Darlin quickly hops up the steps of Sam's palacial estate, quickly dusting off their boots at the doormat and then knocking.
One quick rap, followed by two quick taps.
The door pops open, and there is the one that Fred calls Bright Eyes. They coolly raise a brow, always so unbothered.
"Hey," Darlin thins their lips into a sardonic smile. "Is your father here?"
Their jaw twitches. "Oh, har har, you're so funny."
Behind them, Fred's voice lightly calls: "Is that our other parent?"
Darlin swallows back a light laugh as, in an instant, Fred pops his head over his friend's shoulder.
"Hey," he beams back. "Dad's been waiting for you all night."
"I'm not too late for dinner, am I?" They raise the casserole dish they have up in their left hand. "I bought lasagna."
Bright Eyes' brow furrows in confusion. "Brought?"
"Bought. I'm not trying to disprove you vampires' immortality."
The youngest vamp appreciates that with an amused snort, while Fred actually chuckles. "You're too kind."
"Sooo, can I come in then?" Darlin challenges playfully.
Bright Eyes sighs and steps aside to let them in.
"Thanks, kiddo," Darlin says, gently patting their head.
Bright Eyes grumbles, but they can barely hide the smile that tugs at their lips.
Sam zips into Darlin's sight and takes them into a hug, before kissing their forehead. "Hi, Darlin."
"Hi, handsome," they peck his lips sweetly, basically swaying in the comfort of his arms.
"Get a room, why don't you?" Bright Eyes quips.
"One more word, and you're grounded," Sam flashes them a devilish grin. He's really been leaning into the found family jokes these days. Darlin can't lie; it's sweet to see.