CHAPTER 6

I didn't proof this very well so I'm sorry about any mistakes.

Happy birthday anon!

Bonnie had changed into a long white nightgown with a high neckline. She and the other women were getting ready to go to bed in the spare bedchamber off the ballroom. Lucy had already said her goodbyes, wanting to be long gone before Klaus came home.

Bonnie sat down on the bed with Rebekah, who was looking sulky.

"The one night Nik is busy and I can't sneak away with Stefan."

"I'm sorry, Bekah," Bonnie said. "Truth be told, I'd rather go back to my room as well."

"Of course, you would, it's amazingly comfortable. After all I decorated it. That and I imagine you want Kol to crawl into bed with you again," this was said in a whisper.

"I do not," Bonnie exclaimed horrified.

She'd spent many nights in the bedroom that looked like her own, and Kol had only been present for one of them. She had simply grown comfortable there due its familiarity. It was her one place of solitude in this madhouse.

"Oh, I see," Rebekah said, a smirk spreading. "You did only sleep then. Honestly, I thought Kol was lying when I caught him sneaking out the next morning."

"Rebekah please," Bonnie groaned. She didn't want to talk about this.

Wasn't anything private in this place? The manor was huge, how could it be so difficult to keep secrets?

"Anyway, I'm just thoroughly miffed. When is Klaus leaving?" Rebekah asked Caroline, who was settling down on one of the mattresses on the floor.

"Oh, I don't know, he said in about a week," Caroline yawned. "I think he expects you to come with us."

"Ugh," Rebekah grimaced.

Bonnie lay down on the bed and scrunched the pillow up as comfortable as she could make it. She closed her eyes and tried to fall asleep. Except sleep eluded her, there were too many people in the room, and too many sleep sounds. She felt crowded.

Eventually she heard Katherine groan and sneak out. Bonnie grinned, thinking if she were braver she might do the same.

She was drifting off to sleep when she saw the door creak open. Klaus peeked his head in, and she was startled awake. Keeping entirely still Bonnie watched his figure in the doorway out of fear of what he might try to do. He waved at Caroline, who shook her head. His expression darkened. Sighing Caroline, left with him. Bonnie understood her reluctance, she was the one that had championed this as a tradition.

Sage didn't waste any time.

"Girls, since Caroline isn't here to chaperone me, and I don't have to pretend to support this ludicrous tradition, I am going to go find my husband," Sage said, sitting up and even in the darkness of the room, Bonnie could see the glitter of her white teeth as she smiled. "That dancing got me all fired up."

"Goodnight, Sage," Bonnie murmured, halfway asleep once more.

"Goodnight kiddo, and enjoy your last night as a single gal," with that Sage tip-toed out the door.

A small feeling over horror washed over her at Sage's words. Then as quickly as it came, it washed away. Feeling calm, Bonnie fell asleep.

XXX

Kol was returning from the bachelor party with Stefan and Jeremy. Kai stayed behind to sort through some business with Elijah. Though Kol suspected mostly it was an attempt to seduce one of the dancers while Elijah settled the payment for the club rental.

"Klaus, disappeared with Caroline," Rebekah announced.

She was tip-toeing down the hallway in her nightgown and a dressing robe. Her hair was disheveled. Kol took her appearance to mean she had snuck away with a purpose in mind, and he toyed with the idea of scolding her. Deciding in the end against it because she would scream bloody murder and wake every sleeping inhabitant of the manor.

"Did he now?" Stefan asked, a smile playing on his lips.

"Bonnie's alone," Rebekah said to Kol. "I'm certain she is safe however, as Klaus is otherwise occupied so don't waste your breath scolding me, big brother."

"Very well."

"You're not even trying to keep this whole affair a secret are you, 'Bekah?" Jeremy said, humming with amusement.

"Shut up, Jeremy," all three of them said at once.

Jeremy grumbled and went upstairs. Kol waited until Rebekah disappeared upstairs with Stefan before making his way to the bedchamber, he knew Bonnie was in. He tried to be as inconspicuous as possible because he knew Bonnie would be mortified if anyone knew.

Kol opened the door and peaked inside. Bonnie was fast asleep, he could hear her breathing softly and she was burrowed into the pillow. He grinned, she was adorable and he could see her long braid on top of the covers. Letting himself in quietly, he closed the door as silently as he could. He went to sit on the bed next to her.

"Bonnie," Kol whispered softly, stroking her cheek. She murmured in her sleep, and rolled over, sighing in content. He smiled down at her, warmly. "Bonnie my sweet, wake up," a little louder this time.

"Kol?" Bonnie asked, sitting up and blinking.

In the darkness he could just barely make out her rubbing her eyes.

"The other girls left so I'm going to sleep in here with you, alright?" he hadn't wanted to simply get in bed with her, fear for of upsetting her when she woke and realized he was there.

"No," Bonnie complained, drawing the covers up further to her chin when he tried to climb under them with her.

"Why not?" Kol asked frowning. "We've slept in the same bed before. Are you still angry?" thinking perhaps she'd changed her mind since their earlier conversation.

"No, that's not it," Bonnie shook her head, clinging to the covers for dear life. "I'm – I'm only in my nightgown."

"Don't be silly, my darling, I don't mind," Kol said, grinning and trying to keep the heat from his voice, but knowing he failed.

"It's indecent," she cried, tightening her grip on the covers.

"If I promise to behave?" he asked, torn between losing patience and amusement. She was cute when she was shy.

"Do you think you could manage such a Herculean feat?"

Just like that the sweetness was gone and Kol found himself turned on. She was a lot feistier than she liked to let on.

"Bonnie, I won't do anything, my sweet."

Kol was already on the bed. It would only take a moment before he was under the covers.

"Promise?"

"Promise," he said, knowing she felt better whenever he did.

Kol took off his coat jacket and got in bed with her. Bonnie reluctantly let go of her iron grip on the covers, allowing him to slide in entirely next to her and pull her into his arms. She froze and then relaxing, she rested her head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her waist and kissed the top of her head.

He had to grit his teeth to remember if he could only wait one more night, she was his. It was harder than he would have imagined because her nightgown was thinner than the dress she'd worn the other night. He could feel her warmth and her shapely body against his even better. It was enough to nearly drive him mad.

"Kol, a lot of people know you slept in my room the other night, do you think my reputation will be ruined?"

"Your reputation will remain intact and if anyone tries to say anything else, I'll kill them. Now hush, beautiful and go to sleep."

His fingers stroked her waist. Slowly with a light touch, he traced patterns on her skin, knowing how such an intimate touch would affect a girl as innocent as Bonnie. In response, she shivered and pressed herself closer.

Bonnie yawned and eventually he felt her breathing even out, just when she was almost asleep she spoke again.

"What if someone finds us here?" Bonnie asked in a sleepy murmur that made him think she wasn't entirely awake.

That got Kol thinking as Bonnie was falling asleep. It wasn't until she was deeply asleep that it occurred to him this could stir up trouble. He scooped her up into his arms, carrying her bridal style out into the hallway.

Nearing the staircase at the main entrance he ran into Kai and Elijah, both men fell silent when they saw the sleeping girl in his arms.

Kai was going to stay over as their guest until after the wedding. His presence here now meant he must have struck out with whichever dancer he took a fancy to.

"Well look at her," Kai whispered, a manic glint in his eye as he bounced on the balls of his feet. He was eyeing up the sleeping Bonnie in Kol's arms in a way he did not like.

"Leave her alone, Kai," Kol growled.

"Oh, you like her," Kai said in a sing-song voice. He laughed. "But she is a pretty little thing, what's not to like?"

Kol ignored the man and started up the steps. Ordinarily he would start a fight with Kai over words like that, but he didn't want to wake Bonnie. She would be furious if she discovered he was carrying her in his arms with nothing, but his suit jacket covering her.

Kai wandered off toward his guestroom whistling. Elijah followed Kol up the steps.

"Kol?" Bonnie murmured, almost but not quite waking. She turned in his arms, clutching his shirt, and pressing her face closer to his chest. It stirred a feeling inside of Kol he didn't recognize.

"Hush, sweetheart, it's alright," Kol whispered, holding her closer.

Bonnie murmured something incomprehensible and fell back asleep.

"Hates you?" Elijah asked, coming up to walk next to him.

Kol shot him a dark look in answer.

"That's not what it looks like to me, brother," Elijah continued, speaking so quietly, Bonnie didn't stir again.

"Doesn't mean she likes me," Kol grumbled.

"Yet, perhaps," he said. "Goodnight," he went in the opposite direction.

Elijah and Katherine's wing was in the opposite direction of the one Kol occupied. His room was the largest one in that particular area of the manor and it was a little way to walk.

Once there he laid Bonnie gently down on the bed, removing the jacket and tucking her under the blanket. He closed the canopy drapes and got undressed. Ordinarily he wouldn't bother with them, but knowing Bonnie was likely to have hysterics if he went to bed wearing nothing, he put on a pair of silk pajama pants. He didn't bother with the shirt, he wanted to feel her against his bare chest.

Kol got in bed with Bonnie, wrapping his arms around her from behind, he pulled her body against his. Her back was pressed against his chest, his arm was supporting her head and the other crossed her stomach and up to her shoulder, so that his forearm was between her breasts. A position that was doing maddening things to his cock. He buried his face against her neck, enjoying the scent of flowers and vanilla that accompanied her.

XXX

Bonnie woke in pitch blackness. She'd dreamt someone – Kol was carrying her. No, not dreamt, she'd almost woken up.

"Kol," she said, rolling around to find he wasn't wearing a shirt. He didn't stir. She pushed on his shoulder, trying again. "Kol."

"Yes, sweetheart?" he murmured sleepily, arm tightening around her waist, bringing her closer.

"Where are we? And what happened to your clothes?"

"My room," he murmured, his hand came up to cup the back of her neck, bringing her head in to rest beneath his chin. "And I changed."

"Your room?" she almost stuttered. "Kol, this is almost even more unseemly. I'll just go to my room," she said, trying to stand, but his strong arms kept her in place.

"It's alright, beautiful," he said. She'd lost count of how many times he had said that to her. "No one is looking for you and I closed the canopy. If anyone comes in tomorrow, they won't see you lying here."

"But you aren't dressed. This is so improper and if –" Bonnie caught herself before saying if only her father knew. That made her want to sob.

"I'm more dressed than I normally am when I go to bed."

"Kol," she squeaked.

"Bonnie," he hummed, voice low and husky.

Now that she had remembered her father, she wanted to have a good cry. Thinking of him made tears pool in her eyes and it reminded her of something else.

"Is Jamie still alive?" she asked, blinking away her tears.

"Yes, they all are," Kol grunted. "They're refusing to talk," he ran his hand up and down her back in a soothing manner.

Then she started to cry for real. Everything seemed so horrible with her father dead and Jamie being tortured. There was something awful about everything. Tomorrow she would be married to Kol and she wouldn't ever be able to escape. This would be her life.

"Hush now, beautiful," Kol said, pulling her even closer than she already was. "It'll all be alright."

"I don't want to be anywhere near this life," she sobbed. "And I miss my father."

"You'll never need to be anywhere near any of that ever again, I swear," he whispered, stroking up and down her back. "As for your father, I'm sorry, Bonnie."

"Kol," she cried, hanging onto him. "I want to go home."

"I know," and he sounded as if he really did know.

"Can't I go home? Please?"

"Bonnie," Kol said it so softly if she had been any further away she wouldn't have heard him. "Would you like for us to go stay at home for a couple of days? We can go next week. I'm sure Sheila would be –"

"No," she took a deep shuddering breath.

"I suppose you could go alone. I'd have to arrange some securities measures, but –" she didn't let him finish planning.

"No, I don't want to see Grams."

"As you wish," he kissed the top of her head. "If she goes away on business. We'll arrange something then. How does that sound?"

Bonnie didn't answer, she just cried and pressed herself closer.

"It's alright, beautiful. Nothing bad is going to happen to you, not again. I won't allow it," he whispered.

"Promise?"

"Promise," he repeated, kissing the top of her head again.

Bonnie's sobs calmed down eventually and she nuzzled closer, burying her face against his chest. She didn't even care that she was only in her nightgown anymore or that Kol was hardly dressed. It felt so good to be held, and with Kol's hands stroking her back, it made her feel warm and languid all over. Until she felt her eyelids grow heavy again.

Mercifully she fell into a dreamless sleep.

XXX

Bonnie woke up the next morning, to the sound of Kol's soft snores. She was on her back and Kol was sleeping next to her, on his stomach. His arm was slung over her stomach, keeping her next to him even in his sleep.

She watched him sleep, thinking he was nice looking, especially when he was asleep and at peace. There was something innocent and young looking about him, and at the same time, she could see from the circles under his eyes that he was tired. He had day old stubble coming in and she liked it, it suited him. Softly, almost affectionately she ran her hands through his hair, tugging on it playfully, gently. Kol moaned and smiled a sleepy smile.

"Good morning, gorgeous."

"You're awake," Bonnie said, taking her hand back.

"Now I am," he murmured.

Even in his sleep, Kol's reflexes were lightning fast. He grabbed her by the waist and pulled her to him so that she was trapped between his body and the bed. It all happened in a heartbeat, too fast for her to fully recover, and he was leaning over her to look into her eyes. His hands curled into her hair, destroying what little was left of her braid. He grinned at her and it was a slow, lazy parting of his lips.

"Have you been awake long?" Kol asked, placing a soft kiss to her lips.

Bonnie closed her eyes and let him kiss her. Enjoying his warmth and the gentleness he was showing her. Her hands trailed down from his hair, to go around his neck. Kol pulled away, resting his forehead against her. Their mouths were so close it was like they were breathing into each other, and she felt a thrill of something electric go through her.

"Not long," Bonnie said. "Did I wake you?"

"No," he said, kissing her again.

"Liar," she said against his lips.

Kol laughed and his breath danced across her lips, and skin. That same electric current passed through her and she wished she understood that feeling.

"You caught me."

"Will you show me how to tell if someone is lying?" she asked, kissing him once softly.

"If you say please."

"Please."

"Alright, since you asked so nicely," and she could feel him smiling against her lips. He raised up on his forearms to look down at her, and Bonnie raised her chin to look at him properly. "It's not hard, but it does take some practice."

"Thank you," she smiled.

Kol sat up and sat down next to her. He took her wrist in his hand, tracing her pulse line.

