The Working Elf Blues by Piper Vaughn Read Free Book Online

and you should never have asked Poplar to lie for you."
    Garnet's lip trembled. He gave another nod and tried to keep the tears at bay. He could break down once Santa had gone. No need to make a spectacle of himself on top of everything else. "Yes, sir. I apologize. It will never happen again."
    "It surely won't." Santa's voice was rife with censure, and Garnet braced himself for whatever his punishment might be. "Because I will be sending you back immediately."
    Garnet couldn't prevent his gasp. He jerked his gaze to Santa's, too fearful to embrace the hope that threatened to unravel him right then and there. "Sir?"
    Santa's smile was rueful. "It's not my intention to make my elves miserable, Garnet. Your family has put in many years of service to mine. If you would truly be happier with Wesley, I'll permit you to leave with my blessing—as a human."
    A mix of excitement and anxiety uncoiled in Garnet's belly. He tucked his trembling hands between his knees and tried hard to be rational. "What does that mean?"
    "You may keep your memories, save for your knowledge of how to find the North Pole. You won't ever be allowed to return. And of course, you'll be stripped of your magic."
    "But I can be with Wes?"
    "I'll deliver you to his doorstep myself. But consider this carefully, Garnet. You'll never see your home or your father or Poplar again."
    Garnet's mouth went dry. He'd figured he would never be back when he left on Christmas Eve, but staying away of his own free will was a lot different than being banished. He wouldn't be able to find his way back even if he wanted to. He'd be leaving his father alone, and Poplar. It would be difficult, no question. Yet he knew both Poplar and Scarlet would understand. His father had loved once, and Poplar was a romantic who dreamed of finding an elf to settle down with. While they would undoubtedly miss him, they wouldn't blame him for leaving. Garnet knew that in his heart.
    "I want to go back."
    Santa nodded, unsurprised. "Gather whichever belongings you want to take with you and say your good-byes. Preparations for next Christmas begin in a few days, and I'd rather your father and Poplar have that time to come to terms with your departure before they're expected to resume their duties."
    Garnet leaped to his feet. "Of course. Thank you, sir!"
    He raced upstairs. Poplar started when Garnet burst into his bedroom.
    Poplar searched his face. "What happened?"
    "He's letting me go back." Garnet grabbed his satchel and a larger bag from his closet. "Help me pack before he changes his mind."
    Poplar reached for the picture frames Garnet kept on his dresser. It was a sign of how well Poplar knew him that he collected those first. "He won't change his mind. Santa doesn't go back on his word."
    Garnet paused in the middle of pulling clothes from his drawers. He shot Poplar an embarrassed look. "I know. I'm just nervous."
    Poplar placed the pictures on Garnet's bed and drew him into a hug. "I'm glad for you."
    Garnet hesitated for a moment. He thought Poplar probably knew, but the words had to be said. "I can't come back."
    Poplar nodded. "Yes. I've heard rumors about when Blink disappeared all those years ago. They say he went off to make music, and that some of the most famous human Christmas songs are by him. I'm sure he was as happy as you will be."
    Garnet hadn't heard that about Blink, the famous elf who vanished years before Garnet was born. But he would be happy. He'd make sure both he and Wes never had cause to be sad again, for as long as the fates allowed.
    "Let's hurry," Poplar said. "He's missing you."
    Garnet met Poplar's gaze. "It's been an honor having you as a friend. Thank you."
    Poplar squeezed him tightly. "Thank you. I'll miss you, but knowing where you're going gives me hope."
    He didn't have to explain further. Garnet knew Poplar longed for a partner and a family. His time would come. Poplar was the most loving and gentle elf Garnet had ever known. Any other elf would have