"You Chose to Adapt; I Chose to Survive"

by eruditiouscrown

Summary:

Prequel to Hazbin Hotel. Vox arrives in Hell and meets Alastor, the Radio Demon, whose mystique and personality pull Vox helplessly into a fast-forming comradery. But, will Vox's ambition to rise to the top and Alastor's equally zealous goals tear them asunder? Absolutely.

Notes:

- Please note I have chosen to not use warnings to avoid plot related spoilers: however there is triggering content in this story. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. -

Chapter 1: Vox

Vox just arrived in Pentagram City just a few weeks ago and was trying to find his way around the new world he’d wound up in. The year was 1954.

It was… admittedly, hard to concentrate, though. His death was still fresh on his mind. He was still... shaken about what happened.

Not the actual death necessarily. He'd taken his own life for the world to see.

But--the why...

Realistically, there was no time for him to dwell on the past. He couldn’t rewrite it.

What he had written though, hastily scribbled on a sheet of memo paper at the cruddy motel he was staying in, was a game plan. A 5 Step Plan from rags to riches.

Vox had just gotten out of a freelance job he’d taken that day and was taking a well-deserved smoke break on a bench. He was just in some plain grey trousers, shiny shoes, suspenders, and his slightly-wrinkled button up rolled at the sleeves. He was on a bench by a nondescript radio tower, his smoke lit up and thinking about what to do tonight.

He'd made some decent money helping out at the Daily Hellraiser hitting the streets. Maybe he could find a bar to go and drink at and really wash away the shitty week he’d been having. The thick brown box TV he now had for a head felt… heavier than usual, weighed down with thoughts of the past.

That particular radio tower he currently sat under… well, it had been an oddity for a few years, not that Vox knew. It had appeared out of nowhere seemingly overnight. On occasion, the spindly tower flickered to life and suddenly there would be screaming coming from every radio in the city. Terrible, terrible screaming. Other times, the ominous flickering predated something more pleasant: a little classical music sometimes, crooners... but there was no pattern to it yet, save for the fact there was no pattern. It seemed to be random, for now, at least... 

As Vox blew out another smooth line of smoke, there was crackling from a nearby radio display that sat in a shop. Sinners on the sidewalk froze in horror, immediately on edge at the abrupt noise.

What would it be this evening...? 

The static finally gave way to–

–Perry Como.

There was a unanimous sigh of relief from the sinners along the sidewalk. Vox hardly noticed, simply tapping his foot slowly to the gentle rhythm coming from the radio as he continued to enjoy his cigarette.

However, a shadow creeped up the sidewalk at his feet. Vox lifted his head to look at the source.

A stranger in red was leaning on his cane, still paying attention to the radio transmission where he had stopped on his walk. Tall. Lean. A tattered crimson coat... Vox pulled his cigarette slowly out of his mouth, eyes fixated on the rather stand-out man and his large, fluffy ears. This guy stood out even if he didn’t mean to.

“People don't appreciate decent music nowadays, wouldn't you say?” Came a crackled sound from the man, and the mysterious stranger, Alastor, turned to look directly at Vox.

Their eyes met. Vox was still sitting on the bench with a wide-eyed expression, feeling a little caught for having been checking out the red-clad man.

‘....Whoa’, was all Vox could think. And now he was suddenly face-to-face with an attractive, slender demon with a smile. He blew out some smoke that he hadn;t realized he was holding in his lungs until it started to burn. Damn. Hello. 

“Heh…” Vox laughed as he leaned back into the bench, addressing the man. “Yeah, I'm sure they don’t. You must have one I'm guessing. And appreciation for music, I mean.”

“As I should.” And the stranger simply invited himself onto the bench, keeping a respectful distance between the two. “Most people indulge in their addictions once they've realized they've landed themselves in Hell... one of mine just so happens to be good music!”

Alastor finally turned his head, getting a good look at his companion.  “Hmmm....you aren't familiar... and I'm certain I'd remember a unique face like yours.”

Vox found that he couldn’t help but blush. His black-and-white screen gained a layer of fizzling static at the cheeks, showing off his embarrassment.

“Um, yeah. Kinda new here. Still finding my way around.” Vox held his hand out to shake. “Name's…” New place, new identity, right? “Vox. Yours?”

