Three days went by and a routine began to form. Each day Lucifer would keep Adam close to his side as he went about his usual business in the hotel. Every moment Adam was at his side or within earshot. The king of hell kept his word to keep his eyes on Adam. Lucifer was also steadfast in caring for Adam's wounds, washing, redressing, and treating for pain daily, or twice daily if needed.
Adam was doing his best to do what he felt he needed to do to get by in this new life he'd found himself in. Knowing everyone here already hated him, aside from apparently Charlie and Lucifer, Adam attempted to show no weakness. To him, this meant hiding any signs of pain, keeping his back straight and head up to avoid looking vulnerable, and not showing any emotional distress.
In the last three days, Adam had also been nearly totally obedient to Lucifer. The king of hell had not had to use the leash since day one, and seldom needed to repeat a command. For reasons Adam could not understand, Lucifer was treating him with a surprising amount of kindness. Adam was smart enough to not want to jeopardize that by angering Lucifer. He didn't want to know what the other side of the coin looked like if he could help it. Thus he walked on eggshells when in Charlie's presence.
That morning, Lucifer was sitting in the hotel lounge, reading a book, with Adam at his side on one of the couches. Adam had a book of his own, which he was finding fairly interesting. Charlie entered the room.
"Dad, there you are. Can I talk to you for a minute?" She asked. Lucifer put his book aside without hesitation and stood up. Adam looked up from his book and closed it, but stayed seated.
"Of course, my little Apple Dumpling. You know you can have as many minutes as you want. What do you need?" He asked. Charlie glanced at Adam.
"I was hoping we could talk in the other room… privately?" Charlie asked.
"Oh, um, of course." Lucifer glanced down the hall to see if there was anyone nearby who could come watch Adam for a moment, but there was no one. Lucifer made a snap decision.
"Adam, you've been very well behaved, so I'm going to show you a little trust and leave you alone. You're going to wait right here until I get back, understand?"
"Yes, Lucifer. I'll stay put." Adam answered dutifully. Charlie and Lucifer left the room together. Adam went back to his book, fully intent on continuing to read until Lucifer returned. No sooner had he been alone for two minutes than he heard the clicking of heeled boots strolling down the hall. It didn't fit the short stride and increasingly familiar tap of Lucifer's boots, so Adam ignored it.
"Hello. What's Lucifer's trinket doing all by himself? Last I heard, you weren't allowed to be alone. Where did your master go?" Alastor entered the lounge, his toothy grin on display. The radio demon approached Adam, hands folded behind his back.
Adam quickly put on his front of strength. Poker face was on, back straightened, and eyes raised from his book. Alastor needled Lucifer and himself at every opportunity, so Adam could only guess what was to come now that the deer demon had caught him alone. Adam was definitely a little afraid, but he'd not give Alastor the satisfaction of seeing that.
"Lucifer is having a private conversation with Charlie. He decided he trusts me enough to let me be alone for a few minutes." Adam replied, trying to keep his tone even. He didn't want Alastor to be able to read him.
"He couldn't find anyone to watch you, could he? I suppose I could spare the time to watch you myself." Alastor seated himself on the couch. He sat at an angle so he could more easily face Adam and crossed his right leg over the left. His left hand rested in his lap while his right held his microphone staff.
"Please, don't. I'm doing just fine by myself." Adam said, going back to his book. Alastor snapped his fingers and teleported the book over onto a nearby table. He didn't appreciate Adam's attempt to ignore him.
"That's what you want everyone to think, isn't it? You want to fool everyone around you into thinking that nothing bothers you, that nothing hurts. You act as if you don't even care that you've lost everything, because you think you can make everyone else believe it.
"Do you think no one can tell you're hiding behind a wall of feigned indifference? Everyone sees it's an act. The poker face, the attempt at strong body language, the calculated way you speak, cautiously choosing every word that comes out of your mouth, it's all blatantly an endeavor to hide that you're in pain and afraid.
"Everyone knows what you're really like. We've all seen the way you act, speak, and carry yourself when you feel in control and secure. And you think this false persona of strength and pretense of respect will help you salvage some scrap of your pride?
"Give up the waste of time and effort. You have already given up everything just to stay alive down here. You have lost your home, had your wings dismembered from your back, and sold your soul to your worst enemy. Everyone sees you're trying to hide. I'm sure Lucifer sees it just as clearly as I do. You have NOTHING left to be proud of anymore.
"First man, head of the exorcists, angel, everything you were no longer matters. It all stopped meaning anything the moment you took Lucifer's bargain. Quit pretending to be strong. You are nothing more than Lucifer's possession now."
Adam just barely managed to keep his anger and hurt in check. Alastor's words and their truth stung deeply, but his poker face remained in place. Adam was summoning every ounce of self control not to give Alastor the reaction he wanted.
"You don't know me as well as you think you do. The way I behave is sensible.. I am surrounded by enemies now. Why would I want to piss off the man holding my leash? That would only cause me suffering." Adam spoke logically.
Alastor slid over closer to Adam, not touching him but very close to doing so, and leaned his upper body in. Adam turned himself towards Alastor slightly, so as to put his legs in the way of Alastor moving in any closer, and leaned his upper body back towards the arm of the couch.
"Your obedience is proof of your facade. If you were as strong as you pretend to be, you wouldn't be afraid of Lucifer punishing you. Yet, you heed his every command. I haven't seen that lovely golden leash around your neck once since your first day here. After three days he finally takes his eyes off you, and here you are, waiting for your master like a good, well-trained pet. Perhaps captivity suits you."
