A/N:

Hi everyone! I have some more "Partners" today with a lot of sweet moments for everyone, especially Baxter and Niffty : ) Thank you for your support and for reading, and I hope you enjoy the update!

Cw / Val gets non-explicitly called out on his sexual harassment/abuse of his employees at the studio. Niffty non-explicitly goes over some of her trauma responses and what she needs for a healthy relationship.

Partners

Chapter 82:

Good Things Come to Those Who Communicate

Valentino felt he had the patience of a saint for only responding with mild grumbles after being woken up today before the crack of noon (9 am — barbaric) by an early-riser Vox, an ever-ecstatic Vark, and an eager-to-visit Velvet (though to be fair, at least she brought over French toast — shaped like knives). They were overlords, one of the perks was the option to sleep in late. Why he was the only one of the three of them who wanted to take advantage of that fact, he would never understand. So, reluctantly but also a bit gratefully, Valentino let himself be taken out of another rough night's sleep that was far too full of delicate dreams about someone with a rectangular head. He gave Vark a few gentle pets for being the only one who hadn't woken him up. Then he endured Vox bringing him a tray with French toast and bacon and apple juice like he was still a fucking child. Valentino's pride burned at the pampering, though the feeling was warring with another warm sentiment near his heart. He hated that he needed to be taken care of like this now, and yet he felt…a special way about the fact that Vox was the one taking care of him.

The conflicting emotions made him nauseous — he stuffed down the French toast to try and fill himself with butter and syrup instead of confusion and, ugh, 'affection'.

Valentino's mood also wasn't helped by the fact that Velvet had finished her breakfast and was now just standing in the living room, watching him with one of her manic grins. He hated having an audience for his misery. If she didn't cool it soon, he was going to scare her off by having a first class overlord tantrum to the best of his weakened abilities, fuck how immature it would make him look. Really the only thing holding him back was not wanting to upset Vark — the little guy got skittish whenever his temper flared. Valentino wouldn't risk upsetting him. Besides, he owed Vark — the shark was his secret helper for learning to get around again, they got along good, and the little thing kept looking at Val like he cared, which was a new experience…and nice.

So Valentino just looked away from Velvet and took a deep breath and tried to remind himself that he'd be out of this penthouse soon enough. Valentino nodded to himself then swallowed his final bite of French toast (wincing a little at how swallowing pulled at the piano wire wound on his neck) and then pushed his tray away, arms crossed and eyes down.

Vox strolled out of the kitchen. "Dishes are done. Let me grab your tray, Val." He headed over to the couch.

Valentino just shrugged. "Sure."

He ignored the warm funny feeling inside when Vox took the tray and smiled down at him. "Wow, all gone? I'm guessing you like French toast. Vel makes it better than me, but I can try to whip up some waffles tomorrow morning if you want?"

Vox, mixing and cooking waffles from scratch, eating at his side, daringly holding out a fork to feed Valentino before the moth could pull the television on top of him and never let go, sticky syrup and other things everywhere. When the fuck had domestic stuff become so hot to him? Oh, once he was over this stupid infatuation, he was at least going to make the whole thing worthwhile by looking into the prospect of a new niche of homemaker porn videos. "W-Whatever," the moth nearly stuttered. These sudden mental images were completely overheating him. He had to change the subject NOW. "Uh…hey, how'd the studio opening last night work out? Numbers in yet? Angel better have pulled in a fuck ton for all the trouble he's caused lately."

Vox instantly hesitated, shared a glance with an utterly invested Velvet, then set down the tray on the coffee table and cleared his throat. "I was actually just going down to the studio to check on last night's numbers. It was a soft open, so they're probably not great, but it's something. We'll be back to better profits by the weekend."

"Okay…" Valentino eyed him. The tv was a shit liar, which was one of the reasons Val had been okay partnering up with him as an overlord in the first place: he liked people who couldn't deceive to him. And right now Vox had all the tells going — clenching his hands, minimal eye contact, his (kind of cute, in the right light) bent antenna wobbling a bit. Val resisted a sudden urge to touch it and cleared his throat. "Any dip in profits sucks, but hey shit happens. I can live with it." He narrowed his eyes. "Now mind sharing whatever it is you're NOT telling me?"

"Fine." Vox's look went dry and he took a deep breath. "I haven't asked Angel to come back to the studio. And I'm not going to."

