VII
Maybe I was going soft, but when Rapunzel pointed out her window at the swans—seven of them, of course—swimming in the palace fountain, which had been mysteriously heated for this very purpose, I couldn't help but think it wasn't such a terrible gift. It was actually kind of picturesque, poetic.
"Thanks, babe," I said, kissing the crown of her still damp head, fresh from the bath I couldn't afford to think about her taking. "They're beautiful."
Rapunzel smiled wordlessly up at me, tucking herself in closer to my side.
Sliding my hand slowly down her arm, I murmured into her choppy hair, "You've spoiled me. I'm officially spoiled, but I guess it was bound to happen, living here in the palace." These were seven days of unconventional gifts to be sure, but I bet I was the only former thief with a girl who'd gone to all this trouble for him for Christmas. "My old friends wouldn't even know me now."
Blondie laughed to herself, as she rubbed her nose against my shoulder.
"Hey, I had lots of friends, Blondie. I was very much in demand." I poked her arm for doubting my popularity, my undeniable appeal, but ended up wrapping both my arms around her and drawing her under my chin.
"Uh, huh," she mumbled, sounding dubious.
I rolled my eyes. Sometimes there was no reasoning with Rapunzel. "Well, anyway, a guy could get used to this kind of treatment." I was actually sorry that this would be the last gift. "Too bad this is it, huh?"
"Oh, Eugene. This is only day seven."
I