Chicago, 1922

Several months had passed since the flame of Mia and Klaus' relationship had first ignited, they spent everyday in each others' presence. To some, that may seem overbearing but to them it was natural, they were drawn to each other and found that their moods would dullen when they were apart. 

An eternity together was the goal, the dream, the wish. But if wishes were horses .... beggars would ride.

"Come on, sweetheart. We both know you can't ignore me for much longer." Klaus threaded his fingers through the dark brown curls of the Petrova, knowing she loved it when he played with her hair.

"I disagree, it is you who needs me." Mia edged away from him and as expected he shuffled in closer. "I, on the other hand, have restraint and don't feel the need to talk to you every second of the day."

"Is that right?" He chuckled, arguing with her was quite entertaining. They didn't do it often but when they did it would always be about the same topic. "I just don't understand why it bothers you so much."

"Well, I don't understand why you won't undagger them, they're your siblings, Nik." For the last few weeks, Mia had made it her mission to convince Klaus to release his brothers from their daggered slumber. It irritated her that he could do something so spiteful to his own family, so she would bring up the conversation whenever he was in a good mood. "Try and think about it from my point of view."

"You just want to make new friends." Klaus remarked, it was no secret that the brunette was a sociable girl. It didn't matter where she went, she'd always end up making new acquaintances. "Admit it."

"Okay, fine. If you must know...." Mia leaned in and whispered, so no one would overhear, "The main reason I'd like to meet them is so I can check if I chose the right brother." She moved back with a grin, certain that she'd struck a nerve. 

"The right brother?" Klaus arched a brow, the image of Mia being in love with any of his siblings was unbearable, he made a promise to himself that if the occasion ever rose, he'd stick the daggers back into their chests.

"From what Rebekah's told me, Finn's quite sweet, a little boring perhaps but I'm sure I have ways to liven him up." She picked up her glass and took a sip, keeping their eye contact fixed, Klaus knew she was joking but his gaze remained hard. "Kol sounds like a lot fun to be around, in contrast to you at this point, we'll get along amazingly. And Elijah..."

"Not Elijah." He deadpanned, being attracted to the same women seemed to be a reoccurring theme between the brothers. Klaus was less inclined to introduce Mia to his older sibling, in the fear that history would repeat itself. "You wouldn't like him, he's awfully dull."

"Nonsense." Mia gave a dismissive wave, "I heard he's a gentleman, I happen to like gentlemen." She caught sight of the dejected expression on his face and immediately felt guilty. Rebekah had told her about the brothers' battle to win the heart of Tatia, which meant that any talk of Elijah stealing Mia away was bound to be infuriating to hear.

"Must you tease me so?" Klaus exhaled loudly, latching his hands on her waist and pulling her onto his lap. 

"I'll stop when you let them go." The Petrova told him, seeing that her pleas were ineffective, she opted for a different method of manipulation. She moved in, gently placing kisses along his jaw. Once he let out a sigh of bliss she saw the opportunity to try again and pulled away. "Please, Nik. The longer you keep them trapped, the longer you deny me of Mikaelson love. I just want them to like me."

"I'll think about it." It was a lie, but one that he would've told a dozen more times if it meant Mia would smile like she just had. "However if it's more Mikaelson love that you require then I'm more than happy to oblige." His lips made their way to her neck, travelling upwards to her cheek before he was stopped with a light smack on his head.

"We're in public, you daft man." Mia scolded, pushing his face from her. "See, exactly as I said. You have no restraint."

"No one can see us, love." Klaus contended, the two were sat at the corner of the room in a booth. "And how am I expected to have restraint when it's you I'd be holding back from." 

Mia rolled her eyes at this remark, it was frustrating how much of an effect his words had on her. They both knew the best way to convince each other, unaware that soon one of them would need their method to be more influential than the other's.

"They can still flipping hear." Mia muttered, her lips hovered above his, every time he'd lean in, she would pull back. "We both know you're terrible at keeping quiet." She could sense his impatience grow and felt it was almost cruel to deny him any longer. "Actually, why don't we go home, have an early night. I'm feeling quite tired."

A smirk instantly found its way to Klaus' face, he pecked her lips eagerly then placed her back in the seat and stood up, "I'll get Rebekah then we can go." 

"Oh, just leave her, Nik." Mia shouted after him but he showed no signs of noticing. She didn't like to think about his faults, but one of them certainly was his need for control. It was as though he didn't trust Rebekah to be on her own, in case she'd leave him, the only sibling he had left abandoning him.

Klaus spotted his sister, she was slightly preoccupied kissing a man he hadn't seen before. "We're leaving, Rebekah." He tugged on her arm, pulling her off the guy.

"Get off me!" Rebekah snapped, she surveyed the room for Mia, hoping she would come to her rescue. The Petrova seemed to be the only one that could calm him down.

"Who is this guy?" The man shot up from his chair, sneering at the Mikaelson as he took a step towards him.

"Stefan, don't. He'll kill you." Rebekah warned, standing in front of him before turning to face her brother. "Nik's a lot stronger than he looks."

"So this is the famous Stefan Salvatore, I've been hearing so much about. Thomas was right, he does have funny hair." He smirked upon seeing Rebekah tense up at the latter's name, it was clear something had happened between the two, but neither of them had disclosed what. "Mia's tired, she wants to go home."

"Then go without me." Rebekah snarked, "I'm not your pet."

"No, you're my sister. Which means you have to do as I say." He gripped her wrist, spinning her around before glaring at the Salvatore in front of him. "Now, say goodbye to your little distraction."

"I'm getting sick of your constant need to be an arse." Rebekah freed herself from his grip and stood next to Stefan. "He's my friend."

"Why then, we ought to introduce ourselves." A sweet voice came from behind, belonging to Mia as she approached them, she grew suspicious of how long Klaus was taking and knew that he must've been threatening someone or annoying Rebekah, in this case it was both. "Any friend of Rebekah's is a friend of ours."

