Doing some more time skipping around for this chapter, because I really want to get to a chapter, I am super excited to write about. For the moment, let another ship come sail along as well, just for this chapter anyway. It's a longish chapter so enjoy.
Songs featured:
Let's do it (let's fall in love) by Ella Fitzgerald
L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole
Mr. Sandman by The Chordettes
SoThis Is Love by Ilene Woods and Mike Douglas
Love Me Tonight by Elvis Presley
Ch 17: SnakeDust
(Heart's POV)
Two weeks went by after the incident with Russ kissing me. To be honest I felt so bad for having to break the snake demon's heart, but I couldn't help it. I didn't have the same feelings for him. My heart still belonged to Alastor. I held my Alastor doll closer to me after that night. I didn't want to let him go. I slept with it even more every night.
I still talked to Russ but only via text. It was weird texting him back and forth, but I don't know how I'd deal with him in person. It would still be too weird for me. I hoped that when I got back to my lessons, we would be ok. Or maybe I won't go as often as I used to. I needed to maybe separate myself from him for a less amount of time.
I did go see the play again though. As promised, I told Russ when I was going there, and I had tickets reserved for me when I went. One night I took Charlie. One night I dragged Lizzy, literally dragged her. Another night Angel decided he wanted to come with me. I was surprised he wanted to go, but it was nice to have just a night out with him. He seemed to take an interest in Russell though; of course, this was Angel I'm talking about, so it didn't surprise me. I told him he can have him. I didn't go to see Russ again, even though he would text me to. I couldn't face him, not in person. Not yet. I'm sure he saw me in the crowds though. I'd see him look at me, I would always give him a small wave. He was still an amazing performer.
Russ's play was over now since the two weeks was up. I was still glad to be able to see it so many times. With that though, I realized it was time for my dance lessons to start back up. I agreed to myself that I wouldn't go as much as I would. Angel actually came to visit me at my home the other day and told me he wanted to go to one of my dance lessons. I knew Angel didn't need them; the dude could dance on a stripper pole like it was no problem. I knew he just wanted to come so that he could meet Russell. Which I was fine with. I feel the two might hit it off. Would be cute.
The day of my return lessons with Russ, Angel met me at the old theater where Russ taught. I was nervous to go inside. I looked at the building, questioning if I should even go in, but I felt with Angel with me I could face him in person though. The horney spider might even distract the snake demon so that he didn't have to think of me.
"I'm glad you decided to come with me today Angel." I told him, looking away from the building and up at the spider demon.
"No problem babe. I want to see more of this guy in action anyway." Angel said as he fixed his chest fluff.
I gave him a small chuckle. "Well I'm sure you'll enjoy it."
We headed inside. There was no one on stage with Russ but he had music playing and was dancing up on stage, probably just getting stretches in. I stopped in front of the stage, but Angel decided to jump up and sit on the edge of it. This scared the snake demon as he saw Angel and jumped in surprise.
"Pretty nice dance moves ya got there." Angel said in a slight seductive tone.
Russ looked at Angel with wide eyes but then slit them, "Thanks." He then looked at me. "Heart is this another friend of yours?" He sounded agitated.
"He is. Sorry Russ. Didn't mean to break your concentration." I apologized.
"That's quite alright." He gestured next to him. "Would you like to join me on stage?"
I gave a tiny nod and slowly made my way up next to him.
"Hey, mind if I show you some of my moves?" Angel asked.
"Um, well-" Russ was at a loss for words.
I interrupted him. "Angel was thinking of taking lessons from you too, so he wanted to come with me to see for himself how your lessons went." I told Russ but it was a lie.
"Oh, well, another student? That will be fun indeed." Russ said with a smile, but it looked forced.
"I'll make your lessons even more fun if you want, sexy." Angel said as he spread himself out more on the edge of the stage.
I saw Russ still looking at Angel with annoyance. "Thank you for the offer, but no. I just want to focus on my lessons."
Angel looked up at the snake demon with a smirk. "Ya know how to pole dance? I could show ya a few things."
"I will admit I have done it once or twice, but not something I'm interested in." Russ admitted.
"Sad, but if ya want more lessons just get a pole up there and I'll fucking show ya a thing or two." Angel winked.
Russ cleared his throat again and looked at me. "Can we, maybe, get a start on this."
"We can." I looked at Angel. "Angel, why don't you go sit in the seats? Maybe you can come up after I'm done."
Angel groaned. "Fine, but I like it up here. I can see," I saw Angel look Russ up and down. "Everything pretty well."
Russ's face turned a slight red and his annoyance seemed to drop slightly. He was embarrassed now from Angel's words.
"I'm so glad Angel came with me now." I thought almost letting out a laugh.
"Fine, you can stay there if you wish. I don't mind." Russ said. "Just don't be in the way."
My ears went up, I was surprised by Russ's response.
"I'll behave. I promise." Angel said, but he didn't sound too convincing.
Russ started my lesson, but I was still on edge with him. It was nice to have Angel there but at the same time I felt a little uneasy still around Russ. Midway through, Russ just gave a sigh and stopped the music.
