by penny watson
Lucy looked at Santa and frowned. “If you say so. If you need me, I’m here.”
Nicholas was humbled by her fierce loyalty. “I’m sure.” He turned to his father and followed him out of the kitchen to his office. Trophies, Nike posters and a vast array of fitness equipment cluttered Santa’s study. His father collapsed into his comfy chair behind the desk and motioned for Nicholas to sit also.
“Why the hell has it taken you so long to come see me, young man? You’ve been back in Glasdorf for two days. You should have called me right after the healing.”
“I know. I’m sorry, Dad. But I was worried about Lucy recovering, and then...well, we were enjoying our time together, and I was waiting to hear from the council...and...”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah. You were avoiding me, and you know it.” Nicky pounded his fist on the desk. “Damn it, Nicholas, I don’t want you to be afraid to talk to me. Sometimes you boys make me feel like an ogre.”
“Well, you do tend to lose your temper fairly easily.”
“Regardless. I think I have every right to expect a certain level of maturity and model behavior from all of you. For God’s sakes, we’re the Klaus family. The elves are dependent on us for their survival...and the protection of Glasdorf is at stake.”
“I know that, Dad. I would never knowingly put Glasdorf in danger. Lucy is completely trustworthy.”
“And the healing? Using elfin magic to save a Suddie’s life...well, that’s a major infraction, and you know it.”
“I’m not going to apologize for that. I know it’s forbidden, but I’m in love with Lucy. There was no way I was going to let her die when it was in my power to save her...”
“And what about all the other people in the Sudenwelt who want to save their loved ones? The ones with sick children, suffering parents, dying spouses? Is it fair for us to use magic when those poor people have no choice?”
Nicholas swallowed and stared at his father’s haunted expression. “It’s horrible for them, I know. But I just couldn’t let her die, Dad. I couldn’t do it.”
Nicky Sr. sighed and wearily rubbed his hands over his face. “The truth is…I would have done the same damned thing if Alena’s life was threatened in any way. I can hardly blame you for saving the woman you love.” He paused and looked at Nicholas solemnly. “I can tell that your Lucy is a gem, son. I can’t judge you for what you did. Tell me what happened at the council meeting.”
Nicholas took a deep breath. “Well, they were definitely disappointed that I broke two of the sacred laws. But after some discussion, they decided that elfin magic may have dictated the course of events, so they were willing to cut me some slack.”
Santa raised an eyebrow. “What the hell are you talking about?”
“Hector used the red sphere to save Lucy’s life. Evidently it is very choosy about what tasks it will complete. The council is convinced that their magic determined the success of Lucy’s healing.”
His father nodded. “Fascinating. How did the red sphere behave?”
“Well, I guess it gave me and Lucy a blessing of sorts. Touched both of our hearts, one after the other. Hector said it was approving of our match.”
Nicky Sr. laughed and slapped his desk. “Oh, I bet the council just ate that up! They love a good story about destiny ordained by elfin magic, etc., etc. Lucky for you. Did Ebbe and Gerd give you a hard time? They’re not too pleased with your reluctance to assume the role of Weihnachtsmann.”
“Yeah. As a matter of fact, my exoneration was conditional. The council decided that the Überholen is to take place within the year. With your agreement, of course.”
Nicky Sr. nodded soberly. “You knew it was coming. It’s inevitable. Your culinary interests have been a distraction from your true responsibilities, Nicholas. I tried to tell you. Markus is more than capable of running Klaus Küche.”
“I know. I’m sorry I’ve been dragging my feet. You and Mom deserve a nice retirement. You’ve worked your ass off for all of these years. I’m ready to step up.” Nicholas felt a tightness in his chest as he uttered the words.
“I know you’re dreading the Überholen, Nicholas, but hopefully you’ll find the same joy in this position that I have. You can also continue with your cooking as a hobby. But the truth is that the role of Weihnachtsmann is a time-consuming job.” He cocked his head at his son. “What about Lucy? Will she be able to give up her profession to support you? Perform the duties required of Santa’s wife and partner? It’s a huge responsibility.”
“We haven’t talked about it yet, but I’m hoping that she’ll agree to marry me.”