As Klaus opened his mouth to object the Petrova placed a hand on his chest and spoke quietly, "If you forbid her from seeing him, she will do so anyways on her own accord. Wouldn't it be a whole lot easier if you just allowed it?" She raised an eyebrow waiting for his response, after taking a few seconds to think about it, Klaus realised that she was right and nodded.

"Good." She kissed his cheek then faced the other two and held her hand out, "Amelia Peterson, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Stefan Salvatore." The vampire replied, bringing her hand to his lips. Klaus clenched his jaw at the interaction, desperately fighting the urge to rip the man's heart out. "I'm gonna go ahead and assume you're not one of their siblings, so that would make you ..."

"Nik's girlfriend." Rebekah completed, the couple both unintentionally furrowed their brows at the word. They'd never given themselves a label, just that they were each others'. However the words boyfriend and girlfriend sounded too casual for them. 

"And my best friend." The Mikaelson girl beamed, she felt bad for keeping secrets from Mia but was far too embarrassed with what'd happened between her and Tommy and didn't want the Petrova to judge her.

Mia returned the smile before addressing Stefan once again, "So... Where are you from Mr Salvatore?"

"Mystic Falls, you probably haven't heard of it." Stefan responded, there was a familiar vibe about the girl but he couldn't quite point out what it was.

"Of course I have, I was born there too. So were Nik and Bex." Mia exclaimed, looking at Klaus with an excited expression. He wasn't too fond of the Salvatore, more specifically the way he was staring at Mia. "What are the odds?"

"Perhaps it's meant to be." Rebekah gazed at the man beside her, espying Tommy watching her from across the room, so she pressed a kiss to Stefan's cheek. The bartender cocked his head to the side before storming out.

Stefan noticed what'd just happen and threw his arm over the blonde's shoulder, it was extremely satisfying having something, or someone, that once belonged to another. "You know, I don't think I remember a Peterson family in Mystic Falls."

Mia's smile dropped as she quickly searched for a lie, "Um... I was adopted so that's probably why." Klaus stared at the Petrova with confusion but could also sense her obvious discomfort and decided to change the topic.

"Well, this was ... fun but we should really get going, it's late." He was rather keen to go home, considering the plans he had for Mia once they'd reach, but it seemed that the brunette had completely forgotten all about them. 

Mia wrapped her arm around Klaus', wanting to get away from the Salvatore in case he asked any further questions. "Yes, it was wonderful to meet you sir but I'm afraid we can't stay much longer. We'll see you at home, Bex." 

"I didn't like him at all." Klaus mumbled as the two walked away, "His humanity was off, anyone can see that. Rebekah's a fool if she thinks he'll ever care for her."

"She's happy, that's all that matters." Mia murmured, but she too was worried for her friend. It was well known knowledge that whenever Rebekah would fall for someone she would fall in deep which would be an issue if Stefan couldn't feel any emotions.

"What was all that about, when he asked about your family?" Klaus quizzed, the Petrova's accelerated heartbeat didn't go unnoticed by him back then, but he thought it was better to ask when they were alone.

"Nothing, he was being awfully nosey. We just met him." Mia responded dryly, "I don't think I like him either." She unlinked their arms and walked ahead of Klaus, her breathing uneven as she began to panic. In her eyes, she only had herself to blame, she'd kept her true identity a secret for too long, that she feared if she were to tell the Mikaelsons now they would feel betrayed and discard of her.

She'd become so submerged in her thoughts that she didn't hear Klaus calling after her, it wasn't until they reached home when he finally managed to get her attention. "Are you alright?" The Mikaelson asked, he was puzzled by her sudden change in mood but more concerned if she was unhappy, she'd had enough of that in her life.

"I'm fine." Mia responded. Once they walked into their room, she grabbed his face and smashed their lips together. Klaus was startled by the sudden action and could tell the difference between this and their normal passion. She was trying to distract him, stop him from questioning her. The kisses were filled with desperation but not the kind he loved, they felt as if it was an obligation to show him affection.

"Stop." Klaus mumbled against her lips, as Mia loosened his tie but she showed no signs of hearing, his words were practically mute compared to her pulse. Of course he craved her, but not if there were other things causing trouble in her mind. "Mia, stop." He pulled away, but made sure to hold her hand so she didn't think he was angry. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing, why would something be wrong?" Mia stammered, avoiding eye contact. She despised deceiving to him, it made her feel dirty, evil almost. "I'm perfectly fine."

"You're lying." Klaus gripped her chin, it would be clear to anyone that she was. He vowed that if her uneasiness was due to the actions of someone else, he'd carve out their heart and feed it to them. 

With no other solutions coming to mind, Mia decided to try Klaus' usual technique that was reserved for anyone other than her. Getting angry. "I'm not lying, how can you even suggest that." She stepped away from his hold, trying to stop her hands from shaking. "If I'm saying there's nothing wrong then why can't you just believe me. Why must you have the constant desire to create issues?!" Her voice became loud and resonant as she watched his facial expressions contort with dismay. "You're infuriating!"

"Oh, I'm infuriating?" Klaus exclaimed, crossing his arms. "I'll tell you what's infuriating, sweetheart. Having the woman I love keep secrets from me and then get angry when I'm trying to help her. That's bloody infuriating!"

"Well that's extremely rich, coming from you, Saint Nik." Mia shot back, shaking her head tauntingly, "Acting as though you've told me everything about yourself. You have secrets too, but you don't see me being a nosey little prick and forcing you to tell me." 

"I'm not forcing you to tell me anything." Klaus lowered his voice, realising that they would get nowhere unless they stopped shouting. If only Mia had the same mindset, she continued to yell in the hopes he would get frustrated and give up. "You have to admit, love. This all looks rather suspicious on your side." 

