FROM EDEN ― mikaelsons

-THIRTY-EIGHT

"i've been upgraded from bunny to boy."
—

"THERE," Niklaus pointed to the camp, a smile forming on his lips, relief filling his eyes.

The trio — and Ray, still slung over Stefan's shoulders — walked into the campground, Nik taking the lead as the werewolves stood up and their chattering quieted. Stefan dropped Ray to the ground and a brunette girl rushed towards him, crouching down at his limp body.

"Ray!" She exclaimed. "Oh, my God."

She looked up to Stefan, and then her eyes found Eden's, a murderous look on her face. "Who are you?"

"The important question," Nik stepped in front of Eden, shielding her a fraction. Annoyance flashed her features as Stefan did the same, leaving her just able to view everyone behind their shoulders. "Is who am I. Please," his gaze snapped to a blonde man leaning next to the brunette girl — who reminded Eden a bit of Matt Donovan — and his smirk widened. "Forgive the intrusion. My name is Klaus."

The girl slowly stood, and the pair took a step back.

"You're the hybrid," she recalled, her voice tinged in fear.

"You've heard of me," Nik grinned. "Fantastic."

Dizziness hit Eden and she blinked, gripping Nik's forearm to settle herself. He glanced down to her, pointing to a log. "Stefan, help her sit."

Eden leaned on Stefan as spots filled her vision, taking a seat on the log and steadying her breathing. Stefan took a seat next to him. Eden observed Nik as he threatened the werewolves and smiled a bit to herself.

He looked ridiculous in her fanny pack.

Stefan caught her smile and gave her a look of confusion. She pointed to her waist and nodded to Nik, and he followed her eyes, then chuckled to himself. "Definitely," he agreed.

"If you're both finished," Nik met their gaze with a glare, but Eden didn't see any bitterness there. It was all for show. The idea of him being harsh to others but softening for her — and Stefan — made her feel giddy.

He sighed, walking over and taking a seat next to Eden, who immediately rested her head on his shoulder. If he was surprised by her sudden affections, he didn't make it known.

"It's fascinating, actually," Nik pointed to Ray, stretching his legs out. "A werewolf who isn't beholden to the moon. A vampire who doesn't burn in the sun. A true hybrid."

Ray jolted awake, gasping for air and Nik smirked. "Excellent timing, Ray."

"Did you plan that?" Eden asked with a smirk up at Nik.

He didn't respond but his smirk widened. "Very dramatic."

"What's happening to me?" Ray asked, coughing.