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"Heart Don't Stand A Chance" - Anderson .Paak
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Thank you to everyone who's been reading. I have a habit of making playlists for stories and this chapter has one. I realize everyone doesn't have spotify... so I'm sorry. Just know the song that is playing while Michael locks eyes on Ella is called "Falling (committed to sparkle motion)" by Discopolis, DubVision
I'll drop the link right here. /WCo1e7HcUVE
If you have spotify, link here playlist/7mApzfmaRBuB98VZkxBtKs?si=3qgowX-5SIyNIgObDuChlw
Oh! I'm also on AO3, if you want to know what their outfits looked like. The photo is on that end.
ENJOY!
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He wasn't sure how much time had passed by the time he walked out of the bathroom. One thing was for certain, the penthouse was silent. He was sure he was alone. He had his towel wrapped around his waist when he entered the bedroom with his outfit of choice in hand.
As he passed the doorway, he spotted Chloe sitting on the couch with her knees to her chest. He tossed his clothing on the bed and put on leisure clothing.
As he came down the stairs, her eyes met his. Tears were streaming down her cheeks. She gave him a smile as she tried to wipe them away as fast as possible.
Michael opened his arms, inviting her for a hug. She politely shot him down with a shake of the head.
He understood. It was stupid of him to even offer. He gave her a head nod and made his way over to the chair in front of her.
"You okay?" he asked, not making eye contact.
"Yeah…"
"Is the child with you tonight?"
"No, she's at her grandparents this weekend. You don't remember?"
Michael shrugged his shoulder. The days were lost to him, he'd been gone for almost a month from his perspective. He wasn't even sure what day it was. If it wasn't for Chloe, he was sure he would have forgotten his date with Ella tonight.
He laid a hand on Chloe's knee to grab her attention. As the two made eye contact, they shot one another a smile. It was clear that neither one of their smiles reached their eyes.
"You sure you're going to be okay?" Michael asked. Chloe let out a chuckle. After everything that had happened in the last twenty-four hours, he was more concerned with her feelings than his own. She covered her mouth to try and stop laughing.
"I'm sorry, it's just… you… you are going through something far worse and I'm here crying over something not even…" she stopped herself when she noticed Michael's smile fade. "I'm sorry."
"It's okay…" he stood up from his seat and sat besides Chloe. "I know how much my brother means to you. It's only natural to mourn the loss, even if it is just for a while." Michael went ahead and tapped her knee, to show in good faith that they were going to be fine.
"About your kids…"
"Oh…" he shook his head, "please… another day but not now…"
"I didn't know…"
"No one knows. Again, can we not talk about this?"
She could see the pain in his eyes, so she nodded her head and dropped the conversation. Chloe went ahead and grabbed his hand off her knee and gave it a squeeze.
Michael gave her a small smile before pulling it away. His attitude flipped like a light switch. He had a smile on his face. Most likely his attempt to hide his pain.
"You should come by Lux tonight and bring the gang. I'm sure Linda needs a break from my nephew and brother. Maze… well does she really need an invite?"
"Don't you have a date with Ella tonight?"
"I know and I remembered thanks to you." He stood up from his seat and walked away from the couch. "All I'm saying is that you should come by tonight and let loose. It's been a rough day for the both of us…" he gathered the glasses and brought them over to the bar. "It'd also be nice to have a buffer, should I screw up…"
"You're nervous about tonight?" she asked.
"Of course I'm nervous. A beautiful woman like Miss Lopez going on a date with a basket case like me…"
"You're not a basket case Michael. You know that right?" He shrugged his shoulders and turned away from her. Chloe stood up from her seat and walked over to Michael. She placed her hand on his back and rubbed small circles. Michael shrugged out of her touch and turned in her direction.
"It's getting late, we should start heading out so you could get dressed. Invite Mazikeen and Linda. I haven't seen my sister-in-law in weeks. Tell her to leave my nephew over to Amenadiel for the night, I'm sure he can handle his son all by himself."
Everything Michael said went right over her head. She registered his words, but she wasn't going to acknowledge them just yet.
"You're not a basket case. I'll send the message over to the girls, but know you're going to do fine tonight. Ella really likes you."
"You think so?" He showed the first sign of a smile this evening.
"Oh she's smitten by you. She spoke up for you yesterday at the La Brea car scene. Tell me that's not someone who likes you."
Michael started to blush. He looked away and grabbed his drink. Chloe thought he was slick but she saw the blush on his face.
"Alright, get out of here," he said in his best east coast accent. He smiled over at her when she shook her head at him. "You better be there tonight, I'll get you myself if you don't show."
"I'll be there I promise."
"Good." He opened his arms waiting for a hug. She walked into his embrace and hugged him.
Before she knew what was even happening, she felt her stomach fly into her chest. When the sensation was over she found herself outside of her apartment. Her keys were in the key fob waiting for her. She wasn't sure how he did it, but she unlocked the door and let herself in. A fresh bouquet of flowers was waiting for her. She walked over and looked at the letter that was sticking out.
I can't wait until I'm back at your side once more. Xoxo Lucifer
She clutched the note to her chest and bent down to smell the flowers.
...
Michael
Michael was panicking. His window to get affairs in order was closing in on him. He wasn't prepared.
