Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

In loving memory of your demise - Green Day

He flinched as blood splattered his face again. The demon had long since stopped moving but he couldn't stop raising the angelic knife and plunging it back in. He was drenched in blood and viscera. He didn’t care.

He'd started with the chest. It had taken a few tries before he'd managed to get the heart properly, but it had happened more quickly than it had felt like. He'd felt it pop like a balloon when he pierced it. After the demon stopped moving he had continued to stab it a few more times in the chest. Just to be sure.

He had stopped briefly while he sat back and stared at his work. Blood had leaked out everywhere, making the floor slick. He had seen his reflection in the pool of it that surrounded them. He could barely recognize himself with all the red covering him. 

It was then that he had felt the dead demon’s souls flow into him. His body had felt like it was lit up with electricity. It felt so invigorating. He had leaned his head back and felt his body take in all that power. He had found himself panting from the combination of exhaustion and newfound power flowing through him.

Then he had looked down again at the dead demon. He'd seen his face staring back up and the rage he’d felt was exquisite in its intensity. That was when he had started on the demon's face. After carefully removing his pink glasses and placing them on top of his own head. 

It was no longer recognizable. 

That's when he had stopped. When he could no longer see that asshole’s face staring up at him. The mess of flesh and bone could have been anyone’s face once.

He didn't entirely stop there though.

He grabbed at the demon’s bloody face. His hand slipped off twice before he just dug his nails into flesh and bone to hold it still. Then he ripped his antennae out. First the stumpy little one and then the big pretty one. Little blood flowed from the wounds. There couldn’t have been much left in his head at this point.

After that he turned Val onto his back and began to saw his wings off. It took a long time to do it with the small blade. Something larger would have been more efficient. Created less jagged edges. Eventually he had two bloody stumps. He draped them over his shoulders, heedless of the blood he was getting on his own back.

He debated what he did next for several minutes. Was it childish? Probably. Did he even want to touch it? Not really. Would he regret not taking this one time opportunity to do it? Fuck yes.

So he cut the moth’s dick off and left it on his bloody face, where the mouth used to be, for Vox to find.

