A/N:

Hi everyone! I have a new chapter ready w Some fun times for Pen and Niss, and Molly and Husk, and a little bit for Tom Trench too! Thank you for reading.

Partners

Chapter 111:

Parlay and Keeping the Peace

In the skies over hell, another happy couple was making a little private slice of heaven for themselves. Ever since talking together about Sir Pentious's past and his dream of seeing his son again one day, he and Niss had become bonded in a new emotionally intimate way. They were partners in every sense…except for physically and matrimonially…though Niss was becoming more open to the idea of the first one…and less disbelieving about the idea of the second one. After all, if Pen had gotten married ONCE, maybe a second time wasn't out of the question…

Niss blinked and shook his head to clear his thoughts. "Whoa, heh, getting a little carried away there…" He was currently standing over the sink in the kitchen (wearing the apron Pen had gifted him during their sibling triple date — the one embroidered with little chef hats and spiders and black and pink hearts). "No way me and Pen are moving that fast. We do this nice and slow and proper. We date at least a year, to be respectable. Then we have a serious talk about marriage. Then, if he's into it, I propose. Then we stay engaged for at least another year…or maybe six months. Yeah, six months is still respectable. And maybe we move in together somewhere in that time. Then the wedding." He blushed, gripping a dish towel. "And…somewhere in there, we have sex, cuz all that 'wait til marriage' crap is just a big construct to control people. As long as we're in love, it's okay. And we are in love. So in love." He gripped the counter, eyes closing, a smile on his lips. "Marrona, it's good to be in love."

"It is, isn't it?"

Niss jumped (considering the fact he was a jumping spider, he nearly grazed the ceiling) as he turned around and spotted Sir Pentious in the kitchen entrance, grinning at him.

Niss swallowed hard, eyeing Pen, trying to gauge how much the snake had heard. "Pen?! I was just…uh…"

"Musing about how lovely it is to be together? Oh, I do the same thing when I'm alone, darling. No need to be shy." Pen giggled.

Niss blushed but let out such a sigh of relief. So Pen had only heard the last part of what he'd said. Good. Introducing the idea of marriage so soon was definitely too much. He cleared his throat. "Er…you hungry? Dinner's almost ready, I was just cleanin' the pans."

"No rush, dear," Sir Pentious assured with a shrug and a little blush. "Mostly I just wanted a peek at you in that apron again. It suits you."

Niss felt his face heat up. "I…well, then we're even, I guess. Your leather apron suits you too, ya know." He hadn't seen Pen wear it since the snake had worked with Alastor and Husk on getting the hotel radio tower set up. But he couldn't help recalling the sight now — how that firm, dark cut of tanned flesh had laid so gracefully over Pen's full figured form.

Sir Pentious blinked then smirked. "Does it? Well then, I'll have to wear it more often."

"I-I could wear this more often too…" Niss offered, trying to match his suaveness, though he felt his legs getting weak. Honestly though, he didn't mind. He'd always been self-conscious about not seeming like a 'tough guy' considering his short stature and spindly frame. But something about being a bit delicate in the presence of Pen's height and strength was…satisfying.

Sir Pentious slithered forward with a graceful glide that made Niss want to trace his hands over every curve of that serpent body. The snake smiled down at him. "That would be heavenly, Archie."

Niss couldn't take it anymore. He got up on his tiptoes and wrapped his arms around Pen's neck and kissed him. The snake blinked and gasped then kissed him back.

They separated a moment later, foreheads together, breaths shallow, bodies trembling.

"We, uh…we probably don't have much time right now for… I mean, the Egg Bois'll get fussy if they don't get dinner soon," Niss had to admit sheepishly.

"True…" Pen shrugged. "And then you and I will be busy during our own dinner, finalizing our ideas for proposed communication with heaven…and then we're heading to the hotel to surprise Charlie and the King and Queen with our thoughts on the matter."

"Yeah." Niss let out a deep breath. "I think you and me just got a little too used to being impulsive up here the last few days. No one expecting anything or coming to check on us. It's been fun finding new places to neck…"

"And then going to bed together each night to keep necking…" Pen admitted.

Niss blushed a lot and grinned. "We gotta socialize more or people are gonna start to talk."

Sir Pentious snorted. "Your undivided attention is more than worth a little gossip."

They both chuckled. Niss considered. "Ya know, we did say we should have Cherri over for dinner one night… Maybe this weekend?"

Pen's eyes brightened. "Oh yes! A dinner party! I've always wanted to throw one of those! And now I have friends and I have you, which means I can do so!"

Something inside Niss winced at the idea of Pen being so lonely in the past. "Anytime, Pen, I'm happy to host with you. And we're gonna throw an amazing one for Cherri." He shrugged sheepishly. "And, hey…to help prepare, why don't I just stay here for the rest of the week and the weekend too, huh? As long as we're getting along so well."

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly "I'd love that! I…I know you're not ready to live together, Archie, but these extended visits give me such joy. Thank you for being here."

Niss cupped his face in his hand. "I'm here whenever you need me, Pen. Always. I promise, il mio serpente."

Pen leaned into his hand and sighed dreamily. "I know, my beautiful spider."

They were about to kiss again when they heard rambunctious Egg Boi sounds coming from down the hallway.

Niss sighed. "Dinner first — cuz all meals are important, especially for the little egg bambinos. Then planning cuz talking to heaven is important to our family. Then heading to the hotel cuz our friends being safe in hell is important too. Then we can head to bed together and rest real close, hmm?" He swallowed, trying not to think of resting real close, himself only wearing this pink apron and Pen only wearing his leather apron.

