Ok, so this is a really short chapter, because it probably should have gone on the end of the last one. I'll add the next proper one tomorrow :) Thanks for reading.

Disclaimer: I don't own VA.

RPOV

On our last day in Russia, all of Dimitri's family stayed home. It was a Saturday, so no one had to work, and we spent the day talking and laughing, and just generally making the most of our remaining time.
I tried to file everything away in my mind- every laugh and smile, as I wasn't sure when the next time we could see them would be. I had a feeling our lives back at Court would be getting a lot more hectic soon.

Though we had originally planned to leave around lunchtime, the lure of Olena's cooking had us sitting round the dinner table one last time, piling delicious food onto my plate. Though the air was filled with laughter and conversation, and to the outside observer we would look perfectly normal, there was an undercurrent of bittersweet sadness. I could only imagine what Dimitri's family must be thinking now- last time he'd been sitting at their dinner table ready to America, he almost didn't come back.

Though we put it off for as long as possible, eventually it was time to collect the bags we (Dimitri) had packed earlier that morning and say our goodbyes. We didn't want to risk leaving after dark and facing down Strigoi lurking on the roads. Our private flight may be flexible, but even that had limits.

Nearly everyone had tears in their eyes when the time came, except Yeva and Viktoria. Yeva because she never cried, Vika because I think she was trying to look strong in front of Dimitri. I had no doubt the hidden tears would fall once we were gone and she was alone in her room.

Something that had especially moved me was Paul coming up to his uncle and saying, "Are you going to come back?" And when Dimitri told him yes, of course, Paul made him promise that he would. I'd been included in this sentiment as well, and we'd both sworn to Paul that we would be back.

After hugging Viktoria and wishing her all the best with Nikolai, I only had Olena left to say goodbye to. Dimitri was still trapped in a huge hug from Sonya, with Zoya clinging to his leg.

Olena held her arms out to me, and I happily stepped into her embrace. I was so glad that through Dimitri I was able to include these amazing people in my life, and that Olena had accepted me so readily.
"It was so nice to have you back Roza. And I can never thank you enough for bringing Dimitri back to me."

I pulled away gently and smiled at her.
"I won't say that it was nothing, but it was worth it."
I looked over to where Dimitri was holding Alicia and Zoya, one in each arm. I allowed my happiness to show on my face. "I don't know what I'd do without him."

Olena noticed the way I looked at Dimitri and smiled.
"You know, I think I have seen Dimka smile more in the last week with you than I have in the last 10 years. It is truly amazing how happy you have made him. I'll always be grateful for that."

I hugged her again, and she whispered to me; "Please be careful, Roza. And look after Dimitri for me."

"Always." I promised, and held me tighter for a moment before kissing my cheek before letting me go.

As Dimitri said goodbye to his mother, Yeva came to speak to me. I'd already said goodbye, but it seemed the old woman had more to say. Then again, when didn't she?
"Do not worry, child. The future is bright for you and those closest to you. Keep an open mind and an open heart, for gifts are given to those who are ready to receive them. Nothing is impossible."

Well, that didn't seem all doom and gloom, unlike my last run-ins with psychics, so I was pretty happy with that. After all, who didn't want a bright future and gifts?

After delivering her message, and giving me a knowing look that held more knowledge than it seemed possible for one person to possess, she went to stand beside Viktoria as Dimitri came towards me.
"Ready?" He asked.

I nodded, not entirely trusting my voice not to break right now.
Everyone walked to the car with us.

"Don't forget to call when you get back to Court. In fact, don't forget to call at any time. Or write or email or something. And please give Vasilisa my thanks for her part in the restoration." Olena reminded us.

"Of course." I assured her.

Vika pushed her way forward.
"Maybe I can come to America soon. I'd love to see Court, or anywhere outside Russia, really."

I smiled.
"That would be great. You can meet the gang, and I'll take you shopping in Missoula. It'll be great." I promised.

After another round of final goodbyes, we drove off. I leaned out the window, waving until we turned a corner, and the house was out of sight.

I slumped back against the seat and looked over at Dimitri.
"You alright?" I asked quietly.

He nodded, but I could see he was upset. I would be too, if I had to leave my family without knowing how long it would be until I saw them again. Hell, I was sad to leave Baia, so I could only imagine how much it must suck for him.
"We'll see them soon." Dimitri said, trying to convince himself more than me.

I laid my hand over his free one, giving and receiving comfort from a single, simple touch.
"Sure we will. Now we just have to deal with my family."

I know it was short, but the next chapter is the hunting trip. We're not at the end yet :)

Please check out my other story if you have time- Next Generation: Change.

Review and get to hold hands with Dimitri :)