Her Pain Part Two.

Author's Notes.

The characters do not belong to me, only the plot is mine.

Thanks to Scarlett 2112, Anne 1994, Joy Tribe, Tia Salvatore, Ana 4267, Taffy Marie, Blue Tulip 1995, Olivia Claire, Elle Termaine, Damonfangirl, Lysette 90, Ajay 1208, Happy Gilmore, Orion Belte, The Donner party, Jaide Salvatore, Linax 24 and guest reviewer thank you for your reviews and Thanks to my readers who follow or favourite this story.

Also check out Scarlett 2112 new story (Painted on my heart ) which she wrote for my birthday. Thank you and Love you so much Carol!

(Important Note:

This chapter will carry on as same day as the previous chapter, and most of it is Elena's session with her therapist but with a few flashbacks from her past with Vicki. So enjoy next chapter.)

Elena's P.O.V

I watched from bed as Damon got ready to leave. He didn't pack anything because he promised me he would be back tonight.

"My phone is switched on. So call me anytime okay?" he reminds me once he was ready to leave.

"I will but come back soon, okay?" I requested him. He smiled, but I could feel he was anxious to leave me alone.

He pulled me in his arms and kissed the top of my head. "I will see you soon and best of luck with your session."

He gave me a sweet kiss and then we both went to the nursery.

''Hey, princess.'' He picked our daughter up, who was watching her father and smiling while waving her arms to reach him. "Now daddy has to go for the day so take care of your mommy for me, okay?

He touched her hand and shook it, making her smile.

Giving her to me, he kissed her forehead and then mine. "See you soon, my princesses."

With that we went down and saw him off as he drove away in his car.

I watched him until his car disappeared, then went inside to change my daughter's clothes.

"You don't worry, we both will stay busy and your daddy promised to return tonight." I kissed her little fingers and dressed her in lavender ounces and a matching cap.

Once she was ready I picked a purple top and cream skirt to dress myself.

Grabbing the baby bag and my purse, I quickly stepped into my white pumps and picked my daughter up before heading downstairs.

Making my way towards garage I hop in my new car with the license plate Z.E.D. It's the same car I watched at car launch and Damon gifted me three days after I moved in as a homecoming present telling me that it was always mine to have.

Tucking my daughter inside her car seat, I hopped in and started driving not towards my therapist office, but towards Manhattan Central Park.

Once I reached the destination, I parked my car and took the pram out from the trunk, settling my daughter inside covering her with the blanket.

Grabbing its handles, I walked towards the lakeside and sure enough, Doctor Camille was standing there waiting for me along with someone else.

Once she saw me she waved and reached towards me with her companion.

''Hey! It's great you made it. Hello Zenia!'' She leaned down to see my daughter. ''I must say she is getting more adorable as the days pass by.''

She looked up to watch me and then turned towards man beside her. "This is Doctor Vincent Griffith, my fellow colleague. Today he is going to observe and assist me in our separate session."

I felt confused by both the change of location and having another therapist, but I held my tongue because perhaps it's court protocol or something. Nonetheless, I shake hands with him. "It's nice to meet you, Doctor."

He smile kindly and said. ''Please, call me Vincent.''

Together we start walking as Camille told me why she arrange session here. ''It's a nice day. Since you said Zenia is with you, I thought she should get a little outing while we had your session.''

I smiled and my gaze fell on Zenia, who was enjoying her surroundings, her curious blue eyes darting around everything that passed by.

''Thanks, even I like a change of scenery and Zenia prefers the outdoors more than anything.''

We walked for a while when my eyes fell on a bagel stand. I remembered how much I enjoyed eating them the few times when Damon bought me some on our dates.

I was about to suggest others to get some when I saw Vincent's eyes on me but then his face contort into a disgusted look as he stared at that bagel stall. ''Look Camille, isn't that the same bagel stall where you had eaten last year? Didn't you get food poisoning so severe that they had to pump your stomach empty?''

I flinched while Camille stared at Vincent with pain etched on her face. ''Yeah I remember, God! I can't forget the amount of pain I suffered only because of some bagel.''

She looked at me with determined eyes. "After that I swore off from all stall food. Especially this one."

I felt sorry for her suffering but before I could convey my feelings, they started walking ahead with one last longing look at that bagel stall I followed them while deciding in my heart to never have those bagels again.

"So Elena, you mentioned during one session that Damon used to bring you here for your dates?" Camille asked and I nodded with a smile.

''Yeah, we had a lot of picnic dates here and sometimes we just came here to take a stroll along the lake. I told him once how much I missed lake back home so he brought me back here." Being here takes me back to happier times when our lives were so simple.

