A/N:

Hi everyone! It's finally time for the big news special to start — prepare for lots of surprises and drama :33 Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoy!

Partners

Chapter 87:

No News is Good News: Part 1

Charlie woke up early on a very particular morning and just laid in bed, staring at the ceiling. She heard the sounds of Razzle and Dazzle snoring in the corner and Vaggie lightly breathing beside her. She tried to feel calm and grounded and balanced. But her fingers clenched the blankets and her heart raced in her chest and her dark eyes just stared widely at the ceiling.

This evening the big news broadcast was supposed to happen. And she was scared.

She had already confirmed again with Vaggie that she didn't want anyone else here to know about it. The idea of all the others watching alongside her tonight, waiting for the ball to drop, would be too much. No, she and Vaggie would watch alone, they would absorb the impact alone, and then — if the News Special really was meant to hurt their happy hotel — Charlie would calmly call everyone together to explain what had happened and what their next move would be. Because she was certain a plan for how to fix things would come to her once the full extent of the situation was known and the worst of it was past.

Everything would be okay. This place would be okay. And her parents…maybe they wouldn't help her…but at least they'd probably just leave her in peace to clean up the pr mess. And if they… actually did know about the news special already, then they probably wouldn't even be mad since nothing that aired would be a surprise — but she hoped they didn't know, she wanted to believe her relationship with them hadn't yet deteriorated so very much.

Assuming they didn't know (the really, really couldn't…right?), once they found out about whatever happened today, if it really ended up being bad for the hotel, she honestly didn't care if they ended up (even more) disappointed in her. She had accepted not too long after signing up her first guest that she would never going to be enough for them; the realization hurt, but she could heal. All that mattered now was protecting her hotel family…and her citizens…and her girlfriend…and herself too (which she was getting better at doing these days).

Charlie took a deep breath in and out.

The sound must have woken up Vaggie who turned over in bed, opening an eye. "Charlie?" She whispered. "You okay?"

Charlie nodded. "Yeah. I'm good." She smiled, and it was almost genuine.

Vaggie moved closer and held her hand. "Do you want to get some breakfast? Or are you still tired?"

Charlie squeezed her hand. "Let's get some breakfast. And then start on our usual chores and everything around here. Just like a normal day."

Vaggie nodded, looked like she wanted to say something more, but then just kissed Charlie on the cheek. "I'll get Razzle and Dazzle up. You just take your time." She got out of bed and went over to the goats.

Charlie tried to keep up her smile. Today was normal and everything would be fine. And nothing would take this place or these people or all the hope in hell away from her.

For the next couple of days, Angel spent a great deal of time either in bed or in the company of his brother and sister. Alastor, as he had mentioned to the spider, really did end up being a bit scarce. He was suddenly either locked away in his office or his room or randomly visiting the third floor…even when Baxter was out. The deer hadn't even slept beside him last night, though Alastor had checked in on him at least before bed.

Angel found that despite his initial relief at the idea of some time apart to think, he was missing Alastor's presence and full attention. Everyone else's care was great, but Alastor was comforting in a special way. And after all the trauma of confronting the mob and his father, Angel wanted that comfort as much as possible.

Still, he could manage and accept the deer's absence for this short time. After all, along with being his beau Alastor was still an overlord, so sometimes he was gonna be busy. And Angel was a…well, technically he guessed he didn't have a job right now — Val wasn't looking for him as far as he knew, and he had no plans to get near the moth again anyway. Yet he also missed the stage, the praise, the energy of arousing a room. Angel wasn't sure if he could get that back without Val. He needed to do something with his time though and make money somehow. He sighed — he'd figure out something out for himself soon work-wise once he was better, and then he'd have his own busy days just like Alastor was having a couple of busy days now. They'd find a balance with each other eventually, he was sure of it. And maybe by then Alastor would wake up each morning to greet Angel with an 'I love you' along with his usual smile and kiss.

Sitting up in bed this morning after shooting Cherri a text (he felt bad for not checking in with her lately and was missing her too now that he thought about it), Angel winced and pulled in his injured leg. His twisted ankle was practically all healed — just some stiffness but otherwise he could walk and get around well enough. Those angelic burns though…they'd go from nothing to feeling like fire randomly. Another problem he still had to sort out.

Angel sighed and stretched up in his cotton shorts and sweatshirt. Even though he was feeling better and could probably have gone outside and everything, he felt like sticking around the hotel and sticking to very comfortable clothes — he just didn't have the energy to doll himself up. He didn't want to just stay in bed though — he'd be bored out of his mind, especially without Alastor around. "Nuggs, come on, we'll go for a walk in the garden. Nuggs?" He glanced around in surprise. Angel had assumed Nuggets was resting in his little pig bed, but the bed was empty and the pig in question didn't seem to be around. He peeked his head under the bed. "Nuggets?" Nothing there either. He sat up, scratching his head.

Then he heard a scuffing sound, like Nuggets' hooves on a door. It was coming from the corner of the room where his door to Alastor's room was tucked away, but…from Alastor's side. Angel raised an eyebrow. "Nuggets, how'd ya get into Al's room? Did you sneak off to play with his shadow again?" He headed over and opened the door.

He blinked.

