A/N:
Hi everyone! Hope you're all doing well. Super long chapter update today with lots of romance and fluff and sauce ^w^ I hope you like it!
Cw / mention of miscarriage, death during pregnancy. Non explicit implied sexual content
Partners
Chapter 77:
First Time for Everything (Part 1)
The spiders were happily lounging in Angel's bed as evening came on, all stuffed with pizza and cola and a few cannolis too. They had talked and laughed and just given themselves a much needed chance to rest after their ordeal with the mob and their father. They would have gone on with their reverie until the late hours, but both Molly and Niss could already tell Angel that needed to go to get some sleep soon. He kept blinking sleepily and stretching and trying to hide little yawns. They were grateful he had finally regained consciousness, but he would still need a lot of time to recover completely
When Angel yawned yet again and almost closed his eyes completely, Molly shared a meaningful look with Niss and then sat up and stretched. "Well, we should get goin'. You need ta rest, Tony." She fluffed his pillows and cleared away their plates.
"Hey, come on, I'm okay," Angel protested, though the words came out sleepily. "We can still hang out."
"And we will — another time. Listen to your sister and big brother, Tony." Niss sat up too and pulled another blanket up over Angel's body, tucking him in a little. "You need to rest so you can heal. And the sooner you're better the sooner the three of us can spend more time together and even go on that triple dates with our guys."
Angel sighed, settling into the pillows and blankets. "Yeah. I guess that's true." His eyes were already blinking with tiredness. "But I'm at least staying up til I see Al and give him a goodnight kiss."
Molly giggled. "I'm sure he'll be up here real soon." She headed to the door with the plates and opened it up. "I'll see ya tomorrow, Tony. Sweet dreams."
"Yeah, see you soon, Tony," Niss assured with a nod as he joined Molly, pizza boxes in hand.
Angel smiled. "Night, guys." He curled up on his side just as Nuggets climbed into the bed and cuddled up next to him. He chuckled, petting the little pig, eyes half lidded.
Molly closed the door behind them then looked to her older brother with a happy smile. "See Archie, everythin' turned out okay with you and Angel — just like I kept telling ya it would."
Niss smiled so much. Then he wrapped his arms around her in a tight hug. "Yeah…everything really did." He laughed a little and pulled back, wiping away tears. "Thanks for not giving up on me…and for helping with Pen…and for finding me in the first place and giving me another reason to get away from Pops, Molly. I'm so happy you're here."
"I'm so happy too. I missed my brothers." She sniffed and wiped away tears. "And now we all got a whole nice new life we can spend together. And there's so many nice people in it. And a few extra nice ones — Alastor and Husky and Penny…" Her eyes hazed playfully.
Niss's smile grew and he blushed a little. "Speaking of Pen, I've really gotta go check on him, make sure he's feeling okay and everything…Let him know about the big date."
"And I've gotta go find Husky and see what he and Alastor talked about today." Molly giggled.
Niss nodded, laughing too. "I'm sure it's good new. Have fun with Husk. See ya in the morning, Molly."
"See ya, Archie. And you have fun too!" She winked as Niss just blushed and walked down the hall to head upstairs to the roof.
Molly quickly dashed down the stairs and into the lobby — it looked empty. "Husky?" She wondered if maybe their talk was still going on.
Suddenly though Husk burst in through the back door, smiling brightly. "Molly!" Instantly the cat dashed over to catch her in his arms with a bright smile, twirling her around.
"Husk!" Molly laughed happily as he set her down. "What's all this about?" He grinned at her with bright eyes. "We're celebrating! Because you were right, and Alastor and I talked and I…I got my contract changed. I've got almost half my freedom back! It's not perfect, but it's a start…" He was beaming so much, she had never seen him so overjoyed.
"Slow down, Husky!" Molly laughed and tilted her head. "I knew he was gonna help, I told ya. But…half your freedom? How's that work? Are you sure that's okay with you?" She bit her lip.
Husk nodded, holding her close. "It's…the greatest thing that's happened to me in decades — except for meeting you of course." She blushed and smiled more, and he went on. "And it really is a good thing. A contract can't just get broken completely even if both people want to break it, otherwise we might get hurt from the magic binding it. It's gonna take a while for Alastor to sort out a safe way to terminate the whole thing, free and clear. But for now he rewrote things in the parameters and…" Husk took a deep breath. "Basically three days a week, my life is all my own again. And now I get a cut of the take from Al's overlord dealings that I help make happen, and I get the full take from any stuff I make happen. I get authority. I get to be my own person again…maybe one day permanently, depending on how things go…" He blushed a little. "I know it's not everything all at once, but believe me it still means so much. And I'm gonna do so much." He looked into her eyes. "I'm gonna make a new reputation for myself and an empire and make things better."
Molly touched his face gently. "Husky, I'm happy you're happy, but you don't have to do so much. You can just relax if you want, take your time, enjoy yourself."
"But I WANT to do so much!" He laughed, shaking his head and hugging her close.
"Why?" She giggled.
"So I can get everything I need to build a life with you!" he answered joyfully.
Molly blushed and beamed.
