A/N:

Hi everyone! Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! Thank you for being here and for reading, I hope you like today's dose of romantic adventures for everyone :)

(Cw / Travis talks about having a wife in life who hurt him physically and emotionally)

Partners

Chapter 114:

What a Weekend Can Change: Part 1

A bag of fresh muffins in hand, Vox strolled through the studio. The place was mostly empty at this late morning hour…except for Val who had entered with Vox after their time spent with Velvet at the cafe and immediately trudged upstairs to their special VIP lounge without more than a mumbled goodbye. Maybe he was tired from their time out in public and then managing all of Velvet's high-energy secrecy. Vox decided to give him space. Besides, he had business down here with another friend of his.

Vox headed to certain VIP room on the show floor where Tom of his was still hiding out. Breakfast choices at the studio were scarce, to say the least, so Vox had made sure to stock a few pantry items for Tom in the room. But some fresh muffins would probably be a welcome surprise. Besides, he wanted to talk to Tom in person about his message earlier regarding a certain former client of Angel's — namely…

"Travis? You okay?"

Vox reached the door and paused. Apparently whoever had entered the room last hadn't let the door click shut behind them. He could Tom speaking inside the room, followed by a reply from Travis himself.

"Yeah! Sorry, I just can't believe I didn't recognize you from the start. You're Tom Trench! I mean, you're on the news like every night!" Travis chuckled.

"Oh, well, not every night…" Tom replied humbly. "Katie was, but I was only on air a few days a week to back her up. And I haven't been on at all this week of course because of, well…everything I explained." His voice grew quieter.

"Hey…" Travis's voice softened, "don't worry, you'll be back on soon. And she'll have nothing to do with it. Vox is incredibly badass, he'll find her and stop her so she can't hurt you again." He swallowed. "I…I know it ain't exactly the same, but I get how you feel, I think. I had a wife who treated me bad. She's down here too."

"Oh." Tom sounded surprised…or perhaps disappointed. "You're married?"

"No! I mean…" Travis sighed. "We were married on earth, but it was not a good relationship. I, um…couldn't deal with the fact that I'm gay, so I just married her to keep myself in denial. She…hurt me a lot, emotionally, physically. I wanted to walk away in life but I was never brave enough." He cleared his throat, trying to steady his voice. "But, like, we died so —'til death do us part', right? Since we're dead, I figure we're parted. Like a cosmic divorce or a deep separation. I still…see her sometimes. But I know I shouldn't. I only get hurt again." He sniffed. "I'm sorry, I'm making this about me…"

"No, I…I know what you mean, and it's helpful to feel understood. I'm sorry she hurts you, I'm sorry you go back." Tom assured. "I went back to Katie too many times too."

Vox figured that the conversation was definitely getting too personal for him to keep listening in, so he stepped back and gave a light rap on the door. "Tom? It's Vox! Can I come in? I brought muffins."

"Oh!" Tom nearly gasped. "Uh…yeah, sure, come in, Vox! Good morning!"

Vox gave them a second to compose themselves and then eased open the door and stepped inside. He tried to feign a little surprise at seeing Travis. "Oh, I thought I heard voices. Good morning to you too — Travis, right?"

Travis stood up straight from his place seated beside Tom on a loveseat and nodded. "I…yes! Vox, hi! I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't be here before opening time for the studio. I-I can pay the cover charge, and I'll order apps and stuff, and I'll tip good too!"

Vox held up a hand. "It's okay, don't worry about it. Val's busy upstairs for a while, and you're clearly Tom's guest. Just enjoy yourself. Both of you. Have some muffins. Velvet says, except for her own, these are some of the best she's ever had." He set the bag down on the coffee table.

Travis blinked and gave a small nod and smile. "Thanks, Vox. I do love Velvet's baking. It's been months since I got any from…" He swallowed. He looked hesitantly at Tom, who Vox could see was blushing slightly at the edges of his gas mask. Travis swallowed and turned to Vox. "Vox, sir? Is…Angel ever coming back? I've missed him. And I think I need to talk to him."

Vox frowned a little. No official announcement had been made yet about Angel's status at the studio, of course. But he didn't want to string Travis along or leave him guessing. Might as well let him know now. "I'm sorry, Travis, he's not coming back. He…might still do sex work in the future at a new place or on his own. But not here." He raised an eyebrow. "If you really need to talk to him, you could always find him at the hotel—"

"I don't think he wants me there. And I don't want to disrespect his needs. I've probably done that enough already," Travis interjected, looking down. "I thought here, maybe it would be different — like familiar neutral ground. But if he's not coming back then I guess I'll just wait and hopefully see him around the city soon."

Tom patted his friend on the shoulder with the hand of his arm not in his sling. "I'm sure you'll talk to him eventually. Don't worry, Travis."

"Thanks, Tom," Travis smiled at his friend. Their gazes lingered on one another.

Vox grinned a little. "Well…" he took a step back, "I should get going. You two have a nice breakfast and chat!"

"Oh, uh, let me show you out, at least," Tom offered, standing up and getting close to Vox. He walked with him out the door then half closed it behind them and whispered, "I'm sorry for having someone come by after hours. He just showed up, and I didn't want to turn him away, and he's nice to talk to and…" Tom raised an eyebrow at Vox's growing grin. "What?"

Vox shrugged. "It's okay to try out a healthy relationship now that you've ended a toxic one, you know."

"Oh." Tom swallowed and blushed. "I suppose. It is nice to have a friend." He made eye contact with Vox for only a moment more before looking away shyly.

Vox tried not to chuckle.

