Page 5 of Dreaming of an Omega Christmas
“How long are you staying for?” Elarian asked.
“Well, you know me,” Falkanar said, with a bitter smile. “Probably two weeks, maybe a little longer.”
“Do you have any plans for Thanksgiving tomorrow?” Elarian asked.
Falkanar shook his head.
“Then, you're spending it here,” Traviel said firmly.
“Oh, no,” Falkanar said quickly. “I don't want to crash anyone's Thanksgiving.”
“You said you didn’t have plans,” Traviel countered.
Falkanar shrugged. “Well, I hadn't really thought about it.”
“You're not spending it alone,” said Elarian earnestly. “You helped me through a really tough time. And in a way you, helped bring Travis to us. You absolutelyhaveto say for Thanksgiving, it wouldn't be the same without you.”
“He's right,” Traviel said. “We insist.”
“I'm crashing it anyway,” I added.
Traviel smacked me lightly on the shoulder. “You're not crashing, you're a part of the family.” He flashed me a genuine smile. “You’re my brother.”
I couldn't resist returning his grin.
“All right, all right,” conceded Falkanar.
“And you're staying here too,” Elarian said. “Check out of that hotel.”
“I'm not here to impose,” Falkanar said again. “I'm perfectly fine in the hotel.”
“And how often do you stay in a hotel instead of with friends?” Traviel asked.
Falkanar shrugged again.
“Then, there’s no use arguing. You know we have room,” Traviel said.
“You also have a baby to take care of,” Falkanar said.
I don't know what possessed me to offer, maybe I felt the same sort of gratitude toward the wandering elf that Elarian and Traviel did. Nevertheless, I found myself saying, “You can stay with me.”
The three of them turned in surprise and I shrugged one shoulder. “I’ve got a guest room, and Falkanar and I are somewhat acquainted. And it's right across the street.”
“Well, I really don't want to be in anyone’s way,” Falkanar protested.
“Not at all,” I said. “You wouldn't be. It's a big house and I've got no one else in it.” I was tempted to add that it was kind of lonely. “You’re more than welcome there.”
“Thank you then,” Falkanar said.
We soon said our goodbyes, and Falkanar and I crossed the street together.
“This is beautiful,” he said as he looked over the house. “The genie made this?”
“Apparently.”
He chuckled and followed me inside. “Oh, this is wonderful,” he said, entering my living room with a large fireplace and full bookshelves.
“Thank you,” I said. “Would you like a tour too?” I didn't often show off the house and felt a little bit proud.
