Chapter 9: A Day in the Lives of the Help
Nifty zipped into the room. A loud squeak rising from the floor as she skidded to a stop. The gust of air, formed from her blowing about, lifting the curtains gracefully. She began taking the scene in quick at speedy glances. Making the list of what to polish, shine and wipe in her head in a matter of seconds. She gripped her duster tight before running about the room. Taking the cobwebs with a swift, tidy swish and flick of the feathery tool. Though it was too fast to see, the young mono-eyed demon was surprisingly graceful. When she finally managed to finish the task at hand, she stopped in the center of the room. Taking a second to wipe her forehead with the back of her hand. Fanning herself with the same hand to cool off.
"That makes 22 out of 439", Nifty checked off another square off the list in her mind.
Allowing herself to giggle gleefully upon her accomplishment. Nifty heard a small ping come from the pocket of her poodle skirt. She had learned by now that the sound belonged to a pink flip cell phone that Aby had purchased for her. The gift had been a way for the girls to communicate while apart or when not wanting to say something out loud. Something that was especially noted on the days Aby would accompany her to her book club meetings. Nifty had been surprised- to say the least- when the gift had been offered. And needless to say, she would have preferred something so expensive looking to come from a male suitor. However, it proved to be very useful for her to have. It was easy to operate, had a cute spot to hang adorable charms to decorate it, and was great for Nifty to get additional things she wanted without having to wait too long to ask. Taking it out, the miny man-chaser saw a text from the day's errand girl.
Aby had sent the message, "Kon nichi wa! Gome. Mō ichido kuri kaeshite itadake masu ka?" (Hello! Sorry. Would you please repeat that?)
Nifty blinked a couple times. Eyeing the screen, she typed her reply quick so she could get back to work. Waiting for it to show it sent before stuffing the phone back in her pocket and dashing to the next location. Deciding she would reward herself once the work was done. She had been feeling a bit off today but figured if she pushed herself to fight through it, she would find something really worth it. Even if she didn't, she could always make up some excuse or another.
Who would know right? The marvelous maid joked with herself.
*#*
Meanwhile, on the other side of town, Alastor and Aby stood in the cleaning product aisle at the store. Alastor was shifting through the items on the shelf, looking for the ones he knew he wanted for his personal use. Aby stood in the middle of the aisle waiting to see what sort of reply she would get. Unable to stop herself from fidgeting in her anxiousness. She felt embarrassed having to make Nifty repeat her previous text. Though sometimes, despite being fluent in the written version of the language, the tiny maid didn't always use the right letters for every spelling.
Probably because she's having a hard time getting used to the cell phone. Aby reasoned in her head.
Aby didn't give it too much grief since there were a number of things effecting the situation. The first being, Nifty wasn't from a time cellphones were a thing. Of course, she would need a longer adjustment period. Because of this, Aby was proud of the shorter female. Alastor would go nowhere near any form of tech that was past his time. It made the girls laugh. He could be so stubborn about the silliest things. Which was also how Aby listed the second thing. The language itself. Though both were technically fluent, Aby was sure she was using a dated version of the language. If she wasn't using the wrong formality all together.
She must still be getting used to the phone. Aby thought quietly to herself again. Squeezing her own. Trying not to remember the last time she had lived in Japan.
Or the era in which she learned the language for that matter. Taking the time whenever she could to visit the land of the rising sun frequently due to her earthly hobbies and desires. She tried to make her visits short since Otaku's weren't a celebrated thing to be in their culture. Aby instead made a note to get match anime character charms for her and Nifty for good luck. The boy she wanted to get the figure of was cute so maybe Nifty would appreciate it. Aby tilted her head as her glance shifted to the lower left corners of her eyes.
Now that I think about it…I don't even know what kind of manga or anime Nifty likes. Aby recalled all the numerous doujinshis she had purchased on the smaller one's behalf. And the One's they had bought together while at numerous smaller conventions held in Hell by some top-notch creators and artists. A smaller voice in the back of Aby's left a few short phrases.
I sure would like to do that again. Wouldn't it be nice?
Aby wanted to argue but was interrupted. Perking up a bit when she heard her notification sound chime with a quote from an anime that she had customized for Nifty's contact specifically. Aby lifted her smart phone to clearly see the screen's contents.
Nifty's response read, "Okkei! : ) Bando eido, denchi, to burīchi. Dōzo! Arigatō!" (Okay! Band aid, battery {for flashlight}, and bleach. Please! Thank you {informal?}.)
Aby read it in a short time before speaking, "Huh? Denchi? Nani!?" (Huh? Battery? What!?)
"English, darling. You know I can't keep up with you and Nifty when you start speaking Japanese", Alastor had stated half-jokingly, half-normally. Not bothering to look at the fallen one as he addressed her.
Feeling he didn't need to since he was just stating a quick fact. Also doing his best not to be too harsh to her since it had been an ongoing issue. Neither member of the couple enjoyed repeating themselves, but neither had controlled tempers when it came to the little things that bothered them either. This was one of those times. In this case, it was a habit she fell into whenever she would speak in certain languages for a period of time. Aby often forgot to revert back if she spoke too long in one or the other. And since multiple members of the Hotel staff were (at a minimum) bilingual; the "problem" occurred more often than not.
Just a small thing that brought the relationship to something that needed to be worked at. Alastor also knew it wasn't something she did on purpose. Making it even more difficult to fault the lass when she pouted over his "reminders". So, he had no choice but to forgive it. Instead, he just smiled his signature smile. This time around, continuing on with his shopping by placing a couple of bottles in the reusable shopping bag he was carrying. Not catching Aby's body jolt at the reply to her minor outburst just moments ago. Had he, well- he might had asked about it…
"Oh- uh…gome- eh- sorry, dear. Don't mind me. Just…thinking…out loud."
Aby blushed. Embarrassed even further than she had already been. She had meant it more for herself than anyone else. However, she had spoken it loud enough to where her lover heard it.
Of course, he would reply. She scolded herself.
Another bad habit of hers was not being able to whisper or speak low. Though that all seemed to slip her mind when she realized she was a touch agitated by the older man's behavior. It wasn't that Alastor hadn't been learning the language through exposure on his own, but he wasn't fluent enough to have any idea what the girls were up to when they spoke it. Even the few phrases he knew would escape him if they spoke too fast. That being said, he also knew that they tended to lean towards that since most people didn't keep up with them. Making it easier for the two to talk about whatever their hearts wanted. Not to mention more passionately. And since both had a love for all things somewhat "adult" in content or "homosexual" in relations- more so on the male side of the spectrum- it wasn't much of a "group topic" anyway. Alastor was fully aware of this. Aby made certain he was comfortable with it during one of their private matters. Even then, he claimed there was no issue so long as Aby was proper about it and didn't drag him into it.
Yet, he feels the need to pick on me. She thought to herself. Is he now of those who thinks I'm cute when I'm mad or something? Is that even still a thing?
Aby shook her head lightly. Typing out her reply, she sent back a text saying, "Hai. Ongeki desu ka?" (Yes. How are you?)
The older one waited, to no avail. Nifty wasn't going to respond as she was too busy with her own tasks. Aby sighed in concern. Although also mildly in rejection. But maybe also in frustration. She wasn't certain anymore. It seemed every day, made her more and more agitated. Some nights finding herself with the desire to cry. Unfortunately for her, years of agony have made her most important tears run dry. She slipped once in a while. But not often. And certainly not even remotely close to what she would if only she could. But now wasn't the time to think of such things. Since the sound of the bell told her Nifty needed something.
