A/N:
Hi everyone! Final chapter of this batch of updates :) Lots of fun times at the hotel for everyone, and more sweet moments for RadioDust. I hope you enjoy!
(cw/ medical self-injections with a needle, non-graphic sexual climaxes)
Partners
Chapter 117:
Public Sinner Service Announcement(s)
Alastor and Angel woke up early on Monday morning, all wrapped up in each other and cozy under the covers. They shared sweet smiles and a soft kiss. They touched each other's faces tenderly. They let their heads rest together and savored each other's warm presences.
Then Alastor guided Angel out of bed, lead him to the powder room, gave the spider a wink and snuck off to the kitchen while Angel watched him go in amusement.
Soon Angel was dressed and ready for the day. He headed out into the apartment and found Alastor in the kitchen, wearing black slacks and a red dress shirt and a white apron that said 'Cannibalize the Cook'. He was frying up beignets and deftly sprinkling powdered sugar on them with a twirl of his wrist. Angel laughed and praised his skill and put on the coffee, and then Alastor took a break from frying the delightful doughnuts to corner Angel against the counter with a grin and drape his arms longingly over the spider's shoulders. Angel giggled and sat on the counter and pulled him close, and they kissed while the smell of warm sugar and fresh coffee filled the air.
When they were done, Alastor guided Angel off the counter and finished up frying his beignets. Angel poured the coffee and praised his proud deer for all of his kitchen prowess. Alastor adored every moment and leaned in to hear every word Angel said and even picked up a beignet to let the spider take a bite from his hand (and action which made Angel blush and Alastor glow in the best possible ways).
They ate and drank and chatted like the routine was part of their daily lives. And when they were done, Angel washed the dishes and Alastor dried. Finally the deer put on his jacket and helped Angel into his coat, then held out his arm for the spider and guided them both to the door. They took one last look at the penthouse — their new home that they could return to whenever they liked — and then they shared a nod and left the tower together.
As they walked through the streets of Cannibal Colony, Alastor held Angel close and waved at all the cannibals they passed, a jaunty skip in his step.
Angel blushed and smiled so much as they walked along together. "They really are okay with me being the guy who snagged ya. Feels like I got accepted into your little group here, like an honorary cannibal, heh."
Alastor chuckled. "Oh yes, and then some. I'm the leader of this place, so now you're practically a crowned prince."
Angel smiled shyly. "Aw, Al, come on…"
"Its true. And they would all be lucky to benefit from your wisdom and guidance." The border of the colony came into view. Alastor sighed at the sight, his pace slowing a little. "We'll have to let go of each other once we cross the street here. But rest assured, I don't intend to have that issue come up much longer. With your permission, I'm just about ready to share our love with the world."
"Can't wait.…" Ange nodded and wiped away a tear. "I'm ready too. Just say the word."
They released each other and were about to cross the street when suddenly a cannibal lady raced over to them — one of Alastor's fan girls, made obvious by the gaggle of such fans stationed down the street and watching them.
She beamed up at the two boys, holding a letter in her hand. "Alastor! Pardon me. And Angel, very charmed!" She gave a rushed curtsey. "We just, well…me and the girls wanted to say that we're so delighted to see you moving forward in your life, Alastor. Though of course we've appreciated all of your attentions and kind words over the years…and were there letters at some point? We've forgotten, heh."
"Letters? No, I'm afraid not." Alastor tilted his head to the side in confusion.
The cannibal lady's eyes lit up. "Ah, yes, of course! Mistake on our part. Anyway, thank you again for everything. We're happy for you both. And we hope you'll be happy for us if we…move forward too." She gripped the letter, her smile eager.
Alastor just looked at the paper with bafflement then back to her. "Thank you for your support. And yes, er, of course. I've always wished you ladies nothing but happiness and the best." He snapped to make a straw hat appear in hand then gave a humble bow.
"Oh, splendid! You're a doll!" She tucked the letter away and beamed then looked to Angel. "You take wonderful care of him, Mr. Angel Dust, and I know he'll do the same for you. Lovely seeing you fellas! Ta ta!" She gave them a wave then dashed back off to her group. The ladies started gossiping as they scurried away.
Alastor and Angel watched them curiously. Angel grinned. "Aw, Smiles, I think they just entrusted you to me. You're a precious fella, after all — makes sense they'd want to hand you off carefully."
Alastor rolled his eyes. "Yes, well…I didn't expect the send off. But I suppose it's nice. A little closure." He glowed a bit then raised an eyebrow. "I wonder what they mean by all of them 'moving on.'"
"Maybe they'll all start dating each other — absolute cannibal orgy."
Alastor's eyes flashed to radio dials. "Ha! Well, considering their unfulfilled libidos after pining for me, it's a distinct possibility." His eyes returned to normal and he smirked a little.
Angel snorted. "They just never got a chance to woo you to mutual satisfaction — poor dames," he purred, whispering near his ear. Alastor straightened up tall and his ears twitched. Angel chuckled. "Come on, Smiles, let's give the flirting a break and get on back to the hotel. Who knows that's happened without us, right?"
Alastor blinked to come out of his shock and nodded. "Yes, indeed. Back to our hotel and our family there. And our lovely rooms so near each other…" he added in a little whisper back to Angel.
They shared a giggle then crossed the street, letting go of each other's arms as they went past the colony borders. But they still walked close and talked freely and ignored anyone who glanced at them. A preview of their deep camaraderie might be just the thing to acclimate hell to the truth of their love soon, which would be coming very soon indeed.
Helsa and Cherri woke up late the next morning. And when they did, they weren't sure what to do. Wrapped up in blankets and nothing else in Cherri's bedroom, they just looked at each other for a little while, blushing and thinking.
They got up eventually, hesitant for the first time to look at each other's bodies, remembering last night and how different it had been from their other times sleeping together. They had smiled and cried and held each other and whispered new words just to test them out, just to see, just to feel loved in their special night together. But now it all felt so big and so fragile. And there was so much ahead.
Finally Cherri swallowed as they finished dressing, facing away from each other. "We…should go back to the hotel now. People are missing us and I'm missing them and…Angel's coming home."