"Where else did he used to take you?" I looked up surprised because it was Vincent who was asking me this question.

''Um, you know, regular dating spots like movies, clubs, bars, and restaurants.''

At that Camille cut me off with her intrigue. ''Restaurants? Must be hard for him to find cheap restaurants since he was hiding his true identity.''

She looked curious not judgemental about my husband deception, which is why I answer her in calm voice. "He never once took me to a cheap restaurant. I remember asking him how he could afford bringing me to these restaurants. He made up something like he got a bonus from work, but then I told him to not spend money on me. So then whenever we went out we divided the check, much to his annoyance, but he soon learned how much I'm against spending money on unnecessary expenses." I rolled my eyes remembering how irritated he used to get. Looking back, I now understand his irritation.

"Still, even when we were living a simple life, he always found ways to treat me like a princess."

As I say this my heart clenched because he never once treated me any less. And yet, not only did I treat him so badly when the truth came out, I even failed to keep up my promise and humiliated him again in front of his society.

"Hey, Elena." I heard Camille gently calling me out from my distressing thoughts. ''Come, let's sit down.''

We walked towards nearby bench and settled down since it's weekday I can't see that many people which is nice because I like how quiet this place is right now.

''You said that you don't like spending money? Is that habit stay with you now that you are wife of billionaire?'' she asked me while Vincent lean in close with interest to hear my answer.

''My dad was a physician and we lived a simple life. It was one of his values that we should always be careful with our money and where we spent it." I remembered how his teachings helped me when they were gone. "After they passed away, his insurance money was enough for us. However, to make sure we wouldn't become broke, that's when his values helped me manage my life and since then they became my habit But now, I am trying hard to make exceptions sometimes when Damon gave me a new credit card or gifts. Still, I can't help feeling a little uncomfortable in those times. I guess it's hard to change your habits."

I looked up to meet their eyes, but they were looking at each other quietly.

Then Vincent started asking me about my life. "Describe to me in three words how you were before and after your parents' death."

Thinking hard I replied. ''Fun, caring, and sensitive.''

Then I thought to describe myself after their death. ''Caring, sensitive, and emotional at times but mostly I valued life and the people around me.''

"So you start feeling for others more after your parents' death?"

I was taken aback with his assessment but nodded my head in answer.

After listening to my answer, he was quiet for a while but then stood up. ''I'm a little hungry, how about I get you something." He left and I stared after him in confusion but Camille smiled seeing confusion on my face. ''Don't worry, he gets hungry during serious conversations."

Few minutes later he was back and sat next to me handing me and Camille wrapped items. "Thanks."

They opened their sandwiches but when I opened my package instead of a sandwich, I saw a cheese bagel from the same stall we passed by earlier.

"Um, Vincent I am sorry but I can't eat these." I grimace in embarrassment but he just stared at me.

''Why? I saw you earlier looking at that bagel stall with interest, that's why I bought it for you.''

Now it's my turned to feel confused. ''But, you said yourself earlier, that Camille got food poison last year?''

They both gave me serious look. ''Elena, you were looking at it with interest have you ever tried them before?" Camille asked.

"Yes, Damon bought it for me a few times," I answer, not understanding why we were discussing a bagel.

"Did you ever get sick when you had eaten them before?" When I shake my head in answer she asked me gently. ''If I am correct, you liked these bagels until you heard from Vincent how it caused me pain."

"So, just because someone said something bad happened to them are you going to take their word so seriously that you make decisions about avoiding these things? Just based on someone's else bad experiences?"

I think hard and looked down at the forgotten bagel in my hand. Deep down realised that this conversation is not about these bagels anymore but something much more important.

"I didn't decide, but is it bad to take caution?"

I asked in an unsure voice.

"Elena, every person is different from each other and so is their personality, behaviour, and taste which led them to have different experiences in life." Vincent tried to explain me.

''Now, tell me when you heard about Camille having food poisoning. How did you feel about her suffering?" he asked me while observing me closely.

I think hard and remember how I felt sorry for her pain. "I felt sorry for her suffering."

He nodded as if finally we are having meaningful conversations. ''Now Elena, think hard. You enjoyed this bagel in the past, but when you heard that someone you know suffered from this stuff how did you feel?" I looked at him and the answer came instantly. ''I felt cautious about eating them again and when you offered me I decide to not eat it so I won't suffer like her.''

Even when I said these words they sounded ridiculous to me, but it gained the interest of both therapists because then Camille asked me another question.

"Elena, think back in your life and tell us how many times you gave up on things that you once liked, enjoyed, or dreamed of doing but stopped just for the reason that someone else suffered because of the same things?"

The impact of this question hit me hard as I thought back on my life.

