SAMMY WAVED at Chen and grabbed his coffee. He skirted through the people in line to get to the back booth. “Hi. How’s it hanging?”
Chen grinned. “Hangin’ low, my friend.”
Sammy scooted into the booth and sipped his latte. He almost had his energy back. Al hopped off Sammy’s shoulder and down onto the seat.
Chen nodded at the cat. “I guess he doesn’t like me as much as Ryder. No tummy rubs or big balls.”
Sammy laughed. “I don’t think he likes me as much as Ryder.”
“Do you have any idea why he’s hanging around?”
Sammy looked at Al. Do I? “Not really, except I’ve been a little under the weather lately, and he seems to be working to make me feel better. I call it purr therapy.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yep.” Sammy stared at Al.
“He’s relieving your cat-atonia?” Chen grinned.
“Yep. And trying to keep me from cat-astrophe.” They both laughed. “But he sure hates Lucien.”
“No kidding.”
“Which is weird because Lucien has always been nice to him. He even brings him cans of organic salmon. Aloysius won’t eat them. He knows which cans came from Lucien and turns up his nose.”
“Are you going with Lucien to the party?”
Sammy smiled. “Yeah.”
“That should be a scene. I think a lot of witches want to get their hooks in him.”
Sammy looked up. “Why do you say that?”
“It makes sense. He’s about the most beautiful thing on earth. But I’ve heard a couple of rumors that there are some tongues hanging out for him.”
Sammy’s heart sped up. “Ryder said that too.”
“Like I said, it makes sense. You can’t expect people not to envy you a boyfriend like that.”
Envy him? Wow. That would be different. “I suppose.”
“Guess what?”
Chen had a big smile on his face, and Sammy had to smile back. “What?”
“Estera agreed to go out with me.”
“I knew you had a thing for her!” Sammy slapped the table. “That’s so cool. She’s great.”
“Gorgeous too, don’t you think?”
Sammy winked. “I don’t exactly look at girls like that, but if I did, I’m sure I’d think she was gorgeous.”
Chen laughed.
Sammy nudged him. “Yes, she’s gorgeous, dummy, and nice and smart too.” He lowered his voice. “But she’s not Chinese. What’ll your parents think?”
“Damn, I’m so tired of measuring everything by their opinion. I have to go to MIT. I can’t study art, only math. I can only date Chinese girls. Sick of it.”
“Are your parents coming to the Witch Master’s party?”
“No. They’ll be out of town. But if Estera will go with me, I’m going to take her. Hells, I’m an adult, even in China.”
Sammy put his hand on his friend’s arm. “I know how important it is for you to honor your parents, but it’s your life. I, for one, want to see you happy.” Sammy remembered Ryder’s words to him about being happy, and they pushed at his heart.
“Thank you, Sammy. But you know my parents. They’re old-school. My father was powerful before he was acknowledged as a witch. Now he’s a master. He’s tough to buck.”
“You may find a Chinese witch you love yet.”
Chen shook his head. “No, Estera’s the one.”
“Seriously? I mean, you’ve never been out together. How can you know?”
His dark eyes got misty. “I loved her the first time I saw her, and nothing’s changed my mind.”
Sammy swallowed his doubt. “I’m really happy for you, buddy. Truly.”
“Thanks.”
“So what are you going to wear to the party?”
“GODS, YES!” Killian pressed his cheek against the door as Blaine hammered his ass, striking his prostate on every pass. “Oh baby. We’re going to have to clean the woodwork again if you keep this up.”
“Get out the spray cleaner, darling. No way I’m stopping.”
Thunder vibrated through the room.
Blaine laughed. “Playing our song, are you?”
Killian gasped as Blaine bit his neck and pummeled his hips. Sweet gods, he never got enough of his beautiful husband. “More. Yes, more.” Lightning crashed so close it might be in his balls. Hot cum bubbled, ready to explode.
Blaine panted against his ear. “Baby, you’re too good. I’m going to come. Are you ready?”
“Always. Always ready for you, my darling.”
“Oh God, yesssss….” Blaine froze against Killian’s back except for tiny little jerks of his hips as he came. Killian let his mind focus on the hot spurts inside his body. Bliss. Blaine reached around and started to crank Killian’s cock. “Come now. Come for me.”
Heat blazed into Killian’s balls. Crash. Lightning lit the room, and cum exploded out of Killian’s cock as his every cell filled with joy.
