Luca basked in their anticipation for a moment longer before clearing his throat.
"I could tell you about it...but wouldn't you rather see for yourselves?"
Eager nods all around.
"Then I need everyone to close their eyes."
The request was met with bewildered looks.
Why would they need to close their eyes to receive a gift?
"Trust me." Luca insisted, his tone brooking no argument. "Close them tight. No peeking, or there'll be consequences."
"You want to be surprised, don't you?"
One by one, the elves complied.
Leona was first, her natural trust in Luca overcoming any hesitation.
Others followed suit, hands rising to cover eyes for good measure.
The children, thrilled by what seemed like a game, squeezed their eyes shut with exaggerated determination.
Little Fefe, however, couldn't resist. Her fingers parted just slightly, one eye cracking open to peer through...
"Fefe." Luca's voice carried gentle warning. "Did I say you could peek?"
