Author's Note: Thanks for reading. Hope you are enjoying it. I'm still playing around with some themes and character developments so heads up. I post some side stories to this one and alternate ideas or chapters as well. Feel free to add me to your notification list if this would interest you.
Chapter 7:
The Sparring Match and The Library
Vaggie walked into the dining room. Her morning coffee had yet to kick in. She eased her way over to her spot at the table. Doing her best to ignore Angel's insistent yelling. This had been a common enough thing for mornings at the hotel that she didn't even need to question it. She didn't have to. The setup at the other side of the room was more than enough explanation. The daily Shadow Stage event.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, Vaggie hadn't interrupted enough to gain the attention of the newly deal maker couple. This morning's shadow stage performance involved Husk, Alastor and Aby. Husk stood, hunched in on himself. With the sourest look on his face, a party blower in his mouth, and Alastor patting the top of his hat while his arm rested on the cat's shoulders. When the punchline would get delivered Husk would blow into the device. He would also do this in response to any improv the couple did. This improv would involve the strange lovers calling their ally Mr. Tinkles. Vaggie knew it had to be Aby's idea. Vaggie also knew the name to be a reference to a film back in the world above. The moth demon watched for a short time, as Aby was in the process of grooming Husk's feathers, which seemed to calm the cat.
Vaggie had noticed Aby was prone to physical signs of affection. But those who received them seemed equally… thrilled? Eager mannered? Vaggie couldn't put a finger on it. But Husk was no exception. More times than not, easing up on his grumbling when Aby was near. Hell, he eased up on everything when she was with him. At least until someone like Angel came along and ruined the moment for him. Then there was Angel Dust, who hadn't lost his usual spunk. At least that was the word Aby used to describe it. Vaggie had a list of other words for it. None of them socially proper or polite though. Even so, she couldn't deny that Angel seemed to behave himself when Aby was with him. Lately the two seemed to be on a break of some kind. Nothing awkward or eyebrow raising worthy, but definitely the result of a friend's spat. Up until now, Vaggie found it amusing at how the exchange for Angel's behavioral training had been similar to a pet being trained by their master. It also simultaneously disturbed her. As for the others in the hotel, they all shared similar interests with the fallen angel. Which may not seem like a bad thing. Then again, noting about the fallen one seemed like a bad thing. This only made Vaggie's concern increase.
As much as she hated to admit it, Aby had an effect on people. She attracted the sinners in Hell. She could charm them. Talk them into doing all kinds of things the moth didn't think they ever could, or would, care to do. Unlike Alastor, who scared people or tricked them into doing his bidding. She just made them feel comfortable around her. And they did. She was the type who when you had carried a conversation long enough with her, you could tell her your life story and keep coming back to talk whenever life went wrong. Especially since, she wasn't the type to talk about your shit with anyone else. She kept every secret you told her. Again, seems like a good thing. Yet, Vaggie couldn't trust it. Angel or no. Maybe it was paranoia. Because Aby never seemed to be doing it on purpose. Which failed to put Vaggie's mind at ease somehow. Especially where Charlie was concerned. Vaggie could see the growing envy in Charlie's eyes as she watched her more popular cousin gaining so much attention and respect around Hell. A demon or two stopping by just to examine the hotel before scampering off to some no-name-hole-in-the-wall somewhere. To Charlie's disappointment.
Some days all Charlie wanted to talk to Vaggie about was her family member. Granted, she was used to it since Charlie would do the same thing before Aby was successfully summoned. Even so, that was before they both knew what Aby could be like. Her willingness to get involved with someone like Alastor the radio demon, was a pretty big statement of her in the moth demon's eyes. Then Vaggie would see the way she looked at him. Vaggie heavily doubted Aby could pull away from Alastor if she wanted to. Vaggie supposed she could relate to some extent. She was in love with Charlie. She never wanted to discourage her. Talk her out of a bad idea or guide her away from an undesirable outcome, of course. And sometimes, with someone like Charlie, that required a little tough love. Which brought Vaggie to the next point. The way Aby and Charlie would occasionally butt heads.
Since the day she got here, Aby had been very clear about her thoughts and motives for the hotel. Now that didn't mean she would crush her cousin's dreams by her own hand. However, that did mean she would never let Charlie forget the possibility of failure. Aby seemed fanatical about making certain Charlie prepared herself for it. Of course, Charlie would give her motivational speech on the matter. Aby would express how she felt Charlie wasn't listening to her and call Charlie a child. Charlie would cry to make Aby feel like the bad guy and apologize. The two would then spend the rest of the time together playing some form of a game they had invented. One where Aby plays piano or pretends to read a book. Charlie would either start to sing a song, encouraging Aby to sing along, despite her playing like she wouldn't before doing just that. Or- on other days, she would go through Aby's crafting projects in the eldest's room asking about this one or that. Then asking about the world above. Aby would answer a question or two but would eventually shy away from the subject.
Vaggie wasn't sure if Aby even knew what she was saying half the time when she did answer Charlie's questions. Usually trying to find other ways to bond. Sometimes, the two would go out together. On those days, Charlie would beg Vaggie not to follow as Aby had made it clear she didn't like Vaggie. Reassuring the moth, it was strictly as a person. Call it petty, but it had nothing to do with any form of prejudice apparently. Vaggie only decided to keep a closer watch on the fallen one because of this. Not buying the idea Aby had been sincere.
It was hard to know what was or what wasn't with that girl. Frustrating even. Aby was the kind of girl who could say she wasn't doing something for an alternative motive, but then turn around and ask for a favor like you knew her all your old lives. Then again, Vaggie supposed that had more to do with her weird ability to read people. As mentioned before, Aby could make people talk to her. But she also spoke to them with such familiarity. You think it would make people uncomfortable but alas- not really. Didn't matter how good you were at hiding your problems. Aby could see right through you in an instant. With very little context. It also seemed to have another quirk; which would bother Aby.
Something that lingered on her face when no one was looking. Vaggie would catch a small glimpse of it before Aby would instantly put her guard back up. It was even more efficiently hidden from the radio demon. So Vaggie never caught it under this condition. When Alastor was around, all she did was smile. Smile. Smile. Smile. It made Vaggie ill to see it. It looked so genuine but felt so…weird. Like looking at a doll. Nothing but the pretty face. Just like the fellow who would twirl her, spin her, kiss her and put on a show with her. Like the one she was stuck watching right now.
Vaggie sat with her arms crossed and visibly agitated. Observing the exchange waiting for the end. Niffty serving her plate as she zipped around the room, preparing more food or cleaning the space while she waited for the others to sit so she could enjoy the company. Angel, however, began stuffing his face. Continuing to shout despite having food in his mouth. Vaggie rolled her eyes, knowing he was used to talking with his mouth full.
"What's the difference between a baby and Angel Dust?" Alastor asked.
"What?" Aby asked now hugging Husk from behind. If Vaggie didn't know better, she would have thought the old cat was purring at the contact. Deciding he had to be grumbling instead. Even if she was rubbing her cheek over his ear. Cuddling him.
"The baby has more dignity!" Alastor announced. Passive aggressively- if you could call it that- picking a fight with the pink spider male as he laughed at him. Angel raised his two left hands, middle fingers displayed for the demon lord. Sticking another fork full of eggs in his mouth as he watched the red clad demon return the gesture with his own hand.
While this went on, Aby lightly, but effectively, smacked him upside the head. A habit she had when she wanted the 'immature' to behave. If this warning wasn't well received, she would follow it up by grabbing the guilty party by the ear and pressing a pressure point there. Naturally, she could get away with doing this to someone. Whoever they were. Point proven; Alastor ceased his laughing and looked right at Aby. Vaggie could tell he hadn't expected her to hit him. Playful or not. This almost got her to laugh. She made the choice to fight against it since it seemed to be a more private thing. That and Vaggie could tell there was something on Alastor's face she couldn't read. Deep behind the showman's smile.
