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"I Only Have Eyes For You" - The Flamingos
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The next chapter is going to be awhile... I am not sure when it will be posted. Maybe a month? Probably not, but I wanted to give myself a break and catch up with other stories. That being said, enjoy this chapter!
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Tuesday 10:05 a.m
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Michael woke up with a smile on his face. There was only one day until his date with Ella.
He pulled the covers back and got out of bed.
The first thing he did was look at his phone. For the past few days he'd been waking up to good morning messages from Ella.
Michael went ahead and tapped on the screen and smiled when he saw a notification.
It was from Ella.
Morning! The bath worked wonders. Slept like a baby! Hope you have a nice morning 😊
The message had been sent at six this morning. He was surprised he didn't hear it. Instead of thinking too much into it, Michael went ahead and typed out his message and press send.
Good morning :). Just woke up. Must have needed the rest ha. Hope your day is going well.
Michael placed the phone down on the night stand and walked over to the closet. He wanted to get out for the day. He'd been in the penthouse since thursday, he was in dire need of some fresh air.
He pulled out his outfit for the day and walked back into the bedroom. He gave himself a sniff before deciding whether or not a shower was required. He made a face.
When was the last day you showered, old boy?
He placed the clothes on the bed and walked into the bathroom. He was in and out before the hour was up.
Once he was dressed, he picked his phone back up from off the nightstand and headed down to the club. As he waited for the elevator to open, Michael checked to see if he received any notifications.
None.
He sighed but placed the phone back in his pocket. It was fine, he knew Ella was busy with work.
As the doors opened he made his way out and over to the side door that led to the garage. He gave his keys a spin as he drew closer to the Mustang.
"Yes, I've missed you too. Fancy a drive to the precinct?" He asked his car. He smiled to himself as he unlocked the car and got inside.
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11:45 a.m
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Ella: Are you at the precinct?
Michael: And if I was?
Ella: I'd ask why haven't you come around to say hi ha
Michael: What gave myself away?
Ella: Officers are raving about your mustang. Everyone rushed outside
Michael: Ah! I handed the keys over to Daniel. I'm just walking into the building.
Ella: Did you come to see me? 😊
Michael: As a matter of fact, I did. 😊
Though I tried to be more subtle ha
Ella: Not with that car ha
Michael: I'll make sure to fly next time haha
Ella: Ha!
Michael: You think I'm joking but I'm serious haha
Ella: Mhm sure
Michael: Are you in your work station?
Ella: I'm in the copy room!
Go ahead and wait inside. I'll be there soon
Michael: Sounds good 😊
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Michael walked into the bullpen with a bag of food along with a single flower. He scanned the room looking for Chloe but found no sign of her. Her desk looked messy. So she was there, but he couldn't see her at the moment. When officers waved at him, Michael ducked his head and kept walking. He figured he'd text her when he placed the food down.
Once he was inside Ella's work room, he placed the food on an open part of the table. He started pulling the takeout boxes out of the bag and placing them out for them to grab at later. Michael pulled out his phone and shot Chloe a quick text with an explanation they'd need to talk soon. As he was putting his phone into his pocket, Michael felt a pair of arms wrap around him.
"Lunch? I thought this was a visit," Ella said into his back. Michael let out a chuckle as his arms wrapped around hers.
"Yeah… but with food." He pulled Ella's arms off of him and turned around. The two instantly smiled at one another.
"Trying to squeeze in another date?"
Michael let out a soft chuckle, "caught me. You owe me dinner if I'm correct." He playfully jabbed his index finger into her side. "Since someone likes to fall asleep at weird hours of the night."
Ella formed an o with her mouth. She repeated the gesture and poked Michael back.
"Hey! Not my fault. The bed was way too comfy to lift my head from the pillow."
"Mhm, sure. You just didn't want to have dinner with me."
Ella did the unexpectable and grabbed Michael's hands forcing him to look down at her.
"I did. I still do," she corrected. She gave him a smile and looked off to the food. "Seems I'm getting that mini date afterall?"
Michael brought her hand up to his lips and placed a kiss on top of her hand.
"Yes. I was kinda in the mood for wings… I know I should have asked but I wanted to surprise you… is this okay?"
Ella was already locked onto the boxes on the table. Michael could practically see the sparkles shining out of her eyes. He let out a chuckle and showed her what he brought.
"Oh I could kiss you! You went all the way to East LA for this?" She turned around surprised. "Michael this is on the other side of town…"
He shrugged his shoulders, "I've been cooped up in the penthouse since Thursday. It was nice to get out." He leaned forward, he was inches from her face, "I'll take the kiss though." He shot her a wink.
"You know what," she placed her hands on both sides of his face. "I can do that," she gave him a peak on the lips. "Thank you for coming over."
