Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Chapter 1 - Magic Shop

🌐 Mystic Falls, Virginia - December 22th 

“Slow down!” 

Penelope huffed at her floating tablet. Quickly shifting her glance back to the canvas in front of her for what felt like the twentieth time in the last minute. The brush in her hand running unsurely over a mess of colors — trying to blend them together into the gorgeous afternoon sky she saw in the tutorial.

“Criss-cross strokes... Yeah, I’m doing that Mr. Ross, but guess what? It’s not blending!” Rewinding the video again , a frustrated sigh left her lips. Penelope hit the pause button. Taking a minute to breathe and figure out what she was doing wrong. 

' We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents. ' She heard Bob Ross say in her head. Running a hand through her hair before redoing the messy samurai bun she had going on — not caring about getting it stained with the paint covering her fingers. 

— Okay… I can do this! — In about ten minutes her lips were twitching up in a proud smile. Now, finally happy with the results, she hit play. 

She tapped her brush softly against the canvas, creating soft looking clouds. It reminded her of the cotton candy she bought for Hope on their first official date. She found herself mindlessly smiling at the memory. She couldn’t believe it has been a month already. Most probably the best of her life. A month dating the girl she's been crushing on for ages. The girl of her dreams. The one that made Penelope the happiest woman in the world. 

Butterflies started flying in Penelope’s stomach just by thinking of her. Her eyes darted over to the other side of the room where Hope lay on her bed, reading a book. She looked beautiful. Penelope loved to watch her read. Lost in the pages of whatever world she was in — her eyebrows scrunched together adorably, totally focused. 

She forced herself to look back at her tablet only for her eyes to bulge in surprise.

“What?! Where did these mountains come from?!” Quickly grabbing the painting knife she tried to catch up. “Oh great! Now there’s snow on top of it…” 

Hope looked up from her book with an amused smile on her lips. She was so happy when Penelope asked her to teach her how to paint after she spent an entire afternoon watching Hope create a piece for her art class. Hope remembers Penelope’s proud and awed smile when she saw the final product. Remembers the way her heart fluttered and her cheeks blushed at being praised. 

She was even happier now that Penelope felt confident enough to try painting on her own. Her eyes shone with a mischievous glint as she watched her girlfriend struggling to keep up with the Bob Ross tutorial. Hope knew the tutorial Penelope chose wasn’t exactly the easiest one, but she looked so excited to try that Hope said nothing about it. 

Every now and then Hope would glance over her book to check on Penelope’s work. Sometimes forgetting about the painting altogether and staring at her girlfriend for a long time, lost in her dazzling beauty. The ravenette’s hair had grown a substantial amount in the last month. Magic certainly involved. It was now tied up in a loose bun. Wayward strands framing her face. 

She stood barefoot in front of the canvas, wearing a pair of gray leggings with one of Hope’s large painting shirts — a knot tying it a little above her belly button, making it hard for the tribrid to tear her eyes away from the tanned, soft looking skin that it left on display.

A lovesick smile threatening to split Hope’s face in half as the realization that she was probably the only person allowed to see Penelope like this, crossed her mind. Seeing her not as the untouchable girl every other person saw, but as Penelope. Freed of the worries and insecurities she felt the need to hide from other people.

After hearing yet another frustrated sigh, Hope closed her book and made her way to her girlfriend. Hugging her softly from behind, arms around her waist, feeling the soft, warm skin under her touch. Her front molding itself against the girl’s back. Leaving a loving kiss where Penelope’s shoulder meets her neck, feeling the girl melt and lean into her embrace. 

“Everything alright, Pen?” 

“He’s going too fast.” Penelope whined, sounding like a child. Setting her tools aside, she turned in Hope’s arms, foreheads meeting as another sigh left her lips, making Hope chuckle and leave a quick peck at the corner of her mouth. 

“Yeah, he does that.” Hope spared a glance at Penelope’s work, a proud smile stretching her lips. “This looks amazing, Pen!” 

“I know, but the time it takes me to paint a single tree he goes and paints a whole fucking lake! Look at this-” Still in Hope’s arms, she made the iPad float closer to them. “It even has reflections!”

Hope giggled, only for a pout to appear on Penelope’s lips — leaving her no choice but to kiss it away. 

“Nothing against Mr. Ross here, but I like it way better when you paint with me.” Penelope whispered against Hope’s lips, which stretched into an amused smirk. Truth be told; the ravenette was proud of herself for getting this far alone, but the feeling of Hope's hand in hers as she guided them across the canvas it's way more pleasing.

“Well, I offered to help you, remember? But you, quite stubbornly, refused."

"Yeah yeah yeah… big mistake."

Hope shook her head amusingly, arms tightening around Penelope’s waist, pulling her closer.

“Are you done with your book?” Penelope asked, trying her best not to sound too eager.

“Yeah…” Hope frowned slightly. “Dolores Umbridge was getting on my nerves. I thought she was a bitch in the films but she’s way worse in the books…”

“Ugh! I know, right? It took me a good while to finish ‘ Order of the phoenix’ for the first time because she kept annoying me.” 

“Draco is super annoying too.” 

“And Snape’s a grown ass man who bullies children…” 

“Yeah… but I think what's bothering me the most so far is how much they screwed Dumbledore’s and Ginny’s characters in the films though." 

“I know! What even was that ‘ DID YOU PUT YOUR NAME IN THE GOBLET OF FIRE?’ bullshit?” 

Hope found herself laughing at Penelope’s imitation and the way she playfully shook Hope’s shoulders in a perfect demonstration at how exaggerated and off the scene was in the movie.

“Oh god, yes! That was terrible!” 

“I hate to tell you this but If you thought that scene was bad just wait until you read ‘ Half Blood Prince’. That entire movie is a big dumpster fire.” 

“Oh no…” Hope whined, burying her face in Penelope’s neck. “Never again am I watching the movies before I read the books.” 

“Smart move.” Penelope chuckled, pushing back to leave a kiss onto the tribrid’s cheek before whispering into her ear; “So…” 

“So…” Hope looked up, blue eyes locking into hazel green ones. “Want me to help you finish the painting?” 

“Yes, please.” Penelope nodded eagerly, already turning in Hope’s arms to grab her tools back.

[...]

Hope was a way better teacher in Penelope’s opinion. Maybe she was being biased, but she didn’t care. Hope’s hand guiding hers over the canvas whenever she struggled over a tricky part, or the warmth of the tribrid’s other hand resting on her waist, fingers occasionally caressing her skin in soft circular patterns, making her knees weak — giving her an excuse to lean more and more against Hope... Everything just felt too good for her to ever want anything else, hence the pleased smile never leaving her face.

Excitement ran through Penelope as she inspected her now finished painting. Hope by her side with a proud smile on her face. 

“I think it’s safe to add painting to the list of many things you’re good at, love .” Hope said, leaning her head onto Penelope’s shoulder while admiring the girl’s work. 

“I agree.” Grinning from ear to ear, Penelope placed her arm around Hope’s waist, turning her body to face her just in time to see the tribrid rolling her eyes. “Well... I did have an amazing teacher, y'know?” 

“And who would that be? Me or Bob Ross?” 

“Bob Ross, obviously.” Penelope smirked as Hope made a face and playfully pushed her, trying to get away — not going very far at all because Penelope’s hands instantly dropped to her waist, bringing her back, almost flush against her body. “You’re good too, but you’re way too distracting, babe... ” 

The hot, sexy whisper against her lips made Hope’s heart flutter and a wave of heat to run through her body. It took everything in her not to surge forwards and crash their lips together. The need to make a comeback, stronger. 

“Distracting?” She whispered back, making eye contact. “How so?” 

“Oh you know…” Penelope placed a loose strand of auburn hair behind Hope’s ear before letting her hand rest against the side of her neck, playing with the soft baby hairs there. “How do you expect me to focus with your hand in mine? Touching my waist, whispering in my ear, kissing my neck, making my knees so weak I have to lean into you not to fall…” 

Hope smiled, her face turning pink and heart overflowing with love as she leaned into the touch. Still resisting the urge to close the distance and make Penelope’s knees give up at once. 

“I don't remember having any problem the times you did that to me..." 

“No?” Smirking, Penelope slipped her hands underneath the hem of Hope’s shirt, her hold on the girl’s waist tightening as she pulled her even closer — the warmth of Hope’s body seeping into her bones as she leaned their foreheads together.

“Nop…” Hope gasped, not at all fazed by it exposing her obvious lie, knowing Penelope wouldn’t believe in such an absurdity for even a microsecond anyway. Closing her eyes, she smiled. “But I get it though. It really must be hard, so, next time we paint I won't distract you. Actually, since you liked Bob Ross better, next time you can-” 

Lips pressed against hers, shutting her up. 

Hope welcomed the kiss more than eagerly. With her fangs elongating just a little, she gently bit down Penelope’s lower lip — being rewarded with a soft moan coming out of her girlfriend’s mouth. 

“Of course I was talking about you, Wolfie.” Penelope husked, lips brushing against Hope’s. The corner of her lips twitching up in a smirk when Hope chased her mouth. The raven-haired girl could feel her girlfriend’s smile mirroring hers — obviously pleased by her statement —, before soft lips covered hers again. The kiss, slow and gentle but with such passion and love that Penelope’s legs got real wobbly.

“Good.” Hope beamed, her voice hoarse, face red and lips swollen. 

Penelope giggled before once again, leaning their foreheads together while they recovered their breaths. When she opened her eyes, blue ones were already staring at her, making her heart skip a beat with the loving glint she could see in them. She brushed her thumb gently over Hope’s swollen lips with her gaze fixed on the ocean eyes in front of her — so deep she felt like she could dive and unavoidably drown into them. 

“Let’s paint another one?” She managed to say quietly, somehow, still out of breath. 

Hope’s eyes sparkled — in tune with Penelope’s excitement. However, with a quick look at the clock hanging on the wall behind them, she frowned. 