Whenever Nifty just sent short words or phrases it usually meant she was having a bad day, or she was in a bad mood. Neither were good for the other residents of the hotel. Not in the long run, anyway. Aby had never witnessed it, but Husk had told her stories. Back in the times when she wondered what her importance to Alastor was. Luckily, Nifty wasn't the type to do anything rash. So, Aby felt content letting things be until she had no other choice. That being said, Aby made a quick reminder on her phone to purchase more special items for the two of them to enjoy together. This would serve the purpose of aiding Aby in bonding with Nifty. As well as confirming or denying her suspicions.
Just like a dating sim game. Gotta rack up the popularity points. Not so hard once you know how, right? Aby finished the online purchases before bringing her phone down beneath eye level. Looking off into the distance without actually looking at it.
I've never seen her at her full potential. Aby admitted. The wheels turning rapidly over and over as her mind processed the different questions or scenarios. I wonder just how far she can go…when she snaps. Aby bit down on her tongue. Her right canine pressing dangerously close enough to being able to pierce it. I wonder. Do I really wanna know?It is Hell after all.
*#*
Back at the hotel, Nifty spends her day cleaning. Finishing up by ending her rounds on the inhabited guestrooms. Angel's was always sticky, had a weird smell, and clean only where the pig rested. Resulting in the pink sweet thing using her strongest chemicals. Alastor's was rarely a mess, so she only ever tidied up his desk and finished ironing his clothes. Occasionally, she was do something extra that he had yet to do himself. Like polishing the wood, changing the laces on his spare shoes, or replacing the sheets. This was mainly done for Aby's sake. Alastor never used the bed for himself. It made the tiny cleaner wonder if Aby knew how it was that Alastor actually slept. When he did anyway. In the end, she decided not to pay it any mind. Aby and Alastor had their own way of doing things. Though that didn't stop her from clenching her teeth waiting for her eye to stop twitching.
Further down the ways, Charlie's room was like a teenagers- always an organized mess. Nothing too horrid. But it did make Nifty feel like she had finally made it a homemaker. At least, as far as her motherly merit badge was concerned. Vaggie's was full of metal shavings from her constant sharpening of her decorative weapons. The light from her collection of lava lamps providing a specific atmosphere. Her personal bathroom decorated with a strong, burning in-sense used for meditation. It often lingered out into the bedroom itself, sinking into the fabrics. Nifty was constantly changing the linen because of this. Eventually, figuring it best not to use different ones each time. So, she had the regular sets and one spare to use for when she was washing.
The washing was, more times than not, made harder by Husk. His fur was constantly shedding between seasons. Nifty always feeling her teeth grinding behind her endearing, housemaid smile. Trying her best to not be mad at circumstances she had no control over. Often keeping a power razor in her own room just in case. For when the day came when she would get tired of her friend's fur; she was more than prepared to shave him. With spring so close to arriving, Nifty felt the twinge in her cheeks. Remedied only by the fact that she would scoop the globs of wet fur out of the washer and hurl it full force at the unsuspecting cat when he was just on the fence between asleep and awake at his precious bar. A fun pass time that was never taken to heart.
His only response to her being, "Yeah, yeah. How many times I gotta say it? I'm reeeeal. Fuckin'. Sorry." Each of the last three words given a special care by Husk upon delivery. After that, she would just giggle and be on her merry way. Skipping to the kitchen to start up lunch.
Today was no different. Except for maybe one thing. When she managed to make it to the last door, Nifty had to come to a sudden halt. The only room she hadn't touched was Aby's. It rested on the dark end on the hallway, where the only source of light was candlelight on a decorative hallway table. Nifty knew the more eccentric of them to be very territorial about her room. Always insisting that she clean it herself. However, this bothered the small, single, single-eyed demon. Watching the other clean around the hotel in attempt "to help" lift the workload triggered each, if not every, one of Nifty's pet peeves.
"If she cleans the room the same way she cleans everything else…", she joked with herself, "…then as a woman she's a complete failure at the task." Nifty giggled playfully. Amused by her own attempt at humor. Not realizing she was being a little too honest for her own good.
"Still…," the cyclops remembered, "…I wanted to borrow that book. I could probably find it if I just went inside to look. Surely a little peek couldn't hurt, right? Then again- is that too bad? Hm. How curious. As a lady I have a duty to fulfill."
With a hearty pump of her fists and a cute shimmy of her shoulders, Nifty resumed what she had set out to do. Taking a breath to center her thoughts, the young maiden reached up with her free hand. Her favorite feather duster in the other. Twisting the doorknob, the door popped open just an inch with an audible 'clack'. Nifty's eye twitched. Her same cheery smile wide as it revealed her perfect fangs. Another loud 'clack' was made as she quickly shut the door instantly. Turning on her heel, she zoomed back down the stairs.
"Oh yeah. I just remembered, I forgot to polish the tiles on the pillars in the lobby. Woopsie!"
With that, she dashed off. The door in the dark corner of the hall closed once more. Behind it, its mysteries were left to themselves. Awaiting its owner's return yet again. The sound of an ominous, dark chuckle deep in the room. Unheard to anyone. Perhaps for the better.
*#*
Again, and again, Nifty found her pace alternating slightly. Choosing to fight it and move on. Continuing to pick up after the few residences of the hotel in that special way that only she could manage. And though she had a strong sense of 'womanly duty', she also felt a strange pull between tasks as the next few days drifted on. It was one she was most familiar with. The feeling she was bored. Though bored may not have been the right word, for Nifty there was no other way to describe it. Watching the other women in the hotel going about their business, seemed rather dull. Maybe it was because they never really gave her the chance to get any large amounts of female bonding or common ground. Or, it could have been due to her lack of high-quality 'reading materials'. Either way, the matter was made more apparent since Nifty also felt she wasn't doing everything she could to get those things up to par. Nor taking full advantage of the lack of business to find a man to provide her with a new sense of fulfillment. Nifty fought hard to push the thoughts from her mind to no avail.
The feeling only worsening when she caught Aby arm in arm with Alastor going down the staircase. She was wearing her best black swing dress with a large red ribbon tied into a cute bow around her waist. A matching bow tied over her head, hugging at her under-curl hairstyle. Her bright, blood red lips shimmering in the dim light of the hotel as they moved along the flickering shadows. Her heels hitting the ground in a bouncy rhythm that the couple shared. Like the music was unheard to everyone but the two of them. Nifty tilted her head in curiosity. Her face frozen in her smiling expression. She felt she had become pretty close friends with Alastor over the years. But this side of him made her feel…lacking. There was just something left behind in the air once the couple passed. Whatever it was, it was different when you saw them up close and personal. Like the mystical feeling you might get when watching a meteor shower. Maybe…
"If he could find it. So, can I", the mono-eyed lass cheered to work up her motivation.
Shortly after that, Nifty took matters into her own hands. Acting out by sneaking out at night to stalk a couple men who had struck her fancy. A couple of which she had managed to trap by staging an encounter with them in the places they hung out at most. The introductions would go the same way. Something would grab their attention, a fall, a crash and in the tamer events just a simple act of kindness. Followed by a short exchange that allowed Nifty to scope out a small amount of major points in their personality. From there, it was a matter of figuring out what ways she could use to burrow herself into their lives. Somewhere easier to get close to than others. A couple proved to be too much work. Being that, in order to please them, Nifty would have to show just how smart she really was. Which, by her definition, was not smart at all. Others wanted to be babied in an unapologetic way. Once or twice she'd also come across a weird fetish haver. So, she had no choice but to let those ones go. With passion!
Not long after that, some of the other men she had picked proved to be more than a letdown. Either married or slobs. Some were rude while others were total pushovers. And finally, the occasional creepy pervert or abusive control freak. She might've had a chance to get close to the more ideal ones, but each one seemed to have a secret of his own. Which would cause far too many issues in the long run. At least, that's how Nifty felt. After all- secrets were very, very bad. Unless they were hers. But she was a lady. So that was different.
