The party was finally coming to an end. Armand said goodbye to all the guests, thanking them for being there and giving special thanks to Samantha.
– Ah, Sammy, none of this would’ve been possible without you. Do you think she liked the ring?
– Are you kidding? It’s beautiful, Armand. We made a great choice, trust me.
Daniel and Mary Sue said goodbye to Jason and Marissa.
Daniel stepped away briefly to say goodbye to Jessica and whispered in her ear:
Dirk and Tara didn’t leave each other’s side for the rest of the night, and Angela was thrilled that her plan had worked. She and Justin also had a lovely evening.
Alexander and Sofia said goodbye with a hug — apparently, the chess table wasn’t Alexander’s only companion anymore.
Darren thanked Samantha warmly for the recognition. At the end of the night, he handed her a painting he had made especially for her.
– For you, as a token of my gratitude.
– Oh, Darren, you didn’t have to… but thank you.
He hugged her goodbye, his heart light and content.
Nina was chatting cheerfully with Geoff.
Geoff then asked:
– Want a ride home? I’ll have them bring my car around…
– I’m okay, Geoff, I’ll call a cab.
Nina had completely forgotten about Carlos until Isabel approached.
– Nina, have you seen my uncle Carlos? Ben and I should probably take him home.
Nina glanced at Geoff with a guilty look.
– Well, I don’t know, Isabel… last I saw him, he said he was going for a walk among the flowers.
A while later, Isabel found Carlos, gave him some water, and helped him back on his feet.
She scolded him softly:
– How could you just pass out in the flower bed, uncle? No one knew where you were. I even asked Nina…
Carlos, still disoriented, interrupted her and walked toward Nina.
– Nin… I’m sorry… I think… I drank too much nectar…
Carlos reached out to touch Nina’s face.
Feeling awkward, Nina gently pulled his hand away. She was still upset.
Carlos went on:
– Did you… already call a cab? I’ll go… with Isabel. Come… with me…
Geoff’s car arrived, and Nina, noticing people around beginning to watch, and realizing she’d be left alone once Geoff left, simply said:
– I’m fine, I already have a ride home. Shall we, Geoff…?
The party finally ended. Many things happened — new bonds were formed, others were strengthened, and some came dangerously close to breaking. But in the end, everyone had a good time and, just for one night, managed to forget all their problems.
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