Chapter 519: Quiet After the Storm

They celebrated a little longer, laughing, eating, sharing stories. The energy never dipped. It felt like the kind of night people would remember without needing pictures.

The gathering stretched on, comfortably. No one rushed to leave, and no one was in a hurry to end the good vibes.

Eventually, as the evening wore down, people started to say their goodbyes. Hugs were exchanged, promises to meet again soon were made.

Those who stayed behind helped clean up. Plates were gathered, cups stacked, leftovers packed into containers.

Once the last guests had left and only the family remained, the house grew quieter. Softer.

Victor walked past the kitchen, then turned his head toward Damon.

"Come help me out with this," he called.

Damon, still half-watching Svetlana and his mother chatting in the living room, stood and followed without hesitation.