Ric hadn't known he's swung that way, himself, and still wasn't really sure where his sexuality was. He would... tell her as much, as soon as he could find his voice again. As it was, he... was reduced to being incredibly un-Ric-like, holding onto Damon hard and actually burying his face in Damon's hair to avoid having to look at... anyone, or anything, once Elena was gone. "I know."

He did. He really, truly believed that. It just didn't feel particularly okay, in the moment. He wanted to go talk to her now on some level, but just... couldn't quite make himself. They all needed some time. He knew that. He was going with it. Didn't mean the now didn't hurt them all.