Tom looked down. "He's a bit broken up about Angel…"

Vox blinked and sighed. "I think he thought of Angel as a friend…or maybe more…even though Angel just saw him as a client. I heard their exchange on the air during Alastor's radio show for the hotel, when Travis called in. Angel was…very clear about where they stood. The truth hurt Travis a little. I'm guessing he's finally realized there's nothing between them, and now he needs some closure to move on."

Tom looked up, trying to smile again. "I hope he can get closure soon."

"I think you sitting on the loveseat with him and eating muffins would be a good way to start moving on."

"Well, maybe…" Tom brightened so much. "Thanks again for everything, Vox — including the muffins."

"Any time." Vox gave him a little wave and departed as Tom headed back inside his VIP room and closed the door behind him.

Vox smiled to himself as he walked through the studio. He decided to head upstairs to check on Valentino. If all the sunlight or the socializing earlier really had been too much for him, then he could probably use some quiet time in a familiar space, but not necessarily alone. And Vox liked spending time together these days.

He took the elevator upstairs and strolled down the hall then gave a light knock before pushing open the door. He glanced around with a smile, ready to call Val's name in greeting…but Val wasn't in there. Vox raised an eyebrow at first. Then he realized Val might be in his little apartment attached to the room, which brought Vox's attention in that direction. He stepped forward…and then he froze. His antenna perked up as he listened closely… and then he realized what he was hearing.

From behind Valentino's apartment door came the muffled sounds of sex. Not an orgy or a porno, just a bed rhythmically squeaking amidst heated breaths and grunts. Val groaning something under his breath… Maybe a name.

Vox blushed crimson. Of course Val might have been turning over a new leaf, but he was still horny and virile and surrounded by sex workers. He'd probably decided to deal with his grumpiness by bringing one of the few scattered performers here upstairs for a bang. They usually went along with it. Vox knew they shouldn't have to though, unless they wanted to. He wondered about this one's true feelings about being with Val. But he didn't hear any sounds of distress. In fact, something about Valentino's muffled noises seemed almost tender.

Vox went to back up…and accidentally stepped on an empty tub of icing left behind by Velvet. He fell to the floor with a crash.

The sex sounds immediately stopped. There was quiet for a long moment. Then Valentino practically roared in a voice that sounded both angry but maybe also fearful too. "Who the FUCK is there?!" He burst out of the room in a barely-cinched robe only to stop dead.

Vox was standing up again now. "Val! I-I just thought I'd come up and keep you company! Sorry, I didn't realize you already had someone…"

Valentino just breathed and blushed and gritted his teeth. And…were there tears in his eyes? "Get out, Vox…"

"I…" Vox blinked, "Is the person you're with alright?"

"Everyone is fine, you have my word, now get the fuck out, Vox, PLEASE!"

Something about his tone sounded so devastated that Vox couldn't help backing to the door. "Okay…okay. Just…keep making good choices!" And then he abruptly left, heading down the hall and downstairs and out the studio doors. He felt his pixels heat with blushing as he walked away from the studio. Yet he wasn't sure why. Valentino had never been shy about sex, and Vox had heard him engaging in acts in nearby rooms numerous times. Somehow though, with their relationship the way it was now, Vox found himself feeling so flustered — like they were too close emotionally now for him to have witness something so personal, and yet they were close enough that he felt just a little left out of this important thing in his friend's life.

Vox shook his head to clear and walked faster. He needed to pick up Vark form Velvet anyway and get the little guy home for his midday nap and lunch. This thing with Val was definitely not a big deal. Vox was sure Val would be over it soon. And, who knew, maybe Val was just upset because for the first time in a long time he'd found himself an eager and unpaid partner. Someone who cared about him. Wouldn't that just be…something?

Vox crossed his arms and kept walking and pouted about how his blushing wouldn't go away.

He couldn't have known that there was no partner or lover or significant other. He couldn't have known that Valentino had been shut in his room ravishing himself with his own hands and toys, crying and moaning and hissing through gritted teeth, 'Vox, Vox, Yes, Vox…I love you…Please love me too…' over and over because lately it was the only way he could get off.

He couldn't have known that now Valentino was left alone, shaking and crying and embarrassed in the dark of his room.

So Vox kept walking away.

Niffty skipped out of her room at the hotel, pausing to call back inside. "Don't worry, Baxter, I'll make the bed for us when I get back." She let the door close then turned forward again when she paused at the sight of Molly and Husk, arm in arm, who had just exited the kitchen. "Oh — good morning, Husk and Molly!"

Husk blushed a little, eyeing Niffty and then the closed door to her room. "Uh…hi, Niffty."

Molly smiled knowingly. "Mornin'! Baxter and you still spendin' some good quality time together?"

Niffty blushed a little but nodded. "Oh, yes. Since Louise and Abel needed so much time in his lab, we just figured extending our sleepover was the best idea. They're back in their room already of course, but now that Angel's away, staying together helps me and Baxter with taking care of—"

There was a scuffling sound against the inside of Niffty's door, and now the door burst open to let Nuggets dash out followed by Baxter. "Ah, sorry, he got away from me! Nuggets, I told you Niffty would be back soon, she was just getting some water for your dish." Baxter caught the little pig with a smile. He blinked at the sight of Husk and Molly. "Oh, uh…good morning!" He blushed. "I'm helping Niffty take care of Nuggets, and he likes her room so we're kind of still stationed in there for now. And it's nice to get out of the lab. And it's nice to be with her." He glanced at Niffty with a shy smile, and she giggled and smiled back.