"And how exactly did you come to that conclusion?" Maybe because you're just shouting at him for no reason, you idiotic bimbo. 

"That Salvatore fool pitches up and all of a sudden you're on edge." The Mikaelson paced the floor until a thought flashed in his mind, he hesitated to voice it, in case it added to her rage but continued nonetheless. If it was true, his first act would be to kill Stefan. "Have the two of you met before? In Mystic Falls perhaps.... were you .... intimate?"

"So now you're calling me a whore?" Mia scowled, raising a brow. The situation had clearly spun out of control so she sought the one way to end it. "I think I'll sleep in my room tonight. You obviously have some problems you need to work through."

"My love, of course I wasn't calling you a-" His words were cut off by the slamming of the door as Mia left the room. Klaus sunk into his chair, baffled by the whole conversation, he'd never seen the Petrova so furious before. It was foreign, unfamiliar and devastating to be on the receiving end.

"Can I come in?" Klaus stood in the entry way of the door, gazing at the girl on the bed. An hour had passed since their dispute, he hoped it was enough time for her temper to cool. When he received no response he moved closer to the bed. "Mia?"

After being ignored for a second time, the Mikaelson laid on the mattress. He slid an arm around her blanketed waist and pulled her closer to him, holding her firmly against his body. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have yelled." 

Guilt coursed through her veins, she was the one that started the argument yet here he was apologising first. This was the man that instantly struck fear in the hearts of others, but since they confessed their love for each other he'd been nothing short of a perfect lover. "It wasn't your fault." She mumbled, running a hand back and forth across his chest. Klaus smiled softly to himself, his Mia was back. 

"I understand there are things you'd rather keep to yourself and you're under no obligation to tell me any of them." Klaus explained as he stroked her hair, "But it bothers me if you're hurting alone, I want to be able to ease these burdens for you."

Tell him. Her conscience was screaming, urging her to speak the truth, the secret wasn't even of a grave nature that his perception of her would change but the fear of returning to the Fells seemed to control her actions. She knew it was highly improbable but it'd almost been a year and she saw no reason to drop the charade. "I'm sorry too, for shouting." 

"It's okay, I was being a nosy little prick." Klaus teased, finally getting a laugh out of her. She cuddled in close, resting her head in the crook of his neck.

"I love you, Nik."

"I love you, sweetheart. More than anything" He kissed her forehead before submitting to the slumber that'd he'd been fighting against for the last hour.

~~~~

"Would it be wrong for me to say that I really hate that man." Mia quizzed the duo sat with her by the bar. She turned down Klaus' offer to join him across the room, simply because Stefan was going to be there. With every interaction her disdain for the man seemed to grow, he would stare at her as if she was a prize to be won.

"What's he done this time?" Gloria asked, pouring herself some bourbon. It was best to listen to Mia's complaints with some alcohol in your system, made it a lot more funnier.

"What hasn't he done is the proper question." She huffed in irritation, "He never leaves us alone, constantly hovering over us."

"Maybe he just wants to be friends, you could try being nice to him." George suggested, he'd be lying if he said there wasn't a small part of him relieved that the Petrova didn't like Stefan. Being that, he too got strange vibes from the man.

"He has no emotions, how can we be friends?" Mia retorted, downing her lemonade in one go. "He's good looking but that's it."

"I've always liked his brother more." Gloria stated, reminiscing about the blue eyed vampire. "Damon Salvatore. Mmm, that man is a whole lot of handsome, charming too."

"He can't be all that good, not if he's related to Stefan." George criticized. 

"Anyone would be better than Stefan." Mia snarked. "Nik is practically obsessed with him, you would think they're in love."

"Perhaps I should leave and let them bang each other to their hearts' content." The Petrova sassed, receiving laughs from the pair.

"I think you're being a tad bit dramatic, Amelia." Gloria giggled.

"No, I don't think I'm being dramatic enough." Mia shrugged, "Tommy agrees with me, don't you Tom?" She asked the bartender that'd just approached them.

"I agree with what, kiddo?" Tommy questioned, he knew it didn't matter what she said, he would agree instantly.

"That Mr Salvatore is a weirdo." Mia whispered, as if she hadn't just been talking loudly about Stefan for the past hour.

"Oh, him." Tommy groaned, sitting next to Mia and mocking her angry pout. "Yeah he's a complete weirdo, and he has strange hair."

"See." The Petrova smiled smugly to Gloria. "The guy's a complete freak."

"Well, his opinion doesn't count. Obviously he won't like Stefan." Gloria argued, looking to George for support but realised he'd never go against Mia. "He stole his girl."

"Another reason we should hate him." Mia pointed before turning to Tommy, "Wait, what actually happened between you and Bex?"

"Yeah, you never told us." George chimed in, "Daisy's been telling everyone it's because you have four nipples." The three of them whipped their heads around to face George, who smiled sheepishly, "What, that's what everyone's been saying."

"It's obviously not true." Mia scoffed, then looked at the bartender with a smirk, "Or .. is it?"

"Of course not." Tommy shook his head, refilling the girl's glass. "Long story short, Bekah wanted to get married."

Gloria pressed her lips into a line, unimpressed with the answer, she'd been hoping the gossip was something more scandalous. "And that's a bad thing because?"

"I'm not ready for marriage, we've only known each other for a year." Tommy explained, "After what happened with Ronda I don't think I'll ever be ready for marriage again."

The friends nodded, they understood his point. Tommy was married for three years until he found out his wife had been cheating on him with .... with his father. Now the pair lived in a New York penthouse, with two sets of twins. 

"So when I said no, Bekah started crying and hit me with a tea tray." Tommy glared at Mia with mock anger as the girl tried to hold back her laughter. "She was drunk and embarrassed so it's fine. I don't hold anything against her."

"And now she's dating Frankenstein." George commented, "You should go fight for her."

"It's hardly a fair fight." Tommy noted, "The guy's a blood sucking monster." Mia cleared her throat at this insult, "Sorry, kid. I meant a blood sucking monster who has no feelings and isn't you."

"Thank you." Mia hummed, "But I agree with Georgie, someone needs to tell that man to back off."

"How about you do it, sweetie." Gloria chuckled, it was difficult to take the brunette seriously when she acted stern.

"I will." Mia nodded, then frowned when the trio laughed at her, "You don't think I will? Watch me." She strutted off with her head held high.

"Go get them, kiddo." Tommy encouraged, raising his fist in the air. Gloria nudged him, she didn't think the Petrova would actually leave. "I'm just supporting her, G. She has the Mikaelsons wrapped around her finger, they'll just find this cute."

Mia approached the table where the laughing vampires were sat. "Okay, Mr Salvatore I have something to say to yo-" She paused once she'd seen what was occurring. Stefan had just ran a blade along a young woman's hand, cutting her palm open. Her blood was now poured into a glass.

"Ah, Mia. So glad you could join us." Stefan smiled. Klaus and Rebekah both stared at the Petrova with panic in their eyes, they knew how she felt about hurting humans unnecessarily. 

"So this is Liam Grant." Stefan gestured to the fear struck man, who was sat beside Klaus. "And this is his wife Lila. Why don't you sit down, have some fun."

"Um I ... I'll have to pass." Mia stuttered, twisting her ring. She looked over at Rebekah but the blonde hung her head in shame.

"That's too bad." Stefan pouted mockingly, "Then maybe you can take Lila to get her hand bandaged. We don't want to get blood everywhere."

"I don't thi-" Klaus started but was cut off.

"No, it's fine Nik." Mia reassured, leaning forward to kiss his cheek, "There's nothing keeping me here anyways." She glared at Stefan then guided the young woman to the bar. George, Tommy and Gloria were all startled by what they just witnessed. George winced upon seeing the large cut on the girl's palm.

"I really hate that man." Mia sneered, biting into her wrist and healing Lila.

"Ditto." The trio spoke simultaneously. 