Killian listened to Blaine breathing hard against him. “Happy anniversary, my love. I wrote it for you in cum on the door.”
Blaine kissed his back. “Maybe one of these days I’ll manage to wait for you to get to the bedroom before I fuck you, husband.”
“What? You mean become a stodgy old married couple?”
“God forbid. But I guess it would be easier on the woodwork.”
A half hour later, after a very fun shower, Killian sipped tea in the entry hall while Blaine scrubbed the door. “I hope all our chicks behave well at the party tonight.”
Blaine glanced over his shoulder. “You still think it was the right decision to mix our humans and witches?”
“Absolutely. They all commingle every day. Besides, some of our favorite students are human. I wouldn’t want to exclude them.”
“Yeah. I know how fond you are of Ryder.”
“Can you believe his transformation? Gods, I barely recognized him, and I think he’s still changing. Pay attention tonight. See if you don’t think he’s gotten taller and even more handsome.”
Blaine took a last swipe and stood up, holding the sponge. “Should I be jealous of this beautiful human?”
Killian stepped closer and kissed Blaine’s lips gently. “There’s no one, human or witch, for me, darling, except your beautiful self.”
Blaine nipped Killian’s bottom lip. “Okay, I’ll let him live.”
“Actually, Ryder’s transformation is so extreme, I have to assess tonight if I could have missed his origins. I could swear he’s not a witch, but he no longer looks completely human.” Killian turned and walked toward the kitchen to put his cup in the sink. “And speaking of beautiful, I understand we have a new member of the community. Many of the young witches are in a stir about him.”
Blaine came in behind him and rinsed the sponge. “If he’s a witch, shouldn’t he have presented himself to you by now? Witchy protocol and all that.”
“Yes. He should have. If I were more of a stickler for rules, he’d have been called on the carpet. But I understand he’s coming tonight, so perhaps that will make up for his lack of etiquette.” Killian unfastened his bathrobe, letting his waist-length dark blond hair fall down his bare back. “What shall I wear?”
Blaine grabbed his shoulders and slid his hands down Killian’s chest, leaving a trail of goose bumps. “I get to choose.”
“We have to get to the closet first.” Killian laughed and took off down the hall toward their bed.
SAMMY LOOKED up at the rap on the door. Hmm. It was a half hour before Lucien was due. Could it be Ryder surprising him like last week? That made his heart beat fast. Hells, why couldn’t he quit mooning over Ryder?
He walked to the door, buttoning his second good shirt as he went. He opened the door a crack, and Lucien rushed in carrying a garment bag, a paper sack, and a box all done up in silver ribbon.
“Hello, darling. I’m so excited about the party, I couldn’t wait another minute. I brought you a present.”
Lucien looked resplendent. His light gray suit would have made Armani drool. Like a jewel-box setting for that halo of shining hair, Lucien’s usually pale cheeks glowed pink, and his eyes sparkled.
“Hey, it’s just a party.” Sammy laughed.
Lucien set down the box and kissed Sammy’s nose. “Yes, but you see I am very remiss in my protocol. I should have paid a call on the Witch Master when I first arrived and didn’t do so. I got so caught up in school and such. So this is an official visit as well as a party for me.” He clapped his hands. “The special sweets arrived from my homeland just for him. I’m so looking forward to presenting them along with our tea set tonight.”
Sammy had to grin at his enthusiasm. Lucien was usually so together. “I’m sure he’s going to love both gifts.”
“Perhaps we can all enjoy one together. I want you to taste it too.”
What a sweetie. “Sounds wonderful.”
“And this is for you.” Lucien held out the garment bag.
“What? Why for me?”
“Open it.”
Sammy slowly lowered the zipper on the bag. Inside was a deep navy blue suit so elegant he’d hardly ever seen anything so beautiful. “This is amazing.”
Lucien clapped his hands again. “You like it! I was in a gentlemen’s store yesterday and saw this suit. It simply said your name. That deep blue color with your auburn hair and gray eyes are meant to be. I couldn’t pass it up. I believe it will fit you, but if not, I’m sure a little witchery will manage the alterations.” He laughed. The guy was positively giddy.
Sammy shook his head. “Lucien, this is wonderful, but I can’t accept it. It’s too much.”
“Not at all, my dear. You must indulge me, because I won’t take no for an answer. Plus I had the suit altered to what I believe to be your measurements, so it is not returnable.”