"Russ, what's up?" I asked as I was still in mid pose from the song.
"I'm sorry Heart, but I just can't concentrate today." Russ told me.
"I can help you concentrate there sweet thing." Angel said, sitting up.
I looked at Angel sternly. "Angel, he has something on his mind. Let him talk."
Angel just shrugged me off and laid down on his one set of elbows and put his head in his hand.
Russ gave another sigh. "Heart, I want to apologize to you. I haven't had the opportunity to see you in person since that night to truly apologize to you for what I did." He almost looked like he was going to cry.
I gave the snake demon a smile. "It's ok Russ, I forgave you. I understand it was just an uncontrolled reaction. I've done that before." I put a hand on his shoulder. "I will admit for a few days I was lost and confused; I didn't want to be near you. Even today I was scared to be here. That's another reason Angel is here, because I wanted someone here with me so I wouldn't back out of my lesson." I sighed. "But I forgave you Russ."
Russ looked up at me and a tear fell but he wiped it away. "You did? You are too kind."
"I know, sometimes I'm too kind for my own good. I do want to apologize to you as well Russ."
"For what?" Russ wondered.
"For breaking your heart." I gave him a sad look as my ears went back. "I'm sorry, but I don't have the same feelings for you as you do me." I told him.
Russ looked down sadly. "I figured that was the case, so I apologize for kissing you. I didn't know what I was thinking at the time."
I gave him a soft smile. "It's alright, but I want you to understand that my heart belongs to someone else still. I can't just let him go."
Angel laughed then. "You're still on about Alastor?" He let out a groan. "You need to let him go babe. It's been 6 months, ya know he isn't fucking coming back."
I got angry and looked at Angel with slanted eyes. "Alastor will come back!"
"Oh, I touched a nerve." Angel sang.
I growled at him, but I didn't want to get angry and turn into my dragon form. I didn't want to wreck Russ's theater. "Alastor will come back. He must. If he actually had any feelings for me then he will come back."
Angel huffed. "I'll make a damn bet to say he doesn't."
I growled louder.
Russ was surprised and looked at me. "Alastor? Wait? THE Radio Demon? That's your boyfriend!?" Russ asked.
I stopped my growling and put my ears back then let out a sigh. "Yes, he is."
"Was." I heard Angel whisper.
"Shut up Angel." I growled lowly.
Russ took a step back from me, "That's a little scary."
"I know, but I try not to tell many people. I know how people react with him around or even when just mentioning him. Plus, with him gone right now, it's just hard for me to figure out my feelings for anything. I'm a mixed bag of confusion. I still love him though. Nothing will change that." I said sadly.
"I understand. I'm just surprised that a guy like him even had a heart to even know the emotion of love." Russ let out a small chuckle.
"It was all new to him. He didn't know what to feel, but he sure knew how to act. He was a gentleman already so just doing that but better is all he had to do. It all was aimed towards me but times a hundred compared to others." I then started to feel tears fill my eyes. "He treated me right. He did everything for me. Protected me. Made me feel special, feel like I belong. My reason for staying here. For living in this eternal suffering life here in hell." The tears fell. "Now I feel alone. I feel lost. I don't feel safe anymore." I tried to wipe the tears away. "He left and it was all my fault. It's my fault and I have hated myself ever since that day."
Russ placed a hand on my shoulder "Heart, you just want to end your lesson for today?" Russ asked me.
I nodded, "I want to go home." I cried.
"You want me to drive you home?" Russ wondered.
I shook my head. "No, I'll be ok. I want to be alone right now." I went to my bag and picked it up off the ground. "Why don't you show Angel some things for the rest of my lesson?"
Russ looked at me with a raised eyebrow. "You sure?" He looked at Angel who blew him a kiss, Russ just rolled his eyes.
"Yea." I walked down the steps of the stage. "I'll see you guys later."
I walked out of the old theater and into the streets. I headed home.
Alastor, why must you make me feel like this? I hate being like this. Broken. Confused. Questioning. I didn't want to feel like this anymore. I still have a long way to go, at least that's what it feels before you can even return. I hope that you come back soon. I'm tired of questioning your love for me. I know I shouldn't, but after these last few months I am
I wrapped my arms around me as I walked down the sidewalk. "Come home, my buck. Please. At least show me you still care." I cried.
After 3 more months I still saw no sign of Alastor. There was nothing. What happened? The first two months after he left be gave me flowers. Now, why suddenly did he just disappear? He did nothing else to show me he was still around. It wasn't fair. I was having such a hard time trying to stay positive. I felt like I was putting on a mask every day just to seem happy. Deep inside though I was slowly falling apart. I was still down. After each passing month I felt worse. I felt a piece of myself just leaving. At the end I feared I would be an empty shell.
I went to work, put on a show, then just went home and locked myself away. I knew Lizzy noticed my mood, but she didn't know what to do to help me. All she would do is make it worse. Saying to just let Alastor go. To just give up on him. Saying he wasn't coming back. It hurt. It really did put me down to hear it. It would play in my head, haunt me.
