This is just an idea that's been knocking about my head since Rose. It doesn't really fit in anywhere canon-wise, it could fit just after 210 or later on in the season. I've always envisionaged it as being set after they defeat Klaus.
Anyways, I hope you enjoy. Please review, I like to know what I'm doing wrong!
That Night
"That night," She suddenly called after him. He stopped, not bothering to turn around. "I never thought I'd see my necklace again so I borrowed Jeremy's bracelet. I had it in my pocket the entire time."
"Why are you telling me this? Why not two weeks ago? " He called over his shoulder, avoiding her eyes.
She leant against her front door, suddenly at a loss as to why. "I just thought you deserved to know."
"Why now? What's changed?" He was suddenly right in front of her, studying her every fleeting expression.
"What you did tonight... You didn't have to... You could have died..."
"But I didn't. So what changed?" He cocked his head to the side, studying her changing expressions.
"I realised I can't lose you." The perfect parallel to their last conversation on her porch. "You were right, there was something between us. Still is I hope."
He took a step back from her, "What are you saying?"
She had to choose her next words carefully; they had the potential to break him. "I don't love you Damon. I can't. I need to trust you again. I need to feel like me again, not just someone's doppelganger."
"And then?"
"And then maybe. I don't how long it could take. It might never happen. But I'm open to the possibility. I just know I'm not ready for you to not be around. I need time." She took this opportunity to finally look him in the eyes, "Is that okay?"
For a long time he didn't speak, just simply stared at her. He tries so hard to hide his emotions but she sees them, quickly dancing through his eyes. "I can wait. As long as it takes." With a smirk he adds, "you know I'm capable of that at least."
She lets go of the breath she hadn't realised she'd been holding while she waited, relief washing over her. She smiles shyly, "Goodnight Damon."
He nods once, "Goodnight Elena."