There sat Nuggets, wagging his little curly tail, a big red bow tie around his neck and a little black envelope attached to it. Written in bright red ink on the envelope was the word 'Anthony'. Angel blushed and felt his heart race as he picked up Nuggets in one hand and opened the envelope with two more. He pulled out a letter on crisp white paper.

'Anthony, dearest!

Would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner in my office this evening? I have some surprises for you! Of course, if you're at all under the weather and would rather postpone, I understand entirely, darling. But I do hope you're feeling up to saying yes. I'll be cooking our entire meal from scratch!

Yours, in hell, earth, or even heaven,

-Alastor

P.S. - To give me your answer, call for my shadow and share it with him.

À bientôt!'

Angel looked to Nuggets then back to the letter, unable to help a blush and a small smile. "Maybe dinner together would be good. We can talk a little more about some things. And who knows, maybe one of his surprises is that he loves me, heh." He cleared his throat then called out into the room. "Shadow Smiles?"

The shadow appeared with a flourish, beamed at the sight of Nuggets all dressed up, then looked to Angel eagerly.

"Uh, hey. You can tell Al that I'm up for dinner tonight."

The shadow clapped his hands, winked, gave Nuggets a pat on the head, then disappeared.

Angel sighed and set down Nuggets. "Come on, Nuggets, let's go play out in the garden." He headed to his door, the little pig following.

Of course when he stepped out into the hall the first thing he caught sight of was Molly and Husk standing in Molly's doorway, smiling with their foreheads pressed together.

"Lova ya, Husky."

"Love you too, Molly."

Angel swallowed a lump in his throat and felt a stabbing pain through his ankle. Maybe just feeling down in the dumps was the trigger for his angelic burn somehow. He had no idea what annoyance and depression could have to do with sin, but he was getting too tired to care.

Husk's ears swiveled around instantly at Angel's presence and he stepped back with a blush, trying to put on one of his aloof looks.

Molly just giggled at the sight of him then looked to her brother. "Look, Tony, Husky brought me a housewarming present!" She held out a potted geranium in pink and red.

"Yeah, well, ya know…" Husk started sheepishly. "I just thought of you when I saw it and figured it could brighten up the room and I'm actually getting a paycheck again these days. I know you said you didn't want anything, but I thought something small at least would be good. It ain't much though I know, so if you want I could always pick up something else—"

"It's perfect, gatito. Just like you. And I love it, just like I love you." Molly gave him a kiss on the cheek, effectively silencing Husk who just stood there with wide eyes and a blush.

Angel had to swallow back the throbbing pain in his leg…and just a bit of jealousy.

"Tony, how ya feelin'?" Molly set the plant down inside her room and turned to her brother, biting her lip as she watched him, probably about to accurately guess every spot that had pain because they knew each other too well after all these years.

"Uh, okay…" Angel straightened up and put on a smile. He didn't want to worry her about the burn. Besides, the flare ups always passed quickly. And anything else going on inside of him was a problem for himself and Alastor to fix. "I'm just gonna head down to the garden with Nuggets for a bit." He hesitated, looking down at Nuggets for am moment before glancing back up at the couple and turning his eyes to the cat demon who had finally come out of his shy stupor. "Hey, uh, Husk? Do you know anything about what Al's been up to the last couple days?"

Husk's ears stood up on end.

Molly glanced at Husk then tilted her head and grinned. "Husky… I did see ya talkin' to him at the bar the other night. I figured you two were just bein' friendly like ya are these days, but…is Alastor up to somethin'?"

Husk sighed and looked from one curious sibling to the other. "Nope, I'm not saying anything. Alastor's already had his cover blown twice this week with Baxter and Pen finding out he's dating Angel, I'm not spoiling anything else. Molly, your room's all fixed up except for that crack in the ceiling. I'm gonna go get the spackle then fly up there and patch it." And with those words he swiftly headed down the stairs.

Molly sighed, watching him go with a small smile. She looked to her brother again. "Ya think Al's got somethin' cookin'?"

Angel shrugged. "He sent me a big formal invite to dinner tonight, so…I guess, maybe? Just… I don't know." He rubbed the back of his head.

She frowned a little. "Tony, what's up? I know you and Alastor ain't been spendin' as much time together the last couple days. Is he…still upset about Baxter and Penny knowin' about his feelings? Or did you two have a fight?"

"No, no, he's really okay now about Baxter and Pen," Angel assured. "And we didn't have a fight, exactly… but, I don't know, maybe I want to? I mean, not a fight just a discussion." He looked down. "I think we're just out of sync about something. About the, uh… the 'love' thing. I know you told me how he protected me when I was out of it during the mob fight, and I feel loved when I'm with him, but somehow without the words, it just…doesn't feel real in the way I need right now. But then I feel selfish and frustrated for feeling like that. And I tried to talk to him about it, but he kind of put me off, but real sweet-like, so now I don't know what I want."

"Oh, Tony…" Molly gave him a little side hug. "However you're feeling is okay. Just promise me you'll both try talkin' it all through again. You two are good for each other, but only when you're honest all the way."

"I know. And I'll try." He smiled a little again. "Thanks, Molly."

She smiled. "Come on, I'll play with you and Nuggets out in the garden. Maybe we can sip iced coffees and chat in Italian for fun this time instead of cuz we're getting' all worked up with each other."

