It's how he felt when Vicki died. The world was pulled out from under him. Matt had no proper footing. The realization he'd lost what was left of his family, family he could hold on to, was more painful than he could take. There wasn't anything he wanted to do. There wasn't anything that he felt he could reach for.

And then there was Elena. The sight of her, familiar and filled with solace, reminded him of home. He held on tightly to her as he's doing now, only he's the one that wants to give the solace.

She's always so strong for everyone. She's always trying to protect and take care of people. Matt wants to give that back to her. He doesn't let go as the tears spill, only brings her closer to his chest, hand sinking into the strands of her hair.

"Let me take you home, okay?" he asks against the top of her head, his other hand drawing smooth circles at her back.