Chapter 2:
I Feel Alive when You are Near
"I-I'm sorry, what?"
"Music, darling. What sort do you enjoy best?"
"Oh." Aby chirped up at the question. She loved this topic. People always seemed so surprised at her answer, making the look on their face all the more fun for her.
"That's easy! I love old rock, punk, and Jazz- mainly swing of course. Frank Sinatra has always been my favorite performer, though."
He looked at her for a moment. Blinking a few times as his finger came up to his chin, rubbing it. Shifting his gaze to the upper left of his eye before looking back at her. He showed his teeth as he let out a chuckle. His large, pointed, deep yellow teeth. All lined up like razor blades in his mouth.
"Well I have to say, I don't know what most of that means. But I can honestly say I guessed the Jazz and Rock n' Roll bit in advance. I personally enjoy Electric swing. It's like swing but more...electric."
As he spoke, he gave a playful twirl of his staff. His free hand gave a punctual back handed wave. He seemed to take a lot of pride in his response, making Aby nod her head at him. Signaling to the other that she was actively listening. Secretly hoping it would win his favor. Aby then giggled at the response offered to her. More so in a delighted manner than a bemused one.
I should have known, she thought. He's been good at this game from the start.
"Maybe we could go dancing some time", Aby suggested, smiling her best flirty smile. Unfortunately, her eyes betrayed her as they shifted to the sketchbook.
It was here, that Aby realized the most recent sketch was presentable to the world. This particular image being of some concern, since it entailed a less flattering message about the Radio Demon. One where a terrifying shadow was seen lingering over Alastor as his regular form stood straight. Many shadow tentacles overlapped as they extended from all directions. Blood pooling along the ground, sprinkled with small shards that she knew to be bone. The shadow had long antlers and even sharper teeth dripping blood. Hunger units eyes. Its hands reached around Alastor with claws that were so long, they could rival Edward Scissorhands. Aby couldn't recollect ever beginning the drawing, much less going into "creepy kid in a horror movie" mode while drawing the damn thing.
She rushed to close it, scooting it away from her without letting it fall off the bed. Forcing herself to look back at the charming red figure. The blush deepened on her face as her expression went from flirty to sheepish. Her teeth poking out through the widened flashy smile she offered him. Alastor returned the favor by making his own appear more intrigued. Aby noted that he seemed to not have noticed the drawing, feeling less embarrassed at the news.
That might have been awkward to explain, she figured. Crossing her legs as she rested her head on her hand. Falling into one of her standard pin-up type poses as best she could. It was a habit she had formed by mistake, way back when during the war. Having posed for all those damn propaganda posters had taken its toll.
"A charming idea my darling! In fact, I have a very good friend down here who runs a club. She's quite the fan of Jazz herself. I suppose I could cash in a chip or two and arrange a date for us."
"A- a date", Aby barely whispered it.
She hadn't even considered calling it that. But then he goes and puts the tittle on it first. A shiver ran down her back, coursing through her body leaving a trail of Goosebumps. She rubbed the bumps as he addressed her again.
"You might know her. Does the name Mimzy ring any bells in that open little mind of yours?"
"Mimzy?" Aby arched an eyebrow at the name.
Under normal circumstances, she wasn't the type to bother with names. Too many people came and went to be burdened with such bullshit. However, that name did give a ring.
She couldn't picture a full face, but she did recall a small set of ruby red lips shaped up in an endearing curl. She could taste a lingering twirl of cake that had held such a savory, sweet flavor. The sound of laughter, music and the feeling of soreness in her feet. A well-lit room made of reds, browns, gold, and silver spun faster and faster as she squealed with delight. Dancing, stomping, clapping, and followed by more dancing. The scene peeled away in black rose pedals as Aby was left in an empty hall.
Down the dark, shadowed hallway, at the far end, was the figure of a man. The figure turned to face her, extending his left arm. Offering it for her to take. She couldn't hear the voice, but the shape of his mouth asked to dance. His teeth sharp but human. Visible as it moved. There was a second part that Aby couldn't make out. Before her hand could grip his, a blast of fog clouded everything around her. Cold. Thick. Aby focused as she tried to lift the fog in her mind. Once again, it seemed the harder she tried, the more intensely her head would hurt. Aby brought her hands to her head, wanting to stop the pounding. Without her notice, she began to pull on her hair as her jaw tightened, grinding her teeth. She stopped trying altogether once she could feel the tears building in the corners of her eyes. The physical sting being the only thing that could drag her out of her own mind.
"Oh, darling. Are you alright? You appear to be under such stress. Has something happened to... upset you?" He reached out, resting his finger under her chin as he brought it up higher. The small evidence of tears still clung to the corners of her eyes. Something rose up in Aby unexpectedly. Becoming defensive, she pulled her face away hiding it behind her hand.
"Never you mind! I got a headache and was fighting the urge to yawn at the same time. Maybe. Nothing more! Don't you dare think this means anything! It's just a slip, it won't happen again. I swear it!" Aby found her fists had clenched until they became white. Slamming them against her thighs. Ruffling the bedding.
It was true she hated people seeing her cry, but this was the first time she ever freaked out this much about it. This day had been more stressful than most, but that didn't give her the right to act this way. Especially not to Alastor. He had been nothing but polite. Aby was starting to get more heated knowing she most likely just soiled her reputation all for the sake of a mundane pride that barely had any right to exist to begin with.
Aby was starting to feel panicked. She wanted to be angry but couldn't think up a target to take it out on. She considered maybe just pouncing out of the bed and running to God knows where. A third option told her to just roll into a ball and die under the covers. Just when she was on the verge of going with option number two, she heard him speak.
"I'm just so relieved to know no harm has come to you sweet Aby." He made his way over to the bedside.
When it happened; she had no way of knowing. One minute they had been talking, the next he was here with her, on her bed. Close to her. Reaching out to her. His hand caressed her check, rubbing at the spot behind her ear. Careful not to harm her with his sharp claws. It was a short kiss, but it was enough. Aby felt her chest squeeze before the pain disappeared as suddenly as it arrived. Alastor pulled away, keeping his forehead against hers, grabbing the cup from the stand. He offered it to her. Taking it, Aby didn't look away from his deep red eyes.
Aby then dropped her shoulders as the feeling of defeat washed over her. She felt guilty before, but now she felt really guilty. He was rewarding her for acting like a petulant, spoiled child. That was about the time Aby realized.
"H-how did you know my name?" Aby asked through a low, deep throated laugh. Happy to change the flow of their conversation.