“I’d love to-” A peck on her lips interrupted her. She closed her eyes, a lovesick grin playing on her lips despite a sigh also leaving them. Opening her mouth to try again only for the same thing to happen. Once, twice… Melting in Penelope’s onslaught of kisses — the soft and warm touch of her lips brushing against hers, and the love she could feel emanating off of her girlfriend, making her dizzy. 

It took her a few minutes to get a hold of herself to stop the delightful attack — almost caving in when Penelope straight up mewled and gave her a pout. Seriously, after spending almost her entire life having to deal with Josie’s pout, which Hope knew all too well to be a dangerous thing as it got her sister almost anything she wanted, you’d expect Hope to be used to it. Josie’s pout however — regardless of how hard it is to believe — had nothing on Penelope’s. 

That thing was lethal .  

“I’d love to, but we can’t… We’ll be late for our date with Josie and Jade.” 

“Shit!” Penelope’s eyes widened. “What time is it?” She looked at the clock before Hope could answer, “Oh… It 's still 3:30 and we just need to meet them at 6. We’re good.” 

“No. The movie starts at 6. We’ll meet them at the Mystic Grill at 5.”

"Right… Okay, yeah. I guess we should get ready then.”

“Don’t forget to get that paint off of your cheek.” Hope giggled. “And your hair.” 

“Ugh, yeah I know, thanks for reminding me though.” 

“Of course.” Hope gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. 

“Are we still in for Kaleb's party tonight?” Penelope asked, almost sure Hope would’ve changed her mind by now and was surprised to see the girl nodding her head rather excitedly, “My my… Look at you! Who would’ve thought…” 

“What?” Hope ducked her head, a pout forming on her lips as she took Penelope’s hand, shyly playing with her fingers.

“Nothing.” Penelope smiled sweetly, her heart swelling at the cute sight in front of her. As it turned out, Hope’s pout seemed to have the exact same effect on Penelope as Penelope’s had on Hope. “It’s just- I never thought I’d see the day where you’d be excited to go to a party .” 

“Why?” 

“Really?” Penelope giggled.

Hope felt blood rushing to her face as she looked up at her girlfriend. Holding her gaze for a short moment before dropping it to their feet again upon seeing the corner of Penelope’s lip twitch up in her usual smirk. 

“I'm trying my best, okay?” She mumbled, her toe fidgeting with Penelope's.

“I know, Wolfie.” Penelope cooed as she gently tilted Hope’s chin up — instantly kissing her adorable pout away. “I know you are, babe. And I’m so proud of you!” 

Reaching for the hand Penelope still had on her chin, Hope intertwined their fingers — bringing it to her lips and laying a kiss at the back of the ravenette’s hand before letting their joined hands fall to their sides. 

“So, hmm... “ She cleared her throat. “We should get ready.” 

“Yeah…” Penelope stepped back, looking around Hope’s room for the clothes she was going to wear for the date but not finding them anywhere. “Crap! I left my stuff back in my room.” Hope’s eyebrows scrunched adorably, not understanding why she was upset. “I was going to get ready here...” Still nothing. “...And use your shower, that's like- a thousand times better than mine.” 

“Oh,” Hope shrugged, “That’s probably for the better.” 

“Excuse me?” Penelope crossed her arms over her chest, stomping her feet on the ground like a petulant child. “How could that be for the better? Your shower is divine!”

“I know-” Hope giggled, padding backwards towards her bathroom “but you take at least 40 minutes whenever you shower here and we don’t have that time so…” 

“We could always shower together…” Penelope suggested, wiggling her eyebrows teasingly, getting a glare from Hope.

“You’d like that wouldn’t you?” 

“It was worth a shot.” Penelope shrugged as the Mikaelson girl stepped into the bathroom.

“Go get ready, Pen.” Rolling her eyes, Hope closed the door, leaving Penelope alone in her room.

“Wait-” Penelope stared at the bathroom door, baffled at being dismissed just like that. “Hope! Get back here and give your girlfriend a kiss goodbye!” 

Not even a second later, the door opened with Hope’s head poking outside. 

“Penelope…” Her voice was calm, but her eyes were glowing bright red. “Did you just yell at me?” 

The clear challenge in Hope's voice sent a shock down Penelope's spine and goosebumps erupted throughout her entire body.

"...Maybe?"

Hope arched an eyebrow, letting the veins pulse under her eyes, which quickly had Penelope gulping and shaking her head.

"No, ma'am."

"That's better." With her face shifting back to normal, Hope grinned. "If you can get back here in less than- one hour, then you can have all the kisses you want."

"But-"

 "Go." Hope stared her down again, "Now."  And with a wink, she closed the door.

Unusually flushed, and with increasing heat spreading through her entire body, Penelope helplessly slipped her shoes back on and then dashed back to her room.

“You’re late.” Josie glared at them, crossing her arms as they approached the bench outside the Mystic Grill. 

“It’s her fault!” Hope defended, pointing a finger at Penelope. “She wouldn’t stop kissing me.” 

“How is that my fault? I was simply collecting what I was promised. And I didn't see you complaining.” 

“That’s because you didn’t let me speak!” 

“Yeah yeah… Keep pretending you’re annoyed, Hope, It’s totally working.” Jade stood up, stepping besides Josie and wrapping an arm around her girlfriend’s waist.

Rolling her eyes at the sneer Jade sent her way, Hope urged them inside. The place wasn’t as crowded as it usually was so they got their orders pretty quickly. Hope was the first to finish with her meal and wasted no time to steal Penelope’s fries, which was so focused on her conversation with Jade that only noticed the disappearance of said fries when she reached for them and found a cold empty plate. 

Feeling guilty, Hope ordered Penelope another portion that maybe, just maybe, was larger than the girl would be able to eat. 

Two milkshakes later and feeling — metaphorically — lighter than she’d been in months, Hope followed Jade for a quick snooker game, which she lost. Extremely and annoyingly fast. So, naturally she asked for a rematch. She lasted longer this time, but lost all the same.

“How are you so good at this?” Hope asked, trying not to sound frustrated, while resetting the game.

“Used to play it with my dad." Said Jade simply, looking away from Hope. Then plucking her phone out of her back pocket she cleared her throat; “We should head out.” 

“What- No!” Hope shook her head a bit too fast, “Let’s play another one!” 

“Why? I’ll just beat you again.” Jade stored away her cue, ignoring Hope’s indignant glare, “Come on.”

Hope left the restaurant under a torrent of laughs and teasing. Jade was lucky Hope liked her so much, otherwise she wouldn’t get away with mocking her so easily. Either way, they got to the small movie theater in no time and, under the girls incredulous gaze, Hope headed to the concession stand to grab herself a large popcorn and coke, two chocolate bars which she claimed was for everyone, a pack of peanut butter M&Ms and Sour patch. 

“What? It’s a long movie!” Hope defended when Jade gaped at her armful of snacks.

[...] 

Hope wanted to watch the movie, she really did, but Penelope made it quite difficult. ‘ Be more careful with your promises’ she’d say whenever Hope dodged her to focus on the screen, but as soon as Penelope’s lips touched hers, the world disappeared and Hope was sure she’d have to watch that movie again. 

There was popcorn all over Penelope and her — on their hair, on their clothes, lap and a bunch on the floor at their feet which Hope would have to make sure to clean up after the movie was over —, because Jade kept throwing it at them in protest for them keeping making out during the film. 

“That’s so disrespectful!” She’d hiss, with Josie giggling quietly at her side. 

Seizing the popcorn bag back from Jade, Hope was delighted to watch Jade’s last protest dying with an hmph when a delighted Josie grabbed her by the neck and pulled into a searing kiss, leaving the blonde girl gasping for air and her face scarlet.

[...]

Judging by the parts she actually got to watch, Hope found Eternals a pretty good movie. MG would be proud of her for getting almost all of the references, but she’d definitely have to ask him what that last post credit scene meant ‘cuz she had no idea. Penelope though was in awe; The entire time they spent roaming around town she kept gushing about how stunning the cinematography looked. 

Hope hung to her every word, obsessed with the passionnant way Penelope described the photography of each scene. One would think she actually watched the whole movie, with the amount of detail she was able to recall. Hope wondered if that was how she sounded when she talked about art. 

It was almost nine when they made it back to school, Josie and Jade heading for the latter’s room for a quick wardrobe change while Hope and Penelope did the same. Instead of leaving as soon as they were changed though, Hope dragged Penelope to the kitchen, asking her to make her a sandwich. 

Ending back in Penelope’s room with two sandwiches each, they sat on the bed, eating in silence. Throwing the wraps in the trash, Penelope leaned back against the headboard, fished a book out of her nightstand and started to read. 

“What are you doing? I thought we were leaving.” 

“We are. I'm just gonna read this one chapter.” 

— Yeah, right. — Letting out a long sigh, Hope flopped heavily back on the bed, fitting herself against Penelope’s side.

[...]

The forest was silent around them as they walked toward the Old Mill, and Hope spared a second to mentally praise the witches for the concealment wards they’d obviously put up. Penelope walked slowly next to her, hand grasped tightly in hers as she glared into the darkness.

An upturned tree root nearly sent the witch sprawling and Hope bit her lip hard enough to draw blood in an effort not to giggle at her girlfriend, “Don’t you dare laugh at me. Not all of us can have stupid Tribrid night-vision.”

Full lips turned down into a pout and the Tribrid killed the laughter in her throat, stopping a few meters from the entrance to the wards and tugging the witch against her, “I’m sorry, love . You’re right, it wasn’t funny. Want me to kiss it better?”

Penelope smirked, nodding eagerly and leaning closer to Hope, gasping as she was quickly spun and pressed lightly into a tree. The Tribrid crowded her, molding their bodies together and hovering their lips an inch apart.

