Page 38 of The Krampus's First Christmas Gift

As he approached the forest, he could already feel his strength returning. The headache that had plagued him since he’d woken lifted. His thoughts cleared. He breathed easier. His strides lengthened, and he moved with greater strength.

He’d not mentioned the illness to Kraghol yesterday. He’d planned to. But in the end, he’d been too distracted by Kraghol’s presence. But he’d bring it up soon.

As he and Kali entered the forest, he immediately spotted Kraghol waiting for them. The krampus didn’t try to hide. He strode forward.

They both came to a stop, facing each other. Jasper smiled. “Good day, Kraghol. So nice to see you again.”

Kraghol smiled, softening his severe features. “Nice to see you too, Jasper.”

“I packed a few things for us.” Jasper hefted the picnic basket.

“More truffles?” Kraghol asked, grey eyes hopeful.

“More truffles.” Jasper inclined his head. “And I’ve got some fresh bread, cake, pies, cookies, and a few other bits and pieces from the bakery.”

Kraghol’s eyes widened. “All of that just for us?”

Jasper laughed. “Yep.” His gaze flicked up and down Kraghol’s body. “But you’d normally need to eat a lot to keep yourself well fed, right?” Kraghol was significantly bigger thanJasper. He must eat a lot to maintain his size and all those delicious muscles.

“Yes. But not nice food like you make. Here, let me carry that for you.” Kraghol took the basket, and they walked. “Is it okay if we go to my cave again?”

After they’d talked yesterday, they’d returned to the cave. They’d kissed, jerked each other off, and talked until Jasper had to leave. Kraghol had escorted him back to the city.

Normally, Jasper couldn’t stand when others were overly concerned with his well-being. But he kind of liked Kraghol being all chivalrous and protective.

“Sounds perfect.” Jasper took Kraghol’s hand.

When they entered the cave, Jasper took the basket from Kraghol. Meanwhile, Kraghol set to starting the fire.

Jasper opened the basket. He took out a thick red picnic blanket and laid it on the floor. Kraghol paused to watch as Jasper took out several boxes of food and opened them. He put out plates, cutlery, and mugs. Then he took out a ceramic bottle with a cork, wrapped in a cloth.

He lay out a garland made of greenery and orange slices, weaving it between the food. Then he took out a vanilla-scented candle and lit it.

Kraghol frowned. “What… What is all this?”

“It’s a picnic.” Jasper gestured to the spread. “Don’t you like it?”

“I… It’s… Jasper, it’s beautiful,” Kraghol said softly. “Really beautiful.” He blinked. “But did you really put all this together just for me?”

“I did. I wanted our first picnic to be special.” Jasper grinned. “Now hurry up and finish with the fire so you can join me. I want you beside me.”

Jasper sat down on the blanket, crossing his legs. Kali lay next to him, resting her head on his lap. Kraghol resumedlighting the fire. But he kept glancing at the picnic spread and Jasper in awe.

When the fire blazed and it cast a welcoming warmth over them, Kraghol approached. He hesitated.

“Take a seat.” Jasper patted the spot next to him.

Kraghol looked at the spot. Then he glanced down at himself. He brushed his fur. He lifted his hooved foot. Then he stopped, hoof hovering. “I don’t want to get your lovely blanket dirty.”

“It’s meant to be used outside. A little dirt won’t hurt. I promise.” Jasper took his hand and tugged.

After a moment, Kraghol sat on the blanket, crossing his legs in an imitation of Jasper.

Jasper grabbed a plate, placing a pie and some bread that he slathered with butter on it. “There you are.” He handed Kraghol the plate.

Jasper put some dried fish on another plate and placed it in front of Kali. Then he fixed himself some food. Finally, he opened the ceramic bottle and poured steaming hot chocolate into two ceramic mugs.

He placed a mug in front of Kraghol. But the krampus had not started eating; he just watched Jasper.