Chapter 19:After party

December 20, 2273

The day had been a mix of routine maintenance tasks and the anticipation of the evening's gathering. With his chip research largely delegated to AZ, Victor had more time to enjoy a lighter schedule and spend time with his friends. He had been working on a comic series over the past month and was eager to share it with them.

During the day, Victor observed Beatrice Armstrong's awkward glances and fidgeting but chose to ignore them. It seemed to be a personal matter that didn't concern him directly.

After completing his daily tasks, Victor headed to Butch's quarters for the evening party. Butch had invited everyone over to his Deloria residence for a casual gathering, and while Victor had been initially hesitant, he was looking forward to spending time with his friends.

Upon arrival at the Deloria residence, Victor was greeted warmly by Butch.

Butch: "Hey, Victor ! Glad you could make it. Come on in, everyone's already here."

Victor entered the cozy quarters, where the atmosphere was lively. Ellen, Butch's mother, was standing near the entrance with a bottle of wine in her hand. She gave a stiff smile as she saw the guests arriving.

Ellen: "Welcome, Victor . It's nice to see you."

Victor : "Thanks, Ellen. I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Ellen: "No, not at all. Just enjoy yourself."

Butch led Victor to his room where the party was in full swing. Several of his friends were already there, chatting and enjoying the evening.

Amata: "Hey, Victor ! I'm glad you're here. We were just talking about the latest updates in the Vault."

Wally: "Yeah, and we're looking forward to seeing what you've been working on."

Victor smiled and set aside his bag. He was keeping his comics a surprise for later in the evening.

Victor : "I'm glad everyone could make it. I've got something special planned for later, so stick around."

The party continued with laughter, music, and conversation. Victor took some time to enjoy the relaxed environment and catch up with his friends. He noticed that the energy in the room was positive and everyone seemed to be having a good time.

Victor gathered everyone around.

Victor : "Alright, everyone! It's time for the surprise I mentioned. I've been working on a comic series 'Spider-Man', and I'd love for you all to read it with me."

He pulled out the comics from his bag and handed them out. His friends eagerly took their copies and found a comfortable spot to read. The room fell into a hush as everyone focused on the pages.

Butch: "This is awesome, Victor . I didn't know you were into drawing."

Amata: "Yeah, this is really impressive. You've put a lot of work into this."

As they read through the comics, Victor felt a sense of satisfaction. His friends were enjoying his work, and it was a reminder of the creative side of life in the Vault.

The evening continued with discussions about the comics and general catching up. Victor enjoyed the lively and relaxed atmosphere, appreciating the chance to spend quality time with his friends away from the usual routine and responsibilities.

The party was a success, and as the night wound down, Victor felt a sense of contentment. It had been a while since he'd had such a carefree evening, and it was a welcome break from his usual tasks and responsibilities.

Victor said bye to his friends and saw them off. After everyone left, Looking at Butch was sleeping soundly and the message that was left he sighed. Resigned to his fate he started cleaning the room he went to throw the garbage out. He saw Ellen sitting alone in the dining area while sipping the half filled wine glass.

"Put the garbage in there. I will clean throw it later." Ellen said Pointing to the garbage box under the sink.

After putting things in their place, I set the light of Butch's room off. I again went to the dining area to say bye to Ellen.

"Hey aunt Ellen, you seem to have something on your mind are you alright."asked Victor concernedly.

"Oh it's nothing , just some work related things and getting old as you can see."said Ellen looking at her wine glass the gulped it down in one go.

"How can you say this aunt, you're still young and so beautiful" assured Victor .

Focusing on the charming speaker "Oh you're joking."while smiling.

Seeing the mood lightened Victor said, " Of course aunt you are most charming and alluring in our vault, who will believe you if you say you are old . You're so fit and mesmerizing that you look better than any girl in her twenties." while looking in her eyes.

Hearing the word of admiration made her feel good, " You got sweet tongue."

Changing the topic Ellen, " Enough about me , tell me about you . Which one you are aiming for: Amata, your fan girl or Susie. Come on, don't be shy, tell your aunt she will help."Teasingly.

"Umm Aunt, how can I have the heart to say that we are just friends." Said embarrassed Victor .

Looking at his red face Ellen mischievously said "Must be Christine then , that silly girl does have her charm."

"Umm."Victor didn't know what to say.

Looking at his embarrassed appearance made him more charming in her eyes . Shrugging her thoughts, " Alright I won't tease you more. Come sit .Tell me about how your work is going." Pointing to a chair near her.

Obedient sitting he told her about his daily life , new projects he was doing all the while hiding his secret work not leaving any loophole for suspicion. Training with your friends and your studies.

Ellen, who was still drinking wine, listened intently.

Victor who was the one doing the talking noticed her looking more flustered and emptying her wine bottle. Looking at Ellen who unknowingly loosen her suit giving him the perfect view of a mesmerizing gully .

Ellen, while still noticing his eye on her chest didn't interrupt him, giggled slightly , asked "Victor tell me what kind of girl you want?"

Victor who was still admiring the view unknowingly replied: "Aunt girl has to have a perfect figure like you, curvy and seductive in every aspect."

Waking up from his stupor noticing what he said his face was red as Tomato. He wanted to jump in radroach shit to die.

Victor Said goodbye hurriedly and left.