"Why did the chicken cross the road?" Alastor continued, grooming Husk's eyebrows. Looking for a stray hair to pluck. Husk blew into the party blower as he knew this to be directed at him.
"To get to the idiot's house! Knock, knock." Husk blew again.
"It's the chicken." Alastor began laughing bringing his hand up to his temple as he did so.
That earned him another smack upside the head from Aby. Husk blew into the device even harder. Fighting back a smirk that said he wanted to laugh but also didn't want to get hit by Aby too. Who gave him a side smirk as she shook her head. Her face expressed what she was surely thinking; troublemakers- both of you.
"Mr. Tinkles. I think we better get you something to drink. You look like your starting to flush under the lights." Aby crossed her arm with Husk's as she led him off the stage.
Angel started clapping loudly. Ecstatic that the show would end since she wasn't going to continue. Most days that meant Alastor wouldn't either since he didn't have as much participation to play off of. Husk dropped his weight into the chair as he snatched up his booze bottle. Spitting the blower full force at Angel. It hit him square in the forehead. Angel rubbed the spot as he pouted. Giving a flirty smile complimented with a wink and blowing a kiss. Husk flipped him off while drinking from the bottle. Aby rubbed his back soothingly before shooting a wink and sticking her tongue out at Angel.
That does it! Vaggie thought.
Vaggie slammed her hands onto the table, rising from her chair. All eyes went on her at the outburst. Vaggie clenched one fist before lifting her head to look at Aby. Her eyes burning with rage. Glaring at the fallen one with such distain and hatred. No one said anything as they switched from looking at Vaggie to Aby.
"Charlie isn't here to save you. So, let's settle this." She told her. Aby's face dropped. Her more menacing expression beating Vaggie's as she lifted her nose into the air gracefully.
"You got a bone to pick." It wasn't a question. Aby was letting Vaggie know there was a chance to back down.
Had she been wiser, she would have noticed Aby wasn't smiling. Despite Alastor looking right at her. Husk caught it, lifting his wing to shield her face from the Radio demon's gaze. He knew what it meant to her. Which is why he glared at Vaggie in return. Something the moth demon hadn't seen. It slipped her mind to look at anyone else. Vaggie only wanted the one thing. She wanted to fight.
*#*
Aby and Vaggie made it into the training room. The mats covering the floor in the large space with a high ceiling, allowed them free range for attacks. It also kept from having to pay for damages. Originally, the room was going to be used for a rehabilitation meeting room, but with so few members, Aby took it upon herself to set up a space for physical training purposes. Just another reason for Vaggie to be pissed.
"How shall we do this? Street rules or tournament." Aby looked at Vaggie as she stood opposite to her.
Standing with her weight shifted to her right side, her arm hanging relaxed and tucked behind her hip. Her left hand on her hip, digging into her clothes. Even now, Vaggie had to give her credit. She held a good front. It was easy to see the resemblance from Charlie to Aby. Razzle and Dazzle stood between them off to the side. Each one holding a flag. One green. One red. Vaggie only took a quick glance at the two before asking something.
"What's the difference… for you?" Vaggie wanted to clarify the standards they would fight by before the match started.
"You live at the end of it." Aby had always kept things short, sweet and to the point if she could. And that was the gist of it.
Though in reality it had more to do with how severe Vaggie's injuries would be. Aby didn't want to hurt her, but she hadn't fought someone on a non-human level in a while. At least, not where she had to hold back. Even then, she wasn't the best at keeping from mutilating someone by mistake. She also had the feeling that Vaggie was going to be too stubborn to take defeat with a grain of salt. That would serve a problem for them both. Especially given the stance Vaggie took with her before they even started. This was personal for her. Aby just didn't know how personal.
"Street then." Vaggie regretted it the moment she said it.
Seeing Aby nod to the goat boys as they nodded in return. They flew back against the wall. Flags still in hand. Vaggie knew if Charlie found out, she would be disappointed. But it was too far gone to stop. She would live with the consequences. It was the only thing she could respect about Aby's point of view. Vaggie gripped her spear in hand. Caught off guard by the sudden question from her opponent.
"Why do you wear those arm warmers?"
Vaggie stared dumbstruck for a moment. Tilting her head as she responded, "W-what?"
"Those arm warmers", she repeated, "Why do you wear them?"
Vaggie couldn't understand why she would want to talk about such a thing at a time like this. Tightening her grip even more, despite it not being possible. Her knuckles already turning a lighter shade than her usual grey complexion. Vaggie glared, reassembling her composure. Waiting for Aby to reveal her game.
"It's always been my experience that they serve two great functions. The first is being stylish in a cute but simple way. That's why I wear them when an outfit needs something to tie it together." Vaggie still didn't respond.
"But there is another, more, popular reason." Aby paused, looking to the ground before bringing her eyes back up to look at the moth demon without moving her head.
"I've known more people to use them to hide some very… interesting scars."
Vaggie growled. Her eyes widening in stunned rage. This was not happening! She wasn't saying what Vaggie thought she was saying. Aby ignored her as she spoke.
"I just find it interesting that you have such a short temper but such a sweet spot for the right people. Almost like your potential for kindness is something that exists when you let it. I'd think you a Tsundere, but that title fits me far more than it does you. And I don't even fit the category. Plus mixed in with the fact that you only got here in the last decade or two. When the national suicided rate was up by a certain percentage certainly makes me think. You know, I just find it interesting that you got here, with your attitude, you style of clothing, and your way of making defensiveness into a personality trait. I don't know. I just feel there's something more there."
Vaggie had had enough by this point. Not able to make out Aby's insults from her random ranting. Wanting nothing more than to put an end to it and teach her a thing or two. Running forward, she kicks the fight off against Aby with the first move.
She who strikes first wins.
If there had been a shred of a desire to talk instead of fight, it was long gone. Vaggie felt now the only way to be satisfied was in a private match. Preferably with high stakes. She swept her spear upward fast, swinging it from Aby's left. Expecting her to lean right so she could turn her blade and swing it back down. Unfortunately for her, Aby had stepped back instead, keeping her right foot behind to balance her weight. It got worse for Vaggie, when Aby reached up and grabbed the spear by the staff, yanking Vaggie forward, bringing her knee up into her lower abdomen. Vaggie gaged as she felt the pain shoot up through her. Aby had followed it up with a leg sweep, while twisting Vaggie's arm. Forcing the spear from the moth's hand. Once the other girl was on her back, Aby used the blade to keep her down. Using her heel to pin one of her wrist down on the ground.
Not worrying about the other since she had heard an informing pop. Living the life she had, Aby learned to recognize certain noises. Though unintentional, Aby had dislocated the lesbian's wrist. Making a mental note to fix it later so they could avoid a specific conversation with Charlie. Giving Vaggie a moment to adjust to the new position, half expecting her to throw up, Aby continued her speculation from before. Just thinking out loud more than anything.
"Everyone's got a story. I just want to know what yours is. Why are you such a mega bitch all the time? I get you don't like men, but can't you at least act like an adult? Surely there must be some type of person you can socialize with civilly besides my cousin. And if you have to fuck them to like them, then who hurt you? What could have happened to make you so difficult to get along with? I'm not taunting- I want to know. Am I close? C'mon help me out here."
Vaggie began to cough violently, turning her head to one side as she spat up some blood.
Shit. Aby thought. Did I rupture something?
Aby backed off, letting Vaggie roll onto her side. She watched as the moth continued to spit the blood from her mouth. There hadn't been enough to signify internal blooding. And there appeared to be no other injuries. Aby looked to the goat boys. Dazzle held up the green flag. Telling her the first round was Aby's. She looked back down to Vaggie. She got on her hands and knees. Slowly, but surely, getting up off the ground. Aby threw her spear next to her allowing her to use it as a support stick. Once back on her feet, Vaggie wiped her mouth. Turning to face Aby again, glaring angrily. Her face said bloodlust, but her eyes said run. Aby watched as Vaggie made a choice. Her fight or flight instincts listing the pros and cons for her. Regaining her strength, Vaggie spun her spear in her left hand a couple times, taking another attack stance. This time, bracing the spear from behind her back. Avoiding using her right hand if she didn't have to. Aby looked her up and down. Cocking her head to one side. Aby studied the way Vaggie stood. Making Vaggie nervous. She had heard about how aggressive Aby could be when she took an opponent more seriously.