Then he gathered up everything that was important, put it all in a bag, and clipped Fat Nuggets’ leash on. He didn't bother to wash the blood from himself before he left his room in the tower for the last time.

~~~~~

Ten years later

Angel looked at his reflection in the glass. He could see his striped suit jacket, little bowtie sticking out above his fluff, tall black boots with his little black skirt, and his gloves and choker. It was a business attire kind of day.

He focused his eyes beyond that at the object behind the glass. He kept it displayed in his bedroom. The only spot of color in his otherwise black sleeping space. The eye was drawn to it anytime you entered the room.

Not that anyone ever entered his room. Only his maid, Zoey, came in and she wasn't capable of telling anyone anything. Angel had made sure of that. None of his personal house staff could. Not many people had visited Angel's home and none of them had ever seen his bedroom.

They never would. They would certainly think he was mad. Keeping such a thing on display. Maybe he was. He wasn't entirely sure that he hadn't lost something that day that he couldn't define. 

He was an excellent actor though. Cherri was the only one who had ever realized how much Angel really had changed. Cherri would never tell a soul. She was the only person in all of Hell who loved him.

He didn't care if he was mad, in any case. It was Hell. He wasn't ever going to escape it. So every morning, before he left for the day, he looked at them.

He had displayed Val’s wings so they were spread open. Pinned in place so they looked like part of a bug collection. The pattern on them was actually quite beautiful.

They reminded him that he was free. They reminded him that no one could fuck with him and walk away unscathed. They reminded him that someday he would have to pay for what he'd done. He would have to repay the favor he owed. 

He gathered up his purse and phone and made his way downstairs to his kitchen. Greta, the old slug demon, stood in his kitchen. She glowered at him as he swept in and sat at his little table by the window.

“What now ya old hag?”

“Don't you start with me, Mr. Spider. You know what you did!” She slapped an arm down on the counter.

“I haven't got any idea what ya talkin about. Just make my damn breakfast please. And where is my coffee, Greta?”

She spit several Russian curses at him.

“That's not nice, Greta. My motha would turn in her grave if she heard ya say that about her.”

“You!” She waved the wooden spoon in her hand at him. “You don't touch my shopping list! You stop changing my meal plan! You do not decide! I decide!”

Angel lifted the newspaper he was holding higher in order to cover the smirk on his face.

“Wouldn't dream a it, Greta. Can I have my coffee now?”

He felt something push against his leg and looked down to see Fat Nuggets. He scooped him up and let his baby give him kisses. He tickled Nuggs under the chin while the pig squealed.

Several moments later Greta slammed his cup down on the wooden table. Hot coffee spilled over the edge and Angel quickly grabbed a napkin, glaring at her back as she walked away. “Your coffee, your highness.”

“Thank you, Greta,” he said through gritted teeth.

He ignored her muttering as he read the newspaper, Nuggs pushing his little face in the way every few minutes. There was a piece on the upcoming extermination. For some unknown reason the angels had moved up the time frame by six months. Demonkind was freaking out.

There was another article about the princess of Hell and some hotel. He barely skimmed it before moving on. It was of little importance to the Queen of Sex. He hated that fucking title but it was what demonkind had decided to call him.

He stopped on the article about Velvette’s upcoming show. Fuck. He had forgotten about that. He was sure it was on his calendar but he hadn't put any thought into it. 

He wasn't looking forward to it. He adored Velvette but Vox was another story. Angel had agreed to be his date to the show. That fucking TV never gave up. As long as Angel was unwilling to make an enemy of him, and he didn't think that it was worth it, he walked a fine line with the TV overlord.

He knew it was his own fault that Vox was so interested but there was no taking anything back now. Not that Angel would dream of it in any case. Vox’s courtship would never come to fruition but it still had its advantages.

As Angel was finishing his breakfast, his phone went off. Lucia and Andre had arrived. He kissed Nuggs before placing him back on the floor.

He drank the rest of his coffee quickly and left the kitchen without telling Greta goodbye. She'd only bitch more if he spoke to her.

Andre had pulled out Angel’s 1940 Packard One Twenty where he waited in the driver's seat. It was the car Angel used for business. The brightly colored frogs had been twins in life. Lucia’s black was accented by a vivid purple whereas Andre’s was accented by a bright orange. 

Lucia waited in the backseat. Angel slid in next to her. “Good morning.”

“Morning, Capo,” Andre said before pulling the car into motion. 

“Good morning!” Lucia spoke brightly. “We do have a busy day today, Queen.”

Angel sighed. “I asked ya not ta call me that Lucia. Can ya get ya sista unda control, Andre?”

Andre just laughed.

Angel huffed and laid his head back against the seat. He rolled it to the side to stare out the window. “Proceed.”

“Well it's the 5th of the month so we're hitting up all the brothels today for inspections. That'll be a good portion of our day today. You have a fitting with Velvette at eleven though.”

“Fa tha fashion show thing,” he asked as he pulled out a cigarette and lit it up.

“Yeah. You agreed to wear one of her dresses for it in exchange for her to promote the new dungeon for the first month. Which means you have to be seen by the media in it. Make sure photos and video are taken of you in it.”

“That won't be hard. Vox is my date fa tha thing.”

Lucia made a face. “Again?”

“Ya know we got ta keep him happy if he's goin ta work with me.”

“I know. He's just so…”

“Slimy? Insecure? Egotistical?” He took another hit of his cigarette.

“Yes.”

“I know but that's Hell, suga.”

He listened to Lucia prattle on about the specifics of each brothel while he finished smoking. She went over how well they were doing last month, any issues that had been handled since then, and the general state of the men and women in them. 

Angel ran a tight ship. He did not deal with nonsense from his workers or his customers. There were strict rules for all of them. He never made his employees do anything they didn't want to though. He didn't abuse them the way Valentino had.

He ran various clubs and dungeons in addition to his brothels and the porn business. Val had been too small minded when he ran it from the tower. Angel had transformed it into the successful industry it was today. He was rich enough and powerful enough that Vox wanted him on their team.

As annoying as that was, Angel wouldn't trade it to go back to his old life.

They stopped at Honeysuckle House first. It was a hedonistic masterpiece that gave one the feeling of being in old Roman times. The Madame there was a voluptuous snake woman who called herself Medusa. Angel rarely had problems with her or her house. As far as he could tell, the ladies and gents loved working under Medusa.

There were twenty three women and eighteen men in the house. Angel did run some of his brothels with exclusive genders but the Honeysuckle House was mixed. Some demons liked the option of both for the night. All of the workers at Honeysuckle House had agreed to such arrangements.

It was a small house but their numbers were always in the black. He went over the house’s books as Medusa spoke with Lucia about any current problems. He doubted anything major would need his attention. It almost never did under Medusa’s watch. 

After that they headed to The Strumpet and Tart. This was one of Angel's larger houses and one of his biggest headaches. It was all women, over a hundred of them, living together. The house was popular but there were always issues. He found it difficult to keep a Madame who could handle the place well enough. 

Recently he had put Theodore in charge of it. The House had never had a Mister before. He preferred Madames for most of the houses but he was trying something new here. Theo was some kind of hyena demon. He wasn't very big but he was vicious when he needed to be.

So far nothing major had gone wrong but it was still too early to tell. Angel again went over the books while Theo talked with Lucia. She would bring anything that she couldn't handle to Angel's attention before they left. The books for S&T took longer by far but overall he was pleased when he was done. 

The business was still in the red but it was much closer to flipping to black than it had been last month. That was encouraging. 

It did turn out, however, that Theo felt security was an issue. Angel discussed the specifics with him and agreed that ten percent more security could be added to the premises. It would eat into the profit more but would likely help in the long run. 

Angel paid all of his employees a liveable wage. They produced more profit for him than they ever had for Val. 

By the time they were done it was time to head for his fitting with Velvette. He prayed to Lucifer that Vox wasn't around when he arrived. Unfortunately, Lucifer never answered his prayers. 

Vox appeared beside him in a flash of blue electricity as Angel made his way through the lobby of Vee Tower. Angel instinctively turned his pheromones on, directing them solely at Vox. He always turned them on the TV when they were together. 

“Angel, darling. How are you today?”

“Quite busy. How is business Vox?”

He looked down at the overlord after he pushed the elevator button to take him up. His pupils never changed size like most demons did but Angel knew from experience that Vox felt his pheromones just as well as any demon. It was the only reason the overlord didn't still want to kill Angel. 

“Business is good as always. Did you hear about the meeting Carmilla called?”

“Not yet. What does she want this time?”

Vox followed Angel onto the elevator. “She seems to be worried about the decreased timeframe of the next extermination. I may have some information that suggests she is right to worry.”

Angel fixed his gaze on the TV. He smiled at him then leaned in and adjusted Vox’s tie. It didn't need it, he just knew how much the overlord liked it when Angel touched him at all. His screen brightened at Angel’s nearness.

“I don't suppose ya would be willin ta share that info with me, would ya?”

He grabbed Angel's hand, running his thumb across the spider’s knuckles. Angel suppressed the shudder he felt every time Vox touched him at all. He let the demon hold his hand while he spoke.

“Now, Angel. You know I'd be happy to let you in on mine and Velvette's plans. You just have to say the word.”

Angel pulled his hand from Vox’s grasp. “And you know I won't ever agree ta what ya want Vox.” His screen glitched slightly but he maintained his charming look. “I work alone and ya know why I do it.”

Vox nodded. He did know. Angel had told him many times before. He would work with Vox and Velvette to a degree but he would never join them. He would never put himself under the authority of another demon for the rest of his afterlife. That had died with Val.

He followed Angel off the elevator and into Velvette's studio. It was a whirlwind of activity but that came as no surprise. It always was right before a show. The two overlords stood staring at the chaos.

“I've seen the dress Velvette made for you. Sometimes she really outdoes herself. You're going to look very sexy, my dear.”

Angel smiled at Vox, that fake pornstar smile he'd never let go of. It still fooled everyone. Except Cherri.

“I always look sexy, Vox. Now you should leave me to Velvette. I'll see you tomorrow night.” He put an extra sway to his step as he walked away. He knew the demon liked it.

It wasn't difficult to locate Velvette in the mess. She was the one yelling at everyone. Angel had never really had a problem with Velvette when Val was alive. They were closer now but he still kept her at arm's length. He would never trust another overlord the way he had Valentino. 

Rosie was perhaps the only exception and even that had its limits. 

“Velvette! Why don't ya give them a break while ya visit with ya old friend.”

“Angel! Kisses darling!” They gave each other cheek kisses like rich valley girls did in the movies. “At least I can count on you to show up on time . I wish you had the time to model for me. You're so much more competent than these idiots!” She growled the last part at her models who chose to make themselves scarce.

“Velvette ya know I love wearin ya stuff. It is tha finest clothin in Hell, but I don't think I could work fa ya bitchy ass.”

She laughed loudly at that. “Fair enough. Come on, let me show you the dress.”

She led him over to a large folding screen set up off to the side. He slipped behind it and found a beautiful gown waiting for him. 

It was clear she had made it especially for Angel. The deep purple dress had thin straps. He changed into it, admiring the handiwork as he did so. The front and one side of the dress had heavy embroidery and beading to create a pink and white spider web. It was gorgeous and shimmered as he moved. The long skirt had a slit up one side, all the way to his hip. The back of the dress curved low, showing off most of his back.

He emerged from behind the screen to stand with Velvette. He looked in the mirror at himself while Velvette checked the fit of the dress. It looked beautiful on him.

“I have some long pink gloves, two sets, for your arms and a pair of white heels for you to wear with the dress. I think you should go light on the jewelry. The dress is statement enough.”

He nodded in agreement with her. The bodice of the dress was eye-catching. Perfect for him too.

“Can I keep this one after tha show?”

“Of course. I made this one just for you. It won't be for sale.” He grinned at her and returned behind the screen to change again. “I want to take in the one side a bit. It's not quite as snug as I'd like. I'll have it dropped off to you tonight.”

“That's fine. I might have a late night tonight but Zoey will a course be there. She can take care a it.”

He had slipped the dress off and was pulling his skirt back up when things started going wonky. The ground seemed to tilt and move and he found himself staring at a room he didn't recognize. His hands were still on his skirt, which he had managed to pull up all the way. His chest was naked though.

He was in what looked almost like a living room and bedroom combined. He slowly turned around to realize the room opened up into a swamp of some sort. A small table sat in the entrance to the swamp. A tea set was out on the table.

A demon that Angel hadn't seen in seven years sat at the table. It looked like Alastor was back. The fact that he had summoned Angel could only mean one thing.

He wanted to collect on his favor.

Angel crossed his arms and glared at the demon in his stupid red suit.

“Seriously? What's wrong with a phone call or a house visit? What if I'd been completely naked?”

Alastor avoided looking down from Angel's face, his creepy grin present as always. Radio static buzzed and his eyes narrowed as he spoke. “Ha ha! It would hardly be the first time anyone has seen you that way, old friend! Have a seat.”

The chair across from Alastor moved out all by itself. Angel narrowed his eyes back but had a seat across from the Radio Demon. 

“So what now? What is it that ya want me ta do?”

“My, my, Angel. Where are your manners? We haven't seen each other in quite some time. Aren't you curious where I've been?”

“Not really.” Angel shrugged. He didn't miss the twitching of Alastor’s eye but he ignored the tic. Unless the favor was to lie to the overlord, he wasn't going to bother. “I'd rather ya just tell me what ya want from me. I've got a rather busy day that ya interrupted.”

“Very well. It's time for you to return the favor I gave you.”

“I figured as much.”

“Do you know where we are?”

“Your house?”

“Close! This is my room at the Hazbin Hotel! Have you heard of it?”

Angel had seen the name this morning in the newspaper. “Isn't it that new hotel tha princess opened?”

“Quite so! You know about it then?”

Angel shook his head. “Not really. I skipped most a tha article that 666 news wrote about it.”

“It is a hotel to rehabilitate sinners!”

“What tha fuck does that mean?”

The colors of Alastor's face glitched and canned laughter ran out. “The princess wants to redeem souls to send them to heaven!”

Angel stared in silence at Alastor for a minute before he burst into laughter. He laughed for so long and hard that he had tears in his eyes. It took him several tries to stop laughing.

“Ya got ta be jokin. You believe that's possible?”

“Why no, I don't!”

“I don't undastand. What are ya doin here then?”

“Why, helping the princess, of course!”

Angel sighed. He should know better than to expect a straight answer from the demon. “What exactly do ya want from me?”

“I want you to participate.”

Angel stared at him stupidly. “Whaddya mean?”

“I want you to attempt to be rehabilitated! To come to the hotel and participate in Charlie's activities.”

“Why?”

“That doesn't matter, old chap. You will come here, you will participate, you will help Charlie promote the hotel, you will follow my lead. That is your favor to me.”

“Ya know, I got a whole empire now. I'm a very busy demon.”

“That will be your problem to figure out. Need I remind you that you cannot turn this favor down. Not unless you'd rather give your soul up to my radio show.” The shadows around them darkened and Alator’s pupils shifted into radio dials.

Angel swallowed hard. He did not want to do that. He knew Alastor could ask for anything. Frankly, this didn't seem that bad. With Alastor things were not always as they seemed though. Only time would tell how badly this would bite him in the ass. 

“I'll hold up my end a tha bargain. But we need ta talk specifics.”

“Wonderful!” His face went back to normal and the shadows receded.

“I do have responsibilities. Ta my souls, ta other demons I have business with. I don't want ta be punished fa taking care a those. I ain't giving up my whole life ta this little venture.”

Alastor seemed to be contemplating that. It was hard to read the demon's face but he didn't think Alastor was irritated by the demand.

“Fair enough,” he finally acquiesced. “You will participate in activities at least five days a week.”

“I choose which days.” When Alastor nodded, Angel continued. “I won't take any actions that go against my direct interest.”

Alastor's head tilted to the side. “That is a large stipulation, my friend!” While his voice sounded friendly enough, Angel got the distinct impression the demon was not happy about the request.

“What's tha point in makin a deal with ya, riskin everything I did ta free myself a that bastard only ta have tha favor I owe ya put me in chains again? I ain't ya soul, it's a favor.”

Alastor ran his hand over the top of the microphone on his cane. “Hmm. I suppose you make a good point. I don't own your soul.” The way he said it made Angel's skin crawl, as though that had just occurred to him. “I accept the term.”

Angel did not feel any better but he set that aside for the moment. Business was at hand.

“How long, exactly, do I have ta participate in this little experiment?”

“The angels will be back in six months. Charlie has that long for this to succeed or fail! You will stay until the next extermination is over.”

“Fine. I want ta be real clear. My original agreements with ya still apply.”

Alastor waved him off. “Why, of course, friend!”

“ALL of them, Alastor.”

“Yes, yes.” The demon rolled his eyes. “Don't be so dramatic my effeminate fellow!”

He knew there was nothing as being too safe when it came to making deals with other overlords. He didn't engage in the bait though. He wouldn't argue with Alastor.

“Good.” He held his hand out.

Alastor took it. Green light glowed as tiny freaky little green souls hovered around their clasped hands. It mingled with Angel's bright pink magic dotted with little black hearts. Both of them pulled away quickly, neither interested in prolonged contact.

 “Excellent! Charlie starts everyday at nine AM with her exercises. I'll see you tomorrow. Oh, and Angel? You aren't to tell anyone that I have asked you to be here.”

His eyes narrowed and his smile sharpened. Angel nodded silently. Alastor lifted a hand but Angel stopped him. 

“No thank you. Do not send me back tha way ya snagged me. I will get a ride.”

“Suit yourself.”

Alastor picked up his cup and began to drink his tea. Angel hurried to the door in the normal part of the room and exited quickly. He pulled his phone out of his fluff as he moved. He sent a text off to Lucia, letting her know where he was and asking them to come get him.

It took a bit of wandering but eventually he found a staircase that led downstairs. He looked around as he reached the bottom of the stairs to find himself in an open space. There were hallways that branched off of this area as well as a small living room. The front door was across the building from him and the other side of the space boasted a bar. 

He headed towards that. He didn't see anyone but he could hear some noises coming from behind the bar. When he reached it he bent over the bar some only to be startled as a demon stood up from behind it. He reared back too quickly and bumped the top of his head on the sign above the bar.

“Ah, fuck!”

He rubbed the top of his head as he glared at the demon. He was a winged cat of some sort and he was openly staring at Angel’s naked chest, a small flush to his face. Angel crossed his arms and stared back. The ass wasn't wearing a shirt either. He really didn't have room to be staring.

“See something ya like?”

“Who the fuck are you?”

“Are ya always so rude? It's not like ya got a shirt on either. Ya ain't got ta stare.”

“Yah but I don't have…” He pointed at Angel's chest.

“It's not tits, jackass.” He pressed his fluff down with one hand. “It's just fluff. Listen, can I get a fuckin drink or what?”

The demon looked him up and down, his expression sour. “Let me guess, something fruity?” 

“Whiskey. On the rocks.” He parked his ass in one of the stools and looked at his phone. Lucia had texted him back. They were only ten minutes away.

“Huh. Wouldn't peg you for such a hard drink.”

Angel looked back up at the cat. “And you think ya can tell just by lookin at someone?”

“Usually.”

“I guess I'm just unusual.”

“I'll say.”

Angel cocked his head as he studied the cat. He had some gray in his mostly black and white fur. He had likely died at a much older age than Angel had. His lack of shirt wouldn't have been strange except that he still had his suspenders, bowtie, and cuffs. Strange things to wear without a shirt unless you were a stripper and Angel owned all of the strippers. He wasn't one.

He watched as the cat got out a glass, dropped in a large sphere of ice and poured a generous amount of whiskey.

“I don't generally walk around half naked anymore. I wasn't expectin ta find myself here when I did. That creepy fucker picked a bad time ta drag me here.”

The demon stopped midway through pushing the drink to Angel. “Alastor?”

“Yeah.” He plucked the drink out of the cat’s hand, careful not to touch him, and took a sip of it. “Ya know him?”

“You could say that. Does he own you?”

Angel scoffed. “No, I would never be stupid enough to give him my soul. We just do business sometimes.”

“I see.” The demon studied him the same way Angel had been studying him moments ago. He held out his hand. “Name's Husk.”

Angel hesitated. He didn't like touching people he didn't know but against his better judgment he shook the demon's hand. When their skin touched he felt a jolt of magic run from him into the cat. It then bounced back into him and it was almost like he could taste the flavor of another demon’s magic. He ignored it, even as he wondered what it was about, but he saw Husk's eyes widen for a split second. 

He ignored that too. He picked up his drink again, sipping it as he pulled up his calendar for tomorrow. At this rate he wasn't going to be able to finish all of the brothels today. Luckily tomorrow was a slow day before the fashion show.

Hopefully the hotel activities wouldn't take up too much of his morning. 

“You said anymore.”

He looked up at the sound of the bartender’s deep gravelly voice. “Huh?”

“You said you don't walk around naked anymore. What's that mean?”

“Ya don't know who I am?”

“Well you didn't introduce yourself like I did, so no. I don't.”

“I'm Angel Dust. Queen a Sex. Tha sex demon. I used ta do porn.” Husk's face made an O of recognition. Then he blushed a little. That was cute. “I take it ya seen my old work,” Angel said dryly.

Husk shrugged. “Who hasn't. I didn't recognize you though. Been a while since you've done that kind of work.”

The cat picked up the bottle of whiskey and took a drink. Angel followed suit but he merely sipped compared to Husk's long pull on the bottle. He didn't acknowledge the cat’s comment with a response. He didn't really like talking about his pornstar days.

That wasn't who he was anymore.

He sipped his drink in silence as he went through work things on his phone. After a few minutes he became aware of the fact that the demon was just standing there, watching him.

Without looking up he uttered, “would ya like ta take a picture? It'll last longer.”

“You're awfully quiet. Most people who sit there like to dump all their problems on the bartender.”

“No offense, kitty cat, but I don't do that. So you can stop holdin ya breath.”

Husk grunted in response to that. They sat there in silence for several more minutes until Angel got a text from Lucia letting him know they had arrived.

He stood up from his seat and slid some money onto the bar. He didn't look up from his phone as he walked away. He was too busy trying to rearrange his schedule. He was going to need Lucia’s help with it.

“See ya round, Fluff.”

He stopped and looked back at the bartender. He was leaning on the bar, smiling slightly at Angel, who got the distinct impression he was amused for some reason. The nickname was a new one to him but he'd been called much worse over the years.

“Sure thing, Whiskas.”

It popped out of his mouth without him thinking about it. He turned away as he felt his face heat up. Had he just flirted? No. He didn't do that anymore. Not without a reason and there was no reason to flirt with some hotel bartender.

He shook his head, putting it from his mind. He had more important things to worry about.

Chapter Text

So shut, shut your mouth

Cause I'm not listening anyhow - The Primitives

He tossed and turned that night, unable to properly sleep. Eventually Fat Nuggets abandoned their bed to sleep in his own little one. He didn't blame the pig. 

He got up before his alarm in order to take a leisurely bath. He needed something to relax his body. This whole thing was royally fucking with his normal schedule. Lucia and him were still trying to figure out how all of this would fit into his daily routines. 

They had only managed to visit The Crowing Cock and The Happy Swallow yesterday before Angel had called it a day. He was hoping to visit the others today but that would depend on how long things took this morning. 

He took extra care with his makeup this morning. He needed to hide the tired look on his face. He went with a fresh youthful look. 

Then he dug into his closet and pulled out an oversized pink T-shirt that fell off of one shoulder. It was tied in a knot at his belly in order to sit above his second set of arms. He pulled black leather pants on and his black cropped leather jacket. The jacket had hot pink hearts on the sleeve and his name over a pink and purple web on the back.

He stuffed the few things he needed into pockets and his phone and pink heart sunglasses into his fluff. 

He made his way down to the kitchen to find coffee waiting at his table today. Greta must not be irritated this morning. She was in the kitchen pouring batter into a pan while she hummed along to some Russian song playing on the radio. 

“Good morning, Greta.”

“Good morning, Anton!”

He sat at his table and picked up his coffee. He took a long drink before he responded to her. 

“Ya know I prefer Angel, Greta. Why do ya insist on callin me that?”

“It is your name.”

He ignored her. It wouldn't help to argue with her about it. “I won't be home fa dinna tonight.”

She slammed her spatula into the countertop. “Why you not tell me sooner?! I already started marinating the meat! You are bad boss.” She shook an arm at him.

“I forgot about Velvette's gala tonight. I apologize.”

She made some flemy nose in her throat. “Are you going with the television man again ?”

“A course I am.”

“Stupid. Why do you entertain him? You need a nice boy. He is not nice.”

“Ya know why, Greta.” 

She spouted angry German at him. He ignored her while he went over his schedule again, trying to figure out where to move things around to. At this rate he might need to consider promoting someone to assist him.

Lucia could do it all but he didn't want to put all of the burden on her. He wanted her to have a life outside of their work. Just because he didn't have one didn't mean she shouldn't.

“Where is Fat Nuggets? He wasn't in my room when I came out a tha bath.”

“You worry too much about pig. He is fine. He is out in garden with Talouse.”

Greta set a plate of pancakes in front of him. He leaned over and pulled his curtain aside to look into the backyard. Talouse, the mouse demon, was pulling up weeds as Nuggs ran circles around him. He looked happy. Angel smiled before turning back to his breakfast.

He'd made a deal with Rosie to obtain this house in the cannibal district solely for Fat Nuggets. It was the nicest area in Pentagram City and one of the only places you could find a yard like this one. Only the best for his baby. Nuggs loved the garden.

He made quick work of his pancakes and gave Greta a kiss on the cheek before he left. She waved him away with false irritation but he knew she loved it. She'd had many children when she was alive and he knew she missed them. He missed his mother too, so he let the demon fuss over him. Not that he'd admit as much to her.

He pulled his other baby out today. His pride and joy. He'd spent several years building and customizing his motorcycle. The dress Velvette had designed was a reflection of it. It was a deep purple color with pink and chrome accents all over it. The spider web motif was prevalent and his name was painted on the tank. 

He didn't usually take it out on the weekdays but he'd opted to drive himself to the hotel today. He could use the feel of the wind on his face and the roar of the engine underneath him. He put his sunglasses on and started her up. He grinned at the purr of the engine between his legs and took off down the driveway.

Greta would bitch at him later for going too fast down the drive but he didn't care. He needed the speed this morning. He dodged demons and other vehicles as he made his way to the hotel. The thrill of his bike never failed to lift his mood. It was one of the only risks he took anymore and it always felt so good. 

He pulled up to the hotel too soon for his liking. He barely glanced at the tacky thing as he made his way inside. The bar was empty but he could hear voices coming from the living room area. He made his way over, putting his glasses in his fluff as he went.

He took the scene in quickly before anyone noticed his presence. Alastor sat in an armchair staring at a girl that Angel recognized from the article. It must have been the princess. She looked a bit like a mixture between a clown and a doll in a red pantsuit. She was very animatedly talking about something. Next to her stood a violet-gray skinned gal with a missing eye. Her long gray hair almost completely hid the spear she held in one hand.

On the couch was the bartender from last night, looking very grumpy. Next to him was a snake man in a pinstripe suit. His top hat had an eyeball that seemed to move with the shifty eyes on his face. That was a little creepy. The last participant on the couch looked more like a doll than the princess did. Her purple skin had stitching just like a rag doll. Her facial features looked like they had been embroidered on and one eye was completely covered by her pink rag doll curls. She wore tall black platform boots covered with buckles and a lace dress that clung to her curves.

She noticed him first but didn't say anything. She just stared at him. Why was everyone here so strange? 

After a moment the two women noticed the rag doll’s gaze and turned to Angel. The one in the red suit immediately came towards him with a big smile on her face.

“Hello! I'm Charlie! Have you come to join us?”

She reached for his hand but he could feel her coming and backed up a step before she could touch him. The fur on his skin was sensitive to the movements around him. It had been ever since he'd killed Val and gained his place as an overlord. He used it to his advantage as often as possible.

She frowned at him. “Oh, I'm sorry. Are you not here for rehabilitation?”

“I am. Name's Angel. I heard about ya little business here.”

Her face lit up. “So you want to go to heaven?”

He gave a short laugh. “I'm not sure I believe that's possible, dollface.” He looked up to see Alastor watching him intently. He put a fake smile on and Charlie smiled back at him. “But it can't hurt ta try, right?”

“That's the right attitude! Let me introduce you to everyone. This is Vaggie, my girlfriend.” She pulled the gray skinned girl to her. “She helps me run the hotel and keeps us safe.” She pointed at Alastor. “This is Alastor-”

“We've met.”

“Oh. Uh, ok!”

“Angel is a fellow overlord, my dear.”

Silence greeted that statement as everyone stared at him. Only Alastor and Husk didn't look shocked. 

“Yah, I took ova Valentino's business.”

“Yes! After you brutally murdered him!” The joy in Alastor's statement was evident on his face as the shadows around him darkened slightly and his smile curled at the edges while he fisted his hand. His gaze rested on Angel and in that moment the spider realized how interested in him Alastor really was. He froze for just a moment before he forced a more natural look onto his face.

Charlie laughed uncomfortably but Vaggie glared at the radio demon. 

“And how many demons have you killed Alastor? You don't have any room to talk.”

“Are you the infamous Sex Queen,” he heard a little voice ask him excitedly. He looked down to see a tiny demon girl staring up at him with her one eye.

“Uh, they do call me tha Queen a Sex but I prefer Angel.”

“Ok, Ms Angel.”

He sighed inwardly but didn't bother to correct her. This was already going poorly. The little demon hurriedly moved over to Alastor. He picked her up and plopped her down on the arm of his chair.

Charlie cleared her throat. “Anyway. That's Niffty, our maid.” She indicated the couch. “This is Petunia and Sir Pentious, our other guests, and Husk, our bartender.” Petunia and Pentious gave him wary looks but Husk nodded at him.

Angel gave them all a little wave but kept his focus on Charlie. “So how's all a this work here?”

“Well, why don’t you start by telling us about yourself! You can come and have a seat.”

She pulled Vaggie with her over to a second couch and patted the seat next to her. Angel followed suit, removing his coat as he walked over. He laid it on the back of the couch before settling next to Charlie. One arm rested on the edge of the couch and the rest he laid in his lap. He crossed his legs, having to stretch them out to be comfortable on the low couch. He was careful not to step on the cat’s tail, which was lying close to him because of the position of the couches. The feathered tip ended up resting under Angel’s leg.

He kept his gaze on Charlie, choosing to direct his words to her. “What do ya want ta know?”

“How long have you been in Hell?”

Angel blinked at the question. He hadn’t been expecting anything of that nature. Demons didn’t usually ask about that. “Uhh,” he thought for a moment. “Seventy-seven years, I think.”

“You look so young and pretty though,” Niffty exclaimed.

He smiled at her. A genuine one. She was adorable, and she seemed so innocent. She had to be very young. “Thank you, Niffty. I was young when I died.”

“Me too,” the girl said, sadly. Then she laughed maniacally and whispered something to Alastor when she was done with that. She climbed down and skipped out of the room.

“Anyway! So what brought you here to the hotel, Angel,” Charlie asked brightly.

“I, uh, read about it in tha newspaper.”

Angel heard the cat next to him scoff quietly. He turned his head to the bartender. Charlie was busy gushing to Vaggie about how she was right about putting the Hotel on the news and in the paper. Angel realized Husk was watching him when he looked over. His face didn’t give anything away but Angel knew what he’d heard. He narrowed his eyes slightly at the cat and then looked over at Alastor.

The Radio Demon had caught the exchange. He stood from his chair and straightened his coat.

“Husker, my good man. I need to speak with you. Please, join me at the bar.”

Husk grumbled but got to his feet to follow. No one commented on it which told Angel it wasn’t a strange occurrence. He wondered if Husk was under Alastor’s thumb too. How many people here were working for Alastor? What was the demon’s plan? There had to be more going on here than Angel could currently see.

That was alright. Angel had plenty of ways to get information.

He focused back on Charlie who was talking to the whole group now. “This is fantastic you guys! We’ve got a third resident now!”

“Wait, wait.” Angel held a hand up in denial. “I am not movin in here. I like my house.”

“Oh! You aren't planning to stay here? I just thought…” Charlie trailed off, her gaze slipping over to Alastor.

“Sorry, dollface but unlike some overlords I'm a very busy demon. I own brothels, clubs’n sex dungeons throughout Pentagram City’n Imp City. As well as tha Spider Web porn company, a course.”

“How doesss sssomeone like you own all of that,” Pentious hissed out.

He grinned at the snake, putting plenty of sass into it. “Wouldn’t ya like ta know? Do ya want a private tour a my… estates?” He bit his lower lip.

“Ew. Grossss. I’d never.”

He caught the little smirk that popped up on Petunia’s face. She covered it with a quick cough.

“Sooo… Angel. Would you like to join us tonight? We’ll be playing card games as a group activity,” Charlie informed him.

“I can’t tonight.” The shadows next to him produced Alastor suddenly. Angel actually started. He was rarely surprised by anyone. 

The demon looked down at him with that creepy grin. “Surely you would find it useful to participate in Charlie’s activities , Angel.”

“I am sure that I would. Unfortunately, I have a previous engagement that I can’t get out a. I already promised ta be there fa Vel’s gala tonight.”

Alastor’s face glitched twice. “I wasn’t aware that you were so close to her.”

Angel smiled up at the demon. He hadn’t done his homework on Angel well enough. “Vox is my date.”

Alastor tilted his head to the side. “What did you say?” His voice had static in it when he spoke.

Angel stood from the couch and looked at the demon. He might have to be here but nothing about their deal said Alastor would be allowed to question his personal life. “There a problem with that?”

Alastor’s eyes narrowed but then he merely laughed. “Of course not, my fine fellow! Enjoy your night!”

Angel picked his coat up off of the back of the couch. “Sorry ta run so soon, Charlie. Some jackass interrupted my day yesterday though, so I need ta make up some work before tha gala tonight.” He knew he was being rude but Alastor’s attempts to control him would always be met with pushback. No one pushed Angel around. Not anymore. He glared at Alastor before stepping around him. 

“Oh, ok! Well, it was nice to meet you,” Charlie called out to his back.

He pushed his way through the front door of the hotel and stood next to his bike. He took two deep breaths before he felt the door open behind him. He turned his head to see the bartender meandering towards him. He let out a low whistle.

“That’s nice.”

Angel was still irritated but he gave the cat a fake smile. “Thanks. I built her myself.”

Husk circled the bike, taking it all in before he stopped next to Angel who was all too aware of his close proximity. He didn’t look up at Angel when he spoke. “She’s beautiful.” He was silent for a moment but Angel knew he wanted to say something so he waited. “You should be careful.”

He looked up at Angel who knew that Husk wasn’t talking about the bike. Something in his gaze told Angel he was saying more than he dared to outloud.

“I know what I’m doin.”

“Yeah. I thought I did too before I crashed and burned. Riding a bike is more dangerous than you know.” Husk gave him a sad smile. “It would be a shame if you crashed and burned too. You don’t want to end up like me.”

Angel gave him an irritated look. He wasn’t just any demon. He was an overlord. He wasn’t afraid of Alastor. He knew the stories about him but Angel would never be stupid enough to make another deal with Alastor ever again. The first one had only been out of desperation. He didn’t intend to ever be that vulnerable again.

“Listen, thanks fa tha advice, Husk. I think I can handle myself though.”

“Ok. Well, I’ve been riding for a long time so if you ever want advice you know where to find me.” With that the demon sauntered back towards the hotel. He watched the demon's retreat until he disappeared back into the building.

Angel shook his head and climbed back onto his bike as he put his sunglasses back on. He revved her a few times before he took off. He didn’t go straight to his next destination. He took a ride around the city first. He got lost in the sweet feeling of adrenaline he got from riding his bike too fast through the city’s streets.

He didn’t avoid heavily trafficked areas nor did he stick to the good roads. He liked riding too fast in the streets that required him to use his lightning fast reflexes. He didn’t usually display them, as fighting was something he avoided, but on the bike he could take them to their limits. The squealing of his tires, the feeling of lifting off of the ground when he jumped something, the need to almost put his bike on its side when he took corners that fast. It was his guilty pleasure. The only one he allowed himself anymore.

Eventually he made his way back to his house. He rushed inside after texting Lucia and quickly changed into another suit jacket and skirt set. Greta bullied him into eating a sandwich while he waited for his assistant and driver. He gave Nuggs some attention, sneaking him little pieces of his sandwich when Greta wasn’t looking.

Once Lucia and Andre arrived he took off again. It was a busy day visiting the other brothels. Angel was tired but happy by the end of it. Overall, his houses were doing very well. There was a customer he would have to send some bruisers after. He’d been warned about his behavior with the house boys before. Angel was past warning him. The spider took the protection of his workers seriously. The demon was lucky that he would be allowed to revive.

He gave himself plenty of time to get ready for the gala. He changed his makeup into something more dramatic and mature. Vox liked the look on him. The gloves Velvette had supplied him with came to his upper arms and the white heels had 7 inch stilettos plus way too many straps. Sometimes he wondered if it gave her a kick to make him so much taller than Vox. Or perhaps Vox asked her to. He clearly had a preference in his men.

Angel pulled out the Aston Martin tonight. The 1965 DB5 was his newest acquisition. The teal beauty was a convertible model though so Angel put his sunglasses on and wrapped his hair in a pink scarf he kept in the glove compartment.

He only drove a little less fast in the car.

He pulled up to the tower to the flashing of lights and the hurled questions from the paparazzi. He pulled his scarf and glasses off and tucked them into the center console before he got out and allowed the Vees’ valet to take it away. Only after the demon had slid into his car had Angel turned to the media.

He waved at them, calling out greetings to specific ones as he passed them by. The reporters loved Angel. Someone called out, asking him if they could get pictures of him in his dress. He turned towards them and posed a few times. He felt an arm snake around his waist and looked down to see Vox beside him smiling at the crowd. He’d known the demon was there before he touched Angel.

Angel had turned his pheromones on the moment he’d stepped out of his car. Most of it was directed at Vox but a subtle amount of it was directed at the crowd of reporters. He smiled at the TV Demon and ran a hand down his vest before turning back to the cameras. He allowed them to take several minutes worth of pictures of Vox and him before he turned away.

He took the arm Vox offered him as they began their trek up to the tower. They fielded questions the whole way up as they charmed the crowd together. Between Angel’s pheromones and Vox’s hypnotizing eye the crowd never had any chance against them. Not that Vox knew Angel was helping. No one knew about Angel’s pheromones. He hadn’t even confided in Cherri about them.

He let Vox lead him into the building. There were still cameras in here but Vox only allowed certain members of the media into his tower. It was a privilege for them to be a part of any event the Vees held. They fought for it. Vox loved to let them.

The much smaller group stood around them taking photos and asking questions.

“Is that one of Velvette’s dresses, Angel?”

“A course,” he replied before slowly spinning around. “I wouldn’t dare dream a wearing anotha designa ta Velvette’s show. She is tha best, afterall.”

“It’s a gorgeous dress!”

“And doesn’t he just look amazing in it,” Vox asked the crowd.

There were agreements all around before one of the reporters did something that really annoyed Angel. 

“When are you going to make an honest man of him, Vox?”

The TV Demon’s screen glitched as his face froze. Angel hated it when they asked stuff like that. It only served to irritate Vox.

“Now, Shirley,” Angel started before Vox was forced to answer. “Ya never get tired a that question do ya?” He took Vox’s hand. “Ya know we don’t answer those kinds a questions. Come on, dear.” He pulled Vox with him, cutting the questions short prematurely. He knew the other reporters would rip that one a new hole. Possibly literally. She had cost them their normal alone time with the pair.

Vox was silent until they were in the elevator and out of the view of the cameras. Angel could tell he was irritated but he didn’t express that. Instead he pulled on Angel’s hand and brought him flush to the TV’s body while wrapping one arm around his waist.

“You look divine, Angel.”

“Thank you. Ya lookin pretty nice yourself.” Angel ran his hands across the top of the demon’s shoulders. While he didn’t think Vox was terrible looking, he just felt no attraction to the man. He would never tell Vox that though.

Vox’s hand slid across Angel’s naked back. He shivered. He knew by Vox’s smile that the demon assumed he had a much different effect on the spider than he actually did. He ran his other hand across Angel’s shoulder and down onto his arm.

“You could stay tonight.”

“Ya already know I won’t.”

“Why not?”

He pulled back from him a bit. “Ya know I don’t do that anymore.”

“Angel, it’s been a decade. Do you plan to never have sex again?”

He pulled entirely away from the demon. “I don't know, Vox. Maybe. Ya already know it's got nothin ta do with ya. I ain’t fuckin anyone.” They stared at each other for a moment before Angel looked away. “Nobody’s stoppin ya from fuckin anyone ya want ta, Vox.”

He didn’t answer. They both knew Vox was fucking whoever he wanted to. He never brought his lovers around Angel but he knew they existed. Angel really didn’t care, but Vox did. He would fuck whoever he wanted if he needed to but it was Angel he really wanted in his bed. Vox wasn’t even entirely to blame. Angel’s pheromones had produced a strange effect on the overlord over time.

Initially when Angel had used them the overlord came on strongly, trying to get Angel into his bed at every opportunity. Over time though, he’d begun to respect Angel’s desire to avoid sex, for the most part. He’d begun to treat Angel less like a whore and more like an adored lover. Angel wasn’t entirely sure he even needed to use his powers against the demon anymore. He was afraid to find out what would happen if he stopped. He was afraid of what it would eventually turn into if he didn’t.

“I’m sorry I asked, Angel.”

“I’m sorry I can’t give ya what ya want, Vox.” He found he meant it when he said that. How much easier would his afterlife be if he just wanted Vox back? 

It wasn’t a matter of love. Angel knew he would never love Vox, or anyone else, for that matter. It was the fact that he could barely stand it when anyone touched him. He had tried after Val was dead but he couldn’t do it.

They both plastered smiles back on their faces as they exited the elevator. They would forget about this conversation, just like all the other ones, and continue to live in denial with one another. It was what they did best.

Chapter Text

It's just a little crush

Not like I faint every time we touch - Jennifer Paige

Angel dressed differently this morning. He didn't show his body off this way often anymore but he knew Alastor wouldn't like it and that was a point in Angel's favor.

He pulled on tall pink boots that had black lacing up the front. Then he pulled out a black dress that left little to the imagination. The halter neck came up high, covering his fluff. Pink ribbon went down both sides of his fluff, tying the dress together. Little bits of his fur could be seen where it laced up both sides. But that was the least bit of skin showing off. The entire sides of the dress were missing. It was only held together by thick pink elastic strips. It was also barely long enough to cover all of his goods and did not cover his upper back at all.

He went heavy on the black makeup and a pink lip to match his outfit. He hadn't felt so sexy in a long time. He knew his looks hadn't changed, it was his mind that was the problem.

Greta took one look at him and launched into a tirade.

“You look like hooker! You go back to streets today? Going to sell your body at one of your whorehouses? Where the rest of your clothes Anton?”

“Be quiet, Greta. I don't recall asking ya decrepit ass fa fashion advice.”

Greta raised her arms. “Fine. Leave looking like street walker. See if Greta cares.”

He rolled his eyes at her. “Can I get some coffee, Greta? Ya know, it's not that hard ta have it ready fa me when I get here.”

“Then make it yourself, street walker.”

He smirked at her. “Ya already said that one, ya old biddy. Gettin a little senile in ya old age?”

“Floozy! Harlot! Jezebel!”

“That's tha spirit, Greta. Can I please have my coffee now?” He batted his lashes at her and she rolled her eyes. She brought him coffee though.

He drank it while he watched her make his omelet. He wasn't sure what he'd do without the old bat. He would surely never feed himself half as well as she did.

“Is Nuggs with Talouse again?”

“Pig is fine!”

“I want ta take him with me this morning.”

She grunted. “He is with Talouse.”

“Thank ya, Greta.”

He ate his breakfast silently as he contemplated his day. When he was done at the hotel he had a full day of shooting on his schedule. Which meant a trip to the tower. He'd forced Vox to remodel the studio before he'd been willing to step back into it. He couldn't deny how convenient it was to film there but he hadn't been able to stand looking at his old room. He hadn't been able to step into the studio with it looking the way it had. 

It looked nothing like it used to. 

Angel grabbed a leash and collar for Nuggs and got him all set to go before joining Andre at the car. He'd told Lucia to head over to the tower without him and get things ready for the day.

He instructed Andre to wait for him until he was done and then made his way inside. He knew he was early but he was surprised to find the front of the hotel empty aside from the bartender. He made his way over, Nuggs trailing him. Husk noticed him quickly and stopped cleaning the glass he was working on to openly stare at Angel.

His face was impossible to read. He looked just as grumpy as ever. He clearly noticed Angel’s outfit today though. Angel picked up Fat Nuggets and sat down on a stool.

“Good morning, Huska.”

“Morning. Husk is fine by the way. Who is that?”

“This is my baby. Fat Nuggets.” He lifted Nuggs enough for the pig to place his front feet up on the bar.

“He's cute.”

Angel kissed the top of the pig’s head. “Yes, he is. Where is everyone?”

“I imagine they're all dragging ass this morning. Most of them were up pretty late. They'll be here soon.”

He felt someone behind him and turned to see the rag doll girl standing there, wide eyed. She froze and then hurried away into the living room. 

“What's her deal,” Angel asked Husk. 

“I don't know yet. She's even quieter than you. Pretty skittish too. Did you want a drink?”

Angel raised an eyebrow. “Ain't it awfully early?” Husk shrugged and took a drink from the bottle he'd been opening. “No thanks.”

“Suit yourself. This is going to be less boring for me than it is for you.”

“I'm not here to be entertained.”

Husk looked him in the eyes. “I know why you're here.”

Angel was saved from answering by Charlie. He looked away from Husk when he felt the princess approach. 

“Angel! Good morning! I'm so glad you came back!”

He gave her a friendly smile. “Did ya think I wouldn't?”

“Well,” she hedged, “Alastor wasn't exactly, um, welcoming. Yesterday.”

“Don't worry, doll. I don't scare off that easily. I'm used ta Alastor.”

“Yeah! Have you known him a long time?”

“Not a real long time. About a decade.”

Angel got up and Charlie got a good look at Fat Nuggets.

“Oh my God! Look at that. He's so cute!”

“This is Fat Nuggets. I hope it's ok I brought him.”

“Of course!”

Alastor coalesced into existence next to Charlie. Angel wasn't startled this time. He'd already learned the change in air pressure that occurred when the Radio Demon appeared. It was similar to the electricity that preceded Vox’s appearances. It felt cold instead of electric but it was the same concept. 

“Mornin Alastor.”

“Good morning, Angel.” The demon took in Angel's outfit. The disdain on his face was loud and clear. “Do you think I could speak to Angel alone for a moment, my dear?”

“Oh, um, sure! I'll just go get things set up!” 

Charlie wandered off but Angel noticed Husk stayed behind the bar. Alastor didn't seem to care if the cat overheard them. Angel was very sure in that moment that Alastor owned Husk. 

“Whaddya want, Smiles?”

“I wanted to ask about your date last night.”

“What about him?”

“What exactly is the nature of your relationship with Vox?”

“Hah! Oh, did ya want ta trade fa information, Al? I'll tell ya all about it if ya tell me what ya really doin at this hotel.”

Alastor narrowed his eyes at the spider as he leaned onto his cane. “I did a little more research into where you are these days, my friend. I was surprised to find that you have taken over Valentnio’s role, in more ways than one.”

Angel knew that Alastor was trying to get a rise out of him. He smiled nicely at the demon as he allowed his pheromones to eek out. He directed them specifically at the deer and watched for signs that he felt them. It took a little longer than normal but he noticed the slight widening of the pupils. 

Alastor stood straight, confusion in his face as he took another look up and down Angel. 

“Careful, Smiles. I might just start ta think ya jealous a all tha attention I give ta Vox. Are ya feelin left out?” He purred the question at Alastor who recoiled at the suggestion. 

“Hah. Hardly.”

“Then I'm not real sure why ya so worried about what Vox’n I do togetha.”

“That second rate demon is a nuisance.”

He turned his pheromones up just a bit as he spoke to Alastor. He was careful not to do it too harshly. His experience with Vox had taught him that sharp demons, such as Alastor, had to be handled carefully. He didn't want him to pick up on the fact that Angel was messing with him. 

Angel nodded. “I'm sure he feels tha same way about you. Don't see what that's got ta do with me though. You boys can duke it out all ya want. But how about ya leave little ol me out a it.” He ran the back of his hand up his neck to the underside of his jaw in a flirty gesture.

Alastor quietly contemplated Angel before he spoke, his smiling face unreadable. “I suppose it doesn't have anything to do with you. But remember, my dear, you aren't to talk about our deal with anyone. That includes your paramour.”

With that he turned his back on Angel to join Charlie in the living room. Angel turned his pheromones off as he dropped the flirty stance. He didn't actually want Alastor to be attracted to him. That would be a whole mess he didn't need. 

“Wow,” Husk whispered loudly. “How did you do that?”

Angel looked over to see the cat gawking at him. He gave the demon a carefully neutral face. “Ain't got no idea what ya talkin about.”

“Uh huh. If you say so.”

“I say so. If’n I was you I'd keep those thoughts ta yaself. Ya don't want ta see what I'm really capable of.”

Husk held his hands up in defense. “I ain't saying shit to that asshole.”

Angel didn't respond. He just walked away from the bartender. He couldn't pinpoint what it was about the cat but he made Angel feel more uneasy than Alastor did. 

So he found himself a little annoyed when the cat settled himself in next to Angel on the couch he'd chosen. He'd sat on the opposite end of the couch Petunia was seated on. Husk made himself comfortable between them. 

Angel chose to ignore him and was surprised to find Fat Nuggets kept trying to get closer to the demon. Normally he was shy around other males. Angel suspected that the pig recalled Valentino's treatment of them. Angel certainly had it etched in his mind.

As the other members of the hotel joined them Angel eventually gave up and allowed Nuggs to climb out of his lap. He settled himself between the two of them and Husk rewarded him with scratches.

“Good morning everyone! I hope you all slept well. I've got a great activity for this morning! I thought since we have a new participant that we could play a little game to get to know each other a little better!” 

Angel inwardly rolled his eyes but merely smiled at the princess. 

“So we're going to do some speed dating! Well, it's like speed dating. But for friends! Speed friending! We'll pair off and spend three minutes talking and asking questions. Every time the timer goes off we'll all switch!”

Silence met the princess’ declaration. Angel thought it was one of the dumbest ideas he'd ever heard but he didn't really have a choice in the matter. No point in complaining. 

Vaggie stood next to Charlie, glaring at them all. “Come on! Let's go people. Pentious and Angel, Husk and Petunia, Charlie with Niffty, and I'll start with Alastor.” Her voice and face dared them to argue but none of them did. 

Angel left Nuggs on the couch and moved over to stand with Sir Pentious. The snake regarded him with suspicious eyes. Angel returned the look. 

“Ssso, ssspider. Umm.” The snake scratched his head. Clearly at a loss for how to start. 

“Ya name sounds familiar. What do ya do down here?”

“I build thingsss with the help of my egg boisss! I am an inventor!” He held one hand to his chest and pointed into the air. He was clearly proud of his inventions.

Angel stared at him a moment and then he realized where he'd heard the name before. He snapped his fingers. 

“You're tha edge lord!”

The demon looked offended. “Excussse me?”

“My friend, Cherri, she's mentioned ya before.”

The snake’s eyes got big and shiny. “Cherri Bomb? You know Msss Bomb.”

“She's my best friend.”

“Oh, uh. I wasssn't exspecting thisss.”

He genuinely seemed confused which confused Angel. He was under the impression that Cherri had fought the demon on several occasions and won all of their battles. Maybe that made him feel awkward?

They stared at each other awkwardly for a minute. 

“Perhapsss you might introdussse usss sssometime?”

Angel gave the snake an amused smile. That was kind of adorable. Cherri would eat him up and spit him out. It might be fun to watch. 

“Sure. I could maybe do that.”

Charlie's timer went off and they were shuffled around so he found himself with Niffty. She sat staring at him without blinking. It was creeping him out a bit.

“So, ya clean here?”

“Yeah! I kill all the bugs!” She laughed maniacally again and pulled a large needle out of her pocket. “They're icky.”

“Uh huh.” He eyed her needle while he tried to think of anything to say to the weird girl. “So what else do ya like, besides killin bugs?”

“I like cleaning! Oh! And bad boys !” She giggled.

“Is that why ya like Alastor?”

“Yes! He's the baddest boy.” She stopped smiling. “You don't like him, do you?”

Angel shrugged. “I don't hate him.”

“He told me about you.” Angel felt uneasy about that. He was afraid to ask what Al might have told the tiny demon about him. Which was apparently fine because Niffty kept going. “I thought you were a lady. He said you're a boy though. Are you a boy?”

“Uh, yep. I am a boy.”

“Then why are you so pretty? Only girls are supposed to be so pretty.”

He tried to suppress a smile but it was difficult. She was just too cute, even if she was possibly insane…

“I don't know, Nif. If ya figure it out will ya let me know?”

“Sure thing, Angel!”

The timer went off again and this time he found himself with Charlie. Who had no problem with talking. In fact, Angel barely got a word in. She was too busy chattering about how excited she was to have him there and all the plans she had for helping the inhabitants of the hotel. 

When the timer went off again, he was pretty sure he'd only said a few words. He found himself with Vaggie next. She spent a solid minute glaring at him before she spoke.

“I don't trust you.”

“Ok.”

“Why are you really here?”

“Why are you so bitchy?”

“I don't trust Alastor and the fact that you know him is suspicious enough. I know he doesn't believe in Charlie's dream but I do.”

He looked around them. They had all spread out enough that he was fairly sure that no one could hear him.

“I think ya need ta calm ya tits, suga. I ain't here ta fuck with anyone.”

“I know Alastor is up to no good and I don't believe two overlords being here is a coincidence.”

“Al is neva up ta any good. Don't see what that's got ta do with me.”

“Are you working with him against the hotel?”

Angel laughed tersely. “Toots, I have much betta things ta do with my time than plot with tha Radio Demon. I am here ta participate’n see if redemption is possible. That's it.”

He was relieved when it was time to change partners again. Vaggie was intense and while Angel wasn't plotting with Al, he was here at his command. He knew the demon had plans that Angel wasn't privy to. Frankly, he didn't want to know what the demon was doing.

He found himself with said demon next. They stood there in silence, watching the other demons awkwardly talk to one another. They didn't speak the whole three minutes.

He found himself with Petunia next. She seemed nervous but he didn't think it had anything to do with him. 

“So, um…” She started speaking softly and Angel had to lean in to hear her. “What's it like to be an overlord?”

That was the first interesting thing anyone had said all morning.

“It's got its good points. Nobody messes with ya. Except otha overlords. But it's a lot a work if ya botha ta take care a ya souls.”

“Is that important to you? Taking care of them?”

Angel studied her before answering. She was difficult to read but he didn't get a sense of malice from her. 

“I know what it's like ta be taken care a by someone who don't treat anyone well. I refuse ta be that fa anyone else.”

“Do all of your souls have sex for a living?”

Angel put a hand on her shoulder, very briefly. “Don't do it.”

She looked at him with a wide eye. “D-do what?”

“Sell ya soul. It ain't worth it.” She seemed to shrink in on herself a bit. “But if ya decide that ya need ta fa some reason. Just.. choose carefully. And, no, they don’t all have sex.”

She looked away from Angel to where Alastor was laughing with Niffty. “I won't make the same mistake twice,” she whispered. “Thanks, Angel.”

So Angel found himself with the bartender last. Husk had wandered over with Nuggs in his arms, holding him out to Angel. He quickly took the pig, unable to avoid touching the cat entirely. Their magic tried to reach out like it had the other day and he pulled away as fast as he could.

This time the bartender didn't seem to notice, or he was good at hiding it. Angel wasn't sure which. They watched the other demons, just like he had with Alastor. Husk, though, wasn't quiet.

“So Vox, huh?”

“I guess,” Angel replied, unsure why he didn't give him the same answer he did everyone else.

He could hear the amusement in Husk’s voice. “You're not sure?”

“It's not what people think it is.”

“Oh? What is it then?”

“No one's business but mine,” Angel snapped, irritated that his heart was beating faster than normal at the cat's line of questioning.

“Fair enough. Just wanted to know if I would have to worry about a jealous boyfriend if I asked you to dinner.”

Angel's face heated up as he turned his eyes to Husk. The cat was still watching the others with a little smirk on his face. 

“I'm not goin ta dinna with ya.”

“I didn't ask you to.”

“You just-”

“I said, if I asked you. I haven't asked.”

Angel looked away again, refusing to let his embarrassment show outwardly. “It's complicated.”

“Dinner is complicated?”

“No. Vox is.”

“I see.” 

They were silent for a bit before Angel responded. He wasn't sure why he even felt the need to explain himself to the cat. It didn't matter what he thought or wanted. Angel wasn't interested. He was never interested.

“Vox would be jealous but it's not his business if I see anyone. It don't matta though. I don't do that anymore.”

“You don't have dinner?”

Angel rolled his eyes. “I don't date.”

“Dinner isn't dating someone. Friends can have dinner.”

“We ain't friends, Whiskas.”

“We could be.”

“Why would I want ta be friends with ya?” He carefully kept his face and voice neutral despite the tension he felt waiting for the demon's reply.

“Never know when it might come in handy to have a friend who's been riding a motorcycle as long as I have.”

Angel's gaze drifted over to Alastor. The demon was watching Angel, who wasn't surprised by that at all. Alastor was already starting to be a problem. Angel felt sure he could handle the demon but he also was aware that it would be stupid to outright turn down Husk's offer at this point. 

Did he really even want to turn him down?

“Fine. We can be friends. But I ain't dating ya.” He wasn't sure if that warning was more for himself or Husk.

The timer went off and Angel didn't wait for a reply.

He left the hotel shortly after that. His day was just too busy for him to devote any more time to it today. Alastor hadn’t been pleased but Angel wasn’t entirely sure what he expected from the spider. Alastor might not be a busy overlord but Angel took a direct interest in everything that he owned.

Andre drove him to the tower and Angel hurried inside. He was eager to get started with his day. He preferred to spread the shooting days out and do as many as he could in one day. Unlike when Val had been in charge, though, Angel didn’t work any one particular actor hard. All of his actors had control over what acts they participated in and who they were willing to fuck.

That was important to Angel.

His phone pinged as he rode the elevator up. It was a message from Vox asking about lunch together. Angel knew the overlord’s eyes could be on him at any time. So he put a smile on as he sent a message letting him know that it was fine as long as they didn’t leave the tower. He was too busy to go out today.

He got right to work when he arrived. They managed to film more than he had anticipated by time lunch rolled around. Everything was going smoothly today. For which he was glad after the way his morning had gone. He left Lucia in charge of Nuggs, the pig didn’t particularly like Vox so Angel tried not to have them around each other often.

He made his way to Vox’s office inside the tower. They usually ate there when they stayed in. Sure enough, Vox had food waiting for them. Italian, Angel’s favorite. He felt wary of that. Not that Vox couldn’t ever be sweet if he wanted to, but he usually had a reason for everything he did.

“Angel, baby! That dress is nice. Not your usual attire.”

“Not anymore.”

“Yes, well. It suits you.”

Angel sat on Vox’s desk and picked up his take out box. “Thank you. How is ya day goin?”

Vox’s screen glitched heavily and his layered broken voice came out. “It’s been an interesting day.”

“Oh?”

“Angel, dear. Did you know Alastor was back?”

Angel froze for a moment then continued eating his food. He remained relaxed. “I did know that.”

Vox’s claws dug into his desk and spoke through gritted teeth. “You didn’t think to tell me that, sweetheart?”

Angel turned to look at the TV demon. “I ain’t got beef with tha radio demon. I don’t want ta be in tha middle a whateva ya got goin on with him.” He turned his pheromones up as he spoke.

Vox leaned back in his chair and studied Angel. “What, exactly, are you doing at that fucking hotel with him?”

“Are ya watchin me again? Ya know I hate that, Vox.”

Vox cleared his throat. “It wasn’t intentional, darling. I am interested to know why you didn’t tell me you were going there.”

He put his food down and stood up to look down at the demon. “Ya know I don’t tell ya everything. That’s not how we work.”

“You know Alastor and I have a tense fucking history. I don’t want to see you get caught up in that.”

“I ain’t workin with Alastor and I ain’t workin against ya.” Angel crossed his arms. “Ya either have ta trust that or we’re done here.”

Vox stood up and came around the desk to rub his hands up and down Angel’s top set of arms. He knew it was meant to soothe him so he made a concentrated effort to stay relaxed under the demon’s touch.

“Don’t worry, Angel. I’m not going to get in the way of whatever you have going on there. Not on purpose but I won’t hold back against Alastor just because you’re friends with him.”

“We ain’t friends but I don’t hate him tha way you do.”

“Of course. Please sit back down and eat. We can talk about something else.”

Angel picked his food up and sat in one of the chairs in front of Vox’s desk. He knew the demon noticed the distance he put between them. Angel turned the pheromones up just a bit more. He knew exactly how to keep Vox wanting him while simultaneously worrying about pissing Angel off too much.

The demon smiled at him as he sat back down to join him in eating. After a few minutes Angel decided to start a conversation back up. He couldn’t fathom why he started it the way he did.

“I got asked out ta dinna today.”

Vox’s attention snapped back to Angel. “People ask you out all the time. You don’t usually mention it. Are you considering going?”

“He assured me it wasn’t a date. He just wants ta be friends.”

Vox laughed. “I somehow doubt that, Angel.”

Angel glared at him. “Not everyone wants ta just get me in bed.”

“You know I don’t just want you in my bed, Angel. I don’t trust a man who says he doesn’t want to fuck you though. I don’t think you should entertain someone like that.”

Angel raised an eyebrow at him. “Exactly how many people are ya fuckin right now Vox?”

The demon didn’t answer, he just deflected. “You’re planning to fuck him?”

“You know I don’t do that. That is not my point eitha. I don’t say anything about ya dalliances. If I want ta let an attractive man take me ta dinna then I will.”

“Attractive? I thought this wasn’t a date?”

Angel leveled a look at Vox. “I just wanted ta let ya know. I know ya watch me on ya cameras. Don’t botha ta deny it. I’ve known ya fa a long time, Vox. I know ya been watching me since Val brought me home. I know that no matta how many times I express my annoyance with it ya won’t stop. It’s how ya made. So if ya see me out with someone then you will keep ya opinions ta yaself.”

Vox’s smile was strained but he nodded. “I wouldn’t dream of interfering with you seeing another man, Angel.”

They both knew that Vox was lying but, like with everything else, they pretended he wasn’t.

Chapter Text

Here inside my quiet hell

You cannot hear my cries for help - Skylar Grey

Ten Years Ago

The first thing Angel learned after he killed Val was that he could become invisible. 

When he left the tower he could only think of one place to go. Cherri’s. He headed in that direction, barely noticing what was going on around him. When he arrived she wasn’t home but Angel knew how to get into her place.

Cherri lived on the top floor. Her window wasn’t that far down from the roof and she never left it locked. He made his way up to the roof and climbed down into her place. He put Fat Nuggets down before wrapping Val’s wings up and shoving them in his bag with the rest of his stuff.

He tossed the bag into Cherri’s room then took a long hot shower. It took so much soap and water to get all the blood off of him. The water was cold well before he got out. He didn’t care though. He wanted every single bit of Valentino washed off of him.

He took the blessed knife into the shower with him. He planned to never go anywhere without it again. He was certain he was now going to spend the rest of eternity looking over his shoulder until the other Vees finally killed him. They would have to kill him. Angel was a threat now. He’d taken out their partner and stolen all of his souls.

Angel could feel the power inside of him but he had no idea how it worked. He had no idea how it would change him. Surely he’d be blessed with powers like the other overlords had been. It was so different for all of them though. Angel couldn’t begin to guess what his might look like.

Finally satisfied that he’d gotten all of the blood off, he got out of the shower. He found some clean clothes in his bag and dressed in a pair of leather pants and tank top. He threw a large hoodie over that. He felt too exposed already to wear something skimpy. 

He’d burn his bloody clothes later.

He sat down on the couch in Cherri’s living room and stared at the wall. He’d felt intense hatred and rage earlier, but now all he felt was numb. He couldn’t fucking believe he’d done it. He couldn’t believe he’d killed Valentino.

He couldn’t believe he’d made a deal with the Radio Demon. He hadn’t known what to expect when he’d contacted the overlord. The deal had been a no brainer. He owed the Radio Demon a favor of his choosing. Angel couldn’t deny him anything except he’d refused to harm anyone he loved. Considering the only two things he loved were Cherri and Fat Nuggets, it hadn’t been a dealbreaker for Alastor. The demon hadn't had a problem with any of Angel's stipulations, actually. It worried him but not enough to stop him from making the deal.

He’d produced the blessed blade for Angel. He’d even manufactured distractions for the other two Vees so that Angel could do the deed without interruption. 

Angel didn’t give a fuck what Alastor asked him to do in return. He’d try to kill Lucifer if that was the favor. Even if he double died in the process it would be better than spending eternity under Valentino. It was irrelevant in any case. That was a problem for the future. If he even lived long enough to repay the favor. First he needed to figure out how to survive longer than a few hours.

He had no idea how he was going to do that.

Eventually he got up from the couch and wandered into Cherri’s room. Nuggs followed him and Angel lifted the pig up onto the bed with him before laying down. He stared blankly at the wall as he drifted out of consciousness. 

He came awake to the sound of someone breaking open a door. He heard it burst open and smash into the wall. He sat up quickly, pulling Nuggs to him as he squeezed himself against the wall at the head of the bed. Terror pounded through his chest with every hard beat of his heart.

He could hear people tearing through things. His heart hammered in his chest. The door to the bedroom wasn’t even closed. All they had to do was walk by…

Angel closed his eyes, desperately thinking. Please don’t come in here. Don’t find me. Don’t see me. I’m not here. Go away. When he opened his eyes again, a demon stood in the doorway looking directly at him.

Angel froze. He couldn’t even take a breath. He was too scared.

The demon’s gaze turned this way and that. He moved into the room and quickly began tossing things around. He looked under Cherri’s bed and stood up. He frowned but left the room.

“Nobody in there. Maybe he left already?”

“Vox was sure he was still here and these got to be his bloody clothes. Maybe he’s hiding?”

“Fucking where? This shit hole is tiny. There isn’t anywhere for him to hide.”

“Yeah, I get that. But do you want to be the one to tell Vox he was wrong?”

“Maybe we should wait here for him to show back up? I don’t wanna go see Vox empty handed.”

“Hey, look at this. Ain’t that Cherri Bomb in these photos?”

“Who is that?”

“She’s the girl always blowing everything up around here. Sometimes she targets other territories when she gets bored but I think this is her main stomping ground. Maybe we should just leave.”

“You’re afraid of a tiny girl with one eye?”

“Dude you don’t know what you’re talking about. Vox might kill us, but he’s usually quick about those things. I don’t wanna get blown to bits. Seems painful. Probably takes longer to recover.”

“Why don’t we just call him.”

“Have at it, man.”

Angel could hear a phone ringing. He was petrified. His body refused to move even as he wished to be anywhere else. He had no idea how that demon had missed him. Were his eyes as shit as Val’s used to be? The light in the bedroom wasn’t great but Angel was white… he wasn’t difficult to see in the darkness.

“What?”

“Uh, Mr. Vox, sir. We’re at the apartment.”

“Good. Did you find the little bitch?”

“No, sir. The apartment is empty.”

“There is no fucking way! I saw him go in there. He hasn’t come out. FUCKING FIND HIM! I want that fucking bitch and want him now! Search the whole building if you have to!”

He hung up on the demons. There was silence for several minutes.

“You heard him.” The other demon sighed and Angel heard them retreat from the apartment. It took him several minutes to make his body respond to his desire to flee.

He finally hopped out of the bed and crept carefully to the bedroom door. Peeking around the corner, he could see that the demons had truly left. He rushed over to his boots and put them on before retrieving his bag and making a quick exit from the building.

He didn't see the two demons again but he had heard some shouting from another apartment on his way out. Seemed they were actually going to search the whole place. Guilt clawed at his insides. How could he have been so stupid to come to Cherri’s place? He knew Vox had access to all the cameras in the city. Or at least, he got the impression the overlord did. In either case, he was a shit friend for bringing this trouble to Cherri’s door. Or her lack of one now. He needed to find her and warn her before she came home.

With nowhere else to go, Angel wandered down the street, trying to think of all the places he could look for her. Flashes of Val’s empty eyes kept scrolling across his brain, interrupting his thoughts. He kept pushing them away, afraid he would break down on the street if he let himself dwell now.

He had his hood up and his head down, hoping no one would recognize him. He grunted every time someone ran into him but he paid little mind to their complaints. It was after the fifth time someone did this that he became irritated enough to stop and look up. He was ready to throw fists. That is, until he realized the demon was looking around in confusion. He was looking right through Angel.

The spider lifted a hand in front of the demon's face, waving it around. The demon grunted in annoyance and continued on his way. What the actual fuck?

He looked down at himself. He looked normal. He looked up at the window of the shop in front of him. Except he wasn't there. He had no reflection. He couldn't see Nuggs or his bag either. He touched his face. Yeah, he was still there.

Well. That was convenient. He smiled to himself. Of all the powers he could have developed, this was by far the most useful one to have at the moment. It would keep him off of Vox’s radar at least.

Now he could make plans. And distract himself from his thoughts.

The first thing he did was remove the battery from his phone. He wasn't sure of the extent of Vox's powers when it came to tech but he wasn't taking any chances on a phone that had been provided by the TV demon.

He walked around until he stumbled upon a store that sold phones. He waited patiently for someone to enter the store and filed in behind them. He might be invisible but he was sure someone would notice him opening the door. He snagged a phone from the rack and waited until the demon left again, slipping out with him. 

He found his way to an empty alley where he sat on the ground. He kept hold of Nuggs, afraid he would wander off, while he set his new phone up. He couldn't call Cherri, she was unlikely to answer the new unknown number. So he texted her. 

Cher, I need you to call me at this number. 911

He waited impatiently for his phone to start buzzing. He'd put it on vibrate, afraid the noise of its ringing would alert someone to his presence. It didn't take long. 

“Hello,” he whispered. 

“Ang? It's that you?”

“Yeah. Cherri, I need ya help.”

“What's going on?”

“I don't- it's not safe ta talk here. Can ya meet me?”

“I'm almost to my place, do you-”

“No,” Angel shouted, before dropping his voice down again. He glanced around him, paranoid that someone might have heard. “Don't go home Cherri. I already went there’n he sent some demons ta ya place. They're still there.”

“Shit, Ang. What the fuck is going on?”

“Just meet me. At tha park we met in. Ya remember tha one?”

“Yeah. I remember. I'll be there in fifteen.”

She hung up and Angel hurried to his feet. He beat her to the park so he paced back and forth while he waited. She waltzed up a few minutes later but clearly didn't see him. She checked her phone and muttered to herself before crossing her arms. He hurried over to her, touching her arm. She started and turned around, already swinging. She stumbled as her fist met air. Then she looked around in confusion.

“Cher, I'm here but ya can't see me.”

Her eyebrow lifted as she looked in his general direction. “Wow. Ok. What the fuck is going on, Angie?” She put her hands on her hips as she glared at a spot to the left of him.

“Uhh.. well…” his voice had a nervous warble to it. “I did somethin. It may or may not have been a good idea...”

She cocked her head at him. “Well spit it out, bitch.”

“Val's dead. I made a deal and I got an angelic blade and I killed him. For good.” He threw the words out in a fast ramble, afraid he wouldn’t get them out if he didn’t.

“You did fucking not!”

He tossed his bag at her. She made a sound as it hit her in the stomach. She barely caught it and the bag turned on its side, spilling some of its contents. He winced. He'd forgotten she wouldn't see it coming.

She was staring at the wings. One had fallen to the ground and the other was half spilled from the bag. “No fucking way!” She set the bag down and pulled the second wing out, holding it up. She was grinning like crazy. “You actually killed that fucking bastard! Way to go, Ang! I'm sorry I wasn't there to see it! How'd you do it? Was it nice and slow or-”

“Cher, put them away.” Angel grabbed the other wing off of the ground and shoved it back in the bag before snatching the one she was holding aloft. “Vox has eyes everywhere’n he's lookin fa me. It's his guys in ya building. He saw me go in.”

“How did he see ya, ya ho? You're invisible! Wait. Why are you invisible? How exactly are you fucking invisible?”

“I wasn't yet when I went ta ya place. Then those guys broke in. I don't know how it happened. I was just wishin that they wouldn't find me’n when they came into ya room they couldn't see me.”

“Okaaay. That's pretty cool. But you've never been able to do that before.”

Angel hesitated. He knew he could tell Cherri anything. He was just having a difficult time believing it himself and he knew it was true.

“I think I own all a Val’s souls now,” he whispered as he wrapped his arms around himself.

Her eye got really big and she whistled. “Does that make you a fucking overlord now?” She sounded much more excited than Angel felt. He just felt like crying.

“I guess. But that ain't what I'm worried about right now. Vox wants ta kill me. Probably Velvette too. I ain't got anywhere ta go and I ain't got no idea what else I'm capable of. I know that if Vox gets his hands on me… well it ain't goin ta be good.” He laughed but even to his ears it sounded a bit hysterical.

Cherri thought about that. “I might know a place but if I take you there won't Vox notice. He can't see you but he can see me.”

“Where is it?”

“In the doomsday district. It's not a nice place but it's abandoned. Guy I knew used to live there. He was killed in the last extermination though so no one is living there.”

“Beggas can't be choosas, babe. Got an address?”

She gave him one plus instructions on how to get in and told him to be careful. She very reluctantly took off after she threatened him into promising to get a hold of her tomorrow. 

Angel made his way to the Doomsday district on foot. It wasn't a short walk but he didn't mind. He had nothing but time right now. There wouldn't be any shoots to get to. No clients waiting for him. No Val to ruin his night.

Val would never ruin another demon's night.

The thought made his eyes tear up but he angrily brushed them away. He didn’t want to be sad. He wanted to hold onto the anger he’d felt earlier. It was slipping through his grasp with every hour that passed though and he was slowly finding himself left with nothing but fear and sorrow.

He had no problem locating the building Cherri had directed him to. It looked like it was a run down bar of some sort. In the back there was a set of metal stairs that led to a door above the bar. It pushed open easily and Angel found himself in a sparse room. A mattress lay on the floor and a rickety table and chair were the only other furniture. 

That was just fine with Angel. He didn't care where they were, as long as Vox couldn't find him. He plopped down onto the mattress, coughing as dust puffed up around him. He waved it away as he set Nuggs down. The pig looked up at him before curling himself up in Angel's lap.

Angel leaned back against the wall and stared out the dust stained window. He could just make out the red sky through the thick film of grime. He remembered staying in a shit hole like this before Val had moved him into the tower. At the time Angel had felt so grateful. Val had seemed like some white knight who'd ridden in and saved him from the hell that was his afterlife.

He snorted at the thought now. Val had been the worst thing to ever happen to him. All of that pain and horror and here he was, right back where he'd started. Angry tears leaked down his face as he thought about what a fucking waste of time the whole thing had been. Sure, Val had given him the fame he'd so desired but it had come at too high of a cost.

He'd spent so much time down here wasting away under Val’s thumb. All the fame he'd found, all the fortune he'd made for Val, none of it mattered anymore. He wasn't sure it had ever really mattered. He'd thought he'd wanted it but it hadn't been what he'd been promised. 

Sure, all of Hell knew his face but no one really knew him, except Cherri. No one cared to know him. All his so called fans had eaten up every fucked up thing Val had ever done to him on camera. The tears fell harder as he thought about how much joy and pleasure all his pain had brought to demonkind. 

All the joy and pleasure it had brought the man he’d loved.

For all that time he spent in the public eye, no one around him had ever truly seen him. Least of all, Valentino. The man had fed him lies of not only fame and fortune, but love as well. He'd stupidly believed the moth had loved him. What a fucking joke that had been. One he hadn't been in on.

He mentally kicked himself for not asking Cherri for any drugs before she'd left. He hadn't thought to grab anything from the tower before he'd fled. What he wouldn't give right now to have something to shut the fucking thoughts out. He couldn't risk going out to score anything and he didn't want to risk Cherri bringing him anything here. At least he was safe for now.

If only he had someone else to bring him something.

A soft pink glow emanated from the center of the room, growing in size until a demon stood there, towering over him. Angel dislodged Nuggs from his lap as he threw himself at the newcomer. He surprised himself with how quickly and forcefully he knocked the larger demon over. His blade was at the demon's throat in an instant. 

“Uhhh, Angel,” the deep voiced demon asked, sounding clearly confused. 

Angel peered down at the horned demon. He looked vaguely familiar. It took him a moment to place the face and even longer to remember his name. “Rocky?”

“Uhh, yeah. What's going on, man? You know, they're looking everywhere for you.”

Angel pressed the blade into the demon's throat. “What tha fuck are ya doin here? How'd ya find me?”

Rocky scratched at his head in confusion, seemingly unperturbed by Angel holding a blade to his throat. “I dunno. I was headed home and then I was here. Just like when Val summons me, except Val is dead. Hey, they're pretty pissed about that. Vox has been freaking out, talking about killing you.”

Angel sighed in annoyance as he climbed off of the demon. Rocky was all muscle and no brains. He put the blade away as he watched the other demon get to his feet. He watched him with hands on his hips as the demon looked around them.

“What do ya mean ya was summoned?”

“You never had Val summon you? He wants you and then there you are, to do whatever he wants.” The demon shrugged. It was clear to Angel that Rocky didn't really understand much.

“And ya felt that way when ya showed up here?”

“Yup. Hey, that's odd. How'd you do that?”

Angel brought a hand to his chin, rubbing it as he thought. He'd felt the power of Valentino's souls enter his body. What exactly that meant, he wasn't really sure. He'd seen Val summon contracts many times before. He waved his hand like he'd seen the overlord do. Nothing happened.

Hmm. How had he made himself invisible? He belatedly realized he must not be anymore since Rocky could clearly see him. When had that happened? Sometime after he arrived here, he hoped. He knew he must have turned invisible after he'd gotten to Cherri's because Vox had seen him enter but the other demon hadn't seen him sitting on her bed.

Realization dawned on him. He must have gone invisible when he'd been fervently wishing they wouldn't find him. Would the contracts work the same way? He had to want to summon them with enough force? Only one way to find out.

He concentrated on his desire to see Rocky's contract and waved his hand again. His face lit up in excitement when the contract appeared in his hand. It looked just like the contract he'd had with Val, like an old piece of vellum. Only now at the top of the page, instead of Valentino's signature, it was his. Anthony was written in bright pink, the heart and all.

“Oh, cool,” Rocky said. “You've got my contract. Does that mean I work for you now, Angel?”

“I think so,” Angel replied absently as he read the contract over. Rocky's contract was much tighter than Angel's had been. Valentino has gotten him to give up all autonomy for very little in return. He wasn't remotely surprised. Val might not have been the smartest demon around but he was devious as fuck and always ready to take advantage of anyone he could.

It probably hadn't been that difficult to get Rocky to sign such a one sided contract.

“So what do you want me to do, boss?”

Angel looked up from the contract, willing it away as he did so. “Don't call me boss.”

“Uhh, ok. What should I call you?”

“How about Angel, fa now.”

Rocky shrugged again. “Ok, Angel. What do you need?”

Angel smiled at the other demon.

Chapter Text

Cause I know I can treat you better than he can

And any girl like you deserves a gentleman - Shawn Mendes

The light breeze flowing through the garden ruffled the pages of his sketchbook. Angel had been absently sketching Talouse and Nuggs. The pig was once again frolicking in the yard while Talouse pulled weeds. Angel had originally started the garden for Fat Nuggets but over time it had become one of his favorite places to relax. The smell of all the flowers reminded him of the ones his mother loved to keep around the house, even if the flowers in Hell didn't smell the same.

Today was his day off and he'd opted to skip the hotel activities as well. He needed a break from his new friends. He'd been there every day this week, participating in the games Charlie liked to play. It was exhausting to do so while simultaneously pretending he was someone other than who he really was now. Smiling and playing nice with everyone like he was happy to be there.

Both Alastor and Husk seemed to be watching him all the time. The former was to be expected but it was Husk's perceptive gaze that really bothered him. He never called Angel on his bullshit in front of the others but a few choice comments here and there told him that the cat noticed a lot more than he ever let on. It made Angel feel edgy.

The grumpy feline often attempted to engage Angel in conversation. He was finding it increasingly difficult to figure out ways to avoid doing just that without looking like an asshole. It was more bizarre for the fact that Husk seemed ill inclined to befriend anyone else at the hotel. For the life of him, he couldn't figure out why the demon only pestered him.

Husk's insistence that they were friends only further annoyed him. Vox’s comment about everyone wanting to fuck Angel kept playing in his head. He wasn't sure what worried him more. The idea that Husk just wanted to fuck him. Or the idea that he didn't and this was all some plot of Alastor's game.

He shook the thoughts from his head and focused back on his sketches only to realize with dismay that he'd stopped sketching his baby. Instead he found himself looking at a pair of intense eyes. Ones that had been watching him all week.

He slammed the book down on the table in front of him as he dropped his legs off of the chair he'd been curled up in. His empty tea cup rattled at the disturbance but he ignored it and shot up out of his seat. He paced away from the table and then back again, staring down at the cat's eyes in frustration and confusion.

What the hell was his problem?

He heard a soft clearing of a throat and looked up to see Zoey standing there. The cannibal girl was slight of frame and very pretty. He'd long gotten used to her empty black eyes. Her gentle personality belied the savagery of her sharp smile.

“You have a guest.”

“What? Who?”

Angel looked towards his house. He could see through the open windows to his kitchen where the object of his thoughts stood talking to Greta. He raced towards the house, entering through the glass sliding door that connected to the edge of his kitchen.

“I'm just here to check on him,” he heard Husk telling Greta.

“You are Anton’s friend,” Greta questioned.

“Anton?”

“What tha fuck are ya doin here, Husk,” Angel asked angrily.

“Ah, don't be rude Anton!”

“Shut it, Greta. I ain't talking ta ya. And stop callin me that.”

She shook her spoon at him. “It is name!”

“It is not! My name is Angel. Don't ya have something betta ta do, ya old hag?”

“Uh,” Husk interrupted as he looked back and forth between the two of them. “I'm sorry if I upset you.”

“Why are ya here?” Angel pulled his sweater closed over his dress, crossing his arms at the same time.

“Charlie was worried when you didn't show up this morning so Alastor offered to have me check on you since no one has your number.”

“Well, as ya can see, I'm fine. So thanks fa stoppin by but-”

“You stay for lunch,” Greta demanded.

“He is not stayin fa lunch, Greta.”

“Yes, he stays. You,” she pointed at Husk, “are nice boy. You stay.”

Angel pinched his nose between his fingers and took a deep breath before he spoke. “I'm sure Husk has betta stuff ta do than have lunch with me.”

“What could be better? You like burger,” she asked Husk.

“Who doesn't?”

“You have plans,” she asked.

“No.”

“See. He stays. It is settled.” Angel's chest rattled as he growled at her. She laughed. “You don't scare me Mr. Spider.”

“Ya do realize that ya work fa me, right,” he asked in exasperation.

“So?” She lifted her arms as she mocked him. “You work for me Greta. You do what I say Greta. Bah!” She waved her arms at him. 

Angel noticed Husk watching him with open amusement and found it irritated him further. He was stuck now unless he was willing to force Husk to leave. He would never hear the end of it from Greta if he did that though. He threw his hands up.

“Fine! But we're eatin in tha garden. So I don't have ta see ya ugly mug while I eat.”

Greta laughed again as Angel motioned with his head for Husk to follow him outside. He strode back into the garden without waiting to see if Husk would follow. Nuggs ran up to him, tongue lolling as he waddled up at his fastest pace.

He picked the pig up and straightened as he felt Husk walk up behind him. The cat whistled low and long.

“This is nice. Must have taken you a long time to grow all of this.”

“It was all Talouse,” Angel replied as he nodded his head towards the mouse demon. “He was a gardener before he died. He loves the garden almost as much as Nuggs does.”

The pig oinked hello at Husk who reached a hand out to scratch Nuggs under his chin. Angel stiffened at the demon's nearness but Husk was careful to only touch the pig. Then he put his hands in his pockets and meandered away from Angel, inspecting the different flowers growing in the yard. Angel slowly followed him, not daring to break the silence.

Husk made his way to the small table and Angel belatedly remembered the sketchbook he'd left on it. He picked up his pace, reaching around the cat just as he looked down. His arm brushed up against the cat in his haste to snatch the pad before Husk could see what he'd been doodling.

Husk started at the contact but relaxed quickly. Angel swiftly moved away from him a step or two, closing the sketchbook. He was relieved to find that their contact this time failed to produce the magical reaction it had before. Perhaps Angel had even imagined it. Husk hadn't seemed to notice it the last time.

“You like to draw?”

“Sometimes.”

Husk raised an eyebrow at his short answer but didn't push. “Greta seems real nice.”

Angel snorted. “She's a busybody. Thinks she knows everything.” Nuggs wiggled wildly, forcing Angel to put him down. 

For a moment they watched the pig race after a bug that had flown in before Husk turned his attention back to Angel.

“I can see why you wouldn't want to stay at the hotel. Your place is beautiful.”

“Yeah, well, I like my space. Alone.”

“Yeah. What's that all about?”

Angel narrowed his eyes at the cat. “Excuse me?”

Husk pulled a hand out to scratch his chin. “I mean… you don't have a hard time with people but you,” he pointed at Angel, “don't seem to enjoy being around them.”

“Depends on who I'm around.”

Husk nodded. “I'm not picky. I dislike everyone equally.” His hand moved slowly from one side of him to the other, creating a path like a flat plane.

Angel scoffed. “Then what are ya doin stayin fa lunch?”

“Ok,” Husk conceded with a shrug. “Maybe not everyone.”

Angel felt his face heat up at the implication that Husk liked him more than other demons. “Stop doin that.”

“Doing what?”

Angel put a hand on his hip. “Flirtin with me.”

“I am not flirting with you.” Husk leaned towards him slightly, his tail flicking. “Trust me, Fluff. You'll know when I'm flirting with you.”

Angel's face got hotter but Husk looked away from him to watch Nuggs, giving him time to collect himself. He flopped back down in the chair he'd been occupying earlier, placing his now closed book on the table. Husk joined him, sitting in the only other chair at the table. He glanced at the sketchbook but didn't ask about it again.

Zoey appeared with two glasses, setting them at the table before picking up the tea cup from earlier. She hesitated, not moving away from the table but surreptitiously eyeing Husk instead.

“Yes, Zoey?”

“Um, well, a dress arrived for you.”

“A dress? From Vel?”

“No.” She glanced at Husk again. “It's for tonight. He left a note, asking you to wear it… for dinner…”

Angel sighed. “Ok. Thank you. Just put it in my room, please.”

Zoey bobbed her head before she disappeared back into the house. Angel watched her go before he turned his attention back to Husk. The cat was watching him carefully. Angel disliked how unreadable the demon's face was most of the time.

“What,” Angel asked irritably.

“I didn't say anything.”

“Ya look like ya got somethin ta say.”

“I just don't understand.”

“What is there ta undastand?”

Husk lifted a hand, indicating Angel as a whole. “Why you put up with that guy when you could clearly have anyone you wanted.”

“Who says I want anyone?”

“Then, I still think it doesn't make sense. Why are you with him if you don't want to be with anyone?”

“Why are ya so curious about my love life?”

Husk gave him an incredulous look. “You love him? Doesn't seem to me like you do.”

“It's a figure a speech, Husk.”

“So you don't love him?”

Angel opened his mouth and then closed it again without answering. He knew the answer but he felt like if he said anything the stupid cat would have another question in response. Husk silently watched him, unwilling to move on to something else. Angel studied him back in stubborn silence until he noticed the slow smile spreading on the cat's face.

“What is so amusin?”

“You are.”

“Oh, fuck you.”

Husk simply took a drink from his glass, making a surprised but pleased face at it before he set it back down. He looked around them as he spoke. “I just think maybe you'd be happier if you stopped pretending you were all the time.”

Angel glared at him. “Ya act like ya know me at all.”

“Not really.” Husk met his gaze again and he could have sworn he saw something in the cat's eyes but he couldn't tell what it was. “But I'd like to.”

Angel’s heart skipped a beat. He picked up his glass and took a drink of his lemonade to avoid having to respond to that. 

Angel looked beyond him to Greta as she approached the table. He gave her an annoyed look as she set their plates down. It was Zoey's job to bring his food out. She was just being nosey. 

“Burgers!” She announced it with all the enthusiasm she could muster. “I make big one for Mr. Husk.” She pinched his cheek. “Greta can tell you appreciate it.”

Husk grinned at her. Angel rolled his eyes. He knew Husk was never this friendly at the hotel. Either he was just trying to annoy Angel or he was sucking up to Greta. Which still annoyed him.

“Thank ya, Greta. You can leave now.”

She made a noise at him but otherwise ignored him. “Ignore him. Anton is grumpy because he has to see bad TV man tonight.”

“Greta!”

“You don't like Vox,” Husk asked her.

Greta spat at the ground. “He is not nice boy! Anton needs nice boy!”

“Greta, I swear ta Lucifa if ya don't go away I'll invite Vox ta dinna every night fa a week. Here. So ya can cook fa him.”

She threw her hands up but moved back towards the house. Yelling angry German at him the entire way.

“I like her,” Husk declared.

“Wondaful. Tha two a ya can have each otha.”

“I think you like her too.”

Angel looked at the house as she disappeared back through the door. “A course I like her. I like Talouse’n Zoey too. They wouldn't be here if I didn't like them.”

“That makes sense. Does that mean you like me too?”

Angel let his gaze slide back over to Husk. He didn't know how to answer that question. He felt like anything he said would give away too much. The stupid demon was too perceptive by far. He never should have let him stay for lunch. So he took a different tactic instead.

“How long has Alastor owned ya?”

The cat's face closed off completely. “Too long.”

“Ya don't seem ta like him very much.”

Husk shrugged. “Did you enjoy being owned by Valentino?”

“I stabbed him in tha chest eight times before I stabbed him in tha face so many times that he didn't have one anymore. Then I mutilated his corpse by removin all a his appendages except his arms’n legs. What do you think?”

Husk was silent for a long time. They stared at each other while Angel waited for him to reply. He couldn't tell what the cat was thinking.

“I think,” he finally said, “that you must have loved him very much once to have that much hatred for him.”

Angel stood so fast that he rattled the table hard enough to spill the glasses. He didn't bother to respond to Husk but instead fled the garden. He ignored Greta's shouts as he flew through the kitchen. He didn't stop until he reached his bedroom, slamming his door behind him. He stood there, breathing hard and trying to ignore the flood of feelings that were welling up in him.

His eyes rose as though drawn by some invisible force to the only spot of color in his room. Val’s wings. For the first time, in a long time, he couldn't stop the flood of tears that fell.

~~~~~

When he reemerged from his room Husk was long gone. Greta didn't waste any time in giving him grief. 

“Why you run off? The nice cat boy look so sad, Anton.”

“Greta,” he started but stopped and sighed. “Could ya just… not?”

She glanced up, squinting at him a moment before she huffed. “Fine. He left note for you.” She indicated the breakfast table and Angel looked over to see his sketchbook open to the back.