Suddenly Husks's eyes went wide and he blushed thoroughly and stepped back a little. "I mean… Not that you…not that we… Oh my god, stop blushing and smiling at me like that, I—" He stopped talking when she leaned up and kissed his cheek.
Molly pulled back with a smile. "Husky? If it helps to know…I wouldn't mind trying to put together a life with you too." Her voice softened, and her eyes hazed. "I never was one for goin' with fellas for long because so many of 'em just wanted to walk all over me then walk me down the aisle so I could cook and clean and make a bunch of bambinos for 'em. Like I wasn't a real person. But you see me as a real person, Husky. I could get used to a man like that in my life. A real good man." Husk was melting — his ears were relaxed and his wings were puffed out and faint purrs echoed in his chest.
Husk took a deep breath in and out and finally just nodded. Then he swallowed and reached under the bar, producing a bottle. "I…um…I chilled some champagne and set up the chairs on the patio — you know, to celebrate. I thought we could sit in the garden under the stars and talk, and I'd tell you more about my plans…or maybe we could make plans together."
"That all sounds nice." She smirked. "Then I could help ya make the bed warm again, like I promised this morning, remember?" She played with his bowtie. "Fellas with spunk and dreams and who fight for the rights of their ladies and themselves are real attractive ta me, ya know…"
Husk swallowed shyly. Then he smirked and suddenly had her scooped up in his arms.
"Husky!" She giggled wildly, grinning even more.
"You carry the champagne and I'll carry you. Luck's on my side again, and I plan to enjoy it!" He winked and set the bottle of champagne in her lap then swept her toward the back door.
Molly giggled as he led her outside and set her down. Under the evening sky they shared a kiss and sat down. Then Husk popped the cork on the champagne and served them both. And as they drank he talked about everything he wanted to do and see and make happen, full of animation and life and smiles. Molly's heart swelled at seeing him so happy. She knew with even more certainty now that there was the best chance in all the world that this guy was the one for her. And she couldn't wait to keep exploring their life together.
Following his rather revealing chat with Husk, Alastor had snapped himself to his room to pace and plan and muse on the proverbial emotional veil that had been lifted from his heart.
These pesky feelings that surged and bloomed and swept him away sometimes —he had thought them a pale imitation of the grounded and overpowering love Angel professed, completely with dreamy sighs and romantic words. But they in fact just his own kind of love, all for Angel. That was why the emotions could overwhelm him in such pleasant yet unpredictable yet utterly irresistible ways. He loved Angel back.
And Angel must know, soon.
He had planned for months exactly how to tell him when he was ready. All that was needed now was the perfect time. He paced, brow furrowed, talking to his shadow that had now appeared. "Should I wait until he's recovered first? He would have more strength to bear the confession — after all, his own confession to me threw me for quite a loop, ha! And if he can walk and leave his room then we could find a location with the best possible atmosphere. And waiting would give me more time to go over my plans again."
The shadow considered and shrugged — all sound points.
Alastor's ears twitched. "Or I could tell him this very moment! What would be more romantic for him than sweeping into the room, holding him in my arms, and out of the blue before any more time or calamities can keep us at bay telling him he is loved in return?" His eyes were bright and happy.
The shadow considered again and nodded, grinning at Alastor's giddiness.
But then one of Alastor's ears went down and he went back to pacing. "Oh but he did say before the mob fight that he wanted to discuss something with me, and we made plans to talk. Perhaps we should tend to that conversation first — I wouldn't want to overshadow whatever concern has been on his mind…or to overshadow the happiness of telling him how I feel." The shadow's brow furrowed, and he scratched his head.
Alastor paused again, wringing his hands, looking down. "I know I have a rather unfortunate habit of wanting to control every situation I'm in, but in this one particular instance I feel justified. I need to make sure this moment is perfect. He deserves such a perfect experience. He's given me so many already." He glanced at his shadow, his own eyes full of concern.
The shadow smiled gently. Then it came forward and gave him a hug, patting his head.
Alastor sighed and faintly chuckled. "Have I really become so distraught?" He closed his eyes for a moment, just letting himself enjoy the embrace. "Thank you. I feel better now."
The shadow let him go and winked.
Alastor took a deep breath. "I will tell him, but not until we've discussed whatever was on his mind earlier. Perhaps we can even manage that tonight. I'll go see him now, if his siblings have left. Regardless of whether Angel and I talk, I still want to tend to his wound more carefully now that he's awake. That angel burn…I won't rest easy until it's completely gone and only a mere scar like my own is."
He and the shadow shared a look of agreement and then the shadow disappeared. Alastor went over to his mirror and made himself as presentable as possible, combing his hair and adjusting his tie. He removed his jacket — it would only get in the way for tending to Angel's leg. Finally he caught his own gaze in the mirror and smiled, very genuinely. "You love him, and he loves you back. You are…in love together. And you are going to heal him…and love him…and wed him, if he'll have you. And you will have a family again. You practically already do. You're happy… Mother would be pleased." There were tears drifting down his face, but his smile bore no force or sadness. He sighed, eyes drifting upward. "I have never wanted you to see me here in this place as who I've become. But…I do wish you could be here just for a moment, just for this. I want you to see this one good thing I've managed to be part of." His eyes closed. "Thank you for any help you gave with waking him, Maman…" He released a sigh and opened his eyes, then of course had to spend a few moments wiping away his tears and making himself look presentable again.
