All Is Bright - K. Sterling Page 0,52

his unpolluted self when he was in Holderson Manor. He dressed in a jumper and jeans and was tugging on a pair of socks as Paul hurried him down the hall and into the living room. Reginald spotted Wilder then saw Toly and ran back to their room to get Toly’s gift. He shoved the tiny red ring box into the pocket of his jumper and raced back to the living room as Sage was handing out mimosas. Sage and Robin were wearing matching elf onesies and it was disgustingly adorable. Wilder and Toly were wearing coordinating knit jumpers and both had a delightful post coital glow. The glow radiated with West and Sharp and they were snuggled together on the sofa with Robin. Sharp was in his standard grey hoodie and jeans but West was wearing a very appropriate green and red flannel shirt. Denver and Ezra were watching from the screen over the fireplace and were in coordinating flannel pajamas.

“Thank you,” Reginald said and felt a tickle of something sentimental and warm as the rest of the champagne flutes were passed out. Robin’s and Sharp’s were filled with juice and they tapped their glasses together as Mr. Lavender rose and went to the fireplace.

“I couldn’t be more grateful or feel more blessed to be able to share this morning with all of you. Merry Christmas,” he stated simply and raised his glass. Everyone murmured in agreement as they raised their glasses back and drank. Then, Lavender grinned at Robin and waved at the tree. “These are all for you,” he said and went to perch on the arm of Sage’s chair. Everyone watched as Robin made his way through a sea of toys and wrapping paper and he was precious as he thrilled over each gift. He reached the end and curled up next to Rosemary with a book and a plate of cookies.

“If I could say something,” Reginald called as all the adults got up to head into the dining room and everyone paused warily.

“What are you doing? You didn’t say anything about an announcement,” Paul whispered out of the side of his mouth but Reginald shushed him.

“I put a lot of thought into this and Sharp helped,” he whispered back and Sharp froze.

“Oh. We’re really doing this. Lane said I was just doing that to keep you out of trouble,” Sharp said as he looked around nervously. Reginald gasped.

“Not at all! While I did enjoy everyone assuming it was just a ruse, I truly want to do this! It was a ruse and a fun bonding project. We were multitasking!” He stated then held up a finger. “Don’t move!” He said and went to the closet under the stairs. He opened it and unzipped the garment bag he’d snuck in after everyone went to bed. Reginald squealed excitedly as he pulled the first red and green sequined coat out and slipped it on, over his jumper. “And this is for you!” He said as he pulled out the other jacket and held it out to Sharp.

“I don’t want to wear that,” he said and shook his head as he tried to back away but West caught him by the arm.

“I think you should!” He urged Sharp and Sage nodded quickly in agreement.

“You really should. The two of you practiced for...” He started but Sharp glared at him.

“I was told I was babysitting.”

“Multitasking! You helped me fool them and we have a brilliant act! Come on!” Reginald said and shook the coat at him.

“Please,” West said so Sharp rolled his eyes hard as he snatched the coat from Reginald.

“Haven’t I been through enough?” He pushed his arms through the sleeves and gave the front a tug.

“Over by the tree!” Reginald said with a gentle shove to get him moving. Once they were in place Reginald took the microphone out of the inside pocket. It was just a prop but everyone clapped and gasped dramatically as Reginald offered them a deep, sweeping bow. “Good morning and Merry Christmas, lady and gentlemen,” he announced to Rose and all assembled. “This is my lovely assistant, Aiden,” he said and Sharp gave them a lazy wave. Reginald cleared his throat loudly as he pulled a tiny wrapped gift from the coat’s pocket. “Could you take that bit of ribbon out of your pocket, Aiden?” Reginald asked and held out his other hand. Sharp jammed his hand in the left pocket and pulled out a length of red plastic ribbon. It was

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