The Christmas Elf & I - 3. Chapter 3

I just walked into the apartment building after my last class of the semester. Michael has been a great help to me during the rigors of carrying 18 credits and my part-time job. He would make dinner for us every night. Proofreading my papers for me and keep me up on the latest information coming from Ever North. I hadn’t heard from Lucien since I returned. Just Anston and Riven. They sent me back a note, thanking me for forgiving them. I hadn’t reached out to him either. I didn’t know if I should or not. Michael told me it was my decision whether or not I wanted to. He wasn’t getting involved. Well, beyond keeping me informed. I found a letter in my mailbox and took it up to the apartment to open. It was an invitation to dinner here in the city. Two weeks from today. I opened my laptop and looked up the address, almost falling off the chair. It was a new residential tower that was built a few years ago. Dinner was in the restaurant on the 100th floor. There was a personal note from Lucien.

Dear Richard,

Since you have completed your semester of studies. I thought maybe you could join me for dinner with my family and a few friends. While it is not a formal affair, it will require you to wear a suit. The children look forward to seeing you again and hearing of your adventures in college. As do I. For my children that you haven’t met. They look forward to meeting you, too. I hope you will join my family and friends for a relaxing evening meal.

Best regards,

Lucien

I carefully folded the note and placed it back inside the invitation, returning it to the envelope it had arrived in. Just in time for a knock on the door.

“Come in Mike.” I said. He opened the door and stuck his head in. Waving an envelope just like mine.

“Did you get an invitation?”

“Yeah. What is it?” He shrugged.

“Nothing really. Lucien has a few dinner parties during the year in various cities around the world. It’s nothing more than keeping up with friends and meeting new ones. I haven’t been to the new place yet. I used to attend at the old condo with Orin when we were in town.” I saw the sadness from the memories that caused. “It will be good to see everyone again.” He paused and shook his head. “It’s not a date. He just wants you to meet his family and friends. He’ll probably escort you as he introduces you around. There may be 30 or 40 people besides his family.”

“And will these people think I am his new mate?” Again, Michael’s head shook.

“No. I talked with Lucien a few weeks after you arrived here. Hence why you got the letters from the kids. They have been apologizing to scores of people as part of their punishment. Lucien can be rather strict with them.” He paused and with a slight shrug and a half smile, he continued. “Of course, if you want private time with him, there is also the after party up in the condo itself. You would be able to pull him aside and he would follow. Unquestioningly and with no preconceived notions.” He caught me off guard and my mouth opened and closed a few times.

“You want me to seduce him?” He barked out a laugh.

“That’s funny Ricky. No. You already did that.” I gasped in shock. “When you are ready… let nature take its course.” He said slyly.

“But. For somebody I seduced, he sure doesn’t act on it. I haven’t even heard from him since Ever North.” He raised an eyebrow as his eyes slowly worked their way around the room. Stopping at my books, my laptop, every piece of furniture. Before, they returned to me.

“Actions. Speak louder than words.” He said as a teacher would instruct a student. Then it hit me. He’s been showing me he wants to take care of me. In my own mind, I never realized it until now. Letting out a huff of acceptance.

“I’m a kept boy? A sugar baby? I need to go to this to show my appreciation?” Michael’s eyebrows raised again.

“Has he asked you for any form of remuneration?” Michael asked. I flushed lightly.

“No.”

“Well then. You could enjoy the evening for what it is. A night with him and his family or not. He wouldn’t be mad at you for not coming. If it makes you feel better. I can ask if we could arrive early at the condo to meet his family in private and then go down to the restaurant. That would ease part of your nervousness of you meeting everyone at once,” he said soothingly and tilted his head as he waited for my answer. Maybe he is right and I am just nervous. Slightly, my head nodded in agreement. Smiling broadly as he clapped his hands together.

“Good. You’ll enjoy the learning experience this will be. The conversations aren’t bad either. Even funny. The food is always top-notch and the views, I hear, are to die for. If the weather is clear.”

* * *

Two weeks later, Lucien had a car pick us up and drive us to the tower we were going to. I looked up when we exited the car and let out a low whistle. It was tall. Very tall. Upon entering, the Doorman escorted us to a separate desk where we had to show our invitations and checked our ID against the guest list in the tablet he was holding. He handed back the invitations and IDs.

“Enjoy your evening gentlemen.” He said before another person escorted us to an elevator and took us directly to the 127th floor. As the doors opened, he stepped into them and waved us past to the only set of doors on this floor. Then the elevator closed behind us as I looked around the marble hallway and the four people standing by the set of double doors at the end of the short hallway. One stepped forwards and bowed slightly.

