Elijah and Hayley’s connection culminates in a physical relationship in The Originals, Season 2, Episode 14, titled “I Love You, Goodbye”. This episode marks a significant turning point in their complicated and emotionally charged dynamic, driven by shared burdens and mutual respect.
The Journey to “I Love You, Goodbye”
The road to Elijah and Hayley’s romantic entanglement was far from straightforward. Both characters entered the series with complex baggage and pre-existing relationships. Their initial connection stemmed from their shared concern for Hope, Hayley’s daughter and Elijah’s niece, forging a bond of protection and responsibility.
Seeds of Affection: Building a Foundation
From the very beginning of The Originals, the chemistry between Elijah and Hayley was palpable. Their interactions were charged with unspoken feelings, often masked by their respective loyalties and obligations. Elijah, the honorable and noble Original vampire, found himself drawn to Hayley’s fierce independence and unwavering determination. Hayley, in turn, found solace and support in Elijah’s unwavering loyalty and protective nature. This initial connection evolved gradually, fueled by their shared desire to protect Hope and their mutual respect for each other’s strengths.
Obstacles and Complications: A Relationship Tested
Their budding romance faced numerous obstacles, primarily stemming from their allegiance to different factions and the constant threat of supernatural warfare. Hayley’s initial alliance with Jackson Kenner and their subsequent marriage to unite the werewolves further complicated the situation. Elijah, bound by his unwavering loyalty to his family, often found himself torn between his affections for Hayley and his duty to his siblings. These challenges tested their bond and forced them to confront their true feelings, albeit often indirectly. Even when they were apart, the underlying tension and unspoken desires simmered beneath the surface, hinting at the inevitable culmination of their relationship.
“I Love You, Goodbye”: The Moment of Truth
“I Love You, Goodbye” serves as a pivotal episode, bringing their pent-up emotions to a head. The episode is fraught with emotional turmoil as the Mikaelsons face imminent threats. Hayley, grappling with the responsibility of protecting Hope and the burden of her arranged marriage, finds herself confiding in Elijah. He, in turn, offers her unwavering support and understanding, revealing the depth of his affection. The intimate moment they share transcends their roles as allies and protectors, culminating in a passionate encounter that solidifies their romantic connection. This moment is not just a physical act; it is a profound expression of their deep emotional bond and shared vulnerability.
The Aftermath: Navigating the New Dynamic
Following their encounter, Elijah and Hayley face the complexities of navigating their newfound romantic relationship within the chaotic world of The Originals. Their connection deepens, but it also brings new challenges as they grapple with the consequences of their actions and the impact on their existing relationships. Hayley’s marriage to Jackson continues to be a barrier, and Elijah’s complicated familial dynamics with Klaus and Rebekah constantly threaten to disrupt their happiness. Their relationship becomes a central theme in the subsequent seasons, exploring the depths of their love and the sacrifices they are willing to make for each other.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Elijah and Hayley’s Relationship
Q1: Why did it take so long for Elijah and Hayley to get together?
The slow burn was deliberate, designed to build emotional depth and tension. Their relationship was complicated by external factors, including Hayley’s involvement with Jackson and Elijah’s loyalty to his family. The writers wanted to demonstrate that their connection was based on more than just physical attraction, showcasing the genuine respect and understanding that developed over time.
Q2: Was their relationship a rebound for either of them?
While both characters experienced heartbreak and loss before their romantic entanglement, their connection felt more like a natural progression of their existing bond. Their relationship wasn’t simply a rebound; it was a genuine connection rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect.
Q3: How did Jackson react to Hayley and Elijah’s relationship?
Jackson was understandably hurt and betrayed by Hayley’s actions. He had genuine feelings for Hayley, and their marriage was built on the promise of unity and protection for their werewolf pack. His reaction was one of sadness and disappointment, leading to further conflict and complications.
Q4: Did Klaus approve of Elijah and Hayley’s relationship?
Klaus’s reaction was complex and multifaceted. He was often jealous of Elijah’s happiness and wary of anything that could potentially distract him from their family’s goals. While he occasionally showed signs of acceptance, he remained a constant source of tension and conflict in their relationship.
Q5: What were the biggest challenges they faced as a couple?
The biggest challenges included navigating Hayley’s marriage to Jackson, maintaining peace within the supernatural community, and dealing with the constant threats posed by their enemies. Their relationship was perpetually tested by external forces and internal conflicts.
Q6: Did Hayley ever truly love Jackson?
Hayley cared for Jackson and respected him, but her feelings for him were different from the deep, passionate love she felt for Elijah. While she valued their partnership and the security he offered, her heart ultimately belonged to Elijah.
Q7: What was the fan reaction to Elijah and Hayley getting together?
The fan reaction was largely positive, with many viewers rooting for their relationship since the beginning of the series. The chemistry between the actors and the emotional depth of their characters resonated with audiences, making them one of the show’s most beloved couples.
Q8: How did their relationship impact Hope’s upbringing?
Their relationship, while complicated, ultimately provided Hope with a loving and supportive environment. Despite the challenges they faced, Elijah and Hayley were both dedicated to protecting and nurturing Hope, ensuring she felt loved and secure.
Q9: Did Elijah and Hayley ever officially become a couple in the traditional sense?
They did experience periods of relative stability and commitment, but their relationship was never truly “traditional” due to the extraordinary circumstances of their lives. They were bound by deep affection and loyalty, but their unconventional lives often prevented them from fully embracing a conventional relationship dynamic.
Q10: How did Elijah’s red door affect his relationship with Hayley?
Elijah’s red door, which suppressed his memories, significantly impacted their relationship. While his feelings for Hayley remained, the lack of memories created distance and confusion, preventing them from fully connecting for a period of time. The restoration of his memories was crucial for their relationship to progress.
Q11: What ultimately happened to Elijah and Hayley?
[Spoiler Alert!] Sadly, both Elijah and Hayley meet tragic ends in the series finale. Hayley sacrifices herself to protect Hope and the other children, while Elijah chooses to die alongside his brother Klaus to ensure his redemption and prevent further chaos. Their deaths were devastating for fans but served as a poignant conclusion to their complex and enduring love story.
Q12: Are there any “Haylijah” fan fiction or online communities dedicated to their relationship?
Yes, the “Haylijah” pairing is a popular subject in fan fiction and online communities. Fans continue to explore alternative storylines and imagine what their relationship could have been like under different circumstances, demonstrating the lasting impact of their characters on the The Originals fandom.