My hands start sweating as my heart beat got fast because one by one I recapped one of many moments of my life.

''I was eight or nine years old and used to love riding my bicycle but when my brother got fractured while we were riding our cycles, watching him in so much pain I decided to never ride again."

I frowned at that memory. "Funny part was that soon as he got better, Jeremy started riding it again but I never sat on my bicycle ever again. Even my parents encouraged or motivated me but that was last time I ever rode.''

Then another incident came in my mind. "In middle school there was guy named Rayan. My friend

Carol and I both had a huge crush on him, but I hid my feelings because I knew Carol liked him too."

Shaking my head on that particular memory. "It was a girls' choice dance and she asked him out, but he refused her. Carol was deeply hurt so we skipped the dance because she was so distraught to even attend."

Sighing sadly, I continued, ''Her father got transferred soon after, and she left still hurting over Rayan. After that, Rayan tried to talk to me, but I decided to never talk to him again even when he asked me out and told me how much he liked me. I refused his advances and never talked with him again."

After that, I told them about quitting my habit of chewing bubble gum because once it got stuck in Davina's throat and she almost choked until her father came and tapped her back hard.

I told them a few more stories and each story is surprising me as well. "Camille, why I am like this? Is that why you guys bring me here to tell me something is wrong with me?" My eyes were filled with tears as I realised the worst possibility of me being psychotic.

"Here stop crying, there is nothing wrong with you!" Camille passed me napkin and I wiped my tears away.

''You know what I'm specialised in?'' When I shook my head Vincent told me, "I am specialize in studies of Empathy and Empathic, or Empaths."

I didn't know what to make out of his specialisations. "Empathic or Empaths? What do you mean by that?"

He stared at me while he explains himself. ''Look, there are sensitive people and there are those who are sensitive to other people's emotions or experiences. Now Empathic people, or Empaths, are sensitive beings with highly intensified empathy for those close to them and sometimes without knowing they absorb other people's painful emotions or bad experiences. These type of people filter their world through their intuition. Most of the time, their decision's are not created from their own experiences but to protect themselves or prevent bad incidents that people closer to them have already gone through.''

My mouth hung open as I let his explanation sink in. Then I realised how close his words described me.

My voice was barely stable as I asked. "You mean…" I fidgeted but tried to stay calm, " You mean I am Empathic?"

"Yes Elena from what Dr. Camille observed, based on my own observations, and what you have told us...it's safe to say that you are an Empath."

I felt different kind of emotions all at once and some strange kind of thoughts invaded my mind but one disturbed me the most. "Am I?" I gulped as the words came out in a fearful voice. "I mean, does this make me mentally ill or a psychotic person."

I stared at my daughter and freaked out that her mother is destined to be a mental patient.

''Elena, hear us out first before you jump to conclusions.'' Camille gentle voice brought me out from my dark thoughts.

''You are not mentally ill. Don't even think about it!'' Vincent started reassuring in his kind but firm voice.

"Now as I said, empathy is one of our personality traits and in your case it affected your life when it got intensified by particular times."

He stopped to see if I understood and only proceeded to explain when I nodded my head in understanding.

''Now we have different emotions inside us. For example: happiness, sadness, anger, fear, jealousy, and empathy.

"Now sometimes these feelings get heightened. There are times when we are ecstatic when our deep desire comes true, we go in despair when it does not, we get furious, we envy someone in the extreme, we are highly sensitive, and sometimes we show deep empathy when the situation arises."

I wasn't crying anymore as I listened his explanation. "How did you guys figure it out? I mean no one ever told me and I never guessed…" I trailed off, thinking about the people closest to me.

"Elena, first, we are therapists and it's our job to figure these things out." Camille replied with a smile.

"As for your second question." Vincent carried on with his explanation. "Empathy is not your average emotion. We don't use it much in our daily day-to-day life and I am afraid to say but some people don't use it at all. But you, Elena, are a kind and gentle individual and on some occasions empathy affects you more than any other traits you have. Like when all those occasions someone close to you suffered, you felt and consumed their pain so much that you forget that it's not your pain. Elena, there is a defence mechanism in our mind to stay cautious. Well in your case, your mind makes a decision based on other bad experiences that you observe through empathy. So, you decide to stay away from those things that cause hurt and pain to your loved ones so you won't suffer just like them."

He stopped again and I let his words sink in words and the impact I felt after hearing them. "Earlier, you guys said I decide to protect myself?" they both nodded their head in answer.

''So does this mean...that every decision I made...they weren't mine?" My voice wavered at the end and he grabbed my hand to gain my attention.

''You didn't listen, Elena. I said sometimes, not all your decisions are because you are Empathic but yes, a few of them are.''