"The pleasure is all mine." He brushed a stray hair behind Ella's ear. The butterflies were back. Ella bit her bottom lips to get herself from smiling to hard. Michael took his opening and locked his lips locked onto hers once more. His split second decision earned him another kiss back.
The kiss was short lived when Ella pulled away.
"Not while I'm at work mister," she playfully pushed him aside so she could see what he brought. Michael nodded his head and grabbed the flower before she could see it. His quick reflexes forced her to narrow her eyes on him. "What did you hide behind your back?"
"Nothing," he smiled down at Ella. She tried to look behind him but he kept moving so she couldn't see. When she rolled her eyes he pulled it out. "Oh this? I brought it over for this really cute forensics worker I've been getting to know… you wouldn't happen to know her would you?"
"As a matter of fact, I do. I heard she's going on a date with this really handsome guy tomorrow." She put her finger on her chin, thinking. "She never mentioned you at all."
Michael gasped, pulling the flower back.
"In that case, I'll just have to take my things…" Ella stopped him and they startled laughing. "Are you hungry?"
"I am." A smile never leaving their face. Michael handed her a plate so she could get what she wanted. "Just the two of us today?" she asked.
"Yeah… is that okay?" He wanted to spend as much alone time with Ella. He knew being alone with her at the precinct was going to be hard with Chloe and Dan around, but he had made sure to give Dan a heads up. The only one he hadn't managed to get a hold of was Chloe.
"Of course," she shot him a smile. "Like I said a mini date before our date."
"I like that." He placed the flower behind her ear.
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Once they were done eating Michael went ahead and gathered their discarded plates and placed them in the plastic bag he brought with him. He didn't wish to crowd Ella's trash bins with their lunch.
"Thank you for lunch, Michael. I haven't had their wings in awhile."
"I'm glad you enjoyed the meal. I was a little worried about my choice."
She shook her head, "I love their wings. I could seriously eat them everyday."
"I'll have to lock that information away for another day." He turned around and smiled at Ella.
A knock on the door frame caught the pair by surprise. They both turned around to find Chloe smiling at the pair.
"Sorry, to interrupt… I got a message from Michael… did you still want to…"
"Uh… later. It can wait, I have Maze working on the job as well." That surprised Chloe. Before she could ask more Michael placed his index finger over his lips.
"Are you two keeping something from me?" Ella asked. She squinted her eyes at both of them.
"Just trying to find an old friend of mine, Gaudium. It can wait," he assured Chloe and Ella.
"You sure?" Chloe asked. Michael nodded his head.
"Yeah… I'm kinda," he motioned towards Ella and the leftover food.
"Oh! Gotcha! Sorry, I'll leave you two alone." She slipped out of the room and left Ella and Michael alone. Before she could completely disappear Chloe gave Ella a thumbs up.
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Ella was walking Michael out when one o'clock rolled around. Much to his complaints, Ella knew she had to kick him out to get back to work.
"Can't I be an honorary forensic scientist for the day?" He whispered into her ear. His hands ghosted over her hips. Ella shot him down like a catholic nun on ladies night.
"No, I know what you're doing and we already got scolded for this kinda stuff the last time you observed me at work. Nice try."
"I wasn't doing anything," he said with innocence.
"Mhm…" Michael smiled down at her as she looked at him with a smirk.
As they were made their way into the elevator Michael allowed Ella entry first. She voiced her thanks and pressed the button to close the doors. Unable to keep his hands off of her, Michael made sure to lean against the wall a safe distance away. He watched as she clicked the elevator button to take them up stairs.
"I can't wait for our date tomorrow," Michael said. Ella turned around and smiled at him.
"Nor can I. I'm excited to treat you out for a chance."
Ding, the elevator opened. Ella walked out first followed by Michael.
"You've been spoiling me with lunch and flowers…"
"Should I not be doing those things?" he asked.
"No. I mean yes. Well if you really want to do that," she was getting flustered. Michael let out a chuckle. "I meant… you've been doing all these nice things for me, it's nice to surprise you for a chance."
"Ah! I understand now. I do like surprises." He followed her outside the precinct and out into the parking lot. "Even if it frustrates me to be in the dark. Still no clues?"
"Nope," she said confidently. "You're going to be surprised until the moment we arrive."
He let out a dramatic sigh. "Alright, alright." He pulled out his keys as they came up to his car. "Tomorrow at what time again?"
"Seven." She reached out and fixed his jacket. Michael watched as Ella messed with the fabric on his jacket. Her words fell deaf to his ears. His focus was on her lips.
"Do I get a goodbye kiss?" he asked.
She looked up at him with hooded eyes, a smile was on her face. He didn't bother waiting for an answer. His head dipped down and locked lips with hers.