Eventually, she would try confronting her ideal matches. Getting them alone, just the way she wanted. Getting into their personal space so she could smell for any trace of lingering perfume. Touching their hand to feel for indicators of bad behavior. The palms and spaces between the fingers always gave them away. She tried her best to see past the smaller flaws. She truly did. But, just like the introductions, they all went over the same way. Each. And every. Time.
"That's no good", Nifty would say before running the blade through another poor fool, "A real man is always honest with his lady friend. It builds trust."
Another stab.
"It builds strength between the two."
And another.
"Above all else…", she'd whisper into the other's ear while digging the knife from the freshest wound after twisting it around, "…it's just easier that way."
The knife would be jammed into the larger body with enough force for it to shatter any bone that stood between her thrust and the organ she wanted to penetrate.
"Now don't get me wrong, no one said a relationship is supposed to be easy. But, why make it harder for someone to love and be loved- am I right?"
She needed no response. That's not what she was looking for. She wanted the pitiful sounds of the man beneath her choking on his own blood. The pathetic and useless trying speeches of 'I'm sorry' in attempt to be granted mercy. As if she had any. Even if she did, Nifty was a gal with standards. Not just anyone would be allowed a second chance. And scummy douchebags definitely stood not a one.
"After all, all you really need is a strong connection, a lot of love, and a never... Ending. Relationship."
The squish of flesh brought a gleeful cheer the Nifty's stabs. Finishing the last of her lecture with a quick but painful close. Like a PowerPoint meeting on the accreditation slide. In the process, the last bit of air was squeezed from the lungs that had been left dripping with their owner's blood. Dragged out by force from the inability to cling to life any further. The damage taken bringing the latest target to a steady and slow death. The mouth hung open as the eyes displayed dried, pure terror. The weakest ones were left with faint tears in those disgusting eyes.
What they cried for, Nifty had no idea. It wasn't a woman's job to think. Just to act for the sake of her man. To make a steady home comforting and friendly. To smile bright and pretty whilst ignoring the pain of a cold world as though she were unreachable to its harsh gaze. On the other hand, being a fragile creature who would die if not touched by only the worthiest of hands. Why work when you could clean. Cook instead of read shit that filled your head with philosophy. Sewing instead of swordplay. That's the life she had dreamed of. And that was the life she was constantly denied. Was that so much to ask? Even if it was, Nifty didn't seek an answer. She was an ambitious girl. No. She wanted it. And she'd get it. By any means necessary. Which was the sole reason for her traditional response to the sight beneath her, rotting under her dress. The apron protecting it from the splatter being tossed in a burning trash can nearby. A real woman left no trace. That was law. That being said, that didn't mean she wasn't allowed to have fun.
"Uh-oh. I think I over did it this time. He died much quicker than I wanted. Some fellas just can't handle stress." A flirty giggle left the sharp-fanged smile from the sweet, fifties doll.
Nifty cleaned off her blade with a handkerchief. Checking it for any nicks in the blade that would keep it from being usable or reparable. A satisfied smile perking her cheeks up further as she found nothing to bring her down. Stuffing both items into her pocket until she could get it properly cleaned during tomorrow's run. Just then, her cellphone pinged. She looked at the text sent by Aby. Reading it slowly so her eye could adjust to the red vision she had gained from the blood of her latest rejected bachelor splashing into it. Making a mental note to use her special eye drops to clean it out later.
The message saying, "Fujin fuku o kai ni kimashita. Shō wa naji deska?" (I'm shopping for women's clothes. What time is the show?)
Nifty giggled playfully. Ignoring the question. Typing back, "Sumi masen. Takushī oo yonde itadake masen ka?" (Sorry.{really formal} Would you call me a taxi?)
Once the message was sent. Nifty went about the cellar- which had become her new base since joining the Hazbin Hotel's staff- searching for her purse. Hoping to get ready fast enough to enjoy her first evening out with some enjoyable company. Excited that with every opportunity out, she came closer and closer to finding a man whose company would prove- compatible.
*#*
Back in the bookstore, Aby's phone played the same notification quote it always did when Nifty texted her. Currently, sitting in the coffee shop area with a manga in hand. The designs within were used for female clothing references. This was the fallen's idea of 'shopping for clothes' since she could easily tweak anything she didn't care for in the design. Remaking it to her own liking and mixing styles as she saw fit. Her elbows rested on the table while the audible sound of the next page flipping filled her ears in the silence. She glanced down at her phone laying upon the table. Not moving otherwise as she waited, reading the preview for the text sent to her. The quote playing again a minute later since she didn't unlock the device.
"Ippen shinde miru?" (Do you want to try dying once?)
Aby sighed for no particular reason. Unlocking the phone at last. Leaving it on the table as she texted out a reply. Not really needing to ask where she was. The vagueness of the message telling her Nifty wasn't far from the Hotel. The smaller one would just dash back and wait for the taxi to arrive to take her where she wanted to go.
"Do I even want to know?" Aby said sarcastically. Once more, for no particular reason. A sensation alerting her to the possibility that it was going to be one of those weeks. Sending another text to someone else to schedule a get together during the next full moon.
Being in Hell also makes being on my period that much worse. She thought in slight aggravation. Calming down she sighed a final time. Maybe I'll feel better once it passes.
*#*
It would be about another week later from that night in the cellar. Nifty would see a man going into the grocery store they regularly shopped at. Aby and Husk would have been with her since the listed items would be a large majority of meat products. Since that meant they would be much heavier, the other two would carry them out to the car. However, things would change after the small one saw her dream boat floating (specifically dream boat number 3,906) along. The two taller ones would be told to go off on their own with the shopping list. Though Aby would seem hesitant to just let Nifty roam, Husk would pull her away by the arm. The winning statement to the standoff being that he wanted to talk to her anyway. Aby would go. Leaving Nifty to think up a fast way to set up scenarios to meet this man and to appear innocent.
All would go as planned as she would stalk him from on top the taller isles. Tailing him like a ninja. She would study his features, looking him up and down. All the while, thinking to herself that he looked strangely familiar. His pitch-black scales, his sharp yellow sclera, and his long white fangs that would poke out whenever he opened his mouth. Nifty wasn't a huge fan of his fashion sense. Studying it regardless in attempt to find out what about it made it so unappealing. Part of her hoping it was because that young, rambunctious teen in her heart was still trying to find her bad, motorbike-riding, greaser boy. Eyeing him as drool built up in the corners of her smile.
*#*
He wore an old black Victorian style blazer with vertical yellow pin stripes. This being over a yellow button up long sleeve dress shirt that was complimented with a black bowtie around his thin, squeezable neck. His hair -if you could call it that- doubled as part of his demon form. Extending out around his head, falling to around his mid-back. Adding to his more cobra like appearance. Shown in full when he got agitated. Nifty based this theory on his behaviors. Resting just right on top of his head, was a black top hat with a mouth and a single eye. Nifty felt her body bouncing up and down at the discovery.
He must favor mono-eyed beings. She concluded.
Backed up in her shortly deduced hypothesis when she saw two small white egg like gentlemen accompanying him. One of which, also had a single eye. Taking a second to get a better look at the other two; in case one was more her type. Quick to pick up on the matching attire they wore with one another, as well as with their larger companion. She was eager to get to know the relationship the three males shared.
It would certainly be a problem if he had children already. Nifty had never been able to decide if kids from a previous relationship was a deal breaker or not. Most times leaning more towards 'yes' since that would mean gossiping neighbors and baby-mama drama. The itty-bitty babe groaning in displeasure at the false scenario she envisioned in her imagination.
Shaking the thought from her head, replacing it with another. First things first; Get his attention. Sometimes it's worth going against the grind. Besides, he might be the one I've been looking for. It wouldn't be so bad then, right?