“Gentlemen. His Majesty and family are expecting you. Right this way, please.” He said as he motioned for the doors. They opened from the inside and the house Majordomo waited with two hyper children behind him.

“Richard, you came,” Anston said excitedly. Eyes filled with sincerity and happiness as he and Riven raced forward. Stopping to bow to me before Anston gave me a pleading look. I opened my arms, and he crashed into me.

“Come on Riven.” I said as he slipped into the hug, too. They both kissed the side of my face before they separated and greeted Michael. He received a bow, though the head was positioned differently from what I received. But he got a hug and kiss on the cheek, like I did. As Michael had discussed, I carefully watched the bows I was receiving. He was right. They conveyed different meanings. His was all happiness at seeing him, but mine was a combination of happiness and relief that was overshadowed by the personal gratitude they felt for me coming.

My mind was still reviewing those facts as the children led us up the sweeping circular stairway in the building’s corner. Surrounded on two sides by glass and framing all the way up the next floor as we entered the private living area of the family. Which was the entire 128th floor. Riven explained that downstairs was for entertaining guests and up here is for living. Anston hasn’t let go of my hand since I arrived, as he guided us into a room. The soft speaking stopped as everyone rose. And there he was. The person I haven’t seen since I left Ever North. His eyes practically glowed with happiness and mirth as he spoke.

“Anston. You’re not hanging on our guest, are you? Did you ask permission?” That caused him to blush, and he released my hand. Stepped away and bowed to me.

“I’m sorry Richard. I’ve forgotten my manners again. May I hold your hand?” Michael was right. Once you get to understand the signs. Elves are very expressive. Right now, if I read him right, Anston is a combination of fear, apologetic and hopeful all at once.

“It was fine Lucien. Thank you for the thought, though.” I said, as my eyes met his. He gave me a slight dip of his head that displayed his happiness and gratitude for how I treat his children. I nodded back before my eyes returned to Anston. “Yes. You may Anston.” His face lit up the room as he moved back to my left side, taking my hand in his again. Lucien gave me a smiling dip of his head as he moved to approach. He went to Michael first.

“It’s good to see you again. Thank you for everything you are doing to help Richard.” He said as he hugged Michael. Who in turn hugged him tightly back.

“It is my pleasure, Majesty. I am sorry I have been away so long.” He said with a hint of sadness.

“But you are here now. And. I understand completely. Hopefully you can travel to Ever North this summer. Possibly show Richard the beauty of the city?” Lucien said as he stepped back.

“It is on our list of things to do. The library is our first stop. We may even spend a few days.” He said as the King nodded his approval.

“I am sure there are many who would like to see you again. You are always welcome at the Royal House. Both of you.” He said, looking towards me as he stepped over and took my hand.

“Hello Richard. Welcome to my home in New York City. Thank you for joining us this evening.” One thing the King didn’t say was, it is good to see you again.

“Hello Lucien. Thank you for inviting me. You have been well, I see.” He dipped his head.

“Yes, I have. Thank you.” He paused and then I saw the determination in his eyes. “And I hear you are doing very good in your studies. Are you enjoying it?”

“Yes I am. I should thank you, Anston.” I said, looking towards him and then Riven. “And Riven for their help.” Lucien gave me a half smile as he dipped his head again. I was verbally sparring back and forth with the most powerful being in this world, and I was enjoying every minute. Wait. Where did that thought come from? Lucien smirked as he stepped away and motioned towards his other four children. I cocked my head towards Michael.

“Can he read my mind?” Michael snorted softly behind the hand that rose to his face. The oldest daughter smirked too. Her face went neutral again. Suddenly I found myself with Anston on one side and Riven on the other.

“Hello Richard of New York City. I am Ariel of Ever North. The oldest child and daughter. It is a pleasure to meet you. I see my two youngest brothers are taking it upon themselves to be your protectors tonight.” She said, not entirely amused as she looked at them in turn. Anston stuck his tongue out at her. I cleared my throat and smiled. We both heard the mumbled apology from him as she laughed.

“You have your own magic, it seems. You’ll be fine this evening, personal protectors or not, I am sure.” She said as she released my hand after patting the back of it with her free hand.

“Thank you. It is a pleasure to meet you too, Ariel.” I said before she turned and nodded to her father, stepping over to greet Michael as the next child approached. Another beautiful young woman stepped up and gave me a slight bow.

