a/n: this is a gif by writers_pen987

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Elijah watched Elena kiss Damon, his heart entwined in regret, burning him deeply.

"We have to go, brother" Finn said laying his hand on Elijah's shoulder.

"Yes" Elijah sid absent-minded, not taking his eyes off the doppelganger cheerfully saying bye to her boyfriend.

"You still love her?!" Finn remarked. "I thought you and Hayley"

"Yes - uhm - Elena is - never mind. Let's go" Elijah turned around, "let's go home"

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Not long after

"Elijah - you came so close to pure love. Rebekah said-"

"Yes, I did. Elena truly is a gift from the Gods above. I - broke everything, this heart what beats in my chest is merely a mass of angry muscle that will function only until I stop to exist, and you know. with the forever it just - anyway, she should have a life, love, music and dance. And if it is with him, so be it."

"Even though you know he is not right for her. That it is a toxic relationship."

"What can I do - pray tell me. She chose him after all. And I chose - you know"

"Your family" Finn concluded.

"Yes" Elijah muttered stepping on the gas pedal, words of his letter drumming in his head.

... Your compassion is a gift, Elena. Carry it with you, as I will carry my regret. Always and forever.