His daydreams about that man were getting very vivid.

Sir Pentious chuckled. "It's a date. Tonight's supposed to be chilly too — I'll wrap you up in my tail in bed extra snugly for good measure to keep you warm."

"Oh I'd like that a lot," left Niss in a daze. They shared another little chuckle and kiss and then took deep breaths and managed to separate so they could take care of dinner for themselves and their little egg charges, as well as their other affairs for the evening.

As the afternoon drifted into evening, Alastor and Angel set a truly cunning plan in motion. They found they enjoyed scheming together, especially for the sake of two people they cared for deeply.

In short, Alastor sent Husker a note asking the cat to meet the deer in his office to discuss some hotel radio show matters, and Angel had sent Molly a text asking her to meet him in Alastor's office to help pick out new curtains for the deer as a surprise.

The second Husk strolled him, he could tell from the smug looks on Alastor and Angel's faces that something was up. He paused and raised an eyebrow. "What's going on?"

"Tony, are ya sure Alastor wants new curtains in here? There's already so little light, and—" Molly had just walked in, and now she promptly froze.

Seated behind his desk, Alastor snapped his fingers. The door closed and locked behind the unhappy couple.

Seated on Alastor's desk, Angel eyed them both. "We know you've been on the outs and we know you've been avoiding making up. And since you two were so good at helping me and Al quit being stubborn so we could get together, we figured we'd return the favor." He crossed his arms. "Now spill. What's wrong?"
Husk scowled and raised a hand to protest, and Molly pouted and clenched her fists.

Alastor cut them off by clearing his throat. "No one leaves until progress is made. My magic won't stand for anything less, I'm afraid, my dears."

Molly and Husk blinked then sighed then glanced at each other and then away again.

"It's complicated…" muttered Husk.

"And personal…" grumbled Molly.

Angel was patient, if unswayed. "And Al is Husk's best friend and I'm your brother, Molly. So let's figure it out."

"I need to talk to Alastor — privately!" Husk suddenly announced, glowing red.

Molly and Angel both blinked and raised eyebrows at the same time. The identical twin reaction would have been cute if the moment hadn't been so tense. Husk scowled and looked to Alastor. Alastor furrowed his brow in confusion and gestured for Husk to approach as he stood up. The deer cleared his throat and looked to his beau. "Angel, might we have a moment?"

Angel nodded and walked over to his sister. The twins watched their fellas put their heads together. Husk whispered several things to Alastor. Gradually the deer's expression changed from confusion to surprise to anxiety and finally to a pouting acceptance as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. He whispered something quickly back to Husk who flared his wings and whispered something else in return. Alastor whispered something back, glowing furiously. Husk's jaw fell and then he was speechless for a moment before whispering back to him again.

Angel leaned in to Molly and whispered. "Molls, seriously, what happened?"

She swallowed. "Husky…uh…he didn't propose ta me."

Angel blinked. "He DIDN'T propose to you? Was he supposed to or something? I thought you weren't looking for a ring."

"I ain't!" Molly bit her lip. "But HE might be? But he doesn't have one? But he won't tell me why…"

"Molly, you ain't making sense…"

"The only thing that doesn't make sense is why he'll talk to Alastor about this but not me!" She mumbled in frustration. She crossed her arms and cleared her throat, addressing the deer and cat across the room. "Excuse me, boys, but can we please be part of the conversation again?"

Husk and Alastor snapped out of their heated huddle and looked back to the spiders. Alastor was twitchy and Husk was a blushing mess. Husk sighed. "Sorry, we, uh…"

Alastor cleared his throat. "Could…Husker and I perhaps speak to Molly, Anthony?"

Angel nodded and gestured for Molly to approach the two guys.

"In complete privacy…?" Alastor added with a stammer. He snapped, and the door to his office drifted open.

Angel glanced at the door then back to Alastor, his eyes wide in confusion.

Alastor bit his lip, playing with his hands. "It's just…the matter at hand is connected to Husker's contract and, er…I only discuss deals with the demons in question. No third parties."

"But, Molly's a—" Angel started.

Husk spoke up quickly. "This issue between me and Molly is affecting the contract, so she needs to be here to sort it out." He swallowed. "Angel, I'm sorry, the whole thing's just a little personal and embarrassing and I'm not ready to share with other people yet. I'm only sharing it with Molly so…we can make up, like you said we should. Because I've missed her…and I love her." His eyes went to Molly who blushed, her own eyes wide.

Alastor sighed, eyes down. "Anthony, I'm sorry to ask, but…"

But Angel was already smiling at the sight of Molly and Husk gazing at each other. He went over to Alastor and squeezed his shoulder lightly. "You do your contract stuff. I'll be right outside until you're done. Anything to get these two back together — especially in time for you and me run off, hmm?" He winked.

Alastor melted. "I…hmm…" He nodded, ears twitching playfully.

Angel chuckled. "See ya soon, cutie!" He released Alastor and waved, gave his sister and Husk a thumbs up, then strolled out the door and closed it behind him.

"Run away together?" Molly raised an eyebrow.

Alastor blinked and snapped out of his daze. "I…he meant for the weekend! We are…going to spend the weekend away, at my penthouse above the radio tower in Cannibal Colony."

Husk's jaw fell. "Wow. You don't let anyone stay there. Ever."