I looked away then stared at the lake ahead. Suddenly, this calm place is not bringing me peace anymore. So now I know I am Empathic, but what does it mean for me? What am I going to do about it and what about Damon? How will I tell him?

"Elena, the reason I figured it out in the first place is because I think one of your decisions made you detest rich people. It's affecting your marriage and your adjustment to your new life." My head snapped towards Camille's voice.

"What do you mean?" I asked her not knowing why she thought that.

"Elena, before I explain you anything it's important that you tell me this, after your parents' death your empathy heightened and for a long time it has stayed with you. Now, tell us did something, like an equivalent incident, occur in the same timeline of your life?"

If our earlier conversation shocked me then, what she said now shook me to the core.

I felt numb as their words sunk in. Even without wanting it, that image came in my mind. The image which I always hid in deep inside of me.

In all turmoil I heard soft voice of my therapist as she asked. "Elena, Damon told me that you said

Vicki before you collapsed, will you tell us who is this Vicki?"

Shaking my head I averted my eyes from them. "She is someone I knew and lost years ago. It's not my place to talk about her besides she can't be reason behind any of my decisions because I haven't thought about her in years."

Looking up I told them in firm voice. "It was her wish that we won't mourn for or even think about her. We were to move on with our lives and I did my best to honour her dying wish."

Apparently they didn't agree, because Vincent shook his head. "Elena, if I am guessing correctly, Vicki died soon after your parents?"

I couldn't say it so instead I nodded my head. ''Also, it seems like you were really close to her and something huge happened before that became the cause of her death? So please Elena, tell us what happened so we can figure out how it affected you. In fact, it's still affecting you."

My hands tremble while I open my mouth but no words came out until I felt Camille holding my other hand. "It's okay to open up because I am sure Vicki wouldn't want you to suffer either."

And just like that, the lock clicked open as hidden memories start to resurface from my mind as I tell them about Vicki.

"Vicki's mother, Kelly, was the best friend of my mom. We all grew up together but to me Vicki was the older sister I always wanted and she felt same too, I used to look up to her and always come to her when I had problems that I couldn't share with my parents. As I grew up, I wanted to be like her. So when I told her about my dream to follow her footsteps to be cheerleader, she helped me by training me the whole summer."

(Flashback: Mystic Falls Cheerleaders Try-outs)

Waiting with the other girls, I was feeling nervous as one by one the girls try out in front of the team.

They only selected five girls so far from fifteen. When they took their break, I looked at other seven girls standing with me who would compete with me for the last three positions.

Four of them were warming up and looked so flexible and pretty that I started doubting my chances.

Feeling defeated already I was about to leave, when my path was blocked by the brunette who trained me all summer for this day. Her hazel eyes were peering through my nervous ones and I knew she realised I was quitting the try-outs.

"Where do you think you're going? After break it's your turn next and the team won't wait around if you don't show up when your name is called."

Feeling little ashamed I admitted. ''I am quitting Vicki, look at all these girls there is no chance that I will get selected.''

I felt her lifting my chin up but instead of looking angry or disappointed she looked at me with understanding.

"Look just because you have better competitors doesn't mean that you are not better yourself. I trained you because I believe you can do it. Now you are going to show everyone how good you are."

We both smile as she wrapped her arms around me. ''Listen kiddo, just give your best in everything you do and never dwell on success or failure because then you won't enjoy life challenges.''

She wished me luck and left while I found my inner strength again.

End of Flashback)

I smiled remembering how proud she was when the coach selected me. "I got selected and she was so proud that she jumped in happiness and hugged me in front of the whole crowd."

Looking back I wished I told her what she meant to me. ''Everyone in school knew me as Vicki's little sister and Matt her brother used to clarify with them that he is her sibling and I am their friend but Vicki told him she loves me more and would love to trade places with Jeremy anytime.'"

Memories after memories came in my mind until my smile changed into scowl.

''Our happiness was short lived but I never knew at that time. I wished to have the power to go back in time so I could stop my parents' accident and to warn Vicki to stay away from Mason, her boyfriend."

(Founder's Day Celebrations:

I entered the Lockwood Mansion for the first time behind my parents. It's my first time attending the Founder's day party because according to Mom now I am old enough to attend town parties with them.

''Elena look Matt is standing there alone.'' My mom pointed him out so I went towards him while my parents went ahead to mingle with crowd.

''Hey Matty.'' Hugging him I looked around. ''Where is Vicki?'' he stared at door before replying.

''She told us she will be arriving with her new mysterious boyfriend.''

I felt giddy because we were helping her sneaking out for past two weeks whenever she needs us to cover for her.