"Darling, who wouldn't know the name of such a sweet girl? Even if there were people who didn't, I personally couldn't stand not knowing. I do hope that's alright. I've always been so independent when it comes to matters such as these."
Aby was no longer having to force herself to smile. She did so without having to think about it. She smiled so wide her cheeks began to hurt. Leaving her unable to recall any time in her life since before her "accident" that she had been able to feel this way. Much less, when the thought of her accident couldn't take the feeling away from her. Her face glittered with a heated blush. She sipped from the offered cup, forcing a larger space between her and Alastor. Aby mentally noted the sweetness of the drink. Happy that he had managed to give her a tea mixed with honey. Looking up through her lashes to watch Alastor. Sipping slowly. Even in this case, he stayed as close to her as he could, eventually pointing at her locket.
"That's a lovely piece. Wherever did you get it?"
The words dripped from his lips just like a new kind of honey. This made her mind stall for a moment as she brought the cup down to her lap.
Alastor reached up to the necklace that hung from Aby's neck, playing with it between his fingers. Alastor's cheeky smile was shifted to a tilt as his head leaned to one side. Staring at the silver heart locket.
It had a branchy, old tree with no leaves cut into it. The holes the design left in the metal were covered with a red velvet heart from an inside gap made by the design. He opened it to find no picture in the main frame. The other had had the initials 'A & E' engraved in it. Done in a fancy cursive font that was no longer popular. This made his smile widen. He then fingered the A before closing it once more. Finally straightening his head, he blinked twice.
Aby found her throat too dry to speak. A sinking feeling building in her gut. She froze as Alastor slowly dragged his finger down her skin, starting at the neck where the locket hung from the chain and ceasing just above her cleavage before clicking his claws together. This being due to the act of shutting his hand. Her breathe was shaky but quiet. Exciting her. He reached down further. Taking the cup from Aby's hands, setting it back on the table.
"It looks like an antique."
He changed his voice to sound almost...coo-ish. It made Aby shudder. Nothing had prepared her to expect it. She shrugged her shoulders as she continued to search for the strength to speak. This struggle was so foreign to her she couldn't even use her usual coping methods to combat it.
Aby couldn't pinpoint where to tackle her newly found problem from. The linger of Alastor's touch on the air made the room spin. Eagerness growing. Finding herself thinking, What will he do next?
Wanting him to continue touching her. To tickle her flesh with his claws. Pressing into it. Threatening to break it. Making it bleed.
Aby was frightened by the last one. It took a lot of trust for her to be okay with that level of roughing. Yet she practically begged for it from her core. Wanting. Beckoning. Forcing her body to do things she had yet to even consider calling a kink.
Instead she went with the only thing she could think of. "Thank you for the tea. It was made just the way I like it. I'm impressed."
Play the game...
She needed to gain back some control. Whatever this demon was to her, it made her far too vulnerable.
"Why naturally. I just knew you would love a sweet drink. And tea is used to calm the nerves. And I couldn't help but overhear that you are not from here. I'm glad I was correct about your preferences. But you didn't answer me yet, Darling", he stated in a half-assed sing song way. Bringing his hand to brush a strand of hair out of Aby's face, coming close to it once more.
Aby felt the warmth of her body rise rapidly. Shaking her head as she finally gained enough strength to participate. However, her voice was almost a separate entity by this point.
"Oh, well you see... I- I don't know. I got it sometime after I was disowned, but I still don't remember when or why. I just know-", Aby hesitates. Alastor patiently awaited for her conclusion. "...it's very precious to me. I've never let out of my sight."
Aby instinctively griped the locket in her left hand. Protecting it from the hard stares the Radio Demon provided. Aby had always been quick to throw herself in harm's way if it meant protecting something of value. Though the locket was the only materialistic item she gave this reward to. The lack of knowledge as to where she got it, only made her seem weirder to those who asked. Their mean whispers and cold mocks could be ignored as long as she had the locket though. Most days in the human world, it was the only thing that kept her going. That being said, she expected Alastor to judge her.
The first reason being for payback to her behavior from before. The other being because that was just something, she believed, he would deem silly. Meaningless. Pathetic, even. He seemed too rational, intelligent and well-adjusted to find the point of such a thing to be nothing more than worthless sentimental madness.
"I'm sure it is. I must be frank darling, I can't blame you. I can't imagine how hard it's been for you. Oh, such is life! Kicking you when you're down only to throw you into your own anxious induced entertainment! Taking you tight by the hand, pushing past your barriers. No care for what you want in the least! Only to spin you 'round n 'round on an endless carousel", Alastor stated enthusiastically.
Having flung his hands into the air; arms stretched far, palms out. He resumed his previous sitting position. After adjusting his monocle once again, he continued. "Though I must say, I do love being entertained."
His playful tone complimented by his actions as he played with his microphone staff in his fingers. Watching it gradually twirl before it disappeared in a puff of black smoke. He peeked at her with a side glance. Aby giggled.
Alastor gave Aby a quick peck to the forehead before standing up. Inviting Aby to come with him by offering to assist her off the bed. Aby took hold of it tight, leaping to her feet, pulling at her dress with her free hand to straighten it. Alastor stopped, looking her up and down, giving a quirky look. Aby bit her bottom lip. Now self-conscious about what she had on. It had slipped her mind that she never changed out of her private school uniform.
Alastor pulled her to the vanity desk on the other side of the bed, along the wall. Sitting her down on the stool. Aby sat straight and still. Watching him look her over multiple times. He looked so focused but inspired. Alastor took her hair in his hands, parting it using his claws. The gliding maneuver felt nice against Aby's scalp. Adding to the sensation that had only weakened; not subsided. Delighting her in more ways than one, but also relaxing her.
What a combo, she thought numbly.
He reached around her, picking up her brush, combing out the pieces he set aside before wrapping the strands around his fingers. He curled the bits into medium sized hoops before pinning them down. Each one took around four or five due to the weight of Aby's thick hair. But the natural wave of it made it easy to bend to whatever shape Alastor wanted it to take. The Radio Demon let his grin widen at the soft texture. Noticing right away how it slipped through his fingers. Looking so close to black, watered down tar.
Dangerous, he thought. Running his tongue over the opening of his mouth. Licking between his teeth and his lips. Attempting to control himself. Or rather- to control his hunger.
Aby continued to observe him work as she admired how easily he managed her hair. She had never been able to make it do what she wanted, but whatever style he was going for, she just knew it would complement her well. Alastor did this setup another two times. Afterwards he took his finger and curled the remaining bits down her back, using his magic to form the curls instead of heat. It was here, Aby took it upon herself to peak at herself in the mirror. Aby felt the eagerness in her grow as she examined the under-curl pin-up style of her hair. Satisfied with the result.