Just as she was about to make her move with a clearance rack at the end of the isle, she heard it.
"Sir Pent?! As I live an' breathe. Why what in old mono-lly are you doin' here", the happy voice of a different female called. The voice had held a southern bell peppiness to it. Making it both friendly and pushy.
Nifty couldn't make out the woman's appearance. Unable to move without being seen at this point since the egg demons were so short. She waited from her place on top the lanoline isle. Hoping the foe would reveal herself soon so she could have a face to match her target.
Meanwhile, the snake looked up in surprise. Sir Pentious was on the defensive until he caught the woman who had addressed him in his line of vision. Nifty caught the way he perked up instantly, bringing his guard fully down in a second. Delivering a kind and generous smile. Warming himself up to greet her properly. He slid forward at a relaxed speed. It was obvious to the cyclops demon that he had been trying to not seem too excited as he traveled.
Men can't hide anything, can they? She thought furiously. Bunch a good for nothings.
Nevertheless, she let go of her furry and sighed. Her desire to have that stronger than the desire to kill him for cheating on her. His only saving grace being that she didn't know the full situation yet. Not that she cared. She knew enough already.
"Oh my! Aby? Is that really you?"
Nifty felt her soul leave her body. One reason being because the man she had been watching had a posh English accent. To boot, it was trapped with a voice pitch that couldn't let her know if he had recently hit puberty or had just been stuck with a permanently cracked voice. The other was because of the name he spoke. Had she just caught Aby cheating on Alastor? Nifty instantly moved from her spot to get a closer look. Careful not to get to close since her bright pink hair would give her away if the light hit it just right. She had learned that one the hard way. And she was the kind of girl who only needed to learn once.
What a bad time to be without my camouflage scarf. She cursed as she recalled it being in the washer at the hotel. Getting back to the task at hand. Her thoughts forming rapidly, trying to prepare herself for whatever she thought she would find. I wonder if a life of promised celibacy was too much for her. But to think she would resort to such a thing. Unforgivable!
Just then, she saw it. Aby had speed walked up to the snake demon with her arms extended. The other had been taken aback but returned the gesture in kind. Careful not to do anything with his hands but pat her gently on the back, just below her shoulders. Aby's hug, on the other hand, was firm and reassuring. She never restrained herself when pressing herself against someone. Nifty felt her eye twitch violently. Once the two separated, he took her left hand in his right and granted her a kiss on the top before bowing and bringing it up high over his head. While his free hand rested on the mid-section of his back, the egg demons took the hand basket he held in it to allow him to use it freely. Aby giggled at the greeting but curtsied appropriately anyway in return. Once the ceremony was done, the conversation began.
"What in all of Hell are you doin' here?" Her voice was still covered in the southern bell accent.
"Oh, nothing my dear. Nothing at all. It's just-…", Sir Pent stopped as he brought his index finger to rest under his bottom lip. Nifty felt her heart patter at the cute gesture. Ignoring how it was in that grey area of manly and unmanly.
He continued, "…well you see- my side of town was out of yeast and I need it for a recipe I'm trying out."
"Oh, I see. That's too ba'ad. What are you tryin' out this time?"
She gave a quick wave to the smaller demons behind the one she spoke to. They seemed eager to greet back and they jumped up and down flaring their arms wildly. She giggled reaching into the pocket of her dress as she listened to the other one speak.
"Those red bean paste buns you brought over the last time you visited", he confessed. His finger moving up to nervously scratch at his temple.
"How wonderful! You should have t'old me", Aby stepped closer into Sir Pent's personal bubble. Her tone dropping as he eyes came to a half close. Looking at the snake through her lashes as she finished with, "I would have brought everythin' you nee'ded and taught you how t' do it. Just like I always do."
She straightened her right arm giving a quick flick of her wrist as she brought it forward. Giving an underhanded toss in the direction of the egg demons. Nifty saw the shimmer of what looked like plastic. That's when she saw it had been candy. Aby had given the smaller ones treats. Nifty felt her lips curl in a sceptic expression. Looking just in time to see the snake react.
Poor Sir Pent stiffened at the intrusion. He was tense enough to show it, but not enough to push her away. When Nifty caught his tail swinging back and forth on the ground, she figured this was some sick thing he was into. If her eye had ever stopped twitching, she didn't realize it. Instead, she felt it twitch at the sight that he was so happy by the way Aby was treating him. Apparently, she wasn't the only one, crossing the shopping area was Husk. He had been standing across the way waiting on Aby to finish saying hello to the assumed 'friend'. However, when he saw her going into teasing mode he came up and grabbed her by the forearm. Just above her wrist. Nifty was shocked to see he didn't yank her. He just overlapped his claws so not to scratch her and tugged lightly.
"Hm? Oh, yes. I do apologize Sir Pent. This is my trusty drinkin' buddy Husk'r."
Husk simply glared at the snake demon before turning his head to his left. Pretending to notice something better. But Nifty saw it. His tail swinging in agitation. He didn't like the situation unfolding. The other male seemed to pick up on it too. Addressing the alcoholic next.
"The pleasure is mine, I assure you. Aby has been a gracious friend to me over the past few weeks."
"I had no idea you were the same creature I met that first night officially in Hell. I'm so relieved you healed up okay", Aby chimed. Genuine in her pleasure to the snake's condition.
If Husk was trying to make it appear as though he didn't care for the attempt to sooth his suspicions, he was failing. Just like Aby was failing at noticing the two men having a silent conversation in her presence. Nifty watched Husk's face. Against her better judgement, she felt a bit sorry for Husk. He always protected Aby and her, but Nifty couldn't help but wonder what something like this felt like. To be unable to protect someone from themselves. Or to speak up about something that was killing you sooo slowly. At the same time, she envied him. She could see the feeling of being content on his face. The very one making him grateful to be near Aby. Even now. They were lucky. Both of them.
"Think nothing of it. I'm just relieved you would allow me to pay for your potions with my body", Sir Pent closed his eyes, lowering his head so the embarrassment in his voice was muffled slightly.
When Husk gave Aby a look that told her he wanted an explanation yesterday, she obliged. Her voice going back to her regularly used accent in the process. Husk and Sir Pent noticed the change but neither seemed to react to it.
"I absolutely adore snakes. The coolness of their bodies and the way their muscles contract when they move feel wonderful to relieve stress. It's just like a massage. Plus, their so calm and love being warm. So, my high body temperature is perfect to make them feel at ease. So, Sir Pent and I made a deal. I give him healing potions regularly and to pay for my product he binds his body around mine and grants me exquisite company. Mostly tea parties."
Husk still remained silent. Only arching an eyebrow at the explanation. Aby smiled warmly. Speaking again, "It's a guilty pleasure of mine. And fun fact: My brother is rumored to be associated with snakes by the humans but it's actually me that has the connection. The more you know!"
"What about Lady Lillith?" Husk finally spoke.
Referring to the legends of her shared powers with serpents. Though the royal family rarely showed their powers most demons chose to believe the lore. Though it seemed Husk wanted to confirm it since Aby seemed to be in an educating mood. Nifty couldn't begin to fathom the reason behind it.
To think this was the first thing that would leave his mouth during a conversation like this. Nifty thought. Worry was starting to flood the gates of her sympathetic heart. She wasn't sure how much longer she could watch. The tension rose too fast to react once the Hell queen's name was dropped.
"That's something I don't give a shit about. And neither should you", Aby stated with the same tone she had been previously using. The underlaying message made more than clear. Nifty was shocked. Aby despised Lilith. Everybody knew that.
