A/N:
Hi everyone! Final installment for now about the hotel radio show — lots of drama and romance and surprises :) Thank you for reading!
Partners
Chapter 104:
Radio Redemption Show Part 4: Showstopper!
On the second floor of the hotel, Molly and Husk sat on Molly's bed with a small radio between them, listening to the end of Alastor and Angel's special segment of the radio show. The couple also had a small two-way radio which was currently being used to communicate with another happy couple across the Pentagram who was likewise listening avidly to the show.
As Angel and Alastor's final bout of joking (more like flirting) wrapped up, another interlude of jazz music came on the air before the start of the next segment.
Molly clapped her hands and leaned down to the two-way radio. "Oh Mimzy, Rosie, weren't they just swell together! They'd be wonderful doin' shows as a couple all the time…I mean, if Alastor would be okay with some less gory ones like today's show." She shrugged sheepishly.
Rosie chuckled. "For Angel's sake, I do think Alastor would indeed make an exception and add an entirely new genre of non-lethal radio show to his repertoire."
"And then we could hear them be cute together all the time! It's like listening in on a sweet date," Mimzy chuckled.
"Yeah, about that," Husk couldn't help piping up, "I didn't realize they were gonna lay on the flirting vibes so thick. Was that a last minute decision or…?"
Rosie sighed. "I think perhaps it was more of an inevitability. Their chemistry…isn't subtle."
"It's more like an out-of-control locomotive slamming into a brick wall, but I get what you're saying," Husk replied with a grin. The ladies all laughed a little. He glanced at the radio playing jazz and shrugged. "Well…Alastor knows what he's doing, I guess, and Angel's got a good head on his shoulders. And one of these days they're bound to go public anyway. For now, they'll figure it out together. And we'll be there to help them." "And so will most of the cannibals probably…" Mimzy added sheepishly. "We, er…think they have some pretty strong suspicions about our boys."
"Not to worry though," Rosie reassured. "We're planning a Colony meeting after the show to discuss etiquette about any romantic rumors that might be brewing. Perhaps don't mention that to Alastor just yet though. Let me ease the dear in gently."
"Be my guest, and good luck," Husk replied. "And if he does start to panic about all of hell maybe getting wise to his love life, just tell him that demons outside of the colony probably assumed his chipper fawning was just one of his usual radio show head games." "An excellent point," Rosie had to agree. "Thank you, Husker dear." "No problem." Husk smiled a little. "Whatever they need, we'll be here for them."
"Anything for our Alastor," Mimzy assured.
"And our dear Angel too," Rosie added.
"I'll fight all of hell for both of 'em!" Molly announced proudly.
"And I'll do my best to keep up with you three forces of nature," Husk grinned.
Molly giggled. Husk chuckled warmly. They gazed at each other for a long, silent moment. Husk…maybe started to purr. "What is that sound? It's like a low frequency vibration… Wait, Husk is purring!" Mimzy almost squealed in delight.
Husk instantly flushed red as Rosie held back a laugh. "Hmm…I do believe you're right. Fascinating." Rosie started smugly. "Why don't we give him and his darling lady some privacy before the next segment of the show? It sounds like they could use it."
Husk blinked and cleared his throat, snapping out his daze. "Hey, we weren't…I mean…"
"Thank you, Rosie!" Molly replied brightly, eyes full of mischief. "You and Mimzy take some private time too, hmm?"
"We are overdue again today, Mimzy dear," Rosie replied smoothly. "We'll have to make up for lost time then, Rosie darling," Mimzy replied, equally smoothly. Rosie giggled. "We'll check back in with two you during the next segment! Over and out!" The two-way radio went silent.
Molly just gazed at Husk who was smiling a little but also still blushing and looking anywhere else but at the bed they were both seated on. She sighed. "You really wanna have a special full night together for our first time instead of just a quickie during a five minute radio show break, don't ya?"
Husk coughed several times, eyes wide, white cheeks scarlet. "Molly!" He rolled his eyes and shrugged. "I mean, yeah, I do for the first time. After that though…I'm open to trying new things…you know, as long as I can manage. I'm still a little nervous…very rusty…" He was pouting, shyly looking down to his lap.
Molly smiled in understanding. She reached out and took his hand. "Husky? First of all, thanks for being open to tryin' new things. I know I'm definitely a little…eager to see what this spider body can do, and I appreciate ya understandin'." She blushed. "And second, remember, we both agreed to just meet each other where we are. What we share does't have ta be perfect, it just has to be ours, and that's more than enough." She shrugged, gaze full of sweetness. "Point is, it's gonna be fine, and we're gonna be fine together."
Husk looked at her with such love for a moment. Then he leaned over and caught her mouth in a passionate kiss. His tongue came out, his fangs nicked her lips, and there was a purr like a growl in his throat. Molly's heart raced and she felt her insides melt as she let him enter her mouth. His passion made her want to collapse back onto the bed here and now with him.
She only came out of the shock when Husk pulled back after a moment, panting with his lips hovering over hers. "Tonight."
"Hmm?" She mumbled in a daze, leaned back in his grasp.
"Tonight. I'd like to sleep with you…make love to you…satisfy you — tonight. If you want. After the radio show, after everyone's asleep, after no one needs us for anything else and I can just be here for you, Molly." Husk lowered his voice a little. "Remember, all the rooms are sound proofed and people are used to us both sleeping in late anyway." His eyes went down shyly. "I wish we could do this some place fancy, some place I got for us, some place that's gonna be our future. But I'll make here as special as possible. I promise."
Molly was shaking all over, her pink marks flickering between dull and glowing, her legs pressed together for mercy. She nodded then found her voice again. "Up here. In my room, please. It'll be the perfect place. I've got all the stuff I bought here anyway." She blushed so much. "As soon as midnight hits. Just knock first, I wanna make sure everything's ready. And then I just want you, Husky." Her chest was heaving with fast breaths.
Husk gave her a Cheshire grin. "It's a date."
Gradually he pulled back so they could sit up, both still flushed and dazed and trembling. The jazz song ended and they found the wherewithal to turn up the radio and listen as the next segment of the show started, this one featuring the Von Eldritch's. But they weren't really paying attention. They were more focused on sitting side by side, fingers interlaced, sharing a little bit of warmth with each other and knowing so much more would be shared later tonight. XXXX
"Yes, you're hearing right, loyal listeners! Angel and I have not only been rejoined by our peppy Princess and her prominent paramour, but we now have further royalty in the room. Please put your claws together for the unparalleled Lord Seviathan Von Eldritch and Lady Helsa Von Eldritch!" He played an applause track through his microphone.
Sev held up a hand, smiling sheepishly. "Oh, you don't need to use the titles, Alastor. Just Sev is fine." "I'm good with or without the title," Helsa shrugged. "But if anyone out there is writing about this show for social media, use the full title — that's how I brand myself."
"I'm still good with just Charlie," Charlie offered, glancing awkwardly at Sev and Helsa before looking back to Alastor and Angel.
"And I'll probably always be good with Vaggie," Vaggie added, squeezing Charlie's hand and giving her a soft, encouraging smile. "But now that we're all introduced, let's get back to talking about the hotel."