Next, to finish off the look above her shoulders, Alastor waved his hand directly in front of her face. Once he pulled his hand away, Aby was left in utter shock. A full dark red makeup blend of eye shadow on the lids of her eyes, which was an almost exact match to Alastor's natural shade. A light touch of blush over her cheeks. A non-glossed dark red gracing her lips. Making them look more curved but just as thin. Her lashes also were darker, longer and contained more volume than they had before. All Aby could do was move her head from side to side. Observing her makeover from all angles; enjoying herself for the first time in a long while.
"There we are. This is a more exaggerated look than what we had in my day", he confessed in a slightly deeper tone. He brought his face next to hers, his cheek cold against her warm one as he leaned close to her. Leaning into her. Closing the nonexistent space. He brought his hands to squeeze her shoulders as they both looked at each other in the mirror. Alastor continued, "But it's just a much more fitting appeal for you. Such a neutral skin tone. It's rare. Red is a perfect color for you."
Aby hung onto his every word. She never considered herself vain. But the way she looked now, made her very happy. She listened to his words, believing them to be nothing but true.
I could get used to this. Mentally approving of her look. A soft grin shaping her lips. Her eyes burning into the mirror, teasing the reflection hidden there.
Aby turned her face to look Alastor straight on post next. He returned the favor, tilting his head so his chin went up. Giving her a coy look down from above his nose. Maybe if Aby had put any real thought into developing some kind of normalcy, she would been able to create a thought that wasn't in line with how desperately she wanted to kiss him.
"Thank you for this." Cliché; maybe. But it was all she could say at the time.
She stood up from the stool, walking around to avoid invading his personal space. Her anxiety making her cautious of getting in his way. Forfeiting the carnal desire, she instead made her way to the door. Wanting to get away before she did something foolish in her lust.
"Not so fast, darling", the Radio Lord stated quickly but eagerly. Alastor took her by the hand, pulling Aby in hard. Following it up by giving her a fast twirl. Keeping Aby from realizing Alastor had used his magic. Resulting in a mystical way of changing her dress. Letting go of her hand with a presentational wave of his arm away from her, Aby got to see the end product in- what she thought was- the best way possible.
Now, here she was; wearing a black, puffy skirted evening swing dress that fell above her knees. The top of the dress had been sewn with two types of fabric. A transparent fabric being used for the less 'lewd' parts of the design. A curved, low neck cut that accentuated her breasts, which then expanded into mid-arm sleeves that flared out from the edge. Ruffling slightly to give her arms a thinner appearance. Brought together by a cute pair of low-heeled black and red shoes. A large black bow decorated the toe where black snake scales detailed the tip and back heel of the shoes. A large deep red rectangle covered in black glitter swirl patterns made up the sides. Aby played with the skirt of the dress before she did a fast spin on the sole of her left foot to make it rise in the cyclone she created before striking a classic pose.
She giggled gleefully as she went about carrying on with her original plan to go to the door. This time wanting to show off with a quick lap around the hotel. With no warning given, Alastor, once again, gripped her. This time taking her by the wrist. Pulling her into him, he kissed her lips with more strength and passion than she had ever known was possible.
Bringing his arms to wrap around her waist, he forced her to press flush into him. Aby kept her hands up at the side of her head, just dwindling in the air. Like a child caught by their guardian in the room with a broken vase and no other explanation. Her fingers started visibly twitching as she tried frantically to figure out what to do with them. Alastor reached up to grab them, bringing them around his neck. Leaving them there before returning his own to their original position.
Before Aby could kiss him back, he pulled away. Picking her up by the waist effortlessly, he moved her to the left side of him as he offered his arm to her. Aby looked at it, to him, then back to the arm before slipping hers around it. Interlocking them together, to then bring her right hand to rest on the pile. Shining him her adventurous smile once she was satisfied. Alastor responded by summoning his staff from before, back to his hand as he let it hit the ground. Allowing it to bounce a single time before smirking at Aby with an arched eyebrow. He brought it close to her face. Because of this, she was able to make out the sentient eye that literally starred back at her.
"Well, aren't you precious", it said in a matter-of-fact way as it gave a blink.
Or was that a wink? She asked herself knowing it was one of those types of things. Given the personality Alastor held, she couldn't put it past him to keep similar company around him. That's allowed her to know how to act at least.
"Pleasure to meet you, doll", it spoke again, "Now I just need you to do me a quick favor. Before we get going, I need you to sing for me. Now don't feel any pressure. Just give me a quick chorus of your favorite song." The microphone had won its own place in Aby's heart, though she had no clue as to why. Just something about how he explained what he wanted her to do. Even if it was entirely random.
She looked at Alastor to see his face hadn't changed one bit. Just as he had been doing, he took it upon himself to answer the question she hadn't asked yet.
"Go on, my darling. It's just part of a little parlor trick. Besides- something tells me you can sing ever so delightfully."
Aby looked back to the microphone. She took a moment to think before she leaned into him a tad. Asking, "Just like this, right?"
"That's right doll. Whenever you're ready." This made Aby give a nervous chuckle, giving a final quick glance to the Radio Demon.
"Let's build a stairway to the stars. And climb that stairway to the stars. With love beside us to fill the night with a song. We'll hear the sound of violins. Out yonder where the blue begins. The moon will guide us as we go drifting along."
Aby swallowed a lump in her throat as she gave into her songstress high and leaned further into Alastor, tightening the grip on his arm.
"Lovely, darling, just lovely", the red clad charmer said approvingly.
"Indeed", the microphone chimed.
"That'll do", he told his staff plainly while he pulled it away from Aby. Tugging her with him as he began to stroll to the door.
They made their way out of the hotel. Along the way, Aby waved expectantly to her dorky "cousin". Refusing to let go of Alastor. The hotel hostess giving a cheery smile and waving back. However, her eyes told Aby that she was concerned for her safety. Aby chalked it up to Charlie not wanting her to get into trouble while in hell since they didn't know what would happen. Aby wasn't worried since she was with Alastor, who radiated charisma and power. The feeling only increased as they took their leave from the barrier surrounding the hotel. Aby was in awe. Recognizing the demon's magic.
The outside world past the hotel was so much more different than it had been from the window earlier. The sky in particular being even darker. Making Aby wonder if the times of the day worked in a similar manner to the human world. Before she could ask this to her escort, something drew her attention.