"What, from his weekend 'secretly' banging Alastor?" Helsa huffed, fixing her hair.
Cherri tripped putting on her boots and fell to the floor. "WHAT?!"
Helsa turned around but avoided eye contact. "Oh come on — they each mysteriously went away for the weekend? And then last night you nearly talked about Angel bringing someone on a date with us but then covered at the last second? Besides, they're always looking at each other in weird ways. If they have their own private fling going on or if it's a transactional thing or whatever, good for them. No need for all the mystery." She shrugged.
Cherri got standing, rubbing her temple. "Okay, there's…this is a very complicated…I'm not supposed to… Look, it's not my place to say but, no matter what's going on, you cannot make offhand comments like that about them, alright? Please. It's important." She looked at Helsa firmly.
Helsa blinked but nodded. "Okay… Whatever the delicate situation is, I won't rock the boat about them. Promise." She finally looked Cherri in the eye, grimacing a little. "Sorry."
Cherri let out a sigh, relaxing again. "It's okay. Thank you." She swallowed. Their gazes were still locked. "Helsa? About last night…"
"I—I need some coffee first. And a whole lot of processing time." Helsa's eyes darted around, then she strode forward and grabbed Cherri's hand. "So come on, let's get the coffee and then take a long quiet walk back to the hotel." She pulled the demon sinner along.
Cherri just watched her in confusion. Helsa — not wanting to talk but holding her hand, respecting her request about Angel but getting frustrated over their own potential feelings, snapping a bit with that comment about Alastor and Angel but then apologizing. So many mixed signals. Cherri would try to be patient for now. Maybe some coffee and quiet and time back at the hotel really would help Helsa relax so they could figure out what was next for them together.
There was a melodic knock on the hotel door, a familiar knock, a knock Charlie would know anywhere down in her heart because that knock had started a new partnership for this hotel and countless new adventures and relationships in their lives. And, of course, leave it to the person knocking to insist on knocking even though he (and the companion she knew must be with him) had keys. A flair for the dramatic and a healthy dose of nostalgia could never be escaped by Alastor the Radio Demon.
Charlie dashed to the door and flung it open with a bright smile.
There Alastor and Angel stood, side by side and smiling (with barely an inch of distance between them). Alastor stood up tall. "Hello!"
Angel snorted at the familiar intonation.
"Hello, and welcome home!" Charlie launched forward and hugged Alastor's cane then jumped into all six of Angel's arms for a tight hug with him.
"Whoa, hey, we were gone barely three days, did ya really miss us that much?" Angel laughed, ruffling her hair.
Charlie pulled back with a laugh of her own. "Of course! I don't know where we'd be without you — both of you." She looked up into Angel's eyes then looked to Alastor. "And, Alastor, we all have something we want to share. We made so much progress this weekend — me and my parents and the whole hotel! It can wait if you want, but we had an idea…"
"Ha, perfect!" Alastor assured, tilting his head, intrigued, "I was hoping you'd use the time for a little familial self care." He rolled his eyes to the side. "I figured us going away for the weekend might help — I know I'm rather a handful…"
"And I'm about six handfuls," Angel teased, putting away his extra arms. "What can I say, we're both naturally born for the spotlight. So we're glad you had some time to focus on you, Charlie."
"Thank you." Charlie clasped her hands together, eyes hazed knowingly. "And I'm glad you two had some time to focus on yourselves. I have such a good feeling about your future."
Alastor glowed a little and Angel blushed a little, and Charlie just shook her head with a smile and turned to call out into the lobby. "Everyone, they're home!" She dashed into the center of the room as everyone else filed out of the ballroom to join her. Alastor and Angel viewed the assembling crowd, including Charlie's parents who came to stand beside her along with Vaggie.
Alastor and Angel glanced at each other for a moment and shared a nod. They'd had some time to talk on their way over here and had come to a decision. Angel closed the door behind them, and they both strode forward.
"Great to be back!" Angel gave a wave. "Now, what's this I hear about a surprise?"
"Indeed!" Alastor chimed in. "Because we have a small surprise of our own!"
Charlie couldn't keep it in any longer. "My mom and dad want to be part of a radio show — today! The two of them on the air with me and Vaggie, and of course you too, Alastor, talking about their support for the hotel and everything we want to do to help hell going forward, and how we're preparing to handle heaven. I know it's short notice, but we all planned out the segment together and Husk figure out all the technical stuff and Niffty has snacks ready. It won't be long, just a simple statement and discussion." She clasped her hands together, awaiting his judgment.
Alastor's smile grew. "Charlie…it's a marvelous thought. I would be happy to assist you in that endeavor today."
Stars of happiness shined in her eyes.
Alastor went on, "Or should I say — WE would be happy." He glanced at Angel, his smile growing. "I enjoyed having a cohost and have decided to engage Angel for all future radio shows from our hotel tower."
"And I'd be honored to be part the show today — anything to help you, Charlie," Angel assured.
"We were hoping you'd want to be on the air with us, Angel…" Vaggie called out with a grin.
The King and Queen smiled to each other then looked back to their daughter. "Of course!" Lucifer added. "You've done so many wonderful things for our daughter after all, Angel, as her first guest and as her friend. And the same goes for you, Alastor." Lucifer bowed his head slightly, maintaining eye contact with the Radio Demon.
Alastor's eyes widened curiously.
Lucifer cleared his throat. "I…we may have apologized to everyone this weekend over lunch. It was overdue. And we extend the same courtesy to you and Angel. We're sorry."
"They did!" Niffty interjected. "Even to Nuggets, and he forgave them too, and then Lucifer gave him piggyback rides!" She picked up Nuggets, and the little pig in her arms oinked.
Lilith chuckled at them then turned back to Alastor. "We just want to help. You have our words." She inclined her head in a subtle bow too. "We trust our daughter, and we're happy to follow her lead as loyally as you have."
Alastor's eyes brightened. Angel grinned humbly, gazing at Alastor. "Ya really are loyal, Smiles. No one could ask for the company of a better man."
Alastor immediately glowed and gave Angel a little smirk. "I…am not perfect. But I do my best." Then he cleared his throat and brought his attention back to the king and queen. "I'm happy you both came here to support Charlie. And I would be delighted to have you on my hotel radio show." He gave them a sweeping bow.