Some of Charlie's nervousness melted away at the smooth segue, and she nodded. Meanwhile, Helsa gave Sev a little nudge that was more comforting than antagonizing, and he nodded and seemed to relax too.
"Excellent point!" Alastor replied brightly. He glanced at his co-host, "Angel, perhaps you would like to do the honors of getting the ball rolling?"
"Can do, Smiles!" Angel grinned. He leaned toward the foursome. "So Charlie, first of all I gotta say I'm honored to be the first guest of your hotel. You took a chance on a real piece of work, and I haven't completely devastated you yet, so I feel like we're making progress, heh." Charlie laughed. "Angel, I've been honored to have you as our first guest. And you've done more than just make progress — watching you make better choices and take care of yourself and welcome new people into your life has been miraculous. It's made my dream come true."
Angel's eyes widened and got teary. "Aw, Charlie, come on, not while I'm on the air." He sniffed and laughed.
She wiped away a few tears too. "I can't help it! Seeing you become so happy has made me so happy!" As Charlie sniffled, and Vaggie patted her shoulder.
Angel did his best to get his emotions back under control too, and it took all the willpower Alastor had to resist likewise resting a hand on his shoulder for support. But the Von Eldritches were present, so he knew he had to mind his outward displays of affection. Instead, he met Angel's gaze and give him a smile, and Angel smiled in return, his composure restored. The spider cleared his throat and turned to his mic. "Sorry for getting all weepy, folks. Emotional outbursts are part of the experience here, heh. It's kinda fun though." He smiled more. "Anyway, even though I love the honor of being our first guest, I wouldn't mind sharing that experience. And thanks to Sev and Helsa here, you might be able to be a 'first guest' too… Take it away, you two!" He gestured to the siblings.
Helsa and Sev smiled and nodded to each other, then turned back to their hosts. Sev started. "Angel's exactly right! This hotel deserves more first guests and other firsts too. Helsa and I have known and supported Charlie for a long time. She's the best person to lead hell. And we've been amazed at all the demons that have come together under this roof so far for the chance to do good maybe to go to heaven. So we're adding some NEW roofs…"
Helsa took over, grinning, all showmanship. "Basically, out of the kindness of our hellish hearts — and out of pure political devotion to Charlie cuz seriously she puts up with a lot as Princess that I would never have the patience to handle — Sev and I have made a big investment in the hotel. As we speak, multiple buildings all over the Pentagram are being cleaned up, decked out, and made over to become…new branches of this redemption hotel!" She smirked a little. "That's right, the paperwork is already signed, money has already changed hands, and there's nothing anyone can do about it!" She chuckled to herself then resumed her casual confident tone and added, "So if you're a sinner walking around while ready for a life change and you happen to pass by one of the new locations, definitely pop in and check it out. Even if Charlie's not there, she'll visit soon enough — trust me, I know her, she's just that caring of a proprietor or whatever." Helsa looked to Charlie, her normally scowling face full of light and happiness and maybe even some rosy-cheeked admiration for a moment. But then an awareness of her expression seemed to catch up to her, and she quickly blinked and leaned back and looked away, her arms crossed.
Charlie just smiled, always happy to see others happy. Vaggie tilted her head but otherwise kept her smile as well.
Sev put a hand on his sister's arm and took over speaking for them, his voice confident and kind. "A lot of demons are already here at this hotel location. There are still rooms available, but…hell is big, and all of you deserve a chance to live better and get out of here if you can, away from the pain and the punishment and the purges." His expression became serious, and with a swallow he looked directly at Charlie. "We need a new future. And Charlie was brave enough to try making it possible. And…Vaggie has been wonderful enough to help her." He looked to a surprised Vaggie with a nod before his eyes went back to Charlie. "This hotel will fill up soon — every instinct I have as a royal and a demon and Charlie's friend tells me so. And now we'll be palpated with even more places ready for demons to check-in so no one has to wait to be happier."
Charlie just sat there with wide eyes from which silent tears fell. She clenched her hands, and Sev recognized the gesture — she did that whenever she wanted to hug someone but couldn't do so for some reason. Understandably, hugging him might be hard for her. It would have been hard for him too. And maybe impossible for Helsa. He just wished he could do something to help her with the urge (and to make her happy, which was something hugs always did).
Vaggie saved the day by wrapping her arms around Charlie in a quick, tight hug that made the princess giggle. And then Vaggie utterly stunned Sev by leaning over and lightly hugging his shoulders. Charlie looked at her with such appreciation as Vaggie released the fish demon. And Sev just stared at Vaggie in wonder, his jaw fallen. Even Helsa looked surprised.
Charlie cleared her throat and found her voice again, managing not to sound too weepy. "I appreciate Sev and Helsa's support so much. They…they're my oldest friends, and knowing they want to help me and help all of you means everything. Just like how it meant the world to me when Vaggie started this hotel with me." She gazed at her girlfriend.
Vaggie blushed a little and smiled almost shyly. "I'm so happy to be here with you and everyone else doing this, Charlie. You'll change everything, I know it."
"She will…" The lovingly soft words popped out of Helsa's mouth, and she immediately blushed as she realized she'd said them.
Alastor and Angel had observed these tender exchanges and now shared a curious look. Experts in matters of the heart at this point, they could both sense that these four probably needed to talk privately soon (because clearly there was something going on, and it was definitely more complicated than just two exes working together on a business venture). But, for now, they had a radio show segment to finish. So Alastor put a pin in the matter and cleared his throat, responding to Helsa as he moved things along. "I would venture that Charlie already has changed things! After all, despite all odds I'm sitting here hosting a bloodless radio show with guests who get to live — an official miracle in hell, ha!" He put on his laugh track.
The four awkward demons had to chuckle at the little joke.
"Yeah," Angel agreed, "And I'm actually having fun performing here on the air, sight unseen and barely a sex pun coming out of my mouth!" There were some more light chuckles. "Eh, but seriously folks, we're doing good work here thanks to Charlie and Vaggie and now the Von Eldritches… and thanks to our fascinating benefactor Alastor too." He shot Alastor a little grin, and for just a moment the deer couldn't control his glowing fluster. Eventually Alastor put on a big smile to hide his joy and shyness. Angel just gazed at him sweetly for a moment and didn't press him farther. The spider turned back to his mic. "And we just want you all to be part of that good work. So if you're ready to try out hotel life, great! If you're not, we'll be here if you ever are. Still on the fence? Then make a no pressure visit our happy hotels and see if redemption — or even just leading a better life — is right for you."
"Well put, Angel!" Alastor managed without sounding TOO enamored. "Well put indeed." He set some applause to play through his microphone then finally managed to dart his eyes away from Angel to turn back to their guests. "Anything to add before we open the floor to calls about this new announcement as well as further details from the four of you?"
"We love humans!" Charlie and Sev announced at the same time before blinking and laughing— not awkwardly just happily. They sighed.
"Earth could probably be really rough sometimes," Sev added.
"And hell is really rough A LOT OF the time," Charlie added.
"Heaven's probably not perfect," Vaggie admitted. "But at least you'll all be safe from the exterminations there. And that matters to us a lot."