Those red eyes and bright smile were on him. Alastor took his hand, but the handshake was brief. 

“Alastor, a pleasure meeting you, quite the pleasure!” Even so, there was a subtle hand wipe onto the breast of his jacket before those same hands went back to his cane. “It isn't often I meet someone with the same leanings as I do! Toward the media, I mean.”

Vox couldn’t help but give Alastor’s hand a look as the other wiped it off like he was filthy. Sure. Okay.

“Yeahhh.” He let out, and his eyes returned to Alastor’s smiling face. “Radio, huh? Gotta say your... voice sounds....

“...Familiar.”

Vox’s face wiped off of the screen with a click of the changing channel. His screen-face clicks through channels, one after the other, showing recent events on earth, going back, back, back --

Alastor’s head tilted as he watched Vox’s screen change over and over, showing things he didn’t quite now and delving into the familiar when it hit events of the 1920s–and then the screen finally just went blank, crackling with static, and audio:

And the opening to Alastor's old radio show back on Earth popped up, and his signature opening.

Vox’s voice rang out over Alastor’s.

“...That's it! That’s where I’ve heard your voice before!”

When he hears the old intro to his show on Earth… Alastor’s own face lights up in realization.

“Ha! So you're familiar with my work?” That grin never went away. “Fancy meeting a fan here, of all places!”

“Whattt! So it really is you!” Vox’s face snapped back to his actual expression, and there's a smile there. “ Loved your coverage on the Singleton murders! And the advice column on Tuesdays was always hilarious! Ma hated that I stayed up so late listening!”

“An ardent fan at that…” There was a small smile as Alastor tilted his head. “You know... we should celebrate. Clearly we were meant to meet!” And he gets up from the bench, rising to his feet. “There's a jazz club not far from here you'd appreciate. Join me for a few drinks. On me.”

Drinks and music with this gorgeous guy? Being here must have turned him into a furry or a monsterfucker or something, but… this Alastor guy was… whew. His heart--- panged a moment . There was some hesitancy on his face at first but...

“...You know what?” Vox finally let out after a moment of thought. “Sure. If you don't mind throwing some bar food in with that drink, that is. Just got out of work from the Daily Hellraiser and I'm starving…!”

He rose to his feet; he was just a smidgen taller than Alastor.

“Dinner and a show then.”

Vox eyed him. This dude he just... never stops smiling, does he? It's pleasant at least. Keeps things light. Alastor started walking, down the sidewalk and leaving the still playing radio display behind. Vox didn’t notice the music fizzled out as they headed off.

“You know,” Alastor spoke up, glancing behind him at Vox who was stepping a little faster to get closer to this side. “I've done work with the Hellraiser... taken to reading some of their editorials on air. What exactly did you say you're doing for them?”

The night was young. Vox’s gaze lifted up to the sky and the pentagram that hung in the air. He looked back down at Alastor.

“Right now, just a freelance journalist. They send me off somewhere, I get the info... I can record of course, both visuals and audio, so that comes in handy when transcribing it---though, they don't really let me transcribe yet. Kinda just the guy who hits the streets, gets the beats, you know?

“...Would be the cat's pajamas if they could get a video segment, but, there's not enough uh... guys like me yet to really get that started up…” Maybe he could help somehow. Vox was finding, slowly, he was gaining some powers overtime... interesting stuff...

“...Oh, sorry! Didn't mean to just ramble on.” He realized he was running his mouth. “Haha, if you don't stop me I'll just keep talking!” He looked away a bit, and the static returned to his cheeks, buzzing a bit, showing off his embarrassment.

Cool... looking like an idiot in front of his idol already. Alastor had been a huge name in his household! And here he was feet from him and talking about… stupid shit. Stuff he probably didn’t care about.

Alastor glanced over to him when Vox lamented about rambling.

“No, not at all! I do enjoy hearing about what the common sinners are up to.” Alastor walked alongside Vox. He never really got along with other men before he noticed but... there was something about this one .

Maybe it was because they did have something in common. 

“A video segment, though…” Alastor hummed softly. “...it's never too late. Play your cards right, my dear and you could be a pioneer in the field! Our life prior is over... this is a chance for us to take hold of our fate.”

