The sun is just beginning to set over Mystic Falls, casting the town in a warm, golden light. The quiet town feels almost nostalgic, as if the passing years have left it untouched by time. Elena Gilbert walks through the front gate of her family’s house, her backpack slung over one shoulder. Her brown eyes are distant, reflecting a quiet sadness beneath her calm exterior. It's been a few months since her parents' tragic death in a car accident, and life is still... hard.

She pushes a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she looks up, forcing a smile to hide the emptiness she’s feeling. There’s a weight to her steps—like she’s trying to move forward, but something keeps holding her back. The memories, the grief, and the emptiness linger in every corner of her world.

As she walks to her car, she notices the familiar sights around her—her best friend Bonnie’s house, the trees lining the street, and the iconic Mystic Falls High. She briefly wonders how life might’ve turned out differently if her parents were still here, but she brushes the thought aside. She can't afford to dwell on it.

"Guess it’s just another day," Elena mutters softly to herself as she heads toward the car. Despite everything, there’s a part of her that’s still hopeful.

Then, she hears something behind her in the distance as if someone or something's watching her.