Molly held back a little chuckle herself. Husk finally seemed to relax. He smiled a little. "Well, it's nice to see you two having such a good time taking care of Nuggets together. And a good time just being together. Guess we missed some developments over the last few days. We were, uh…busy." He glanced away shyly.

Molly leaned against him a little, grinning more. "Yeah, but now everythin' we were dealin' with is settled. If ya need help with Nuggets, let us know."

"We will — thank you!" Niffty gave Nuggets a little hug, snuggling closer to Baxter, who blushed and beamed.

Husk held back a chuckle.

It was then that the king and queen wandered downstairs, paused at the sight of the foursome, and gave the group hopeful if hesitant smiles and waves.

Husk leaned in close to Niffty and whispered. "They still seem kinda on edge. I think Alastor talked to Lucifer yesterday. Must have really done a number on the guy."

"Yeah," Niffty nodded. "But Lucifer and Lilith did apologize to everyone this morning. I feel bad that they still seem nervous. I might try to make them feel more welcome. They deserve to be happy here too."

Husk grinned. "Oh yeah, you could handle helping those two real easy — you soothe ALASTOR, after all, and you know how dramatic he gets." Niffty giggled as Husk pulled back and squeezed Molly's hand. "Come on, Molls, let's go do some of that shopping you wanted to take care of. Alastor paid me before he left, so I'm treating."

"Aw, il mio gatto, I think I'll just do some window shoppin', but I might take ya up on that offer for lunch. Don't think it's gonna be happenin' too often though — I'll have a fancy job before ya know it," Molly teased with a grateful smile, "But thank ya, Husky". She kissed his cheek. They held a little closer, waved to Niffty and Baxter, then gave the king and queen across the room a nod and smile before departing out the hotel front door.

Niffty took Nuggets in her arms and headed right over to the king and queen with Baxter. "Hello, Mister Lucifer and Miss Lilith. Have you met Nuggets yet? He's a very cute little pig and also Angel's pet. Baxter and I were gonna take him for a walk in the backyard. Razzle and Dazzle are waiting for us out there — they love playing with Nuggets. Would you like to come? It'll be fun!" She beamed.

"Oh!" Lilith blinked. "I, er…I suppose, yes, thank you for the invitation. But I'm not very good with animals…" She reached out to pat Nuggets, but when he wriggled, she hesitated. "Luci's better with—"

"BABY!" With wide shining eyes and a big smile, Lucifer held out his arms, and Nuggets jumped into them. He hugged the little pig close and spun in a circle. "Oh I adore him! Angel has excellent taste in animal companions! He's just as splendid as Razzle and Dazzle, no wonder they get along!" Realizing after a moment that everyone was staring at him as he nuzzled his face into a pig, he cleared his throat and tried to calm his demeanor. "I…would enjoy a walk in the yard." He looked to his wife. "There's an awning on the patio — perhaps you'd like to join us from one of the lounge chairs there, dear."

Lilith smiled at his consideration but then shook her head. "Thank you, Luci, but no… I think I'd like to go for a walk too." She twirled her wrist, and a parasol appeared in her hand. She bit her lip and looked down at her long dress and high heels. "Is it muddy out there? Perhaps I should change shoes or clothes or…"

Niffty smiled reassuringly and put a hand on Lilith's elbow. "No mud, just soft grass — plus rows of vegetables and herbs we use for cooking. It's safe and easy, promise."

"I see." Lilith looked to her with relief. "Well, we have always enjoyed a garden. Thank you, Niffty."

Baxter stepped toward the king now and reached into the pocket of his lab coat. "Would you like to hold Nugget's leash while we walk?"

Lucifer beamed so eagerly. Baster got the leash onto Nuggets, then Lucifer set down the little pig and eyed the leash in his hand in awe.

Niffty grinned. "Wonderful! Let's all go have fun with Nuggets and Razzle and Dazzle, get some fresh air, and get acquainted too. I love making new friends!" She lead a still hesitant but smiling Lilith to the back door.

Baxter looked to Lucifer. "Come on, I'm sure Razzle and Dazzle will like spending some more time with you too, just like Nuggets."

Lucifer gave a small shrug, his smile half fading. "Now that I'm being much more decent to Charlie, perhaps you're right. They are fiercely loyal to her, and I respect them immensely for it."

Baxter frowned as they followed the ladies. "You're here now, you're trying, you apologized — just give everyone time. I know Charlie wants to keep repairing whatever happened with your family. And we want you to be part of our hotel family too. We don't judge, we just welcome people who want to do better for themselves and others."

Lucifer smiled to himself. "I understand much better now, I think. Thank you, Baxter." Before the conversation could continue in this sappy direction, Lucifer wiped at his eyes then turned to Baxter with a beaming smile again. "So tell me all about Nuggets! His favorite snacks and toys and games! I love animals! They were my favorite part of earth, you know."

Baxter could sense that Lucifer just needed space and time to accept the place they were making for him here. So he smiled and nodded and told him about Nuggets as they joined the ladies and the little pig and his goat friends for a stroll outside.

Husk and Molly stayed arm in arm as they headed down the street away from the hotel. Husk found he couldn't help smiling as people noticed them together. He thought of the pretty picture they must make — him and his lady, in love. When he glanced to Molly and saw her own bright smile, he felt such joy at knowing he was part of bringing that beaming look to her face.

Molly blinked and glanced at him with a curious grin. "Husky? Somethin' on ya mind?"

Husk blinked, trying not to blush. "Oh, nothing. Just feeling happy seeing you so happy."

