All Is Bright - K. Sterling Page 0,6

you don’t want me to hang out?” Farris asked but Cyril shook his head.

“They’re going to be insufferable. You’re better off hiding in the vault until it’s time to dress for dinner. I’d hide with you but I should welcome them and make sure they’re settled.”

“If you’re sure...” Farris said and frowned as Casper appeared at the top of the stairs then stomped down the steps.

“Did you tell him?” Casper growled. Cyril cleared his throat and gave his head a quick shake.

“It can wait,” he said and turned back to Farris. “You should make your escape now, or it’ll be too late. The gate says they are imminent,” he said and smiled innocently at Farris.

“Tell me what?” Farris asked but Cyril shooed him off.

“Nothing you need to worry about right now. Go enjoy what little peace you can find, while you still can.”

“What? That’s not making me worry less...” Farris complained.

“Is that them?” Cyril mused as he rose on his toes and craned his neck. “If you’d really like to help me welcome them, at my side, as is fitting for...”

“I’m out of here,” Farris declared with a nod to Casper before he ran for the elevator.

“That’s a shame. I like when he yells at you,” Casper murmured. “There they are. Want me to stand here and play lady of the manor for you?” He offered brightly. Cyril pretended Casper wasn’t there and admired the sixteen-foot tree in the foyer. It was covered in lights and the branches glittered with Swarovski crystal snow. The designer would be adding bows and ornaments soon but Cyril already liked it. He’d never decorated for Christmas at Blackhurst but was looking forward to celebrating with Farris. Cassie was coming for dinner on Christmas Eve and Cyril had something very special planned. He pressed his hand over his coat pocket and felt a flutter of impatience at the square-shaped lump. Cyril was often tempted but he knew Farris would want Cassie to be there.

“Rooms are ready and everything is running smoothly in the kitchen,” Alon announced and Cyril nodded. He wasn’t concerned about his house being in order. He was worried about the perfect order of his house being disrupted by twelve extra people, all poking and peeking and wandering where they shouldn’t.

“Remind Hector to let the dogs run after dark.”

“I’ll do that now,” Alon said as he raised his hand and whispered into his sleeve. Two limos crawled around the fountain before coming to a stop and Cyril’s pulse spiked. He braced himself and prayed their stay would be brief. His shoulders and neck tightened as doors were opened and the gentlemen of Lake Cliff climbed out and made their way up the house’s front steps and into the foyer.

“Welcome to Blackhurst,” Cyril announced and waited with his hands clasped behind his back so they wouldn’t see them tremble. Relax. They can’t hurt you and you can replace whatever they break, he repeated and bowed at Lavender. “I trust the journey was pleasant.”

“Almost as pleasant as staying home,” he replied with a wide, artificial smile.

“Quit whining, Lavender. I’ve made you a very rich man. You’ll come when I tell you to,” Cyril reminded him and Lavender humphed in agreement.

“For now. Let’s see what it is that you’ve done and if you still deserve my loyalty.”

“It’s the holidays, Lavender. Where’s your cheer and goodwill?” Cyril drawled.

“In Lake Cliff. You remember my husband, Sage.” Lavender gestured at the gorgeous man hovering at his right and Cyril nodded as he offered his hand.

“It’s an honor to welcome you to my home, Mr. Bradley,” Cyril said sincerely. Bradley was a decent artist but his other life work was his foundation, The Robin’s Nest. Bradley, with Mr. Lavender’s help, saved homeless LGBTQ teens from the streets, provided scholarships and work placement. Bradley saved orphans and Cyril respected the hell out of Lavender’s husband. Even if he was a pretty fucktoy. Cyril’s thoughts went to Farris as he welcomed the rest of his guests. He didn’t relish the thought of Mr. Lavender’s or Lord Marston’s snickering and their meddling. Plus, it was just generally intolerable for them to know about his personal affairs. “Please make yourself at home while you’re in Blackhurst. Enjoy the amenities while you’re here but limit your wandering to the inside of the house. Anything beyond the terrace is off limits unless you are with myself or Alon. And possibly Mr. Grim, with approval and close supervision. This is as much for your protection as it