"Back off, Alastor. You're way too close." Adam demanded. His poker face was threatening to crack. Adam was very tempted to push the tall demon away, but something in him told him that putting his hands on Alastor was a dangerous move.
"Why don't YOU move, if you're so uncomfortable? Is it because THIS is where your master told you to sit and stay?" Alastor asked, his eyes half lidded with his self-satisfied mood. Alastor was so close, Adam was worried the radio demon could hear his heart pounding and betraying his fear. Alastor reached over to put one hand on the end of the armrest, preventing Adam from fleeing the encroachment.
Adam was staring into Alastor's eyes, trying to come up with a reply, and trying not to shake. Wanting nothing more than to flee the situation, but still not daring to touch Alastor, Adam leaned back more, accidentally pressing his back against the arm of the couch.
"Shit!" The angel grimaced in pain at the pressure on his wounds as the poker face finally broke. Adam's face showed Alastor the pain and fear he'd been looking for. Alastor's grin seemed to grow even larger if that was possible, and the deer demon loomed over Adam to prevent him from moving forwards and away from the offending pressure.
Suddenly, something seemed to draw Alastor's attention. He looked up from Adam and one of his deer ears pivoted towards the doorway. Alastor slid away from Adam towards the other side of the couch and leaned against the back of the sofa calmly, legs still crossed comfortably. He snapped his fingers and teleported Adam's book back into his lap.
A few seconds later, Adam heard the familiar tapping of boots at the gait he was growing accustomed to. His heart slowed with relief. Lucifer was returning. Adam readjusted his body and gathered his wits together to try to look like he was fine, still not wanting to show weakness to Lucifer.
"Alastor! What are you doing here?" Lucifer asked suspiciously. Alastor stood up.
"Ah there you are, Lucifer. I just happened upon your little trinket sitting alone. I do recall you saying he wasn't allowed to be alone, so I thought I'd sit and watch over him for you. You're welcome. And don't worry. He behaved perfectly for me. Didn't leave his seat once."
Alastor turned to Adam and patted the angel's brown hair. "Good boy." Alastor said cheerfully, not missing Adam's subtle flinch.
"I told you not to touch him!" Lucifer said, bristling. Alastor strode past the king casually.
"Do relax, it was only a pat on the head. No harm done. See you both later." Alastor said, strolling out happily. Lucifer quickly moved in on Adam, not liking the look on Adam's face combined with Alastor's joyful demeanor.
Lucifer leaned over Adam as the younger angel stayed seated on the couch. Lucifer took Adam's face in his hands and lifted it to make Adam look at him. Lucifer could see fear and pain. Adam looked back into Lucifer's eyes and he could see genuine concern and compassion. Adam wished he understood why.
"Are you alright? Did he hurt you?" Lucifer asked, his voice gentle. He lifted one hand from Adam's face and ran in gently through his hair. Lucifer could feel the younger angel shaking just slightly. Adam found the gesture soothing and began to calm down.
"No, I'm fine." Adam half lied. Alastor hadn't pushed him into the couch, that was his own doing, he reasoned. Despite the look on his face, he still didn't want to admit Alastor had gotten to him. It was then the angel noticed Alastor had never actually touched him until he patted his head.
Lucifer kept stroking Adam's hair, noticing both the soothing effect the action was having, and noticing how soft his hair was as Adam calmed down. Lucifer observed that Adam had not looked quite this terrified even when faced with the choice of selling his soul or going off alone into hell. Adam didn't appear wounded, so Lucifer supposed it must have been something Alastor said to shake him so badly.
"Adam… whatever he said, don't listen. What he told you doesn't matter. You belong to ME, not him. I'm here and you're safe. You. Are. Safe." Lucifer reassured gently. The elder angel felt a protectiveness in his heart that he could only compare to what he felt for Charlie, yet this feeling was distinctly different.
Feeling the need to be closer, Lucifer moved aside Adam's book and carefully seated himself sideways in Adam's lap, turning his upper body to face Adam as much as comfortably possible. Lucifer wrapped one arm around Adam's shoulders and continued stroking his hair with his free hand. Adam hesitantly wrapped his arms around Lucifer and let his head lower until he rested his forehead on Lucifer's shoulder.
"That's it, good boy. I'm here." Lucifer soothed. Adam shut his eyes tight. The emotion he'd been bottling up the last few days in his attempt to look strong struggled to bubble forth. 'Don't cry. Don't cry. Don't cry. Not in front of him. Don't cry.' Adam told himself. He felt the tremors of his body as it tried to sob against his will.
Lucifer lifted his hand from Adam's hair for a moment and flicked his wrist at the double doors, his magic pulling them closed and locking them. Lucifer returned his hand to petting Adam's hair. He'd been waiting for the moment Adam's emotional dam broke.
"I know you need this. It's okay, Adam. Don't fight it. Let it out." Lucifer whispered reassuringly. Adam couldn't fight it anymore and sobbed as the tears finally started flowing. He hugged Lucifer tighter as he wept. Lucifer kept holding him, petting Adam's hair, and murmuring words of comfort.
When Adam began to sniffle, Lucifer snapped his fingers and manifested a box of tissues and a small waste basket for Adam. He thanked Lucifer tearfully and made use of them as needed as he continued to cry his heart out on Lucifer's shoulder. It was a good twenty or thirty minutes before the tears slowed and Adam began to calm down.
"Feeling better now?" Lucifer asked softly, his hand still buried in Adam's soft brown hair. Adam finally raised his head from Lucifer's shoulder, gold eyes rimmed red from the crying.
"Yes… Thank you…. I… I can't understand why you did that." Adam admitted.