~~~~

Two days later, Klaus and Rebekah had told Mia to go to the bar alone. They thought they were being discreet but the Petrova quickly realised that they were planning something for her upcoming birthday. She sat by the bar alone, listening to the music and thinking about the events of the past year when her thoughts were disrupted by a voice.

"May I have this dance, Miss Peterson?" She turned to see Stefan, with his hand held out.

She'd normally decline, but was extremely bored and didn't know when Klaus would be returning, "Why of course, Mr Salvatore." She responded with a fake smile.

"Great." He led her to the middle of the room and pulled her in close. They swayed without interacting but Stefan grew tired and decided to speak up. "Why do I get the feeling you don't like me?"

"You'd be correct." Mia scowled, "I'm only civil with you because you're Nik and Bex's friend."

"Are we not friends?" Stefan rose a brow, twirling her around. "I'd like us to be."

"I prefer my friends to have emotions, and since your humanity's off you're not my type." She bobbed her head lightly in a condescending manner, "Sated?"

"Not yet. Look if you're worried I'm gonna tell them the truth, don't be."

"I don't know what you're talking about." Mia shrugged indifferently.

"About who you really are." He replied, a smile dangled on the edge of his lips. "I have no clue who Amelia Peterson is but she's certainly not you. Which makes me wonder why you felt the need to change your name, so I did a little research. The Fell Family." Mia scrunched her brows upon hearing the name. "They adopted two kids, one died and the other disappeared, hasn't been seen for almost a year."

"Crazy right? But guess what that girl's name was..." Stefan dipped her backwards before bringing her back up. "Amelia. Amelia Pierce. I mean what are the chances? This girl goes missing around the same time you show up in Chicago. The Mikaelsons know that you lived with the Fells, but they don't know your real name. If I was smarter, I'd guess that it's because you think they'd turn you in. One day when they've grown sick of you."

"Please.." The brunette shook her head, a pleading look plastered on her face.

"Like I said, I'm not going to tell them anything. Which means we can be friends but first .... I wanna let you in on a little secret..." Stefan leaned forward and whispered in her ear. "My humanity isn't off."

Mia pulled back with wide eyes, "What?!" She blinked rapidly in disbelief, "But how .... why?"

"I turned it back on just before I got to Chicago." Stefan told her, finding her look of shock adorable. "But that doesn't mean that all my emotions just come rushing back, not if I stop it."

"Why would you want to stop it?" Mia questioned, her expression softening with concern. 

He could stand there and spend hours listing the reasons but that would make him relive the feelings of every bad thing that had happened to him. So he smiled at her instead, "You see, this is why I like you."

"You have this little glimmer of hope in your eyes, like you can help me." The Salvatore brushed his hand across her cheek, "Lexi has it too."

"Who's Lexi?" 

"No one important." Stefan dismissed. He'd been avoiding the Branson girl for a while and knew it was only a matter of time before she tracked him down.

"Well, I can help you." Mia offered, "If you let me."

"There's many things I'd let you do." He smirked, "I can do a lot too, if you let me." He'd taken an interest in the Petrova, he didn't know if it was a genuine attraction or just because Klaus loved her. It meant she was off limits which made things much more exciting.

"What do you mean?" She knew exactly what he was referring to but hoped that he would have the decency to deny it.

"That feigned innocence, it's adorable, it really is." He drifted his hand down her back, resting it at the bottom of her spine. "Klaus might fall for it but I'm not an idiot."

"You clearly are if you think I have any interest in you." Mia shot back, "I love Nik." She attempted to walk away but he caught her wrist and spun her, pressing her back to his chest.

"It doesn't matter if you love him. You can't deny that you feel something for me." Stefan whispered huskily, he overheard the conversation she had with her friends, completely ignoring all the insults and focussing on the fact that she called him good looking. "Maybe that's why you pretend to hate me."