"Plus wouldn't it be a kick to upstage those uppity angels by becoming the souls they're supposed to protect instead of the souls they're supposed to destroy? Oh they would be fuming in the best way, and there'd be nothing they could do about it." Helsa smirked.
Charlie giggled at the joke, and Helsa's smile grew for a moment before she bit her lip to control it. Sev touched his sister's arm while Vaggie and Charlie just gazed at each other again, continuing to hold hands.
"And on that note, we definitely have more callers!" Alastor looked at the flickering lights on the switchboard with interest. "I don't blame them for being interested. Helsa makes quite the point, after all. Quite frankly I wouldn't mind sticking it to heaven myself! Though I prefer a doing so with a well-placed bit of magic and carnage, but to each their own! Ha!"
"Heh," Angel laughed. "One day we're gonna see those killer angels turn tail and not be able to touch any one of us, and I can't wait for it. Now let's talk to some demons who feel the same!"
Charlie nodded to them with a bright smile, Vaggie gave a nod as well, Sev sat up tall and at attention, and Helsa primped herself a bit before crossing her legs and looking ready.
Alastor tapped his cane to bring the next caller on the air. The show proceeded so flawlessly that Charlie almost forgot about all the pain of that first news segment she had done about the hotel and then her parents' recent awful news show about this place. There was only here and now and her family and her friends…and her people. And their futures would all be better soon.
Lucifer listened to the radio with his head tilted and his eyes wide, still ensconced in his cozy little fort of pillows and plushes. Lilith was there, listening too. She had walked in, phone in hand, brow furrowed in some slight frustration as she began to complain about catching up on Madame Von Eldritch's haughty yet cryptic messages about her children's 'intentions' for their own future and the future of hell when the siblings had suddenly come on the air with their daughter and started speaking.
The both listened in fixated silence as explanations about expansion and partnership and hope for hell continued. They didn't speak until Alastor and Angel interrupted to take some calls.
Lilith went first…and she was smiling. "Oh… Bethesda Von Eldritch couldn't have known about this. She's always making backhanded comments about Charlie's schemes, she never would have agreed to let her own children get involved. She's going to be so furious. How unfortunate…" Her smile grew and a small giggle left her as she glanced at her phone. But then she bit her lip and glanced at her husband, who was still staring at the radio in silence with wide eyes, many thoughts clearly working in his mind. "Luci, dear…how do you feel about this development?" She bit her lip. "I…I know you were always a bit hesitant about Charlie and Sev's closeness. Of course I'm sure this merger doesn't mean they're getting back together — after all Vaggie is one the air with them. And, however much I might have been quite hesitant about her and Charlie dating, at least she's supportive and capable and inspirational. Far more than we've been lately to our daughter." She added the last sentence, looking down with a frown.
Lucifer remained quiet for a moment. Then he turned down the radio slightly as the calls came in. He leaned back on his shoulders and looked up at the ceiling. "Expansion… Her response to our dismissal was to grow…practically overnight." He smiled a little. "Heh…it's like…it's like a revolution. Without a single threat or declaration or drop of blood shed. A coup of peace and kindness and rainbows. She'll probably beat my record for enlisting a third the host of a realm. And she's doing it with love." He gasped and ran his hands through his hair, smiling while trying not to cry as stars glimmered in his eyes. "I want to tell her I'm so proud. I was proud when I rebelled against the divine, I was proud when I met and married you, my love, but this…I'm bursting and I want to let her know and tell her how sorry I am and show her all our plans and…" He was getting quiet overstimulated. Lilith put a light hand on his shoulder and sat down. He immediately relaxed, his breaths slowing and his movements stilling. He leaned against her a little. "But…I know we need to wait… Today is her moment. And either way you and I still have to solidify our plans for helping and supporting her, to prove to her she can trust us again. I just miss her. I wish we were there with her."
Lilith patted his back. "We can be for the next hotel radio show." She smiled to herself. "And I'm proud too. She will not be denied her determination to rule as she sees fit. She's so strong and grown up — a true queen." Her smile grew. "And I'm happy the Von Eldritch children are helping her. I'm happy this new generation is standing up for themselves together. They are their own support system. She's practically created a new regime." Lilith blinked as her phone chimed. She took it out. She smirked slightly as her look went dry and then she pressed the button to take the call.
A snooty, hysterical voice sounded. "Lilith! What is going on? This mockery of a radio show has been on all day, and now my Sevvy and Helsa say they've joined that un-hellish hotel of your daughter's! They've opened new accounts and everything to do it. They won't even take my calls! And sin knows there's rumors all around the Pentragram about how Charlie won't speak to you. Enough if enough, I will not have my children so negatively influenced. We cannot let this stand! You and I have to put an end put to this ludicrous situation right now and—"
"Bethesda — I'm listening to our brilliant children make a bright future for themselves. Shut up." There was an appalled gasp from the other end of the line, but then Lilith hung up on her. She and Lucifer looked at each other and burst into laughter until they were crying, rolling on the bed.
Lucifer managed to recover first, his eyes going from his beautiful wife to the comforting radio to the window looking out over hell…and also always with a perfect view of the glowing sphere of heaven.
For just a moment that sphere winked dark, like an eye closing, but then it returned to normal.
Lucifer's eyes widened and some spark of divinity within himself stirred. He could almost feel the tug of power directed at his realm.
He sat up tall and held his head high with a sigh. "Dearest…I don't mean to alarm you but we should probably talk to Charlie as soon as possible, even if we're both a little nervous. Because it's only a few months until the next extermination, and I wouldn't be surprised if heaven were listening in. They won't have forgotten Charlie's efforts to appease them last year or their ire about her hotel plans. And now those plans are growing…and being broadcast on airwaves that can probably be received up there."
Lilith's eyes widened then narrowed as they found the glowing sphere in the sky. "If they come near my baby or her hot, I'll gut them."
Lucifer grinned. "Oh I do love when you're protective, dearest. But no need to trouble yourself so much…" He leaned close and smirked. "We'll gut them TOGETHER."
She smiled and gazed at him. "We should probably lead with something less graphic when we tell Charlie about the situation and promise to help. But I'm glad we'll be able to defend her side by side. Those stuffy angel won't know what hit them."
Lucifer chuckled. "Rainbows and love and kindness first…and then if all else fails, wings and claws and hellfire. For the safety of our daughter…and our people whom she loves so much." He considered and glanced back at heaven for a moment, glowing there so innocently now. He stood up on the bed and scowled. "Do you hear that, almighty heaven? My daughter is under all of hell's protection. She's more virtuous than any of you, and if you refuse to accept that fact and leave us be, then we'll know for sure that you have no decency. And now I'm going to return to listening to her radio show because I love and support my baby even if I sometimes don't understand or agree with her. Unlike SOME people, I value family, hmph!" Nose high in the air, he turned away, clapped his hands to magically draw the curtains and hide heaven, and then turned the radio show back up and smiled as he listened to his daughter answering questions from curious demons.
Lilith gave him a big hug from the side, smiling so much too They settled in together with his pillows and his toys and a couple glasses of chocolate milk that he magicked up for them. They wouldn't miss the rest of the show for anything.
