Olivia lay still for a long moment, her fingers gently brushing through Damon's hair as he drifted off to sleep. His breathing slowed, his body relaxing completely against hers, and she felt the weight of him. He was exhausted. As a witch her power was insurmountable and gave her inner strength. But Damon was still a human. It was only a wonder that he survived this far.
Her eyes traced the line of his jaw, the faint shadows beneath his lashes, the curve of his lips that had whispered her name like a promise. Her heart twisted.
"He doesn't deserve this," she whispered to herself. He could live a better life without her where he did not need to fight continuously against the world.
Slowly, carefully, she slid out from beneath his arm, holding her breath when he stirred slightly. But he didn't wake. She took a final glance at his sleeping form, drinking in the peace on his face. He looked so fragile that she was afraid she would break him. She shook her head and looked away.
