Chapter 401: A Late Return

Damon finally made it back to Dublin.

The clock on the dashboard showed it was between 1 and 2 a.m. as he pulled into the hotel parking lot.

Exhausted but relieved to be back, he stepped out of the car and headed inside.

The quiet hum of the elevator filled his ears as he rode up to his floor.

When the soft ding signaled his arrival, Damon stepped out, making his way down the hallway.

Unlocking the door, he entered the room and immediately glanced toward the bed.

His eyes softened when he saw her, Svetlana, still curled up and seemingly asleep.

A small smile tugged at his lips as he walked over to her.

Lowering himself, he leaned in to kiss her gently, his presence careful not to wake her.

But just as his lips brushed against her forehead, she stirred.

Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his.

"Damon," she murmured, her voice soft but carrying a mix of relief and curiosity.