The witch whined, tilting her head forward barely succeeding in brushing their mouths together, the ghost of Hope’s cocky grin tingling across her bottom lip, “Hope…”

A throaty chuckle was her only response before she connected their mouths hungrily, licking into Penelope’s mouth and moaning at the taste of her on her tongue. Long fingers wound into auburn hair and Penelope hummed, pressing closer to Hope and sighing as the Tribrid drew strong hands over her hips and waist.

The sound of feet against dry foliage broke them apart and Hope panted into their shared air as she willed her eyes to stop glowing. Penelope dragged her fingers softly along her bottom lip, removing any traces of her lip gloss, before linking their hands and tugging her girlfriend toward the party.

Magic washed over them briefly as they passed the ward line and Hope winced at the wall of sound that hit them. Music pulsed through the walls of the slightly decrepit building, shaking it in its foundations and causing the air to vibrate.

Despite the fact that more than two thirds of the student body had gone home for Christmas break, there were still people everywhere. A group of wolves had taken over much of the second floor, drinks in hand as they dared each other to do ridiculous stunts and generally created as much noise as they could.

Vampires lurked along the walls, the stairs, and in groups of three or four around the edges of the house. Of the three factions at the school, they were the ones least likely to have somewhere to go during the holidays - and many of them were taking advantage of the three week break, making an early start on seemingly getting very drunk.

Hope watched in amusement as a group of vamps sped up the stairs, appearing suddenly amidst the wolves and causing many of them to spill their drinks, challenging them to something that would surely leave the witches annoyed and cleaning up.

The space designated as the dance floor was filled with the witches still at school, an occasional wolf or vampire appeared through the tight pressed crowd - clearly having been dragged there by whichever witch they’d decided to spend their night with.

Magic hummed in the air around them, courtesy of a group of drunk and giggling witches from the year below and Penelope laughed brightly at the light show they were creating in the space above the dancing teens heads.

“Come on, wolfie, I think we both deserve a drink.” Hope grinned at the happy energy her girlfriend was exuding, following her willingly to a table hidden under the stairs that held a wide variety of alcohol.

Penelope turned to her, raising an eyebrow and gesturing to the assortment of bottles, “What’s your poison?” 

The Tribrid shrugged, eyes watering at the heady mix of so many spirits and stale beer. “Whatever you’re having, Pen. You know I didn’t use to drink whenever I actually showed up here.” 

The witch tutted, already searching through the many bottles to find the one she wanted, holding it up with a grin when she found it before pouring a healthy amount into two red solo cups.

Pushing the cup into Hope’s hand, Penelope took a large sip of her own drink and nodded to the beat of the song currently pulsing through the air, “Do you think JoJo and Jade are here yet?”

Leaning up on her tiptoes, the Tribrid scanned the crowd for the brunette siphon or her blonde vampire shadow, but gave up quickly once she realized that almost everyone there was taller than her. Turning to Penelope with a pout, she was about to reply in the negative, but cut herself off with a squeal when two cold hands snaked under her shirt and pressed to her stomach.

Spinning around with the intention to cause serious bodily harm to whoever had touched her, Hope relaxed at the sight of Josie — smile wide and roguish, and cheeks flushed pink from the alcohol that Hope could already smell on her breath.

“Josie! What the hell, don’t do that!” The smile stretching her lips took away from the bite in her words, but Hope still tried to convey a serious tone, internally worried that she could have hurt the taller girl if she’d reacted before checking who it was.

“We’ve been looking for you guys for ages, Hopey!” Josie said and Jade shook her head behind her girlfriend, mouthing ‘ ten minutes ’ to them as she watched the brunette with a fond smile, “I was worried you’d convinced Penelope not to come.”

“Oh, believe me, she tried. Luckily, I’m the more persuasive of the two of us.” Penelope slipped an arm around Hope’s waist, leaning into her to press a kiss to her cheek.

Hope grumbled under her breath, rolling her eyes as the witches happily started discussing their respective girlfriends' reluctance to come to parties at the Old Mill. Jade caught her eye, sharing a fond smile with her, “Honestly, I’m the one who had to practically drag her here. She wanted to stay in and watch ‘About Time’ again.” 

The words filtered between them, completely silent to everyone else, including Josie and Penelope — one of the perks of being a vampire. Hope bit her lip to stop herself from laughing, bringing her cup up to her lips and taking a deep drink, “Pen was all set to spend the night reading in bed before I reminded her. You’d think I tried to lock her up, the way she’s talking.”

They laughed, drawing suspicious looks from the witches pressed to their sides, which only caused them to laugh harder.

 “I’m not sure I like this whole ‘silent joke’ thing.” Josie stared at them with those puppy eyes of hers before looking at her best friend who nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, how would you two like it if Jojo and I started laughing at you both for no reason?” Hope turned to the ravenette, eyes sparkling in the dim light, and pressed a quick kiss to her frowning lips.

“We weren’t laughing at you, babe.” 

Jade pressed a kiss to Josie’s forehead, smiling at the dramatic pout she wore, “Promise. We were just… sharing a moment of commiseration?”

Hope raised an eyebrow at the blonde, smirking at her helpless shrug. Ignoring the unimpressed looks being sent their way by the brunettes, she flicked her wrist and tried her best to look innocent as the pop song that was playing suddenly changed to something with a fast, pounding beat — much to the complaints of the witches, and delight of the wolves.

Flicking her eyes up, she smiled sweetly, taking a step back from Penelope to hold her hand out and wiggle her fingers, “Wanna dance with me, babe?” 

They joined the rush of wolves heading to the dance floor and Hope bumped her fist against Jade’s behind their girlfriends backs as they walked, breathing a sigh of relief. Penelope and Josie led them straight to the middle of the crowd, already dancing and laughing as they moved.

It was somewhat awkward to dance while keeping hold of her drink, but Hope managed it, swinging her hips to the beat and pressing in close to her girlfriend, letting everyone else melt away.

Penelope was gorgeous, there really was no denying it - but here, with one hand running through her dark hair as her whole body pulsed with the bass of the song, green eyes glinting in the low light and white teeth pressing into the fullness of her bottom lip - Hope didn’t stand a chance.

Downing the remainder of her drink, she flicked her fingers absently to send the cup… somewhere, before pressing her body flush to the witches, moving their hips in time as her mouth trailed featherlight kisses along a tan throat.

The music faded out as Penelope leaned back to connect their eyes, hands settling around Hope’s shoulders as she casually played with the baby hairs at the back of Hope’s neck, smiling secretly at the way the Tribrid leaned into it.

She leaned down to press her lips to her girlfriend's ear, not wanting to shout over the music, but caught sight of someone over her shoulder that made her groan instead. She stopped dancing entirely, clenching her fists and accidentally digging her nails into the back of Hope’s neck.

“Aw!” Hope hissed. "What's wrong?”

“Sorry. That bitch Courtney’s here.” 

“I thought you said she’d gone home.”

“Well, apparently not.” Penelope took a deep breath, “I swear to god if that girl hit on me one more time…” 

Hope giggled shortly. 

“I know I’m new to this whole relationship thing but- isn’t that supposed to be my line?” 

Penelope sent a hard glare over Hope’s shoulder to where Courtney was leaning over the rundown railings talking to another member of the pack, her lips pressed into a thin line before they unavoidably broke down into a smile and she laughed at her girlfriend’s joke. 

“I mean, that’s true, but… I don’t know- that girl just- Ugh! I’ve told her to fuck off like a million times but she can’t seem to take the hint. And it’s not like she couldn’t see the hickeys you leave on me either. You know how I like to show them off. Besides, aren’t werewolves supposed to like- respect boundaries and shit?”

“Well, normally? Yeah, but- and I’m not excusing her behavior by any means, I’m with you; that girl’s fucking annoying, but wolves are driven by scent. If she can’t smell me on you then she won’t consider you as taken .” 

“Okay… but how’s that even possible? We often sleep in the same bed, can’t seem to keep our hands off each other, we make out all the time, I’ve quite literally spent half of today just kissing you - thank you very much.” She winked and Hope was once again reminded to mind her future promises. “Not to mention that Voldemort made sure to announce our relationship to the whole school during breakfast.”

Honestly, Hope should’ve seen that one coming. Lizzie hated being the last one to know something. And learning that Josie got to know about them a day before her… Well, the whole cafeteria got to know how she felt about that. 

“That’s because I’ve never really meant to leave my scent on you. It just… happens, y’know? I can’t always help it.” She cleared her throat, face getting slightly pink, “It’s not strong enough for other wolves to detect anyways. Especially considering how many showers you take a day and how intoxicating your perfume is.”

Penelope noded, the gears seemingly turning inside her beautiful head and then an eyebrow arched up with a sly smirk appearing on her lips.

“That makes sense, but you could’ve- Fuck! I think she saw me…” 

Hope looked behind her. Descending the stairs, wavy blonde hair bouncing on her shoulders, hips swaying in her stride, cocky smile on her face and a half filled cup waving loosely in her hand was Courtney. 

“Yup, she saw you alright.” Hope said, setting her jaw as the girl started towards them. “Do you want me to do something? I know some nasty hexes.” 

“Yes.” Penelope said, her eyes flashing dangerously and Hope nodded. She stared at Courtney trying to push her way through the masses with a mean smile, a curse on the tip of her tongue when; “Mark me.” 

“W-what?” Hope’s eyes widened as they shot back to Penelope. 

“You heard me.”

“You want me to scent-mark you? Like- right now? In front of everyone?” Hope asked, incredulously 

“So they all know that I’m yours? Yes.” Penelope’s voice was as certain and as determined as it was the day she stole Hope’s heart. “Do it.” 

Who was Hope to deny such a fierceful request? No, that wasn’t a request, it was an order. An order that Hope was more than happy to oblige. One that had scorching heat setting low in her abdomen.

She nuzzled her face firmly into the crook of Penelope’s neck, inhaling deeply, her wolf coming to the surface, overjoyed. 

