she bring the kid here? Goddamn it.

Michael: She was holding the child in the rain, sir. I had to bring them under the canopy.

Jace: You did a good job. The child is innocent.

Michael: What do you want me to do, sir?

Jace: Give me a minute, Michael. I need to think. Sebastian, come here for a minute, please.

Sebastian stands up and walks towards the two men.

Sebastian: What's up?

Jace explains what's going on, and after they talk quietly for a while, Sebastian turns to the others. His eyes light up briefly and everyone immediately understands that this is an emergency and therefore they need to go into pack mode. They all look at their Alpha and wait for his orders.

Sebastian: Eva, take the kids and go to my house. Use the tunnel so you don't get wet. And do it now!

Eva: Yes, sir.

Sebastian: You will stay there until you hear from me. Puppy, you are in charge of this.

Damon: Yes, sir.

The boys, Damon, and Nicolae, put Margaret and Elena between them and follow Eva into the tunnel that connects all the houses. They built this tunnel for cases like this, but also to have quick access from one house to another.

Sebastian: Matt, go upstairs and tell Stefan and Jason to come down immediately.

But this order was in vain, because just at that moment the two boys appear and go down the stairs.

Stefan: There's no need for that, Wolf. We are already there.

Jason: What's the matter?

Jace: Aphrodite is here, along with the kid, and she insists on seeing us.

Jason: Damn it! What the hell is going on in her fucking head?

Sebastian: Tiger, I sent the kids away, but the decision is yours. If you need time to think ...

Stefan: I don't need time to think. Bring them in.

Jace: Are you sure about this, Tiger?

Stefan: Yes. Let's get this over with once and for all.

Jason: And what about Artemis, Stef? She'll be down any minute.

Stefan: You said she needs to know.

Jason: Yeah, but not like this.

Sebastian: Jason's right, Stefan. Do you really think this is the right way?

Matt: No, it's not and we all know that. Jellybean, you need to talk to her before you put her in such a hot position. She needs to know the truth before she confronts Aphrodite.

Alexander: We could procrastinate Aphrodite so you have time to talk to her.

But it seems that Lucida once again appears like an angel of salvation at the right moment and has the solution to the problem.

Lucida: There's no need for that, Daddy. Artemis already knows everything and she's ready to face that snake with the whole pack by her side. Isn't that right, girl?

Artemis: I've never been afraid of snakes, Lucy, so ... Damn right!

Lois crouches down in Mary's ear.

Lois: I don't know about you, but I've started to like this girl a lot. She reminds me of ... well ... Of you.

Mary: Yeah!

Meanwhile, the girls are walking down the stairs. Cecilia runs next to Jason, Lucida goes to her fathers and Artemis goes to Stefan.

Stefan: I'm very sorry about that. I should have talked to you, but I couldn't imagine ...

She puts her fingers to his lips.

Artemis: Don't be sorry. When I decided to come here, I knew very well what I was getting myself into.

Stefan: Did you know? What exactly did you know?

Artemis: Just the basics, but the girls were kind enough to tell me the whole truth.

Stefan: And? Do you still want to be here?

Artemis: If I didn't want to, I would have left a long time ago. Look, Stefan ... We all have a past. Ghosts. Shadows that define each of our sunny days. If you want, I'm willing to stand by you and help you dispel those ghosts and shadows that haunt you.

Stefan: I've never wanted anything more in my life than you.

Artemis: Then let's do it together.

Stefan takes her hand and intertwines his fingers with hers.

Stefan: Together.

He turns to Michael.

Stefan: You heard the lady, Michael. Bring her in.

Michael: Yes, sir.

Michael goes to get Aphrodite and the child. Sebastian approaches Stefan and Artemis.

Sebastian: Apparently our pack has just gained a new member. Allow me to give our girl a proper welcome.

Stefan: Of course, chief.

Sebastian takes Artemis' hand, brings it to his lips and kisses her knuckles.

Sebastian: As the leader of this pack, I officially welcome you, Artemis.

Artemis: Thank you, Chief, but now that I look at you more closely, you remind me of something.

Sebastian: Of what?

Artemis: I don't know yet, but I'll remember. Be sure of it.

Then Stefan walks into the middle of the room.

Stefan: Please, listen to me. I want you to let me talk to her. Don't interfere, no matter what you hear.

Lois: You are asking a lot, Honey.

Stefan: I know, Lois, but do it for me, please. Tame the She-wolf in you.

Lois: You take advantage of my love.

Stefan: Either I do this or I ask Wolf for help! You have the choice.

Lois: You are a dirty blackmailer!

Sebastian: Don't worry, Tiger. My Kitten will stay put. I can guarantee you that.

Stefan: Thank you!

Lois: Hey, Wolf! You and me ... We'll discuss this later!

Sebastian: Anytime, Kitten!

Artemis leans into Lucida's ear.

Artemis: You're all incredible, but these two together are something indescribable.

Lucida: You haven't seen anything yet. Wait until you hear him sing to her and then we see.

Artemis: Oh!

Lucida: Exactly!

Stefan turns to his mother.

Stefan: The same goes for you, Mama.

Mary: Yeah. Yeah, sure!

Stefan: Mama, please!

Mary: Okay. Okay. I'll keep my mouth shut.

Stefan: Thank you.

Alexander: Why are you so insistent on doing it yourself, Stef?

Stefan: Because I want to tell her everything that I wanted to say but couldn't. I want to deal with her. I've been avoiding it all these years. First, because it hurt. Later, because I didn't care anymore. I didn't want to fight because I had no reason to fight.

Matt: But now you have, right?

Stefan: Yes, I have! A very good reason.

Jace walks up to him.

Jace: Go ahead, Tiger. Do it but think about the boy. He's not yours, but he's just a little boy. A tormented boy.

Stefan: I know, Dad. Don't worry about it.

A knock on the door interrupts their conversation.

Sebastian: Well ... They're here. Come on, pack. Take your seats.

Sebastian and Jared sit down on the big couch and put Lois and Chloe between them. Simon gets Isabella and sits in the chair. The twins stand behind them. Alexander and Matt sit on the small couch with Lucida between them. Jace and Mary sit in their favorite chair. Cecilia sits on the back of the chair and hugs Jace's neck, while Jason sits on the floor between Mary's legs. Artemis addresses Stefan ...

Artemis: I'm new here and I don't know my position yet. Where would you like me to stand?

Stefan: Where would you like to stand?

Artemis: Next to you, but if you don't want her to see us together, I'll understand.

Stefan: What kind of nonsense is that?

He takes her hand.

Stefan: Come with me, Sneezy.

Artemis: Achoooooo!

Stefan: God bless you!

Artemis: For heaven's sake now!

Stefan goes, laughing and stands in front of the fireplace. He angles his leg and places it on the cast iron. He puts Artemis next to him and she leans against him, placing her hand on his thigh as he hugs her waist.

Jace: Are you ready, Tiger?

Stefan looks at Artemis and she nods in agreement.

Stefan: Yes.

Jace: Then we're good to go. COME IN, MICHAEL.