"Angel's been there before," Alastor shrugged, trying to seem casual, though his face glowed brightly.

"I bet he loves it there," Molly offered sweetly.

Alastor gave a shy nod then glanced up to see Husk and Molly both grinning at him. He sighed with a dry look, "Well, perhaps we don't need to bother reviewing the contract to get you two back together — you can just bond over teasing me about being over the moon for Angel."

Molly and Husk shared a small chuckle then smiled sheepishly. "Sorry," they said at once, then they blinked and looked down.

Molly let out a breath. "So, um…what's the real reason Tony had ta leave the room, Alastor? Cuz I know if you could find a loophole for me ta be here while we talk about Husky's contract, then you could definitely find one for him."

Alastor's ears went down. Molly tilted her head.

Husk sighed and looked at her. "Molls…in order to help me be honest with you about the ring box and everything…Alastor's gonna be honest with you about something too. But it's real important that it stays a secret for now. Especially from Angel. Okay?"

She furrowed her brow. "As long as it ain't something that'll hurt my brother, of course." She looked Alastor in the eye. "We're like family — all secrets are safe. I'll even shake on it." She held out her hand.

Alastor smiled a little but held up his hand to dismiss the gesture. "There is no need to shake. I trust you implicitly, Molly, like family. Speaking of…" He sighed and snapped his fingers. In a burst of green magic, Husk's glowing contract appeared in the air. "There is a clause in Husker's contract — in all of my contracts — stating that should the signed party and myself become or are discovered to be family, the contract shall be fully null and void." He snapped his fingers and the contract disappeared. "It's a little loophole I put in for fun and to show my respect for the bonds of family."

"Oh." Molly sat in silence for a moment. "Okay. That's nice. But I still don't get what this has to do with…the ring box…or why Husky won't tell me why he'd have a box but no ring, especially when he knows the idea of a ring still makes me anxious."

"I was just trying to use the box to figure out my feelings about the whole concept of getting hitched," Husk protested. "Because…because…"

"Molly…" Alastor spoke very clearly, looking directly at her, "if Husker and I become family, it would fully void his contract. Right now, he and I are currently dating siblings. Siblings who could theoretically turn Husker and I into in-laws and, hence, family."

Her head tilted again, the pieces were falling into place. "Okay, so…you're worried about…"

Husk turned to her. "Molly, if we ever decide to talk about getting married — because I would absolutely have a conversation with you about that before I ever even thought about proposing — I want to be sure it wouldn't just be…something you agreed to as a formality, to get me out of my contract. And I want to be sure I'm not confused and distracted by the idea of the contract being gone. It's important to me that we're together because we want to and not just for convenience."
She blinked a few times. Her features softened at the admission. She smiled gently. "Oh Husky…I…so that's why you… Husk, why didn't ya just tell me?" She hugged him tight. "Talkin' like this is all I wanted. I'm sorry I didn't try sooner. And I'm sorry I thought you'd jump the gun. If…If you did want ta marry me, as a formality, just ta get out of your contract free and clear, I admit I would do it." She pulled back and shrugged. "But that's not what you want, just like how I'm not sure gettin' married is somethin' I want. So neither of us has ta force ourselves, promise." She wiped away a tear, smiling more. "All that matters is that we love each other, Husky — anythin' else that might happen if we tied the knot is just extra."

Husk smiled in such relief.

Then Molly shook her head and added "Besides, my silly worrying gattino — there's not even anythin' ta get confused about at all yet. I mean, even if you and I got hitched right now, Alastor and Tony ain't married, so the contract wouldn't get affected at all."

Husk bit his lip and glanced at Alastor who stood there with a frozen smile, looking close to going fully offline. Eye twitching, he gave the tiniest nod of his head to the cat. Husk spoke to Molly. "That could, uh…change sooner than you think. So…yeah, that's been a a factor."

Molly looked at him very seriously then looked at Alastor very seriously, then back to Husk then to Alastor then one more time to each before she suddenly slammed her hands down on the desk, eyes filled with excitement as her pink markings glowed. "Alastor, you great big beautiful radio demon! Did you ask Tony to—"

Alastor waved his hands, never more grateful that his office was soundproofed. "No! Not yet. But soon…very soon…so soon…" And suddenly he was pacing, speaking frantically half to himself and half to her and Husk as his features burned rosy with glowing. "He has enhanced my life in ways I'd never conceived, he is my friend and my co-host and my partner, he is the compliment to the best parts of myself. I want to pledge myself to him forever and let all of hell and heaven see because I am done hiding in the shadows about our love. But I don't know, he might not want such a drastic social commitment — you have a distaste for matrimony, after all, and he is your twin. Or he might be upset if we make such jarring change when we've just hit such a perfect stride together. Or I may be a desperate lunatic for craving this union so strongly when I already have so much from him. But I must ask my Anthony… I must at least try…" He went to Molly and got down on one knee. "And I must beg you not to let him even suspect my plans. I need…I need to see his honest reaction when I broach the subject. Much like Husker, I don't want to worry that perhaps he's only agreeing for my sake and not his own."

Molly had tears in her eyes. She took his hands and pulled him up to stand. "Oh you are doin' everything right and you're gonna be such a wonderful new brother for me to have and your secret is safe with me, and now I'd really like ta hug ya if that would be okay — I promise ta be gentle?"

