Chapter 78. Hate: The Catalyst.

Elena's heart ached as she stood at a crucial crossroad, feeling the weight of an impossible decision. Gazing into her brother's caring and worried eyes, she realized the bittersweet truth of their reunion. Though she had believed him to be dead, their circumstances forbade them from being together. Caught between spending a few fleeting months with Luca or losing her brother forever, Elena couldn't bear the burden.

"Elena?" Rex called out, sensing her inner turmoil. Another sigh escaped her lips as she mustered the strength to respond. "I can't go through with this, Damon," she confessed, her emotions overwhelming her. Hastily, she made her way towards the door, leaving behind a perplexed Victoria and Rex. "We've lost her too," Victoria remarked quietly.

But Rex's determination flared within him. Frustration mounting, he pressed his hand against the couch, brimming with resolve. Victoria turned to face him, her eyes searching his. "Let's go, Rex," she urged, understanding the gravity