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

A wicked glint sparked in Piter’s green eyes. “Miss me?”


“Go to hell.” Jamie unclenched his hands with effort and braced himself, knowing the next few moments would be unpleasant with his practiced tormentor. Piter continued to loom over him, staring at his face, and Jamie dropped his eyes. Get on with it.


Piter’s amused laugh made him shiver. “I didn’t expect you to recover so quickly, yet here you are, dressed and having a repast. I have to remember to use you harder next time.” He straddled the bench, putting his head on Jamie’s shoulder. “That lush body of yours is stronger than it looks. Who knew such sweet curves and rosy skin could endure so much? I’d love to push your limits. Would you scream for me, Jamie? Beg for release from the pain you secretly crave?”


Jamie suppressed a shudder when Piter licked up his neck, nibbled his ear. Jamie’s voice sounded hesitant when he spoke, making him wince. “Where’s Nico?”


Chapter 71