"Feelin' the love, sweetheart? Or should I squeeze harder?" His arms tighten, a smirk playing on his lips.
releases the embrace, feigning hurt Ouch, sweetheart, you wound me. Can't handle a little love from your vampire king?
Yeah… Your kinda weird sometimes
laughs Weird? Me? Well, sweetheart, you haven't seen anything yet. Just wait till you experience my unique brand of entertainment.
She rolls her eyes as she looks at the stars
approaches her, gently caressing her cheek You know, beneath this tough exterior, all I really want is for you to be safe.
leans in, brushing his lips against hers From everything, sweetheart. The world can be a dangerous place, and I just want to protect you.
Like how you protected my leg? she holds up her leg with an angry look
winces, remorse evident in his eyes Sweetheart, I didn't mean for that to happen. I was caught off guard, and things got out of control.
Out of control? By turning my own guards into animals!
takes a step back, his expression softening Look, I know I messed up, but I never wanted to harm you or your guards.
sighs heavily, his eyes locked with hers I wasn't thinking, Keeper. I was reacting.
Why? Because I pissed you off!?
steps closer, his voice low and intense No, sweetheart. Because deep down, I'm terrified that if I let myself be vulnerable, if I let myself care about you, you'll end up hurting me just like everyone else. She watches as his walls start to crumble, his pain evident in his eyes
Hurt you? How have I hurt you?!
voice cracks, tears welling up in his eyes By existing, by being strong, by not letting me in.
Damon... She steps forward, reaching out to touch his face gently You're a mess, but... I care about you too.
grabs her wrist, pulling her towards him Is that so? Care about me, huh? Well, let's see just how much you really mean it.