"Maybe that's why I can hear your heart racing." His fingers trailed down her arm, causing her to gasp quietly, "There's something between us, you just have to admit it." He placed both hands on her hips, turning her around once more.

"Why are you saying this?" Mia asked, trying to study his face. 

"You wanted me to feel something. This is me feeling something." Their faces were only inches apart, "What if I told you I'd show all my emotions .... if you left town with me."

Her mind racked with confusion, certain that it was just a cruel game. "You don't even know me." Mia remarked, she wanted to leave but there was a small fraction that decided to stay. "Why would you want that?"

"You ask an awful amount of questions. Maybe for the same reason the Mikaelsons keep you around, the same reason I'm still in this city." He stroked his thumbs along her hips, "Comfort."

"They don't love you. What they love is the pureness in you, it makes them feel good about themselves." Stefan concluded, seeing the hurt flash in her eyes. "I hang out with them because they're Original vampires, they're evil killers. Compared to that, a ripper doesn't seem so bad."

"That's not true, they love me." Mia argued, blocking out his words. "And they're not evil."

"You can keep telling yourself that if it helps, but deep down you know I'm right. Why do you think they treat you like some kind of porcelain doll..." He paused so she could answer but she simply stared at him with an unreadable expression. "They don't want their precious toy to be ruined."

"They just worry because of what happened to me." Mia informed, "I got attacked, you can't blame them for caring."

"And who's fault was it that you got attacked? Theirs. And now they want to act all high and mighty, as if they're your guardian angels. But if you come with me... I'd treat you with the respect you deserve, let you make your own decisions, be the person you're meant to be." Stefan put forth, the idea of stealing an Original vampire's love was exhilarating, more extreme than anything he'd felt in the past few months. "You're strong. Inside there's a part of you that agrees with me, you just have to convince the rest."

His gaze dipped to her plump lips, "All you have to do is say yes."

"I-" Mia began.

"What is this?" Klaus spoke suddenly, causing the Petrova to flinch.

Stefan, however didn't even seem fazed by the Mikaelson appearing. "She looked gloomy sitting by herself so I asked her to dance." He finally released her from his hold so she slowly made her way to the Original. "You've got yourself a real sweet one, Nik."

"I'm aware of that." Klaus glared, "What I was referring to, was how close you were."

"Nik, nothing happened." Mia spoke quietly, reaching for him.

"Of course not." He held her hand but looked straight at the Salvatore, "Stefan's not that foolish."

Mia had a strong urge to slap the green eyed vampire as he stood there, with a smirk residing on his face. "Hey, I'm not that kinda guy. We were just dancing." He walked away and stood by the bar, ignoring the dirty looks Tommy was sending his way.

"Nik, I pro-" Her words cut off by Klaus' lips pushing against hers, the kiss was rough unlike their previous ones. The Mikaelson gripped her hips harshly, causing her to whimper, it was as if he was trying to get rid of Stefan's touch, make his mark on her. The man across the room looked away in annoyance, the message from Klaus had clearly been received.

Klaus pulled away, leaving the brunette breathless. "Let's go home." He smiled warmly, curling an arm around her waist and leading her to the exit.

"Wait." Mia stopped abruptly, "I left my coat inside, I'll be quick." She returned to the stool where she was previously sat at, only to find that her coat was missing.

"Looking for this?" Stefan grinned, holding it in his hands. "Here let me." He stood behind her, sliding the attire onto her body, she thanked him briefly and went to leave but he sped in front of her.

"I'll get you one day." He declared, fastening the button of her coat. "Then I'll rub it in his face."

"Or maybe..." Mia moved in, bringing her lips dangerously close to his. "He'll rip your heart out and rub it in your face. Try a stunt like that again and I'll tell him everything you said." She stepped back with a cold smile then walked out with Tommy silently cheering for her.

Once they reached home, Klaus slammed the door and poured himself a drink. "He should consider himself lucky I didn't kill him on the spot."

"I already told you, Nik. Nothing happened." Another lie.

"This wasn't the first time. I've seen the way he looks at you." He drained the glass and refilled it. "He doesn't even look at Rebekah like that."

Rebekah. Mia had completely forgotten about the girl, she'd be devastated if she knew what Stefan had said to the brunette. Both of the Mikaelsons would, in Mia's mind there was a chance they could blame her, choose Stefan's side and leave the Petrova all alone. That was something she was determined to stop so it meant .... more lying and gaslighting. Some could argue that all the time she spent with the siblings had corrupted her.

"He doesn't look at me in any way." She cupped his face in her hands. "It's all in your head."

"You don't know how these people think, sweetheart." Klaus told her, wrapping his arms around her body. "You could never fully understand..."

"Understand what?" She tilted her head to the side, yearning for a change in topic.

"How desirable you truly are." He leaned down, brushing his lips faintly against her cheek. "I'd rather set this world ablaze than let anyone else touch you." He whispered whilst his lips traced her jawline before finally reaching her mouth, however once she moved in, he pulled back and gave a pointed look. "You're mine. And if I have to kill every man in this town to prove that, I'll do so without hesitation. I'll-"