"Your stance is too wide." Aby said matter of fact-ly.
Vaggie grinded her teeth, again not responding. Though this time, it had more to do with that she didn't know how. She was beginning to feel pushed into a corner. Aby rolled her eyes. Walking around from Vaggie's left side. Vaggie didn't move much, still fighting back the pain waiting for her adrenaline to numb her out. Meanwhile, Aby came up and kicked at Vaggie's ankles. Moving her forward foot closer in. Using her knee to add more bend to Vaggie's. The suddenness of the movement shot more pain through Vaggie's body, but once she was in the right stance it felt a lot less pressurized. Vaggie blinked a couple of times surprised.
"The point of a match is to learn something. So, learn something. I've been doing this longer. I assure you it's no sport for me if you can't even stand properly." Aby leisurely walked away after completing the circle around Vaggie. Walking with a cocky swish to her hips as she went back to her spot.
She gave Vaggie another look over, "I'm aware you got used to fighting in Hell. But don't build up bad habits. Especially if you intend to stay by my cousin's side."
Vaggie continued to say nothing. Quite frankly, it was starting to annoy Aby. Especially since Vaggie took every possibility to attack. Only to get hit or slammed on the ground. Every time she had to take five minutes minimum to recover. Each time getting a new injury. Aby would look at the goat boys to see her flag get waved after each round. Starting to feel unsatisfied with each wave. Then shake her head at the stubbornness of the moth girl. Aby was growing tired of having to tip toe with her. At least Charlie could hold her own when she spared with Aby. Though Aby supposed that wasn't a fair comparison. After the most recent wave of her flag, Aby noticed something. The two didn't necessarily conversate. Aby exchanged tactics, but that was the extent of it. Which led to Aby becoming more dissatisfied.
Neither cared for the other. They both knew that. However, Aby had no desire to fight her forever. In any way, shape, or form. Unable to think of a way to stop the match without hurting Vaggie further. If her mindset had been different, Aby would have known forfeiting was something she could at least attempt. Though, she had spent too long knowing doing this was a sign of weakness. It was a bad habit of her own at this point in her life.
Luckily, Vaggie didn't get back up around the 34th round they exchanged. Instead she breathed heavily, looking at the ceiling. Vaggie laid on her back. Lost in thought. Searching for the answer to the question she kept asking herself throughout this experience. Questioning what she expected to happen. How she expected this challenge to go. Deciding she would throw in her two cents since she felt too weak to keep going. Frustration apparent in her voice.
"What will you do when this is all over?" To a normal person it sounded like a short-term goal question. But Aby knew what she was really asking. She was demanding to know what Aby intends to do if Charlie fails.
"You first", Aby shot back. Taking a seat across from her. Bringing her knees to her chest as she waved the goat boys over to bring the first aid kit.
Vaggie bit her tongue, reminding herself to be nice. This match had told her one thing she hadn't been certain of until now; if she really had a problem with Aby. Deciding she definitely didn't like her. Now she just needed to pick a reason. A single, strong, unarguable reason.
Aby shook her head. The grey skinned demon had no intention of answering her. Aby began pulling a gauze from the kit. Crawling over to the moth, she took her right wrist first. Careful to refrain from agitating it further as it had already swelled. Vaggie let her since it felt nice against her heated skin. Not bothering to think about how she was doing it.
She looked at Vaggie as she rubbed the spot, her hand giving off a cold temperature. She spoke lowly as she continued, "I- will continue to offer her… whatever comfort I can. Until I figure out how to get back or until she gets sick of having me around."
Vaggie's face said it all before she asked. She wanted to know what made Aby think Charlie would dismiss her.
"Everyone leaves sooner or later. You should know that." Aby answered without it having to be said. Now it was Aby's turn.
Looking at Vaggie with a question on her face. Though Vaggie couldn't read it, she recognized it as the face someone made when they wanted to know who the fuck Vaggie was. She hadn't expected her to outwardly question her. Much less, the way Aby decided to go about it.
"Vaggie. Are you a fallen like me?"
Vaggie shot up from the ground. Grabbing her side at the pain from her previous ass kicking. The idea had been asked so innocently and sincerely, Vaggie hadn't known what to do. Once her grunting was able to be pushed back with a few deep breaths, Vaggie let her glance meet Aby's. Her face so soft, sweet and curious. It was something that kept Vaggie in her frozen state as she saw a dark haired, tanned version of Charlie. She couldn't think of a way to respond.
However, Aby dismisses it stating, "No. You couldn't be one of us."
Aby sat back on her knees for a second, looking off to one side. There it was. The glimpse of that- 'something'- that covered Aby's face when no one was looking. Getting such a close look at it from here, Vaggie was finally able to identify it. She knew it well. Granted she hadn't been a victim of it since she met Charlie, but she knew it well. Despite this, Vaggie was pulled from her previously sympathetic mode. Ripped from it even. She didn't know what came over her, but Vaggie felt that anger rise up in her. Feeling that Aby was, once again, indirectly being a bitch to her. Possibly prejudice. Whatever the reason, Vaggie found this as her main motivator for her aggression.
When Vaggie demands why not, Aby just looked at her. Her face blank as she replies, "You're not shinny enough."
*#*
Alastor sat in the study on the other side of the hotel. Leaning back into his high back cushion sofa with one hand tucked under his chin as he sat relaxed. He watched the fire burn in the fireplace. His shadow self could be seen out the corner of his eye sliding into the room from under the door. He popped up behind him, his smile wide. Alastor closed his eyes as he received the message it had come to deliver him. His eyes glowed red as he cut his hand, letting the blood drip down his arm.
He looked at the trail it left. Listening to the low growling the shadow made. Snapping his fingers on the same hand, Alastor ordered the shadow to keep preforming his watch. The shadow laughed wickedly as it vanished. Alastor didn't need to look into the matter further, knowing it returned to its position gladly. The blood dried, leaving no sign of its spill as the scratch healed. His smile grew more as he thought back to the woman who held the title as his lover.
"Soon. We will have another glorious dance." He stated to no one in particular. Throwing a stack of papers into the flames. Letting them burn with their secrets. Chuckling at the way it fueled the fire. His smile rising as it curled tighter than ever.
*#*
Vaggie didn't know how to respond other than to try to keep up her guard. She was starting to understand Aby a little better. Whether she wanted to or not, was beside the point. This wasn't how she thought it would happen. This also wasn't how she considered becoming familiar with some of her estranged powers. Even if she didn't know it at the time.
Aby leaned forward on her hands and knees. Her face coming dangerously closer to Vaggie's. The moth's breath hitched as she froze. The last thing she saw was the shimmer of glossy, red lips puckering softly. Moving in on her. Aby pressed her lips to Vaggie's for less than a minute but it was long enough for Vaggie to regain her sense. She shut her eyes tight, shoving the girl in front of her off her. Vaggie was going to take a swing at the fallen angel, making a grab for her spear. Stopping when she noticed her body was no longer in any form of pain. Vaggie looked over her body. Feeling every area with her free hand. Her wrist, her torso, even her legs. Nothing had even so much as a bruise as she tried to locate her previous injuries.
Distracted by her search, she failed to catch Aby's hand brush up her bangs. She studied the 'x' over where the moth's left eye used to be. Cocking her head once more before disappearing. When Vaggie did finally get a look around the room after coming back to the matter at hand, she verified Aby wasn't there. Vaggie touched her mouth. Her fingers brushed her lips before she brought up both hands to completely cover it. She was pissed but her face was blushing bright red. There was going to be hell to pay for that bitch later. Sooner or later, Aby would pay for that. Then again, she didn't know what just happened. Or how she would explain it to her girlfriend.
