No, he made me a promise, and he’s going to stick to it. I can’t compare the two men. They’re extremely different, and it’s something I enjoy about both of them. Though the thought of Mortem proudly showing me off in Purgatory sends a pang through my chest.
Enjoy the now, Candy, stop overthinking everything.
Instead of getting myself worked up in an anxious spiral, I get dressed. The outfit looks just as amazing as it did under the tree, and I return to the living room with a wide grin on my face.
“What do you think?” I say with a twirl.
Krampus is already dressed, smiling as he approaches me, grabbing my waist. “Like a beautiful pink present. We have to hurry before breakfast is over,” he says, grabbing my hand. I squeeze his warm fingers tightly as he portals us into a stunning dining hall.
Everything is exposed wood, with every inch decorated in gold and red Christmas decor.
There isn’t a spot that doesn’t have a red bow or a glistening golden light showcasing the space. Three long handmade tables take up the entire massive room, and then I realize there are hundreds of little faces staring at us.
Krampus holds me tightly as the room shifts into silence, broken only by the light instrumental holiday music in the background.
“Learn some manners. This is Claw’s lady love, Candy. Be nice,” Calanis says, from where she stands on the bench, a grin spreading across her face before approaching us. “Oh, I knew the clothes Calanis made would fit perfectly. We elves are so happy you’re here. Come, sit next to Calanis and meet my husband.”
I glance over at Krampus, and he nods his head. Calanis makes different elves move so that Krampus and I can take a larger seating arrangement at the end of one table. It’s clear that this is Krampus’ reserved spot.
“This is Calanis’ husband, Darmon. He is a woodworker,” she says, waving to a male elf with a sheepish smile. “He is shy. Calanis does all the talking.”
“Calanis never stops talking,” another elf chimes in.
“That is Serenia. She must use a seam ripper most often because she is bad at her job. Calanis believes this is why she is jealous. Do not mind her, most elves aren’t as irritating.”
My jaw drops and Krampus lets out a snort as we take our seats at the table where he begins fixing me a plate.
“Hot chocolate or apple cider?” he asks.
“Oh, hot chocolate please,” I say and he pours me a mug.
When I look down, I’m pleased that most of the food on my plate is sweeter breakfast foods; french toast, pancakes, and candied bacon.
“Do elves love sweets?” I ask Calanis. She smiles with a nod, her large ears shifting with her.
“Oh yes, sweets is the most important food group.”
I sip my hot chocolate, realizing it’s the best I’ve ever had.
“Cupids love sweets too. This is amazing.”
Calanis takes her own sip of hot chocolate, glancing between us.
“Is the scary one no longer with us? Or is he afraid of a bunch of elves?” she says with a smile. I think she likes the idea of intimidating someone like Mortem.
“He had a work emergency,” Krampus says, giving her a look I can’t read.
“Mmm. What do Claw and Candy plan to do with their day?” she asks.
“I’m showing her all the hidden gems of the North Pole,” Krampus says proudly, tossing an arm over my chair.
“Calanis thinks Candy will love the North Pole. Calanis also thinks this is the best Christmas ever.”
I smile at the sweet elf and can’t help but agree. I think this is finally the year I get everything I’ve ever wanted.
“Every single fucking cupid party, I swear,” Gloom complains. “I was tied up, on my knees and ready to?—”
Death nudges Gloom, who turns around and swallows thickly.