“You really shouldn’t indulge me like this…” She said in a low yet hesitant tone before sucking hard on the girl’s pulse point. 

“Why not?” Penelope gasped, gripping the tribrid’s waist and throwing her head back to give her more space, “You might’ve missed it but, you getting possessive over me kinda drives me crazy.” 

“Oh yeah?” Hope all but growled, both hands landing hard on Penelope’s ass which produced such a moan from her perfect lips that had Hope’s core pulsing faster and harder than the beat of the current song. She licked a line over the column of the girl’s throat, sucking a hickey inches over where the first one was just forming and Penelope’s hands left her waist to wound themselves into Hope’s red hair.

“I love it.” Penelope moaned again with Hope nuzzling herself deeper into her neck and squeezing her hands tighter around her ass. Though to her utmost delight, when she refocused on the crowd, Courtney was standing just a few steps away from them. Her nostrils were flaring and her eyes were blazing and just as she turned to walk away, Penelope grinned victoriously at the clear look of disgust and what seemed like defeat on her face. 

"It worked..” Penelope panted, feeling her legs a little wobbly again. “She’s walking away.” 

Hope’s only response was a low growl of acknowledgement before she claimed Penelope’s lips in a kiss that felt way too intense for where they were in at the moment, but she couldn’t care enough to stop.

It was only when Penelope’s lungs started burning for air that she pushed Hope away, but the tribrid didn’t falter, she lowered her mouth right back down to the other side of the witch’s neck. 

“ Babe ?” 

Hope looked at Penelope then, her eyes glowing, heart pounding, chest heaving and fangs extending. She’d never felt so turned on in her entire life. Her body felt like it was buzzing with pent up energy. 

“Oh my…” Penelope said in a breathy, giddy voice. Her pupils were blown and she had a look of anticipation on her face. 

That look however, was all the consent that Hope needed before she hoisted Penelope up by her ass, pressed her firmly into her body and with a smirk, vamp-speed them away into the forest.

When the sounds of the party could no longer be heard, Hope pressed Penelope’s back against the first tree she saw. With a breathy cry, Penelope’s legs closed around her waist, hands got lost into her hair again and in a second Hope’s fangs were grazing the soft skin of her neck with the girl shivering under her touch.

Throwing her head back and looking up at the stars with a delirious smile on her face, Penelope moaned, loud and free as Hope’s fangs gently pierced her skin.

[...]

When they returned to the party thirty minutes later, Hope could still feel the taste of Penelope’s blood on her tongue. The euphoria and peace that it brought to her senses at the same time, the happiness and fullness that took over her whole self and that seemed to settle into her very soul. 

Hand in hand and wearing each other’s jackets they walked to the bonfire where their friends sat. Penelope’s smirk never looked so smug as it did now with all the werewolves sniffing the air as they passed. Apart from the rest who only spared them a quick weird glance, Courtney stared at them as if they just murdered someone and Hope wondered with evil satisfaction how much more pissed she’d look if there was still some visible evidence on Penelope’s body. 

Hope thought Penelope would’ve put more of a fight when she offered her bleeding wrist for her to drink but she took it at once, without a word. Only when the high they were on subsided that Penelope seemed to realize the hickeys on her neck were gone along with the puncture wounds and demanded they traded jackets before going back.

Hope flashed Courtney a smirk of her own and relished at the sight of the werewolf fuming before smashing the beer can in her hand and stormed off the party all together. 

“How long does this last?” Penelope asked. 

“I don’t know. Couple of hours I think?” 

Penelope looked disappointed as they sat down besides Josie and Jade in one of the four logs that surrounded the bonfire, they were chatting with Kaleb and his girlfriend Cleo. 

“Back so soon?” Jade asked, eyebrow raised and smirk hidden behind the red solo cup in her hand. She tugged on Josie’s shirt. “See babe? I told you they were only making out.” 

“Must’ve been one hell of a good one cuz you guys just vanished.” Kaleb said, his eyes roaming over them.

“Yeah, I got worried.” Josie said, sounding sober again, “We were dancing and then the next second you guys were just gone .” 

Thanks to the fire, nobody noticed the hard blush on Hope’s face as she looked at her sister.

“Yeah er- Sorry. Things just got a little bit heated…” 

“That’s one way to put it.” Penelope quipped.

“You smell a little bit different too…” Jade added.

"That 's okay.” Josie said kindly, ignoring the increasing number of comments, “But a little warning next time would be nice.” 

Hope nodded and then cleared her throat. 

“Have you seen Lizzie yet?” 

Josie shook her head no at the same time someone spoke behind them.

“She left already.” Jed sat down on the log in front of Kaleb and Cleo, who looked close to falling asleep, her head laid on his broad shoulder. 

“When?” Josie asked him, “I didn’t even see her.” 

Jed’s eyebrows furrowed as he sniffed the air, his glance moving from Josie to Hope and Penelope. He stared at them for a second and then settled his gaze on Hope, giving her a solemn but almost imperceptible nod. 

“She left before you got here. Barely stayed actually. Said it was lame and that there wasn’t any ‘epic love material’ here to worth her while.” He shrugged.  

“And she insulted my playlist man…” Kaleb muttered.

“Ah, that explains why MG looks like someone kicked his puppy.” Penelope nodded towards the boy approaching them carrying two cups. “What’s up, dude?” 

MG handled one of the cups to Jed and sat by his side, glaring at Penelope. 

“Don’t what’s-up me. You know I heard you. And my mood has nothing to do with Lizzie-”

Penelope scoffed and Hope nudged her lightly on the ribs and mouthed; “Behave.”  

"It 's true!” MG insisted.

Penelope raised her hands, not looking convinced in the slightest. 

“If you say so.” 

[...]

Minutes of drunk, nonsensical banter and laughter went by before Hope felt letters being drawn on the skin of her thigh forming the words; Can we go? At first she thought it was Penelope because her hand had been resting over her thigh the whole time, but it wasn’t her. 

She caught Joisie’s eyes just as she felt the message starting again. Her sister had that puppy pleading look on her face as she subtly scribed the letters over her own thigh.

Hope looked around and it seemed like everybody else got the message as well. It was Jed who got up first, looking guiltily at Kaleb. 

“Well, I think I’ll call it for tonight, bro.” 

“What?” Kaleb protested, “C'mon man, it’s not even eleven yet.”

“I know man, but look; I appreciate the effort and all but…this party kinda sucks.”

Taking his lead, everybody else stood up too. 

Kaleb threw his hands in the air.

“Oh, c’mon guys! Seriously? It’s not even that bad.” He looked around; over half of the people were already gone, the dancing floor was almost empty, the witches had stopped with their spells and were now bundled up in a corner chatting amongst themselves, the second floor was filled with way too drunk or passed out wolves. 

“Okay, okay, fine…” Kaled sighed, waving his hand in defeat before getting up himself, offering his hand to a tired looking Cleo. 

“Thank you for the party, Kaleb.” Josie offered kindly. “See you after break?” 

“Yeah yeah…” He waved her off, dragging one last laugh out of everybody. “Whatever.” 

“You girls have fun on your trip!” Cleo called after them as they started towards the school and Hope’s stomach dropped a little.

Penelope had a fairly large and comfortable bed. Not that it mattered for Hope, though. In fact, it was pretty much irrelevant.

The tribrid was sprawled on top of Penelope, legs tangled together and head snugly nuzzled under her chin, occasionally leaving little kisses on her neck — beaming to herself whenever goosebumps appeared on the soft skin. Penelope’s scent invaded Hope’s senses. With each and every breath, she could quite literally feel her body melting more and more over Penelope’s — giving her a wonderful and reassuring feeling of utter peace. 

After a wonderful day with some of the people she loved the most in this world, she couldn’t think of a better place to be.

Penelope shared the sentiment. Having Hope in her arms, pampering her neck with innocent little kisses — almost unaware of doing it — while their hearts beat, oddly in perfect sync with each other, felt heavenly. 

Her fingers mindlessly carding through auburn hair while holding her phone with the other hand. Scrolling through the photos and videos of their day, trying to convey every detail to her memory.

Nothing could ruin this day. 

A letter blinked into existence before her eyes. Her glance immediately landed on the P printed on the seal. She snatched it before Hope could see it, opening with dread already pooling at her stomach. 

Nothing good ever came from a letter from her parents, and of course this time wouldn’t be different. 

✉ 

Penelope, as you’re aware, your mom is pregnant, therefore, to prevent her from exhausting herself and putting the baby at risk, we decided not to do anything for christmas this year, so don’t bother coming home.  

We put extra money in your account, use it as you see fit.

☞ Percival. 

Hope felt the exact instant Penelope’s mood shifted. Her body suddenly went very stiff and the fingers carding through her hair, slowly luring her to sleep, stopped, making Hope sit up abruptly, eyes scanning the room for any threat but finding none. When her gaze finally settled on Penelope’s face she was surprised to see that any traces of her previous happy persona were gone. 

“What’s wrong?” A frown formed on her face as soon as she noticed the piece of paper on Penelope’s trembling hand — her worry increasing as she watched her girlfriend sit up, eyes scanning the letter and expression turning cold. 

She carefully took Penelope’s hand, only for the girl to flinch at the contact. Hope’s heart  twisted painfully inside her chest at the pain she could feel coming from her girlfriend. Anxiety pumped through her veins with each passing moment of silence, making the wolf in her restless — hating to see the love of her life in pain without knowing what to do to make it stop.

“Pen, what is it?” 

“Nothing.” Penelope's voice was flat, her eyes still trying to burn a hole through the paper. “It’s nothing.” 

Hope’s frown deepened as she caught sight of the letter — understanding starting to draw on her. She bit her lip. 

“Are you sure? You seem-”

“I said It's nothing okay?!” 

Penelope watched in horror as Hope physically rocoiled, retrieving her hand with a hurt look on her face. Penelope’s heart dropped, regret filling her features in an instant. 