Alastor blinked away tears and nodded. Then Molly's arms were around him, patting his shoulders. Looking past her, Alastor and Husk's gazes met and they both shrugged and then smiled and then laughed, and then Molly was laughing too and pulling Husk in and hugging both of them at once.

She released the boys and smiled. "Husky, we'll tell Tony that you were just worried about the idea of bringing a wife into your contract situation — that's more or less the truth. And, Alastor, we'll tell Tony that you reassured us both about everything. So you and Tony just go enjoy your weekend away together, and make it a long one. You've earned it." She winked.

Alastor glowed but nodded. "Would you like us all to explain to Angel together or—"

"Nah, I'll text him the details later." She looked to Husk, eyes hazed. "Mostly I'm just tired after all that emotional sharing. I could use some time in bed."

Husk's eyes widened. He looked to Alastor. "I'm taking one of my days off starting right now."

Alastor's eyes widened as well, but before he could question anything, Molly and Husk had dashed out the door with giggles. In the hall, Molly caught Angel in a quick half hug and told him everything was better now and that she'd fill him in later. Then the happy couple disappeared, heading upstairs.

Angel strolled back into the office, beaming. "Al, you did it! Look at them! All happy and ready to make up."

Alastor shrugged. "Er…Husker just asked for the rest of the day off, so it indeed seems like they're celebrating."

Angel snickered. "Ah, making up AND the rest of the a day off and all tonight too — that explains why they made a beeline for Molly's bedroom."

Alastor glowed immensely and sat down, the full intimate gravity of the situation dawning on him. A small amused chuckle couldn't help leaving his lips.

Angel chuckled too and came over. "How'd it happen? I know Molly said she'd tell me later, but…"

Alastor shook his head to clear it, eyes darting away. "Yes, she…might explain it better than I can. Husker…merely had concerns about the idea of his contract affecting any potential future matrimony plans since this is his first serious relationship in my service. Molly was very reassuring and understanding. And I am…" He looked up at Angel. "I am just glad you're back with me again." He took the spider's hand and squeezed.

Angel squeezed back. "I'm happy too."

Alastor swallowed, desperate to route the subject away from the details of Husker's contract once and for all. "I think Crymini knows you and I are an item, by the way."

"Oh." Angel blinked. "And…how are you feeling about that?"

Alastor sighed. "Pleasantly calm. Naturally she's noticed our chemistry. She seems inclined to keep it to herself though. We had a lovely chat actually — I even gave her some top notch advice and opened up about how canine behaviors can make me a bit antsy, and she understood. We're growing quite comfortable together!" He grinned proudly.

"Good for you!" Angel chuckled. "Hey, since you're clearly in 'Papa Alastor' mode, wanna give Nuggets and your shadow a playdate in here then order in some food since Charlie's doing a whole 'formal dinner with her parents' thing? Then you can talk to her about your 'surprise' stuff and also about us leaving for the weekend." He grinned.

Alastor nodded. "Sounds perfect, cher." He snapped, and the little pig and the shadow in question appeared. Alastor's shadow grinned and started tickling Nuggets who squealed and rolled around happily, nuzzling him as Alastor and Angel took seats on the sofa and watched and held hands and laughed together as they waited for their dinner to arrive.

Upstairs, Molly's room was full of activity (and thankfully soundproof thanks to Alastor's wonderful forethought).

As the sun finished setting, Husk panted and finally removed his face from between Molly's thighs under the covers. He collapsed beside her. Molly was flushed all pink, her lace-covered chest heaving with breaths as she gazed up at the ceiling in a daze.

No one could blame either of them for being exhausted. Husk had only been tending to her for a short amount of time, but with extreme gusto, and Molly had arched and kicked and cried out so much ever since they had arrived up here and gone at each other. They really needed a moment.

Husk caught his breath. "Molly…you good?"

She gave a nod. "Perfect actually…"

He grinned. "Want me to go again?"

"Shouldn't it be your turn?" She turned to him, eyes hazed, mouth so deliciously red.

Husk blushed. "I…I'd say yes in a heartbeat but…sometimes I don't have too many rounds in me, like we talked about. So I'd kinda prefer to use what I've got going on now to…be with you all the way, if you're ready."

She smiled more and sat up. She leaned over him, her chest nearly falling out of the top of the taught lace nightie she had changed into the second they'd come up here. "I'm ready. And I want you…for this and so much more." She kissed him, and he kissed back, and then she was climbing on him and Husk's hands were steadying her hips. Finally, together, they lifted up her nightie and removed it completely.

When it fell to the floor, Husk just stared in awe for a moment.

Molly's eyes went to the side shyly. "Husky…?"

"You're so beautiful…" He marveled at the lines of pink and the curves of white and the marks shaped like hearts in unexpected places — especially the two so delicately framed each side of her chest.

She wiped away a tear and smiled.

And then she lined up their bodies and kissed his mouth.

Husk groaned as they came together and started to move, scowling in sweet focus instead of frustration. And Molly squealed and glowed bright pink all through her markings, but in passion, not in rage. They both loved each other's bodies and souls and hearts, and they were so happy for so long, whispering each other's names far into the night.

"Well…this is…nice!" Lucifer looked around the hotel dinner table with a hopeful smile. "Isn't it nice, Lilith?"

The king and queen, meanwhile, were ready to spend their evening seated at the dinner table with Charlie and Vaggie. No other guests had joined them yet, but Charlie had assured her parents that it wasn't a slight to them…probably. Over the last few days everyone had been keeping different schedules as they recovered from the radio show and the attack on the cafe.