Coming down the pathway leading to the hotel, was a giant crater in which a demon snake with a top hat laid sprawled out from. It was injured and look exhausted; both physically and mentally. Aby caught Alastor looking at her. Questioning what she would do. Aby kept her hold on the Radio Demon until she had been certain he looked away again. Acting fast as she used her left hand to reach in her pocket. Doing so to perform a summoning. From it, she pulled out a vial with a pale blue liquid. Without letting Alastor catch her, she tossed it down to the egg boi demon that sat beside him with the derpiest look on his face.
He looked at it before giving a confused look to Aby, watching as they continued to walk on. She gave a hand signal instructing him to have the snake drink it. The egg boi perked up as he leapt to drink the liquid before putting his mouth to the bigger demon's mouth. Forcing feeding it to him.
Aby had to try not to laugh when the snake regained his strength almost immediately. Spitting out the horrible tasting potion. All of it only to end up slapping the egg boi around for what Aby could only assume was a perverted rescue.
The rest of the night was spent with the original two indulging themselves in traditional courting ritual activities. Starting with a cute trip to a music shop with a café where Aby ordered a milkshake. Though she offered some to Alastor, he respectfully declined. Informing Aby he had no care for sweets. She apologized, followed by the statement that she 'knew that', which she graced with an awkward laugh. Aby caught it, questioned it, and then quickly forgot it when he gave her another swift kiss to the temple. Complementing her observation skills.
Next, the duo went to an open mic night at a bar where they spent the time alternating between telling corny jokes and singing old songs they liked. Aby had been having so much fun, she hadn't noticed how the other demons in the bar had all huddled on the far end of the room. Clapping only when they received a certain menacing look from Alastor.
From there, Alastor took Aby dancing at an old club that gave burlesque shows every couple of hours. The actresses were all very beautiful. Aby, watching them in a star struck daze, remembered a time when she had found an idol in this line of work. One that she missed dearly.
Aby- subsequently- also remembered how much she hated her own appearance. Having never been designed to be anywhere as beautiful as her sisters. It didn't help that she felt she lacked a major factor of femininity. It didn't ruin the time they were having now, but it did change Aby's mood a hair.
Alastor leaned in close to her as they sat at the table, sharing an alcoholic beverage binge together. Bringing his mouth so close to her ear, she could feel the heat of his breath tickle the hairs around it. Whispering to her how much he adored her more than any other woman. Telling her she was the only one he could allow this close to him. Aby had never imagined that she would hear such things from... anyone.
Starting to be grateful to Charlie for being so much like how she used to be. When they became hungry, they returned to the hotel. It was stil earl in the night. Though the lack of guests made it a hauntingly quiet place. The dim lighting was the only indicator that the living swelled in such a condemned place.
Either way, Aby wasn't fazed by the seclusion. In fact, she rather preferred it. Alastor, again, made the first move. The pair parting with a sweet kiss that Aby finally got to participate in. Even lifting one of her legs by bending it at the knee. Leaning in gracefully but thrilled. Afterwards, Aby tried to return to her room virtually undisturbed so she could ride the high of a pleasant evening. That was, until she felt an insufferable- but oh so familiar- sensation.
Aby waited for Alastor's presence to fade before following her intuition to the lobby. It was here that she caught Angel Dust, dressed in a short pink sweater dress complete with a large pink wig, working his way to the front door. Easing his way across the floor, he tiptoed in his high heeled boots.
Aby came up behind him; proving she was much better at sneaking around since she had so many more years of experience under her belt. As a result, he had yet to notice her as he reached for the door. She slammed her hand against it, startling him. She saw him reach for the gun in his bag. Reacting, she tackled him hard. Slamming him into the wall, using her legs to spread his as a means to keep him from regaining his balance. Aby then used her right hand to repeatedly force his hand against the wall until he dropped the firearm.
Although he tried to use his extra set of arms to hit at her, Aby didn't release him. Instead, she set her goals on head-butting him as hard as she could. Unfortunately, once his head swung back from the force it went straight back to impact with the wall. Poor bastard fell into unconsciousness right away. Sliding down to the floor as Aby helped to ease him down. Once she could, Aby checked over his body for additional injuries and to diagnose the condition of his head.
"Well, shit."
Aby used her hands to gently cup the slutty spider's face, turning it to towards her. Aby squinted at the sickly, pink furred boy. "Could…it be?"
*#*
The first thing that he had felt upon waking up, was the unbearable tenderness on the back of his head. Angel groaned as he shifted to bring one of his hands to rub at his head. That's when he realized that someone had been massaging at the bruised section in a careful, almost lovingly, manner. Stopping his movement when he caught a whiff of the scent that filled the air around him. He knew this to only ever happen when he woke up next to someone in bed. But, that didn't mean it was the same as the rest.
This particular smell was of a sweet peach. It was strong, but not overwhelming. When he concentrated on it, he noticed it had a seaside saltiness that came with it. Just beneath the sweetness. He couldn't think of any clients that he saw on the regular that could possess this smell.
This fact was what was making it so hard to place. Especially since it was his regulars who were the only ones he ever fell asleep next to. Then again, he also didn't recall making it that far either. The last thing he remembered was the feeling of dread as he was cornered by someone in the dark. The next thing he noticed, as he slowly sunk back into consciousness, was a soft singing.
At first, he thought maybe he had ended up with his sister Molly. Molly had a bad habit of following him and taking him to her place before he could get in too deep with his boss, Valentino. Usually hiding him somewhere while things cooled down. However rare that was. However, because of the singing, Angel knew that wasn't the case either. This being due to finally listening to it. Then after having to think about it, he picked up on the fact that the voice wasn't the same as hers. It was higher in pitch, rougher in delivery, and obviously belonged to someone who had been self-taught. Angel cracked his eyes opened as he took in the lyrics.
"You'll never know just how much I miss you. You'll never know just how much I care. And if I tried. I still couldn't hide my love for you. You ought to know, for haven't I told you so. A million or more times?"
Against his better judgment, Angel began to hum to the song, snuggling into the pillow under his head. Rolling over to lay on his side, he caught on to whom had been grooming and singing to him. Jumping up in the bed, Angel retreated back a few feet to get some space. His shoes caught on the sheets making him flip, roll, and eventually fall off the bed in the process.
"Ow", he cried through a groan.
He gripped his right elbows with his left hands as he tried to shake the pain caused by hitting his funny bone during the collision.
"Are you alright, A.D.?" Aby peeked over the edge of her bed, peering down as she waited for Angel to get over whatever little spaz attack, he was going through.
"It's Angel Dust, not A.D. you damn bitch", he shot at her. "I'm not a mental condition."