“It might be difficult for her to give up her café in the Sudenwelt, and all of the independence she has as a Suddie. It seems like cooking is her life’s work.” Just like you. The words were left unspoken.
“I hope that she’ll be willing to join me here in Glasdorf and sacrifice Sweet Inspiration. Truthfully, I don’t know what’s going to happen.”
Nicky Sr. stood up and offered Nicholas a hand. “Good luck, son. I can tell the girl is crazy about you. I hope it works out. You certainly have our blessing.”
“Thanks, Dad.”
“Well, we’d better get back before Alena causes another disaster in the kitchen. I’m looking forward to tasting Lucy’s shrimp pizzas.”
Nicholas laughed. “You won’t be disappointed. She’s good.”
“Great! I’m starved.” Nicky paused at the doorway and looked into Nicholas’ eyes. “It’s good to have you back, Nicholas. We’ve all missed you these last two weeks.” Before he could move, Nicholas was swept into a bear hug by his father.
Chapter Seventeen
Lucy gazed around the long dining room table and smiled. The Klaus family certainly enjoyed their meals. Sven, Oskar and Wolfgang sat on one side of the table, helping themselves to pieces of pizza, a garlicky Caesar salad, and crispy cheese sticks Lucy created with the leftover dough. Nicky Sr. and Alena were seated at either end of the beautiful table, which Alena proudly told Lucy was designed and built by Sven. Gregor surprised the family with a crate of red wine from a new California vineyard.
Lucy was sandwiched between Nicholas and Gregor, feeling somewhat like an elf herself. Except for Alena, who was just a few inches taller than Lucy, the remaining Klaus members were giants. As she listened to the ebb and flow of conversation around her, she admired the stunning dining room, an interesting mix of formality and casual comfort. A lit fireplace kept the room cozy and warm, and each place at the table was set with hand-painted Christmas china.
Nicky Sr. helped himself to a third piece of pizza and turned to Sven. “Did we ever manage to find any wood that’s free of pests? Those beetle infestations are killing us.”
Sven nodded. “Yep. Got lucky this morning. I’ll be able to finish the last batch of toy trains before Christmas. My workers are using paints tinted with botanical dyes this year, too. Mom’s been experimenting with different colors and overseeing plant production in the greenhouses.”
Santa beamed. “Excellent. That sounds like an interesting project, Alena.”
“Oh, it is. I’ve been testing the new dyes on Sven’s T-shirts. He’s accumulated a nice assortment.”
Santa chuckled. “Thanks, love. How about you, Oskar? Is Monie’s group giving you a hard time? I heard they got a little agitated after Rocco’s birthday bash yesterday. Whoever came up with peppermint schnapps jello shots should be strung up...”
Oskar grinned and gulped his beer. “Nah, they’re fine. It sucks to have a hangover in the toy truck factory, though. That’s a lot of pounding to suffer through. I think those guys will take a breather until Christmas is over.”
Alena laughed. “Serves the buggers right. How is the planning of the elfin children’s holiday party coming along? The lady’s auxiliary club told me you’re setting up a carnival this year.”
“Yeah, I thought the kids would get a kick out of it. We’re handing out tickets, and there will be pony rides, a Ferris wheel, the who
le shebang. Nicholas, did you get my memo about the food?”
Nicholas nodded. “Yes, I have some notes jotted down.” Nicholas pulled the mini notebook out of his pocket and flipped a few pages. “I’m planning a booth with funnel cakes, cotton candy, and caramel apples. We’ll also set up an old-fashioned popcorn cart.”
Oskar smiled. “That sounds perfect. Thanks.”
“Don’t forget the magical snow cones. The kids can’t get enough of those,” Alena added.
“Thanks, Mom. I’ll add it on my list,” Nicholas scribbled into his notebook.
“Good, good.” Nicky Sr. looked at Wolfgang with concern. “Wolfie, how’s that orphanage doing in Manila? I heard the care packages were seized by customs. Didn’t we grease a few palms to straighten out that problem last time?”
Wolfie sighed. “I know, sorry. They took the money and kept the care packages. I can’t believe that people would steal from an orphanage run by nuns. It’s pathetic.”
“What are we doing to remedy the situation?”
“I’m personally going to deliver the packages tomorrow. Zip in and out with a little help from some elfin magic.”