But she wasn't the type to pit people against others. It was like she was daring Husk to press the issue. Or to even try picking a side that wasn't hers. Husk didn't seem to mind it though. He just shrugged and tapped the claw of his index finger against Aby's hand. He let go after what felt like hours and leisurely walked back to the cart. Satisfied with how things were. Once he was in a position to start pushing it, he slowly turned his head to look at Aby. Her smile had dropped by this point. She was just keeping her eyes on him with a blank expression. She sighed heavily and turned back to Sir Pent. He stiffened again now that the fallen had shown him a weak, but exhausted, smile.
"I'll be coming to you soon. Please wait for me", she asked. Like a woman wishing her husband off to war. Nifty's eye widened in realization.
No. She corrected. It was like a queen wishing her servant to die. But not before bowing at her feet first. Worshipping her as thought nothing else mattered. Not even his own life. Who the hell is this bitch?!
Nifty had never seen this side of Aby. And she dreaded to think what it meant that she was showing it off so carelessly in public. And to men who weren't Alastor. Did he know she could be like this? Was he in danger because of it? Nifty felt sick. She had had so much respect for both members of the couple up until now. But now, she felt her stomach ached when she saw the look in Aby's eyes. Like she couldn't bare to be away from Sir Pent. But she also couldn't stand being away from Husk. However, by the feel of things, it seemed Husk held more rank. Which was probably why she was telling him this order. Because at the end of the day- that's what it was. Nifty understood that now. Aby didn't ask.
"One more thing before we part ways", Aby stated as though she just remembered something. The liveliness returning to her voice. "I forgot to introduce someone else."
Aby brought her left hand to the side of her mouth to aid in projecting her voice. She called out, "Oh, Nifty! Come down here now! I want you to meet someone! You'll like him! I promise!"
Nifty felt a spark of what she knew to be the desire to flee. But that wouldn't stop Aby. Nifty Knew from watching Angel that if she tried to escape, Aby would just find her. She had thought it was cute watching Angel go threw it. Now she was terrified. Not wanting to make Aby repeat herself, she jumped straight onto the ground below.
"Hi, I'm Nifty!" She greeted him the same way she had the other hotel staff members on day one. Waving her hand just as eagerly as she had on that day.
"My coworker slash friend here has had her eye on you for a hot minute not it seems", Aby informed the snake. "How about it? Wanna show her a good time?"
Nifty blushed at Aby's introduction. Resting her face on top of her hands as she swung her hips shyly. "Now Aby- stooooop. You shouldn't put him on the spot like that", Nifty played along.
If the snake was a friend of hers, then there was no way in hell either of them would even think to cross the other's boundaries. Aby was just testing the water. It pissed Nifty off. But friends were like that sometimes. So, she was willing to forgive her. Besides, Nifty had been given so much inspiration for her next short story. It was something the book club did for shits and giggles. Everyone would write a short story and post it to the original tab on the group's webpage. Though Aby always uploaded Nifty's stories for her since she had more trouble figuring it out. But Nifty didn't have the luxury to think of the full thing before Sir Pentious spoke to her.
"Oh, well- I'm honored. Truly. I've never been courted by anyone before coming to Hell. That being said- I'm afraid I must decline", his voice become braver as he spoke. He also straightened his posture upon finding his wording. "No insssult to you oh lovely sssiren. It's jussst- I'm afraid…I have… feelingsss…for ssssssomeone…elsssse."
Nifty blinked a couple times. She had lost interest in him ages ago. But a lady was never rude upon rejection. Instead she exclaimed, "I'm so happy for you!"
Nifty tapped her hand against the smooth underbelly of the snake demon. Careful to avoid the eyeballs that looked back at her. Doing so in the same way mothers patted their son's head when they admitted to smashing the neighbor's window with a baseball on accident. She then dashed over to Husk's side to examine the meat stock they had gathered. Seeing some of the items had been wrong, she jerked the cart back into the previous section to correct the mistake. Inevitably taking Husk with her. Aby and Sir Pent watched as the fallen giggled.
Sir Pent rubbed the back of his neck. Hoping things wouldn't be awkward. Aby placed her hand on his cheek as she encouraged him to raise his chin. He immediately perked up to his full confidence. Aby left with parting words to be wary of his surroundings. When he seemed confused, she told him he had almost been devoured by the most dangerous predator. A woman. Ending up on the receiving end by accident. Even after that, he had no idea what she was talking about. Deciding he would discuss it further in the future instead. He went on his way to thank the lovely angel girl who had healed him so many times after his battles. Feeling flattered and flustered as he went. Not knowing, that for a single moment, Nifty had thought of him as a play toy. Or about Aby's true intentions for that matter.
Aby had intervened trying to keep him from getting hurt as she was aware Nifty had a stabbing complex. Discovered thanks to some advice she had gained from Husk. Even more grateful that the encounter had revealed Nifty's own position. She had not realized Aby had been keeping tabs on her. Or that Aby had worked to stop Nifty from going into berserker mode. Helping Sir Pentious in the process.
But at what cost? She pondered. Watching for the bright bits of pink that blurred across her line of sight.
*#*
The room was at the perfect temperature. The goat boys laid in their cushiony beds as they waited on standby. When nothing happened after a couple more hours of napping, they started their day. Waking up in Charlie's room, shaking themselves fully conscious. Picking up the list Aby had left them. Pinned to the cork board their master had hanging near her writing desk like it always was. Each one took a turn reading the instructions and favors the fallen royal had scribbled in her tomboyish, doctor handwriting. Taking a quick second to laugh with each other at how it differed so much from their master's own feminine handwriting. Yet the little things that made it similar made it too cute to ignore. Like the way they would use a slanted line to crossed their T's or the mixed use of cursive loops on the simple letters like Y or L.
The rest of the day was spent going down each task which were all short, sweet and simple. Pick up this item. Exchange these items. Purchase these so you can combine them. Don't talk to certain sellers. And it went on and on like so. After about three hours of running around Hell, they made it to the last three tasks. One of which included going to IMP to get the supplies Aby had requested from the CEO. The two goat boys eyed each other mischievously. Especially when realizing the other two tasks also involve IMP. One was making sure the secretary got her homemade treats while one of the other staff members was given the custom-made guitar strings he wanted.
Without hesitating they swooped up the things Aby had left for them to deliver and went on their way. Flying with a much-needed boost of energy after all the things they managed to get done. They always enjoyed going to IMP in Aby's place. It was never a dull moment there. Sometimes, they even got free visual advice on what NOT to do when starting up a business. Though they rarely needed the tips, some came in handy for their master, so they were happy Aby was letting them help. Even more so when they were rewarded multiple times with things like snacks or rare gifts to give Charlie. Who was also happy Aby had been relying on them. It was really motivating.
The flight was the same as it always was when the boys were flying fast; short. Dazzle and Razzle watched as chaos ensued at the company they were set on visiting. Watching the scene before them unfold from their perch near the open window they regularly flew in threw. Their heads moving to follow the figures about the room. Smiling widely in both eagerness and amusement.
Mainly because Blitzo brought another human back to Hell. One who wasn't going without a fight by the looks of it. Each staff member was running, ducking, screaming, throwing things and high fiving the human every time they passed him. The chaos stoped as the human called out, "Cut!"
The imps and hellhound looked at the human with expecting eyes. The human started taking notes. Pulling out a pocket watch before placing it back in his pocket after a glance. The human spotted the two goat boys, and instantly starting fawning over them. He jumped in a giddy, fangirlish way before hovering his hands around their personal space. Testing the limits of the two before touching them. They both thought it was weird but let him do it anyway. It only made him even more excited. His hands were large but gentle. They had rough callouses on them, but his hands were well taken care of. Evident by the manicure he had recently had. This told them he was used to using his hands a lot. So, he was a very direct person. They decided that made sense.