"You mean help you through your breakdown? It was bound to happen. I've been waiting for it since day one. I knew the veneer of 'This is my life now and I'm okay with that.' couldn't last. You were going to have to vent, eventually. I'm glad you chose crying it out over a more violent or self destructive option. I was wondering how much longer you'd be able to hold it back." Lucifer said, no judgment in his voice.
Adam's heart dropped a little. Alastor had been right. Lucifer had seen through everything, and had simply been waiting for Adam to break. Yet when that break came, Lucifer did not respond with vindictive cruelty, derision, or even punishment. Instead Lucifer had met Adam's emotional collapse with comfort, patience, and understanding.
Adam had been operating under the logic that Lucifer's kindness was a sort of reward for obedient behavior, but this didn't fit. Obedience meant Lucifer's day went easily and with minimal effort. Obedience was convenient for Lucifer. This hadn't been convenient for him. Lucifer had taken time and effort to console him, at no benefit to himself. Was this kindness NOT some incentive? Was Lucifer's kindness to him genuine?
"It doesn't make any sense why you treat me like this. Why are you so… so benevolent to me?! I was nothing but horrible to you and the people you care about. I treated Lilith badly and blamed you for stealing her, I demeaned, insulted, and tried to kill your daughter and her friends. I tried to kill you, not that I ever landed a fucking hit, but still I tried. I've been coming here every year for thousands of years to mercilessly slaughter your people.
"With everything I've done, you should be making my existence a hell within hell. You should be making me regret choosing life on the end of your leash over death. You should be making me suffer at every opportunity. You should be kicking me when I'm down. You should despise every breath I take.
"In spite of anything that follows logic, you treat me fairly… More than fairly even. After all I did, you now own my soul and you don't take your blank check to abuse me as you see fit. You take care of my wounds and even treat them for pain. Fuck, right now you're comforting me when I'm falling apart. You have no sane reason to do this." Adam started to tear up again. It was only at the edge of his thoughts that Lucifer was still seated in his lap, petting his hair and allowing himself to be hugged like a teddy bear.
Lucifer pulled out another tissue and dried Adam's golden eyes with it. "Sh, don't work yourself back up. You just calmed down." Lucifer rubbed Adam's back, careful to stay clear of his wounds.
"Why? Why are you like this? I just can't comprehend it." Adam asked softly. Lucifer continued petting Adam's hair and was silent for a moment, considering how to answer.
"You weren't ALWAYS horrible to me. We were close, once. Have you forgotten Eden? I certainly haven't forgotten all the times I visited you and Lilith in the garden. Maybe hell didn't change me as much as you thought it would. You should know I don't delight in suffering. I am not simply waiting for you to step a toe out of line so I have an excuse to punish you. I would prefer not to have to punish you, honestly.
"You and I are going to be together a lot and for eternity, so I would rather our relationship not be based on conflict. Maybe you should consider giving yourself the chance to get to know me again. Then you won't need to be so scared. I DID promise to protect you in exchange for your soul, and I'm a man of my word." Lucifer said softly.
"Yes, I remember when we were friends. That was literal ancient history, Samael." Adam whispered.
Adam went quiet and thoughtful as Lucifer provoked the surfacing of memories he had not called upon for a long while. Happy days when he and Lilith had been in love and eagerly awaited visits from the angels, especially Samael. Then his best friend had made off with his wife and they both had abandoned him. Adam had turned on the self renamed Lucifer as the angel had turned on him and they were enemies. At least, that was what Adam had thought.
To see Lucifer gain absolute power over him, and then treat him like this… it rocked Adam's worldview and made him start asking questions. Maybe his view of the archangel had become distorted and inaccurate. Had Lucifer ever hated him back? Had they ever truly been enemies? Could he actually…trust Lucifer Morningstar?
If that was so, what else could he be wrong about? Wasn't how people treated those under their power one of the surest tests of character? A test Lucifer seemed to be passing with flying colors so to speak. And if Lucifer was so… not bad, then what did that say about himself?
"Adam!" Lucifer said, snapping Adam back to reality. He blinked as focus came back to his eyes. The younger angel vaguely recalled Lucifer had said something, but he'd only barely noticed.
"I'm sorry, what did you say?" Adam asked, his attention back to the world around him.
"I said, are you ready to go wash your face? It'll be time for lunch soon." Lucifer repeated.
"Oh. Yeah, I'm good now." Adam answered. He hesitated just a second before he realized he needed to release Lucifer so he could get up. Lucifer slid off Adam's lap, stood up, and straightened his clothing. Adam stood as well and glanced down at Lucifer.
"Sorry about your coat." Adam muttered awkwardly, noticing Lucifer's shoulder was damp from his tears. Adam wondered if he had really cried so much.
"No big deal. The water will dry and the salt will wash out. Come on, let's go get your face washed." Lucifer flicked his wrist at the doors again, with which they unlocked and opened as they were before.
Adam followed behind as Lucifer led the way to his room, not as if Adam didn't know the way by now. Adam went straight to the bathroom to wash his face.
Meanwhile Lucifer changed his coat out for a fresh one. Not for the sake of vanity, but to protect Adam's private moment. Lucifer knew for certain Alastor would put two and two together if he saw the wet spot on his shoulder just after… whatever he did to Adam. The thought of Alastor alone with Adam made Lucifer bristle again. The fucking bastard couldn't seem to stay away from anything Lucifer cared about.
Adam came into the bedroom, face freshly washed, and noticed Lucifer looked annoyed. That made Adam worry that maybe Lucifer WAS upset about his breakdown.
"Lucifer? Are you upset with me?" He asked softly. Adam hoped letting his guard down hadn't been a mistake.