"You find the rhythm, and you ask something," Kol said. "Like, Bonnie did Lucy try to help you escape?"

"No," she said, swallowing.

"Liar," he whispered. "Your pulse skipped a beat. Did you feel it?"

Bonnie shook her head, and took her wrist back.

"I don't want to play anymore," she said, looking away from him.

"Bonnie my sweet, I already knew you were lying, I only wanted to confirm it."

"What are you going to do to Lucy?" she whispered, heart beating, afraid of what could happen to Lucy. She wished she'd stopped her cousin in time to save everyone.

"Nothing, I've told you before. I'll let it go, this time," he said, touching her cheek.

Bonnie exhaled in relief.

"Now you try," Kol said, holding out his wrist.

Bonnie took his wrist, and she traced it with her fingers softly. Kol's skin was smooth and warm, and this was pleasant. Once she found his pulse, it was a soft steady thudding. She concentrated on the rhythm, then when she thought she found it, she thought of a question.

"Do you know you're Rebekah's favorite brother?"

"No," he grinned.

His pulse beat stayed steady.

"True," she said with a soft smile.

"True," he said. "But how do you know that?"

"I don't," she answered, not wanting to stir up trouble.

Kol kissed her again. His tongue traced the seam of her bottom lip, making her gasp. He deepened the kiss then, and she kissed him back, tongues fighting for dominance. Bonnie moaned, and turned red with embarrassment. She tangled her fingers into his hair.

He broke the kiss, stroking her cheek and surveying her with a warm gaze.

"You seem like you're feeling better today, beautiful."

Sadness flared up in Bonnie again, threatening to overwhelm her. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying not to cry. Before that feeling could entirely overwhelm her, Kol was kissing her again. She kissed him back, and he deepened it.

His hands tightened in her hair, pulling her up closer to him, and pushed her back down into the mattress. His body and weight on hers felt good, and heat flared through her. Her breathing was ragged and her head spun.

Kol was pushing her legs apart, lying down between them. She could feel his hardness pressed up against her core through the thin material of her nightgown. He was rubbing himself against her, and she was growing damp. The sensation overwhelmed her, making her head spin. It was too much, too fast, she felt like she couldn't breathe.

"Kol, no please," she whispered, pulling away.

To her surprise and relief, he did. He raised up onto his arms, and looked down at her. He'd put the brakes on entirely.

"What's wrong?" he asked, looking at her softly.

"Kol, stop," she said, pulling away and sitting up, forcing some space between them.

"You alright?"

Bonnie nodded, crossing her arms across her chest protectively.

"I should go. You should have heard Caroline and Rebekah yesterday. There's like a million things I have to –" her voice faltered because Kol was watching her intently.

"C'mon then," he said, getting out of bed.

Kol held his hand out to her, and she took it, letting him help her out of the bed. Then he found a shirt and pulled it on. He rooted around in his closet until he came out with a wine colored red robe. It was silk. He handed it to her.

"Thanks," Bonnie murmured, taking it shyly.

She put it on and it was much too big, but it was better than traipsing through the manor in nothing other than her sleepwear.

Kol took her hand again, and they walked in silence until they reached her room. There, he stopped outside her bedroom door and looked at her seriously.

"Bonnie, there are some guests coming I want you to be careful with."

"I suppose so," Bonnie said, wondering if she wanted to know why or not. "Who?"

"Mostly Kai Parker," he said, raising her hand up to his chest.

"Okay," Bonnie said, feeling her stomach churn, even as her heart skipped a beat from what he was doing to her hand. "Why?"

"I don't think you want to know," he said, expression changing to become closed and guarded.

"Must be bad," she murmured. "Would you tell me if I said I wanted to know?"

"Yes, but I really don't think you do," Kol answered, looking at her softly.

"Okay, I trust you."

"Good," he smiled, looking pleased. "And tell Lucy to be careful. Nik is going to be there and since the men aren't cracking, he might take this chance to interrogate her."

"Kol, you can't let him hurt her," Bonnie said, a shudder coursed through her at the idea of Klaus going anywhere near her cousin. "Her and Grams are all the family I have left."

"I won't," Kol told her, gently. "But I can't be by her side every second, she has to be careful."

"I'll talk to her."

Kol looked as if he was going to say something else, but then the door to her bedroom flew open. Bonnie startled, jumped before turning around.

"Sister," Kol said, grinning at Rebekah.

Rebekah stood in the doorway, looking furious.

"There you are," Rebekah exclaimed, completely ignoring her brother. "I've been looking everywhere for you."

"You didn't think to check my room?" Kol drawled.

Bonnie tugged her hand free, and hit his chest, shushing him.

"Really?" Rebekah raised an eyebrow.

Kol rolled his eyes at her and Bonnie blushed.

"Am I very late?" Bonnie asked, embarrassed by the look the blonde was giving her.

"No. But you would have been if you'd been any later, I can tell you."

"I'll leave you ladies to it."

He kissed Bonnie on the cheek before walking away. Absent-mindedly, she touched the spot his lips had touched.

"C'mon, we've set up base in Katherine and Elijah's room. All your things are going to be moved to Kol's room," Rebekah told her as she linked their arms and began dragging Bonnie through the hallway.

"But I haven't even had breakfast yet, Rebekah," she protested. "I can't get married on an empty stomach," just saying the word made her stomach lurch. "What if I get faint walking down the aisle?"

Thinking about that made a twinge of sadness go through her. Her father couldn't be here to walk her down the aisle.

"Hush now, you'll get breakfast," Rebekah said. "Honestly, what do you take me for? Some sort of heartless shrew?"

"No, a mobster," Bonnie retorted, nudging her.

"I am a mobster's daughter, not a mobster," Rebekah corrected. "Same as you, so spare me your holy righteousness."

Rebekah's insulted tone made Bonnie laugh.

XXX

Katherine's bedroom was large and grand with red tapestried walls. A dim chandelier hung from the ceiling, giving the room a faint glow. The bed was a large mahogany canopy and had silk sheets. These in contrast to the walls, were a dark shade of black. The room was large enough there was a separate sitting area and dressing area, as well as an attached bathroom.

There was something about the room that indicated it would be tranquil under different circumstances. Today however, it was a flurry of activity. Lucy, Sheila, Caroline, Sage and Katherine were all there. They were running around, in various states of dress, helping each other, talking over each other and organizing. On top of it all, it looked as if they were trying to get ready. A group of maids were present, the only one Bonnie recognized was April.

"Finally," Caroline screeched.

"Cousin," Lucy said, grabbing her arm and dragging her over to the couch. "Eat, quickly."

Bonnie was completely taken back by Lucy's sudden involvement in the wedding planning that she did what she was told without question. Not arguing when Lucy passed her a croissant and a cup of coffee. Bonnie ate and drank quietly, watching the chaos in front of her. The wedding appeared to have the women in more of a commotion even than trying to kidnap her. Bonnie wasn't sure what to make of that.

The second she had finished eating, Caroline was chasing her to go sit in front of the vanity. Then she started barking orders at April. Bonnie was surprised by the blonde's forceful tone of voice, she sounded more like Klaus than herself.

"Chop chop," Caroline said, clapping her hands at April. "Dazzling – glamorous and sexy. No less. Do you understand?"

Terrified April nodded frantically.

"Caroline, you don't need to terrorize her," Bonnie said, surprising herself by her sharp tone of voice.

Caroline stopped and goggled at her. She quickly composed herself.

"We don't do half-measures in this family. You need to be absolutely radiant and I won't tolerate anything less," Caroline said, with a frosty look at April.

The maid nodded furiously. Terrified she began to help Bonnie to the bathroom. Bonnie followed, knowing she would have to bathe. Surprised that Caroline had gotten this part of her schedule mixed up.

"I have some oils and face masks," Sheila said, following them into the bathroom.
"Grams," Bonnie said, feeling conflicted.

She watched as the older woman closed the door on them. April busied herself with placing the privacy screen in front of the tub.

"Bonnie dear," Sheila said warmly. "I want you to look beautiful on your wedding day. You won't deny me the pleasure of pampering my only grandchild, now will you?"

"Of course not," Bonnie sighed, feeling that all too familiar sadness sweep over her. This would all be so much easier if her father was still alive.

Bonnie went behind the privacy screen while April drew the bath. There she undressed and climbed in. The water was nearly scalding hot, just the way she liked it and she sighed in content, sinking further into the hot water, feeling her muscles unclench and the tension flee her body. She closed her eyes and sunk further into the tub, enjoying the foam bubbles around her and how they tickled. The whole room filled with steam and smelled like lilac.

"That's your lilac bath oil, isn't it, Grams?" Bonnie asked sighing, suddenly forgetting everything else and remembering only her childhood. She'd bathed in it almost every night as a little girl.

"It is," Sheila confirmed.

Bonnie scrubbed down and when she was certain she was clean, Sheila came to sit behind her, running water over her hair then washing it with her favorite honeysuckle shampoo. Bonnie felt the last of her tension and sadness wash away. There was something about the scents that sent her back to her childhood. Happy memories.

"This is just like when I was a little girl," Bonnie said, forcing herself not to think of any of the awful things that had happened or how her Grams had murdered her father. All for this stupid wedding.

"It is," Sheila said, and Bonnie could hear the smile in her voice. It was rare for Sheila to be happy, especially in the past year. It made Bonnie think this had been in the works for a lot longer than she had thought. "I did this for you mother on her wedding day, you know."

"You did?"

"I did," she confirmed. "And for Lucy on hers."

"I don't know, Grams that sounds like a bad omen to me," Bonnie said, feeling cold abruptly in spite of the warm water.

"It is," Lucy said, entering the room in place of April.

"Don't be such a naysayer," Sheila huffed running her hands tensely through Bonnie's hair. "I've planned everything out perfectly. Kol is not like your husband, Lucy."

"I think you mean my late husband," Lucy corrected irritably. "I shot him, or had you forgotten?"

"Of course not," Sheila said, sounding angry. "But the bastard had it coming. Imagine, beating you."

"I suppose I should have just told Uncle Rudy in the first place," Lucy said, sighing.

Hearing her father's name made Bonnie sad again and she wanted to cry, but she wouldn't let herself. She'd done enough of that last night.

She wondered what Kol must think of her, crying as much as she did. Yet he hadn't complained or been angry. He'd held her until the tears stopped. It was strange to think he was capable of such an act, but he was. Bonnie felt heat rise up in her cheeks at the memory of how she had clung to him, and how he had been shirtless. She could still feel his hard, well-muscled body against hers. She was grateful for the steam from the bath, making it look as if her scalding cheeks resulted from that.

"Always come to your family for such matters," Sheila said.

"Grams," Bonnie said, hesitantly. "Can I come home?"

"Of course, child. You can visit as often as you like," Sheila told her warmly.

"No, I mean can I come home? Can we make another deal with the Mikaelsons?" Bonnie asked, knowing her pleas would likely fall on deaf ears again.

"No," Sheila said flatly. "I'm sorry honey, but these people can only be trusted if they are family, and we both know if you are to run the organization you need someone young and strong by your side. Someone that can help you."

"I'll do it," Lucy said immediately.

"You both need help," Sheila said, shaking her head. "It wouldn't be necessary if only Rudy had raised you differently. Prepared you. Both of you."

"It's not too late," Lucy argued. "You're still here."
"Not for long, honey, not for long," she answered sadly.

Bonnie didn't want to hear anymore. If she was forced to marry Kol, she didn't want to hear excuses. They were all tired and she had heard them before. At this point, all she needed was a 'yes' or 'no'.

"What happens if I say 'no' at the alter?" she said, having a sudden mental image of doing just that.

"That would be exceedingly bad," Sheila said in a measured tone of voice. "It would end in bloodshed."

"Basically, don't do it kiddo," Lucy said. "If you're gonna find a way to back out, do it before you make it down the aisle, 'kay?"

"Fine," Bonnie said, surrendering. "Lucy, Kol said for you to be careful. He thinks Klaus might try something or try to learn something because of what happened at the engagement party."

"That hotheaded good for nothing –" Sheila started to mutter before shaking herself. "As if either of my girls would ever betray me."

Bonnie noticed Lucy had gone suspiciously quiet.

"If you don't like him, why am I marrying a relative of his?" Bonnie demanded, changing the subject.

"Power and security," Sheila answered simply.

"Let's not forget, money," Lucy remarked.

"I've got plenty of money," Sheila said. "Trouble is, one day it'll run out and then where will you girls be?"

"Law abiding citizens?" Bonnie suggested.

"You already are," Lucy rolled her eyes.

"I guess so," she muttered, thinking about the other day at the Speak Easy. She'd looked the other way for murder. She shuddered at the memory. What was her life becoming? Who was she becoming here with these people?

"This is what has to happen for the two of you to live comfortable lives. Being a black woman is difficult. There are limited opportunities for us, and a whole lot of people want to keep us down. I've done what I had to, to ensure that you'll both be protected, and have money. An alliance with the Mikaelsons is the best thing for both of you," Sheila said firmly. "Now stop fussing girls, everything is going to be fine," she said, but Bonnie thought she heard a twinge of sadness in the woman's voice.

That made Bonnie realize that her Grams hadn't lied. She hadn't done any of this easily, as much as Bonnie might disagree with her and her methods, Sheila really did believe she was protecting them.

It made her feel conflicted in a way she hadn't about the situation before. It would be easier if she could just hate her Grams, even the Mikaelsons. Yet Bonnie found herself incapable of hating any of them. With the exception of Klaus, she liked all of them in varying degrees. Kol especially was starting to grow on her the more time she spent with him the better she liked him.

XXX

Kol had changed into a casual outfit for the day and gone to Elijah's study. It did not surprise him to see many of the men there. Elijah, Kai, Jeremy and Finn were all present. They were already smoking and drinking. There was a table set up with breakfast food.

"Well if this isn't a fine hiding spot," Kol said as he entered the room.

The other men laughed.

"The women have taken over the house with their wedding planning," Elijah said, humming with amusement. "I've stumbled onto Caroline and Rebekah running around bossing the employees, in all manners of undress today."

"Nightgowns, robes, rollers in their hair, it doesn't appear to matter," Finn remarked, ruefully amused. "They nearly came to blows over the lighting arrangement."

"I fail to see what all the fuss is about," Kol answered, fixing himself a breakfast plate and sitting down with them.

