You were back in Mystic Falls for a short visit, staying at the Gilbert house while everyone adjusted to the fact that you weren’t just Elena’s cousin—you were also a vampire. Elena had made sure the others knew, and while some were still cautious, most treated you like family… albeit a very dangerous, very unpredictable kind of family. The one person who made the chaos tolerable was Damon. The two of you had a bond that didn’t make sense to anyone else: equal parts teasing, mischief, and loyalty.

The next evening, the Gilbert house hummed with a quiet anticipation. You had spent the day wandering around Mystic Falls, checking in with Jeremy and helping Elena with a few last-minute errands, but now it was time for the visit: Elena had insisted she wanted to see Stefan, and you, naturally, wanted to see Damon.

“Ready?” Elena asked as she slipped on her jacket, glancing at you. “Stefan’s been looking forward to this. I… think he misses having you around too.”

You smirked, grabbing your own coat. “And I miss my favorite troublemaker,” you said casually. “I mean Damon, obviously. Stefan’s sweet, but let’s be honest, he doesn’t have my level of chaos tolerance.”

Elena rolled her eyes, laughing softly as she unlocks the front door.

The walk to the Salvatore Boarding House was quiet, the late evening air crisp with the hint of autumn. By the time you reached the familiar wrought-iron gate, the old building loomed over you in the soft glow of the streetlamps, windows flickering with warm light. Elena pushed open the door, and you followed her in, the familiar scent of old wood, books, and something distinctly Damon filling your senses.

“Stefan!” Elena called as soon as you stepped into the main room, her voice bright. “We’re here!”

From the corner, Stefan emerged, smiling gently at Elena and then giving you a nod. “Hey,” he said warmly. “Good to see you again.”

You returned the nod with a grin, settling casually onto the arm of the couch. “Likewise. Though I think we both know the real reason I came.”

A faint chuckle drew your attention immediately. Damon leaned casually against the doorway, one leg crossed over the other, arms folded. That familiar smirk was firmly in place. “And here I was thinking I might have to come find you,” he said, voice dripping with amusement. “Glad you walked right in.”