Chapter 78: Ten Years Later

Chapter 78: Ten Years Later
Nelly

Over the past decade, much has evolved. Vincent, weary of concealment, finally decided to emerge from the shadows, a decision that did not come as a shock to me. With the help of Alec and Quinn, he persuaded me to join him in leaving behind our mundane existence in Miami for a return to the opulent lifestyle we once enjoyed. Despite the change in circumstances, I remain grounded and find fulfillment in life's simpler pleasures.

After relocating to California, Vincent reached out to the hordes, divulging a tale that was both captivating and chilling. He painted a picture of betrayal and survival, claiming that Peter and Stephen had abducted me for sinister experiments, intending to create a powerful army from their offspring to wipe out rival hordes. Vincent recounted a harrowing escape from the clutches of the scientists, ensuring the safety of me and Alexis as we went into hiding for the birth of our son.

His narrative struck a chord with the hordes, who swiftly elected him as their high leader. The decision seemed inevitable, given the gravity of his story. Meanwhile, Quinn assumed the role of head alpha and made the bold choice to unite our forces with the hordes.

Also, the outside world has changed. The Dark Ones finally convinced the humans that they won’t hunt them needlessly anymore as long as donated blood was made available. Laws with dire consequences were placed on both sides to ensure the safety of the innocent. The humans elected a president and cabinet much like before they learned of supernatural beings and long before the Dark Ones ruled all. The Dark Ones have a supreme ruler who is Vincent, but in reality, it is I. I take into account the suggestions of my family, though. We rule as a group…a family, not as an individual, and I believe that is the key to our success and longevity. I just want peace as I raise my children. I don’t want them to be forced to mature before they are ready, and I certainly won’t condone experiments on them. I refuse to be like my parents.

My brother, Kade, has recently returned from Italy and now resides just a few blocks away from me. I have also recently become an aunt, thanks to the incredible work of a few dedicated scientists. Despite Brandon and Carrie ending their relationship a few years ago, I have managed to maintain friendships with both of them. It's amusing to see Brandon and Alec continuing their "bro-dates" even after all this time. Carrie has become my go-to shopping buddy, although I must admit that I still despise shopping as much as ever.

After successfully eliminating all of the Hunters who attacked us in Louisiana and stepping out of the shadows, we were able to bring the Hunters to the negotiating table. Through these discussions, we were able to establish a new form of law enforcement that serves both humans and supernaturals alike. Thanks to these efforts, crime rates have decreased significantly, and the safety of our people has been ensured. As long as these conditions persist, we can continue to avoid the threat of war.

Now that the darkness has lifted, we can all shift our focus to what truly matters. Our daughter, Alexis, is now 10 years old. She takes after me in so many ways, and she has her daddy wrapped around her little finger. It's quite amusing to see how she also knows how to manipulate Alec and Quinn with her charm. I'll never forget the time I walked in on her spa day princess party and saw how she had painted the men in her life so beautifully.