Velvet was bouncing back and forth on her heels as she waited at the end of the park to 'bump into' Val and Vox. She kept imagining she would catch sight of them walking down the path, probably holding hands and smiling all goofy and calling each other Vark's Daddies. After all, she had coached Val in dating REALLY well — even his stubborn ass couldn't mess up a simple walk in the park too much. His temper was his biggest risk factor, but she'd been conditioning him to control it all week by being increasingly more irritating at various times and then calling him out just before he could fly off the handle. He was in love, he was matured, and he was ready — he could do this.
And even if he did dramatically run out of the park in a frustrated rage, at least Vox would see his passion, and Velvet could mold things from there. It wouldn't be ideal, but it would be something.
What she didn't expect — or have any idea how to work with — was what she finally saw when her boys came into sight.
Vark trotted happily between them as Val held his leash, eyes down and looking defeated, while Vox just half smiled and focused on the woodsy setting around them.
Damn it. Vel had anticipated Val possibly fucking things up — she hadn't even though about VOX being the problem. But, looking at him cluelessly walking along while Val sulked, she could tell that he was causing tension. And meanwhile poor Val's pout was letting her know that the moth definitely needed to talk about whatever had happened. He'd probably also decide to invite her along to get some dinner with him and Vox instead of going off alone. If so, she was sure she could smooth things over.
Velvet waved with a bright yet sharp smile. She really needed these two to get it together already and GET TOGETHER already so she could go back to handling her own affairs (some of which were amorous and had been secretly in the works on her end for quite a while and were almost ready to take off). "You who! Voxxy, Val! Funny running into you two! Oh, and of course my sweet little Varky!"
Vark yipped and raced forward at full force, yanking Val forward before the moth finally got his bearings and kept pace with the baby shark before it stopped in front of Velvet and leapt into her arms.
Velvet caught Vark and fell to the ground, laughing maniacally as he licked her face and swished his tail. Such a good boy.
"Vark! I know you love her but let's let Auntie Vel get up." Vox chuckled, catching up with them now as he pulled back Vark. "Vel, what're you doing here?"
Vel popped back up. "Oh just out and about causing mayhem! You two have a nice walk?" Her smile tight, she looked back and forth between the two guys.
"Oh, yeah, it was nice." Vox nodded with a simple smile, patting Vark's head.
Val shrugged. "Yeah. Whatever he said," he mumbled, eyes down.
Vox glanced at him, head tilted.
Velvet resisted sighing deeply. These two were going to kill her. Why couldn't men ever just talk like adults about their feelings? Ugh, this was why she sort of missed Angel. At least he wasn't desperately macho or desperately clueless. "Well, good!" She cleared her throat. "So, are you guys gonna do anything else now?"
She looked to Val who held up a hand before Vox could speak. "Actually, I'm kinda tired… I think I might, uh, head back to the studio. Vel, you wanna come with? Maybe we could pick up some food first, I'm hungry." "Oh." Vox blinked. "If you want you two could come over to my place and I'll cook for all of us. I kind of miss doing it." He grinned.
Val swallowed and flushed but shook his head and kept his tone casual. "Maybe some other night? I…need to lie down soon. I think it's the sunlight. I'm not used to so much at once, I feel like I'm getting a headache."
Vox frowned in concern but nodded. "Oh, sure. Do you want me to walk you home with Vel? We could pick up some soup for you along the way…"
"No, take Vark home. He's probably tired from the walk." Val handed off the leash to Vox then knelt down and scratched Vark's head, smiling gently. "You're a good boy, Vark. Make sure to get Vox home safe, okay? And I'll see you soon."
Vark licked his face and Val almost chuckled but then cleared his throat, gave him a pat on the head, and stood up. "Thanks for the walk, Vox. It…helped clear my head a bit. Maybe we'll do it again some time. I'll call you."
Vox just nodded, still looking a little confused and concerned.
Val walked ahead out onto the sidewalk. "Come on, Vel. It's gonna get dark soon."
She sighed then gave Vark a big hug before she stood and waved to Vox. "Bye, Voxxy. Talk soon!" And they were indeed going to talk soon because he was clearly gonna need it with that lost little look on his face. She skipped after Val.
As soon as they rounded a street corner to get out of Vox's line of sight, she practically pinned Val to an alley wall. "Val, what the hell happened?! I gift wrapped that date for you on a silver platter!"
"What happened?" He scowled. "What happened is he is NOT fucking interested!" For a moment he finally lost his temper — he was the same vicious Val they had known for years as he slammed his fists against the brick wall behind him, eyes glowing neon red and breaths huffing out of his nose.
Vel was actually proud of him for holding in that raging response until he was away from Vox. She was also glad that it had never occurred to her to be scared or intimidated by Val, which meant she was probably the only one who could talk him down in this situation. "Valentino…" She smiled widely and cocked her head to the side. "You are going to calmly explain to me what you're talking about. And then we are going to fix it. Now take a breath and get started!"
He was seething, especially at being given an order, but when her look remained as firm as her words he did finally take a breath and manage to speak, voice almost shaking. "I let myself smile and everything…and we talked and it was good…and then I flirted — like really flirted, Vel, cuz I was ready to make a move, and then… Nothing. No one has ever acted like that when I started making moves. He didn't pick up on any of them. That's…that's not how you respond unless you have the OPPOSITE of attraction for someone!" He was shaking a little, and Velvet swore she could see some tears behind his glasses. "What was I thinking? After all these years of my bullshit why the hell would he want to get even more involved with me? He's fucking doing something with himself like an adult now, and I'm…I'm…" He clenched his jaw. "I'm not good enough for him. I'm not enough for him. And I'm not gonna embarrass myself by pretending I am anymore."
"Val?"
He blinked and looked up.
Vel grabbed his collar and yanked him down, hard. "Get the hell over your ego. Not everyone is gonna jump in your pants the second you bat your eyes, especially if they're not paid or coerced. Wooing someone takes some god damn time and effort and backbone. And that man is perfect for you and worth it. Do you understand?"
Val hesitated but when she yanked his collar again he gave a shaky nod.
She went on. "And you ARE enough and good enough for that man as long as you keep working at it and don't go right back to your old bullshit just because life as someone who isn't a dick actually takes effort. Do you understand that too?"
Val's brow furrowed but when she narrowed her eyes he gave her another nod.
"Now, we're picking you up some comfort food, I'll make a cake, then you can wallow for the rest of the night if you want. But after that, we're gonna come up with a whole new game plan. But it's only maybe gonna work if you care enough about Vox to be in this for the long haul? Do you care enough?"
Val blushed…then gave a shy nod.
Velvet smiled and released his collar, lightly pushing him away. He stumbled but got himself steady quickly. "Good. Then we're all square! Now come on, I'm excited to make you another cake for coping!" She hopped out of the alley.
Val followed after her with a sigh, just blinking in confusion. "Vel, how…how do you know so much about how to 'woo' someone? I don't think I've seen you date or even run off and bang someone since we've met?"
She grinned. "Oh, I play the long game. And you'll see me 'wooing' like hell soon enough if everything that's been happening lately keeps working out in my favor."
Val eyed her then just sighed. "Do I even want to know who it is?"
"Probably not. And you'd never guess." She chuckled. "Just worry about you and Voxxy, and leave my love life to me."
