**Chapter 465: Merry Christmas**
The air in the room was filled with a palpable warmth as Nathaniel’s voice broke through the lingering tension. “No worries! You’ve done so much for the shelter and for Hornvale—and even saved my life. Honestly, there’s no reason not to say yes. I’ll have my people get everything you asked for ready.” His smile radiated kindness, and Caroline found herself nodding slightly in response, feeling the weight of his gratitude.
In the depths of her mind, Caroline realized her storage space was still overflowing with an assortment of items—mountains of cigarettes, an array of liquor bottles, boxes brimming with tea and snacks, and even some medical supplies. Steel and fancy gift sets cluttered the corners, remnants of a world that had once been vibrant and full of life.
She had plans, though. Once the chaos settled, she intended to barter all of this with the army or other survivor groups. What she truly needed were more practical supplies—cat food, dog essentials, and other daily necessities that had become scarce in this new reality. Memories of her previous life flickered through her mind; a trade platform had emerged after the base was constructed, and she would seize that opportunity when the moment was right.
Nathaniel seemed eager to continue the conversation, but the remnants of Andrew’s chaos still loomed in the air. Caroline exchanged a glance with Tyler, and together they gathered their pets, making their way upstairs.
Just as they were about to leave the room, Jet, who had been uncharacteristically quiet until that moment, suddenly flapped his wings and squawked, “Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas!”
The unexpected outburst froze everyone in place. It was only then that they realized the day had slipped away into darkness, and Christmas had quietly crept in, almost unnoticed amidst the turmoil.
Nathaniel blinked in surprise before breaking into laughter, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Merry Christmas! What a cute little guy,” he said, glancing at Jet, who puffed up with pride.
By the time Caroline and the others reached the elevator, Jet had taken his place, sitting regally atop Raven’s head. He turned to Caroline, his voice dripping with arrogance. “Human, that old man is the boss here, right?”
Caroline nodded, her mind racing. Nathaniel was essentially the head of the government in Hornvale. Before tonight’s upheaval, Andrew had been his rival. But after the chaos Andrew had caused, who could tell if he would maintain his position of power?
“Everybody loves a parrot that says sweet things! That old guy called me cute. I made you look good, Human!” Jet boasted, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Caroline couldn’t help but chuckle at Jet’s antics. It was evident he was putting on a little show to bolster her reputation. She remembered how he used to stream online with his previous owner, where viewers had likely taught him all sorts of charming phrases to recite.
She reached up, gently brushing her fingers through the soft feathers on his head, a smile spreading across her face. “You’re right. You just reminded me we should have a Christmas dinner tonight. But remember, you don’t have to say nice things just to please people anymore. Only when you truly mean it.”
Jet tilted his head, confusion flickering in his eyes as he processed her words. Raven shot him a knowing look, as if they were silently communicating something profound. After a moment, Jet turned back to Caroline with a grin. “Human, you’re the best!”


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