Charlie would come to visit me, which did make me feel a little better, but I feel she could start to see behind my mask of lies. We would have lunch here and there and most times I'd tell her my feelings about everything happening. I know she felt sorry for me, but I had a feeling that she was giving up as well. Alastor helped Charlie with the hotel, so she was having a hard time with him gone as well.
I still went to my dancing lessons with Russ, me and him were back on ok terms. We were friends and that was fine. He made my day a little better. I knew Russ still probably had a crush on me, but he slowly accepted that I wouldn't be with him. We went out for coffee some days. Just little friend outings were always nice. Kept me distracted. Although I feel that the snake demon probably had someone else on his mind, even though he would deny it.
Angel was going with me to my lessons. Not to learn, but to hit on the snake demon. Russ seemed to be annoyed with the spider demon being there, but at the same time he never told him to leave. Angel would hit on him and it was funny to see Russ blush slightly at Angel's comments. It made me smile and laugh. I had a feeling that Russ was just denying him and acting all annoyed because he was always so nervous around Angel when he would come. Russ seemed to be warming up to him a little more each time he was around. Angel hit on anyone, but at the same time it seemed to me that he was obsessed with Russ. It was a little weird and strange considering it was Angel Dust I was talking about. I never really pictured anyone tying him down, in a relationship kind of way. Did Angel have a crush on Russ or was he just playing with him?
To my surprise, when I went in for my lesson today, there was a pole up on stage. What? Did Russ get a pole to dance on? Angel was with me today as well, so he was excited and surprised as well.
When I got closer to the stage, I saw Russ come from backstage.
He noticed us and gave a small wave. "Well hello there! I hope you like my surprise?"
"The pole is a surprise?" I asked, pointing to it.
"Sure! I took Angel's advice from the other day when I talked to him. He convinced me that it was a good idea to start teaching it as well." Russ told us.
"You...actually had a normal conversation with Angel?" I put one ear up while one ear was down and tilted my head. "I'm surprised."
"No one ever fucking listens to me. I'm surprised you did, sweet thing." I heard a little surprise tone in Angel's voice.
"Of course! I try to listen to ideas from everyone." Russ then got a small blush on his face. "Especially your ideas Angel, they are very inspiring. Different." Angel seemed taken aback by the statement as I saw his cheeks turn pink. Russell laughed. "These last few months with you around Angel have been annoying, but I will admit that you have grown on me a little."
"Thanks, I guess." Angel said softly.
"How about you show us some of your moves?" Russ suggested, gesturing to Angel.
Angel's head snapped back up to the snake demon. "Ya want me...to...dance? Your fucking with me, right?"
I smiled and looked up at Angel. "Yea Angel go up there. I'd love to see you work on it in person. I've only seen you in videos."
Angel seemed hesitant at first, but then smirked. "Alright, ya guys better take notes then." Angel said as he snapped his fingers and headed up on stage.
I went and sat on the edge of the stage while Russ went and got music ready.
Angel went to the back of the stage. "I'm not dressed for this kind of thing, but I can improvise."
"Tell me when you're ready, Angel." Russ said.
"I'm always ready, baby." Angel answered seductively.
Russ lowered the lights, where Angel stood went black and only one was on that illuminated the pole. Russ started the song and then took a chair and sat it on the stage in front.
When the music started Angel walked up to the pole with a sexy stride. He had undone his top so that his chest was exposed, but the article of clothing was still on him. I knew it probably wouldn't for long though. We watched as the spider demon danced around the pole and rubbed up and down against it. It was a different show in person then on tv. Angel slowly removed his top and went up to Russell. He sat in the snake demon's lap and took his top and wrapped it around the snake demon's neck. He kissed his cheek. Russ had a blush creep onto his face. Angel stood back up and went onto the pole. It was so amazing to watch him do so many moves on it, of course his extra set of arms helped him out it seemed. He went upside down, did some twirls, hung by his legs and so much more. It was crazy to watch. My arms hurt just watching. It was just amazing to watch him move the way he did.
When the music ended Angel looked a little out of breath and had a light sweat covering him. It was a workout, but it looked fun. I clapped and so did Russ.
"Man, Angel you got to show me some of those!" I said excited.
"Ya got to start with basics first, sweetheart before you do what I just did." Angel told me.
"Some of those moves were…amazing." Russ finally said.
"Oh, I have way more than that babe." Angel said as he leaned against the pole. "I could do a lot to you in that chair as well." He pointed one set of hands towards Russ. "If you let me."
"M-Maybe another time perhaps." Russ stood up from the chair and up to Angel. "Here is your top back."
Russ was about 6 inches shorter than the spider demon, but he never let his tall size intimidate him.
Angel took back his top but didn't put it back on. "I hope you took your notes." Angel winked.
"Mentally yes, although I will say you are way better than me." Russ told him.
"That's because I'm a professional baby." Angel said as he jumped back on the pole and spun upside down in front of Russ, his legs twisted around the pole and his bottom set of arms holding onto the pole.
I stood up from the edge of the stage. "Russ what if Angel teaches us today?" I suggested.