''Finally we get to meet him! Did she told you his name?''

He smile but shake his head. ''Well we will find out soon.''

As I said it soon Vicki appeared in yellow dress and mine and everyone eyes widen in surprised because the guy she arrived with is none other than Mason Lockwood our Mayor's only son.

Soon people were gossiping everywhere but I can see Vicki was so happy and she looked so good with Mason as he introduced her to his parents.

Aunt Kelly was beaming in excitement while poor Matt is trying to control his mother but I am happy and the way Mason looks at her in that moment I wished someone would look at me with so much love.

End of Flashback)

I was so childish to not hear how some people were disgusted by them , how I failed to notice scowl on Mr and Mrs Lockwood faces.

''Soon they became talk of town and star couple of our school. All of us girls would gush when Mason kissed her or send dozens of Rose's to her during class.''

I stared at them as I told them. ''He not only just wooed her by his charms but entire female population of our school including me and even though I never fell in love with him I fell in love with his loving personality and at that point my dreams of prince vanished because now I wanted someone like handsome, loving, rich guy like Mason in my life.''

Letting open door of memories was one thing but now I have to revisit bad memories that I never want to remember.

''They dated throughout and on their graduation day he proposed her in front of whole town and it was most romantic thing I ever see at that point in my life. I was one of her brides maid and she was beaming with happiness that day.''

( Flashback wedding day:

The Lockwood mansion was filled with guests, which I noticed as I carefully climbed the stairs in my mint green dress.

Upon reaching bride's wing I can hear laughter.

''Oh My God Vicki! You look so beautiful!'' I cried out when I saw beautiful bride in ivory princess cut gown.

She gave us her mega vault smile as she twirl in front of mirror.

I reached her and took small box out of my purse. ''Vicki I bring you your something old.'' She watched as I bring silver pendant that she gave me on my eleventh birthday. ''Oh Elena you never took it off in years.''

I nodded my head as I put it on her. ''I remember you first call me your little sister and now you are going far away so I want you to always have that is something important to both of us.''

She touched her pendant and hugged me tightly. ''Thanks Lena, I will always keep it close.''

Our moment was disrupted when Mrs Lockwood came inside in her cream silk slit gown and diamond necklace. ''Vicki! You look like Cinderella about to marry her prince!'' the way she said it didn't seem like compliment at all.

She walked around her until she noticed her neck. ''Why are you wearing such a cheap pendant!'' we all flinched at her tone. ''I gifted her Mrs Lockwood.''

She gave me dry smile before turning on her. ''This is your wedding day Vicki and there are certain expectations on you so take it off and wear this necklace.'' She opened box and inside there was diamond necklace.

She looked at me with apology in her eyes as she took her pendant and wear that heavy diamond necklace but as soon Mrs Lockwood left she wear pendant again.

''Let her notice my cute pendant hidden inside this monstrosity.'' She said while giving me wink.

With that we left and as I watched her getting wed I dream of similar wedding with my own dream guy, who will make me happiest girl on earth just like Mason is making Vicki happiest girl.

End of Flashback)

I was quite then lost in my own thoughts, so much has changed since then. If only I knew how all our lives going to change forever.

''Vicki got married, so what happened afterwards?'' Vincent asked making me look at him.

I didn't realise tears were slowly falling but this time I didn't stop them from flowing.

''A year later my parents died in accident and I saw them again at my parents funeral.''

Looking back I remember how not even once they talk with each other.

''At that time none of us noticed that something was wrong between them and I was busy dealing with Jeremy that I didn't notice they were not that romantic pair anymore that I once idolised until one day.

( Flashback Grill)

It's been busy day at Grill I came to check on Jeremy who return to work today few weeks after funeral.

I smile when his shift was over and he sat beside me while Matt came with plate of burger and fries in his hand. ''Compliments from the chef and manager.'' I watched the manager Logan waving from behind the bar and I smiled back before eating my dinner.

The three of us chat when we noticed loud noise from corner.

''Isn't that Mason and Vicki's table?'' Jeremy asked Matt and sure enough everyone saw Mason towering over Vicki who was trying to calm him down.

''Don't you dare tell me calm down you worthless low class piece of shit! How dare you humiliate me in front of our friends!'' he pushed her away but Matt got his sister.

''Vicki? Mason what is going on?'' he asked them while everyone watched this scene.

''I tell you! Your sister is a narrow-minded, annoying bitch! She is an ungrateful brat whom I've given everything, a perfect luxurious life in a big city, but she has to complain about unnecessary things!" Mason screamed at Matt which angered Vicki in return.

''Unnecessary! So your gambling, drinking and whoring around whole New York is Luxurious life I am ungrateful about! You spending your parents money for your fun lifestyle is ruining my life our marriage and I can't even complain!''