There was a heavy silence between them. Velvet bounced on her heels with a big excited grin as she looked back and forth between the two men.

Valentino sat up as tall as he could. "What?" He replied coldly.

Vox sighed. "You heard me, no more Angel. You get completely irrational around him, and he…frankly, he's pretty damn traumatized by being around you. You're not good for each other. You need to let him go before you almost get yourself killed again. As soon as I can, I'm going to let him know officially and then offer to help him find something else if he wants."

Valentino took a deep breath, nearly snarling. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Vark looking at him warily, and that fact was the only thing keeping him from yelling his head off. "That studio is mine, and that spider is mine. And you do not have the authority to—"

Vox pressed a button on the side of his screen — a white document appeared with black text. He spoke, reading it aloud. "…By signing below, the three parties hereby agree that sole head proprietorship of all studio assets stays with Valentino…"

"See!" Valentino almost stuck out his tongue smugly.

"…Unless he should become incapacitated through external altercations or acts of heaven or hell, in which case majority ownership temporarily passes to the two remaining parties in order to prevent loss of territory or hostile takeover by other overlords." Vox's face returned. "You are not well, that means me and Vel are in charge, and Vel hates responsibility and paperwork so that means I'M in charge. And that means no more Angel. Find some new stars. And act professionally with them, not like…" He hesitated, scowling a little, blushing.

"Like WHAT?" Valentino challenged as loudly as he could, throat stinging.

Vark frowned and lowered himself to the floor with a whimper. Instantly Valentino felt his anger overwhelmed by guilt.

Before he could try and make the shark feel better though, Velvet sighed and answered his question. "…Like the most cliche sexual predator of all sexual predators. For fuck's sake, even someone as grumpy as you could get laid without forcing it if you tried."

Valentino's eyes widened. In an instant he was seething and blushing, and for some reason now he couldn't look at Vox. He kept his voice low and calm. "What, this is about me fooling around with the studio sluts? That's not about sex, that's about keeping my whores in line and giving them a little taste of the best of the best to teach 'em how to fuck right. It's about controlling something you can't understand. It's about me and…"

"Just stop. Now."

Valentino found himself silenced as the words left Vox, so clear and firm and serious…and sad. The moth felt like his heart was pierced, and all of his flimsy bravado instantly fell away as his gaze hesitantly met the tv's.

Vox narrowed his eyes. "I don't know all the details because I haven't wanted to know — which is my own mistake to make up for. But I know you've done things to your people beyond just 'fooling around', and you've done the worst of it with Angel. So he's no longer working for your establishment. Not ever again. And don't even think about trying to bring him back once you're better — if you do, I will take this to a higher authority, for you sake, his sake, and the business's sake."

Valentino bristled, heart racing. "Higher authority? Who? Your precious new best friend the Radio Demon?" He narrowed his own eyes now. "I saw the way you two looked at each other during the mob thing. You're not rivals anymore. You're something else…" He both wanted the truth and found himself utterly terrified of it. "He's not better than me and neither are you!"

Vox just frowned looking…disappointed.

Valentino felt another surge of guilt, and his angry grimace withered into a frown. His antennae drooped.

Vox sighed, his voice calm and quiet. "The higher power I would go to is the princess — Angel's her hotel guest. I've never heard of a restraining order in hell but if anyone could enforce one, she could." He picked up the tray again. "Also whatever Alastor and I do is none of your business. Friends respect each other enough not to try tearing apart each other's lives and relationships." He turned away. "And I've told you before, it's not my job to be the punching bag for your insecurities. I don't like it. And I deserve better."

Valentino felt his hands trembling. He tried to shrug and brush it off. "Sheesh…I get it, I'm a piece of shit barely worth hating."

"I do not hate you!" Vox turned back around, passion in his eyes. "But I hate some of the things you say and a lot of the things you've done. And I really hope you'll do better from now on, for everyone's sakes." And then he turned and headed to the kitchen, disappearing from sight.

Valentino was left speechless.

Vark sat up, smiling and panting as he watched Vox go. Then he slowly turned back to Val, head tilted at first at the tension in the air. But when there was no more yelling, the shark grinned and nuzzled under his arm.

Despite his state of shock, Valentino patted Vark, grateful that his little friend still wanted to be near him. Mostly though, he remained in shock at Vox's departing words and their whole fight and how he felt a twisted sense of fear and sadness that somehow he was still messing up their friendship let alone their ability to have anything more ('more' which he might end up finding the Alastor if Valentino kept pushing him away like this).