As she reciprocated his kiss, Michael drew her closer to his body. Her hands ran up his lapels and to his cheeks. The outside world was quiet. It was just the two of them.
Before either one of them could regret their actions, they pulled away insync.
"Okay… okay, you got to go." Her hands started shushing him away. Michael shook his head and reached out for one of her hands. After catching one, he grew it close and placed a kiss on it.
"Is that really what you want?" He could see the internal battle going on in her head. Michael smiled. "Alright. I'll leave." He opened the door to his car and got inside. Once he was in, he rolled down the window.
"Last call…" he wiggled his eyebrows at her. "Copy room?"
"Nope," she emphasized with a pop of the p. "Vamanos, I'll message you once I'm off of work."
"Promise?"
"Of course."
"Alrighty then." He started the car and listened to the purr of his car. "I look forward to hearing from you later tonight…" In one last attempt to spend time with her, opened his mouth. "Need me to walk you back into the building?"
Ella tapped the roof of his car, signally him to leave.
"Nice try Romeo, but I'm a big girl."
He sighed.
"Well, if this should be our parting… Farewell my sweet Juliet." He shot her a wink.
"Get out of here," she laughed at him.
"I am, I am." He switched gears and put the car in reverse. "Goodbye Miss Lopez," his voice soft.
"Bye Michael." She waved him off with a smile.
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1:25 p.m
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Michael: You kicked me out so fast I didn't get to compliment you on your cherry chapstick
Ella: :o
Michael: Lol I did suggest the copy room
Ella: Omg stop ha
Michael: Next time? 😉
Ella: Goodbye Michael
Michael: Bring the cherry chapstick tomorrow?
Ella: Good day Michael!
I'll message you when I'm off
Michael: 😊 Ok
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6:45 p.m
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Ella: It was nice seeing you today 😊
Michael: It was nice seeing you as well 😊
Ella: Sorry for kicking you out
Michael: I understand. Professional workplace
Ella: Exactly! But I can accept goodbye kisses 😊
Michael: Noted 😊
Ella: You know you don't have to make up excuses to see me
Michael: Didn't buy my missing person report?
Ella: Not with a fake name like Gaudium ha
Michael: It is an extreme name huh?
Ella: Where did you come up with that name?
Sounds like it came from DND.
Michael: What is DND?
Ella: You don't know about Dungeons and Dragons?
Michael: I know of dungeons. I know of dragons ha
Ella: Nice one haha.
But no! It's a storytelling game! The best ever
Michael: Oh! Then no ha
Ella: Another thing to my ever growing list of things I have to get you into
Michael: 😊 Can't wait
Actually, I'm sorry...
Ella: Why are you sorry?
Michael: Most of the things you talk about I know nothing about
Ella: That's fine!
I know people that don't know about half the stuff I talk about.
Michael: Oh.
Well everything we talked about today I'm willing to do.
Clean slate here ha. I've been under a rock my whole life
Ella: I'm starting to think you have!
Man, I can make dates out of half the stuff we talked about today ha
Michael: I wouldn't mind that 😊
Ella: Oh no! I wouldn't want to scare you off
Michael: Nothing can scare me Ella ha
Ella: You say that now, but 12 hours of watching Lord of the Rings is a big commitment ha
Michael: I've once watched a gate for a whole week.
Trust me when I say 12 hours is nothing haha
Ella: What? Why?
Michael: Story for another day haha
Ella: Alright, keep your secrets ha.
Michael: Got to keep some mystery to me.
Wouldn't want you running off on me
Ella: Using my words on me.
I see you mister haha
Michael: I would hope not at this moment!
Ella: Why what are you doing?
Michael: Currently making myself dinner
I'm failing horribly ha
Ella: Picture?
Michael: [attachment sent]
Ella: Loving the subtle hint of charde on the chicken haha
What happened?
Michael: Kinda got distracted ha
Ella: Oh no! I'm sorry
Michael: All good, the charde gives some flavor ha
What are you up to? 😊
Ella: Organizing my clothes. Want to see my Marie Kondo skills?
Michael: Let's see it then 😊
Ella: [Sent attachment]
What do you think?
Michael: My my Miss Lopez. What a vibrant collection of panties 😉
Ella: I sent the wrong one!
[attachment sent]
Michael: LOL. I liked the other one more haha. I'm sure Marie Kondo would be proud
Ella: I'm seriously embarrassed right now
Michael: It's fine ha
Ella: I'm going to step away now
Michael: If you insist ha.
The cream colored one are my favorite by the way 😉
Ella: Good night Michael!
Michael: Good night Miss Lopez 😉
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Michael smiled at his phone as he put it away. Discussions like today made his days better to endure, aside from his ruined meal. He went ahead and placed the burnt chicken in the trash. There was no way he was going to eat it now.
