Season 7 of the hit vampire series once again promises to have a hefty bite, promises Julie Plec, the show's executive producer, when asked about it by TV Line at the Television Critics Association summer press tour.

Plec addressed the issue of Nina Dobrev leaving the show, "In terms of the show focusing on a single character, we are going to shift from that. We finally have an opportunity to show off the ensemble and make them feel more lie the stars of their own show."

In line with this, Plec hinted at new romances for Bonnie and Matt, the rekindling if the bromance between Damon and Alaric and a startling "curveball' that will be thrown at Stefan and Caroline.

The title of the premiere itself already titillates. Day 20 of 22,190, Give or Take could be a countdown, but the question is, countdown to what?

Plec says perhaps it's to the moment when Damon is reunited with his one true love, which may or may not be Bonnie.

Plec hints that Bonnie's time may have come. "Well, by then, Bonnie will have lived a nice life. [Damon] tacks on an extra decade for her every now and then."

Later, however, she concedes that Bonnie has some time left to stick around, and might even have a surprising love interest in the new season.

It's then revealed that what Damon is really waiting for is a chance to be with Katherine. His dilemma is what to do while he is waiting, as a man and as a vampire.

We also learn that Alaric has become Damon's drinking buddy again after some drama of his own, and Bonnie and Damon continue building their complicated friendship.

Other hints at intriguing romances in the new season are Matt and a potentially interesting character, and a curveball thrown at Stefan and Caroline that will shake things up for them.

Season 7 ofreturns on Thursday, Oct. 8 (The CW, 8/7c).