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Damian rarely went back home for the weekend. Between his demanding school schedule and the tangled web of his family’s obligations, weekends usually meant catching up on studies or soccer training. But this weekend was different. With Demetrius studying abroad and Donovan no longer in the picture, the old family mansion felt quieter than ever. The only familiar presence there besides the servants—including the ever-dutiful Jeeves—was Melinda.
Damian’s relationship with his mother had once been strained by the complicated history of their family, but recent years had brought healing and understanding between them. They had talked long and honestly, bridging gaps and settling old wounds. Now, there was an easy warmth between them that Damian cherished.
Pulling up to the grand estate on a warm Friday evening, Damian felt the familiar pang of nostalgia. The sprawling gardens, the marble columns, and the polished stone steps reminded him that no matter where he went, this was still his home.
Melinda was waiting on the veranda, a serene smile brightening her graceful features. ''Damian,'' she greeted warmly, opening her arms. ''It’s so good to see you.''
''Good to see you too, Mom,'' Damian replied, returning her embrace with genuine affection.
Once inside, the house felt alive with the subtle hum of the staff bustling quietly about their chores. Jeeves bowed as Damian passed, his sharp eyes softening in welcome.
Melinda led Damian to the sunlit sitting room, where a pot of tea was already waiting. ''How was school this week?'' she asked as she poured.
Damian shrugged, settling into a leather armchair. ''Tiring. Lots of tests and… well, you know how it is.''
Melinda nodded sympathetically. ''I remember those days. But I’m proud of how you’re handling everything.''
He smiled, the weight of his week slowly lifting. ''Thanks, Mom.''
There was a pause before Damian’s voice grew more hesitant. ''Actually, there’s something I wanted to ask you about.''
Melinda’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. ''Anything, my dear.''
''It’s about a movie premiere next week,'' Damian began, cheeks flushing slightly. ''Spy Wars. Anya invited me to come with her, but the tickets are really hard to get. So I was wondering if—''
Melinda’s smile widened knowingly. ''Ah, that excitement of youth and fandom.'' She set her teacup down. ''I might be able to help. Between my time as First Lady and my connections, I have a few friends in the right places.''
Damian’s eyes lit up with hope. ''Really? You would do that?''
''Of course,'' Melinda said firmly. ''I’ll make some calls tomorrow. You can count on me.''
Relieved, Damian leaned back and allowed himself to relax. The weekend ahead suddenly felt brighter.
The following days passed gently. Damian spent his mornings exploring the mansion’s expansive library with Jeeves, his afternoons playing with Max—Damian's beloved German Shepherd—and his evenings sharing stories with Melinda over dinner. Their conversations ranged from light-hearted jokes to deep reflections about family and life.
On Saturday evening, while lounging in the garden, Melinda mused, ''I’m glad you’re taking time for yourself, my love. Life isn’t just about duties and expectations.''
Damian nodded thoughtfully. ''I wish I'd known that when I was a kid. But I’ve been trying. And it’s easier when I’m here with you.''
Melinda smiled, brushing a stray lock of hair behind his ear. ''You’ve grown into a remarkable young man. I'm so proud of you.''
Damian grinned. “Thanks, Mom.”
The weekend wrapped itself around them like a comforting blanket. Time slowed, and the mansion’s usual stillness felt less lonely.
Sunday evening arrived all too quickly. As the golden hour filtered through the tall windows, Melinda knocked gently on Damian’s bedroom door.
''Come in,'' Damian called, sitting up in bed.
Melinda entered carrying an envelope. ''I have good news.''
Damian sat forward eagerly. ''You got the tickets?''
She nodded, handing him the envelope. ''Two seats, front row.''
''Are you serious?'' Damian’s grin threatened to split his face. ''Thank you so much! You’re amazing, Mom.''
Melinda chuckled softly. ''I had a little help. But now the important question: who are you bringing?'' She already knew the answer, of course.
Damian’s cheeks flushed a deep red. ''Anya.''
Melinda’s eyes twinkled as she studied her son. ''Ah, Anya. That special girl. I like her.''
''You do?'' Damian asked, surprised.
Melinda smiled fondly. ''Yes. She’s bright, kind, and clever. And I can see how much she means to you. Plus, she is the daughter of one of my closest friends.''
''Yeah... you're right about all of that. I still think it's amazing how you and Mrs Forger have managed to remain friends all this years,'' Damian admitted. ''Despite... well, everything.''
''I love Yor dearly. It is truly easy to be fond of her,'' Melinda stepped closer, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. ''You know, I’d love to have Anya as a daughter-in-law someday. And Yor as your mother-in-law. They're already part of the family.''
Damian’s breath caught. ''Mom—''
''I'm sorry, dear,'' Melinda said, squeezing his shoulder. ''It’s alright to be a little embarrassed. But I’m happy you have someone who makes you this happy.''
They shared a quiet moment, the bond between them stronger than ever.
As the evening deepened, they embraced, promising to keep in touch more often despite their busy lives.
''Oh... and Mom?'' Damian said.
''Yes, dear?''
''Please, don't tell Mrs Forger about any of this,'' Damian smiled. ''I want it to be a surprise.''
''Of course,'' Melinda promised. ''Have fun. I want to hear all about it in your next visit.''
''I will.''
Damian left the mansion the next day with two precious tickets in hand—and a heart full of hope, love, and family.