“Do they have enough formula this year? I don’t want those babies to be hungry for Christmas.”
Alena piped up. “We’ve been supplying them with formula, rice and fresh fruit. I contacted some doctors in Manila who are providing free medical check-ups, too.”
“Wonderful.”
Lucy noticed that a little bit of the light had gone out of Wolfie’s eyes by the time the conversation was over. She could only imagine how heart breaking it must be to work with so many needy children. His job is the most difficult of all.
“Wolfie, is there anything I can do to help? My customers at Sweet Inspiration could collect clothes and toys for the children. There is a real spirit of giving in my town, especially at holiday time.”
Wolfie shot Lucy a surprised and grateful smile. “Thanks, Lucy, that’s a fantastic idea. I’ll give you the address of the orphanage.”
Santa turned to Nicholas. “Maybe you could send some extra gingerbread to the orphanage, too. I remember the kids loved those last year.”
Nicholas nodded eagerly. “Already done. We have gingerbread, candy canes and special candies shaped like animals that my elves have been working on. They come in all different colors and flavors, and have real fruit juice in them.”
“What a cool idea! Sneak in a little nutrition with the candy.” Lucy squeezed Nicholas’ hand encouragingly and he leaned down to kiss her on the forehead.
Sven coughed across the table. “PDA alert! Don’t spoil my appetite, big brother. It’s bad enough to be subjected to mom and dad making out all the time.”
Alena smiled dreamily. “You’re just jealous, hippie boy.”
Santa blew Alena a kiss from across the table. “Where’s that wine Gregor brought? I’ll try some. Does red wine go with pizza?”
Gregor looked thoughtful for a moment. “I’m not sure about the etiquette of wine and pizza, but it seems like a good match to me.” He opened a bottle and poured a glass for his father.
“Thanks, Gregor. By the way, how are our investments doing?” Santa took a sip of his wine and nodded with approval.
“As well as can be expected with the market fluctuations right now. By the way, Wolfie, an anonymous donation was wired into the account for the pediatric children’s hospital. I sent it this morning.”
“That’s great. Thanks a lot.”
“Sure, no problem.” Gregor whipped out his blackberry and typed in some notes.
Lucy was astonished by the amount of work and dedication required to run Glasdorf. Nicky Sr. and his sons operated an incredibly complex organization. And Alena obviously played a crucial role in its success. Being the wife of the Weihnachtsmann must be a daunting job. Lucy couldn’t help but feel somewhat inadequate compared to Nicholas’ mother. She may not have any cooking talent, but the free-spirited pixie certainly knew how to run an empire.
Santa laughed. “I think we’ve probably been boring Lucy to tears. Sorry, we tend to talk shop a lot at the table.”
“Actually, I find all of this fascinating, Mr. Klaus. You have so much to coordinate for your job. I had no idea.”
“I’m good at multi-tasking. And I have an incredible partner to help.” He smiled at his wife from across the long table. “The Klaus family has fine tuned the toy delivery business. We’ve had many generations to work on it.”
“Nicholas started to tell me the story of Rudolf Klaus, the first Weihnachtsmann. I don’t know anything about your history, and how this all came about. Would you mind telling me the legend?”
Oskar groaned. “Would he mind? Are you kidding? Good going, Baker Boy.”
Nicholas grinned. “Now, O, Lucy is new to the family. She’s never heard the tale of Rudolf Klaus.”
Nicky Sr. cleared his throat and shot Oskar an irritated look. “The story of Rudolf Klaus is a momentous tale that each and every one of you boys should be damned happy to hear about, at any time of the year.” He softened his voice and turned to Lucy. “I would be thrilled to tell you the tale, Lucy Anne.”
Nicholas put his arm around Lucy’s shoulders and she leaned against his chest as his father began to speak.
“Many years ago a man named Rudolf Klaus lived in the Bavarian Alps, near Zugspitze, the highest mountain in the region. He and his family were master toy builders, well respected throughout all of Europe. One day his young daughter Imma went exploring in the mountains and was lost in an avalanche. Rudolf and his wife were devastated.”