How would she react?
Vaggie felt the panic set in. After everything that just happened, Aby succeeded. She beat Vaggie in every possible way.
*#*
After she leaves the hotel, Aby starts going to the local library to meet up with her cousin. Making her way inside, up the stairs and into the private room. It was the royal's donated section. A private sector filled from top to bottom, wall to wall with everything the royal family's collection had to offer. In it was every story or historical item of Hell. In Aby's eyes, it was a room of lies. She had read through some of the materials and knew it to be a collection that Lucifer had put Alastor in charge of. Meaning it would have only the materials both males approved of. Stories only the oldest and wisest of any species would know. Maybe that was why Charlie always insisted on meeting here. She would ask Aby questions about stupid shit.
At least her questions were easier to answer here than at the hotel. Since she asked less philosophical questions. Focusing more on the things that came from Aby's experience rather than her beliefs. Aby didn't particularly hate the philosophical questions, she just didn't trust her own opinions on most matters in her life. Or on the way things went on in the world above in general. If the fact she was a fallen was anything to go by. Aby felt the tingle in her back. Ignored once she heard the ringing of the bell in her mind. Aby looked ahead.
Charlie was already sitting at one of the tables in the room. A plate of sandwiches stacked high in front of her. The princess caught Aby walking in, putting down the book in her right hand before getting up, smiling wide, and waving her over despite them being the only ones in the room. Aby gave her a soft, cute smile as she reached out meeting her family member halfway around the table. Giving a tight hug for a greeting. Aby snapped her fingers, signaling for the goat boys to jump up from beneath the table. Charlie was excited to see Aby had come with smoothies for them to drink.
"What's the occasion?" She asked taking the cherry smoothie Razzle had ordered for her know she would enjoy it most.
Taking a sip as her cousin answered, "I kissed your girlfriend."
Charlie spit up some of the smoothie, choking on it. She pulled the drink away from her face, setting it on the table. Roughly coughing into her sleeve, she lifted a finger up to signal Aby to give her a minute. Her older cousin offered her a handkerchief as she showed an apologetic smile. Charlie gave her an uncertain look before taking it and wiping her face. Aby used a hand to advise Charlie to be sure to get under her nose. The pureblooded demon hadn't realized some had been shot out her nose. Quickly she cleaned herself, looking at her cousin for approval once she was done. The fallen gave her a small nod in return. Her face the same as it had been. Charlie took a deep breath before talking.
"I assume you did that for a purpose."
"To steal her of course. Congrats- you're the maid of honor for the wedding."
Aby shot her cousin an arched eyebrow graced with a sarcastic smirk. The expression shifted to a strange mix between embarrassed, nervous, and disappointed. Charlie gave Aby a dirty, but halfhearted, look as Aby laughed. Aby used her hands to wave her cousin down as she wiped a tear from her eye. Taking a deep breath, she spoke again.
"C'mon what do you think?" Aby asked taking her own smoothie as she sat down, reaching for a sandwich.
Charlie looked at her hard, before taking her own seat again. Asking, "Did it happen?"
"I told you it would. I don't know why you thought it was avoidable."
"Who challenged who?"
"She came at me."
"You could have held back."
"I did. That's why I had to kiss her."
Charlie pouted at the direction of the conversation. They had talked about the possibility of Vaggie and Aby having to brawl to get along, but the princess hated that it had to come to it. The two cousins had had multiple conversations in the past in regard to Aby's feelings towards Vaggie. Truly there had been nothing but a dislike of the moth. Mainly as a person. The reason behind it was Vaggie's inability to get along with others or to forgive them. Aby didn't blame Vaggie since Charlie had said it was a personal dilemma. Of course, Aby didn't need to be told that much either. However, that didn't make it easier for Aby to care for the gray girl. Another reason, which Aby refused to confess to her cousin, was the undeniable feeling that Vaggie was just putting up with Aby because Charlie wished it. Same with Angel. And same with everyone who came through the hotel. Especially males.
This was problematic to Aby because it meant Vaggie would never open herself to new things. Or let others open up to her. Plus, Aby always found it easier to get along with males than females. Possibly because she spent more time with them. In reality, Aby had tons of respect for the long-haired lesbian. And from certain angles, could even say she admired her beauty and strength. That didn't make it harder to reject the idea of forming some sort of relationship with her though. Even if it was out of sheer stubbornness as well as a need to protect herself from the inevitable rejection (from Vaggie) that would come from the effort. Aby wasn't ready to face something like that again. Not right now. Aby then scolded herself for being such a coward. First, she had to readjust to the carnage of a place like Hell, now she had to wait before deciding if she wanted to pursue something as simple as friendship. Truly, she was the weakest of her kind. At least- that's what she thought. Even more so under the influence of the current state of the deal held with Charlie.
Worried that Vaggie would be unable to recover from the injuries she would no doubt earn from a fight with Aby, they had also went over a special ability of Aby's. According to Aby it was called transference. Something Aby always forgot to think about, or bring up, was the special power each angel was given at their creation. This ability would aid in their mission. It would also help them define themselves in their rank. Think of it like a member of the military with certain credentials. Someone might have something similar, but no two cadets could ever be the same. Not really. As a result, angels could use all kinds of magic; Aby included. But this would be further fueled by their one true power. Transference was one of the regular powers she used. It allowed her to take or give anything she wanted with another creature. The only draw back was that the magic only worked with a kiss.
When she was young, before the accident, she had asked Lucifer about her 'gift'. He had explained that a kiss is a very special gesture. It was a form of intimacy that had the ability to mingle souls. It would pool the energies from each being's lifeforce and grant them a small look into the other's soul. As unreal as that sounds. According to Lucifer, it was regularized in the human world by Aby in her rush to become a stronger angel. She had kissed everyone. A habit she still holds. Soon humans used it for romantic partners and family members, but they never had the ability to use it to its full potential. Only Aby ever had that power. It baffled all who experienced it. Sometimes even her. This was how, in the most undesirable circumstances, she was able to use it to cheat her way out of something. Like seeing someone injured for example. Granted, this meant she would then bare the injuries herself, but Aby rarely had trouble with physical injuries. Angel's healed fast. To the point where, regenerating limbs was a small feet. It took up a lot of energy. Which was also something Aby could use her gift to cheat on. Feeling equally bad whenever she had to question if she abused it too much. Before rapidly deciding she didn't care. She wouldn't let herself care. Not anymore.
"I thought you said you would try to talk to her before it came to that", Charlie moped as she reached over the table. Poking at her family member's cheek as she pouted more visibly.
Aby smacked her hand away, taking another sandwich in hand. She sighed as she replied, "Yeah well- I made no promises. I had shit to do. Besides I thought you said yoooou were going to talk to her first. Give her that old 'come hither stare' charm to win her over."
Charlie giggled. "You are sooo old school." She too, took another sandwich bringing it up to her mouth. Taking a bite as she gave a wink to the other across from her.
Aby rolled her eyes playfully. Eating fast since she had to skip breakfast. Charlie scolded her for her table manners but Aby stated she hadn't been one for formality even as a child. The two laughed and joked about the snobby rich lifestyle. Playing tea party while waving their hands frantically as they gasp at the 'ghastly' way the riff raff drove about. Both seemed to be speaking from experiences of their own, but both could relate and play off the other's fast change of improv. It wasn't long before the atmosphere changed.
They ate, drank and discussed all the things Charlie wanted to know. Stupid things. Little things mostly. But maybe that's what made them stupid. In a good way. Even so, Aby was always certain to answer honest and quick. It made it like a fun little game as they zipped and zoomed to get to the next round. Charlie always starting it off.
"Does Santa exist?"
"Yes. He lives in Finland."