"Hm? Oh no, of course not. I'm just not looking forward to dealing with Alastor at the table. The man is insufferable." Lucifer straightened his new coat.
"We both know why he can't stand me. Why does he hate you so much?" Adam asked.
"Roughly the same reason. Alastor is incredibly powerful, but also incredibly arrogant. He can't stand not being the strongest person in the room. He knows I'm stronger than him, so my very presence irritates him. He hates you because you managed to wound him so seriously that his life was threatened. My guess is that for just a moment, you made him feel weak. He abhorred that. Now he's holding a grudge. Let's just try to tolerate him the best we can."
Lucifer strode confidently out of the room, Adam following after. Adam stood up tall and put his poker face back on. He may have started opening up to Lucifer, but he still felt vulnerable around the rest of the group.
They seated themselves at their usual spots at the table. Everyone else was there except Alastor. The group made conversation as they waited for him.
"So how was everyone's morning?" Charlie asked.
"Great, I got a lot done And I KNOW your morning was good." Vaggie said. She sent a certain look towards her girlfriend that made Charlie smile blush a bit.
"Eh, I slept most of it away. Val had me working until three AM." Angel said,he punctuated it with a yawn and a stretch. Angel had been absent at breakfast earlier.
"Mine was great! I got all the morning cleaning done, with time leftover to work on my new roach puppet show script!" Nifty said cheerfully.
"Same ol' same ol', nothing unusual here." Husk said. He wondered where Alastor was. It wasn't like the deer demon to be late for a meal. In fact Husk recalled he personally hadn't seen Alastor around since breakfast. He hadn't been in the lobby all morning.
"Our morning was just fine. Adam and I were in the lounge reading for a while." Lucifer said, leaving out the incident with Alastor and Adam's subsequent crying fit. Adam didn't add anything to the conversation.
"Y'know, for someone who used to be such a loudmouth, you don't say much anymore, Big Guy." Angel leaned on the table slightly to look past Husk at Adam.
"Not much to say. Lucifer already described my morning. And I don't suppose anyone here cares much to hear about my thoughts." Adam picked up his water and took a sip. His eyes were feeling dry. For one who used to love attention, he hated it right now. People looking meant his act had to be ironclad. People talking to him meant he had to select every word with caution to avoid saying the wrong thing. He wanted to just blend into the wallpaper. 'Do you think no one can tell you're hiding behind a wall of feigned indifference? Everyone sees it's an act.' Alastor's voice rang in Adam's head.
The tapping of Alastor's heels announced his approach before he even entered the dining room. His smile seemed more real at the moment, which unnerved Adam. Alastor seated himself at his end of the table.
"My apologies for making everyone wait. I was just working on a project in my room and I lost track of time." Alastor explained. With Alastor present, everyone filled their plates and began enjoying lunch. For this lunch Niffty had made several different varieties of pizza. There seemed to be a flavor for everyone.
"So what kind of project are you doing, Alastor?" Lucifer asked. He didn't expect a direct answer.
"Oh, I'm excited to show you and your toy when it's done. Believe me, you two will be first to see it. However, it's strictly a secret until it's ready to be revealed. I won't be saying another word about it until then, so let's change the subject." Alastor said. Adam was surprised by his civility, and worried this meant the surprise would be that much worse.
Adam hesitated a moment. He knew it was a risk to speak at all with Alastor at the table, but he did have something on his mind.
"Hey, Niffty, did you ever have any luck cleaning my robes?" Adam asked. Adam was too busy looking at Niffty to notice Alastor's smile stretch even wider. Niffty quickly chewed and swallowed the piece of pizza she was currently devouring like a feral animal.
"Your robes? I thought those were thrown out. I never saw them in the laundry. Oh dear, covered in all that blood, how could I have missed them?"
"Niffty my dear, you didn't miss them. Don't you remember? I collected Lucifer's laundry that day to save you some time. I took that horrible thing out back and burned it." Alastor announced proudly.
"YOU FUCKING WHAT?!" Adam stood up, slamming his hands on the table and glaring daggers at Alastor. If looks could kill, Adam would have finished the job he failed days ago.
"HOW FUCKING DARE YOU, YOU SACK OF SHIT!" Adam started to step away from his seat to go around the table, violence in his eyes. Suddenly Adam felt the golden collar around his throat and the pressure of the leash being pulled taut.
"Adam, no! Sit back down right now!" Lucifer commanded. He knew if Adam gave Alastor an excuse, he would hurt him. Adam glared viciously at Alastor for a second. Reluctantly, he pulled his chair back into place and sat back down. Lucifer gave the chain slack, but did not drop it yet. Alastor clapped his hands a few times.
"Beautifully done, Lucifer. You've got him right in your pocket, don't you? Brought him right to heel even when his hackles are up." Alastor said.
"That was REALLY messed up of you." Vaggie said. Charlie frowned "Alastor, was burning his robes really necessary?" Charlie asked.
"Of course it was, my dear. The front was full of tears and the back was soaked in blood all the way to the hem. It would have been a waste of poor Niffty's time to try to clean and repair it. Besides, even if they could have been saved, it's not like he could wear them here. It was a pragmatic decision." Alastor said.
"Pragmatic, my ass. You burned them because you don't want me to have anything left from home." Adam practically snarled at Alastor. The chain clinked as his movement jostled it, reminding Adam to remain seated.
"Ah and that's another reason I burned them. Your home is here in hell now. You will never see heaven again. The sooner you accept that, the better. That bundle of rags would have just been a memento to keep you more mired in the past and unable to accept your situation. You're welcome." Alastor said smugly.