He also couldn't shake the nagging feeling beneath his ego and bravado and rage that somehow the television was sort of right — about everything.

He was only brought out of his many thoughts and feelings by the sight of Velvet approaching him now. "What?" croaked out of him, and he regretted that the word sounded almost fearful. There was a gleam in her eye though, and that was never good news.

"Hmm?" She shrugged, rolling her eyes to the side innocently. "Oh nothing…yet. Just enjoying the show for now." She sat on the coffee table. "Vox said I could stay and play with Vark today while he runs errands as long as I promised not to cut you. But…if you want some more private bonding time between you and Vark — the apple of Vox's eye — I could go."

"Leave." Valentino crossed his arms with a grumpy frown. "Even if you don't stab me, you'll just end up staring at me creepily or getting me full of frosting or — I don't know, agreeing with Vox more about how much I suck."

"Yeah, probably. Okay, I'll leave!" She stood up, unfazed by his crankiness and actually grinning even more, "But I'll be back in just a few hours. That's usually how long it takes to do some surprise inspections on my bakeries. And also Varky will need his Auntie Vel to help make him some lunch." She played with the shark's little cheeks while his tail swished wildly. "Take good care of grumpy Val! We'll have cupcakes later! Raspberry jam filled ones that look like murder when you bite them! Ha!"
Vark barked happily. Velvet released him, winked at Valentino, then skipped out of the living room, probably to let Vox knew her plans before they both left.

Valentino settled into his bed on the couch, grunting a little as Vark climbed up to lie by his feet. "Maybe we rest a bit before we try helping me walk again today? I know the time we get to practice in secret is valuable, but…I don't feel so great." He sighed, turning away. His voice was quiet. "I don't understand why I care so much. It hurts. Damn it!"

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw little shark just watched him with a smile.

And now a new slightly disturbing feeling came over Val. He was…humbled by this little creature who could love unconditionally and see something in him worth caring about underneath his monstrous sins. He liked caring for Vark and Vark liked caring for him.

Kind of like Vox maybe did…as long as he didn't keep screwing it up.

Valentino pulled the blankets up over his head and tried not to over think things. And all the while his heart pounded in a good but bad way in his chest.

At the hotel, left alone together now in his suite, Baxter had immediately shown Niffty to a stool at one of his lab tables — momentarily kicking himself for not having anything more comfortable to offer, but completely unable to consider the bed as a seating option right now. He went to close his door but hesitated, wondering if open might be better, then finally he compromised by leaving it open a crack — there was privacy but no pressure.

He walked over to her, eyes down, wringing his hands, and asked if she might like some distilled water. When she said yes, he filled two beakers from a large vat, regretting now that he didn't have any clean cups up here and hadn't had time to brew any of her favorite hot chocolate.

Finally he took a seat on a stool of his own, hands folded neatly in his lap, head full of confusing thoughts about who should start and how to begin. His heart raced as he struggled to find words and wondered if he was doing this wrong.

"Baxter?" Finally Niffty spoke. "You're…shaking. There's nothing to be nervous about. Promise."

Something about the sound of her voice snapped him out of his freeze. Baxter realized he really was shaking — he took a deep breath to steel his nerves. His eyes met her eye, and then his own were instantly brimming with tears. "I am so sorry, Niffty."

She frowned a little. "Baxter…"

"I can't figure out if I did something or said something wrong. Maybe I went too fast? And even if what happened had nothing to do with me, I'm still not sure if I've handled things right by giving you space or if I've ruined everything between us by not trying to talk sooner. There were so many variables! Social equations are fascinating and devastating. And now look at me, making this situation all about me when what matters is you!" He stood, stepping towards her but still giving her space. "How do you feel, Niffty? Because you were so sad…and I just want to help you be happy again."

Niffty put a hand to her mouth, her eye tearing up. "Oh Baxter…"

"Oh no…" His tears fell freely. "And now I'm making you cry."

She smiled and came forward, wrapping him up in a tight hug.

Baxter blinked and sniffled a few times, unable to help blushing. "Niffty? I…I don't understand, what's going on?"

Niffty pulled back…and Baxter felt such relief to see she was smiling for the first time since their date. She wiped away the remains of her tears. "I'm hugging you because you care about me so much, and because I care about you too. You didn't make me cry, just now or on our date. And you haven't ruined anything." She bit her lip. "But we do need to talk now, okay?"