"Is the food different from Hell?"
"It sucks less in Hell. Earth food always has this…thing?- about it. Especially New York. God damn New York. I recommend it though if your ever passing through."
"What about the gods of the past. What happened to them?"
"Long story. But they were real. All of them. And I got a title or two back in the day. However, that being said, it didn't always go the way humans say it went. They like to be overdramatic."
"Do humans still acknowledge you?"
"Some do. Mainly as the angel of death and despair. Or goddess- depending on the religion."
"Why?"
"I hang around graveyards too much. And hospitals. And war-torn battle fields… don't ask."
Charlie paused again. Wanting to press the issue since Aby was such a fighter. She wanted to know more about that side of her. Aby just seemed to be too nice to fight for pointless reasons. But she also seemed too rebellious to be a good little soldier girl. Where was the line? What made her decide between what she knew was right and what was wrong? Did she even think about the choices she had made up until now? Did she ever crave it? Charlie pushed the curiosities down. Deciding she didn't want to fight with Aby. Especially not after the day the older one had had. Charlie shook her head, secretly wishing she would get to know all of Aby's secrets one day. There was so much she could learn from her if only Aby would teach her. Instead, thinking up something she had wanted to do if she ever went to the human world.
"What is it like swimming in the ocean?"
"Like swimming with death. Its fucking fantastic. Sharks are the best teachers and starfish talk too much shit. Oh, but pufferfish make for great conversationalist. And dinner. Whatever floats your boat."
"So- you can talk to animals?"
"I can talk to a lot of things."
"How many languages do you know?"
"163."
"How many languages are there?"
"Don't know. Never counted. But I'm sure it ranks up in the thousands at least."
"What about Earth snow? Hell snow always looks grey when the light hits it. And turns black on the ground. Or red. But- you know."
Aby nodded her head at the explanation from her younger cousin. She swallowed another drink of smoothie before speaking. Playing with her mouth a bit as she had drank too fast. Resulting in her mouth feeling cold. Ironic.
"Earth snow is cool. I always dance in it. It's a bitch to drive in though."
"You always dance anyway." Charlie laughed at the confession.
Aby took the break she was given, since she figured Charlie would have gone straight to a question about driving. Even though most of what Aby told her wasn't really tremendously different from Hell. Some changes sure, like the snow bit, but nothing overly inconceivable. Then again, Aby couldn't blame the dork for being curious. She was exactly the same way about Hell. Maybe not as much now, but upon arrival- oh fuck yeah! It was on. Aby went everywhere to see everything. Bless Angel and Alastor for showing her around despite them not getting what made Aby so eager to see more. To them it had just been a bunch of off buildings, names and random shit that you could find anywhere if you looked hard enough. Husker had, on occasion, even given her some money to take with her since there were some places that cared about currency. In Hell- there were no rules. It was around here, Charlie interrupted Aby's trip down memory lane with a fun topic.
"What about the preforming arts."
"Fuck the music man!" Aby threw her fist into the air as she shouted the phrase with enthusiasm and as much energy as she could muster in two seconds. Which, from Charlie's point of view, was quite a lot.
This caused her response to be a shocked but small, "What?"
"Nothing. I vowed vengeance for a friend. It's a long story."
Charlie looked at her cousin with a very bemused expression. She took a moment to appreciate that, with Aby, everything was a 'long story'. Most times, it wasn't an exaggeration. Aby could tell you from where something began to how it changed over the centuries to how it lost all relevance and then came back. She'd also take the time to tell you what it meant to her or how she came about it. Aby had stopped socializing a long time ago, so now, she found out most things on the internet. Even then, just staying in her own little corner of it. She would joke about how she was going to have to start figuring out ways around the united nations since she didn't think the governments would appreciate her hacking everyone's wifi to watch random videos on YouTube.
The demon bit her bottom lip as she let her mind wonder for a second. Her eyes opened wide when a topic came to mind that she had always wanted to have someone, besides Vaggie, to talk with on it. She gave a hopeful smile to Aby. Who, at this point, was slurping on her drink, bopping her head from side to side as she hummed a song Charlie recognized as one Aby had shown her called 'That Beautiful Sound'. The hotel hostess drummed her fingers on the table as she tried to play as though she hadn't just made the face of a high school freshman getting ready to chat it up with the seniors to look cool. Leaning on her right arm as she played with the straw of her drink. Putting on her best 'lead girl' face. Something Aby had taught her to manage if she wanted others to think she knew what she was doing; even if there was a situation where she didn't. It was the face you wore to look like a bad bitch who held all the cards in her hands. The face of a queen ready to offer you something you couldn't refuse. Needless to say, Charlie hadn't mastered it yet. Not even close.
In fact, she looked more like she was fighting the urge to tell you a naughty joke because it had a cuss word in it and mom and dad were within ear shot across the room. Aby noticed. Ceasing everything she was doing in the moment to allow her dork of a family member room to rethink her choice. Something that evidently went unnoticed since she only raised her chin to add high ground to her take.
Smiling pretty (and smug?) as she said, "So- have you ever had sex?"
"Yes. On multiple occasions. You know this. You literally caught me sticking a dildo in A.D. riding him like a cheap thrill ride at a county carnival"
Charlie blushed, her eyes changing expression as she fought to hold the rest of her face. Clearly, she had forgotten about it, since she shifted her weight once more. This time straightening up. Finding she enjoyed fiddling with the nail of her left pinky finger. She paused. Thinking of a way to save her ass so she didn't completely embarrass herself on the topic. Luckily Aby caught on to what she was trying to do. Giving a small giggle she spoke again.
"I have had sex, but I haven't had nearly as many partners as A.D. And don't get me wrong, I'm not the sleeping around casual sex type either. But I gave up on that sleep with someone you love thing way long ago to. Kinda had to to make it during the highlights of the Grecian and Roman empires. God those were fun times. Real sureal. Tragic- but also…another world."
Aby reached for another sandwich. Peeling the crust to play with before eating it. Continuing as she did so.
"Can't say too many of them were fantastic or anything. Just got the job done. There have been a couple that come with a cute little story or two but- eh, what are you gonna do?"
Charlie eyed her cousin. Feeling less foolish as she listed. Paying attention to her every word. Charlie tried to figure out what kind of lover her cousin was. Not wanting to interrupt to ask.
"That being said, I've always avoided certain locations to pick up a guy. Bookstores, tourist bus stops, even certain restaurants. But in a perfect world, I would sooo get me a performer. A Broadway musical actor or a dancer."
Aby finished off the sandwich before resting her head in the palm of her hand. Using her free had to lift the smoothie and taking another drink. Somehow, it tasted sweeter to her.
Must be my imagination getting away from me again. She told herself. Recalling how at times like this she would drift into a daydream.
Once she slipped into daydreams so frequently a whole seven years got away from her. That's how she missed out on the roaring twenties and slipped past the great depression. She had tried to figure out just what kind of trouble she got into but never found out. It must have been one hell of a party. No pun intended.
At the same time, Charlie looked for a moment. It was odd to hear how Aby saw sex and the opportunities that came with it. Charlie found the urge to ask, made it difficult for her to sit still until she finally caved.
Asking curiously, "Why avoid those places?"
"Bookstores have two kinds of guys. The guy who is looking to get laid and pretends to be smart. And the smart guy who ends up being too smart and looks down on you for not keeping up with his train of thought or sharing his opinions."
"And tourist bus stops?"
"Looking for a guarantee you won't call him since you're an out-of-towner. Plus, a couple of them have a score card to keep track of where each partner is from. I knew a guy who kept the panties of all the girls he fucked. Son of a bitch got one of my best pair of silk panties. Brand new. I'm still pissed. Granted we didn't do much. Just some heaving petting and a little foreplay but he still got them off me. That was a mistake."