Angel laughed. "Yeah. At least this time we won't scare anyone. Maybe we'll bring Niss in on the phone, see when he'll finally bring all of his stuff down from the airship."

"And you'll keep takin' care of yourself and that leg, right?" she insisted with a worried glance, clearly aware that he had just been in pain.

Angel nodded, smiling a little. "Yeah, I will. Promised Niss too. It's really getting better. It just needs time. And stuff…"

She nodded, smiling a little more, and Angel already felt a lot better, inside and out.

The twins headed down the stairs side by side after Nuggets, already chatting away just as they had always been naturally inclined to do together even after all these years.

All morning, Velvet had been off terrorizing the staff at her bakeries and Vox had been off counting receipts at the studio, which gave Valentino plenty of extra time to practice walking around alone in Vox's penthouse again today. His body was still sore, but most of his cuts and bruises were fairly healed now — even the piano wire one over his neck — and he wasn't as tired anymore…or cranky (maybe partly because he was eating all the balanced meals Vox kept giving him including the vegetables…and because his temper had already caused enough trouble and he had decided to let his natural bitchiness cool off for a bit).

He'd been practicing walking with Vark at his side every chance he could get, including this precious morning alone, and now finally he could shuffle across the living room from the couch to the kitchen and back again with no support at all. The little shark barked and wagged his tail happily as Valentino grinned. "I've got my old swagger back. Heh…look at that." He turned and leaned against the couch, catching his breath. "I can get out of here soon." Vark looked up at him curiously, and Val had to blink and glance away. "Look, of course I'll miss ya, but Vox'll bring you by the studio. And I…can make up excuses to visit here or whatever. I don't know." He sighed. "It's hard to be around him. I feel…fuck, I can't say it out loud. It's bad enough Velvet knows." He shuddered a little at the memory of Velvet realizing his feelings. At least she had kept her promise so far and not said anything.

Vark licked his hand.

Valentino patted his head and took a deep breath, coming out of his momentary funk. "Look, uh…why don't we surprise your dad by cooking something ourselves? I mean…okay, look, I can't cook for shit. But we'll figure something out. And this'll show him that I really am better, and then he can show me the door. Then this emotional nightmare will finally be over." He scowled and shook his head as he slowly walked to the kitchen. Vark followed after him, making a little whining noise. Val turned back to him, his look softer. "Of course YOU'RE not part of the nightmare. You kept me sane! Now come on, I'll feed you whatever I ruin before I finally slap something decent together."

The little shark wagged his tail and dashed into the kitchen ahead of Valentino. The moth almost smiled.

Half an hour later there was quite a mess in the kitchen, but Valentino had thankfully relegated most of it to the pile of pans and utensils in the sink. Sitting on the counter was a large platter of some not-so-neat looking but ver-delicious-smelling grilled cheeses. "See, knew I could do it." Valentino smirked. Vark barked happily, agreeing with his moth friend.

Suddenly Valentino's eyes went wide behind his glasses as he heard the front door opening. "Fuck, he's back! Quick, we need drinks otherwise, it's not a meal!" He ripped open the fridge and settled on grabbing a six pack of cola before slamming it shut with his hip, grabbing the grilled cheese platter, and shuffling out into the living room with Vark just as Vox walked in.

"Val, Vark, I'm home!" The television paused, utterly perplexed at the sight before him of Valentino, not only standing on his own but also holding a platter of food and sodas in hand while a grinning Vark sat by his side. "Val, you're, uh…"

"Standing and strutting around like everyone's favorite bitch again, I know. I'm even cooking, see?" Valentino put the platter down on the coffee table in triumph.

Vox eyed the grilled cheeses in wonder. "You made this…for…"

"For me, for Vark, for Vel if she comes by…for you." Valentino tried so hard not to blush as he shrugged and put on his best 'too fucking important to care' face. "Just, ya know, proving to myself I could do it, and also paying you back for all the meals. No biggie." 'No biggie?' Ugh, he felt like a teenager trying painfully hard to sound like he didn't give a fuck when in point of fact he gave all the fucks.

Vox blinked a few more times…and then a small smile of pride came to his lips that made Valentino's heart race like the traitorous thing was going to rocket out of his chest. "Val, this is…maybe the nicest thing you've ever done for me. Thanks." "Oh ha-ha." Valentino sprinkled a little acid into his tone, but it was still weak sauce and he knew it. "Eat or don't — whatever."
Vox reached out then hesitated with a sheepish grin. "There's really no…catch here?"

Valentino scowled, his heart hurting a little at the question. "Hey — I might be a temperamental ass and a sexual predator like you said, but I'm not a dick. Take one or don't, I don't care. Vark already ate two that I burnt. And fuck it, I'm hungry so I'm gonna have one too." He snatched one off the plate, figuring a bite would prove to Vox he wasn't just messing with him. But before the sandwich could reach his mouth, Vox had already grabbed his own grilled cheese and swallowed a bite.

The TV wiped his face and smiled more. "Extra cheesy, extra greasy…and extra good. Definitely something made by you." Then he blinked and glanced at the sandwich in his hand — a thin red slice of something was peeking out through the cheese. "Tomato?"

Valentino shrugged. "Threw on a couple slices. Ya know — cuz vegetables are important, or whatever you've been on about."

Vox smiled a little more, and Valentino could barely take it. He was making the guy smile, and it felt like the biggest fucking turn on in the world.