When he stood up tall again, Charlie had happy tears in her eyes and Lucifer was patting her back and trying not to get misty himself while Lilith rested a hand on each of their shoulders.
"And Alastor…may I say something at the end of the show, if that would be alright?"
Everyone turned to see Louise at the top of the stairs, Abel and Crymini leading her down to the lobby.
"Louise, how are you faring?" Alastor asked with immediate concern, his smile puckering at the ends in worry.
"Better, now." Louise assured as she reached the lobby. "I just…after we let hell know that the whole royal family supports this hotel and each other… I'd like to say something as a sinner to other sinners. I want to thank this place for saving me. And for showing me how to save myself." She looked at Alastor. "And I want to thank you, Alastor — in general. People should realize cannibals can help too."
They shared a look for a moment, communicating silently. Then Alastor gave a small nod. "As long as you and I could review the details in private… yes, I would be comfortable and quite appreciative of your words as part of show."
"Thanks, Alastor," Abel smiled at him as Louise's and Crymini's tails wagged.
"And welcome back! To you, and to Angel!" Crymini waved at him, a smile on her face.
Angel raised an eyebrow, smiling in delighted surprise at the enthusiastic greeting from the dog to the deer.
Alastor whispered to him. "Along with her knowing about us, I think we're wonderful friends now. We had a chat before you and I left for the weekend. Apparently I'm great with children — who knew, ha!" Angel snorted as Alastor chuckled.
"Okay, okay, come on, everyone," Husk stepped forward with a grin, "if we're really putting on a radio show today, we have to make a timeline and get started."
"Actually, before that, we—" Alastor quickly started…and on instinct he took Angel's hand.
At that point, unfortunately, the front door opened and Cherri and Helsa hesitantly stepped into the hotel. From the way they were whispering and trying to shuffle inside, it seemed like they had hoped to sneak in avoid running into anyone right away. Of course, however, they were now met with almost the entire population of the hotel staring at them.
Both women blinked and straightened up and immediately stopped holding hands as Helsa crossed her arms and Cherri put hers behind her back.
"Helsa! Cherri!" Sev raced forward and flung himself at his sister in a big hug.
"Sev!" Helsa nearly stumbled but managed to pat his back and gently pry him off of her.
"Cherri?" Angel looked from her to Helsa and back again, an eyebrow raised.
"Angie! Hey…." Cherri bit her lip. "I, uh…welcome home! You too, Radio Head!"
"Indeed…" Alastor watched the ladies with interest as well.
There was an awkward moment of silence as Cherri noticed the boys holding hands. She cleared her throat. "Well, uh, it seems like you were all in the middle of something big. Ignore us, we just came by to catch up, say hey, figure some things out." She grabbed Helsa's sleeve and lead her into the lobby to blend in among the others while Helsa just raised an eyebrow and stumbled along in confusion. Sev followed after them, obviously bursting with questions.
Alastor and Angel shared another look then turned back to the crowd. Alastor cleared his throat. "This is better actually — everyone unaware is now here, so we can all get on the same page in one fell swoop, ha!" He glowed a little. Then he squeezed Angel's hand and stood proud and tall. "To those of you who are new here, we have a little hotel secret we like to keep in the family as a personal favor to myself and to Angel. Angel, dear?"
Angel stood proud and tall too, squeezing Alastor's hand in return. "Alastor and I are partners."
"We are in love," Alastor specified, "And quite committed and quite happy to have a safe space for our relationship in this hotel… until we make our public debut very soon. Thank you for your understanding and for your discretion." He raised Angel's hand and kissed the back of it. Angel chuckled and tapped his microphone.
Charlie clapped, and soon everyone else gradually took up the response.
Lilith gently nudged Lucifer who took five dollars from under his hat and handed it to her.
"Mom, dad?" Charlie raised an eyebrow as the clapping faded. Vaggie did the same beside her.
Lilith sighed in satisfaction as she tucked the money into her cleavage. "Your father and I had a side bet going. We suspected Alastor and Angel were involved with each other. Your father thought we'd eventually stumble upon them in a romantic moment that they couldn't deny, but I figured a public confession was more their style for coming clean."
"I was all prepared for awkward shenanigans." Lucifer shrugged. "Ah well, as long as everyone's happy."
Alastor and Angel blushed and glowed.
"We're getting real bad at hiding this, Alastor."
"To be fair, Angel, we've been terrible from the start. Remember the swapped ties after our first date?"
"Remember Baxter knowing the whole time and proving my brother right about us?"
They snorted and had to hold back chuckles.
Lucifer raised an eyebrow. "What are they on about now?"
"It's a long story," Charlie explained, trying to hold back her own laughter.
Lilith smiled at the boys. "Well, thank you for trusting us with your relationship. I assure you, it will be kept secret until you reveal it to others, and then defended with the might of the first scorned woman in history." She winked, dark magic glowing form her eyes.
Lucifer nodded. "Oh yes, ditto! If any of the gossipmongers have anything to say about it, I'll just turn everything they own into snakes. I know it seems like a tedious parlor trick, but it's actually a really effective means of getting what you want from people or at least distracting the hell out of them, hee!" He laughed to himself.
Alastor and Angel stood a little closer and walked among the crowd. "Well," Alastor started, "since the grand reveal is out of the way, Angel and I might take some tea in the garden to relax and prepare for going on the air — everyone is welcome to join us!"
"Get in on this — Al makes the best sweet tea!" Angel assured, tapping Alastor's bowtie.
Alastor chuckled. "I do indeed…" He snapped, and several pitchers of tea floated in the air beside him, suspended by magic.
The happy couple actually swung their hands as they walked together to the backyard. Everyone shared giggles and followed after them.
Almost everyone. Baxter smiled and whispered something to Niffty then headed upstairs on his own while she waved and watched him with a curious smile of her own before joining the others outside. Helsa and Cherri shared a look and then drifted over to the ballroom, closing the door behind them. Molly watched them go, whispered something to Husk and gave him a little kiss, then headed over to the ballroom herself while Husk joined Alastor and Angel and the others outside.