Russ seemed uncertain at first, but he soon put on a small smile. He looked at the upside-down spider demon. "How about it, Angel? Want to teach us today?"
"If you pay me." Angel answered, that was his usual response.
"Can I pay you with dinner tomorrow night?" Russ asked.
Angel seemed taken back by that, he lost his grip and slipped from the pole and ended up in a pile at the bottom. "You're shitin' me, right?"
Russ shook his head. "I am not." Russ held his hand out to Angel to help him up.
Angel hesitated but placed one of his hands into Russ's and the snake demon helped him to his feet. Angel brushed himself off.
Angel pointed two sets of fingers sternly to Russ. "I'll agree to this one time, but only because you offered, and you asked nicely."
I walked up to them. "Hey why don't you guys come to Giuseppe's? I can make sure to get a table reserved for you?" I suggested. "Plus, you can see those dance moves you've been teaching me in action."
"Heart that is very nice of you. I'd like that very much." Russ looked to Angel." Does that sound ok?"
"Someplace fancy? Oh shit well, I mean, I don't know." Angel seemed hesitant; it was probably because he was never really offered something like that.
"You'll get to see me sing tomorrow too since I'll be working." I reminded Angel.
"Alright fine." Angel threw his arms up in surrender. "You can fucking take me to dinner there."
Russ put his hands together. "Wonderful. Would you like me to pick you up?"
"Sure, I'm crashing at the Happy Hotel. Ya know where that is?" Angel asked.
"Of course." Russ nodded.
"Cool. Pick me up at 6pm." Angel said.
"I'll be there." Russ saluted.
I cleared my throat, "So, now that that's out of the way, let's get to learning."
Russ turned to me, "Right!" He looked to Angel. "Now show us some basic moves that we can try ourselves."
Angel cracked his knuckles, "Let's fucking get to work."
It was the day after our little session with Angel at my dance lesson. I will say that pole dancing is a lot harder than anyone would think. I am very sore, but it was a fun experience to try out that's for sure. Very good way of exercise is so a good workout never hurts anyone. I was surprised that Russ had had the pole in the first place. He seemed like he didn't like Angel Dust but now it seems he has got a soft spot for him. Unless it was all an act at first, to try and push him away, but knowing Angel...he was persistent. That and he was attractive. Russ was pansexual so it didn't matter to him. I was glad to see him happy though.
Angel was so nervous on the walk home though. He didn't know how to feel about being at a fancy place with someone for them to buy him dinner. I joked and said he would have a nice date. He snapped at me and told me it wasn't a date, just a nice dinner payment. I rolled my eyes, he was lying. Deep down I know Angel was considering it a date because he really liked Russ. I could tell. He just didn't want to admit it out loud.
I had a devilish thought come across my mind; I was going to play matchmaker. The songs I was going to play during their dinner would help them along. I laughed slightly at the thought. I was going to get them together because I thought they would be cute. Plus, it seemed the spider demon helped Russ's heart out after being broken by myself. I could tell how much better Russ was when Angel would come to my lessons. Of course, Angel's intentions to come with me to my lessons were different, but it seemed to me that he had changed his mind.
As promised to Russ, I made sure to get a table reserved for the two. I got them a table in the upper corner of the dining area. It was private there so I knew they would be ok and not to disturbed. Plus, I wanted to make sure that Russ had a good view of me up on stage since I still did want him to check out how well his dance lessons were paying off. My plan tonight was to get them to dance together. Even though Angel wasn't much of a dancer I knew Russ would try to.
It was getting close to dinner time and I hoped Angel wouldn't back out of their date because my song list tonight was going to be for them, and I had a lot planned for tonight for the two.
(Third Person POV) [With Russ]
Russ pulled up to the Happy Hotel in his car and stepped out. The snake demon was dressed in a nice black long-sleeved shirt with a jean jacket vest. He wore some black dress pants and dress shoes. He had his hair styled back like normal with that greasy look to it. He never lost his 80's dress style.
Russ looked up at the hotel a moment and was slightly intimidated by it. Russ wondered why Angel stayed in this place. He always said how he hated it and didn't really want to deal with the hotel, but Russ felt it was because Angel made friends, like Heart, and didn't want to leave. He just didn't want to admit it.
Russ remembered the hotel was a place to seek redemption, it didn't suit Russ. He didn't find the idea of leaving hell to be in his favor. He liked it in hell because he had it good here and he didn't want to let go of that. Plus, Russ also didn't want to admit that Angel Dust made him feel happy then he ever had down here. He just hoped that tonight would get Angel to break down that wall he has. Russ didn't mind that the spider demon was a famous porn star, a drag queen nor did he mind his smart-ass attitude. None of that mattered to him, he just liked Angel as he was. As himself. A beautiful creature of hell.
At first Russ found Angel annoying and just in the way, but after a few more lessons he grew accompanied to the spider demon. He wanted him to leave. That's why he acted so rude to him at first. Plus, he didn't want Angel's flirting to get to him. Then he would just always put on an act when he was there because he wanted to push him away, but that didn't seem to work. Angel was very stubborn, and Russ liked that.