By the time he was done, his heart was light and his smile was steady and he felt ready to tend to his darling partner. He was so excited for the next chapter of their lives, facing the world hand in hand (for eternity, if possible).
Angel lay in bed petting Nuggets, feeling a little drowsy but mostly just peaceful after the nice time spent with his brother and sister. Honestly he had given up hope about being a family again decades ago… Imagining something so unlikely ever happening had hurt too much. But now to have them back and safe and all caring for each other…it was like dream. And there was so much love. He gave Nuggets a little kiss. The only thing that would have filled his heart even more would have been some love from Alastor too. He didn't want to push his luck in hell, but even though he had the love of his siblings back he wanted the love of his partner too.
Angel thought about the morning before the mob fight, when he had told Alastor that he wanted to have a talk. He still did. He just wanted to understand what Alastor was feeling exactly these days because the deer's attachment definitely seemed like it had escalated even if Alastor hadn't acknowledged it yet. Angel also wanted to talk through his own kind of insecure feelings. He didn't want to make things awkward or to push Alastor, but…it did hurt a little at this point, saying I love you and not hearing it back.
He sighed. Alastor had been through a lot taking care of him the last couple of days and was just getting a chance to relax. And Angel had been through a lot obviously too, getting shot and all. Maybe they could talk after he was better. For now he needed to get some rest.
"Don't overthink things, just get comfy and wait for your goodnight kiss. That's enough for now. It has to be." Angel shifted in the bed, but as his leg moved, his ankle instantly burned. He winced and hissed through his teeth, waking up a little more again. Startled, Nuggets hopped off the bed. "Sorry, boy!" Angel frowned then gripped his blankets. "Mmm fuck, how long's it gonna take for the burn to get better?" He sighed. "Hey, it could have been worse though. Wasn't fatal, no one else got hurt, and all cuz Al and the others were there to make sure I got taken care of right away." His thoughts drifted back to what Molly had shared earlier; how Alastor had apparently gone fully demonic at the news of Angel being hurt. He had lost himself in radio waves and manifested tentacles and teleported an entire airship nearly down to the pavement. A wild display of emotion, all for how he felt about Angel.
Even if Alastor hadn't said 'I love you' yet, he still clearly cared for Angel fiercely, and Angel only wished he could have seen the impressive show of force. All that power… Maybe all of that love…?
Angel felt himself flush and his chest heave with a shuddery breath. Suddenly he could barely feel pain in his leg. But he was very aware of another sensation coming over his body. Over the last couple weeks, between leaving the studio and managing the mob, he hadn't exactly been 'taking care of' his physical needs. His libido lately had a hair trigger. And the image of Alastor sweeping over sky and pavement with eldritch tentacles at his beck and call while his eyes burned red with passion was sending heat straight from Angel's heart down to core and lower… Angel squeezed his legs together and bit his lip. He really was exhausted, but…indulging a little wouldn't take too much out of him. If anything, the rush of feel-good hormones might help him. And lord, he was hot for that man. "Alastor…" Angel almost purred the word. He closed his eyes and tried to imagine Alastor looming on the battle field, Alastor toppling goons and guns and even angels all to protect him, Alastor holding him up and pressing him to a wall of rubble and looking at him the way he'd looked at Angel on their first date at the end of the battle with Sir Pentious — like he couldn't decide if he wanted to kiss or consume him, but either way that sinful mouth was going to be all over Angel's lips and face and body soon for sweet satisfaction.
Angel groaned, feeling the spark of arousal grow despite his body's exhaustion. He envisioned a bold and brazen radio demon ready to express his passion with impressive actions no one else would ever see but the two of them.
Then there was a light knock on his door. "Angel?" came Alastor's soft voice.
Angel's eyes snapped open. "Fuck…" he whispered as he sat up. He took a few deep, calming breaths, glanced down to make sure nothing physical had already gotten too far, then pulled up his blankets a little higher and cleared his throat. "Come in, Al! Sorry, I'm a little out of it still, heh." He was okay now, and he did want to see the deer demon.
The door opened and Alastor slipped inside with a bright smile, lacking his jacket. His gaze lingered on Angel for just a moment, looking strangely dreamy. Before Angel could comment on it though, Alastor blinked and spoke. "Not to worry, dear. You should get your rest. But if your siblings have departed, I thought I'd check up on you and wish you a good night."
Angel smiled. "Well, aren't you sweet. And I did miss ya, even if I liked spending time with Molly and Niss."
Alastor smiled more then walked around to the other side of the bed and pulled up a chair. "Well, before we say goodnight and you get your rest, I would like to tend to your wound, darling. It'll be much easier now that you're awake." He tugged at his collar as he sat down. "I didn't want to risk doing anything that might be painful to you while you were unconscious. And…I didn't wish to look too closely since I know you prefer privacy for your feet." He clasped his hands together. "I promise, I only rolled down your sock slightly each day to glance at the area and make sure nothing was worsening."