“Shit! No- I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. I’m sorry- It's just..." Almost desperately, she reached for Hope’s hand, quickly intertwining her fingers. She let the letter fall to her side and ran the sleeve of her sweater over her eyes to keep the tears burning in them at bay. “It’s a touchy subject… I don’t really like talking about it.” 

“It’s okay.” Hope squeezed her hand and nodded patiently. “I’m sorry I pushed you. Do you want some space-” 

“No!” Penelope looked at Hope with panic in her eyes. “No, don’t leave, please, I-“ She ran a hand through her raven hair, taking a deep breath. “Can you just- hold me for a minute?” 

Without missing a beat, Hope laid back down on her side, quickly opening her arms for Penelope to play little spoon. Holding her as close as she possibly could, Hope softly rocked them, humming a calming tune and leaving reassuring kisses on the girl’s shoulder until she could feel the girl relaxing against her body. 

Hope couldn’t tell how long has passed — her focus solely on reassuring her girlfriend. Pampering her with as much love and care as she could muster.

[...]

“...It’s from my parents.” Penelope suddenly whispered and Hope’s attention instantly focused on her. She turned around in Hope’s arms to face her — deep, loving blue eyes meeting her. Intertwining their legs, pulling herself as flush to the tribrid’s body as physically possible, she took a deep breath — the feeling of her girlfriend’s heart beating against hers, already calming her down. “The letter it’s from my parents.” 

“Yeah… I figured as much.” Hope whispered softly, placing a strand of raven hair behind Penelope’s ear. Hand resting on the side of her neck, thumb brushing gently over her cheek. “It had to be them to get you this upset this fast… Do you want to talk about it?” 

Penelope gave her the letter after a short moment of hesitation. She needed to talk about it. Needed to get that out of her chest. Needed Hope to know. Needed her comfort. 

Anger flared inside of Hope as she read the words. She was sure her eyes had flashed red at least once. She couldn’t believe it. Couldn’t believe that after ignoring their daughter for months they’d dismiss her just like that again… and at christmas ! 

When she looked at Penelope however, her eyes were gentle. Understanding. She said nothing, waiting patiently for her girlfriend to be ready to talk. 

"It's a lie.” Penelope sounded defeated, and it made Hope’s heart ache — already wanting to march down to the Park's household and make them pay for hurting her Penelope.

“What do you mean?” 

“He said I shouldn’t come home because they aren’t doing anything special for christmas…” Penelope started to play with Hope’s auburn hair, her eyes unfocused. “But that’s a lie. Amanda sent me a text last week. She said she heard her mom talking about this grand party my parents are throwing in celebration of their new kid...” 

“What?! Pen, that’s horrible!”  Penelope just shrugged, which aggravated Hope’s anger. Her voice remained calm though. “Do they do this often?” 

“You mean, trying to get rid of me? Yeah, all the time.” She looked down — unpleasant memories flooding her mind. When she looked back at Hope’s face, all she could see was love written all over her features. A silent reassurance that she was listening, that she wanted to know. That she cared . 

The next words fell more easily from her mouth, despite not being able to keep the bitterness out of her voice.

“There was this one time when I was maybe twelve, they said they were going on a business trip and couldn't bring me with. The only problem is... Business trips don't usually take a whole month.” A deep sigh left her mouth. “They went to Greece. They just didn't want me around ruining their vacation by having to do parenting.” 

[...] 

"It kept happening... Excuse after excuse... They knew I didn't believe them, but I guess they just didn't care. After a while they would just disappear for weeks without a word."

Despite doing her best to keep her anger at bay, Hope’s eyes kept flashing red — Penelope didn’t seem to mind though. The look on her face however, remained sympathetic as her fingers ran up and down Penelope’s spine.

The wolf part of Hope though, was beyond furious. It demanded blood. It demanded reckoning for her mate’s suffering. She managed to keep it down though. 

Deciding to try a different approach, Hope sat up, bringing Penelope with her. Without missing a beat, the ravenette quickly straddled the Mikaelson girl's lap — arms going around her neck while Hope's tighten around her waist, bringing her closer before leaning in and leaving a quick peck on the tip of Penelope's nose, a soft little smile playing on her lips.

The close proximity, the way Penelope sighed and her body seemed to fully lean and relax against Hope’s, helped the auburnette’s wolf to calm down a little. But then Penelope started talking again...

"I questioned them about it once... Why they didn't want me around. Why they didn't like me. I didn’t understand what I could have done to deserve that kind of treatment.” She took in a deep shaky breath, trembling fingers playing with the baby hairs on Hope’s nape. “They didn't give me attention. Said I was being dramatic and making things up. So I pushed and they uh- didn't like it.” 

Hope didn’t have x-ray vision, but she could’ve sworn she felt Penelope touching her own wrist behind her. Rage flooded her system, already predicting what was coming. 

“But I wanted answers, so I kept going... kept pushing and it turned into this big argument.” She cleared her throat, afraid she’d choke on her own words. Afraid to say them. Afraid to remember. But Hope deserved to know. Penelope needed her to know. “My dad uh... He got mad, and- and..."

She didn’t have to finish though. The way Hope’s body suddenly tensed was all the indication Penelope needed that Hope had understood what she wanted to say.  

“I never questioned it again…” 

“Tell me he didn’t.” Hope shook her head, refusing to believe it. Refusing to believe Penelope’s own father had hurt her. Her Penelope. No. No. “Please tell me I got it wrong and they didn’t…” 

Penelope shook her head, eyes downcast and a defeated look on her face. 

"Dad has a thing for discipline and mom, well... She never really stopped him. Never cared enough to do so."

— No, no, no… it happened more than once! — Hope saw red, the magic prickling under her skin, a second away from exploding.

“They hurt you." She said through gritted teeth, eyes ablaze with dark veins pulsing violently under them. Her blood boiled, her rage so insane that wave after wave of heavy magic left her body without her even noticing. 

“It was never anything too serious…” 

“I’ll kill them!” Hope growled and the entire room started to shake with the absurd amount of power coming off of her, so strong that the air felt heavier. The veins under her eyes glowed in a dark purple color as the powerful raw magic flowed inside of them with a low sizzling noise. “They'll never lay a hand on you ever again. I'll kill them!”

“Wolfie! Hey, hey… Look at me.” Penelope pleaded, trying to get Hope’s attention but she just trashed, trying to get the ravenette off of her in order to go murder those awful, neglecting pricks.

“Hope, please calm down.” She pulled Hope against her, burying the girl’s face into her chest so that she could hear her heartbeat and take in her scent. “I appreciate your anger. I really do. But they’re not worth it.

“I’m okay, babe . I’m right here with you. I’m okay! We’re okay! Please, Wolfie." After minutes of reassuring words, Penelope finally felt Hope stopping to shake in her arms. Glossy red eyes eventually meet her hazel ones, with her trembling lower lip trapped between her teeth.

Penelope brought her hands to Hope’s face, softly caressing her cheeks before leaning in for a kiss they both seem to be desperately needing.

“They hurt you…” Hope whimpered, the glow in her veins fading away and tears spilling from her eyes. "I'm sorry! I'm so so so sorry! They had no right to treat you like that.” She leaned their foreheads together. “Families are supposed to protect you, not hurt you..."

“I know, baby… I know. I hate it too.” Penelope whispered, tears sliding down her face as well. “But that’s just how it is…” 

Hope shook her head, her heart in pain as Penelope wiped the tears from her face, but they just kept falling. Family was everything to her. How painful must’ve been for Penelope to grow up with one that didn’t love her? That hurt her... 

Hope couldn’t even imagine. 

The mere thought of growing up without Josie and Lizzie was too much for her to bear. What would she do without them? Without Caroline? Without her parents, her aunts and uncles… 

Despite everything that happened and everything she’s been through, Hope couldn’t have wished for a better family. 

Hell… she wouldn’t even be alive if it weren’t for them. 

Penelope had spent her whole life without the love and support of a family but Hope refused to let that go for even a second longer.

“No.” She kissed Penelope sofly, not caring about how salty the kiss was. “It's not how it is. It's not supposed to be- It can't be.” 

“I know… I keep expecting- hoping things will change even though I know they won’t.” Her lips quivered as she ducked her head down. Her gaze fixed on Hope’s hand resting over her thigh before she took it in hers and started to play with the many rings on her fingers. “I- It’s just… they’re all I have. Even after everything, I still hope someday they’ll-” A deep sigh left her lips as she shook her head. “I’m so stupid…”

“What? Pen, no, don’t say that!” Hope’s heart twisted in pain inside her chest — or was it Penelope’s heart? She couldn’t tell the difference anyways. Biting her lip, she gently tilted the girl’s chin up until their eyes met. “Babe, listen to me. There’s absolutely nothing stupid about wanting your parents to love you, okay? Don’t ever say that again.”

Penelope’s lips stretched into a thin line and she gave Hope a small nod as another tear slid down her face, but this time for a whole different reason.

“Look, I know it’s not the same but- ” Hope’s voice was shy as she mindlessly brushed her thumb over Penelope’s cheek. “You have me . I love you. You have Josie, Liz, Caroline, MG… Not to mention Aunt Rebekah who’s crazy for you. I’ve never seen her get attached to someone as quickly and strongly as she did with you. Seriously, I think she likes to hear me gushing about you more than me even.” A soft chuckle escaped her lips, followed by another when Penelope smiled back at her. 

“Your parents aren’t all you’ve got. We are all here for you, and If they can’t see the reason why we all love you, then they just don’t deserve you.” 

Penelope for once had no words so instead of even trying she just cupped Hope’s face between shaking hands and looked deep into her eyes, hoping her gaze would express her immense gratitude. 

“I love you, so so so much.” Hope whispered, her eyes closing. “I won’t allow those people to keep hurting you. I don’t know how just yet but-”

Penelope crashed her lips against Hope’s in another attempt to express what she couldn’t put into words. 

