Chapter 142

Elena stood there frozen, watching her best friend collapse in pain, knowing that it was all her fault.

The image burned into her mind - Mia's face twisted in agony, her white pants stained red with blood, Stefan's panicked expression as he caught her falling body. Elena's legs felt like lead, rooted to the spot by the crushing weight of her guilt.

Stefan gradually and slowly helped Mia to her feet, supporting her weight as she leaned heavily against him. His movements were careful and deliberate, like he was handling the most precious thing in the world. Which, Elena realized, he was.

"It's okay, baby," Stefan whispered to...