“Wow.” Sammy stared at the dull sheen of the gabardine. “Thank you so much.”
“Put it on. Put it on.”
Sammy carried the garment bag over to his sleeping area, unzipped the bag all the way, and took out the gorgeous suit. “White shirt, I guess, huh?”
“Yes, perfect.”
Thank gods he had one. He took off the green shirt he had on and put on his white one. This shirt was pretty crisp since he saved it for special occasions.
Lucien leaned against the dresser. “Do you have a tie?”
“Yes. I have two. Tell me which one to wear.”
Lucien walked over to him, carrying the paper bag. “I think you should wear”—he whipped a tie out of the sack—“this one.”
The tie was almost as beautiful as the suit. No boring stripes or polka dots, it was an explosion of abstract color in deep blue, purple, and yellow. “It’s a work of art.”
“I thought so too. And so appropriate for a great artist.” Lucien stretched out the tie and wrapped it around Sammy’s neck. With a flourish, he tied a Windsor knot. “Brilliant. It’s perfect, if I say so myself.”
Man, Sammy felt special. He pulled on the trousers and tucked in his shirt. “They fit great. How could you possibly have guessed? I’m so skinny.”
Lucien gave him an exaggerated frown. “You’re not at all skinny. You have excellent musculature. You simply have an adolescent slimness, which is very attractive. Stop thinking you’re too thin.”
Sammy could feel himself blushing. “Thank you. Thank you for everything.” He shrugged on the jacket, and it fit just as perfectly. He turned and looked in the cheap mirror he kept on the back of the bathroom door. Wow. “I can’t believe it.”
“You see. Not at all too thin. You could be a fashion model, you look so beautiful.”
Sammy wouldn’t go that far, but he did look pretty damned good. He grinned. What fun to get to walk into the center of witchery looking sharp with this guy. Not good old Sammy tonight. Cool. There’d even be humans there. Too bad Arnold wouldn’t see him, but the guy didn’t have any classes with Dr. Barth or Dr. Genneau that Sammy knew of. He breathed out. But Ryder would be there.
He looked at Lucien. “Don’t forget, there will be a lot of humans at the party tonight.”
Lucien nodded. “Ah yes, we must all be on our best behavior for the little humans, mustn’t we?”
Not the best attitude for this community. “Actually the Witch Master loves humans. He’s half-human, remember?” Sammy cocked his head. “And so am I.”
Lucien nodded briskly. “Yes, yes, of course. I meant no disrespect. But they become so caught up in their petty problems sometimes.” He waved his hands. “Anyway, you know what I mean.”
“Yeah, well, I haven’t noticed any lack of pettiness among witches.”
“Ah, that is so true, my dear. Now, look at yourself again. You are a masterpiece, and everyone will envy me my escort this evening.”
Sammy looked and smiled. Pretty damned cool.
KILLIAN HELD Blaine’s hand as they sat on the couch in the huge living room and accepted the congratulations of students and friends. Their home was actually in Blaine’s former apartment above an antique store, but the party was being held in Killian’s family home—a mansion on the Upper East Side where his mother still lived. The big room they were sitting in, with its formal couches and antique tables, was supposed to be able to hold a hundred, and it was likely to test that theory tonight, since all of his and Blaine’s students planned to come. Yes, the students truly did want to congratulate the happy couple, but he guessed they were also curious as hells about where and how the two men—uh, one man, one witch, though many of his students didn’t know that—lived.
Blaine leaned over. “I’m glad we invited all the students, not just the witches.”
“Me too. I wish Jimmy and Lavender were here.”
“Yeah. Are they doing okay in Europe?”
“Yes, although Jimmy’s extended their stay. He’s convinced the covens in Prague are hiding something from him. He’s a little worried.”
Blaine frowned. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I just heard before we left the apartment. It’s probably nothing. Jimmy’s a new witch and only used to our community’s ways. The old world is sure to seem hidebound and reserved to him.”
Blaine shook his head. “But Lavender’s Russian and no dummy. If she’s concerned, I’d say there’s something to worry about.”
“Hi, Dr. Barth.” Two pretty blonde girls who frequented the front rows of Killian’s history classes stopped in front of them.
Killian nodded. “Ms. Harding, Ms. Anton. Have you met Dr. Genneau, my husband?”
The taller girl giggled. “No. I’m not much for quantum physics.” She stuck out her hand. “I’m happy to meet you, Dr. Genneau.”
