Gahrye's Epilogue - Part 4

GAHRYE

Gahrye swallowed. There were supposed to be cards on the presents? Oh dear. He hadn't known that. But it was too late now.

Frowning in frustration that he hadn't thought to ask, Gahrye thumbed open the small, square card that hung off the ribbon to find Kalle's handwriting inside.

"To my Mate,

Because I want every little girl

to find her Protector.

Merry Christmas!

Kalle."

Gahrye swallowed a lump in his throat and glanced up at her. "Thank you," he said roughly.

Kalle was biting her lip. "Just open it!" she groaned, her eyes alight and fearful at the same time.

He snapped the ribbon, then peeled the paper off at the back where it been adhered by some of that awful smelling plastic stuff, opening it to find a small, colorful book, with a shiny cover and small type on the back.