Baxter nodded and sat back down on his stool, facing her with rapt attention.

Niffty took a deep breath. "I don't remember a lot from my life. One of the only things I know for sure is that I…had bad times with men. I feel a lot better in this life, and I feel a lot better around men too thanks to Alastor and Husk and Angel…and you. But some part of me still remembers what it was like to feel bad. And our evening together was my first date in hell." She blushed a little. "You are kind and caring and sweet…and cute, Baxter." She felt her heart flutter as his little lantern perked up. "But even though you are wonderful and I like you, the end of our date…trying to kiss…made me realize that I need to handle this part of my life very carefully so that I'm okay…and so that the person I'm with is okay too. Does that make sense?"

Baxter nodded. "Of course, Niffty. It's only logical. If you've been conditioned through trauma or repetitive events to be apprehensive during a certain kind of situation, that response can stay with you for a long time even after any danger is gone." He frowned. "I'm sorry you've been through upsetting things. I…know what that's like, in my own way." He hugged around his chest. "I wish the end of our date hadn't been so difficult for you. But I'm happy you could understand yourself better."

"Thank you. And I really do." She frowned. "I'm sorry for anything upsetting you've been through too. I'd like you to keep understanding me…and for me to keep understanding you, so we can be good for each other." She blushed a little again. "But, with my situation at least, it might be…hard. And take time. And I don't want you to feel like you have to try with me if this is going to be too much for you. If I'm too much…"

Baxter furrowed his brow and reached out. "Niffty, may I hold your hands?"

Niffty nodded, eye wide.

He took her hands gently in his. "Niffty, you are not too much. And anything you need isn't too much. You're trying to take care of yourself. That's wonderful! I want to be here for that experience if you really will have me. And I'm honored you'd want to be here for me too with whatever I need." He smiled. "You're just the most remarkable lady I've ever met!" A blush came to his features. "Besides, everyone has situations and things that they need care and time to manage… Some people's are just a bit larger or in need of more tender handling than others. But it's all about listening and learning and being there for each other in the best possible ways." He bit his lip. "I hope I said all that right. I always worry when I shift from scientific to more abstract thoughts."

Her smile was beaming as she squeezed his hands. "I think you said it all perfectly, Baxter. And you are the most remarkable boy there ever was." She shifted closer then whispered, "May I kiss your cheek?"

Baxter nodded, eyes so wide. "If…If you want…"

She leaned in and gave the area a gentle peck that made Baxter's lantern glow like a lighthouse. Then she pulled back with a satisfied sigh.

He swallowed, voice cracking as he found is words. "And that was…okay?"

Niffty nodded. "Yes. I'm still figuring out my boundaries. But for now, kisses on cheeks or hands are okay. I just need you to ask first, like you've been doing. And I'll ask too. Kisses on the mouth or anything more intimate…I want to, but part of me isn't ready yet. I'm not sure when I'll be ready. And I might get a little teary sometimes if something reminds me of the old bad feelings. And sometimes if we have dates outside of the hotel I might need to go home early if I get overwhelmed. That's all I know for now."

"Then that's exactly what we'll do!" Baxter assured with a nod and a big smile. "And if anything changes or there are new boundaries, please let me know and we'll honor them too!"

Niffty giggled in relief. "Thank you, Baxter." She considered. "Oh, and do you have any boundaries?"

He swallowed. "Just…my lantern really." He glanced up at it, still glowing. "It…has a lot of reactions to different situations, and I prefer not to have them pointed out in public. I have some mixed feelings about it since it's…technically a female anatomical part. You can ask questions, I'm just not ready for discussing it much with others." She nodded in perfect understanding. Baxter smiled a little and went on. "And as for touching it…if you ever want…that can happen, but I definitely need you to ask first. And I need you to understand that it's…sensitive." He blushed.

Niffty blushed too but nodded once more. "I see. I'll always ask, and I won't mention your lantern in public. If it's okay to say in private though…the lighting makes you look very handsome."

The lantern glowed even brighter, and Baxter smiled in a goofy way. "Oh, uh…thanks!"

Niffty's heart fluttered and she felt so safe and good in this moment. She cleared her throat. "Baxter? Have you had breakfast yet?"

Baxter blinked and shook his head. "No. I've been a little too anxious to eat much." Niffty nodded. "Me too." She got off the stool and held out her hand. "Would you like to go get some — together? Maybe out at the cafe where Abel and Louise work?"

