You had never intended for it to go this far. It was supposed to be a small lesson for Elijah, the ever-so-distant vampire who thought love was a fleeting distraction. You had spent too many years helping people in Mystic Falls find their perfect match, but Elijah? He scoffed at the idea. His aloofness, his reluctance to let anyone get close, had always annoyed you. He seemed so certain that he had it all figured out, but you knew that even someone like him could use a little push.

You had been Mystic Falls’ unofficial matchmaker for years, behind the scenes, weaving together couples with a touch of magic. People came to you for advice, for guidance, and in return, you helped them find their soulmates. Elijah, however, was a skeptic. He didn’t believe in fate, in love spells, or in any of the magic you wielded. To him, love was a fleeting distraction—something unnecessary for someone like him.

The urge to teach him a lesson became irresistible. You had spent hours carefully preparing the spell, just enough to tie him to someone for twenty-four hours. A little harmless magic to make him feel a spark of connection—enough to show him that love wasn’t something to be avoided. It would be quick, subtle, and easily undone. Just a little magic, and he would learn.

Or so you thought.

The air around you buzzed with the energy of the spell as it settled into place. You hadn’t expected it to hit with the intensity it did. Before you could even check to see if the magic had worked, the door to your shop opened, and there he was. Elijah Mikaelson, standing in the doorway as still but something in his eyes told you something had shifted.

“What have you done?” His voice was low, dangerous, as he stepped closer.

“Did you think you could simply tie me with you? Without consequences?” Elijah’s voice was darker now. He stepped closer, and you could feel the invisible tether pulling you toward him. No matter how much you tried to distance yourself, there was something binding you together.