"That's A.D.D. Plus, that's no way to treat someone who nursed you back to health." Aby rested her head in her hand, looking down on him from the bed. Letting the words flow with a natural sarcasm.
"After you fucking injured me in the first place I'll bet." Angel looked around on the ground looking for something to grab onto.
Noticing this, Aby stood up from the bed as she grabbed Angel from under his first set of arms. Angel didn't fight her too much as he pulled his feet under him to get back his balance. Once he was standing, Aby began to sweep over his outfit, shoulders, and back with her hand. Straightening out his dress. Once she was content with how cleaned up he was, she gave a silent nod to herself. Angel pouted. Letting her do what she wanted until he could come up with an ideal insult. Allowing Aby to not waste any time.
"I'm sorry about what happened. But- you attacked me", she poked Angel's chest fluff flicking her finger up the center of his face.
If he had had a nose, the action would have 'booped' it. Instead, her hand went straight up to the bangs of his hair. Which she ruffled softly, making it messy.
"Oh, that's rich. A half-assed apology that ain't even a damn apology!" Angel crossed both sets of arms as he turned his head away from her looking at anything that wasn't the girl before him.
"You don't handle responsibility well, do you?" Aby cupped his face in her hands, pulling it towards her as she gave him a hard stare. Angel uncrossed his arms, starring back at her with a stunned look in his eyes. He mentally prepared himself, ready to shove her away as she continued.
"Either way, you seem to be in full spirits again. That's a good sign. I'm glad." Aby kissed the top of his head as she stood on her toes to reach before picking up the blankets off the ground, throwing them back on the bed.
"You owe me for that bullshit", Angel demanded in an immature tone. Giving a very aggressive finger wag at her. Aby turned around slowly, a confused expression greeting the porn star.
"What?"
"You. Owe. Me. For. That. Bullshit." Angel used all four of his hands to gesture at Aby while he spoke. Even resorting to pulling out his third set of arms to further express his point. Ending each section of his statement with his middle fingers up at her.
"I heard that part, but what the hell are you trying to get out of me- and for what?" Aby brought one hand to her hip as she tilted her head giving a mean bitch face, obviously annoyed at the smut spider's crap.
Angel's face dropped along with his hands. She was actually pretty damn scary when she wanted to be. So much so, he almost didn't want to go through with it. Too bad, he was exactly the type to push the issue even if it meant he could only get in more trouble. He pushed up the fluff of his chest as he gave his best mischievous smile, praying he could somehow win the self-proclaimed match of chicken.
"My services aren't free, bitch. You touched me. Now you gotta pay me."
He was ready for a fight. He was ready for a shouting match. Hell, he was even ready for her to pick a fight trying to back out of paying him. If she did the latter, he would hold it over her as long as he could. He would use it to have her help him to sneak out and do whatever he wanted on the town. In his experience most people wanted to fuck him, but they also wanted to make damn sure no one ever knew just how far they had gone down to scrape the bottom of the barrel. Meanwhile, Aby's eyebrows raised in realization. She began thinking over what Angel had just said.
Here we go, He told himself as he brought one set of hands to rest on his hips and crossing the upper set under his fluff. Pushing it up to better assert his dominance.
"How much do I owe you?"
Wait.
"What?" Angel couldn't let her win, but he needed to be sure she wasn't trying to pull a fast one.
"What's your going rate." Aby rephrased the question- which she didn't say in an asking way this go around- way too easily for someone who was as innocent as she was. Or at least- for what Angel had presumed was a far more innocent being.
"Haha. What are you fuckin' stupid?" Now Angel was the one who was getting pissed.
"You can't do that", he protested.
"Why? You just said- ".
"I KNOW WHAT I SAID!" Angel buried his face in his hands as he fought back the urge to scream.
"Fuck it. Just give me $400 and we'll call it even." He kept his face in the top set of his hands as the bottom set tucked back into his body, the middle left hand extending with an open palm.
"What are you gonna do once you get it?"
Aby's question had been asked so sadly, Angel looked at her to see what kind of expression she displayed. Her face was plain. She blinked slowly as she starred deeply into the pools of Angel's mismatched eyes. He quickly understood that she hadn't been looking at him. It didn't take long for him to get uncomfortable. That was something that surprised him since he rarely felt that anymore. Because of this, he quit fighting her. Compelled to continue as he saw no reason to act against it. He didn't feel in control of himself, not that it bothered him. Instead he just spoke to her regularly.
"I still have a party to get to."
"Are you planning on doing something that would violate your agreement with the hotel?"
"Maybe. What do you care?"
"Why do you stay if you don't take it seriously?"
"That's none of your fuckin' business."
"It iiiis my business. Especially, if I'm a client oversee-er."
Angel's face became very concerned, as he watched how Aby's face hadn't changed one inch during the time she talked about the topic. No emotion could be made out on her face as she continued to do whatever it was, she had been. It might have been easier if he felt judged; like when Vaggie scolded him. Or even if he felt pitied; like when Charlie ranted about her precious dream. Maybe even if she gave the same impression as Cherri Bomb; who just made him feel like he could talk to someone who couldn't care less what he did most days. As long as he showed up to fuck shit up when he was called or needed, Cherri was always ready to listen to him, have a laugh, and go their separate ways.
That being said, Angel valued the friendship he had with her. Cherri was still his best friend. Sadly, Aby's vibe was more in line with a mature and serious…Molly. It was something that made him feel vulnerable without degrading him. He heard her speak and he wanted to hear what she had to say. He felt a heat rising up in his stomach. He felt sick. Somehow this made her even more dangerous to him. He was far more fearful of this approach than the angry one from before.
"W-what?" It was the only response he could give.
"You need money. You make it a certain way. And friends don't let friends go hungry. So, I'll be the only client you ever need. Now- How much to get you to stay?" Aby pulled out a coin purse from her bra, unhooking the stopper with a click. The last line had been asked so sincerely Angel almost stopped it right there and left. Almost. Once more, being undone by his own useless need to get the last word in.
"Honey, you can't keep me satisfied." He started gaining back his confidence. Ultimately making the remark with a snarky tone.
"Money is money. What does it matter where it comes from as long as it's consistent?" While Aby had meant no offense, Angel still took offense. Mainly due to her being right. But, also since she wasn't being an insufferable cunt.
"You seriously think you can just do whatever the hell you want as long as I put out a price on it?"
"It's that or I jeopardize your work. Just as you jeopardize my dorky cousin's work. You wouldn't be here if you really didn't want to change. But it's obvious you don't have the self-control to stop doing that."
