Page 29 of A Siren Song for Christmas

“I think it’s a lovely idea,” Malachi interrupted, not wanting to cause the young man to fret. “I appreciate your thoughtfulness.”

“It’s nothing.” Trent shrugged. “Really.”

“It is not nothing,” Malachi said slowly. “You made plans for us tonight, and then when you realised I was uncomfortable, you did not become offended. Instead you created new plans so I would be at ease. You are kind, thoughtful, and considerate, and I appreciate that.”

Trent’s cheeks flushed.

Once again Malachi was struck with how lovely he was when he blushed. He had a hard time comprehending that Trent had not found someone to cherish and treasure him. Because the man was lovely not only outside but inside too.

They continued walking and drinking their hot chocolates. As they walked, Malachi could picture other nights like this in the young man’s presence. He felt lucky that Trent had sought him out as a friend.

When they arrived in his shop, Malachi held out his now empty mug. “Can you hold this please?”

Trent took it, and Malachi turned to the large yellow sorrow. He could feel Trent watching him as Malachi held out his hand.

“Hello, my dear. Sorry for making you wait.” Kelby hopped onto Malachi’s hand with a ribbit, seemingly unperturbed at having been stuck on the flower longer than usual. “Shall we all go upstairs?” he asked Trent.

Trent nodded, the flush still staining his cheeks.

Malachi lit a lantern and led the way to the back. “I must apologise.” The stairs creaked beneath his feet. “I am not used to company, except Kelby, of course. But she is used to my ways. My room is basic and not very comfortable.”

“I’m sure it’s fine,” Trent said lightly.

Malachi reached the top of the stairs, opened the door, and set the lantern on the table. “You are a hearth and kitchen witch, correct?” He walked to Kelby’s terrarium. She hopped off onto a large leaf that bent under her weight. Malachi took off his coat.

Trent nodded as he reached the top of the stairs and looked around. He took off his coat.

Malachi hung their coats and glanced around the dark, bare space. There were no Christmas decorations. Nothing colourful, interesting, or personal. It wasn’t a place to live. Just exist. “Hearth and kitchen witches make domestic spaces warm and cosy, correct?”

“It’s one thing we do.” Trent gave a wry smile. “But I’m a pretty pathetic witch in general.”

Malachi frowned. “In what way?”

“My siblings make the hearth and the kitchen theirs. They connect to the bakery. They nurture people with their baking. It means something to them.” Trent shrugged. “For me, none of it ever really clicked. I mean, I try and put my heart into baking and pour my intentions into the rituals and actions. But it just never resonated for me.”

Trent stared at the empty grate. “Honestly, I’ve always felt a bit shit at most witchy stuff. I tried my hand at spells, but they never worked. I have no affinity for anything. I don’t have a familiar.” Trent paused. “Sometimes I even wonder if I should call myself a witch.” Trent let out a weak laugh.

“I’m sorry. That sounds difficult,” Malachi said, although he knew very little about witches and their ways.

“It’s no big deal,” Trent said dismissively. “I can help out at home and in the bakery. That’s what matters most to me.”

But Malachi felt there was more to it than that. “It still sounds rough.”

Trent didn’t respond. Not wishing to push if the young man didn’t want to talk about it, he set to starting a fire. At least he could do that to make the space cosier. After a few moments, the fire cast a golden glow, heating the small space.

“Aren’t you sweet?” Trent whispered.

Malachi looked back. Trent stood over the terrarium, leaning forward and studying Kelby. From the looks of it, she was examining him in return.

Suddenly, Kelby jumped. Trent startled as Kelby landed on his chest. Trent leaned back, laughing, staring down at Kelby. He turned and looked to Malachi, his eyes dancing.

“I think she likes you.” Malachi chuckled.

“Really?” Slowly, Trent walked to one of the chairs, the one that was never used. He sat and leaned back, careful not to dislodge Kelby, who stared up at Trent.

“The baked goods are in the packages.” Trent gestured, but he didn’t move his torso where Kelby still perched.

“I will get some plates.” Malachi rose. Then he realised he only had a single plate. That and one bowl. He didn’t need more for himself.