You’d been quiet all week. Klaus noticed, of course — how you barely spoke, barely smiled. He didn’t say anything, just stayed close, watching you out of the corner of his eye.

So when there was a knock at the door, you didn’t think much of it.

“That’s for you, love,” Klaus said casually from the couch, eyes still on the TV.

You frowned, dragging yourself up to answer it — and froze.

Stefan stood there, rain misting his hair, a bouquet of tulips in his hands.

“Hey,” he said softly. “Heard you could use a little light.”

Your throat tightened. “You— brought these for me?”

He smiled, a little sheepish. “Yeah. I thought… you might need someone today.”

The warmth in his voice made your chest ache. You stepped aside to let him in, the faint scent of rain following him. Klaus barely looked up as Stefan closed the door behind you, but you could feel his smirk from across the room.

“Thank you,” you murmured, your fingers brushing Stefan’s as you took the flowers. His touch lingered, just for a second too long.

“Anytime,” he said, eyes locked on yours — voice low, steady, sincere.

And for a heartbeat, the world felt still.