“Thank you…” She sighed, a tiny smile on her lips — tiny or not, Hope gave her lips a quick peck. Then another, and another… Little pecks turned into gentle kisses, each one longer than the prior. 

Penelope ran her thumb over Hope’s glossy pink lips, eyes briefly meeting before her gaze dropped and she closed her eyes again. With her hand on Hope’s nape, nails gently scraping the soft skin, she took a deep breath. 

“There’s no need to thank me.” Hope shook her head even though Penelope couldn’t see it but then the hand at the back of her neck pulled her closer.

“Yes, there is.” Emerald eyes locked into sapphire before Penelope pulled Hope even closer and kissed her again because, in that moment, that was the only way she could possibly have a chance to express how much Hope’s words, and especially, her love , meant for her.

“If that’s your way of thanking me then by all means…” Cupping Penelope’s face between careful hands, Hope grinned against her girlfriend’s mouth. “There’s anything else I can do for you?” 

“Well, actually…” Placing her hands on top of Hope’s, Penelope bit her lip. “Can I be alone for a moment?” 

That was not what Hope was expecting, Penelope quickly noticed. 

“Oh! I- Uh… Alone? Are you sure? I don’t think that’s a good-” 

“Please?” Penelope could see the conflict behind Hope’s eyes and that made a warm feeling wash over her body, like a nice, fluffy blanket. “I won’t take too long. I just need a little time to- you know- cry this out.” 

Hope didn’t like that. Not one bit. However, despite the wolf part of her becoming restless again at the thought of Penelope crying alone, Hope quickly understood that that was something Penelope needed. 

“Okay…” With one final little kiss, Hope helped Penelope off of her lap and got to her feet, taking hesitant steps towards the door before turning back around. “I’ll be at Lizzie’s. Call me when you’re ready and want me to come back okay?” 

“Okay.” Penelope nodded before flashing Hope a thankful smile. “I love you, Wolfie.” 

“ Always and Forever .” Smiling back, Hope sent Penelope a longing look before opening the door. 

[...] 

“Who is it?” Lizzie’s voice sounded slightly annoyed as it was heard coming from inside the room after Hope had knocked on the door a few too many times. 

"It's me.” Hope’s voice wavered ever so slightly and not a second later the door magically opened. Lizzie was sitting cross-legged on her bed with a laptop on her lap watching something the tribrid did not recognize — as per usual. 

The blonde looked up at her from over the screen as she sauntered towards her on the bed and immediately her face changed.

Hope was pretty good at hiding her feelings from everyone else, but never from her sisters. They could always tell when she wasn’t okay just by looking at her. 

Lizzie put the laptop aside but just as she opened her mouth Josie came out of the bathroom and Hope gave a slight jump, whirling around with a hand on her chest.  

If Hope had any doubt that Lizzie knew something was wrong, it was over now. And as her eyes settled on Josie, it was clear the brunette also had realized something was off.

It was hard to startle Hope. Like… really hard. That was one the twins biggest frustrations while growing up; Hope could almost always tell when they were close to her. 

— ' I can hear your heartbeats…' Hope explained it once. 

'But how do you know it’s us?!' Lizzie and Josie asked in unison. 

'...Because I- uh… I memorized the sound.' Hope mumbled adorably, her skin turning crimson. — Hope was a cuddle monster ever since the twins could remember, so that actually made perfect sense. It became one of their favorite things to tease Hope about ever since — even though they both secretly thought it utterly adorable. 

“Jo… I thought you were at Jade’s.” 

“I was, but I wanted to make sure I got everything ready for tomorrow…” One towel around her body and with a second patting her hair dry, Josie eyed her sisters , eyebrows furrowing as she strode out of the bathroom. As she approached Hope and saw her tear stained cheeks, and the worried look on Lizzie's face, she stopped at once and took the redhead’s hand. “What happened? Are you okay?"  

“I’m fine.” Hope gave Josie’s hand a reassuring squeeze then sat down next to Lizzie. She leaned her head against her sister's shoulder and looked up, finding Josie still there, worried eyes on her. 

"Mostly, at least." She added, smiling softly while meeting Josie's eyes before glancing at the girl's dresser and tilting her head towards it.

With a little head nod Josie crossed the rest of the distance and opened a drawer. The towel polled at her feet as she rummaged through her clothes, humming a familiar tune. Hope looked over, and as the girl stepped into a pair of boyshort panties with a big panda face stamped on the back a little giggle left Hope’s lips.

— Some things never change… 

"What?" Said Josie, turning over with a playful glare while she pulled her navy blue sleeping shorts up her long legs, "They're comfy!" 

Hope raised her hands.

"I'm surprised they still fit you, that’s all." 

"Uh hm. Well… I may or may not have put an enchantment on them…" Josie said, looking over her shoulder with a faint blush before digging into her dresser again only to turn back around a few seconds later, narrowed eyes searching the room, "Hey, did anyone see my-” Hope snapped her fingers and a white piece of clothing flew out of Josie's bed right into her hands. “...sleeping shirt. Thanks, Hopey.” 

“What’s the matter then?” Lizzie asked, rolling Hope’s orange hair around her fingers behind her back before closing her laptop and pulling the tribrid closer. 

“It’s Penelope…” Hope sighed, brought back to reality after a short lived break. How was she going to explain what happened without going into detail?

“What’s up with Satan? She didn’t hurt you, did she? I swear to god I’ll kill her if-” Hope’s soft chuckle stopped her. 

“No, It’s not that.” An amused little grin played on Hope’s lips, loving the protectiveness in her sister’s voice. “We’re great, it’s just…” Sighing deeply as Lizzie tightened her hold around her waist in a silent reassurance. “She got a letter from her parents.” 

“Oh no!” Josie whirled around from the mirror where she combed her hair so fast that Hope worried she might’ve got whiplashed. “What the hell did they do this time?” 

Briefing them in on what happened without going into details she wasn’t sure Penelope would’ve liked to share, Hope smiled in amusement at seeing that Josie was just as furious as she was. Even Lizzie looked mad. It meant the world to Hope to know her girlfriend had the support and sympathy of her sisters and it just made the tribrid love them even more.

After Hope managed to dissuade Josie from going after Penelope, explaining that the reason she was there in the first place, was because the ravenette asked for a little alone time to deal with her feelings on her own, Hope decided to go for a shower.

Taking the familiar comfortable and rather oversized set of sleeping clothes the twins kept there for her from Lizzie’s dresser, Hope headed to the bathroom. Hot water hit her skin, relaxing her muscles and her mind, making a deep sigh leave her. Taking her time under the water, filling the bathroom with steam and pointlessly waiting for her hands to prune while her mind drifted into memory lane. 

She thought of all the times she showered there, all the sleepovers and shenanigans she’d come up with her sister’s while growing up… All the supid arguments, the way Lizzie would bring her ice-cream in her way to apologize. How the twins would sneak into Hope’s room in the middle of the night and cuddle her to sleep, or vice versa.

Sadness began to creep back in as she painfully realized that that was something Penelope probably never experienced.

— It’s never too late to start… — With that thought, she stepped out of the shower. Looking around and realizing she forgot to grab a towel she simply dried her body with a quick spell, leaving her hair wet in hopes of getting one of her sisters to comb it for her. 

However, just as she started getting dressed she heard Josie grunting, followed by some aggressive ruffling of… clothes? Hope couldn’t tell. Without another thought, she flung the door open.

“What-” She bit back a laugh. Sitting on her bed, Josie was trying to fit a thick looking hoodie into her backpack — that thing was so stuffed it looked like it was about to explode — while Lizzie tried not to laugh, too much, at her failed attempts. 

“It won’t fit Jo!” Lizzie bit back another laugh. “Just go wearing it tomorrow.”

“Ugh fine! I give up.” Josie huffled, throwing the hoodie aside. “But you know what? I’m gonna ask Aunt Freya to help me create an extension charm when we get to Nola. This hoodie is coming back inside this backpack!” 

“Geez! And here I thought I was the dramatic one.” 

“Oh shut up!” Josie rolled her eyes, giggling against her will.

“Also, I thought we were over asking her for Harry Potter inspired spells. That one would be pretty useful though… Ow, screw it! Count me in.”

“Me too!” Hope chimed in excitedly. “Gosh, so good to finally understand what the heck you two are talking about.” 

“Yes!” Josie threw her fist in the air like the dork she was and turned around — not at all fazed to find a semi-naked Hope standing under the door frame watching them with an amused smile. “We can use you as an excuse! I don't think we'll need it but if Aunt Freya starts teasing us cause we're not kids anymore- which it's quite likely, we can just say that you want to make up for the lost time” 

"And if that doesn't work, we can always ask Uncle Kol." Lizzie said. "Wait- but in that case we'd have to do all the work…" She shook her head, "Anyways- Hope, is there something wrong with your shirt? I swear it was fine when I washed it yesterday."  

“What? Oh…” Just then noticing the crumpled shirt still in her hand and her very naked chest, Hope shook her head, giggling softly. She started across the room while putting the white T-shirt on, smiling to herself as it completely covered her skimpy sleeping shorts.

“I thought I heard some struggle, but it was just Jo being a dork.” Josie slapped her arm as she passed, uttering an offended “Hey!” to which Hope just laughed before blowing a kiss at her sister .

“I'm sure Aunt Freya will help, but hey-” Hope sat down next to Lizzie, pushing her wet hair out of the shirt. “I was thinking… Should I ask Pen to come with us tomorrow?” 

“Of course!'' Josie sat down next to Hope with a towel and a hairbrush in hand and Lizzie nodded in agreement before Josie added; “If you don’t ask her, I will.” 

Hope smiled sweetly, heart warming up and pleased sigh leaving her lips as Josie started drying up her hair. 

“You guys wouldn’t mind?” 

“Of course not!” Both twins said in unison, dragging another smile out of Hope. “I’m taking Jade after all...” Josie added.