He wasn't prepared for tonight in general. He thought he had more time to get affairs in order for the opening. He thought he had the night to figure things out with his new discovery.
Turns out time wasn't on his side today, but he was ready to put everything aside for his date with Ella. Did that mean he was going to stop panicking? No. He was going to panic until the moment she was in front of him. Why? Because everytime he was in her presence she made him nervous.
Michael had an hour to make himself presentable. He walked into the bathroom and looked over his appearance. His hair was long, longer than Ella would remember it being. He knew he would have to deal with that. He pulled clippers out from the drawer and made sure they were charged.
Once they were ready, he turned the clippers on and took a deep breath. It had been awhile since he'd cut his own hair.
Eager to get it over with, Michael ran the clippers over his side and shaved a good chunk of hair off.
"Shit!" he cursed. It was too low.
He switched tactics and placed the clippers on the counter. He looked around for anything that could hold the top of his hair up. He found a couple of bobby pins in a dish besides the sink. No doubt they belonged to Chloe. He grabbed a few and placed them in his hair.
After a few minutes of regretting his decision, Michael managed to salvage his hair. He gave himself a three-sixty view to make sure his amature haircut wasn't noticeable. A little bit of styling paste and he was good. He dusted the stray hairs off his chest and shoulders and looked into the mirror once more.
He needed a shave. Michael brought the clippers back out and changed it's settings. He took a moment to look over his features once he was finished. Two small patches of white were already forming on the sides of his chin. He shook his head. All the stress was finally getting to him.
He took a deep breath and made his way into the bedroom where his outfit laid on the bed.
He grabbed the dress shirt and slipped it over his shoulders. Once the bottoms were clipped into place, Michael grabbed his pants and slipped them over his legs. Forgetful of his footwear, Michael went ahead and tied his shoes before he creased his shirt even more.
Crisis averted. He added the last touch to his outfit, his vest and jacket. He gave himself a once over.
Something was off. He frowned. He didn't feel like himself. He felt like his brother.
He quickly messed up his hair and shook his hair loose.
It was progress.
He shed his jacket off his shoulders fast and tossed it onto the bed.
Michael looked back into the mirror. He groaned in frustration. He still looked like his brother.
He unbuttoned his sleeve fast and started rolling them up to his elbows.
Progress.
Michael lifted his wrist up so he could check the time. Ten minutes to go. His eyes widened at the loss of time. He pivoted out of the room and down the stairs. His shoes clicked against the floor as he made his way into the elevator.
Once he was inside, he pulled his phone out of his pocket. He'd been messaging Chloe about tonight's arrangements. He organized an Uber for the women. As he opened up their shared text messages, he'd received confirmation that the Uber had picked her up first, along with Maze. He slipped his phone back into his pocket knowing they were on their way.
He took a deep breath and tried to settle his nerves. I can do this. You can do this, he told himself. Fun amongst friends, you can do this. Ella Lopez. Yeah you remember her. He smiled at his reflection. There we go. He fixed his tie as he waited.
As the elevator doors opened, Michael stepped out and came in contact with workers moving about the place.
The club was already open. A trickle of people were already lounging around enjoying the soft music.
Michael pulled his wrist back up to check the time, it was currently six fifty-five. Ella and the women would be arriving any minute. He walked over to the front door and made sure to notify the bouncer that Chloe and guests would be arriving soon.
Time was going by faster than he expected. Within minutes, Ella would be arriving soon. Michael could already feel his heart was pounding against his chest. He was sure he could hear it in his ears. He was nervous. He pulled at his tie to give him some breathing room.
Determined not to look like he was waiting for the women's arrival, Michael made his way over to the bar. He needed something to drink. As he walked up, the bartender slid a glass in his direction.
"Thank you…" he lifted up to his lips and took a sip. "Everything is set up?"
"Yeah, you're fine Mr. Demiurgos." Michael nodded his head. He finished his drink and leaned against the bar. He pulled his wrist up to check the time. Only two minutes had passed. He took a deep breath and let out a long exhale. Just as he was getting ready to check with Kyle in the front, an employee tapped him on the shoulder.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, Mr. Demiurgos… but we have a problem."
"Can't this problem be solved without my help?" Michael asked. The bouncer shook his head. One last time, Michael checked the time. One minute to go. "Very well…"
The bouncer escorted him over to the back of the bar into a private room. Right away Michael knew this wasn't going to be a short task.
...
Ella
Ella was about to walk out of her apartment when she got a text from Chloe. Curious to know what Chloe wanted, she pulled out her phone and looked over the text message.
Please tell me you haven't left yet. It read.
Ella closed the door to her apartment and locked the door behind her. She began typing as she walked over to her car.
Not yet. I'm heading to my car right now. Why?
As she looked up from her phone she found a black SUV in the parking lot with three women with all their heads out of the window. They were all waving at her. A round of cat calls and loud whistling were directed at her. Ella turned around to show the other women her outfit. The whistling only got louder.
"Alright, alright! Get in, nerd. We're going to get you laid!" Maze called out.
Ella could help but let out a nervous laugh. Linda and Chloe waved their arms out motioning her to get inside.
Ella did as she was told and jumped into the car.
"Look at you Ellen. I never thought you had a body under those kid clothes." Maze looked over from the passenger seat and nodded her head at Ella's dress attire. "If Michael doesn't take you up to the penthouse at the end of the night, I will."