"Stop… what?"
"Caring what other people think. It's a rather nasty habit. Harmful too."
"Fuck you", he shot out bluntly.
"Is that a 'no'"? Aby clarified.
"That's a 'Fuck No", he flipped her the bird as he finally made his way over to the door of the room and left. Just before he closed the door behind him, he heard the bitch speak out to him, "Game on A.D.! Friends don't let friends learn things the hard way alone."
It's just like any other addiction, Aby thought once he left.
If only Angel had a way to know just how much he would come to hate that phrase. Alongside with the knowledge of how much he would come to love it...
*#*
The next few days of Angel's life were hard. At the same time- he was not. Every time he came close to getting someone to purchase his services, Aby had to pop up out of nowhere and scare them off. More often than not, threatening them at blade point before curling herself around Angel while spouting some romantic nonsense that came off as obsessive.
Angel had suspected that she could be intimidating; maybe even a little violent. But this was a whole other level than he could have imagined. To put it simply; Angel thought she was a Yandere.
You know, the kind of girl who came across as sweet and endearing but the moment the guy she's latched onto ends up in a situation she doesn't approve of, she goes batshit crazy. Possibly killing everyone within a 200-mile radius just for being unfortunate enough to witness it. This was the side of her that Angel Dust had never considered existed. He actually had pegged her as more of a Tsundere.
Never the less, once the would-be date was running scarred for their life, Angel would try to chill his agitation with his favorite drug. Purchasing the powder bag from one of the vending machines on the corner. Just has he was starting to open the bag, Aby snatched the bag from his hand.
"Hey!" He would shake his fist at her as she would start to walk away. The drugs in one hand, her coin purse in the other.
"Friends don't let friends do drugs. It'll ruin your pretty face."
"Who said I gave a shit about what you want?"
"I'm paying for your time and I even pay extra just so you keep the drugs out of the equation. What I say goes."
Angel would sulk as he would follow Aby to wherever she wanted to go. Once her time was up for the escort, she would quickly give Angel more money and continued on like it had been nothing more than a regular thing such as powdering her nose or scratching an ich. Using up his time until late in the day. Always telling him the same thing.
"I'll never be unreasonable with you. And I won't ask anything of you, you yourself are not capable of. Fair is fair. Keep up the good work A.D."
This crap went on for near four days before Angel could no longer function properly. Not being able to have sex was too much of a hassle for him as a person. Everyone had a hobby and a coping method; sex was his.
Due to this, Angel would try to sneak out of the hotel. Just when he would make it to the lobby, Aby would get between him and the door. The two would argue over Angel's train of thought leading him to believe he needed to scurry around. Aby becoming more contradicting as they went back and forth over whether or not Angel should go if it meant he would do something that would backtrack his rehabilitation. Up until this night, Angel had avoided the topic of sex since he wasn't sure how Aby would freak out. Assuming Aby was a bigger prude than the lesbian couple that started up the joint. But, when he could not handle the pressure bottling up inside him, he let off with a sexually frustrated cry.
"I need to fuck! I'm a slut! It's what I do, alright!?" Angel panted as he waited for Aby to catch up. She eventually just squinted her eyes at him a very unamused look on her face.
"That's it? That's why you've been trying to sneak out?"
"What do you mean- 'That's it'? You chase every- one- of my customers away!" Angel spoke putting a lot of sass in his complaint to the new regular.
"Yeah, but that's because you never assure me that you can do just a plain hit and quit. I mean- if you'd let me, I'd pay to watch just to make sure you stay clean. Though I think that would hurt your wallet as much as me NOT paying you."
"You're fuckin' kidding me", Angel gave a back handed gesture as he flung his arms out to be dramatic. Then it hit him.
"Actually… I think most of them would be into that. Hey! We could do a tag team thing!"
Aby gave a shrug as she nodded her head in an enlightened manner. It was hard to tell if she was down for the suggestion or if she just approved of Angel's idea. He knew Aby well enough to know she would take it as a compliment more than as a job offer. First and foremost. Angel looked her up and down as he chuckled with an arched eyebrow. He couldn't believe what was happening.
"I thought you wouldn't care for my need of sex. Isn't that a sin?" Angel tested.
"To be honest, I have neeeever understood how that's a sin."
"So- you don't care?"
"As long as you're smart about it. Arrrrrre you smart about it?"
It was at this point, Angel knew Aby was getting "cute" with him. She did that when she didn't want to fight anymore but didn't want him to go. Angel shook his head as he caved. He didn't want to fight either now that the elephant in the room had taken a bullet for them. He put his arm over her shoulder as he walked with her back to his room. He wanted sex and she wanted to pay him.
This was the start of a bad reject backstory. He joked in his mind.
The two individuals spent an hour getting Aby dressed in proper clubbing attire that she could pull off. Angel went with a look that had been popular back during his time before he died.
A blue dress that buttoned up the front from waist level, stopping just above her breast line. Under the buttons was a trail of lace that flared out on both sides keeping the look parallel and innocent as it broke off to wrap under the collar. The top of the dress cut into a V-neck which was decorated with a set of collar flaps around the neck area. The sleeves of the dress were short and had a small puff made from the pattern. Causing it to come off the shoulders.
At the waist a strand of fabric sewed onto the seam between the top and the skirt of the dress that could be tied in the front. Leaving a cute pair of drooping bunny eared bows that rested on the skirt and breast area of the dress. Meanwhile, the skirt of the dress fell just below her knees, expanding into a slight poof that exaggerated off the waist. It was a nice touch to the wide birthing hips Aby possessed.
Angel made sure to do her makeup with a dark red lipstick and a pale brown eyeshadow that high-lighted the curve of her eyes. He didn't work too hard on her hair since it was so long. Instead he lent her an indoor sun hat that dames from his time wore to brunches. Once he was finished, he took a step back. Aby stood posed for his inspection. Angel then made the comment that something was missing. Aby decided to take matters into her own hands by putting on a pair of square framed glasses that slimmed the roundness of her face.
Taking one look at the geeky accessory, Angel laughed. Not so much at her, but more at the fact that this was the thing she wanted to add to her appearance knowing where they were going. Aby seemed to become embarrassed, reaching up to remove them. Angel quickly held her hands to stop her. Assuring her it was fine. Fitting, in fact. He knew Aby liked the styles that came out before the 60s trying to stay as far back as she could. As he worked on her, he had a sad thought.
Poor things always trying so desperately to stay in the past. Wonder what's back there for her.
