Caroline was busy cleaning up her family's cabin while Stefan was out getting firewood. They thought having Liz stay here would make her feel more comfortable during her final days. Stefan of cursed offered to help Caroline get everything ready.

When Caroline was finished cleaning out the last kitchen cabinet and stocking it with new food she stepped outside for some fresh air. Stefan was stacking the firewood on the porch.

"How is it going inside" he asked placing the last piece of wood on the pile.

"Fine." she answered coolly.

"Are we okay?" he questioned walking over to her. "You've barely said three words to me."

"We're fine." she lied.

"Come on , I know you better than that."

"I just, I don't want you to be here for the wrong reason."

"What are you talking about"

"I overheard you and and my mom, okay. I know she made you promise to look out for me. I don't want to be a burden to you." she admitted. I don't want you to think you have to help me and be by my side if that's not what you want. And I know that since you left you think you owe it to me, but-"

"Caroline…"

"No, I get it you promised her and now you feel like you can't let her down. But I need you to promise me that if you don't want to be here anymore, you'll leave."

"Caroline, look at me." he gently lifted her chin, so their eyes met. "That promise I made to your mom was easy, because I thought it was understood. I already made that promise to you, and I have intentions on breaking either of them. I knew what I was getting myself into when I made that promise to you, and I wouldn't take it back even if I could. You are never going to be a burden to me."

She looked at him with tears in her eyes. "Promise?"

He nodded and pulled her close to him. "I promise. Now, I need you to promise me something."

She pulled back just enough to gaze up at him. "What is it?"

"Things are going to get hard sometimes, we both know that. I know your mom is worried about you turning it off, but I know you're stronger than that. The thought might cross your mind, believe me I know how good that idea can feel at times, but you can't let it win. If you ever think about shutting it all off, promise that you'll come to me."

"I promise."