She giggled. "Aw Husky…" She hugged closer to him. "Thanks again for coming shopping with me. I still ain't too sure how to get around the pentagram on my own, but I couldn't take my brothers this time."

"I'm happy to go with you any time, but why couldn't you take Angel or Niss?"
Her eyes hazed, and she lowered her voice to a playful whisper. "Cuz I wanna look at bridesmaid dresses. Just cuz I can't tell anyone else that Alastor's fixin' ta marry my brother doesn't mean I don't wanna be prepared for the big day."

Husk laughed. "Well, I don't know much about bridesmaid dresses, but I'll do my best to help."

"You'll help most by tryin' on a few tuxedos," Molly explained. "I wanna make sure we'll coordinate well. After all, we'll be each other's dates, and I'll be in Angel's wedding party and you'll probably be in Alastor's, right?"

"I…yeah, we're friends now so maybe." He blinked at the thought then smiled softly to himself. "And you're comfortable with…us trying on wedding-related stuff together?"

"Very okay, il mio gatto," She assured. "Besides, I wanna get all hot and bothered seein' you in a suit…and then maybe later seein' you NOT in one," she whispered into his ear.

Husk's ears twitch and his wings lifted and his tail whipped. Molly just giggled. He cleared his throat, glancing to the side as he came out of his shock. "Er, I… I am very open to that plan…as long as you are too." He blushed, looking down with an awkward furrow to his brow. "We only just started being intimate, and I just want to be sure we're only having sex when you definitely want to, and—"

She sighed. "Husky, you've witnessed the libido that runs in my family. Trust me, if I'm askin', it's definitely cuz I really want to." She shrugged, eyes down. "Sex with you…is honestly the only good sex I've ever had. The only time I haven't felt anxious or like I was getting used for something. The only time I've ever been taken care of in every way. Now that we found that together, I want all of it I can get." She wiped away a quick tear and her eyes met his as she smiled a little again. "As long as you're up for it too. Whatever we can manage together."

Husk nodded, holding her close, gaze steady. "You deserve the best. It's been…it's been great for me too. I feel accepted and happy and connected… I want more too." He trembled a little and cleared his throat. "So, uh, we're on the same page then. Good, good." He smiled and gave a shrug. "Maybe when we get back to the hotel later, we'll try my room this time? I…I've had this fantasy for weeks about you and me and a shower together…"

"Hmm, sounds refreshin'…" Molly cooed. She tugged off one of his stray feathers in a preening action, making his wings flutter. Husk held her closer and gently pulled a claw through the ends of her hair.

They continued down the street together, so happy and carefree in their love.

At Cherri's hideout (a now fully clothed) Helsa scrolled through her phone with a pout as she sat on the sofa and sipped the last of her huge iced coffee. Finally she sighed. "Cherri? What do I wear for a friendly dinner-party-slash-date to let your snake and spider friends know I'm getting orgasms from their best friend?"

Cherri (also fully dressed) walked in with a plate of sandwiches, blushing and rolling her eye. "I don't think there's an outfit that could say exactly that. Why don't we just go with informal evening wear or something." She set down the plate and sat beside Helsa.

Helsa slumped low, continuing to scroll through her phone. "I can't find anything on my usual shopping sites that feels right. I might have some things in my closet that would work but…that would mean going back to my apartment and possibly running into Sev."

Cherri tilted her head. "Is that a problem? Sev's cool with us and knows everything. But if you don't want to make the trip, you could just text him to see if he's got any suggestions."

Helsa finally lowered her phone. She bit her lip and looked away with a small shrug. "I…haven't told him about the dinner date."

"Oh." Cherri furrowed her brow a little. "Waiting til after it's over or…"

"I kinda haven't talked to him since you and me shut ourselves away in here two days ago for sapphic acrobatics," she admitted.

"Helsa!" Cherri sighed. "Come on, he's probably worried about you. Yeah, things went good with you talking to Charlie, but I'm sure he didn't expect you to just disappear after it was over. I've been pretty caught up in our stuff the last couple days too, but I even shot Angel a message to let him know I'm okay and that I'll see him soon. Being part of the hotel, it's important to check in with people. Because a lot of times this year, when people haven't checked in…it's cuz they were hurt and couldn't." She crossed her arms and looked down.

Helsa frowned. She'd been about to dismiss Cherri's worrying but now she touched the demon's hand. Their gazes met. Helsa looked at her seriously. "I'll call him. And I'll tell him to tell Lottie I'm okay. I'm just not used to having a bunch of people care about me, but I guess I better get in the habit, huh?"

Cherri smiled and nodded. "Heh, yeah. Face it, Helsa, you're part of the hotel family now, and you matter so much to all of us. Especially me." She took Helsa's hand and kissed the fingers.

Helsa closed her eyes, and her chest heaved. She tried not to imagine everything Cherri's mouth had done to her body over the last few days. She let out a shuddery sigh and opened her eyes once again. "Okay, I'm calling my brother now, so ease up on the foreplay for a minute please."

Cherri smirked and let her hand go. Helsa rolled her eyes with a blush and put a call through to Sev. It rang several times and then Sev came on and exclaimed Helsa's name so loudly that even Cherri could hear it beside her.

Helsa pulled the phone away from her ear and scowled. "Sev, fuck, my eardrum could have ruptured. I know you're thrilled to hear from me, but chill." She put him on speaker. "There, you're on speaker, now gush all you want."

"I…sorry. I just… I was starting to worry since I hadn't heard from you, and then the phone ringing surprised me, and your name coming up really surprised me, and I had to jump out of bed and get down the hall before the rings stopped."

