Two Kinds of Lost
The drive through Mystic Falls was unexpectedly pleasant. Harry sat in the backseat of Mason Lockwood’s truck, sandwiched between Remus and Greyback. Mason, leaning one arm casually on the steering wheel, was pointing out the town’s landmarks as they rolled through the quiet streets.
“That’s the Grill,” Mason said, nodding toward a small diner with glowing neon lights. “Best burgers in town. And over there’s the library,” he added, motioning toward a modest brick building on the corner. “We’ve got an annual carnival going on right now, too.” He glanced at Remus through the rearview mirror. “Maybe your son would like that.”
Harry stiffened in surprise at the assumption, his face heating up. Mason didn’t know the truth, of course, but the words still stirred something warm in Harry’s chest. Remus didn’t correct him either, merely offering a polite nod in response. That simple act made Harry feel something dangerously close to belonging.
Next to him, Greyback chuckled low in his throat, the sound barely audible. Harry didn’t have to look to know the werewolf was smirking at him, undoubtedly catching the faint hint of pleased embarrassment radiating from Harry. He rolled his eyes and jabbed his elbow into Greyback’s side, earning a quiet grunt.
“Knock it off,” Harry muttered under his breath.
Mason pulled into a gas station on the edge of town and slowed to a stop. “Here we are,” he said. “I’ll let you guys take it from here. Good luck with the car.”
Remus thanked him as they climbed out. Mason waved and drove off, leaving the trio standing awkwardly in the parking lot.
Harry glanced at Remus. “I know we needed an excuse to not raise suspicion, but what’s the plan Remus.”
Remus turned towards Greyback. “We need to keep up appearances and you should have no problem going in to get gas even without any money. Just don’t eat anyone.”
Greyback stomped off toward the gas station convenience store, grumbling under his breath. Harry grinned despite himself.
“I’m going to check out the library,” Remus said, adjusting his scarf. “It might give us some insight into the area, and it’s close enough for you to meet me after.”
Harry nodded, watching as Remus strolled away. He glanced around, unsure what to do with himself until Greyback returned. Across the street, the Grill caught his attention, the warm light spilling from its windows onto the pavement.
Curiosity got the better of him, and he wandered over.
The Grill was lively, filled with laughter and clinking glasses. Harry stepped inside, scanning the room. His gaze landed on a blonde girl sitting at the bar, looking out of place amidst the cheerful atmosphere. Her shoulders were hunched, and she stared into her drink with a distant, almost forlorn expression.
Harry hesitated, then made his way over, slipping onto the stool beside her. “Hey,” he said, offering a friendly smile. “You okay?”
She startled slightly, her bright blue eyes flicking toward him. “Oh. Hi. Yeah, I’m fine,” she said quickly, though her voice lacked conviction.
Harry raised an eyebrow. “You don’t look fine. Bad day?”
The girl sighed, her gaze dropping to the countertop. “You could say that. It’s been a lot.”
He nodded sympathetically. “I get that. Sometimes it helps to talk about it. Or not,” he added quickly, holding up his hands. “Totally up to you.”
A faint smile tugged at her lips. “Thanks. I’m Caroline, by the way.”
“Harry,” he replied, extending a hand.
Caroline shook it, her grip firm but slightly hesitant. “So, Harry,” she said, her voice softening just a little. “What brings you to Mystic Falls?”
Harry leaned against the counter, deciding how much to share. “Just passing through. My dad’s doing some research nearby, and I’m tagging along.”
Caroline tilted her head. “Research? What kind?”
“History, mostly. Small towns like this tend to have interesting stories.” It wasn’t entirely a lie, and it was vague enough to sound normal.
Caroline’s expression grew thoughtful, her previous sadness dimming slightly. “Yeah, Mystic Falls has plenty of history. Some of it’s even true.”
Harry chuckled. “Sounds intriguing.”
For a moment, the tension in her shoulders eased, and Harry found himself feeling oddly protective of the girl. She seemed strong but tired, like she was carrying a weight she hadn’t asked for.
“Thanks,” Caroline said after a pause, meeting his eyes. “For, you know, being nice.”
Harry shrugged, his smile turning softer. “Everyone needs a little kindness sometimes.”
They fell into an easy conversation, and for a while, the chaos of the day melted away. But in the back of Harry’s mind, a quiet unease lingered. Mystic Falls was more than it seemed, and he had the sinking feeling he’d find out exactly why sooner than later.