Lilith, frowning at a stain on her dress from helping with the food preparation, blinked and and then quickly nodded to her husband. "Oh, yes, very nice!" She smiled at her daughter. "Thank you for showing us how you do things around here at mealtimes." She tilted her head. "How did you learn to cook again, Charlo—Charlie?"

Charlie shrugged with a half smile. "Well…I just kind of taught myself. I always hoped that learning to cook nice homemade meals would mean the three of us could share more of them together." She swallowed and quickly added, "I know you two did your best to be around for family dinners and breakfasts and things but…well, ruling hell requires a busy schedule. I understood. I just liked dreaming about more time together."

Vaggie placed her hand on Charlie's. Charlie turned to her with an appreciative smile of relief.

Lucifer and Lilith shared a small frown.

Lucifer looked back to his daughter. "Is that why you like to have your hotel friends cook together and eat together? So that…all of you can be together as often as possible? And because we…weren't together with you enough?"

Charlie's eyes widened a little, and the shine of tears could be detected. "I just…like being together. And I don't like being alone."

"We want this hotel to feel like a community…a family," Vaggie added. "We're all the same here, sinners and hellborn alike."

"Technically I was born in heaven."

The phrase popped so suddenly out of Lucifer's mouth that all three of his table guests turned to stare at him. He wasn't attempting a joke or an excuse though. He had a faraway look in his eye…and some tears there as well. "And people…spent time together there. But it wasn't sincere. It was for show. You feasted together and lived together and talked together, not because you wanted to but because it was the impressive and expected thing to do. It felt like no one actually cared about anything except being better than everyone else." He scowled to himself. "I think that's part of why I…can be distant sometimes. I don't want to fall into that pattern. I want sincerity and love."

Charlie watched her father in wonder.

Lilith's lip trembled, and she grasped Lucifer's hand.

The king took a deep breath, squeezed his wife's hand back, acknowledged his daughter's partner with a nod, then looked to Charlie once more. "Charlie, that's part of why I'm so worried. You don't realize…heaven isn't 'perfect'. It's just flawed in a different way…dangerous in a different way. If sinners CAN be reformed and then welcomed into heaven, then, yes, they wouldn't have to suffer through the yearly purges. But…other difficulties would bear down on them. And they'd still be ruled by beings callous and arrogant enough to slaughter damned souls once a year. Do you understand?"

"I…I don't know if I agree…but I'd like to understand." Charlie bit her lip. "You just…never talk about heaven much, so I've only been able to work with limited information about it."

"I don't talk about it because, despite my sincere devotion, it hurt me and betrayed me and strung me alone then kicked me out when I became inconvenient for its lofty ambitions." Lucifer was calm and sincere, but also shrinking a little in his seat at the bad memories. "This place is better. I have freedom. And I have my partner." He squeezed Lilith's hand again. "And I have you, and you are worth more than anything heaven could have ever offered me. And if we could end these purges, sinners would be much better off staying down here and being ruled by someone as kind as you than being subjected to the constant scrutiny of the almighty."

Charlie blinked, not sure what to say, face glowing at the compliment about her abilities. "I…I would do my best. I…"

"And you would be brilliant." Vaggie assured.
"With you, I definitely would," Charlie replied with such love. Vaggie blinked and giggled.

Lucifer looked at them with interest.

Vaggie cleared her throat and went on. "I think your dad makes a good point to consider, Charlie." She looked from Charlie to Lucifer then back again. "We know that heaven is safe from exterminations…but we don't know if it's dangerous in other ways. What if redemption is possible but it's not the best solution to our problem?"

Charlie considered very carefully, brow furrowed. "I think…regardless of heaven's issues…we should still pursue redemption just to give our people options. But…maybe some other strategies would be good to keep in mind too."

"We were hoping you would say that!" Lilith brightened. "About heaven and about…" she blushed, looking down, "…about the ideas your father and I came up with for publicly demonstrating our new support for you and the hotel."

Charlie smiled gently. "We'd like to hear your ideas." She interlaced her fingers with Vaggie's. "For handling heaven, definitely. As for the other thing, Vaggie and I talked, and as long as it's okay with Alastor we like the idea you suggested of us all going on the radio to do a show together to talk about where we stand now."

Lilith beamed in such relief and blinked back tears.

Lucifer patted her shoulder and smiled, quickly wiping at his own eyes. "That's…oh that's wonderful — Charlie, Vaggie, thank you." He cleared his throat. "Now, er…as for heaven… Your mother and I think a parlay is in order. I believe the best time would be when the angels arrive for the extermination in a few months. It's the only opportunity to speak with their representatives directly. We need to show them a united front and present our case. I…I know they didn't listen to you last year when you tried to talk with them alone, but it will be different this time when you have supporters with you. And especially me. They have to talk to me. I'm technically still one of theirs at my core, whether they like it or not."

Charlie nodded, wiping away some fresh tears as Vaggie patted her back in comfort.

Lucifer sighed. "I'll admit though, it's been a while since we communicated. The conversation will probably be tense. They don't respect me, and I'm furious with them." His eyes flashed gold. "With the terms of our truce were put into place ages ago, I hadn't even considered they'd exploit a loophole to harm sinners yearly."

"I should have considered it. I've suffered their tricks since the dawn of time." Lilith glowered to herself.

"What do you mean?" Charlie raised an eyebrow.