Angel's smile softened and he blushed a little. "I appreciate you being so considerate, Al. And…if you want a better look, I could take off the sock — it's okay, I guess." He gripped the blankets, looking down shyly.
Alastor looked at Angel, still not moving to touch him. "I want you to be comfortable, Anthony. I promise I won't linger… Just as you did for me with the wound on my chest. But if you want me to stop at any point, please just say the word." Angel smiled softly. "Okay." Then he bit his lip. "And it's not…I'm not uncomfortable exactly." He pulled up the blankets over his legs to show his feet, covered by pink knee socks. "My feet just look weird to me, like actual animal feet. That's why I don't like 'em. Molly and Niss got those dainty little spider feet, and I got…these big things."
Alastor's eyes hazed at the sight of Angel's pink-socked appendages. "I respect your preferences…but if it helps to know, your feet are lovely to me."
Angel's smile wobbled. "You're just saying that cuz I'm your beau…"
"I'm saying that because they are twin curved displays of pink and cream perfection…"
Angel's heart pounded and he blushed, knees rubbing together shyly. "Kiss up…" He giggled. "Just take off the sock, Smiles."
"May I take off both? I'd like to compare one leg to the other to see how the injury has progressed and affected your limb." Alastor asked hesitantly.
Angel swallowed but nodded.
The Radio Demon smiled and began to gently roll down one sock.
Something about Alastor's gloved fingers brushing Angel's knee made the spider feel warm again. This was almost turning him on. Why was this almost turning him on? His feet were the opposite of a turn on for him. Yet as he watched Alastor remove the first sock and start on the second his eyes hazed and his breaths went shallow. The man was innocently undressing him, revealing and admiring a piece of Angel that had always caused him shame, placing caring hands on the one part of his body that Angel had never liked.
Angel just breathed steadily and tried to keep his head clear. Yikes, his libido really was sensitive these days. Thankfully, the socks were gone now, and looking at the injury sobered him quickly. He winced at the sight. His white fur was pitted with little bright white glowing flecks, surrounded by light but fading bruises. "It ain't just one mark…"
"No, it's many." Alastor's smile grew smaller as he observed the injury too. "The way the bullet grazed you and burst caused shrapnel. It took Charlie and I quite a while to remove and dispose of it all. I just hope the marks can start healing soon." He glanced back and forth between Angel's legs. "I don't see any swelling or color change though, and the bruises are healing well… That must mean no infection or break, which is very good. We just have to worry about the angelic part of this situation."
"So, what do ya recommend doc?" Angel chuckled.
Alastor glowed, his smile sheepish. "Well…based on our experiences with my angelic burn…it seems that the way to cure such an injury is by releasing from sin and embracing something better. With the matter of your atrocious father behind us, releasing from sin seems to be covered. That just leaves us with embracing something better."
Angel smirked a little. "Mmm hmm…and remind me again about exactly when YOUR burn started feeling better?" Alastor sighed, looking so cute and shy. "After that night we spent in my office…following our first kiss…"
"And our first make out and sleepover." Angel chuckled.
Alastor couldn't help a chuckle escaping him too. "Yes, well…" He glowed so brightly, a coy look on his face. He cleared his throat. "Er, but you are tired though, and I don't mean to suggest… We don't have to yet… And after all, what worked for me might not work for you."
"Al, whether it works or not, at least we'd have the fun of trying!" Angel grinned. He swallowed though and added, pulling in his knees just a little more. "But maybe not right now cuz I am tired. But, ya know…tomorrow's a new day."
"I hope I can cure you just as you cured me, darling," Alastor assured, eyes hazed as well. "We can go slow…"
"I'd rather go fast…" Angel couldn't help the words coming out with a breathy grin
Alastor blinked but grinned as well. "I…suppose we could find a pace that works for your health and your interest…"
The deer was so beautiful — extra beautiful when he flirted back. Angel wanted to kiss that beautiful face so much. He sighed though and stayed resting back on his pillows. "Well, uh…I'm glad the leg looks okay for now. Still burns a bit when I try to move it too much. Not always though… Not sure why."
Alastor nodded, focusing back on the injury again. "Darling, do you mind if I touch? Gently, of course, just to encourage blood flow to the area. It's something I've done over the last few days. I don't want your muscles to cramp from being stuck in bed."
A little touching to his least sexy and favorite part of himself; Angel could manage that without discomfort or arousal, surely. He nodded. "Sure, Smiles."
Alastor beamed and placed his hands on angel's tender ankle. "So, you enjoyed your time with your siblings?"
Angel let out a deep, relaxed sigh and closed his eyes for a moment. Having Alastor touch his foot surprisingly felt…surprisingly not bad. Kind of good actually. Comforting. Like some special small but intimate thing, just between them. "Yeah… Did you enjoy your time talking with Husk?"
Alastor hesitated. "Ah, Molly let you know about that?" Angel nodded, peeking open his eyes to glance at Alastor. The deer demon swallowed. "Yes, our talk went well. We have adjusted our relationship for the better. And I have…adjusted Husk's situation as best I can for the present. Even I cannot willfully break a contact, but I can bend one to my will…for the sake of the people important to me."
