A Vow Before the Storm

Aria couldn't even fathom the strength it must've taken for him to get to this point with her.

Her eyes were rimmed with tears as Aria kissed him again. "I know you came back quietly just so I wouldn't worry. You've got your own things to handle. Go ahead, whatever you need to do, I'll be right here, supporting you."

If Alaric was playing along with this whole show, he must have his own reasons.