Lucifer sighed and tapped his cane twice on the floor. A thick contract appeared, glowing gold. "There's a provision in our truce that says the numbers of our citizens — the number of sinners — is not to exceed 'a third the host of heaven'. It's to prevent me from becoming powerful enough to wage war again since, the first time, I had a third of heaven on my side and put up quite a fight. I thought if we ever exceeded the numbers, heaven would simply relocate the souls or renegotiate the truce. I had no idea they would erase sinners." He knit his brow. "We need to renegotiate now though. There will be no more deaths as some sadistic punishment for my past pride."

Charlie took a moment to absorb, eyes on the heavy contract. Then she nodded. "I see. Then, yes, let's talk to heaven together, prepare and present our case. Then we'll have redemption as an option, a hell free from exterminations as an option, and…"

"…And fighting for our people, if it comes to that, as an option too…" Vaggie added gently.

Charlie bit her lip, eyes down in thought. She took a deep breath. "Let's…hope it doesn't come to that. Though if it does, I'll fight for our people too, Vaggie." She squeezed Vaggie's hand.

Now Lilith watched them with special interest.

Charlie cleared her throat. "Even if we really don't end up needing redemption to escape the exterminations though, I hope sinners will still give it a chance. I think it's done a lot for the people here — about how they treat themselves and how they treat others. We want hell safe from external threats but we also want it to be improved internally by everyone being kinder. This shouldn't be a place without hope, no matter what heaven says."

Vaggie smiled. "We could start talking about other reasons for redemption besides going to heaven. Focusing on it as a source of joy or healing or growth." She leaned in close. "The people who have come here are so much happier for trying to move beyond sin in their lives. I think more people are going to want that same kind of happiness."

"Vaggie…that's all so perfectly said. Thank you." Charlie hugged Vaggie, and Vaggie hugged her in return.

After a moment Lucifer awkwardly cleared his throat. "Er…I'm sorry to interrupt, ladies, but… Vaggie's earlier point is one we have to prepare for as well. Heaven is very controlling and if we reach an impasse…" he rubbed his head, "We may very well have to fight against them if we want to stop this year's extermination…and future ones too. Not just you and me and this hotel against the angels, but the entire pentagram if possible."

"I'll defend our people at every turn, but I don't want to bring them into a war." Charlie looked at him seriously.

"Neither do I!" His gaze was piercing, almost desperate. "I did everything in my power to end the last one so you could grow up safe and peaceful. This conflict doesn't have to escalate the way the conflict did that resulted in my fall and the creation of hell. But we need to show heaven that we are a circle of hell ready to stand against them." He rubbed his head. "We'll need some sort of army, at least. Even just a show strength to demonstrate a powerful united front."

Vaggie blinked. "Strength. Maybe…the overlords?"

"Agreed," Lilith nodded. "They are the most powerful and influential, and if they stand with us then perhaps we can make enough of a display for heaven to retreat and reconsider the current situation without involving our other citizens."

Charlie and Vaggie shared a looked. Charlie considered. "I could ask Alastor…see if he has ideas for how to organize the overlords like that."

"If the overlords are even willing to be organized," Vaggie couldn't help adding. "They can be a bit much…and very out for themselves." She sighed. "But they are our best bet for putting up a fight and keeping most of the population out of any conflict."

"And we do know other overlords we could ask for input too," Charlie added. "Vox has seemed kind of nicer lately. And there's also—"

A shadow briefly passed over the hotel. Then there was sounds of scuffling behind the front door followed by a few whispers and finally a key turning in the lock. The door opened and there stood Sir Pentious and Niss together, Pen waving and Niss holding a covered pan as he pocketed his key.

The spider grinned. "Hey! Uh…sorry, hope we ain't interrupting dinner, but we wanted to bring by some dessert. It's tiramisu…."

"Also we had thoughts about heaven!" Pen couldn't help but add. "May we come in!"

Charlie smiled and stood up, gesturing forward. "You're welcome here any time, Sir Pentious. And Niss, you live here now, so of course we'd happy to have you join us. Thank you for making dessert. And for sharing your thoughts on heaven. You're actually just the person I wanted to see."

Pen beamed and slithered inside, and Niss followed with a curious smile as they approached the table.

Lucifer stood up and gave a wave and a nod. "Greetings, fellows! I don't believe we've gotten to see you two around here much the last few days. Niss, pleasure to meet you. And, er…Sir Pentious, hello there!"

"Charmed!" Sir Pentious took Lucifer's hand and gave it a good shake. Then he looked to the queen and doffed his hat. "And Queen, an absolute honor!" She smiled in amusement.

Niss set down the pan and gave a little bow to everyone. "Bonsuoare, King Lucifer and Queen Lilith. We're happy to see ya. And…happy you're trying to do right by Charlie. She's a wonderful lady. And she deserves a good dad and mom on her side."

"That mob footage that was part of our news show…" Lilith started quietly, blinking in realization. "It was about your father, wasn't it? Niss, we are so very sorry."

Niss swallowed and took a breath. Pen put a hand on his shoulder. "It's okay. He ain't my father no more." The spider shrugged with a simple accepting smile. Pen held closer to him.

Lucifer nodded solemnly then quickly whispered to Lilith, "Do you think I am allowed to make the observation that these two are clearly dating?"

