A/N: As this story has come to an end so as my journey in Fanfiction. Thank you all for your support, and a heartfelt gratitude to my sister Amazing Aisha. She has gracefully taken charge of my unfinished story all through the night. As and when she has time after finishing her ongoing projects. Love you always and forever!~

Epilogue~

Harlem, New York
October 2024

Tell me,

Is this a warm summer morning, does the air still holds the faint smell of jasmine that were kept on your nightstand? Have the morning rays started to pierce through the blinds illuminating your world?

Or is it one of those quiet monsoon days, are you sitting by the window sipping your coffee, staring into the relentless droplet that are plummeting the ground? Can you smell the wet soil? Is that a beginning of a smile?

Whichever it maybe, I hope this is a moment to remember, not a cold day in December. I hope my memories are accompanying you on a day of joy and happiness. I know you're moving on in life, and I'm sure it's a long, fulfilled life without a hint of regret.

But even if you are consumed by the shadows of gloom and despair, know that light will be just around the corner, and so will I.

Your constant companion~

Folding the cover with a deep sigh he wiped his eyes before looking up at the crowd. Many among them mirrored his expression, where most of the women were sniffling, the few men present tried to discretely wipe their faces. Though the pain was evident on their faces but somehow the glint of joy was hard to neglect.

Soundlessly he stood up from the chair, tugging the hard blind book in between his arm and torso he took off his glasses and placed them inside his shirt pocket.

Stealing a quick peek at his watch he proceeded towards the organisers desk, she however was in no position to utter a word. He hesitated for a brief moment, his mind going back in time.

After the 11th rejection from various publishing houses Damon had all but lost hope on this novel. He had settled on the fact that the world is simply not worthy to hear this story. By some miracle Nina's employer got hold of the manuscript, from him it went to his nephew who had just started his own publishing company and from there onwards there was no looking back. It started with mere 100 copied and now after 2 years, it still manages to be on top of the charts.

He has been touring ever since, promoting the Novel as well as the company. With these events and preparation of his next book kept him away from home for quite some time, so when his manager proposed for a book reading in New York city he all but jumped to the idea. He wouldn't lie, it's been exhausting, but it was worth it.

The chiming bells broke his reverie, forcing him to glance at the door that now was opened ajar revealing an overenthusiastic 6year old furiously tugging at his mothers hand.

Damon's face lit up like the morning sun seeing the beautiful brunette who had just entered the store. Before he could proceed he was held back by the very organiser who had made herself presentable again within this time.

"Mr. Salvatore, thank you for joining us today. I can't tell you what an honour it has been to be present here during the book reading." Wiping her face tentatively she started again, "I have read all your Novels, even those that were published online, but I believe you have outdone yourself in this one."

Damon offered a kind smile, "The pleasure has been all mine Mrs García. And thank you so much for inviting me here and for your kind words."

She blushed deeply, "Oh, Mr. Salvatore you're too…" she paused seeing him distracted, instantly she followed his line of gaze and found a tall brunette proceeding towards them, the anxious 6 year old too didn't go unnoticed. "I wonder who might that be?" She promoted in a curious tone.

By the time he was already next to them, "Mrs García, meet my wife Nina, and this is our son Stefan."

After exchanging pleasantries and once again thanking everyone for making this event a success Damon exited the book store with his family. Nina was already in the car while little Stefan was right behind her still holding on to his father's hand. His attention however was fixated at the Gelato shop adjacent to the book store.

As they were about to get in he tugged furiously at Damon's sleeves, "Da da…" he babbled and pointed at the neon sign that said Papa's Gelato corner.

Stefan was born with a birth defect, his speech was delayed compared to other children of his age. Both his parents were incessantly worried the moment they found out about this. There wasn't a speech therapist available in the entire city that they haven't consulted. All the doctors have reassured them that with continued therapy sessions his condition will improve but he would never quite harness the skill the speak fluently. But this was no hindrance to his physical and mental development. Stefan was quite an intelligent kid, yes he lacked in one sector but his skills to persuade his parents were top notch, especially when it came to his dad. Needless to say he never missed a chance to take advantage of it.

Damon scooted down to his level, "What is it bud, is there something you want?"

Stefan grinned from one ear to the other and again pointed at the sign.

Damon looked at the shop and smirked, "But Stef I don't think they'd let me take out that sign for you. I can try for you though…"

Stefan's forehead creased with annoyance, "Da-da, ice-keem" he stomped his foot on the ground and again pointed at the shop, this time he made sure to point at the Gelato machine instead of the sign.

Ruffling his hair, he placed a quick kiss on Stefan's forehead before continuing, "You got it buddy, one chocolate mint for you and a caramel cookie for your mommy coming right up."

He squealed with joy where Nina just shook her head while laughing at their antics.

After making sure Stefan was safely sat inside the car Damon jogged to the ice cream parlour and placed his order. He turned to wave at his family when he felt someone or something collide with his leg. Turning quickly he found a little girl sprawled on the floor. He rushed to her side and what struck him was her long brunette hair that covered her face.

"Oh my, sweetheart are you alright, are you hurt?" He spoke softly but instead of a whimper with tear stained eyes he was shot with a death glare. The girl might be a mere 5 or 6 year old, but her hazel eyes shot daggers in Damon's direction.

He swallowed a lump and extended his hand to help her to her feet. To his surprise she all but declined him, after pulling herself up on her feet she straightened her ruffled dress and looked up at Damon with accusing glance.

Before anyone of them could say anything she was turned slightly to the side, "Honey, are you alright? Did you hurt yourself? How many times did I tell you not to run like that on the road." Said the blonde female.

"Mama I'm fine, and I wasn't, it's not my fault. I was comping to the store and this man…" Damon was subjected to another glare, "he appeared out of nowhere. That's why I fell." She admitted with a pout. The blonde woman chuckled and looked up towards the accused man. As expected she was startled to find Damon, one of the renowned author standing silently while he was being accused by a child. And his piercing blue eyes didn't make it easier.

By now she was drowning in embarrassment, "Err, Mr. Salvatore, I'm so ashamed, please forgive my daughter…"

"There's no need, I believe the little lady is right, I was indeed in her way, so to apologise let me get her favourite ice cream. What's say, will I be forgiven then?" He glanced at the girl.

"Okay! One chocolate chip for me and one vanilla butter cream for mama." She answered confidently.

"Ileana, stop it!" Her mother scolded the now confused girl, she was about to protest but Damon had already gone to the counter. The moment his ears caught her name something inside Damon's heart twinged. With a few deep breaths he calmed his heart and collected all his orders.

He handed the vanilla cone to the mother and dropped down near the girl, so he would be at her eye level, "Here you go little Ileana, your chocolate chip with extra chocolate syrup. I hope I'm forgiven now." He said with a bright smile.

Her face lit up with joy as a dazzling grin adored her face, she wrapped her little arms around Damon's neck, surprising him and her mother. "Thank you, um."

"You can call me Damon. Enjoy your treat sweetheart." With this Damon got up from his position and proceeded towards his waiting family.

Just as he was to climb inside the car he glanced up at the sky. Through the fog, he could see the glimmering light of one particular star. Somehow it would always push through the haze, shining brighter as to renounce its presence. A ghost of a smile formed on his lips as an odd session took over his senses and calmed his heart. And he was certain the light was right here, she was right where she belonged, in his heart.

Fin~