"Neither do we, but it's given Rebekah a project," Elijah said.

"Oh, I don't know," Kai drawled. "I could think of better uses for Rebekah."

"Kai," Kol growled.
"Speaking of which, that bride of yours," he whistled.

"At any rate, this is the only room in the house safe from the commotion," Finn cut in and put an end to what might quickly escalate into physical violence.

"Until Katerina comes looking for me at any rate," Elijah said evenly.

"So basically the next three minutes," Jeremy said grinning. "She's in a mood. She asked if I had a date to the wedding and when I said, I didn't, she threw a vase at my head. Something about growing up and –"

"Settling down?" Kol supplied helpfully.

"That was it."

Kol hid his smile by taking a bite out of his breakfast. The youngest Gilbert had an erratic personality, which meant he sometimes forgot important things. Such as why Katherine was yelling at him. Though Kol could hardly fault him for something like that as Katherine was frequently shouting at him.

The men talked and relaxed some more. Kol didn't join in, his thoughts were elsewhere. Whatever he did this morning, he appeared unable to take his mind off of Bonnie. Specifically, the events of the night, when she'd cried the night before and expressed herself so openly he became convinced she liked him. After she rejected him this morning, he was no longer certain. There was always the possibility that she just thought things were moving too fast, yet the way she'd wrapped her arms around herself protectively afterwards, implied something different.

It made him think that Bonnie did not care for him or his advances. Perhaps she only tolerated his kisses and caresses because she felt she had no choice or that it was her duty. He was uncomfortable at the idea that he might have unknowingly been pressuring her this whole time. That was not something he wanted to do.

Whatever her reasons, it put a damper on his excitement for the wedding night. It was the only thing about this day that he'd been looking forward to and now he couldn't look forward to that either. At least not as he felt with mounting certainty that Bonnie in no way wanted him.

XXX

Bonnie was dressed in a plain day dress, her hair hung loose down her back as it was air drying. Lucy had kidnapped her, and informed everyone that Bonnie needed some fresh air before she fainted from wedding jitters. The other women had waved them out of the room as they rushed off to complete other tasks.

Bonnie and Lucy were walking toward the exit by the ballroom, arms linked. There were people everywhere, but no one seemed to be paying any attention to them.

"Listen to me," Lucy said in a whisper, smiling politely as they walked through the crowd. "I am going to get you the hell out of here, now."

"What?" Bonnie gasped, then caught herself and laughed. She schooled her expression back into one of polite pleasantry.

"We are going to get the hell out of here, and then you and I are getting on a train. Once Marcel has chased the Mikaelsons out of town, we can come back."

"So what? I marry Marcel then? And what about Grams?"

"No, you don't. Marcel has agreed to run the organization with you and I without the marriage. Equal partners. Further, he has sworn Sheila will be detained, but in no way harmed."

"And how do you know we can make it off the grounds?"

"Because we busted Jamie and them out this morning from the basement," Lucy said. "The Mikaelsons don't know they are missing yet. We need to get out of here before they do."

"So basically, right now?" Bonnie said, picking up her pace.

They were in the part of the hallway that led out onto the terrace and into the gardens. It was private and there were no people around.

"Exactly," Lucy said nodding.

They were almost at the French doors that led to the gardens when a voice called out. "And where exactly do you ladies think you are going?"

"For some air," Bonnie said, turning around and managing a smile.

Klaus had come out of one of the side doors. His shirt was rumpled and his hair was a mess. He looked furious.

"Is that so?" Klaus said, smirking. "I find that oddly suspicious as Jamie Bits just disappeared along with his men."

"They what?" Bonnie gasped.

"You had them here?" Lucy said. "What the hell kind of family is my cousin –"

"Get back inside," Klaus commanded.

"No," Bonnie said, crossing her arms. "What business is it of yours if I want some fresh air?"

Lucy subtly reached into her purse.

Klaus pulled a pistol out from behind his back and shot once without warning. The bullet hit Lucy in the stomach, blood spattered and Lucy fell to the floor. Bonnie screamed and crouched over her cousin. Panicking, she covered Lucy's wound with her hands, sobbing.

Bonnie was leaning over Lucy, trying to stop the bleeding and growing more hysterical with each passing second. Rebekah and Caroline came running.

"What happened?"

"We heard a gunshot!"

They both froze when they saw the commotion. Caroline unfroze first, rushing to Bonnie's side to help her with Lucy.

"MOVE!" Klaus roared.

"NO!" Bonnie sobbed, trying to stop the bleeding.

"KLAUS!" Caroline screamed. "STOP IT!"

"Get Kol!" Bonnie sobbed, looking at Rebekah. "Rebekah, please!"

That seemed to snap Rebekah out of her state of shock. She nodded and tore off running, screaming for Kol at the top of her lungs.

Elijah came running along with another dark haired man Bonnie didn't recognize. Elijah took one look at Lucy on the ground and Klaus. Then he raced forward and crouched down next to the women.

"Go get, doctor Fell," Elijah said calmly to Caroline.

Caroline took off.

Elijah brushed Bonnie's hands aside and took off his suit jacket. He pressed it to the wound and held it in place. Bonnie took her cousin's hand and clung to it.

"Move," Klaus growled. "I am going to kill that traitor!"

Bonnie tried to calm herself, and not scream. It took all of her self control to focus on Elijah rather than Klaus.

"We were going for some air when Klaus saw us. He shot Lucy, unprovoked," she told him, feeling hysteria begin to bubble up in her.

Elijah nodded. He appeared to take her version of events at face value. He shot one fast almost imperceptible look of disgust at Klaus.

Klaus who had lost patience stepped forward past the third man, the one that was grinning. He threw Bonnie to the side. She landed hard on the marble floor.

"Niklaus!" Elijah exclaimed outraged.

Klaus was raising his gun, aiming it at Lucy. Bonnie was trying to stand when someone else threw themselves at Klaus.

Kol.

He tackled his older brother. The gun fell the floor and slid away into the corner. They wrestled on the floor. Breaking apart they both stood. Then they swung at each other. Bonnie sat, watching in mute horror. Klaus punched Kol in the gut and she gasped. Kol growled in rage.

Sometime in the middle of the commotion Caroline returned with the doctor, Rebekah was hot on their heels. With some help from Elijah they moved Lucy.

Rebekah ran to Bonnie's side and helped her stand. Bonnie sagged against the blonde, grateful.

"You're to stay here," Rebekah said, voice surprisingly soft and soothing. "Doctor Fell thinks Lucy will make it."

"Thank God," Bonnie whispered.

Kol and Klaus were still wrestling. Elijah was gone with the doctor and the others, yet the third man remained, watching them fight. There was something about the look on his face that said he was amused. There was something unsettling about him that made Bonnie shiver.

She didn't see how it happened, but Klaus wound up pressed against the wall, with Kol's arm pressing against his esophagus. Bonnie clutched her own throat, watching in horror as Klaus's face grew redder and his expression furious. Kol on the other hand looked deadly calm. His black eyes were impassive as was the rest of his face. His body language, spoke of rage and violence.

"You don't touch either one of them," Kol said, voice lowered to a deadly growl. "Ever."

Klaus growled in answer.

"Try anything like that again, and I'll kill you," Kol threatened.

He dropped his brother and kicked him in the head. Bonnie gasped, but Rebekah grinned.

"Serves him right," she said.

"She was going to take Bonnie," Klaus growled.

Kol kicked him again, this time he passed out.

"Are you alright?" Kol said, turning to her.

Bonnie nodded, feeling stunned.

Kol bent to pick up Lucy's purse. Then he made his way over to her. Rebekah passed her to him. Bonnie leaned against him and wrapped her arms around his waist. She didn't care that they weren't alone. All she wanted was to be held and comforted. She wanted Kol to tell her everything was alright and for him to make her believe it like he had last night. Bonnie rested her head against Kol's chest. His arms went around her and he rested his chin on top of her head.

"That was fun," the third man said, bouncing on the heels of his feet and grinning.

Bonnie looked at him with disgust.

"Kai," Kol growled, warningly.

Bonnie shivered, so this was the Kai he'd warned her to be careful with. Given what she'd just seen of him, she thought it was with good reason.

"What? I got to watch you beat up Klaus, knock him unconscious no less, I'd say that counts as a fairly good morning. Don't you agree, Bex?" Kai said, turning to the blonde.

"Kai, I understand you don't have emotions, but since Bonnie just saw her only cousin get shot, perhaps you could shut up?" Rebekah drawled and her look of cool indifference just barely concealed her annoyance.

"Alright, if you insist," he winked at Rebekah.

Rebekah grimaced. Kol's body tensed and Bonnie thought for a second he was going to start a fight with this man now.

"Kol, you'll need to get cleaned up for the ceremony," Rebekah said, changing the subject. "We could postpone, but I think at this point, the sooner Bonnie is a member of the family, the better. Nik won't hurt her, but he will hurt Lucy. The quickest way to end this is to get the two of you married."

"No," Bonnie said, shaking her head in horror and refusal. "I want to go with Lucy."

"She's right," Kol told her gently. "You can't do anything for Lucy right now, but if you're a part of this family, it will force Nik to back down."

Bonnie was shaking her head.

"Listen to them, Bonster," Kai said.

"Bonster?" Rebekah sniffed sounding almost jealous.

"Besides, wouldn't want to deny Kol his wedding night, now would we? Because I've got to say, you're even hotter awake," Kai whistled as his eyes roamed her figure hungrily.

"Awake?" Bonnie started to ask what on earth he was talking about, but Kol was dragging her away from the others. "Kol," she complained.

Kol had a grip around her waist and was dragging her off, through the ballroom and back upstairs to his room. Once they were there, he slammed the door shut behind him.

"Never mind Kai," he said, locking the door. "Just stay away from him, alright?"

"Of course, I will. Obviously there's something not right about him. But what was he talking about?"

"I might have run into him last night when I was carrying you up here," he said, expression closed.

Bonnie sat down on the couch and put her face in her hands.

"But I wasn't dressed," she complained, though given what had just happened to Lucy it hardly seemed important. It must be the shock, making her irrational.

"You had my coat over you."

"Oh," she sighed.

"I have to shower, will you be alright?"

She nodded. Faintly taking in that Kol's shirt was drenched in blood and his wounds from fighting Klaus earlier this week were reopened. Not to mention a few new ones. It must be the shock, but Bonnie's only thought in that second was that he would look terrible at their wedding. And the photos – she shuddered to think about them.

No, that wouldn't do. She might not be able to help Lucy, but Kol's appearance she could something about. She knew an old remedy that would clear up his bruises in a matter of hours.

"I'll – I'll clean your wounds afterwards," she said in a whisper. She was still shocked and uncertain what Kol would make of her offer. He didn't seem like the sort of man, who accepted help.

But to her surprise, Kol nodded. She was relieved he hadn't used it as an excuse to make some insinuating remark, like she'd half been expecting him to do. Or become angry and tell her, he could take care of himself. Plenty of men like that worked for her father.

He went to shower. She sat, just trying to keep breathing for a few minutes. Before finally standing up and ringing the servant's bell. Five minutes later there was a knock on the door. Bonnie opened the door to discover a maid. She was a tiny little wisp of a thing and she was beautiful. She was startled, this was Kol's maid? The girl appeared as surprised to see her as she was.

Shaking herself, Bonnie collected her thoughts. She told girl everything she needed. The maid assured Bonnie she would bring the items back. Bonnie closed the door and went to sit on the couch.

She heard the sounds of running water. Kol sure was taking a long time in there, she thought. It was a good thing as it would give her time to finish the mixture. She didn't know if she could summon the concentration she needed for the task if Kol was watching her.

The maid returned, she gave Bonnie the things she needed and left. Bonnie mixed everything up in a bowl. Then sat staring at the mixture.

It wasn't long after Kol came out of the shower. He was dressed in new, clean clothes and was towel drying his hair. He came to sit by her on the couch.

"What's that?" Kol asked, eyeing the bowl dubiously.

"It's an herb mixture," Bonnie said. She was scraping some of it into her hand. "Sit still."

"Why?" Kol asked, looking somewhere between alarmed and amused. As if he couldn't quite figure out what she was up to.

"Because it will fix up your cuts and bruises," she answered, even as she'd already started to put the cream on his face.

Kol winced, but otherwise didn't say anything. She traced her fingers gently over the bruises, letting the white mixture blend into his skin. She touched him more lingeringly when she put it on the cut by his mouth. Her breath caught in her throat and she had to shake herself to keep from staring at his mouth. Kol for his part seemed as mesmerized by her as she was by him.

"There, all done," Bonnie announced, clearing her throat. The cream was already sinking into his skin. It would be gone in a matter of minutes. The cuts and bruises would disappear within an hour or two. "Father called it evil and superstitious, but Grams says it's voodoo."

"Voodoo, huh?" Kol asked, eyes dancing with amusement.

"Voodoo," Bonnie shrugged.

"Did the doctor say anything about Lucy before she left?"

"Yes, Rebekah said she would likely be alright," she felt her eyes begin to water up again. She blinked the tears that were threatening to spill away.

"Bonnie my sweet, your hands are covered in blood," he said noticing first now. Bonnie looked down, she hadn't even realized. "Go clean up. All your things are in the bathroom. I guess they finished moving your things this morning."

"Moving?" she struggled to remember, feeling overwhelmed by everything that had happened today. "Yes, of course," she said in a stunned voice when she understood what he was talking about.

Bonnie stood stiffly and went to shower.

XXX

When Bonnie returned from the shower, Kol was sitting on the couch with a book. He put it aside when he saw her and she went to sit next to him. He put his arm around her and pulled her to him.

"You need to reign Lucy in, Bonnie," Kol said. "Or I will."

"What?" she gasped, putting her hands on his chest, and creating some space between their bodies.

"I mean it. I know she has a gun in her purse, and she was probably reaching for it when Nik shot her."

Bonnie hesitated, remembering Lucy had put her hand in her purse as if looking for something. She would have scolded him for going through her cousin's purse, but somehow, she didn't think Kol would be impressed with her changing the subject.

"We were going to get some air," she said instead.

Kol pulled her closer again, so that she was sitting on the couch, pressed up against his side. His warmth crept into her soothing, even with what they were talking about.

"Be that as it may, Bonnie, Nik is no fool. He wouldn't have shot Lucy unless he thought she was going to shoot him," he said, caressing her cheek.