Overhearing, Charlie chuckled. "A lot of people here are dating, Dad. This hotel touches a lot of hearts." She shared a doting look with Vaggie (that Lucifer and Lilith together observed with interest, sharing glance), then she looked to Pen and Niss. "We were actually just talking about strategies for handling heaven. We're still promoting the idea of redemption as a possible way to spare sinners from the exterminations. But we're also thinking about asking for a truce on the exterminations entirely. Heaven…might not be open to such big changes in our relationship but…we'll try."

"Actually, we wanna suggest a small change — in case they don't go for any big ones right away," Niss offered. Charlie looked at him, intrigued. Niss went on, touching Pen's hand on his shoulder. "Pen and I were thinking that…since lots of people probably have people they love in heaven…maybe we could just communicate even if we ain't allowed to see each other. Like writing letters or making calls or sending videos. Just something so we ain't kept completely apart anymore. And maybe it would inspire sinners to live better, especially if there's still a chance that redemption might actually let them go to heaven."

Charlie had tears in her eyes. "Niss, Sir Pentious, that's a beautiful thought."

Pen started sniffling. "Isn't it? You put it so well, Archie, thank you."

"It really is a good idea, you two," Vaggie assured.

"Yes…" Lilith added pensively, "from an emotional standpoint but also from a political one." She looked to Lucifer. "If heaven publicly refuses to even entertain that compromise, it could sway more of hell in our favor. No sinner likes being told what they can't do."

Lucifer nodded. "We should start with the big asks and then bring in this one — show good faith on our side for compromise. Then show heaven's flaws of rigidity and rudeness if they deny us."

Vaggie looked to Sir Pentious. "Pen, we were thinking about getting the overlords to cooperate and back us up….and maybe fight alongside us if things with heaven get hostile. Do you think that's a possibility?"

Pen sighed, arms crossed. "Honestly…only if you motivate them all just right. They won't do it out of loyalty to the crown or out of righteous morality or even out of fear of exterminations or royal wrath — we have the resources to be the most protected after all." His look went dry and and he rolled a hand through the air. "They'll want more money or more power, unless there's some other third great selfish unifier you can come up with. Not all of them have manners like myself and Alastor, unfortunately." He looked away sheepishly. "Also, if you're going to meet with them, then you should have sort of an overlord spokesman with you. I myself…would not be the best choice. I'm low ranking and not terribly popular, I'm afraid…"

"You are the most popular and high-ranking man in the world to me," Niss assured, kissing Pen's cheek.

Sir Pentious blushed and grinned then finally cleared his throat and went on. "Alastor has the status but he might be considered a bit too…aloof for this job. And at this point he's too clearly biased towards favoring the hotel over other overlords. You need someone more neutral and who prides themselves on networking." He smiled more. "Honestly, since he's been far more polite lately, I'd say discuss it with Vox — as long as involving him more closely with the hotel won't be too off-putting for Alastor or Angel."

Charlie nodded. "I agree. I think Vox could be really helpful here. I'll talk to Alastor and Angel first to make sure they're comfortable but… yeah, I think we have a plan. Organize a meeting of the overlords and talk to them. Figure out what they'd want in exchange for helping. And then we focus on redeeming sinners at the new hotel branches when they open up…while also bracing those branches to act as extermination shelters just in case things go south this year."

Lucifer and Lilith both nodded and Vaggie did too.

Niss smiled. "Look at you, Charlie, organizing this whole situation. Already such a queen. Charlie blushed and smiled in pride as Niss uncovered the tiramisu. "Okay, now who wants some damn fine Italian dessert?"

"Do you mean you or the tiramisu?" Pen purred playfully.
Niss blushed bright red and held his face in his hands with a grin. "Oh my god, Pen…"

"Sorry, darling, I'm in a giddy mood after how well our proposition was received," Pen giggled.

Lucifer and Lilith chuckled and Vaggie rolled her eyes with a grin as Charlie giggled. "I'll put on some coffee. Vaggie can come with me to get us plates, and maybe you two can talk more with my parents about the overlords."

"We'd love to talk to your guests and friends very much, Charlie!" Lucifer assured as Lilith nodded.

Charlie smiled at them so happily then went to the kitchen with her girlfriend. Soon the dinner meeting moved into dessert and more planning as everyone's strategies for peace formed and came together.

It was night now, and from his personal little VIP room downstairs Tom Trench could hear the muffled vibrations of club music as the studio clearly came alive with sinners and strippers. He didn't mind so much — all that came through really was a low rumble, and it was almost kind of soothing (definitely better than Katie's shrill yelling). He knew he couldn't stay here forever, but for now it did feel safe. And besides, he needed time to think after everything. He rubbed his arm in its sling and considered ordering in some appetizers from the bar for dinner.

Suddenly there was a knock at his door.

Even though it was Vox's familiar knock, Tom's heart raced in fear as for a moment as he imagined Katie barging in and having her revenge.

"Tom, it's Vox — you okay?" Vox called out to him over the club music.

Tom cleared his throat. "Yeah! I'm okay! You can come in."

The door opened, and Vox quickly stepped inside and closed it. He smiled, holding a covered tray. "Hey, how're you doing today?"

"I…all right…" Tom shrugged and tried not to wince at the pain in his shoulder. "I'm sorry I've been sleeping all day. I've just been really tired. My sleep schedule for the news show in the evenings usually has me up late, and then I'd sleep in until the next show between running errands for Katie, so I guess I'm just a little uncalibrated right now. And I know these rooms are normally so expensive even just for a few hours, and I don't know why my arm still hurts, and I'm sure you want me out of your hair—"

"Whoa, hey," Vox smiled and held up his hands. "You don't need to apologize for using a room and getting rest and accepting some help. You went through a lot. You need to heal. You're seriously welcome to stay here as long as you'd like. Hell, I'd let you live here, but I know it's not exactly comfortable." He winced as the bass in the music increased. "Just keep taking care of yourself. But also…if and when you're up for it, feel free to check out the studio. We all relax in different ways. If you want a few dances or something, it's on the house."