She cut his monologue short with a kiss, their lips moved perfectly in sync. His hand snaked around to her back, dragging down her zip in a torturous pace. And spent the rest of the night showing her how much she meant to him. By the end of it Stefan's words had become a faint memory.

~~~~

"So this is the true criminal." Mia remarked, examining the dagger in her hand. She straight up refused to go out that night so Klaus was trying to teach her self defence. However the girl got distracted once he'd given her a certain weapon, one that was very precious to him. "I have every right to hide this from you so you don't use it on Bex."

"I'll find it within seconds." Klaus bragged, stepping towards her, "You can't hide anything from me."

Actually I can. "Maybe you're right." She flipped the blade and pressed the tip against his chest, "Or maybe... I could push this through you, free the rest of your siblings and we can all live happily ever after."

"Go ahead." He smirked, finding her new found confidence incredibly arousing. "I give you full permission to do so." Never had he thought he would trust someone enough to even hold the daggers, let alone threaten him with one.

"Don't tempt me, Mr Mikaelson. You have no idea how far I can go." Mia scraped the dagger against his neck lightly but enough to draw blood. "An Original can get hurt so easily." She pouted tauntingly, "Awh, you poor thing. Perhaps it's you who needs the self defence lessons."

She brushed her thumb against the now healed wound, wiping away the crimson secretion before bringing it to her mouth and sucking it off. 

Without warning, Klaus snatched the dagger from her and backed her into the wall. Making sure to place his hand on her back so the impact wouldn't hurt her, he hovered the weapon by the neck. "Don't let your guard down, darling. It can get you killed."

"I have far bigger worries than you." Mia teased, glancing down at the blade, "Actually I could get used to this."

"You're one of a kind." Klaus tossed the weapon to the side and descended his lips onto hers. He lifted her up and sat her on the desk, attacking her collarbone with kisses, her soft moans fuelling his lust even further. 

She pulled his blazer off and threw it on the floor whilst his hands snuck up her dress, tugging her tights down.

The door suddenly swung open, revealing a wide eyed Rebekah and disgusted Stefan. "Oh my god... we are so sorry. We should've knocked." Rebekah exclaimed.

"It's fine." Klaus grumbled, standing in front of Mia to conceal her whilst she fixed her attire. "Did you need something?"

"Well... we got bored at the bar by ourselves so we wanted to see come sit with the two of you." Rebekah explained, glancing at Stefan, who's facial expression remained hard. "But if you're ... busy then-"

"No it's fine Bex, honestly." Mia smoothened her dress, pushing her hair back. "We can all have drinks in the parlour."

The two men walked out but as Rebekah went to leave Mia gripped her arm. "Can we talk, please?" She led the blonde to the bed and sat down, "Tommy told me what happened between you two."

"He did?" Rebekah sighed, feeling relieved that she no longer had to keep it secret. "I would've told you myself but I didn't want ..."

"Bex, you know I would never judge you or hold anything against you." The Petrova cupped Rebekah's face in her hand. "You're my best friend and I'd love you not matter what. And if Stefan makes you happy then I'm grateful for that. Even if the world was against you I would remain by your side."

The Mikaelson tried to blink back tears, "Honestly Mia, you're too good for us. We don't deserve you. Now lets go before I start bawling like child." They held hands and joined the men in the parlour.

Stefan scooped Rebekah up, placing her on his lap, whilst Mia sat beside Klaus, resting her head on his shoulder.

She hadn't spoken to Stefan properly since the day he shamelessly flirted with her, so decided to make him feel as uncomfortable as possible. "So Stef..." Her voice was laced with disdain. "How's your brother?"

Rebekah looked behind her at the man, "You have a brother? You never told me."

"Yes but um ... I don't talk to him anymore." He shot an annoyed look at Mia, "Sometimes it's better to cut off the people who only do you wrong. I'm guessing that was the case with you and Jesse."

"Leave him out of it." Klaus ordered, knowing how much the topic affected his girl.

"Sorry.." The Salvatore held his hands up in surrender, "I just assumed they had a fight, I mean why else would she just abandon him for almost a year?"

"If you can't hold your tongue.." Klaus stood up but Mia pushed him back.

"It's okay, Nik. He doesn't mean anything by it, he doesn't know any better." The worst part was Stefan knew everything, he knew exactly why Mia had to leave her best friend behind yet he continued to have fun at her expense. She felt as though she was in the wrong, she'd brought up the topic of families first.

"We're all rather drunk, why don't we call it a night." Rebekah suggested, grabbing Stefan's hand and going to her room, her yelling could be heard through the walls.

"He was right." Mia murmured, almost inaudibly. "I abandoned Jesse."

"Of course you didn't. He's a fool for suggesting otherwise." Klaus comforted, hugging her. "I just need to go out, I'll return shortly."

He left their home, walking to the bar until he spotted the man he was looking for. Wasting no time, he grabbed the guy and sped to the alleyway. 

"What the hell, Klaus." George gasped, "You can't just grab people like that."

"Oh, stop your fussing." Klaus rolled his eyes. "You care about Mia, don't you?"

"You know I do. What, is this just your chance to brag that you won. I get it, she chose you." George tried to push the man away but was ineffective. "Are we done?"

"No, I need you to do a job for me."

~~~~

Yet another month had gone by, another month of pure bliss and love. It seemed too good to be true and in this case it most definitely was.

Mia had spent the entire day looking after Daphne and insisted that the trio go to the bar without her, promising to meet them there once the child's mother had collected her. Madeleine arrived rather late, saying that her plumber had caused the delay but judging by the small bruises on her neck, that wasn't the truth. Well, not the whole truth exactly.

The brunette strolled down the street, gazing up at the cloudless sky and full moon. It was a perfect evening, but fate refused to let her remain happy.

All of a sudden dozens of people rushed down the pavements, screaming and yelling. Their shouts were too hysterical for the Petrova to understand but alarmed her nonetheless. She hurried into an alleyway, her heart racing as she waited for the crowds to pass until she heard a familiar voice.

"Mia!" Klaus yelled over the noise, desperately searching for her. The worst scenario played repeatedly on his mind, that she was dead somewhere. However he caught sight of the Petrova, cowering in a corner and ran to her, embracing the girl tightly. "Thank god."

"Nik, what's going on?" Mia asked, noticing the worry in his face. "Why is everyone screaming?"

"Mikael's here." Klaus told her. He and Rebekah had sat Mia down and explained their entire family history, including the constant chase their father had undertaken. They felt it was only right to let her know the risks of being with them but decided against telling Stefan.