“Heh... exactly what I was thinking!” Vox proclaimed. “I had to crawl up in life too--I got no problem starting it all over again! Maybe making some good comrades along the way!” He paused. “...Though… what do you mean by... common sinners?

“You're new, I forget…” Alastor tucked his cane under his arm. “You see, my boy, even if we're mostly sinners, there's still a sort of hierarchy in place. Imps are at the lowest rung, followed by the common sinners and the hellborn... and above, are the Overlords: Sinners who have risen above and beyond the masses and gained power for themselves.”

Alastor glanced at Vox.

“If you keep that wonderful work ethic if yours, you might end up among them someday!”

There was a dangerous glint of crimson in his eyes as he said it… but Vox didn’t catch it.

“I say a little ambition never hurt anybody!” Alastor finished.

“Are... you an Overlord, then?” Vox asked, just for clarification: because you should never assume. Always get the facts. Straight from the horse's mouth.

Alastor gave a rather smug smile…. Though all of his smiles looked… sort of the same, Vox thought. It was hard to tell.

“Do you think anything less than an Overlord would be responsible for that beauty...?” He gestured with a flourish of his microphone-cane to the looming radio tower in the horizon they’d left behind, its placement looking like it gave a perfect view of Pentagram City. Vox spun around to look--almost in a way a dancer would. No... definitely in a way a performer would. He looked out to where Alastor was gesturing, his gaze open, honest...

“Heh… she's a real beauty, that's for sure…” Vox let out. He smirked towards Alastor. “...Matches the owner.”

Cue a raised brow from Alastor. Was this guy complimenting him for some reason? That wasn't a fan compliment that was a compliment-compliment...

“So?” Vox continued, “How far is this Jazz place?”

“Not far. Just around the corner.” Alastor hummed softly, leading them. He couldn't help but wonder if the other had been here long enough to hear the last broadcast he made that wasn't some form of entertainment. Well... entertainment for the masses. His own kind of entertainment had been happening pretty infrequently lately..

The two finally reached a wooden building with a flashing red sign. Alastor held the door open for Vox as they arrived.

“Go right ahead.”

Vox nodded his head, walking on in.

It was like a time capsule of Alastor’s era. A slow place with a live band going, the light scent of tobacco in the air... just a good place to kick back after a long day. Vox’s eyes took in the polished wood, the dark colors… it reminded him of his childhood, places his father probably frequented. 

One of the waitresses took notice the moment they walked in.

"Alastor! Good to see you! Your usual place? And you brought a friend for once!"

“Just someone I thought would appreciate the place as well as I... the usual place would be perfect, thank you.” And as Alastor led them to his usual place, one of the tables by the side of the club with a good view of the stage, he always had someone to greet, someone waving at him... Vox took notice. Popular guy, this dude.. 

“Have a seat. Order what you want. It's on me.” Alastor was already sliding one chair aside for himself as the same waitress came over with his usual: a sazerac.

“What will you have?” The waitress asked Vox. Vox pulled his attention from the band playing and over to the waitress.

“I’ll have… a Bees Knees. Oh, and some salted nuts, thanks babe.”

The waitress left the two behind as Alastor got himself settled in his seat, crossing his leg. His eyes followed Vox’s, which were watching the band again.

“I used to go to places like this at night... I figured why stop now, hm?” Alastor rested his head on his hand. “And you looked like you needed a decent drink after a long day.” His voice was a soothing crackle over the band playing.

“Yeah, definitely.” Vox’s eyes remained on the players. The lights of the bar were reflecting off his curved screen and on his black-and-white face. “The 5 Step Plan isn't going too hot right now, but I'll get there.

“What about you? Had a long day, too?”

“My dear,” Alastor crooned out, “The day becomes what you make of it... and the day is hardly over yet.” 

The waitress came back with Vox's order, telling the two of them to enjoy themselves and oh, how it's so rare for Alastor to have someone with him despite being so popular with the ladies… Vox slid his Bees Knees over to him almost like it was sacred. Finally, a drink. 

Alastor finally spoke up again when the perky waitress left.

“...this five step plan of yours. I'm curious. Tell me more.”