"Sev, it's like 12:30, even I don't sleep in this late. Fuck, did I really stress you out that much?"

"No…" Sev sounded sheepish. "Steve and I were just sitting on his bed, listening to some records in his room."

Helsa grinned. "Afternoon delight with your cat man. Nice. I'm surprised you're still hanging with him at the hotel instead of going back to our apartment and turning it into a den of love. That's what we did with Cherri's place, it's been great. "

"Helsa…" he moaned in embarrassment.

"Am I wrong, dear Seviathan?" She asked, her tone warm.

He sighed, but it sounded like he was smiling. "Not entirely. But I'm still easing into this relationship, dear Helsa. You know what that's like."

"Fair enough. Sorry, no more teasing. I just like seeing you with someone, it's sweet." She rolled her eyes. "Anyway, uh…I'm also sorry for being a dick and not calling. I'm much less dramatic now. Thanks for being backup about me talking to Lottie. And I promise I'm safe, I've been with Cherri…literally and biblically."

"Oh my god…" Cherri put a hand to her forehead and tried not to grin.

"Uh, hi there, Cherri!" Sev awkwardly called out.

"Hey…" Cherri sighed. "We'll be by on Monday to see you and Angie and everyone else, promise."

"Good. That's good. Looking forward to it. I hope you'll tell the rest of the hotel about the two of you soon, I know everyone'll be happy. Char even wants us all to go on a triple date, heh. Her and I figured out that we're both the only ones who know about you two," Sev replied sheepishly.

"We'll, uh…we'll tell other people stuff when we're ready. I mean, there's really not a ton to tell anyway, just two consenting adults seeing what works, no biggie," Helsa quickly replied, biting her lip and looking down.

Cherri watched her in concern for a moment.

The tone of Sev's voice mirrored her feelings. "Just do what feels right, Helsa. I'm glad you have someone new." He cleared his throat. "Cherri, I'm so happy my sister has you."

"Oh, thanks." Cherri smiled humbly and shrugged. "I'm really glad I have her too."

A smile came to Helsa's lips and her eyes met Cherri's again. Then she sighed and flipped her hair back nervously. "Okay, okay, Sev, we get it, you're happy for us. But you're also being way too selfless again. Now go back to your tall feline musician singer and continue to get doted on."

"Got it! And I'll let you get back to your busty blonde pyromaniac."

"Sev!" Helsa and Cherri said at once.

Sev laughed. "See you two later! Love you both!" Then he hung up.

Helsa sighed. "His bisexuality comes through at the most awkward times." She shook her head with a grin. Then she looked hopefully to Cherri. "So, wanna come to my apartment and help me pick out an outfit? Then once we have one, wanna help me take it off and ravish each other in my four poster bed and then have the chef make us dinner? Just because Sev didn't decide to turn the place into a love nest doesn't mean we can't expand our territory."

Cherri smirked. "Sounds like a fun night. Let's get to it." She leaned in closer. "Also, seriously, no matter what you wear, Niss and Pen are gonna love you and love us being together, okay?"

She blinked and gave a small nod. "Yeah, okay…" And then she was up, gathering her purse and grabbing a sandwich and ordering a ride while Cherri just bit into a sandwich and marveled at her in wonder…but also a touch of worry. Helsa was fierce, but pieces of her were fragile. Cherri just hoped Helsa would let her help take care of those pieces of herself.

After changing and having breakfast together, Alastor and Angel had decided to let Alastor guide them on a full tour of the radio tower. Angel had already seen Alastor's apartment and the studio and the lobby of course. But there were many other rooms inside as well, containing old broadcasting equipment, antique radios, organized recordings of Alastor's previous shows, classic vinyl records smuggled for a hefty price from earth, and various deer-related decor he had acquired over the decades. They explored each room thoroughly, Alastor proudly showcasing his collections while Angel beamed at his beau's passion. They even decided to make a little game of things and share a kiss in every room of the tower — sort of another way of marking the place as their own, Angel explained, and Alastor was certainly game.

Eventually they made it down to the lobby, both a little flushed from giddiness and a very excessive number of kisses.

Angel chuckled. "That was fun, Smiles." He gave him a playful nudge with his hip, grazing Alastor's side. "I love how much you make this place your own."

Alastor beamed proudly. "This is the only space where I've ever been able to fully be myself. Until you came along, that is. Now, every space where we are together is a space where I feel free."

Angel blushed and grinned, crossing his arms. "You are in a flirty, sentimental, sweet as hell mood, and I like it. We need to go on vacation more often."

"I'd love that!" Alastor said with full sincerity, eyes bright.

Angel blinked then grinned. "Yeah? Well…okay then. Did ya have a place in mind…or a time?"

"Not until after this year's extermination, I'm afraid," Alastor explained solemnly. "We have to be sure things with heaven go over well. But afterwards, I'm at your command. And as for where, do you have any thoughts, darling? I'm afraid I'm a bit of a homebody and never considered traveling much before, but with you it would be nice — wherever you'd like to go."

Angel's heart warmed and his chest filled at being so cared for and wanted. "The ocean?" The words tumbled out of his mouth.

Alastor blinked and tilted his head. "The…ocean?"

"Yeah, heh…" Angel rubbed the back of his neck. "I like the water, and I like fish a lot. I know there ain't many beaches in the pentagram though, and they're a bitch to get to. But, uh…yeah, that would be nice if you want." He shrugged. "Or we could even just visit the aquarium across town, no pressure."