“Greetings Richard of New York City. I am Iridessa of Ever North. The youngest daughter. It’s a pleasure to meet you and welcome to our home.” She said as she shook my hand with the grace I expected of a princess.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too, and thank you.” She smiled and nodded to her father before she moved to greet Michael. It continued with me meeting Drystan, the oldest son and Thalion, the second oldest son. As the girls were beautiful, the boys were absolutely striking. Just like their father. I gave myself an internal shake.

Since the meeting of the children went well, Ariel, as the oldest, suggested we relax in the sitting area with drinks before we go down to eat. Anston asked questions, and she answered them. Even Riven got into the act. I checked Lucien, and he had an amused look as he followed the back and forth. Interjecting as final authority as needed. Which spoke volumes. She is explaining to me what is going to happen downstairs and after. Should I return to here? And deep down. As amusing as it was, I was thankful for another person’s perspective on the course tonight’s events will take. Even if Michael had spent the past two weeks imbibing me with all of his knowledge of social events with many of the different creatures of the magical realm. Many could pass as human. Like the dwarfs. Not as short as in the stories, but the same stout bodies and beards, if neatly trimmed. Wonderful people, Michael would say. Then the Dragons that appeared in human form as well as the Fairies. They would mostly appear as beautiful women. It was a rarity any of the males would come.

Three hours later, the entire group of thirty-seven of us adjourned to the residence again. I was surprised at how relaxing and fun the evening was. My two protectors even sat at dinner with me. Much to Lucien’s amusement and mine. He quietly joked he should send them home with me, as this is the most behaved they have been in years. Which made both of them give him the stink eye… or at least the Elven version of one. Towards the end of the night, when people were leaving, the youngest of the dragon family came over and sat on my lap. Placing his head on my shoulder, going to sleep as I held him. His brother had joined me on the couch and moved Anston away so he could lean against my side. Who in turn huffed until I reached my arm across and rubbed the back of his neck. Then he settled down and excepted it. 10 minutes later, their parents entered the room with Lucien and Ariel as well as the Prince of Dwarves and his family.

“So that’s why it got so quiet?” Their mother stated as she walked over. “I would shake your hand as we are leaving, but they seem to be full.” I chuckled.

“Yes, they do. That’s fine. Anston and Riven will do it for me and pass them to me before I leave.” Which they stood to hug and shake hands in my name. To be returned to me, as is the custom when asked of them. Lucien gave me a discerning look as his smile lifted the corners of his mouth.

I lost track of time as I heard Michael yawn. Startled to realize it was after midnight. Anston was asleep at my side as I was in conversation with a Fairy and Gnome. They were answering my questions about aliens and the different histories of their groups. I found it all very interesting, as the last of the guests joined us to say their goodbyes. Which was extensive before we were ready to depart. Anston was up and Riven had nudged him.

“You could stay the night. We have the room.” Then he turned to his father. “Can’t they father?” Lucien looked at both of us evenly.

“Of course. We have the room if you wanted to stay. Or I could just open a portal gate for you to step back to Michael’s apartment.” He said. Looking between us both before he locked eyes with me.

“I think a portal would be good…” I said, looking at Michael. Who gave me a slight nod? Turning back to Lucien. “Yes. The portal would be fine. Thank you, Lucien. For everything.” I said, as the kids ran into my embrace again.

His other children joined us. Wishing us well and telling me to visit them again. Anston and Riven wanted me to come to Ever North next weekend, but I put them off as I didn’t know what other things I was doing yet. I had a job now too. Anston looked so sad until I kissed the top of his head. You would have thought he just won the Olympic Gold or something. It took us another 15 minutes before Lucien sent them off to bed and spoke privately.

“I hope you enjoyed yourself?” Lucien said to me as Michael moved off to give us privacy.

“Yes. I did, Lucien. Thank you for inviting me. And thank the children for making believe they didn’t know what was going on tonight too.” He roared out a laugh as he held his stomach. He looked so cute as his face flushed and his ears did, too.

“I will tell them they didn’t fool you. They will have to try harder. But I will convey your appreciation for a job well done. Is that satisfactory?” I nodded.

“It is Lucien. We will figure out our schedule for visiting Ever North and let you know when we are there. Perhaps we could have dinner with the family again?” The smile reached his eyes and even Michael noticed the happy glow. We heard the noise down the hallway. “Come here.” I said softly as Lucien smiled again. Anston and Riven came out from around the corner and walked slowly towards us. Heads hung over slumped shoulders.

“Come on. The sun is coming up already.” I said, and they ran the rest of the way into my opened arms. I kissed the top of their heads. “OK. Lead on.” They both looked at me, confused.

“Lead on. Take me to your rooms, so I can tuck you in for the night.” That made them practically bounce, and Lucien snorted.