"Maze!" Chloe and Linda called out, Ella blushed. She knew she looked good, that was the point. She wanted to make an impression on Michael. So she went a little over the top with her outfit. She felt confident.
Before they could start going over the plans for the night, Ella leaned into Chloe's side.
"Hey Chlo, who ordered the Uber? I'm willing to pay half, if we're splitting…"
Maze looked over her seat and smiled at Ella. The demon had ears like a bat.
"Lover boy paid for the Uber."
"Michael paid?" Ella said.
"Yeah," Chloe replied. "He was feeling a little bad about yesterday so he went all out for us tonight. I promise we won't crash your night. We'll be a safe distance away… you know watching." The last part was but a whisper, but Ella heard.
"So you and Michael?" Linda leaned over. "How'd that happen?"
"I… I'm not entirely sure actually," she let out a nervous chuckle. "Their was a murder outside Lux and I was doing my job and he kinda just… caught my eye."
"Come on Ella, you two were totally making heart eyes at each other," Chloe added.
"Ooo! Planning on getting lucky today?" Linda asked with a wink.
"I…" she blushed. "I don't know," she waved Linda off. "Stop."
"If he's anything like Lucifer, you're in for a heck of a night," she added.
"Linda!" Chloe called out. She started laughing. "Actually she's right. If he's anything like lucifer…" She was lost in a day dream.
"You slept with Lucifer! When?" Linda and Ella yelled out.
"Probably all day yesterday… but, this morning," Maze added, "you should have seen it," she thrusted against the chair. "I caught them in the act."
"Can you please not molest my car," the driver warned.
Maze gave the driver the stink eye, "whatever."
"Lucifer stopped by?" Ella was happy to hear that her friend was in town. "Will the big guy be here tonight?"
"No… he had to go back. He just stopped by to go over some things with Michael… but it's okay. We got a day's worth of bonding and catching up."
"I bet you did," Maze said.
...
All the women immediately started laughing. Tonight was going to be a fun night. They couldn't wait to drink the night away and have a nice time. Ella had her pack with her and a very handsome just waiting for her to show up. The expectations were high and she was excited to see where the night would take her.
Because Ella lived on the other side of town, it had taken a little longer than expected to arrive at the club. It was no problem, the driver provided excellent service and blasted decent music in the car for all of them to enjoy.
By the time they arrived it was a little past eight in the evening. Everyone rushed out of the SUV and made their way over to the front of the line. All the people waiting on the side were not happy to know that Ella and company were allowed inside without so much as a name.
Benefits of knowing the owner.
They entered the building right away and came in full contact with the bass of the music. Maze lifted her arms up and danced her way into the club leaving the women behind. Ella stuck close to Linda and Chloe, making sure not to look too obvious that she was looking for Michael.
"I didn't even get his cell number! I hope he's not upset we're late!" Ella yelled over the loud music. Chloe leaned over and yelled by Ella's ear.
"I texted him about ten minutes ago! He never got back to me but I'm sure he's just working!"
Ella pulled away and looked around the club. It was packed. Linda pulled the women over to the bar. She was on a mission to get hammered.
"Three tequila shots, please!" She yelled over the music. The bartender nodded his head and got to work on their drinks. "Michael still honors the friends drink for free rule, right?"
The bartender handed the drinks over and confirmed her question, "we could never forget you Linda." He winked over at the doctor making her blush. Ella walked over and nudged the woman.
"You got that Milf glow, Linda. Get it!" She handed out the shots and cheered the women before shooting back her first drink of the night.
"More!" Chloe called out for the bartender to refill their drinks.
...
The three were soon joined by Maze. The demon had already gotten a jump on the fun. She had two men on both sides of her. She handed one off to Linda and left the taller, more mascaline one for herself. Linda immediately let the man take her onto the dance floor.
Ella was reluctant to start dancing. She wanted to hold off until she saw Michael, but Chloe and Maze's pull was too strong. She gave in and followed her party onto the dance floor. The DJ was playing electro-pop style music tonight.
She had no complaints, the music was amazing. It was easy to dance to. With four shots of tequila coursing through her bloodstream, she was having the time of her life. Her dance partner was none other than Chloe. The two jumped up and down to the music when it called for it.
She let the music take her until the dance floor thinned out so she could find Michael.
...
Michael
He wasn't sure how long he'd been gone. He'd forgone his watch once Oso dragged him into his private office to "discuss" things with an unruly club goer.
The night had taken a turn for the worst after that. The man had thrown up on Michael's sleeve, forcing him to discard the article of clothing. Luckily he had a black shirt stashed away. It was a tight shirt, but it would have to do. He debated whether or not to throw the vest on, the man had ripped off a few buttons. His outfit for the evening had been compromised.
Michael sighed. He left under dressed without it on, so he slipped it over his shoulders.
He finished cleaning up and stepped out of the back room. He immediately came in contact with the blaring of music.
He tapped his pants trying to find his phone, but he couldn't find it. Shit, he said to himself.
He walked out from behind the bar and called Geoff over. The man walked right up to Michael and leaned into his side.
"What time is it," he asked. The man pulled out his phone and showed the time to his boss. It was eight thirty. "Fuck!"