He tossed the pan in the sink and began washing the dish.
Once he was done he pulled out his phone and messaged Chloe.
Mind if I come over and steal a plate of food?
The ellipses popped up instantly signalling she was typing.
Of course. We're having pizza right now. How long do you think till you'll be over?
He didn't bother to message her back. He placed his phone in his pocket and took off. Within seconds he was already at her front door.
Michael went ahead and knocked. From the other side he could hear footsteps rush to the door. In one swing, Michael came in contact with Trixie. The little girl's face lit up as she recognized their visitor.
"Michael! What are you doing here?"
He stepped through the door and into the apartment. As Trixie closed the door, she locked her arms around Michael's side. He did the same just over her shoulders.
"Well I heard it was pizza night and I just had to come over." He ran his hand along the top of her head, messing up her hair. "Did you save me any, Stinker?"
Trixie pushed him away so she could get him to let go. The laughter of the two echoed out into the room.
"We have a few slices left, had I known you were coming I would have ordered another box," Chloe said from the kitchen. Michael let go of Trixie and headed over towards Chloe. She handed him a plate for him to help himself.
"That's fine, I can work with scraps. Did the two of you already eat?"
Trixie hopped onto the chair so she could be a part of the discussion. Before Michael could open the box Trixie spun it around and stole a slice. Michael smiled at her.
"We were in the middle of seconds."
"Pick your slice Chloe, I didn't mean to crash the night." He spun the box over for Chloe to help herself. She shook her head and grabbed a cheese stick instead.
"I'm fine, this was what I wanted." She went ahead and showed him. "You should try one."
"Mind placing one on my plate?" Chloe nodded her head and cut him a piece. "Thank you."
"I haven't seen you in awhile Michael. Where have you been?" Trixie asked. Michael finished grabbing what he wanted out of the box and stood on the other side of the island. He leaned over the counter and smiled at the young girl.
"Locked away on your mother's orders," he shot Chloe a smirk. "I'd watch out if I was you. Even if you're old enough to do what you want, your mom still has authority over you."
"You grounded Michael, mom?"
"I didn't…" one look from Michael and she stopped. She had told him to stay in doors more, but she didn't mean for him to lock himself away. "I kinda did, didn't I?"
"Yes you did." He took a bite out of his pizza. "Your mom strikes fear into all of us and that's saying a lot coming from me." He stood up straight and ruffled Trixie's hair again. "Are you behaving?"
"I'm always behaving."
"Mhm, sure you are," said Chloe. Trixie looked up at Michael with innocence.
"Oh you're on your own kid, I'm just as scared of your mom as you are."
"And yet you continue to push my buttons."
"Of course! There's fun in it." He finished up his slice and attacked another one.
"Mom says Lucifer is coming back soon. Does this mean you'll be leaving when he comes back?" Trixie asked.
Michael stopped what he was doing and looked over at the teenager. There was sadness in her voice and on her face. He looked over to Chloe and noticed she was interested in his answer as well.
"I uh… I'm not sure. Depends on how fast your mom and Maze can help me find someone."
"Maze is really good at finding people. Whoever you lost she's going to find them. Mom is just as good, you have the best people on the job."
"I know I do." He looked back over to Chloe and smiled.
"If Mom and Maze can find your person, will you stay?" Trixie asked. Chloe tried to get Trixie to ease up but Michael stopped her.
"It's alright…" he sighed before continuing. "I'd like to very much, but you see…" He moved his plate out of the way and placed his elbows on the counter. "I have a son and daughter I'm looking for. I've been searching everywhere and I've had no luck. Your mom and Maze are finding someone who can help. Once they find him, I'll be gone for awhile."
"I didn't know you had kids… I'm sorry you lost them…"
"I am too... I'm sure once I find them I'll come back..." Michael could see the sadness on Trixie's face, he didn't want it there. He smiled, "I'm going to need a place to raise two kids. Maybe your mom can give me some pointers." He looked over to Chloe and smiled. She was taken back by his statement.
"Of course! Do you know how old they are?" she asked. This was the most she'd heard about this from Michael. She tried getting him to open up but he always shot her down.
"Cal may be a few years older than Trixie here… it's hard to remember, it's been so long."
"You said you had a daughter," Trixie spoke. "What about her?"
Michael smiled. "Elaine. I am not sure how old she'd be. Cal was already a toddler when we were separated. I believe she'd be your age. Got any advice for a father dealing with a teenage daughter?" He asked them both.
"Privacy," Trixie said.
"Discipline," her mother answered.
Michael let out a chuckle. He tapped his knuckle against the counter top and stood up straight.
"I'll take both into consideration."