The second girl also shook his hand. “Happy anniversary.” She flashed a big smile. “You take good care of him, okay, Dr. Genneau?”
Blaine coughed into his hand, clearly to cover his laugh. “I promise, Ms. Anton.”
“Thanks again for inviting us to this great party.”
Killian smiled. “You’re most welcome. Enjoy yourselves.” Killian nodded to a group of young guys over by the window. “It looks to me like they need someone to rescue them from themselves.”
The smaller girl glanced and giggled. “I think we can manage that.”
As they walked away, Blaine leaned in to Killian. “I gather should I fail in my duties of caring for you, they’ll be happy to step in.”
“I’m sure they’d make the sacrifice.” Killian laughed and kissed Blaine lightly on the lips. He looked around the huge room with its traditional furnishings. The crowd was growing rapidly. His mother was greeting people as they arrived. After all, this was her house. But she also wanted to help. She and Killian had restored a tentative affection after the big blowup with the council last year, and she seemed to enjoy being a part of their celebration.
Killian nodded toward the entry. “My favorite student.”
Blaine glanced over at Ryder. “He is a dish.” He laughed.
“Yes, but like I told you, he changed so much over the summer, he’s barely recognizable as the same person.”
“Boys do that sometimes.”
“Yes, but this is quite unusual.” He lowered his voice even more. “I sense something strange about the boy, but I can’t say what exactly.”
Blaine’s eyes widened. “Really? You can’t read him? You couldn’t read Jimmy very well, but he’s a powerful witch and was guarded by his father, another powerful witch. Ryder’s human.”
Killian waved at Ryder, who smiled and walked over to the two of them. “Hi, Dr. B.” He stuck out his hand. “Hi, Dr. Genneau. Great to see you.”
“Hi, Ryder.” They shook hands.
“Congratulations to you both.” He glanced at their empty glasses sitting on the coffee table. “You’re not drinking. Can I get you both something?” His luminous green eyes twinkled. “I hear this party has a great bar.”
Killian nodded. “That would be wonderful. We haven’t been able to get up from here much. I’d like some champagne, please.”
Blaine nodded. “Make that two.”
Ryder walked off toward the bar. Blaine looked at Killian. “What do you sense?”
“No malevolence, certainly. If anything, the contrary.” A rise of noise toward the entry made him look up. One of the young women clutched her chest. Through the crowd, like a knife through butter, marched Sammy Raphael. Well, how about that.
Blaine chuckled. “Looks like our cute frog has turned into a handsome prince.”
Sammy’s tall, lean body looked like the cover of GQ in a suit he could never have afforded in the past. His chin-length auburn hair gleamed. The kid looked amazing. A couple of other young witches raised their hands and gave Sammy high fives.
But the general rise in excitement continued. Sammy turned with a smile, and out of the crush near the door walked the most beautiful creature Killian had ever seen.
Blaine murmured, “Sweet Jesus.”
So this was the inspiration for Sammy’s fashion statement. “I suspect that this is our witch visitor who’s not reported in.”
“Hell yeah, babe. Nobody human looks like that.”
The exquisite stranger greeted the people around him, some of whom seemed especially fawning. Then he turned and clearly spied Killian. Their eyes met. Shit. Power. Tamped, covered, protected, but formidable. The face looked twenty-one, but the soul seemed much older. Who is he? Why is he here?
Blaine whispered, “What the hell does that guy want with Sammy?”
“That, my love, is one of a minefield of questions.”
The tall, slim witch walked purposefully across the room and proceeded to drop to one knee in front of Killian. “My sincere apologies for taking so long to introduce myself. I am Lucien Eshel of Prague.”
Killian smiled and gestured upward. “Lucien, you’re creating a bit of a spectacle in a mixed group.”
The witch glanced around and stood. He gestured to the chair beside the sofa. “May I be seated?”
“I think that’s wise.”
The man sat. “I did not mean to offend, Wi—sir. I should have introduced myself earlier, but I became so caught up in classes and meeting the young people of your community, I was remiss.”
His accent could be Czech, but it seemed sort of general European. Interesting, appealing, but not specific.
“I’d heard you were here and wondered when you’d pay a call.” Might as well let the kid sweat. He’d been guilty of a serious breach of protocol, and there was nothing about this witch that suggested ignorance of appropriate behavior.