Now the TV's eyes fell to the six pack of sodas, then he looked at Val again. "Drinks too, huh? Why don't we sit down, eat together? Vel should still be out for a bit."

"Good…" Valentino almost breathed a large sigh of relief but then just barely remembered to keep himself casual. "I mean, yeah we could do that, I guess."

Vox pulled up an armchair to the coffee table for himself while Val walked over and sat on the couch. Vark placed himself at the far end of the coffee table between both men.

The television opened a soda. "I'm really glad you're doing better. Vark's glad too."

"Yeah, well…he's been good to have around." Val looked down at his grilled cheese in his hands. "Hope you'll bring him by to visit me sometimes…since I'll be heading out soon."

Vox blinked and stopped eating for a moment. "Oh. You want to leave? Already? But you just started feeling better. Maybe you should—"

"I can take care of myself, that's what matters most. I'll manage." Valentino pouted, holding his grilled cheese a bit tightly.

Vox considered. "Will you at least let me continue to run the studio?"

Valentino huffed. "I can do it by my—"

"I know you can," Vox interrupted patiently. "But you don't need to, not right now. Take it slow. Please." He frowned. "It scared me when you were…hurt as badly as you were. I don't ever want to see you like that again."

Valentino swallowed, heart hammering again. "Okay. You run the studio. For now. But I'm gonna stay in my apartment there. It's easier. And it's closer to here in case I need something." He took a deep breath, keeping cool. "And I…I can still stay for the tonight at least, I guess." He tried so hard not to think about really staying the night, wrapped up with Vox in the bedroom sheets, biting and grabbing and spreading his legs, terrified to hear either of them say anything about love but secretly craving it just the same. He squeezed his knees together. "Then I'll head out in the morning."

"Okay, deal." Vox nodded, looking relieved. "But if you stop feeling good, come back. And I am definitely going to visit you upstairs at the studio — with Vark. He's going to miss you, I think. And neither one of us want you getting hurt again. And Vel will come by too."

Valentino felt himself failing not to blush. "Sure, okay. Just not too much Vel. She…gets me a little worked up sometimes. You keep me steady though." Holy mother of satan had he really just said those words between mouthfuls of fried bread and cheese?

Vox raised an eyebrow.

But then Vark, sweet little savior that he was, put his front feet up on the coffee table and wagged his tail with a grin, eyeing the grilled cheeses. Vox blinked, snapping out of his thoughts, and smiled at the shark. "Vark, you can have a half a grilled cheese, but that's it. I'm still not sure if sharks should have dairy, and Val said you already ate two whole ones."

Valentino and Vox tore their sandwiches in half at the exact same moment, each ready to give a piece to the little shark. They looked at each other and almost laughed. Vox cleared his throat. "You should keep yours, Val. You need to keep building up your strength."

Valentino's heart did that fluttery thing again. "No, you keep yours. You need some grease in your diet." He tossed his sandwich half to the little shark who gobbled it up.

For just a moment, Valentino and Vox shared a small, new kind of smile.

And then Valentino instantly panicked and shoved the entire remaining half of his grilled cheese into his mouth while Vox just shook his head with a grin and went back to eating normally.

However awkward this meal was to get through, Valentino knew he was going to miss this; being here, with Vox, and being…almost happy. But he couldn't get lost in the fantasy of what they might find with each other if they tried (and if Valentino was lucky as hell or a damn miracle happened to make it all work out).

Valentino had made his decision though: he had to move on and break his own heart before the TV could do it for him. It would be the right thing to do in the long run, he was sure of it. He tried to ignore the pricking of tears behind his eyes and just kept eating.

In the apartment above the Emporium at the Cannibal Colony, Cherri Bomb reclined against a sofa while Mimzy played the piano and Rosie did some needlework. Cherri glanced at her companions — she had been deep in thought for the last half hour. "Hey, ladies? How did you know that running the Emporium was what you two wanted to do down here in hell?"

Rosie smiled. "I'll admit, I just sort of fell into it."

"And I just sort of fell into wanting to help Rosie," Mimzy giggled.

Rosie laughed. "Yes. I ran my own business and made my own way in life, and I wanted to do the same thing in death. So when the opportunity arrived here, I snatched it."

"I was the same but about singing in clubs. I still do concerts sometimes in Cannibal Colony when I'm not helping Rosie around here," Mimzy added. "Performing's in my blood, and no change of body can take that away."

"Got it. Makes sense…" Cherri considered. "I don't think I ever had a clear idea for what I wanted to do in life or down here. I just…wanted to have my own place, get noticed, not be taken advantage of. And help other people not get screwed with, if I could."

"How like Alastor you are dear…" Rosie mused.

Cherri grinned and rolled her eye. "Maybe. But, I mean, he built a damn empire. When it comes to me, there's just…nothing I can picture myself actually doing with my life beyond…going back to making pyro bombs and messing with overlords…while living in abandoned buildings and living off of canned coffee and tins of cold pasta." Her look went dry. "By the way, Angel can't ever know about me eating prepackaged, microwave noodles in sauce — he will yell in Italian and then insist on making me homemade lasagna and stuff, and I don't want to put him out." She frowned. "I still like all those things, I guess, but…it's not enough. I want more. I just wish I knew what 'more' was for me."