Molly gently pushed open the ballroom door. She didn't want to startle Cherri and Helsa, and maybe she was also hoping to catch a few words before they caught sight of her. Cherri had been scarce lately — even Molly's texts to her hinting at her intimacy progression with Husk hadn't gotten much response. And Helsa hadn't been around, and Sev hadn't been bringing her up. Something must have happened. And Cherri and Helsa must have been together for it.
There wasn't much talking to overhear, unfortunately, and when Molly stepped all the way into the ballroom she saw why. Helsa had her arms crossed with a scowl and was turned away while Cherri watched her, arms hung at her sides and a frown on her face.
More poor communication obviously — it would be the downfall of this place yet. Molly cleared her throat. "Hey, ladies — private party or can I join?"
Cherri just sighed deeply and brought a hand to her head. "I-I don't know at this point. Ask Helsa."
Helsa stiffened and turned around. "Th-there's nothing to ask me about!"
"Nothing, huh?" Cherri shot back with a glare.
Helsa blinked and blushed, looking to the side.
Molly stepped forward, arms crossed. "Okay, spill everythin'. Right now. I already got two brothers who put themselves through months of exhaustin' emotional acrobatics instead of just dealing with their relationship problems. I ain't lettin' the same thing happen ta one of my best friends, and two members of this hotel besides."
Helsa trembled, trying to keep up the annoyed facade. "W-We are not in a…You don't know what you're…" Molly approached her. "You can't prove…" Molly's eyes narrowed into a look that could have gotten the truth out of even the most hardened of sinners. "It's not exactly…"
Molly's stern blue eyes met Helsa's. "Helsa, please… You deserve ta say what you feel."
Helsa blinked…then finally caved. "I…I thought we were just having fun. Fun I can handle. And…maybe more later, but this is happening VERY fast!" She scowled more. "And I don't know about making THIS level of relationship public, especially this soon, because the last time I fell for someone fast and hard I messed up a lifelong friendship! And I have never tried being someone's girlfriend, and if Cherri hates it or if I hate it or if we both hate it and break up, it'll be awful to have everyone know. It'll be awful to care about someone so much and lose them again…" She closed her eyes. "It'll be proof that I can't love right or whatever…" Silent tears fell as her fists clenched and her breaths became shaky.
Cherri's eye widened. She moved closer, voice tender. "Helsa, I don't want anything to be awful. There's no guarantees about how we'll be together, but we can take it day by day. We can talk to each other. I know what happened with Charlie hurt you, but I won't hurt you. I promise." She narrowed her eye in determination. "And you do love right." Helsa gave a little shrug but at least the tears were slowing down. Cherri took her hand. "The only reason I want to tell the others about us is because I don't want 'us' to feel like something we have to hide. I'm scared of being a terrible girlfriend too, heh." She shrugged. "We…we can wait, if you want, at least a bit longer. I know last night was unexpected…" She wiped away a tear of her own. "For what it's worth though, it was the best night I've spent with anyone in…ever."
"…Me too," whispered Helsa. "It was the first time I felt loved." She blushed thoroughly.
"That's exactly how I wanted you to feel," Cherri replied softly. "And that's how you made me feel too."
They glanced at each other then looked away shyly.
Molly just watched, breath held, hands in tense fists of excitement. So much passion and now they were working it out, and she had never seen Cherri so flustered and she had never imagined Helsa getting the same way. She cleared her throat, worried they might have forgotten her presence. "I…I can give you both some privacy. But first, for what it's worth, go for whatever ya want together, even if you're scared and feel like you have no idea what you're doin'. Trust me, it'll be amazin'. You two are amazin'. I'm rootin' for ya."
Both women blushed a lot. Then Helsa put on a determined scowl and squeezed Cherri's hand tightly. "Come on! If the Radio Demon can confess like it's no big deal — which by the way we are totally discussing later — then so can we!"
"Right now? Are you really sure?" Cherri asked.
Helsa looked her in the eye. "I want everyone to know that you and me are taken by each other." She smirked. "After all, this hotel is gonna have quite an influx of guests with my influence and all the new branches we're opening — can't have any simmers thinking they stand a chance with a firecracker like you."
Cherri beamed. "God, you are smooth as hell, and it's amazing."
They snorted with laughter as Molly opened the ballroom door. "Lovebirds first," she offered. The couple dashed out ahead of her, and she followed right behind.
They all went straight to the backyard where they found everyone talking radio show details on the patio.
Helsa cleared her throat. "Hey, I need your attention — now! Full emotional disclosure…" She put an arm around Cherri's waist. "Cherri and I are seeing each other."
Cherri grinned. "Yup! Finally found someone badass enough to bag me. And we're having fun and loving it!"
Molly clapped as Angel stood up with a bright smile and raced over to them. He jumped on Cherri, wrapping her up in a tight hug. "Fuck yeah! You're getting some emotionally!"
Cherri snorted. "And physically but who's counting," she murmured, rolling her eye.
Angel pulled back with a laugh. "And Helsa! Oh you are gonna have a good time with this pyrotechnic wonder over here," he assured. "Treat her right — she deserves the fucking world." Angel looked at her seriously.
Cherri sighed at his protectiveness while Helsa met Angel's gaze and gave him a firm nod. "I'll make sure she gets it, and I'll kick the shit out of anyone who tries to stop us."
"Oh you're such a keeper!" Angel beamed. He looked to Cherri. "She's perfect for you! This is so great, we've gotta do brunch or something soon! Molly, can you freaking believe this?!" He grabbed his sisters' hands, and they jumped up and down together in excitement.
"I know!" Molly said, laughing. "I'm the one who just told the two of them ta go for it! I couldn't let another couple beat around the bush for weeks. Time to let ourselves be happy!"
"Cherri, Helsa, congrats again!" Niss called out with a swig of tea. "Molly, Angel, settle soon or you'll get dizzy, you know it."
"Aw but it's cute when they get excited together," Husk mused.
"Indeed…" Alastor let out a dazed sigh at the happy pair.
"I knew something was going on with them." Vaggie smirked at Charlie.
Charlie smiled sheepishly. "Helsa told me but made me promise not to tell anyone."