Baxter's face lit up. "I would I would love that! I-It doesn't have to be a date though if you don't want it to be, of course."

Niffty grinned a little, leaning close, voice low and playful. "I want it to be a date, Baxter."

"O-Okay!" He gulped but grinned back at her. "I-In that case, do you want to hold onto my arm on the way there?"

She held back a giggle, and considered. "That might be too much contact for me in public right now. Would you like to hold hands on the way downstairs though? And maybe at the cafe at our table?" "Very much." His eyes hazed and he sighed dreamily. Then he went over to open the door and gestured forward. "After you, Miss Niffty!" She giggled and headed forward. As she passed him she paused and whispered. "Also, sometimes when we're alone you can call me Maggie if you want. That was my real name."

He beamed. "I'd be honored…Maggie." He swallowed. "Baxter is my real name, just so you know — it's the name I chose for myself before I died and the name I wanted to be my only one down here."

"Thank you for telling me. It's beautiful, Baxter," Niffty assured.

They held hands and headed down the hall together, smiling and talking and finally at ease.

While outside in the garden trying to keep Charlie and Vaggie from going upstairs again until Niffty and Baxter could have their talk, Molly decided it would be the perfect time to ask to move in. She was clear when she asked Charlie and said she could promise to respect the princess's goals and to help out wherever needed, but she herself wasn't looking for redemption — at least not unless her brothers wanted to come along too. She found herself nervous, knowing that Charlie might want to save the space here for repentant sinners, and also suddenly aware of just how badly she wanted to live here here near Angel and Husk and all these new nice people in her life. Maybe she could find a place somewhere else — but even though Molly wanted her own place for the first time she didn't want to be so alone. She had spent too much time alone already.

Husk could sense her worries, and he held Molly's hand tight as she asked to move in and waited with bated breath for Charlie's reply.

Vaggie smiled, apparently knowing what was coming, because in an instant Charlie was beaming and rubbing her cheeks and saying yes! Her enthusiasm immediately triggered Molly's own joyful energy, and now they were hugging each other, jumping up and down and laughing.

Vaggie and Husk watched from the sidelines.

Vaggie sighed, trying not to laugh. "I think we might have lost them."

Husk shrugged, trying not to smile too much. "I think they finally met their matches."

After nearly ten minutes more of jumping followed by spinning around holding hands followed by finishing each other's excited sentences followed by the two ladies grabbing hold of their partners to get them involved in the celebration, Vaggie and Husk finally eased their girlfriends down and got them to head back inside. As they entered, Husk and Molly both caught sight of Baxter and Niffty heading out the front door together — holding hands — and they knew everything must have thankfully been worked out between the two demons.

Excited and eager, Molly and Husk headed upstairs, following after Charlie and Vaggie.

The group was soon standing in the doorway of the room right across from Angel's.

Charlie rubbed the back of her neck. "Are you sure you don't want a different room, Molly? I know you want to be close to Angel, but this one needs some work."

Charlie was being a bit modest. The room was certainly livable, but it needed a coat of paint, and a good mopping and dusting, and there were a few loose floorboards, and one of the window panes was cracked.

It was quaint and imperfect and in need of some extra love.

"It's perfect," Molly assured, eyes sparkling. "I always wanted a little place ta spruce up, just somethin' modest I could make my own. I'll work on it and make this room sparkle, Charlie."

Charlie's smile returned to its fullest form. "We'll get you any supplies you need."

"And I'll help," Husk offered, "I mean, I've got some experience with carpentry, painting, repairs… Only if you want though. I know this place being your own is important to you, so if you don't want me involved that's okay too. I'll just bring you sweets and lemonade to keep up your spirits — sometimes spiked with vodka if that helps."

Molly's gaze grew dreamy. She stepped close. "It's important to me that the place is mine to live in, but I'm happy to have anyone's help for making it a good place to live. I'm sure my brothers'll wanna get involved, and I'd love ta have your help too, Husky. Thank you."

His smile grew and he nodded. Then he glanced around the room. "I'll start with the window. You need that fixed for insulation. I don't want you catching cold or getting overheated."

"Aww, aren't you a sweetie." She leaned in and kissed him on a cheek.

Husk blushed and beamed.

"Awww…" Charlie clasped her hands together, and Vaggie grinned.

