Sometimes I remember that I can't always protect those I love." Under his fingers, her hair was soft and silky. She didn't try to tell him that he wasn't God, that he couldn't protect everyone. He knew that. But knowing and believing were two different things. What she did say succeeded in stopping his heart. "I wish you'd love me." Why?" Because then maybe you could protect me, too" Haunting sorrow whispered through her tone.

he was the monster that stalked nightmare and they both knew it

And he realized... that fragile, mortal life wasn't just important to him. It was more important than his own.

I don’t want to lose my memories. Don’t make me forget. I would rather die as Elena, than live as a shadow.

Nothing is stronger than the will of the human heart.

Two broken pieces making a whole.

No,” he responded, reaching out to trace the shell of her ear. “They grew back even more beautiful. Blue edged with silver.” Elena laughed at the scowl in his voice.