Damon had just finished watching the last of the party videos with Svetlana.
He placed the phone on the coffee table and leaned back into the couch, relieved that she hadn't stayed mad, at least not seriously.
They sat in silence for a moment, her head on his shoulder.
Then came the sound of light footsteps pattering against the floor.
"Daddy!"
Ava's little voice rang out as she ran into the room, arms already outstretched.
Damon barely had time to sit up straight before she launched into his lap. She clung to him, her small hands gripping his shirt.
"I missed you, Daddy!" she said, muffled against his chest.
Damon smiled and wrapped both arms around her, holding her close. Her hair was messy, and her face was still warm from sleep, but her energy was full.
"I missed you too, princess," he said, kissing the top of her head.
Svetlana smiled quietly as she watched them. Ava snuggled in closer and then leaned back just enough to look up at his face.