"I hope you find your kids, Michael. I couldn't imagine being away from my mom and dad." Chloe walked over to Trixie and kissed her on the top of her head.
"I hope so to, kid. I hope so to…"
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The three had spent the past few hours catching up and watching television. Whenever Michael got a chance to be around Trixie he dedicated all his concentration to her. Whether it was helping out with homework or talking about school, he always listened.
Today he let the teenager bombarde him with her favorite television show. It gave Chloe time to catch up on her police work, which he was happy to help with. He always enjoyed his time with Trixie.
As the night got later, Chloe called for Trixie to head off to bed. The child complained but Michael made sure to ensure her, he'd stop by again soon.
With Trixie in bed by ten, it gave Chloe some time to talk with Michael.
He was currently putting away the blankets and pillows Trixie had brought into the living room. When he was done folding the blankets, Chloe motioned for him to have a seat on the couch with her.
"I think I should be heading back now… I don't want to overstay my welcome," he said. Chloe shook her head.
"You're not. Have a seat… we should talk."
"I…" he sighed when she gave him a look. "Alright." He sat on the other side of the couch.
"How are you doing? Emotionally."
"Fine," he replied.
"Michael," she scooted closer to him and placed her hand on his shoulder. "I see the way you act around Trixie…"
"I'm sorry… I just…"
"Michael it's fine, I understand. She's around the same age as your daughter. It's fine… I'm asking if you're doing okay. Maze told me you've been going over the books again."
"I have nothing else to do, it helps pass the time…"
Chloe nodded her head. She couldn't imagine the stress and worry that went into losing your child, let alone two of them. Michael was doing the best he could with the information he had. She patted his knee before scooting away.
"So… Elaine and Cal… today was the first I heard about them…" she was testing the waters to see how much he'd open up.
Michael hummed.
"You said Cal was a toddler the last time you saw him… do you remember what he looked like?"
Michael pulled himself out of his thoughts and looked at Chloe. His cold stare turned soft as he realized she was only trying to help him.
"I… uh," Michael looked down at his hands that rested on his lap. "I'm not sure I could form a face even if I tried… I mean it's there… in the far corner of my mind, it's there. I just can't make out a face. I can see his hair and eyes but…" he looked up and over to Chloe, "I can't even remember my own children's faces."
He watched Chloe's facial features slowly drop. He could see the sympathy all over her face. He didn't know how he felt about that. He didn't want anyone's pity. It was why he kept the knowledge of his children a secret.
Michael turned his head away and looked back at his hands. Chloe reached her hand out and placed her hand on his. His hands were different from Lucifer's. Just from the touch alone she knew these were Michael's and not his brother's. Lucifer's were soft and smooth. Michael had rough skin, she could feel the calluses.
"Lucifer didn't go into depth with what happened…" Michael's head shot up to look at her, "and I'd never ask. Whatever happened I know was traumatic for you. Having your children taken and placed God knows where…" she kicked herself for saying that. She watched Michael's eyebrows pinch together. "Sorry. What I'm trying to say is, you'll find them. We'll find them. Maze and I will help." Michael nodded his head and went back to looking at their conjoined hands. "I won't ask you to talk about what happened to you, but maybe you should talk with Linda…"
"I don't need therapy."
"I think you do…" she pulled her hand away and placed her hand on his bicep. He pulled his eyes from his hands once more and looked at her. "I'm not trying to tell you what to do, it may come off that way, but I want to help. I think Linda can help. Whether it's with coping or helping you remember Cal and Elaine's faces. Linda is a really good therapist… she's helped Lucifer a lot and we both know how your brother is."
She nudged Michael and flashed him a smile, when he caught her little joke he smiled.
"If Linda can break through Lucifer's impenetrable walls and help him, I'm sure she can do wonders for you."
He looked at her for a good minute before he broke down. Michael nodded his head and agreed to give his sister-in-law a call.
"I'm sorry things got a little intense right now…" Chloe said. Michael shook his head and let out a breath of wind he didn't know he was holding onto.
"It's fine…"
"Would you like a glass of water or something stronger?" she got up from the couch and gave Michael some room to compose himself.
"Water… I know you have work in the morning."
Chloe walked into the kitchen and grabbed a cup from the cabinet. Michael stood from his spot on the couch and followed Chloe into the kitchen. He leaned against the island and looked down at the pattern on the counter top.
"I uh… I talked with Ella the other day," Chloe said. She pulled the cup out and silently asked if he wanted ice. Michael nodded his head.
"Did you?"
"Yeah," Chloe let a smile cross over her face.
Once Michael saw it, he knew this conversation was going to be a good one. Chloe placed the cup against the ice machine and let the ice fall. Once that was done she moved it over so it could fill up with water.
