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

Nico placed a chaste kiss on his lips. “You’re distracting me, amore. But to finish, I must confess I have perpetuated the myth of Santa Claus and Father Christmas. It’s a way to disguise my comings and goings around the world, allowing me to help where I can and disappear without explanation. I share God’s message of unity and peace with this troubled world.”


Jamie recalled how at the inn last night, when they’d first arrived, people who were strangers to each other had come together in friendship around Nico. And even earlier that day in the diner for breakfast. They’d gathered around Nico as if fascinated, sharing their stories. His heart swelled with pride that he knew this man. “You must be the Spirit of Christmas, bringing hope rather than presents to everyone.”


Chapter 62