I held her shoulder but she wasn't done yet. ''I thought coming back here will return my old Mason back but now I realise you were always like this man! Pathetic! life destroyer rich guy and the Mason I knew was just Mask that lifted as soon we left for big city! So listen to me rich bastard! You created this scene just because I stopped you from drinking but now you can drink your life out because I don't give a damn about you or your snobby family.

I am leaving you Mason Lockwood!'' she pocked his chest as she screamed. ''I want divorce and take this ring and shove it up in your rich ass!''

She slipped her ring off and threw it on his face then left breaking illusions of perfect marriage between rich and poor.

End of Flashback)

I stopped talking when I heard my daughter cries, picking her up I swayed her gently in my arms, being mother I know now that I will always protect my daughter from any harm but it also reminds me of mother who failed her children.

''The day after Grill incident rumour mill started and even those who witness it seems to forget because according to Lockwood's it was all Vicki's fault, that she was undeserving from start to be part of such a prestigious family, they even labelled her as gold digger who trapped their son and thank God they make her sign document or else she would have bankrupt them.''

I still remember Kelly screaming at Vicki for being so stupid to sign document without reading on her day of wedding.

''Aunt Kelly was outraged to found out that not only they lose the little bit of respect they got in town but they didn't get penny from Lockwood's to compensate. She wanted to file case but Vicki refused because she wanted nothing from them.''

Hugging my quite daughter in my arms I vow to myself that I will never abandon my children when they need me most.

''She took off leaving her son and broken daughter behind and we never heard from her again even when Vicki died she refused to come and be humiliate again. Hearing this Matt sever his tie with his mother forever.''

I looked down and Zenia was finally sleeping peacefully in my arms. I touched her close eyelid and feel happy that at least she is free from lives pain and trouble.

Putting her back in pram I covered her in blanket before I turned my attention back to my therapist as I resume my story.

''Matt tried to encourage Vicki to resume her studies but she was so devastated that she couldn't go back plus that city was reason all this started.

So now Matt is taking care of his sister and home but Vicki realised it was too much of a burden for him to bear so she took job at Grill and for a while we thought things will get better.''

I remember how we all were trying to get back to life and naively thought that worse was over.

''Of course nothing was better, Being a social outcast and target of the Lockwood's wrath took a toll on her and she start mixing with the wrong crowd, but none of us figured it out until Christmas.''

( Flashback Christmas:

The Grill was more crowded and in festive mood but Jeremy and I were in not mood to celebrate so instead we decide to help Logan out at Grill. Vicki tied my apron and we both went out to take orders.

It's seems like most of town came here after festivity to mingle and drinks and I was glad to distract myself from pain of first Christmas without my parents but also I felt glad helping Logan out who was so kind to mine and Vicki's family.

I was busy serving coffee when door opened and Lockwood's step inside but with them was Mason and in his arms a blonde girl who wore extremely expensive designer dress.

I heard gasp behind me and to my horror Vicki also saw them.

They all settle on table with other rich founding families and then to my dismay Mayor's snapped his finger at Vicki to take their order.

''Vicki stop!'' I blocked her path. ''You don't need to go there, just leave okay and I will take care of their order.'' She glanced at their table and then looked at me with tear filled eyes. ''Thanks.''

She left to changing room and I went to get their order.

''Hey Kiddo so nice to see you! Meet my girlfriend Jewels.'' I glowered at him with hateful eyes but replied in firm tone. ''My name is Elena, now what I can get for you?'' that shut him up instantly and they quietly place their order.

I left to inform Matt when Vicki appeared in her normal clothes ready to leave but in that moment we heard laughing loud voice of Mrs Lockwood.

"Finally, our son choose girl that matches our class." Mrs Lockwood then gave evil stare to Vicki as she continued. ''Trust me Jewel you are just Jewel to our family not like cheap low class trash my son bring in our home out of his loving heart, glad he finally come into his sense.''

They all cheered loudly but Vicki couldn't hear it anymore and she left but in those cheering noises her spirit shattering sound reached into my ears.

End of Flashback)

''Two days later she was found with drugs overdose at first we were shocked because none of us noticed but doctors informed us that she had been taking low doses of drugs but on Christmas night she start overdosing to extent that led her to hospital.''

I felt emotionally drain and exhausted but words keep spilling from my mouth.

''Matt couldn't afford to send her to good rehab and our insurance was not enough to help them so we did next best thing and continued taking turn to look after her. I cut my bakery job hours to stay with her.

With school and our job it was hard but we managed yet no matter what we do she was not getting better and all was left was shell of person we once love who was passing her days but stopped living long ago.''