Angel's smile softened. "I knew it. You're a good man, Alastor the Radio Demon…"
"I continue to try my best," Alastor assured modestly, adjusting the pressure of his touch.
"You're too cute when you're shy…Ahhh!" Angel's eyes widened.
"Darling? Was that too much? Shall I stop?" Alastor asked in concern.
Angel blinked a few times. "N-NO…it's fine…Keep going…Just not much harder than that please."
Alastor nodded and went back to tending to Angel's let.
The spider bit his lip. Alastor had gone from gently caressing the leg to kneading it, and the intensified touch had sent another flicker of arousal through his body. His head suddenly wanted to imagine Alastor's hands working up from his feet to his knees and thighs and everywhere else…
He tried to keep calm. Stupid libido, keeping him from just enjoying this nice intimate moment with his fella. "I, uh…we're gonna have that triple date soon! Molly and Niss and I were thinking dancing in the ballroom here together." Talking about plans and his siblings would distract him, it was already helping — good. "I know it's corny but…actually Molly and I sort of got a plan to get Niss to sing during it. He's got great pipes, but he's too shy to let people hear him. Pen'll melt if he gets a taste though, heh…"
"A private dance?" Alastor's ears perked up in interest. "Why, that does sound quite entertaining. And singing…perhaps you and he will do a duet. Or even a trio with your sister?"
Angel chuckled a little. "Nah, I sing pop songs and big band stuff. Niss sings opera…and maybe a couple musicals. And, uh, don't tell Husk in case it embarrasses her but Molly has fully admitted she ain't great at carrying a tune. Doesn't stop her from diving in to any singalongs though. She loves 'em anyway."
"Ha! Well, I'm glad she manages to have fun." Alastor worked gently around the back of his ankle. "And your brother sings opera…my that does sound impressive."
"Oh yeah, Niss does it in Italian too — real old school." Angel was starting to relax fully again.
Alastor's brow furrowed. "This triple date means…allowing Sir Pentious to know about our relationship, yes?"
Angel frowned a little. "Yeah, it would. But listen, Al, if you're not ready for that we can postpone a bit…"
Alastor considered but shook his head. "No… The snake proved his mettle to me in battle, and I…would like to have this bonding experience with your family and their loved ones. I'm certain it will work out well."
Angel smiled again. "Okay. Remember, I'm gonna be there to support you when we tell him."
Alastor nodded. Then he chuckled. "You and I, dancing in front of others…" His smile softened as his eyes hazed and his ministrations slowed. "I hope you will be right as rain by then so you can stand and move with all of your usual grace. Though if you need assistance, I'm happy to provide it."
"Either way, I want those warm arms of yours around me." Angel stretched a little, already feeling drowsy and peaceful again. Thank god for tiredness being more potent than arousal to him right now.
"Angel…" Alastor's touching nearly ceased, "may I try something else to aid your injury? It's some of the magic I performed when I first tended to you. Though I am still open to the idea of kissing away your injury since that method does have a proven track record, I'm at least hopeful that my magic might dampen the pain."
Angel blinked a few times, sitting up a bit more again. "Sure." He bit his lip. "Is it…gonna hurt?"
Alastor shook his head. "You'll only feel some warmth and possibly tingling."
Angel nodded. Alastor took a deep breath and closed his eyes. When he opened them again they glowed a pale green color, much different from the usual sinister green hue of his magic. This paler magic swirled down his arms then to his hands and finally reached Angel's flesh.
The spider took a deep breath in. It felt like someone had just laid a very hot water bottle on his leg — not enough to burn but only just barely. And then there was a hum beneath his skin, like a low vibration. Alastor leaned in close, whispering words fervently. The deer's brow was sweating as he worked with all his might.
Oh lord, Alastor worked up and breaking a sweat was hot. Angel bit his lip and felt a sweat break out on the back of his neck. His leg was still hot, but it was more of a warm, comforting heat now, all coming from Alastor's sweet hands. The man was amazing…Angel fell in love a little bit more. His heart lurched as he imagined Alastor turning to him and saying he loved him too.
Suddenly the wounds on his leg burned painfully. "Ah!" Angel gasped. "Al, it hurts again!"
Alastor blinked a few times, coming out of his trance, his magic receding. One of his ears went down as he removed his hands and looked to Angel. "I've hurt you…" "No…" Angel caught his breath, the pain fading slightly. "The magic was making it better. I don't know why it stopped…" Angel sighed deeply, head falling back into the pillows.
Alastor considered for a moment then glowed a little and asked shyly. "Angel, may I try to…kiss the wound? Perhaps angelic injuries really do only respond to sentimental approaches. You seem for too exhausted and in pain for any direct intimate contact. But for tonight, I don't want to leave you without some relief, at least."
Angel nodded. "Yeah, kiss it. {lease…" He winced again, leg flinching. "Just be careful. I don't want whatever heaven magic is in there hurting you."
Alastor merely smiled. "I am tougher than I look, darling. I'm certain I'll be all right."