Russ finally got out of his thoughts and walked up to the door and knocked. He felt a slight sweat form on his forehead. He was a little nervous about tonight as well. He pulled out a comb and combed his hair back to fix it.
Not long after, the door opened, and Russ was greeted by Vaggie. "Welcome to the Happy Hotel, can I help you?"
Russ cleared his throat, "I'm looking for Angel Dust." Russ said, a little nervous.
"Oh, you must be Russell, right?" The moth demon girl asked.
"Yes, ma'am." Russ answered.
"Would you like to come inside." Vaggie gestured inside the lobby.
"Oh, uh, sure. I guess." Russ Nodded and walked in.
Vaggie closed the door behind him as Russ took in the look of the hotel lobby. Russ turned back to Vaggie. She let a small smile creep on her face. "He's been talking about you for a while so it's nice to see you in person."
"He...talks about me?" Russ asked, surprised.
"Oh yea. He always says how he likes going with Heart to her dance lessons. Talks about her nice-looking dance teacher." Vaggie told him.
Russ felt his face get hot slightly. He cleared his throat. "Well it's nice to know that he enjoys my lessons so much."
Vaggie let out a chuckle. "Right. Well stay here and I'll go get him for you. Will be nice to get him out of my hair for a few hours." Vaggie walked away to get Angel.
Russ just stayed by the door, looking around at the hotel lobby. It was a truly amazing place. Very beautiful on the inside. He looked at pictures on the walls. Husk was not at the bar front desk, so Russ took a seat and wasn't disturbed. He looked behind the bar and saw a picture hanging on the back wall. It was a picture of the whole group back when the hotel was just getting on its feet. Charlie was hugging Vaggie up front, Niffty was just barely seen in front of them, Husk was off to the left side of them with a miserable look on his face, Angel was on the other side of them as he was winking, behind Charlie was Alastor and Heart as he had an arm wrapped around her shoulders. Russ looked at the picture with a smile. Everyone here was truly amazing and almost looked like a family. They must have been close. He also noticed that Heart was happier looking in the picture then he has seen her lately. He didn't know much about Heart and Alastor and how close they were because bringing him up or asking anything about him always made her shut down.
Russ was brought out of his thoughts when he felt and a poke on his shoulder. He jumped slightly and looked behind him. It was Angel Dust. Russ looked at the spider demon, he was wearing a dark blue dress that went to his knees, it had transparent light blue sleeves. He wore his black boots and it looked like he had makeup on as well.
Angel had his one set of arms rubbing the others, "I hope you don't mind the dress. It was the only nice thing I had clean right now." Angel told him.
Russ was surprised. He looked at Angel with wide eyes and didn't want to leave his figure.
The snake demon slowly stood from the stool; he was almost lost for words. He looked up at Angel in his eyes. "You look amazing." Russ smiled.
"You think so?" Angel asked.
"Absolutely." Russ breathed out.
Angel seemed to blush. The snake demon made him feel special. Angel saw something in Russ that he has never felt in another person. He may have been a porn star and had sex for money and drugs. Never felt much for falling for someone, but Russ, he was different. Sure, the man pushed him away at first but that was normal. He knew how stubborn and annoying he could be to others. It was just how he was, but Russ, even though he had a mask at first, put up with it all. Never had he seen someone put up with him.
Angel was brought out of his thoughts when Russ reached out his hand and grabbed Angel's.
"Well, let's get going then. Don't want to have dinner waiting." Russ reminded him.
"Oh, yea, right. We better get going." Angel stammered, realizing that his hand was being held.
Russ didn't let go and walked to the front door. They got to his car and Russ opened the passenger door for Angel Dust. Angel was surprised by this Chivalry action and he liked it. Angel got into the car and Russ closed the door, being careful of Angel's dress. Russ went to the driver side and started driving to the restaurant.
Their car ride was silent as both were a little nervous. It wasn't long till they got to Giuseppe's. Russ parked his car and again Russ went to the passenger side and opened Angel's door and held out his hand. Angel placed his hand into Russ's and helped him out. Russ closed the door with his other hand and the two walked inside. The two walked in with no hands held.
They walked up to the host stand and were greeted by the rat demon Stanley. "Hello, welcome to Giuseppe's. Just the two of you?" He asked
Russ nodded. "Yes, but I actually should have a reservation."
"Ah ok." Stanley opened a book. "What's the name."
"Russell. Russell Snakebite." He told him.
"Yes, here you are." He looked up at them. "Special reserved for you from our lead singer tonight. That's sweet." Stanley smiled. "Follow me please." He grabbed some menus and walked towards the dining area.
Russ held out his arm and Angel didn't hesitate and looped his arm around Russ's. They followed the rat demon to the table that was in a corner of the room. The view of the stage was good. Heart was up on stage singing a tune. The two thanked Stanley and Russ went and pulled out the chair for Angel.
"Thanks." Angel said as Russ pushed him in. The snake demon smiled and sat down in his own chair. "To be honest I am not used to this shit you have been doing for me already tonight. Its fucking weird to me."
Russ gave a chuckle. "I understand. Don't worry, if you want me to stop I can. It's just a force of habit."
