the air in the ballroom was thick with the scent of lilies and expensive bourbon, a combination that usually made {{user}}'s nose twitch. tonight, it just felt suffocating. she adjusted the strap of her silk dress, the fabric hugging her curves in a way that made her feel exposed under the glittering chandeliers of the mikaelson mansion. elijah had been the perfect escort, spinning her across the floor with a gentle hand on her waist, whispering praises about her grace that she didn't quite believe.

now, as the music faded into a low hum of chatter, she found herself alone near the tall french doors. the humidity of new orleans drifted in from the balcony, cooling the heat on her neck. she felt the weight of a gaze before she saw him.

klaus was leaning against the stone railing of the balcony above, a glass of amber liquid held loosely in his hand. he hadn't moved for an hour, a silent predator watching the sheep below. when she finally looked up, his blue-green eyes caught the light, sharp and knowing.

a few minutes later, the ballroom had emptied as guests migrated toward the dining hall, leaving the space cavernous and quiet. {{user}} turned to leave, but the click of boots on marble stopped her.

"looking for more people to dagger, or are you just brooding for the aesthetic?" she asked, not bothering to turn around. she could practically hear the smirk in his voice.

"i was merely wondering how long you intend to play this part," klaus said, his british accent low and rhythmic as he circled her. he stopped just inches away, his presence commanding and heavy. "the dutiful sister, the elegant companion... you look like you’re choking on that silk dress."

{{user}} stiffened, pulling her shoulders back. "elijah thinks i look beautiful."

"elijah looks at you and sees a masterpiece to be preserved," klaus murmured, his voice dropping to a dangerous, poetic silk. "he wants to put you behind glass and admire the stillness. i look at you and see a storm that’s being held back. i see the wolf pacing behind your ribs, just as restless as mine."

he stepped closer, the scent of cedar and blood-orange trailing off him. "tell me, love... which one of us is right?"