“He’s at the airport. His flight leaves in an hour.”
“Thanks.”
“What happened?”
“Valentin left Brighton Beach. He’s on his way to Canada, but his things are being sent to Russia. We can’t tell Jasha. I don’t want him to be upset.”
“No, of course not. He’s going to need you. Work on earning his trust.”
“Things have really gone to the wrong side. But I have Jasha here. He’ll stay as long as he thinks I’ll kill his father.”
“But what happens when he finds out his father is gone and you can’t kill him if he runs?”
“I’ll have to work faster to make him my boy.”
“I found out some information about his last daddy for you. Remember Daddy Sergei at the Cubbyhole?” Arlo asked.
“Yes. That was Jasha’s last daddy. He told me all about what they did.”
“Fucking too?”
“No, he said nothing about that. He’s shy when it comes to talking about sex. I know what things will make him happy and safe.”
As they climbed the stairs, the sound of their footsteps echoed off the walls, growing louder with each step, leading them closer to his bedroom.
They carefully unrolled the colorful wrapping paper, each fold making a satisfying crinkle as they wrapped. Now both boys would have fun items. Luckily, Arlo had purchased duplicates of some of the items ensuring Jasha could have some toys too. Kaleb just hoped it didn’t scare him away. He had to close the distance between them, and quickly.
“What’s in that box you wrapped for Jasha?”
“Crayons and coloring books,” Arlo replied.
The mischievous twinkle in Arlo’s eyes and the wide, playful grin on his face revealed his joy in giving playful gifts.
Each gift was carefully wrapped, the bows neatly tied, and the ribbons curled. As they finished, Miss Nadia brought them tea, so they sat in front of the window and looked out at all the colorful lights as they drank and talked.
Chapter Nine
Jasha
Jasha glanced over at Frankie as they stepped into the living room. Frankie, with his long dark hair streaked with vibrant turquoise, stood out in any crowd. His brown eyes twinkled with a mix of curiosity and excitement, always seeming to catch the light just right. He had a warm, olive complexion that complemented his ever-present smile. Frankie was the kind of person who could light up a room with his grin.
As they took in the festive decorations, Jasha couldn’t help but feel grateful for Frankie’s cheerful presence. It was hard not to feel uplifted when Frankie was around, especially in a place as magical as Kaleb’s living room during the Christmas season.
The large room was a remarkable sight, especially with its festive Christmas decorations. The lofty ceilings were adorned with twinkling lights, and a grand chandelier hung in the center, casting a warm glow over the space. A massive Christmas tree stood in one corner, its branches heavy with ornaments, tinsel, and a sparkling star at the top. The fireplace crackled with a cozy fire, and stockings were hung along the mantel. From a distance, Jasha read the names on the red stockings. Kaleb, Arlo, Frankie, and Jasha had one beside Kaleb’s. Even the servants had one, like they were family. Mr. Bronson showed so much love to everyone around him, except for Jasha’s father.
The scent of pine and cinnamon filled the room, and soft Christmas music played in the background. Plush sofas and armchairs were arranged around the fireplace. A large window offered another breathtaking magical view of the snow-covered landscape outside.
Frankie looked around in awe. “Wow, this place looks amazing! Daddy Arlo and I love coming here for the holidays.”
“It feels like we’re in a Christmas movie,” Jasha said.
“It does!”
Jasha smiled, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort. “Yeah, Mr. Bronson really knows how to create a festive vibe. It’s perfect.” He hadn’t been in this living room before. There were tons of rooms to check out while he was here. Mr. Bronson had only given him a short version of the tour and he had missed this room.
They stood, taking a moment to soak in the room’s beauty and feeling the holiday spirit envelop them. Under the tree,a colorful assortment of presents formed a circle around the trunk.
Jasha found a comfortable chair facing Frankie and after they sat, Daisy hopped on Jasha’s lap and curled up.
