CHAPTER 403

Just as Kendall was about to greet Damien, the man pursed his thin lips, strode up to her in three swift steps, and wrapped her tightly in his arms.

As if only then realizing she was truly there, his tense body slowly relaxed.

But even as he relaxed, a slight tremble remained.

Perhaps it was the fear of losing her.

Kendall's eyes softened. She hugged Damien back, silently conveying the warmth of her presence.

Meanwhile, the other survivors around them erupted in cheers.

It was as if they had suddenly found their backbone, as if a weight had been lifted off their hearts — many of them burst into tears.

Nathan immediately approached the local leaders to assess the situation, then relayed the information to the rescue command center outside via the small signal transmitter he carried.

Damien, having held Kendall long enough, finally let go. Turning to the rest of the Parker family, he asked in a low voice, "Is everyone alright?"