Angel waved both sets of arms. "Oh no no your fine. I'm just saying it all. Don't fucking take me seriously."
Russ sat back. "If you say so."
The two looked up to the stage as Heart finished a song. Then she looked over at them and waved. The two waved back with a smile. She was happy the two showed up. The band soon started up the next song.
"Birds do it, bees do it
Even educated fleas do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love
In Spain, the best upper sets do it
Lithuanians and Letts, do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love
The Dutch in old Amsterdam do it
Not to mention the Finns
Folks in Siam do it - think of Siamese twins"
During the middle of the song a waiter came to their table and took their drink orders and would be back soon.
"Some Argentines without means do it
People say in Boston even beans do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love
Romantic sponges, they say, do it
Oysters down in Oyster Bay do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love
Cold Cape Cod clams, 'gainst their wish, do it
Even lazy jellyfish do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love
Electric eels, I might add, do it
Though it shocks 'em I know
Why ask if shad do it? Waiter, bring me shad roe!
In shallow shoals, English soles do it
Goldfish in the privacy of bowls do it
Let's do it, let's fall in love"
Everyone clapped from the song.
Russ let out a chuckle. "I feel she did this on purpose."
"Did what?" Angel asked.
"Asked us to come here so she can sing certain songs to us." Russ said with a smirk.
Angel felt a blush come onto his face. "What ya fucking moving your lips about?"
Russ leaned over the table. "She's playing matchmaker."
Angel let out a chuckle. "Please, don't be silly. This is just a nice payment meeting we are going on. Nothing else." He crossed both sets of arms.
Russ lost his smile slightly at those words, but he knew that Angel was only saying that to keep up his tough exterior. Russ had a feeling by the end of this night though, Angel would be his. He wouldn't give up. Not yet.
Deep down Angel did want to call it a date, but he wouldn't admit that. He didn't want to open his heart out, not yet. Sure, he liked Russ, but he wanted him to earn him. So far though, he has done amazing.
"Well if you say so. I'll take it that way." Russ finally said.
Soon a waiter came back with their drinks and took down their food orders and went away again to go put it in.
The two were silent a moment, they both were watching Heart up on stage. She switched to a jazz dance type song and Russ was watching her.
"Looks like your damn lessons are paying off." Angel pointed out, his eyes still on stage.
"I agree. She has gotten a lot better performing up on stage than when I first saw her." Russ said, his eyes not leaving Heart as she danced.
"Well that's good then. I agree that she has gotten way fucking better. She invited us to her first night she worked. She had a lot of damn fun. It was the happiest I'd seen her in a while." Angel turned back in his seat and took a sip of his margarita he ordered. "Now though, she isn't happy. I can tell it's all fucking fake. She might be having fun up there but as soon as she is done, it all fucking melts away."
Russ raised an eyebrow and turned back to Angel. "What do you mean?"
Angel gave a small huff. "You can't tell? Damn." He put his drink down. "She's waiting for a man she loves, that ain't fucking coming back."
"You shouldn't put her hopes down with that." Russ told him.
"What's the damn point? It's been 9 goddamn months. He said he would be back before the extermination. I don't think he's fucking coming back." Angel reminded him.
"There's still 3 more months till that happens. I wouldn't play cards on it just yet." Russ said.
Angel shrugged. "I don't fucking care. It's her damn fault for falling for the guy. It's not my goddamn fault he left because he couldn't satisfy her sexual needs when she had them. He was a pussy when it came to that shit." Angel picked up his drink again and took a sip.
"That's why he left?" Russ asked, surprised.
Angel looked at him with a raised eyebrow "Damn, she never told you?"
Russ shook his head. "She only ever told me he left because it was her fault. That's all she ever said."
Angel let out a chuckle. "It wasn't really her damn fault. It was his, the jagoff. He left on his own accord. Saying he was going on some kind of fucking 'self-finding quest'" Angel said as he made air quotes.
Russ nodded. "I can imagine that must be hard though. For someone to leave you just because of that. I mean, shit, it's hell, it's normal to my ears to hear talk of sex every day."
"Fuck I'm a porn star and that's almost every day for me." Angel laughed.
Russ laughed at that. "That's true."
In the background the song had ended and changed again, but the two made no notice.
"That's not a turn off for you is it?" Angel asked nervously, playing with the tablecloth.
"What is? You being a porn star?" Russ asked to make sure.
Angel nodded.
Russ smiled. "Not at all. You have to make a living somehow, right?" He reached over across the table and took one of Angel's hands into his own. "I don't mind how you live your life. You are an amazing person all on your own Angel. I won't judge you for anything. Damn, I do drugs now and then myself still so I'm in that same boat as you."
Angel blushed at his gesture of taking his hand. Angel smiled and looked up at Russ in his eyes. He almost got lost in his snake like pupils.
The moment was broken when the waiter came back with their food. The two just enjoyed the music that was going on and ate mainly in silence listening to the music.
