A Nordic NYC Christmas

Part VI

Minutes turned to hours. Even I was getting tired. Berwald was on his fifth cup of hot chocolate, and if Cocoa was alcoholic, Tino would be long dead. But they were soon awakened from their stupor as an enigma entered the rink. He was tall, muscular, and blonde. He wore a black winter coat that easily cost more than my monthly paycheck. Black sunglasses, Gucci, no less, and a flashy Rolex completed this stranger's look. But as he approached, I knew this was no stranger. It was Lukas.

Tino sensed that something went off inside of the Swede next to him. "Keep your tongue in your mouth, Berwald," he warned.

But Berwald could not keep his eyes off of the tall Norwegian. He was no longer the thin, fragile boy of his youth. He was strong, mysterious, and undeniably attractive. He got up from his chair and kissed Lukas' hand. " 's been a while."

Lukas, voice had changed as well, from nonchalant, to velvety and soothing. "And you as well, Berwald."

They stood there for a few seconds, Berwald entranced by the newcomer. Tino had had enough. "Well, Lukas. It's nice to see you," he retorted, grabbing Berwald's arm and pulling him away.

"It's nice to see you too."

Then, he came over to me. And when I say my heart stopped, I mean it literally stopped. It slammed on the brakes faster than a driver stopping to avoid hitting a squirrel. This was like meeting an old high school friend again, but waaay better. "Hey Lukas!" I grinned.

He nodded and pulled me into a quick embrace. I like to think it lasted forever, but others may argue. Meh. "You look good," he added.

I blushed. Hard. "T-thanks..." I was worse than a teenage fangirl.

Then he walked to Emil, and they exchanged awkward brotherly hugs and greetings. Not much worth noting, though, so I think I won't note it.

"I have reservations for us at Aquavit. We could all go for some Scandinavian food, I trust," Lukas cooed. Or, at least that's how I perceived it.

Berwald's jaw dropped. "That's th' most 'xpensive restaurant in New York."

Lukas raised an eyebrow. "And? I've already paid. Is there a problem?"

"No, not at all," replied Berwald, hastily.

Berwald knew who he would be sitting next to...