Alastor considered, brow furrowed in thought. "Hmm… We could make travel to the ocean work. I'll have to put in an order to Rosie for a swimsuit for myself first of course…"

Angel's heart absolutely raced at those casual words, heat filling his middle. He took a breath tried to stop picturing Alastor wearing skintight (and possibly wet) material for fun in the sun.

The deer came out of his own thoughts and smiled. "But first we'll go to the aquarium as many times as you'd like to prepare ourselves. Then to the beach in the spring, hmm? It might be a nice way to celebrate our…anniversary. The spring is when we met, after all." She shrugged shyly.

Angel's eyes widened. "Our… The spring. Yeah, I guess we did." He remembered Alastor showing up to the hotel, the two of them taking their first walks together, knowing in his bones that this friendship was different and special and might turn out so beautiful. Angel smiled, brushing away a tear in one of his eyes. "Let's do it, heh. I've never gotten to go to the ocean in hell, not once. It would make a great date, a great…anniversary." He bit his lip then came forward and held Alastor gently in a hug. "Thanks for being such a kind beau."

Alastor blinked then sighed and gently hugged him in return. "You as well, ma raison d'être."

Angel smiled and pulled back, doing his best not to get any more choked up. "Speaking of dates, we're still kinda on one now. What's next?"

Alastor smiled brightly. "I'm glad you asked. How would you feel about an early dinner atop the emporium roof to watch the sunset?" He held up his fingers to snap.

"Yes, please!" Angel beamed and hugged tightly around his arm. Alastor teleported them away with a laugh.

They appeared on the rooftop. There was a lovely table with two chairs, some candles, and several covered platters of food. It looked like a picture.

Alastor went forward and pulled out Angel's chair. "My apologies for not taking us out to a restaurant, but I'm afraid all the ones in Cannibal Colony exclusively serve demon flesh — and sometimes venison for me if the mood strikes me. But I wanted you to have some variety. So I've prepared a lovely French recipe for pasta with a sort of caramelized onion sauce and meatballs. There's also asparagus with hollandaise, buttered mushrooms, and some sublime baguette. And a decadent wine, of course." With a snap of his fingers, all the platters were uncovered, and the wine bottle lost its cork.

Angel sighed almost dreamily. "Can I mention again how hot it is that you feed me?"

Alastor glowed brightly but didn't shy from the compliment — his chest puffed up. "Yes, you may. And I'm quite eager to continue pursuing the course of action."

Angel giggled as they began to serve themselves. Once their plates were full, the spider sighed. "Hey, Alastor? Mind if I talk to you about something kinda serious? I was gonna wait til after the weekend but…I just wanna start the conversation."

Alastor's ears pitched high in alert. "Of course, anything."

Angel bit his lip. "I've been thinking about what to do for the future…for work."

Alastor nodded and smiled gently.

Angel swallowed. "So…I know you think I'd make a great overlord or club owner or even partner-in-cannibal-crime with you. But those first two things just ain't me, and the last thing is something I'm happy to do when a situation comes up, but I don't want it to be my full time gig. I kinda…wanna go back to doing sex work, my own version of it though." He looked into Alastor's eyes, playing with his hands. "Could we… talk about what I mean, and make sure we're both on the same page? And that my plans sound okay to you too?"

Alastor nodded again. He wasn't eating or drinking, his focus was fully on Angel.

All of the deer's care and sincerity helped Angel continue to feel comfortable and confident. He went on. "So, the gist is this — I wanna be sort of a sex work advisor. I'd work with sex workers — experienced ones and newbies — and give 'em advice about handling the profession and managing clients. And as for clients for me, I'm thinking of only accepting those on a very selective case-by-case basis. You still with me?"

Alastor nodded again, though Angel noticed his ears twitching. The look in his eye said it wasn't jealousy or doubt, just concern. Angel sighed. "I hated a lot of what I did when I worked for Val. But the one experience I liked with clients was helping the ones who…who were still coming out of the closet to themselves, even down here. They're guys who feel so guilty for liking other guys, Al. They need a gentle hand and someone to talk 'em through things and teach them that being gay is okay. And then when they finally have a good experience, there's this joy they get. It's the best." He smiled a little, lost in thought, then shook his head to continue. "So I'm mostly gonna advise other sex workers, but every once in a while when a guy is really hurting inside as a queer person, I'll work with 'em sexually for a bit to help them get more comfortable with themselves." He looked at Alastor very seriously. "I know you said months ago that as long as you didn't have to get exposed to details, you were okay with me being physical with guys for money. But it's been a while, and you and me have gotten closer — especially physically — so I wanna make sure you still feel okay. And if it helps to know, I've already decided on some boundaries for any clients I take on… Stuff I'll only ever do with you cuz it's special." He blushed.

Alastor swallowed. "I…" his eyes darted around, like he wanted to make sure they were truly alone in this outdoor space, "may I know the boundaries?"

Angel nodded. "First one is no kissing. Kissing is only for you and me. Second one is no boyfriend play. Some guys like to role-play that me and them are boyfriends and do lots of emotional stuff — that's completely off the table. You're my beau, and the only person I share that kind of love with is you. And third is, uh…" he shifted in his seat, "my socks stay on and the client's hands stay above my knees no matter what we do, cuz my feet and the fact that they're a turn on now is forever only for you, Smiles."

Alastor glowed. Alastor thought. Alastor smiled humbly. "I think it would be a great kindness to you to help men in that kind of distress. I think you will be a tremendous talent at assisting other 'ladies and gents of the evening' in their affairs. And I think that, as long as I know there are some things special for just you and I, then I have no distress about your professional intimacies. But…" His eyes darkened to radio dials, "if any of those clients cause you harm, I will end them — no exceptions." He blinked and his eyes returned to normal. He held out his hand. "Do we have a deal?"