Rosie and Mimzy shared a meaningful look. Then Rosie turned to Cherri. "Well, perhaps what you need isn't a specific new industry to dive into. Perhaps you simply need some new uses for your pyrotechnic flair and impressive leadership skills beyond turf wars. You are strong and smart and capable, Cherri. I'm certain there are parts of this Pentagram that would welcome your fiery brand of aid as needed."

"Hmm…" Cherri turned on her side, smiling a little. "Yeah, maybe you're right." She sighed. "But I feel like there are so many places and people in hell that I wouldn't even know where to start finding the best place for me, or the best way to start helping while still taking care of myself."

"You'll find the right place and people when they come calling!" Mimzy assured. "And if you ease into things, you can still incorporate your self care into whatever's next for you. And we'll be here to remind you to do it if you don't." She winked.

Rosie chuckled. "You're bright and independent and full of spunk, Cherri. You'll find your way to what's right for you even if the way isn't perfectly clear yet, my dear."

"Thanks, you two." Cherri smiled fully now, hugging herself. "Seriously. The idea of trusting myself to know what's right for me when I find it is… kind of comforting. Like everything is gonna work out no matter what. Which is corny, but kind of sweet to think about."

"Happy to help!" Rosie assured.

"Anytime!" Mimzy chimed in.

The two ladies gave each other an approving nod then went back to their playing and sewing while Cherri pulled out her phone and started typing up a list of potential places and people to check out for finding her calling sometime soon. She noticed a text from Angel first though and opened it up.

'Hey Babe. Sorry I've been scarce. Everything's been…kinda intense since we kicked my Pops' ass lol. Just wanted to check in and say thanks for everything you did during that fight. You're the baddest bitch in hell and I hope you're doing okay.'

She smiled. She loved Angie. She wouldn't tell him everything yet about how she was feeling — in person would be better and only after she was sure he was all healed up. But a check in reply felt like it would be okay.

'Hey Babe. Takes the baddest bitch in hell to know the baddest bitch in hell lol. But seriously, I'll always stick up for you, Angie. I'm just taking a little rest now. Be by again soon. Hope you're doing okay. And I hope you're working with Alastor to heal that angel burn lol. Love ya.'

She let out a satisfied sigh and went back to writing up her list, feeling more okay than ever.

The afternoon was getting on into evening. Which meant it was almost time for the five o'clock news. Steve had hidden himself carefully outside of the studio, ready to casually join the crowd of audience members already waiting to get in and see the live special. He was determined to be inside the moment the doors opened he could text Vaggie with any developments right as they happened.

While he waited, Steve also observed the alley a couple streets over where a familiar dog demon was clearly hiding. She looked really young now that he watched her closely — poor kid, ending up in hell. He'd seen her around here a few times so far and had at first thought she might be a lost hell hound until he realized her features were more like a dog demon sinner. The he had figured maybe she was just a big fan of Katie's shows. But then why wasn't she gathering with the crowd now, excitedly waiting to enter? And why was she biting her lip, glancing around in worry, pacing a little and seeming like she was going to join the crowd but then hesitating and looking down.

Steve considered pulling out his phone and texting Vaggie about her.

But suddenly the Channel 666 News truck pulled up to the side of the building. Barricades kept the crowd back. But Steve could just make out Katie exiting on the passenger side up front and a tired Tom getting out of the drivers seat. Tom opened the back door and tried to usher two people inside before the crowd could see who they were.

Katie clearly had other plans though. She stopped the duo for a moment like she had a pressing question that just couldn't wait until they got inside, giving everyone a chance to see the pair. Then she faked a laugh and shot a big smile to the crowd for a candid photo op before guiding the duo inside, away from the suddenly buzzing masses.

Steve had seen the special guests too…and his heart broke a little in his chest. Because those guests were none other than King Lucifer and Queen Lilith.

Charlie would be hurt so very much by whatever came next, he just knew it.

Suddenly the doors were opening for the audience. He had to get inside. But as he darted through the crowd he also pulled out his phone to text Vaggie. Charlie had to know NOW that her parents were here so she could at least mentally prepare to face whatever they were up to. He shook his head the entire time as he typed and even wiped away a tear.

He lost sight of the dog demon and forgot about her as he continued on his mission.

After going to the tv studio and staring at the tv studio and pacing around a lot in an alley right by the tv studio while going back and forth in her head and worrying and giving up but then rallying again, Crymini found herself standing stock still when the news van suddenly pulled up.

Then her blood froze when the King and Queen got out and walked inside with Katie and Tom.

Lucifer didn't just know about the show, he was going to be ON the show. He WAS the show.

She was instantly overwhelmed with shock then sadness then rage, her eyes flashing gold. "You bastard." She growled to herself, almost crying. "You…You had me spy on Katie like she was the problem, but you're the guest! You're going on the air! You're the one who's going to… to… and to your own daughter!" If Lucifer had been before her at this moment, she seriously thought she might have given in to her dog instincts for once and bitten him hard.