Angel's heart raced. He tried to keep himself calm by closing his eyes and focusing on his feet. His feet were such a turn off after all — he hated them, he hated anyone seeing them, so he would probably even hate Alastor kissing them and that huge turn off would put an end to his libido once and for all tonight…
Then Alastor's lips met his ankle and Angel's eyes shot open as something inside of him shifted. Instantly his feet felt beautiful but something else too…his feet felt like a body part worth being aroused over. And suddenly Alastor kissing his ankle was the biggest turn on he had ever known. Blood rushed to his glowing cheeks, blood rushed to his fluttering heart, blood rushed to his core and then lower…
"Oh fuck!" Angel quickly grabbed a pillow and hugged it over the lower half of his body.
Alastor's head came up, both ears down now. "Angel? Have I somehow hurt you more?"
"No! No…" Angel practically felt like he was trembling as he shook his head at Alastor. "It doesn't hurt. I…"
Alastor moved closer. "You're flushed again. Is your fever back? Perhaps you had too much commotion today. Your breathing is shallow, your muscles are tense…"
"Alastor…" Angel managed calmly, "Listen, I'm not sick or in pain…"
"…Is something on your mind then?" Alastor hesitated. "I know, before the battle, you requested that we have a talk. If something is troubling you, or if I'm troubling you, please tell me. I want to know. And as long as you have the energy for a discussion, I'm happy to be here and work through the problem with you."
His gaze was full of sincerity and kindness and care. Angel's emotions suddenly felt just as touched as his libido. But he sighed. He had to tell Alastor the truth. This issue wasn't going away. "Smiles, I do still want to talk, and normally I'd take you up on the sweet offer right now but, I'm… I'm not sick or tired…" A wave of heat rolled over him right down his chest and through his abdomen. "Smiles, I'm horny."
Alastor practically jumped a little in his seat and his voice cracked. "Oh!"
Normally Angel would have found the response cute, but right now he was trying to breathe his way through a mounting situation between his legs. "Sorry, heh. Didn't mean to spring that on ya." He smiled sheepishly. "Everything's just been so crazy lately and I haven't clients or much time to myself. And now you're here taking care of me and saying my feet are beautiful and touching them and kissing them… And all the drama's finally over and we're finally just together again…" His eyes hazed. "And you let loose all your magic on the battlefield when you found out I was hurt and made tentacles appear and teleported an entire airship and flexed every ounce of power you had…"
"Wh-Who told you about…?" Alastor started, ears flicking nervously.
"Molly. I'm glad she did, I wanted to know. I wish I could have seen you. Ya must have been glorious." Angel let out a shuddery sigh.
"I…did my best. I could never do anything less for you, cher," Alastor replied with a small little smile.
Angel's smile grew. That deer was a sweetheart and a shy sex icon all wrapped up into one. "Al? I really do wanna talk with you. And I really do want to have you keep helping me heal. But for now…I'm sorry, uh, this situation ain't gonna go away on its own, and honestly I could really use the release after everything. Do you mind…stepping out…so I could…um…" Why was he getting tongue-tied? It was just masterbation. And he was the carefree sex positive beau in this relationship of theirs. Yet something about having to ask Alastor to leave so he could fantasize about the deer demon's immense devotion and power felt so personal and private.
Alastor just watched him with wide eyes.
"Smiles?" Angel frowned. "Sorry, am I making you uncomfortable?"
Alastor blinked then gave a single shake of his head. "No…in point of fact I…I feel quite special knowing that I could somehow put you in such a hot and bothered state, and without even trying. You've told me how you desire me, but I've never seen it in action." He tugged at his collar.
Angel felt his arousal grow. "Alastor, I want you in every way one person can want another person." He swallowed. "Any chance this is… making you want something too? Like during our pole dance date?" He still couldn't think about Alastor getting turned on that night without blushing.
Alastor glowed and gripped his knees, looking away awkwardly. "I… no. It's not that you aren't…and it's not that this moment isn't… That situation is just very unpredictable for me."
"It's okay, I understand," Angel soothed with a gentle smile.
"But…" Alastor started with a swallow. Angel could see his hands trembling a little, "Might I go to my room and sit against our door while you…relieve yourself? I'll keep the soundproofing in tact, and I still won't hear it if you call out my name in the frequency these circumstances would cause." He glowed so brightly. "I just…I think I would like to still be near this situation even if I'm not directly involved, if that makes sense."
Angel sat up, chest heaving with bated breaths at the notion. "Do it." He leaned in close to Alastor, catching his eyes. "Thinking about you being so close and knowing what I'm doing would be so damn hot. Go…I'll use the little transmitter on my phone to let you know when I'm done so we can still say goodnight. It's gonna be a bit though. I've got so much to work with about you…"
Alastor glowed so brightly that he cheeks became rosy. He hesitated then said breathily, eyes hazed, "I have a matter I would like to discuss with you as well when the timing is better. Until then, mon ange…" He leaned in and placed a chaste kiss upon Angel's lips.
The spider had to hold back a groan as the deer separated from him. He caught Alastor's sleeve. "T-Take Nuggets with you. Okay?"
Alastor nodded. He got standing with only a little awkward stumble, scooped up the pig, then instantly departed by their secret door.