Lucien dropped his pale gaze. “Yes, sir. I am truly sorry for my rudeness.”
Killian smiled. “But this is a party and my anniversary, so much is forgiven. We shall consider this your official welcome. Please enjoy yourself, Mr. Eshel.”
Lucien smiled. Dear gods, a weaker witch would have melted to butter. “Thank you, sir. My sincere congratulations to you and Dr. Genneau. It is so refreshing to come from traditional ways and find people of my persuasion”—he cocked his head—“enjoying such a wonderful life.”
Blaine smiled. “You’re very welcome here, Lucien. Make yourself at home.”
That was kind of funny considering the house was about as homey as the atrium of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but the sentiment was there.
Lucien stood. Sammy, who’d been talking to his parents and a couple of his siblings, seemed to have been watching and took this as his cue that the diplomacy was done. He walked over, and Lucien took his hand. Interesting. Not a match one would predict.
“Hi, Dr. Barth, Dr. Genneau. Great to see you. Congratulations.”
Killian smiled. The young witch was easy to love and a favorite of everyone. “Thanks so much, Sammy.”
Aloysius leaped from Sammy’s neck straight onto Blaine’s lap. He laughed. “Hey, guy. Great to see you. I’ve been missing you something fierce.” The familiar proceeded to do his imitation of a fur rug on Blaine’s lap. Killian smiled. Aloysius tolerated Killian, but the cat adored Blaine.
Sammy smiled. “Looks like he’s back home.”
Killian shrugged. “He’s inscrutable.” He looked up at Sammy. “You two have a good time this evening.”
Lucien glanced at Sammy with a look that was positively conspiratorial. “Sammy and I wish to present you with a gift.”
Sammy shook his head. “I think everyone’s kind of planning a big present-opening time.”
A brief cloud passed over Lucien’s sunshiny beauty; then the smile returned. “Ah well. We shall wait, then.”
“Here are your drinks.” Ryder stepped up to the table and placed two glasses of champagne in front of Killian and Blaine. Ryder straightened and stared at Lucien. The other male met his gaze. Quite something. Two more beautiful creatures could scarcely exist, and the energy between them? Pure animosity. Hmm. What’s the issue? Ryder glanced at Sammy. Pain. Just a flash on Sammy’s pretty face but still apparent. How interesting. Ryder wasn’t gay as far as Killian knew, but then there was a lot he didn’t know about his favorite student.
Lucien smiled, though it looked strained. Ryder didn’t even try to disguise his dislike. There was challenge in his stare. Then he nodded to Killian and Blaine and walked off. Even more interesting, Sammy’s gaze followed Ryder, and there was no hiding the longing. Killian had heard that Sammy had a crush on his friend, and it seemed even the attentions of the European angel couldn’t eliminate that desire. Killian squeezed Blaine’s hand. Those humans did have their attraction.
SAMMY WALKED to the bar holding Lucien’s hand. He took a deep breath. He’d expected to see Ryder, but he couldn’t ever prepare for the impact of the guy. Especially not in his new transformation. If I get a chance, I might ask Killian about Ryder, but as far as I can tell, every witch I know thinks Ryder’s human.
Lucien stepped up to the bar. He looked at Sammy. “Champagne?”
“Sure. Why not?”
Ryder didn’t like Lucien, but damn it, Ryder wasn’t Lucien’s boyfriend. Lucien was good to Sammy. And walking into this party with him had been breathtaking. People had stared at them. Paid attention. Envied Sammy his date. His mother was even impressed. That so never happened before. Lucien was kind and a great kisser. He gave blowjobs like a master, even if they had wiped Sammy out for three days. Still, Ryder’s contempt for Lucien kind of took the fun out of it.
Lucien handed him his champagne, and Sammy sipped. Now that’s good. They walked into the dining room where food was laid out. Sammy’s stomach growled.
Lucien laughed. “I think we better feed you. Did you forget to eat again?”
Sammy nodded. He grabbed a plate and loaded some turkey and roast beef and salad onto it. Lucien nibbled at a couple of finger sandwiches. “When will the gifts be given?”
Man, Lucien’s anxious. “After everyone’s gotten some food, I guess. Estera seems to be organizing it. She came with Chen. Did you see? So cool.”
Lucien’s gaze flickered toward the attractive young witch standing over on the other side of the table with Chen. Sammy smiled. Chen was really hooked. He stared at that witch like she’d dropped from heaven.