"Fair enough," Val rubbed his head. "Thanks, Vel," he mumbled, "for…whatever." She acknowledged his gratitude which a much more pleased and satisfied smile. And though his shoulders were still slumped as he followed after her, his expression seemed more relaxed at least.
Vel was happy that her little forceful pep talk had been able to help him. She'd be extra happy when her two boys finally got together.
"…So anyway, yeah, it's still a work in progress but are planning to offer a monthly massage day at each new location. We are talking hotels, after all — why not go full five star? This was my idea by the way," Helsa announced proudly in response to a caller asking about what was included with staying at the hotel. Charlie had managed to explain the basics of accommodations and Sev had introduced activity nights and Vaggie had built up both of their offerings with a smile. Then Helsa had gone into a spiel about her own favorite upcoming perk (Helsa had originally wanted full 24/7 spas in each location, but Charlie had talked her down to something more modest and less distracting).
"Alright! When we get massages here, I call first dibs!" Angel announced with a grin.
"I'm more excited about all the new meat freezers each location will be getting to accommodate feeding more guests, but I support everyone's spa enthusiasm!" Alastor chimed in with a big smile. Then he glanced at the clock on the wall. "And speaking of feeding, it's almost five o'clock — practically dinnertime. Which means this segment of our show is at an end, and soon night will fall and our broadcast will wrap up as well. For now, we'll move on to live music courtesy of our hotel guest Steve and my shadow band! Angel and I will return afterwards for some parting words. And then be sure to look to the night sky, folks — we've got a special surprise courtesy of a new serpentine so-and-so who's been spending a lot of time here, ha!" He leaned toward his guests. "Charlie, Vaggie, Helsa, Sev — any final words for our dear listeners?"
"Just that I hope you'll come here for the sake of your own happiness!" Charlie offered.
"And…we hope you'll stay for the sake of helping with everyone else's happiness too," Sev supplied with a sheepish shrug. Charlie smiled in appreciation.
"And we hope you won't forget that you deserve better than bullshit in hell," Helsa offered, rolling her eyes. "You sinned, you're down here — fine, that's the punishment. This extermination business heaven pulls is not acceptable. So let's shake shit up! And screw whoever has a problem with us trying." She looked at Charlie with a big smile then blinked and looked away.
Vaggie raised an eyebrow at her but then looked to the mic. "So, uh…come on by, any time, day or night. Trust us, someone here will be up to answer the door and find you a room."
"Well put!" Alastor announced. "That's all for now! Live music is on the way!" He snapped his fingers, the on air light went off, and some mellow jazz music played.
"Sev…Helsa…that was perfect. Thank you…" Charlie instantly said to her two old friends.
"Hey we just did our best or whatever…" Helsa offered with a shrug.
"We were happy to help, Char. Really," Sev smiled warmly. "And we hope it's okay if we stop by the different hotel branches — and this place — sometimes to keep helping directly with whatever you need?" He looked to both Vaggie and Charlie for permission.
Charlie nodded but then bit her lip and glanced at her girlfriend.
But Vaggie smiled and nodded too, her eyes hazed. "We'd like that a lot. Thanks, Sev, Helsa." She held out her hand.
Sev's eyes widened. He blinked a couple times then smiled so brightly. Helsa sighed and gave him a little nudge and Sev finally snapped out of his surprise and grabbed Vaggie's hand in his, shaking it heartily. "Of course! I mean thanks! I mean, our pleasure."
"Okay, Sev, don't overstimulate yourself," Helsa shook her head with a smirk. She glanced briefly at Charlie then looked right back at Vaggie. "Pleasure doing business. I hope our parents are pissed and I hope Charlie's parents get their shit together."
"Same!" "Ha, same!" Alastor and Angel said at once and then tried not to glow and blush respectively at reading each other's minds.
Charlie could tell they were a little embarrassed. She sighed and redirected the room's attention by standing up. "I appreciate that. I…wonder how much of the show they heard."
"Eh, I blocked our mom and dad's numbers once the show started, just in case," Helsa shrugged. "But I've been teasing a big event for days and dropping hints about it being on the radio…" She scrolled through her phone then blinked, eyes wide. "Oh, and, uh…apparently Vox put out a mandatory alert promoting the show, and it's been showing up on people's phones all day. I didn't even realize — I pay extra to filter his messages. Politicians ping people way too much." She put down the phone and raised an eyebrow. "The whole Pentagram must have been listening in — it was primo advertising. Seriously, who here is friend's with the tv overlord?" Alastor glowed brightly, eyes wide. His brow furrowed and his lip twisted like he was trying to form a reply but very unsure of himself.
Angel smiled gently and pulled out his own phone. "I kind of am. And he and Alastor go way back." He looked down at the screen. "I had this thing on silent all day so it wouldn't accidentally go off during the show… Oh, wow, yeah, Vox has been alerting the whole Pentagram nonstop."
"Indeed." Alastor tilted his head in some wonder. "He did say he might…" He cleared his throat. "That is…admirable. I'll have to thank him, I suppose." He seemed more confused than annoyed by the situation.
Angel chuckled. "We'll thank him together, don't worry." When Alastor's features relaxed a little he looked to their guests with a supportive smile. "And hey, if all of your parents heard everything, they should be on their knees begging to support the four of you cuz what you just did was amazing work."
Charlie wiped away a tear, smiling. "Thank you, Angel. I hope…things with all of our parents get better. But no matter what happens, at least all of us here have each other" She looked to Sev and Helsa. "Sev, Helsa, I know you were planning to go after your segment was done but…would you maybe like to join us on the roof instead? Niffty and Baxter are setting up a small buffet up there. And when the sun sets, as part of our big finale, Sir Pentious and Niss are going to set off some of Cherri's fireworks from the airship over the hotel."
"Cherri's fireworks?" Helsa blinked and shot up, then clearly realized how weird that response was and crossed her arms and cocked a hip to the side like she couldn't care less. "I mean, yeah, whatever, sounds cool."
"Is Cherri gonna be there?" Sev asked, ignoring Helsa's shocked and nervous expression directed at him. "So we can thank her for the finale and maybe ask her about doing some fireworks for the new hotel branch openings?"
Charlie nodded. "Yup, she'll be there!"
"And Steve will be there after he's done up here, probably playing his sax to add some atmosphere," Vaggie offered, glancing knowingly at Sev. "Come on, it'll be fun."
The group of four headed toward the studio exit.
"Be with you shortly! Just have to take care of some loose ends!" Alastor called out. Charlie waved to him and nodded (and snuck in a wink) as she lead the others out into the hall.
The door closed behind them and the group began to follow Charlie to the roof…but Sev lingered back for a moment. And, sure enough, a familiar purple feline head suddenly peeked out of Baxter's lab with his sax and headed for the studio door.
Sev made a quick decision. He tapped Helsa's shoulder, whispered something in her ear, shared a smile with her, then slipped away from the group down the hall (not realizing at all that Vaggie saw him and smiled).
"Steve, hey! I'm glad I caught you before you went on!" Sev tried to smile brightly.