The worst part of all this was that she felt so used. She let out another deep growl and pulled the wad of cash out of her pocket that he'd given her. The only reason she didn't tear it up in her claws was that money was the only guarantee of even temporary safety in this messed up Pentagram. She felt so ridiculous though, so duped, so guilty…

She wanted to do something, but she couldn't just go in there and stop this. She was one of the most powerless demons in hell — young and short and without resources or magic or even scary demonics when angered. Even if she jumped on the stage, if Lucifer didn't immediately smite her with his freaky sin powers then Katie would end her by verbally and maybe physically tearing her apart. Tom would probably end up carrying her battered outside, kicking and screaming. But maybe there was still one thing she could do, one person she could help, one chance to do something in hell that didn't suck. And Louise and Abel had been so nice… So the princess really might be nice too.

Ever since Charlie's first broadcast, everyone knew where the hotel was. So Crymini turned and ran in that direction. She had to warn Charlie…and to tell her that no matter what her father said or how he tried to spin this whole thing as some act of kindness wrapped up in a 'necessary evil', the truth was he knew exactly what he was doing here…and she was sorry she had helped him do it. Tears streamed down Crymini's eyes as she growled and raced through hell. She didn't know if she wanted redemption or a family or even friends yet, but she didn't know that she didn't want to stand on the sidelines anymore and let bad things happen if she could help it.

As they entered the dimness of the studio backstage, Lucifer paused beside Lilith, his mouth in a thin, tight line. "Now all of hell knows we're here in advance thanks to that little publicity ploy by Katie. That means Charlie might know before we even go on…" He gripped his cane hard. "I can't do this. It's not right, is it? We can tell ourselves it is all we want, but… Maybe what we needed and what she needs are too different. I don't know, I…"

"Luci." Lilith met his eyes, her brow furrowed in seriousness. "Please. We've gone over this. They already have the footage. We're the ones who let them keep it, and they'll air it with or without us. Without us, it will be a disaster for her and our entire family. At least with us here something good might happen for Charlie in the long run. We started this situation, and we owe it to her to see it through and control the damage as best we can. We owe it to her to not let this opportunity to correct her course go to waste." Her eyes went down and she clenched her jaw. "She must be kept safe, even if she can see it herself. The sooner we get this over with, the sooner we all have peace, and the sooner things can go back to normal."

"I'm not sure if there is a normal anymore, dearest," Lucifer whispered, tears ready to fall. "But you are right about one thing at least — we started this, and we owe it to her to see it through. And if she's safe but we lose her forever, maybe that's what we deserve."

Lilith's eyes widened, shining for a moment with tears as well. She looked to her husband. But Lucifer was facing toward the stage, a dull look in his eyes.

"Five minutes, your majesties," Tom announced, appearing from around a corner and gesturing to the stage. "Let me get you seated. Katie is in make up…again." He rolled his eyes.

Lucifer held out his hand to Lilith, still not looking at his wife though.

Lilith took his hand with a quivering frown and whispered to him. "I won't let you lose her. If it has to be one of us she casts out, it will be me." She took a breath and held her head high. She could feel Lucifer's worried frown and eyes drift to her for a moment. She stayed strong though and just squeezed his hand. She would maintain their family legacy — and her husband's heart — at all costs.

Finally Tom gestured forward, and the two of them headed forward into the light of the set overlooking the waiting crowds.

Near five o'clock, there was a knock on Angel's door. The spider raised an eyebrow as he got up and answered it. He was surprised to find Alastor there, dressed in one of his nicer suit jackets and with a dead flower in his lapel. He held a box of chocolates in his hands. "Bon nuit, darling. I've come to escort you to dinner, if I may."

Angel blinked. "Oh! I…I'm not even dressed up yet for dinner, Al." Angel glanced down at his sweats. "I didn't think we'd eat til later."

"I know, darling, and a thousand pardons," Alastor bowed his head. "But I thought I might come by a tad early to help assist you with any preparations if needed." He glowed and met Angel's eyes again. "Personally though I think you look ravishing right now. I do so adore seeing you comfortable. And pink will forever be your color."

Angel smiled a little. "Okay, come in, ya big flirt." He gestured inside and closed the door as Alastor entered. "I'm guessing I should dress up classy like you. We're still staying in though, right?"

"Oh, er, yes, still dining in my office!" Alastor assured. He gripped the box of candy then offered it forward. "Also I acquired these for you. Bonbons, the finest in hell! I hope you enjoy them. I wanted to bring flowers as well of course but, ha…" He gestured down to the dead flower in his lapel.

Angel took the candy, which he knew from personal experience was seriously expensive. He smiled softly at the dead flower and Alastor's nearly guilty expression. "Thanks for the candy. And don't ever worry about flowers, Al — I can always get 'em for us whenever we want." Alastor looked back at him with such relief in his big red eyes.

Angel had to glance at the candy and flower and Alastor's outfit again and then finally raise an eyebrow. "Al, this is all real sweet of ya, but…why all the formality? You haven't acted like this since our first date." His heart pounded a little; all of this was…sweet in a very particular way. Angel tried not to get his hopes up, but… maybe this was some kind of apology from the deer? Maybe he was getting ready to…bring up the love conversation again?

"Ha!" Alastor shrugged in response, eyes darting around, "I merely wanted to make tonight special! You've been through so much. Who knows, perhaps a fine dining date will even help heal your angelic wound?"