*#*
"So, let me get this straight, there are Demon Looords", Aby laid back against numerous cushions on the couch near the fireplace that she had recently deemed as her 'spot'.
"You didn't know that before you got down here?" Angel Dust sat on his knees at the bar wiggling his ass at Husk as he spoke to Aby.
"I mean, I've heard rumors on how things work down here, but that doesn't mean it's accurate. Demons lie dude. Present company included." Aby continued to shuffle through her phone, making a social media account on a site used by Hell's inhabitants.
"True. How come you never came down here before? I mean, you are Lucifer's blood, aren't you? How does that work?" Angel shook his ass faster as he practiced a dance move Aby knew to be called 'twerking'.
"It's complicated. Anyway, how are you NOT a demon lord? Don't you want the huge video game boss tower in the shape of a dildo that everyone comes to to hold a fertility festival. And on weekends and holidays they just come to host an orgy in your honor." Aby had been going for a sarcastic response yet at some part of the improve she began to picture it being a real thing.
"It's complicated", Angel replied with a final tone as he sarcastically frowned at her, shaking his head.
"So, what kinds of demons made it up there?" Husk asked, continuing to make the drinks in the safe haven that was his sacred domain; the bar.
"Crossroad deal makers, hunters and Lucifer when he's on vacation or just tired of sleeping on the couch."
The two demons, deadpanned, stopped what they were doing to look at her. Aby didn't take the time to notice as she built up her profile by searching for Angel Dust's to send a request. She also started going through other blogs and pages to follow so she could keep up with some of her favorite things. Not surprised in the least when she was able to find profiles for some of her favorite writers, actors, and musicians. There was even a gossip page that went over the things that had gotten Hell's citizens thrown down below as well as how they died. Unfortunately, some names were blocked without a membership; Angel's included.
Damn, she inwardly cursed. I wanted to know his real name.
Angel had gotten more used to Aby by now. Willing to compromise with her as long as she got a little rough with him from time to time. As strange as it was, Aby had had a moment or two in her life of being a "dominatrix" apprentice. Now before there's any confusion, just know, it was the type of thing where one would watch and do. It made it easier since she was a strong kinesthetic learner. Though Aby didn't talk about it much. Even though Angel knew it was mutually beneficial for both the mistress as well as the client.
Not that Aby would even call herself that. In fact, she didn't even bother to consider herself good at it- even if Angel had a thing or two to say otherwise. Nor did she grant herself the title ever since the world got its terms mixed when a worldwide phase had hit the fan.
The last couple decades alone had made her hate using titles to associate with any particular group or interest, but the last five years had taken it to whole new level. Making Aby feel more of outcast that a true practitioner. Often keeping her interests to herself unless asked. Angel could understand it, but that also why he hated it. The way Aby just did what she wanted and never asked for help unless it was too late.
That being said, he had refused to tell her what his real name was, despite being asked. Mostly as payback for her not wanting to talk about her past. It got worse when A.D. had overheard Charlie mentioning that "Aby" was a nickname. Peaking his interest. Threatening to make him act up if Aby couldn't sedate his curiosity.
"Hey, kid! Your drinks ready", Husker called from the bar as he placed Aby's drink down on a coaster.
"In a sec sweetie. I'm pulling a Big Brother."
"We don't get that reference", Angel called loudly from the bar. Finally sitting on the stool normally as he took his own drink in his hands.
"No. Yoooou don't get that reference. But it's from the year 1949 so there's that."
Aby smiled wickedly at the exchanged looks with Husk that made Angel feel left out. Husker really didn't care what Aby was trying to do but he did know that Aby spoke mostly in references and inside jokes, so he played along. It seemed to be the only thing that made Angel behave himself. Having his back to the wall and no plan, that is. Evident from how he wasn't shaking his ass in Husker's face anymore due to his confusion.
"Are you actually gonna pay me for the drink this time, at least?" Husker took a large swig from his personal bottle. Left off to the side during the previous task.
"I always pay you", Aby shot at him.
"I like the card tricks and hand magic just fine doll, but my stash is getting low", Husk stated. Insinuating he wanted a new form of payment.
Aby had discovered Alastor payed Husker for his time at the hotel in alcohol. And Husker enjoyed the cheap booze since it was his poison of choice. However, in order to get on Husker's sweet side, she used more expensive, older booze. It was her way of gaining leverage in case she ever needed to win a pointless argument with anyone in the hotel. Though deep down, she knew Husker would have her back without the bribe. At the same time, Aby had a love for Husker that she couldn't describe.
It was because of this love, and her desire to provide for the old man's bad habit, that she smiled cheerfully at the aged cat demon. However, she couldn't hold back the laugh that broke through her after seeing the look on his face. It was the laugh of an old woman who sat on her porch greeting an old friend before she retired for the day. The kind that would tell a story that would add ten years to your life if you experienced it.
"I'll get on that."
"Wait- you do tricks?" Angel kept looking between Husk and Aby as he demanded,
"When the fuck did this become a thing?!"
"I've always done things to keep me close to the stage. It's one of the few worlds I can actually stand despite its cut-throat chances." Aby kept saving photos to her phone as she encouraged the porn star's lesser deviant side.
Just then, Nifty zoomed into the lobby with her polishing rag, taking it to the bits of furniture. Angel watched her for a couple seconds, thinking of another question to ask that would satisfy his growing curiosity. Feeling there were so many great answers to things he didn't even think Aby was capable of.
It didn't take long. Deciding to ask, "Soooooo, what kind of performer are you?"
Aby knew what Angel was really asking but she also knew the walls had ears. She had to be careful for the sake of her reputation. Mainly in the eyes of two that dwelled in the hotel specifically. In the end, she made the choice to take her chances.
"I've dabbled in many forms. I'm still trying to find my talent- but alas, I fear I will always- and forever be- nothing more than a naves."
"Says the bitch who lulls me to sleep with her singing, can keep up with me when she dances on a pole, and does voice impressions."
"Don't know if we can take anything you say as an official judgment", Aby stuck her tongue out, giving Angel a playful cross-eyed look. He responded by flipping her the bird with three of his hands. Using the fourth, to chug his drink, holding it in the high in the air to finish it in one final gulp.
Before the two could get into a flip off match, Alastor entered the room. Slowly making his way to the bar to pick on Husk. It was a fun pass time, since the old man hated how the Radio Demon would take the time out of his schedule just to torment him. Nowa days, also joined in by Aby when she thought it was harmless enough.
"To be fair, while I usually don't care for his opinions, I must say this is one case I can agree with Angel." Alastor poked Husker's hat with his staff to straighten it before he walked around the seating of the bar to come closer to Aby. Doing so without actually approaching her full direction.