He picked it up, staring at it stupidly for several minutes. The cat hadn't just left a note. He'd drawn a rough sketch of Angel's face. It wasn't of him smiling like he always was in the media. Instead he'd captured Angel's sadness. The way he always felt on the inside but never showed to the world. The simple note was in beautiful cursive.

It's ok to be sad Angel

For a brief moment he reached out to rip the page from his book. Instead he ended up lightly running his fingers over the drawing of him. Then he hugged the book to his chest and retreated to his room. 

He leaned the sketchbook up against the lamp on his night stand before turning to the package sitting on his bed. He unceremoniously ripped the box open to see what Vox had sent this time. The satin dress was royal blue. Vox's favorite color. 

He picked up the note attached to the outside of the package. The handwriting was so neat it almost looked typed.

Happy Anniversary darling

I can't wait to see you in this tonight

He set the card back on top of the package. Tonight wasn't something Angel was looking forward to. He always dreaded their anniversary. Not because he wouldn't have a good time, Vox was surprisingly romantic when he wanted to be, but he knew the other demon was more invested. Angel felt guilty every time they celebrated another year together and Vox’s affections had deepened but his hadn't.

Sure, he'd grown fond of the demon in some ways. He didn't hate him half as much as he let his confidants think. It was true that he hated Vox touching him but he hated everyone touching him. Cherri and Nuggs were the only exceptions. 

It was also true that Vox was a ruthless, egotistical asshole. The same could be said for most of the overlords though, including Angel when he needed to be. It was also true that a lot had happened in the last decade. Vox and Vel had done a lot for him over the years. He wasn't ashamed to be friends with them. 

Or the closest thing he had to friends. Rosie was also a wonderful acquaintance but only Cherri was really his friend. He briefly wondered what she'd think of his newest friend before shaking the thought from his mind. It was time to focus on something else. 

He took his time getting ready for the evening. Despite what Husk might think about Vox sending a dress, it was the least Angel could do. Show up looking fabulous and put a smile on his face. Vox deserved that much.

The dress he'd sent over really was gorgeous. The a-line dress had two layers to the skirt. The top one fell just below his ass and the bottom one fell to mid thigh. There was enough cloth for it to have a gentle wave to its shape. The top of the dress was made of a mesh material decorated with an elegant design in a sparkling blue material. The deep vee neck showed off the straight pink line that flowed down his fur from the bottom of his heart marking.

He painted his face in an elegant style to match the dress and put on the choker made from sapphires Vox had given him last year. He added a pair of long white satin gloves to his bottom arms but left his top hands bare.

Andre drove him to the restaurant he'd agreed to meet Vox at. An upscale place that they had frequented a few times in the past. He was unsurprised to find reporters outside the restaurant when he arrived. They always showed up wherever he and Vox were. Angel wouldn't be surprised to learn that Vox told them where they'd be on a regular basis.

He smiled for the cameras, allowing them to take photos of him but refusing to stick around for questions. He jokingly told them he didn't want to keep his date waiting. In reality, smiling for the cameras tonight was making him want to cry again. 

Stupid fucking cat.

Vox was already waiting for him in a private room. A romantic candlelit table for two sat near the open balcony doors. Vox rose as he entered, greeting Angel with a smile. 

“Angel, you look divine.”

He laid a hand on Vox's chest as he smiled back at him. “You look wondaful as well. Thank you for tha dress.”

Vox laid a hand over the one Angel was touching him with. He wrapped his hand around Angel's, squeezing slightly in affection. Then he led the spider back to their table, pulling his chair out for him. Once they were both seated Vox wasted no time in striking up a conversation. 

“How is the new club coming along?”

Angel took a drink of his wine before he answered. “Real good. We're on track ta open this weekend.” He fiddled with the stem of his glass, watching it instead of looking at Vox. “I think it'll do real well.”

“Your businesses always do, my dear. Your creative visions are too appealing to demonkind for you to fail.” 

Angel looked up at Vox wide-eyed. That was quite the compliment from the TV overlord. 

“My creative visions?”

“Yes. I think your ideas are inspired.” He frowned at Angel. “Are you surprised I feel that way?”

Angel tried to school his shocked expression. “I mean, ya neva said nothin like that before, Vox.”

“Of course I think you're brilliant. Special. Do you think I'd pursue you all this time if I didn't?”

“I, uh-” Angel was at a momentary loss of words, right before he blurted out something incredibly stupid. “But ya dated Val.”

Vox’s face glitched, red lines running from his lips for a moment before his screen glitched again and they were gone. He looked away from Angel.

“Valentino had his good points.”

Angel couldn't deny that much. Val had known how to charm. He'd fallen for it once himself.

“Did… did ya love him?”

Vox shrugged. “Sometimes. Sometimes he was a huge pain in my fucking ass.” He looked back at Angel. “Why are you asking me this now?”

Angel wasn't sure how to answer that. Why was he asking such stupid questions? Was he just feeling guilty knowing that Vox only didn't hate him because of his magic? Or had Husk's stupid observation wormed its way into his thoughts more than he would have liked? He found himself annoyed with that idea. Why was he letting that asshole's comments bother him so much?

Vox leaned forward, catching Angel's attention again. “Are you concerned that my feelings for you are affected by what you did?”

“I don't see how ya can not care. I loved Val once. Enough ta, well, hate him as much as I did.”

“Angel, my dear. Val is gone. How I might have felt once, or how you might have felt, is irrelevant. Why dwell on a past you can't change? We're here now and there isn't another demon I'd rather be with tonight.”

Vox’s statement was so matter of fact that Angel believed he really felt that way. He wondered if Vox took that attitude because of the pheromones. They slowly leaked out of Angel as always but he wasn't bothering to adjust them to their conversation. He wanted genuine answers from Vox tonight, not what Vox thought he wanted to hear.

He steeled himself and dropped his pheromones completely. Vox made no outward appearance that indicated he noticed a difference.

“Ya really want ta be here? With me?”

Vox laughed. “Of course! Here, let me give you your present.”

Vox reached into his jacket and pulled a small black box out, setting it on the table. Angel stared at the ring box, afraid to open it. He tried to keep his face neutral even as he internally began freaking out. Had Vox gotten him a ring? He thought he might be sick.

He reached a shaky hand out to pick up the box. His mouth was bereft of any moisture as he opened it with another hand. The relief he felt when he saw it wasn't a diamond was immense. The large ruby was flanked by smaller sapphires on each side. Vox’s colors.

Angel looked at him questioningly.

“It's a promise ring,” Vox proudly informed him.

“A what?” Angel had never heard of such a thing before.

“It's a human thing. From after your time.”

“What, exactly, are ya promising?”

“To love you.”

Angel's heart stopped. He felt a literal pain in his chest.

“What,” he whispered in disbelief.

“I love you, Angel.”

“Ya do not.”

Vox gave him an irritated look. “Excuse me?”

“Ya don't love me,” Angel responded back with equal irritation. 

“I think I know how I feel, Angel,” the demon replied tightly.

Angel stared at him, jaw hanging open slightly. His mind was racing, trying to figure out what was going on. He clearly meant what he said but he didn't really love Angel, right? The pheromones had just convinced him otherwise. Then Angel realized it didn't matter and he felt like the biggest asshole in Hell. 

Like a freaking monster. 

It didn't matter if Vox only loved him because of the pheromones. Vox didn't know about them. He thought it was real. Angel clamped his mouth shut. He was genuinely afraid to say the wrong thing. He didn't love Vox. He knew he didn't. 

He wouldn't pretend he did. He had never pretended to love Vox. He wasn't Val . His stomach turned as he realized he was more like Val than he'd realized. Vox only thought he loved Angel because he'd been poisoning the demon with his magic. 

Vox studied Angel's face, clearly trying to read his silent reaction. Angel licked his lips. Then he took another drink of his wine. He cleared his throat. And still Vox waited.

Angel lifted a hand as he opened his mouth to speak. Then he dropped it again and shut his mouth as he failed to come up with a response. He made a frustrated noise at the table, refusing to look at Vox at this point.

Vox sighed. “Angel, you don't have to tell me you love me.” He grabbed the box before gently tugging Angel's right hand towards himself. He pulled the ring out and slid it onto Angel’s finger. “There. It looks good on you, darling.” He brought Angel's hand to his mouth, kissing the ring. 

He released Angel and sat back in his chair as their waiter entered the room. Angel absently pulled his hand back as he stared at Vox. Vox smiled at him. Angel could tell the demon was irritated but he could also tell Vox was trying not to show it. Angel did the only thing he could. 

He smiled back. 

~~~~~

He lay in bed that night tossing and turning. Nuggs hadn't left the bed yet but he had posted himself far enough away from Angel that he wasn't as disturbed. Angel didn't blame him. He wanted the blissful emptiness that sleep brought to his brain. The thoughts needed to shut the fuck up.

But they wouldn't. Angel thought about the day he'd killed Val. The intense rage he'd felt when he'd destroyed the moth. Literally. The numbness that followed. The fear that followed that. All of it underlined with an intense sorrow. One he'd spent years trying to forget about.

Killing Valentino had freed him from a certain kind of punishment. But Hell always found a way to punish you. The pain of what he'd done would never really leave him. He'd killed the only man he'd loved. Val might not have ever loved him but his love had been real. He'd betrayed the man he loved. What kind of soul did that make him? Surely one that belonged in Hell.

He turned onto his side. The picture Husk had drawn peered back at him from its place against the lamp. Moonlight filtered in from his window, casting its light onto his portrait. The drawing was accurate but mostly simple. He'd added all the detail to Angel's eyes. 

The rest of Angel's face held little emotion at all. The sadness was there in all the little details of his eyes. 

It's ok to be sad Angel. 

For the second time today his eyes teared up. This time he didn't fight it.

Chapter Text

I wanna be dangerous. A reason for alarm - Dropkick Murphys

The sound of flesh meeting flesh was music to his ears. He watched dispassionately as Geovanni hit the demon again. Blood and spittle dripped from the demon’s mouth, splattering onto the floor.

Angel uncrossed his legs as he stood from the chair he was in. He pulled his spine straight as he stalked closer to the offender. Geovanni grabbed the demon’s hair, yanking his head back to look up at Angel as he stopped in front of them. He sneered at the pathetic demon in front of him.

“Why should I even let ya live, Art? I mean,” he laughed, “this ain’t tha first time someone has had ta have this convasation with ya. Now, here I am, havin ta take time out a my very busy schedule ta talk ta ya. How do ya think that makes me feel, Art? That ya so fuckin disrespectful a my time?”

“I-I’m s-sorry, Angel-”

Angel backhanded the demon, putting considerable force behind it. Blood flew out of the demon’s mouth in an arc. Then he gripped the demon’s chin, squeezing until he heard a crack. He put his face close to the demon’s.

“I don’t want ta fuckin hear how sorry ya are, Art.” He put more venom into his voice as he bellowed. “I want ya ta stop wastin my fuckin time!” He lowered his voice again while pulling away a bit. “Ya hurt somethin that belongs ta me. Ya broke my property, Art. I’m beginnin ta think ya have no fuckin respect fa me at all.” He roughly pushed Art’s face away as he straightened again. “I think we need ta fix that.”

The demon’s eyes widened. “N-no! I swear, Angel! I won’t touch Bobbie again!”

Angel scoffed. “Oh, I know ya won’t. Ya banned from all a my businesses, Art.” He checked his watch and then turned his attention to Geovanni. “I think Art would like ta hang out with ya fa tha next twenty-four hours, Geo. Then ya can kill him.”

“Double dead?”

“Nah.” Angel gently slapped Art’s cheek twice. “I think Art is goin ta learn his lesson today. Geo is very good at teachin demon’s lessons fa me, Art. So pay attention.”

He walked away, not seeing, but hearing flesh hit flesh again. He smiled to himself.

Andre was waiting near the door for him, casually leaning against the wall. “Capo.”

“Andre, where is Lucia?”

He pointed his thumb towards the door. “She had to take a call for you. The decorator for Sinner’s Paradise called you again.”

Angel groaned. “What is tha problem now? I swear if that woman wasn’t a genius with interia design… ugh. Well, come on, we got ta go. I’m already late, dealin with this shit.”

He shoved the door out of his way, exiting the building hastily. This particular warehouse was on the outskirts of the city. It was where he preferred to deal with these types of issues. Not that anyone in Hell would care about him torturing other demons. No, it was the isolation of the location. It struck just a little extra fear into the hearts of the offenders. Sometimes the setting was as important as the act itself.

Lucia sat in the car, still on the phone with the decorator. Angel slid into the back before lighting up a cigarette as Andre closed his door. He largely ignored the conversation Lucia was having. She would let him know if she needed his input. Lucia was more than capable of handling a measly decorator all on her own. The demon was not soft in any way. He was pretty sure she’d sooner rip a demon’s eyeballs from its head than acknowledge its feelings in any way. 

Andre was the soft one. A lot of demons found his quiet nature intimidating but Angel knew he really had the heart of a poet and not a fighter. He was just good at fighting, that didn’t mean he enjoyed it. The twins were fiercely loyal to him. He knew they felt like Angel had saved them from the terrible afterlife they’d had before. He didn’t see it quite that way but he was glad to have the two of them.

He was actually grateful that he could ride to the hotel without talking. His nerves were on edge today. He’d skipped the hotel again yesterday, unwilling to see the fucking bartender again so soon. It rankled him that the demon had affected him so deeply. Vox’s declaration had also thrown him for a loop. He was confused on both fronts.

He'd tried to message Cherri about it yesterday but he’d decided against it in the end. He didn't need to burden her with his silly problems. There’d been so much work to do anyways. He didn't have time to explore his feelings with all the things that required his attention.

Unfortunately he needed to go today if he was going to meet Alastor’s quota. He pulled his tie off, unbuttoning the pink button up shirt enough to let some fluff stick out. That felt better, but not enough. After he finished smoking he stripped the maroon suit jacket off and rolled his sleeves up to his elbows. 

That was even better. He left the hat on his head and there was nothing he could do about the pants he was wearing. It was what it was. He’d done what he could to make himself more comfortable. He would certainly change into something else when he got home tonight. Lucia was still on the phone when they pulled up to the hotel, he just left his phone with her. He wouldn’t need it inside the hotel anyway.

He stopped short after entering the building. The normally open space had a small stage set up in it. All the participants were standing around eyeing it while Vaggie and Charlie stood to one side, arguing quietly. Angel watched as Niffty launched herself off of the stage, falling flat on her face. Her excited whoop, and the fact that she proceeded to do it again, really cemented it for Angel. She was bat shit crazy. 

He noticed Alastor was missing from the group but that was fine with him. He had no desire to interact with the demon today. He also noticed Husk trying to catch his eye but he ignored the demon's looks and strode up to Petunia.

“What's goin on?”

She was watching Niffty jump for a third time with wide eyes. “Uh, trust falls,” she replied absently.

“Uh huh. Ain't someone supposed ta catch ya fa those?”

Petunia finally glanced at him, and then did a double take. “Umm…” She pointed at her own face. “You have something on your face.”

Angel wiped a hand across his face where she'd pointed at her own. His hand came away wet with Art’s blood. He rubbed the rest of it off as best he could while Petunia looked at him, concern written on her face.

“Oh, don't worry, doll. It ain't mine.”

“O-ok.” She didn't look less concerned.

Angel looked away from her troubled face only to find Husk watching him. He kept his gaze going, ignoring the cat’s existence entirely. Pentious had finally stopped Niffty from repeatedly jumping. Charlie and Vaggie were returning to the group, Charlie's face lighting up as she caught sight of Angel.

“Angel! I didn't think you were coming.”

“Sorry, suga. Had a meetin this mornin. Took longa than I thought it would.”

“That's ok, Angel! I'm glad you're here now! We're doing trust exercises today!”

“Uh, yah. I can see that.” He eyed the stage. He hated bringing attention to the fact that he didn't want to be touched but he would sooner stab them all than fall into their arms.

“Ok,” Vaggie said. “We're going on a field trip.”

Niffty stopped trying to wiggle out of Pentious' grasp, only to throw her hands up in excitement. “Yay! A field trip!” She giggled and Pentious put her down.

“A field trip,” Husk asked, his annoyance clear as he took a drink from the bottle Angel had failed to notice before. “I'm good.”

Vaggie pointed her spear at him. “Everyone is going to participate.”

He rolled his eyes. “Whatever.”

“It could be fun,” Petunia said, quietly.

Charlie threw her arm around the girl's shoulder. “That's the spirit! Let's go!”

Petunia gave Charlie a tentative smile and let the princess lead her from the room. Angel followed them outside. He wasn't particularly interested in trust exercises, he didn't trust any of them, but a deal was a deal. No point in complaining before he even knew where they were going.

They came out of the building to find Lucia and Andre both leaned up against the car. They stood tall as Angel appeared. Charlie’s face got excited when she saw them.

“Oh, hello! Are you here for rehabilitation?”

The twins looked at each other before they looked at Angel for direction.

“They're with me, toots.” Charlie's face fell.

“What's going on, Capo,” Andre inquired, his stance tense.

Angel waved a hand at him. “We're just going fa a little trip.” He held his hands out towards Lucia who tossed him his phone. He stuffed it in his fluff. “You can take Lucia ta Sinner’s.”

The group had begun to move away from the hotel now, uninterested in Angel's staff. Andre was watching them as they passed, his arms crossed as he silently stared them all down. 

“You sure, Capo,” Lucia asked, watching her brother's reaction to the group.

“I'm sure. I'll join ya afta I'm done.” He stopped briefly in front of Andre as he passed him. The frog met his gaze, a silent understanding passing between them. His posture eased and he nodded at Angel.

Petunia had extracted herself from Charlie and was silently waiting for Angel to join them, her gaze on the twins. Angel ambled after the group, catching Petunia’s last look over her shoulder at the twins. She didn't say anything though as she joined him walking behind the rest of them. Angel was the one who broke the silence.

“So, have ya thought anymore about what I said last week?”

She looked startled at his question. “I, uh, well, sure.”

“And?”

“I'm not sure of anything, honestly,” she quietly responded. He watched her wrap her arm around herself in a gesture he'd used many times. A gesture meant to make her feel safe. He wondered, not for the first time, what she was so worried about.

“If ya just lookin fa a job, I might be able ta help ya out.”

She glanced sideways at him with her one visible eye. “I thought you didn't think it was worth selling my soul?”

“It ain't but I ain't askin fa ya soul.”

“You'd give me a job, for nothing?”

“No, definitely not fa nothin. I don't run a charity but maybe ya’d have somethin else ta offa me?”

She seemed to contemplate that for a minute. “Can I ask you something?”

“You can ask whateva ya want, suga. Don't mean I'll ansa.”

She nodded. “I understand. If-” She stopped but then forged ahead quickly. “If you could visit Earth again, would you?”

He gave her a confused look. “That's an odd question but I guess I neva thought about it. Everybody I knew is dead now so there ain't anyone fa me ta visit.”

“There isn't anywhere you'd visit that you never got to before?”

“Honestly? There weren't a lot a places I visited when I was alive. We didn't leave the city much’n when we did… we'll, let's just say it wasn't fa sightseein.”

“What was it for?”

Angel peeked at her, trying to gauge her reaction. “Buryin bodies.”

“Oh.” She just seemed to think about that. “Was your family in the grave digging business?”

Angel barked out a laugh. “Somethin like that, doll.”

“Well, um, next week I'm going to see a friend… I think you should come with me.”

“What friend?”

She looked towards the group in front of them. They had managed to catch up pretty well to the group. Husk was only a few feet away at this point. “I'd rather not say,” she responded. “But I think you'd like him.”

Angel scrunched his face at her. “Are ya trying ta set me up cause I got ta tell ya, I ain't interested.”

“Oh. Ah, no. He's, well, that's not what I was getting at. He's just really nice but he doesn't have a lot of friends and I think you might want to be his friend…”

Was this her way of telling him introducing him to her friend was worth something? That was interesting. It was hard to say if he would find the introduction useful but it wouldn't hurt to meet this demon. It wasn't like he was afraid of some random demon. 

“Sure. We could do that some time. I'll give ya my numba’n we can set somethin up.”

After she programmed Angel into her phone, they walked in companionable silence the rest of the way. Angel wasn't sure how he felt about the girl yet but he could tell that there was something she was hiding, something she was afraid of. While he might loathe to admit it, he was drawn to people like her. People who needed to be saved. Like he'd once needed it. Only nobody had saved Angel. 

He kept his speculative thoughts to himself though. If she wanted to tell him, she would. He would respect her privacy.

They all came to a halt in front of a door to a rundown old building. Vaggie pried it open with her spear before leading them all inside. She took the stairs all the way up to the roof, holding the door open for all of them. Sounds of battling demons met his ears as soon as Angel emerged onto the rooftop. They all walked to the edge of the roof to observe the battle below.

Fighting on this scale was a rather normal scene in Hell. It wasn't all that hard to find if you were looking for a fight. Cherri and him used to do so all the time. It had been quite a while since he'd joined her but he still had fond memories of kicking other demon’s asses with his best friend. Cherri was a blood thirsty bitch, and he loved her for it.

Charlie took one look at the chaos below and her face said it all. “This is how you learned to trust people?!”

Vaggie smiled at the group. There was little warmth in it. “Buckle up buttercups because today you boys become men.”

Without further ado, she picked Pentious up and tossed him into the chaos below, ignoring his protests. She grabbed Petunia next. Angel could hear her screams as she fell. Then she turned on him. He held all his hands out towards her.

“Don't fuckin touch me or I'll stab ya with that fuckin spear!”

She seemed undeterred by his threats so before she could put her hands on him, he vaulted over the ledge. He would rather join the fray than have her hands on him. He landed easily and looked around himself.

Little explosions went off around them as demons fought in small groups. There didn't seem to be any semblance of one side against another. Everyone was simply out for themselves.

He heard a short scream and turned to find Petunia on the ground, a demon standing over her with a knife in hand. Then suddenly Niffty popped up on the demon's shoulder and began stabbing it in the neck repeatedly with her sewing needle. While he was distracted, Petunia launched herself at his legs, knocking him to the ground.

Angel swiftly located Pentious. The snake demon was being held up by the throat by a demon with one arm. He rolled his eyes but leapt into action, coming down hard on the demon's back. He'd landed with his legs around the demon's throat, squeezing until the demon dropped Pentious. Then he dropped his body backwards, using his legs to throw the demon away from them. He continued the backflip until he was right side up again before moving to check on the snake. 

Another demon got in his way, slashing at Angel with a blade. He easily dodged the much slower demon, moving inside his space. The demon wasn't expecting that but Angel didn't give him time to recover. He grabbed the wrist holding the blade and broke it. He was unmoved by the demon's cry of pain as he snatched the blade before it fell and skewered the demon with it.

He felt something falling from the sky, and without hesitation, launched himself at Pentious. The snake was standing, hood open, the demon in front of him seemingly hypnotized as he stood there slack jawed. Angel knocked Pentious over again, spinning them as he went so that they rolled away. The grenade missed them but a piece of debris struck the snake in the head. They were covered with bits of the hypnotized demon now. Angel growled in annoyance but stood swiftly, grabbing the snake and tossing him over his shoulder, before he stalked away from the battlefield. 

Petunia, carrying Niffty against her protests, followed him to the building. Luckily, they'd been at the edge of the battlefield and no one followed them. They passed Husk near the door to the building but Angel just stalked past him, carrying the snake up the stairs. When he reached the roof, he dumped the snake on the floor.

Only for Charlie to tell them they were leaving.

Angel sighed and grabbed the snake's tail, dragging him back down the stairs. Pentious came to very quickly after that. The little group trudged back to the hotel, sans Vaggie. Angel briefly wondered why she wasn't with them but decided he didn't really care anyway. 

Charlie disappeared after they got back to the hotel but Husk offered drinks to the group and no one turned him down. Angel didn't respond, he was too busy looking at Petunia's arm. He hadn't noticed on the way back but she'd been cut, a long gash down her arm. Except she wasn't bleeding. Stuffing stuck out instead. 

“Uh, doll…” He pointed at her arm. She looked at it, merely making an annoyed face. “Ya didn't feel that?”

Little spots of embroidered pink popped onto her cheeks. “Uh, well… that is, umm… no?”

Angel looked her over, trying to keep his face neutral as he realized something for the first time. All her stitching wasn't uniform. It stopped and started in what he had thought was meant to be part of her design. Now he wasn't so sure. She wasn't paying attention to his gawking though. No, she was stuffing her fluff back inside her arm. 

Niffty scurried over to the ragdoll. “I can help you with that!”

Petunia smiled gratefully. “Thanks, Niff.”

They meandered over to the bar, Petunia sitting on a stool and accepting a drink from the barcat. Niffty scrambled into her lap, standing on her leg so the tiny demon could begin sewing the girl up. Angel watched for a moment, fascinated at the complete lack of reaction from her. He was pretty sure she either couldn't feel pain or couldn't feel anything at all. He found himself feeling a little jealous. 

His gaze shifted over to Husk, who was watching him again, because of course he was. He pushed a glass of whiskey towards the patrons’ side of the bar, lifting an eyebrow in question. Angel turned his back on them, pulling his phone out. He shot off a quick text to Andre, and after hesitating for a moment, one to Vox.

Then he turned back to the group, stepping over to Petunia's side. Niffty had made short work of sewing the girl up and she looked fine. So he reached over, picked up the whiskey Husk had left, and downed it in one shot. 

“Ya goin ta be fine, doll?”

“Oh, yeah. Don't worry about me, Angel,” she replied softly while staring at her hands in her lap. 

The way she said it made Angel worry more, not less. He could tell she meant that she wasn't worth worrying about. He studied her for a moment but didn't argue the point. He didn't want to make her feel exposed in front of everyone. So he just nodded. 

“Ok, suga. Ya call me lata. We'll set somethin up?”

She looked up at him, her smile there but unsure. “Yeah, I will.”

“Well I've got a ton a work ta do. I'll see ya all lata.”

Pentious and Niffty told him goodbye but Husk was suspiciously silent. That was fine with Angel. He didn't really want to talk to him in any case. So he left without even looking at the stupid cat.

Angel leaned against the front of the hotel, lighting up a cigarette while he waited for Andre. It didn't take long for the front door to open again and he really shouldn't have been surprised to find Husk joining him. The cat leaned against the building, looking out at the city silently.

Angel tried to ignore him but he found it impossible to do so for long when the demon was so close to him. Not close enough that they were touching but if he leaned too far towards the cat then they would be. Angel was more aware of the cat's proximity than he wanted to admit. It was making him feel on edge to know his body was so reactive to the demon.

“Can I help ya with somethin?”

“Oh. Are you done pretending I don't exist?”

Angel turned his head, giving Husk his best camera ready smile. Husk's wings flared slightly as his tail flicked roughly, its feathered end also spread open. His wing brushed against Angel’s unclothed lower arm, creating little spots of static where his magic reached out to Husk's. Angel leaned away from the offending feathers, glaring at Husk now. The smile was gone.

“Maybe I just want ya ta go away, leave me alone.”

Husk pushed his body away from the building, turning to face Angel. “Look. You can be mad all you want-”

“Oh, why thank ya fa ya permission.”

“-but you asked me a question. I answered it. I'm sorry if what I said upset you, that was not my intention. I'm not going to just tell you what you want to hear though. I mean, do you prefer lies and dishonesty?”

Angel looked away. He didn't know what to say. He knew that Husk was right but he just didn't want to talk about it. He didn't have friends for this very reason. He didn't want to talk about himself. He didn't want to face what had gotten him here. He wanted to just fucking move on with his life like Valentino had never existed and his whole afterlife was ever going to be what he wanted it to. 

The truth hurt too much. 

“Maybe I do.”

“Oh, now I get it.”

Angel glanced over to see the cat's arms crossed, his face satisfied, like he'd figured it all out. 

“Good fa you.”

“That's why you're with that asshole.”

Angel narrowed his eyes at the demon. “I think ya need ta shut tha fuck up, Husk.”

“He just lets you live in denial, doesn't he? Does he even know you at all, or is he happy to accept this fake bullshit you pull on everyone?”

“Vox knows me betta than you do. Ya think ya some wise old bartenda who knows everythin but ya don't know shit.”

Husk spread his arms wide. “I'm all ears, Fluff. Tell me what I'm so wrong about.”

Angel threw his cigarette on the ground, crushing it under his boot. “No, thanks.”

He didn't miss the growl of frustration the cat let out before his ears twitched and he looked towards the car Angel felt approaching. It pulled up in front of the hotel, with only Andre inside, watching them as he waited. Husk turned his attention back to Angel, who was waiting to see what the cat would say now. He was curious how the feline thought he would convince Angel to open up and share his feelings.  

He was surprised when Husk just shook his head at the spider. “Nice ring,” was all he said before he disappeared back into the hotel. 

Frustration roiled up into Angel's belly. He could feel his dissatisfaction with the whole situation. Husk hadn't apologized, he hadn't tried to convince Angel of anything. He'd unapologetically said what he had to say. Then he’d walked away. 

An involuntary rattle escaped him as it sank in that Husk had walked away from him. The fucking ass had walked away from him. Nobody walked away from him. He was the one who walked away from them.

He may have shut the car door harder than strictly necessary. He looked up to see Andre’s eyes in the rearview mirror. 

“You ok, Capo?”

“Oh, just fuckin great,” he ground out. 

He knew he wasn't fooling Andre but the great thing about his employees is that they knew when not to push him. Unlike that asshole of a cat. Andre merely nodded as he pulled away from the hotel. 

Angel fumed the whole way to the club. Unable to think about anything besides Husk's accusations. He wasn't with Vox because he let Angel lie to himself! He was with Vox because… well… because it just made sense. Politically, it made sense. Demons knew he was with Vox, so they left him alone. Vox wanted to be with him. 

Vox loved him.

He put a hand to his queasy stomach. Just thinking about Vox's confession made him feel sick. He could be mad at Husk all he wanted but Husk wasn't his real problem. Angel was disgusted with himself. Husk’s observation had brought out feelings Angel hadn't acknowledged in years. It had left him feeling raw and untethered. The weight of his emotions like a rock chained around his neck. Vox’s confession had only made it worse. 

Angel was blaming them for his failures. His failure to deal with anything Valentino had done to him. His failure to anticipate just what such long term exposure to his pheromones might do to Vox. For fuck's sake. His failure to recognize what a piece of shit Val was before he signed that damn contract. If he hadn't signed it, there would be no deal with Alastor. Without the deal, Angel wouldn't be in the position he was in now.

He really had no one to blame except himself. 

~~~~~

It was late when Angel arrived home. Greta had food waiting for him when he arrived, for which he was grateful. He really just wanted to eat and go to bed. He'd been at Sinner’s Paradise all day. Of course it was only to be expected that the club would take up this much of his time so close to opening night.

Velvette and Vox had been advertising for him this past week. They were always happy to make deals exchanging little favors with Angel. Nothing major, nothing magically binding. Just simple favors between friends. He knew that Vox wasn't the only one who wanted Angel to join them.

Vel was friendly enough, Angel didn't mind her company most of the time. He had never used his pheromones on her, so he knew that her desire for friendship was a genuine one. He just couldn't ever forget that Velvette had helped design and distribute Val’s venom. They'd labeled it as a love potion but it had nothing to do with love. Nothing about Valentino had ever been about love.

He couldn't bring himself to truly trust someone who had helped Val keep him drugged and complacent. He knew Velvette didn't really see it that way. She was an addict too. Her addiction was just of a different nature. The need to be seen, be relevant, be iconic. She was addicted to her social media and she would do anything for more likes.

Angel kind of understood. He had once been willing to do anything to be famous. Like, signing his soul away to a truly evil demon. A stupid one at that.

He realized he wasn't eating but staring off into space when Greta sat in the chair across from him. She rarely joined him at the table, he could never figure out why she thought it was so inappropriate but had no problem butting into his personal life. It was one of those strange quirks he liked about her.

“You no eat. You don't like?”

Angel shook his head sadly. “It's not that, Greta. Ya know I love ya food.”

“What is wrong, Anton? You sad all weekend and now you no eat. Did Mr. Cat upset you so much?”

Angel shook his head again. “I mean, I was upset but he didn't do nothin wrong.”

Greta narrowed her eyes. “Did Mr. TV do something? I cut off his balls, you want?”

Angel snorted. “Leave Vox alone, Greta. He ain't do nothin wrong eitha.”

“Then why so sad boy?”

Angel opened his mouth but shut it again. She patiently waited for him to say something. He knew she wouldn't leave until he did. His chest rattled slightly but she failed to react to that. Which was just as well, he wasn't irritated with her.

“Do ya think I'm a bad person, Greta?”

“Eh?” She gave him a look. “You not person, Anton. You demon. Life is over. Afterlife is now. You no worry what is bad, what is good. No matter anymore!” She pointed at him. “You are powerful overlord! Strong! You survive everything! You no apologize for this.”

“You don't think it mattas what I do?”

“For what, eh? Decision made. You in Hell. Now you do what must be done. You good boss. You good boy. What else matter?”

“Then why do ya hate Vox so much?”

She made that noise in the back of her throat. “He no good for you.”

Angel laughed. “That's not an ansa, Greta.”

“You no want answer.”

Angel looked at her sharply. “Whaddya mean?”

“You no like answer. You don't want.”

“Yes, I do,” he insisted. 

She shrugged at him, clearly unconvinced but she answered anyway. “He not what you need, Anton. TV man do not see you . He want power, not passion. Mr. TV not give you what you need.”

“And what, exactly, do ya think I need?”

“Someone who make you feel again.” Angel looked away from her. She was right, he didn't want to hear that. “Like nice cat boy. He make you angry, and sad, but at least he make you something. Something better than nothing, Anton. You think about what Greta says while you eat!” 

She stood up, ending the conversation. Angel let her go while he did as commanded and ate. He knew that she meant well. She cared about him, but he didn't like her advice. It was true that Vox made him feel very little but feeling things was a dangerous game. One he wasn't sure he was ready for.

Chapter Text

Rewrite your history, light up your wildest dreams - Panic! At The Disco

Talouse’s frustration was very apparent to Angel. He didn't blame the demon. He was always very proud of his work. The mouse was right to be proud, the garden was always immaculate. Unfortunately, this was Hell and sometimes things like this were bound to happen. Even in the cannibal district.

Whatever bomb had landed in the yard couldn't have been very big, as the damage wasn't too severe. It had, however, ruined an entire section of the garden. Talouse's hands were flying as he complained to Angel. He was going too fast for the spider to catch all of it but it was plenty clear that he was pissed.

“Talouse, Talouse, slow down.” He slid one hand over the back of another before belatedly adding a please by rubbing his flat palm against his chest.

Talouse huffed but slowed his hands down to a speed Angel could comprehend. He'd begun learning sign when he'd brought Talouse into the house but he couldn't keep up with the demon when he went too quickly. As he often did when he was upset. The deaf/mute demon usually was patient with Angel’s attempts to learn but today he was clearly unable to keep his composure.

I'm going to kill them . The demon signed at Angel with a little more force than necessary.

“Who,” Angel signed back as he spoke, the question on his face. 

The children. Talouse's face was very serious. Angel knew he meant business. The cannibal children think they are funny.

“Children? Children did this?”

Yes! Yes! Talouse began signing quickly again. Angel got the gist of the names he was calling them. Apparently they had been playing baseball with a grenade and it had landed in the yard. 

“Alright. Alright.” He put his hands on Talouse's, effectively silencing the mouse, before he signed to him again. “I'll talk ta Rosie. No killin children.”

No promises.

“How about this. Ya dig all a this section up.” Talouse lifted his hands again but Angel kept signing. “And ya can finally put in that pond ya been askin fa!”

Really? 

His face had hope written all over it. He'd only been asking Angel for the last six months to let him do it. Angel hadn't wanted to deal with the garden being in such a state of disrepair but half the work had already been done at this point and it would make the mouse happy.

“Sure. I'm positive Nuggs will love it. Why don't ya take him with ya ta tha store’n I'll go talk ta Rosie?”

He watched Talouse get Nugg’s attention before he retreated into the house. The pig followed him inside. Angel was pretty sure that aside from himself, Talouse was his favorite companion. They spent a ton of time together, with Talouse often taking the pig on outings with him. Angel didn't often find himself with the time to take his baby out anymore. He'd love to blame it on his deal with Alastor but the truth was Angel hadn't spent proper time with anyone in years. 

Cherri used to complain but she'd stopped eventually. He felt a pang of guilt as he realized he couldn't remember the last time he'd hung out with her. He really should remedy that but he didn't have time right now. 

He'd only just walked in the door from working all day when Talouse had dragged him to the garden. Now he had to go out again to talk to Rosie before he could come back for his dinner. Even then he couldn't just relax. He'd promised Charlie he would come to the hotel this evening. She was dead set on getting Angel to hang out with the group outside of their morning activities. He'd caved yesterday and agreed to come tonight for drinks and games. At least there would be alcohol. 

He let Greta know he'd be back and took off on foot. Rosie's place wasn't that far from Angel's. He probably saw her more often than he saw most but that wasn't saying much. He did very little for fun nowadays. He wasn't sure when that had happened. When had he stopped enjoying… anything? 

He waved hello and gave neighborly smiles to all the residents he passed. A lot of demons found the cannibals to be creepy and eschewed Cannibal Town. Angel knew better though. If you just stopped thinking too hard about their diets they were often the friendliest souls down here. He didn't accept dinner invitations but he did maintain a certain level of friendliness with his community. They were a tight knit bunch and if he wanted to live among them, then a good standing was required.

He entered Rosie's shop to find it mostly empty. He was unsurprised. Cannibals rarely missed dinner time. Most would be at home right now, or at a dinner party. They were quite popular around here. Rosie's assistant waved him towards the back so he took off in that direction.

He found her boxing up chocolate dipped fingers into cute heart shaped boxes. She carefully tied a pink ribbon around each one. 

“Angel, dear! How nice to see you!”

“Heya, Rosie. How ya doin?”

“Oh, couldn't be better! Just getting ready for the holiday!”

“Holiday? What Holiday?”

“Why, Valentine's Day, of course! It's in a few weeks,” she cheerfully informed him.

“Oh, a course. I wasn't thinkin about that.”

Rosie gave him a look but then smiled, her pointy teeth on display. “Can I help you find something for your sweetheart?”

“Uh, that's ok Rosie. I appreciate tha offa but I haven't even thought about gettin anythin fa Vox yet.”

“Mmm. I see. What can I help you with then, dearie?”

“Uh, well… see. Talouse says tha children were playin grenade baseball’n that's why there's a hole in my yard.”

Rosie blinked a few times. “Oh, my.”

“Yeah,” he rubbed the back of his head. “Ya know how he is about tha garden. I was hopin ya might talk ta tha kids before he murdas one a them.”

“I will do that first thing tomorrow, Angel. Tell Talouse I'm very sorry!”

“It's alright. They're just kids but I don't want it ta be a problem. He ain't got much, tha garden is his pride’n joy. I finally told him he could put in tha pond, so he's not real mad anymore but I can't be responsible fa his behavior if they do it again.”

“Of course. I understand.” She finished tying another bow. “Have you gotten the invite from Carmilla?”

“I have. I'll be there. Though I'm not sure what she thinks we can do about tha angels. Heaven does whateva it wants ta.”

“Rumor has it,” she peeked up at Angel as she tied another box closed, “that Velvette has something up her sleeve.”

Angel nodded. “I think so but I don't know what.”

“Vox didn't tell you?”

Angel sighed. “Sure, he'll tell me. Just as soon as I announce my partnaship with them.”

Rosie put a hand to her mouth. “You didn't, did you?”

“Ya know I ain't goin ta, Rosie. Vox knows it, Vel knows it. Everyone knows. I ain't changed my mind.”

“Well, one can never be too sure, my dear.” She paused, fluttering her fingers at Angel. “That's a nice ring you got there. Present from Vox?”

“Yeah.”

“Very pretty.”

“Mhm. He has good taste.”

“Well he's with you, of course he has good taste.” She gave him a half smile. He knew that Rosie didn't particularly like Vox but she was too nice to say anything rude about him in front of Angel.

“Can I ask ya somethin, Rosie? In confidence?”

“Oh.” She stopped working to give Angel her full attention. “Of course you can, dear!”

“I know ya friends with Alastor…”

“I keep your confidences as much as I do with Alastor, dear. I won't tell you anything he may have confided in me. I'm sorry.”

“No, no. I wasn't goin ta ask ya ta. I, um, do ya know any a his souls?”

“I've met some over the years. Why do you ask?”

“I think he owns someone but I don't know fa sure. Winged cat demon.”

“Husker? Oh, sure. I've met him. Alastor has owned him for quite a while.”

“Thanks, Rosie. That's all I wanted ta know.”

“Hmm. Why so interested in this particular demon?” He could tell Rosie was implying he was interested romantically. Much like Greta, she was hoping he would find someone else. She was just less obvious about it. 

“Just wanted ta know tha truth. I've been up at Charlie's hotel. The Hazbin Hotel. Alastor is stayin there’n so is Husk. He's been tryin ta be my friend but I ain't stupid Rosie. I don't trust Alastor.”

“Well, I should think not. You don't trust any of us, Angel.”

He gave her a cross look. What was with everyone lately? Calling him out for no reason.

“You trust otha overlords?”

“Some more than others,” she responded as she went back to tying bows.

Angel didn't know how to respond to that. So he just prepared himself to leave. “Well, thanks anyway, Rosie.”

“Alastor doesn't always tell me his plans. I can't say for sure what he's doing there but maybe you ought to consider that Husker just likes you. It's not like Alastor doesn't give him the freedom to pursue his own things.”

“Umm… I'll keep that in mind, Rosie.”

“Have a good evening, Angel!”

