Page 23 of Santa Daddy, I'm Not the One

“Eirik, I need you to look up the records for Landon McClain. Find out what happened to his Christmas gifts, the entire history.”

Eirik nodded. “Do you need the information immediately?”

I considered Landon’s haunted eyes and the need for a delicate touch. “As soon as possible, but not tonight. I’m taking him to Twinkle Glen for the Caroling Caravan. He needs a bit of Christmas spirit, a reminder of the joy and community the season brings. But I want to know everything as soon as possible. Understanding his past might help us.”

“You’ve got it, Santa.” Eirik was already moving toward the massive ledgers. “I’ll have the information ready for you soon.”

I left, the weight of responsibility and a newfound determination settling over me. As I walked through the corridors of the workshop, the distant sounds of elves humming carols and the occasional jingle of bells did little to lift the heaviness in my heart.

Tonight I would take Landon to Twinkle Glen and show him the beauty of the community coming together in song and light. Perhaps, amid the melodies and the gentle glow of lanterns, he would find a moment of peace.

The door of my bedroom was open. Through the gap, I glimpsed Landon, unaware of my presence. He stood in front of the mirror, tugging at his shirt, smoothing out invisible creases. A profound sense of protectiveness welled up inside me. He seemed so vulnerable, so in need of someone to stand by him, to understand the depth of his pain and offer solace.

A moment of panic seized me. What if, when the Crossing opened again, Landon chose to return to his world? The thought sent a chill through me. The idea of him leaving me was unbearable. I needed to show him the magic and warmth of Twinkle Glen, to ignite a spark of belief and joy in his heart. I had to change his mind. I had to make him stay.

Silently, I stepped into the room. Landon turned, a shy smile on his lips.

“Do I look okay?” he asked, a hint of uncertainty coloring his tone. “I’m not sure what a Caroling Caravan is.”

I smiled back. “You look perfect. And as for the Caroling Caravan… it’s a tradition we have here at Twinkle Glen.” I took a deep breath, then dove into our rich history. “Everyone gathers to sing carols. The caravan is a procession of festive carriages that travel through the glen. Think of it as a parade.”

“I see.”

“Are you ready to go?”

He nodded. “I guess.”

I picked up the coat from the bed and wrapped it around his shoulders. “In case you feel a little cold.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” I kissed the tip of his nose. “Let’s go.”

Together, we walked to the stable where the reindeer were kept. The cold air nipped at our cheeks, but the clear night sky was alight with stars, adding a touch of magic to the evening.

As we approached the sleigh, the reindeer greeted us with soft wheezes, their breaths visible in the chilly air. “Can I… Can I petthem?” he asked, his voice filled with a childlike wonder I hadn’t heard before.

“Of course.” I led him closer.

Landon reached out tentatively, his hand hovering over the soft fur of the nearest reindeer. When it nuzzled into his palm, he let out a surprised giggle. The reindeer snorted, and Landon’s laughter grew pure and unguarded. It was already happening. He was warming up to us and accepting this place.

Landon wrapped his arms around the reindeer’s neck in a gentle hug. “Thank you,” he whispered, almost as if speaking to the creature.

I cleared my throat, touched by the scene. “Ready to go?”

Landon released the reindeer and nodded, a soft smile playing on his lips. We climbed into the sleigh, the reindeer champing at the bit, eager to take flight.

As we soared into the sky, Landon’s laughter mingled with the ringing of sleigh bells, filling the crisp night air with hope and joy. When we approached the town, he grew quiet.

“Is something wrong?” I asked.

“Maybe this wasn’t a good idea. They don’t like me very much. Can’t say I blame them either.”

I took his hand and squeezed. “They’re good people, and they’ll love you. They just need to get to know you, which is why we’re doing this. If they see you up and about and notice I value you, they’ll be more at ease.”

Landon looked at me, a glint of uncertainty reflecting in his eyes. “You sure about that, Nils?”

“Positive,” I said with a smile. “But if you feel uncomfortable at any point, let me know, and I’ll take you home.”

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