“They were unaware that Imma had been rescued by elves. At one time there were many bands of elves throughout Europe. But over the years, the townspeople developed a mistrust of them, fearing their magic. They became convinced that they were evil creatures, and many of them were brutally murdered and driven away from their villages.”
Lucy was shocked. “Oh, that’s horrible. What happened to them?”
“Eventually, only one small group of elves remained, and they moved farther and farther into the mountains until finally they ended up hidden on the Zugspitze. They used magic to conceal their settlement, and were forced to isolate themselves in order to survive.”
Lucy clenched Nicholas’ hand. “They must have been terrified.”
Santa nodded. “Yes, they suffered terribly. After the elves found Imma, they returned her to Rudolf. Although he was overjoyed about being reunited with his daughter, he was very upset about the difficulties facing the elves, and the fact that they were forced into hiding. Rudolf knew that this band of elves had mentored the Klaus family in their toy-building centuries earlier, and that they were still master craftsmen. And, of course he felt he owed them a huge debt for saving Imma’s life. So, Rudolf and the elves made a pact that has been honored for all of these generations. He would journey with the elves and his family to the north, and hide in a place where no one could find them. Once there, the Klaus family would continue to protect the elves, and the elves would use their magic to aid the Klaus family with their toy production.”
Lucy was spellbound by the story. “But how did they become involved with Christmas?”
“As a way to honor St. Nicholas, the Klaus family had traveled all over Germany distributing their toys on the night before Christmas. Once they relocated to the North Pole, the elves insisted on continuing the tradition, but on a much larger scale. With all of the elves to help, and of course, the aid of elfin magic, they were able to transport millions of gifts to children worldwide.”
“So, this tradition has been going on for generations?”
“Yes, exactly. The oldest son of each generation becomes ‘Santa’, the Weihnachtsmann, and assumes the responsibility for the sacred holiday. The other members of each family take on various positions vital to the well-being of Glasdorf.”
“So, who is really in charge? The Klaus family, or the elves?”
“Well, that’s a very good questio
n, Lucy. There is sort of a balance of power. The council governs Glasdorf, but the Weihnachtsmann and the head of the council share power equally.”
Alena smiled at Lucy. “It’s an amazing story, isn’t it?”
“You’re an amazing family. The amount of work that you do to make sure children all over the world get to celebrate on Christmas morning is unbelievable. And...well, you’ll probably think I’m being fanciful, but...”
“What is it, Lucy?” Nicholas looked intrigued by her confession.
“When I first looked up at this house, I could actually feel the Christmas spirit here. It’s a tangible thing. I guess it’s the magic.”
Sven laughed. “Oh, you’re not imagining things, little red. The magic around here has a mind of its own. Once you’ve been here for awhile, you’ll get used to it.”
Oskar patted his belly and yawned. “Well, thanks for that rousing rendition of the tale of Rudolf Klaus, Pops. I hate to eat and run, but the carnival is tomorrow, and I have a ton to do to get ready. Thanks for a most delicious dinner, Lucy and Nicholas. You two are an excellent pair.”
Nicholas turned to Lucy with a satisfied smile. “Yes, we are.”
Alena stood to help Wilma with the dishes. “I expect to see all of you boys at the carnival tomorrow. It’s a very important day for the children. I know that everyone is busy, but you can spare a few minutes for the kids.”
Lucy smiled to herself as all of the giant Klaus brothers agreed to their mother’s demand, and then showered her with hugs and kisses as they prepared to leave. Nicky Sr. shook everyone’s hand, and gave Lucy a warm hug.
“Delighted to meet you, Lucy. Thanks for the delicious meal.”
“You’re welcome, Mr. Klaus. We’ll see you soon.”
Alena cupped Lucy’s face in her hands. “Nicholas Sebastian Klaus, I can’t believe you’ve met such a wonderful girl. You are a very lucky boy.” She kissed Lucy on the cheek and added, “Welcome to the family.”
On the way back to Nicholas’ cottage, Lucy snuggled up next to his warm body, leaning her head against his shoulder. Glasdorf was like a secret empire, and she desperately wanted to be a part of it. Lucy could not imagine anything more fulfilling than contributing to the success of such a wonderful holiday every year, and bringing joy to children worldwide. If only she were brave enough to broach the subject with Nicholas.