Before they could step out of Damon’s office, a firm presence moved in front of him.
Natasha.
She didn’t raise her voice.
She didn’t need to.
“We will talk about this later, Damon.”
Her tone was steady—
But beneath it was something heavier.
Disappointment.
“I want to be able to look your mother in the eyes when I meet her in the afterlife…”
A pause.
“And tell her I did not fail in raising you the way she would have.”
Silence filled the room.
Damon didn’t look away.
Didn’t argue.
Didn’t defend himself.
“I understand.”
And for once—
There was no arrogance in his voice.
Only acceptance.
He stepped around her.
Beside him, Willow moved quietly.
Behind them, Conall followed.
The moment they stepped outside, the air shifted.
The Rogue Kingdom was alive.
Strong.
Watchful.