"L is for the way you look at me
O is for the only one I see
V is very, very extraordinary
E is even more than anyone that you adore can
Love is all that I can give to you
Love is more than just a game for two
Two in love can make it
Take my heart and please don't break it
Love was made for me and you"
As there was a little break in the song. They were still eating, but Angel did a brave move on his part. He took his one foot and managed to find one of Russ's and put it over top of his. He said nothing, he just kept eating. Russ was surprised by the action. He stopped a moment and looked up at the spider demon but said nothing. He gave a small smile and went back to eating. He was just hiding affection.
"L is for the way you look at me
O is for the only one I see
V is very, very extraordinary
E is even more than anyone that you adore can
Love is all that I can give to you
Love is more than just a game for two
Two in love can make it
Take my heart and please don't break it
Love was made for me and you
Love was made for me and you
Love was made for me and you"
Up on stage they were getting ready for the next song, but there were a few more microphones as they got ready for a song that required a few more voices.
"Bung, bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung, bung
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Make him the cutest that I've ever seen
Give him two lips like roses and clover
Then tell him that his lonesome nights are over
Mr. Sandman, I'm so alone
Don't have nobody to call my own
So, please turn on your magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bring me a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung"
Russ always liked this song, and he looked up at the stage to see how well Heart was dancing. He was amazed at what she did. Russ looked at Angel, who caught him looking at him. Russ smiled and gave a small chuckle at the spider demons action.
Mr. Sandman (yes), bring me a dream
Give him a pair of eyes with a come-hither gleam
Give him a lonely heart like Pagliacci
And lots of wavy hair like uh Liberace
Mr. Sandman, Sandman, someone to hold
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Would be so peachy before we're too old
So please turn on your magic beam (turn on your magic beam)
Mr Sandman, bring me a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bring us a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Hey! Sandman, please bring me a dream
Make him just the cutest that I've ever seen
Hey Sandman spread the word that I'm not over
Then tell him I love 'em and his lonesome nights are over
Sandman, Sandman, I'm so alone
Don't have nobody here that I can call my own
So, please please please why don't you turn on the magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring us
Oh please please please
Mr. Sandman, bring us a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bring me a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bring me a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bring us a dream
Bung, bung, bung, bung
Bung, bung, bung, bung"
They both had finished eating.
"Ok everyone let's get those slow dances in tonight what do you say?" Heart said up on stage to the crowd as they clapped.
Russ held out a hand to Angel from across the table.
"Angel, would you like to dance with me?" Russ asked.
"Dance? With you?" Angel stammered. "I, um, I, ugh."
"You can say no if you want." Russ told him.
Angel paused, "I'm just fucking afraid of stepping on your damn feet." He said, thinking of an excuse.
"Nonsense. I have had many people step on my feet; you will be no different." Russ smiled.
Angel played with the napkin in his lap. "To be honest with you Russell, I've never danced a slow dance with anyone before."
Russ had a feeling that was his problem. "It's easy. I'll show you. If you are nimble at working a pole you can do this easily." Russ held out his hand more.
Angel looked at his hand and then sighed. "Ok, but just one damn dance." Angel placed one of his hands into Russ's.
Russ smiled and they both stood up, walking to the dance floor. When they got there, they noticed Heart look at them and smile. She winked. Angel blushed as Russ gave a chuckle.
The song soon started, and Angel was nervous and unsure of where to put his hands. Especially since the snake demon was a tiny bit shorter than him.
"Relax." Russ whispered. "Here." He grabbed Angel's lower hands and placed one on each of his hips. He took Angel's upper arms and placed one on his shoulder as Russ held the other in his hand. "That's not so bad now is it?"
Angel shook his head.
"Now just sway back and forth for now. I'll lead ok?" Russ told him, still whispering.
Angel nodded.
The song started and the song was a lot of musical instruments and everyone on the dance floor went with it. Almost reminded everyone of a nice spring night on a merry-go-round.
Soon Heart started to sing.
"Mmm mmm mmm
Mmm mmm mmm
So this is love
Mmm mmm mmm
So this is love
So this is what makes life divine
I'm all aglow and now I know"
A guy singer soon came in to sing as well. (and now I know)
"The key to our heaven is mine"
The male singer went away a moment.
"My heart has wings and I can fly"
The two started to sing together.
"I'll touch every star in the sky
So this is the miracle that I've been dreaming of
Mmm mmm mmm
So this is love"
The song ended and everyone clapped. Angel and Russ stayed together though. They didn't separate. They were looking loving into each other's eyes.
"Now that wasn't bad was it?" Russ asked softly.
"Not at all. I think I have this fucking down." Angel answered confidently.
"You think so? Want to go for another?" Russ wondered.
"Damn right I do." Angel said with determined eyes.
Russ gave a chuckle as another song started. Angel was getting more comfortable.
"May this tenderness cling
When the fire of Spring
Is a memory
May you still be my own
When a hundred years have flown
But if it can't be
Give this moment to me
While our dream is bright
Put your sweet arms around me
And love me tonight"
Angel tightened his hold on Russ. Russ brought the spider demon closer to himself.
"Love me tonight
Let me feel your lips on mine"
Angel leaned in and put his head on top of Russ's. The snake demon's face was right by Angel's chest fluff, but he didn't mind that.