Angel sighed and smiled and almost laughed. He reached out and took Alastor's hand and interlaced the fingers and squeezed. "Deal, beautiful." He sniffed. "Also, now that the hard part is out of the way, if you'd be open to it, I'd kind of like to use your hotel tower to see if I can do sort of a 'sex advice radio show' sometimes — where people call in with their issues and I offer to give 'em some tips. I liked being on the radio with you, and I think it'd be kind of fun."

A grin came to Alastor's lips that Angel rarely saw but that made him shiver — the grin that man only got when he had found something that, as he liked to put it, made his blood race. "You on the radio delivering seductive solutions to a world of sinners only to come to me afterwards — the one who gets to engage with your charms in person? Yes, I'm quite open to that suggestion, and it is a brilliant one."

Angel grinned and shook his head. "Al, I swear I'm not trying to turn you on, but thanks for the support."

Alastor chuckled then rested his head on his hand, gazing at him. "Anytime, Anthony — for supporting you or for being turned on by you, ha!"

Angel nearly snorted with laughter and Alastor did too. "Oh, uh," Angel went on, "And I'm also thinking about pole dancing at some clubs eventually. But only if I can be my own boss and set firm boundaries. No one touches me, I touch no one, and I'll take off a lot of clothes but not all of 'em. Never liked doing that in public." He looked down. "And speaking of which, no pornos, ever again. And I'm gonna talk to Vox about getting 'em taken down."

Alastor squeezed Angel's hand. "I'll champion you the entire way. No more bad times."

Angel's smile returned and he wiped away some tears. He leaned across the table and kissed Alastor on the mouth then pulled back. He chuckled at the shy yet elated look on the deer's face. Then Angel blinked. "Oh crap, I'm sorry, we just kissed outside — I didn't even ask if you were comfortable with that. Are you okay?"

Alastor held up a hand, still beaming. "I'm wonderful, darling." When Angel's look relaxed and his smile returned, Alastor shyly cleared his throat. "If you dance at clubs, may I come watch sometimes?"

Angel tilted his head but nodded. "If you're comfortable, I'd love to have ya. But don't pressure yourself."

"I think I would enjoy it. You're so graceful, the way you move." His eyes hazed. "Besides, I'd like to be there to give you flowers after the show — it's tradition. I'll make sure Niffty wraps them well so my touch can't wilt them, ha."

Angel beamed. "I…yeah, sure, Alastor…I'd love that." He giggled, and Alastor chuckled again.
They clinked glasses in a toast then descended into their meal, both feeling so light and happy inside.

In his airship over hell, Sir Pentious and Niss were side by side in the kitchen, wearing aprons and cooking dinner for themselves and the Egg Bois, and discussing the menu for tomorrow night's dinner party with Cherri and her 'date'.

Sir Pentious tried a spoonful of sauce simmering on the stove and grinned. "Oh this béchamel is simply divine! Nissy, you're a culinary genius as usual."

Niss shrugged and smiled bashfully as he stirred a pot of boiling water and pasta. "Thanks, Pen. I don't have much experience making it, I'm just glad it came out well. Thought the little eggs would like an Italian spin on Mac and Cheese. And who knows, maybe they'll actually eat the roasted eggplant and zucchini instead of trying to hide their vegetables like little stubborn bambini, heh." Niss glanced inside the oven at a pan where said vegetables were turning a lovely brown color at the edges. He smiled and closed the oven. "If worse comes to worse though we can bribe them to eat it by mentioning the gelato they'll get for dessert if they do."

Pen chuckled. "I'm certain that'll do the trick. And are you still planning to make your ziti al forno tonight to serve at our dinner party tomorrow?"

"Yup!" Niss grinned proudly. "Six layers of fresh meat and cheese and herbs and sauce — everyone loves it so I figure the odds are good that Cherri's date will too. Plus it tastes better when it can sit overnight. You still picking out the best wine to go with things?"

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly. "I'm torn between a white or a rosé. And I'm seriously considering including a bottle of champagne so we can toast Cherri's new relationship, but I don't want to be too forward."

"I think a little champagne with dessert would be fine. As for a toast, we'll see how they're both feeling that night," Niss suggested. "And are you still up for helping me make the cheesecake for dessert? Gotta keep the vibrations of the ship as low as possible so it doesn't crack when it's baking."

Pen grinned. "I will use my skilled hands to keep this ship perfectly steady, no matter what action we may face."

"Yeah…thanks," Niss managed, because just for a moment he was flashing back to the other night with Sir Pentious in the pond in the solarium — grinding on top of his snake boyfriend in scanty bathing suits while Pen held him steady with those strong hands and told him he felt wondrous.

With a single glance, Pen seemed to understand where his mind was… and Pen's mind clearly went there too. Instead of the moment feeling heated and awkward though, it felt gentle and special and beautiful. Like they were sharing a special secret, no pressure. No need to ravish each other this very instant when there was an eternity of such moments to be had whenever they pleased.

The end of Pen's tail swirled across the floor and brushed Niss's apron playfully. Niss's chest puffed out and he gave his boyfriend a firm bump with his hip. Niss swallowed, turning back to his pasta. "The uh…the pond refilled yet?"

"Yes, utterly brimming over…" Pen replied, staring down at the sauce with a deep blush and big smile.

Niss sighed, shaking his head as his own face heated. "Good, good. It's nice to know that it's there — for when we're ready to 'go swimming' again."

