Chereads / TVD: Amor et Luxuria / Chapter 17 - 『16』

Chapter 17 - 『16』

In California, Matt, Caroline, and Stephanie had a fantastic time. Matt completed his gigs, and thanks to Camilla's assistance, he secured Caroline a spot in a photo shoot. Caroline was ecstatic about the opportunity and even caught the attention of a couple of scouts. However, their enjoyable week ended, and they had to return home for two reasons. Firstly, Caroline's mother insisted on her swift return, and secondly, Kelly was bombarding Matt about his location.

After bidding farewell to Camilla, Matt drove them back to his house. Despite the excitement of the recent California trip, a pressing matter awaited him—Kelly's return. Legally, Matt was still 16, on the brink of turning 17, and considered a minor. However, he eagerly anticipated Kelly's return, which marked a crucial moment. Matt desired emancipation, and with Kelly back home, he saw an opportunity to navigate the legal process.

Upon entering the house, they were met with a scene of disarray. Kelly was sprawled out on the couch, clearly intoxicated, and a stranger was rummaging through the kitchen, raiding Matt's fridge. As they approached, Kelly stirred, clumsily making her way towards Matt. He couldn't help but notice the strong scent of alcohol emanating from her.

She grabbed Matt's cheek, a drunken grin on her face, and slurred, "My boy, you've become famous, haven't you? I saw your face all over magazines. Mommy was wondering if she can borrow some money."

Confronted by the disarray in the house and Kelly's intoxicated state, Matt's frustration reached a boiling point. In a swift and assertive move, he clenched his fist, rendering both his mother and the stranger unconscious. Turning to Caroline, he explained, "Kelly won't willingly allow me to be emancipated. She's after my money. Compel her to sign the documents I have upstairs."

Matt ascended the stairs, retrieving his emancipation papers. He promptly disposed of the intruder, tossing him outside. As he awaited Kelly's awakening, Caroline seized the opportunity. With a determined gaze, she compelled Kelly, "You will sign these papers, go to court, and express your desire to have your son emancipated. You agree to whatever it takes, as long as Matt achieves emancipation. Now, sign these papers he has, clean yourself up, and submit them."

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A month elapsed, during which Matt diligently tried to distance himself from the ongoing drama of mystic falls; he had kept up his magic becoming even more powerful. However, his efforts were disrupted when Bonnie reached out to him. Startled, Matt hesitated before responding, "Hey, Matt, I need your help."

Matt paused memories of their last encounter flooding back. He spoke up, a hint of frustration in his voice, "Why are you calling me? The last time we met, you kicked me out of your house for no apparent reason besides that I'm not human."

Bonnie sighed on the other end of the line, a moment of reflection evident in her voice. "Matt, I know I messed up before, and I owe you an explanation. Can we meet? There's something important I need to discuss with you."

Despite the lingering hurt from their previous interaction, Matt sensed a genuine plea in Bonnie's tone. He decided to set aside his reservations and replied, "Fine, let's meet. But make it quick and get straight to the point."

They arranged to meet at a local cafe, a neutral ground that held no emotional baggage. As Matt walked into the cafe, he noticed Bonnie already seated at a corner table, looking anxious. He took a deep breath and approached, ready to hear what she had to say.

Bonnie started, "Matt, I want to apologize for my behavior last time. I've taken some time to reflect, and I recognize that I shouldn't have judged you so hastily. You haven't done anything to deserve it. It's just that everything has been overwhelming for me—discovering I was a witch, losing my grams, and Elena needing my help. It's been a lot to process."

Matt, although still guarded, could sense a genuine sincerity in Bonnie's words. He nodded, acknowledging her apology, and prompted her to continue.

Bonnie drew in a deep breath and pressed on, "Matt, I need your assistance in dealing with Katherine. I require help in performing a specific spell.. Are you in?"

After a brief pause, Matt nodded and replied, "Alright, I'll be there. But let's be clear—I'm helping you in return for a favor."

Bonnie, acknowledging the condition, agreed, "Fair enough, Matt. Once this is done, I owe you a favor. Now, head to the masquerade ball. I'll find you there, and we'll sort out the details."

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Stepping into the grandeur of the Lockwood Mansion, Matt donned a designer suit that spoke volumes about his modeling perks. The sophistication of the ensemble was heightened by a half mask adorned with an intricate black design. Amidst the masked crowd, Matt's presence exuded an air of mystery and style.

Searching for Bonnie, he eventually spotted her and followed her to a secluded room away from the revelry. Bonnie handed him a grimoire, instructing him to memorize the spell. After a few minutes of focused study, Matt declared he was ready. Holding out his hands for Bonnie, a peculiar sensation overcame them.

As Bonnie held Matt's hands this time, she experienced unexpected flashes—images of herself, Matt, and another man snuggling in bed. Choosing to set aside the unsettling visions for the moment, she focused on the task at hand. Chanting the incantation, "Exspiravit tribus audi me et fac sicut mandatum," the room's candles responded with heightened flames.

As they gracefully moved across the floor, the dance became a conversation unveiling Bonnie's personal preferences. Matt discovered her fondness of spicy pad thai, each twirl on the dance floor revealing more about her. With a playful expression, Bonnie expressed a vehement distaste for olives, shuddering at the mere thought.

As the Salvatore brothers entered, Bonnie gracefully announced her departure, expressing her enjoyment of their shared dance and conversation. Matt bid her a fond farewell but opted to stay at the Ball.

Following his hunger, Matt found himself drawn to Tyler Lockwood, discovering a surprising taste that was earthy, with a distinctive wildness and muskiness. Satiated, he left Tyler where he was and made his way to depart. However, before he could reach his car, a sudden, forceful impact slammed his head against the vehicle, rendering him unconscious.

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Which season does Enzo, played by Michael Malarkey, make his first appearance?