Being alone was unbearable.

But it was easier than being with him.

Affection had never been her strong suit- but the emotions she had felt towards Stefan were nothing if not affectionate.

She had loved him- she still did.

So much.

He didn't believe it- didn't allow himself to believe it.

In that sense, he was harder than even his brother.

She had hurt him and he would never let her in again.

It was unbearable.

She had managed to stay away from him for centuries- a few weeks without him shouldn't be too hard.

In theory.