Taking his time, the man examined their wings, ran his fingers over their horns, and combed their fur. He wasted no time in going over every part of their body. At one point, checking to see what gender the two were. Thankfully satisfied when he saw the two lumps buried under the fur. So, no touching was necessary. Despite this minor inconvenience, he was very polite. As a result, the boys didn't take it too hard. It sort of reminded them of Aby when she first got to examine them. She had also been eager to touch them and use all her senses when building a relationship with them. It was also something they appreciated. It let them know if the one in front of them was an asshole or not. They could feel the other's heartbeat, their body heat rising or falling and even determine how much control over their strength they had.
Upon meeting them, Aby had been soft touched but was stiff in her movements. This meant she had been nervous about frightening the boys as well as petting them too harshly. It would take a few attempts before they would finally get her to realize what spots they liked for her to touch and how roughly she was allowed to touch them. Once that was established, Aby was much more relaxed. Though her heartbeat didn't slow down. The boys could never figure out why. And they didn't ask. She looked happy. Meaning it must have been a good thing. Right?
Back to the present situation, the boys were patient as they continued to examine the male human back. Listening to him speak. The human was talking mainly to himself but was never rude or harsh when describing them out loud. Just when the boys were about to ask, he introduced himself as Guillermo Her Torus. A famous director, producer, and method actor who also did sculptures on the side. He reached into his pocket with one hand. Once exposed enough to make out the scent, the boys knew instantly that it was food.
The goat boys tackled him, stealing additional snacks from his pocket oonce they were done with the ones in his hand. The man made a joke saying they can have as many as they want as long as they give him a hand. The pun went unreceived by the two as he wiggled his fingers. He eventually brought the same hand up, using his finger to rub at his chin. Remaining on the floor. He tilted his head while still in the wacky position. The two goat boys were more than a little interesting to him. So much so, he asked, "What can you do, little ones?"
Razzle and Dazzle exchanged blank looks. Coming to the same idea at once, their faces quickly changed into a more eager one. They then turned to Moxxie. Who was now sitting in a chair. He flinched when his eyes met those of the boys. They quickly handed the bag of treats to Luna, who didn't look up from her phone. After that they grabbed the strings that were hidden in Razzle's coat and together, they circled Moxxie's head. He had flinched a little more. Batting his tail to keep the two weirdos from getting to close to him. Alternating looks between the two, waiting for something to happen. Millie, his wife, just clapped her hands and she swayed side to side in befuddled amusement. Excited to see what they would do next. Moxxie shook his head at his beloved. Silently pleading with her to stop encouraging the rascals.
When he was about to speak the boys finally dropped the strings on the large meeting table. Blitzo and Millie both placed their hands on the table as they leaned in to see what the good goats had dropped. Moxxie smiled as he waved it in front of Millie's face. She beamed a cheery expression and rushed to get a bag from the nearby closet. It took a minute, but eventually everything was set up. Once he was satisfied with the layout, Moxxie used his thumb to point at the stuff beside him. Gesturing to the boys that the playground was officially open.
They formed a basic plan with one another quickly. Glad to have had so much rehearsal time with their master. Signaling the multi-talented human to watch them when they were ready to begin. His only response was, "I can't wait to tell Tom about this." His notepad at the ready.
The day ended with them playing instruments to their hearts content. Showing off the different number of genres they could play. Moxxie backing them on vocals and guitar later on. Blitzo getting half naked, Millie sharpening her favorite throwing knife set to the beat and Luna recording it for her social media accounts. Letting out a loud howl at the end of it all.
*#*
Husk stretched his arms out in front of him. Feeling his muscles respond to the physical act the cat demon preformed. A loud, long yawn escaped his mouth. His tongue curling out and up to bask in the air. Huck smacked his mouth a few times to taste the lingering booze in the back of his throat. Granting himself a drink to satisfy the craving. Teasing himself by swishing the liquid around on his tongue to keep the taste a little longer. Glancing about the area after swallowing it. He couldn't believe it, but he was actually pretty glad. His heat had finally past. Allowing him to return to his normal duties after a couple more days of rest. Not long after he got back, he discovered Aby had kept his stockpiled booze left high and proud for him. Waiting for him to drink upon his return.
I don't deserve her. He joked at the sight. Knowing instantly that it had been her doing.
A mild shiver running down his spine when Angel blew him a kiss on his way out the door. Partly putting a sour aftertaste to his mood. Especially once he got a good look at the spider's attire. Given the way he was dressed, Husk knew he was meeting up with Aby. Rolling his eyes, he flipped the unashamed slut the bird while taking a larger gulp of alcohol. Trying harder to drown himself into numbness. Once the coast was clear, Husk bent down. Going through the cabinets to see if any of his belongings had been messed with. Happy to see it untouched. Protected no doubt, again, by Aby. That was the thought that made the old fool's whiskers twitch. Thinking bac to the demon he just saw against his better judgement.
Angel had never tried to come back to Husk's room after that first day of his cycle. Neither did Aby. It was a tad foggy, but Husk could have sworn it was Razzle and Dazzle that made sure he ate. But somewhere, in the farthest depts of his memory, he recalled the sound of voices. The two goat familiars only ever sang. They weren't big for words. So that- left a lingering suspicion in his mind. He distinctly recalled the color red. Who else could it have been? No way in fuck it was Alastor. Husk was more than certain of that.
Never a good sign.
He finished his stock notes quick before returning back to the bar stool he usually sat at. The boredom eating at him in a matter of minutes. Husk was always full of energy the first week when he got through a heat cycle. It was dreadful. At least, for him. To make do with things, he started to run through the programs Charlie had assigned him to review. Pinching the left corner of his mouth in a type of sideways frown. He understood why she asked him to do it. That didn't make him like doing it. The only redeeming perk being that he would get to turn them over to Aby to add to the Hotel's website and social media advertisement pages. That would give him the chance to check up on her. Though he was positive she hadn't been doing it on purpose, Aby seemed to be distant from him lately. Even if she still took care of him the way she always had.
From adding certain soaps to his bathroom that would help with his grooming. To keeping Angel occupied so he didn't sexually harass him every minute of every day. Oh yes, Aby was still looking out. But Husk felt there was no point if he didn't get to spoiler her back from time to time. He felt a tightness in his chest when he thought to how he had yet to play the sax for her like he originally promised. Angerly, he tapped his claws against the counter. Eventually reaching down under the bar away from prying eyes. Running the claws on one hand under the counter along a scratching board Aby had screwed to the walls. Once he caught on to the newly formed habit, he only hissed in further annoyance. Banging his fist on the bar.
His foul mood formed more towards himself and his moments of weakness. Just one after another. The hits kept coming. First when he went into heat and rubbed himself all over her. Unable to keep himself from becoming aroused by everything that made her up. And then later at the grocery store. When he wasn't able to talk with her properly while they had been out shopping with Nifty the other day. He had managed to make the excuse that he wanted to talk with her. However, when push came to shove, he was just as big a coward as he had always been. Aby wasn't to type to push him if he couldn't talk despite wanting to. And that only seemed to make the issue harder for him somehow. Which was probably why he couldn't let it go now.
If this was just the first time since joining the staff, He kept thinking out of frustration, Then what the fuck am I supposed to do when the next one comes. Or the one after that. I can't hold back forever. And Aby shouldn't have to put up with my stupid ass just- because.
The worry began to cloud his mind. Husk didn't want to think about what he may do or how Aby would react. Mainly due to the knowledge that, when all was said and done, Aby would probably still care about Husk that same way she always had. The same way she always would. Thinking of no other excuse, Husk did what he figured would work. Closing one proposal folder once he was done looking at it and deeming it stupid. Placing a sticky note in the folder. Later, when she read it, the fallen would see its contents. A request to have Aby replenish his booze supply on the next shopping trip. Husk pinched the bridge of his nose, slumping his body in on itself as he sighed deeply.