Angel smiled a little. Maybe that reason was why Alastor was all dolled up and dapper, but also Angel still had suspicions that tonight might be leading to an apology or at least an explanation of the deer's feelings. "Thanks for looking out for me, babe." He gingerly walked over to his closet and considered his clothes. "Hmm…I'm more comfortable in flats right now so…how about black loafers, pink slacks, and a white halter?" Wearing a white top always made him look almost topless, but Angel was feeling a little darling suddenly. He really did want a relaxing beautiful special night now that Alastor had brought it up. No thinking about fighting with the mob, just being admired by his beautiful boyfriend.

"You'll look fetching, I'm certain," Alastor cooed. "I can turn away while you dress then help you put on your shoes, if you'd like…as long as you don't mind me near your feet again."

Alastor was already turned around, and Angel was already changing, smiling to himself even more. "You're actually the only person I really do like near my feet, Smiles." He tried not to blush too much. He didn't have the courage yet to tell Alastor his feet had become a turn on for him after their intimate evening together, but…he was close.

Angel only needed a few moments to get out to his sweats and into his new outfit. Then he perched himself at his vanity with his feet hanging off the side. "I'm all decent, Al. You take care of the shoes while I take care of my face and hair, if ya want."

Alastor turned back around, and quickly came over and knelt at Angel's side. Angel's heart raced as the deer took one of his feet in hand. Why was he getting an odd sense of deja vous again like this was a proposal? Alastor had to realize the obvious positioning…but at the same time maybe his oblivious deer didn't? He'd never tried dating or relationship stuff before, after all. Maybe both times now he had just been meeting Angel where he was at with his current injuries.

Angel couldn't think about this anymore, the whole matrimonial notion made him freeze up entirely. The spider started trying to put on his face as Alastor started gently slipping on a dress sock. Then Angel just did his best to keep a steady hand as he powdered his face with some blush because the deer was touching his feet again — his newly sexy feet. Breathe, he told himself, breathe, as Alastor slipped on his loafer and switched to the next foot. He thought about turning the tables and being cheeky and asking Al if he should use smudge proof lip gloss tonight just in case they got an urge for necking. But he hesitated. He still wasn't quite in the mood to kiss and make up with the deer, not unless this evening really was about making things up to him for their odd 'I love you' conversation.

So instead Angel quickly put on the lip gloss then went for some mascara, focusing on his face in the mirror. "We're looking so good, it's almost a shame we actually aren't going out. But then again, even if we did go out we couldn't be seen by people since, ya know…we ain't going public yet." He shrugged.

Alastor nodded, carefully finishing up with Angel's second foot and shoe. "Yes. But there will be other nights to be seen, after we have gone public. And besides this evening I'm feeling a bit selfish. I'd rather have you all to myself."

Angel's heart skipped a beat and he nearly messed up his mascara. "Oh!" He managed, his voice cracking. "Wow, you're really into this date tonight, huh?"

"Head over heels," Alastor chuckled, gazing up at him…eyes wide in a way Angel hadn't seen in a while…like a deer ready to joyfully crash into the headlights.

Angel had gone for his hairbrush and now nearly dropped it. Head over heels… Looking at him with that face… Making tonight this special … Was Al hinting that tonight he wouldn't just talk about love…but would actually maybe tell Angel that he was finally...in love? Maybe… maybe this wasn't an apology date. Maybe this was an 'I love you' date.

Angel's smile beamed and his heart soared as he brushed his hair up into a gentle curl over his head. "Well then, let's not keep each other waiting, huh?" He put down the brush and turned to Alastor, toes practically curling in joy. "I'm all yours."

Alastor stood up with an adoring smile. "Then to dinner we go, my darling!" He took Angel's hand, pulling him up and close, and then snapped his fingers, teleporting them away in each other's arms.

Cherri was getting ready to start helping Rosie make dinner when the notification appeared on her phone: big news show starting now. After all these days trying to rest and think and take care of herself, she had almost forgotten about the Channel 666 threat. She leaned against a wall and pulled up the live stream of the show. It was probably nothing — she had been super tired and anxious last week, maybe a little paranoid. This would turn out to just be some bullshit from Katie about overlord drama or gossip from one of the other rings. And then Cherri could go back to relaxing and trying to live her best life. They all could.

When the show started and she saw Lucifer and Lilith seated though…she nearly dropped her phone and then she let out a string of swears that even the Cannibal Colony probably hadn't heard in quite some time.

Rosie and Mimzy came to her instantly.

"Cherri, dear, what's wrong?" Rosie asked seriously while Mimzy looked on with a frown.

Cherri showed them the phone. "That big news special I was suspicious about — that I thought would hurt the hotel? The fucking King and Queen not only know about, they're RUNNING IT!"

"Oh! That's awful! And doing that to their own daughter too!" Mimzy bit her lip.

"I have to go — I don't know — bomb the studio or be at the hotel or…something!" Cherri was shaking a little. "God damnit, this is what happens when I give myself some time off. Me and Vaggie shouldn't have left Steve to keep an eye on the news show alone. I'm the one with access to an arsenal. I could have lit that place up like a firecracker days ago!

Rosie came forward and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Dear, you are not responsible for this travesty. You're the one who suspected it and helped everyone prepare for it. You couldn't attack without knowing the facts, or else even more trouble might have been started. And there is nothing wrong with taking time for yourself. Please breathe, Cherri."

Cherri took a deep breath, and some of her shaking stopped.