“Night, Rosie.”

~~~~~

Rosie's suggestion that Husk just liked him wasn't helping. He'd eaten dinner and taken a leisurely bath and now he was staring at his closet. He couldn't decide what to wear. It shouldn't be difficult to choose a fucking outfit. He never had a hard time deciding. He always wore whatever was appropriate for the situation. 

What was appropriate for this situation was eluding him though. What did one wear to game night at a hotel full of freaks. One of whom he was secretly working for and another who was owned by the same freak who was bossing Angel around. And possibly liked him.

He didn't though, right? 

Ugh. Why did he even care?? He didn't like Husk. The grumpy bastard was always watching him, for Alastor no doubt. He had no problem saying whatever he felt like to Angel. They hadn't spoken much since Angel had told the cat to leave him alone. Apparently, after he got out what he'd needed to say, he'd been content to let Angel ignore him.

It had been a very long week and Angel was tired of Husk ignoring him back. He found it slightly bruising to his ego, if he was honest. That sealed it. Husk had certainly taken notice when he'd been missing a shirt and when he'd worn the dress that Greta claimed made him look like a hooker. Maybe if he wanted Husk to stop ignoring him then he needed to get his attention. 

The sparkly silver pants he pulled out had wide legs but clung to his hips and ass like a second skin, the waist sitting just below his second set of arms. The white top he paired with it was technically a shirt. It just lacked much in the way of material. The molded cups resembled a bra with a very thick band. He styled his makeup to match the bright sparkly pants.

He snatched his leather coat up then stuffed his phone and keys into his fluff before heading downstairs. Greta was in the kitchen, watching her soaps on a little TV while she washed dishes slowly, more absorbed in the show than her chore. He cleared his throat and watched in amusement as she started violently.

“Anton! You bad boy!”

He kissed her cheek. “You should pay more attention ya old bag.”

She made a noise and then caught sight of his outfit and made a louder noise. “Where is shirt, Anton?!”

“I'm goin out, Greta. I'll be back late. Ya shouldn't wait up.”

“Going to see Mr. TV?” She said it in a way that made it perfectly clear what she thought of that idea.

He rolled his eyes. “No, I'm goin ta tha hotel.”

“Ooooh, you see cat boy?” She sounded much more pleased now.

“I'm goin ta see everyone.”

“Uh huh. You wear hooker clothes for everyone, yes?”

“Would ya shut ya hole?”

“Have fun with Mr. Cat.”

He flipped her off as he left.

He pulled his baby out after tossing on his jacket. He rarely rode at night but then he rarely had the opportunity to. His night vision was excellent. It had been ever since he'd killed Val. The power he'd stolen had given him many benefits but the fact that he could drive high speeds at night was possibly one of the most fun. He put his pink heart glasses on before taking off.

He didn't need them at night but they were good for keeping bugs out of one's eyes. He didn't take a straight path to the hotel but instead he took an indirect route around the city, elongating the trip. He couldn't help himself. There was something so intoxicating about life threatening speeds on a vehicle that offered no protection. He was already dead so it wasn't like he could die but the thrill of the speed and the wind would never leave him. He felt it every time he rode. The illusion of flying. Of freedom.

He was a bit disappointed when he found himself in front of the hotel but he parked his baby anyway. He could hear music inside the hotel from all the way out here. They were apparently already having a good time.

A table was set up where the stage had been earlier this week. Almost everyone sat around it, playing some card game he didn't recognize. They were all talking loudly over one another. They didn't notice Angel enter the building. 

However, Alastor and Husk, who were at the bar, did notice. Angel had left his jacket with his bike. He removed his glasses, setting them on top of his head as he looked back at the two of them. Alastor's smiling face and Husk's grumpy one. Other than the fact that he had noticed him, Alastor gave nothing away.

Husk’s face gave nothing away but his eyes were all over Angel’s mostly naked torso. He wondered if Alastor had taught Husk to cover his reactions like that or if the bartender came by it naturally. Then he put on his own mask, giving the boys his best smile as he swayed his way over to them.

“Evenin boys.”

“Angel,” Alastor said simply.

“Drink,” Husk asked. He sounded irritable but, then again, he often did when Alastor was around.

“Ya got any vermouth back there?”

Husk raised an eyebrow. “Yeah.”

“Manhattan, please.” He sat on the stool next to Alastor. “Haven't seen ya much this week, Smiles.”

Alastor's smile tightened at the nickname. “Why, I've been busy, my friend!”

“Mmm. I hear ya. My club opens tomorrow. I've been very busy.”

“You're opening another one of those disgusting places?” Alastor sounded offended by the existence of Angel's businesses. 

He gave the demon a level look. “Yah, and I invited everyone at tha hotel. In exchange fa coming ta Charlie's game night they're all joining me tomorrow. Except you.” Alastor's eye twitched. “You can't come. Vox will be there’n I like my club in one piece.”

“I don't know what you see in that demon,” Alastor sneered.

Husk set a drink down in front of Angel. He looked over at the cat who's face clearly said he agreed and what exactly was Angel going to tell Alastor? He ignored that as he picked his drink up and took a sip. 

“Mm. That's good. Thank ya, Husk.”

“Sure thing, Angel.” He grabbed a cloth and turned his back on the overlords, giving them some semblance of privacy.

He turned his attention back to Alastor. “Remind me, Alastor. What exactly is ya beef with him?”

“Ah hah hah. I would have thought your inamorato would have told you?”

Angel leaned forward, putting his elbow in his leg so he could lay his chin on his hand. “Vox ain't big on pillow talk.” He looked the demon up and down slowly, letting lust into his gaze. “Are you?”

Alastor's face didn't change but Angel caught the way he leaned away from the spider. “Hah. No.”

Angel sat back up straight. “Shame.”

“Angel!” He heard his name seconds before Charlie threw her arm around him. He'd known she was there but he hadn't thought she would try to hug him. He could smell the alcohol on her breath though.

He put all his focus towards not reacting to Charlie's touch. Alastor's gaze on him was too sharp for him to allow such an obvious reaction. Even if he did want to pull away and rip her throat out simultaneously. He took all four arms and gently peeled her off of him, pushing her upright. 

“Hey, dollface. Havin a good time?”

“Yes! You should come play with us! We're going to play poker.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah? Husk has been teaching us!”

Angel glanced at the bartender, his back still to them. “Oh really? Sounds fun, doll. I'd be happy ta learn. Will ya be joinin us Alastor?” He gave the demon a seductive smile. 

Alastor's eye ticked. “I'll be watching the bar for Husker while you all enjoy your game!”

Angel stood, grabbing his drink, before bending over to bring himself eye level with the demon. “What a shame, Alastor. I was ratha hopin ta play with ya tonight.” He winked at the demon before joining Charlie at the card table. He heard quiet static as he walked away but Alastor remained otherwise silent.

Did he have to mess with Alastor? No. But it was fun. While something he rarely indulged in any longer, fun was the name of the game tonight. Angel was playing to win.

He took an open seat at the table between Niffty and Vaggie. Exuberant greetings met him from around the table. He lifted his drink in response as he settled in, leaning back in his chair and crossing his legs. He kept his gaze on Husk as the cat sat across from him. 

Husk set his bottle of whiskey on the table and began shuffling a deck of cards. He noticed Angel's attention on him and didn't look away. Charlie began doling out chips as Husk started explaining the basic rules to everyone. Angel listened but his attention was mainly focused on the cat's paws. He wasn't overly fancy with his shuffling but it was clear that he could have been if he wanted to.

The dexterity with which he handled the cards briefly made Angel wonder if the cat was always that good with his hands. Just as he thought that the cat changed things up and performed some strange and complicated maneuver before going back to the boring normal way he'd been doing it. 

Angel's gaze lifted back up to see Husk still watching him as he continued talking. Angel took a drink, watching the cat right back. After a minute he noticed a small curve to one side of the cat's mouth. He did nothing else to indicate to the others that Angel and him were having this silent tug of war as he began dealing to everyone without taking his eyes off of the spider. 

When he was done dealing, he lifted one brow at Angel. He got the question on the cat's face. What was he going to do now? Husk could deal without looking away but Angel had to check his cards. He shrugged. There was nothing for it. He looked down at his hand and chose to replace three of his cards. 

Husk gaze was moving around the table now, gauging everyone's reactions as he replaced their cards with new ones. Angel checked his new cards before moving his hand to his glass. He lightly ran a finger around the edge of his drink, the motion drawing Husk's eye. He watched Angel's hand as the players began calling out their moves. When it got to Angel he tossed a chip out, merely calling along with everyone before him. 

He picked up his glass for a drink, breaking Husk's concentration on his movements. Vaggie raised, much to the consternation of the rest of the table. Except Husk, who also raised. Angel grinned at the demon as he set his glass back down. He frowned at the spider. 

Everyone except Angel, Vaggie, and Husk folded. Husk and Vaggie both raised again before all was said and done. Angel only called each time. This seemed to confuse the barcat. Which was honestly the only point. He could have raised too but that would have made sense. He was willing to win a smaller pot just to make a point.

Vaggie flipped over her three kings. Not a bad hand, all things told, but Angel knew the cat had better. He wasn't sure what he had but Husk clearly knew how to play. He picked a piece of ice out of his drink as Husk flipped his cards. The cat watched him slide the ice between his lips. Angel glanced down at Husk's cards. 

A flush. It was definitely a good hand. Angel flipped his cards over. Four eights. He smirked at Husk's stunned face. 

“Oh come on,” Vaggie shouted. “I thought you didn't know how to play, Angel?”

He laughed. “I neva said that. I started runnin some a pops tables when I was… uh, ten, I think?” He leaned forward, sweeping all his winnings to his pile.

“Your dad ran a casino, Angel,” Charlie asked excitedly.

“No, doll. It wasn't exactly what ya’d call legal games.”

“Your family was mafia,” Husk asked. 

Angel looked at the cat in surprise. “How'd ya know that?”

Husk shrugged. “Most illegal places are mafia run games. Plus, you sound like a bad mobster movie.”

Angel snorted. “If'n ya say so. This accent is all natural. Should have heard my pops. Vieni qui che ti picchio, Antonio!” ( Come here so I can beat your ass, Anthony! )

Husk gave him a funny look but Charlie’s little squeal of excitement stole his attention. “You speak Italian, Angel?! It's so pretty! Say something else.”

Angel smiled sweetly at her before launching into rapid speech. “Questo potrà anche essere un circo ma non sono un pagliaccio. Non mi stai pagando per intrattenerti.” ( This might be a circus but I'm not a clown. You are not paying me to entertain you. )

“What does that mean?”

“It means,” he stood, “I need anotha drink.”

Husk made a noise, catching Angel's attention. “That seemed like a long sentence for just wanting another drink.”

Angel made a face at Husk before adopting a slightly pouty tone. “Chiudi il becco, stronzo.” ( Shut your mouth, asshole.)

Husk burst into laughter. Everyone stared at the cat, Angel included. Did he…?

“Parli Italiano?” ( You speak Italian? )

Despite his laughter he managed to respond to Angel. “Non preoccuparti, non le diró cosa hai detto.” ( Don't worry, I won't tell her what you said. )

Angel's face felt hot with embarrassment. How stupid of him to assume no one would understand him. He made his way over to the bar, Husk's laughter following him.

~~~~~

A few hours, and quite a few drinks, later, Husk had beaten everyone. Angel had lasted longer than the rest of them, putting up a good fight, but Husk was better than him. He would have been irritated except…

He was in a pretty good mood.

He stood from the table after losing his last chip to Husk. Grabbing his glasses, he wandered up the steps that most of the residents had disappeared up when they'd been ousted from the game. Only Petunia had stuck around to watch him lose. Even Alastor has gone to bed, leaving them to make their own drinks.

Angel knew he'd seen a door leading outside his first time in the hotel. He stuffed his glasses in his fluff as he stumbled around until he found it. It led out onto one of two balconies affixed to the front of the hotel. A few small tables sat around the space but Angel ignored them. He lit a cigarette and leaned against the railing, looking out into the city. 

He felt the door open behind him. He didn't need to look to know who had followed him outside. He silently waited for Husk to join him. The cat's steps were inaudible but Angel could feel his movements, slow and fluid, as he approached. The demon stood next to him. He didn't speak and Angel felt tense suddenly in the quiet. 

“Ya real good at that game.”

“Most of the time. Not always though. You seemed to be enjoying yourself. That must be a nice change of pace.”

Angel hit his cigarette before answering. “What's with you?”

“Uh, what do you mean?”

Angel turned his face towards the other demon. “Why do ya care if I'm havin a good time or not?”

“Maybe I just like you.”

“I ain't fuckin ya.”

Husk’s startled face quickly changed to irritation. “Who said anything about that? Jesus Christ. What's with me? What's with you?!”

Angel looked back out at the city. Vox had gotten to him but he wasn't about to tell Husk that. When he failed to respond Husk sighed and held his hand out. Angel looked down to see a room key. Room sixty-nine.

“What's that fa?”

“So you can crash here.”

He looked up at Husk, who was avoiding his gaze now. “I have a bed. A nice one. I like it.”

“You're a big boy, Fluff, but please tell me you're not planning to ride your bike back drunk?”

“That was my plan, yes.” Husk growled under his breath. “Fine. Whateva.”

Angel snatched the key, feeling the spark of magic when his hand touched Husk's. He pulled away quickly. 

“Would ya stop doin that?”

Husk looked at him in confusion. “I'm not doing that. I thought you were.”

Angel flicked his cigarette over the edge of the balcony. “What gave ya tha impression I am tryin ta do that?”

“I just thought it was part of your thing… you do.”

“What thing?”

“You know,” he made a gesture towards Angel, “whatever you did to Alastor. Whatever this thing is you do to make yourself so attractive to everyone.”

Angel’s mouth fell open partially. “Did ya just accuse me a usin my powa ta make ya feel attracted ta me?”

“I saw you do it to Alastor. I'm not stupid. Neither is he by the way. You might want to be careful.”

Angel laughed mirthlessly as he leaned down towards Husk. “I ain't neva used my powas on ya Husk. Hate ta break it ta ya but any attraction ya feel is all on you.”

Husk's face took on a red hue. “Oh.”

“Yeah, oh,” Angel replied sarcastically. Then it really hit him what they were talking about. Stupid drunken brain had to catch up. “Oh,” he breathed out. “I'm sorry, I don't- that is I, uh…”

He didn't want to talk about his hang ups with Husk. They barely knew one another. Only Vox knew that Angel wasn't fucking him and they didn't talk about it often. He'd never had to explain it to Vox. The demon had seen first hand that Angel just… couldn't. He felt an overwhelming need to change the subject. Quickly.

He looked up, noticing the Hazbin Hotel sign at the top of the hotel.

“Ya eva see tha view from up there? I bet it's nice.”

“Huh?” Husk looked up at the sign as Angel moved towards the building. “What are you- Angel!” 

Husk hissed the last part at him as Angel leapt, grabbing hold of a window frame on the side of the building. He leapt again, grabbing one further up. Then Husk was there, hovering near him. 

“You should get down before you fall.” He sounded so worried that Angel grinned at him.

“I won't.”

Angel leapt again, stopping to wait for Husk to reach him. He turned around to look at the city, letting go with all but one hand. The breeze this high up felt nice on his sensitive fur. It reminded him of riding his bike. He wished he could fly. Husk quickly got in the way of his view.

“Angel, seriously.”

“Would ya catch me if I fell, Whiskas?”

“I- yes, but-”

Angel laughed. “Then what ya worried about?”

He turned and sprung up the side of the building again, grabbing the ledge of the roof and pulling himself up to stand on it. Husk landed next to him, irritation on his face.

“Do you have a death wish?”

“Husk. If I want ta die, I got an Angelic blade at home.”

“That's not- I didn't mean permanently. It would still hurt and take up a lot of your time while you revive!”

“You worry too much.”

Husk glared at him. “I don't think there's such a thing when it comes to you.”

“I'm an overlord, Husk.”

“Why do you keep saying that like it means you're invincible?”

“No, not invinck- invince. Whateva, I know I can die. Hello, brutally murdered my old overlord, rememba?”

“I remember.” 

His face seemed unconvinced though. Angel wasn't too drunk to realize the cat was just patronizing him. 

“I'll prove it.”

“Please don't-”

Angel opened his arms wide and twisted his body, letting himself fall backwards off of the building. He reached a hand out to grab a hold of the building but instead he was yanked into Husk's arms. 

“Hey-”

“Have you completely lost your mind?!”

Angel was distracted by all the places his body tingled where Husk was touching his flesh. He heard Husk speak but he was having difficulty comprehending. “What?”

“There is something seriously wrong with you.”

“No. I- uh, I'm a spida.”

Husk stared at him angrily. “What does that have to do with you jumping off of buildings?”

Angel had to concentrate really hard to get his brain to think about anything other than how good it felt to have Husk touching him like this. “I can, um, stick ta it.”

“What?”

“I can climb like a spida. I wouldn't a fallen.” He felt breathless. He put a hand on Husk's chest. He could feel their magic mingle where his hand was pushed into fur. 

He looked up further to see Husk's mouth moving. He watched it for a minute, unwilling to look away. 

“Angel!”

He blinked, realizing that he hadn't heard a word the cat had been saying. He felt dazed as he looked into Husk’s concerned eyes. “What?”

“I said, I'm going to put you down now, if that's ok?”

Angel realized they were on the balcony again. He hadn't noticed Husk landing. He jerked his hand away from the cat and quickly climbed out of his arms. He didn't look at the cat again as he stammered out a sentence. 

“Y-ya know, I should… probably get ta sleep… I got a busy day tomorrow! Night Whiskas.” With that, he fled into the hotel, unwilling to give the demon a chance to say anything else.

Chapter Text

I have no intention of paying for my crime, don’t fear - Macy Gray

Ten Years Ago

The third thing Angel realized was his body felt different and his senses had completely changed.

He was faster, stronger, and had more acute vision. He could also feel the movements of everything around him. Right now he was trying to ignore Cherri's pacing as he laid some lines out for them.

Rocky had been immensely useful, even if Angel had to give him simple instructions. The demon had procured drugs for him, cleaned up this shit hole, and smuggled Cherri into the building.

“So let me get this fucking straight. You owe the Radio Demon a favor now. Vox and Velvette are out to kill you. You have no fucking plans of any kind and what? What now, Angel?”

“I had ta make a deal with someone’n I overheard Vox bitchin about Alastor. Does it really matter which asshole I made a deal with?”

He snorted a line before offering the rolled up bill to Cherri. She was too busy pacing to notice so he just shrugged and did another line. The coke Rocky had scored was the only thing stopping Angel from losing his mind. He was increasingly becoming easily agitated the longer he went without Val’s venom.

“Don't you know anything about Alastor? You couldn't have picked a worse overlord.”

Angel held up a hand, like he was in school again. Cherri narrowed her eyes at him. “I could have, Cher. I, in fact, did once already.” He tried to lean back over to do the third line but Cherri smacked the bill out of his hand. “Hey! What tha fuck?!”

“This is serious, Ang! Stop joking.”

“Who's fuckin jokin? Tha Radio Demon can't be worse than Valentino was. Besides, it's not like I gave him my soul. That's mine now, along with all tha otha souls Val collected.”

“Yeah, about that.” She eyed the big horned demon who was obediently sitting at the table. “What's with him?”

“Rocky? We used ta work togetha.” He lowered his voice to a whisper. “Not tha sharpest tool in tha shed but he's good at taking directions.”

“So he's one of your souls now? And you just have him running errands for you?”

“What else would I have him do?”

“What can you make him do?”

Angel waved his hand, producing Rocky's contract which he laid on the countertop for Cherri to peruse. “Pretty much whateva I want. His contract is more shit than mine was.”

Cherri leaned over, quickly scanning the contract. “Why's it got your real name on it?”

Angel shrugged, feeling further irritated at the reminder of just how he’d signed his contract. “That's how I signed my contract with Val. It seems ta have just transferred tha signature in place a Val’s.”

Cherri snickered. “You signed it with a fucking heart?” 

Angel snapped his fingers, causing the contract to disappear in a puff of pink smoke. “Shut up, bitch.”

She held up her hands in capitulation but the smile didn't leave her face. “I'm just saying ya fucking ho! You suck at planning shit. What are you gonna do now?”

“Fuck you. I do not suck at plannin.”

“Oh ok, Angie. Cause you didn't just kill that cunt with no plan for what to do afterwards?”

He retrieved the bill from the floor, refusing to look at her. “I didn't think I'd need one.”

“What does that mean?”

“I didn't think it would work.”

“Then why-” She cut off suddenly, anger written on her face. “You ass!” She slapped his arm once, and then again, harder the second time.

“Ow, fuckin stop!”

“You asshole! You little bitch! You were just going to let him kill you, weren't you?!”

Angel didn't respond to that. Instead he snorted the last line he'd laid out. He was going to need more drugs soon.

“Don't fucking ignore me, Angel.”

“What do ya want me ta say, Cher?”

He looked up to see tears in her eye. He didn't think he'd ever seen her cry before. It made him irrationally angry. He tossed the bill onto the counter and watched it bounce on the end and land on the floor. He wrapped his arms around himself.

“Angie, I-”

“I don't want ta talk about it!” He took a deep breath and lowered his voice. “I just want ta figure out where ta go now. I need ta get tha remainin Vees off a my back. Are ya goin ta help me or not?”

“Of course I'll help you, ya fucking cunt.”

~~~~~

It took several days for them to not only put a plan together but to find the right time to implement it. Which was Velvette's latest fashion show. Rocky had managed to discover that Vox wouldn't be in attendance so it was the perfect time for Angel to approach the female of the duo.

It was his hope that Velvette would be a bit more level headed than her partner. He knew that her relationships with Vox and Valentino were different then the one the men had shared. He was fervently hoping that she'd be more willing to listen than Vox would be. He wasn’t entirely sure that hope had any basis in reality but it was all he had.

It was hard to know for sure since Angel didn't know her very well. Sure, he'd spent plenty of time around the Vees but less of it had been spent in Velvette's presence than Vox’s. She never really spoke to him. Vox had always had plenty to say, none of it remotely nice. He knew Velvette had made a lot of the costumes he wore but she'd only required his measurements for that, not his presence.

He was pretty sure that she thought of him as more of an annoyance than anything. She only really acknowledged him when she would get tired of Vox and Val fighting over him. Then she would just threaten to leave if Val didn't get rid of him. Val always picked Velvette over Angel. He did not always pick Vox. That had very little to do with Angel, though. He was just a pawn in the men's game. 

The show was being held at some building that wasn't owned by the Vees. Some rich asshole had paid for Velvette to design a specific theme and throw the party at his estate. That worked out great for Angel. He has no desire to go back to the tower any time soon. Ever, preferably.

It was a relatively easy affair to sneak into the large house. It wasn't late enough for guests to have started arriving so he only had to dodge staff. His invisibility, along with his new senses and reflexes, made it incredibly easy to avoid everyone. 

Velvette was more difficult to locate than he had originally anticipated. Mostly because the demon didn't stay in one place for long. She was constantly on the move, checking and rechecking everything. She did a lot of yelling but that wasn't news to Angel. It was the only reason he was able to eventually find her.

She was also constantly on her phone. Also not news to Angel. If Velvette could be said to love anything, it would probably be that damn phone. Which was how he was going to get her. He quietly followed her for hours, waiting for just the right moment. 

It was tedious and not a little stressful. The longer he followed her around, stuck with nothing but his thoughts, the more he could feel himself getting agitated again. It was really starting to piss him off but there was nothing he could do. No matter how many drugs he did, nothing was able to replace his body’s craving for Val.

He finally found his opportunity late in the day. No one was around as she walked in front of an open door, nose in her phone. Angel threw himself into her suddenly, knocking her through the doorway, where she landed sprawled on the floor. He swiftly shut and locked the door of the room they found themselves in, dropping his invisibility as he did. 

Velvette growled in rage from the floor as she turned over to see who had dared to push her. Her face was honestly comical when she realized it was him. He grinned at her, waving with his fingers.

“Angel, you fucking walking dead man!”

“Aww, and here I thought you might have missed me, Velvette.” He pouted at her as she scrambled upright, glaring up at him.

Her hands glowed with fuchsia power as she stood against him. It was almost laughable with her tiny height that she would expect him to find her intimidating. She was vicious, sure, but Angel knew something he was pretty sure she didn’t.

The demon didn’t give any more warning as she threw a ball of pure magic at his head. His eyes widened as he ducked to the side. The magic sailed over him, smashing into the wall behind him. Small pieces of wall pelted the back of his head.

He narrowed his eyes at her. He hadn’t wanted to resort to violence but he probably should have known she wouldn’t hesitate. She threw more energy at him, which he easily dodged again. Using his speed, he put himself behind her.

Then he wrapped his arms around her, holding her arms tight to her body. He opened his mouth to speak but the fucking bitch slammed the back of her head into his face. He dropped her, his eyes watering from the blow. “Ya fuckin bitch.” 

She swept a leg out as she turned, trying to knock Angel down but he simply performed a backflip to move himself out of her small range. She growled, throwing herself after him. He moved out of her range again and again, unwilling to do her serious damage. He wanted to talk to her, not kill her. She backed him against the wall and when she jumped at him this time, he did the only thing he could. He jumped higher.

What he wasn’t expecting was that when his hands touched the ceiling, he stuck to it. He awkwardly hung there for a moment, looking down at her angry face. She threw another blast of magic at him. So he simply let go of the ceiling.

He landed on top of Velvette. She grunted as his weight knocked her over again. His hand shot out quickly, snatching her phone from the coat pocket it was hanging out of. Then he swiftly moved away from her, watching her stumble to her feet again. Fuchsia magic already at the ready.

He held her phone up, waggling it back and forth. Then he sent it away. The same way he had with Rocky’s contract. To his absolute delight, it worked.

“I wouldn’t do that if I was you,” he told her, coldly. “I ain’t weak.”

“You think you can take me on?” She laughed boisterously at him. “Angel, who the fuck do you think you are?”

“Did ya know that when I killed Val, all a his souls became mine?”

Her face took on an uncertain look as her magic died away. “What?”

“Yeah. Vox didn’t tell ya that would happen?” He had no idea if Vox even knew it would, but clearly Velvette hadn’t known. Just as he’d assumed. She was the youngest overlord by far. He wasn’t sure she’d ever seen one taken out before.

It worked though. Her face took on an angry cast again. “No, he didn’t.”

“That’s weird. Ya think he would a said somethin ta his partner… Too bad he didn’t. Cause I believe Val was more powaful than you, wasn’t he?” Angel pointed at himself. “Do ya think that makes… me,” he paused, “more powaful?” 

She looked him up and down, clearly unsure what to believe. “What do you want, you twat? I’m not interested in playing fucking games with you.”

“I want ta be friends, Velvette.”

She scoffed. “You think I want to fucking be friends with you? You fucking murdered my best friend! I’d just as soon see Vox rip all of those goddamned souls out of your fucking lanky ass.”

“You might want ta just hear me out, Vel.”

“Don’t fucking call me that, you little bitch.”

“Listen, there are two options here. You’n I can work somethin out, or I can be ya enemy.” He dropped into invisibility and used his power to reach her in a split second. He whispered in her ear, “I don’t think ya want that,” before moving to the vanity on the other side of the room from her and reappearing.

She swung around towards him, shock on her face. Angel put one leg up on the chair in front of him, pushing himself further onto the vanity so he was sitting fully on it. He waved two hands at her to indicate that it was her move.

She put a hand on her hip, studying him. “What, exactly, do you propose?”

“Well, I own all a Val’s souls. I can easily take up where he left off with tha porn industry. I plan ta start there. I think it would make all a our lives easier if we just went on as though I didn’t kill Val.”

“You want to take his place in the Vees?” She raised an eyebrow at him as she cocked her hip out further. The incredulity in her voice made it obvious just how stupid of an idea she thought that was.

“Fuck no. I ain’t interested in workin fa Vox. Doesn’t mean we all got ta fight.”

“Angel, you fucking murdered Valentino.”

“And he fuckin deserved it! I’d do it all ova again if I could! Feeling his heart pop just one time will neva be enough! I won’t apologize fa anythin I did when it comes ta Val.” He sniffed as he crossed his arms and leaned back against the mirror behind him. He was trying hard to ignore the desire to rip her tongue out. He wasn’t here to discuss Valentino. He didn’t even want to think about him.

“Yeah, he was a prick, but he was our prick. You think Vox will forgive you? Just let it go?” She laughed. “He already fucking hated you.”

“You leave Vox ta me. If’n I can convince him then I want ya ta back me up, agree ta work with me, peacefully.”

She eyed him, appearing to mull it over. “I provide all the clothing for your staff, just like with Val.”

“Done.” He really didn’t care if she clothed them. She was the best.

“And you model for me sometimes.”

He made a face at her. “What? Why?”

She shrugged. “Valentino did it. You’ve got the same lanky frame that makes for great photos.”

He rolled his eyes. “Fine. I’ll model fa ya. Sometimes. I ain’t as obsessed with myself as Val was.”

She nodded but narrowed her eyes at him. “Little piece of advice, Angel? When you talk to Vox, you might want to refrain from insulting his dead lover. Not that I’ll cry myself to sleep when you fail to convince Vox and he murders you just as brutally as you did Valentino. I honestly hope I get to fucking see it.”

He swallowed. She was right, of course. Vox was not afraid of violence and, while not nearly as chaotic and unpredictable as Val, wasn’t exactly difficult to set off.

“I’ll keep that in mind. Do me a fava and don’t tell him I was here?”

She made a noise of negation. “Do you know how pissed he would be that I didn’t kill you? I’m not fucking stupid, Angel.” He stood from the desk and dropped into invisibility. “Hey! I need my phone back! Angel!”

He smirked to himself, snapping his fingers as he passed by her. Her phone appeared in her hand as he made a quick exit.

~~~~~

Angel never dropped his camouflage the entire way back to the tiny bar apartment. He moved hastily through the city, doing his best to avoid running into all the demons who couldn’t see him. He was doing a pretty damn good job of it until, two blocks from his new home, he came around a corner too quickly.

He slammed into a smaller demon, almost knocking it over. Its wings flared out, black and red feathers blocking his vision for a moment. Without thinking, his hands shot out to steady it before it fell over, but he snatched his hands back just as quickly. Apparently touching the damn thing shocked you because his hands stung now. He cursed as he hurried around the demon, his gaze on his hands. Before the demon could give him away to the cameras, he needed to get out of there.

He could hear its deep voice complaining but he wasn’t about to stop and apologize. He needed to get back inside before Vox noticed him. Velvette might be willing to back him, but he had to convince Vox first. That would be a lot trickier.

He rushed inside to find Cherri pacing and Rocky sitting at the table still. Cherri broke off mid stride and rushed him as he shut the door. He dropped his camouflage and Cherri threw her arms around him.

“I was so worried ya ho! What happened?”

“It went good. If I can convince Vox ta not murda me then she’ll get on board.”

“Well, that’s something at least.”

“Cher, what is that?”

Angel’s gaze was fixed on a large bouquet that sat on the countertop. A small white card was sticking out of it. The sight of the damn thing was causing him no small amount of anxiety. It smacked of something Valentino would leave him after a fight.

“Oh! Yeah, some guy just dropped it off for you not that long ago.”

“Did he say who it was from?”

“No,” Cherri said. She sounded worried too. That only made Angel’s anxiety rocket higher. Christ, he wished he could just have one hit of Val’s venom. It always calmed him down.

“What’d he look like?”

“I dunno. Just some cat. Said that he was supposed to drop them off here.”

Angel’s skin crawled as he woodenly walked over to the offending flowers. No one but the three of them should know where he was. Ten different ideas popped into his head and he discarded each one. There was no way anyone should know where he was.

He gingerly picked the white card out and hesitated before he flipped it open. When he saw the inside, he felt a little dizzy and breathless. How did he know? What, exactly, had Angel gotten himself into? He hoped Cherri wasn’t right.

Congratulations on your freedom, Angel

-Alastor

Chapter Text

Heart break is one thing, my ego’s another

I beg you, don't embarrass me, motherfucker - Sabrina Carpenter

The light shining on his face was what woke him. He growled in annoyance as he covered his eyes with his hand. It had to have been Greta who opened his curtains, Zoey wouldn't dare. He sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes before looking around.

Shit.

He wasn't in his bed. He didn't recognize the bed he was in. Looking down at himself he could see that he was still dressed in the same clothes from last night. Last night.

Shit.

He remembered now. His chest rattled in annoyance as he flopped back down on the bed, rubbing his hands over his face. Stupid spider. How could he be so dumb? Stupid cat. Touching him. Feeling so soft when Angel touched him back. 

He clearly drank too much. He hadn't thought he'd been that drunk but obviously he'd miscalculated. There was no other explanation for his behavior last night. No other reason he could have enjoyed being touched. It was clearly the alcohol. Obviously.

He pulled his phone out to check the time and saw a message from Velvette.

Do u know y Vox is being Xtra 💩😡 2day?

Well, shit. Vox had to have seen. The fucker was watching the hotel. Angel knew that. Fuck, he really was stupid. Now he was going to have to deal with Vox. He'd largely been avoiding the demon since he'd confessed his love for Angel. Now he'd most likely seen him with Husk. It didn't matter that nothing had happened. He knew Vox wouldn't be happy. 

This was not the mess he needed today. The club opening was tonight. He threw the blanket covering him aside and quickly tossed his shoes back on. He found his glasses and room key on the bedside table, snatching them up on his way out.

He rushed down the stairs, barely acknowledging the greeting Sir Pentious gave him on the way out. He saw Husk at the bar out of the corner of his eye but he didn't stop to say anything. Instead he hurried out of the hotel, throwing his coat and sunglasses on. The door to the hotel opened behind him but he climbed on his bike. He knew who it was and he didn't want to talk to the barcat.

“Angel?”

“I really got ta go Husk.” The demon stepped up next to him, examining his face. Angel gave him a camera ready smile. “I'll see ya tonight.”

Husk gave him a long look but just nodded and stepped back. Angel started his bike and took off, grateful that Husk hadn't tried to force him to talk. What would he have said in any case? He'd been drunk. Nothing had happened. There wasn't anything to say.

~~~~~

Angel arrived home to find Lucia and Andre eating at his breakfast table. Lucia gave him an amused smile but Andre had the good grace to look a bit ashamed. They were eating his breakfast.

“What tha Hell, Greta.”

She shrugged. “You no come home. You no here for breakfast. I feed frogs.”

“Can I at least get some coffee?” He waved Andre back down when the demon tried to give his seat up to Angel. “I'm just havin coffee, eat ya food.”

Greta made a rude noise in her throat. “Have good time with Mr. Cat?” She raised an eye at him.

“I did not stay with Husk. It's a hotel, Greta. I had my own room.”

“Too bad. Maybe you less grumpy if Mr. Cat show you good time.”

“Greta!” He glared at Lucia who had burst into laughter. Andre looked uncomfortable but the women were highly amused with themselves.

“What,” Greta asked. “Is true. You all, what is word? Tight like snake before strike.”

“Tense,” Lucia supplied. “He's tense.”

“Do not help her,” he grumbled at Lucia.

“Yes. You are tense, Anton. Maybe cat loosen you up.” She set coffee on the counter in front of him.

He glared at her while he picked up his cup. “I am fine.”

Andre scoffed quietly and then looked alarmed when he realized he'd made a noise. “Uh, I mean, that is-”

“Oh shut up, Andre.” The frog's mouth snapped shut.

“See? Even Andre agrees,” Lucia pointed out. “Maybe a good fuck would do you some good.” She said the next part under her breath but Angel heard her just fine. “Clearly Vox isn't getting the job done.”

Angel slammed his cup down. It shattered, several pieces embedding themselves into his hand. “Shut up!” All three demons froze. Angel pulled the pieces of cup from his hand, dropping them on the floor. “This convasation is ova. You two can wait outside. Clean this shit up, Greta.”

He stalked away from them without waiting for a response. He gave them a lot of leeway, the lot of them, but they'd gone too far. What Angel did, or didn't do, in the bedroom with anyone was none of their fucking business. He spent the entire time getting ready slamming things and tossing them around. He was pissed.

More so because he knew they weren't wrong. It wasn't like he wanted to be this way. He remembered when he'd enjoyed sex. He had loved sex once. He'd enjoyed the touch of others. Now every touch held the ghost of Valentino. Every time someone touched him he could still feel Val’s hands on him. The possessiveness in his every glance and touch hadn't died with the overlord. They lived in Angel's head.

The fact that they hadn't when Husk had touched him wasn't entirely lost on Angel. He knew everything had fled his mind when he'd been in the cat’s arms. There hadn't been room for anything else. 

It didn't make Angel feel better, it made him feel worse. Something was happening there and he was terrified of what it was.

He shook the thoughts from his mind. It didn't matter. He didn't have time for any of it. He had a club to open.

~~~~~

Angel adjusted the top of his leather corset as he looked around the club. He’d opted to dress for the occasion, like he usually did when opening a new place. An obscenely short ruffled leather skirt joined the corset. He had several leather garter belts strapped to each thigh above his tall boots and a harness that had small leather wings, wrapped around his torso, accentuating his fluff.

It was all in white. It had seemed appropriate for a sex club he’d named Sinner’s Paradise. The staff were all similarly dressed in iconic angelic or demonic styles. The drinks were all named silly things like “Angel’s kiss” or “Demon’s rage”. He hadn’t named them. He had trusted his people to take care of many of the minor details.

The club looked amazing. It was all glass and metal surfaces. Mirrors lined the dance floor walls and the glass floor was slightly reflective. If one tried hard enough, they’d be able to see up their fellow partiers' skirts.

A raised stage stood at the head of the dance floor, where Paranoid DJ was finishing setting up. They would be opening soon. The club's dancers were making their ways up the stairs to the dance cages. One on each side of the room hung high on the wall above the dance floor. Three dancers to a cage. They would take shifts throughout the night.

All the glass and metal looked colorless now, but once the music and lights started they would be able to create a myriad of different looks. The upstairs rooms were a different story but they wouldn’t be open until after the demonstration.

Angel watched as Vox approached from the entrance. Velvette wasn’t with him. The overlord had clearly been dressed by her, though. Not that Vox was a slouch when it came to fashion but his outfit was not his usual style. His black cargo pants were tucked into black combat boots and his top was only covered by a sleeveless fishnet top and leather bracers. He actually looked hot.

That thought annoyed Angel. He hated when he found anything attractive about the TV demon. Finding him attractive was one step closer to giving him what he wanted. He smiled seductively at Vox as he approached and watched as those red lines appeared from his mouth. It made him look like he was dripping blood.

“You look good, Vox.”

“Not nearly as good as you look, darling.”

“Ya always think I look good.” Vox took his hand but before he could kiss it Angel impulsively leaned down and kissed his cheek. His screen brightened at the contact. “Thank you, though. What do ya think a tha place?”

Vox quickly covered his look of surprise as he looked around the place. “It’s amazing. All of your places are gorgeous and there’s quite the line outside. Velvette has made sure everyone knows this is the place to be tonight.”

“Where is she anyways?”

“She had something come up at the last minute that she couldn’t ignore. She’ll be here soon, don’t worry, Angel.”

“More secrets, Vox?” He eyed the demon. There were always more secrets.

“Nothing to concern yourself with, my dear. Everything is fine.”

Angel made a noise of agreement. In truth it rarely bothered him when the Vees left him out of stuff. They didn’t mess with him directly and he knew they both tried not to affect Angel’s business indirectly. It happened occasionally but that was what happened when one was as powerful as they were. Shit happened.

It wasn’t worth the cost of knowing what they were up to. Maybe someday it would be but today wasn’t the day.

The overhead lights fell as the DJ began a thumping electronic sound. Blue and white lights lit up the dance floor as the dancers began to undulate in their cages.

“Looks like it's time,” Vox said as he offered Angel his arm. Angel took it and allowed the demon to lead him to the doors. He plastered his famous smile on and indicated he was ready. The staff members flung them open and they emerged to flashing lights from the paparazzi.

Angel ignored their usual questions as he raised his free top arm. “Welcome ta my new place all ya fucked up heathens!” The crowd waiting in line roared and clapped. “Sinner's Paradise awaits fa all ya lucky bastards. Whether ya lookin fa tha pleasure a Heaven or tha pain a Hell, we got ya sick fucks covered!” More noise greeted his proclamation and he nodded at the bouncers to start letting patrons in. 

He let Vox lead him back inside and up to the bar. The TV demon ordered drinks for them, he was actually very perceptive about what drinks Angel was in the mood for. He wasn't quite sure how he always seemed to get it right but the tequila sunrise was just what he needed to dull his senses tonight.

Some demons moved right to the dance floor and some headed straight for the bar. It ran the length of the room and boasted six bartenders. The club was the largest he had ever opened if you included the upper levels. 

He had several drinks while he and Vox entertained all the demons that wanted to schmooze with them. Angel kept up the old porn star persona for as long as he could but after a while he was feeling strained.

So when the demon they were talking to began openly flirting with Vox, Angel took the opportunity to escape. He promised to return shortly but Vox didn't seem perturbed. That was fine with Angel. He'd get a break from the demon’s attentions. He was happy to indulge Vox if it meant he wasn't going to bring up what he'd seen last night.

Angel made his way up to the third floor where the manager’s office lay. Angel had yet to hire someone to run the club so he would be quite busy with that himself until he found someone. He wondered if Petunia had what it took to run a club? Maybe it would keep her from feeling the need to sell her soul. He’d take it if she insisted but he hoped the introduction she'd offered was enough. It really wasn’t worth selling one’s soul in his opinion. Especially not when she had Charlie to keep an eye on her.

He stood in front of the one way glass that made up the back wall of the office. You could see the entire first floor from here. The club was already full. Once they opened up the upper floors they would be able to let more customers in. There was time still before that would happen.

He turned to the cameras to check out the rest of the club. Everything looked ready to him. He looked at the outside cameras and saw the line of demons that wrapped around the building. He wasn’t surprised at all. Anytime he opened a new business demons showed up en masse to see what Angel Dust was offering now. He knew how to appeal to their sick fantasies. 

He’d been a part of them once.

He paused his perusal of the cameras when he noticed the group from the hotel. They were waiting in line with the rest of the degenerates. That wouldn’t do. Angel made his way back downstairs. Vox was no longer at the bar with the other demon. Lucifer knew if they were even on the main floor. Vox wasn’t one to wait for permission to use the upper levels.

Angel didn’t care. He hoped he stayed gone all night. Vox knew how to be discreet and that was all he cared about.

He exited the building and ignored the reporters as their cameras started up again. He ignored the crowd of onlookers too. Angel was above responding to them and they knew it. They just seemed to love him more for it.

He spotted the Hazbin group and strode over to them. Charlie spotted him first and waved energetically. Vaggie nodded her head but didn’t uncross her arms. Pentious looked so uncomfortable and out of place that Angel couldn’t help but smile. A genuine one.

Niffty and Petunia were the only ones who had dressed for the club. Niffty was in a cute black leather pants and halter top while Petunia sported a short black dress and corset. Husk looked bored in his usual attire. Vaggie and Charlie had at least dressed up, but they looked too adorable for a sex club. 

“Y’all don’t need ta wait out here. Come on.”

He headed back into the club, the group on his tail. Their various exclamations of awe and excitement when they saw the inside were music to his ears. He waved for them to follow him to the bar where he got the attention of one of his bartenders. Angel informed her that the group was on his tab and to let the word pass to the others.

“You don’t have to do that, Angel,” Charlie exclaimed. “We can pay.”

“Don’t worry about it, Doll. Ya are all my guests. It won’t make no difference ta my bottom line, trust me. Ya should all orda somethin, I’ll be right back.”

He made his way over to the back wall, where couches and low tables were set up for patrons. There was a red curtain hanging over a doorway set between two of the couches. Rocky, one of his security team, stood in front of it. He let him know that he’d be bringing guests into the VIP room and that they weren’t to be disturbed by anyone but staff.

Then he went back and fetched the hotel group. He brought them to the VIP room. It was a cozy affair but large enough to easily fit them. A large circular couch took up most of the room, with a table in the middle for their drinks. He waited for the group to seat themselves before he joined them. 

“Angel this place is great,” Charlie launched into conversation with him as he sat down next to Husk. He wasn't thrilled to be so close to the cat again but it was the only seat left to him.

“Thanks, Dollface.”

“Yesss. I’m sssurprisssed that you have such good tassste, ssspider.”

He smiled at Pentious. “Ya should see some a my otha places. I ain’t just a pretty face, ya know.”

“Not sure how anyone could fucking think that,” Husk muttered next to him. Angel was close enough to hear it but he was pretty sure no one else had.

“What’s upstairs,” Petunia asked. “I saw some stairs, is there more to the club?”

“Those are mostly tha private rooms. There’s anotha, smalla bar on tha second floor.”

“Private rooms,” Vaggie said with a suspicious look on her face. “Why does a club need a whole floor of private rooms.”

“Two whole floors,” Angel corrected, “and this ain’t a regula club.” He looked around at the group. Surely they knew the types of businesses Angel ran. He’d told them when they’d met. Not to mention his places were pretty famous. They all looked at him expectantly. “It’s a sex club. Tha private rooms are fa guests ta use.”

He looked at their faces. Charlie looked uncertain, Vaggie and Pentious looked scandalized, Niffty looked excited, and Husk and Petunia didn’t seem all that surprised.

Niffty jumped up on the seat of the couch. “Can I use them to punish some bad boys?” She giggled in her creepy little way.

“If ya want ta. They don’t open until afta tha demonstration though.”

Rocky poked his head through the curtain. “Angel, Vox is looking for you.”

Angel rolled his eyes and sighed as he stood up. He pulled a cigarette and lighter out of his fluff, lighting up before addressing his guests. “I’ll be back eventually. Have fun. Orda whateva ya want.”

He strode from the room without waiting for responses. If they didn’t want to be in his club, they were welcome to leave. He wasn’t ashamed of his businesses but he wasn’t going to waste energy explaining that to anyone.

He emerged to find Vox several feet away, standing very close to the cat demon he had disappeared with earlier. He pulled away as Angel approached and grabbed the spider close before kissing his cheek. Angel let him. He shouldn’t have done it himself earlier. Now he’d established that increased closeness in their relationship. 

What was wrong with him tonight?

“Darling,” Vox said in a low voice. “Do you think you could do me a favor?”

“Depends on what ya want Vox.”

The demon smiled at him. Angel got the distinct impression that Vox was going to enjoy asking Angel whatever came next.

“I know the upstairs isn’t open to the public until later but perhaps you’d make an exception for me, dear.”

Angel didn’t let the annoyance he felt show on his face. He knew that Vox was willing and capable of just breaking the rules without permission. Which meant he was trying to irritate Angel by letting him know he was taking a new lover in his club. He shouldn’t let the idiot get to him like that but it just felt disrespectful. 

Vox was trying to upset him in a way he knew would work. He knew that Angel didn't care who he fucked but that Angel did expect discretion from the demon. He had definitely seen Angel with Husk.

He gave the demon a wicked smile in return and wrapped an arm around his neck before pushing his fluff into the demon’s chest. He could feel his hot skin through the fishnet top. Vox’s screen glitched in surprise. Angel ran a hand up the demon’s arm and he instinctively wrapped it around the spider’s waist, pressing him closer.

Angel let his gaze fall onto the cat who was watching them. She did not look very pleased at the display. He kept looking at her as he spoke to Vox. He kicked his pheromones up higher. He didn’t aim them at just Vox this time. He let them leak out into the air around him, heedless of the fact that they would affect everyone.

The cat gal’s pupils grew large and Angel could feel one of Vox’s claws break skin as he gripped Angel tighter. “Oh, Voxxy. Ya know ya always welcome ta fuck whoeva ya want in my clubs.”

“Even you,” the demon asked, hopefully.

Angel laughed and pushed away from Vox to take another hit from his cigarette. “A course not. Have fun with ya little stand in.”

He turned away to go back to the VIP room but stopped short when he saw Husk standing next to Rocky. Both demon’s had blown pupils, as did all the demons on the couches next to them. Damnit. He shouldn’t have done that. Strangely, despite the pheromones affecting Husk, he didn’t look as empty headed as most. In fact, he was watching Angel carefully.

Vox’s hand closed around his arm as he turned Angel back to him. “Angel, darling.” His gaze wasn't on Angel though, he was looking around the spider. Angel knew he had seen Husk when his face darkened, literally. “What is he doing here?”

“I invited everyone from tha hotel.”

Vox's grip on his arm tightened painfully, his voice reverberating. “Alastor is here?”

“No. I didn't invite him.” He put a hand over Vox’s where he was grabbing Angel. The demon seemed to realize he was gripping him tightly and let go. Only to grab Angel's hand.

“Of course you wouldn't, dear. I know you wouldn't want to displease me in that way.”

Angel just stared, unsure of how to respond. Vox had never said something so threatening sounding to him. Not since that first night they'd made their deal 10 years ago. What the fuck was going on? 

“Why are ya bein a dick,” he finally hissed at the demon. 

“Angel. I wouldn't dream of treating you in a way you didn't deserve.”

“Then what tha fuck is this?” He waved a hand at the girl. “Flauntin her in front a everyone on my openin night. At my club. I don't fuckin disrespect ya like that, Vox.”

Vox pulled Angel closer roughly. “I saw you with that fucking cat,” he spat. 

“He's just a friend. Nothin happened.”

“You think you can fuck him and not me and I'm just going to roll over?”

“I ain't fuckin him.” He ripped his arm out of Vox’s hold, glaring at him. 

“For his sake, I hope not, Angel.” Vox turned his back on Angel, grabbing the girl around the waist. He led her to the door of the club. 

Angel watched them leave, seething. He whirled away to march up the stairs, dropping his pheromones as he went. He stalked his way back to the office, slamming the door open, and roughly stubbing his cigarette into an ashtray. His breathing was heavy as he stood in front of the glass window watching his patrons party. A quiet knock sounded on his open door and Angel turned his angry gaze onto whoever dared bother him.

Of course it was Husk who stood in the doorway. The demon was really making it a habit to follow him. Angel turned back to the window, hoping the cat would leave. He was unsurprised when Husk wandered over and stared out the window next to Angel instead. It was a few minutes before Husk spoke. 

“Are you ok?” Angel laughed, a sarcastic sound, but didn't say anything. “It's ok if you're not, you know?”

It's ok to be sad.  

He blinked away the tears trying to form. “He's such a fuckin ass sometimes.”

He could see Husk's ears lower in their reflection in the glass. “I didn't realize you cared about him like that.”

Angel turned a confused face to the cat. “What?”

“The way you talk about him, it doesn't seem like you give a damn, but you looked awfully fucking hurt just now.”

Angel snorted as he looked back out the window. “I don't care who Vox fucks. He knows that.” He squeezed his hands hard enough to make his knuckles crack. “I'm not upset he's fuckin her, I'm mad he's flauntin it to punish me.”

“Oh. Why is he punishing you? And why the fuck are you letting him?”

“It's complicated.”

“Yeah. You said that before.” Husk turned to face him. “I can leave you alone, if you want… but maybe you'd feel better if you talked about it.”

Angel turned towards the barcat. “With you?”

Husk smiled lightly. “I'm a bartender. Everyone tells me their damn problems. I know how to keep my mouth shut when I need to.”

“Sounds annoyin.”

Husk laughed. “Sometimes. But I'm all ears, Fluff. I don't mind.”

Angel huffed, letting his eyes wander away from Husk. “He's punishin me fa you.”

“Uhhh, that doesn't make any fucking sense.”

“He saw you touchin me outside tha hotel.”

“I caught you. What's the big fucking deal?”

“I don't- He's neva, I mean-” He glanced at Husk. The cat was patiently waiting with confusion written on his face. “Vox and I… we don't touch like that.”

Husk's brows lifted in surprise. Angel looked away again. “How do you- oh. Wait. You don't-”

“No.” Angel cut him off before he could say whatever he'd been about to. 

“Is that why you let him fuck other people? Because you feel like you have to?”