Just then, he caught a tall, red figure shifting out the corner of his eye. The rhythmic tapping of men's dress shoes hitting the hard floor. The light swishing of a long piece of fabric flowing on the wind. Alastor approached, laying a stack of paperwork on the bar counter. Husk didn't look up from hi hand. He just gritted his teeth. Trying not to bare his fangs at the mother fucker who was just as much to blame for all this from the beginning. Unfortunately, Alastor didn't seem to care. In fact, he seemed thrilled.
"Ah, Husker! My dear friend. I'm so relieved you're back to your old self", the radio effect drowned voice called while moving across the lobby.
Husk felt himself flinch before sitting up to greet the other demon when the sounds were too close for comfort. Not offering any type of response otherwise. Alastor didn't seem phased by the actions since his focus didn't waiver.
Instead, Alastor only took the opportunity to continue. Aiming for a low hit in the process as he stated, "I trust taking my lover into your hormone induced embrace was of some help to you."
It wasn't a question. Alastor spoke the words no differently. His tone. His word choice. It all suggested he was his normal self. Yet, Husk still refused to respond. Choosing to look down at the stack of papers. He reached to take them up in his hands. Eyeing the Radio Demon, who in turn tilted his head with a toothy grin and a dead-eyed stare. The bar keeper wasted no effort in taking a swig from his main bottle. Once his courage was up to par, he went about organizing them. Flipping through them, looking at his 'boss' through his lashes. His sideways frown moving from one side to the other. His wings tucked in tight behind his back.
"You know what to do." Alastor claimed walking away without another word.
Husk noticed there seemed to be more swing in Alastor's hips. He hadn't seen it before. But he didn't like it. He didn't like it one damn bit. Reaching under the counter, he let his hand feel for the old photo he kept tapped there in a dark space unknown to all but him. Far from anyone's prying hands was the only thing that could ease him besides a bottle. He didn't look at the photo though. He had memorized it long ago. He tsked loudly before roughly slashing the scratch post and bringing his hand back up on the counter. Squeezing the very bottle that provided the necessary company. Taking another glance at the papers, Husk gave a heavy sigh.
"Oh Doll," he whispered almost inaudibly to prying ears, "I don't know what I'm doing anymore…"
*#*
"Hey, A.D."
Angel was sipping his drink through a bendy straw as he sat on the bench watching the fish swim by. Aby holding the ripped halves of the tickets she had bought. Allowing the duo to go to the aquarium again. A regular thing between them by this point in their relationship. Aby needing to make sure that her pink furred friend was aware to clear his day. After letting Angel know she wanted to take him out, he made the choice to tag along on the grounds that she also treat him to a smoothie from a new bar in town. Since he rarely got to go with her due to his hectic work schedule. One of which she wasn't keeping tabs on since it was a touch tamer with Val keeping his distance. For the moment.
At first, he thought this 'date' was going to be how Aby paid for the services he provided Husk the other day. Alas- she still tried to give him her usual rates. In the end, Angel decided- since they just made up after a huge fight- to give her a discount. One she reluctantly accepted. Now here he was. Finishing off a cheap slushed out drink. He and Aby recovering on a bench since they both agreed to spend the day here. Wondering like nothing else matter in the whole damn world. It was bliss. Until Aby said those damn words he hated sooo fucking much.
"I want to talk", Aby confessed sternly. A small part of her voice holding some rejection. Most likely due to his earlier attempt to ignore her. He already new based on how she said his initials.
Setting his drink on the floor, he chuckled dryly. Angel then pulled out his phone. Taking numerous photos so he could send Molly and Cherri later. Even coming to give Aby a side hug for a couple selfies at one point. She gave him her full participation. The duo held up peace signs, took turns kissing the other's cheek, and grabbing their chests. Puffing them out to be flirty and slutty. Angel at one-point grabbing Aby's breast from behind. She blushed as her hands flew up in a surrender pose. It was such a cute pic. Angel decided he'd keep it since he didn't get to do it too often. Not because she minded, but because he didn't want to give her a heart attack. Or worse- get her so used to the touches that she stopped her adorable reactions altogether. Once he was done with her, she continued.
"About everything."
"Ah-huh", was his only reply.
Using his fast typing hand to post some of the photos on his social media. He knew the mood wasn't changing based on Aby's tone being the same from before.
Disappointing. He concluded.
He hated these conversations. He hated it even more that he fell right into her trap by taking her up on the invite to the water paradise. Admittedly, he did want to hear her out. But that didn't make it easier for him to deal with the situation. Mainly since he wasn't sure their friendship could take another argument so soon. Angel thought if he could play the part, she would give up and try again another time. He would have preferred if she tried again never but that may have been asking too much. Aby needed to confirm she was on the same page and always aware of the other's feelings. He was grateful for the affection. Just not used to it himself. It made him uneasy. Vulnerable.
"Angel, enough!" Aby stated sternly. Snatching his phone from his hand.
"Hey!" He reached trying to take it back. Too late to succeed since she had stuffed it into her bra, tucking it under her left breast.
He eyed her with a childish pout on his face. Speaking up first.
"That won't stop me", he challenged.
"Maybe not. But it will most certainly delay you long enough for me to say what I want to say."
Angel leaned back to rest his body against the cold wall. Looking straight ahead. Blankly staring into the tank. Sighing heavily, he crossed both sets of arms. Side glancing her to let her know he was listening. He just didn't feel like getting his wrist twisted and his face slammed in the glass today. And starting a physical altercation with the fallen would definitely result in him getting his ass kicked. Not only that, but he also knew he had to at least try to be a better friend to Aby. Molly had told him it would work better in his favor. Constantly…
"A.D.", Aby started, "I just wanted to clear the air."
She waited for Angel to protest or argue. Relieved when he never did. Instead, his expression softened. She could see he was beginning to wonder where she was going with this. She looked forward in attempt to see where he was looking. Taking the time to watch the fish she had come to associate with the time she spent with Angel. It would be a happier memory for her than most. Which was why she wanted to have this discussion. Here and now.
"Remember when you got drugged by Val? Well, I want you to know that it still bothers me. Taking you that way, I mean."
Angel sat up fast. His lower hands coming to rest on the bench. He was about to speak up when Aby kept going with the topic. Trying to tidy up her part so she could hear Angel out and hopefully move on. Knowing they could only do so once he knew the whole side of her story. A difficult task. But not impossible.
"I know you say it was a 'turn on' for you. But it doesn't take away the guilt I feel. Which is why I want to know… why you were sooo certain you could ask something like that of me."
Angel was speechless for a moment. His gulped as he thought fast to form the right words. He had suspected Aby of not getting over it. But he hadn't made the effort to confirm it. So, how did he forget to account for her bringing it up? Much less- her wanting to get around to asking such a strange question. It was just like her. She always had to know each and every little thing. Was it a woman thing? Is that why? Angel clacked his heel against the ground a couple times. Suddenly wanting to get up and walk away. But his brain told him it would be a mistake. That there was more to the question she was asking. He had to look deeper. And that was a pain in the ass!
Who am I kidding? He thought. It wasn't even a question.
He thought hard how to turn it around. To avoid it. He had to. He didn't want to think about it. Not because he didn't give her his consent that day. More like because that meant he had to explain why when, in the end, it never came down to the money. With Aby, it was never about the money. Just a handicap for them both to abide by. So that they could blame it on something when things went south. Which Angel hadn't expected not to happen. Much less this late in the game. It was also one of the reasons it had backfired when the incident with Arakniss went down. Even now, he was avoiding eye contact with her at all costs. Instead, looking at the tanks ahead.