Steve blinked then gave a slightly forced casual shrug. "Oh, hi Sev. Yeah, well, I should probably get in there. Don't want to keep Alastor waiting. And i'm sure you've got places to be so—"
"Wait - please?" Sev held up his hands, biting his lip. Steve remained still, tail lightly flicking behind him.
"I just…" Sev took a deep breath. "The other night I did not mean to lead you on or to tease you or to reject you. I know I'm presuming a lot here, but if I don't take the chance now I'll get myself too anxious to ever try again. So here it goes." Sev bit his lip, then let all the words come out. "I was nervous about coming to this hotel and reconnecting with Char and then about overstepping with one of her guests, but you and I are adults and she's so understanding and I need to stop making excuses. I like you, Steve. And I would like to get to know you better as more than just hotel event planners! Would you come to the roof to watch fireworks with me tonight after you sing? And then could we go out on a date sometime?" He was blushing so much. "And if the answer's no, I understand and I hope we can still be friends because I think you're nice and cool and talented and soothing and just really great."
Steve watched him with wide eyes. His sax started to slip out of his hands, and Sev rushed forward and helped catch it. They ended up close, staring into each other's eyes.
Steve grinned. "So you do like me, huh?"
Sev went bright red. "I…well…I…" He nodded.
Steve leaned down a bit. "It's okay, scales, I like you too." He kissed Sev's cheek. "Thanks for explaining everything to me. I was worried I might have been meowing up the wrong tree. I'll see you soon for those fireworks." He pulled back and winked, and Sev's legs went wobbly as Steve strolled to the radio tower door. Sev just sighed dreamily and then chuckled and practically skipped down the hall to head to the roof to join the others.
Meanwhile, in the radio tower, once the ladies and Sev had left, Angel stood up and stretched. "Need me to help with any of the loose ends, Al? What, is it some technical stuff with the equipment or setting up a stage for your band or—"
Alastor leaned over and promptly and passionately kissed him on the mouth. "No, just this while we have a moment. Because you have been perfect and I don't know how I ever hosted a show without you, darling."
Angel blinked, then blushed pink and grinned. "Wow, putting on a radio show really does get your blood pumping, huh?"
Alastor practically giggled. "That and you. Both combined? Oh it's intoxicating…" His voice lowered to something deep and playful, and his eyelids actually fluttered.
Angel's eyes widened. Then he smirked. "After this radio show I think you and me need to talk a lot more about just how good you feel and what we should do about it."
"It's a date." Alastor winked then took Angel's hand and masterfully twirled him around once before pulling him close and guiding him to the door, their fingers interlaced. "For now, dinner, then our farewell on the air and then fireworks!" He did jazz hands with his free hand.
"Smiles!" Angel giggled. "You're a great big flirt tonight, and I'm kind of digging it."
"I'm glad to hear it. I'm 'digging it' as well, ha! And, thanks to Steve, I have some time now to indulge in this playful behavior all we want…" He snapped his fingers. His shadow band appeared minus his usual shadow companion. "He volunteered to lead the full music hour, after all. Normally I'd fill in as lead musician of the band since my shadow is occupied assisting Abel and Louise at the cafe — she insisted on staying open until sunset and the show's end, you know. Charming young lady. I can't wait for her wedding…or to dance with you at it." He gave Angel a twirl and pulled him close, and Angel just gazed at him with such a dreamy look of love.
There was a knock on the door. Alastor straightened up his darling spider. "And that would be Steve. Come along, flirting can wait for the moment!" He snapped his fingers to open the door as he released a smirking Angel. "Steve, just the lead musician I wanted to see! The airwaves are all yours, my good fellow!" Alastor gestured to his shadow band then tapped his cane — the 'On Air 'sign lit up again.
"Honored to oblige, Alastor," Steve assured with a salute. He took his place among the shadows.
Alastor spoke into his microphone. "Listeners of hell, welcome to our live music hour featuring my shadow band and our special hotel guest, Steve! Take it away, boys!"
Bold and brilliant jazz music began to play with Steve's sax leading the performance as Alastor lead Angel out into the hall and shut the door behind them. They raced to the roof door, giggling like giddy schoolboys, then headed up for some food and fine times with friends on his perfect day. As they ascended, Alastor eyeing Angel with hungry affection the entire time.
It happened so quickly.
Even a top-tier overlord probably couldn't have managed the kidnapping with such swiftness and speed — but the demon who did it tonight was fueled by pure cold rage, and it was enough.
Louise and Abel were still going strong during the cafe's special dinner shift, and so was Alastor's shadow who continued to fry up beignets for the guests. People actually danced, both inside and out in the courtyard, when the live music portion played. Then later Alastor and Angel returned to deliver their parting words and to direct eyes to the skies for a firework surprise.
"And thus our delightful day of programming is ready to come to a close, dear listeners. Thank you all for your support and for lending your ears — and for trusting that I wouldn't lob them off and fry them with some breadcrumbs and oil, ha!" Alastor joked.
Angel laughed. "Yeah, and thanks for having me as a co-host, everyone — I know it's not what you're all used to, but I think we had a lot of fun. Who knows, maybe I'll be on the air with Alastor again soon sometime. We are hotel buddies, after all."
"Hmm, quite a splendid notion indeed…" Alastor had a smile in his voice. "You'll just have to keep an ear out for our occasional hotel radio shows — of which I'm certain there'll be more — to find out if and when Angel joins us next! Remember — the station for my Cannibal Colony studio is for carnage, the station for our hotel studio is clever banter and surprise guests! Stay tuned to both if you dare, ha! Good night, folks!"
"And good luck!" Angel added. "With getting lucky, getting redeemed, and everything else!"
There was laughter from both of them.
"Oh and check out the sky over the hotel — we've got fireworks, baby! Courtesy of my girl Cherri and our friend Sir Pentious!" Angel added.
"We promise a dazzling display never seen before in hell!" Alastor crooned. "And hopefully seen tonight by heaven so they know we're here and we have no more fear, ha! Farewell, hell!"
The radio show faded out.
The customers gathered outside and cheered at the fireworks going off overhead. After the spectacle and applause the crowd finally started thinning out, all talking about the hotel…with interest, not scorn. Louise and Abel and Alastor's shadow heard them all and smiled to each other. The three of them were tired, but it was a good kind of tired. They couldn't wait to be home, celebrating the day's success with all their hotel friends.
Not long after nightfall, the cafe was empty. They got the place cleaned up quickly, and once they were done, Louise clapped her hands together. "Alastor and Angel and everyone did so good! I can't wait to go home and congratulate 'em!"
"Me too," Abel nodded then yawned and stretched. "But then bed — I'm exhausted."
"How exhausted?" Louise asked, just a little flirtatiously.
Abel blushed as Alastor's shadow smirked. "Well, I mean…not completely exhausted."
She giggled and hooked arms with him. "Come on, let's walk back." She glanced at the shadow. "Hun, do you wanna fly home quick on your own or walk back with us?"
The shadow flew close to them and grabbed them both in a tight hug with a big smile.
"Okay," Louise nodded, laughing. "We'll all go home together."
They headed to the door and walked outside, Abel and Louise exiting first.
Rough hands shot out of the dark and grabbed Louise instantly, one big arm wrapping around her body and the other around her mouth. She squealed in rage and shock.
