10 Thrilling TV Moments When Characters Finally Learned The Truth

3. Damon Tells Elena He Loves Her (The Vampire Diaries)

Back when not everyone on the show was aware of the supernatural shenanigans in Mystic Falls, The Vampire Diaries put us through the emotional wringer on multiple occasions. Caroline's confessions to her mother and also to Matt were both long-awaited and heartbreaking, but Damon's shy acknowledgement of his love for Elena in the eighth episode of season two stands out. Elena remains silent as Damon finally tells her how he feels and why he can never act on it, before compelling her to forget the moment entirely. Ian Somerhalder sells the slightly overwrought dialogue while Nina Dobrev matches him without saying a word; the mixed emotions are right there in Elena's expression. The melodramatic pop ballad in the background is one of The Vampire Diaries' unfortunate CW hallmarks, but it's impossible not to feel something for Damon as he leaves Elena in the dark once again.