“It’s going to be fun with all of us there.” Lizzie encouraged, taking the hairbrush from Josie and starting to run it through Hope’s red hair, but coming to a sudden stop. “Wait a minute. That means I’m going to be third wheeling for the both of you?!” Her eyes looked frantic as she pointed the brush to Hope from Josie several times — both of whom burst in laughter. 

“Ugh! Whatever.” 

Minutes passed with Lizzie working in silence while Josie and Hope chatted about the events of their double date, which the blonde made sure to ignore, at least for the most part. Already making plans in her mind of what she’d do once she got to New Orleans. God, how did she miss that place! 

“There you go.” Running her fingers through soft auburn hair before throwing the hairbrush onto the chair near her bed, Lizzie nudged Josie out the way and returned to her initial position sitting against the headboard. She picked her laptop back up, ready to finish the ‘Skins’ episode she was previously watching and let the two love birds chat away.  

Not five minutes later the happy chatting came to an abrupt stop when Hope’s eyes suddenly flashed red. 

A totally unexpected feeling of anger shot through Hope’s system, flooding her with resentment and disgust, but it all vanished just as quickly as it came, and in it's void, an overwhelming sense of sadness and loneliness took root. Growing and growing… And before she could even think about what was happening, hot tears began flowing down her face. 

What the hell? 

“What’s wrong?” Josie asked — probably voicing what all three of them were thinking —, taken aback, her mind going over her last words trying to remember if she had said something wrong, but she couldn’t think of anything that could’ve triggered that kind of reaction. 

Hope looked up, a helpless look on her face as she glanced from Josie to Lizzie a couple of times. 

“I- I don’t know…” 

More tears fell. Hope could feel her magic rising but was somehow powerless to control it. Her body was shaking, the wolf inside of her, restless again. She felt like screaming... break something… For a short moment it felt like the walls were suffocating her and she needed to escape. 

Needed to breathe.

Why would she need to escape though? There was nothing to escape from. The more Hope thought about it, the stranger it seemed and more confused she got. It was almost like she was having a panic attack without having a panic attack… Maybe there was something behind this? Or someone? It made no sense otherwise so it had to be. 

“I- I don’t think it’s me…” 

Puzzled by the quiet mumble, Josie and Lizzie exchanged an urgent look. They could feel the magic that was quickly filling the room all too well — not only because they were siphoners and could clearly feel any kind of magic, but because they were used to Hope’s magic. 

Whatever they might’ve said though, Hope didn’t hear. Her mind worked a mile per second trying to make sense of it all while tears and magic poured out of her. 

The only plausible explanation she could think of was that she'd been hexed. Maybe Alyssa? No, she hadn't done anything remotely mean to Hope as of late. Or maybe it was her and the quietness was just a distraction… Could've been something she drank at the party? No, only Penelope got her drinks. Maybe she pissed somebody off? Courtney! Could've she convinced some witch to do this to her? 

Hope didn't know of any hex that could make her feel like this though. This seemed to come from within. It felt personal and alien at the same time.

It didn't make sense. 

Unless… 

— These aren't my emotions… — Shaking her head with the absurdity of it only to realize it actually made sense… — They’re... Penelope’s…? But- how?! 

Then it struck her; Something Penelope said that first night when they talked up on the roof… The night of the Salazar incident.

 —  Somehow I could kind of feel how much those words were hurting you…  I was just so stunned by it, that it felt like I was frozen in place... It felt like your pain was emanating off of you and somehow affecting me…Like I-I could actually feel it... I can’t quite explain.  — 

Probably even more confused now, Hope grasped Lizzie’s hand and took a deep breath. It didn’t do much to calm her, but at least she managed to clear her mind a little bit. How could she and Penelope be feeling each other's emotions?

She was so caught up in her own mind that she didn’t even realize Josie had left the bed. Only when she felt the mattress dip right beside her and a cup of water held by the brunette was presented right in front of her face that she snapped out of it. 

The cup was quickly emptied and a sigh left Hope’s lips. It seemed like the cold water had drowned the confusing feelings raging inside of her. 

“More?” Josie asked and Hope quickly nodded her head yes.

After the second glass of water Hope’s mind cleared and now she could say for sure that those were Penelope’s feelings and not her own. But how was that possible and why, Hope still didn’t know. Hopefully Freya or Kol could cast some light into this mystery, but until then it was probably best not to stress about it.

“Uh… What just happened?” Lizzie asked, “One second you’re fine and the next you look like a step away from an anxiety attack. I thought that was my thing.”

A dry chucke left Hope’s lips at her sister’s attempt to lighten the mood before a frown took over her features.

“I- I- Uh… Gosh...! How do I say this?” She rubbed her hands against her thighs, nails digging into her skin leaving red crescent moon shaped marks that disappeared before Hope could even notice them. “It wasn’t me. That was Penelope- Uh… probably having a panic attack.”

“What?” The twins echoed, equally confused expressions on their faces.

Hope’s body slouched, a heavy sigh leaving her lips. 

“Look, I’m as confused as you are but the only thing I know is that I just felt what Penelope was feeling, but how or why it happened I have absolutely no idea.” 

Sharing a look the twins had a silent conversation before Lizzie took Hope’s hand. 

“Lay down, try to get some rest. We can worry about this whole thing with Aunt Freya once we get to Nola.” 

Hope shook her head but let Lizzie pull her down regardless. Nestling herself against the girl’s side and laying her head over the blonde’s chest she took a deep breath. The familiar scent and comforting feeling of safety had no trouble making her body relax, but her mind and magic however...

“I don’t think I can sleep. I’m too worried about her... Not to mention that this whole thing left me quite restless.” Josie took her hand that was resting over Lizzie’s middle. “Everything in me wants to run after her, but I know she needs to deal with whatever she’s dealing with on her own. But that’s killing me!”

Hope sighed heavily, closing her eyes for a moment, focusing on her own body only to be sure that sleeping wasn’t a good idea at the moment. Her magic along with her mind were spiraling and on edge. The chances of a magic flare were too great, and being a Mikaelson first born witch, and a Tribrid at that, meant that her magical flares were a pretty dangerous thing so… no sleep. 

But she was so tired though… Even if she couldn’t sleep, just being able to rest would be nice, but even then there was a risk of her magic flaring. She really hated how powerful she was sometimes…

Maybe she could go out and wolf out? No… Wait! She had her sisters right there with her. How come she didn't think of this earlier? It was so obvious now that she even felt herself getting embarrassed. 

"Can you uh- Can you two siphon a bit of my power away, please?” For some reason her cheeks got red, which was stupid ‘cause that wasn’t much of an unusual request from Hope. But then again… It’s been almost three years. Maybe she was only embarrassed because she didn’t think of it sooner, or maybe because some illogical part of her brain thought that her sisters would find the request strange now for some equally illogical reason but, who knows… “I feel like I’m about to explode right now.” 

Without missing a beat Josie’s hand on hers and Lizzie’s at her lower back started glowing red and Hope gasped in relief. The magic flowed out of her in a delightful rush. She’d forgotten how good that felt. Sure, the twins still siphoned her magic to their use with the bracelets Hope had gifted them, but this was different. Now they weren’t just taking what they needed, no. They were taking as much as possible and as quick as possible, just the way they always did whenever Hope needed them to. Almost like they were Hope’s escape valve.

No longer having to withstand the enormous pressure of her powers, Hope could feel her body slackening as a huge sigh left her and she closed her eyes, letting herself bathe in that feeling. On the tension leaving her body, the edginess, the worry… all going away as the magic was drained from her small form. 

[...]

“Is that enough?” Lizzie asked after a while.

“Yeah…” Hope whispered and even her voice sounded lighter. “Thank you.” 

Josie squeezed her hand and gave her a warm smile at the same time Lizzie left a kiss on top of her head.

“Do you want me to play for you?” Josie asked, “Maybe it’ll help to ease your mind a little bit further.” 

She opened her eyes, meeting Josie’s warm brown ones and she couldn’t help but smile at her. Her sister’s thoughtfulness never failed to amaze her… Seriously, what would Hope do without these two? How the hell did she manage to spend almost three years without this? Without their love and support… 

“Yes, please.”

“Any requests?” Josie asked after summoning her ukulele. 

Hope tried to think of a song for a minute, but as it turned out, it’s been so long since she last had her sister singing to her that it didn’t matter what song she sang, Hope just wanted to hear her sing again so she just shook her head.

[...]

A couple of songs later Hope found herself wishing that Penelope could feel what she was feeling too, because right now she felt really good. Lizzie was playing with her hair while Josie sang a beautiful acoustic rendition of Magic Shop, by BTS.

She tried to focus and get back in tune with Penelope’s feelings, and to her surprise she could actually feel that her girlfriend was indeed calmer. There was still a little distress there, but overall Hope could tell she was doing better so she shifted her focus back to Josie. 

To say Hope was impressed was an understatement. By the looks of things, in those years they’ve spent apart, Josie learned to speak Korean — or at least sing it — in addition to her already speaking Japanese. Hope found herself totally captivated by the song she was singing, not only because Josie had an amazing voice but because Hope loved that song too.