"And though I pray
Forever and a day I'll be
Possessing you
I'll confess to you
If I knew that our love would be gone
With the stars in the dawn's grey light
I'd still hold you close and whisper"
The two separated a moment and Russ sang the last line of the song as he looked up at Angel in the eyes.
"Love me tonight"
Angel blushed. So... he did have feelings for him? Angel felt his heart leap. It was a feeling he never felt before. Angel always had sex with anything that moved and didn't really fall for no one, but Russ, he somehow fell for. He didn't even realize it. He loved how charming he was. Tonight, it also showed how he treats someone as well. He was gentle.
Angel was surprised with himself of what he did next. He started to lean down and soon placed his lips on top of Russ's. The snake demon was surprised by the kiss but soon started to kiss him back. They felt the fireworks go off. It was a spark.
They separated and looked each other in the eyes.
"Well that certainly surprised me." Russ chuckled.
"Once I'm comfortable I can be pretty straight forward." Angel said with a devilish smirk.
"Oh, I know." Russ said, also putting on a smirk.
"You want to get out of here?" Angel suggested.
"Wunna come back to my place?" Russ asked.
"It would be better than us going to the hotel. I can't do anything fun there." Angel said.
Russ and Angel walked off the dance floor and back to their table. The waiter came back with their check.
"Your meal has been paid for by our amazing lead singer. So, you two are free to go when you please." The waiter told them.
Russ and Angel were surprised by this. Heart had paid for their meal as well. It was so sweet of her. They didn't expect that. Russ had a feeling that she did that so that they could have a good night. She was too kind. They looked to the stage and saw Heart looking at them. She just gave them a smile. The two smiled at her and waved goodbye. She gave a small wave as well. Russ took Angel's hand and the two walked out of the restaurant and headed to Russ's car. When they got to the car, Russ didn't expect what would happen next.
There was a wall right behind the car, Angel took Russ and pushed him up against the wall and kissed him. Russ was surprised by this but started to kiss Angel back. Russ wrapped his arms around Angel's shoulders and was getting into it as he forced a tongue into Angel's mouth. The two were locked into a heated kiss in the parking lot. Soon Angel leaned his body more into Russ's. He started to rub the snake demon's body and even that sensitive area below his belt. Russ didn't pull away or tell him to stop. He was enjoying this. The two were getting more than they would have thought tonight.
Russ pulled away from the kiss out of breath. "Shall we continue this...elsewhere?"
"I'll go wherever you go." Angel said breathless.
The two pulled apart and Russ opened the door for Angel. Then he went and got in the driver seat. He tried his best to ignore the throbbing he had now because of Angel's actions but he knew he would hopefully get that relieved. Russ started the car and drove to his apartment.
Let's just say that when they got to his apartment, both their needs were satisfied. Angel fell asleep in Russ's bed and the snake demon let him stay that way the entire night. He felt bad if he disturbed him. He was so content and cute while he slept, Russ didn't want to ruin the moment.
They both were happy. They both were content. Angel found out that Russ was very good in bed. Either way, they had shown their feelings for each other. They hoped it stayed that way. The love story of the spider and the snake was just beginning, and it was a very good beginning at that.
(Heart's POV)
I had watched their entire date tonight and I was so happy for the two. I wanted to make sure they had a good time and I paid for their bill ahead of time. I wanted their first date to go well. I wanted them to express their feelings. Seeing them out on the dance floor and then dancing made my heart fill with joy. When I saw them share that first kiss on the dance floor, I tried so hard not to let out a shriek of excitement. I was happy to see my friends together. I hope that this wasn't a one time thing though. The two looked too good together. I was so happy for them. When I saw them leave hand in hand, I knew I had accomplished something. I had won. I just hoped they lasted. If Russ could put up with Angel, then I'm sure he was in good hands.
My night was coming to an end as I sung the last song. My heart was soaring with joy because of Russ and Angel, but soon I started to come back down. Their love was starting. It reminded me of Alastor and I when we first started. Of course, we were like that till he left. He made me feel special and wanted. He showed me affection I always wanted. I'm sorry for bringing him up again, but I can't help that. I missed him. I missed him so much. Why hadn't he returned yet?
I finished the song and headed off the stage after I bowed. Glenn gave me a good job for the night, and I headed out to head home. I stopped in the park that was close by and sat down on a bench. I looked up; in the sky I saw a planet, it was heaven. I sighed and sat back on the bench. I put my head in my hands.
I started to cry.
My heart was hurting. Like it has every day. I don't know how much more I could take. I was tired of feeling this way. I broke every night. Cried on the bench in the park for this past week. I couldn't keep my tears in anymore. I was tired of wearing this mask. Seeing others in love made me happy but it took me back to my memories back with Alastor. Our love was something I felt I would never feel again.
"Alastor, why don't you love me anymore? I'm sorry, for everything." I said through my tears.
A very long chapter. I was not planning for it to be this long, but I feel it's fitting to have all of it in one chapter. It's just too cute with those two. Will they last, we'll find out. Will Heart last, maybe...not so much.