He'd been gone two in a half hours. He looked out into the club trying to catch any sight of Chloe, Maze, Linda, or Ella. Before Michael could disappear into the masses. Geoff pulled Michael in so he could tell him something.
"Your date arrived about thirty minutes ago. They just left for the dance floor." He pointed over in the direction where he could find his party.
He let the man go so he could go back to handing out drinks. Michael felt relieved to know Ella hadn't been waiting too long. He looked over the mass of people and started looking over the faces in the crowd. He couldn't find her or Chloe anywhere. He saw Maze and Linda but no sign of his date.
He felt a tap on his shoulder, so he turned around. Sadly it wasn't anyone he knew. Michael put on a smile anyways and smiled at the man in front of him.
"Mr. Morningstar," he offered his hand for a handshake. Michael extended the pleasantries and shook the man's hand. "It is a pleasure to see you here tonight. I was afraid when I heard you name was associated with a murder."
In his best accent, Michael put on his brother's persona. "I'm always tied to a murder," he said. The man's eyes widened, "I'm a consultant of the LAPD, I work with homicide."
The man let out a nervous chuckle and let go of Michael's hand.
"What can I help you with… Mister?" Michael looked over the man's features. He already didn't like the man. His collar was popped up and he had the stance of a man who always got what he wanted. Michael made a face when he saw the stupid grin on the man's face.
"Harrison, Liam Harrison. I was wondering if we could talk about me asking for one of your famous favors…"
...
Ella
Like a homing beeken for tall, dark, and handsome men, Ella locked onto Michael right away. She pulled Chloe off to the side of the dance floor to get a better look at him. She wasn't ready to see him just yet. She was fine, she was just trying to talk herself into going up to him. Or just having him find her first.
She was nervous. Her stomach was doing summersaults just looking at Michael trying to close the buttons to his vest. She bit down on her bottom lip just thinking of the possibility of climbing him like a palm tree. Out of the corner of Chloe's eye, she caught Ella.
She stopped her dancing and stood besides the woman. She was trying to see what she was looking at. Nowhere could she find the man that was responsible for Ella's gaze.
"Who are you looking at?" Chloe asks, she obviously knew, she just wanted Ella to show her. Ella pulls her eyes away only after Chloe stopped dancing.
"Huh?" Chloe went ahead and repeated her question. "Oh," Ella lets out a chuckle, "Michael…"
"Michael? Where is he?" She looked around harder trying to find him. Ella discreetly pointed in the direction Michael was located. She could see Michael trying to dismiss the man next to him. "Looks like someone's trying to distract your date."
"He doesn't look too happy to be discussing things with that man…"
"He doesn't…" Chloe could see the visible distaste for the man written all over Michael's face. "You should go save him from a boring discussion." She pushed Ella in Michael's direction but Ella dug her heels into the floor. "What's wrong?"
"I… I'm nervous, okay?" She pushed Chloe in front of her so she could hide behind the Detective. Chloe spun around and tried to steady Ella's shifty nature. The poor scientist was trying to stay hidden from Michael's gaze.
"What for?" Chloe pulled Ella out of the dancefloor and over to the tables off to the side.
"I've never been with anyone so… sweet. I'm afraid I'm going to mess things up…" Chloe let a smile spread across her face. The two were so much alike in their worries, it was hard for her not to laugh. Chloe brushed Ella's hair out of her eyes to get her to focus on her.
If she had ever been given a sibling she'd wish she'd had a sister like Ella. The woman had managed to look passed Michael's cold nature and see the sweet side of him. With everything going on with him right now, she was glad he was taking a break and agreed to continue his date with her.
The realization that the two were simply just teenagers in grown up bodies came to mind. They were both so caught up in their own worries that they were running themselves ragged with anxiety.
"Ella if you think Michael isn't nervous as well, you are mistaken. I saw him picking out his outfit before I left and that," she motioned over to Michael, "that wasn't the outfit I saw on the bed." She let out a chuckle, "as I can see he regrets the choice."
Ella looked over at Michael and watched him fuss with the buttons. She let a smile spread across his face.
"He was really nervous when you last saw him?" Chloe nodded her head.
"You seem to have made a really strong impression on him." She knocked her shoulder into Ella's. She leaned into Ella's side and laid some sisterly advice. "Go over there and steal him away. Looks like he could use some rescuing."
"I can do this," she was saying it more to herself but Chloe took it as Ella addressing her.
"Yes you can. Just walk over there, silly," Chloe gave Ella a push.
"Alright, alright!" She let out a chuckle, "I'm going, I'm going." She put one foot in front of the other. The only way to Michael was through the dance floor.
As she stepped through the crowd not only did the song change, but the crowd divided to let her through.
"She's falling in but I said it's okay
I'm falling in but she says it's okay…"
"You got this Ella!"
That's all she needed to hear. She weaved her way through the crowd with ease. She left like Moses, the dance floor parted as she beelined for Michael. Like fate, he turned away from his company and watched Ella head over to him. He waved the men away before she could join his company. From the other side of the room, Chloe shook her head as the two drooled over one another.
...
Michael
Michael shushed Liam right away. He had heard enough of his business proposal. As his head turned his eyes locked on his date.
Time froze.
He could hear the muffled argument of Liam in the background, but he couldn't register anything. He was in a trance.
Ella somehow managed to part the dance floor and slide through the messy crowd in ease.