Charlie laughed. Aby caught what she had been saying. Scratching the back of her head, she stuck her tongue out at her cousin before joining her in laughter. The two slowly ceased the action before both looked somewhere else in the room. Though they didn't know it, they were both thinking something similar. They thought about what is was they liked most about sex. Both girls wondering if they were half the romantic, they wanted to be. It was a pointless goal, but one they held onto regardless. Each one stayed in their own head for a couple minutes. The silence felt like a year to both. Charlie was the first to break it.
"So- why would you want to get your hands on a dancer?"
Aby stopped. Drumming the nails of her free hand against the table briefly. She used the nail of her thumb to dig under her index fingernail. She gave a bored flick to a random direction away from Charlie before she answered. Closing her eyes and turning a bright shade of pink.
"Sex is art. Performance is art. Mix the two together and you have the epiphany of creation and passion."
"What does that even mean?" Charlie hadn't been able to stop herself from blurting the question.
"Are you a virgin?" Aby blurted back. Figuring now to be a better time to ask than earlier in the conversation.
"So how are you and Alastor holding up?" Charlie immediately changed the subject. Lifting her smoothie and taking a drink. Turning bright red. Cursing her word vomit fit.
Aby chuckled with her right eyebrow arched at her cousin. Her face turned into an awkward smile as the blush on her own face also grew. Aby began to fidget in her seat as she pictured the lovely deer demon. His long, slim limbs. His triumphant walk. The cute little way he would hum a ditty while spinning his microphone staff. She watched his every move when he was in front of her. Hung onto every word. Sang every song. Told every joke. With him, she never had to fake a smile. He did something to her. She wanted to question it but often found herself too strung up in his embrace to care. Lately, they had been having more personal conversations. Funny how the timing of the topic of sex came coming up. First with Alastor, and now with Charlie. Even in her tarot card readings. Aby felt a twinge of excitement as she wondered what it could all mean.
*#*
Aby dragged her feet as she returned to her room. The sunset changing the redness of the hotel as the light slipped away from every window. Opening the door slowly, she began listening to the creaking of the hinges. Why was that a sound she had to listen to? Once inside, Aby used her body to close the door. Locking it with the key. Aby took a deep breath. She was tired, and a little stressed. She hadn't been sleeping well the last week or so. Still feeling like she was being watched.
Aby had long since proven it hadn't been due to Arakniss since she had felt it since the moment she arrived at the hotel. In fact, the Web Mob family had drawn back on their plans for recruitment. Deciding they would respect Aby's wishes to think it over. Though she distinctly recalled never telling them that was what she was doing. However, she also knew better than to correct the Don. Partly because it would be Molly and Arakniss who would suffer for it. Angel was safe as long as he was marked as under Aby's protection.
Sadly, she wasn't sure how much longer anyone would believe that to be the case. Angel was acting out by going club hopping with Cherri Bomb. Taking clients back to their homes and somewhat avoiding her. Aby was trying to take Husk's advice to heart about her needing to let him call off the fight first this time. Hurt by the amount of distance that had come between them. It didn't help that she really didn't have anyone to talk to about it. Charlie would just be over optimistic about it. Husk would drink to forget who they were talking about and rant about how Aby was better off. Though deep down, she knew he just wanted to sound tough for her sake. Meanwhile, everyone else on staff just didn't care about Angel's point of view at all to understand why it distressed Aby. She felt the tears pooling in the corners of her eyes. She took a deep, shaky breath. Blinking them away. Pushing off the door, slapping her cheeks with both hands. The desire to cry vanished and she began making her way over to a rack of fabrics on the other side.
Grabbing a sheet covering her workstation next to it, she pulled it hard and upward. Unveiling it. Underneath it is a long table filled with many tools and shelves. Taking a long, hard look at it. Scanning the space to see where he would start for tonight's project. Aby sat at the table, picking up a couple items and place a pair of shears in her mouth for when she was ready to use them. She threads a needle as she gets back up and measures another fabric piece off the rack. Cutting it and pinning it to a pattern, measuring it, before she walks over to another section of her work area.
She kicks up a stool to sit on. Looking over the mannequin. She sits prior to starting her sewing. Adding more lace on the skirt of the dress it displayed. A ball gown done in the style of an old Victorian design mixed with a pattern for a character Aby loved from a series she watched in the human world. The character reminded her of Charlie. Aby had started the project after she had been in Hell for almost two weeks. Deciding to make something for Charlie since she had yet to gift anything to her cousin as a sign of peace between them. Or as family. A common practice in the world above. At least from what Aby could tell. Some human customs still escaped her once and a while. Others, on the other hand, gave her a fun thing to enjoy from time to time. She hated humans. Yet, still found she loved some of the things they could create.
Regardless, as a result, she thought she might surprise the dork with a handmade gown for a ball she was arranging. One held in honor of Charlie's birthday. Which she still didn't know the date of. But, knowing Charlie, it would be the thought that would count most. Aby pricked her finger after her thoughts started to stir. Sticking it in her mouth to suck the spot, she leaned back. Looking over the dress once more. The colors were red, pink, and black. The lace that made up the breast piece was the only spot of white. Aby went with this since it seemed to be the scheme that fit her best. Aby looked over to her side where more mannequins stood with dresses and suits that had been completed for the other staff members. Aby had been careful to make each one have a personal flare that would complement each body type and personal tastes of the one who wore it. Only Charlie's dress and Alastor's suit were left to do. Aby gave a deep sigh. Remembering she had done both a dress and a suit for Angel since she hadn't spoken to him on the subject. In fact, the only one who did know was Husker.
Aby mentally slapped herself for even considering he would know when the young princess's birthday was. A ping of guilt washing over her. She would need to do something for Husker later to show him some appreciation. He had been so good to her that she had taken advantage of relying on his support. Aby felt the frown pull deeper as she felt the urge to cry again. She shook it off. Gritting her teeth. Biting into her cheeks when that didn't work. She hadn't been this big a cry baby since her accident. Knowing if she was going to make use of herself, she would need to go back to how she had been since the day Lucifer told her to stop coming to visit him. She halted everything. Thinking for a moment. How was it she never knew Lucifer had a daughter? Aby thought back to her plan to host a ball. Then to Charlie's birthday.
"I wonder when it is anyway. It's gotta be mid-March. She's too much of a Hufflepuff Pieces for it NOT to be."
Aby looked at the design off to the side. Perched on a music sheet stand that got used for multiple purposes. She had planned Charlie's whole outfit. Looking over the design over and over again. Aby bit her lip in nervousness. She really hoped Charlie would appreciate the effort. Whole heartedly. Not just to be polite. Since the event would also double as a guided advertisement for the hotel. Aby was going to be running security while the others were being their sweet, lovable selves. With that thought, Aby gave another deep sigh. Looking at the vanity and full body mirrors covered in sheet covers of their own out the corner of her eye.
*#*
Angel was currently laying on his stomach, browsing through his phone. Fat Nuggets fast asleep on his bed amongst Angel's pillows. When the notification went off alerting him to the reply from his cute little sister Molly, Angel perked up. They had been talking almost every night for the last week. Which was also the amount of time he had been keeping his distance from Aby. Molly had figured her(Aby's) visit to the mob family's mansion left some bad blood since it had been Molly who told Arakniss about Aby and Angel's relationship.
She had been so happy Angel had made such a good friend, she had begun bragging the minute her oldest brother asked about the cause for her being so happy. Arakniss had always held a grudge against Angel; mainly from the lack of ambition the carefree hooker expressed. It didn't help that Arakniss apparently had been smitten by Aby. Though Angel suspected it was more of an obsession. One that doubled as a way to get back at Angel if the black spider could steal her. Even when they were kids, Arakniss always had to take something from Angel. The pink prostitute rolled his eyes annoyed at the memories that poured in just thinking about his punk ass older brother and his antics. God he was such a pain. Quickly averting his attention back to the conversation on his phone.
