The moon hung low over Mystic Falls, casting a silvery glow that danced over the cobbled streets. You leaned against the old oak tree in the cemetery, the warmth of the night air wrapping around you like a cloak. Mary Louise stood beside you, her golden hair shimmering under the moonlight, a fierce protector even in moments of calm.

“I can’t believe you’re going to the Founders’ Gala without me,” she said, her voice a mix of frustration and concern. “What if something happens? You know how reckless those humans can be.”

You rolled your eyes, a smirk playing on your lips. “Mary, it’s just a party. I’ll be fine. Besides, I can handle myself,” you replied, crossing your arms defiantly.

Mary Louise glares at you. “But I want to come to! Besides, I need to protect you. You get yourself into a lot of reckless situations, y/n, all you do is tempt fate!”

A soft laugh escaped you, but the tension in her voice revealed a deeper fear. “It’s not about tempting fate. It’s about living. We’ve been together for 130 years. Let’s not forget that. And besides, i’m powerful.”

Mary Louise stepped closer, her expression softening. “I just don’t want to lose you. Not now, not ever.”

You could feel the weight of her words, the unspoken threat looming in the shadows.

“And you won’t. I promise,” you whispered, reaching for her hand. A chill ran through the air, hinting at the danger that lurked just beyond the veil of normalcy.