Lucien pointed. “Let’s go say hello.”
“Oh. Okay.” Now he decided to be social?
They crossed around the table and approached Chen and Estera. Sammy grinned. “Hi, guys. Having fun?”
Chen beamed. “Oh yeah. Great party.”
Estera smiled at Sammy, but her glance kept sliding up toward Lucien. “Yes, it’s a great party. Are you enjoying it, Lucien?” Her voice had a breathless quality. Chen looked from her to Lucien and frowned.
Lucien turned on his million-dollar smile. “I’m having a lovely time. One favor, though.”
“Of course.”
“I so want to present the Witch Master and his husband with a gift, but I know Sammy has been tired recently and may not want to stay too late. Could you arrange for the gifts to be presented soon?”
Actually Sammy hadn’t said anything about being tired, although he kind of was. But man, Lucien was so excited about his tea service. Gods, in a house like this, Killian must have ten of them.
Estera nodded. “I’ll get the gift-giving arranged right away, okay?”
Lucien leaned forward and kissed her cheek. “Thank you. That’s very kind of you.”
Chen’s frown deepened. Lucien didn’t seem to be making any male friends tonight. Was this more of his being “gracious”?
Estera bustled off toward the sitting room where the presents had been deposited. Lucien turned to Sammy. “Excuse me for a moment. I need to find the restroom.”
Sammy pointed toward the entry. “We passed it on the way in.”
Lucien nodded and walked off.
Chen moved closer to Sammy. “Was he coming on to Estera?”
Was he? “I think he was being his European charming self. He’s gay, after all.”
“I sure as hell wish he’d act like it. I never saw you kissing any girls’ cheeks.”
Sammy laughed. “No worries, buddy. He’s harmless.”
Chen narrowed his eyes. “If there’s one thing that guy isn’t, it’s harmless.”
Estera did an efficient job of gathering the guests for the present opening. Though the invitations had specifically said no gifts, almost everyone had at least brought flowers. Some of the students sat on the floor in front of Killian and Blaine while older people and witches took chairs. Sammy, Lucien, and Chen stood in the back, and Estera passed packages and wrote a list of who gave what for thank-you notes. The girl was organized.
Killian opened the wonderful antique book on witchcraft that the young witches had found to buy for him. Sammy had contributed, as had Lucien.
Killian beamed and held the book to his chest. “I said no gifts, but I’m happy you didn’t listen. This is marvelous, you guys. Thank you so much.” He passed it to Blaine, who admired the book and kissed Killian’s cheek.
Sammy smiled. Seeing the two of them together made his heart swell and hurt just a little. How wonderful would it be to have that kind of love in his life? He glanced at Lucien. The witch seemed restless, impatient. He must really want his gift to be opened.
Finally Estera presented the two silver boxes. Killian looked at the cards. “From Lucien and Sammy. Thank you, gentlemen.” Killian smiled, and his beautiful face lit up.
The gift thing felt a little weird since Sammy hadn’t actually given any money, but he had picked out the style of the tea set, so at least he’d made a contribution.
Killian and Blaine each took a side of the big bow and tore off the silver paper. Killian opened the box and looked in. “Ah, I see this was selected by someone who knows us well.” He pulled out the contemporary pewter teapot and removed the white tissue. “Beautiful. I adore tea, as my students know, and this style is clearly the selection of two artists. I’ll enjoy it immensely.” Lucien squeezed Sammy’s hand.
Blaine grinned. “He’s even converted me to tea. Sometimes. Thank you both so much.”
Lucien cleared his throat. “There’s a companion box.”
Killian picked up the small silver package. “Ah yes.” He pulled off the paper and cocked his head. “Hmm. What have we here?” Blaine reached in and lifted out a glass container full of dark brown squares of food that looked like fudge or brownies, maybe.
Lucien smiled. “It’s a special delicacy from my homeland I had shipped just for the occasion. Rather like a cross between candy and pastry. I hope you like it. It can be served cold or warm.”
Killian smiled. “I’m sure Blaine and I will enjoy this very much.”
Lucien beamed. “It can be served in very small amounts because it’s so rich, so perhaps you’d like to give everyone a sample?”
Killian looked steadily at Lucien. What was the Witch Master looking for?
Blaine leaned over and loosened the container lid. “Personally, I love chocolate. Shall we dig in?”
“Yes, wonderful.” Lucien clapped his hands together as he did whenever he was very excited.