First thing Angel did was assure his precious pink pal knew he wasn't mad at her. Or Aby. He felt like shit. He just didn't know why he and Aby had gotten into an argument. Probably. The siblings went back and forth on the topic for a bit. Molly shifted ever so delicately to a talk about Angel's pursuit of Aby.
"So- what does she mean to you anyway?" She texted him.
Angel sat for a moment. Rereading the words on the screen clicking his tongue. He sighed heavily before typing a response on the keyboard.
"I guess…she is kinda neat."
Angel studied the message before sending it. Deleting the writing and typing out a new message of, "She's a client. Big deal. 7-7"
Angel waited for only a second before a new message came in. He squinted at the writing of his little sis who had wrote, "A client who also goes above and beyond by the sounds of things."
Angel typed. Playing with his hair, pushing it up and letting it fall, as his anxiousness grew.
"What's that supposed to mean? -_-*"
Angel wasn't as surprised as before when the message came in from the pink girl in a matter of seconds. He figured she had to be less busy with whatever and could now just focus on the chat.
"Hey- don't get short with me. ;3 You're the one who said your bomb buddy didn't even bother looking for you when you took off for two weeks. Remember?"
"That 'bomb buddy' is my best friend. Besides she runs territory."
"I'm not saying she's not a good friend (you can have more than one best friend btw). But Aby came looking for you the very day she didn't know where you had gone. The other one couldn't even bother at least sending out one little pawn to confirm your death before the extermination."
Angel looked at the screen. He buried his face in a pillow. Turning his head to the side as he noticed it still had Aby's scent on it from the last time she had paid for his services. Despite not wanting to betray Alastor's 'privilege' of bestowing the title of lover on her, she would still come to Angel's bed and cuddle with him. That was probably one of the things that made him more upset about the argument between the two friends. The lack of having someone to listen to him. The fact he couldn't ask someone to pamper and pet him without wanting something in return. He loved sex. That wasn't the issue. But some days, after a long time at work or running around causing chaos, it was nice to come back to someone who was glad to just see you home.
He crossed his legs, bending them at the knee so he could bounce his feet in the air. He hated when Molly made a good point. Even mores so when she brought up a point he hadn't considered before. Hell was huge, but Cherri knew there was only so many places he could be.
Did she even look there? Angel asked himself.
The notification sound rang again. Angel looked down at his phone.
"Angel…do you want to make up with Aby? How much would it hurt to lose a friend like her? Could you really say you would never miss her? UwU"
Angel blinked a couple times. Sitting up, he butterfly crossed his legs leaning back on his lower set of hands the top ones being what held his phone and typed his answer.
"I… want to… make up… but I don't know how. {.}"
Weighing the pros and cons of keeping her around, Angel knew his persona was just one part of him. Aby hadn't given him any grief since the day they met. She even took the time to learn from him and do things he thought were fun. Again, not something that was hard since Cherri and him could have fun whenever. But, Aby could take him to do the things he enjoyed without him having to worry about keeping his thoughts hidden. The times they went to karaoke clubs; singing the night away. Walking with him slowly around the aquarium letting him sit and watch the fish for hours without rushing him out the door to get to the car for a fuck in the back seat. Though they would have a session or two in such places so Aby could learn how to please a man with a sense of adventure. Even then, it was never expected of him; just asked. He also enjoyed making her sit and let him work on her makeover. Styling her hair and applying her makeup. She was so pretty without it all, but she was gorgeous when Angel was done with her. It made him curious why she didn't try very hard to look stylish regularly. Especially when she made such nice clothes from store bought fabric. Or when he saw the types of things she picked out when they went shopping for girl clothes. Aby had revealed a secret formula she had made to make it easier for men to make crossdressing work for their body type.
She dressed Angel up in classy tease outfits. One he liked was a baby blue turtleneck sweater dress with five matching bows sewn on down the right side. Thigh high one-inch heeled leather boots decorated with silver buckles around the ankles. His pink hair was covered with a cute shoulder length, short layered, inward curled styled cut wig with long bangs that covered his right eye. A simple, but pretty, deep green butterfly gem hair pin place on the left side where the part was. For accessories he had a couple green and silver bangle bracelets a black ribbon choker necklace with a pale pink gem on the left center of it. His makeup would be done so his lashes and lips were the most standout-ish features. Making him look so kissable but modest. It was simple. Not like most of the things he would wear.
In all honesty, he knew the reason he freaked out that night was childish. It had been because he felt insecure. When he saw Aby dancing with Arakniss, he felt she had been able to walk away from him without feeling the slightest hint of remorse or regret. Just like everyone else he had known. He didn't want to admit it; even now. With the way things were going he had to choose. Talk it out and go back to how things were (hopefully) or let her go and take the chance of Arakniss winning her over for their pops. But just how much had Aby considered the offer? And what would she be willing to do for someone like his brother? He already knew she would never be loyal to his pops. His rank and personality would never sway her. Fuck, it didn't even sway her when it came to Alastor. She ignored that side of him entirely.
Back at the web mansion on the far side of the city, Molly sat on a swing outside on the balcony leading to her bedroom. The breeze outside felt cool against her warm fur. She looked at her phone, seeing the notification that her message had been read. She smiled sympathetically. She knows her brother. She knows he just wants to be stubborn. Just for the sake of being stubborn. That was Angel Dust. He always had to have the last word. One that cut deep to let people know he didn't give a shit about their feelings; so not to think he cared. Molly also knew that that wasn't always the case. Angel had always had a hard time making and keeping friends. He had every possible disadvantage and inconvenience in life someone in his position could have. Which was why Molly didn't want Angel to push Aby away. Or for Aby to let him. Molly knew Aby was the type to let people go if they said they wanted to leave and not challenge it. Molly took a second to look at some photos on her phone.
The first was from the night at the party. The girls had taken a selfie in their gowns giving a big hearty smile at the camera. The next couple were from throughout the week. Aby always looked so thrilled in each one. Though something always shined through deep in her eyes. Molly felt sad. Had her friend really been through so much on her own? Was she facing this break with Angel alone? Molly went back to the messages.
Right about now, he would be coming to accept that he had been foolish to let the argument get so out of hand. He would start to see her face and want to make up. And he would hold onto that last bit of hardheaded pride. Molly knew her brother just needed one more push. Putting her phone over her lips, she thinks about what would get her brother to surrender to that last bit of care for the fallen one. What would make him forget long enough to let her back in.
"Ah, I got it." She announced it for herself, typing on her phone something only the eldest had known. A secret confession.
"You know, Ange. I once knew a girl just like her back in the human world. I met her after you was disowned. Arakniss met her before…that night. But I knew her for about a month. I really liked her. Her name was Toni- funny right? Anyway, she got me through when I found out about your OD. I still miss her. "
Angel starred at the phone, mouth agape. That had been unexpected. Now he felt really bad. Taking a deep breath, he typed back this time. Molly read Angel's apology; for what he did.
Molly replies, "You can say sorry to me after all this time. Why not her? Well it's getting late. I have to be up early for a meeting. I love you, I'm here for you but I'm also going to bed. We'll play text tag tomorrow. Goodnight XOXO. \{^.^}/"
Angel smiles appreciatively at his phone screen. A large weight lifted off his shoulders. He couldn't believe he had never said sorry before now for what had gone on.
After all that. He thought. She still looked past it and calls me family.
He was even more grateful to get Molly's point of view. Angel looked forward to the day she took over the family business. Arakniss may have been the eldest son who did what pops told him, but Molly was a genius. She had the skill and the foresight to run the gang with very little issues. Even as a kid, she showed great promise when the three siblings went to target practice. She could hit a bottle cap out off a tree at 100 meters. Angel chuckled, petting Fat Nuggets with one finger so not to wake him. Molly was so sweet but could be a mean bitch if you showed to be an enemy. 'No mercy to anyone who went against the family'. That was her motto. But then after she showed up in Hell, Angel saw she came with another motto. 'Anyone can be family if you love each other strongly enough.' It left Angel with another question. One that didn't bother him, but that he still wanted to know the answer to.