He could feel his heart thumping against his chest. He felt like a cartoon character with his heart hammering like a jackhammer out in the open for everyone to see.
Ella looked breathtaking. A smile crept onto his face. It felt like it was just the two of them in the room, no one else.
"It appears my date is here… if you'll excuse me." Micheal stepped away from Liam and made his way over to Ella.
He could feel his heartbeat through his ears again. He was either extremely excited to see Ella or the music was insanely loud. He chose the former.
The distance between them gave him a chance to observe her clothing. She was wearing a yellow crop top that had his eyes laser focus on her chest. Her hair held the loosest waves. His smile brightened. Her hair was down. Her hair was long. He shook his head and pushed a few people out of the way.
His eyes caught a glimpse of her bottom wear. She was in a sequence skirt.? He wasn't sure. All he knew was that he loved it.
He continued to push club goers out of the way. He growled to himself at how crowded it was tonight. He needed half of this crowd gone. He'd have to talk to Kyle to cut the entry off.
He looked over the crowd and found her a few feet away. She had the biggest smile on her face.
God she's beautiful, he said to himself.
"There you are! Where have you been all night?" She pulled Michael in for a hug. He wasn't expecting it, he immediately froze. Her breasts were against his torso. His body was on fire from the contact. Once she pulled away he snapped out of it.
"I'm terribly sorry!" He yelled over the loud music. "I got tied up working. I hope you haven't been waiting too long." She shook her head making her hair move with her. Michael looked down with fascination as she beamed with so much joy.
"No! I just got here. Traffic was crazy." She grabbed his hand and pulled off the dance floor. She led them over to a vacant table over to the side.
He followed her without hesitation. Michael looked down and locked his fingers hers. The first thing he noticed was her soft hands. They were surprisingly soft for a forensic worker.
Once they were successfully away from the loud music, she plopped herself on the leather booth.
Their hands were no longer connected. He mourned the loss.
Ella patted the spot besides her waiting for Michael to have a seat.
"Are you going to stand all night?" She smiled up at him. He shook his head and had himself a seat. Discontent with his distance, Ella scooted close to him and wrapped her arm around his elbow.
"You look beautiful," he whispered close to her ear. He pulled his head back once he uttered the words. Ella looked up with the brightest smile on his face. She was about to say something to him when Maze slapped his injured side and sat across from the pair.
"You two look cozy. I brought us some drinks," she set a whole tray of shots down and looked straight at Michael with a smirk on her face. "New haircut, nice."
"Thanks…" he said with sarcasm.
Ella looked up at Michael and noticed what Maze was talking about.
"Loving the hair cut," she looked up and ran her other hand along the side of his head.
He let out a chuckle, "you really like it?" He watched her nod her head. "I actually cut it myself."
"You did a really good job."
"Why thank you."
Maze rolled her eyes and started handing out shots.
"Oh… I had my fill for now. Maybe in an hour," Ella said. Michael looked over to her surprised. "I had four shots with the girls while we tried to find you. You don't want loosey goosey Ella just yet. She's a handful." Michael let out a chuckle but heeded Ella's words.
"Ten shots Mazikeen, really?" Michael said.
"What? Come on, I haven't seen you wasted in weeks. Five shots is nothing to you." The demon already started lining up five shots for her and Michael. Ella scooted to the edge of the seat and got ready for the show she was about to witness. "That's unless you are trying to play innocent for little miss right here?" Michael shot dagger eyes at Maze.
"She's calling you out Mikey." Ella leaned into his side and shook his arm. "Come on show her up."
"You're okay with me drinking?"
"Sure. It's supposed to be a fun night. As long as you don't leave me and start making out with a complete stranger, I'm fine with a little competitive drinking."
He would never leave Ella for a total stranger. Not even if he was piss drunk, he wouldn't dream of leaving her for another woman tonight.
"Come on, show Maze up," she said, shaking his arm.
That's all he needed to hear. He scooted to the edge of the seat and fixed the line of his shot glasses. He lifted one up to examine what they'd be drinking.
"Patron, I know it's your favorite," Maze said. Michael smiled at her choice. She was trying to get him fucked up tonight. "We racing, feather boy?" She lifted up a glass towards Michael.
"You're going down Mazikeen." Ella started jumping in her seat ready to see who'd win. Maze was the reigning champion at line shots. If Michael was this confident, she couldn't wait to see how this would end.
The two clinked their glasses together and shot it back into their mouths. Before he even finished his shot, Michael lifted his second and shot it back into his mouth. He did the same with the third and fourth. Maze was creeping behind him, but sadly Michael had already finished his fifth shot when she lifted her last.
Michael smashed the shot onto the table and let out a rewarding holler. Ella jumped over his shoulders and helped rub Michael's victory in Maze's face. The demon rolled her eyes while biting down on a lime.
"Look at you!" Ella sat back down on her seat and smiled up at Michael. "I've never seen anyone beat Maze at shots. You're going to be okay, right?" She placed her hands on both sides of his face to check.
"Of course." He missed the split second her eyes traveled to his lips.
Michael brought one of her hands over to his lips and gave it a kiss.
Everytime his lips touched her hands, her heart fluttered in her chest. She pulled them back when he let go.
Tired of the alcohol taste in his mouth, Michael picked up a lime and bit down on the wedge.
