The compound is quieter than usual.

Elijah is out handling “family business.” Kol hasn’t been home since morning. Freya’s locked away in one of her spell rooms.

It’s just Klaus and Rebekah.

You step inside, backpack heavy on your shoulder, movements slower than usual.

Klaus looks up from a half-finished painting and freezes. That’s all it takes.

“You’re late,” he says softly. Then, sharper, “And you’re upset.”

Rebekah turns from the couch, eyes scanning you. “Hey,” she says, gentler than usual. “What happened at school?”

You shrug. Bad move.

Klaus is already on his feet. “Don’t,” he warns. “Don’t pretend everything is fine.” His voice lowers. “Someone said something. Or did something.”

Rebekah comes closer, careful, protective. “Did they embarrass you?” she asks. “Because I swear—”

“Rebekah,” Klaus cuts in, though his own anger is boiling. He looks back at you. “You don’t come home like this unless something hurt.”

For a moment, neither of them speaks. They’re waiting. Letting you breathe.

Then Klaus says quietly, dangerously calm, “Tell us what happened… before I start making assumptions.”