I gasped and sat up in bed. Another dream about the car crash plays over in my mind. I hadnt had this dream in months.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I replay it in my head. The screech of the tires, hitting my head against the window, my mother's screams, water filling my lungs. And then, just blackness.

I reach over and check my phone. 1:52 am. I would have to sleep for at least 4 more hours if I didn't want to look like a raccoon tomorrow.

I swing my feet over the side of the bed and put my head in my hands. My hair falls around my face and I push strands behind my ears as I try to compose myself.

Calm down Elena, it's just a dream. But despite my efforts, a few unruly tears escape down my face. I try to take a deep breath, but it comes out like a sob. I begin to shake.

"Elena?" a worried voice sounds from near the window, "Are you alright?"

I quickly stand and cross the room to my bathroom, hiding my face from Stefan. I don't want him to see me like this. I don't want to feel weak after staying strong in front of everyone for so long.

I switch on the light and shut the door behind me.

"I'm fine Stefan." I say quietly, attempting to hide he sadness in my voice.

I take a wet cloth and run it over my face, squinting at the light when I open my eyes. Through the slits of my eyelids, I can see my red, swollen eyes, and dried tear stains on my cheeks.

"Elena, can I come in?" Stefan says, while gently tapping at the door.

Instead of responding, I turn off the light, hoping that the darkness would conceal my emotions.

AS soon as I open the door, Stefan wraps his arms around me.

"Bad dreams again?" he whispers into my hair.

I nod into his chest, and he kisses my head. I try to change the subject,

"What are you doing here?"

"I came to check on you, it looks like I came at the right time"

His voice id gentle, soothing, and soon, I can feel the weariness creeping back. I lean more heavily against him. Stefan supports my weight easily, and before I know it, I have fallen back asleep in his arms.

I feel his lips on my forehead as he kisses me.

"Wake up sleeping beauty"

I take a deep breath and open my eyes, finding myself staring into Stefan's emerald eyes. I reach my arms up and put them around his neck as I bury my face in his shoulder and hug him.

"Good morning" after I notice the light coming through my window. I pull back, and check my phone as Stefan brushes a strand of hair behind my ear. Its 9:00.

"I haven't slept that long in awhile" I say quietly, taking somewhat to myself.

Stefan smiles.

"Good. You needed sleep. I love you ya know"

"I love you too. " I pause, realizing that there is a lot to do. "We have to face he day now don't we?"

Stefan sighs, then looks down at me. "I suppose so my dear."

He gently touches, his lips to mine, and at that moment, I know that I can conquer anything with him at my side.