“You’ll spoil them.”

“They worked hard tonight. Probably a few days ahead of time to set up their little show.” Which elicited the giggles I expected as they hugged me tighter. It only took me a few minutes to put them to bed and give a kiss upon each head before I returned to Lucien and Michael, who were talking quietly until I arrived. Shaking Lucien’s hand, I spoke.

“It really was a wonderful evening. Thank you again for inviting me and everything else you have done.” His gold eyes smiled, and I thought I saw sparks of white flash through them before he spoke. My mind drifted to thoughts of my fingers caressing those beautiful ears.

“You have honored me and my family by coming. I hope you won’t be a stranger and come visit us in Ever North or other of our homes. You are always welcome.” He paused before adding. “When you decide, you are ready.”

Lucien

“Father. Is Richard coming to visit us?” Anston asked as we walked through the castle. This will be the first time he has stayed for longer than a day during his trips to Ever North this summer.

“I think so. Next weekend.”

“Isn’t that one of the gatherings?” Anston practically bounced on his feet as he wrapped his arms around me in a hug.

“Yes. Michael and I think he is ready for that. As long as you and your siblings are on your best behavior. You can go too.”

“Father. He wasn’t mad at us. We just stopped in to say hi. It was his idea to go out for lunch.” He pleaded.

“You went to visit him without an invitation or permission to visit. What if he had company or was at work or had to go to work?” I said knowingly. I had known they were going and contacted Richard prior to them leaving to make sure it was OK. He said he would play the surprise up to make it seem real. And they never suspected either of us knew. He scuffed his foot.

“We said we were sorry.”

“Yet you continue to interfere. Luckily, I had contacted him before you left and received his permission for the two of you to go.” Which made his head shoot up, eyes wide. “Now. No more trying to intercede on my behalf. I think he likes the two of you very much and if you don’t scare him away, he may very well be your step-dad in the future. Is that what you want?” Anston jumped into my arms.

“Yes, father. He treats us just like we are his. I think he loves us,” Anston said.

“I think so too. Soon my youngest. We will soon find out if he shares the same feelings towards all of us, including me.” I said as he sighed on my shoulder.

It was a week later when I sent Drystan down to meet the train. Escorting Michael and Richard back to the castle. Of course, Anston and Riven had heard and tagged along with their brother. They returned, and Drystan smirked as he gave me a roll of the eyes as he pointed at his two younger brothers. Shaking his head as he went back to his own preparations. I practically had to peel the two of them off Richard. Which had me laughing. Once they were gone, I turned to Richard.

“Would you like to hug your dragon friends today? In their dragon form?” I asked, and Richard looked at me cautiously.

“How does that work?”

“First. I give you a special outfit to wear. It has Mythril in the material weave to help reduce accidents with the claws. More importantly. You will need to trust me as I make you grow to almost 34 feet tall. Next to me, as I have to hold your hand to do it.” I said. His eyes widened and then we heard, say yes. Richard’s head tilted as he listened closely. He mumbled something and stepped back, arms open.

“Come here.” He said out loud. And Anston came around the corner, into his arms. “Now. Me and your father want to have a private conversation. Who else is sneaking around here?” He asked and Anston mumbled.

“Then off to where you are supposed to be. So we can talk privately.” He said as he gave him a hard swat on the butt and a kiss on the top of his head. Anston stepped back, rubbing his butt, and bowed before he took off. I just laughed at the entire episode as I shook my head. Richard turned to me, hands on hips, as he spoke.

“Perhaps you should use a room with doors when we talk.” He said in all seriousness.

“Possibly you are correct.” I responded jovially, “but then you wouldn’t be able to catch him and correct him as he get’s the hug he wanted from the beginning.” Richard snickered as he shook his head.

“That, apparently, is true.” He took a breath as he thought and then nodded. “OK. Where do I change and yes, you can make me bigger?”

Richard

30 minutes later, I was being escorted through the castle by Riven. He held my hand tight as Anston was still getting dressed. The outfit I wore, while being rather heavy, felt almost like silk. It was a shimmering white and silver tabard that hung below my knees with a heavy, leather like, long-sleeved shirt and pants underneath which were black and silver. They also appeared to shimmer. I wore boots like the Elves wore. They were a sturdy, high calf boot with a good tread underfoot and gloves made from the same material as the tabard. None of the other children wore it, but Lucien did. He joined us in the Royal Waiting Room. Just behind the Throne area of the Great Hall. From what I have been told, is a huge reception slash ballroom. And since it was called a gathering, there must be a large group coming.