Adam looked away from Alastor and breathed deeply, trying to calm himself. His eye was drawn by the shining golden chain swinging just slightly between himself and Lucifer. Adam tried to put his uncaring facade back together, silently cursing himself for letting Alastor get such a big reaction out of him. He forced himself to go back to eating his food.
"Don't be so glum. I'm sure heaven won't feel your absence much. Everyone in heaven already thinks you're dead, so no one will go looking for you. And with your obnoxious personality, I'm sure you didn't have any friends to miss you. They might even be happier without you." Alastor spoke in a tone of pretending comfort.
Adam ignored every urge to respond. The feeling of the collar on his neck kept him mentally grounded. Trying to do or say anything against Alastor's verbal assault was liable to just get him into trouble. He ate his pizza with his left hand while his right hand squeezed into a fist in anger and frustration, but he kept it on the table. Lucifer released the chain, allowing it to disappear and reached over and set his right hand gently on Adam's left shoulder, in an attempt at actual comfort.
"You're wrong, Alastor. Raphael will probably miss Adam, if only for his guitar playing. And Lute will definitely miss him." Vaggie said. After it came out her mouth, she wasn't sure if that would comfort Adam or hurt him more. Adam looked back up suddenly from his plate to meet Vaggie's eyes. No one seemed to notice Lucifer flinching slightly at the mention of his brother.
"Lute is still alive?" He asked, barely above a whisper. He had assumed she'd been killed in battle and had been trying not to think about it. Vaggie was stunned by the look of combined hope, and desperation to know in Adam's eyes.
"She was ready to choose death over my mercy… But I gave her mercy anyway." Vaggie answered.
"And did she make it home?" Adam asked in the same tone, subconsciously leaning over the table slightly.
"Now, what did I just tell you? Your home is-" Alastor began to chide.
"I meant HER home! Shove your lecture up your ass, Alastor!" Adam snapped, then quickly turned his eyes back to Vaggie.
"I didn't see her leave, but her wings were fine, so she should have made it back." Vaggie was unsure if telling Adam the truth was a good idea, as it might put ideas in his head, but she decided upon it anyway.
Adam restrained a sigh of relief and turned his eyes and head down at his plate. For the first time since making his deal with Lucifer, Adam smiled. It was a soft, slightly sad upturn of the corners of his mouth. If Lute was alright, that was something he could be grateful for. Even if he never saw her again, it was still good enough for Adam that Lute did not end up dead, or on a leash like him. He hoped she would retire from the exterminations and stay out of harm's reach in heaven, and that in enough time his only friend would forget him. That way she wouldn't miss him.
"So what's everyone's plans for the rest of the day?" Angel asked, trying to break the lull in conversation.
"So glad you asked, Angel. I'm going to be making a long broadcast this afternoon, so I'd appreciate not being disturbed unless it's EXCEPTIONALLY important. Of course, feel free to tune in. And after the broadcast I'll be making jambalaya for dinner. I figured Lucifer's trinket should get to try the best jambalaya in hell." Alastor said. Adam was not eager to try anything Alastor made.
"Actually, we won't be home for dinner. I'm taking Adam out shopping. We'll probably be a bit late, so we'll just eat while we're out." Lucifer said. Adam glanced at Lucifer with a surprised, nervous look, as he had not set foot outside the hotel since he'd entered days ago.
"What are you shopping for?" Charlie asked eagerly, glad Alastor had stopped harassing Adam for the moment. She wanted to keep the conversation moving so it didn't start up again.
"Clothes mainly. He needs his own wardrobe, and I need mine back. I can't just keep resizing my clothes for him. We'd probably better get some shoes too, since he only has one pair of boots." Lucifer glanced at Adam, trying to think of if he needed anything else.
"Hey maybe I could go with ya. I bet I could help you find some flattering clothes for him. I mean don't get me wrong, your clothes look fine on him, but everyone looks better in clothes picked out for them." Angel Dust offered.
"Thanks for the offer, but I think we'll pass, Angel. I think it should just be Adam and I this time. I don't think we shop at the same places." Lucifer rejected the offer politely. Angel shrugged.
"Okay but the offer's on the table if you want it later. I'm telling you, I could pick out some clothes that would take him from looking hot to irresistibly fuckable." Angel gave Adam a flirty wink.
Adam swallowed hard on the bite of pizza in his throat and coughed into his elbow, unprepared for the flirtatious comment. Angel laughed and held up a hand towards Husk rolled his eyes, but smiled and indulged Angel with a high five.
Alastor seemed to have switched his focus to eating. Adam watched him quietly, noticing that for such a vicious man, he ate with perfect table manners. Adam finished the last slice of pizza he'd been eating and decided that was enough. He sipped some more water and waited for Lucifer to be finished.
"So what were you planning this afternoon, my little Apple Dumpling?" Lucifer asked his daughter. He took a bite of his pizza as he let her speak.
"Oh, right! So Vaggie and I are planning a bonding session tomorrow. I was thinking you and Adam might attend." She asked, giving her dad a big hopeful smile.
"Of course, Charlie. What time?" Lucifer asked. He'd been so busy with Adam, he was more than happy to spend some quality time with Charlie. "Two o'clock, just a little after lunch." Charlie said cheerfully.
As the table began to empty Lucifer remained, talking to Charlie and Vaggie for a while. Adam waited patiently and silently observed Lucifer. The way the King interacted with his daughter and her girlfriend was something Adam was studying. If he was to know Lucifer better as a person, he needed to watch and see how Lucifer interacted with others, not just himself.
"Dad, I think we better get out of Niffty's way. It looks like she's itching to clean up." Charlie said, getting up from the table. Lucifer Vaggie and Adam all followed suit. Niffty eagerly got to her cleaning.