Vox took a moment to savor his Bees Knees: it's almost like a kiddie drink.... the sweetest cocktail you could find with so much honey mixed in. Good for smiles, eases down the throat though so... yes, a good choice for a man who was a self-proclaimed talker. He wondered just why, then, if this guy was so popular, that there wasn’t a lady sitting with him on this fine Friday night and just… him.

But at Alastor’s inquiry about his “plan”, he lowered the glass back to the table, licking his lips and the sweet taste of honey away.

“...Oh, yeah! Heh, The 5 Step Plan to Lessening My Hellish Suffering! ” And his screen clicks, showing off a cute little POV video of him scribbling something down on the motel’s memo paper... there's a shot of the shitty little motel bathroom he is staying at where he tapes it to the mirror. You see his reflection; wrinkled dress shirt, suspenders, a half-consumed bottle of whiskey on the sink counter….

But his expression is hopeful.

Vox’s face returned.

“Step One!” He began with gusto. “Land a Steady Job.

“Step Two:  Move out of the Shitty Motel and into a place that can double as my living space and Headquarters!

“Step Three: Start my Own News Broadcasting Show!

“Step Four: Get it in the faces of everyone in Hell!

“And last but not least, Step Five: Live the Good Life, Get Married and Share my Success with my Gorgeous Spouse!”

There’s that smile still on Alastor’s face as Vox goes down his list. He's so eager it's almost refreshing... at least this one had a plan rather than just blindly stumbling around Hell, hoping something worked for them. 

“Like I said, a little ambition never hurt anyone.” That smile's looking a little more genuine. He has to admit, it's... entrancing. Infectious, how enthusiastic this little TV-headed chap is. “Let me guess, though... stuck at step one for now?”

“Heh, yeah.” Vox fiddled with his glass, looking down into the drink. “I thought getting a job would be the easy step... but it's only easy if you're gonna shoot porn for someone, or be a drug mule, or some sorta gangbanger for hire…” He grinned towards Alastor. “Not my style! I'm an honest man! Well, kinda. Honest with my work ethic, at least!”

“Oh, of course …” Alastor let out, looking Vox over slowly with those bright red eyes of his. “And it isn't as if I don't respect that line of thinking but I can't help but wonder how far that will get you here... this is Hell , after all, my dear. If you want my professional advice, everyone has to play with their cards to their chest and an ace in their sleeve just to get by... because that's how the rest of the table plays.”

He paused to sip his cocktail, Vox’s eyes on him. Alastor spoke again.

“...but you've got gumption... and dare I say it, a rather unbridled enthusiasm! I'm sure you'll find a way to make whoever listens bend the knee.”

Vox shot him a smooth grin.

“Heh! You'll see what I'm made of in no time!”

The two shot the shit for a bit at the bar under the watchful eyes of some other demons and the swell of music. The company was nice, Alastor had to admit... normally he'd just be here, listening to the bands, rubbing elbows... but never with any proper company... until tonight.

After Vox got a second drink in him... the liquid courage finally hit. He pointed to the floor.

“Wanna dance?” He asked.

At the question, Alastor got up, stepping in front of the other. His smile was still firmly in place as he out his hand.

“I thought you'd never ask,” Was the reply.

The expression on Vox’s face brightened visibly. His antenna coursed a jolting line of electricity between them and for a moment, his face turned into a slot machine screen, quickly spinning, lighting up with three red devil faces and flashing JACKPOT...

A man who wore his heart right on his sleeve… or his face, in this case.

But Vox’s happy expression returned.

“Let's go!” And he took Alastor's hand, leading him out to the floor. Alastor couldn’t help but admire how… cute how enthusiastic he is... the boy just wears his emotions out in the open. Someone's liable to take advantage of that if he isn't careful. 

…Someone.

But he was content to follow him, content to let Vox lead... 

And to his surprise, he's found himself an amazing dance partner. Someone who can actually dance and keep up with him on the floor.

“Not bad for a random find on the street.” Alastor can't help himself... he's just so pleased with this find. “Good to know you've got some rhythm to you!”

Vox noticed that they dance well together... he's grinning as they move, using all the dances he’s loved his whole life on stage and also at the best swing clubs he went to…

“Heh! You sure know how to cut a rug,” Vox complimented back. He's definitely starting to show off a little more... looks like the night out was good for him since he was still in the Step One phase of his plan. Poor guy was in Hell and having a shit time of it.