“Let him? I encourage him ta. He leaves me alone if he's got someone ta entertain him. Most a tha time,” he amended. 

“Wow.”

Angel’s gaze was drawn back to Husk when he didn't say anything else. He couldn't read the demon's face.

“What?”

“Nothing. I'm just… finding it fucking difficult to believe that you let him push you on it at all. You have no problem telling anyone else to go fuck themselves. Why are you letting him make you feel like shit?”

Angel flinched. He took a step away from Husk. “I-I don't know… it's just… that's just how things are. He's neva forced himself on me. He respects my boundaries.”

“Didn't look to me like he was.”

“You see us talkin one time’n ya think ya know?”

“Considering what you've also said just now. Angel, seriously? Do you honestly think Vox treats you well?”

“He treats me betta than Val eva did!”

Husk's ears laid flat against his head when Angel yelled at him. He made his whole body smaller for a moment. Then he stood up straight, his wings rustling. 

“I don't know what drove you to murder Val but if he's your damn gauge for how someone should fucking treat you, maybe you ought to rethink that.”

Angel's face closed off even as his chest felt like it might cave in from the pain. He didn't want to hear what Husk thought about Val. Husk searched his face, clearly noticing the difference. Angel bent over, putting his face at eye level with the cat.

He poked a finger into Husk's chest, feeling the immediate exchange of energy, like static shocks. “You don't know shit. Everythin was just fine until you came along.”

Husk looked down at Angel's hand, then back up at his face. “I hope you're not expecting an apology.”

Angel scoffed and pulled away but Husk's hand shot out, faster than he would have guessed a regular sinner could move. He wrapped his hand around Angel's, turning it so it was palm up. Angel watched with fascination as Husk used one claw from his other hand. He dragged the lone claw down the inside of Angel's arm, stopping at his wrist. Tingles of magic rippled in the wake of the claw’s path. 

He could feel it separately from the pulsing exchange where Husk's hand gripped Angel's. He shivered, his eyes fluttering at the feeling of the cat's touches. Husk took a step closer to him, his voice low and deep when he spoke. 

“I'm not sorry I met you, Fluff.” He released Angel's hand. Angel swallowed at the look on the cat's face. His mouth felt too dry for speech.

He didn't know how to respond even if he could get words out. He'd spent all day telling himself that he'd just been drunk. It took thirty seconds for the ass to prove him wrong. He already wished Husk was touching him again. He reached a hand out, just a fraction, before he hesitated. Husk’s eyes flicked towards the movement before resettling on Angel's face.

“Hey, Capo.” Angel started hard, looking over to find Rocky in his doorway. “Velvette is looking for you. She said it's almost time for the demonstration.”

Angel couldn't believe he'd done it again. Gotten so focused on Husk he missed the feeling of Rocky approaching. He snatched his hand back, sweeping around Husk while being careful not to touch him. He left without another word to Husk.

He tried to focus on greeting Velvette. Then it was time to introduce the participants of the show. A pair of souls that Angel owned. They'd volunteered for the demonstration tonight. Velvette took photos the entire time. Everyone cheered as crew members rolled the St Andrew's Cross onto the stage. Angel exited the stage as quickly as he could. He was feeling entirely too warm to stay under the stage lights.

He watched from the floor as the woman strapped the man to the cross. The crowd got even more excited when she pulled the sheet off of the accompanying table to reveal all the toys she'd be using on the man. The scene was strictly impact, no sexual acts would be performed on the main floor. Angel didn't stick around to watch though.

He was just too distracted to pretend to be interested.

Chapter Text

Where did it go wrong? Well my friend, how much time have you got? - MALINDA

Angel was having a shit fucking day.

First, he woke up to this morning's front page photo in the newspaper of Vox leaving his club with the cat girl two nights ago. He was incredibly surprised it had taken this long. 

Greta had tried to hide the paper from him but the trash wasn't exactly a very sneaky place to put it. Angel suspected the photo had something to do with the fact that he hadn't spoken to Vox since he'd walked out of Angel’s club. The asshole had actually waited to see if Angel would come to him. He probably wanted him to beg for forgiveness or something idiotic. He wasn't sure anymore what exactly Vox expected from him.

Then Angel had been blindsided at the Overlord meeting. Vox hadn't even bothered to show up. Velvette had brought that damn angel’s head. Her and Carmilla had gotten into it. Angel privately agreed with Zestial that Vox and Vel were insane. They needed more information before they could consider anything else. Planning a war with Heaven was foolish.

He had said little during the meeting. He was pretty sure Vel was irritated he hadn't shown support and, if the look Carmilla had given him was anything to go by, she was lumping him in with the Vees! He hadn't even known what Vel was going to say! They hadn't told him anything about the fucking angel's head!

To top it all off, he'd promised Petunia he would spend the day with her, meeting her friend. He'd rearranged his schedule to make it happen. His bleeding heart getting him in trouble again. He didn't actually have time to take a day off. He was going to have to make it up to Lucia and Andre. Except, maybe they deserved the extra workload… They shouldn't have given him shit.

Greta had pretended nothing had happened and Angel was graciously letting her. Mostly because she made his food, but also maybe a little because he cared about her more than most. 

So that was why Angel found himself at the hotel after the overlord meeting. Also how he ended up there dressed the way he was. His black satin halter dress left a good portion of his back and sides bare while also clinging to his frame like a second skin. Long black satin gloves covered both sets of arms. His lacy thigh high nylons came up high enough to leave just a few inch gap between them and the bottom of his dress. 

Angel found Husk and Niffty at the bar today. Husk didn't try to hide the appreciation on his face as he took in the sight of Angel. Niffty stabbed the bug she'd been chasing from behind the bar before holding it up triumphantly. 

“Hey, Angel!” She waved her bug tipped needle at him. 

“Heya, Niff. How's it goin?”

“This is my fourth roach this morning!” She said it proudly, with her little chest puffed out.

Angel smiled at her. You kind of couldn't help liking her. She might be crazy but she was so innocent in some ways.

“That's real good, Niff. Hey, have ya seen Petunia?”

“I think she's in her room! Want me to get her?”

Angel nodded and she took off before he could even say anything else. He watched her scurry away for a moment before shrugging and turning his attention to Husk. He felt foolish just standing there but he didn't know what to say, wasn't sure what to do.

Husk smiled at him in a friendly manner. “Drink?”

Angel sighed with relief. “Afta tha mornin I just had, I'd love one.”

“Whiskey?”

“Vodka.”

Husk raised a brow. “Ok. I can do something with that.”

Angel strolled over to the bar, taking a seat as he watched Husk make his drink. He found himself watching the cat handle everything with the same deftness with which he'd handled the cards the other night. Vodka and coffee liqueur over ice. Black Russian. Interesting choice.

He gripped the glass with his hand, pushing it towards Angel. He didn't let go of the glass until Angel looked up at his face. He looked amused again. 

“You ok, Fluff? You seem… distracted.”

Angel tried very hard not to react but he could feel his cheeks warm up at the realization that Husk had noticed him watching his hands. “I'm fine.”

He shrugged. “If you say so.”

Angel gave him a withering look as he picked up his drink. He took a drink but didn't put his glass back down. It was good but more importantly he could hide his face behind it.

“You look nice this morning,” Husk added. Angel lifted an eyebrow at him. Nice? That wasn't how people usually described him. “I would tell you how fucking hot you are but then your face does that shit.”

Angel's whole face felt warm now. He scowled at Husk. “Stop doin that.”

Husk laughed and shook his head. “I don't think so.”

Angel set his glass down. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me.” Husk leaned his side against the bar, putting his weight on his elbow. “Tell me you don't want me to flirt with you and I'll never fucking do it again.” Husk pointed a claw at him. “You have to mean that shit though.”

Angel quickly opened his mouth but nothing came out. He snapped it shut again, giving Husk his best glare. The stupid cat laughed again. 

“That's what I thought.”

Angel gave Husk the finger, holding it out as he stood and downed the rest of his drink. He nicely set the glass down and walked away still holding his middle finger out. He dropped it as Petunia came into view, exchanging it for a big smile for the demon doll. 

“Heya, doll.”

“Hey, Angel! Whoa! You look nice!”

Angel rolled his eyes. “That's what I hear.”

“Is that what you're wearing today?”

“We got ta go ta my place. I need ta change but I also thought we'd take my bike’n Andre drove me here. So we’ll have ta switch vehicles.”

The doll’s smile dropped. “Oh, ok.”

“I mean, if’n ya don't want ta, we can take tha Aston Martin instead.”

“Oh, no. Your motorcycle is fine. I haven't been on one in, mmm… Twenty years? Sounds fun.”

Angel glanced down at her outfit. The long sleeved black crop top and pleated skirt with her tall black platform boots weren't exactly bike friendly. He gestured at her. 

“Ya sure ya want ta ride in that?”

She looked down at herself. “Oh, it's ok.” She pulled her skirt up to show him the tight short shorts underneath it. “I can ride in this. Plus, I've got stuff in my bag.” She pulled on a strap of the small backpack she was wearing.

Angel laughed at the absurdity of this quiet girl flashing him with no problem. There was more there than she was letting on. 

“Alright, suga. Let's go.”

Petunia waved at Husk as she walked past Angel towards the door. Angel watched him give her a short wave back before his gaze fell on the spider again.

“See ya round, Fluff.”

“Sure thing, Whiskas.”

Angel strode after Petunia, no longer looking at the demon behind the bar. He emerged from the hotel to find Andre had already opened the door for Petunia. She was standing awkwardly, clearly unsure of what to do. Angel waltzed past her and climbed into the car with a quick thank you for Andre. He slid over, making room for the girl. 

She stammered out a quiet thank you as she moved past the frog. Then she jumped slightly when he closed the door. Angel didn't say anything but noted her clear reactions to Andre. He wasn't entirely sure if she was scared, attracted, or just shy. 

After they were on the road again, Angel turned towards her. “So who are we goin ta see, Petunia?”

“Uhh…” She glanced towards Andre.

“Andre.”

“Yes, Capo?”

“I think Petunia is worried about ya overhearin our convasation.”

Andre looked at them in the rear view mirror for a moment before focusing back on the road. “Angel's secrets are my secrets.”

Angel pointed a lazy finger at the frog. “My employees are loyal. Tha more loyal they are, tha closer ta me they are. If’n ya want ta work fa me then I expect loyalty’n trust. Do ya trust me when I say ya secret is safe with Andre?”

“I-I don't know.” She deflated as she sighed. Then she took a deep breath and sat up straight. “Ok. We're going to see a Goetia.”

Angel’s jaw dropped. “Excuse me? I don't think I heard ya, hon.”

“Go eee sha,” Andre tossed back oh so helpfully.

Angel gave him a scathing look before turning back to Petunia. “Ya want ta introduce me ta a prince a Hell?”

“Oh, he's really nice,” she reassured him, as though Angel was concerned about how nice he was.

“He's a fuckin prince. He doesn't have ta be nice. How'd ya meet him?”

“Uh,” she looked away from Angel, so clearly searching for a believable lie. Her gaze fell on Andre again and her mouth clamped shut.

“Whateva, doesn't matta.” He watched her for a moment. “Ya sure he won't mind my taggin along?”

“Oh, no. He knows you're coming. It's fine with him. Hey, do you own a bathing suit?”

“A bathing suit? What fa?”

~~~~~

Angel owned several bathing suits. Who knew when the last time he’d actually worn one was, but he owned them. He had tossed one in a bag, along with a few other things, before changing into a 1930’s inspired, pink with black polka dots, jumpsuit that only had one shoulder and a cute matching belt that tied at his hip. 

He re-emerged from his house shortly to find Petunia and Andre, just standing around. He was leaning against the car again, watching her while she awkwardly pretended he didn't exist. Huh. That was odd. He cleared his throat. Petunia started but Andre just moved his gaze over to Angel. 

“Ya need somethin, Andre?”

“No, Capo.”

“Then ya can stop watchin my guest like she's a criminal’n go help ya sista.”

Petunia’s cute pink spots popped up again. “It's fine, Angel.”

“There somethin I need ta know here?”

“No.” They both said in unison.

“Uh huh. Go away, Andre. Dollface, come with me.”

He strode past them, knowing Andre would follow directions. If he really wanted to, he could always question the frog later. He could feel Petunia follow him into the garage. She let out a noise of appreciation when she saw his small collection.

“You must like cars?”

He looked over his shoulder at her, a grin on his face. “I like speed. Come here.”

He pulled the cover off of his bike. She made a little excited noise at the sight of it. It really was his pride and joy. He wanted to take it out but first he had to decide if that was possible with her hanging on to him. 

“It's so pretty, Angel.” She sighed. “I miss riding. It used to be one of my favorite things on Earth.”

“Ya had one?”

She waved a hand dismissively. “No. My mom's boyfriend did though. Him and, uh, his friends, rode a lot. They used to take me out with them.”

“Oh, that's nice.” She didn't agree with him as she avoided his gaze. Could she be any more mysterious? He decided to ignore it and focus on the matter at hand. “Here.” 

He held his hand out. She stared at it for a moment before he waggled his fingers at her. She still seemed confused so he grabbed her hand. He held it for a minute while he looked at her.

“Umm, what are you doing, Angel?”

He dropped her hand. “Just checkin.” He didn't bother to explain further as he climbed onto his bike and motioned for her to join him.

It was a little system he'd worked out for himself. If holding someone's hand didn't make him want to cry or punch them in the face then he could tolerate their touch. Tolerate. Not enjoy. Not like he'd enjoyed a certain touch…

It wasn't that he wasn't hyper aware of her arms around his waist. He was for the whole ride into Imp City. He just didn't get any of those impulses to remove her that he did with a lot of demons. Women tended to be easier to handle but not always. He was relieved that she was tolerable. He preferred to surround himself with those who didn't make him feel constantly on edge.

She directed him after they reached the neighboring city. He quickly found them driving through an affluent neighborhood. The drive she pointed out was long and winding, ending at a literal palatial home. He stared up at it as he parked his bike, belatedly following Petunia off of it.

“Wow. This is probably tha nicest place I eva seen down here.”

“Yeah. He's definitely got a nice place, but, umm… Well, he doesn't act like royalty. He's a lot nicer than the rest of them.”

“Tha rest a them? How many do ya know, doll?”

“Oh. Not many. Too many. Take your pick,” she responded as she climbed the steps.

Angel was on her tail, looking around still when she rang the doorbell. It didn't take long for a small, well dressed, imp to open the door.

“I'm here to see Stolas,” she told the imp. “He's expecting us.”

He opened the door wider, letting them in, before silently padding away. Angel hesitated but Petunia followed the imp so he did as well. He couldn't help his wide eyed stare as they moved through the mansion. Everything was immaculate and ornate as fuck. 

The imp led them all the way through and out into the backyard. If you could call it that. It was more like a park in scale and in the amount of trees, bushes, and flowers. Whoever kept up this guy's garden clearly took pride in it. Angel could even see a greenhouse in the distance. Talouse would be in Heaven if he could see this place.

The imp took them to the side where a large pool lay surrounded by greenery. A tall gray owl demon was lounging on a chair, reading. His long frame was thin and everything about him screamed regal. The imp cleared his throat and the owl’s four red eyes fell on them. He made a little hoot of surprise and stood up quickly, leaving his book on the chair behind him. 

“Petunia! I must have lost track of the time, my dear.” He laughed, a nervous little sound, as he looked at Angel. The owl's accent reminded him a bit of Vel except he sounded infinitely more posh than she did. His voice was cute and clearly subdued in nature.

Petunia smiled warmly at the owl. “That's alright Stolas. This,” she pointed, “is my friend, Angel. The one I told you about.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you,” Stolas said. He hesitated, as though he was unsure of what to do, but then held his hand out.

Angel didn't hesitate to shake the owl’s hand. He was a fucking prince. He wasn't going to be rude, even if it made him uncomfortable. “Pleasure is all mine, sweetcheeks.”

Stolas blushed hard as he took his hand back. “Oh, I- well, that is-” He laughed nervously again.

Angel raised a brow but Petunia spoke up before he could. “Don't mind Angel, Stolas. He isn't actually hitting on you. Angel's just a little… flirty. The other demons call him the Queen of Sex.”

Angel scoffed. “Please, do not call me that.”

Stolas blinked several times. “Why do they call you that?”

“Cause they like ta give overlords nicknames and I run tha sex industry.”

“Oh.” He blinked again. “Why do they call you queen though. Should you not be the king?”

Angel grinned at the owl. “Ain't ya neva heard tha term? It's what humans sometimes call gay men.”

“Oh, my. I see.”

There was a silent moment where no one spoke. Angel got the feeling Stolas didn't know a lot of queer people. Then again, Petunia had said he didn't have many friends. Perhaps he was just awkward in general. 

“Well,” Petunia said, breaking the silence. “Are you ready, Stolas?”

“Oh. Yes. I just need my grimoire.” He picked up the book he'd been reading and held it so the title was facing his chest.

They followed Stolas back inside. Angel tried not to be as obvious this time, sneaking peeks at the house rather than openly staring. Stolas led them to a bedroom. One wall was lined with shelves that were full of books. The bird put the book he was holding back and pulled out a book adorned with glyphs and gems.

His magic manifested, a shifting galaxy that shimmered, and a portal opened in front of them. Angel grabbed Petunia’s arm.

“Uh, where are we goin, doll?”

“You did not tell him,” Stolas inquired.

Petunia shook her head at Stolas before turning her attention to Angel. “I just really want to see your face when we get there.”

“Uh, listen-”

“Angel. Trust goes both ways, right? I swear that it's nowhere bad or dangerous for you. Do you trust me?”

He looked away from her to the portal. All he could see on the other side was a brick wall. The light looked odd though… It lacked the red tint everything in Hell had. Well, that Pride had. Sinners didn't know what the other rings looked like.

“I don't know but let's find out if I should.”

He stepped through the portal only to immediately cover his eyes with a hand as he stumbled away from it. It was so bright here it took his eyes a moment to adjust. When he was able to see fine he looked around. They were in an alley of some sort. The buildings had graffiti on them. He looked down to see… green grass growing in patches in the cracks of cement.

A noise caught his attention and he looked at the mouth of the alley. Two people walked across the opening, too intent in their conversation with one another to notice them. Angel froze. Two people. Humans. Not demons.

His gaze shot up to the big blue sky. The sun shone brightly, not a cloud in sight. Petunia stepped up next to him.

“I know, right?”

Angel wasn't entirely sure what his face looked like. He was in shock. He was actually shocked at what was happening. Never in a million years had he taken her question seriously.

“But. This is… it is, isn't it?” 

“Yeah. It's Earth.”

“Perhaps I ought to give you human forms now?”

Angel looked over at Stolas. He felt shocked all over again. He wasn't a nine foot tall bird anymore. He'd shrunk some but, more importantly, he was human. A rather good looking one if Angel was honest. He didn't look any less regal in human form.

“What tha fuck?”

“Go ahead, Stolas,” Petunia chimed in.

Stolas' grimoire hung open in mid air, lit by his magic. Angel felt the demon's power as it ran over his entire body, encasing him in a shimmery galaxy for a moment. Then he was suddenly the same height as Stolas again. His body felt strange and as he put his hands on himself he realized he only had two of them! His fur was gone too and blonde hair hung in his face.

He hurriedly grabbed a compact out of his bag in order to look at his face. He stared for longer than was probably normal. Oh, fuck. Who knew what was the fuck was normal for this situation? He looked exactly like he had when he'd died. His fabulous skin with all his freckled glory. His shiny bright blonde wavy hair. His eyes. One golden like honey, the other dark enough to almost be black.

He grinned at himself before looking up at Petunia. His smile faded as he caught a good look at her face. She gave him a small smile as though she knew what he was thinking.

She was a pretty blonde much like himself. Fair skinned too. Where he was tall and thin, she was short and curvy. Her tight curls did little to hide her eye in the human world though. One was a pretty blue? Green? Hazel, maybe? The other one was milky white. It didn't quite follow her other eye properly. He wondered what it looked like in Hell.

He tugged gently on one of her curls before he gave her a genuine smile back. “Hey. We could almost be siblings. We even got four eye colors between tha two a us!”

She smiled back at him gratefully. “Come on. Let's go have some fun.”

~~~~~

Fun turned out to be the beach.

The whole walk there had been a surreal experience. When Angel had been alive gay people were always in the closet. It hadn't been easy to find out where to go to meet like minded people. Not that it had mattered in the end. The one time he’d tried it had ended poorly. Plus he'd been mafia. They’d let him know what would happen if he went down that route again. He could never have dared to be open about who he was.

Now though?

He was walking through a city in makeup and women's clothing and no one cared. He'd gotten flirty looks from quite a few men and even two women. Petunia had pointed out the public changing rooms to him where they all got changed.

The bathing suit he'd grabbed was a black and gold striped bikini. Tucking his cock back was easy enough but he lacked the chest fluff to fill the top properly. He tied it tightly to his chest anyways. If he could wear a jumpsuit, then he was sure he could wear a bikini. Fuck anyone who cared. He wasn't really a human in any case. He was an overlord in Hell.

He found Stolas waiting for them in a pair of swim trunks. Angel had been expecting the demon to be shy about his body, considering how nervous he was. He stood just as confidently and regally in nothing but swim trunks as he had in his finery. Angel pulled his sunglasses down a little to get a better look at Stolas. He did make a fine looking man. 

Stolas noticed him and blushed a little in response to Angel's look. His eyes traveled down Angel in return. Clear surprise on his face as he took in the bikini.

“Yeah. I prefer a feminine touch most a tha time.”

“Well, it uh, looks very nice on you.”

That was the third time someone said he looked nice today. Not that it was a bad compliment. It just wasn't what he was used to. 

“Ya look pretty hot yaself.”

“Oh.” Stolas laughed nervously again. “Thank you.”

Petunia walked up beside Angel. He could still feel her coming, could still feel everyone moving around him. He wondered if the human disguises were just illusions, or if his magic just still worked the same even if his form was different. 

“Leave poor Stolas alone, Angel.”

“What? He looks good. Someone should tell him.”

“It is not a problem, Petunia,” Stolas reassured her. “It just has not been commonplace for me to hear that.”

“I’m kind a surprised,” Angel replied. “Ya pretty hot as a demon, too.”

Stolas blushed, moving down towards the beach. They followed him, looking for a good spot to lay the blanket Petunia had brought. The beach was fairly full of people of all kinds. Angel’s attention was all over the place, watching all the humans. Most of them were enjoying themselves. He couldn't remember the last time he'd seen so many happy faces in one place. Demons weren't exactly known for being happy. 

After they found a place to abandon their stuff, they immediately took to the water. It was like Heaven to Angel. The cold ocean splashing into him with each push and pull of the water. Nothing so soothing as this existed in Hell. 

Angel couldn't remember ever feeling this carefree as he swam and played with the other demons. He stopped thinking about his work, Vox, Husk, Cherri, the hotel, everything. None of it mattered when he could sit on the beach and watch the sun sparkling on the top of the water. 

He didn't even notice at first that Petunia was leaning up against him where they sat on the blanket. Stolas sat on the other side of her. The three of them sat shoulder to shoulder, watching. Stolas had proved to be quite fun, if extremely shy. He was very intelligent, which Angel found refreshing. He could talk at great length about any subject one might learn from a book but he clearly lacked social skills. He was incredibly proper and polite but… he seemed so sheltered. Petunia was more talkative than she ever was at the hotel. She clearly wasn’t as scholarly as Stolas but she seemed very interested in learning things from the bird.

“Hey,” Petunia suddenly exclaimed. “I almost forgot!” 

She dug into her backpack and pulled out a package. Angel watched as she pulled out several thick paper items and began putting them together. Very quickly she produced three little paper lanterns. She pulled out a small box of candles and a lighter before placing a candle in each lantern and handing them to the others.

“What are these fa?”

“For remembering the dead.”

“Dollface, we're tha dead.”

She giggled before answering him. “I know. You can light it for whoever you want. Or no one at all but I'll be lighting mine for me.”

“You?” 

“Yeah.” She smiled sadly. “Today is the day I died.”

He glanced at Stolas, who didn't seem to be surprised. “How did it happen, if ya don't mind me askin?”

“Oh, well.” She sighed. “I loved the wrong person. I thought she loved me back but… well, I was wrong and it got me killed in the end. But,” she held up her lantern, “that's alright. It's over now and she got what she deserved.”

She flicked the lighter and lit all of their candles. Angel watched her quietly whisper something to the lantern before she released it into the air. 

“To you, my dear,” Stolas said solemnly before releasing his own.

“Ta Petunia,” he paused a moment before adding, “and Molly.”

His lantern joined hers and Stolas' in the sky. They watched them dance around one another as they rose towards Heaven. Angel wondered if it rose high enough if it would reach his sister.

“Who is Molly,” Petunia asked.

“My sista.”

“You had a sister?”

“A twin. Got a brotha too but he's an asshole.”

“You were a twin,” Petunia asked with obvious surprise.

“Yeah. We were close once.”

“No, yeah. I had a twin too.”

He looked at her in surprise then. “Really?”

“Yeah. His name is Sebastian.”

“Is he in Hell too?”

“Oh no. He's not dead. He still lives back home with his wife and their kids.”

“I have offered to take Petunia to check on them but she refuses,” Stolas added.

“It's not that I don't want to see him,” she said. “I just…”

Angel put an arm around her shoulder. “I undastand. Ya dead, he's not. No point in confusin things or scarin him. You must love him. I know I loved Molly a lot.”

Petunia laid her head on his shoulder. Angel didn't complain or move away. 

“Is Molly in Heaven?”

“Yeah. She always was tha betta half a us. I think she must a continued ta live a good life afta I was gone.”

“Sebastian was too. He is a good, kind person. He tried to help me but sometimes you just can't save people from themselves.”

Angel thought about how many times Molly had tried to help him. How useless it had been. He hadn't listened to her and it had killed him in the end. He looked down at the top of Petunia's head. She looked so much like Molly had, leaned against him the way they used to sit together before everything had gone wrong.

He knew then that he would offer Petunia a job. He would keep her close to him. He'd never tell her why but he would. Maybe he could make up for what he'd put Molly through. Maybe, if Charlie's insane idea ever worked, he could keep her safe long enough that she could tell Molly how much he loved and missed her, how sorry he was. 

Lucifer knew that he would never make it to Heaven, even if it was possible. He'd done too much he could never take back. Hurt too many loved ones to be redeemed. He would never be worthy of redemption.

~~~~~

Eventually they had to return to Hell. Angel was sad to leave Earth but the experience was something he'd always remember no matter how long he lived in Hell. 

They'd even stopped at a flower shop where Angel had gotten seeds. He couldn't wait to show them to Talouse. Stolas has assured him that the flowers would grow in Hell, but warned they wouldn't be exactly like they were on Earth. The lack of yellow sunlight would affect their growth.

As they pulled up outside of the hotel, Angel glanced up to see Alastor and Husk on one of the balconies. They appeared to be arguing if Husk's face was anything to go by. The demons stopped facing one another to watch Angel and Petunia pull up. Alastor's smile looked tight as he narrowed his eyes at Angel. Husk looked pissed.

Angel ignored them both as Petunia climbed off of his bike and stood in front of him. He moved to put his bike’s stand down when pain shot through his arm. A second later the sound of a gunshot reached his ears. He'd instinctively covered the pained spot with another hand. He lifted it back up to see blood dripping down his arm.

He looked around quickly. On a nearby rooftop he saw the glint of metal as a dark figure fled away from them.

“Get inside,” he yelled at Petunia before he took off again on his bike, following the direction the demon had disappeared into.

The demon was quick as it fled over rooftops. Angel's bike was fast but he was hampered by obstacles on the ground that the fleeing demon didn't have to contend with. He lost sight of the demon for a moment and came to a stop, swearing to himself.

Then a shadow passed overhead and looked up to see Husk flying past him. He flew over a building and Angel took off again, following the cat. It didn't take long for Angel to catch sight of the would-be assassin again with the help of Husk. He watched the cat’s sudden dive as he plowed into the demon, knocking it into an alley as it attempted to jump to another building.

Angel had to quickly turn his bike around, the tires squealing and dirt flying up as he reversed directions in order to get down the correct alley. His bike flew down the alleyway. He could see Husk thrown through the air as the imp kicked the cat off of him. He didn't get back up. It quickly followed him, probably intending to neutralize the threat.

Angel launched himself off of his bike, heedless of the fact that it would crash. He shot into the side of the imp, knocking it from the air. They tumbled and rolled across the ground, Angel barely keeping his hands on the demon. When they came to a stop, he was on top. He slammed the demon's head into the ground, knocking his stupid cowboy hat off, and breaking off part of one of his horns.

He would have ripped the demon's throat out but he never got the chance. He made a stupid mistake. He felt the demon's tail moving but he barely acknowledged it in his mind. He should have. Its tail flicked out and there was pain in his spine. 

Then there was nothing. No pain. No feeling at all as his body crumpled.

The imp didn't stick around, he took off again. Angel caught sight of the bloody blessed blade it held in its tail as it scampered off. He felt Husk rush to him, heard him calling to Angel but he didn't feel it when Husk rolled him over. His vision began to darken.

The last thing he saw was Vox. He appeared in a flash of electricity and grabbed Husk, then Angel lost consciousness.

Chapter Text

I can't tell if it's a threat

That's when I like you best - Ella Red

Consciousness came slowly. Occasionally he could hear someone talking and see snapshots of things. He wasn't sure if they were talking to him but darkness would come again before he could ask. He didn't feel anything in the darkness. Every time he swam his way out of it, it would pull him under again.

He had no concept of time passing there. There was this nagging sense of urgency that he couldn't shake though. As though there was someone shouting warnings just out of earshot and he couldn't make them out. Every time he thought he might have grasped the thought it slipped from him like sand through his fingers. 

“Hey, Angel,” someone whispered in the dark.

He looked towards the sound and found a pretty blonde gal. No. Wait. She was a doll. Or was she? He couldn't tell.

She held up a paper lantern as Angel moved closer to her. It was difficult to reach her. He couldn't see anything around them but it felt like he was trudging through deep mud. 

When he stood before her the lantern erupted into flames. She let go and Angel watched it float down. It kept going past their feet. His eyes were glued to the flames as they floated away. Suddenly, she grabbed his arm roughly. 

He looked up and started when he realized her face was much closer to his. Mere inches away. She was crying from one eye. He couldn't make out the other one in the deep shadows that covered her.

“Once it's gone, it's too late, Angel. Lanterns are for the dead.”

~~~~~

He was awake.

He was looking at the ceiling. He hurt. He didn't know why he hurt. Or where he was.

His mouth and eyes felt dry. He brought a hand to his face, pushing hair out of the way. The movement hurt so he looked at his arm. It was bandaged. Why was he bandaged?

He rolled to the side to push himself upright some, putting all his weight on his two uninjured arms. Then he looked around the room he was in. It looked vaguely familiar but he couldn't place it yet.

One wall was a huge screen that made it look like you could step out into a beach. Sounds of waves and squawking birds came from it. The walls were white but blue lights ran along the base and red ones ran along the top. Very little was in the room besides the bed he laid on and a desk against one wall. It looked like there were papers all over the desk in addition to all the ones that stuck to the wall above it.

He carefully climbed out of the bed. His body felt weak and his back was in a lot of pain, so he went slowly. He realized he was in nothing except boxers. Who's boxers was he wearing? They certainly weren't his.

After he managed the monumental task of getting the fuck up, he hobbled over to the desk. It was covered in pictures, as was the wall. He only got a brief view before he felt the telltale electrical field in the air that signaled the arrival of Vox.

He belatedly realized that he was in Vox’s room. He'd been in here before.

He faced Vox as the TV appeared. Vox eyed him before he spoke carefully. “You're awake.”

Angel wrapped his arms around his naked torso. “Why am I in ya room?”

“You don't remember what happened?”

The wall of beach turned into a giant mirror, catching Angel's attention. He moved past Vox as he looked at himself. Fuck, he looked rough. His arm was bandaged and he looked like he'd been partying too hard. Since his back hurt, he twisted his torso around so he could look at it. A bandage was over a spot in the middle of his back.

He looked at Vox in the mirror to find the demon watching his face. He licked his lips nervously. Why was he so nervous? 

“What happened?”

Vox’s mirror changed again, and Angel stepped back to see all the different scenes playing on what now appeared to be multiple screens. Angel on his motorcycle. Angel getting grazed by a bullet. Angel getting stabbed in the back. Husk rushing to his side. Husk leading Angel from the air. Angel protecting the cat.

Angel not only instantly remembered what had happened, he knew why Vox was showing him these specific clips. His heart rate picked up as he scanned the screens but none of the repeating clips showed what happened after Vox showed up.

He carefully schooled his features before turning back to Vox. He wasn't sure why but he felt like he needed to be careful. The television demon was just standing there but something about him put Angel on edge. 

“How long have I been out?”

Vox moved closer as he answered and Angel didn't back away, afraid to show fear. “Two days. You're very lucky you didn't die, darling. We almost lost you.”

Vox stopped in front of him and reached out to grab hold of Angel's hand. The one with the ring on it. He ran his thumb over the back of Angel's hand. He knew it was meant to be a soothing gesture but it felt… menacing, for some reason.

“I was incredibly worried,” Vox added.

“Did tha imp get away?”

“Unfortunately. Slippery fucking bastard,” Vox showed the fury he was feeling clearly on his face. “I would have fucking tracked him down immediately and killed him but you were too fucking i-i-in-njured.” His screen glitched as his sound stuttered the last word. “Do you know who he was?”

Angel shook his head, trying to keep his breathing even. “We'll find him though, right,” he asked softly.

For a moment he wasn't sure how Vox would respond but the demon smiled at Angel. It held the promise of violence. “Of course, my dear. No one tries to kill one of us and lives to tell the tale.” He kissed Angel's hand. 

Angel watched him do so. He got up the courage to ask but then his nerves wavered. He chickened out and asked something else instead of what he really wanted to know.

“Where are my clothes?”

“The ones you were wearing were ruined and since I didn't think you'd want to have nothing but a bathing suit… I had this brought from your place.”

He produced a dress with his magic and handed it over to Angel. The spider took the dress, aware of the implication that Vox had gone through his things in order to know about the swimsuit. He hurriedly slid the simple black dress over his head. At least he wasn't naked now.

“Where's tha rest a my stuff?”

“In your motorcycle, which is downstairs. Except for your boots, phone, and keys, which are in the other room.” Angel opened his mouth and closed it again. “What's the matter, dear? Is there something else you're forgetting to ask about?” Vox chuckled lightly, like they were in on the joke together.

Angel fought a shiver as cold went down his spine. Vox knew what he wanted to know. He was going to make Angel drag every last thing out of him. Vox wanted him to ask. Angel was afraid to but he needed to know.

“Husk was with me. Where is he?”

Vox shrugged. “I don't know where he is. He's not where I left him.”

Alarm bells went off in Angel's head. 

“Where did ya leave him,” he managed to ask, evenly. 

“Where I found him.” He paused, his face glitching into the red lines dripping from his mouth. “I can't be held responsible for the condition he's in now.”

Angel just barely kept his facial features from changing. He could feel danger here. He wasn't entirely sure what Vox was leaving out but he knew the demon well enough to know his choice of words was well designed. Had he done something to Husk before he had rescued Angel? 

“I should go home.”

Vox merely nodded before leading Angel into the other room. Angel hurried into his boots before stuffing keys and phone into his fluff. His brain kept trying to tell him he was missing something, or perhaps forgetting something?

He turned his attention to Vox suddenly. “Vox?”

“Yes, my dear?”

“I, well, I-” He hesitated but threw his arms around the demon, pulling him into a hug. It felt like a desperate attempt to appease the demon but he couldn't help himself. “Thank ya fa savin me,” he whispered. 

Vox was only stiff for a moment before he relaxed into the hug, putting his arms around Angel. The demon held him close for several minutes before pulling away. He ran the back of his fingers across Angel's jaw.

“I will always take care of what's mine, Angel.” He dropped his hands and took a step back. “I won't let anyone take you from me.”

Vox's words disturbed him but he wasn't thinking about what the demon had said as he made his way downstairs to his bike. His brain was too full of thoughts of Husk. Vox had done something to him. He might not have killed him but he'd probably hurt him.

Vox had been way too calm. It was making his anxiety rise the more he thought about it. By the time he'd gotten his bike started, he had already decided to go to the hotel. He needed to see Husk. He needed to know what Vox had done.

He drove as fast as his bike would go, glad it appeared to be the middle of the night. Not too many demons were out. He made it to the hotel in record time.

The doors were unlocked, thankfully. He hadn't been entirely sure they would be. There wasn't anyone in the lobby/bar/living room area. He paused as he realized he had no idea where Husk's room was. The hotel wasn't a small one and he'd never been to anyone's room.

He blinked and KeeKee, the princess' cat, was there. Hanging in mid air in front of his face. He took a startled breath as he held a hand to his chest. Figures that even with his powers he hadn't known the cat was there. Cats were very sneaky, hellcats even more so.

“You don't happen ta know where Husk's room is, do ya?” He didn't bother to keep the urgency from his voice. The hellcat wouldn't care that Angel was upset.

The cat blinked her one big eye at him. Then she floated away, up the big stairs. Angel followed her through the hotel, wishing she would hurry, until she jumped down onto the floor. She landed in front of a door, sitting there. Angel looked up to see the room number. Seventy. Husk's room was across from the one he'd given Angel a key for?

He looked back down but KeeKee was gone. As he looked around he saw her tail disappear around a corner. He didn't waste anymore time. Seeing Husk was more important than Charlie's weird cat.

Angel threw open the door without bothering to knock. Husk was lounging on his bed, his back against his headboard. There was a deck of cards in one hand that he dropped as the door slammed open. The card he was in the middle of throwing when he was startled flung off in the wrong direction, completely missing the dresser his hat was sitting on.

“Angel?” 

Angel didn't respond as he hastened around the bed to reach where Husk was reclined. His visual search of the cat didn't show any injuries but he couldn't trust observation alone with all of that fur. He threw himself down onto his knees on the bed as he began checking the cat. He didn't even care about the strange push and pull of magic that was happening as he ran all four hands over the demon.

He had to know for himself that Vox hadn't done anything to him.

“Angel?” Husk tried again. “What the hell are you doing?”

“Are ya ok? Did he hurt ya?”

“Me,” he asked, incredulously. “You're the one who fucking got shot, and stabbed. He didn't hurt me.”

“Not tha fuckin imp! Vox,” Angel cried out. He could feel tears trying to form in his eyes.

Husk grabbed two of his hands, stilling them. Angel took his eyes off of the cat's body to look him in the face. He couldn't read Husk's face, didn't know what he was thinking. Angel wasn't sure he cared what Husk thought about his frantic actions. He knew Vox. Knew what the demon was capable of. It was the second time he'd threatened Husk.

“Fluff. I'm fine. That asshole didn't touch me.”

“But he said-” Angel cut himself off. 

Husk watched him, silently waiting. Angel clamped his mouth shut. He looked back down at the demon's body. Vox had lied to him. Maybe not directly but he had definitely led Angel to believe he'd done something to Husk. Why would he do that?

Oh no.

He felt his eyes widen in realization. He'd wanted to see what Angel would do. It was a test. One Angel had failed. Vox had warned him. Fuck. He was so stupid for coming here. Why the fuck had he come here? He could have asked Petunia if Husk was ok if he'd been using his brain at all. 

“Fluff?” His eyes shot back up to Husk's concerned face. Angel was frozen with fear, his voice lost to him. “I'm fine. I don't know what that fucker said to you but I swear I'm fine.” His eyes fell on Angel's bandaged arm, worry written all over his face. “Are you alright?”

When he didn't answer, Husk dropped one of Angel's hands, lifting his paw up to gently rub his thumb on Angel's cheek. Angel's freed hand fell onto Husk's chest. He shivered at the sensation of Husk touching his face, at the way their magic mingled everywhere they touched. 

“Fluff? What's wrong?”

He was suddenly aware that he'd thrown himself basically into the cat's lap. His fear of Vox receded into background noise as Husk's gentle touch caused him to focus on what was happening right here and now. The last time he'd been this close to the demon he'd been drunk and… and… and he'd wanted to touch him then too.

Only Angel wasn't drunk now. There was no excuse for the fact that he wanted to lean in, not pull away. He was drawn to Husk like a magnet. His eyes dipped down to Husk's mouth as he gave in to the feeling and leaned closer. Husk's hand laid against the side of his face and neck, guiding Angel gently closer.

His gaze rose again. He could see Husk's wary eyes but they held something else too. He wanted this. For just a moment, he saw a flash of red eyes looking at him with desire.

Angel made a distressed noise as he moved across the room so quickly he shook the dresser when he hit it. A cry of pain escaped him as his back hit the damn thing. Husk's hat fell over and rolled onto the floor, spilling cards everywhere. His chest heaved as he tried, and failed, to stop the coming thoughts and images. 

Flashes of Val smiling at him, touching him, on top of him, telling him how much he loved him, even as he hurt him. 

He pushed his hands into his eyes, trying to banish the sight of the dead demon. It did him little good. He could feel the tears that drenched his cheeks as he doubled over at the sudden pain in his chest.

“Angel?!”

He heard Husk's cry of concern as he felt the demon approach him. He reacted instinctively, unable to control himself in his desire to make everything stop. His only thought was the intense desire for it to all go away.