Rosie smiled a little. "Now as for getting it off the air, don't you worry about that. Mimzy? Pen a letter for me to the cannibals living near the border of Alastor's and Vox's territories. Tell them to cut the major cable lines by any means necessary. I'll handle the fallout." Mimzy saluted and dashed off for a pen and paper.

Cherri blinked in confusion. "They can cut the—"

"Well, they c an 'chew through' all those fiberoptic cables and nonsense, to be precise," Rosie explained. "It's something Alastor authorized from time to time in the past to engage Vox. This will be a provocation against him on our part, but I'm sure the circumstances will be understood. I hear Vox has started being civil lately." She brushed back some of Cherri's hair. "As for you and the hotel, please drink some water to settle yourself then grab your coat. Once I've dispatched one of my crows to the cannibals with my instructions, Mimzy and I will drive you over there to check on everyone. And I'm certain you'll see that everyone's managing and that everything will be okay."

Cherri let out a deep breath and nodded. Then she wiped away a tear from her eye and hugged Rosie tightly, and Rosie returned the gesture. And when Mimzy came back into the room she joined them. They really would all be okay as long as they had each other. XXX

Crymini raced through the streets, passing the cafe on her route — it was the quickest way to get to the hotel. The moment she saw Abel and Louise though she skidded to a halt, breathless and with tears on her face.

"Crymini?" Louise stopped sweeping the walkway. "What's wrong? We were just closing up."

"It's…I…"

"Louise! I just got a news alert on my phone! It's a live show…and it's Charlie's parents…" Abel came out of the cafe, phone in hand, eyes wide.

Louise blinked and turned. "What? What could they possibly be going on the news for?"

"They're talking about the hotel…" Abel turned his phone screen to face them. There was no sound at the moment, but a banner on the bottom read 'Hotel Wreaks High-Minded Havoc on Hell.'"

"Oh no…" Louise's ears fell, and she dropped the broom.

Crymini caught it and found her voice again as she wiped away the last of her tears. "We have to get to the princess. I have to get to the princess. This isn't right!"

Louise eyed her curiously but then shook her head to clear it and looked to Abel. They shared a nod then Louise looked back to the young dog demon. "We'll go right now. Alastor will be at the hotel, maybe he can help with whatever this is too. Crymini, we'll take you there."

Crymini's heart raced, and she stumbled back. "The cannibal overlord?" She held her tail nervously in her hands. Biting was her only source of defense in this dog demon body, and demons who could bite back even harder always put her on edge.

Louise smiled gently. "He's a dependable demon. You're safe as long as you're with us, and you're always when you're at the hotel. I promise."

Crymini nodded hesitantly.

Abel locked up the door and put on the closed sign. "Let's go!" He lead the way, and Louise followed, Crymini right behind them both. She felt better having someone to go to the hotel with. She still wasn't exactly sure if she could be much help at this point, but she at least needed to let Charlie know her role in this and to confirm for her that Lucifer was a first class jerk. Crymini had been on the receiving end of having bad parents and…she knew how easy it could be convince yourself that you were the problem instead of them. She didn't want to be part of making the princess experience that pain.

They raced onward, and soon the hotel was in sight.

There was only one television in the hotel. None of the rooms had come with any originally, and when fixing the place up Charlie had figured funds were better used on new wallpaper and replacing furniture than on electronics. Besides, lots of people just watched shows on their phones or computers. And ever since Alastor had come, Charlie hadn't wanted to introduce the notion of a communal television somewhere downstairs — she knew he had strong feelings about TV.

But upstairs, tucked into a corner of their room and mostly used as an end table, Charlie and Vaggie did have a boxy, old-fashioned television. Charlie had pulled it out and cleared it off for tonight. When Vaggie had asked why, Charlie had explained that she didn't want to watch whatever happened on the small screen of a phone. She wanted to take in every detail as completely as possible to decide what to do next.

Now, at the stroke of five o'clock, she and Vaggie sat side by side on the end of the bed (Razzle and Dazzle curled up asleep on the pillows behind them) with the television in front of them turned on and tuned to channel 666.

Vaggie held Charlie's hand and gestured to a tray of soup and sandwiches beside her. "Charlie, maybe you should have some dinner first. You've barely eaten all day."

Charlie shook her head. "My stomach's in knots. Once it's over then…then I'll be okay."

Vaggie frowned. A text came through. "It's Steve." She picked up the phone and read. Her eye widened and she brought a hand to her mouth.
Charlie noticed. "Vaggie? What's wrong?"

Vaggie had tears in her eyes as she looked to her girlfriend, speechless for a moment.

Charlie's brow furrowed in worry and she went to take the phone to read it herself.

Once her hand touched it though, Vaggie put her own hand on top of Charlie's and squeezed. "Charlie, I'm so sorry. It's…it's your parents. They're on the news with Katie."

Charlie's dark eyes went wide. Then dulled.

And then the show began.

"Welcome to channel 666, have we got a show for you tonight! I'm Katie, this is Tom, and say hello to our guests — the one and only King and Queen of Hell!"

Applause sounded as Charlie's weary eyes turned to the screen and took in the sight of her parents while Razzle and Dazzle Vaggie held her hand and never let go.

A/N:

Thank you for reading! Next chapter we'll see the full news special, Alastor and Angel's date, and more! Thank you for your support, I appreciate all of you a lot!

Take care!

-Azure129