"True, and I'd better go get ready for shopping. Adam needs a full wardrobe so it's probably going to take a while." Lucifer hugged and kissed his daughter and said goodbye to Vaggie.
"Hey Vaggie?" Adam called her attention. Vaggie looked over at Adam. It was so strange to her to hear Adam talk in that low volume, subdued tone. The only time she saw the Adam she used to know back in heaven was when Alastor roused his temper. She almost felt as if this man was a different angel with the same face.
"Thank you, for telling me about Lute." Adam genuinely meant it. It was the first taste of happiness he'd experienced since coming to hell.
"You're welcome, Adam." Vaggie responded. With that Adam turned back to Lucifer, ready to follow where he led.
Lucifer led them back to his room. Adam relaxed a bit with the two of them being alone again. Adam stretched his back, flinching when the wounds pulled a bit. It was hard to be basically unable to rest his back unless he was lying down.
"Lie down. I want to check your wounds and put fresh bandages on them before we leave." Lucifer said. Wordlessly, Adam removed his, or more accurately Lucifer's, shirt and laid down on the bed, arms crossed under his chin. He was quite used to the wound care drill.
Lucifer went into the bathroom and returned shortly with the pain relief gel and the bandages. He pulled the old bandages off as gently as he could, then inspected the wounds.
"They aren't healing as quickly as I hoped, but at least they aren't showing any signs of infection." Lucifer dipped his fingers into the jar of cold gel and spread it on Adam's wounds. Adam could never resist the urge to jerk a bit from the cold, but the soothing effect always made him relax after.
Lucifer put fresh bandages on the wounds and went to wash the medicine off his hands. Adam stood and put his borrowed shirt back on. He was nervous about leaving the Hazbin. Everyone out there knew him, and doubtless most wanted a piece of him.
"Ready to go?" Lucifer asked. Adam nodded. "As ready as I will ever be." He murmured.
Lucifer led the way out of the Hazbin Hotel onto the streets of hell. The crowds of demons seemed to make way for Lucifer. Adam supposed that shouldn't be surprising given Lucifer's station.
Adam noticed the longer they walked, the more sinners took notice and stared at them. Everyone seemed to notice Lucifer first, but most had their eyes drawn to the taller figure behind him. Some of them stared at Adam with awe, some with a bit of fear, and some with murder in their eyes.
"People are staring at us." Adam murmured to Lucifer. What the grounded angel would have done to have his weapon back in his hands. He felt exceedingly vulnerable. The looks kept him close at Lucifer's heels. He was very much aware that right now Lucifer was his only source of protection.
"I'm the King of Hell and you are the former head of the exorcists. They're going to stare. You're perfectly safe with me." Lucifer reassured without looking back.
They walked for a while, passing countless clubs, bars, drug dens, and assorted less sketchy businesses. Lucifer was not looking around. He seemed to have their destination already planned. Adam noticed they passed a few clothing stores, but Lucifer seemed to pay them no mind.
"Here we are." Lucifer said, as they approached a store called Dapper Demons. A bell chimed as they stepped inside. Adam looked around and noticed that despite the fairly hoaky title, the store appeared to be a high end clothing store.
The place looked spotlessly clean, with high ceilings and bright lights and racks and racks of beautiful clothing for both men and women, of all shapes and sizes.
A catlike sinner with midnight fur saw them from behind the counter and quickly left said counter, approaching them with a big smile. She was dressed in a sparkling green dress that matched her peridot eyes.
"Lucifer! So good to see you, Your Highness! What are you looking for today?" She said cheerfully. Her tail was swishing behind her.
"Great to see you too, Jade. Sorry I've been too busy to come in. But I'll be making a big purchase today. I don't need anything for myself. We will mainly be browsing. We're here for him." Lucifer motioned to Adam.
The sinner looked up at the tall angel as if she hadn't noticed him standing behind Lucifer. She approached him and looked up into his face. Adam froze up, not sure how to handle the way she was looking at him with what seemed to be amazement.
"Woooow, you really did it. You really captured Adam. I never thought I'd see him up close…and live to tell about it too. Are you sure he's not going to cause any problems in the store?" Jade asked. Lucifer put a hand on Adam's shoulder.
"I assure you, he won't cause any trouble. His exterminating days are done, and he minds me very well. I wouldn't have brought him out in public if I didn't know he could behave. Now we need to see about getting him some clothes." Lucifer said politely.
"Of course! Sorry, I didn't mean to distract you. I'll get out of your way, and I'll be at the front counter when you need me." Jade returned to her post at the counter.
"Lucifer, I don't need clothes from somewhere this nice. Simple clothes will do just fine." Adam said, leaning down closer to Lucifer and speaking in a hushed tone. Lucifer smiled and patted Adam on the cheek.
"I want you dressed nicely. Can't have you looking out of place next to me when we go out together. Now don't even look at price tags. That's my business. Your business is to help find clothes that are comfortable and flatter you." Lucifer picked a cart and began their shopping.
Adam tried not to be distracted by the other customers staring as he and Lucifer looked through clothes. They first picked up some basic necessities, undergarments and socks, and then started picking out clothing for Adam to take to the fitting rooms.
Lucifer had Adam try on each outfit, picking out multiple colors of an item if it flattered him and if Adam declared it comfortable. As they reached the end of what they currently had picked out, Adam emerged from the dressing room in a fitted pair of dark blue jeans, and a lavender purple long sleeved button up shirt. Adam had the top three buttons open, giving Lucifer just a small peek at his collarbone.
Lucifer looked him over, giving Adam an approving smile and approached. "Now THAT you look great in. I think that outfit is my favorite." Lucifer commented.
