Betrayed by a lover, Jamie rents an isolated cabin on Lake Huron, wanting only to be left alone. Instead, he is pulled from his solitary existence as an artist and tumbles headlong into the legend of Saint Nicolas.<br><br>As a young man, Nicolas accidentally killed a man intent on murdering three children, only to have the man's malicious spirit rise up against him. Fleeing through the centuries from the Krampus, the evil troll-like creature that dogs his steps, Nico finds refuge with the young artist who takes him into his home and bed. But Jamie has questions. Who is Nicolas, and why does the Krampus want to destroy him?<br><br>When the Krampus begins to torment and torture anyone Nico comes in contact with to punish him, Jamie's life is put in danger. And Jamie isn't sure whether he can help Nico defeat his nemesis or if he's merely a pawn in the Krampus's game.

Nicolas

The woman behind the counter answered pleasantly, deliberately vague. “Everyone is being seen to—scrapes and cuts, a few concussions. Thankfully no one was seriously injured. If there is a particular person you wish to see, please come back in the morning during regular visiting hours.”


“Of course. May I call a taxi?” Nico kept hold of Jamie’s hand as they crossed the empty foyer and stepped outside. Large snowflakes sifted down from the night sky, glowing in the light spilling from the hospital building. Jamie lifted his face, relishing the cold sting on his heated skin while they waited for the taxi. He noted John Meiden’s truck parked close to the entrance and said a quiet prayer for him and Andy.


“Do you think Piter is still inside?” he asked after a moment.


“Probably not. He’s had his fun without a care for those he’s hurt.” Nico pulled Jamie back against his chest, ran hands over his arms to warm him. “You’re shivering, mio caro. Shall we wait inside—”


Chapter 55