Page 12 of Twinkling Elf
“Those are my favorite photos from the sessions.”
“They’re all of me looking ridiculous in the stupid elf costume.”
Nicholas shook his head. “They’re all of you showing what the Christmas spirit is really about. Those photos just confirm what an amazing person you are. Micah, you have to be one of the most giving people I’ve ever met and I’m in awe of you.” Nicholas leaned in close and lowered his voice. “I’m going to make it my mission to get you to believe in yourself, to make you see yourself as I see you. You are so much more than a costume. And, Micah?”
“Yeah?”
“You are still the most gorgeous elf I’ve ever seen.”
Micah’s cheeks heated, and it had nothing to do with the hot coffee. He looked at Nicholas, wondering how he’d ever got so lucky to find someone who made him feel so special.
It felt as if his Christmas miracle had come true.
Epilogue
ChristmasEve-thefollowing year
Micah placed his mug of hot chocolate on the coffee table and passed one to Nicholas. “I still can’t believe Chad is married,” he said as he flopped onto the couch.
Nicholas sat next to him, carefully holding his drink. “I still can’t believe Tammy said yes and went through with it,” he joked.
Micah chuckled, but in reality, he was immensely happy for his brother. He and Tammy were perfect together. He pulled off his shoes and socks, dropping them to the floor. “It was a beautiful wedding, but it’s nice to be home.”
He curled up on one end of the couch, and Nicholas automatically pulled his feet to his lap.
“It’s nice to be here with you.” Nicholas wrapped a hand around his ankle, the other bringing his mug to his mouth.
Micah moaned at the touch. He had a thing for having his feet rubbed, and Nicholas was always happy to indulge. “I’m not sure I have the energy to face tomorrow,” he moaned.
Nicholas squeezed his foot. “It’s Christmas Day and I’m sure that’ll be motivation enough.”
Micah laughed. “You know me too well.” He loved Christmas, especially since he was spending it with his family, a family that now included Nicholas. “What time do we need to be there?”
“Not till noon, so you can sleep in.”
“That sounds amazing.” He sighed. It had been a busy few weeks between work, the usual holiday social events, and Nicholas finally making the permanent move back to town. The day he’d moved his stuff into Micah’s apartment had been the best day of the year, as far as Micah was concerned, and he wanted to enjoy some alone time with Nicholas before all the craziness of the day. “I’ve got a present I want to give you tonight. Okay?”
“Oh? I like the sound of that.” Nicholas leaned forward and placed his mug on the coffee table.
Micah pulled his feet back and stood. “I’ll be back in a minute. Don’t go anywhere.”
“I wouldn’t dream of it,” Nicholas said, flashing Micah a smile.
Micah dashed to the bedroom, where it didn’t take him long to get ready. He returned to the living room, pausing in the doorway. Nicholas knelt at the tree, surrounded by the presents they’d wrapped for their friends and family. The lights of the tree glowed brightly and twinkling lights adorned the room, and his heart swelled with happiness.
He must have made a noise because Nicholas looked his way. He saw the moment Nicholas took in his outfit.
“Oh my God.” Nicholas’ smile was wide as he held out a hand.
Micah padded across to him, stopping for a quick twirl. He’d dressed in the red and white striped leggings and the elf hat from last year. He hadn’t gone as far as the wearing the red felt tunic; he’d chosen a soft white cropped top that exposed his waist and made a feature of his ass instead of covering it. He grasped Nicholas’ hand and dropped to his knees beside him. “What do you think?”
“I think I’m glad we’re home and not at the play center. Oh my God, Micah, I always thought you looked adorable in those leggings, but you make one very sexy elf. Ilovemy present.”
Micah smiled as Nicholas’s hand skimmed his side and settled on his hip. He’d never in a million years thought he’d be comfortable wearing the elf costume again, but Nicholas made him feel attractive in anything he wore and gave him the confidence to be himself. “This isn’t your present, but I’m glad you like it.”
“No?” Nicholas raised his brow.
Micah laughed. “No.”
“Well, too bad. I like this one and I’m having it.” Nicholas grabbed him and pulled him over until he was sitting on his lap.
Micah spilled over with laughter and as Nicholas’ mouth found his, he knew Nicholas was right—he was Nicholas’ and would be forever after.
