In the series opener, a Virginia high-school student, Elena, falls for a new boy in class who is actually a centuries-old vampire struggling to live peacefully among humans. Their budding relationship is threatened when his evil vampire brother arrives in town and tries to capture Elena's heart for himself.

Stefan joins the football team after an impressive athletic display involving catching and throwing. Also: Elena invites Stefan and Bonnie to dinner in hopes they will bond, but Damon disrupts the evening with an unexpected visit. Later, an act of violence shocks the town.