Stefan's heart soared. It felt so damn good hearing that from her, but was that it?

“... And so would I. I need the help too. It can be quite exhausting doing everything myself. Having you around helps me relax a bit more. I know she's safe with you,”

He was touched. So much that he swallowed hard. Did she have any idea what those words did to him? It meant so much. To know that his two women needed him, and boy was he going to be there for them, he swore to himself.

“Alana…” He ...