"Ahhh, now everyone at the hotel really is dating!" Lucifer clapped. "A pity we didn't get to make a bet on this one."
"It's all right, dear," Lilith assured. "I would have won that one as well anyway." She smirked at her husband and he smirked back.
The twins finally released each other, laughing so much. Angel grabbed one of Molly's hands and one of Cherri's hands (Cherri was still holding onto Helsa with her other hand) and pulled them all over to Alastor. The spider shared his excitement with the deer through big hand gestures and dramatic exclamations, and Alastor smiled and laughed and doted on all of it while the others looked on and gave their own congratulations for the happy news.
One person did sneak away from the festivities, however. She intended to only be gone a few minutes though, just to take care of a quick task — not enough time for anyone to miss her at all.
Niffty dashed up the stairs of the hotel. Baxter had said he had a scientific matter to attend to, and he would be back downstairs with her soon. So he was the only one who hadn't just heard Helsa and Cherri's confession. Niffty figured if she ran and told him, then Cherri and Helsa wouldn't have to worry about telling him later themselves. And, if he was done with his science stuff already, he could head back downstairs with her to rejoin the others right away.
His task had sounded so casual, and she had entered his lab so many times before, that waiting to be let inside didn't even occur to Niffty. She gave a quick rap on his door and pushed it open herself. "Baxter! You just missed big news! Helsa and Cherri are….dating."
She froze as Baxter gasped sharply and pulled up his knees
He was sitting in a chair, shirtless, one arm held out while his opposite hand injected himself with something from a hypodermic needle. From what his tucked-in knees couldn't conceal, Niffty could make out two light green crescent scars just under his chest.
Baxter blushed a rosy-purple color and finally managed to speak in a stiff voice, "Niffty, I need you to step outside, please."
Niffty did exactly that. She closed the door behind her, breaths shallow. What had she just seen? Her mind flashed to thoughts of Angel doing drugs in the past, but this situation had seemed much more controlled and clinical. Her mind then flashed to Alastor's scars, but Baxter's were so precise and specific… Oh, maybe they were scars from surgery to make his chest flat? But were they old from life or fresh from death? And why had he told her he was doing something for science? Was he experimenting on himself? Wasn't that dangerous! She paced at lightning speed.
"Niffty? …Maggie?"
"Ah!" The lab door had just opened behind her, and now Baxter was standing there, smiling and wearing his lab coat again. She bounced on her feet to resist getting closer to him. She wanted him to have space. "Baxter, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt, I didn't mean to see things, I didn't mean to bust in. Are you okay? Is everything okay? You don't have to tell me, but you can if you want." She clasped her hands together.
Baxter blinked twice. Then he sighed and gave her a gentle smile. He gestured for her to come inside the lab. Cautiously she followed after him. The chair was still set up. Baxter gestured to the bench next to it. Niffty sat there, swinging her legs nervously, as Baxter resumed his place on the chair. "NIffty, everything is fine. I promise," He said calmly.
Niffty released a deep breath and managed a nod. "Okay…"
Then she watched as Baxter reached into the pocket of his lab coat and pulled out the syringe, now empty, as well as a vial of liquid. "I hadn't mentioned this to you yet, but it's an injection I give myself pretty regularly. It helps me be me." He shrugged with a smile.
She tilted her head. "Are you ill?"
He shook his head. "It's not medicine. It's hormones. I synthesize my own. I take them as part of being trans. They make me happy. They make my body feel more right for me."
Niffty's eye widened. "Oh. I didn't even think about… But it's so good you can make your own hormones and do that for yourself, Baxter." Her brow furrowed. "Does giving yourself a shot ever make you uncomfortable? If it does, I'd be happy to give it to you myself if you want."
Baxter's eyes widened and then his smile grew. "That is so kind of you to offer, Niffty. But…I may turn you down only because it's very therapeutic for me to do it myself. It feels like I'm in control of my body and who I am. It gives me back something I lost in life."
Niffty nodded again. "I understand. I mean…I know I don't understand because I'm not trans. But I understand what it's like to have something taken away from you and to find your peace with something else." She shrugged.
Baxter's eyes hazed. "And all of that understanding and care is why you're an amazing lady."
"You're an amazing guy, Baxter," Niffty offered with a little smile.
Baxter blushed. He cleared his throat. "I, uh…guess you also saw my, uh…the scars."
"Yeah. But I'm used to scars on demons. Ala…A friend has some. Not like yours though." She bit her lip. "They don't hurt you, right? My friend's don't hurt him, but I just want to be sure."
Baxter shook his head. "No. They're not painful or fresh. They're from life. You know how sometimes things from someone's body on earth end up as part of their demon body? That's what happened with those scars. And I'm grateful." He sat up a little taller. "I had top surgery before I passed away. It was the first thing that helped my body feel right for me. I'm grateful it's lingered here. And I don't mind them being seen. I just…hoped I'd get more warning before you saw more of my body in general…" He looked down shyly.
Niffty shifted closer on the bench. "It's okay. I only caught a peek. You can show me more later properly whenever you want, whenever you're ready. And… I'll do the same for you when I'm ready."
"Yeah, I…" Baxter's voice cracked and his lantern glowed, "I'd like that. Very much. No pressure."
"Never any pressure, Baxter," Niffty assured with a dreamy smile. He smiled more in return.
Just before the moment could escalate into something more intense, Niffty shifted back shyly and Baxter tugged at his collar. "So, uh… oh you said Cherri and Helsa are dating," Baxter cleared his throat. "That's great news! I'll have to congratulate them."
"Yeah!" Niffty replied with a sheepish grin. "I…just wanted to let you know since you weren't down there when they told everyone. We can head down together to congratulate them, if you're ready."
Baxter nodded. "Yes, I'm ready. The injections are all done. Let's go." He took Niffty's hand. Before they moved forward he gave it a little squeeze. Niffty smiled and squeezed back.
They understood each other so well.
They headed downstairs to rejoin the others.
"…We're prepared to support and protect this hotel and all of you, our people, regardless of whether or not you decide to become our daughter's guests. Heaven won't harm you any longer without resistance from us," Lucifer assured with a smile, speaking into a microphone.