Once it close behind him Angel threw off his blankets and buried one hand into his chest fluff over his heart and let another hand drift his body as his imagination ran wild, going right back to Alastor and his feet. Alastor, massaging his feet and kissing them and calling them beautiful…then asking to see all the rest of Angel so he could behold the beauty to which such beauty could lead. Alastor, crawling over him, eager and sinfully ready for anything, just like in Angel's dream after their pole dance date. Alastor ,removing every inch of his own clothing so Angel could bask in the beauty of that dusky body and maybe find out what the deer demon's feet looked like too. And all the while the two of them talking, never able to get enough of each other's voices or laughs or kisses.
Something about his feet feeling worthy of such love for the first time made Angel's heart lighten and his smile grow and made the shining burns in his ankle be forgotten for now as he sunk into a well-deserved time of bliss.
In his room. Alastor sat on the floor with his back to their secret door in silence. Nuggets was seated beside him. He clutched is cane, eyes and smile wide.
His shadow appeared and tilted his head.
Alastor's glow grew and he trembled a little. "Angel is, erm… He… I seem to have aroused him, ha!" The shadow's eyes widened and Alastor couldn't help holding up his head a little proudly. "He is taking some time to manage that arousal, and I am waiting for him and… This was not expected, but it's also not…unacceptable." His smile quirked up on one side. "Perhaps another effect of loving him? My comfort with Angel has grown so immensely." He glanced at the door behind him, almost smirking. "It almost feels like we're in this together even if we're in separate rooms. If this is a demonstration of what sharing a carnal intimate experience can be like, I think I quite like it. And knowing he's thinking of me, that he finds me so desirable, is almost enough to make me need a moment alone myself, ha…"
His shadow smirked proudly, already holding Fat Nuggets and scratching his head while the little pig nuzzled into his touch.
Alastor glanced back at the shadow and hugged his legs close, smiling almost giddily. "He said all of the strength and care I showed during the battle was utterly alluring to him that he wants me in every way possible and that he'll need some extra time right now because there's so much about me 'to work with'…" His look was dreamy. "I'm satisfying his needs, just as I am. And I feel satisfied too. It's rather…it's a rather nice feeling." A chuckle left him that sounded a bit more like a giggle.
The shadow chuckled and winked.
Alastor waved him off shyly and held his microphone close. "Anyway, we're going to try talking more tomorrow. I think that's best. Angel says he'll radio in to let me know when he's finished so I can say goodnight. Until then I've made sure things are soundproof so he has privacy." The shadow raised an eyebrow and Alastor continued, "Oh, but of course the emergency protocols are still in place. If he was to scream or cry out suddenly, I would still hear him."
There was silence for a moment. And then Alastor's ears twitched with the sound of a breathy cry from the spider. He hesitated though — he had heard Angel scream in worry or fear before, but this sounded less panicked and more… joyful. Suddenly with wide eyes Alastor realized what he was hearing and snapped his fingers as his shadow looked on, blushing blue. "Yes, well, now I've adjusted things to only hear screams in frequencies associated with distress or pain! Moving on…" He bit his lip, looking down. "Does the notion of me really elicit such sounds of delight? Screams of…pleasure rather than terror? How fascinating…"
His shadow gave him a playful little encouraging nudge then disappeared with Nuggets to give him privacy while Alastor sat and hugged his knees and boasted a wobbly smile highly unusual for himself.
Downstairs, Husk and Molly had finished the talking and teasing and champagne drinking portion of their time together. Now they had headed inside for a more private celebration. Husk was reclined back against the headboard of his bed, one hand on Molly's hip and one hand in her thick curls of hair, while Molly sat in his lap looking at him, holding the shaggy hair along the sides of his face and kissing him on the mouth.
Molly gently separated her lips from his and tried not to giggle at the red lipstick marks on his white snout. "Husky… ya wanna try helpin' me with my legs now? Ya know, learnin' how to make one pair disappear if I want? Ya did such a good job helping me with my extra arms after all." She made her extra arms appear and gently raked her fingers down his wings.
Husk narrowed his eyes playfully, a smirk on his lips as he eased into her touch "Anything for those legs of yours…" He shifted his hands lower but hesitated, blushing, eyes down at her pretty pink and white thighs outlined by the fabric of her dress. "I figure maybe if I touch one pair it'll help you focus on just them so you can let the other pair slip away. Is that okay to try?"
Molly leaned a bit closer, caught his eyes, and nodded. "Very okay. Here…" She took his hands and rested them on one set of her thighs below her hip. Then she pushed her legs into his palms and arched her back a little.
Suddenly Husk was having to take deep breaths to keep himself steady as his heart raced. "Is it helping?"
"Not sure yet, but it does feel good…" Molly leaned into his touch and pressed her chest against his, hugging him close.
Husk took a very deep breath, fingers kneading into those firm thighs of hers. "Molly…I really want to keep helping you with this but, um…could we stop for now, because I'm getting very…uh…" He couldn't find words and instead shot forward and kissed her with far more passion (and tongue) than he usually did, then pulled back, blushing and shy and flushed.
Molly blinked a few times, utterly pink all through her face. Then she took a deep breath and sat back a little. "Yeah. You ain't the only one, heh." She pressed her knees together then swallowed. "Ya know… now that we got time and everythin', I'm open to going farther. But I'm also just…still processing a lot of stuff, I guess."