"You see, much like my brother, I'm able to actually drink Miss Mazikeen here under the table. Although, I won't, not tonight," he dropped the lime on the dish. Maze rolled her eyes and reclined back into the booth.
"Where have you been this whole time?" she asked.
Michael went ahead and got comfortable as well. Ella followed suit. Her shoulders brushing along his arm.
"I had a guy come in early and make a scene." He looked down at his vest. "Threw up all over my shirt and ripped the buttons off my vest." He flapped about the fabric showing Ella.
"I was wondering what was wrong with it," she looked over the fabric. "I would just take it off… that's if, it's bugging you…" she didn't mean for it to come off so insistent. Michael chuckled at Ella's nervousness. He did as she instructed. It was annoying him. He slipped it off his shoulders and laid it on the table in front of them.
Ella watched Michael the whole time. She couldn't get over the size of his arms. Let alone how tight his black shirt was to his body. When Michael leaned back into the leather seat, she caught the scent of his cologne.
Maze could see Ella discretely leaning into Michael's side smelling him. The demon scrunched up her face as she watched Ella act weird. As Ella looked up she stopped immediately, embarrassed.
"Okay…" Maze said, under her breath. "So a guy threw up on you, that took an hour?" she asked.
"When it concerns the police it does," he could see Ella looking up at him from the corner of his eye. He laid his hand on her knee, "it was alright. Just over intoxication. Nothing I couldn't handle." He felt her hand creep onto his. A smile made its way onto his face. "I uh.. I also got cornered by someone wanting a favor."
"The guy I saw you with," Ella asked. Michael nodded his head.
"What did he want?" Maze asked.
"Services I don't have and won't do... Which reminds me," he scooted to the edge of the booth and whispered something to Maze. Michael's hand was still perfectly placed on her leg. Ella sat by and watched as Michael rubbed his thumb along the top of her knee. It provided a nice distraction as Michael held his conversation with Maze. When they were done, Maze stood up and left the two alone.
Ella let out a nervous chuckle, "what was that about?" He slid back into his spot besides Ella.
"What, that?" he motioned to his exchange with Maze. He flipped his hand so he could hold Ella's hands in his. He waved his other hand dismissing its importance. "Nothing really. I just asked Mazikeen if she could escort someone to the back room. Something didn't sit well with the man I was talking to earlier."
Somehow his sentence sounded ridiculous to her. She let out a hearty laugh and shook her head. Michael didn't see what was so funny, but he went ahead and followed her example.
"You know you don't have to lie to me. I can tell you sent her away so we could be alone." Michael watched as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. He wasn't lying, but if it helped her not worry about the possible predator, who was he to call it out.
Michael scooted closer to her. "I have to say, it is nice to have you to myself." He let go of her hand and lifted his arm so it laid along the top of the booth. He turned in his seat so he could look at her better. "I haven't had an opportunity to compliment you on how breathtaking you are tonight." Michael leaned in and ran his hand along her cheek.
Ella immediately lit up like a christmas tree. She could feel her cheeks heat up. There was no doubt in her mind at how hard she was blushing right now. Her stomach turned into a full on circus. It was doing summersaults, jumping jacks, balance beam walks, you name it. Michael was mentally putting her under a spell and she was falling for it.
"Breathtaking?" she let out a giggle. "Oh, now someone is kissing up. Stop."
"Not a chance," he said, smiling.
"Ugh! Just go up to the penthouse if you're going to be flirting all night." Maze came back from her little side mission. The two looked over in her direction and found her with her hands on her hips. Ella had a look of disappointment as Maze ruined her moment with Michael. "Are we dancing or not?"
Michael turned to Ella, he wanted to know if that was something she wanted to do. He knew she just came from the dance floor. He didn't want to assume that she wanted to start up again. Ella smiled up at Michael and nodded her head.
"Can I have this dance?" Michael asked. He stood up first. He offered his hand to help her stand. While she took his hand, Michael ceased the opportunity to marvel at her full outfit. His eyes tried to stay on her eyes but they kept raking up and down her form.
Ella elegantly stood from his seat and kept her hand in his, she wasn't going to let go. She pulled him down the stairs and onto the dance floor. Maze followed close behind already dancing to the beat of the music playing in the background.
Not quite ready to let go of her hand, Michael gave Ella a twirl. Her hair fanned out beautifully making Michael lose his focus. Ella acted fast and started dancing to the music. Michael snapped out of his daze and followed her example.
Linda and Chloe soon joined the trio and took turns using Michael as a celestial dancing pole. Michael blamed it on the alcohol. There was no way Chloe would be dancing on him, if she wasn't already hammered.
Ella respectfully pushed the women away from Michael and took her date back into her hands. Michael grinned at Ella's territorial display. He held her close and let her body grind against him.
He fell into a trance. The smell of her perfume was in his nostrils. Her back was pressed against his torso as she danced in his arms.
He could see the smiles from Chloe out of the corner of his eye. He didn't care. He kept his head low as he danced with Ella.
...
Ella pulled Michael off the dance floor and over to the booth they once occupied earlier in the night. She collapsed onto the leather booth and patted the seat besides her. Michael gladly seated himself, his body needed a rest. Ella immediately laid her head on Michael's shoulder.
