When Do Elena And Damon First Kiss

Okay, Vampire Diaries fans. Let's talk about something juicy. Something that still sparks debates: Elena and Damon's first kiss. Buckle up because this might get controversial.

The "Official" First Kiss

Most people point to Season 3, episode 19, "Heart of Darkness". Remember that one? Damon and Elena were on a road trip. Things got…intense. It was definitely a lip-lock.

But was it *really* the first? I'm not so sure.

My Unpopular Opinion: It Happened Sooner!

Here's where I get flamed, probably. I think their "first" kiss happened *way* earlier.

Let's rewind to Season 2, episode 1, "The Return." Katherine, pretending to be Elena, kisses Damon. Passionately. He thinks he's kissing Elena!

Now, some argue that this doesn't count. Katherine was in Elena's body! Technicality, I say!

Why It Should Count (Hear Me Out!)

Damon believed he was kissing Elena. His emotions were real. The anticipation was real! It was a Delena moment, even if manufactured.

Think about it. The build-up to that kiss was *epic*. Damon was all angsty and longing. He finally thought he got his girl.

The disappointment when he realized it was Katherine? Heartbreaking! But that initial kiss? Pure Delena fuel.

Consider the Impact

That Katherine-as-Elena kiss changed things. It showed Damon's true feelings. It made Elena (the real one) start to see him differently.

It was a catalyst! It set the stage for all the Delena drama to come. So, dismissing it seems unfair. It's like ignoring a major plot point.

It was a turning point in their relationship. Before, Damon was just the "evil brother". After that kiss? He became something more. Someone with real feelings.

The "Heart of Darkness" Kiss: Overrated?

Don't get me wrong, the Season 3 kiss was steamy. But it lacked the raw emotion of the Season 2 kiss (or *almost*-kiss).

By Season 3, Damon and Elena had already established a connection. The "Heart of Darkness" kiss was more of a confirmation. A "yes, this is happening!" moment.

The Katherine-as-Elena kiss? That was a "maybe?" A "what if?" It had more weight, in my opinion. It had more potential.

Let's Be Honest

We all have our favorite Delena moments. Whether you agree with me or not, it's fun to debate. It's part of the fandom!

So, what do you think? Was the Season 2 kiss a "real" Delena moment? Or am I totally off my rocker? Let me know in the comments!

Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic. Maybe I just love the drama. Either way, I'm sticking to my guns. Damon and Elena's first kiss? It happened way earlier than you think.