Husk came to a sudden stop as Angel disappeared. He never saw as Angel used his power to speed out of the hotel as fast as he could. He belatedly dropped his camouflage as he climbed onto his bike. He was headed home before he was able to get himself under control again. The wind dried his tears as his brain slowly closed off all thoughts of Valentino.

~~~~~

He was outwardly calm by the time he pulled into his garage. After he got off the bike, he noticed what he hadn't before. One side of his baby was scraped all to Hell. Likely where the thing has fallen on its side when he'd leapt off of it.

He had to hold back tears as he covered it up. It took effort to remind himself that he could fix it later. 

Greta was awake when he came inside. She was in the kitchen, baking. At 3 am. She'd been worried.

“Anton,” she cried when she saw him. “You are alive!”

She hurried to him, and he met her halfway. She inspected him with her eyes, clucking her tongue in disapproval, before laying a hand on his shoulder. He impulsively hugged her, not letting go when she made a noise of surprise. It took a moment for her to hug him back but she didn't let go until he did. 

“Sorry I worried ya.”

“Is ok Anton. Not your fault.” She threw her hands up. “Stupid television man! He keep you from your home! Only send little speichellecker ( lackey ) to get dress. He tell us nothing! Greta had to scare little shark boy to made him tell us you were hurt!”

Angel sighed. Of course Vox didn't tell her staff what was going on. He didn't understand that they would care. “Have ya talked ta Lucia?”

“Da. She come every day. Look for you.”

Angel opened his mouth but his stomach growled harshly and loudly. They both looked down at it then she was herding him into a seat. She talked incessantly to him as she made food. Angel crossed his arms and laid his head in them on the table. He quietly watched Greta as she puttered about and talked at him. He wasn't really listening to her though.

His thoughts were all over the place. He couldn't even tell what the most alarming part of the last couple of days was. The fact that Vox was playing dangerous games with him? The fact that someone had tried to kill him, and he had no idea who or why? Or the fact that he'd been ready to kiss Husk?

He'd wanted to. He'd wanted to know what it would feel like. If it felt that good to touch him with his hands, would it feel that much better to touch him intimately? What scared him the most was that he'd been unable to resist the temptation.

With everyone else he was always so aware and careful to avoid contact that wasn't purposeful. From the first moment he had met the demon, he had not shied away from touching him. The more he did it, the harder it was to remember not to do it.

Could he really even blame Vox for his behavior? All this time Angel had been making the demon fall in love with him while holding himself just out of arm's length. Here came this fucking stranger that blew past all the time and effort Vox had spent on Angel. Was it really fair of him to be feeling the way he was? Didn’t he owe Vox some kind of loyalty? 

If it wasn't so late he could call Cherri and talk to her about it. She always had a better perspective than he did.

He'd half drifted off and was startled when Greta placed a plate on the table. She’d made him a huge sandwich with all the works. He thanked her softly before he started eating. He was only a few bites in when the doorbell rang. He told Greta to stay there as he hurried to the door, trying to answer it before anyone else in the house was woken. 

He wasn't really surprised to find Husk standing there looking worried.

“Oh, good,” he said before Angel could speak. “You made it home. Are you fucking ok?”

Angel opened his mouth, shut it again, and nodded. The two of them awkwardly stood staring at one another over his threshold.

“Ok, well. I'll fuck off. I just wanted to know if you were alright,” Husk finally said.

Angel put a hand out but stopped short of touching him. “Wait.” Husk stopped and waited. Angel looked at the ground and sighed quietly. “I'm sorry about earlier.”

“What the hell are you sorry about? You don't have anything to apologize for.”

Angel fidgeted with his hands. “I didn't, uh, that is… we- uh, you shouldn't have to…” He made a noise of frustration. It shouldn't be so hard to tell him what he was trying to say. Although Angel wasn't entirely sure what he was really trying to say.

“Angel.” He looked at Husk, unable to read his expression. “You didn't do anything that you need to apologize for. You don't owe me anything. Not even a damn explanation.”

Angel was caught off guard when his eyes teared up. He put a hand to one, feeling the wetness, before pulling it away again. “I'm sorry, I don't know why…” He trailed off as he tried to dry his eyes with his hands.

“Um, do you want me to leave or stay, because I'm not really sure what to do…”

Angel knew he should make him leave. It would be safer for everyone if he left. He shouldn't want Husk to stay. Why did he want to ask him to stay? He hesitated too long apparently.

“He stays!” 

Angel made a face at Greta’s yelled interruption. Husk raised a brow, waiting for Angel's input. Angel sighed but left the door open as he made his way back to his seat in the kitchen. He gave Greta a glare as he passed her by but wiped it from his face before he sat at the table and Husk could see it.

“You want sandwich,” Greta asked the cat as he stopped to talk to her.

“No, thank you. How are you doing, Greta?”

“Better than last time you come! Here, have cookie!” She shoved a plate into his hands before shooing him away.

Husk sat at the table, placing the plate of cookies in front of himself. Angel glanced at Greta before addressing Husk.

“Tha last time ya came?” The last time he'd been at Angels there hadn't been anything wrong with Greta.

“Husk come. He tells us what happen to you!”

Husk didn't say anything as he grabbed a cookie off of the plate. He didn't even look at Angel.

“Why did ya do that?”

Husk had been about to take a bite but he pulled the cookie back some, staring at it like it held the answers to the universe. He shrugged. “I thought you'd want them to know. You obviously give a shit about them.”

Angel watched, dumbfounded, as the cat ate his cookie like he hadn't just said something insane. This was Hell. No one cared enough to let Angel's staff know if he wasn't ok. He had been a little irritated that Vox hadn't told them but he had not actually expected him to. Why would he have?

Angel's gaze slid over to Greta again. She grinned at Angel, who narrowed his eyes at her. The little shit had specifically told Angel what Husk had done while he was sitting there. She just ignored his look and went back to putting stuff away.

He rolled his eyes as he picked up his sandwich. Husk didn't say anything else to him but he also didn't stare. Which was nice. Having someone silently stare at you while you eat was annoying. He made quick work of his food, too tired to drag it out.

Greta took his plate as soon as he was done. Then she bullied him into moving to the living room so she could clean the kitchen in peace. He suspected she was really just trying to make him more comfortable but she wasn't likely to admit such a thing. 

Angel sat on his couch. He slouched down as he threw one knee onto the cushion next to him. Husk sat at the other end of the couch, similarly reclined. Angel didn't waste time, he was too tired for more games.

“What happened afta I passed out?”

“Vox showed up from nowhere. Threw me off you. Grabbed you, and left. He didn't stick around for long.”

Angel crossed his arms. “You expect me ta believe that he just took me’n left. He didn't have nothing to say ta ya.”

Husk’s gaze landed on Angel. “He told me if I ever touch what is his again that he'd make me wish I was dead long before he killed me.”

Angel swallowed hard then looked away from Husk as he covered his face with his hand and sighed. He dropped his hand again, looking at the ring on it. He started fiddling with it, turning it round and round as he thought. He was trying to figure out how he'd gotten here. He wasn't even fucking sure what was happening.

“You know,” Husk said, “I am really good at reading faces but half of the fucking time I have no idea what goes on in that big brain of yours.” Angel looked at him. “This is why humans invented languages, you see. So you can tell them things.”

Angel made a face at him. “I don't know what ya want me ta say.”

“Whatever the fuck you want to. That's the beauty of conversation. You can say whatever you want.”

“Not usually,” Angel retorted.

Husk nodded slowly. “Ok. Well, you can to me .”

Angel continued silently staring but Husk just waited. He was annoyingly patient with Angel. Especially considering the fact that he seemed to be easily irritated most of the time at the hotel. He never seemed to show that when it was the two of them.

“Vox isn't messing with ya. He might just kill ya if he feels tha need ta.”

“He cares about you.” It wasn't a question.

Angel looked away again. “He loves me.”

“Does he?”

Angel looked sharply at Husk. “What does that mean?”

Husk took a long moment to answer. Angel didn't think he was coming up with a response. He always had one ready. Maybe he was worried Angel would run again.

“He doesn't act like he loves you. He acts like you belong to him. There's a fucking difference.”

“It's not his fault,” Angel argued. He knew it wasn't. “It's my fault.”

That was the first time Husk had ever looked at him like he was stupid. Angel glared at him.

“That doesn't make any fucking sense.”

“You don't undastand.”

“Well, you're right about that. I don't understand that shit at all. Whatever has gone on between the two of you, Vox makes his own damn choices.”

Angel wasn't entirely sure that was true. “My magic did somethin ta him.”

“It turned him into an asshole?”

Angel scoffed. “No. That's not what I said.”

Husk rubbed a hand on his chin. “Ok, so I'm still not getting how it's your fault. Even if your magic has affected him, unless your magic makes people arrogant assholes, I'm pretty sure that's all on him.”

“So, if you was him you'd just be fine with anotha man doin… whateva… this is?”

“Angel. If I was in Vox’s position I wouldn't give a shit what another man wanted because I would know you wanted to be with me.” Angel's heart picked up, beating hard in his chest. “Maybe Vox just knows you don't want to be with him.”

Angel was stunned silent. He was trying not to think too hard about the idea of being with Husk. He also hadn't thought about the fact that Vox was obviously smart enough to know Angel didn't want him. Could he be any worse of a person?

He had to stop using his pheromones on Vox. Even if it meant the demon would turn on him eventually. He couldn't continue to make the man want him while refusing him. Not if Angel wanted… something else. He refused to acknowledge what he did want. He didn't need to further embarrass himself with Husk.

“Can I ask you something,” the cat suddenly asked, breaking the quiet.

He focused on the demon. “What?”

“What the fuck happened earlier?”

Angel froze. He didn't even breathe for a moment. Husk didn't move either, just watched him patiently. Angel shook his head. He couldn't talk about it. He didn't want to.

“Ok. We don't have to talk about it. Can I say something though?” Angel warily nodded. “You don't have to do anything you don't want to. I don't want you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable or fucking upsets you. I like you. I don't want you to feel like that means I have any expectations though. Do you want me to leave you the hell alone? To stop pursuing you?”

He didn't answer that. Husk was pursuing him? He didn't mean friendship. Angel knew he didn't. Husk wanted him? Why?

His mind raced as he tried to think of all the reasons he should tell the demon to stop. Vox was the biggest reason but not the only one. Husk was dangerous in a different way from the TV overlord. He had so much more potential to hurt Angel.

He frowned at that thought. Why had he thought that? 

“It's ok, Angel. I understand,” Husk told him as he got up from the couch. Angel blinked, looking at the demon as he tried to catch up to what he was talking about. “I can see myself out.”

Wait. Why was he leaving?

Husk passed him on the couch and Angel stood quickly, grabbing the demon's hand. “Wait!” Husk stopped, turning back to him. “Don't leave. Please.”

The barcat studied his face before answering. “Ok. I'll stay but Angel, it's late. You really should fucking sleep.”

Angel sat back on the couch, tugging Husk  down with him. The cat landed harshly but didn't complain. He was now sitting in the corner Angel had occupied. Angel kept a hold of Husk's hand, putting it in his own lap, as though it would keep him from leaving. 

“I know. I just… don't want ya ta leave yet.”

He peeked over at the cat who was smiling softly. “I don't have to.”

Angel looked down as the paw he was holding with two of his hands. He focused on the feeling of their magic, the push and pull, the way he could feel it mixing together slowly. It felt so… natural. He didn't look at Husk as he talked to him.

“Do ya feel it too?”

“I do.”

“What is it?”

He could feel the other demon shrug. “I honestly have no fucking idea. I've never felt anything like it before.”

Angel laid one of his hands flat against Husk's palm, straightening their fingers out. He could feel the heart on the cat's paw pressing into his palm. It felt rough compared to the soft fur on the rest of him. Angel slipped his fingers through Husk's, wrapping his hand around the cat's. Husk's fingers closed around Angel's hand in return.

Something about it felt right to Angel. Not like when Vox touched him. It was so far removed from the way being touched by Vox felt that Angel wasn't sure he could even compare the two things. He looked over to find Husk watching him and felt his face grow warm. Husk just smiled quietly and encouragingly at him. 

Angel surprised himself when he yawned in response. He knew he was tired but he hadn't thought he was that tired. He'd been out for two days already!

“You need sleep, Fluff.” Angel shook his head stubbornly. He didn't want to go to bed. He wanted to stay here with Husk. The cat frowned at him. “You're really fucking stubborn, you know that?”

Angel nodded. He did know that. He couldn't count the number of times he'd been informed of that over the course of his existence. Husk sighed and laid his head back on the couch behind him, closing his eyes. He didn't seem irritated. Not really.

“You want ta go home?”

“Not really. The hotel isn't what I'd call home.” He didn't lift his head or open his eyes but he didn't sound sleepy to Angel.

“I'm sorry. That sucks, ta not have a place a ya own.”

Husk grunted. “It's a place to fucking sleep. Makes little difference to me, but it's not a god-damned home. Not like your place.”

Angel thought he could understand that. His house was all his. He could do whatever he wanted in it. He was free. Husk wasn't. Angel chose who he shared his home with. Husk didn't.

Angel leaned back against the couch. His shoulder and arm were touching Husk's. Their magic mingled there too. Husk's wing was behind part of Angel. He was surprised by how they felt rough and soft at the same time. A contradiction that somehow fit the demon. Everywhere they touched him little sparks of magic popped up.

Husk made a noise and Angel looked at him but he still had his head back, his eyes closed. His wing shivered oddly. 

“Does it botha ya wing if I lean on it?”

“No.”

Angel felt like there was more to it that Husk wasn't saying but he merely laid his head on the cat's shoulder. He closed his eyes at the feeling of the cat's magic caressing his cheek. He wasn't sure how something so odd could feel so comforting but it did. 

“Fluff?”

“Hmm.”

“I'm happy to stay with you but this isn't the most comfortable fucking way to fall asleep.”

Angel's face heated at the thought of offering to take him to bed but he knew he couldn't offer that. “Uhh…”

“Sit up.”

He did, letting go of Husk's hand as he did so. The cat turned his body so he was in the crack between the side and back of the couch. He lifted one leg into the couch and stretched his other one out on the floor. His head wasn't at such an extreme angle anymore either.

He opened his arms, waiting. Angel hesitated before slowly laying with his face on Husk's far shoulder. His body was facing the cat now, his arms trapped between them. All his hands were fisted tightly to stop himself from feeling the demon’s soft fur. Husk just wrapped his arms around Angel without talking.

He didn't run his hands over the spider, he didn't comment on the state they found themselves in. He just laid his back again, closing his eyes. Slowly Angel felt himself relax into the demon's arms. The longer they touched this way, the deeper he felt their magic seep into one another.

“Whiskas?”

“Hmm?”

“Thank ya.”

“What for?”

“I don't know. Everythin.”

He could hear the amusement in Husk's tone as he responded. “Any fucking time, Fluff.”

Chapter Text

Waste my time

Pretending it's fine

I'll give you my soul to keep 

Take my heart to tear it apart

And bury me six feet deep - margø

Ten Years Ago

He wanted to die. Again. 

Anything had to be better than this.

The pain his body was in was bad enough. The stomach cramps and the headache were near constant companions. He couldn't keep anything down anymore, and the other drugs weren't helping. Nothing eased that feeling lurking under his skin. The knowledge that he had destroyed the source only fueled his spiral downward.

Val was gone. That meant his venom was too. Angel knew it still existed on the street. Love Potion wasn't some rare or difficult to find drug. News of Valentino's demise has gotten around by now though and demons were charging more for it. Angel didn't care who he had to fuck or kill to get some but if he didn't get some soon he was certainly going to start killing.

The itch underneath his skin could only be satisfied with Val's venom. Nothing else could manage to make it go away. Every time he realized he'd done this to himself he cried again. He'd killed the source of his addiction with no thought for what might happen to him. Stupidly he hadn't realized just how deep his need for the venom went. He hadn't gone this long without it since the first time Val had bitten him.

He was just as pathetic now as he had been when he'd died. He was weak, he knew he was. He hated that he was so fucking pitiful. 

Cherri had taken Nuggs yesterday. She said she was helping so Angel didn't have to watch the pig while he was sick. He knew the truth though. Nuggs didn't deserve to be at the receiving end of his mood swings anymore than Cherri did. He didn't blame her for not wanting to watch him fall apart slowly.

He should have been dealing with Vox, not fucking detoxing from Val. He couldn't possibly be more vulnerable than he was right now. If Vox figured out where he was, he was double dead.

He was currently laying on the mattress, curled into a ball. His stomach was killing him. It was possible it would hurt less if he just ripped the fucking thing out. It's not like that would permanently kill him. Maybe dying for a while and having to revive would be better than the pain he was going through now.

He lifted his lids as he heard the door open. Rocky was back. Angel tried to sit up by himself but his body was too weak and uncooperative. Rocky hurried over and helped him get upright, leaning him against the wall for support.

“D-did ya g-get it?”

“Yeah, here.”

The demon opened the bottle and handed it to Angel who downed the whole thing. Rocky made a noise of surprise but Angel ignored him. He didn't fucking care if that meant he'd have to get more soon. Tears leaked down his face because he knew he couldn't control this craving.

It didn't take long for that floating feeling to hit him. He sighed in relief, relaxing into Rocky's arms as he felt the diluted venom hit his system. His pain was gone within minutes, like it had never been there.

“Better, Angel?”

“Mmm.”

He laid against the other demon for a while as his body stopped shivering and relaxed completely. Rocky was thankfully quiet the entire time. He'd learned quickly how volatile Angel could get when he had really started feeling sick. The spider was ashamed of his behavior over the last few days but he found it difficult to care at the moment.

The only thing he cared about was that he no longer felt like he was dying. He knew it couldn't have really killed him but it sure had felt like his insides were dying. He was in trouble if he couldn't get Vox to agree to work with him. Vox and Velvette likely could help him find Love Potion much more easily than he could all alone. Velvette had made the fucking shit. It was possible they had stores of it.

Angel silently cried into the large demon's chest. He couldn't stop himself. The high from the Love Potion wasn't the same as the way it had felt when Val had pumped it directly into his system. As much as he had hated how addicted he was to Val, he couldn't stop the feelings he had now. Couldn't stop wishing that he hadn't killed his only source of the venom. 

He fell asleep, exhausted after his many sleepless nights. When he woke again he didn't feel high anymore but he didn't feel sick either, thank fuck. Rocky had fallen asleep too, moving them so they were laying on the mattress. Angel extracted himself from the demon and stumbled his way into the bathroom. 

He stripped as he ran the water as hot as he could in the shower. He shivered as he sat underneath the hot water, letting it run over his whole body. He lacked soap to really wash the last several days worth of sweat off of himself but the scorching water felt amazing. It was almost as good as the caress of a lover. Almost.

That was something else he couldn't seem to get out of his head. He'd spent too long being fucked on a daily basis and no one had touched him all week. Not in that way. Rocky had offered but Angel refused to fuck someone he fucking owned. He refused to be Valentino.

Still, he could feel the tension in his body from the lack of release. Truthfully, he knew it was more than just a simple orgasm. It was how fucking good he felt afterwards. He didn't know the mechanics of the whole thing, not really, but he knew sex was an addiction for him the same as the drugs were. He needed it. Needed to feel good. 

Every time he realized he'd never feel Val like that again, he felt a little bit more empty. He hated that feeling. Hated himself for craving the moth's touch. What kind of fucking loser was he? 

Eventually he ran out of hot water and climbed back out of the tub. He threw a pair of shorts and a hoodie on over his wet fur before texting Cherri. He let her know he was feeling better. It was too early in the morning for her to be awake but that was just as well. He was pretty sure she deserved a break from him. He'd been… difficult the last few days. 

He threw his invisibility over himself and slipped from the apartment quietly. Ever since he'd discovered his ability to climb like a spider, he'd spent a lot of time on the roof. He always made sure to disappear before he went outside but the roof was his new favorite place. He laid on his back, staring up at the red sky, the pentagram high above him.

He lit a joint, smoking it as he thought about his options. He would have to send Rocky out for more Love Potion today. He couldn't risk running out again. It was too dangerous for him to get sick like that again. He would live without all the other drugs he loved so much but the venom was a serious problem. If he'd only realized how sick he would get without it, he might have planned a little more carefully.

Maybe not though. He hadn't even expected to live through the murder of Val. He'd fully expected the moth to win. Valentino had always seemed so strong when he'd owned Angel. The truth of the matter was that he hadn't been all the strong. It hadn't been that difficult to kill him. Not when Val hadn't seen Angel as any kind of a threat.

He could still see the look of betrayal on the demon's face when Angel stabbed him. He'd actually looked… sad. Angel's eyes teared up again. He was a horrible person. Killing someone who loved him. Who did that? Only someone as awful as he was. Whoever decides where souls went after death had made the right choice sending him here.

In life he'd only hurt others. Why would his death be any different?

He wiped the tears away and forced his thoughts back to Vox. He had to move quickly. The longer he waited, the more dire his situation would become. The more chances Vox would have to kill him. Vox might be powerful but so was Angel now. 

He might not fully understand all his powers yet but he'd figure them out. He didn't have a choice.

What did he know about the TV demon? He liked sex, violence, power, and the authority that being the leader of the Vees gave him. He was always watching everyone, learning everything he needed to know to control them.

How could he use that to his advantage? What would someone like Vox respond to? He was likely most concerned about the loss of power Valentino's death brought to them. The Vees were only so powerful because they worked together. Angel wasn't willing to put himself under Vox’s authority the same way Velvette and Val did. Maybe there was a way for him to offer the demon power without that?

He grimaced as he realized what he needed to do. He wasn't entirely sure Vox would respond to him in that way but it was Angel's greatest advantage. He'd fucked plenty of people he didn't like, what was one more?

Of course, he had to make sure the demon didn't try to kill him first. He had some ideas about how to accomplish that but he had to be willing and ready to kill Vox if his plan failed. He was a double dead demon if this didn't work.

~~~~~

The following night he was ready to put his plan into action. The first part was a fairly simple affair. Sneaking into Vee Tower was incredibly simple when you could stick to walls and you were invisible.

It was mentally exhausting to ensure he did nothing at all to give himself away but physically it was easy. He just had to be careful not to open doors himself and not to accidentally run into anyone or anything.

He learned quite a bit while following Vox’s staff around for hours. He caught sight of the overlord several times but he steered far away from him whenever possible. He had no desire to be that close to the demon all day. Following Vox around was a sure way to get caught.

Eventually it became late enough that the building started to empty out. Angel had learned the location of Vox’s private quarters hours ago. He had never been in them when Val was alive. The TV demon hadn't allowed Val to bring Angel there, no matter how many times the moth threw a fit about it. Angel honestly didn't blame Vox.

He began to worry that he would have to come back another night when Velvette showed up, banging on Vox's door. Angel carefully and quietly slipped in with her. He almost gave himself away when the door scraped his ankle but neither overlord seemed to notice.

Vox had removed his hat and coat, and rolled his sleeves up. Angel wasn't sure he'd personally ever seen the demon so… relaxed. He was always fully dressed and TV ready during the daytime. He padded back to his living room, sitting back in front of his television.

“To what do I owe this visit, Velvette?”

“Cut the shit, Vox. You know why I'm here.” She stood next to him, her arms crossed in annoyance.

“Ah, yes.” His screen darkened as lines of red ran from his mouth. “So your pleas can fall on deaf ears.”

“Christ, you big fucking baby. So Val is dead, maybe he shouldn't have been such a fucking idiot. Are you really surprised that whore killed him?”

Vox smiled at her but it held no warmth, only the promise of violence. “Velvette. Shut the fuck up.”

“I heard he has Val's souls now? Is that truly how it works?”

Vox narrowed his eyes at her. “Where did you hear that?”

“Fuck off. It doesn't matter where I heard it. Is it fucking true?”

Vox looked back at his TV. It began flipping through channels and Angel realized they were different views of the city. Was Vox looking for him?

“Yes, it's true. Which is why we need to kill him before he figures out how powerful he is.”

“Why kill him though?”

“Excuse me,” Vox laughed shortly. “I don't think I heard you.”

Velvette flopped onto the couch next to him. She touched her phone and it was almost like she grabbed something off of it, throwing it up into the air.

“Have you seen what they're saying,” she asked as little holographic screens popped up all over. “No one is sad Valentino is gone. They're all excited Angel Dust killed him. They want to know where he is. They want to work for fucking Angel Dust.”

Angel looked at the articles and comments Velvette had produced in mid air. He felt a surreal sense of disbelief as he scanned them quickly. She wasn't lying. Demons were waiting for him to surface. They supported his brutal murder of the douchebag moth. He wouldn't have been able to speak even if he was trying to. He was in utter shock.

“I don't give a fuck what they want,” Vox calmly explained. “I want him dead. We cannot let this go unanswered.”

The pictures all disappeared as Velvette put her phone away. “I'm not saying it should. I'm saying the answer doesn't have to be Angel's death. Why not bring him in? Work with him?”

“Are you fucking serious, Velvette?”

She scoffed as she stood up. “I loved him too, you asshole, but he's gone. Killing Angel won't bring him back, you idiot. But it could turn a lot of them against us. Is your power strong enough to overcome that? Do you want to test that when we could just give them what they want?”

Vox didn't respond to her. His fists were curled into balls and he stared at the TV, obvious fury on his face. Velvette just shook her head and left without another word. Vox didn't move for several minutes. When he finally did it was only to fetch a bottle and a glass.

Angel quietly watched him drink most of the bottle as he continued flipping through camera after camera, searching for the demon in his living room. Angel might have found it amusing if he didn't feel so bad for Vox. It was his fault the demon was mourning the death of his lover. Angel was only going to make things worse but there was no way around it. If he didn't confront Vox and convince him then he would never stop.

Eventually Vox turned the TV off and retreated to his bedroom. Angel silently crept after him. He didn't look away as the demon undressed. He had to admit the demon was well built underneath his suit. He still didn't really feel any attraction to him. Angel wasn't entirely sure if the lack of attraction had anything to do with his form though. It stemmed more from his personality and the way he'd always treated Angel like a nuisance of a whore.

Vox, clad only in boxers, climbed into bed. It didn't take long for his screen to go completely dark and the demon soon began snoring. Luckily, with his new senses, Angel could see perfectly fine in the dark room. He carefully slid the Angelic blade from his boot before creeping over to Vox's bedside.

This was going to be tricky.

He leapt on top of the demon, using his lower arms to hold Vox’s wrists down as he pressed the blade into his throat. Vox’s screen lit up instantly, blinding Angel for a moment. He didn't relent on his hold though. His face was inches from the overlord’s.

“Don't move unless ya want me ta slit ya throat with tha same Angelic blade I used on Val.”

Vox smiled at him. Angel noticed his eye change suddenly as he attempted to use his hypnosis against the spider. He'd known the demon was likely to attempt that. He pressed the blade deeper as he averted his gaze. He felt it break skin as his chest rattled.

“I will fuckin kill ya, Vox. Don't test me. I know ya fuckin tricks.”

He could feel Vox swallow against the blade. He didn't say anything. Angel peeked back at him quickly and sat up some when he saw that Vox was no longer trying to use his power. He wasn't stupid enough to believe the demon was helpless under him but he wasn't trying to kill Angel, yet.

“What now, Angel?” He sounded bored but Angel wasn't fooled. He knew Vox was on the verge of violence. What now? Now he needed to redirect the demon's energy to something less… deadly.

“Now, we talk.”

Vox laughed. “What could you possibly have to say that's worth listening to?”

Angel didn't answer right away. He was silently praying to anyone who would listen that this had any fucking chance of working.

“I think you'll find my mouth is capable a many things ya’d enjoy.” He slid his pelvis a bit lower so he was on top of Vox’s crotch.

The demon's face was clearly shocked for a moment. Then he laughed again. “This is your plan?”

Angel smiled sweetly at him. “I don't have many options here, Vox. You’n I can kill each other, sure. Where's that goin ta get us though? Val will still be gone. Ain't no undoin what I did.” Angel leaned down again, grinding himself into the demon. “There's a way forward.”

The demon's body flexed with tension at the contact. He took a moment to answer, and it sounded strained when he did. “And what, exactly, is that?”

“Aren't ya lonely without Val? Don't ya miss his touch?” Angel crooned as he laid his free palm against Vox’s chest, sliding it against the demon's naked skin. He could feel Vox's response to it. He definitely wasn't entirely opposed to the idea. Not if his cock was anything to go by. “You've seen what I'm capable of,” he whispered as he leaned closer. “Ya know how good I can make ya feel.”

Vox’s gaze lost the hard edges it sported moments ago. His eyes fell on Angel's mouth. Angel took that as permission, pressing his mouth to the TV’s. The response from Vox was instant and aggressive. He was stronger than he looked and he caught Angel off guard.

Before he knew it Vox had him on his back, the discarded blade forgotten. He gasped as Vox's hands and mouth were on him. It felt so fucking good to have someone touching him again. His body responded readily to the demon's rough touches.

Vox lifted his head, his hand grabbing Angel's chin roughly. “You'd be mine?”

Angel stared at him with wide eyes. “What?”

Vox pushed his hard cock into Angel. “Right now I'm willing to fuck you or kill you, Angel. Either one would bring me great pleasure.” He grinned at Angel’s expression. “Are you mine or are you a dead man?”

There was no choice here. He didn't want to die. He was as willing as ever to do what it took to survive. At least Vox wouldn't force him to fuck anyone else.

“I'm yours,” Angel agreed.

The look of triumph on the demon's face was something Angel would never forget. He closed his eyes as Vox returned to his aggressive ministrations. He could see Val's intense gaze when he shut them so he popped them back open again. He moaned at the feeling of Vox's hands touching him so intimately. He'd needed this, wanted this.

Vox made short work of removing Angel's top, heedless of the fact that he ripped the spider’s shirt when removing it. Their naked flesh touching only emboldened the demon further. He gripped Angel's hip, his claws digging in. One popped through Angel’s skin.

Suddenly Angel wasn't with Vox. It was Valentino's rough touches he was feeling. He could smell the moth. Hear his voice. 

“You know you love it, Amorcito.”

He cried out in fear and shoved the demon away from him. “Stop!”

Vox didn't fight him. He let Angel push him away. Angel's breaths were coming too fast, tears streamed down his face. He looked up at Vox in horror. What was happening?

Vox looked as confused as Angel felt. 

“I-I don't… I'm sorry.”

Vox studied his face before he spoke. “You should leave.”

“No! I meant it, I want-”

Vox grabbed his hand and pulled Angel towards him. “And I meant it when I said I would accept the deal. You're mine, Angel. I know what Val did to you. I'll give you the time you need but you should go right now.” Vox released him and stood from the bed. His arousal was still evident. “I have something to take care of. Come back tomorrow and we'll talk details.”

He left the room without another word. Angel collected his blade and his shirt and made a quick escape from the Tower. He waited until he made it all the way back to his little shit hole before he let himself completely fall apart.

Chapter Text

It's easy to feel like you don't need help

But it's harder to walk on your own - Demi Lovato

Angel felt like he was floating on a fluffy cloud. It was surprisingly solid but just as soft as you'd expect it to be. It gently rose and fell like little waves in the ocean. He felt oddly safe and warm. 

Until the cloud spoke to him. “Angel.”

He shot up off of Husk and the couch so quickly he ran into the coffee table and fell over onto it. As he did this, he could feel his magic stretch until it snapped like a broken rubber band. It flung itself back into his body as he fell over. He gasped wildly at the sensation, looking at the cat with wide eyes.

Husk grunted. “Well that was… fucking uncomfortable.”

“What tha Hell was that?”

“I don't know. Are you ok?”

Angel’s cheeks heated as he quickly stood back up. He looked down at himself in order to avoid looking at Husk. “I'm fine.”

He moved away from the cat and could feel the demon follow him. He stopped when he entered the kitchen and saw Greta at the stove. She turned to them with a big smile.

“Good morning, Anton, Mr. Husk! Coffee?”

“Husk is fine, Greta. I would fucking love some coffee,” Husk said as he stopped next to Angel.

“How you like?”

“Black is great.”

“See,” Greta said to Angel, “he take coffee like man. No frufru junk.”

“Great. Good fa him. I'll take mine like tha woman I am,” Angel retorted. Husk snickered quietly. Angel snatched his cigarettes off of the counter. “Outside today, Greta.”

He made his way outside towards his little table. No one was out there yet. Talouse would bring Nuggs out soon enough. He heard Husk's whistle as the garden’s war zone came into view.

“What the Hell happened there?”

Angel lit the cigarette he had in his mouth before answering. “Tha children.”

Husk looked startled. “Children?”

“Yeah. Ain't ya neva noticed tha cannibal children in tha neighborhood?” Husk shook his head. “I think they did it ta mess with Talouse. I can't be sure though. Could a just been an accident.”

“Poor Talouse.”

Angel snorted. “He gets ta put in tha pond he wanted now. He ain't exactly sad.”

“A pond?”

Angel started walking again. “Yeah. He's been buggin me fa one fa a while.” He shrugged as he settled into his seat, crossing his legs. “It'll be nice when it's done I'm sure.”

Husk seated himself across from Angel. “I'm sure it will.”

They sat quietly for several minutes until Zoey showed up with their coffee. “Thank ya, Zoey. Do me a favor? Call up Lucia’n tell her ta get me a new phone. Vox got his hands on mine so it'll need ta be set up from scratch.”

Zoey nodded before walking away, wisely not commenting. Husk wasn't so wise.

“You have to replace your phone? What the fuck did he do to it?”

Angel didn't look at him as he responded, showing great interest in his coffee. “Maybe nothin, but betta safe than sorry.”

Husk leaned forward, trying to get Angel's attention but when the spider looked up he saw Talouse entering the garden. He waved with an exaggerated movement. Talouse noticed and made his way over, a question on his face, and Nuggs on his tail. Angel signed without talking, purposely leaving Husk out of the conversation. 

If you go in the satchels on my bike, you'll find seeds from Earth. 

Talouse's surprise was evident in his face as he signed back. From Earth? 

Got them from a friend. I thought they might be nice around the pond? Talouse nodded enthusiastically. He warned me they won't look the same as they do on Earth. The lack of a yellow sun or something, but he assured me they will grow. 

What did you get? 

Go find out. 

Angel smiled at Talouse's retreating back before picking Nuggs up. The pig oinked happily as he licked Angel's face. Angel scratched him behind the ears before setting him back down. When he sat back in his chair again, he noticed Husk watching him. When wasn't the cat watching him? 

Unlike the creepy way Vox watched him without his knowledge, Husk did nothing to hide his gaze. Angel looked back at him as he sipped his coffee. 

“Would ya like me ta send ya a picture?”

“A picture?”

“Ya always lookin at me. Must really like tha way I look.”

Husk's cheeks pinked a little. “I'm not looking at you because you're fucking pretty. Although… you are.”

Angel felt his own face grow warm. “Then what is so damn interestin?”

“I'm just learning. You're more damn complicated than most women.” Angel rolled his eyes. “But to answer your question, no. I don't have a phone so you couldn't if I wanted you to.”

Angel raised an eyebrow at him. “Ya don't own a phone?”

“Don't need a damn phone. Who the fuck would I talk to?”

“Ya friends?”

Husk laughed dryly. “Angel, I don't have any fucking friends.”

“With that winnin personality a yours? Who would a guessed?”

Husk grinned at him and Angel found himself returning the smile.

“If I was going to ask for one, that's the look I’d want though.” Angel made a confused face. “No, I liked that smile better. It looked real.”

Angel flipped him off but took a drink of his coffee to cover the smile that was trying to find its way back into his face. Husk's low chuckle made him feel warm. Not like when his face got hot from embarrassment. No, it felt like a warm blanket that you cuddled up with. 

He stared at his cup in his hands as though the liquid would act like a magic mirror and show him the answers to anything. Wouldn't that be nice? To understand something for once? He felt like he'd lost his ability to understand anything over the last decade. Had it happened right away? Or had he slowly slipped into the mess he was now? He felt like he was waking from a dream, one that had lasted for ten years.

He sighed.

“What's wrong, Fluff?”

Angel looked up at Husk. He didn't know how to answer that so he just shrugged. The demon gave him a look.

“Uh huh.”

“What?”

“Nothing,” Husk said. “You don't have to tell me shit but I don't believe that nothing is going on in your damn head. You think more than anyone I've ever fucking met.”

Angel didn't know if he believed that but… “Just cause I'm thinkin doesn't mean it makes sense.”

Husk nodded. “That's probably because you do that shit too much.”

Angel frowned. “That's not a real thing. Ya can't think too much.”

“Yes, you can. Why do you think I fucking drink?” Angel looked down at his hands, twisting them together. “I'm sorry, did I say something upsetting?” Angel made a noise of negation. “Well you sure as shit look upset.”

He shook his head. “No. I just…” He cleared his throat. “I used ta use, a-a lot a things’n ya right. Part a tha appeal was not havin ta think so much about things that-.” He stopped talking, afraid to say anything too personal, that gave away too much. 

“I understand. We're in Hell, I think most of us would rather forget some shit.”

Angel nodded. “Cherri used ta say tha same thing ta me.”

“Who is Cherri?”

Angel's mouth dried up. “She's my best friend,” he said, quietly. 

“So you do have friends?”

Angel glared at Husk. “People actually like me .”

“Of that I have no doubt, Fluff. I also think that, maybe, you like people more than you fucking pretend to.”

Angel lifted his nose in the air, looking down at Husk. “I don't like you.”

Husk held a hand to his chest. “Oh, ouch, and here I thought we were friends.” He smiled as he said it. 

“Are we?”

“Only if you want to be.”

Angel was saved from answering by Zoey bringing their food. Greta had outdone herself this morning. Angel genuinely wondered if she was trying to impress Husk. She'd made some of her homemade German rolls, he couldn't remember what she called them. His German was seriously lacking, though he'd managed to learn quite a bit of Russian from her.

There was also eggs, cold ham, cheese, and a few things to spread on the bread. He had learned this was what she had often eaten for breakfast when growing up. Greta had been Russian but her mother had been German. It wasn't Angel's favorite breakfast but the rolls were really good. He found he was really hungry, likely all the healing his body had done, so he ate without complaint. 

Partway through his arm really started to itch so he unwrapped the bandage and inspected his arm. A neat little row of stitches approximately two inches long ran across his bicep. He took a closer look at the stitching, it was very neat and looked less like what Niffty had been doing to Petunia and more like the stitching on clothing. Probably Velvette's work. He really ought to text her. She probably helped save his life. 

Angel pushed his plate away, no longer hungry as he stared at his lap.

“Does it still hurt?”

Angel started slightly. He'd forgotten for a moment that Husk was there. “It just itches. Tha bullet only grazed me.” He shrugged. “It's not a big deal.”

“What about your back?”

“That does hurt still. I ain't seen tha wound yet but I'm sure Velvette did a great job with that too.”

Husk's face was unreadable. “You seem awfully fucking calm about the fact that someone tried to kill you.”

Angel shrugged with a nonchalance he didn't really feel. He didn't particularly care to think about the situation. “Vox will find that imp. He won't live very long.”

“I admit, I'm a fucking surprised that you'd leave it to Vox.”

Angel grinned sharply. “Oh, he knows better than ta kill tha fire toad when he finds him. He'll leave that up ta me.”

Husk didn't respond right away. They just looked at one another. Angel couldn't read what he was thinking. For all that the demon told the truth, he was definitely practiced at keeping things to himself. One would have to be to work for Alastor.

“Will Alastor care that ya ain't at tha hotel?”

“Probably not. He doesn't micromanage my time. I can do whatever I fucking want as long as I follow instructions.”

“Will he care that ya here?”

“I don't plan to tell him.”

Angel perked up at that response. Husk hadn't answered his question. He'd answered sure, but he wasn't one to beat around the bush and give an indirect response. There was a specific reason the cat hadn't answered. The question was, why? Angel could watch the demon all day and he'd likely never give away something he didn't want to.

He didn't bother to ask Husk about it either.

“Ya known Niffty a long time?”

Husk nodded, still unreadable. “Longer than I've known Alastor.”

That was interesting. 

“Does Niffty work fa Alastor too?”

Husk didn't respond. Angel took a drink of his coffee while he waited but Husk didn't say anything or give any facial response. Angel finally nodded. Husk wasn't going to tell him anything about Alastor. It was possible he couldn't. It was also probable that he was unwilling to cross the demon. Angel didn't particularly blame him. Alastor owned his soul.

Angel's face warmed as he realized the first time he'd met Husk he'd basically called him stupid for selling his soul to Al. He hadn't realized then that the Radio Demon owned the bartender.

“What,” Husk asked.

“Huh?”

“I don't know. Some shit occurred to you just now.”

“How do ya know that,” Angel asked in challenge.

“I've seen you make that damn face at the hotel. Usually when you have something to say that you decide not to fucking voice. I'm guessing it's all the rude shit you want to say, but don't.”

“I am not rude.”

“Not when you are on your best behavior, no.”

Angel gave him the middle finger but then realized he was just proving Husk's point. He scowled at the demon. “Ain't ya got nothin betta ta do than make fun a me.”

“Not really. I don't need to open the bar for quite a while. Also, I'm not making fun of you, Fluff. If I wanted to make fun of you, I'd mention how fucking idiotic it was of you to ignore that imp’s tail like that.”

“Ya know what. You can suck my fuckin dick, Whiskas.”

Husk smirked at him and Angel's entire face got hot. Husk didn't say anything else about it though.

“What are you doing today?”

“Whaddya mean?”

“I mean, what's your plan after Charlie's morning activity?”

Angel narrowed his eyes. “Why?”

“Christ, Fluff. It's just a god-damned question. No ulterior fucking motive. Just wondered if you were busy.” He scowled at Angel. “You always treat everyone with so much damn suspicion?”

“Uh, yeah. It keeps me alive.”

Husk nodded. “Ok. Well, I just wanted to know if you might enjoy hanging out.”

“Hanging out?” Angel screwed his face up in confusion.

“Yeah. You know, the thing friends do.”

“Doin what?”

“Whatever the Hell you want. What do you and Cherri do?”

Nothing. “I don't think you'd enjoy tha stuff Cherri'n I do togetha.”

“I can't tell if you're being difficult on fucking purpose. If you don't want to ha-”

“I didn't say that,” Angel interrupted, feeling embarrassed that he was being difficult for no real reason. “I just… don't hang out. I work. A lot.”

“I noticed but, Angel,” he looked uncomfortable as he hesitated.

“What?”

“Well, don't get all fucking pissy but you work too damn much. Hell isn't going anywhere. Your businesses won't fall apart if you take a fucking day off. I doubt that your staff is incompetent, you're too smart for that.”

“Don't ya have ta work at tha hotel?”

“It won't be a problem for me to leave.”

“What about Vox?”

“What about him?”

“He'll know. He's got eyes all ova tha city.”

Husk shrugged. “I'm not afraid of that asshole.”

Angel scoffed. “Ya should be.”

Husk grinned. “You know him and Alastor fucking hate each other, but I know why they hate each other. Vox will hesitate to piss Alastor off by killing me.”

“There's a lot a things ya can do ta someone, without killin them, that are very unpleasant.”

“You gonna let what Vox might do dictate what you choose to do,” Husk asked in irritation. “You really want to fucking live like that? Holding yourself back to pander to some asshole, so his feelings don't get hurt? He doesn't care if he hurts your god-damned feelings.”

Angel’s chest rattled in annoyance. “Why do ya always do that?”

“Do what?”

“Talk about him like that?”

“I'm just calling shit how I see it.”

Angel shook his head. “You don't know what ya talkin about.”

“I don't need to know everything to know what I fucking see. He doesn't want you to be friends with me but he picks up a fucking piece of ass right in front of you?” Husk's thoughts about that were written clearly on his face and in his voice.

“You don't undastand!” Angel felt like a fucking broken record every time they talked about the fucking TV Demon. “Vox isn't tha one who agreed ta belong ta me!”

Husk's ears laid down. “He owns you?”

“No,” Angel replied angrily. “He doesn't own my soul. It's not some binding agreement. It- it doesn't matta though. We have an agreement if’n I stray from that it will have very real consequences fa me and tha souls I own. I can't just do whateva I want!” Angel threw his hands up in frustration.

It wasn't as simple as the fucking cat made it all out to be. If Angel didn't keep up his end of the bargain, then Vox wouldn't either. Vox didn't need magic to force Angel to do anything.

He dropped his hands back down onto his thighs, gripping himself there while he stared at his fingers digging in. He almost felt like he was pleading with Husk to understand. No one understood.

“I could a killed him, ya know,” he confessed. “I had him, I could a slit his throat and ended his existence.” He closed his eyes as he took a deep breath. “I didn't though. I chose this instead. Everythin I built… I didn't do it alone. I owe demons things.”

He took another deep breath, released his likely bruised thighs, and sat back to look at the demon calmly.

“Tha last thing I fuckin need is some asshole who thinks he knows what I need throwing my choices in my face.”

“I'm not trying to do that,” Husk replied softly.

“Then what is tha point?”

“Angel.” Husk leaned forward, putting one arm on the table and pointing at the spider with the other. “What do you fucking want to do? Forget Alastor, or Vox, or work, or any damn thing else. Do you want to do shit with me? You've given me a lot of bullshit reasons why maybe you shouldn't but I asked if you would enjoy hanging out with me.”

Angel’s mouth opened and closed. Why was Husk always asking such difficult questions? It didn't really matter what Angel wanted. It hadn't mattered what he'd wanted in life, dying had never changed that. As free as he fancied himself, there were so many chains on him he was surprised walking wasn't more difficult.

Husk waited for him to answer and when he didn't, the cat didn't accept his silence as a negative answer like he had the night before.

“Angel? It's a simple god-damned question. Greta can't answer for you this time, unless you think I should ask her instead?

Angel scowled at him. “I don't need Greta’s help ta ansa a question.”

“You sure she knows that? I could just ask her about it.”

Husk started to rise out of his seat so Angel quickly reached across the table and pulled him back down by his suspenders. “Fine! Yes! I want ta hang out.” He glared at the smirk on the cat's face as he released him. “You're an ass.”

“Sometimes.”

“I have ta go ta tha hotel.”

“I kinda figured as much. We can do something after.”

Angel nodded, unsure what to say. Thankfully, Husk took that as a cue to leave. Angel watched him disappear back into the house before he rose from the table himself. He carefully bathed, conscious of keeping his stitches dry. He wasn't sure if that still applied in Hell but he remembered getting stitches as a kid and the doctor had said to keep them dry.

He pulled on his favorite tall black boots with a long black skirt. At first glance it seemed modest but when he moved you could see the split that went all the way up to the band. It showed off his entire leg and hip when he walked. The white crop top buttoned up to his throat, came to two points in the front bottom, and sported flowy cuffed sleeves. 

The outfit looked deceptively modest. It wasn't until you realized his pink fur line was visible as it ran from shirt to skirt, his hip flashed often through the slit, and the white shirt was slightly see through, that you realized it was not so modest. He took off the ring Vox had given him, leaving it with the rest of his jewelry. 

He would have to deal with the demon soon but today wasn't the day for it. Today he wasn't going to deal with overlords or employees. He was going to go to the hotel and do the one thing he definitely couldn't get out of. Then he was going to… Hang out with Husk. 

That wasn't stressful at all. Nope. It was totally fine. 

Lucia and Andre were waiting for him out front when he left his house. They were discussing something but stopped when they caught sight of Angel. He watched them as he approached. Lucia smiled at him, giving nothing away. Andre though was avoiding Angel's gaze.

Angel didn't say anything until they were driving. Lucia handed him a new phone as she started talking about the day's schedule. Angel wasn't really listening though. He interrupted her after a few minutes.

“Anythin goin on today that ya can't handle without me, Lucia?”

The frogs exchanged glances in the rearview mirror. “Uh, no…”

“Good. Take care a it.”

“Of… everything,” Lucia questioned. Then her face screwed up. “Are you still that injured? Should you see a doctor or something?”

“I'll be fine. I'm takin tha day off.”

Lucia laughed but stopped short when she saw the look on Angel's face. “Oh. You're serious. Umm… ok. I'll just do that then.” She went back to her phone, muttering to herself.

Angel turned to Andre. “What were you two talkin about when I came outside?”

“Uhh…”

He could feel Lucia’s gaze on him but she didn't say anything at first. When Andre failed to respond though she clicked her tongue. “Just tell him, Andre,” she tossed out before going back to her work again.

“Tell me what?”

“He knows Petunia,” Lucia said offhandedly.

Well that explained a few things. “How do ya know her?”

Andre glared at his sister in the mirror for a moment before he reluctantly answered. “You remember the gentleman you acquired our contracts from?”

Acquired was a nice word. Angel had killed their boss, permanently. The little shit had deserved it. “What about him?”

“Well, nothing but when we worked for him I knew this guy. We were sort of friends, ran with the same crowd anyways.”

“I hated him,” Lucia threw in. “Fucking scummy dude.”

“He had a girl he used to talk about. I knew he didn't treat her very well but it wasn't my business. I'd never even met her but once or twice. She was real quiet.”

“Ok,” Angel replied, unsure where he was going with this.

“One day he's bragging to the lot of us about how he'd convinced her to sign her soul over. But he hadn't done it to become more powerful. He'd done it so he could give her to some mob guy he owed. Just sold her to save his own ass.”

Angel narrowed his eyes, pretty sure now that he knew where this was going. “Ok.”

“I saw her about a year ago. She had all that stitching but she didn't have that before. I tried to talk to her but she… well she didn't take kindly to that. She sees me as Robby’s friend and she let me know exactly what she thought of that.”

“Well, don't ya think maybe that would a been good fa me ta know before I asked her ta spill her secrets in front a ya?”

“She obviously didn't want to bring it up. It's not my business,” Andre grumbled.

“It's my business if I'm tryin ta hire her. If she has a problem with ya then I probably shouldn't bring her on.”

“Don't do that,”Andre argued. “I can handle her hatred and I really don't think she deserves to be discarded by you because of me. You pick demons for a reason, Capo. You picked her.”

“I'll give her a chance if’n it comes down ta tha two a ya making me pick, she'll just be hurt again.”

“It won't.”