Dancing was good... performing was so good... Vox found that he missed it.

“You're not so bad yourself,” Alastor commented as he watched Vox move. Now that was a sight. Earlier, his companion had looked so worn down... but here he was with a new spring in his step. It's cute though, how eager he was... but that's how it was for the newcomers that stood a chance of making it in this hellpit. 

They're moving together, moving closer. Alastor will allow it for once. It's a dance, after all. He'll allow himself to be touched, to move a bit closer to someone he just met. 

“I daresay if I had a dance partner like you, I'd likely be doing this more often!”

When Alastor moved closer, Vox took his hand to turn Alastor into a spin. He does pull the red demon in from time to time to bop him around. He was used to having a dance partner. He loved going to clubs.

“Heh! Well, maybe it wouldn't be so bad to have a good partner to go dancing with in Hell. I'd definitely look forward to it…” Vox replied.

Alastor was used to leading most times but he had to admit... it's a nice change of pace being able to have someone else lead for once. And his smile, at least for the briefest moment when his hands rested on Vox's shoulders, seems genuine.

“Same time next week?”

“Sure. I'll wait for you by the bench.”

But after a good night of drinking and dancing, he parted ways with Alastor with an enthusiastic wave...

And got back to work.

Chapter 2: Vulnerabilties

Vox spent the next week hitting the street working for the Daily Hellraiser and looking for other jobs on the side.. He felt on fire . There was something about that night out that rejuvenated him. He’d met his idol, the radio star back home on Earth. Someone he had aspired to. One of the reasons why he entered the entertainment industry. How he got onto TV. He… wanted to impress Alastor. He wanted to show he was… worthy.

But, alas, still no permanent job opportunities. Vox did start using the radio in his motel to try and tune in to Alastor's radio show permanently, happy to find something familiar in this Hellscape.

However, Vox started to notice something.There's an evident tension around whenever the radios start crackling to life.. People just stop and stare at displays or radios in restaurants, fear in their eyes, the worry only dropping when music starts playing. One day though, a few days after their last encounter, that changes. 

Vox was taking a nap at his crappy motel when it happened. The radio crackled and there's the main event, what everyone had been anticipating. The static grew heavy and deep, like heavy snow. Then, a faint voice beneath it all appeared, horrified, raspy. Vox woke up, looking towards the radio on his bedside.

"No. No please. I'll do anything. Anything, just don't--!" 

The voice was drowned out by a brief mingling of other pleas for mercy, other cries of rage and pain and demands to be released. That cacophony went on for a moment longer until finally the radio went dead silent. Vox stared at the radio with a wide expression. Well… shit.

Now the looks of fear make sense.

In the distance, the radio station at the tower had been flickering red… but returned to pitch black. It was a curious little incident… and usually after it happened, a random Overlord went missing…

When Vox entered the Daily Hellraiser one day to clock in for one of his gigs, he asked about the strange radio transmission. In turn, everyone in the office looked horrified.

"You don't know about the Radio Demon?" Someone finally asked him in the employee break room while he was scarfing down lunch

Vox glimpsed up from the tuna salad sandwich he was eating. “....The what?”

And so over lunch, he got the exposé… how the Radio Demon was killing sinners left and right and broadcasting their voices over the radio. Vox just sipped at his juice box.

“Huh... really?” He hummed thoughtfully, chewing on the straw in thought. “Sounds like a story.”

But, he was back that Friday at the bench to meet up with Alastor, glancing around for him. He's... dressed a bit nicer. Smarter jacket this time since he's meeting with company. Attractive company. Hopefully. His hopes are up that Alastor will make an appearance, anyway....

“And there's my favorite member of the press!” Right on cue .Alastor strolled over with a smile on his face, right on time for their little date. Well, not that he knows he's a possible date. He's just here for the company. And to top it off, he looks like he's in one hell of a good mood. 

Alastor looked Vox up and down with his bright red eyes.

“You're looking much spiffier today... I have to say, it suits you.” Alastor lifted his little microphone-cane, tipping Vox’s chin up lightly when he finally stopped in front of Vox just to get a better look at him.

Vox blinked, his face burning under the eyes with flickering static while Alastor inspected him.