"Maybe," Bonnie replied, evading his eye and turning her head away from him.

"Don't lie to me. This is far too serious for that. This is the second time Lucy has tried to help you escape and the second time I find myself covering for the two of you."

"And saving us," she whispered.

"Bonnie," he said it softly, almost as if he was in pain. "If this happens again, I'll be forced to deal with Lucy."

"You would kill one of my relatives?" she gasped, feeling shocked and hurt to the core.

"No, but Lucy would find herself permanently locked inside this manor," he put his hand gently underneath her chin, raising her eyes to meet his. "And our children would be very well acquainted with their aunt Lucy as she will never leave the manor."

"It won't happen again."

She was breathing easier knowing Kol wouldn't actually kill her cousin. What he'd said about their children registered after a second, and she shivered, pressing herself closer to him and his warmth on instinct. He tightened his arm around her and ran his hand up and down her arm.

"When she's better you can return her purse, in the meantime I'll hang on to it, alright?"

"Why?" she said, looking up at him in surprise.

"I don't want you to have a gun in your possession until you know how to use it. That's how accidents happen."

"Alright."

She'd heard of people who'd shot themselves with their own weapons by mistake. It probably was safer with Kol.

"We need to talk about something else as well, Bonnie. I understand that the only thing you want is a normal life, and I also know that is the one thing I can never give you. But with who your father was, even if you get out of here, a normal life it isn't possible for you," he told her gently yet there was a firmness to his voice that made her think he meant every word. "For your own sake, you need to let that dream go."

She couldn't look at him, because it was the truth. Even the deal Lucy struck with Marcel meant she would end up running the organization unless Lucy was willing to do it in her stead.

In many ways, staying here was better. Sure, she would have to marry Kol, but he would never force her to know anything about what he did. It might be as close to normal as she would ever come. Other than Kol it was certainly what she was used to, but she knew there was another option.

"Let's run away," Bonnie whispered, hardly daring to speak the words. "Once I know Lucy will be alright, let's just go," she found herself getting braver the more she spoke.

"Go where?" his expression was closed. Bonnie couldn't tell what he was thinking, she hoped that meant he was considering it.

"I don't know, somewhere colder. Up north maybe."

"And how would I provide for you?"

"I don't know. We'd sort something out, let's just go. Kol, please," she said, tugging on his shirt, not even realizing what she was doing.

"Bonnie, this is the only way I can provide for you. We can't go away," he said, tersely drawing her to him, and pressing her head to his chest.

"Kol," Bonnie said, burrowing her face against his shoulder, feeling the tears come on again. "Please."

"We can't," Kol said, speaking softly. He stroked her back. "The best I can do is keep you out of all of this."

"And what about you? What if something happens to you?" she asked, feeling a sense of dread, as she hid her face against his shoulder. If she was a widow, what would her place be among the Mikaelsons?

"Nothing is going to happen to me," he laughed. "Don't be silly."

"But –"

"But nothing," Kol said. "Hush, it's all going to be alright."

"Oh God, I'm – oh, everything is such a mess," she shivered, feeling herself becoming overwhelmed again.

"Let's just get through today, alright?" Kol murmured, stroking her hair.

"Alright," Bonnie agreed, disentangling herself. "I think I have an hour before they need me again. I'm going to go lie down."

"Stay, sweetheart."

He took the blanket that was lying on the one corner of the couch and draped it over her shoulders. He guided her to lay her head in his lap, wrapping the blanket over her.

Bonnie felt a sudden sense of panic. She relaxed when she felt his warmth seep into her. There was something soothing about lying there while Kol played with her hair, as she looked out at his bedroom. Their bedroom now, she mentally corrected herself. An odd thought, one she wasn't sure she would ever get used to. She was resting in the lap of the man she would call husband in a few hours. It was something Bonnie had dreaded, even just a few hours ago. Now though, she wasn't so sure.

"Don't you have things you need to do?" Bonnie asked, closing her eyes.

"No," she could hear the smile in his voice. "Being the groom is surprisingly low maintenance. All I have to do is put on a tux and show up."

"Not fair," she complained.

Kol stretched out further, getting comfortable. His movement shifted her so that the back of her head was resting against his stomach and more than likely also his private area. Bonnie's cheeks warmed up at just the thought and she hoped Kol hadn't noticed.

"Rest my sweet," Kol whispered, hand playing through her hair.

Bonnie sighed in content, it felt nice.

"I'm sorry I keep crying," she said quietly.

"My darling, you're having what is likely the worst week I have ever heard of, if you need to cry, I won't hold it against you."

"You must have heard of worse," she said, hoping he had.

"Do you want to recount it and we can see?"

"Let's see, I was kidnapped, at gunpoint," Bonnie said, thinking back to the beginning of last week. "Then I was told I was supposed to marry this stranger. A mobster even his own sister calls him a lunatic –"

"Cheeky girl," Kol said, laughing he tugged playfully on her hair, making her laugh too.

"Then I find out it's all my Grams fault, which is bad enough. Except you know, I think I get to go home and then my father dies," at this she had to blink back tears.

"Nearly raped by Damon Salvatore," this was said in a low growl, that made her shiver. "I assure you, he paid for that."

"Good," she said, surprising herself with the fierceness in her voice. "Only to be rescued and then kidnapped again. At which point I'm taken to an illegal bar where I get to see blood and dead men."

"Didn't Rebekah throw a knife at you?" Kol asked, hand moving down from stroking her hair to stroke her arm. She snuggled closer.

"She did," Bonnie confirmed. "Let's see, then I am nearly kidnapped again, which would have been fine except I got threatened and Jamie was tortured. He's escaped you know."

"Why am I not surprised?" Kol muttered. "What else has happened, beautiful?"

"We fought," she whispered. "And today Lucy was shot."

"Like I said, worst week I've ever heard of."

"Do you think it's a bad sign that it happened on our wedding day?" she scarcely dared say the words.

Kol's hand was stroking lower now, light teasing circles on her hip that made her gasp for breath.

"Don't let some silly superstition upset you."

"But do you think so?"

Kol didn't answer. When Bonnie looked up at him, she saw he looked thoughtful. Seeing her gaze, he grinned at her. Bonnie rolled onto her back and reached up to touch the corner of his mouth.

"The bruise is gone," she said, voice breathy.

"Is it?" Kol asked, heat in his voice, eyes black with an emotion she didn't understand.

There was so much about the tension between them that didn't make sense to her. Perhaps it was because she was inexperienced, but she didn't understand Kol or this thing between them.

Kol's hand slid underneath the blanket, stroking her thigh soothingly. Bonnie closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth that spread through her body. His hand dipped lower, until he was tracing patterns between her legs on her upper thighs.

"Kol," she whispered, it was meant to be a warning, but it came out as a moan.

He was pulling her skirt up and she hesitated, not knowing what to do. Part of her wanted him to keep going and to never stop. Whereas another more sensible part told her to put the breaks on, not because she really wanted to, but because it was the sane thing to do. They hardly knew each other, they weren't married yet and what if he took things further than a little touching?

That wasn't something she was ready for.

But all of Bonnie's thoughts and fears melted away when he touched more insistently. Heat coursed through her and a tingle started in the parting of her thighs.

His hand was between her thighs and there was no fabric between him and her bare skin. His fingers stroked circles between her legs. Hand stroking her bare skin, making her sigh and heat flare through her.

"Do you like it?" Kol asked, in a husky whisper.

Kol continued to play with the bare skin between her legs. With expert fingertips he traced patterns. His hand was warm and rough, exactly what she had been craving.

Bonnie nodded. "But you shouldn't," she said, wondering how she found the presence of mind because she was growing damp. She might be inexperienced, but she knew that feeling.

"It's alright," Kol said, leaning down, kissing her softly on the lips. Bonnie raised up to meet him halfway.

Kol's hand moved higher up on her thighs. Moving higher, heat flared up in her and her breathing caught, even as she felt herself tense up. She was nervous, and unsure of where this was going and where she should draw the line. Did it matter on the wedding day? She thought maybe not, but where did she herself want to draw the line? She didn't know. She was enjoying just lying here and being touched. It was comfortable.

Sensing her tension, Kol stopped moving his hand upward. Instead, he stroked back down her thigh to tickle her behind her knee. It made her laugh.

Grinning, Kol captured her lips with his. She kissed him back, enjoying the moment. His hand slid back up her thigh. His fingers played outside her panties and she gasped in surprise, and pleasure.

The door flew open and Bonnie jumped. Kol pulled back and in an instant his hands were on top of the blanket. The only sign that something inappropriate had happened was Bonnie's burning cheeks. She hoped her darker coloring would hide the worst of it.
"There you are," Rebekah screeched.

XXX

Kol spent his time in the shower fighting the temptation to bang his head against the wall. He was a fool, and he knew it. All little Bonnie Bennett had to do was bat those big green eyes of hers at him and he was helpless against her. How he wanted her and what a fool it made him. Kol never drooled over women like he was doing now. Worst and best of it, he was drooling over his soon to be wife.

After Lucy was shot and knocking Klaus unconscious, Kol would have thought the last thing he would be was aroused, but he was wrong. She'd almost been taken from him again, it filled him with a savage need to claim her. Mark her as his.

He wanted her and he could hardly stand it, his hardness was throbbing demanding his attention. He took himself in hand, pumping away, thinking of Bonnie until he spilled his seed on his hand. Then he leaned against the wall in frustration.

He'd come out of the shower, only to feel another pang of arousal shoot through him as he saw Bonnie was still sitting in his room. She'd told him she was going to clean his wounds, but he'd half-expected her to have disappeared before he came back. She was skittish and likely to take off, if she got spooked.

He sat down next to her, thinking he might lose his mind if he couldn't have her now when she put the cream on his cuts. He could feel her soft hands, and her hesitance as she worked. The longer he held eye contact with her, the more convinced he became she felt it too. That magnetic pull between them.

When Bonnie agreed to stay, he thought she did like him and that this morning he'd moved things too quickly. Frightened her. That idea, it made him feel want and need beyond his own comprehension. He thought he must be half mad, as he listened to her talk. Stroking patterns on her skin and touching her, it made him act more rashly than he would have otherwise. Yet he was desperate to convince himself, she wanted him back. That she might want him as much as he wanted her. At least that she might want him a little.

Kol had thought to make her climax around his hand. Give her some pleasure after her harrowing morning, soothe her fears and anxieties from the day. Perhaps even calm her in regards to tonight. Much to his frustration, he hadn't gotten that far.

Rebekah interrupted, and quite frankly, the idea of murdering his baby sister crossed his mind briefly. Before drifting away as soon as it came.

XXX

"Bex," Kol growled. "Do you have to shout?"

"Sorry," Bonnie squeaked, she was already sitting up and getting to her feet.

"Don't apologize to that wretch," Kol said glowering at the blonde.

"Shut up, Kol. Bonnie, we need to get you ready."

In two easy strides Rebekah marched into the room and grabbed Bonnie, who was standing by the couch. She dragged her from the room, all the while talking a mile a minute about everything that needed to be done before the big ceremony. Bonnie didn't hear a word. Her mind was busy reeling over what almost happened with Kol.

What had happened almost happened? She wasn't sure.

Once they were back in Katherine's room, Rebekah bossed her into sitting down in front of the vanity.

"April," Rebekah demanded, tapping her foot.

"Yes, Miss Mikaelson," April said, rushing forward to join them.

"Make-up first and then her hair, got it?"

"Yes, Miss Mikaelson."

Bonnie felt bad for the girl. Dealing with both Caroline and Rebekah in a mood all in one day, would be hard on anyone. The wedding had the women so entirely on edge, she found it ludicrous. As far as Bonnie was concerned, they could have gone down to the small chapel in her neighborhood, just the family and said their vows. It seemed far less absurd and sacrilegious than this charade.

In spite of her reluctance about this whole thing and her worry about Lucy, Bonnie felt herself relax as April worked away. Soon her face was matte and her eyes highlighted. Her lips were coated in a red so dark and vibrant, it could only be called wine colored. The effect was spectacular, even Bonnie had to admit it herself. April piled her hair high onto her head, letting ringlets fall here and there, to cascade around her face.

"Bonnie," Caroline said, popping in. "Lucy's alright. She's sleeping now."

"That's good," Bonnie murmured. "Thank you for telling me, Caroline."

"Of course," the blonde grinned. "It's the least I can do since Klaus shot her. I'm sorry about him by the way, but at least Kol got there on time."
"How is he? Kol knocked him out."

"It's not the first time something like this has happened, he'll be fine," Caroline said, dismissing any concerns about her husband.

Bonnie was relieved that was all that came of it, she was furious with Klaus for shooting Lucy. He could have killed her and a part of her wished Kol had killed him for it. Better yet, a small part of her mind whispered, she could be the one to pull the trigger. Bonnie pushed those thoughts firmly aside. She was not a murderer, no matter what.

"Where is Lucy? I want to see her."

"She's at your house," Caroline said. "Doctor Fell has given her medication and said she needs to rest. She said to come by in the morning."

"Not sooner?" Bonnie asked, feeling dejected.

"She's going to be unconscious all night from the sedatives," Caroline answered. "Besides, I think it would be nice for her if you are there when she wakes up."
"Yes, I agree," Bonnie echoed. Though in truth she had not intentions of going anywhere until Lucy was healed, but she supposed there was no point in telling Caroline that.

Bonnie lapsed into silence after that. Rebekah wanted her to wear her new jewelry from Kol, and she had to agree they were perfect with the dress.

"Not to mention, they can be your something new," Rebekah said, eyes sparkling as she handed the black jewelry box to Bonnie.

Bonnie wondered when Rebekah had gone through her things to find these, but didn't ask.

"I'd forgotten about that tradition," Bonnie laughed and put the jewelry on. It seemed to make her hair shine and her eyes sparkle.

If nothing else, Kol has good taste, she thought.

"And your something blue," Rebekah said, waving a garter around. "It's also your something borrowed, it belonged to Katherine"

"Then I guess I'm covered," Bonnie murmured. "Where's Grams?"

Rebekah was fiddling with the garter, helping Bonnie put it on.

"She's with Lucy. She'll be back before the ceremony though."

"Right," Bonnie said. "I just wish I could be there for Lucy."

"The best thing you can do for Lucy is to seal this alliance," Rebekah said darkly.

