[ Damon is ... getting ready. Or, something. Damon is out back in what could be a backyard. When her voicemail kicks in, he waits before speaking up at the -- are there two beeps? ]

Elena and I are taking a day trip back to the water temple. We might be gone all day, we might be gone a few hours. [ Knowing him, they'll probably blur. ] If anything happens [ He pauses. ] Let us know. Or, let Elena know.

[ He looks back inside the house, checking to see if he's still free. ] Look, I get that you're not thrilled with Elena. But, for the record, when she got here - she was drained of four pints of blood and I made her drink from that kid. And, you may think that her continuing to drink from him is my influence - maybe it is. But, it's something that vampires have to do.

[ Another pause. ] You know I have zero problems with blood bags. I'm a blood bag into a four-finger glass guy. And if we had them, I'd say stick to your guns, Caroline. But, we don't. Not that you have to listen to me - just, try not to hold everything against Elena. I'll take the blame. Okay?

[ Another beat. ] She misses you. [ And with that, he hangs up. ]