Damon pulled Svetlana into a firm hug, and she met him halfway, arms tight around his waist.
She leaned in and kissed his cheek gently, whispering something only meant for him.
Whatever it was, it brought out a smile that softened every sharp line of his face.
Then came Macey. She stepped in and hugged him like a son, strong and full of pride. "I'm proud of you. You did well," she said, no hesitation in her tone. Damon felt it deep.
Macey and Victor would never replace his real mother, but they were more than just mentors. They were part of his foundation.
Victor especially had filled something Damon never liked to admit he lacked, a father figure who stood firm without ever needing to say it aloud.
When he finally reached Aoife, she stood holding Ava in her arms. Her smile was proud, but her eyes were wet.
Not crying, just full. She was holding back, but the weight of her love was there, plain and visible.
