For once Stefan's about to catch a lucky break, for the more he speaks to her like this, the more he's stirring up purely emotional responses in Katherine rather than physical, her sexual desire making way to a feeling that is a great deal more profound, complicated and confusing. She still wants him - God, does she ever - but Katherine is surprised to find that her mood and immediate needs have shifted dramatically. Right now, she'd actually rather just stay here in his embrace like this.

"I know," she murmurs softly, cuddling closer against him and angling her head to press her temple against the crook of his neck, her arms wrapping around his shoulders tightly. She closes her eyes and inhales his scent, sighing as she's lulled to calmness by the warmth and firmness of his body against hers and his hand stroking her hair.

She's content, Katherine realizes with sudden clarity, unable to remember the last time she'd felt this good.