"What? No that can't be... you said he wouldn't find you." Mia stammered, shaking her head in disbelief, "You said....that." Her chest tightened as she began to hyperventilate. "We have to run. We have to go now before he gets you."

"Not we, love." Klaus corrected, "Just me."

Mia furrowed her brows, confusion seeping through her entire being, "What do you mean?"

"You're not coming with me. I'm going alone."

"You can't." Mia laughed nervously, hoping it was a joke, a cruel one but a joke nonetheless. "What about Rebekah and Stefan and .... me. Nik, what about me!?"

"I've daggered Rebekah, she refused to come with me and I ...." He paused, knowing what her reaction would be, "I compelled Stefan's memories away."

Mia's eyes grew wide as she realised what he was about to do, she turned around in an attempt to escape but he darted in front of her. "No, don't you dare." She tried to shove him away however he gripped her wrists, "Don't you fucking dare! You promised me."

The brunette continued the struggle, fighting to leave his hold but he was far too strong. "Mia, look at me." He held her down by her shoulders, shaking her gently. "Trust me, I take no pleasure in doing this."

"Then don't do it." Mia pleaded, her voice breaking as sobs raked through her body, "Please, Nik. I'm begging you, don't do this to me."

"I have to." Tears welled up in his eyes, "You don't understand what it's like, having to constantly run. The fear of being caught, hanging over your head, never being able to truly call a place home. It's enough to ruin a person."

"And you." He exhaled loudly, trying to stop his voice from wavering, "You are completely perfect. I will not have you suffer as I have."

"It won't be suffering if I'm with you. I promise I'll won't complain or get attached to a place." Mia stroked his arm, wishing her touch could convince him. "I'll listen to everything you say just .... don't leave me alone. Please."

"You won't be alone, there's a reason George has been out of town for a while. He was doing a job for me." Klaus held the Petrova's face as she tried to run again, "I sent him to Mystic Falls. He has Jesse, your Jesse." The smallest gleam of joy shone in her eyes, it was enough to satisfy Klaus that he was doing the right thing.

 "I turned him, he's a vampire now." He brushed away the hair from her face, knowing it would be the last time he got to touch the soft strands. "You're not alone, my love. I would never leave you on your own."

"Then we can both come with you." Mia sniffled as the tears streamed down her face, "Please... please. I'll never ask for anything again."

"But you deserve the whole world, and I can't give you that with the danger that follows us. Mikael refuses to let me have love, he takes away all that is precious to me. I lost Marcellus only three years ago and I'd sooner die then let the same thing happen to you" He wiped away wetness from his own face, studying every inch of her, taking in every second he had left in her presence. "I do love you, it's why I have to do this. And I need you to understand."

"I don't. I don't understand at all." The brunette jerked her body around to free herself but stopped once she saw Klaus' face, the true embodiment of heart break. Mikael had put the siblings through hell and now once again Klaus had to sacrifice his happiness. She realised that it wasn't the time to struggle but instead surrender. "Okay."

"Okay?" Klaus felt relief flow though him, he needed a chance to say goodbye and wouldn't be able to do it if she was fighting.

"Okay. You can do it, take away my memories. But you have to promise me something." She took off her daylight ring and placed it in his hands, "You have to come find me one day."

"Sweetheart, you need your ring." Klaus held it out to her, her life as a vampire would be difficult if she was secluded to the night.

"No, I'm not taking it." Mia refused, "You keep it, then give it back to me when we meet again."

"I don't know when that will be." It'd been a thousand years since his father had been chasing them and he couldn't see it ever coming to an end.

"Well, that's the beauty of an eternity. We have forever." The brunette brushed her thumb across his lips, "And I will wait forever, so you have to promise me.... Please, promise me."

At this point he would tell her anything she wanted, even if there was no chance of it coming true, "I promise, Mia. I'll find you again."

"Good. My Nik." She smiled feebly, cupping his cheek. "You have made me the happiest I'll ever be. This past year has been heavenly and I wouldn't change a single thing about my horrid childhood if it meant that I would come here and meet you."

 "And I know you think that you deserve the awful things that are happening to you, but you don't. You aren't to blame for any of this. So, please be happy, a smile like that ought to be shared with the entire world." He stood there, memorising every word she spoke.

"Mia, I-" Klaus tried to speak but his throat burned, this was a pain unlike he'd ever felt before, "I will never love another as I have you. You've fulfilled my every desire, gave me joy that I didn't think was possible to feel."

"My main regret is that I won't get to watch you thrive in this world as I know you undoubtedly will." He pulled her in kissing her forehead repeatedly, whispering declarations of love, as she sobbed into his chest. Every cry shattered his heart even further, he hooked a finger under her chin, tilting her head upwards. "But the thought of you safe, is the only thing that will grant me ease."

And with that, their lips met. Both of them refusing to pull away first as tears rolled down each of their faces. Mia wrapped her arms around his neck, holding him close whilst his hands trailed down her sides.

 She was the first to move back, knowing Klaus would never have been able to. "I love you, Nik."

"I love you Mia...more than anything." Klaus gently pecked her forehead one last time and cleared his throat before staring deep into her eyes. He felt his heart squeeze at the sight of her pupils dilating, after this he'd be gone, from her life...her memory. Every conversation, kiss, hug, it'd all be cleared. But in his mind this was the best solution, the only thing to keep her safe.

"You will not remember anything from this past year, not Stefan, not Rebekah, not even me." His voice cracked as though his mouth was refusing to let her go. "You've just arrived in Chicago looking for a new life, searching for the happiness that you deserve. You are a vampire but you will not remember the horrific way you turned. And the dreadful cravings do not bother you as painfully as they do to others. Go to the train station, you'll find Jesse there."

"And ...." His breath hitched as he was about to speak the final words, "Live life as you do now, continue to be the remarkable woman that I adore." Her eyes closed whilst the compulsion sunk in, Klaus quickly pressed a kiss to her cheek then whispered, "I will find you again, my love." And darted out of sight, out of her life, forever. Or so they thought.