"I had to take a break, my feet were killing me," she leaned forward and unstrapped her heels. The only thing Michael could hear was the thud of her pumps hitting the floor. "Oh my God! That's much better," she collapsed onto Michael's side once more.
He let out a chuckle as she pulled her feet up on the seat.
"Would you like a foot massage?" As he uttered the words he realized how weird it sounded. He didn't know Ella in that way. It was a reflex. He'd always massaged Linda and Chloe's feet when they asked for it.
When he felt Ella push away from him, he realized he'd messed up. He tried taking the statement back, but he soon found Ella's feet on his lap. He looked down at them confused.
"What you did offer, didn't you?"
Michael looked down at her feet and then back at her.
"I expected a different response," he let out a chuckle. He fixed his seating and faced her. He took her right foot in her hand and began massaging it.
"I've been on weirder dates," she said. She got comfortable and enjoyed the foot massage Michael was about to give her.
"Name your weirdest date, ever," he asked. He watched as Ella thought over her answer. When she was ready she propped herself up and answered him.
"I once attended a rat funeral…"
"A rat funeral?"
"Yeah, you've never attended one?"
Michael shook his head, Ella let out a laugh. He understood right away that it wasn't a normal occurrence for one to attend a rodent's funeral. He let out a nervous laugh for his ignorance.
"So attending a funeral for a rat is the weirdest date you've been taken on?"
"Yes, but the funeral bit wasn't even the weird part. It was actually very well organized. His name was Rat Damon… R.I.P Rat Damon," she tapped her fist against her chest and kissed a peace sign up to the ceiling. Michael watched the woman in front of him with wonder.
"Where did the date take its weird turn?"
"Oh! Okay, so we attended this funeral and we were socializing, you know, talking amongst the friends and family." Michael nodded along, he was generally interested in where this story was going. "This rat had assets and we went to the room to hear his last Will and Testament. As Cory and I enter the room, my date. We entered the room and out of nowhere, this man came up to us and slapped my date!"
"What?" he was invested.
"Yeah… turns out the man who slapped Cory, was Rat Damon's Father. Cory was responsible for Rat Damon's death"
"Oh my…"
"Exactly! I was on a date with a rat killer. Weirdest part was that Rat Damon gave all his assets to an animal shelter and everyone was so disappointed. Like who was this rat's lawyer?"
Michael let out the heartiest laugh he'd ever laughed. Something about the randomness of the story just tickled him. He tried calming himself down but the laughter continued to fall out.
"I'm sorry, I'm not laughing at you or the story. I've just never heard anything like it before." He had forgone massaging her feet while she was telling her story. He went to start massaging her foot, but Ella moved it off her lap.
"Trust me I have so many random stories, you have no idea."
"I wouldn't mind hearing a few, I'm afraid I'm pretty boring."
"No one is boring, everyone has their own tick that makes them, them. Want to bounce questions about each other so I can prove to you how boring you're not?" She scooted closer to Michael. She kicked her feet under her butt ready to prove him wrong.
"I uh… sure," he leaned against the booth while facing Ella. "Can I go first?"
"Of course! Ask me anything?"
...
The hour was two in the morning. Michael and Ella had continued to talk amongst themselves and swap stories. They had managed to spend the past two hours turning their stories into a drinking game.
They talked about random facts and childhood memories.
Due to the severity of his celestial nature, Michael kept it as honest and normal as possible.
Ella enjoyed the stories about him and Lucifer's childhood. And he enjoyed the stories about Ella with her brothers. Once Michael noticed Ella's slurred speech, he tapped her out and offered the foot massage he promised her.
They were currently enjoying each other's company with Ella's legs across Michael's lap. Ella had her eyes closed and Michael had a smile on his face.
The night had gone perfectly. He was glad he'd asked her out. He was glad Chloe, Maze, and Linda had agreed to leave them alone.
Michael rubbed his hand along her knee cap to make sure she was still awake. He knew how tired she must be, but he wanted to make sure she was still breathing. They'd drank a full bottle of champagne along with a few shots thrown into the mix. He listened to her groan as her head moved from the side of the booth. She opened her eyes to find a few people still in the club.
"Looks like the club is closing…" she voiced. The bartenders went ahead and called for last drinks. Michael looked over towards the dance floor. There were a few stragglers, but he knew the employees would soon kick them out so they could clean. "Do you have to help out at all?" She asked. Michael shook his head.
"No, I have Kristy for that," he waved to her as she passed by. "I'm usually just around to ensure no one brings trouble." Ella pulled her feet back. She scooted over close to Michael and leaned into his side. "Tired my dear?"
"I am, but I don't want to leave just yet." She wrapped her arm around Michael's and locked their hands together.
"I take it you had a good time?" He was asking for confirmation. He knew the night was fantastic, he was just waiting for her to say the fate determining words that'd push forward his drive to ask her on another date.
"It wasn't just good Michael…" she lifted her head from his arm and smiled up at him, "it was amazing."
"Yeah?"
He looked like a child. His hair was going in all directions. His eyes were droopy. His vest was gone. The man besides her, showed no signs of the Los Angeles thug she'd heard so much about. With her free hand Ella ran her hand along his scruffed cheek.
"Yeah." She ran her fingers along the white hairs on his chin.
Michael took his opportunity and leaned forward. They were inches apart before a round of clapping startled them.
"Let's go ladies!" Maze called out from the dance floor.