"Quite right!" Lilith added with her regal smile, seated beside Lucifer. "It's high time we took a more proactive approach to your safety and your futures, just like our daughter has been striving to do. We can have a better world here in hell." She nodded Charlie's way.
Charlie smiled humbly. "I-I just want us all to be happy and safe and live our best lives."
"We want you all to know you're cared for," Vaggie added, squeezing Charlie's hand with a smile. "Every sinner, no matter your circumstances. Redemption might help you. But we're going to be here to help you too."
"Aw, Al, I don't think we could come up with a better closing than that if we tried," Angel mused, grinning and wiping away a tear.
"Indeedy!" Alastor assured, speaking into his own microphone. "Truly this hour together explaining our charming monarchs' change of heart has been most enlightening for everyone. Thank you all for tuning in! Oh but don't turn those dials just yet. We having a few closing words by one of our most tenacious guests — our dear Louise!" Alastor looked across the room and gave a warm smile and nod of his head to the demon in question, who had been sitting patiently in one corner, quietly reviewing her intended words to herself.
Louise stood up now and came forward, a little unsteady but head still held high. "Hello, listeners. Thank you kindly for hearing what I have to say. It's about what brought me to this hotel and why now I'm here to stay." She and Alastor shared a nod, then she went on. "I came here because I'm a small demon without powers or political sway, and I felt scared. But this place helped me feel safe. And once I was safe I began to feel stronger too, like I could handle myself out in the Pentagram. It's been a relief." She smiled then swallowed. "The other week, after the radio show here…me and my fiancé got attacked and I got kidnapped by someone who wanted me to be scared again. I fought back, and for the first time I didn't feel afraid. I felt angry. Because I know we do not deserve to be randomly harmed at the whims of others — that includes harm from heaven and other sinners too. And it felt good to know I deserved better, but I wouldn't have believed it or survived without this place. This hotel. These kind people." She let out a breath. "The special guest on the cannibal radio show afterwards was my attacker. I know the two shows might have made some of you wary. But you don't have to be. Here, we take care of each other, each in our own ways. Alastor — all the cannibals — they're not our enemy. Our enemy is anyone down here or up in heaven or even on earth who tries to make us think we ain't worth saving. Because you're worth that and so much more."
She finished her small speech with a triumphant emphasis but then swallowed and hesitated, blushing. Maybe it had been too much, after all. Too much about her and too much about cannibals and too much about change no one was ready for.
Her ears flicked when she heard applause from Alastor though. And then Angel. And then all the rest. Charlie leapt forward and gave her a big hug. "We're so happy you're here, Louise, and so happy you feel safe! Thank you for being a guest at our hotel."
"And thank you for the kind endorsement, Louise," Alastor added, eyes down shyly. Angel lightly touched his shoulder, and Alastor seemed to snap out of his daze. His voice brightened again. "And thank you all again for listening! Until next time, sinners! Stay tuned!"
The show went off the air.
"I think that went really well!" Charlie stood up with a big smile.
"Oh yeah, quality stuff," Angel assured.
"I'm very happy we did this," Lucifer said, swinging his legs and grinning. Lilith chuckled and kissed the top of his head.
Vaggie stood and stretched. "Glad we could make it happen. How about we head downstairs now and figure out dinner? We could order in."
"Ooo, how about from that Salvadorian taco place we love?" Charlie's dark eyes sparkled.
"Oh yes let's try that!" Lucifer stood up and clapped.
Lilith stood with a chuckle. "Yes, sounds delicious, ladies."
"Ooo hey can we get in on that!" Angel stood up then glanced to Alastor. "Come on, I'm sure they'll have something on the menu you'll like."
"Pick something for me, darling? I'd like to have a word with Louise first," Alastor replied.
Angel blushed a little at being called darling in front of new people (especially when the king and queen gave him warm smiles) but nodded. "You got it, hun. See you downstairs." He turned to the door and gestured everyone through. "Come on, demons, it's taco night!"
As they departed, Louise's ears went down slightly. "Alastor? Was…was what I said too much? I tried to be real careful." She shrugged. "I just really wanted people to understand that you are not evil. Because you're better than that, Alastor. Even at your most lethal… You care."
Alastor merely looked into her eyes and moved close. "You defended my reputation and the reputation of my Cannibal colony people. A rare deed in hell, ha. Thank you." He took her hand in both of his and squeezed.
"Oh Alastor…" Louise smiled and wiped away tear with her free hand.
He chuckled and released her. "Now, now, no crying. You have a wedding fast approaching to plan for! We have to practice walking you down the aisle and everything!"
She laughed. "We can start whenever you're ready!" When Alastor held out his arm she beamed and wagged her tail and clung to it. They pretended to walk down the aisle together until they reached the studio door. Then they laughed and dashed down the stairs to join the others.
Vox sat at his desk in his living room, staring at the ceiling, pretending he was working on his computer but really just so lost in thought that he was considering giving himself a full system reboot. He was resisting the urge to prompt Velvet for an update on Val because that would be weird, right? A little too obsessive…even though he was pretty preoccupied. Not with what had happened so much as with the fact that it bothered him so much.
Valentino was allowed to see someone or just have fun with someone. It was probably healthy if he was putting himself out there again, as long as he was being respectful. It was just…just…
Vox sighed. "I think I'm mostly…bothered that he didn't tell me about it. Does that sound really immature, Vark?"
He glanced across the room. Vark, who was currently on the sofa burying himself against all the cushions, gave a yip and let his tongue loll out of his mouth for a moment before flipping onto his back and wriggling into the throw pillows.
"He doesn't owe it to me to let me know, of course." Vox shrugged. "I guess I just thought we were getting really close, like best friends, and he'd want to tell me about new things going on for him. Personal things." He frowned, and his antenna drooped. "Or at least he wouldn't get mad at me for finding out about personal things on accident."
Vark yipped again then flipped off of the sofa, He shook his head then started chasing his tail.
Vox smiled a little. "I'd tell him if something — someone — new came up. Maybe he doesn't know though. After all, it's not like I've shared any news like that with him. I let him know I'm not pining for Alastor anymore, that's all. Though to be fair, that was big for me, heh." Vark bounded over now and nuzzled under Vox's hand. Vox smiled more and petted him. "Auntie Vel will help. I'm sure."