Husk puffed out his wings and rolled his eyes to the side but kept his smile.

Molly giggled then turned to the other girls. "Gals, I appreciate you lettin' me stay here so much. And I wanna let you know all my decoratin' ideas. But could I have a moment alone with Husky right now?"

Both girls nodded and headed to the stairs leading to the third floor. "We should check on Razzle and Dazzle anyway," Vaggie assured.

Charlie nodded. "We'll be up in our room if you need anything!" She waved, and then they disappeared upstairs.

Molly turned to Husk. "So, I figure we can start workin' on this place and maybe have it ready in a few days. And in the meantime I'll keep stayin' in your room. Sound good?"

"Yup." Husk nodded, trying not to frown at the idea of losing her nightly presence. "And I'll…ya know, miss you, but you're welcome to stay with me any time. Really."

Her eyes hazed. "Good ta know. But first, after I move into this room and get settled, I'd like YOU to come up here and spend the night with ME. What do ya say?"

Husk blushed incredibly. He swallowed and barely managed a nod.

"Husky, you okay?" Molly tilted her head, smiling gently.

He shrugged. "Yeah, sure. It's just, uh…no lady ever asked me to spend the night at her place before." His wings puffed out a little.

She laughed gently. "Well, now you're gonna have one asking you a lot. I hope that's okay."

"Very okay." Husk snapped out of his shyness and smirked a little. "Let's get started figuring out a list of exactly what we need to do to make this room worthy of a lady of your caliber!"

Molly giggled and nodded with a blush of her own.

Husk took off his top hat, swirled a hand over the brim, then turned it over — a notepad and pencil fell into his hand.

Molly clapped in joy as Husk took a little bow. Then he replaced his hat and they entered the room together, ready to take action.

Upstairs Charlie sat on the bed, petting a beaming Razzle and Dazzle.

Meanwhile Vaggie looked at her phone. She saw some more updates from Steve.

'Should be able to get in for a live show today. After it's over, I'll try and linger near the dressing rooms to hear what I can about this weekend's special. If anyone questions me I'll just say I'm here for an autograph or an audition. That dog demon I mentioned is still spying on the building too. I saw her talking to someone again — someone in the shadows with a dark jacket and a white hat. Gave me overlord vibes. I'll keep you posted, Vaggie. Hope you and Charlie are well. - Steve.'

When Vaggie looked up, Charlie was watching her read the message with a small smile. Vaggie swallowed, hesitated, then put her phone down. Charlie glanced away and brought her attention back to the goats.

Vaggie moved closer to her girlfriend. She gave Razzle and Dazzle a little pat and scratch each. Then she made her spear manifest, pulled off the point at the end and tossed it out into the hall. The little goats dashed after it, eager to fetch and play.

Vaggie looked to Charlie and took her hand. "Charlie, I want to tell you everything, so here it goes. Cherri heard a news ad a few days ago from Katie Killjoy that sounded…suspicious. Something about a big 'regal' scoop. Katie was pretty pissed we spoiled her show last time we were on after all, so I got worried she might be doing something now to get revenge. Something that would hurt you…even though you just started feeling better and things with your parents finally seem like they might calm down. We didn't want to worry you, so I asked Steve to check out the studio since no one knows him there."

Charlie nodded, taking in all the information. "I understand. Thank you for explaining to me, Vaggie. Really."

"Of course." Vaggie nodded, frowning apologetically. "And if he found out anything solid, I was going to tell everything you right away. And then I was going to go down to the news studio with my spear ready to skewer some news anchors."

Charlie blinked and smiled shyly "Vaggie…Come on, that sounds like something Alastor would do for Angel."

"Yeah, and maybe he's got a point. Moving heaven and hell for the person you love matters."

Charlie giggled and blushed.

Vaggie smiled in return, eyes hazed, but then she glanced away. "I didn't mean to leave you out of what was happening and make you worry. I'm sorry."

Charlie just smiled more and hugged her tightly. Then she pulled back. "Whatever Katie might have in store, we'll handle it together." She took a deep breath. "Now, when is this big show supposed to happen?"

"This weekend."

"And we don't know for sure it's about the hotel yet, right?"

Vaggie shook her head. "No, not yet. Steve is going to go to one of their live recordings today to see if he can find some more info, but for now…it's all hunches."