Blaine smiled at Estera. “Can you give me some napkins, please?”
She produced a big stack of paper napkins and helped Blaine portion out the squares into small servings for anyone who wanted to try the confection. She handed a square to Sammy and then held one out to Lucien.
He held up his hands. “I don’t want to take any away from someone else.”
Killian held his rather larger square on the napkin in his lap. “I insist, Lucien. You must share in the pleasure with us.”
Sammy glanced at the Witch Master. Was there some challenge in that polite demand?
Lucien smiled slightly. “I’d be delighted.” He took the proffered napkin, picked up the small brown square, and raised it in a salute to Killian. “To happiness.” He bit, chewed, and swallowed.
Hmm. If Killian had thrown down a gauntlet, Lucien had picked it up and put it on.
Blaine took a big bite of his square. “Wow. That’s delicious. Like spicy chocolate. What’s it called?”
“It is called kouzla, which means ‘magical’ in my country. The taste is magical, yes?”
Killian took a bite and chewed. He smiled. “Delicious.” His nose wrinkled. “Oh, the spices go to my head.”
Lucien smiled. “Yes, it’s part of the effect. Try a little more.”
Killian gazed at Lucien again. It really seemed like the Witch Master was trying to read his visitor from Europe. Killian gave a little nod and took another bite, then swallowed, but with difficulty. “I think the spices must not agree with me.”
Blaine snapped the kouzla out of Killian’s hand. “Ah, more for me.” He laughed and chewed it up.
Voices rose at the back of the crowd by the entry. Killian and Blaine both looked up. Sammy stared over his shoulder. He saw people moving about and recognized Maybelle and Bilden walking through the crowd. Wow, they seemed kind of weird, both of them. Their eyes looked too wide and really shiny. Maybelle was usually quite neat, but now her cardigan appeared rumpled. Were she and Bilden on a date? Were they a couple?
Lucien murmured, “What are they doing here?”
Sammy shrugged. “I’m sure they were invited, just like the rest of us.”
“They’ve disrupted everything.”
Sammy glanced at Killian and Blaine, who had set aside the now nearly empty container of kouzla and gotten up, ready to greet the newcomers. Killian frowned at Maybelle and Bilden, but then he turned to all the guests still gathered around the couch. “Thank you for all the wonderful gifts, everyone. We’ll open some more later. I’m sure everyone wants a break for more food and drinks.”
People nodded and started moving into the dining room and back to the bar.
Lucien leaned in to Sammy. “Dr. Barth didn’t seem to like his sweet.”
Sammy smiled. “Blaine certainly did.”
Lucien’s pale eyes stared after Killian and Blaine. “Yes. That’s wonderful.”
Sammy looked at Killian, who was now talking to Maybelle and Bilden. He couldn’t hear what Killian said, but Maybelle’s voice rose. “We’re great, Dr. Barth. Really. Sorry we were late. We didn’t mean to disrupt the party.” Even though she looked strange, she seemed to be making sense. Still, her voice sounded different. Forced. Like she was on a stage.
Killian and Blaine nodded and smiled, and Blaine shook hands with Bilden.
“Do you think they seem a little—” He glanced up at Lucien. He was staring at the group with the intensity of a laser. Was he watching the Witch Master, or Bilden and Maybelle?
Lucien flicked his eyes at Sammy. “Sorry? What did you say?”
“I wondered if you thought those two were acting weird.”
“Weird? No. Rude, yes.”
Hmm. Maybe they just seemed weird to him, but across the room Ryder stared at Maybelle and Bilden and frowned.
Sammy spotted one of his younger brothers over near the bar. “Hey, want to meet my family?”
Lucien’s eyes seemed to tear away from staring at Maybelle and Bilden. “What? Oh, certainly. But do you feel up to it? Families can be so exhausting.”
For whom? “Sure. Come on.” Sammy took Lucien’s hand and threaded through the crowd to where his mother and father were nibbling on some cheese and crackers. His mom had worn a suit, since that was her best outfit, and his dad had on a sports coat with his pressed jeans. Fancy for him. Sammy thought his parents were great-looking. Sammy was tall like his dad, but his mom had the red hair. Of course, on her it was long, silky, and auburn. “Hey, Mom, Dad, this is my friend Lucien Eshel. Lucien, this is my mother, Anna, and my dad, Marius.”
His mother’s eyes widened. That was easy to understand. Lucien’s beauty was almost unreal.