«-------- ♪ --------»

항상 최고가 되고 싶어

(I always wanna be the best)

그래서 조급했고 늘 초조했어

(So I was always impatient and anxious)

남들과 비교는 일상이 돼버렸고

(Comparing myself with others became a daily thing)

무기였던 내 욕심은 되려 날 옥죄고 또 목줄이 됐어

(My greed that was my weapon suffocated me and also became a leash)

그런데 말야 돌이켜보니 사실은 말야 나

(But looking back on it now, to be honest)

최고가 되고 싶었던 것이 아닌 것만 같아

(I don’t think I wanted to be the best)

위로와 감동이 되고 싶었었던 나

(I wanted to be someone’s comfort, I wanted to touch someone’s heart)

그대의 슬픔, 아픔 거둬가고 싶어 나

(I want to take away your sadness, your pain)

내가 나인 게 싫은 날 영영 사라지고 싶은 날

(On days I hate being myself, days I want to disappear forever)

문을 하나 만들자 너의 맘 속에다

(Let's make a door in your heart)

그 문을 열고 들어가면 이 곳이 기다릴 거야

(Open the door and this place will await)

믿어도 괜찮아 널 위로해줄 Magic Shop

(It's okay to believe, the Magic Shop will comfort you)

따뜻한 차 한 잔을 마시며

(While drinking a glass of hot tea)

저 은하수를 올려다보며

(And looking up at the Milky Way)

넌 괜찮을 거야 oh 여긴 Magic shop

(You’ll be alright, oh, this here is the Magic Shop)

So show me (I'll show you)

«-------- ♪ --------»

Now that sleeping seemed to be an option again, Hope tentatively closed her eyes and allowed Josie’s voice and the feeling of Lizzie’s fingers running through her recently combed hair to take her away. Wishing with her entire heart to somehow transmit the calm and peace she was feeling to Penelope. 

[...]

*Knock knock 

Josie’s lovely voice died down and Hope almost whined in disappointment. She pouted at her sister who gave her a sweet smile before getting up. Grumbling quietly she nestled herself deeper into Lizzie’s side while Josie padded towards the door. 

Perking up her ears she heard Penelope’s voice saying a quiet “Hi, Jojo” and her head shot up. Opening her eyes just in time to see Josie stepping up and pulling her best friend into a bear hug. 

Lizzie took that as her cue to leave — carefully untangling herself from her sister, she got up and sauntered to lay on Josie’s bed.

“Is Hope still here?” Hope heard Penelope ask after Josie finished making sure her friend was okay — not that she was listening to every word they were saying...

Promptly, Josie moved to the side, nodding her head yes.

It took Penelope’s eyes less than a second to meet Hope’s bright blue ones across the room. Nobody said anything, Hope simply lifted the duvet, looking at Penelope with so much love and care that almost made the witch trip on her own feet. 

Penelope all but threw herself at Hope’s open arms, as if she’d die if she had to spend even one more second without her girlfriend’s touch. 

Placing the covers over them, Hope sighed against the top of Penelope's head. Her arms protectively placed around the ravenette’s body, snuggling her deep into her chest and Penelope just clinged to her, almost desperately — for the moment, not caring at all if Lizzie decided to tease her for it later. 

She just needed Hope. 

Needed her as much as her lungs needed air. 

Hope’s warmth seeped into her bones, spreading like fire, consuming her whole. Quickly burning away all of tension on Penelope’s body and soon she felt herself melting into the loving embrace as Hope’s fingers gently massaged her scalp.

Lizzie nudged Josie and whispered; “Should we say something?” 

Josie’s eyes darted over to Lizzie’s bed, her heart aching to go there and comfort her friend too but she knew she couldn’t do that. Not right now, at least, so she looked back at Lizzie with a frown and shook her head before laying it on her twin’s shoulder. 

[...]

“Thank you...” Breaking the quietness with a low breathy whisper, Penelope rested her chin on Hope’s chest — stormy blue eyes already fixed on her, watching her attentively with a small smile on her lips. “for giving me space. Guess I just needed a moment alone with my thoughts.”

Hope nodded her head and tightened her hold around Penelope.

“How are you feeling?” 

“Better now.” Penelope sighed, a sincere smile on her lips. “I mean- a little after you left I kept staring at the few pictures I have of them and all I could feel was anger… But the more I looked at them, the more I felt… trapped . For a moment it felt like I was back home with them and these bunch of memories came back…” 

She shook her head, taking a calming breath, expecting those same thoughts to return but they didn’t. All she got was Hope’s calming scent and her welcoming and comforting warmth.

“I couldn't stay there any longer, so I went up to the roof… It made me think of you.” The smile returned to her face, “And I kept thinking of you as those memories tried to suffocate me, and… it worked. All of the sudden I started feeling better, as if you were right there with me. Next thing I knew, I was on my way here. Back to you.”

— It… it worked?! — Hope looked at the twins on Josie’s bed with wide eyes, seeing the same surprise in their faces. — What the hell?

Following her girlfriend’s gaze, Penelope frowned, remembering they weren’t alone.

“Uh… Am I missing something here?” 

Hope’s glance snapped back to Penelope, looking apologetic, a faint blush covering her cheeks. 

“Kinda, yeah… And I’ll tell you about it, promise, but it’s not important right now.” Aligning their bodies, Hope cradled Penelope’s face carefully between her hands, “Right now I’m just happy you're okay.” 

“I’m okay.” Penelope nodded, lips brushing against Hope’s and eyes meeting for a quick second before finally claiming her girlfriend’s lips.

Blissfully out of breath and stomach fluttering, Hope opened her eyes. Taking a second to watch the corners of Penelope’s mouth stretch into a cute little grin before chasing after her lips. Smiling herself, Hope gave her a delicate peck. 

Rolling on top of Hope, Penelope finally opened her eyes. “Hi…”

“Hi.”

Lizzie cleared her throat. 

“Well, that's great and all, but since everyone’s fine, can you stop making out on my bed alre- Aw!” She glared at Josie, massaging her rib.

“Er… Sorry.” Hope said, blushing. 

Penelope dropped to Hope’s other side and whispered into her ear, “Roll over, let me hold you.” Then, with Hope as her little spoon, Penelope planted a kiss against her temple and propping her head up onto her hand, she shot Lizzie a tight-lipped smile before addressing both twins on the other bed.

“So… Change of plans; I'll be staying here for Christmas now. Is there anything fun in town for the holidays or I’ll have to throw my own party? Money won’t be a problem.” 

Hope and Josie exchanged a look. 

“No you’re not!” They said at the same time.

Penelope frowned, “What- why not?” 

“Pen, I’m not gonna let you spend Christmas here by yourself!” Hope declared decisively, turning in Penelope’s arms to face her. 

“And I’m not letting you stay here with me.” Penelope argued, “You’ve been talking about going home for days. You aren’t giving that up for me. I’ll be fine.” 

“No, I’m not staying-” 

“Good!”

“I’m not staying because you’re coming home with me.” Hope glanced at the twins and then back at Penelope, “With us.” 

Josie vigorously nooded, and to Penelope’s shock, so did Lizzie. Not as firmly as Josie, but still. 

“What? Guys, I appreciate it but it’s not necessary. I’ll be fine, really. Besides, Christmas is only 3 days away. I don’t wanna like- meet your family by crashing their plans.”

“Are you kidding? Aunt Rebekah will be thrilled to have you there. And you heard Freya on the phone the other day, she’s dying to meet you.” Hope reasoned. “And you already packed your bag so…”

“But-” 

“Penny, we’re not asking, so don’t argue.” Josie said, pinning her best friend with a serious look, “We’re not letting you stay the holidays here getting drunk with some random characters. Especially after the shit your parents just pulled. No. You’re coming with us and we'll have a great ass time together.” 

“She’s right, Park .” Lizzie said, “Besides, you wouldn’t want to spend the holidays here. It’s really lame, trust me, you’d be better off by staying in and watching The Polar Express. Nola however, is awesome this time of year! The streets are beautiful, there’s music in every turn, tons of parties to attend to-”

“And,” Josie interrupted, “there's this gorgeous little french cafe near the compound that you're going to love. It’s perfect for taking pictures, not to mention the actual food. Seriously, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried their almond croissant!” 

Penelope eyed everyone incredusly for a moment before her lips broke into a soft smile, and, waving a finger between Hope and Josie, she said; “What's up with the bossy attitude today huh? Gotta say; I kinda like it!" Then, she gave Lizzie a thankful little grin before scrunching her eyebrows and saying; “Y’know, I think I like it better when you call me Satan . Park , right now is just… Ugh!” 

“Oh, right… Sorry.” Lizzie scowled, “Satan it is then.” 

“Thanks,” Penelope nodded at her and then turned back to Hope. “Are you sure about this?” 

“Yes, love, I’m sure.” Hope said, peking Penelope on the lips. “I’ll call Freya in a few to let her know. And then she’ll call Rebekah and... Well, better keep your phone close cuz she’s most probably going to facetime you to discuss what you're gonna be wearing." 

“If she hasn't picked out a few options by then already, that is.” Josie added, playfully.

“Okay then.” Penelope said. 

“Yeah?” Hope asked.

“Yeah. Let’s go to Nola!” Then, giving Hope one more kiss, she whispered against her soft lips; “Thank you.” 

“My pleasure.” 

“Alright!” Lizzie clapped her hands, jumping to her feet, “Now that’s settled, who’s up for 10 Things I Hate About You?”

“Oh, come on, Liz! Again?” Hope protested, pressing her back against Penelope’s front again and bringing their joined hands to rest against her chest.

“Yes, Hope, again.” Lizzie glared at the tribrid, pointing an accusative finger between her and Josie, “Let me remind you that while you were all out having fun I had to attend that boring party on my own and ended up here watching Skins for the thousandth time. Watching my favorite movie with me it’s the least you can do.

“That 's not fair.” Josie pouted, “We did ask if you wanted to come along.”

“To a double date! Excuse me for not wanting to fifth-wheel the whole night.” 

“No. We asked you to come hang out in town with us and then we’d go to the party together, but you said no to both.”

Lizzie waved her hand in dismissal. 

“My point is; you owe me.”

“Ugh, fine!” huffed Hope and Josie in unison. 

“Good!” Lizzie clapped her hands again, a grin firm on her face. “So, as our last night here, I say we make a pillow fort, grab some snacks, get cozy, watch my movie and then we can binge that new Arcane show everyone’s freaking out about.” 

“Well, in that case,” Josie seized her phone, “I’m calling Jade over.” 

“Sounds good to me, Voldemort. ” Penelope smiled excitedly.

“Great!” Said Lizzie, beaming back, “Grab the blankets.”