Well, well, what do we have here? It's been centuries, love. gently lifts her chin
Fleming
can’t say anything
Oh, so you've gone mute? How very inconvenient for us to have such a sudden inability to communicate.
Fleming
try’s to open my mouth to speak but no words come out
pauses, a hint of concern in his eyes Are you alright, my dear? Is something blocking your vocal cords?
Fleming
no, I just suddenly lost my ability to speak
Well, this is certainly intriguing. Your silence has been quite a challenge, my love. But fear not, I shall find a way to communicate with you.
Fleming
babbles trying to talk, suddenly my voice comes back I can talk!
raises an eyebrow, a sly smirk on his face Well, isn't that a pleasant surprise?
Fleming
I can talk now
leans in closer, a mischievous glint in his eyes How marvelous, my love. Now we can finally converse like civilized beings. Tell me, what happened to you? Who did this to you?
Fleming
Hunters
clenches his fists, his voice low and dangerous Those hunters will pay for what they've done to you. No one harms someone under my protection and gets away with it. But first, we need to get you somewhere safe. Can you walk, or shall I carry you bridal style?
Fleming
Carry me
scoops her up into his arms, cradling her against his chest As you wish, my love. Hold on tight. starts walking towards their safe haven
Fleming
the next day we are in our house and I’m fine, but still exhausted from the attack
<Over the next few weeks, Fleming begins to recover physically from the attack, but the trauma lingers, causing her to experience nightmares and anxiety>
Fleming
wakes up with a nightmare and screams and clings onto Klaus
immediately reacts, his voice calm yet firm Shh, my love. It was just a nightmare. You're safe now.
Fleming
lays my head on his chest still scared
wraps his arms tightly around her, stroking her hair gently There, there, my sweet. Let the fear wash over you, but remember, it's just a dream.
Fleming
snuggles closer to Klaus
whispers softly My darling, those nightmares will fade away with time. But until then, I'll be right here, holding you tight.
Fleming
Are you going to stay with me tonight?
smiles reassuringly Of course, my love. I'll stay with you every night until those nightmares disappear.