So, why do I think that this episode in no way spells the end for E/D? Well, I think it, because there's so much milk in that cow, and the writers haven't even filled up one cup, yet. If you had this dynamic pairing on your hand, would you kill it in the manger? Of course not. You would milk that sucker for all it's worth. I'm not pretending to know who is end game (although, since episode one, my bet would have been, and I'm sorry, Stefan and Elena). But this is a story about a love triangle. We haven't even gotten to see this third side, yet. Why in the world would the writers kill it off, before exploring it? Do I think you're going to end up with a white picket fence? No, I don't. Do I expect to go on a helluva Elena/Damon ride? I'd bet folding money on that.

I have a lot more to say, but my back and my deadline insist it's time to wrap it up, so I'll leave you with this, which I've said before. I hope, my dear readers, when you are incensed (righteously, or not), that you keep your criticism to the story and the execution, thereof. Please don't abuse each other, or the cast and crew, who have been so wonderfully accessible to us all.

I will be back, Friday morning, with my recaplet of the next episode, "All My Children." In the meantime, please answer our Question of the Moment, over on the right. Also, please grade the episode up top and join us in the forum, where no one is allowed to kill my Pudding Pop. You got that?