Without realizing he was doing it, Adam smiled again, this time openly. He didn't know why he cared how Lucifer thought he looked, but he did. He found the outfit good looking in the dressing room, but the fact that Lucifer agreed made the outfit even better.
"Hey, there's a smile. I was wondering when I'd get to see one of those." Lucifer said gently. Lucifer liked Adam's smile. It stirred warm emotions within him and made him want to keep that smile on Adam's face.
Adam found that the comment did not make his smile instantly vanish. It made him want to keep smiling for Lucifer. Lucifer's praise was beginning to really mean something to Adam, something more than confirmation that his master was not displeased with him.
"I think you can wear that one out. I'll go put the returns back." Lucifer picked up the clothes that had been rejected and took them away. Adam opted to lean over the cart and try to organize the clothes Lucifer was buying. Shirts in one stack, pants in another, sleepwear in a third. He was tempted to look at the price tags, but part of him didn't even want to know what Lucifer was planning to spend today.
Suddenly Adam was snatched away from the cart by two large, strong, reptilian arms. One arm was around his stomach, lifting him off his feet and pressing his back to a large, muscular chest, while the other hand clamped firmly down on his mouth.
Adam thrashed and grabbed the arm covering his mouth, trying to pull down the hand. He kicked his heeled boots backwards trying to jab the heel into the sinner's legs to force them to release him. They were ineffective against the scaly legs. The arm around his middle crushed his back tighter to the demon's chest, hurting his wounds.
Adam's assailant dragged Adam into the women's section, toward a back exit. Adam managed to force the reptilian hand down a little. He opened his mouth and bit down hard on the offending hand. Adam's teeth did little against the tough, leathery skin.
"You think you're getting away after you killed my brother? I've been waiting three years for this chance. You're going to have to do better than that, Adam." The assailant whispered, then chuckled and forced his hand further into Adam's mouth to more effectively gag him.
"Adam?... Adam?! ADAM ANSWER ME!" Lucifer called out. His boots could be heard tapping frantically as the King ran.
Adam thrashed violently, his heart pounding. As the lizard carried him more quickly towards the door, Adam tried to shake his head to dislodge the hand, but it was not effective. Adam tried biting down again. The rest of his body stopped struggling and he threw every ounce of strength into his jaw. He felt bone crack under his teeth.
"AH! You fucker!" The lizard snarled, pulling his wounded hand away. Adam drew a deep breath, but before he could call out to Lucifer, the King was upon them. He had taken his demonic form and his eyes were glowing red with rage. He was hovering in the air with the use of his wings to glower down at the lizard sinner who had tried to snatch Adam.
"Let go of him right now if you want ANY chance of living to see tomorrow!" Lucifer bellowed, his demonic voice booming. The sinner released Adam. The angel elbowed the lizard hard in the gut and dashed behind Lucifer.
"What the FUCK made you think you had the right to touch Adam, you disrespectful wretch?! Did you somehow not know Adam is MINE?! Or did you just blatantly dare to steal from me?! Have I been out of the public eye for so long that my people have forgotten my power?!" Lucifer snarled.
"Y-your Majesty, I can explain. Three years ago he-" The lizard tried to explain.
"I don't give a flying FUCK what he did three years ago! Three years ago he didn't belong to me, but today he DOES. And YOU should know better than to touch what belongs to Lucifer Morningstar!"
Lucifer grabbed the demon by his arm and threw him across the store into the floor, knocking over several clothing stands. Lucifer dashed back over to him, grabbing the demon by his legs and threw him up towards the ceiling, then essentially spiked him back into the floor, knocking more clothing stands over.
Adam couldn't help but watch the carnage and mess made as Lucifer mercilessly threw the offender around for a solid three minutes. The small man's strength amazed Adam. He had been unable to physically overpower the brute, who was at least three times Adam's size. Lucifer was throwing him around like a rag doll. When Lucifer was through, he pulled Adam's attacker, now bruised and bloodied, up by his arms and looked him in the eyes, the king's eyes still blazing red.
"Don't you ever touch MY angel again, is that fucking clear? If I ever see you so much as look at him too long, Adam and I will both be wearing new boots MADE FROM YOUR HIDE! Do you understand that?"
"Y-yes, your highness." The demon choked out. Lucifer swung him around and threw the demon to crash through the display window in the front and out onto the street. The lizard demon scrambled desperately to his feet and fled. With that the King of Hell folded his wings and dropped to his feet. He reverted to his normal form and turned to Adam. He had just been staring in awe at Lucifer's power.
Lucifer beckoned to Adam with his hand. Adam came to Lucifer, stepping around the downed clothing racks the best he could. He could hear store staff behind him start to right the clothing racks and clean up the mess.
Lucifer looked Adam over, worry written on his face. "Did he hurt you? Does anything hurt?"
"I'm fine. My back hurts a little. He had me pressed against his chest pretty- whoa!" Adam said as Lucifer grabbed his arm and physically turned him. Suddenly Lucifer pulled the hem of the lavender shirt up.
"Lucifer!" Adam yelped, surprised and embarrassed. Lucifer checked the bandages "Looks like you're not bleeding. Good." Lucifer let the shirt back down. He took Adam by the hand and brought Adam and their cart up to the front.
"I'm sorry about that, Jade. And here I promised there wouldn't be any trouble." Lucifer said with a sigh. He removed the tags from the clothing Adam was wearing and handed them over to her to scan. Jade waved it off as she rang up the purchases.
"No big deal really. We've seen worse damage. And it wasn't even Adam's fault. They should have known better than to touch your battle trophy." She said with a giggle. Adam made a small huff of annoyance, but Jade did not seem to notice.
