(This scene picks up where the previous left off)

{Stefan and Laura are kissing intensely}

 

Stefan:   {Whispering} “I’ve never wanted anyone like I want you right now.”

Stefan:  “You've always stayed with me -- your eyes, smile, laughter. You've always been in my heart the way we were on the island, the way you would look at me. The same way you're looking at me now.” {They kiss}

Laura:  “Don't analyze it. Just take me back there. I want to be that way again, without any thought about the consequences of what's going to happen next.” {They kiss passionately again}

Stefan:  “Laura -- Laura -- {He stops them from going any further} No. No. “ {Laura looks at him, confused}

Laura:  “What's the matter?”

Stefan:  “I’m not available for more stolen moments, or for rushing headlong into one thing to mask the pain of another. Laura, our time on the island was one of a heightened reality. You were there against your will. I was preparing to wage war against Helena, which was liable to mean my death. But this is the real world, and when we become lovers again, I want it to be in this world, under its pressures, despite its circumstances, because we do believe in tomorrow.”

Laura:  “I don't want to live in tomorrow. We're here now, together, tonight. I want you. I know that you want me, too. {They kiss} I want you.”

Stefan:  {Drawing back from her, smiling} “I’ve always thought that, of the two us, I was the more cynical. Turns out I’m the optimist. I have more faith in us than you do. I'm willing to wait until you can come to me without guilt or reservation or the desperation I see in your face right now.”

Laura:  “I’m not desperate.”

Stefan:  “Yes, you are. I don't want to be something you throw yourself into in order to forget your marriage.”

Laura:  “Why is it that you've always been so able to read me?”

Stefan:  {Putting his hand up to her face, seeing her start to cry} “Sweet. Come here. {He pulls her into his arms} For now, it's enough to have you in my arms. Shh. Yes.”

Stefan:  “It's late. I should see you home.”

Laura:  “Will you hold me? Just for a little while longer?”

Stefan:  “Yes. Come here.”