With gasp I start crying earnestly not caring if anyone saw me , I can only feel both therapist hand who were listening to me patiently for so long.

''Its okay Elena.'' Camille touched my shoulder and it gives me strength to carry on.

''She stopped talking since we bring her home for Christmas and it's been weeks until one day.''

( Flashback Matt's house:

I entered and saw Vicki leaving her mom's room, it's first time she went in there since her mom's left and I was shocked to see her moving around.

''Vicki? What are you doing out of bed?'' she looked surprise to hear my voice but then she smile at me.

''I was tired of that bed and thought to move on.''

Hearing her voice makes me cry of happy tears as I rush towards to hug her. ''I am so happy to hear your voice! This calls for celebration!''

I beamed at her as she caress my face. ''You are right, how about you go and bring me my favourite pastries from Mrs flowers.''

I frowned because it's little far and I just come back from bakery after my shift was ended. ''Vicki you should called me when I was there.'' She smile and touch my face. ''Sorry Kiddo, but for me can you go back?''

I feign annoyance before burst into laughing. ''Okay I will be right back.''

With that I left and start my car. The bakery was thirty minutes away but I made it in twenty minutes.

Mrs Flowers was surprise to see me but when I told her about Vicki she happy, She and Logan were only people on Vicki's side and they support our families. '' It's good news dear I told you everything will be better in time, just wait ten minutes I will just bring fresh pastries out and we both can do her favourite icing.''

She left and it took fifteen minutes but I managed to left with freshly made pastries.

As soon I reached back I opened door and call for Vicki but no noise came.

''Vicki?'' I placed box on counter and walked towards her room.

Upon opening her door I saw Vicki sprawled on bed with foam coming out of her mouth her eyes barely opened. ''Vicki!'' I rushed towards her slapping her face to wake her up.

I then noticed empty bottle of pills on bed beside her hand. ''No! No! Oh God Vicki! '' I called nine one, one when I heard her shaky voice. ''Kiddo.''

I inform authority and scream to hurry up. ''Vicki hold on! Help is coming.''

I was crying as I hold her in my arms in desperate attempt to wake her up.

''You are just like me Kiddo but Promise me you will never end up like me. Promise me that you will find honest , hardworking guy not rich manwhore like Mason who ruin lives of sweet girls like us just for their sick games. Tell Matt I am sorry that I am abandoning him.''

She coughed more her breathing was flattering. ''Please Vicki.'' I cried more.

''Please try and move on in your lives. I don't want you guys to remember me like this. Just find happiness and I will be in peace.''

With that she coughed more violently and I heard paramedics. ''Here! I screamed at them. ''Vicki they are here look.'' But when I turned around she was not moving at all and her eyes were vacant but I can see trail of dry tears on her cheeks, her last tears ever.

End of Flashback)

She was gone and once again I did what I did after my parents death. I put all my energy into taking care of Matt.

''After I informed Matt I insisted he moved in with us, since his mother refused to came back I took care of everything even Matt.''

Wiping my tears away I compose myself to finish rest of this story. ''After Vicki's funeral Matt and I start dating and in time we become like family trying to move on with our lives. We were dating happily and somehow managed to graduate despite the hardship we face.

Matt managed to get basketball scholarship in Berkeley and wanted to move away from town that held so many bad memories for him. I was also offered few scholarships including Berkeley but I refused them because I can't leave my brother alone. So we decided to part are ways.''

Sighing I admitted something I never before. ''I guess I was never in love with him that's why it was easy to let him go but he will always be my friend and I am happy that I kept my promise to Vicki. Well almost.''

''What do you mean by almost?'' I looked up when Camille asked me this question.

''You were at that party Camille, you saw what happened. I became just like Vicki, married to rich guy but unable to handle his lifestyle.'' I admitted feeling ashamed at myself.

''Elena you are not Vicki and deep down you know Damon is not Mason but what happened with her is making you believe that you are now in her place.'' Vincent told me gently.

I couldn't help but feel angry at his words. ''Oh! I get it so now you guys are going to use death girl tragic story to ease my conscious!'' I all but snapped at him and I was about to get up when he raised his hand.

''Please Elena hear me out we are not disrespecting your friend's memory but making you see reason how her death play vital role in your life.''

He sounds so earnest that I nodded my head.

''Now tell me about all your favourite fictional characters before and after your parents and Vicki's death?''

I stared at him in confusion after all this what kind of question is he is asking?

I stared at Camille who gave me encouraging smile.

''Um, Prince Charming, Prince Eric from Cinderella and little mermaid.''