Michael closed his eyes and turned into Ella's hand. So much for an opening to kiss Ella. She dropped her hand and looked over to Maze.
"Let's go, chop chop! I see you Linda. Get off the table. You have a child to nurse or something." The demon began clapping her hands together again when Linda wasn't moving from her spot. "Decker! Decker where are you?"
"She went up to the penthouse after the last round of shots. I believe she went up for a lie down. I'm taking care of her tonight," Michael called out.
"Alright. You got Decker, I got Linda and Ellen. Let's go Ellen."
"I'm not ready to leave yet, Maze. You're a terrible wingman!" Ella pulled her arm out of Michael's and stood from her seat.
Michael chuckled from the side and kept his eyes on Ella. He couldn't believe she still wanted to spend time with him. He fiddled with her sequin skirt as she yammered out something in spanish toward Maze.
"It's Ella, Maze. You know this," she turned to Michael. "She knows this."
"I think she's doing it to get you out. It's fine," he stood up. "If it's not too forward I would like to take you out on a proper date next time. That's if you still find me charming," he grabbed her hand, "handsome, strong…" he brought her hand to his lips.
"Ooo using my words against me," she let out a chuckle. She swung her body side to side and weighed her options. She already knew her answer but she liked watching Michael squirm. He looked down at her with his best puppy dog eyes. "Who could say no to that face? Of course, I'd love to go on another date with you."
"Excellent! Seeing as I've picked this date, I'm allowing you the freedom to choose our next."
"Are you sure about that? My inner nerd will pop out and scare the living daylights out of you."
Michael chuckled, "I'm sure fear is my specialty, but I'm sure I can handle anything you throw at me. I know I'll have fun."
"Alright…" she pulled her hand out of his and ran her index finger down his chest. "But just so you know you'll be getting the full Ella package. I'm warning you now. It's going to a total game changer. There will be no take backsies."
"I'll take it," he opened up his arms and let her body form with his. He understood everyone's hype about her hugs. They were filled with love and comfort. God knew he needed a hug today and his father directed her into his life. When they two refused to separate, Maze grew impatient.
"I said let's go Ellen! The Uber is here. Linda is already in the car and ready to go." The pair looked down the railing and found Maze with her hands on her hips once again. It felt like Maze was mothering him today.
"Walk me out?" Ella asked.
"Sure." He dropped his arms and made sure to grab her heels.
"Oh my God! Thank you, I almost forgot about them." She took them from his hands and put them back on.
"You're very welcome," he replied. Once she was standing up right, he offered his elbow for Ella to take. She slipped her arms around his and the two walked down the stairs.
As they made their way out of Lux, they found Maze yelling at the driver while Linda hung out the window trying to get air.
"You sure you want to leave with them? I can get you home safely. I…"
"You've been drinking, I don't condon drinking and driving. Plus you have Chlo to watch over."
"My alcohol consumption is not…" Ella placed her index finger on his lips.
"Don't spoil the night." Michael smiled down at her. She ran her hand along his jaw all the while staring at his lips. "I got to go…"
"I guess you do…" He could see her eyes were on his lips, but for the life of him he couldn't get himself to lean down to kiss her.
"Kiss already!" Linda yelled from the car. The two looked off to the side and found Linda looking at them. They both let out a nervous laugh. The mood was lost. She pulled away and yelled something at Linda.
"I… I gotta go," she repeated. She began backing up towards the car. Michael followed her until her back was against the car door. Linda was smiling at them from out the window.
"If you don't kiss him, I will," she warned.
"Down girl," Michael replied. Linda shrugged her shoulders and leaned back into the car. The two were finally alone. At least without someone inches away from their faces. Maze was still arguing with the driver on the other side of the car. "So… Do I get the pleasure of having a goodbye kiss tonight?"
"I can't kiss you if you're all the way up there…"
He did the honors and dropped down off the sidewalk so he could give her a better height advantage. As his feet hit the blacktop, Ella's hands were already along his jaw and her lips on his. He hummed in surprise. Within seconds he relaxed and leaned into her kiss. His hands gravitated to her hips and brought her close. Her lips parted and asked for entry. Michael smiled into their kiss and followed her lead. He tilted his head off to the side and deepened their kiss.
They could hear Linda cheering in the car. They quickly pulled apart and smiled at one another.
"I," she let out a chuckle. "I should get in the car…"
"If you insist… I wouldn't want to give them a show," he joked. "Hey… can I… Can I get your phone number?" He started patting his body looking for his phone. As he pulled it out Ella plucked it out of his hands and started typing her number into his cell.
"Make sure to text me so I have your number," she placed it back in his care.
"I will message you once you leave," he looked down at her lips once more. He wanted them back on his. He leaned in once more but the car horn pulled him back.
"Let's go!" Maze called out. "I will leave you on the side of the road Ellen."
"Alright Maze! Jezz…" She laughed. "Seems I gotta go… Bye Michael."
"Goodbye Ella…" He pulled his hand off her hip and let her open the door to the vehicle. "I look forward to our next date."
The driver took off before Ella could even respond back to Michael. As they were driving away, Ella stuck her head out and waved to Michael. He shook his head and watched them head down Sunset Boulevard.
"Miss Lopez you have stolen my heart…"
As they turned the corner he made his way back into the club.