Adam briefly wondered why she was here in hell, as she seemed perfectly nice on the face of it. But then, serial killers were usually charming and charismatic, so who knew what skeletons the cat girl had hiding in her closet.
When the purchases were all rung up, Lucifer handed her a stack of cash. "There's extra in there to pay for the window too." He explained.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. I'm sure that'll put my boss in a better mood. You two have a lovely day!" She said, almost chirping the words. Adam had to wonder how it was possible to be that happy in hell.
Adam took the two large bags up off the counter and put them on his arm, figuring he ought to carry them. He still felt a bit bad about Lucifer spending so much on clothes for him.
"Okay, let's go get shoes, then I know a nice place we can go for dinner." Lucifer checked his phone to see the time, then returned it to his pocket.
"It's not that late. We could just go back ho- back to the hotel for dinner." Adam suggested. Lucifer waved the idea off.
"Nah, I think we both would like a break from dealing with Alastor. It will be nice to eat in peace for once." Lucifer said. Adam fell behind Lucifer to let him lead. Lucifer reached back and took Adam's free hand, tugging the larger man forward and back to his side. After that incident, he didn't really want Adam behind him and out of his sight. Adam looked down at his feet, embarrassed slightly by Lucifer holding his hand.
Lucifer led them into a shoe store. Adam glanced around and then rolled his eyes. Of course it was another fancy store. This time he made no protest.
An attendant approached them. This demon was mostly human like in appearance, but he had only one large eye, light grayish skin, a mop of purple hair, and what appeared to be occasional patches of scales. and what looked like a plastered on customer service smile. Adam immediately hated that smile as it reminded him of Alastor.
"Hello, Your Majesty. What can I do for you today?" His speaking revealed a forked tongue and many sharp teeth.
"Good afternoon, Danny. I need to get shoes for Adam today." Lucifer said, motioning to Adam. The angel prepared to be gawked at like before. Danny gave him a quick look over and seemed unphased.
"Alright, sit over there please and take your shoes off. I'll go get the measuring device." Danny said, motioning towards a bench. Adam did as asked. At least this guy wasn't going to stare at him like a freak show. If only he wouldn't smile so widely.
Danny pulled the device from behind the counter and came around to kneel in front of Adam to measure his feet. Once he had the correct size he stood and addressed Lucifer.
"What kind of shoes were you wanting for him?" Danny asked. Adam silently observed how the clerk seemed to know better than to ask HIM what he wanted, not that he wasn't going to defer to Lucifer if asked. It made him wonder how common selling one's soul was in hell.
"We'll need at least three pairs. He needs some boots, some sneakers, and a pair of dress shoes. Maybe a set of loafers too." Lucifer said thoughtfully. Danny nodded.
"And you want the boots in flats, right?" Danny asked, giving Adam another look. He was quietly assuming the king didn't want Adam to stand over him more than he already did.
"Good man." Lucifer replied.
The shoe store turned out to be far less eventful than the clothing store. In about an hour they left, Adam now carrying three large bags, two of clothes and one of shoes. Though the clerk had hardly spoken to Adam, Lucifer had checked with him to make sure all the shoes chosen fit correctly and were comfortable to wear. Lucifer had insisted he change shoes into his new boots and Adam obliged, his old boots in the bag with the rest.
"You know I can carry some of that." Lucifer said as they walked out.
"It's fine, I've got it. It's just clothes and shoes. Nothing that heavy. You already paid for all of this. Carrying it is the least I can do." Adam muttered.
"Don't feel guilty. You need clothes and shoes, and I chose to take you to those places. It was entirely my decision. You needed something not borrowed, something yours. I want you to feel settled and at home here." Lucifer murmured, keeping his eyes ahead.
"I don't know if that will ever happen." Adam replied with a forlorn tone and expression. He raised his eyes to hell's red sky. Adam couldn't help but miss heaven's beautiful blue skies, dappled with white fluffy clouds, every morning and evening kissed with soft pinks and oranges by the sunbeams fading in or out.
'Your home is here in hell now. You'll never see heaven again. The sooner you accept that, the better.' Alastor's words echoed in Adam's head. He tried to shove them away. Why let Alastor bother him when he wasn't even there?
"It will, but it will take time. Remember you aren't the ONLY angel here in hell. Just the newest." Lucifer said. Adam glanced down at Lucifer, though he didn't have to look down as far anymore with his flat boots on.
Lucifer knew his pain, Adam realized. He too could not return to the home he once knew and loved. 'But it's HIS fault I can't go back.' said the anger in his mind. But then he considered the question, what choice had he given Lucifer?
With what he'd been about to do, Lucifer had no choice but to take him out of the fight one way or another. Adam could not blame Lucifer for defending his daughter and her friends. Adam was unsure if he could say he DESERVED eternity in hell for what he'd done, but he could at least admit he had brought this on himself. He moved up the exterminations and he made war on Charlie and her hotel. Adam understood for sure that he had made his own bed and now he was lying in it.
"What are you thinking about?" Lucifer asked, side eyeing Adam.
"Nothing." Adam spoke softly.
"Mm-hm." Lucifer said in disbelief. "Just because I'm shorter than you doesn't mean I can't see your eyes when you get that thousand yard stare. I can tell when your mind is a thousand miles away." Lucifer did not press the subject further.
"And, the last stop before we head home." Lucifer said. They were approaching a restaurant called Loca's Lounge. Lucifer opened the door for Adam and stood aside, gesturing for Adam to go first. Adam headed inside, hearing Lucifer's footsteps close behind him.