I raked my hair as I continued. ''Mr Darcy, Laurie, Rhett Butler, John Big, Christian Grey, Rob Stark...I mean why does it matter?'' I asked in frustration.

To my surprise Vincent was staring at me with smile.

''Elena you didn't notice that despite your doubts of not handling your rich husbands lifestyle somehow all your favourite fictional characters are rich guys in their stories.''

My eyes widen in shock as I hear these words. How is it possible for me...''But that! I mean...''

I stopped talking because my mind was not grasping this new but old fact.

''Now will you listen to me?'' Vincent asked in patient voice.

Feeling unsure I just nodded my head.

''Now after your parents died your empathy was intensify and soon after with what happened with your friend affected you more than anyone close to her. Slowly you were absorbing her pain making it your own.''

He stopped as I let in his words sink and thinking back I remember crying in hidden corners because she was in pain.

''Now Elena people with Empathic traits not only absorbed their pain but also do everything in their power to make people close to them happy or something to please them.'' Camille intervened making me understand.

''She is right Elena, Vicki last words hit you hard and instead of grieving you once again used all your energy taking care of your brother and friend and you did your best to honour her wishes so much so that you never say her name again not even to your husband because as you said it was not your story to tell.''

I felt strange as if I knew these things but now I am understanding them for first time.

''You guys said Vicki is reason behind my decision but how is that possible?''

Nodding his head he tried to explain me. ''You may have stop saying her name but her last few days and words stay with you.

As I explained before Empathic people sometimes make decision from protecting themselves from things or people that cause their love ones harm. In your case Vicki last word( to not trust rich guy like Mason) became your coping mechanism , from what I observe after that you start dating Matt because he was safe option totally opposite from Mason and then you choose your husband who was pretending to be honest hardworking common guy.''

He stopped when I stared at him horrified. ''No I love my husband from my heart not because he was some coping mechanism of my brain!''

He shakes his head. ''You misunderstood me. I am saying you chose to date him because of that decision, but trust me you fell in love on your own and that feeling of love is the reason you feel a tug-of-war between your conscience and your sub consciousness.''

My mouth open agape because I remembered that feeling during our separation.

"Just like subconsciously you still carry on a for bitterness towards rich people but at same time other part of you like rich fictional characters, so just like that when your husband truth came out a war started in your brain, you remember Vicki's suffering and part of your mind is protecting you from same fate and categorize Damon as Mason. However, then there was your love for your husband that defended him that makes you unable to hate him completely or to sign those divorce papers."

He stopped talking then as I let in sink all these information and feelings behind them.

''I...I remember feeling divided in half but never in a million years did I think...''

I couldn't speak anymore as I cried in my hands.

''It's okay, Elena. We understand all this is lot to process. Now that you know, we can work together to help you in the best way possible and trust me it will help you getting adjusted to your new life as well."

I wanted to feel hope as they explain new techniques and exercises to help me, but in that moment all I wanted was my husband so I can tell him how much I love him. Especially on my own.

############ Damon's P.O.V

Parking my car in garage I made my way towards my room.

Physically I felt fine but emotionally I felt drain.

Returning back I got text from our therapist that today's session was success and I for once felt grateful because after hearing about Vicki I knew it's not my place to discuss her, I would have for Elena sake but now all I have to do is be with my wife and support her as she goes through all this.

I passed my daughter nursery and smile as I watched her sleeping peacefully.

I then went inside my room and saw Elena sitting outside in our balcony.

Taking my coat off I went towards my wife and wrapped it around her making her turned to face me.

My heart breaks as I watched her tear stain face and red cheeks.

Before I knew it she was in my arms sobbing uncontrollably while I rubbed her back saying soothing words in her ear.

After who knows how long her tears stopped but she still clutched me tightly.

''Its okay baby, let it all out because now everything will be better.''

I felt her nod against me and after few minutes she looked at me. ''Thank you for talking with Jeremy and Matt, I know it must be hard for you to convince him.'' I wasn't surprised she knew, Camille already told me they told Elena about where I was.

''It wasn't that hard because for you we will do anything.''

She gave me teary smile and rest her head on my chest. ''I am still processing a lot, all my life, my decisions but..''

She lift her face to stare me and I was struck by seeing so much love behind them. ''But one thing is clear that I love you Damon, Jackson or Salvatore, Richer or Poor I love you Damon so much! Please never forget that or even let me forget it.''

Now my eyes were wet but still I told her in strong voice.

''I promise to love you as long I live and even love you after death wherever I go.''

Because even when we are surrounded by problems, doubts and pain one thing is binding us together and that's our love for each other.

############

Author's Notes.

Here you go other most important and emotional chapter of this story. So please send me your reviews and keep me motivated to write more and more.