Aby seemed to sense his hesitation. She glanced from the side of her eyes, not moving her head from looking forward. Seeing the expression on his face. How he brought up his upper set of arms to move through the air. She made a cheesy, minor racist joke in her mind about how it must suck to be Italian because your hands always moved when you communicated. Thinking she hadn't been concise in her phrasing, she tried again. She owed him that much.
"Just tell me this…if it were to happen…again…would you ask it of me…again?"
Angel froze. He didn't have to think about the answer. But he did have to think on how to tell her the answer. Ultimately coming to the conclusion that if he didn't say it now, it would just hurt Aby more. The first thing coming to his mind to persuade him was her tear stained face that night. Until now, he had almost completely forgot what seeing that face did to him. Rarely seeing that face made it easier for him to forget. Angel gave a deep, somewhat tired, sigh.
Simply stating, "Yes".
"Why", she asked right away. The tone in her voice was-hurt? Regret? Angel didn't know anymore. Causing his voice to slip.
"I don't know", he rubbed at the back of his head while he explained. "Because I know you wouldn't hurt me? That you wouldn't take advantage by being some sick pervert that would try to make me feel ashamed after!? And also, because I know that no matta what may happen between us, I can-. I can-."
"Trust me?"
Angel paused. Brining his arms down. He gripped his biceps on both sets of arms. Leaning back once again. Something was off. While Aby was the sort of gal to be thrilled to be shown such a vulnerable thing by Angel, she didn't seem happy now. He could hear it in her voice. Though he didn't dare to look at her, he felt a concern rise up in him. Aby seemed…scarred. He hadn't known this tension before this moment. Maybe that's why his shoulders jolted when he heard her speak again.
"That's not enough for me, Angel."
That was it. That was all the confirmation he needed to understand this was more than a conversation. Angel felt cornered. How was he supposed to feel? What did she want to hear to put her at ease? What could he do? Nothing was going the way it was meant to. Had they been the way Angel was used to, Aby would have either done a hit and quit or would have just taken Val's place. But she did neither! She took him seriously. She fought to keep him safe. And she cursed him for making her out to be the heavy when he didn't give a shit enough to try to be a less shitty person. Out of ideas, he spoke up again. The emotion rising rapidly in his voice. Every thought was let go into the air and he had no strength or control to stop it.
"Look. Nothing I can say will change how I feel. Don't tell me it's not enough, cuz you have done nothin' to deserve calling yourself a rapist! Especially over me!" Angel gathered the strength to let go of himself. Not noticing how hard he had been clenching until after his arms regained circulation.
"What happened that night was by my own doin'! I knew what Val was pullin' and I didn't stop it! Even the next night, I was still willin' to open my fuckin' mouth! And you came to take me back both times! You crazy bitch! Why are you bein' like this!?" Angel looked at Aby.
She was now starring at the ground. Her face a disturbing level of depressed. She looked as though someone took her favorite stuffed animal and ripped it apart right in front of her and told her to deal with it. Angel gave a small nip at his lip. Glancing off to one side briefly. His eyes were beginning to sting but his vision was clear. What was happening right now? Eventually some force was pulling him back. Making him look at her. Telling him to keep talking. It got him this far.
Continuing where he left off when his eyes came back to look as Aby he started with, "Very few people are willing to put up with my shit. And even less are willing to beat themselves up over something so trivial as if they did something to me that I didn't want. If I say I trust you, it's because you earned it dame. I ain't keepin' anyone around who isn't worth my time. Much less, waiting around for someone who can't go out of their way to prove to me what a better person I can be without really asking me to change too much."
He looked at aby. Her face hadn't really changed. But then he said something. He said, "It's kinda nice actually. Having someone say they like you the way you are most days."
He was even shocked to hear the last words fall from his lips. That was it. That was the feeling he had from the moment he met her. That weird little something that made him put up with all the lectures and all the smacks upside the head. He scoffed at his amazing realization. Not sure what else he could do to add to his point, Angel poked at Aby's cheek. She puffed air up into them. Making her face look like a blow fish. Angel busted out into laughter. He loved it when Aby became so immature while being bashful. He wiped away a tear from the corner of his eye.
When did that get there?
He watched her face. She went back to a less saddened expression, but it didn't completely go away. He exhaled a deep breath. Moving so he could sit with his back leaning on her. Aby shifted when she felt him press against her. Making it so her back was doing the same. She thought for a long time about what he had said. Processing it. Not wanting to believe a word. But also, not wanting it to be a lie. Her heart telling her- that she really didn't want it to be a lie.
"If that's the case, then how about a deal", she said nonchalantly. Angel waited patiently for her to make her offer.
"If you tell me a secret, I'll tell you one of mine. But it has to be a real secret."
"Why do you say that as if you have more than one?"
He got up, turning his torso so he could get a better look at her. Aby tried not to make a missionary with a twist joke. Mainly because none of them were clever enough. Aby gave a side smile to the porn star. Looking over her shoulder to meet his gaze. He blew a puff of air from his mouth. Angling it so it blew up into his hair.
"You're gonna sing ain't cha?" Angel was starting to grow more sarcastic. His tone increasingly snarkier. Aby figured that meant he was paying attention now. Getting up off the bench, she strolled to the rhythm of the song. Making her way over to the tank as she sang.
"I have often dreamed of a far-off place. Where a hero's welcome would be waiting for me."
"You don't say?"
"Where the crowds would cheer when they see my face. And a voice keeps saying 'This is where I'm meant to beeeee.'"
"Do you even hear yourself right now, babe?"
"I'll be there somedaaay. I can go the distance. I will find my waaaay. If I can be strong."
"In what sense of the word?"
"I know every miiile, would be worth my whiiile. When I go the distance, I'll be right where I belooong."
By this point, Aby was standing with her back to the tank. The blue waters, reflecting a stunning shade of blue nicely off the fallen angel. The light dancing along her form. She smiled at the ground. Her hands pressed against the glass at the small of her back. Her feet angled in as her heeled shoes let her stand on the balls of her feet. Angel looked at her. Moving his hands up with the index fingers straight up and his thumbs paralleled to the ground. If he had his phone, it would make a great picture. Aby looked straight at him suddenly, feeling his eyes on her. When she saw his current pose, she reached into her bra. Pulling out his phone, she gave a quick signal that she would toss it over. Angel kept his top hands the same but extended his lower hands. Telling her where to aim. Aby's toss was under handed. Careful not to throw it too hard or too short a distance. Angel caught it with ease. Unlocking his phone. Aby wasn't sure what he wanted, so she stayed the way she had been. He snapped a picture before telling her the next pose to try.
"Look up to your left. Picture Alastor in the water."
"Why", she asked in both shock and confusion. A light blush tinting her cheeks.
"Just look at the water as if you would find your lover there. Trust me."
She did as she was told. A small, but cute, smile brushing on her lips. The tint of red now being kissed by the charming blue of the water. Angel continued to tell her different ways to pose. Instructing her where to put her hands and how to arrange her neck. Aby didn't have much trouble following since she had done photoshoots in the past. Occasionally posing how she wanted. Angel liking her creativity and snapping more photos. Thinking hard after they had done a couple different takes, he knew the ones he really wanted. He just had to decide what he was going to do with them. Then he thought up one more.
"Face the tank at an angle. Lean forward. Like you're flirting. Place your hands on your hips. Swish out your dress and smile."
Aby did as she was told. Not seeing the school of angel fish behind her. Just before he took the shot, Angel told her his secret.
"Back when I was alive, my real name…was Anthony."
Angel took the photo right when Aby was turning her head to look back at him. The smile was just a hair away from dropping. Her own long dark hair flying back behind her. Angel smiled.
That's the one. He thought to himself as he smiled contently. If there ever comes a day when we can't be like we are right now. That's the perfect one… To remember her by.