"You know, Bekah for someone who pretends to want nothing to do with all this mobster business, you're surprisingly adept at dealing with it."

"I'll pretend that was a compliment."

"It was."

"Good," she grinned. "And don't think you're done yet, Bonnie Bennett," she pointed a stern finger at the younger girl. "You still need your something old."

"Rebekah," Bonnie groaned. "This wedding has terrible luck as it is. No amount of somethings is going to change that."

"Well at this point it certainly couldn't hurt," Rebekah sniffed. "Besides, you'll want your luck to change by tonight," her eyes danced mischievously. "The wedding night is supposed to be fun after all."

"Oh my God," Bonnie said, thinking of earlier and this morning.

She'd given little thought to whether or not she was ready for tonight. Somehow, she didn't think so. With everything else changing and going on in her life, she didn't think she could take another change so soon.

"Do you want to talk about it?" Rebekah asked, finishing putting the blue garter on, high up on Bonnie's thigh.

"Talk about what?" Bonnie said stupidly.

"You know, the wedding night," the blonde replied rolling her eyes. "April, you're excused," she added carelessly.

"Yes, Miss Mikaelson," April intoned. "And best wishes, Miss Bennett," she said with a dazzling smile before leaving.

"Thank you, April," Bonnie tried to say, but the girl was already gone.

"Bonnie, let's talk about it. It'll make you feel better, honestly it will."
"Why does everyone want to talk about my wedding night?" Bonnie grumbled.

"Everyone?" Rebekah raised a curious eyebrow.

"Katherine was asking me a bunch of questions about it yesterday," she answered shyly.

"I see," the blonde nodded, rooting through her purse. "So are you nervous?"

"A little bit," Bonnie confessed. "I mean, I'm not as in the dark as women used to be, but I don't know. I've heard it's a wife's duty and not a pleasure."

"What a load of rubbish," Rebekah announced, pulling something triumphantly out of her purse. "Here you go, your something old."

"What is it?" Bonnie asked, opening the small box.

"My mother's embroidered handkerchief," she said. "She used to make them by the dozen, but they've all disappeared. Anyhow, I've kept this one since she died."

"I'll take good care of it," Bonnie said touched. "And I'll have it back to you by the end of the night."

"I know you will," Rebekah replied, smiling in a way that was almost warm. "Anyhow, as I was saying, Bonnie, I can stand to listen to a whole lot of rubbish. Otherwise I might have shot my brothers years ago, but not that. You have every bit as much right to enjoy the wedding night as Kol does."

"I do?" she said, trying desperately to keep the shock from her voice.

"Of course, you do," she rolled her eyes. "Just relax and trust Kol. If you do, I'm sure you'll be fine."

"How was your first time?"

"Hm," Rebekah paused, thinking she placed one long finger nail to her pursed lips. "Let me see, it wasn't bad actually. I was a bit tipsy truth be told and honestly, I think that was better. It was his first time too, you see so it was all a bit clumsy. Nice though," she said with a soft smile. "I doubt you'll have the same problem."

"Kol's experienced, I guessed as much," Bonnie said, thinking about how confident he was in everything he did with her. So certain of his advances.

"You're not entirely stupid, you know."

"I think there was supposed to be a compliment in there somewhere."
"Plain as day," Rebekah muttered, irritated.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Certainly."

"Please don't be mad or offended, I just – you're the only one I trust to answer me truthfully," she said, looking down.

"What is it, Bonnie?"

"Will I be alright with Kol? I mean tonight, is it – will I be okay?"

"Oh, dear," Rebekah said, looking at her softly. "You'll be just fine," she took Bonnie's chin in her hands, and stroked her chin gently with her thumb. "There's honestly nothing to be afraid of. It'll all be a bit awkward and uncomfortable to be sure, but that's normal. It's nothing to be scared of. You'll see."

"Okay," she said, taking a deep breath.

"See there," Rebekah raised her face up to hers. "Now chin up and smile. You've still got to get dressed after all. You'll be the cat's meow once we're done here."
"Thanks, Bekah."

Bonnie put on her wedding dress. Rebekah zipped it up in the back for her, and put the veil on. Bonnie stopped in front of the mirror to look at her outfit. It was a slim fitting mermaid tail, simple except for the ruffling at the bottom. It showed off her figure, and clung to every curve. It was much slinkier and more riskée than anything she'd worn before, and she hardly believed she dared to wear it now. The veil was long, and plain hanging down from the back of her hair. It fell down her back, and trailed along behind her like the dress. The effect was stunning.

"Now look at you. Don't you just look pretty as a picture," Rebekah said, sighing dreamily.

Once she was dressed Rebekah chased Bonnie downstairs to wait outside of the ballroom. She was surprised at how many different ballrooms and dining rooms the manor contained.

XXX

Bonnie was hidden behind the doors, waiting to walk into the ballroom. She stood antsy and depressed, she just wanted this over with. She couldn't bear the idea of all those eyes on her, whispering about her quick engagement to Kol Mikaelson, announced not even a day after her father's murder. It was not only unseemly, it was suspicious.

Almost as much as she wanted it to be over, Bonnie wished her father was there to walk her down the aisle. It didn't seem right to do this without him.

"Miss Bennett," Finn said, clearing his throat and appearing at her side.

"Please, call me Bonnie," she murmured. Finn was so unfailingly polite and rigid in his formality that it made her nervous.

"Then you must call me, Finn," he agreed, smiling almost warmly at her. Finn was nice or at least he seemed nice, but Bonnie would never think of him as particularly warm or friendly. "I was hoping you would allow me the honor of escorting you down the aisle?"

"Yes, thank you," Bonnie said gratefully, blinking back tears. She'd thought she was going to have to walk alone.

"I understand you are more familiar with Elijah, but Katherine felt that since I'm the eldest it was more –"

"Thank you, Finn," Bonnie said interrupting him. She knew it was rude, but she couldn't let him babble on, not when she was so grateful to him. "I mean it. Thank you. It means a lot to me."

"Well then," he appeared flustered, his calm collectedness made way for a genuine smile and a faint flush. "The honor is all mine," he said, recovering from his momentary embarrassment.

Bonnie recalled Rebekah saying Finn was uncomfortable with emotion. He might be the only member of the family without a temper, but Rebekah said he was also the only member of the family that kept his emotions entirely in check. Elijah was composed, yet he wasn't detached or unemotional the way Finn was.

Finn held the corner of his arm out to her and Bonnie took it, looping her arm through his. Slowly they walked to the door that led inside. Rebekah was already there. She walked down the aisle with Jeremy. Neither pair looked too pleased with the arrangement. The sight of Jeremy and Rebekah's quick and nearly silent scuffle, was enough to make Bonnie smile.

Then the music started and the pair walked into the ballroom.

Finn and Bonnie stepped up to take their place. Bonnie felt her smile freeze into place. There were people everywhere. Too many people. There had to be hundreds of guests. Funny, she hadn't thought to ask about the guest list before now. Bonnie's sister-in-laws were all down at the bottom as well her brother-in-laws. Her minister, Mr. Dawson was the only truly familiar face where he stood at the center of the aisle.

Kol was at the bottom of the aisle as well, and his eyes were on her. Not on Finn, she knew they were on her. She could feel his gaze sweeping over her body and coming to rest on her face as if she'd been branded with a hot iron. Somehow as crazy as it sounded and felt, Bonnie locked gazes with Kol and the rest of the crowd melted away. She was walking down the aisle with Finn by her side instead of her own father, and all she saw was him.

Finn took her hand at the end of the aisle, turning her over to Kol. She hadn't been able to take her eyes off Kol, and she still couldn't, she felt as if his gaze was drawing her in. It was fortunate that Finn put her hands in Kol's, letting him turn her around to face the minister. That broke their eye contact and she clung to his hand for support. She could feel Kol's warmth seeping into her and it steadied her.

Bonnie closed her eyes and took a steadying breath as the minister started his sermon. There was no way out now. She had to marry him. She didn't hear a word the minister was saying as he spoke about commitment and marriage.

She snuck a glance at Kol and saw he was watching her out of the corner of his eye. When she looked up at him, he flashed her one of his wicked smiles and squeezed her hand. Heat filled her cheeks and she blushed. She heard feet shifting and glanced to see Rebekah standing as a bridesmaid on the sideline giving her a knowing look, she ignored it.

Sage, Katherine and Caroline were there as well. Bonnie knew Lucy was meant to be there too, but she was recovering from a bullet wound instead. That made her want to sit down and cry, so she shoved the thought aside.

On the other side, Kol's brothers and Jeremy all stood. Bonnie felt a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach when she looked at Klaus, and hatred burned through her. Seeing her expression, Kol squeezed her hands tighter and gave her a warning look. Bonnie flushed with embarrassment and composed herself. She forced her eyes from Klaus to look at the minister.

"Do you, Bonnie Bennett take this man to be your lawful wedded husband? To have and to hold. Forever and always?" he said, looking at her.

Bonnie stared at him for a second. Forever and always? That wasn't a part of the ordinary ceremony. Kol squeezed her hands again, and she composed herself.

"I do," she said in a voice stronger than she thought herself capable of. It rang clear and steady through the ballroom. She sounded sure. None of the guests would ever suspect her reluctance from her voice. She felt a twinge of pride in that.

Rebekah brought a gold wedding band over, and Bonnie took it from her. Her fingers shook as she put the ring on his left hand. Kol winked at her.

"And do you, Kol Mikaelson take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold, forever and always?" the minister asked, turning to look at Kol with a steady, yet stern look.

"I do," Kol answered, voice steady and warm. His expression was dark, but his lips had a wry twist that spoke of wickedness. Bonnie wondered at that expression.

Finn stepped forward with the wedding band, for Kol to put on her finger. When he slid the ring on her left hand to go with the engagement ring, Bonnie felt as if something clicked into place. Like something had simultaneously been set into motion and sealed. As if her fate was sealed, and in a way, it was.

"I now pronounce you man and wife," the minister said.

Kol didn't wait for him to say he could kiss the bride. He grabbed her and pulled her to him. Bonnie felt stunned and then she was wrapping her arms around his neck, as Kol kissed her deeply, taking her breath away. He dipped her down, still kissing her with a reckless abandon that made her spin, and the crowd cheered.

When Kol finally did release her, he leaned his forehead against hers, grinning. Bonnie sucked in her breath. Grinning and blushing absolutely scarlet she fell against him when he pulled her upright again. The crowd cheered louder at her expression, and she turned her face in against his chest.

Kol hugged her closer. He wrapped his arm around her waist and led her down the aisle. The crowd stood and clapped as they walked. Bonnie didn't feel like she could breathe properly again until they were outside of the hallway.

"Reception line?" Bonnie asked, dreading the answer.

"Reception line," Kol confirmed, squeezing her. "Just smile and nod. It'll be over soon enough."

"That's terrible advice."

"Probably, but it's the best I've got," he grinned crookedly at her. "I don't like these things any better than you."

Kol was right. She could tell the found he reception line awful. She hid her dislike of it more successfully than he did. Everything from his posture to his expression radiated impatience and irritation.

They stood at the very end of it, along with Finn and Sage, with Sheila next to them. Bonnie hung onto Kol's arm, smiling and nodding politely at everyone that came past. Her Grams was much better at this than she was. Sheila took her time, talking to everyone. Bonnie wished she would hurry up because it was holding up the line, but Sheila seemed to know everyone personally.

Bonnie saw face after face after face. It was beginning to drive her a little crazy. Still she talked and thanked everyone, she was getting tired of hearing what a beautiful bride she was. What a lucky man Kol was. That it was a lovely ceremony. That they were sorry about her father.

Bonnie was relieved when she saw Luka and Jonas Martin coming down the reception line. Finally, some familiar faces.

"Mrs. Mikaelson," Jonas said, grinning. "Congratulations, and you've got yourself a beautiful bride," he said to Kol.

"Thank you."

Bonnie blushed.

"We're so glad you could make it," Bonnie said.

"Glad we could be here," Luka said, and like he'd done at the engagement party, he kissed her hand.

Bonnie blushed, and Kol moved them along. It might have been her imagination, but he looked annoyed with Luka.

Bonnie saw Kai and a tall, attractive woman that looked like him coming along the reception line. They chatted pleasantly with Sheila and then they too moved along.

"Kol," Kai grinned manically. "Bonster," he tilted his head down and gave her a flirty smile.

"Kai," Kol said, pleasantly. "This is Kai's twin sister, Josette," he said. "Josette, this is my wife, Bonnie."

Bonnie felt dazed when he called her his wife. That part still hadn't registered. She felt comfortably numb, she didn't quite know how to feel about any of this.

"Jo, please," she corrected with a smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you. You look absolutely beautiful."

"Thank you," Bonnie said, smiling.

"I hear congratulations are in order, you got into med school. No small feat," Kol said with a smile that implied he meant it.

"I did," Jo grinned. "It was Kai's doing, really."

"Don't give me credit for your insanity, sissy," Kai said, before moving them along.

"She's going to be a doctor?" Bonnie said to Kol, voice filling with admiration and a bit of envy.

"She is," he confirmed.

Fortunately for her, there weren't that many more people after the Parkers.

They took pictures out in the garden before the reception. Some were of Bonnie alone with Kol, others were with the whole family. Bonnie wondered if her smile was real or fake in them. She'd felt overwhelmed the whole time, not sure what she was supposed to be doing. Then it was over.

Dinner was a blur for Bonnie. She sat next to Kol, she ate and smiled. She laughed in the right places and she clapped, during the speeches. Both Elijah and Finn gave a toast. As did Sheila. Bonnie nodded and smiled the whole time. When her Grams sat down next to her again, Bonnie took her hand under the table and gave it a squeeze.

"Grams, will you watch over Lucy for me tonight?" Bonnie asked in a quiet voice before the cake was supposed to be cut.

"Of course, honey," Sheila answered. "I was going to sneak away early to do just that."

"Thank you," she said, tears welling up in her eyes.

She noticed Kol watching her out of the corner of his eye. He put his hand on the small of her back and leaned in to whisper in her ear.

"Are you alright, beautiful?"

"I'm worried about Lucy."

"Elijah told me she is expected to make a full recovery," he ran his hand up and down her spine.

"I know, I just -" she broke off. "It's nothing," she said, leaning against him.

There was no use in telling Kol she wanted to be by her cousin's side. He was as much stuck here as she was.