"Well don't keep me in suspense, what does she have planned for our date?" He accepted the ice water from Chloe and had himself a drink.
She was his inside man, she was supposed to get a feel of what they'd be doing so he could be prepared. When Chloe shook her head he knew he lost his spy.
"Nooo, she turned you on me. She did, didn't she?"
Chloe let out a soft laugh, "I've known Ella longer than you. My allegiances will always be with her." Michael waved his hand in the air dismissing her words.
"Fine, be that way. What did the two of you talk about?"
"Nothing really, but I did notice she's just as fascinated with you as you are with her."
"What?" he let out a nervous chuckle.
"Nuh-uh don't start that. I saw the way your face lit up once I said her name. Your smitten with this girl and you can't deny it."
Michael went ahead and looked into his cup of water. He lifted it up to inspect the contents inside. He was trying all he could to avoid confirming Chloe's statement.
"Mhm, be a child. I still know you have the biggest crush on her." Chloe leaned up against the refrigerator and stared at Michael until he looked at her.
From the corner of his eye he could see Chloe watching him. He brought the cup back up to his lips and had himself a sip before putting it down.
"Fine… I do. There. I have a crush on Miss Lopez," he declared for all to hear.
"Shh! Trixie is asleep."
"Oh sorry," he whispered. The two of them looked at one another before chuckling.
"So you really like Ella, huh?"
"I do... " he lowered his eyes onto the cup and smiled.
"She has something really good planned for the both of you," before he could open his mouth she pointed her index finger at him, "and no it's not baseball. You need to let that fantasy go."
"It's because the Cubs are out, huh? She lives in Los Angeles now, I will make a Dodgers fan out of her. Just you wait."
Chloe shook her head, "since when did you get into baseball?"
"I have nothing better to do, so I started flipping through the channels. The sport caught my attention when the news kept covering the right outfielder's throw a couple of months back. He chucked that ball all the way from the back right corner all the way to third base," he slapped his hand on the counter. "Incredible. I've been watching ever since. I'm an official Angelino now." He said with a smile. "Fitting as I'm one of two angels in Los Angeles now."
"City of Angeles indeed…" Chloe pushed herself off the fridge and leaned on the other side of the counter in front of Michael. "Not to sound like an overprotective sister, but what are your intentions with Ella?"
He furrowed his eyebrows together and pushed himself off the counter.
"My intentions? Overprotective?" He let out a chuckle. "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were Ella's protector and keeper of her affections."
"She's my friend, Michael. I care about…"
"I am aware the two of you are friends, I..."
"Let me speak," Chloe ordered. Michael gave her the floor and let her say what she had to say. "I'm sorry but I need you to understand that Ella is my friend first. She's like a sister to me. Her feelings come before yours. If you are serious about continuing your affairs with her, you need to know that you cannot lead her on."
"I'm not leading anyone on…"
"I'm still speaking."
"Sorry…" he shut his mouth and kept quiet.
"You just said you have feelings for her. Whether it's a crush or not, I don't want you getting Ella's hope up just to tear them down when you leave."
"I…" he closed his mouth just as fast as he opened it. He knew Chloe had a point. He pulled the high chair out and had himself a seat. "I'd come back. I don't see the problem with us talking while I am away."
Chloe crossed her arms over her chest and looked at Michael. He was right, there was nothing wrong with them talking while he was looking for his children. The only problem with the actual scenario was that he probably didn't know how long all of this would take.
"How far do you plan on taking this with Ella?"
"I… I'm not sure. This is all rather new for me. I've never had feelings for a human before."
"Not even with the mother of your children?"
It was an honest question, one she knew was the wrong thing to ask. She watched a flash of anger spread across his face.
"Don't. My brother may not have told you what happened to me, but don't presume to know my children came into existence like every other babe born into this world."
There was a bitterness to the tone of his voice. The way he whispered it out of his lips made it all the more threatening than if he spoke in a normal tone.
"So no, I've never had an overwhelming feeling for a human before. Forgive me if I don't know what my intentions are."
Chloe really hit a nerve with Michael. He looked at her and hit her with just as much weight as she did with him. "Does my brother know his intentions with you? Do you know his intentions when he comes back?"
"I…" she was caught off guard. Michael watched as she opened and closed her mouth. He let her fear sizzle for a little before pulling back. When he broke concentration he stood from the chair and pushed it back into its spot. It was time to leave. He felt bad for making her aware of her fears.
