The night presses in as the car moves deeper into the woods, headlights barely cutting through the dark.

Damon’s voice is low. “Klaus doesn’t bargain. He collects.”

Elena’s fingers tighten in her lap. “Stefan wouldn’t sacrifice himself unless he thought it would end this.”

“It won’t,” Damon says. “It never does.”

You watch the road slide past, saying nothing. You’ve seen deals like this before. They always leave blood behind.

Elena turns toward Damon. “You’re assuming the worst.”

“I’m prepared for it,” he replies. “There’s a difference.”

The car slows. For a moment, the only sound is the engine idling, like it’s holding its breath.

Damon adds quietly, “If Stefan crossed that line for you… Klaus won’t let him come back the same.”

Elena looks away, swallowing hard.

You remain silent, eyes fixed ahead, already bracing for what’s waiting. The darkness outside feels less like night now—and more like a warning.