“I really hope not.”

~~~~~

There wasn't anyone around when Angel arrived. Admittedly, he was pretty early but he was expecting Husk to at least be at the bar. Since he was alone he decided to go for a stroll around the inside of the place. First he dropped into his camouflage though. 

He wandered around for a while before he came across anyone. It just so happened to be Niffty. He watched for several minutes, in fascination, as she took out a couple of roaches on sticks. They had little outfits on and she had skewered them with the thin sticks. She began making them talk to one another. It took him a little while to realize she was rehearsing a script with them. 

It was a bit strange and disturbing but mostly Angel found it really sad. He wondered what had happened to her to drive her so mad.

After a little bit he crept away carefully.

He didn't have to go far before he saw Husk's tail disappear around a corner. He hurried towards him but stopped short when he rounded the corner and saw Alastor.

“What the fuck do you want,” Husk asked the Radio Demon. There wasn't an ounce of deference in his tone when he addressed Alastor.

“Angel came by last night.” It wasn't a question. How did he know that? Angel hadn't seen any signs of the demon.

“Yes.”

“And how was he?” Alastor fiddled with his staff, creepy smile in place as always.

“He survived.”

“Luckily for you, my good friend!”

“I fucking told you,” Husk growled. “I did my god-damned best. He didn't even need my help.”

“I think we both know that's not true, Husker. Why do you insist on sticking up for the spider?”

“I didn't make a difference. Vox is the one who fucking saved him.” Husk's face and voice held no emotion as he talked to Alastor but the Radio Demon still studied the barcat.

Angel wondered if Al could read Husk. Angel had a hard time but he didn't know the demon very well. He didn't know how long Husk had belonged to Alastor but they seemed comfortable with one another.

“So you said.”

“Do you think I'm fucking lying?”

Alastor laughed before he poked Husk in the chest with the pointed end of his staff. “Why, you wouldn't lie to me, Husker! We both know what would happen if you did.”

Husk's ears laid down as he swatted the cane away. “I remember, damn it.”

“Good. See that you keep that in mind. Do try to find your smile today, my friend! You know you're never truly dressed without one!” The demon laughed again as he walked away.

Husk muttered to himself as he stalked in the opposite direction. Angel didn't follow either of them, instead he took a different hallway. Eventually he found his way back to the front of the hotel. He dropped his camouflage out of view of everyone. 

Husk was at the bar now but Angel didn't approach him. He was stopped by Petunia instead as she hurried over to him. “Angel,” she said quietly. “You're ok, I was really worried. Husk said you were ok but then you didn't show up.” She wrung her hands as she spoke. “I tried to message you but you didn't respond.”

Angel smiled at her as he put a hand on her shoulder. “I'm fine, doll. My phone had ta be replaced though. I'm sorry I didn't see ya messages.”

She glanced at his arm. “I'm sorry you got hurt.”

“Not ya fault. Don't worry about it.” He held a hand to his chest. “I'll find that little bastard. Come on, it looks like Charlie is ready ta start.”

They sat next to each other on the couch, Niffty climbing into the seat next to Angel. She grinned at him and he smiled back. She might be insane but he still thought she was sweet and, probably, harmless.

“Ok guys!” Charlie stood in front of them all. Everyone was in the living room today, including Alastor. “Today I think we should explore why each of you ended up in Hell. I think maybe if we could understand then we could figure out what path you might need for redemption!”

They all exchanged glances, no one looked particularly thrilled by the idea.

“So, what,” Angel asked, “if we make up fa all that shit we did in life, Heaven will just accept us with open arms?”

“Maybe,” Charlie responded with enthusiasm. “Why do you think you're in Hell, Angel?”

Angel lifted a hand and dropped it again. “I'm gay, fa starters.”

Charlie looked startled. “No. I mean. Things you might have done that would damn you.”

“Yeah. Like bein gay.”

Charlie looked around for help from the other demons. “No, but… being gay isn't a bad thing. It's just who you are.”

Angel snickered. “Tell that ta like… everyone I knew when I was alive. Including my Sunday school teacha, and tha priest who stood at tha front a tha church every week.”

“What?” Charlie looked so confused Angel started to question whether that was valid. He looked at Petunia, who shrugged. “No, that's not how that works. I mean, what might you have done. Like… actions you personally took, Angel, that weren't good.”

Angel thought about that for a moment. There were probably a lot of them but he picked something simple. “Well I broke my first kneecap when I was twelve. Do ya mean like that?”

“Yes! Although, why… Did you do that?”

“Man owed my pops money.”

“So he asked you, a twelve year old, to break a man's kneecap?”

“Wasn't no askin,” Angel corrected. “Pops handed me a bat’n showed me where ta aim then told me ta do it. Ya didn't tell him no,” Angel shrugged, “so I swung. Made tha nastiest noise, too.”

“Um, ok. That's… not good but you were a kid. What about when you were old enough to decide for yourself?”

He hesitated, not particularly interested in hashing out his sins with everyone but he didn't have an option. Alastor was watching and Angel had agreed to participate.

“I don't know. I killed people, can't imagine that helped.”

“Ok. Uh, how many people did you kill?”

“I don't know,” Angel said in irritation. “Howeva many pops told me ta. Mafia, rememba. I didn't exactly keep count.”

From the corner of his eye, he saw Petunia’s eyes widen. He wondered if she understood now what he'd meant about burying bodies.

“You only killed people your dad asked you to?”

“Well, mostly… but no. I killed someone else a my own volition.”

“Why did you kill them?”

Angel internally squirmed but kept his outward composure. “He did somethin he shouldn't a. Look, it don't matta what he did. I'm sure killin him wasn't tha best thing ta do. I didn't have ta do it. I wanted ta.”

“Ok, good! Or, I mean. Not good.” Charlie laughed with uncertainty. “Good example though! Do you still kill people you don't have to?”

Angel looked at Alastor. “All tha overlords do.”

The demon didn't reply, just kept smiling away. He might not love Alastor but he knew the demon understood the same thing Angel did. You couldn't be an overlord without being ruthless. It was what kept you alive and on top.

Charlie looked between them and apparently decided she didn't want to press that. “Ok, let's move on. Petunia! What about you?”

The ragdoll’s eye got big as she stammered out a response. “I-I don't know. I, uh, isn't lust a sin? I used to dance… sometimes other things.”

“You were a strippa,” Angel asked. Every time he learned more about her he was further surprised.

Petunia nodded. “When I was alive. I also used to move drugs. That's probably not great.” She tugged on the end of her dress. It was a nervous little habit she had. He'd noticed she had several of them.

“Where did you move them to,” Niffty asked as she leaned across Angel's lap to address the ragdoll. He gently picked her up by the back of her dress and set her back down on the couch.

“She means she was sellin them, or helpin ta.”

“I didn't sell them myself,” Petunia confirmed. “My mom's boyfriend and his friends did. Sometimes I helped move stuff from one place to another.”

“That's good,” Charlie said happily. “Drugs are a-”

Charlie was cut off as Angel’s phone rang. He stood quickly, rushing away from the group before he pulled his new phone out. It was Velvette. He kept walking as he answered.

“Hello?”

“You prick,” she yelled into the phone. “You just up and fucking left without saying nothing! Vox is being a right prick too. Won't say nothing either!”

“Vel, I'm fine-”

“You need to get your ass here so I can check your wounds! You shouldn't have left. I can't believe Vox let you! I don't know what the two of you are fighting about but fix it,” she hissed.

“We ain't-”

“Angel. I watched Vox and Val fight for years. You might have seen Val but you didn't see what Vox was like. Don't tell me I don't know if he's pissed at you! You upset him, fucking don't make me fix it like Val used to. Fix your shit yourself!”

Angel's stomach dropped. He put his lower arms around himself. Was he putting her in the middle? He knew Velvette would have to calm Vox down if he didn't.

“I'm sorry, Vel. I'll talk ta him.”

“Fucking right you will. How are your wounds,” she asked, her tone much less bitchy now.

“Arm looks good. It's itchy and I took the bandage off. My back hurts but I ain't messed with it.”

“Good. Don't touch it. You almost died, you moron. You should still be in bed, not working like I'm sure you fucking are.”

“Thank you, Velvette.”

“Of course. I'll see you soon. Kisses darling!”

Then she was gone. Angel stared at his phone. He knew she wasn't wrong. She shouldn't have to deal with Vox being pissy because they were fighting. He'd always had to take Val’s shit when he was fighting with Vox. He didn't want to be the cause of Velvette having to continue to deal with Vox.

He returned to the rest of the group but he wasn't listening to them talk about their lives. He didn't know what to do. Vox had to be dealt with. Angel knew what Vox wanted him to do. The question was, should he do it? Could he do it?

He snuck a peek over to find that Husk was indeed watching him. Angel quickly looked away, only to find Alastor's eyes on him. He rolled his eyes, ignoring them both.

This wasn't really about either of them. It was about what Angel wanted. Right? That's what Husk had said. Angel didn't want Vox to treat Vel badly but he also didn't want to stop hanging out with Husk. He liked being around him for some reason and Angel didn't like being around many people. 

Angel also wanted to keep his bargain with Vox. He might hate it but it was still a fact that it was essential to keeping his business running. He felt obligated to care for the souls he owned. He couldn't do that if he couldn't work with Vox. He also was pretty sure Velvette would pick Vox’s side if forced to choose. He certainly wasn't going to ask her in order to find out. 

Angel didn't immediately join everyone else in leaving the living room when they were done. He was so lost in thought he didn't notice them get up right away. When he realized it was very quiet, he looked up to see Alastor was still in the living room with him.

He scowled at the demon. “Did ya need somethin?”

“Why I am just so glad to see that you have recovered from your injuries, my dear. I was ever so worried when Husker told me you were hurt. Lucky for you that Vox was there to help!”

Angel kept scowling at him. “Why thank ya, Alastor. I didn't realize ya cared so much.”

“Of course I care! We are friends, aren't we?”

Angel scoffed quietly. “Ya. Best a friends.”

Alastor's eyes narrowed as he stood. “I would hope so. I have a feeling you are going to need a good friend soon.” 

Angel watched the demon as he disappeared back into the hotel. Alastor was messing with him now. Of course, he wasn't at all surprised, just irritated at the demon's timing. Angel finally rose and made his way over to the bar.

Husk stood there with a bottle in one hand. He watched Angel approach, his gaze dipping down to the slit of the spider's skirt as he walked. Angel stopped shy of the stools.

“I have ta take care a somethin.”

“Ok.”

“I'll be back… later. I don't know when.”

“You know where to find me,” Husk said before taking a drink from his bottle.

Angel looked off to the side, uncomfortable under the cat's gaze. He somehow felt like Husk knew who he was going to see. 

“I-I just need ta-”

“Fluff,” Husk cut him off. Angel looked back at him. “You don't have to fucking explain. Go do whatever you need to. I'm really not going anywhere. I'll be right here when you come back.”

Angel nodded even though he still felt the need to explain himself. He honestly didn't understand why Husk didn't care to know what he was doing. Vox and Val had always wanted to know. But Husk was just a friend, right? So maybe he didn't have that expectation yet. Would he later? If Angel got close, would Husk's expectations change?

He thought about it all the way to the Tower, uncertain what the answer would be.

Chapter Text

Today is where your book begins

The rest is still unwritten - Natasha Beddingfield 

“Fuckin Christ, Vel!”

“Oh, stop being a fucking baby.”

“Don't be a bitch. That shit hurts.”

She popped her head around his side so he could see her smug smile. “Maybe you should have stayed in bed.”

He scoffed. “In Vox’s bed. Who's bright idea was that?”

She laughed. “Vox’s. Didn't think you'd mind.” She ducked back behind him, poking at his stitches. He made a noise but didn't complain again. “It looks fine but you need to be careful with them. That wound is deep. You're lucky to be alive.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“I think you can leave the bandage off but if you aren't careful with it, your stitches will tear. Won't kill you but it will bleed like a bitch. I have no idea how long it will take to fully heal. I'm surprised you're fucking up and moving around. You know he severed your spine.”

“I'm aware,” he responded dryly.

She came around to the front side of him as he put his shirt back on. “I need you to do some shoots for me.”

“Not today,” he whined, pouting at her. “You said I need rest.”

“Next week then.” She crossed her arms. “You going to talk to Vox while you're here?”

“Yes,” he replied testily. “I said I would.”

“Ok, the goal is to make him less pissy, not more, darling.”

Angel flashed her a camera worthy smile. “I am eva so sorry that I have inconvenienced ya, Vel, my love. Please forgive me.”

She snorted at him. “Cute. Go use it on your flat faced prince. I have shit to do. Shoo now.”

He left her office and headed straight for Vox’s portion of the Tower. He would see Angel on the cameras. Normally when Angel sought the demon out he was quick to appear but he didn't today. Angel had to check all the places the demon normally could be found during the day. He didn't find him anywhere.

He sighed and muttered to himself as he entered the elevator and pushed the button to go down. If Vox wasn't anywhere else then he was either gone or he was in his… screen room. Angel wasn't sure what else to call it. It housed more screens than he'd ever seen anywhere else. Normally Angel wouldn't have gone down there, Vox wasn't a fan of Velvette or Angel bothering him when he was plugged in. 

If the demon was going to force Angel to find him then he would.

Sure enough Vox was in his chair when Angel arrived. The screens all went black before Angel could see what the TV demon had been watching. He turned his chair around, watching Angel approach. Angel smiled at him, and he returned the look but it was definitely strained.

“Angel. I'm surprised to find you down here.”

Angel crossed his arms. “Don't be like that. Ya knew I was lookin fa ya. Do ya want me ta leave?”

“Of course not, dear.”

“But ya pissy with me?”

“Why ever would I be angry with you, Angel? Have you done something?”

Angel wanted to tell him to cut the bullshit but he remembered Vel’s warning. If he got aggressive with Vox then he would only receive aggression in return. He really didn't want that.

Angel adopted a sad expression instead. Vox looked surprised. “You are mad at me.” Angel looked away, producing a few tears.

He was determined to stop using his pheromones on Vox but he had other tricks up his sleeve. It wasn't like Angel didn't know how to act. He'd been very good at it once. It took a minute but Vox finally answered him.

“I shouldn't be mean, I suppose. You have come to talk to me about it, I gather?”

Angel nodded. “I don't want ya ta be mad at me.”

Vox stood from his chair and walked down so he was a step above Angel. “What do you propose we do about that?” Vox took his hand, running his other fingers across Angel's knuckles. “You say you don't want me to be mad but you aren't wearing my present either.”

Angel let his gaze fall back on Vox, giving him an ashamed look. “I knew ya was mad. I-I didn't know if ya'd want me ta.”

Vox moved his hand to Angel's chin, gently gripping it so he couldn't look away. “Of course I do. It would make me very happy if you didn't take it off again.”

Angel nodded silently. If it would make Vox happy then he'd wear the thing every day. It really made little difference to him. He wasn't sure why he even bothered to take it off… Except that Husk's comment on it had stuck with him. 

“Good. Now that is settled. What are we going to do about this friend of yours?”

“He is just a friend. Ya neva had a problem with none a my otha friends.”

“Angel, you told me he was attractive.”

If he'd known that stupid comment was going to make Vox this upset he wouldn't have made it. “So? I find you attractive’n we don't fuck. Just because I like tha way he looks doesn't mean I want him ta fuck me.”

Vox smiled at him. “You find me attractive?” 

Angel nodded. It was true that Vox had a certain appeal. He was well built underneath those stuffy clothes. Angel didn't feel sexual attraction to him but Vox didn't need to know that part. Angel wasn't technically lying to him.

“Show me.”

Angel felt the blood drain from his face but he didn't dare pull away from Vox's grip. “What,” he asked quietly.

“Show me how attractive you find me.”

“I-I can't-”

“I'm not telling you to fuck me, Angel. But if you want me to believe that you want to be with me then I'm going to need something from you.”

“L-like what?”

Vox brought his face closer to Angel's as he moved his hand to the spider's cheek. “Kiss me.”

Angel didn't move right away. He was frozen with indecision. He didn't want to kiss Vox. He desperately didn't want that. If he didn't though, Vox would never leave Husk alone. He'd never allow Angel to hang out with the cat if Angel couldn't prove he liked Vox better. It was just a kiss, he reminded himself. He'd kissed Vox before, a long time ago. He could do it again.

He leaned in, pressing his lips to the demon's. Vox made no move to control the kiss. Angel knew he wanted the spider to show him that it was enjoyable for him. He gripped the demon's vest with one hand and pulled him closer as he deepened the kiss. He remembered what it was like to fake it for the camera.

He pulled that persona over himself, as he brought his other arms up. He pressed himself to the demon and wrapped his arms around him. He didn't pull away when Vox brought his other arm around Angel's waist. Instead he moaned quietly, careful not to make it sound over the top. He opened his mouth in invitation, knowing Vox would respond. He did.

Angel focused his entire self on reacting positively until Vox pulled away. The demon smiled and Angel returned it.

It wasn't until he was in his car again, Andre driving him home, that he let the tears fall.

~~~~~

Angel had showered as soon as he got home, changing into soft leggings and an oversized hoodie that fell to his mid thigh. The large, shapeless garment made him feel a little better. Then he'd put his ring back on. Afterwards, he lay in bed with Nuggs, refusing to talk to the staff. He tried not to think about how much easier this would be if he still did drugs. 

He knew they wouldn't solve anything but that didn't mean the cravings had ever gone away. They never had. He just knew he couldn't use again. Not after what he'd done.

So he suffered in silence, his tears wetting his pillow until he fell into a restless sleep.

Val kissed him deeply, depositing the pill into Angel's mouth as he did so. Angel giggled as he pulled away, letting it slide down his throat. Music thumped around them in the dark club but he barely heard it.

His focus was entirely on the moth in front of him. Angel was straddling his lap and he could feel Val’s arousal as his hands gripped Angel's hips.

“Are you having a good time, Amorcito?”

“Mmm,” he said in agreement as he ran his hands up the demon’s chest. “Always with you, Daddy.”

Val smiled lazily as one of his hands gripped Angel's hair and pulled him in for another kiss. He could taste Val’s pink spit as the moth's tongue entered his mouth. He craved the taste of his lover. It had a certain way of making him feel… so fucking good. 

It was better than any drug Angel had used. He'd asked Val about it once and the moth had told Angel it felt good because they loved each other. Angel was meant to be his. It was a sign they belonged together.

His body felt electric, like energy flowed through him. It needed an outlet. He leaned away from his lover. “Come dance with me, Daddy.”

“Not now, Angelcakes.” He warmed at the nickname. Val said he used it because Angel was the sweetest thing he'd ever met. “Daddy is waiting for someone. Why don't you go have fun though.” He pointed at the stage. “Put on a good show for me, baby.”

Angel slid off the moth's lap, making sure to rub himself over the demon's stiff cock as he got up. He gave Val a cheeky grin before he sauntered away. The little silver dress was sparkly and barely there. Val had bought it for him yesterday. The overlord was always giving him presents and Angel found he loved the attention.

No one had given him so much attention before. Not like Val did it. His constant words of affection, all the attention and gifts he lavished on Angel, and the fucking sex. It was so good. When they fucked Val would bite him and it felt so fucking good he couldn't get enough of it.

He wore the bite marks like badges of honor. Everyone knew Angel was with Valentino and the way they treated him showed it. No one dared to say a bad word to him while they were together.

He stepped up onto the low stage and gripped the pole in front of him. He started off slow, teasing the pole like it was Val in front of him and not a piece of metal. Every time the moth came into view Angel could see his gaze on the stage. His grin firmly in place as he watched the spider get more complicated, dancing faster, touching himself while the demon watched him.

That was until Vox showed up. It was a minute before he realized Val wasn't paying attention to him anymore. He stopped dancing to watch the two of them together. He'd only seen the TV Demon once before but he hadn't actually been introduced to him.

He looked irritated now. Angel couldn't hear them from across the club but he could see Vox’s sour expression as he glanced at Angel. Val looked over at Angel, his grinned taking on a seductive tone as he crooked a finger at the spider. So Angel made his way back over, an extra sway to his hips.

Val pulled Angel down next to him. “Angel, baby, have you met Vox?”

“Not officially.” He smiled at the demon as he leaned into Val's side. “Nice ta meet ya.”

“Uh huh. Val, I don't want to hang out with your latest whore. I have better things to do.”

“Fuck you,” Angel retorted.

He made a noise of surprise as Val gripped his chin tightly. He put his face close to Angel's. “Now, now little one. You don't talk to Vox like that.”

Angel's eyes teared up. “Sorry, Daddy.”

Val released him and turned his attention back to Vox, talking sweetly to him. “What's the problem? Are you starved for my attention, Voxxy? Do you need… something?”

Angel understood what Val was getting at and he tried to pull away from the moth. Val gripped his arm, not letting him move away, but not bothering to look at him.

“We could share him,” Val offered. “Angel's just the sweetest little fuck, aren't you, Amorcito?”

Angel smiled at Vox as he placed a hand on Valentino's thigh. He slid his hand towards the demon's cock as he watched Vox’s response. He knew Val wouldn't make him fuck someone he didn't want to but he'd never scolded Angel for the way he spoke to anyone. Clearly Vox was important to the overlord. Angel didn't want to disappoint Val. Besides, the demon wasn't ugly.

Vox ignored Angel entirely as he sneered at Val. “No, thank you. If I wanted a whore I'd get my own.”

Vox disappeared in a blaze of blue electricity. Angel looked at Valentino as he pouted. “He doesn't like me.”

“Oh, I know, baby.” He pulled Angel into his lap again, drawing close enough to kiss him again before whispering. “That's what makes it so fun.” 

Then Val's lips were on him again.

Angel woke with a start, bringing his hand to his mouth. He could still feel Val’s lips on his. After a moment he angrily climbed out of bed. One look out the window showed him that he'd slept through the day. It was getting dark now.

Damnit. He hadn't meant to do that. He had planned to go back to the hotel. He checked his phone to find that it wasn't too late. Husk had been awake when Angel had showed up in the middle of the night. He would probably be fine with hanging out now.

Angel grabbed his things and quickly made his way out to the garage, purposefully avoiding the kitchen area. He didn't particularly want to answer any of Greta’s questions. Instead he got out the Aston Martin, since his motorcycle still needed work.

When he entered the hotel, he found Husk alone at the bar, still nursing a bottle. He gave Angel a once over before he pulled out a glass and poured Angel some straight whiskey over ice. Angel accepted it gratefully as he sat down. He downed it in one go before pushing it back towards the cat.

Husk raised a brow. “Long day?”

“It didn't exactly go tha way I thought it would,” Angel replied while looking away from him.

“I'm sorry.”

Angel shrugged. “I didn't mean ta be gone so long. Did ya still want ta hang out? I mean, if it's too late-”

“It's not too late,” Husk assured him. “What should we do?”

“Not stay here. I have a feeling privacy ain't real possible inside tha hotel?” Husk didn't answer and Angel was sure that was answer enough. “Grab a bottle or two. I know somewhere we can go.”

Husk grabbed another bottle and followed Angel out of the building. He let out a low whistle at the sight of Angel's car. “You like cars, don't you?”

“I like speed,” Angel said. “I imagine it's a bit like flyin.”

He hopped over the driver's door and settled himself in as Husk followed his lead on the other side, using his wings to help him gracefully pull off the maneuver. Angel smiled to himself as he put his pink sunglasses back on. Much like on his bike, they kept the wind out of his eyes while he drove with the top down.

He took off, quickly picking up speed as they drove through the city. He couldn't drive quite as fast as he could on his bike but he went as fast as he could. Once they reached the bridge to Imp City, he let loose. They sped across the bridge, taking a sharp right at the end of it. The dirt road that ran parallel to the canyon between the cities, took them away from civilization.

They drove a while longer before Angel pulled over. The dirt road ended at a cliff. He thought maybe, once, the road had continued. It looked as though part of the cliff had fallen a long time ago, cutting the road off. He tossed his glasses onto the dashboard before he stood in his seat in order to climb onto the front window.

He slid down it, resting his ass on his hood. Husk joined him, handing a bottle to Angel. They sat in silence for a few minutes, Angel hugging the bottle to himself while he took periodic sips.

“It's so quiet here,” Husk commented.

“Part a tha appeal,” Angel agreed. “I like ta come here sometimes. There aren't any cameras.”

“That must be very appealing to you.”

“I'm used ta bein watched all tha time,” Angel admitted. “Sometimes it's nice not ta be though.”

“I take it he didn't like what you had to say.”

“He ain't goin ta kill ya, fa now. I took care a it.”

“Angel-”

“Did ya know tha first time I met him he called me a fuckin whore?” Angel snorted. “I wasn't, yet. It really pissed me off. Turned out he was right but I didn't know it at tha time.”

He took another drink.

“You're not a whore, Angel.”

“No, not now. I was fa a long time, though. I know most a Hell didn't know but I didn't just fuck on camera. That asshole made me take clients. I couldn't tell them no. Didn't matta what they wanted. I had ta, with a smile on my fuckin face.”

He drank again.

“I did love him once,” Angel confessed, tears leaking down his cheeks slowly. “I thought he loved me too. He made me feel, ugh, it don't fuckin matta, but I thought it was real. Afta I signed that fuckin contract though… I should a fuckin known. There were signs but I was too fuckin high ta notice!” Angel laughed bitterly.

“I fuckin got myself out a that tha hard way. Tha only way I could think a. I didn't even think it would work! Cherri was so fuckin mad at me when she realized… But dyin again would have been betta than livin with that piece a shit any longa.”

He took another, longer drink.

“Yet here I am. Still fuckin doin shit that feels so fuckin wrong. Shit I fuckin hate. Cause all tha powa in Hell ain't shit.”

Angel angrily wiped his eyes, looking over at Husk when he heard him sigh. Husk wasn't looking at Angel. He was looking out across the chasm, towards the lights of Pentagram City. He looked… sad, maybe.

“Power isn't what it's cracked up to be. Sometimes it's just another chain holding you back. Or pulling you along to make stupid decisions.” The cat took a drink from his bottle before looking at Angel. “That's why you should figure out what you do want. Is the power worth everything?”

Angel frowned at him. “I can't just… I care about tha souls I own.”

Husk nodded. “I know. I can tell. But, I mean. Are they more important than you are? If you don't put yourself first, no one else will.”

“It's not somethin I can just do. Abandon them.”

“Until you double die it's never too late to change your afterlife, Angel. You don't have to let your past dictate your future. You still own your soul.”

They both sat in silence for several minutes, drinking their respective bottles. Then Husk pulled a pack of cards from his pocket.

“How about we play something?”

“Ya just always got a deck a cards on ya?”

“It's a habit.”

“A habit?”

“Mhm. I grew up in Las Vegas.”

Angel smiled at him. “That's why ya so good at poker.”

Husk grinned. “Well, yeah. But you don't have to tell the rest of them they have no chance of winning. Vaggie’s convinced she can beat me.”

“Ok,” he agreed as he turned to Husk, crossing his legs underneath himself so there was room to play. “But we ain't playin poker.”

Husk nodded. “Your choice. What do you wanna play?”

“Gin rummy.”

Husk smirked. “If you want.”

Angel watched him shuffle the cards. He noticed Husk did it overly fancy the entire time. He knew Husk was watching him watch the cat’s hands so he didn't look up at the demon. He knew he'd blush again if Husk acknowledged it. He just liked how easy Husk made it look. 

He finally dealt their hands, Angel going first. They took turns drawing and discarding as they talked. 

“So Vegas. That must a been a interestin place ta grow up?”

“It definitely wasn't boring.”

“What did ya folks do?”

“Dad worked for a casino until he passed. I was eleven at the time. Mom had to work after that. She did her best but she didn't have any talent so she couldn't get a lot of the jobs that existed for women then.”

“Ma neva worked. Pops said it wasn't proper fa a wife a her status ta work. I don't think she minded though. We wasn't poor.”

Husk laughed. “I'm sure you weren't. I knew Mafia guys in Vegas. They seemed to do pretty well for themselves.”

“I know. Pops took me with him sometimes when he went out there. One a tha only places we eva left New York fa.”

Husk looked at him. “You've been to Vegas?”

“Yep. Tha family owned a casino out there. I probably would a ended up there permanently at some point except well, I died.”

“Whi-”

“Gin,” Angel announced as he put his hand down.

Husk scowled at him. “How did you do that so fast?”

“I'm betta at Gin than Poker.” He grinned at the cat’s sour expression. “Admit it, ya impressed with my skills, Whiskas.”

“Frequently,” Husk agreed.

Angel took another drink to cover the blush on his face. Husk sighed but added up their points before he began shuffling again.

“Was it just ya ma’n you?”

“Nope. I had two younger siblings. Brothers. Poor mom never got the girl I'm pretty sure she wanted. You?”

“I had an olda brotha. He's a dick. He's in Hell somewhere with Pops. I see him occasionally but we pretend we don't know each otha. And a sista, Molly.”

“You were closer to her?”

Angel nodded as he drew a card. “She's in Heaven, I think. I hope so. She was a good person.”

“You really loved her.”

“We was twins.”

“Oh.” Husk paused as he drew a card, then he snickered. 

“What?”

“Just thinking about your poor mother having to deal with two of you.”

“Oh, hah fuckin hah. Sooo funny, Whiskas.”

“Who's joking? You're a stubborn ass.”

Angel flipped Husk off with one hand as he drew with another. “My motha loved me.”

“I'm sure she did. Doesn't seem that difficult to love you.”

Angel froze midway to discarding. His gaze slid up to the cat who didn't notice right away. He was busy fiddling with his cards. He noticed Angel frozen after a moment.

“Aww, shit. I didn't mean- I was talking about- that wasn't me saying…” Husk trailed off, his face turning red when he couldn't get the proper words out.

Angel laid his card down in the discard pile. He began fiddling with his own cards so he didn't have to think too hard about what he'd just felt.

“I know,” he finally said. 

He did know. Husk hadn't meant that he loved Angel. When he'd said it though, Angel's brain had short circuited. He'd frozen not at what the cat had said, but what he'd felt when he'd heard it. That was better left unsaid though. 

“Have ya eva, though? Loved someone?”

“Once. A really long time ago.”

“What happened?”

“He didn't feel the same way.”

Angel frowned. “Well, fuck him. He didn't deserve ya then.”

Husk shrugged. “Doesn't matter now. It's been a really long time. What about you? When you were alive.”

“I think I did. Didn't end well, though. A course, I shouldn't a been surprised. Mafia life’n bein gay didn't mesh well.”

Husk snorted. “I'll bet.” Husk knocked on the hood before laying his cards down.

Angel looked at his cards. He smirked when he realized Husk had five points. He laid his cards down. He only had four.

“What the fuck,” Husk grumbled.

Angel gave him a big ole grin as he picked up his bottle. “I told ya,” he teased before taking a couple of drinks.

He was beginning to feel much more relaxed than he had earlier. It wasn't just the whiskey, he didn't think. Being out here, with Husk, enjoying a game he'd loved in life. It was… nice.

He couldn't help but think about the difference in the way he felt with Husk and the way he felt with Vox. His stomach turned as he thought about kissing the TV Demon. He knew he'd have to do it again. How long would it be before Vox insisted they do other things? 

“Angel?”

He focused on Husk again. “Hmm?”

“Are you ok?”

“A course.”

Husk's mouth pressed into a thin line before he spoke again. “You're crying.”

“What?” Angel touched his cheek and realized it was wet. He hadn't noticed. “Oh.”

He looked at Husk, unsure of what to do. His thoughts and emotions were all over the place tonight. He didn't want to be crying in front of the barcat but he wasn't sure he could stop the tears. He hadn't even known he was crying.

“Do you wanna talk about it?”

Did he want to talk to Husk about kissing Vox? He shook his head.

“Ok. How about something else then.” The demon stood, pocketing the cards, before offering his hand to Angel.

Angel just looked at it for a long time before accepting it. When he touched Husk it didn't feel strange anymore. Their magic instantly sprang up, not fighting to push at one another anymore, but instead melding together gently. They both looked at their joined hands for a moment, then Husk pulled Angel to his feet.

He didn't release the spider’s hand as he led him down from the car and over to the end of the cliff. They looked over the edge together.

“How far down do you think it goes?”

Angel shrugged. “Impossible ta know.”

“Not if you can fly.”

Angel's gaze shot to Husk. The cat was still looking down the chasm but he had a wicked grin on his face. It looked sharp and full of mischief.

“Ya goin ta fly down there?”

Husk glanced at him. “Only if you want to.”

“I can't fly!”

“I can carry you.”

Angel pulled his hand away. Husk just watched him, waiting. Did Angel want to fly? That was a stupid question. Of course he wanted to. The question was, did he want Husk to carry him? He had once before. The demon was stronger than he looked. It wasn't a question of whether or not he trusted him not to drop him. 

It was a question of whether or not Angel should be that close to him again. If he could fall asleep on the demon, then what was flying with him? Surely, it wouldn't be much of a difference.

Angel grinned back at him. “Ok. How do we do this?”

Husk faced him. “Come here.” Angel moved closer. “Put your arms around me.” 

He only hesitated a few seconds before he wrapped two arms around the cat’s neck. Husk stepped closer, putting his arms around Angel’s waist. He didn't even have time to think about it before Husk's wings popped open. They stretched wide, then shot down quickly, lifting them up into the air.

Angel reacted instinctively. He wrapped his legs around Husk and grabbed the fur on his chest with his lower hands. They rose further into the air. Angel could see Pentagram City to one side and Imp City to the other. They looked so small from up here.

He leaned back slightly to look at Husk. “I thought ya said we was goin down?”

Husk laughed as he took them higher. “Oh, we are.”

His wings changed their angle, closing most of the way. Suddenly they were falling, the wind whipping past them faster than it ever had on his bike. Angel held on tight again but he wasn't really afraid. He laughed as they plummeted into the chasm.

He closed his eyes, letting the feeling of falling take his focus. The wind against his body, cold from their speed. Where his hands and face touched Husk he could feel the demon's magic soothing him. It was simultaneously exhilarating and comforting. He held on tighter and felt Husk's arms tighten in turn. 

“I won't drop you, Fluff,” Husk said in his ear. 

Angel knew that but he wasn't going to tell Husk why he'd really held on like that. He just nodded, his cheek brushing against the cat's neck. They fell for a while before Husk's wings popped open again. It jerked them to a stop as they soared to the side. 

Angel opened his eyes again. He watched with fascination as Husk's wings flapped, then stopped as they rode a gust of air upwards. They alternated between flapping and riding the air currents all the way up. Angel found them mesmerizing. He reached out to run his hand along one near the base, without thinking.

Husk made a noise and they dropped a few feet before leveling out.

“Uh, maybe don't do that right now,” Husk said. It sounded strained to Angel. He wondered if they were sensitive. 

“Sorry.”

“It's ok, just maybe not a great idea if you don't want me to drop you.”

Angel gripped Husk with the hand he'd touched his wing with. “Yep. I really would prefer ya didn't.”

Husk chuckled as they flew up over the edge of the cliff. He settled back on the ground and Angel pulled his face back, grinning at the cat.

“That was amazin.”

“I'm glad you enjoyed it. Feel better?”

Angel nodded emphatically while grinning like an idiot. He definitely felt better. Husk just looked at him, his face unreadable.

“I should put you down now,” he finally said. 

Angel realized they were just standing there, wrapped around one another. His face inches from Husk's for the second time in the last twenty four hours. Just like last time, he didn't want to pull away. He wanted to lean in. He wanted to know if it would feel different with Husk than it had with Vox. It felt different when they touched him. Surely kissing him would feel different? He looked at Husk's mouth.

“I don't think that's a good idea, Angel.”

“Huh,” he asked absently. 

“I don't think you should kiss me.”

Angel's face got instantly hot and he quickly climbed down. “I-I’m s-sorry. I wasn't- I mean-”

He didn't look at the demon as he walked around him towards the car. How could he be so stupid? What was wrong with him?

“Angel, wait.”

He didn't stop. He felt so embarrassed and rejected. Of course Husk didn't want to kiss him. He had said, over and over, that they were friends. Just friends. His eyes teared up again.

Husk cut in front of him. “Fluff, wait. I-”

“Please don't. Just stop talkin. I get it, ok. Ya don't want me ta kiss you.”

“I didn't say that!”

“Ya just fuckin said-”

“I said it wasn't a good idea, not that I don't want you to.”

Angel threw his hands up in the air. “I- what? That don't make no fuckin sense!”

“What happened yesterday when you tried?” He asked Angel softly but it still felt like a slap in the face. Angel looked away from him, wrapping his arms around himself as he tried to blink away the tears. “You don't have to tell me but I'm not stupid. Something happened and then you disappeared. Literally! You looked like you were in pain. I don't think you can just ignore that and I don't want to be the cause of you feeling that way.”

“God! Fa once I just want it ta be my choice!”

“Well, it's my choice too.”

Angel's gaze flicked over to Husk. “What?”

“It's not just up to you.”

“I-I know.”

Husk took a deep breath, pinching his nose between his fingers. “I will be happy to kiss you when you're ready to but why are you trying to force it?” He dropped his hand, staring expectantly.

Angel’s tears fell harder. He shook his head. He wasn't really sure why. He just couldn't tell Husk what he'd done earlier. Somehow he knew it wouldn't be alright with the demon. He wouldn't even let Angel kiss him until he was ready. What would he say about Angel kissing Vox to appease his anger towards Husk?

He'd hate it.

Husk stepped closer, opening his arms in silent invitation. Angel leaned into the cat, letting him hold him while he cried. After a while, when his tears didn't let up, Husk pulled away. He swept Angel up, cradling the spider in his arms. Angel wrapped his arms around Husk's neck again as the demon carried him. 

He sat down, settling Angel in his lap. Then he gently rocked them as he rubbed Angel's back with tender circles. He didn't say anything but after a bit Angel realized he was purring softly. It distracted him from his horrid thoughts.

“Y-you-”

“If you tell anyone, I'll be forced to kill you.”

Angel laughed and choked on his tears. Husk shushed him quietly, patting his back. Angel wrapped his lower arms around Husk's waist. He could feel the soft rumbling through his hoodie and their magic gently melding deeper everywhere their skin touched. He was pretty sure the last time something had felt so soothing he'd been a little boy and it had been his mother's hands soothing him.

Chapter Text

And I hope I never see the day

That you move on and be happy without me - Demi Lovato

Alastor was missing again this morning, which was just fine with Angel. The less time he had to spend around the demon, the happier he would be. 

He was seated with Pentious and Husk this morning. It was difficult for Angel to be sitting next to the cat. He felt… awkward. Like he had when he'd been thirteen and realized he had a crush on his best friend, Victor. He wasn't sure how to act.

Husk had not only admitted he wanted to kiss Angel, but he'd called Angel on his desire to kiss Husk. Now it was just hanging there, unspoken but tangible. Not thinking about it when he was so close to the cat was impossible.

To make matters worse, he hadn't been so vulnerable with someone since he'd detoxed. Husk had held him until he'd stopped crying. Even after he was done, neither of them had moved for a while. His gaze slid over to Husk's hand. He still wanted to touch him. Itched to grab his hand.

He wouldn't though.

He looked up as Charlie and Vaggie came into the living room, their arms full of… art supplies? They dumped them on the coffee table and Charlie stood tall, her hands on her hips.

“Today we're making Valentine's,” she announced with all the enthusiasm of a cheerleader.

“Arts and crafts!” Niffty jumped off the couch, laughing her crazy little laugh. “I love making stuff!”

“Seriously,” Husk asked with absolutely no enthusiasm. “What is this? Fucking kindergarten?”

“Well Valentine's Day is this coming week, Husk! And creative activities are great for rehabilitation! We can celebrate the holiday together next week! Oh, oh!” She jumped up and down. “We can have a whole party! Won't that be fun?!”

Angel smiled, a horrendously fake one. “Sounds great, suga.”

“Don't tell her that,” Husk said, quietly. “Then she'll make us do more of them.”

The other demons were congregating around the table, inspecting the offerings. Angel covered his mouth, trying to hide his smile.

“Oh, come on, sour puss. It'll be fun!”

He joined the other demons, grabbing the supplies he wanted before moving over to the bar. He sat at a stool, laying his supplies out. Then snagged a sheet of red construction paper and some crayons, looking up slightly as Husk sat at the other end of the bar.

They didn't talk while they worked. Angel took his time drawing the heart. It wasn't a silly preschool shape though. He drew it like a real heart, lumpy with arteries sticking off of it. He even drew blood dripping out of it. The whole thing was detailed and macabre as fuck. Inside he wrote “My heart belongs to you”.

Charlie had made her way over to check on them and was staring at Angel's card. “Oh! Well, that is so… um, it's really detailed Angel.” 

He grinned at her. “Thanks.”

Husk leaned over and Angel turned the card so he could see it. The barcat chuckled and shook his head as he turned his attention back to his own work. “You would.”

“Who is it for, Angel,” Charlie asked. 

“My cook, Greta.”

Charlie's face screwed up in confusion. “Is she a cannibal?”

“Nah.”

“Well, I'm sure she'll love it.”

Angel's smile turned wicked. “She's goin ta fuckin hate it.”

Charlie was clearly caught off guard but Husk burst into full blown laughter. Everyone’s heads turned at the sound. Husk didn't notice them looking but Angel did. They clearly weren't used to the bartender being in a good mood. 

Petunia wandered over, looking at Angel's card over Charlie's shoulder. She laughed too before holding up her version of a Valentine. It was a black heart with pink ribbon and glitter all over it. Very Petunia.

They all looked over to the bartender, unable to really see what he was working on. Angel reached a leg out, pushing on Husk with his foot. The cat looked over to see them all staring at him and glared at them.

“What?”

“What ya workin on ova there.”

“Yeah, we wanna see, Husk,” Charlie chirped in. 

“Too fucking bad,” Husk grumbled before going back to his Valentine.

The gals and Angel looked at one another. Angel smirked as he stood up, trying to see over the shorter demon. Husk's wings popped open, startling them all. Angel stuck his tongue out at the cat's back before sitting back down. He shrugged at the girls. Charlie looked bewildered but Petunia was clearly amused.

The princess wandered back over to the other residents and Angel turned his attention to the ragdoll.

“Ya busy today?”

“No.” Petunia said it in a way that screamed she was never busy and irritated about it.

“You should come with me afta we're done here.”

“Sure. What are we doing?”

“Goin ta see if ya got what it takes ta do tha job I need ya fa.”

~~~~~

They were on their way to Sinner’s Paradise before Angel explained what he wanted from the demon. 

“I've never run a club before,” Petunia protested. 

“That ain't a problem, doll. Lucia’n I can teach ya everythin ya need ta know. The staff is real competent, most a them have been with me fa quite a while. Tha head a security has been with me since tha beginning. He's a bit simple but he's strong and loyal. He'll take care a ya.”

“Um, ok. I'm happy to learn.”

“Only thing is, doll. I got ta ask. There goin ta be a problem with Andre’n you?”

Petunia's gaze flicked to the demon driving and she quickly shook her head. Angel studied her quietly, watching her expression. 

“It's not a problem, Angel.”

“You should know that he told me about ya boyfriend sellin ya.”

“What?” She turned an irritated glare on Andre.

“He ain't got no choice, dollface. It's what happens when ya sell ya soul, as I'm sure ya know. Be glad I ain't askin fa it.”

“It doesn't have anything to do with him. Or you. It's irrelevant.”

“No, see. Tha thing is, ya business is my business if’n it's goin ta affect how ya work with my other employees. Andre didn't do nothin to ya, can't have ya causin problems. If’n ya end up not gettin along with him then there is no job.”

She looked at the floor of the car, clearly feeling angry, or something akin to it. “I know he didn't. I shouldn't have taken my anger out on him.”

Angel nodded. “He assured me it wasn't a problem fa him. I want everyone ta be on tha same page.”

Petunia nodded as she continued staring at the floor. “I understand. It won't be a problem.”

“Good. Cause every day, afta we're done at tha hotel, he'll be drivin us ta tha club until ya don't need my help anymore. His sista, Lucia is already there. She'll be ya go to person fa any issues. Anythin Lucia can't handle, she brings ta me.”

“I didn't know you had a sister,” she said quietly to the back of Andre’s head.

“Lucia'n Andre are twins,” Angel added.

“Oh.”

Angel heard the layer of understanding underneath that sound. He knew she missed her brother and she understood the bond Lucia and Andre had. He didn't mention her own brother, there was no reason to.

He told her a bit more about the employees at the club while they rode the rest of the way. It wasn't a particularly long ride so he gave her a basic overview. When they pulled up, Andre opened the car door for them. Petunia slid out after Angel, giving Andre a quiet thank you as she moved past him.

The inside of the club felt very different during the day, with no fancy lights on, no music, and no patrons. Lucia met them at the door, Angel only had time to introduce them before his phone rang. Velvette was calling again.

“Why don't ya give Petunia a tour, Lucia? I'll find ya when I'm done.” He hurried away from them as he answered his phone. “Hello, Vel.”

“Angel. I thought you were going to make up with Vox?!”

Angel slowed to a stop. “I did.”

“Then tell me why he's in such a fucking mood today?”

“I don't know, Vel. I swear we made up. He wasn't upset when I left. I don't know what's goin on.”

Angel heard yelling in the background. “Does that sound like he's happy to you?”

“Listen, I'm busy right now. I really don't know what his problem is but I'll try talkin ta him soon, see if I can find out.”

“Yeah, ok. I've got shit to do so he can be a big fucking baby all by himself until then.”

She hung up without a goodbye and Angel stared at his phone for a bit. He was entirely confused. Vox had been plenty happy yesterday when he'd left the demon.

Was he upset that Angel had left the hotel with Husk? Did he know they'd gone somewhere Vox couldn't watch them? His stomach tightened at the thought that it might have been pointless to even try and hang out with Husk. That he might not be able to appease Vox with a kiss alone.

He pushed the thoughts aside and went in search of the girls. He found them on the second floor where Lucia was showing Petunia the different rooms available. He strode in, interrupting Lucia mid sentence.

“I need ya ta do somethin fa me,” he told Lucia. “I can finish tha tour. I need ya ta get me a cell phone.”

Lucia looked at the phone in his hand. “Something wrong with yours again?”

Angel shook his head. Lucia just nodded and left the room. Angel finished showing the ragdoll the second and third floors before he took her to what would be her office. She instantly gravitated to the large window that looked over the main floor.

“These are your cameras here. They cover outside and every room in tha club.”

“Even the play rooms?”

“Yes. Fa tha safety a tha patrons. We erase tha footage every night, it's neva ta be distributed, but I need to know if anythin happens. I have very strict rules fa play. Consent is tha numba one rule.”

“What happens when they don't follow the rules?”

Angel smiled. “Ya rememba tha blood on my face tha day we did trust falls?”

“Yes,” she drew the word out, uncertainly.

“It was from someone who didn't follow tha rules. I don't fuck around with pieces a shit like that.”

“I don't know if I can hurt anyone…”

Angel waved a hand. “Ya ain't got ta. I have demons who take care a that. Speakin a, I need ta introduce ya ta Rocky.”

Angel moved towards the door to the office. He froze as the air filled with that telltale static moments before Vox appeared. He looked slightly… haggard. Not quite put together as nicely as usual. His jacket was missing, his sleeves rolled up. Angel didn't think he'd ever seen the demon look anything less than perfect in public.

“Vox, what are ya doin here?”

He moved closer to Angel as he spoke. “I wanted to see you, my dear.”

“Ok… I'm workin though.”

Vox glanced at Petunia, dismissing her easily. “Do you have a busy day today?”

“Kind a. I missed a lot being stabbed’n all.”

“Of course. How silly of me.” He moved into Angel's personal space, placing a hand on the spider's cheek. “I just needed to see you.”

“Is somethin wrong? Vel said you're having a bad day?”

Vox shrugged as he grabbed Angel's hand, linking their fingers together. Angel had to remind himself not to pull away, fully uncomfortable now.

“Nothing that can't be solved easily.”

“How can I help?” Maybe if he could do something Vox would calm down. While he wasn't yelling like he had been while Angel was talking to Velvette, it was clear he was tense.

“Come see me tonight, after you're done working.”

Angel's mouth felt dry. He licked his lips, a motion Vox clearly noticed. “Tonight?”

“Yes. At my place. We can have dinner.”

“You don't cook.”

Vox’s face glitched, angry for a second and then gone. “I'll order something for us. I would just really like to see you, my dear. Your presence soothes me.”

“O-ok.”

“Yeah?”

Angel smiled brightly even as his insides twisted at the idea of being alone at Vox’s place with him. “I'd love ta.”

“Wonderful!” He leaned in, kissing Angel's cheek. “I'll see you then.”

He was gone in a flash of electricity. Angel didn't move. He was having difficulty breathing evenly. He started hard when he felt a touch on his arm. He jerked away only to realize it was just Petunia.

“I'm sorry.” She looked as startled as Angel felt. “Are you ok?”

Angel plastered a smile on his face, Petunia didn't return it. “I'm fine. Let's go see Rocky.”

~~~~~

It was quite a while later when they returned to the hotel. Too early for him to need to get to the Tower so he went inside with Petunia. Pentious was in the foyer bossing his creepy little eggs around and Niffty lay across the coffee table. She was kicking her little legs while she watched the TV.