So- who was Toni anyway?
*#*
Just as the pink spider girl had said, it was getting late. Looking up at the grandfather clock at the far end of the hall, Angel saw it was nearing midnight. He couldn't believe he and his sister had spent so much time talking. He had enjoyed it but- god damn. How did time get away from him so bad? Hearing the low growl in his stomach, he touched the spot.
Figures. He thought to himself.
He made his way to the dinning room. On the table, at the usual spot where he sat, was his supper. It had been wrapped in plastic with some weird symbols written on it. Next to it was a note and what looked like a tea bag. He recognized it as a sac Aby used to contain magic powders. She used them for quick cast spells. After reading the note, he was able to confirm what he already suspected. He flicked the note away. Picking up the pack, he used his teeth to tear it. Removing the plastic from the plate he dumped the powder. The food glowed and glittered temporarily before he could see the steam floating up from him. He could smell the food. His stomach growled louder as he picked up the silverware.
Tempted to sit and eat where he was, Angel instead picked up the plate. He ate as he walked to the lobby. Wanting to eat his food in front of the town drunk in hopes it would get him closer to getting to ride his dick. His strides were wider and faster as the thought excited him.
Dinner and a show. Now that's the way.
Angel came into the lobby to hear laughter and glasses tapping. In no time at all, he caught Aby sitting with Husk. He was buzzed based on how he involuntarily flapped his wings. Angel wasted no effort as he approached the bar, coming up next to Aby. The girl looked at him. Blinking a couple times as she gave a curious but intrigued expression. Her lips pressed into an 'o' shape. This was the signifier that Angel had the floor to speak. If he wanted it. He swallowed the lump in his throat. Still not able to form a proper sentence as he held his gaze with hers, setting his plate down. She lifted her glass and toasted his arrival, before turning to face Husk and shrugging. The two had a light giggle fit before both drank long swigs of whatever they were having.
Angel ate in silence as he watched the two go back and forth. Talking about some guy named Monty. Angel didn't know who he was which meant he was either a demon lord like Alastor or a no-nonsense gambler that Husk got to pick on for shits and giggles. Angel was betting the later. He listened to the story about how one time he was having such a bad night he had gotten kicked out of the club because he fell on a waitress after getting thrown across the room and landing face first on her tits. Aby's only comment being that she didn't know how to react when that crap happened to her. Angel caught Husk leaning forward, sniffing at the air around the fallen and taking a quick glance at her cleavage. She caught him to. Reaching to grab one of his ears and scratching at it. He was getting so drunk he purred before almost slamming his face on the counter. Aby fawned over him to make sure he wasn't hurt but Husk shook her off.
After he was done with his meal, Angel reached into his pocket. He counted the bills to $600 before saying 'fuck it'. He gave a puff of his chest before he slammed whatever money he had on the counter next to Aby. Both drinkers looked at him. Aby's gaze going from Angel's hand to his face then back again.
"Alright. I want to buy your services for the evening", Angel cooed. He leaned into Aby's personal space, bringing his face close enough to the fallen's he could feel the heat of her breath.
Husk grunted loudly as he lifted his wing to come in between the two. Angel shot him a mean, but impish, look as Husk spoke. His tone dark, cold and un-wanting. Maybe even more so than normal.
"You got a lot of nerve pulling that shit, whore. If you're looking for trouble, go pull that red-haired bitch you hang with from whatever fucking strip joint she dwells and leave us the fuck alone."
Aby brought her hand up over Husk's wing. She didn't need to try too hard to get him to drop it. Shooting him an expression that told him she was fine and to be nice. Husk hesitated for a second, before complying. Pouting angrily as he took another drink from his bottle. Aby used one hand to pat the one that he used to rest his weight on the counter. She then reached up, petting his whiskers before poking him dead on the nose. Angel could see his eye visibly twitch.
"What's this about Angel?" Aby asked swirling her drink with a straw.
Angel caught how she had kept from calling him 'A.D.' saying, "I wanna buy you for the night. The same way you buy me. Do something fun, ya know."
Husk seemed to calm down but didn't look any less pissed off at Angel's presence. The porn star ignored him, since he didn't know what had him so worked up. It was unusual to see him this way. Aby slouched a tad in her seat. Her face told Angel she had no clue what he was on about. Angel felt his shoulders fall. Doing his best to keep his expression from doing the same. Aby saw how he fought the frown and set her drink back down. She turned to give him her full attention. Letting him have as long as he needed. Angel pressed his lips firmly together before finding a random spot on the bar counter to focus on.
"Look- I want to spend time with you. And I don't want you to refuse. So, I figured if I paid you instead of getting you to pay for me it would make you less likely to go running off somewhere."
"Go running off like where?" Aby had blurted the question.
She didn't care about the logic Angel was using. He was used to seeing everything like a transaction; so, she could roll with that no problem. But the last part was too…specific… to ignore.
"Like off with…Arakniss. Or Alastor. Or Mr. Tinkles." Angel pointed at the cat with his upper left hand almost subconsciously. Husk shot him a wide-eyed look that Aby knew was the face he made when he wanted to call you out and say, 'How fucking dare you sir.'
Aby didn't have to wave him down since she giggled at the use of the name. Husk instead flipped off Angel and poured his doll another drink. A weaker one until he saw she wanted something stronger. She shot him a wink before going back to Angel's moment.
"Why would that be an issue for you?" She questioned.
Angel was taken aback by the way the question had been asked. How Aby's voice was so plain, yet cute. It was soft but strong. It just this…tone about it. He hated when she did that. He hated how she could make him stand at attention when she put him on the spot like that. Her way of asking always leaving him feeling so exposed.
"B-because…I- We- are friends", Angel looked to Aby with a red face. Just as expected she looked at him with much care and no judgement. Also, something else. Something he had seen from Molly. He saw… love.
He felt the doubt from that night on the dance floor fade. He thought about what Molly had texted him. How he could have more than one best friend. He looked hard at Aby. Taking in a large amount of air into his chest he gave his best flirty smile. Gaining back his confidence and charm, he dialed it to eleven fast.
"Friends don't let friends get into trouble alone. Or- refuse…their apologies. Mainly for acting like assholes. With no good excuse for being defensive douchebags. Or for causing the other one pain."
The room was silent. Even Husk was no longer giving Angel a hard time. He gave the lad a shot along with a napkin with a lime sitting on it. The spider took the silence as a minute to reflect and plan. He took the shot, signaling for another. Husk obliged in keeping them going. Anything to keep him quiet. Husk felt his teeth hurt from the sweet words. Shaking his head and avoiding eye contact with the multi-limbed jackass. Aby let the boys' bond in their weird little way. Not sure she wanted to know what it was that had them connecting but grateful for the change in attitude towards one another. She giggled as she took a drink. Finally speaking, once a moment or two passed.
"Well. I'm not fucking you." She thought for a moment. Bringing her finger up to her chin, looking down. Her eyes went wide as she looked Angel in the face again stating, "But I do have an idea for what we can do for some fun. Ever heard of a guy named Tom Trench?"
Angel blinked a couple times rapidly. He gave a devious smile as his eyes came into a half-lidded gaze. Stepping forward, he straddled Aby's hips with his long, graceful legs. Wrapping one around her lower back, his heel hanging off the curve of her ass. Pushing his chest forward as he brought Aby's face into his fur. Encouraging her to touch him. She instead motorboated him a little, squeezing his waist, digging her nails in. Her hands started running up his back as she clawed down it harshly and cupped his ass. He chuckled at the touches he received. Molly was right; he would have missed it had he let her go. Thinking back on the question from before, he licked his lips. He liked where this was going.
Husk burped loudly. Deliberately catching the attention of both the younglings. Eyeing the scene before him grumpily. He took a long drink from his booze bottle stating afterward, "Oh, this is bound to lead to trouble."