“Heh! Well, can't afford to look too common in front of my date.” He says it in a teasing voice cause it's totally a joke. Totally. But he tipped his head from Alastor’s cane as the demon slowly lowered it. Vox hooked his arm, extending his elbow towards Alastor to take it. Alastor’s eyes lowered down towards the arm, then back to Vox as he spoke.

“Same place? Or are your tastes leaning elsewhere tonight? I got paid for some great coverage this week, so I'd like to get you a drink this time!”

Alastor visibly declined the arm by walking ahead just a few steps. Still not quite in that personal bubble yet. Dancing is different. Vox watched as Alastor walked right off and ignored his arm. Well, he tried. Vox felt static burn at his cheeks but ignored it as best as he could as he followed along.

“Well look at you, all a-light with ambition!” And Alastor spun to face Vox, walking backwards while he spoke to him. “And it's paying off, it seems. Why, you'll be at Step Two in no time at this point. 

“But... No my good fellow, I'm taking you somewhere different this time: a speakeasy a little further away. A respectable man such as yourself should fit right in.”

“A speakeasy! Haven't been to one of those in awhile. Not really the scene for some of the girls I dated,” Vox replied.

“Then you should've found better dates!” Was Alastor’s jovial reply. He can't help himself. Vox’s expression went flat as he continued, “Though, I should've known you were likely popular with the ladies in life... you give off that kind of aura. It's almost magnetic.”

Vox was silent, still mulling over what he said.

“Better dates, huh…? I did... eventually. Great dancer. Great smile.” Was he talking about... Alastor? Or someone else? He didn't go into detail. “Anyway, yeah! I was crazy popular! Definitely dated more girls than I should've. No one's wife was safe from me.”

Alastor glimpsed at Vox. Was that comment about him? Vox does get an amused little smile from that. 

“Flatterer.” And Alastor gave him a playful nudge. But he does continue walking. “So I'm in the presence of a notorious playboy? Well no wonder you're in Hell!”

Vox looked confused when Alastor said he was a flatterer...he hadn’t… been talking… about him. But… he straightened up. No point in correcting him and having to… explain himself.

“Haha, well... yeah. That definitely had something to do with it, I'm sure... thought I was starting to straighten out but... ya know. Too little, too late.”

“Judgment looks to be a sum of its parts rather than a last minute redemption decision.” Alastor slowed his pace so that he was walking by Vox's side, watching him. Studying him.

“But as I said the last time we met…” Alastor gestured his hands into the air. “This is a new start. A chance to take charge of your own fate. The mistakes you made up there.... well…”

“Yeah, yeah. It's Hell. I deserved it.”  Vox shrugged his shoulders. “Not gonna say I didn't, just... ya know.

“Lamenting.” That he could have changed. Was totally going to change. And all because of...

As Vox walked, there was a flickering to his face that he didn't even notice...old memories in black-and-white of him sifting through a bar, looking for someone. All that showed on the screen in a haze of static and threaded film was a hazy face and a bright smile; two mismatched colored hands coming together as Vox’s thick, pale hand took a slender, dark-skinned hand, both with matching silver rings---

Vox’s face came back clearly. It had been like watching an old film...

“Hmm… man, I need a drink.” He finally let out.

Alastor nudged him again like he was trying to get his attention 

“....You wear your vulnerabilities too out in the open, friend.” Even with his smile his voice was soft, tone soothing and coaxing, trying to pull Vox out of his reverie. “This place preys on your weak spots quite easily, you know!”

But hm... this simple, box-headed guy... maybe it was by some cruel chance they met.

“...Besides. We're going for drinks, aren't we? You'll get one eventually.” And Alastor tapped his microphone against Vox’s firm chest. “And I'll make sure the evening is one you won't regret thinking back on.”

“Heh, sounds good to me!”

The two arrived at the speakeasy. Like the other bar they had hopped to on their first outing, it reminded Vox of simpler times. The two of them took a seat at the bar together.

Vox happily ordered an Irish Coffee to get something sweet in him. Alastor was taking note. Seemed that his little partner enjoyed sweet, smooth drinks. He watched as Vox happily said he wanted to pay for the first drink for 'his new friend here', and gestured to him. Alastor noticed that Vox’s hand hovered, but didn’t touch him.