"Indeed. I simply couldn't live without it at this point." Pen gave him a wink, and Niss finally broke into chuckles. Then the oven went off, and they had to pause the flirting for now. But there would be more tonight and every night as far as they were both concerned.

Not everyone in the pentagram was so lucky in love.

Valentino lay curled up in his dark room on his ravaged bed, clenching his jaw and trying not to cry and distinctly ignoring the occasional giddy check-in message from Velvet who didn't know about his humiliation and who would probably try to pop by. Except tonight he'd shut down the entire club on no notice, so when she got here she wouldn't find a bouncer to intimidate to get inside but a locked and barred door that should keep her out completely even if she would have plenty of questions for him about it.

But he would not face anyone about this.

Vox had almost caught him in the middle of…

Fuck, what if the tv HAD actually caught him, but had just been too tactful to say anything, but now he knew the truth… Valentino lying in his bed, jamming the biggest thing inside of himself that he could find, crying out Vox's name and groaning 'I love you' as a smile graced his lips and tears fell from his eyes in adoration. Vox was never meant to know such a vulnerable side of him until the day the tv fell for him too.

Val had screamed at the guy and kicked him out. Back to the same old Valentino, as far as Vox was probably concerned. And now nothing would make it better, including any bullshit matchmaking schemes by Velvet.

Speaking of which, his phone rang now, and it was her again. He threw it at the wall. The ringing stopped. Maybe he should have felt worried that now Vox couldn't call him either. But who was he kidding? Vox wasn't going to call.

"I'm all alone. And I've gotta get over it. But first I'll at least work up the nerve to tell him that I have feelings for him even though I know that he'll never feel the same way, and that I'm sorry." He nodded to himself, gripping the sheets. He had to do this.

Valentino let out a deep breath, downed the last bit of a liquor bottle and closed his eyes. He was grateful for blankness it brought to his mind instead of dreams of a warm television screen smiling at him.

Dinner at the hotel had just wrapped up, and Charlie was in her office, scribbling some potential ideas for talking to heaven…but mostly thinking about her parents and smiling. Niffty and Baxter had shared something about the king and queen spending time with them in the garden today and playing with Nuggets and Razzle and Dazzle, Lucifer giving the little creatures piggyback rides while Lilith cheered him on. Whatever had happened today, they seemed more comfortable here and the guests seemed more comfortable with them. The apology this morning had broken the ice and now they were settling in. She felt her trust for them becoming whole again. It was a good feeling.

Charlie sighed and leaned back in her chair, looking to the ceiling. It hit her again for a moment that she was really doing this — really running this hotel and changing lives and challenging heaven and rearranging an entire social system for the safety of her people. Sometimes she felt perfectly confident and excited about the whole thing, like it was all coming together and gaining strength. Other times she got overwhelmed and imagined everything she was building was one moment away from toppling completely into a mess of failure.

She had always felt like such a failure. Never enough of anything she was supposed to be.

But she was choosing for herself who to be now and trying to accept that she was already enough, just like she encouraged all of her citizens to believe about themselves.

There was a knock on her door.

Charlie blinked, realized there were tears in her eyes, and quickly wiped them away. "Uh, come in!"

The door opened half way and in stepped her parents with hesitant smiles.

"I'm sorry, sweetheart, are we interrupting something?" Lucifer asked.

"We wanted to speak to you, and Vaggie was kind enough to let us know you were in your office up here," Lilith explained. "We weren't sure if you were attending to anything pressing."

Charlie smiled softly. "No, it's okay. Just organizing and thinking. I'm still getting the place set up." She stood and headed around her desk. "Can I help with something?"

Lucifer and Lilith shared a look then a nod then turned back to her. "If it's all right…" Lucifer began, "your mother and I were talking and, well… of course, we're not certain how Alastor would feel about it, but he won't be back until the weekend is over, but we really don't want to wait and leave all of hell hanging so…" He bit his lip.

Lilith put a hand on his shoulder and spoke softly. "Your father and I would like to use the little tower here to go on the radio with you and publicly clear up the matter of our support for your hotel and plans for hell — by Monday." Lucifer nodded in agreement, looking anxious but hopeful.

Charlie blinked. "I…I don't want to disturb Alastor right now, but I don't think he'd mind. I did use the tower on my own after his show anyway to reassure people about his intentions when he went to do his cannibal show. We could get everything prepared and then get his permission Monday when he comes back." She raised an eyebrow. "Why so suddenly though?"

Lucifer pouted to himself. "Because I don't want to spend another moment living in a realm where everyone thinks I don't believe in you. I know I caused that situation myself, but I was so deeply wrong. And I don't want hell's doubts festering anymore. Please, Charlie. Let me make things right, right away!" His eyes were shining with tears.

Charlie realized the tears were back in her own eyes as well. She came forward and put her hands on her father's shoulders. "You already have. But we can do the show on Monday. I'll ask Husk and Vaggie to help so we can get everything ready. I think it'll be really good."

"I know it'll be really good, just like you're really good, my apple-cheeked girl." They were both sniffling and then they were hugging and bawling and smiling, and Lilith had to put her arms around them both in a hug and rub their back to sooth them as a few tears escaped her own eyes.

They spent a good moment together as a family — one that had been long overdue. And then they all sat down in Charlie's office and made plans for their big show and a long overdue clearing of the air for the sake of themselves and all of hell.

A/N:

Thanks for reading! I should have the rest of the chapters of this batch posted by New Years :) I hope you enjoy how everyone's weekend turns out!

Take care!

-Azure129