Page 54 of The Orc Who Hated Christmas

Briar had had to explain to both Cas and Graal what mates actually were. They’d both only had a vague idea. It didn’t help that the concept of a mate differed widely between races.

But generally, it was understood that a mate was someone with whom you were destined to be highly compatible. How many mates an individual had was believed to vary between races.

Werewolves only had one. Both orcs and pixies were believed to have several. Dragons used the term slightly differently because whilst dragons could sense when someone would be a suitable mate, ultimately their mate was chosen.

Briar had then told them there had been a lot of debate amongst different groups about the accuracy of some of these claims. Graal had started to tune out after a while. He understood the important part: Cas was his mate. Maybe he had more potential mates out there. But that didn’t matter. He just wanted Cas.

Graal squeezed his mate tightly against him.

“All right, lovebirds. You going to help us lay out food?” Lacy laughed.

Graal broke the kiss. “Sorry. Let me help you, Lacy.” Graal took the plates she carried and laid them on the table.

“I’m not sorry.” Cas smirked. “But I will still help carry out the food.” And he disappeared into the kitchen.

Back and forth, everyone carried the plates and bowls and placed them on the table. Graal’s mouth watered as he surveyed the various pies, meats, and vegetables. He knew the desserts were still waiting out back. Cas would be looking forward to that far more than these savoury dishes.

As Grady brought out the last two plates, he yelled, “Come on everyone. Food is ready!”

Cas came over next to Graal and clasped his hand. Everyone took a seat.

“Let’s have a toast.” Cas lifted his glass and wrapped his arm around Graal.

Grady raised his glass. “Welcome,” Grady said as he looked around the table. “Here’s to family, both old and new, and to being together today. Merry Christmas.”

Calls of “Merry Christmas!” and the clinking of glasses sounded around the table.

“Hear that. You’re one of us now!” Cas said. “You’re part of the family.”

Graal looked around at the crowded table, taking in Cas’s words. He let out a shaky breath, feeling his eyes prickle.

“Now let’s eat,” Grady announced.

Everyone around began reaching for food.

“Merry Christmas, my love.” Cas leaned against Graal.

Graal kissed Cas on the cheek. “Merry Christmas, my Christmas pixie.”