Caroline walked over. Her eyes danced as she surveyed the guests all of whom, Bonnie had to admit looked to be enjoying themselves. Caroline's blonde curls bobbed with her every movement and she wore a bright smile.

"Time to cut the cake," Caroline said.

"Thank you, Caroline dear."

Kol helped Bonnie to her feet. and they walked over to the giant wedding cake. The cake had ten tears. It was perfect white frosting decorated with silver that was shaped into diamonds. The cake topper was a perfect crescent moon ringed by golden stars. Inside of the crescent moon was a groom wearing a tux and a bride in a white gown. The groom held the bride in his arms, almost but not quite touching her.

"Well if that isn't the picture of decadence," Bonnie muttered.

Poor people filled the streets of New Orleans and here she was about to serve the biggest, most over the top wedding cake she had ever seen in her life. It felt wrong.

Kol snorted with amusement.

Rebekah and Caroline hovered on the sidelines. Their hands were clutched and they leaned eagerly forward. No doubt they aimed to ensure the cake cutting went off without a hitch.

Kol wrapped his arms around her from behind, and she turned red. He picked up the knife, and put it in her hands. She cut the cake with Kol's hands around hers. Slicing it up, he offered her a piece and Bonnie ate it quickly careful not to have her lips touch his fingers. She licked the frosting from her lips and Kol's eyes went black as he watched her. It was an intense look and it made heat flare up inside of her.

"Here," Bonnie whispered, feeding him a bite.

She turned red with embarrassment and heat when she felt his lips graze her fingertips, and she pulled back. The guests applauded. To Bonnie's surprise, Kol grabbed her around the waist and kissed her. She let him. Kol released her and smiled at her with heat in his eyes. Bonnie feeling dazed, smiled back. She only dimly heard the guests applauding louder, and what sounded like Sage whistling.

Kol put his arm around her waist and they walked back to their table while the waiters began to serve the cake.

"You drive me wild," Kol whispered in her ear.

Bonnie shivered and looked down in embarrassment.

"Kol, we're in public," she whispered back as they neared the table.

"Do you want me as well?" he said, voice husky in her ear.

Bonnie turned away, but she nodded almost imperceptibly. She knew Kol saw because he kissed her hand when he helped her take her seat next to Sheila.

"I'll leave after the cake. I'm told Lucy will still be asleep, but I think we'll both feel better knowing I'm with her," Sheila told Bonnie in a quiet voice.

"I know I would," Bonnie said, reaching out to hold her hand under the table. "Do you know what happened?"

"I spoke to Elijah," Sheila answered. "Klaus acted without thinking. As if Lucy had something to do with Jamie and his men escaping. Why, she's no more involved in the family business than you are."

"Of course not," Bonnie agreed, and her smile was stiff.

Kol who was speaking to Elijah on his other side, reached out and put his hand on the back of her chair. Fingers grazing the naked skin on her back.

"I was there when Meredith operated," Sheila continued to speak. "She's going to be fine. I saw it myself."

"I'm glad to hear it. I've been so flustered all day, as if the wedding isn't stressful enough," she shook her head. "I can't concentrate, not knowing Lucy is recovering from a bullet wound."

"The important thing is she is recovering," Sheila answered. "But I assure you, Klaus and I had words about this."

"Oh, you had words," Bonnie muttered sarcastically.

Sheila frowned at her, but refrained from commenting.

Bonnie surprised herself, but she was more satisfied with Kol's tactics. She thought Kol knocking Klaus unconscious was much better punishment and would get the message across a lot more efficiently than any conversation with her Grams. Unless that conversation took place over the barrel of a gun.

People were beginning to finish eating. Caroline came around from her side of the table to tell Bonnie and Kol that it was time for their first dance.

"More attention?" Bonnie whispered in a horrified groan.

"Come now, beautiful. It will be over soon," Kol said, holding out his hand.

Bonnie put her hand in his and let him lead her out onto the dancefloor. A few soft notes began to play, and Kol pulled her into his arms. She put her hand on his shoulder, and his other hand went to the small of her back. Kol held her closer than was appropriate, not unlike what he'd done at their engagement party.

Bonnie glanced up and saw Kol was smiling down at her, it made her blush. His eyes were black with an emotion she didn't understand. His eyes were always so intense and it made her feel flustered, like a school girl, who didn't quite know what she was doing. Which Bonnie supposed wasn't too far from the truth.

Bonnie had been groomed and taught to lead a household. Taught everything she needed to know to be a model daughter and a dutiful wife. But being courted and given the attention of a man like Kol, she didn't know what she was doing. She was out of her depth. Marcel was respectful and he liked her, but he never pursued her or kissed her like Kol, which was strange as she didn't think Kol cared much for her. Yet the whole thing left her with the uncomfortable feeling she was in over her head, like all her training hadn't prepared her for this.

"Have I told you, how beautiful you look, Bonnie my sweet?" Kol whispered in her ear. His warm breath danced across her skin, making her shiver and press herself closer.

"No, I don't believe you have."

"Well you do," he said, and there was a note of wickedness in his voice that made her blush more than all the eyes on them.

Kol's grip shifted and he held her closer. To her relief, Bonnie saw other couples were joining them on the dancefloor, and soon it was filled with people. That made her relax, knowing they weren't under such close scrutiny.

"You don't look too bad yourself," Bonnie told him, smiling softly.

"May I cut in?" a smooth accent asked.

Bonnie cringed. It was Klaus.

"No, you may not, brother," Kol growled. He shifted so that he was tensed to fight, moving her behind him.

"Would you like this to come to blows again on the dancefloor?"

"I seem to recall you lost the last round, Nik."

"Kol, people are staring," Bonnie said, drawing their attention to the way people were noticing the confrontation.

"One dance," Kol agreed. "If it's alright with Bonnie otherwise, you walk away."

"Fine," he agreed. "May I have this dance, Bonnie?"

"Do I have a choice?" Bonnie said with hostility in her voice.

"Come now, Bonnie, we are family," Klaus said with a falsely charming smiles. "Besides, just between you and me, we both know your cousin was going to shoot me first."

"I think you're delusional," Bonnie retorted, just barely resisting the urge to give him a good kick.

Kol snorted with laughter.

"One dance," Klaus agreed holding his hand out to her.

Bonnie glanced at Kol quickly, he nodded, letting her know it was alright. She reluctantly put her hand in Klaus's and let him pull her into his arms. He held her at a distance, quite unlike Kol, who had gone to stand at the edge of the dancefloor with a glass of champagne. Bonnie relaxed when she saw Kol was keeping an eye on her.

Klaus was smirking with self-satisfaction and she felt herself getting angrier and angrier with him. This whole thing was awkward and uncomfortable, and completely unnecessary. Why he was insisting on acting as if they were friends, was beyond her.

"So Bonnie," Klaus said.

"I agreed to one dance. I didn't agree to have a conversation with you," Bonnie answered coldly, putting more distance between their bodies.

"Well we're having it whether or not you like it," Klaus growled, eyes growing hard.

A shiver ran down her spine, remembering that Klaus had a terrible temper. It was probably unwise to push him further than was necessary.

"Fine, talk," she answered, glaring at him.

"Feisty," he said, clucking his tongue. "I bet Kol likes that," he whispered in her ear, pulling her closer.

"That is none of your business," she hissed.

"Like I said, feisty," he chuckled. "Now tell me, Bonnie, is your cousin working with Marcel?"

"Lucy is loyal to my Grams, as am I," she said, venom dripping from her words. She hoped he couldn't tell when a person was lying like Kol could.

"Hm," he said, tilting his head to the side and pulling her closer still. Bonnie went to put some distance between them again, and this time she failed, he wasn't budging. "For some reason I don't believe that. Coincidences like we've seen here this week, they do not simply occur."

"Coincidences?" Bonnie asked innocently, she snuck a glance at Kol, and saw he was watching with a dark rage in his face.

"Yes, coincidences, Bonnie," Klaus growled. "First Lucy is with you when Jamie Bits and his men attempt to spring you, and then again today I find the two of you trying to run outside with damp hair and unfinished make-up, a mere hour after Jamie and his men escaped. Now tell me, are they working with Marcel or of their own accord?"

"Lucy isn't working for anyone. As for Jaime and his men, all I know is they worked for my father when he was still alive," Bonnie said, voice and eyes hard. "Now if you'll excuse me, the song just ended."

"Very well," Klaus said between clenched teeth.

"Thank you for the dance," she said frostily.

Bonnie tore her hand free and made her way across the dancefloor to Kol.

XXX

Kol watched Klaus dance with Bonnie. He didn't like it. He knew Klaus wanted to intimidate Bonnie, maybe get some information out of her. He growled low in his throat, when he saw Klaus pull Bonnie in close, he didn't like that. Neither did he miss the way she kept looking to him, a look of fear on her face, yet every time she looked at Klaus, her expression was hard, cold.

That's my girl, Kol thought.

He wanted Klaus to know he couldn't push Bonnie around, even when he wasn't there to protect her.

Kol smiled when he saw Bonnie snatch her hand out of Klaus's grip and stride away from him. She was coming toward him and he went to meet her halfway.

"Come here, love," Kol said, taking her into his arms and spinning her back out onto the dancefloor. He pulled her close, swaying to the music. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," she smiled up at him, and he thought that smile was more for Klaus than for him. Bonnie was letting his brother know, he hadn't frightened her. "He kept asking about Lucy and Marcel."

"What did you tell him?"

"Nothing."

"I thought as much," he chuckled.

If she wouldn't tell him anything, Kol wasn't surprised Klaus got nothing out of her. Bonnie was protective, especially of her family and those with any connection to it.

Kol gripped Bonnie tighter, burying his face in her neck. Unlike at the engagement party, she didn't protest, her hand slid around to his back, and she rested her head against his chest. They were swaying slowly to the beat of the music and he knew to any onlookers they looked like a couple in love.

Kol felt something for Bonnie, he did and that bothered him. He didn't often feel and when he did, it made him uncomfortable. It was easier to relate to and deal with if he just thought of it as wanting her.

His hand roamed lower, dipping down her back until was on the verge of veering too far from the small of her back. He had to fight himself not to grab her bum like a teenage boy in lust. Bonnie had a great bum, and that dress was showing it off, tempting him. Yet he didn't, knowing Bonnie wouldn't want him to. As it was, his hand was lower than was socially acceptable. It was indecent, but if there was one day they could get away with it, and Bonnie didn't need to fear the gossip, it was today.

"You won't let Klaus hurt Lucy will you, Kol?" Bonnie asked quietly.

That softened something in him, and he realized she hadn't been lying to Sheila. That really was where her thoughts were at.

"No, he won't make a move. Not now that we are married," Kol answered as he put her arms around his neck, then put his other hand on her back as well.

"Good," Bonnie said, exhaling.

She smiled up at him, and his breath caught. Kol forgot what he was going to say, and had to clear his throat, taking a moment to regroup.

"See there now, my darling. I told you it would all be alright," he whispered, leaning his forehead against hers.

"You were right it would seem," she laughed shakily in relief.

Kol smiled at her, and was rewarded with a gentle smile. One that made his heart speed up. Her lips parted into a shy smile and her green eyes sparkled. It made a stab of lust go through him, and something gentler, more protective as well mingled in with the other.

"I want to kiss you," he whispered, lips hovering a mere inch from hers. "Will you be upset?" he said hoarsely, lips grazing hers.

"You've kissed me before," she whispered.

"I have," Kol agreed. He kissed her once, softly. "But I haven't a good excuse to kiss you in public now," it was an apology more than he was asking for permission.

"It's okay. I think we can get away with it at our own wedding without breaking too many rules," Bonnie answered, teasingly.

Kol didn't answer, he kissed her once more, still softly, but more lingeringly.

She leaned her forehead against his chest. Kol suspected it was to hide her blush. Little Bonnie Bennett was the definition of blushing bride, he'd realized. The more the wedding wore on, the more she blushed. And he was struck by the sudden realization that she was Bonnie Mikaelson now, his wife. Mrs. Kol Mikaelson, he liked that.

"I like breaking the rules, truth be told," he hummed, fingers playing on the small of her back.

"I'm not surprised," she laughed quietly. "Kol, why do you want me to stay away from Kai?" she asked, looking up at him.

"Are you sure you want to know?"

Kol realized it might be best to tell her. Especially since it seemed Kai found her every bit as attractive as he did. They regularly pursued the same women and often had bets on whether the other could steal the other one's girl. Yet he didn't think Kai would try anything with his wife, that would be crossing a line. At least, he wouldn't if he were normal, but Kai wasn't normal.

"I'm sure," Bonnie said softly.

"He's a sociopath, do you know what that is, sweetheart?"

"Yes, he doesn't feel."

"That's about the gist of it," he nodded. "Kai lacks empathy. Don't get me wrong, he's a blast and he knows how to have a good time, but he's dangerous. He's got a temper that would rival anyone in my family and he enjoys hurting people. He really likes it."

"Oh, I see," she said in a soft voice. "But you don't enjoy hurting people, do you, Kol?" she asked, touching his cheek, caressing it gently.

Kol smiled and turned his head to kiss her palm. He suspected partly that Bonnie was stroking his cheek to soften her question. That she was afraid he might be angry with her for asking.

"As a general rule, no, but I'll confess sometimes, I do."

"Sometimes?" she asked, hand freezing and a fearful expression crossing her features.

"If I've been wronged, I do enjoy a spot of retribution," he confessed smiling crookedly. Bonnie shivered. "Don't be frightened, my sweet."

XXX

Bonnie didn't like what she was hearing. She understood about wanting revenge, but there was something scary about hearing it put into words in such a callous manner.

"I'm not afraid."

"Liar," Kol whispered, his eyes warmed. "I've never struck a woman in my life, Bonnie. You're safe with me. I promise."

"Never?"

"Perhaps once. You caught me," he smiled teasingly at her, black eyes twinkling at her. "One time I hit Bekah when she was three and I was like eight," he teased. "In my defense, she hit me first."

"You were eight," she gave him an exasperated look. "But never since?"

"Here," Kol took her hand and held it to the pulse line in his throat. "No, I haven't struck a woman since."

"Truth," she said, smiling when she felt his pulse stay the same. "Am I safe with you, Kol?"

"You are," he agreed, cracking a smile.

"True," Bonnie was smiling for real now. "A mobster with honor."