The two shot the shit, Vox updating Alastor on the new happenings at the Daily Hellraiser--- and was on his third drink, when--

“Oh--shit.” Vox lowered his drink, looking to Alastor to try and get his full attention again from the band playing. “Before we hit the dance floor--uh, if you want, of course…

“Have you ever heard of The Radio Demon?”

Alastor, on the other hand… was a little lost in thought. He was starting to notice the little things about his companion: the drinks Vox ordered, how upfront he was about his speech. Charming, really... this little box-headed creature before him. So positive... so pure... still uncorrupted by the harshness of Hell... it was refreshing, given the dog-eat-dog world he was talking about... 

But there's something about Alastor’s smile that got even more dangerous when he was faced with that question though. It seemed almost predatory,  eyes burning a brighter fuchsia for but a heartbeat.

“....Who hasn't...?” And he's back to his normal self... well "normal" as he gets. “Is this about the broadcast a few days ago..?”

“Yeah. Crazy right? Seems like a good story, there” Vox finished off his drink.”Know anything about it? I figured since you're also a radio guy, maybe you have some insight!”

“I'm not just a radio guy, Vox. I am the radio guy.” Alastor swirled his drink, sipping lightly.

“Then are you the Radio Demon?” Vox asked him point blank.

“I'd say best stay away from the matter. I'm sure you've heard the stories if you've been looking into things. They say another Overlord goes missing after one of those screams hits the airwaves. It's the only thing consistent about them.” Alastor suggested.

“Huh... so the Radio Demon is probably mercing Overlords, huh…” Vox tapped his finger on the table.“I mean, it's not like I've been asked to chase it. It's just....”

Vox went silent. Alastor tilted his head, like a cat trying to find where best to strike... but only because he was trying to figure out what else the other had to say.

The sound of a gun shot rang in his head, in his memories, before it went black. Were there screams after? Did anyone scream for him? Did anyone care?

Maybe just one person—

Vox pushed his glass away. The cup spun on the top of the bar a few inches away from him.

“Ready to hit the floor, partner?” And he held out his hand to Alastor.

It seemed the only time Alastor took down his pretenses about touch was during their dances. Alastor hummed.

“When it's you? You needn't ask twice.” He willingly took his hand, and Vox stepped out of the bar with Alastor and onto the dance floor. Alastor idly ran his hand over Vox's arm before resting on his shoulder once they reached their destination. And again--two partners that knew how to dance began to wow the crowd and truly become one on the dance floor. Vox rather liked dancing with Alastor. The other's slender body made Alaator easy to manipulate on the floor, turning him, dipping him, spinning, picking him up--- and the best part was Alastor didn't resist the fact he'd sort of made him the "girl"... it was all just in good fun, after all.

Alastor didn't mind if his partner took the lead. Well, he would've if Vox insisted and didn't know what he was doing... but it was clear he did. Left him impressed, really. And oddly why he was looking forward to these little dance sessions of theirs. 

Back in his day, two men dancing together was.. well... unthinkable. He wasn’t sure how things were looking when Vox left. Got him thinking though about his past life... what if it wasn't that he hadn't found the right girl but... 

Hm...

Whatever sadness that had been in Vox's eyes was gone, now replaced with Alastor's face faintly reflected in the gently curved glass of his face. Alastor found himself… relieved, perhaps, that their dancing had managed to chase away his melancholy. Good. Like he'd wanted. Maybe he wasn't as heartless as he thought he was..

Alastor moved closer, sliding an arm around Vox’s waist. Vox glimpsed down at him, a little surprised at the initiated closeness.

“You never fail to impress me,” Alastor spoke up.

“Uh, heh...! Well, you're a great dance partner. Don't need the only guy who dances so great thinking I'm a laughing stock…” Vox wondered if it was… okay if held him a little closer. His grip became a bit more firm on Alastor’s waist.

“I wouldn't be caught dancing with you if you were a laughing stock!”

Vox gave him a look at his casual, but brutally honest response. He spun Alastor around a little bit more as the music played, taking them far away from Hell and to wherever it was in their memories that happiness could be found.

Good thing, then, that he could dance.

Chapter 3: Valor

Like one would expect, time did pass...