Vox's phone buzzed. He nearly jumped out of his chair then grabbed it and looked at the screen. But it wasn't a message from Vel. It was one from Angel.
"Hey Vox! Just letting you know we just did a quick hotel radio show again — the king and queen talking for an hour about how they support their daughter and redemption now. So I think the whole news show fiasco really is behind us. Say hi to Vark for me! Drop him off soon for a walk and playdate with Nuggets, okay? Also…I kinda want to talk about something. Nothing bad, just…something. Thanks."
Vox tilted his head then smiled a little. Angel was a good guy. He was about to write back to him when another message came through. This one was WAS from Velvet.
"Voxxy. Val is…stable. Stable enough at least, heh. You just caught him in a complicated situation. He's been having some big feelings lately. He's not mad, just some wounded pride. Promise. But maybe still give him a few days and then meet on neutral territory? And let him do most of the talking. I can only fix things up so much this time. It's important that you two patch it up together. Give my love and hugs to Varky 3"
Vox tilted his head. How calm and specific and non-interfering — not like Velvet at all. "Oh boy, Val really must be going through something," Vox mumbled to himself. It made sense — maybe the moth getting so upset really had nothing to do with Vox interrupting him, and maybe Vox was feeling so concerned because he had sensed that something bigger was going on. He would follow Vel's advice and give Val few days. But that would mean no going by the studio. He'd have to let Tom know and also reply to Velvet.
But then a final message came in. And this one outweighed all the others.
"Vox, you fuck. Haven't found me yet, huh? Too bad, I found someone…and he's very powerful and very interesting and probably very into a press that's free from your old-fashioned bullshit. Did I mention he's the kind of guy who's more than willing to knock off a little bitch or two with me along the way? Figured we'd start with Tom and end with you. Bite me — Katie."
Vox was instantly at his computer, plugging in wires and trying to triangulate where the message had come from, but it was no use — a burner phone, from near the docs where reception sucked anyway, and the message had been sent on a timer so she was probably long gone from there. Vox pulled in his wires and sighed deeply. This was going to be a long week. Vark cuddling his face against Vox's side helped him to smile again at least. But still…there was a lot to do. He sat at his computer and got to work.
The hour wasn't late yet, but the weekend and the day and the radio show had all taken a lot of energy, and Angel was ready for bed. He smiled when Alastor sent little message to the radio receiver on the back of his phone, letting Angel know he was inclined to turn in early tonight and hoped the spider would join him. Great minds thought alike. And so Angel found himself already in pajamas and giving a knock on Alastor's door. No need to always only use their secret one anymore since everyone in the place knew they were dating. "Smiles, ya ready for bed?"
"In a matter of speaking," came the reply from behind the door. "Enter please. And…do close the door behind you rather quickly, darling? I'm a bit cold, ha…"
Angel raised an eyebrow but did as requested, entering and quickly securing the door behind him. He paused at the sight before him, feeling even more confusion.
Alastor was in his full length red robe, kneeling on the center of his bed, clutching his chest, large eyes quite wide.
"Smiles?"
"I want to show you something!" Alastor nearly bleated, static swirling over his ears.
Angel nodded and came closer. "Sure, what?"
"Well…first perhaps some context." Alastor's tone softened a little, and his eyes went down shyly. "Though it wasn't a heart-pounding tour de force of cannibalism, we did just put on a radio show…and even a small and innocent one still makes me feel a little…over eager." He glowed.
Angel smiled gently and settled on the edge of the bed. "Ah I see. Well, then, how can I help?" He grinned more, eyeing the deer. "Do you got no shirt on under there? Cuz we can do no shirts kisses again. I like those."
"I…have nothing on under here at all," Alastor stammered.
Angel turned red and instantly had to press his knees together. "I…wha…are we… uh, Jambalaya!" He quickly found his safe word. "I need ya to tell me if we're about to escalate into something deeply sexual because you have never been nearly naked around me ever." Angel's fluff puffed up in shyness.
"No, no, no…." Alastor assured, waving his free hand and finally looking to Angel. He was frozen for a moment before finding his voice again. "We shared more of our bodies over the weekend, but you shared a great deal more than me, so there's something extra I'd like to share with you now, but I really can't be wearing pants for it — and Angel do stop staring at my lap, it isn't THAT!"
Angel, very unaware of his roving eyes, quickly looked away. "Sorry, just, uh…having trouble imagining what else would fit those circumstances."
"It's all right." Alastor shifted his shoulders, settling himself again. "What I want to show you is…the freckles on my hips. I mentioned them once, when we talked about yours. All of my undergarments are far too concealing though, so this seemed like the best method."
"Oh…" Angel blinked, all awkward hesitation replaced by full attention. "Yeah, sure! I'd like that."
"Wonderful. Wonderful." Alastor cleared his throat. His hand hesitated on the hem of the robe. He took a breath.
Angel looked into his eyes. "How about you move the robe, and I won't look down til ya tell me to, okay?"
Alastor gave a small grateful nod and then shifted the fabric. Angel held his gaze perfectly. Alastor swallowed. "You may look." Angel smiled gently and looked down.
The first thing that caught Angel's attention, in all honesty, were Alastor's feet. The deer was sitting on them with his knees bent, and for the first time Angel could see the delicate hooves serving in place of Alastor's toes. They were black and shiny and stunning, and Angel decided to ask at some point in the near future if he could touch them. The next thing he noticed of course was the profile of his beau's bare rear, demurely covered by his tail but still so round and full and damn cute… Finally, putting aside his libido, Angel's eyes went to Alastor's hip. There on the dusky skin sat a sprinkling of little white dots of various sizes that appeared almost fluffy. "Wow…your hip looks like a big beautiful beignet sprinkled with sugar."
Alastor gasped and sat up tall and twisted so quickly in Angel's direction that the robe shifted. For a brief moment Angel caught the shape of something between his beau's legs before the robe settled again.