"Okay." Charlie smiled gently. "Then I say, until we know for sure it's a show about the hotel, we do nothing. If Steve finds some proof that Katie's going to attack us on the air, then we can head down there together to reason with her before the special airs. But if he doesn't find anything…I think it's be better if we stay away and just watch the news special here when the time comes. If it's not about us, then there's nothing to worry about and no problems with Katie. And if it is about us…we'll have some time to cool off and figure out our options to make things right. What do you think?" She shrugged sheepishly.

"I think that sounds like the best plan, babe." Vaggie nodded then hesitated. "Do you want to tell the others about this?"

Charlie bit her lip. "Normally I'd say yes, but…Angel and his siblings just went through so much with their family, Alastor went through so much worrying about Angel, Husk is busy helping Molly move in, I think there's been something going on with Niffty and Baxter, and Abel and Louise are still busy working and planning their wedding… I don't want to worry them. If the news special is bad for us, then we can talk to them all."

Vaggie nodded again. "Okay. I'm with you, babe. We'll wait and watch together because we're in this together." She took Charlie's hand and gave it a squeeze.

Charlie squeezed back. "Thank you, Vaggie. And no matter what happens…I'm keeping this place safe. I will never let anyone hurt my hotel or my guests or my girlfriend." She leaned in closer, smirking, dark eyes flashing fiery red for a moment as she winked.

Vaggie blushed and swallowed. "Oh, uh…Yeah, that's…good."

Charlie blushed too and let her demonic features gently increase as she gazed lovingly at her girlfriend. Vaggie's eyes brightened and she reached out a hand almost reverently to touch one of the lovely horns curving gracefully from her Charlie's sunshine hair.

Razzle and Dazzle suddenly re-entered with the spear tip they had fetched and placed it before Vaggie on the bed. She swallowed, heart racing, and quickly glanced at them. "Uh, thanks, guys. Hey, why don't you get some juice downstairs as a treat? Ask for help if you need, and don't make a mess."

The little creatures giggled and nodded then left, closing the door behind them.

Vaggie brought her very intrigued attention back to her girlfriend. Instantly she gasped as she was kissed down into the pillows by an enthusiastic Charlie whose hair danced with flames. They smiled and laughed and touched each other with all the confidence and joy of knowing they had eternity together.

Up in the airship above the Pentagram, following breakfast with his siblings, Niss was flitting around his room (formerly Molly's room), gathering clothing and knickknacks into boxes to prepare for his own big move to the hotel.

Sir Pentious helped by bringing him fresh boxes and crates, like the few he set down now as he watched his boyfriend with a curious smile. "Are you planning to leave quickly? I thought you wanted to talk to the princess first to formally ask her to move in?"

"Oh, I just like being prepared…" Niss tightly folded another shirt and set it inside a box. He opened another drawer, blushed heavily, and just took these items out as a lump and shoved them into a box that he immediately closed up tight.

Sir Pentious was more than familiar enough with Niss's attire after last night's sleepover to know those items were his darling's undergarments. He let out a shuddery sigh and resisted the urge to jump into Niss's strong arms and send them both crashing to the bed, playfully wrapped up in each other. His tail flicked across the floor and his smile grew — he hadn't felt this delightfully aroused by anyone else in so long. Pen's heart and body and mind felt like they had been starving for affection, and now that he'd had a taste…frankly he would have spent days in bed with the spider if Niss were agreeable, for cuddling or anything else.

For now though he was content to watch his spider paramour dart around the room with his coat off and his tie loose and his shirt sleeves rolled up, showcasing some impeccable forearms and a rather well-shaped rear. Niss wiped sweat from his brow now, and Pen almost needed a hand fan and a fainting couch.

With a grin he slithered forward past the boxes and looked down at Niss. "How about I assist you? Then we'll have even more time to enjoy together up here before you leave, hmm?"

Niss stilled, blushing a little, gazing up at his boyfriend. "I…" He awkwardly sat on top of the box he had filled with unmentionables, keeping it hidden. "Maybe. Sorry, I just start organizing and cleaning when I'm nervous. Pops always said it was 'girly', but I can't help it."

"Hmph!" Pen waved him off. "Your Pops could not appreciate the complex and captivating man you are, Nissy." He leaned down. "Whatever you do to feel better is just fine with me, and very charming too." He considered. "Maybe instead of more help with the packing, some help discussing what's on your mind to make you nervous would be better?"