Angel gave an expression that told Aby that he had to think about what was said. The face he made after that expressed that he was about 60% certain he had been insulted in some way. Aby tried so hard not to laugh but Angel's facial expressions could be so cartoonish that she couldn't help but make fun of it. As he often did, Alastor was able to drag Aby into whatever world he created by simply making it. In this case; a world where she could giggle slightly at the spider demon's expense.
That's pretty harmless right? I'm not doing it to be mean.
"I personally do enjoy listening to you sing. That being the case, why don't we give a little show of our own? It'll be the perfect chance to bond. You know- like people do who are meant to be the way weeee arrrre." Alastor put an extended, sung, note on the last two words.
"You…like preforming?" Aby felt her tone shift to a failed attempt to contain her excitement. The fact they had basically done so during their date, was not able to resurface anywhere in her mind.
"Why naturally, my darling, I fancy myself a fan of the picture show. At times- anyway. It's useful in finding new forms of entertainment. One of the few things that brings me entertainment is comedy. I take it you don't mind this?"
"No, of course not. I love comedy." Aby practically flew off the couch as she rushed to get within five feet of Alastor; staying just out of his preferred range. She beamed her best smile at him, secretly wishing he would initiate contact so she could press herself close to him as she had every time, he let her.
Like a gambler waiting for the roulette wheel to stop spinning...
Alastor snapped his fingers. Barely a second after, the room went pitch dark. Aby felt a force lift her up off the ground just enough to get her feet off the floor, which dragged her forward a few yards before letting her down. Some candles lit themselves. The two stood on the stage, the spotlight shining in their faces as Alastor cued for Aby to the start by placing his hand on the small of her back. A simple, but effective, signal.
"Good morning Alastor." Aby had some experience with stand-up so she wasn't too nervous. In fact, she was thrilled. The smile on her face growing ever wider as she spoke to her partner. Swiftly, he draped his arm around her waist tighter, bringing her into him as he took point.
"Good morning, my darling!"
"How are you?" She rested her head against his chest for a split second before Alastor let go, moving a couple feet away as he used his arms to give a showman's pose.
"Very well, in fact, I'm super ex-static!" Aby bit down on her lip, trying to hold back a laugh as she smirked down to the ground.
"Get it? Because I'm a radio demon!" That one got a laugh out of Aby. She turned away from upstage as she came back to her stage persona. Waiting for her next cue. Alastor didn't notice. Continuing on.
"I've gotta say, I used to hate facial hair. But then- it grew on me!"
"What the fuck?" Angel grabbed a shot glass from behind the bar as he gave a hard hand gesture for Husk to fill it up all the way. Aby found herself relieved. Convinced he was about to throw it instead.
"Why can't you hear a psychiatrist using the bathroom?"
"Why?" Aby had responded without hesitation.
"Because the 'P' is silent!"
Aby could hear the sound of an empty liquor bottle hitting the bar followed by an obnoxious burp that she could only identify as Husker. If Alastor could hear it, he ignored it as he went on.
"What's brown and sticky?"
"What?"
"A stick!"
"I was gonna say- ", Angel Dust had begun to interrupt before
"A-also Nutella!" Nifty called from the table she was sitting at.
Husk and Angel were surprised as well as confused. Neither knowing when the hell she got there. Or for how long. Although Aby couldn't see too far past the light, she could tell Nifty was cleaning the table as she watched the show.
"Y-Yeah, that too", Angel replied. Letting it go in attempt to allow the liquor to kick in faster.
"Now what's sticky, brown and red?"
"I don't know. What?"
"A stick I beat you with!"
Alastor then proceeded to take the microphone staff he used to rapidly tap Aby on the head to add visual to the joke. Aby covered her mouth as she laughed. The staff was light enough it didn't hurt. Making it easy to enjoy the pats.
"Now hold on, Alastor. We can't go on as if the audience already knows us. It's imperative that we do this according to good form."
She faced to speak to the crowd past the spotlight, "I'm Aby. I'm here to be Alastor's stick." Angel Dust groaned loudly before slamming his head on the bar top. Aby went beat red as she was careful to avoid using the wrong word. Though still felt herself tempted. Not wanting to put a title before Alastor did since it meant he would run. Probably. That was a reasonable expectation, right?
"Yes! I am the Radio Demon, Alastor. Before this- I was a cannibalistic serial killer of the South!" Aby's face dropped for only a second before she caught it. Looking at Alastor waiting for the joke.
When it never came, she beckoned it by saying, "A cannibal?"
"Yes! On the bright side, you can say I have an eyeeee for good meat."
Aby could make out Angel's laugh in the crowd. She could also tell he made a joke about dick which she made sure not to laugh at to where Alastor could notice it. Once she could, she continued.
"Like that thing where a creature eats the meat of their own species."
"Yes!"
"Fas-in-at-ing. So, what exactly do you eat now that you're in hell?"
"Venison!" Alastor clarified as, simultaneously pointing to the antlers on the top of his head.
Aby figured it out with a wide eyed, jaw dropped expression before responding, "Oh. There's a word for that?" That one got an actual laugh out of Angel Dust, who wasn't discreet about it at all.
"So how do you take down your meal?"
"Back in the old days I used to use a shot gun."
"That's… surprising."
"Why is that?"
"Well, it takes a certain level of skill to use a gun. Besides I understand it can be much… messierrrr. Both in result and in taste." Aby struggled to use the phrasing not knowing how to explain it without making it obvious she was not from hell. To be fair, she did the same thing when she first started traveling since out-of-towner's always had a separate set of cards from everybody else.
"Well I learned quite a bit back in those days. In fact, despite landing myself here, they were still some of the best days of my life. Which is part of the reason I don't do it that way now."
"Do what?
"Use a gun." Alastor stated it bluntly. Giving Aby his version of a confused look.
"Well… speaking of- what weighs six ounces, sits in a tree and is very dangerous?"
"What, darling?"
"A sparrow with a machine gun."
Alastor starred at Aby giving her what she now knew to be his version of the look people gave when they heard the dumbest joke and wanted you to get the fuck out of the room. Though Aby wasn't sure it's that was a bad thing.
Right on cue, Angel called out for the darkness, "You fucking hacks! Get off the stage!"
Aby busted out laughing as she completely lost her stage persona in the moment of what was, by far, her best performance ever. Deciding she couldn't wait for the next one. She also let herself feel overjoyed at the thought that she would get to do it with Alastor again. Hopefully she would learn even more about him.
What a time to look forward to.