"Alastor?" Angel bit his lip, trying not to get distracted. "I'm sorry, that was probably a weird thing to say, right? Especially when you're so vulnerable. I shouldn't have—"
Alastor was instantly facing Angel, hands clasping his shoulders. "Tell me again that I look like a delicacy you could eat…"
Angel blinked and blushed. "Heh, the reverse cannibalism thing really does it for ya, huh?" Alastor hummed as he nodded, and Angel giggled. "Well then," he slipped his arms lightly around Alastor's waist, "That hip of yours… so tantalizing. I want to bite it and be the only one who knows how sweet you taste…"
"Anthony…" Alastor mewled, shy but happy. His breaths were heavy. He shifted closer. His lips were nearly brushing Angel's. "Anthony, I want to…" He sighed. "Land sakes, we really can't do radio shows here TOO often, my poor heart can't take it."
"You okay?" Angel raised an eyebrow.
"Not in distress… but deeply aroused." His pupils dilated.
Angel's eyes widened. "That much? Just from the show and that thing I said about your hip?"
Alastor nodded. "And, as long as the moment has naturally presented itself, I want to have the full experience in front of you now, I think. If that's okay…"
Angel blinked then nodded furiously. "Yes, yeah, YUP! I might end up releasing in front of you too, if thats still on the table…"
"Yes, indeed," Alastor nearly growled. He steadied himself. "I just…I will need to leave immediately after we're done, to decompress." Angel nodded again. Then Alastor snapped his fingers. A tentacle appeared between them. It slid over Alastor's lap and wrapped around his waist. "I need it to hold me so I can process the intense emotions and experience."
"You know your needs, and you're taking care of 'em — that's good," Angel assured.
Alastor moved closer and took Angel's face in his hands, glowing and shy. "Say other nice things, Anthony. Not just that I'm delicious. Say…things about me being beautiful and terrifying."
Angel slid his arms around Alastor's body. Kisses started, slow but heating up. "Oh Al… you're stunning and fierce, but I'm never afraid of you — only more and more in love, cervino mio."
"Mmmm….good, now say something about my voice." Alastor was pressing against the tentacle and Angel too, their chests meeting.
Angel felt flushed as he held the deer close, supporting his movements while their kisses went on. "The sound of your voice makes me wanna pick you up in my arms and pull ya against me and never let go. It's like silk and smoke and something sexy all combined together…"
"Hmmmm…." Alastor ground more against the appendage, against Angel, holding tight to the spider and kissing him feverishly. "Say I'm yours…in English, in Italian, any sweet way…"
Angel squeezed them together, hips instinctively squirming to move in rhythm with Alastor's. "Il mio cervino perfetto…my doe eyed deer…my bright eyed buck…"
Alastor snorted, and his smile grew, eyes burning. "Say I look sexy to you!"
"I could get off just glancing at ya, ya studly stag!" Angel huffed. "You're sexy — now show me you know it too!"
Alastor's eyes widened and his glow became like fire, and his knees wrapped around the tentacle. "Anthony, grab my tail and put your head against my neck NOW please!"
"Anything, anything! Alastor!" His own arousal strong, Angel closed his eyes and buried his face against Alastor's neck, then got a hand around the deer's tail and gave it a good pump.
All at once there was a great thrust of Alastor's hips followed by a shredding sound and a sob and then a bleat and a shout of his name. "Ehhhh….Anthony!"
Alastor trembled, and then he didn't move. The tentacle seemed to have caught most of the physical discharge, but Angel could feel so much heat coming from Alastor. Then there was a little jerk of the deer's hips, and another, like gradual aftershocks. Angel was about to ask about it when suddenly the tip of the tentacle was working at Angel's own arousal. He gripped Alastor, and his toes curled, and his spine arched. Having Alastor's touch on his body while this was happening was unreal. Alastor WANTED this experience with him and only him. And Angel wanted the deer's eyes on him for this. And the tentacle felt so good…
Angel came immediately, throat exposed to the sky with a gasp that ended in a swoon. "Ah! Alastor…yes!" He panted shallowly, all spent in an instant.
When the stars disappeared from his eyes, he realized Alastor was breathing deep and slow against him now, he realized there were tears against his shoulder from the deer though Alastor didn't seem to be crying anymore, and he also finally noticed Alastor's antlers which had shot up and out almost two feet, ripping into a pillow.
Trembling a little, Angel patted Alastor's back. "Smiles…ya did good. So good. I hope I did good. You okay? Alastor that was…" He blinked back his own tears. "That was heaven." He lowered his voice to a whisper near the deer's ear with a little smile. "You're so good and loved, and you have me forever…"
He felt Alastor smile a little against his hair and give him a hug. Then the deer's fingers managed to snap. He was gone and so was the tentacle and so was any mess in the blankets. Angel found himself wrapped in a fresh robe. His pajamas appeared to be clean and folded neatly on a chair. From Alastor's bathroom, steam came — a hot bath, already waiting. Having a feeling his deer would rejoin him soon, Angel cleaned up and changed back into pajamas quickly and got into bed, waiting.
Sure enough, not too long afterwards, Alastor teleported back into the room. He was wearing his usual long pajamas and reclining on the edge of the bed. He looked to Angel hesitantly.
Angel pulled aside the covers. "Come on, I've been waiting for ya. Thanks for coming back."
Alastor glowed brightly and climbed in beside Angel. He pulled the blankets high up, tender gaze always on the spider. Angel smiled. "Not talking again? That's alright." He lightly brushed a lock of hair from Alastor's face. "You cried at the end. Is that usual for ya or…?"
Alastor gave a small nod.
"The antler thing usual for ya too?"
Alastor nodded again, glowing brightly.
"So everything's okay?" Angel smiled in relief as Alastor gave him one more nod. "Thank you for sharing that with me, Alastor. I had a good time. I hope you did too."
Alastor beamed in reassurance.
"And your hips really do look like cute beignets."
Alastor chuckled and rolled his eyes. Angel laughed too.
"See ya in the morning. We can talk more whenever you're ready, okay?"
Alastor nodded once more. He gave Angel a kiss on the hand, and Angel gave him a kiss on the cheek. They settled in together, cuddled close, and drifted into a perfectly deep and healing sleep.
A/N:
Thank you all so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed this segment of the story. I'll be back with more soon. Happy New Year!
Take care!
-Azure129