The Princess Groom
Ch.8: Showdown at Introvert Corner
The rest of the day went by quickly. I enjoyed an hour in the hot tub, letting the hot H2O sooth my muscles and back. Video games were played. Funny enough, I chose to play Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, free roaming, not doing any missions.
Before I knew it, the clock was striking eight that evening. A palatable dinner of grilled chicken and green beans eaten, it was here that I debated.
I knew what I felt. I was at peace with my being in Hell, and what was to come with Charlie. However, a mystery had be answered: Was I ready to start making friendships? Simply put-was I ready to hang out with the cast?
Smiling as I slid off the bed, my feet entering my Adidas sandals, I stepped out of the room.
I was about to find out.
"Plus, four. Aw man, that's cheating! Nope Spiderman, it's the rules"
Unknowing of my arrival, the group was engaged at the lobby's gaming table, engaged in a game of Uno. Nifty had just played a plus four card on Angel Dust, which of course meant he had to draw four cards. He had protested, with the annoyed Husker have called him Spiderman. He did always enjoy the New Yorkers adventures.
As Nifty went to announce the new color, she suddenly peered towards the stairs.
"Nifty? What color is the new- ". Alastor stopped shortly, seeing me bobbing down the stairs. He gave a small smirk. "Charlie, your lover has called on you."
Charlie had been engaged in a discussion with Vaggie over a dress she had ordered on Hellazon, Hells online shopping service. Charlie turned her head, smiling as she saw me, and waved. I waved back, sitting on the couch.
Husker went to say something but stopped. He understood that I would come over in my own time.
But sometimes, a Radio can be an inspiring voice.
A new game was about to begin. Using his knowledge of the game, Alastor had won. The group had decided on one more game, as Angel Dust was about to rest, evening showcasing this with a yawn.
Alastor looked over at me. I was scrolling on my phone. To be truthful, the Southern Gentlemen did not know what to think of me. He thought I was unique, even thinking it was strange that I had not came over yet. He knew I liked Uno, having watched me play the game with my family several times through the mirror.
Saying nothing, he stood, waving off a concerned look from Vaggie, and strode over to me. I turned my head left, hearing footsteps.
This may be strange coming from the guy terrified of red lights, but Alastor did not frighten me. Maybe make me shiver a bit, yes. But he did not scare me. I gave a small smile.
"Hi Alastor" I said. "Evening David. Want to join our game?"
I tipped a hand on my chin, thinking. "But, I mean, I wouldn't wanna intrude."
Alastor chuckled, showcasing his teeth. "Charlie is shuffling the cards for a new game. David" he said, looking me in the eye. "Answer me this. Do you believe I intend to hurt you?"
I have always been told to be honest. I consider it to be important. So, I told him the truth.
"Yes, I do"
Alastor nodded. "I understand. I was a serial killer, and all of my targets were men. Heck, sometimes demons cross my wrath now. If Charlie would allow me, that fucking crone Killjoy would be a target. Anyways" he said. "You have my word on my family. And.." he said quietly. "On my beloved, that you will never be targeted by me."
Searching for deception in his features, I found none. The group at the table cheered as I came over. I could not help but grin.
Not only did I love Uno, but I was also a fucking good player.
Charlie giggled as I sat next to her. "Was dinner good?"
I turned to her, nodding. "I am trying to eat healthier, so yeah! Good Job Nifty!" I smiled. Nifty giggled.
Angel rolled his eyes. "So, we gonna start this? I gotta get to sleep."
"Tired?" I asked. Angel regarded me for a moment. "Nah, I gotta go see my sister Molly tomorrow." By the way he said that I knew he loved her much. "Say, you wanna go with? I'll treat ya to breakfast"
"Well," I said cautiously, picking up my cards, "I don't wanna intrude on your sister time."
"Nah" Angel grinned. "Ya will be fine. Besides, I know ya wanna spend time with me." Vaggie gave him a dark look. Angel frowned. "As friends, Vaggie! What did you think I meant?"
Vaggie did not have to say a word. I knew what she thought he meant. I reached over, taking Vaggie's hand. "Vaggie, its fine. If he touched me, don't you think Charlie would know as soon as possible?"
"I'd be the last person to try that shit" Angel said. "Sorry" Vaggie said sincerely. "I'm just worried about you, David. How are you taking all this so well?"
I smiled, retreating my hand as we began to play. "There's a man that falls in the hole, you see"
I did not have to say anything more. Angel smiled widely, wiping away tears. He knew what to say that next day.
The game was over. Nifty had won, getting lucky with a green color streak. Vaggie was cleaning up the game. Husker had shuffled upstairs, Alastor following. Charlie turned to me.
"Bye David. See you tomorrow!" she smiled, going to leave. Let us just say there was a benefit to watching her leave. Vaggie grinned.
"You probably wanna see her naked, huh?"
Charlie spun around, blushing. I could not help but blush as well, saying nothing as I left upstairs. In time, me and Charlie would get frisky.
The next day, however, I learned once again to not judge a book by its cover. Angel may be cocky and full of vanity, but he's also one of my best friends.
Brothers in Arms, we are now and forever.