Lucien took her hand and turned on the charm. “I am delighted to meet you, Mrs. Raphael. I see where Sammy gets his beauty.”
His mother’s steady gaze rested on Lucien. “My son’s unique, brilliant, and talented with no help from me, Mr. Eshel. I’m glad to see you appreciate that fact.”
Wow. As the third oldest of eight, Sammy didn’t get tons of praise from his parents. They didn’t have time. He’d store those words in his heart forever.
Lucien looked a little startled but recovered and shook hands with Sammy’s dad. “I’m pleased to meet you, Mr. Raphael.” He wasn’t pressing his luck with the charm this time, it seemed.
Sammy’s dad smiled, but he was a laid-back guy, and after teaching high school for eighteen years in a tough inner-city neighborhood, there wasn’t much that fazed him. “You’re an artist also, I understand.”
“Nothing near as good as Sammy, but yes.”
“Planning to make a career of it?”
Lucien’s eyes widened. “Career?”
Anna nodded. “As in work?”
Sammy smiled. They were so human.
Lucien shrugged elegantly. “I expect I will manage my family’s holdings and investments and paint as a hobby.”
Sammy’s mom’s sharp eyes narrowed. “I see.”
Poor guy. Sammy’d better rescue him. “Great to see you, Mom and Dad. We need to go say hi to a few more people. Have a great time.”
His mother kissed his cheek. “Have fun, darling.” She nodded at Lucien. “Good to meet you, Lucien. Perhaps we’ll see you again.”
He gave a little bow. “I shall look forward to it.” He shook hands with Sammy’s dad.
Sammy took Lucien’s hand and led him away. He looked a little shell-shocked. “I should have warned you. They’re essentially human. Their lives are based on hard work and service. That’s what they understand.”
Lucien cleared his throat. “Very admirable, I’m sure.”
Sammy laughed. “It’s okay. More than one of my boyfriends has felt like they were raked over the coals.”
Lucien raised his eyebrows. “But I do not wish to be just another boyfriend.”
Sammy shrugged. “Then you may have to take a public service job.”
Lucien’s pale eyes got huge, and Sammy threw back his head and howled. “I’ve never seen such a picture of horror. Don’t worry. We’ll see if you can’t win them over with your boyish charm.” He didn’t say that was not likely.
They stayed a little while longer, but Lucien seemed to lose interest in the party. Finally Sammy got tired of trying to entertain him and found Killian to say good-bye. Lucien went to wash his hands.
Sammy stuck out his hand to Killian. “Thank you so much, sir. It was a wonderful party.”
“Glad you could come, Sammy. You and our new member seem to have struck up a friendship.”
“Yes, sir.” Sammy hoped he wasn’t blushing too much.
“You like him?”
“He’s very kind to me, sir.”
“That’s good to hear. You’re very special to us, Sammy.”
Wow. Did the Witch Master really say that? “Thank you.”
“I hope you’ll come and see me soon. I’d like to talk with you about your life and progress.”
“Thank you. I’d like that.” Maybe Killian could help him sort out his weird lack of powers.
Lucien walked up. “Thank you so much, Dr. Barth. This has been a lovely party.”
Killian smiled and shook Lucien’s hand. For a second Sammy felt a tingle of something like electricity. Strange. Sammy never felt such things. Killian drew back his hand. “Thank you for your generous gifts.”
“I wouldn’t have been able to select them without Sammy.”
Killian nodded and gazed at Lucien. “I’m sure that’s true.”
“Merwaor.” Aloysius padded over, brushed against Killian’s pant leg, and then leaped all the way to Sammy’s shoulder in one fluid jump. Killian laughed. “It seems he was only on loan to us tonight. He belongs to you, Sammy. At least for the present.”
“It seems so, sir.” Sammy reached up and petted Al’s head. Funny how glad he was not to have lost the cat.
Sammy said good-bye to friends and got some cheerful ribbing about his “splendiferous” appearance and beautiful date. It was the first time he ever remembered being looked at as a sex object, and it was damned fun.
He stopped inside the door as Lucien went out to hail a cab. Sammy glanced up and saw Ryder gazing at him. Sammy smiled because it was so wonderful to look at Ryder. Ryder smiled back. Sammy wished it was for the same reason.
“Sammy, cab’s here.”
Sammy gave one last look to the friend he was trying not to love and walked down the steps.