"Something of the sort."

Kol kissed her lingeringly on the lips. Bonnie closed her eyes and tried to relax. She couldn't help worrying about Lucy. It was like a constant anxiety at the back of her mind. It didn't help that she couldn't shake the feeling she was being watched with Kol. As the bride and groom, it was only normal that peoples' attention would be on them.

"What was that thing at the ceremony? The always and forever bit, it's not normally a part of a wedding, is it?"

"It's a family saying. Something the family says to -"

"It's what binds you."

"Precisely."

He kissed her again, and she sighed. The kiss was gentle and he traced the seam of her bottom lip with his tongue.

A clear voice sounded in the microphone. A voice with a stylish accent and a confident ring to it.

"Rebekah?" Bonnie said, looking at the stage.

Kol followed her gaze and grinned.

"I wonder what she's up to," Kol said, sounding amused.

"If all the unwed ladies could please gather in the main entrance we can throw the bouquet. I would also like to remind the bride to tear herself from her loving husband, my big brother and join us as well," Rebekah said, eyes sparkling.

The crowd laughed and clapped. Bonnie blushed, and covered a laugh with her hand. Kol was laughing and smirking, enjoying the attention of the crowd. Bonnie realized to her embarrassment that eyes were turning toward them.

Kol grinned wickedly, and her stomach did a flip. She was beginning to recognize that look. It usually meant he was going to do something scandalous or something he thought she wouldn't quite approve of. She was right, Kol's grip on her shifted, and he pulled her to him again, kissing her. Bonnie gasped, and he released her.

"You alright?" he whispered in her ear, hand cupping her cheek, bringing her face against his.

"I'm fine," she answered, blushing and turning her body to his. "You surprised me," she giggled. She turned her face into his neck, wanting to hide her reaction from the crowd.

"Apologies" Kol said, not sounding the slightest bit contrite.

To escape Kol's latest way of overwhelming her, Bonnie hurried out into the foyer, along with a throng of single women. She saw her seamstress, Katie and made her way to her.

"Best wishes, Bonnie," Katie said, giving her a hug and grinning brightly.

"Thank you," Bonnie answered, tucking her arm through hers. "I'm so glad you could make it."

"I'm just happy to be invited. Sheila was so sweet, dropping by personally with the invitation," Katie chattered.

"I hear I have you to thank for the dress fitting," Bonnie remarked, squeezing her arm.

"I did, made a pretty penny to for giving up your measurements. I hope you don't mind me saying or what I did," Katie said, suddenly frowning.

"Don't be sorry," Bonnie said quickly. "I'm only glad that was the only way you were pressed."

"Yes, I suppose so. I suspect this whole wedding was quite the to do, but it was worth it. It's been absolutely swell," Katie gushed.

"I'm glad you are enjoying yourself," Bonnie answered, smiling and genuinely meaning it.

"Bonnie!" Rebekah called out, tapping her foot impatiently at the bottom of the stairs.

"Looks like I have to go," Bonnie said apologetically. "I'll try to find you later. It was so nice seeing you."

XXX

Bonnie walked back into the reception with her arm linked through Katie's. They were chatting, and smiling at Rebekah who was waving the bouquet around victoriously. Kol was on the other end of the dancefloor with Elijah as well as Finn, they looked to be in deep conversation.

Jeremy came over with Kai, and Stefan. Bonnie introduced them to Katie.

"Did Rebekah catch the bouquet?" Stefan asked Bonnie quietly.

"She did. I think you might be in trouble," Bonnie whispered back with a teasing smile.

"Only if Klaus finds out," and his smile was crooked. "Would you care to dance, Katie?" he asked politely.

"Yes, thank you," Katie answered.

Bonnie watched as she put her hand in Stefan's outstretched one as they walked onto the dancefloor.

"Wonder what Bex will say when she sees that?" Kai hummed.

"That he's a gentleman."

"Ripper?" Kai threw his head back and laughed manically. "Not a chance doll face, but perhaps you would like to dance with me?"

"I'd love to, but I'm afraid I've promised my next dance to Jeremy," Bonnie lied.

Just earlier Kol had called him a sociopath and warned her once again to stay away from Kai. She wasn't about to dance with him.

"Right, yes of course," Jeremy sputtered.

Bonnie offered him her hand, and he took it. They walked out onto the dancefloor together.

Jeremy pulled her into his arms, and spun her around.

"You look incredible," Jeremy said, smiling goofily at her.

"Thank you. You look very dapper," Bonnie said, with a sweet smile.

Jeremy was one of her favorite people in the manor.

"Are you having a nice time?" he asked politely, but there was something in his smile that was simply not polite. Bonnie didn't know what made her think that, but she couldn't shake the thought.

"I am," she said, and she was for the most part. Bonnie thought if Lucy were here, and alright, she would have been thoroughly enjoying herself. "Where is your other sister, Katherine's twin?"

"She couldn't make it. She's been touring Europe with our mother. They got held up in Bulgaria on account of the bad weather," he said, apologetically. "Father as well is tied up at work. Elena was talking about coming to visit though, once she gets home."

"It would be nice to finally meet her," Bonnie said, wondering how much she had in common with Katherine.

"She's swell. You'll like her," Jeremy said happily.

"Wait, did you say Bulgaria?" Bonnie asked. "Is your family originally from Europe?"

"Not mine," Jeremy grimaced. "My parents adopted the twins back when I was just a little kid. Their parents were wealthy Bulgarian politicians. Knew my father. For a Governor, he does have ties to the criminal underworld, as did the Petrova family. So knowing them, we took the girls in. They've been my sisters ever since," he smiled ruefully.

"And now Elena is Gilbert instead of Petrova?" Bonnie inquired, knowing Katherine went by her husband's name.

Jeremy grinned. "Yes. Sounds like Katherine's real taken with you. Almost like she's adopted you."

Bonnie was about to reply when Kol approached them.

"Mind if I cut in?"

"Not at all. She's all yours."

Jeremy twirled her into Kol's waiting arms. He caught her easily. Bonnie laughed as she fell against him.

"Lucky me," Kol replied with a wolfish smile, that sent a tingle of anticipation down Bonnie's spine. She got the feeling he was talking about a lot more than dancing.

She righted herself and wrapped her arms around his neck, because he put his hands on her hips. Kol raised a hand, signaling to the musicians and they played something slower, so they could simply sway to the music.

"You looked like you were enjoying yourself with Jeremy, beautiful," Kol said with a teasing glint in his eye.

"I was. He's sweet."

"Maybe with you," he snorted. "You should see him otherwise."

"No thank you."

"I mean it," Kol whispered in her ear. "He's cruel, a bit unhinged even when the fighting starts."

"Why are you telling me this? Are you trying to frighten me, Kol?" Bonnie asked, looking up at him in confusion, fingers tightening on the back of his shirt collar, without her realizing it.

"No, I don't want you getting illusions about what he's like, and letting your guard down around him. Especially not as he fancies you."

"Is that what this is about? Are you jealous?" she asked in a breathy voice, hardly daring speak the words.

"Protective," he corrected.

"You sound jealous to me."

"I'm not. You're my wife. There's nothing to be jealous of," Kol said in a voice that was firm, almost a growl, and his arms tightened around her. Yet it didn't frighten her.

"You are," she smiled, and pressed herself closer. Enjoying teasing him.

"Cheeky girl," Kol said, grinning.

He kissed her neck, and she gasped in surprise.

"Did you see Rebekah got the bouquet?" Bonnie asked, smiling up at him.

"I did. I also noticed Stefan made a run for it," Kol laughed.

Kol leaned down to kiss her however, he never got that far. Behind them came the noise of a throat clearing. Bonnie turned around to follow Kol's annoyed gaze only to see Caroline.

"Kol, I need to borrow Bonnie."

"Why are you always the one interrupting us, dear sister?" Kol asked, looking mildly annoyed.

"Because I have impeccable timing?" Caroline said, brightly. "Come along, Bonnie," she clapped her hands.

Kol turned her face up to his, and kissed Bonnie once quickly. Then Caroline grabbed her arm and was guiding her off the dancefloor.

"Where are we going?"

"You have to get ready for the wedding night, of course."

Bonnie felt her stomach sink.

XXX

Bonnie wasn't surprised to find that when Caroline took her to Kol's room, all her other sister-in-laws were there as well. Rebekah was going through her closet along with Sage, while Katherine lit candles. The lights were off, but the curtains were open. The moon shone and along with the candle light, it gave the room a dim, pleasant glow.

"Here she is," Caroline announced with a smile.

Bonnie wondered how Caroline did that – always bore a smile when her husband was Klaus.

The others smiled at Bonnie and resumed what they had been doing. Caroline ushered Bonnie to sit down in front of the vanity, then she began to take her hair out of the pins.

"Where's April?" Bonnie asked, wondering why Caroline was the one taking down her hair.

"The maid you mean?" Caroline said.

"Yes," she nodded.

"Well this isn't really her job. You are family and we'll take care of it. You know, provide you with some privacy."

"Thank you, Caroline," Bonnie said, blushing.

"Are you nervous, Bonnie?" Sage asked, flashing her a wicked smile as she paused in going through her wardrobe.

"Of course, she is, poor girl is practically green," Rebekah said answering for her.

"Yes, I'm nervous, but I am not green," Bonnie said, shooting Rebekah an irritated look.

"Oh dear, you are a bit pale," Caroline said, taking her hair out and letting it hang down Bonnie's back. She picked up the brush and began to brush it for her.

"I'm just tired," Bonnie muttered, turning red with embarrassment.

"You would be, it's been a long day," Katherine agreed, blowing out a match, putting the box away. "So I was thinking we should have that talk now, dear," she said, striding over to sit down next to Bonnie at the vanity.

"I'm perfectly alright, without it," Bonnie answered coldly. "But thank you."

"Nonsense," Katherine said, lighting a cigarette. "Want one?"

"No," Caroline answered on Bonnie's behalf. "I need her to sit still while I work."

"Apparently I must decline," Bonnie said dryly.

"Don't you look at me like that Bonnie Bennett," Caroline said pointing her brush at Bonnie.

"Bonnie Mikaelson," Katherine corrected.

"Right, yes, of course."

Bonnie remained silent. She wasn't sure she would ever get used to her new name, or her new family, and perhaps more than anything, her new husband. As much as she was starting to like Kol, he was still a Mikaelson.

"But I do see what you mean, Care," Sage said. "Bonnie Bennett does have a cute ring to it."

"It does," Rebekah agreed. "Now, we have chosen two nightgowns."

Rebekah and Sage came to stand behind Caroline on each her side so that she could see them in the mirror.

"This one," Sage said, holding up a little white nightgown that hardly had any fabric at all.

"Or this one," Rebekah said, holding up the same one only that one was ankle length.

"Rebekah's one," Bonnie said immediately. "Though I don't see what's wrong with my usual ones."

"You mean the puritanical ones with the high collars?" Sage rolled her eyes. "That will hardly appeal to Kol. I still think he'll like this one better," she said, waving the short one around.

"I said, no," Bonnie said, blushing. "Honestly, it's entirely unseemly. Whether or not he is my husband."

"Oh dear, you sound just like my sister," Katherine said, gaping at her. "She's an uptight little thing. No fun at all, and completely scandalized by the notion of women having a sex drive."

"That was entirely insulting to us both," Bonnie said, glowering at Katherine.

"Not you, love," she rolled her eyes. "You are simply nervous. I know you aren't half so uptight as Elena. And I know this because Elijah told me he saw Kol carrying you to bed last night."

"Katherine!"

"You really shouldn't embarrass the girl, Katherine," Rebekah said. "I believe she's concerned about her reputation."

"Indeed?" Katherine raised an eyebrow.

"The rest of us, we don't really have such reservations," Sage remarked with a wicked smile.

Bonnie was beginning to think all of Sage's smiles were wicked and predatory. The woman was scandalous and wild, it was a refreshing quality if somewhat intimidating.

"Well I do," Bonnie said, growing redder with each passing second.

"There now," Caroline said, squeezing her shoulder. "It'll be fine. It might hurt a little if you're nervous, but nothing to be the death of you."

"Have a glass of wine," Sage said, on her way over to the supply Kol kept near the closet.

"Are you certain that's a good idea?" Bonnie asked.

"Definitely," Sage answered, she poured Bonnie a glass and brought it to her.

"Thank you."

"Now you just relax, Bonnie," Sage told her. "You relax, and you keep your hair down. Kol will like that."

Bonnie nodded.

"Furthermore, you do as he says, alright?"

This time Bonnie was more hesitant, but all the same she nodded.

"Do whatever he says and you'll be fine," Sage said, almost softly.

The women helped her change then they left. Only Katherine remained with her.

"There you are," Katherine said, turning Bonnie's chin up. "Such a pretty girl. Kol likes you so don't be afraid."

"I know he isn't going to hurt me, but I'm still nervous."

"You would be. I was as well my first time," Katherine said with a smile that was almost wistful.

"Were you really?"

"Of course, I was. Who isn't? But Sage is right, relax and follow Kol's lead. He knows what he's doing and trust me, you'll like it."

Katherine gave Bonnie a hug before flitting off.

Stomach churning and nerves getting the best of her, she downed her glass of red wine, grimacing at the taste. Yet it made a comfortable haze wash over her and she welcomed the feeling. She wandered over to the window, staring out at the moon and the grounds. In the distance, she could see the bayou. The Mikaelson manor, her home now, had an amazing view. It was soothing at least in combination with alcohol she found the view was helpful to calming her mind.

XXX

Kol stopped in front of his bedroom door. He wanted to kick himself for being so stupid. He couldn't possibly be nervous, but he was.

Kol Mikaelson notorious player, nervous of all things.
Don't get your hopes up, she doesn't like you, the little voice in the back of his mind whispered. He tried to shake the thought off, but he couldn't rid himself of it entirely. It turned out to be a good thing, because it allowed him to calm down enough to enter the room.

He froze in the doorway, Bonnie was standing with her back to him, staring out the window. All he could see of her was her shape in the moonlight and candlelight. They'd lit the room with candles and in the dim lighting she was if possible even more breathtaking than usual. Her long curly hair, hung loose down her back, ending at the small of her back. He'd only seen her with her hair down once or twice before, and he loved it. Her body was draped in white silk, and he could see every curve, even with the robe on.

