SEVENTY-THREE!!... LEMONADES OUT OF LEMON

Making lemonade out of lemons is one thing this family was really good at, no matter what.

The way we always found time to laugh despite the threats lurking around.

The way we don't have to glance over our shoulder every damn second in fear.

One of those moments of making lemonades was now.

The kitchen was alive with laughter and chatter. We had all gathered around, sharing stories, jokes, and enjoying each other's company. The clinking of dishes, the aroma of something delicious cooking on the stove, and the warmth of togetherness filled the air. It was a welcome break from the chaos and tension that had consumed our lives recently.

Alex was entertaining us with tales of his youth, back when the pack was beginning to take shape.

“So, you see,” he said, “back in the day, we didn't have half the luxuries we do now. We relied on our wits and each other to survive.”

Damon chimed in, “Dad, you never told Ma'am Elena about the time you tried to cook and set the whole kitchen on fire.”

Alex