No one else was around, including Husk. Petunia flopped onto a couch, raising her visible eyebrow at whatever Niffty was watching. 

“Hey, Pentious. Do ya know where Husk is?”

“He disssappeared with Alassstor a while ago. I'm sssure they will return sssoon.”

Angel sighed before texting Andre to let him know he wasn't sure how long he'd be. Then he sat sideways, laying his legs across the empty couch. He leaned his head back, resting it against the back of the couch. It wasn't very comfortable but he was tired. His back still hurt, he wasn't sure if he'd eaten since breakfast, and sleep was a long forgotten friend. Accidentally falling asleep was only too easy.

“It would make things so much easier, Angelcakes. Hell is a dangerous place. You've seen it yourself.”

Val pulled him close, two arms around Angel's waist. Another one crept up his front, over his fluff. As he pulled Angel into his lap he cupped the spider's cheek with his last hand. Then his mouth was on Angel's. His body relaxed like it always did when Val kissed him.

Val continued to run his hands over Angel's body as Angel melted into him. He was breathing heavily by the time Val relented. The moth pulled away in order to give Angel a wicked smile. He smiled back, the only thought in his mind was the desire for Val to take him to bed. He wanted to feel him. He wanted Val to bite him.

He hadn't seen the demon in days. Val had been too busy with work to see him though, leaving Angel to party with Cherri. He'd enjoyed hanging out with her, they didn't see each other as often now. She didn't really like Val. Angel didn't really understand why. Val was very charming, everyone else seemed to like him. Plus he was always friendly with Cherri. He had never expressed a dislike for her.

After a couple of days though, he'd really begun to miss Val. He would have gladly skipped them going out tonight to get in Val's bed sooner, but the demon had insisted they go out. It wasn't a total loss. Angel always had the best time with Val. He paid for all the drugs and alcohol they could want, every time.

Angel felt great, except for this craving in the pit of his stomach. He wanted the demon so badly.

His lips turned down into a sexy pout. “Daddy, can't we talk about this later,” he purred.

“It's important, baby.”

“But I want ya ta fuck me,” Angel complained.

Val chuckled, the promise of that fucking in his voice.

“If you sign it then we'll have all the time in the world, Amorcito.”

“Really?”

“Oh yes. Would you like to live here, baby? We can always be together. You can work with me. I can fuck you whenever you want.”

“If I sign tha contract I can live here?” That did sound nice. Val’s place was the nicest place he'd ever been in. A far cry from the places he usually found himself in.

“I have a spot just for you. You're so special, baby. You deserve it. You want to be a star don't you?”

He did want to be a star. He wanted everyone to know his name. He wanted to be special, to have fans. No one had really loved him in life, except ma and Molly. He'd thought someone had loved him once but he'd been wrong. That hurt more than his father hating him had. 

“You love me, don't ya, Val?”

“Of course, baby!” He pulled Angel against him again, whispering in his ear. “Daddy will love you forever. If you sign the contract I'll never let anyone take you from me.”

Angel's breath shuddered out. “O-ok.”

Val handed Angel a pen that he'd produced from nowhere. Angel had to blink at the contract several times to make the words come into view. He'd read them before. They looked the same to him now. He wrote his name, belatedly realizing he'd written Anthony instead of Angel. He shrugged and added a cute little heart, smiling at it.

He giggled drunkenly as Val leaned forward to inspect it. “Oh, you really are so sweet, Angel. This is going to be so much fun.”

The contract disappeared in a flash of pink smoke. Similar pink smoke appeared around his neck as Val stood up, carrying Angel in his arms. The collar was tighter than the other ones they'd used but Angel didn't complain. It was fine. A chain ran from it to Val's hand.

“What's goin ta be fun?”

“Oh don't worry you're adorable little face over that. Daddy promised you a reward, didn't he?” He kissed Angel again as he moved them towards the bedroom.

Someone touched him and he audibly gasped, looking around wildly until his eyes fell on Husk. He relaxed back into the couch, a hand to his chest. 

“Sorry,” Husk whispered. “I would have let you sleep but Pentious said you were looking for me?”

“Why are ya whisperin,” Angel whispered back, a little less quietly.

Husk glanced over and Angel sat up, looking over the couch. Alastor was swaying his way up the stairs, whistling to himself. Angel glared at him, just for existing when he was crabby.

And he was feeling crabby.

Stupid fucking dreams about Val he was having lately. They were irritating him. He hadn't dreamt of Val in years. Not even his naps were safe now. He scowled at nothing in particular as he stood up.

“You good,” Husk asked.

Angel waved a dismissive hand. “I'm fine.”

“Uh huh. Ok.”

Angel turned his glare on the cat. “What?”

“You don't look fine. Or sound fine. And before you get all pissy, you asked. Don't wanna know, don't ask.”

He let out a huff of annoyance. Husk was right, he already knew the demon wasn't going to pretend he hadn't noticed. Angel had asked. Didn't mean he didn't find it annoying.

“It ain't nothin anyone can do anythin about.”

“You never know if you don't ask for help.”

“I don't want ta ask fa help.”

Husk laughed. “Unsurprising, Fluff. You want a drink? I could use a drink.”

It was on the tip of his tongue to give Husk shit about always having a drink but he didn't say anything. Somehow he thought that might be a bit too far when Husk hadn't actually done anything. The cat smiled.

“Having rude thoughts again?”

“No.”

Husk just laughed as he made his way over to the bar. Angel followed him, his attitude having morphed from anger to petulance. The cat got out two glasses, pouring whiskey for them. Angel accepted the drink but didn't sit. 

“So what did you need, Fluff?”

Several answers popped into his head. He didn't voice any of them. “I got ya somethin.”

“Oh?” 

Angel pulled the phone out of his pocket and set it on the bar top. Husk looked at it a moment before he looked back up at Angel. His face gave no reaction. 

“A phone?”

“Yep.”

Angel didn't offer an explanation. They just kind of stared at each other.

“Why?”

“Ya don't have one.”

Husk made a noise of amusement. “Think maybe that's on purpose?”

“Probably.”

“So…?”

“So what?”

Husk chuckled and shook his head. “I'm not taking that.”

“What? Why not?”

He gave Angel a look. One that said Angel knew why. “I'll take it if you tell me why you got me a phone.”

“Ya don't have one,” he repeated.

Husk pushed the phone back towards Angel but left his fingers on it. “As I said. I don't need one.”

Angel crossed his arms. “Ya seriously goin ta be like this?”

Husk grinned at him. “Oh yeah.”

Angel leaned forward. “You're an ass.”

Husk shrugged. “Take it or leave it. You want me to take the thing or not?”

Angel's chest rattled. “I wouldn't have bought it if I didn't want ya ta.”

“What's so hard then? It's not hard to say ‘Husk, I want to have a way to get a hold of you’.”

Angel sneered at him. “If ya already know that then why tha fuck do I need ta say it?”

Husk's face lost all its humor as he leaned in too. “Because I'm not playing games with you. If you want something then speak the fuck up. Don't expect me to just know shit. It doesn't fucking work that way.”

Angel lost his attitude, swallowing before he responded. “I want ta be able ta talk ta ya without havin ta come here.”

Husk raised a brow. “That's pretty damn specific. What's wrong with coming here?”

Angel looked away, wrapping one around himself. “Vox watches all tha time. There ain't cameras in Cannibal Town but there are here.”

“Ok.” Husk sighed. “But I don't know how to text, just so you know.”

Angel looked back in surprise. “That's like a basic function. Ain't ya neva had a phone?”

“When I was alive, phones were strictly for calling people, Angel.”

“Ya ain't neva had one in hell?”

Husk shook his head. “No reason to.”

Angel giggled. “Ya such an old man.”

“Haha. You aren't young just because you look it.”

“I look fabulous.”

“Yeah, but you're just as stubborn as I am.”

His cheeks felt warm when Husk agreed with him but the cat was looking at the phone and missed it. Angel checked the time then cleared his throat before he spoke again.

“I can't stay long but I can show ya some stuff before I go.”

He leaned over the counter and spent a little time showing Husk how to put a passcode on it, how to do basic texting, and how to use the Internet search function. If he wasn't a total loss, he'd figure out the rest from there.

Angel noticed the time. “Oh, I got ta go.”

“Got dinner plans?” Husk sounded nonchalant but he looked up at Angel when he said it. He couldn't quite read the cat's face but there was something in it.

“Yeah…” Neither of them spoke for a moment, then Angel gave Husk a teasing smile. “I expect ya ta be able ta reply ta me when I message ya. If ya can figure out textin before then, Grandpa.”

Husk gave him the finger. They were close enough that it was in Angel's face. He laughed as he pushed Husk's hand aside. When he saw the answering smile on the cat's face, he impulsively leaned in, kissing Husk's cheek. Angel's face felt hot as he pulled away. He hurried away from the bar, refusing to look back to see Husk's face.

“See ya round, Fluff.”

~~~~~

Andre dropped Angel off at the front of the Tower. The spider strode inside, seeing very few employees at this point. They only barely registered with him. Vox's employees were always deferential towards him. While he didn't go out of his way to treat them badly, he also didn't care to know them. A smile or nod back was all they got if he was paying enough attention to even notice individual demons.

He wasn't paying attention today. His mind was too frazzled. He didn't want to be here. The whole situation was making him feel on edge. The closer he got to Vox’s place, the more his chest felt tight. He ignored the feeling as much as possible.

Vox answered his door quickly, already smiling at Angel. He looked even more disheveled than earlier. His vest and bowtie gone, his shirt untucked and unbuttoned at the top. He had a drink in one hand.

“Angel!” He snagged the spider's hand and pulled him inside, kicking the door shut behind them. “I've missed you.”

Angel could hear the demon’s slight slur. What the actual fuck? Vox didn't get drunk, not like this. Angel's nerves felt frayed, like all the little strands were about to actually snap and he would be as useless as he had been when his spine had been severed.

“Ya saw me not that long ago.”

Vox made a noise of agreement as he wrapped an arm around Angel's waist, moving them further into the apartment. Angel tried to calm his body but it was screaming at him. Something was horribly wrong with Vox. He wanted to leave but he reminded himself that he needed to be here.

“Did ya get some food,” he asked, uncomfortable with the silence.

“Oh, yeah.” The demon changed direction, moving towards the kitchen instead. A pizza box sat on the counter. Pizza? Angel liked pizza but he wasn't sure he'd ever seen Vox order one before.

He pulled away from Vox, simply intending to get plates, but the demon grabbed his wrist. Angel turned back towards Vox as the demon set his glass down. Then he was close to Angel, backing him into the countertop.

“What-”

“You're mine, aren't you? Do you know how much I love you? Need you?”

Vox kissed him then, aggressively. Angel completely froze. Then he shoved Vox. The demon growled in anger, shoving Angel back into the counter, Vox’s hands gripping Angel's shoulders. His back hit the edge and horrible pain ripped through him.

Angel's chest rattled and he sent a big wave of pheromones out at Vox. The TV’s face slackened, his body lost its tension, and he made a noise… It sounded like relief. Angel's eyes widened in horror. He recognized that sound. He'd made it himself many times. That sound an addict made when they'd gone too long without and finally, finally got that fix they'd been craving.

Vox shook his head, pulling his hands away from Angel. “I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me.” He genuinely looked confused. 

Angel moved around Vox, refusing to turn his back to the demon. “I need ta go.”

Vox frowned. “But you just got here.”

Angel nodded slowly as he reached a hand to press it into his back. He showed Vox his bloody hand. “My stitches ripped.”

Vox stared at it in further confusion. “Ok. Yeah.” He sounded dazed, like he wasn't quite sure what was going on. “You should have Velvette look at it.”

Angel nodded as he backed away from Vox. “I'll see ya tomorrow.”

As soon as he was out of sight of the demon, he whirled and fled. He could have asked Velvette to look at his injury but he wanted to get the fuck out of the Tower. He didn't want to risk Vox deciding to come find him again. He called Andre from the elevator, telling him to be out front. The frog didn't ask any questions. He was waiting there when Angel came out.

“Home,” Andre asked.

Angel shook his head. “Take me ta tha hotel.”

He stripped his shirt off, pressing it into the bleeding wound. His car was already going to need a cleaning. His eyes tried to tear up and he blinked them away. He shoved all the emotions trying to rise up to the side. He couldn't think about them right now. He just needed to get his stitches looked at.

He pushed his way back into the hotel. The lobby was empty again, except for Husk. He stood behind the bar, bottle in hand. He was focused on Angel's naked chest.

“Do you just dislike wearing… shirts…” His voice trailed off as he took in Angel's face.

“Ya know where Niffty is?”

“She might be in her room. Come on.” Husk led him into the hotel, giving him sideways glances as they walked. “What's with the shirt?”

Angel lifted it off of where he held it to his body, showing the blood soaked material to the cat. Husk's reaction wasn't what he was expecting.

“What the fuck,” he exploded. He ducked behind Angel, his movements fast. “Jesus Christ! What happened?” 

Angel felt Husk's hand on his back and he whipped around, knocking the cat's paw away. “Don't fuckin touch me!”

Husk blinked several times, his face closing off. He wordlessly began leading Angel to Niffty’s room. She answered quickly after Husk knocked.

“Hi, Husk! Hi, Angel!”

“Hey, Niff. Angel needs some help.”

She blinked and then grinned at Angel. “With what?”

Angel showed her his back. “I ripped my stitches. They're bleeding a lot. Can ya fix them?”

“Oh yeah! I can do that! Come in!”

Angel followed her in, Husk right behind him. He rather wished Husk would just go away but he didn't want to say it out loud.

Niffty's room was… interesting. It was impeccably neat, which wasn't that strange for the demon. What was strange was the roaches in various costumes, all of them on the ends of little sticks. She had them grouped together and in various vases. Like the world's ugliest bouquets. She also had a stage that she had built. A roach sized one. It even had a curtain.

She had a desk that was covered in what was likely her latest sewing project. More little clothing for the dead roaches he assumed.

She pointed at the bed. “Lay down, Angel. I gotta grab my stuff!”

Angel flopped onto his stomach after dropping his bloody shirt onto a surface. It took little time for Niffty to join him.

“Oooh. There's a lot of blood, Angel!” She sounded entirely too excited about that. “Husk, gimme a towel please! From the bathroom.”

Her little fingers poked into his flesh, moving it around. He grit his teeth against the pain. “Want ta ease up a bit there?”

“I'm gonna have to take these all out and start over!”

“Do ya have ta?”

“Yeah! You made a mess here, Angel. How did you rip them?”

Angel was conscious of Husk's presence in the room. He didn't answer. He couldn't think of anything that sounded plausible.

“Just sew him up, Niff,” Husk finally said.

“Kay!”

He grunted when she started pulling them out. It didn't feel great. He would likely be in more pain now than he already had been.

“These look funny,” Niffty commented. “Almost like a whip stitch.” She giggled. “Whip stitches are for clothing, not people.”

“Well Vel only knows how ta stitch clothin.”

“I can tell! You should have let me do it the first time, Angel! You can't expect clothing stitches to hold people together properly!”

“Why didn't you have Velvette stitch it again,” Husk asked. The cat knew he'd been with Vox, he probably assumed they'd been at the Tower.

“She wasn't there.”

“I see.”

Angel was sure the cat really did see. Either he wasn't going to make Angel tell the truth or he was just waiting for them to be alone because he didn't press. For a while the only noises were the grunts Angel let out occasionally. The whole process was massively painful but Angel could take it. He'd honestly felt worse in his time in Hell. 

Niffty worked quickly and confidently. When she was done, she took a wet cloth to his back. It took a while for her to get all the blood off of him. She finally announced she was done though. Angel stood, twisting his body. His skin on his back felt tighter than it had before. He asked her about it. 

“Well, you ripped your skin, Angel. I had to pull it tighter to get the skin closed! You should be more careful.”

“Right. I'll do that, Niff. Thanks.”

“Sure thing, Angel! Now both of you, go away! I'm working.”

She climbed into her desk chair, ignoring them as she went back to her little clothes. Angel didn't hesitate to leave. He took large strides away from her room, solely focused on leaving the hotel before Husk could stop him. He knew the cat was following him but he didn't say anything so Angel ignored it.

That is, until he was seated in the car again and the other back door opened up. Husk settled himself into the car, not looking at Angel.

“What do ya think ya doin?”

“Coming with you.”

“No ya ain't.”

“You can try to stop me but I can get there just as quickly as your car can, and I bet Greta would let me in. In fact, I bet she'd love to hear all about what I think happened.”

Angel narrowed his eyes. “Are ya seriously threatening ta tell Greta? I take it back. Ya ain't old, ya like a five year old.”

“Me? You could just talk to me instead of throwing a silent fit, yelling at me, lying to me.”

Angel looked over and realized Andre was watching them in the rearview mirror. He scowled at the frog. “Just drive. Huska can find his own way back home.”

Angel crossed his arms, settling back into the seat. The silence in the vehicle didn't last long. Apparently Husk was in some kind of mood.

“What really happened?”

“Nothin happened.” He stubbornly stared out the window in order to avoid having to look at Husk.

“Don't fucking lie to me. I don't lie to you.”

“What happened don't fuckin matta.”

“Yeah, right.” Husk scoffed. “You go to see him after I know he's pissed at you, about me, and you come back covered in blood-”

“My stitches tore.”

“Right. You said that shit already. I can see that they did. In fact, I can still smell your damn blood. How did that fucking happen though?”

Angel didn't answer him. 

“Capo?” He looked up at Andre’s worried face. “Did he hurt you?”

“It was my fault,” Angel said quietly.

“Oh for fuck's sake. Are you fucking serio-”

“Shut up!” Angel turned on the cat, his anger finally coming to the surface. “Ya don't know fuckin nothin! Ya weren't there! Ya don't know what happened!”

Husk's ear laid down when Angel started yelling at him. He waited for the spider to be done before he responded calmly, though Angel could hear the anger in his voice. “You've been a complete ass to me at times and I've never hurt you.”

“Great. Want a fuckin medal?”

“No. But I certainly don't want you letting him hurt you because of me.”

Angel laughed, it sounded like he was on the edge of hysteria. “It wasn't about you, ya narcissistic prick.”

“Then what was it about?”

Angel looked at Husk then. If the cat really wanted to know, then Angel would tell him. He'd tell him all about what a piece of shit Angel was.

“Ya saw what I did ta Alastor?” Husk nodded uncertainly. “My magic can create artificial attraction. As strongly as I want it ta. I've been usin it on Vox consistently fa a fuckin decade.”

Husk's brows rose. “But you don't…”

“Yah, because a funny little thing happens when I use my magic. Demons don't just want me. They want ta please me. Can ya imagine what that's like? Ta have all ya freewill stripped away. Ta be unable ta say no. Ta do whatever it takes ta please tha object a ya desire?”

Husk frowned at him. “Then why did he hurt you?”

“I stopped using my magic on him afta he told me he loved me. Ya think he doesn't, and he probably doesn't, but he thinks he does! It did something ta him afta all these fuckin years.” Angel's eyes teared up and he looked out the window again. “He was having withdrawals from tha magic. I-I didn't know that would happen. I know what that feels like. Bein willin ta do anythin ta get that fix’n Vox doesn't even undastand why he was feelin it.”

“Angel-”

“Don't. Please don't. I know already how fuckin awful I am.”

“You are not awful.” Angel scoffed and shook his head. “You didn't know this would happen.”

“I didn't fuckin care. I just didn't want ta have Vox huntin me anymore. I didn't even question why he so easily gave in.”

“There's nothing wrong with surviving.”

Angel wiped his eyes with a finger. He didn't answer Husk. The demon could make all the excuses for Angel that he wanted to. But Angel knew the truth. He'd treated Vox exactly like Val had treated him. He'd hidden the truth of his nature even as he got the demon addicted to him. Just like Val had done to him.

No excuses would change that.

Chapter Text

I sold my soul way down in the dirt

But stole it back and forever in debt - Volbeat

Ten Years Ago

“Would you stop fucking fidgeting!” Velvette’s irritated voice filled the small room they were in.

“Why do I even got ta dress fa a stupid meetin? Who gives a shit?”

“Angel,” Vox said, patiently, “image is important. You're an overlord now. You should look the part.”

Angel looked at the mirror in front of him. He did have to admit that the outfit Velvette had made for him was stylish and sexy. But… “I look like a sexy librarian.”

He caught Vox’s hungry gaze and smiled encouragingly at the demon. They still hadn't had sex but Vox's desire to do so hadn't waned and he wasn't shy about letting Angel know. Angel had figured out by now that there was something magical going on. He wasn't sure what exactly, but the harder he concentrated on it, the more amorous Vox would become. He also got more pliable, giving in to Angel's desires.

He tried not to think about it too hard. Focusing on it only made things more difficult. Even though Vox gave in to him, he got a lot more sexually aggressive at the same time. It was tiring him out trying to find a balance.

Velvette didn't seem to be affected by it. In fact, he had yet to notice anyone else being affected by it. Then again, he hadn't tried to see if he could affect other demons. Dealing with Vox was enough for him at the moment.

“You look great,” Velvette corrected. “Because everyone looks fucking great when I dress them.”

He did look great. It was just… weird. He was used to Val picking most of his outfits and a professional look had never been the goal.

“What's tha meetin all about anyway?”

Velvette laughed. “Just a bunch of pompous old geezers who think they're important talking about fucking nothing.”

“Then why are we goin?”

“Because they need to know who you are now,” Vox explained patiently. “There can be advantages to going. We don't often all go but I think it's important for us to show you support.”

“Why? I'm not part a tha Vees,” Angel reminded him. “That wasn't part a our deal.”

Vox chuckled. “Of course not, Angel. I remember, but overlords can be… a difficult lot to deal with.”

“No shit. I been livin with one fa a long time. Or, I was. Whateva. I know what tha two a ya are like too.”

“I am charming as shit,” Velvette tossed in, laughing. “The picture of perfection.”

“Of course you are, Velvette,” Vox patronizingly agreed.

“Fuck you. Where would you be without me? Nowhere.”

“I am eternally grateful for your existence Velvette,” Vox remarked dryly.

Angel giggled at their ribbing. They really almost were like brother and sister when they got going.

“Alright. Take it all off. I'll make the adjustments and have it ready before the meeting. Be here at least an hour beforehand.” 

Velvette strode from the room but Vox stayed behind. He slid an arm around Angel's waist, looking at the two of them in the mirror together. They made a striking couple with Angel all dressed up in these clothes. After they introduced Angel to the other overlords, Vox had plans.

Him and Velvette had discussed how best to launch Angel's takeover of Valentino's business. They were teaching him how to deal with contracts and the employees that came with them. Not that Angel had any intention of treating his employees the way they treated theirs. He needed some kind of system though. There were so many of them, he honestly hadn't figured out how many he had yet.

Vox and Velvette had been less than forthcoming, assuming they knew how many souls Val had owned. He didn't know how many souls either of them owned either. There were a great many things Vox was unwilling to share with him unless he decided to officially join up with them.

Angel had no intention of ever doing that but he'd be lying if he said he didn't appreciate the amount of information they were willing to give him. He would be floundering even worse if he didn't have them. 

They had explained that most overlords came into their powers one soul at a time, generally speaking. It wasn't that Angel was the first demon to kill an overlord, just that usually it was other overlords killing each other. It was certainly jarring to be so powerful overnight. 

He was still unsure of all that he was capable of and he flat out refused to discuss his abilities with the two of them. His trust didn't extend that far. With good fucking reason. Angel only knew some of what they were capable of because he'd been Val's lapdog for so long that he'd seen some things he likely wasn't supposed to.

Vox turned to Angel, pulling the spider against him as he did. He grinned at Angel. “You're going to wow them all. They could never be expecting someone quite like you.”

Angel scoffed but he couldn't help but preen a little. Vox had never said nice things about Angel before. Now he was full of compliments, mostly on Angel's looks but that was better than the insults he had always thrown before.

“Have you thought about my offer to use the studio?”

Angel grimaced and looked away. “I don't know…”

“It'll be easy enough for you to take over where he left off. All the equipment already exists. The actors already know the space.”

“Yeah, but…”

“What's the matter, Angel?”

“There's a lot a memories there. I don't even want ta look at it.”

“I see.” Vox ran his hand up Angel's neck, playing with the hair at the back of it. “You could remodel the space. Make it totally different. Make it yours.”

Angel's eyes widened. “Really?”

“Of course.”

Angel grinned and nodded as he leaned in, kissing Vox excitedly. The demon's response was instantaneous. He had Angel's back against the wall as he roughly kissed him. Angel made a noise of protest but didn't stop the demon. He was determined to give Vox what he wanted.

No matter how long it took for his brain to shut the fuck up.

Angel had agreed to it, and in theory it should have been simple… But it kept happening. Inevitably Val would pop up. Into his thoughts. It often seemed so real he'd get confused, unsure if it was. It wasn't that he didn't know Val was dead. He did. But sometimes his brain and body seemed to forget.

Vox’s aggressive nature just hit too close to Val’s.

Angel pushed him away after several minutes. “Vel is goin ta kill ya if ya mess this outfit up.”

“We wouldn't want that,” Vox replied, with no small amount of sarcasm. “But I should let you change.” He moved away from the spider. “I'll see you tonight.”

After he was gone, Angel quickly changed back into his old clothes. He was about to put his phone back in his fluff when it rang. Rocky was calling him. 

“Hello.”

“Hey, Angel. I've kinda run into a snag.”

Angel's stomach rolled. “What snag?”

“It's hard to find the stuff. Word is the Vees aren't distributing it anymore. Hey, maybe you could ask them about it?”

Angel pinched the bridge of his nose. Just what he wanted to do. “Kay. Thanks, Rocky.”

“No problem! Hey, do you want Nuggs and I to wait at the apartment for you?”

“Yeah. Hey, pick up a newspaper on ya way back, please.”

“Sure thing! See you later.”

“Mhm.”

He hung up on the demon, preoccupied with his thoughts. If Rocky couldn't get ahold of the Love Potion anymore then Angel had no choice. He needed to talk to Velvette. He wasn't trying to deal with withdrawals. It would make him look weak and he couldn't afford that right now. It was the only reason he hadn't stopped. 

He left the little room, following the sound of Velvette yelling until he found her. She looked really busy but this couldn't wait. 

“Vel can we talk before I go?”

“What do you need, Angel?”

“Privately?”

She glared at him. “I'm kinda fucking busy here.”

He wrapped his arms around himself. “I know but it's important.”

She sighed heavily. “Fiiine. Get outta here you disgusting hags! Empty the room!”

All of her demons stopped what they were doing and fled quickly. She turned her attention back to Angel as soon as they were alone. Her face clearly said he needed to get on with it. 

“Do ya still have Love Potion?”

She looked surprised and a little annoyed. “This is about drugs?”

“Yes.”

“You seriously need to get your shit together, Angel.” She tried to walk away from him but Angel gripped her arm tightly. 

“Ya don't undastand,” he hissed. “Val pumped me full a his fuckin venom. Every fuckin day. It wasn't that watered down shit either! I already tried ta just quit! I got real fuckin sick. And I can't find potion on tha streets no more. I'm going ta get sick again and it's all goin ta fall apart! I NEED it.”

He knew he sounded desperate but he was. Velvette shook her head in disgust. “Fucking Valentino. Dead and still causing problems. Does Vox know about this?”

“No.”

She growled. “Fine. Come with me.”

She took him deep into her part of the Tower. He'd never been there before. He was surprised to realize she had several labs. He wasn't sure why he was surprised except that he'd just never thought about it before. There were far fewer demons in this area than in her fashion studio.

She took him to a room that required her to put in a code to enter. It was chilly in the room much to Angel's dismay. His body didn't enjoy the cold. In the back of the room there were crates piled high with Val's symbol on them.

“This is all Love Potion?”

“Yes.” She sighed dramatically. “I was planning to release it slowly, drive the cost up until it ran out. But you can have it.”

“All a it?”

“I can make more too. I've got stores of Val's venom. But you better figure something out because when I run out that's all there fucking is.”

“What do ya want fa it?”

She gave him a mean smile. “Fifteen percent of your profit for the next two decades.”

He had no idea how much money Val usually made but he could guess fifteen percent was a lot. For two whole decades? Likely much more than what this was worth.

“Five percent.”

“Ten, and if you try to counter the offer again, I'll just keep it.”

“Deal.”

She held out her hand and he shook it. Her fuchsia magic mixed with his own bright pink. He was a little startled to find that little black hearts popped up on his end. Those hadn't been there when he'd shook on his deal with Vox. That was odd. He shrugged it off though. What did he know about magic?

~~~~~

He was absently petting Nuggs as he searched through the listings in the paper. Finding a new place was of paramount importance but there just weren't any good options out there. Not that he could see. Not for an overlord. 

Vox and Velvette had graciously agreed to let Angel have Valentino's profits. At least the ones that had come in since Angel had killed him. He was sure they'd taken the rest of it for themselves. Which was just as well. Angel didn't really care. He was just glad he had anything. He had a lot more than he'd ever had living under Valentino.

His door flew open and Cherri rushed inside. “What up hoes?”

Rocky waved at her from the kitchen. Angel grinned. “Hey, Cher.”

“What are you fucking doing tonight?!”

“Got tha overlord meeting but nothin afta that.”

“Wrong answer, slut! We're getting fucked up!” She pointed a finger at him dramatically. “Been too fucking long. You HAVE to come out with me! I wanna dance and I need you to come with me. Don't say no, ya bitch!”

Angel laughed. He was only too happy to go out with Cherri. It had been so long since he didn't have to ask permission. He could do whatever he fucking wanted.

“Sounds like a great fuckin time, suga. I'm in.”

“Good. Let's fucking go!”

“Go where? It's like noon.”

“Shopping. Where the fuck else?”

He set Nuggs on the floor. “I'm down. Let me just get Nuggets’ leash. I want ta take my baby with us.”

Cherri looked at the paper as he got Nuggs ready to go. “Looking for a place?”

“Yeah. But everythin sucks.”

“I heard from a guy that Cannibal Town has real nice fucking places.”

“Cannibal Town? That place is creepy as fuck,” Angel argued. “Their empty eyes. Ya can't neva tell where they're lookin.”

Cherri shrugged. “I don't know, bitch. Just a suggestion.”

Angel followed Cherri out the door. “Yeah. Yeah. Whateva ya say, suga tits. Let's go spend some money.”

“Let's just go fucking check the shit out. You fucking need somewhere better than this shit hole. It makes my place look nice as fuck.”

“Ok, ok. Let's go check it out.”

Angel had never really been inside Cannibal Town before but Cherri turned out to be right. It looked much nicer than the rest of the city. It looked like a nice suburban town. Full of empty eyed demons. 

They really did creep him out but, strangely, no one messed with them. Other than polite nods here or there, the cannibals largely ignored them. They wandered around for a little while before Angel stopped someone to ask about housing. They were directed to Franklin and Rosie's Emporium.

The Emporium turned out to be a large store nestled in the back of the district. It was full of all kinds of products, much of it centered around the cannibal lifestyle, but plenty didn't. Upon inquiry they were directed to a tall, elegant looking lady.

“You must be Rosie,” Angel asked by way of a greeting.

“Why, yes I am, my dear! To whom do I have the pleasure?”

He grinned at her. It wasn't all that often that he met demons who didn't know his face but he always found it a bit telling when he did. Most of Hell knew him on sight. After all, his face was everywhere.

“Names Angel Dust’n this is Cherri Bomb.”

Rosie's face lit up. “You're the new overlord!”

“Uh, yeah. How'd ya know that?”

“Why Alastor is a dear friend of mine! He told me all about your amazing rescue of yourself!”

“Uhh…”

Rosie waved a hand. “I don't blame you, dear! Sometimes you just have to get rid of a man like that!” She tittered at him.

Cherri laughed loudly. “Fuck yeah you do! Valentino was a piece of shit.”

“Will you be joining us at the meeting tonight,” Rosie inquired.

Angel looked at her in surprise. “You're an overlord?”

Rosie blinked several times before giving him a sly smile. “You might want to brush up on your information! You don't want to go empty handed into battle.”

“It's just a meetin. Ain't it?”

“Politics is always a battle, dear! Information is power, and your fellow overlords are powerful.”

If that was true, why hadn't Vox and Velvette told him anything about the other overlords? He didn't let his irritation show though. He didn't want Rosie to think he was even more of an idiot than she probably already did. 

“I'll keep that in mind. I was actually here cause I hear that ya might be able ta help me with somethin.”

“Oh?”

“I need a place ta live.”

Rosie gave him a wide eyed look. “And you're looking to stay here?”

Angel bent down and picked Nuggs up, showing him to the demon. “This is my baby, Fat Nuggets.”

Rosie giggled and tickled the hell pig under his chin. “He's a cutie, Angel Dust!”

“Oh, just Angel is fine. And yeah, he is. I want somewhere nice fa him ta live though. He deserves ta be safe and ya town seems real nice.”

Rosie studied him quietly. “You'd be willing to live in another overlords territory?”

Angel shrugged. “Sure. I ain't planning ta take my own. I don't really care about that. I just want ta be left alone.”

“It's a little unorthodox but who am I to complain! I tell you what. I got a primo place I can show you. If you like it then we can talk about a deal. Sound good?”

“Sounds great ta me!”

Rosie led them on foot to a house several streets over. It was a bit larger than many of the other houses they passed. The property was surrounded by a brick wall, with a long drive that led to a large garage and a larger house.

Rosie kept up a lively but friendly conversation the entire way to the place. Angel found he quite liked her good nature. She was way more friendly than the four other overlords he had met. Alastor hadn't been unfriendly but there was something about him that put Angel off. He hadn't spent enough time in the demon's presence to figure out what exactly it was, but there was something off about him.

Rosie took them inside the house straight away. She called out for someone named Zoey when they entered and shortly a petite young woman greeted them.

“Zoey, this is Angel and Cherri. They're interested in purchasing the house.”

“Oh no. I'm just here for this ho. He's the one looking.”

“It's a pleasure to meet you.” Zoey's voice was very feminine and soft spoken.

“Zoey here was a maid for the last owner,” Rosie informed him. “You can keep her on if you're interested in trading.”

Angel looked at the girl. “Uh, you'd just trade her away?”

“Oh, it's alright,” Zoey assured him. “I live in the house, if Rosie sells you the house then I come with it. I'd prefer not to move out. I'd be happy to show you around.”

“Oh, uh, sure, toots.”

Sometime later Angel stood in the backyard watching Nuggs run around, Cherri next to him. The house was the nicest place he'd seen since he'd died. It was possibly nicer than the house he'd grown up in. Zoey seemed perfectly lovely too. He'd agreed to trade one of his souls for her. That had been easy. He had just the one in mind.

In fact, the whole thing had been surprisingly easy. He supposed the cost of the house should have bothered him but it honestly hadn't. Rosie hadn't been interested in money. Her desires lay elsewhere. Angel had agreed to owe her a favor but that wasn't the thing he had hesitated on. 

Rosie had laid out what she wanted simply. Anytime Angel killed another demon, he was to give their body to Rosie. He hadn't needed to ask what a cannibal would do with such a thing. He didn't particularly object on any moral ground. Eating other people just seemed disgusting. It was hardly worse than many of the things Val had done to him though. At least the demon's would be dead before they were eaten. 

“See, what'd I tell ya, slut! Was I fucking right or was I right? This place is nice as fuck!”

Angel laughed. “Yeah, you was right Cher.” He was quiet a moment before he spoke. “Ya know, there's plenty a room here. Ya could stay with me.”

Cherri laughed but then sobered when she saw the look on his face. “What? Really?”

“Yeah. Why not? Ya know I love ya, Cher. Ain't no reason my newfound powa shouldn't benefit us both. Ya always been there fa me. This time I can take care a you.”

Cherri grinned at him. “I always knew you were a soft ass bitch. Can I decorate my room?”

Angel grinned back at her. “Forget clothes shoppin. Let's go find some shit fa our new place.”

~~~~~

“Are ya sure it went well,” he asked Vox. “They didn't seem ta be real happy ta have me there.”

Vox finished pouring drinks for them, handing one to Angel, before he replied. “It was great! Don't worry about it, Angel. Overlords are solitary creatures by nature. I wouldn't expect them to be too friendly to you.”

“I don't know, Rosie was friendly earlier today when I met her,” Angel disagreed.

Vox paused midway to taking a drink. “When did you meet Rosie?”

“I visited tha Cannibal district earlier with Cherri.”

“Why?”

“I was lookin fa a place ta live.” Angel took a drink as he watched Vox’s reaction to that news.

The TV smiled tightly at him. “Tell me you didn't get a place there.”

“Actually, I did.”

Vox’s face glitched. “Why the fuck would you do that?”

Angel shrugged. “It was a nice place'n I needed one. Rosie was generous enough ta let me live there.”

Vox's face contorted into anger. “If you needed a place you could have said something. There's plenty of room in the Tower.”

Angel made an angry face back at him. “I ain't livin in tha towa.”

“So you put yourself in another overlords territory? Are you planning to take it from her?”

Angel's brows dipped down in confusion. “No. Why would I do that?”

Vox sighed in obvious annoyance. “Angel, it's not a great idea for you to live in someone else's territory.”

“Ya just invited me ta live in yours! So that's ok, but not if it's anotha overlord? I know ya think I'm a stupid whore, Vox, but I ain't.”

“I didn't say you were.”

Angel snorted. “Yeah. Not since I killed Val.”

Vox looked at his drink, downing the rest of it. “The past is irrelevant, my dear. Valentino is dead and you are not. Clearly I was wrong.” He set his glass down. “I think you should be careful who you make friends with. Rosie is very close to Alastor. I would advise against allying yourself with him.”

Angel didn't plan to do so. Alastor hadn't been at the meeting but Angel was already wary of the demon. He wasn't about to tell Vox that though. The demon didn't know he had gotten the blade from Alastor and Angel didn't plan to ever tell him.

“Why should I avoid that?"

“Alastor is a second rate hack. You can't trust a word that bitch says. He'll stab you in the back the moment it's convenient for him. Alastor only cares for himself.”

Angel took a drink, more interested in covering his expression than actually having a drink. He was almost positive most of that applied to Vox as well but that was a thought better left in his head. He set his glass down and pulled out a bottle of Love Potion, adding some to his drink before picking it back up. Vox watched him with curiosity on his face but he didn't comment.

He drank the rest of it in one go. It was his hope that if he let it relax him enough that he'd actually be able to fuck Vox this time. The demon was being strangely patient but he wasn't sure how long that would last. He wasn't even sure why Vox was being patient. While he didn't lose his shit at the drop of a hat like Val had, he wasn't a particularly patient demon.

Angel closed his eyes as he felt the venom hit his system. He welcomed the calming effect it had after the stress of meeting all the other overlords. Despite what Vox and Velvette said, he hadn't felt very confident with the demons’ responses to him. They weren't outright hostile, but only Rosie had been remotely friendly.

He opened his eyes and smiled flirtatiously at Vox as he moved closer. He ran his hands up the demon's chest, pushing his coat aside as he went. Angel pushed the TV’s coat off of his shoulders, letting it slide down his arms and onto the floor. 

“Don't worry, I ain't plannin ta make friends with him. I just wanted a nice place fa Nuggs.”

Vox grunted. “The fucking pig?”

Angel stopped moving his hands and gave Vox an irritated look. “Fat Nuggets is my baby. That “pig” means more ta me than ya eva will. I would kill ya if it saved my baby. I'd kill every soul I owned fa him. Don't fuckin disrespect Nuggets.”

Vox rolled his eyes but put his hands on Angel's waist. “Fine. Have your place for your pig. I won't say anything else about it.”

“Good.” Angel leaned in as he moved his hands over the hard muscle of Vox's shoulders. “Now fuckin kiss me.”

Vox obeyed.

His kiss was aggressive as always. Something Angel had never really minded before he'd been subjected to Valentino. Now he wished the demon would show the slightest ounce of tenderness. One of Vox's hands slid up his back as the other slid down to his ass, grabbing him roughly.

Angel ignored the little voice in his mind that was telling him to say something. Vox wouldn't care if Angel wanted something softer. Vox had no feelings for Angel and they both knew it. Instead, he ran his second set of hands down the demon's chest to his crotch. Vox moaned quietly as Angel's hand caressed the TV’s cock through his pants.

He knew the desire he was feeling mostly stemmed from the potion but he ignored that too. It didn't matter why, as long as he could do this. He was tired of starting things with Vox only to have them blow up in his face. He didn't know what was wrong with him but it was getting old. He'd fucked hundreds of people he didn't want to, this shouldn't be difficult.

Vox's hands dropped to the zipper of Angel's skirt. He let it pool around Angel's feet before putting both hands on the spider's ass. He grabbed both cheeks, pulling them up and apart slightly. Then he pulled away from Angel suddenly. He spun the spider around, bending him over the counter as he pushed his hard cock into Angel's ass. 

Angel froze, hardly breathing, as Vox spoke to him. “Are you actually going to let me fuck you today, my dear?” 

Angel opened his mouth to respond but his words stuck in his throat. He wanted to say yes but he could feel terror clawing its way up and he just couldn't. Vox waited for several minutes but when Angel didn't respond or move he made an irritated noise. The demon moved away from him without another word.

Angel heard Vox's bedroom door slam. Tears formed in his eyes. He quickly put his skirt back on before he left. The whole way home he fought the flood of tears that wanted to come. 

It wasn't Vox's reaction that upset him. He knew the demon was an asshole. No. It was much worse than that. It was the fact that something was broken in him now. He so desperately wanted to feel the touch of someone else in the bedroom. He wanted Vox to make him feel good. He wanted the rush of knowing he'd made the demon feel good too.

He was beginning to suspect that might never happen again. Something in him had died with Valentino. Something he might never get back.

Chapter Text

I can see right through

All your empty lies - Breaking Benjamin

“I need a moment of your time, old friend.”

Angel looked at all the other demons leaving the living room before he looked at Alastor. The demon's creepy smile, ever in place, was spread wide this morning.

“What do ya need, Smiles?” Angel smiled coyly at the demon as he took one long step forward. Simply because he knew it would irritate Alastor if he invaded his space.

Alastor didn't move away but Angel didn't miss the tightening of his eyes. “Perhaps we could speak alone?”

“Anytime ya want, baby.” He winked at Alastor. The demon's eye twitched.

He didn't respond to Angel's obvious come on. He simply walked away, leaving Angel to follow him. Angel was not thrilled when Husk joined their walk up the stairs. 

He hadn't really spoken to Husk since the other night. The cat had actually texted Angel first! It had been the shortest text conversation of his afterlife. When Husk had asked if he was alright, and Angel said he was “fine”, Husk hadn't responded.

Angel wasn't upset with Husk. He just… didn't want Husk asking him anything. He was so honest all the time that Angel didn't want to have to lie to him. He didn't want to talk about anything. He didn't want to divulge any more secrets right now. He'd been telling the cat more than most knew and he didn't even know him all that well. 

In the grand scheme of the last hundred years, Husk was a blip. Barely worth mentioning. Yet, every time they talked he told Husk things. Things he'd never told anyone. He knew that Andre and Lucia probably already knew more than they ever let on but he'd never actually told them what he'd done to Vox. No one knew. 

Had, no one had known. Now both of the men knew.

“I thought ya wanted ta talk alone.”

Alastor didn't look back at them. “I have asked Husker to join us for this conversation. It concerns both of you.”

Angel gripped Husk's hand, turning wide questioning eyes on him. Husk silently shook his head. He squeezed Angel's hand before releasing it. They followed Alastor out onto one of the balconies. Alastor sat at one of the tables, conjuring up tea for himself. Angel sat across from him but Husk stood near the table looking extremely grumpy.

“Tea?”

“What do ya want, Al?”

“You know, you don't have to be so,” he narrowed his eyes,” rude, Angel.”

Angel smiled sweetly and conjured his own cup of Rosie's tea. It was a delicious sweet peach flavor she made for him. Alastor's eyes fell on the cup as Angel lifted it in a salute to the demon before sipping.

“What can I do fa ya on this fine mornin, Alastor?”

He saw Husk's gaze shoot away from them. For just a moment he swore Husk lost his battle to not smile at Angel's antics. Alastor merely smiled wider.

“Why, we need to talk about our deal!”

“What about it?”

“You are not holding up your end of the bargain!” Alastor's cane appeared in his hand and he laid it across his lap, maintaining his hold.

Angel reached into that strange and special place and pulled out one of his guns. He laid it across his lap, fully irritated that Alastor was blatantly being aggressive with him.

“I haven't missed one day. I've only taken two days off each week. Includin bein passed out from gettin shot’n fuckin stabbed. So fuck you very much.”

Alastor ignored his flagrant return of hostility. “What about the agreement that you would promote the hotel. Hmm?”

Shit. He had agreed to that.

“I've been very busy.”

“I thought you might say that. It has been a month, Angel. I think it's time I do something about your lack of action.” 

Angel tensed as the demon paused. He had not technically broken their contract. Alastor had never specified how much or how often he had to promote the thing. He was ready for any move Alastor might make. 

Except the one he actually did.

“So I am going to help you make time. Husker here is going to help you, to be precise.”

“Help me what, exactly?” 

“Make time, my friend! Husk will ensure you have all the help you need to get the job done.”

“I don't need his help,” Angel argued. He didn't like the idea of Alastor forcing Husk to do things for Angel.

“Well,” Alastor stood, his cup of tea disappearing, “as you pointed out, I don't own your soul. I do, however, own Husker’s!” Alastor stepped over to Husk, looking at the cat instead of Angel. “He knows his instructions and he knows the consequences of his failure. Don't you, Husk?” He used a tone one might with a child or a small animal.

“I haven't forgotten.”

“Good boy.” Alastor patted Husk's head and the cat growled at him. “Have a wonderful rest of your day, Angel!” Alastor disappeared into his shadows.

Angel put his gun away and stared at his tea until Husk sat across from him. The cat lounged in the chair Alastor had vacated. His arms crossed while his legs stretched out to cross at the ankle. He looked calm as could be like he hadn't just been threatened if Angel didn't fall in line.

“How can ya be so calm?”

“Over that shit? Nothing to get fucking excited about.”

“He just threatened you.”

Husk shrugged. “So?”

Angel gave an exaggerated shrug back and mocked Husk. “So?” Husk seemed very amused by that but Angel scowled at him. “What am I supposed ta do about that?”

“Why the Hell would you do anything? I'll just help you. It's not a big fucking deal.”

“I don't want ya ta help me!”

“Shocker,” Husk replied, dryly. 

“I mean. I don't want Alastor bullyin ya into doin stuff fa me.”

“I'm fine with it. Hate when he fucking pets me though. He's an asshole.”

“Fine with it?”

“Yeah.” Husk grinned mischievously at him. “I assume you have shit to do today for work?”

“A course. Afta tha photo shoot.”

“Photo shoot?”

“I'm modelin fa Vel today.”

“At the Tower?”