Page 43 of Prize for the Alien Grumpus

"Anytime, Magnificent One," he says, and I can hear the promise in his voice. "Anytime."

Krampus's breathing deepens beside me, his massive chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. His fur tickles my nose, but I don't mind. The warmth of his body wraps around me like the softest blanket.

Who would have thought? A month ago, I was dreading another lonely Christmas. Now here I am, curled up next to ablue-furred alien who treats my daughter like she's the most precious thing in the universe.

Yesterday, he spent three hours helping Sam build a gingerbread house. His massive claws should have crushed the delicate walls, but he handled each piece with impossible gentleness. The look of concentration on his face as he piped frosting onto the roof made my heart melt.

Sam adores him. The way her eyes light up when he enters a room, how she runs to him with her homework or a new drawing. She never had that with her real father.

His arm tightens around me in his sleep, pulling me closer. A soft rumble vibrates through his chest – almost like a purr. The sound makes something warm unfurl in my chest.

I trace my fingers through his fur, marveling at how different our bodies are. Different species, different worlds. Yet somehow, we fit. More than that – we work.

The thought hits me like a bolt of lightning. I want more of this. More mornings waking up tangled in blue fur. More family dinners with Sam chattering about her day while Krampus pretends to understand Earth school drama. More nights like this.

Maybe even... more children? The idea should terrify me, but instead it fills me with a quiet joy. Little ones with his strength and my stubbornness, siblings for Sam to dote on.

I press a kiss to his chest, right over his heart. He mumbles something in his sleep, probably threatening to destroy someone. I smile. My dangerous, gentle monster.

CHAPTER 16

KRAMPUS

The line at the coffee shop snakes around twice, but I don't mind. These humans pack themselves in tight, radiating warmth and good cheer. Their holiday spirits infect even my normally murderous thoughts.

"Grande peppermint mocha for Kram!"

"That's me." I collect the drink, careful not to crush the fragile cup in my massive hand. The barista doesn't even blink at my appearance - the image inducer makes me look like any other human shopping for overpriced beverages.

The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg fills my nostrils. A display of seasonal treats catches my eye.

"Add two of those gingerbread people."

"Cookies," the cashier corrects. "They're called gingerbread cookies."

"Whatever. They look delicious."

I study the intricate frosting designs while she bags them. Such artistry in their tiny faces. Almost a shame to eat them.

Almost.

A small child bumps into my leg, sticky hands leaving prints on my pants. Instead of eviscerating the tiny human like I normally would, I pat its head.

"Careful there, small one."

"Sorry mister!"

The mother yanks the child away, but I just smile. The holiday decorations twinkle merrily, casting rainbow patterns across the floor. Tinny speakers pipe out songs about snow and sleigh bells.

I grab Mel's bagel order and head for the door, dodging around clusters of caffeine-deprived humans. None of them realize a legendary destroyer walks among them. They're too focused on their phones and shopping lists.

The bell jingles as I step outside into the crisp morning air. Steam rises from the coffee cup, carrying that rich aroma that Mel loves so much. Better than any replicator swill.

"Maybe I could get used to life on Earth," I say to myself.

My good mood evaporates when I spot the Grolgath leaning against Mel's car. The paper bag crumples in my grip as I draw my disintegrator.

"Now, now." Gregor raises his hands. "I'm just here to talk."

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