"My brother is a good man. Whether he has openly expressed his feelings or not they are there for you. Not all of us were given affection and love like you humans. It's new to my brothers and I. We're learning it as we go." He made his way over to the front door and opened it. Before he stepped out he looked over his shoulder and back to Chloe. "The last thing I'd want to do is leave Ella waiting for me. I will make this work should it get to an alarming point. I won't hurt her…"
He tapped the side of the door and closed the door behind him. He didn't bother sticking around for a response from Chloe. He knew she was still stuck on his questions about his brother and they'd be there until she came to the conclusion she'd be willing to do anything to make sure her feelings were reciprocated.
.
.
Once he got to the penthouse, he poured himself a glass of whiskey. He brought the bottle over to the desk and plopped down on the leather chair.
Chloe's words kept ringing in his head. He came over to enjoy the company of her offspring and chat with his friend, but instead received a wake up call along with an irritated attitude.
Michael brought the glass up to his lips and finished his glass. As he went to pour himself another glass, he felt a vibration come from his front pocket. He let it go. He didn't want to hear about Chloe's apology.
He poured himself a second glass and sipped at the contents while flipping through the open books on the desk.
His brother had tons of books on celestials, but none accurate to the actual story. His brother's handwriting was etched into the sides like footnotes. All explaining the truth of what actually happened. Michael was amazed at the detailed log his brother had to offer. He never knew the Devil cared for human history.
Michael was well into his third glass when his phone went off again. He sighed before deciding to answer Chloe back. When he pulled it out of his pocket he noticed a missed call from Ella followed by a text message.
He placed his glass down and swiped at the screen to unlock what Ella had to say.
Okay so mini embarrassment averted, I've finally talked myself down from moving back to Chicago. So you saw my collection of underwear, it's not like you don't wear underwear.
Michael chuckled at the first message, there were two more that followed after that one.
Not saying you wear women's underwear! You don't do you? Of course you don't! Duh…
I'm going to call you, is that okay? I feel I'm rambling and making this worse.
He nodded his head as he remembered he had a missed call from Ella. He swiped his finger up to see the last message she had to offer.
Either I've scared you away or you're busy… please say you're busy. I'll stop messaging until you text me back
Michael checked the time, it was only eleven. Ella had just sent the last message. He placed his cup down on the desk and gave his full attention to his phone.
...
Michael: Apologies, I was unaware you were trying to contact me.
And no I don't wear ladies underwear haha.
Ella: That's okay. Phew! Did I interrupt anything?
Michael: Nope you're good
Ella: Everything alright?
Michael: Yeah why do you ask?
Ella: Just curious
Michael: I'm about four glasses of whiskey into the night
Just trying to knock myself out.
Ella: Having a hard time falling asleep?
Michael: You could say that
Ella: Would you like a recommendation?
Michael: I would love one please
Ella: Does Lucifer's cabinets have tea in them?
Michael: I don't know… let me check.
...
Michael picked himself from off the chair. He drank the rest of the liquid in his glass and placed it on the desk. He then rounded the corner and headed into the back rooms. As he made his way into the kitchen, he received a text from Ella.
Ella: If Lucifer has chamomile, I'd make yourself a cup. It helps when I have a hard time falling asleep
He placed the phone down and searched the cabinets for the tea she recommended. He found earl grey, black, mugwort, and even lavender but no chamomile. He was just about to give up when he found a small box off to the side. When he went to go pull it out he found it to be just what he was looking for.
He smiled down at the box and looked over the packaging. There was nothing special about it, but it looked old. After inspecting it, Michael placed it down on the counter top and started messaging Ella.
...
Michael: Found a box. Looks old but I think it should still work.
Ella: I'd check the expiration! Tea can go bad
Michael: Really?
Ella: Totally! Some can develop mold on the leaves
Wouldn't want you getting sick before our date!
Michael: No we wouldn't want that 😊
I have these
[attachment sent]
Ella: Lavender! Should help relax you 😊
Michael: Lavender it is 😊
Ella: Check the expiration!
Michael: It's good. Thank you 😊
Ella: No problem 😊
I should be heading to bed now
Michael: If you must ha
Have a good night's rest 😊
Ella: Same to you! I hope the tea works.
Good night MIchael 😊
Michael: Good night Ella 😊
...
Michael placed his phone in his pocket and got to work making his cup of tea. He placed some tap water into a kettle and placed it on the stove. After turning it on, he took a step back and waited. He crossed his arms over his chest and watched the fire burn under the kettle.
His mind started to drift to the conversation with Chloe, but he banished them away. He wanted to sleep tonight, he didn't want to burden himself with the thoughts of tomorrow. Right now he wanted to drink his tea and head to bed.
His eyes went back to the fire under the kettle. He let his brain shut off and just watched the color change of the flames.
.
.
Wednesday: 6:45 a.m
.
Ella: Good morning! 😊
Michael: Good morning :😊!
Ella: Get any sleep?
Michael: I did actually
Thank you for the tea suggestion
Ella: Ella Lopez, tea connoisseur
Michael: Haha yes you are
Heading into work?