Niss considered then nodded. "There's just…this whole new part of my life starting, with you and the hotel and my brother and sister. I'm worried about all the changes, and I'm worried about all of us gettin' along. I know Alastor was kinda standoffish to you today. I think he's just been nervous ever since the fight ended when Angel passed out all those days. And I think they're still both nervous about telling us they're dating. I talked to Angel about it. But I wish neither of them would worry, they've both been through so much lately already. I just want everyone to be happy." His brow furrowed in thought, and he tried to blink away a tear. "And I'm extra worried about Tony cuz…he got shot with that angelic bullet. I know he's got Charlie and Alastor to help him but…that wound's hurting him, more than he lets on. And I can't fix it."

Sir Pentious nodded. "All very understandable points of concern. A lot has happened over the last few months. And I don't blame Alastor or you or anyone for having some doubts to work through." He placed his hand on Niss's. "It's okay to be scared, Archie. But remember, we have such lovely friends and you have such a lovely family, and they're all here to support whatever's next. And I'm here, always. You may be the 'big brother' in many situations but you don't have to do anything alone. We'll all make our lives work out — together."

Niss smiled up at him and squeezed his hand. "Thanks, Pendleton."

"Any time, darling." Pen winked.

Niss blushed and grinned a little. "Ya know, another thing that would relax me is making out…"

"What a coincidence, that happens to be my speciality!" Pen grinned back at him. "And post-shed soft skin time isn't over yet you know." Right away they were kissing, mouths eagerly on each other, chests pressed close. Niss stood on the tips of his toes as Pen leaned down to make their heights meet. Then Niss pressed flush against him, practically like he was going to climb the snake's body, and Sir Pentious let out a giddy squeal and sunk lower to the floor. Pen's heart raced in delight — his little tongue flicked out partly as an automatic response and partly as something he had been wanting to do again ever since their little foray into second base in the solarium.

He felt gratitude to all the cosmos when Niss parted his lips and took that tongue inside with a hungry, faint moan. Pen went slowly, discovering every bit of Niss's mouth with his tongue. Then Niss had all three sets of arms going, one holding his hips, another one around his waist, and the final set pressing against his shirt into one of the sensitive red marks that trailed down his body from his chest.

They touched and pressed and shared a few more breathless smooches in blissful abandon until their mouths peeled apart to catch their breaths for a moment.

Niss was grinning so much. "God this is hot," he panted. "Y-Your tongue…"

"Is quite skilled I hope, thank you for noticing," Pen purred with a playful wink.

"Pen!" Niss blushed and cleared his throat but couldn't help smiling a little.

Sir Pentious giggled. "Just teasing, darling." Niss sighed. "You're cute when you flirt." He smiled more then tried to fix his mussed hair. "I'm feeling a lot better. Maybe I really should take a break. It's not like I have too much stuff to pack anyway."

"Marvelous idea!" Sir Pentious gave him a quick hug then stood and held out his hand. "Come along, I say we take the airship for a spin and have some ray gun target practice, hmm?"

"RAY GUY TARGET PRACTICE!?" Instantly rang out joyfully as several Egg Bois opened the door and tumbled into the room.

Sir Pentious sighed and face palmed. "You are NOT the targets!" he called out in a weary yet firm voice. He was predictably met with a collection of disappointed 'Aw's'. Pen sighed. "Okay fine, a couple of you can be target practice, but not another peep til then." This compromise was met with cheers, and the eggs ran off to tell the others. He turned back to Niss. "What do you say? I'll take the helm, you man the guns? And we'll just fire 'around' the Egg Bois so no one gets needlessly hurt, hmm?"

Niss grinned. "I say I'll be your right hand ammo man any time, any place. And I'll help you give the eggs a safe thrill too" He stood and planted a firm, suave peck on Pen's lips before pulling back with a grin.

Sir Pentious giggled with a smirk. "Yes, that's the ticket! Let's go, Archie!"

Niss smirked and nodded. "Right behind ya, Pendleton baby."

Sir Pentious beamed and blushed and his tail flicked excitedly. He grabbed Niss's hand and they dashed giggling to the main bay of the airship together while they Egg Bois watched and cheered and eyed the ray gun and their boss man and his boyfriend in excitement.

A/N:

That's all for now! Yay, Niffty and Baxter are back together ^w^ And we'll be back to some RadioDust fluff with the next chapter, and seeing some characters who haven't made direct appearances yet in this fic. Thank you all for your support! Take care!

-Azure129