Slowly, he closed the door and she turned around. The robe wasn't closed – much to his pleasure and surprise. The nightgown was long, until her ankles, that did not surprise him. He hadn't imagined even for one second that any of his sisters could have talked Bonnie into one of the modern, shorter models. Yet it was sheer on top, with lace and it showed off a generous amount of cleavage. A complete change from the one she'd worn last night. He was immediately aroused.

"Hey," she said, nervously, smiling and biting down on her lower lip. Lashes fluttering, she looked down at her feet.

"Hey," Kol echoed lamely, tossing his jacket aside on the couch he strode into the room.

He paused when there were still a few feet between them. He didn't want to frighten her, but he had to fight with himself not to grab her and throw her on the bed, and ravage her senseless. It took all of his self-control, and he'd never been good at controlling himself.

"This is weird, huh?" she said, still sounding nervous.

"Doesn't have to be."

Kol reached out to her, and to his surprise, Bonnie took his hand, and allowed him to pull her into his arms. She put her hands on his chest and looked up him.

"I guess not," she answered, and she laughed a little. "Do you want a drink?"

"No, I'm fine," Kol answered, noticing for the first time the used wine glass on the table. "Do you want one?"

"No," she said, moving her head to rest against his chest.

She seemed to be breathing deeply, probably trying to calm her nerves. He couldn't put the thought of the wine glass out of his mind. It confirmed his earlier suspicions that she was frightened. Then he felt her trembling in his arms, and a stab of concern shot through him. Bonnie had had a harrowing week and on top of it all, her cousin had nearly died today. She wasn't up to this.

She was afraid of everything. Right now, that fear included him and what he wanted from her. Kol grit his teeth, because he knew he couldn't do it. Couldn't take advantage of her when she was overwhelmed and frightened. He would have to be patient, not something he excelled at, but that he suspected would get him the furthest with Bonnie.

"Your hair is down," he said, running his fingers through her hair.

"Yes," she whispered.

"It's pretty, like you," he smiled crookedly.

"Sage said you would like it," she said it so quietly he nearly missed it.

"Did she now?" he asked, fingers playing along her back, wondering when she was going to look up at him. "What else did she say?"

"That I had to wear it down," Bonnie said, looking up at him shyly, chin resting against his chest. "And she said –" she broke off and in this light he couldn't tell for sure, but he thought she was blushing.

"And what, beautiful?"

"That I had to do what you said. That I'd like it," she'd looked down again and was murmuring against his chest, obviously embarrassed.

"Bonnie," he said. She looked up at him and he kissed her, just once softly on the lips. When he felt her suck in her breath, he knew he'd been right. She didn't even like him, she'd been lying earlier when she'd said she wanted him too. He couldn't do this to her. He felt her start to tremble as she buried her face against his chest again. "You're shivering."

"Am I?" Bonnie's voice was unsteady.

"Get some sleep, my sweet."

She looked up at him bewildered. He could see the confusion and disbelief in her eyes. More than that, he saw relief.

"What -"

"Go to bed," he repeated. "Get some rest. I'm going to shower."
Bonnie stared at him for a moment longer before comprehension dawned, then she smiled gently and nodded.

Kol didn't wait for Bonnie to go to bed, he went straight for the shower, knowing he couldn't tempt himself.

He showered for the longest time, taking himself in hand not once or even twice, but three times. He was entirely too aroused by the prospect of Bonnie in his bed, and she might be his, but he couldn't have her.

Not tonight at any rate. Kol felt certain that if he just gave Bonnie some time, she would come to him on her own. She was like that. Skittish, but if he pushed just enough, only to back down, she would come to him.

XXX

Bonnie was about to have a panic attack. Kol would be here anytime and then what? What would he want? What did she want? Did that even matter? Would Kol even care what she wanted or would he just take her?

When Kol had actually joined her it had been fine. He hadn't done anything. In a state of shock, Bonnie had taken her dressing robe off and gone to bed.

Now she lay in the bed, staring at the sliver of moonlight coming in from the window. Somewhere at the back of her mind, she was thinking maybe she should have blown out the candles or gone after Kol. He was taking a long time in the shower, much longer than he had this morning. Then again, that might have been her nerves getting the best of her, making it feel as if time was passing slower than it was. She tried to do as Kol asked and get some sleep, but she couldn't relax enough to sleep.

Bonnie didn't turn around when Kol came to bed. He climbed under the covers and pulled her into his arms. Bonnie gasped in surprise as she felt herself being pulled against his body. Kol buried his nose against the crook of her neck and she thought she heard him sigh. Bonnie's whole body felt stiff, and nervous, waiting to see if he would be content to simply go to sleep.

"Are you alright, Bonnie?" Kol whispered, bringing her even closer.

Bonnie thought half mad, that he must sense how tense she was and wonder what on earth was wrong with her. He must think her a stupid little girl.

Why did everyone keep saying he wanted her?

Kol obviously couldn't want such a stupid, inexperienced girl. Not one that was near having hysterics at the thought of sharing a bed with her husband.

"It's just been a long day," Bonnie answered, thinking how it was all too true.

"Yes, it has," Kol agreed and she could hear the heaviness in his voice. "But you're safe. Go to sleep, Bonnie my sweet."

Bonnie smiled, even though she knew it was stupid. She liked how he said her name, even if he didn't want her. She closed her eyes and tried to relax, but she couldn't. Her mind was too full, too many thoughts and too many feelings from the day still lingered, even the wine couldn't chase those things away.

Sighing, she rolled over, to see if that was any better. She saw Kol was lying awake as she was, just watching her. He smiled softly and stroked her cheek.

"Can't sleep?" Bonnie whispered.

"No," he said.

Kol continued to stroke her cheek and Bonnie closed her eyes, relaxing and enjoying his touch. His palm was warm and rough, he left a trail of warmth everywhere he touched.

"Kol?" she asked quietly.

"Yes?" his fingers were tracing the lines of her lips, making her breath catch in her throat.

"Do you – would you – can I braid my hair? I mean, would you mind if I –" she blushed, embarrassed as she fumbled around trying to pose the question.

"Not at all," Kol replied, cutting her off.

"Okay, good," she exhaled in relief. "It's just if I don't it knots and –"

Kol interrupted her by kissing her.

"Braid your hair, beautiful," he whispered against her lips.

Bonnie nodded and scrambled to get away from him. The close contact was overwhelming and doing things to her insides.

She sat down at the vanity and brushed her hair, aware that Kol was watching her movements from the bed. She wasn't sure what he was thinking. It was too dark in the room to see him clearly, but his eyes were dark.

Bonnie finished braiding her hair. She went back to the bed and lay down on her side to look at Kol. He rolled over from his back, to look at her.

"Bonnie, if you're uncomfortable you don't have to wear that nightgown," he said, speaking at last.

"I don't mind," she whispered blushing. "But if you would like me to, I can put on something more – covering," she finished lamely.

"That wasn't what I meant," Kol said, pulling her back into his arms.

They were lying on their sides, bodies pressed against each other, Kol's arms around her back. Bonnie put her hands on his chest and looked up at him.

"What did you mean?"

She was so overwhelmed with everything that was happening. In some ways talking to the other women had helped and made things worse. It made her feel like the wedding night wasn't going to be the death of her, and it frightened her. Sage had made it sound like she had to do everything Kol said. That she wasn't to act of her own accord, and that she had to please him.

"I meant, I know you didn't choose that nightgown yourself, my sweet," and his hand tugged on the flimsy spaghetti strap, making her blush. "And I know Sage was in here, probably my other sisters as well. I'm wondering how badly they frightened you."

"I'm not frightened," Bonnie answered, heart skipping a beat.

"Liar," Kol whispered with heat in his gaze. Bonnie looked down. "What did they say to you?"

"That I had to do what you said," she whispered, embarrassed and unable to meet his eye.

"You said that already."

"Well you asked what they said, and that's what they told me!" she said, feeling herself getting annoyed with him, making her glance up at him.

"That's my girl," Kol hummed smiling. He looked amused. "There she is," he said when their eyes met.

"What?" she whispered, not understanding what he meant. Kol was being so cryptic and weird tonight. It was unlike him and it was confusing her.

He kissed her once. His lips lingered on hers. The feel of his lips on hers was enough to send heat coursing through her whole body. In an instant, she felt as if she had come alive for the first time in her life.

His kisses always had that effect.

"Bonnie, I don't want you doing things because you think you have to, do you understand?"

She hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip, uncertain. "I mean it. You wear your hair how you like and the same goes for how you dress."

Bonnie nodded.

"And as for the rest, if something makes you uncomfortable or you don't want to, you have to tell me. I won't be angry, I promise, but you have to tell me what you want and don't want, and I'll do the same. Does that sound fair to you?"

"It does."

Kol kissed her again and she sighed. His hand slid down her bum squeezing softly and she squeaked against his lips. She could feel him smile at her reaction. His hand roamed further down, stroking her thigh and parting her legs, he pulled her leg over his hip, pressing himself closer. Bonnie gasped at the sensation of his hardness pressed against her core. His hand started to slide her nightgown up so that he could tangle their legs together.

Bonnie broke the kiss. Wrapping her arms against his back she rested her head against his chest. Lying like this was better, she breathed easier when his eyes weren't on his or when he wasn't stealing her breath and her thoughts with his kisses.

Kol put his chin on top of her head, and pulled her even closer, hands stroking her bum and upper thigh, having pushed her nightgown up over her hips. His hand was firm and rough. He touched her with the confidence of a man, who knew what he was doing. Her core ached and she grew damp. At the same time, it was intimidating to her.

What was he doing?

"Is this alright with you?" he asked. "Sleeping like this?"

"It is," Bonnie answered softly nuzzling closer, pressing her lips to his neck. She smiled when she felt him draw in his breath.

She felt his hand slide between her thighs, stroking her pantie clad core. She gasped and resisted the urge to squirm in embarrassment when she realized he would feel how damp she was.

"You feel so good, Bonnie," he whispered hoarsely. "I never want to let go of you."

"Kol," she said, uncertainly, pulling back to see his expression.

She couldn't read it, his eyes were closed, and he looked content.

"Come closer," he said, pulling her against him, and she let him, wrapping her arm around his middle. "I just want to touch you, that's all. Do you want me to stop?"

"No," she whispered.

Her breathing turned ragged when Kol's hand moved inside her panties to squeeze her bare bum. The palm of his hand was rough against her sensitive skin. It made her core throb painfully, she wanted to know what else he could do with those rough hands of his. And at the same time, she didn't know want to know.

At least not tonight.

"No, don't stop or no, please stop?" Kol asked and his body tensed as he waited for her answer.

She squirmed with embarrassment. Never before had she discussed sex or anything relating to sex as casually as she did with Kol. He asked her outright what she wanted while he was touching her so intimately –it was enough to make her swoon.

Marcel had certainly never been so forward with her. The difference in their behavior left her a little uncertain and confused.

"No, don't stop," she mumbled under her breath.

"Don't be shy, my sweet. It's alright. You can tell me what you want, I won't judge."

Kol spanked her lightly. She gasped and felt heat course through her. A delicious thrill had gone through her at his touch. He squeezed her bum more firmly again and she squirmed, only to have her pull him against her.

"Kol please," she whispered. "I don't -"

"I know my sweet," he answered, seeming to understand what she was going to say. "No more. I'm just touching you a little. Would you like me to stop, sweetheart?"

"No," she whispered, voice breathy as his thumb stroked her bum.

She hid her face against his chest. She'd never gone half so far with a man before, and it was a bit frightening. Yet she couldn't deny how aroused she was, she only wished they could go slow.

"I won't push for more," Kol said, his free hand coming up to stroke her cheek. "Not tonight, beautiful."

Bonnie closed her eyes. She knew what Sage or Katherine would tell her to do. She knew what she was expected to do. She squeezed her eyes tighter shut, trying to steel herself for what she needed to do.

"But you can," she whispered. "I won't deny you, if you want more," she said against his chest.

"Bonnie my sweet, don't test my self-control," Kol said in a strained voice, his hand massaged her bum. "You're frightened and overwhelmed. I'm not going to do that to you."

"Thank you," she tilted her head up to kiss his neck, once softly.

"Tell me, Bonnie didn't that fiancé of yours teach you anything?"

Bonnie cringed. She hated how Kol always referred to Marcel as 'that fiancé of hers', it was glib and blatantly rude.

"Teach me -" she blushed when she understood his meaning. "No, he isn't that sort."

"Isn't that sort?" Kol asked, sounding amused. "What sort is that, beautiful? The sort that doesn't notice a beautiful girl when one is given to him, is that the sort you mean?"

His fingers were caressing her bum, biting into the flesh. His hand dipped lower and he slid a finger teasingly along her slit. She half-moan and half-gasped at the unexpected contact.

"I've never been given to anyone!" she protested.

Kol gave her another light swat on the bum. There was just a hint of a sting that disappeared when he caressed the sensitive skin. She shifted in his arms and he used his free arm to snake around her waist, keeping her trapped against his chest.

"Sure you have," he whispered, bringing her closer. "You've been given to me, just as I've been given to you."

"I suppose so," she answered, fingers playing against his ribs. "I meant the sort to take advantage. I'm -"

"You're innocent and inexperienced. Like any good girl, you waited to have carnal knowledge until marriage. Isn't that so, Bonnie my sweet?"

"Please don't mock me, Kol. It's cruel," she said, pulling away.

"I'm not mocking you," he answered, kissing the top of her head, and bringing her back to him. "I'm asking if that is what happened."

"It is," she told him. "And I know you didn't."

"No, I didn't," he said. "Does that bother you?"

"Should it?"

"Nah," he answered lazily. "It's not as if I'll be out chasing women now that I'm married anyway," and she could hear the seriousness in his voice, underneath the teasing.

Bonnie smiled, not wanting to reveal how much that meant to her, she pressed herself closer, and sighed in content.

Kol didn't say anything else. All he did was hold her. Eventually she could hear his breathing begin to even out, and she drifted off to sleep.

Thank you so much to everyone, who has faved, followed and reviewed this fic! I'm as excited this is back as you are. Let me know what you thought of this chapter.

Izzy

Guest: Thank you! I am so happy to hear the cuddling and intimacy scenes are working. They're my fave to write.

Guest: Thank you for reading and reviewing! The wedding is finally here. Hope you liked it.

Guest: More Rebekah? Definitely, there will be more as the fic continues!