Husk looked into her eyes and nodded. "I know everything that happened was a lot. If you want to talk more, I'm here." Molly smiled again then gave him another hug and slowly climbed off his lap to sit beside Husk on the bed. "No, I'm happy just celebrating and sitting close for now. But thanks, Husky."
"Anytime." Husk took her hand as they leaned against each other a little. "You know, uh…I also might need to ease in to going farther. It's kinda been a while for me. Might be rusty." He shrugged, looking away shyly with a little pout.
Molly squeezed his hand. "I understand. And I'll be there to help ya when the time's right, and I know you'll be there for me." Her soothing words made Husk smile. Then Molly bit her lip and added. "I'm pretty out of practice and nervous too — even for reasons besides the spider body." Husk glanced at her and tilted his head, one ear going up, curious and ready to listen. Molly smiled a little more and played with her hair. "In life, I had a fun with fellas once I got older. It felt like a great way to rebel against Poppa. But…I had trouble enjoying anything that went too far. Like, anything that could end up making a baby." She blushed. "I knew if I got knocked up Poppa would get me married and sent away from my brothers first chance he got. It's hard to enjoy yourself when you're wondering the whole time if the thing you're doing is gonna decide your entire life." She shook her head. "Anyway, even without Poppa to control me, the anxiety is all still there."
Husk nodded, blushing too and frowning. "I get it. There were no choices back then. Life was scary. Especially the birth part…" His eyes went down. He blinked…and suddenly there were tears in them.
Molly noticed. She squeezed his hand back. "Husk?" She was the one all ears now and ready to listen.
He took a deep breath, still not looking at her. "I…I had a girl when I was really young and stupid. She got pregnant. We barely knew each other but I was gonna step up, marry her, be a good dad. But she…the kid came too early…Both of them didn't, uh, make it." He wiped at his eyes quickly. He wasn't crying, he didn't want to cry, but the tears kept coming.
Molly put a hand to her mouth, tears building in her big blue eyes too. "Just like Mama…" she hugged Husk tight. Husk sniffed and leaned against her.
She pulled back a little and whispered to him. "I'm so sorry. You would have been such a good daddy, Husk."
"Heh," Husk tried to laugh, wiping away the remains of the tears, "probably would have been a mess at it. But…for the kid's sake, I wish we could have had a chance." He looked skyward, eyes far away. "Too late now anyway…"
Molly cuddled close and held his hand tighter. She considered. "Husk…I've been meaning to ask someone but…does 'too late' mean demons can't get pregnant?"
Husk's eyes widened fully. He sighed then glanced at her. "Not really. If the two demons are the same animal species, I've heard of it happening but…there's usually problems." He shook his head. Then he blinked and quickly added, blushing, "Sometimes demons try to adopt imps or hellhounds though. It's not easy and there's a lot of red tape but it happens." He scratched the back of his neck. "Sorry, I'm not sure what answer you were hoping for. I… do you want kids?
Molly smiled gently but shook her head. "I like kids a lot, takin' care of them and stuff. Like those little Egg Boi Bambinos, so cute! But I don't think I wanna try being a mom to a baby. It's actually kind of a relief, knowin' that I could get real close with someone down here without worryin' about gettin' pregnant. Thanks for letting me know." Her smile grew, but then she blinked and quickly added. "Do…do you want have—"
"Uh, no!" Husk held up his hands, wings puffing up a bit in excitement. "I mean…if you did, I'd…I'd do my best. But I'm just in a different part of my life now. I don't mind hanging around kids, I just don't think I'd be great at raising one." He shrugged.
"Hmm…" Molly's smile softened again, and she leaned her shoulder against his. "If we both did want somethin' ta take care of, maybe we could get a pet? Like a little cousin for Nuggets?"
"A pet?" Husk considered then nodded. "Maybe." He cleared his throat. "Just…not a cat. I'll get jealous. It's complicated."
Molly nodded. "What about a dog?"
"That would be complicated for Alastor." He lowered his voice to a whisper. "Don't tell anyone but they scare him a bit. Personal reasons."
Molly giggled. "Ah okay. Well, we'll figure somethin' out, mio gato." She traced her finger over his chest.
Husk felt himself start purring, and he didn't try to stop it.
"I like when you purr," she whispered.
"I really like doing it around you," he replied with a smirk. "But please don't tell anyone about that either. I've got a surly reputation to maintain."
She winked. "What happens in bed with us stays in bed with us."
Husk snuggled close and put a wing around her, bundling them up. He imagined them in their own little house or apartment, at the end of a long happy day together, maybe putting their little pet to sleep them coming to their bed to relax.
He could get used to all those ideas. Definitely.
Husk inhaled the sweet, fragrant smell of Molly's perfume and drifted off to sleep with her.
A/N:
And that's all for now! Things are heating up with everyone's favorite spider couples ^w^ And Pen and Niss will get their fun time next chapter 3 Things won't get much more explicit than this, but I just wanted to explore everyone's intimacy deepening a little. I hope you enjoy what's next. Thanks for reading!
Take care!
-Azure129