Ella: Yup, but getting at a late start!
Michael: Did you forget your lunch again?
Ella: No haha. Forgot I had parked my car on the other side of the block
Went out and couldn't find my car.
Michael: Street sweep?
Ella: You know it
Michael: [That's Rough Buddy gif. ]
Ella: GASP! Did you… you you just Zuko me?
Michael: Lol what?
Ella: Do you have any idea where that gif is from?
Michael: Not a clue ha
Ella: Oh you're so lucky you're cute
Michael: I'm cute? 😊
Ella: And now you're cocky
Michael: Not cocky, if I am unaware how cute I am 😊
Ella: Mhm
Michael: Don't text and drive!
Ella: I'm not!
Michael: Ok ha
Ella: I gotta put my phone away now. BUT! I'll see you tonight 😊
Michael: It's a date 😊
.
.
Michael plopped back onto the bed and looked up at the ceiling. He hadn't managed to get any sleep. He never drank the tea. His mind just kept running through the scenarios of what would happen in the coming month.
He slapped his hands over his face and ran them down his cheeks, pulling the skin down from his eyes. Michael let out a frustrated growl after throwing his fist onto the bed on the sides of his body.
"You should have drank the fucking tea…" he sighed and pushed himself off the bed.
He needed to get some sleep before he went out for his date tonight. The last thing he wanted was a grouchy version of him hanging around Ella. He wasn't a fun guy when he lacked sleep.
.
.
12:12 p.m
.
Michael: Will me lady be picking me up tonight?
Ella: Oh shiverless knight, aye I will
Michael: Haha on her trusty steed?
Ella: Nay. Sir Uber will escort us to our destination ha
Michael: Huzzah!
Ella: Lol. I should be at Lux around 6:30 😊
Michael: Sounds good! Care to let me take you out for lunch once more?
Ella: You just brought me lunch yesterday
Michael: So? Ha
Ella: Our dates tonight, not now
Michael: It can extend into tonight
Ella: Smooth but I gotta draw a line
Michael: ️
Ella: Aw! Don't give me that face
Michael: ️
Ella: You're horrible! You're making me feel bad
Michael: Now you know how I feel ha
Ella: Nice try but I gotta say no. I don't wanna risk telling you where we are going tonight. I could barely keep myself from telling you yesterday.
Michael: Haha alright. I'll wait till tonight to see you.
Ella: Good! 😊 It'll be worth the surprise
Michael: Dodgers are playing tonight… Just a reminder ha
Ella: It's not a baseball game! ha
Michael: Worth another shot ha.
.
.
Ella placed her phone back on the desk. She shook her head as she tried to regain some composure of the task at hand. Her work was sprawled out in front of her. She needed to finish up before she took her lunch break. As she tried to finish up writing a report, a knock at the door called for her attention.
"Come in," she said, finishing up the last sentence.
"Sup Ella," Maze called from the other side of the room. Ella's head shot up so fast, she was surprised to hear Maze's voice.
"Hey Maze, what are you doing here?"
The demon pushed her way into the room and over to the scientist. She messed around with some test tubes before answering Ella.
"Dropped off a bounty… heard about your date tonight with Michael…" she took a seat on the work table and shrugged her shoulders. "Kinda bored and willing to lend an ear."
"Lend an ear?"
"You know," she waved her hand around, "girl talk… that kind of stuff." Ella smiled.
"Maze willing to gossip with me? Is the world ending? Did Michael put you up to this?"
Maze scoffed out a noise, "no. I saw your door open and just thought… I don't know. Nevermind." Ella stopped Maze before she could climb off the top of the table and leave.
"Stay, we can talk. Afterall, you are still my wingman… even though you were a terrible one last friday."
"I was still trying to figure you and Michael out… you're okay… I guess," she rolled her eyes but had a smile on her face. Ella let it slide, she knew Maze did things differently than most.
"Okay. So..." she closed up her folders and looked over to Maze. "Any tips on things Michael likes? I know he's fairly new to things… just anything you've discovered?"
Maze lifted an eyebrow confused.
"Things he likes? As in what?" There was mischief in her voice.
"No not like that… I mean that could use…" she shook her head. "No. no. I meant food, drinks, gifts."
Maze sat there looking at Ella not sure why she was asking the question.
"Oh come on Maze, you have to know those kinds of things. I'm only asking because he's been spoiling me. I wanna repay the favor."
"You do know if a man spoils you, you should accept it right?"
"I am accepting it… I just want to do something nice for him. You know, catch him by surprise."
Maze sighed, "fine. What do you wanna know? I'll see what I can share."
Ella pulled out her notepad ready to take notes on everything Maze had to offer.