Caroline walked in the door and threw her purse at the wall, angry with the world, angry with herself, angry with the ancient vampire who’d been yapping away about the time Klaus slaughtered a town because one inhabitant tried to kill him, angry at Klaus, angry at…just angry. She leaned back against the wall and slid down it, her eyes full of tears as she tucked her legs under herself. Caroline sobbed quietly to herself, ignoring her mother asking whether she was okay and tuning out whatever her mother was saying on the phone. It didn’t seem to matter anymore.

A few minutes passed after her mother let her be and let her curl up against the wall, crying. A few minutes passed when the front door opened, which she’d not closed properly on storming in, and Klaus was standing over her. The sight of him made her cry more, and he knelt beside her. “What’s wrong, love?” He asked softly, sitting beside her and ignoring when she didn’t automatically curl up to him like she did. Caroline was a touchy-feely sort of girlfriend and he enjoyed it very much. 

“Charles was just talking about that town in Denmark in the 16th century.” She murmured through her tear filled voice, wiping harshly at her eyes. “It was just this constant stream of reminders that you’ve been this cold hearted killer for the better part of a thousand years and I couldn’t take it. You’re just so sweet and kind and charming all the time!” She sobbed, putting her head in her hands, ashamed at herself for some unknown reason. 

Klaus’ arm wrapped itself around her shoulder and pulled her close, shushing her softly as she cried. “I could always rough up one of the Salvatores if you want some balance. Maybe steal Elena to add a bit of excitement to the day.” He murmured jokingly. Caroline laughed through her tears and he smiled softly. “That person is gone, I don’t need him anymore. I just need you. Preferrably not in a pile of tears on the floor.” He told her softly, scooping her up in his arms and standing up, starting towards her bedroom. 

As he settled her on the bed, Caroline sighed heavily and caught his fingertips with hers. Klaus sat on the edge of the bed and brushed his free hand of fingers through her hair, moving it from her face. “Sorry, I know you’re different now, Nik. I’m just making a drama out of nothing.” She murmured gently. Klaus shushed her apology and kissed her forehead. “Stay.” She whispered. Klaus nodded and followed her command, his free will always pliable to her needs.