A/N: I don't own Valkyrie, Anton, Skulduggery, Ghastly, Tanith or Billy-Ray.


I awoke the next morning, snuggled in Anton's strong arms. "Morning, handsome." I purred as he opened his captivating grey eyes to look at me sleepily. "I'll make us coffee. You stay in bed." I offered, pushing his long black hair back and capturing his lips in a gentle kiss. Anton rolled over, putting me beneath him.

"Oh no, my dear. I make the coffee and breakfast. We'll trade every so often, but I like having someone to care for. All right?" I nodded happily, well aware I was grinning up at him stupidly. Anton had tamed me, and I wasn't sure when or where it had happened, but I was happier because of it. There was a knock at our door and Anton answered.

Dad entered, carrying a sack of take away and Styrofoam cups of coffee. "For the newlyweds." He said, then carried the bags and drinks to the table. He tipped his hat to us as he left and I looked at Anton, amused.

I put on my robe and joined Anton at the table, and the next few days had the same lazy rhythm. Then there were guests to pick up, and we all settled into our roles in the Midnight Hotel. Dad proved good with handling guests, and soon was manning the front desk. And with three of the legendary Dead Men in residence our guests behaved quite well.


I'd turned my mobile back on after nearly a month, and wasn't surprised when Ghastly rang me as I returned books to the common room library. "I understand I missed your wedding. Oh, sweetheart, I wanted to be there so badly. And to make your dress."

"I know, Dad. I wanted you there. But I was getting out of Dodge at the time. Besides, aren't you getting married yourself soon?" I asked.

"You're kidding, right? I was angry with Skulduggery because he is the man she came on to. I jetted back to Ireland after I told Tanith it was over. Though I did tell her Billy-Ray was currently avaliable so she didn't take it too badly." He sighed. "I don't suppose you have any open positions at the Midnight Hotel?" He asked.

I shrugged, then realized he couldn't see me. "Hold on, I'll get the front desk for you." I said, then went out to find Anton at the front desk with Skulduggery. I mouthed 'Ghastly' then held out the mobile between them.

Skulduggery took it, murmured a greeting then listened, he shrugged as well, then handed my mobile to Anton. We went into the common room and dad looked at me. "Well, if Anton needs the staff there will be another Dead Man in residence. I suppose we'll have to do something dreadful now, like actually feed our guests." He said, tilting his head in a smile.

I hugged him tightly. "More than likely. Anton married into the Dead Men for cheap labor." I said and heard his snort of contempt from the doorway.

"Who said anything about paying any of you three? Oh, and do add Miss Low to the list Billy-Ray is on on people who are not welcome in the Midnight Hotel." He said, and at his smile I realized the staff would be growing again.


Aww, I couldn't let the Dead Men stay apart for long. And I'm not anti-Tanith, I adore her to bits. I just see her having trouble staying faithful. She's not bad, but she's not about to settle down either, methinks.