Mia's eyes shot open, she found herself outside a bar but the street was empty. She felt a dampness on her face and looked around in complete confusion. Until she realised what she was doing, it was her first day in Chicago, she'd just arrived looking for a new life.

"Excuse me, Ma'am." A middle aged man approached her, holding up a badge. "Chicago PD, was wondering if you happened to see these two." He showed her a drawing of two people, one male, one female. Neither of which she could recognise.

"Um.. no." She shook her head, examining the drawing, "I've never seen them before."

"I need you to be certain." The man pressed further.

"Is there a problem here." A man with green eyes stood between the two, he glanced at the Petrova, noticing the tear stains on her face. "Is he bothering you?" He too, had just found himself in a random street, feeling disoriented. 

"This doesn't have anything to do with you." The police officer objected, "I'm just asking her a question."

"Actually it does." Mia stated, looking for a lie. "This is my husband... Phillip." The man beside her, furrowed his brows at the name but decided to go along with it.

"You look awfully young to be married."

"We eloped." The brunette smiled sheepishly, "Neither of our parents agreed so we took matters into our own hands, didn't we darling."

"Yes." He nodded, impressed with her acting skills.

"Then why is your heart beating so quick." There was something clearly suspicious about the two but not for the reasons he thought. 

He's a vampire. Before Mia could speak, the green eyed man chuckled, "She's always been timid, my girl." He threw an arm over her shoulder. "You should see her around my mother." 

The two laughed over exaggeratedly until the officer shot them a glare causing the fake amusement to cease.

"We've only just moved here sir." Mia rested a hand on the guy's chest, "Hoping to start a new life."

The officer glared at the pair but was distracted as he espied a blonde woman turn the corner, he'd mistaken her for someone else. "That'll be all." He walked away, leaving the two strangers alone.

"You are a very good liar." The man grinned at Mia, he brushed his finger against her cheek. "You've been crying, are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine." Mia beamed, "I don't even remember why. But I have to go to the train station. There's something waiting for me... I just don't know what." She took off in a run down the pavement. "It was lovely to meet you, Phillip!"

"It's Stefan." The man called out but she'd already gone. He smiled at the strange interaction however was quickly distracted as a woman sauntered past him, someone new to feed from.

~~~~

Mia walked along the platform, she couldn't explain why but every part of her being had urged her to go to the train station. She felt like a fool for listening to it but it was as though she couldn't disobey.

"Millie?" A familiar voice spoke from behind her, causing her to gasp. "Millie is that you?"

She whirled around, her jaw dropping with shock of who it was. Jesse, her childhood friend that she believed she would never see again, standing before her. The brunette rushed to him, jumping in his arms as he spun them around.

"How... I thought I'd never see you again." She held his face, kissing his cheek several times. "This is amazing. How did you get away?"

"Your guess is as good as mine." Jesse shrugged, "I can't remember anything from these past few days and all of a sudden I'm here, killing people and drinking their blood."

"You're a vampire?!" She exclaimed, she paused for a moment trying to recall something, anything. All that came to mind was that she was also a vampire... but had no memory of how this came to be. "None of this make sense." 

The Burton boy sighed, of course he cared about discovering the truth but his main priority was catching up on stolen time. "My little Millie." Jesse smiled, embracing her once more. "Nothing will take me away from you now. But we're gonna have to fake our deaths so the Fells don't find us. I already left my wallet on some random guy."

"Did you get smarter?" Mia mumbled against his shoulder.

"Hi, I'm sorry to disturb you." A blonde woman interrupted, they both pulled apart and looked her in annoyance. "I was just wondering if you'd seen a man with brown hair and green eyes. He's about ..." She waved her hand a few inches above her head, "This tall."

"No, sorry. It's our first day here." Jesse told the blonde, he took pity on the girl, having spent a whole year worrying about his friend too. "But we'll be happy to help you look for him."

"It's fine." The woman sighed, running a hand through her hair. "He doesn't want to see me anyways, been avoiding me for months. Most girls would take the hint but..."

"I think it's wonderful you're not giving up on him." Mia smiled comfortingly at the girl, "Sorry, I'm so rude, we haven't even introduced ourselves. I'm ...." She hesitated, the name Amelia always seemed odd to her, as if she was meant to be called another. "Mia, I'm Mia. And this.." She gestured to the curly haired boy beside her, "Is Jesse."

"I'm Lexi." The woman shook Mia's hand. "Lexi Branson."

A/N: HELLO MY DARLINGSSSS. I hope you enjoyed that chapter. PLEASE REMEMBER TO VOTE. ( I wrote most of it in one sitting so it is unedited)

I know I said I was taking a break but it annoyed me having an odd number of chapters out, my brain is a strange place.

Okay so .. don't be mad at me. This had to happen, I really loved writing for the 20s BUTTTT it isn't over yet, There will be a flashback next chapter showing Mia's birthday. I was gonna include it in this chapter but then it would've been 15,000 words and ain't no one got time to read that.

Plus the next chapter is Elena's birthday which is in June so I'm gonna add Mia's in as well because hers is in July.

Leave your complaints or favourite moments here:

Before anyone says, Mia and Stefan don't remember that small interaction 1) Because it was literally a five second thing and 2) They were kinda preoccupied with Papa Original asking them questions. I can't even remember faces after 2 minutes let alone 90 years.

The next chapter will be the starting of Season 3. I'm gonna miss soft Mia but I'm very excited to write the other version again.

Sooo, I hope everyone enjoyed Mia's origin story. I know y'all were confused for quite some time but now everything has been revealed. If you decide to reread this book, please DO NOT spoil it for any first time readers. Let them have the same experience as you did <3

Drink water, eat fruit, read smut.

LOVE YOUUUUU

Published: 10th May 2022