Tom shuddered and shook his head. "NO! I mean…I just…I would prefer not to be touched right now." He cringed a little and looked away. "Besides I…I don't really have an interest in engaging with people that way unless I've formed a close bond with them first. Katie always said it was because I'm a 'limp-dick little loser' but actually it's because I'm Demisexual." He rolled his eyes at the one insult from Katie he'd always known in his bones was bull. Just because she and some other people might have problems with his orientation didn't mean he had to feel bad about it. He glanced at Vox hesitantly, curious if the tv would have a problem with his confession..

"Oh!" Vox frowned. "I'm sorry she…fuck, wow, she's really just terrible, huh? But um, it's okay, understood — about being Demi and about not wanting to be touched right now after everything." He swallowed. "Katie's not ever gonna lay a hand on you again. No one is. I'm cleaning house on toxic asses in my organization. I'm just sorry it took so long."

"It's okay," Tom assured. "I mean, it's not okay, but things are okay now and I'll be okay." He sighed. "I just can't go out there into the studio at night. There's too many lights, too much sound, and too big a risk of someone getting close to me…" He tried not to think of the risk of Katie getting to him.

Vox sighed. "It's okay. You stay here until I get Katie off the streets. Then we'll find a nice quiet apartment to set you up in. With security. And we'll get the show and you back on the air. You'll be okay."

Tom nodded, looking down. "I…Vox, thank you for…everything. This is all really, really nice of you." He pulled in his knees.

Vox shrugged sheepishly. "It's just the way things should be. If I'm gonna be in charge of media then I wanna a be a good boss for everyone involved. And a good friend too when I can." He gestured to the tray. "I brought you some dinner. I thought you might be getting sick of club food, so I did a little cooking. It's just casserole and vegetables and some brownies for dessert from Velvet. And Val tossed in a bottle of wine if you need a drink."

Tom nodded, sniffling. "Thank you…all of you. I…please tell them thanks from me. I'm sorry I still haven't left here and thanked them in person for letting me stay—"

"It's okay. I'll tell them thank you. You just rest and eat," Vox assured.

Tom nodded and took the tray.

Vox headed to the door. "Have a good night. See you tomorrow." He waved then disappeared.

Tom took off the lid of the tray looked at the food and wine with such awe and appreciation. Then went to take off his gas mask to eat, his finger brushing the electrical tape Vox had used to repair the crack.

Suddenly, there was another knock on his door, desperate sounding, following by a little groan of worry followed by the door handle jiggling followed by the door popping open.

"Angel! Angel, you're back, I'm so glad and I'm so sorry, and I—" The demon who had just appeared in the doorway, a key in hand, paused, and so did Tom. They stared at each other for a long moment.

Finally Tom swallowed and spoke up, too confused for the moment to be afraid. "I'm…not Angel? I'm Tom. What are you doing here?"

The demon swallowed and blushed. "I'm Travis. And I'm looking for Angel Dust. I…" He sighed. "I'm sorry, this was his favorite VIP room to use — he even gave me a key once. And I've been seeing Vox coming in and out of here the last few nights, so I thought maybe…maybe Angel was here again, and I could… Never mind." He raised an eyebrow. "Are you Angel's…replacement?"

Tom went scarlet. "I…no! I don't…I mean…I'm a colleague of Vox's, and I'm resting here for now while we handle a situation."

"Oh." Travis smiled a little. "So Angel hasn't been replaced yet." The smile fell. "But he's still not back…maybe not ever… and I'll never get to… to… " His eyes were heavy with tears.

Tom held up the hand of his good arm. "Hey…whatever's going on with you and Angel, I'm sure it'll be okay. I, uh…do you want a brownie?" He gestured to the tray.

Travis sniffed. "Is it one of Velvet's?"

Tom nodded.

Travis sniffled more. "I love Velvet's! Angel would sneak them to me sometimes!" He took a brownie and ate it and was kind of a blubbering mess for a moment, but it was sort of sweet and sincere.

Tom didn't mind. Someone was helping him through a difficult time, and right now he wanted to help someone else. "I've…got some other food here too. And more brownies. And a bottle of wine. Would any of that make things better?"

Travis nodded, getting his tears under control. "Maybe…"

Tom almost wanted to smile. He gestured to the bed. Travis sat and quickly scarfed down two more brownies and half the bottle of wine and lamented almost nonsensically about something with Angel before burping and apologizing and seeming tuckered out but better now. Travis awkwardly thanked Tom and left and promised he wouldn't let himself in again.

And then Tom was alone once more. But for a little while he hadn't been alone — he'd helped someone, and that someone seemed nice. This studio probably really was a good place for him to be right now. And who knew, maybe his strange, dramatic visitor Travis would stop by some time again. It was nice for Tom to be around someone new who definitely wasn't a threat and who seemed just as easily overwhelmed as he himself was.

A/N:

Thank you all for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the chapter. There'll be more fun times for different couples, and Alastor and Angel going away for the weekend soon. Thanks for your support!

Take care!

-Azure129