"LOUI—" Abel started, but the bull demon who had been waiting for them head-butted him as hard as he could. Abel staggered back, winded and lightly cut on his arms from the bull's horns. He coughed and glared at the sight of Louise struggling to wriggle free then pushed himself up — his eyes glowed and his tail whipped behind him. "You let her go!" He dove at the bull only to get kicked by one of his powerful legs. Abel fell to the pavement.
Louise bit her attacker's hand, causing him to snarl in pain and free her mouth. "Abel!" Her eyes darted around then went to the darkened doorway of the cafe…and the two hidden glowing blue eyes there, that looked torn between shock and rage. Louise didn't know how much power that Shadow had, but she knew it was less than the deer who manifested him. "Someone! Go get help! Abel's hurt!" She looked at the Shadow, darted her eyes to Abel, then looked back to the Shadow meaningfully.
The eyes moved as the face gave a nod in understanding.
Abel got up once more, limping slightly and sporting a black eye. While the bull was distracted in pain from Louise's bite he jumped at the demon and dug his claws into his meaty shoulder.
"GRRRRRR!" The bull howled then violently shook off Abel, slamming him into the side of the cafe building. Abel slumped against the wall, eyes closed, out cold.
"Abel…" Louise sniffed, tears in her eyes.
"No one is gonna save you this time. Not your little fish boyfriend, not the Radio Demon, not that freak shadow of his wherever it is now, and certainly not you yourself. You're mine…"
Her eyes widened, she shifted in his grasp and her ears flattened in fear and recognition at the sight of the bull demon. "You…"
"That's right." He huffed through his nose. "All regenerated. And nowI'm gonna reopen my butcher shop. First thing on the menu — fresh lamb chops."
He probably expected her to shake and cry in fear, but instead her eyes glowed and she lunged forward, her fangs flashing.
He yanked her back from him just in time. "Oh, you've got some fire now. Trying to bite me to death, really? You're just as much of a freak as the radio demon. Well, we'll see what we can do to tame you. Come on." He held her tight, keeping her mouth pressed against his chest, and headed off into the city.
The shadow instantly flew out of the cafe and over to Abel. It listened for his heartbeat, let out a relieved sigh, then picked him up and flew with him at lightning speed toward the hotel.
The second the radio show officially ended,|Alastor tapped his cane to turn off the 'On Air' sign as he had been doing all day. But then he also hit a large red button on the side of his desk, causing every light on the console to black out and Angel's microphone to disappear completely.
Angel raised an eyebrow. "What's that, some kinda kill switch?"
"Precisely," Alastor nodded. "I had Husker install it. You see, I wanted to make absolutely certain that, should anything private occur in this room, there would be a full-proof way to make sure we weren't somehow accidentally still broadcasting."
"Really?" Angel grinned, eyes hazed as he stood up and sat somewhat enticingly on the desk. "What kind of private things?"
"What kind would you like?" Alastor asked, voice low and eyes hazed and smile wide as he stood up as well.
"Honestly?" Angel considered and gave him a cheeky grin. "Top of the list is you pinning me to this desk and doing whatever comes natural to ya."
"Angel!" Alastor exclaimed, and yet there were sparks of static on his ears and his smile was bright. He took a deep breath then tilted his head to the side in thought. "Hmm…very well — sold!"
Before Angel could process that response, Alastor snapped his fingers, and the spider found himself in a very new position that set his heart to racing. The desk was propped up on its short edge behind him, and he had his back against the smooth surface. The console was gone, papers were scattered everywhere, and Alastor's hands framed his body. The spider swallowed. "Oh my god…Hold on, I have to check if this is a dream." Angel pinched himself then beamed. "Fuck, it's real — okay, where is this coming from?"
"I told you," Alastor replied simply with a shrug. "Radio Shows 'invigorate' me quite completely. And there's no one I like being invigorated with more than you. And you are such an irrestitable co-host, cher…" He twirled a lock of Angel's hair around his fingers.
The spider giggled. "Oh… Wow, I thought you'd wait til we went to bed later before putting the moves on me, but this is very fun too."
"It's our tower and I merely think we should christen it with our love and devotion," Alastor teased. Then he considered. "Does that sound like a bit much? It seemed less dramatic and in my head."
"Nah. Real passionate, Babe." Angel assured. Then, trying not to be TOO coy, he shifted his hips and lowered his eyelids and added, "So, what's next?"
Alastor chuckled mischievously, a glow in his cheeks. "I want to try something new…if you'll indulge me."
"Oh you better believe I'll indulge you, cervino mio…" Angel purred playfully.
Alastor's tone became a little shy as he asked. "Do you recall your attempts to…slip me the tongue, as it were, when we've kissed?" "Vividly and with great arousal. What about 'em?"
Alastor rolled his eyes. "I would like to try again. Only this time I would like to be the one slipping something TO YOU." He shrugged. "I've been trying to pin down why I haven't found your efforts as thoroughly intoxicating as all of our other kisses. I think this might be what I need to do to see the appeal."
Angel, eyes wide, put his hands on Alastor's shoulders. "You can do that — you do whatever feels right. I am here and I am happy to be part of this with you. Okay?"
Alastor blinked and nodded. "I…yes, thank you I…" He bit his lip, his eyes focused on Angel's mouth. "I do love you…"
"I know, Al. I love you too…" Angel released his shoulders and smiled softly.
Alastor came forward, lightly pressing their chests together, and set his mouth to the spider's. Not a moment later one of his fangs grazed Angel's lip lightly, and Angel gripped the smooth table and opened his mouth to let Alastor pressed forward and eased his tongue inside.
Angel's eyes immediately rolled into the back of his head in response to the sure yet delicate movements of that…impressively flexible appendage. He had to press his hands against the desk to keep himself grounded and focused. Suddenly the deer leaned in more, angling his head, practically tasting the inside of Angel's mouth like he was licking the batter clean from a mixing bowl — Angel's second set of arms shot out to brace himself further while the spider's head reeled and his stomach flipped. Next Alastor took Angel's face in his hands, skillfully kneading his hair and his cheeks and down his neck to angle himself more deeply into Angel's mouth — Angel's third set of arms shot out to brace himself even more as his legs wobbled and threatened to fail. Finally the deer let out a low grumble of static that vibrated against the spider's lips and down his throat and into his chest. Angel groaned and held on to the desk for dear life but finally couldn't handle anymore. He slid from the table and fell to his knees, his lips red and swollen, his breaths faint and panting, his entire body buzzing with desire (that he needed to control because he could already feel himself getting aroused). He blinked a few times and his vision came back into focus enough to process Alastor standing over him, looking just as flushed and winded but also quite delighted.
"So..how did I do?" The deer's suaveness gave way to something humble. Angel was completely undone, on the edge of breathless babbling. "Oh…good… Real good. Expert level stuff… Like even I could learn a thing or two from you, heh…" He gave him a thumbs up, slowly managing to put away his other arms. "Really?" Alastor's whole face lit up in delight. He considered. "Is that why you needed the extra arms to steady yourself?"
Angel had to laugh as his breaths slowed down. "Yeah, heh. Big time. I… how did you learn to kiss like…I mean—"
Alastor shrugged sheepishly. "Oh, from cannibalism, I suppose? I…have spent a lot of years handling wily bodies in my grasp and prying meat from bones with my tongue and growling for dramatic effect on the air, ha. I just applied some of the same principles, albeit more gently. I've wanted to…experiment a little more. The experience of tasting you without breaking skin or causing harm was quite satisfactory. I'm glad you felt the same."
Oh lord, Angel had to squeeze his legs together as he nodded in response, trying not to think about Alastor applying that tongue's skills to any other part of his body. "Yeah — more than satisfactory. Heh, makes me wanna do something this good FOR YOU…"
It was then that Angel realized he was at eye level with Alastor's pelvis. His eyes widened and he blushed scarlet, looked up, looked down, looked to the side…maybe looked back at that charming little waist and those taut hips, all cinched so perfectly into a belt that could be so easily undone… He looked back down again in an utter fluster. Oral was nothing, small potatoes, amateur sex worker hour… Yet, with Alastor… Angel felt like a flustered teenager at the mere thought. Hesitantly his eyes peeked back up at Alastor. He bit his lip, wondering if the deer had noticed his awkward reaction.
Of course Alastor had noticed — he noticed everything about Angel. At first, Alastor gazed down at the spider with his head titled curiously. But then their position combined with Angel's increased blushing and vaguely suggestive offer finally processed with him. His eyes flashed to blackness and a peal of static left his ears before he returned to his normal self, albeit glowing far too brightly and smiling far too tightly. He shifted back on instinct but…didn't move away, not completely. He froze in that position.
There was a very full silence for a moment.
Angel swallowed, his voice a whisper. "Alastor…ya know…I don't mean ta jump the gun, but if you were ready and wanted to try… well, we are in the right position for it, heh. And we're alone…and in a sound proof room…and tucked away in your tower — our tower. And we have time, we could go so slow and gentle…" He cleared his throat shyly. "Remember when we first met and I offered? I was serious, ya know — you were so cute and I just wanted you to like me. And now you like me so much and I like you too. I love you. I wanna love every part of you, all the parts you're okay letting me love." His head was clouded with desire and affection and wonder. "I'm nervous. I don't know how you get me so nervous and riled up about intimate stuff…but it always ends up feeling so good and safe and right with you." His heart pounded. And he just tried not to picture the wild suggestion actually happening because it would send him completely over the edge, no going back.
"Anthony…" Alastor's voice was barely steady. His chest rose and fell rapidly. Then he finally snapped out of his paralysis, gripped his microphone in front of himself. He got down on his knees on the floor to face Angel. Some calm seemed to return to him at the change in position, at being level with Angel's gaze again. He swallowed and managed a reply. "I know, with you, doing something like 'that' might be… an act from which my orientation might not entirely recoil. An experience that might cause me more curiosity than anxiety. And I know you do so much to make every new experience for us good. And I know that I've liked all the new progressions we've made together intimately. But…but I…." He shook his head so shyly. "You haven't even seen beyond my forearms and chest yet, let alone seeing more and certainly let alone TOUCHING more." His ears went down sadly. "I can't handle that kind of intimate contact. Not now…maybe not ever. But definitely not now." He frowned. "In fact, I'm not certain if or when I'll ever be able to…have both pleasure and release in the presences of someone else. Even in front of you."
He looked so overwhelmed and like he was waiting for a disappointed response. Angel only smiled at him in understanding. "And that's all okay, Al." He reached out and lightly took Alastor's fingertips in his own. "That's why we talk before we do things. So that when we try something new — like the kissing just now — it's good." He bit his lip, considering. "You said you like the new things we've tried so far, right? And you said I haven't seen more than your forearms and chest 'yet'. So…do you ever think about me seeing more of you? As a more comfortable progression you might like?" he asked with care.
Alastor blinked. Then he took a breath and replied. "Yes…privately." He blinked, glowing immensely. "Not as a form of self-gratification! I don't often…" Some static left his ears and he took a breath to calm down. "Yes, the notion has occurred to me, and lately I've found myself becoming more acclimated to the eventuality. I'm really growing more comfortable with exposure overall actually." Angel nodded. "Good. I'm happy you're getting comfortable." He gave a little sheepish shrug. "You ever think about seeing more of me?"
Alastor trembled. "Oh. Yes… Also privately. You are exquisite and I…I appreciate seeing more."
Angel's smile was so kind. "Okay, so, seeing more of each other — that's mutually on the table. Good to know, even if it's not something we're doing right away." He ran his thumb over Alastor's knuckles. "I got a little carried away offering something so intense and new all of a sudden…something so close to sex. Just the heat of the moment, heh. But I do want you to know…if you're ever curious, ever want to experiment, ever have something you want to try so you can understand if you like it — like our kissing just now — you can let me know, okay? There's no pressure to go farther or to make it a big thing or to impress anyone. I'm just here for you, however and whenever you need me. My favorite part of sex work was always helping people discover new things they liked. I'd be honored most of all to help you. And I'll be honored whenever I see more of your body. And I'll be honored about everything else we share too." Alastor's eyes were wide, almost in wonder. He blinked a few times…then he bit his lip and furrowed his brow before glowing and opening his mouth like he was about to say something. But then he closed his mouth and a soft and beautiful smile came to his face, his eyes hazed in appreciation. "Thank you, ma raison d être." He wiped away a tear and shyly squeezed Angel's hand. "Would you like to go to bed now? It's been a long day. I wouldn't mind some more traditional kissing together, if you'll continue to indulge me. I'm still feeling rather impish from my radio show." "All night long for kisses and cuddles and hugs if ya want, Smiles," Angel assured, taking his hand. Alastor rose and guided Angel up to stand with him.
They just held hands, gazing at each other, so happy.
And then Alastor's shadow crashed through the window, holding Abel's battered body safe in his arms.
It didn't take him long to communicate to Alastor what had happened, it didn't take Angel long to take Abel in his arms and yell out into the hall for help, and it didn't take Alastor long to sniff the air deeply with his eyes dark and his horns and body long and know exactly where his former prey was in the pentagram and how to get to him.
When the girls and the Von Eldritches took Abel away to care for him and Alastor held up his fingers to snap himself away, Angel put a hand on his shoulder. "I'm coming with you."
Alastor's eyes returned to normal for a moment. "It will be moderately dangerous, immensely bloody, and…I do believe I'll be doing my second radio show for the day, this time from my own tower. The special guest for that program won't survive." He swallowed. "Are you sure you want to be part of that."
"I want to be your co-host — I'll be there for what I can stomach and do my best. I support all the pieces of who you are, even the ones that ain't pretty. You do the same thing for me." Angel looked him in the eye. "We're in this — in EVERYTHING — together now, right?" Alastor nodded. "Together then, darling." He took Angel's hand and snapped them away into the night, to a desolate little butcher shop not far from Cannibal Colony and Alastor's main tower.
A/N:
And the hotel radio show is done! But the night isn't over yet — the next set of chapters will deal with rescuing Louise and other things too :333 So sorry to leave you all on a bit of a cliffhanger ^^ This part of the story just needed more space than I expected, but I'll try to have the next chapters up asap. Thank you for reading!
Take care!
-Azure129