Vox and Alastor kept up their weekly little meetups... changing places to go... Vox letting Alastor take him to those old school places… to let dinner and drinks pass between them…

And years passed.

They had during this time  eventually exchanged numbers to contact each other in case plans had to change or things needed to be canceled… it was rare, but it did happen. Vox had eventually hit Step One of his 5 Step Plan: got a job that wasn’t just freelancing at the Daily Hellraiser. It wasn’t anything huge: he got a job as a salesperson for a call-center selling a catalog of products to the citizens of Hell. Not glamorous, but, it was commission-based and he was a damn good salesman…

He wasn’t home at the moment. He was actually on his lunch break, where he had slipped outside to hit up a pay phone to give Alastor a call. He was bouncing up and down in the bright red phone booth. It was actually Wednesday instead of the Fridays they met up…

For Alastor, he'd never made an acquaintance like this that lasted this long. He never let them last this long. But ol' box head was... growing on him. He was looking forward to their meetings. It was different going to things with someone else for once and just on his lonesome.

In turn, he was up in his station when he answered the phone call from his rotary. He didn’t even bother to ask who it was. No one else knew his number to call him.

“Did you miss me that much? It's just Wednesday!” Was the teasing voice. But he was always happy to talk though to Vox.

There was a laugh on the other end of the line.

“Oh, always, you know.” Vox answered, his voice light over the phone. “But--!

“I did it! I'm finally out of that shitty ass motel! Just moved out of it officially last night! I got myself a place downtown! You know–” And then there was a nervous hesitation. Vox leaned against the pay phone booth. “Maybe this Friday you could... come and hang out at my place instead? Should be ready for some company by then!”

“Well then! That's quite the development. Well done, old chum!” Hanging out at a private residence… that's different though... them not hitting up a club or a dive or a bar for once. “You know, why not? Let's see your new place. I'm looking forward to it.”

“Just wait until you see it! You'll love it!” The excitement in Vox’s voice is infectious. But he gives Alastor his address. “Swing by around 8. I should be home by then! And don't worry about food and drink, I got us covered. Call it a celebration!” Vox pushed out his arm so his sleeve rode back, checking the watch on his wrist. “Anyway, gotta go--lunch is almost over. Um...

“...Well, see you!” And he hung up, because he was gonna probably say something stupid…

Alastor, however, arrived to Vox’s new place at 8 on the dot, carting with him a bottle of wine as a housewarming gift instead of his original option, a whole-ass deer for dinner. Who doesn’t love fresh meat?

Luckily for Alastor, Vox had the same thing in mind,  and Alastor could smell the scent of a whole-ass deer in the house as the TV-man opened the door.

“Hey!” Vox brightened up upon seeing him. He opened the door fully to let him inside. “Come on in!”

His townhome is sparsely furnished for now. It had only been a couple of days since he moved in… but, it had furniture at the very least.  The door opened up into his living room. There was a nice wooden paneled TV to one side, a coffee table with a copy of the Daily Hellraiser on it,, brown couch, mismatched chair, and a stand with a radio on it. Alastor could see into the kitchen from there--where the deer is on the table, surrounded by bottles and bottles of different spirits and mixers for drinks that night. Looked like someone went all out for their little celebration.

Alastor’s eyes widened just a touch on top of his usual smile Vox brought a whole-ass deer for him?

“I'm touched... how did you know I favored venison..?” Alastor didn't really notice it was all he ever ordered whenever they went out for dinner.

Vox gave him a look. Was… he serious? But Alastor was looking around as stepped inside.

“Impressive... you've done very well for yourself here, chum. You must be quite proud.”

“That's not even the best part!” Vox proclaimed as he took the wine bottle from Alastor and set it down. “You have to see the upstairs!” And he held out his hand, waiting until Alastor took it before dragging him up the flight of stairs happily. Alastor allowed himself to be led. This was… Vox, after all. He had taken that hand plenty of times now over the years and it had done him no wrong.

“That's the bedroom.” And Vox swooped past it, unimportant. Alastor stole a glance inside out of his own curiosity. It currently was just a bed and bedside table with–it seemed to be a picture on it that he couldn’t make out.

“But this!” And Vox opened a door at the end of the hall. It led to a recording studio. It was a small set up, but it was something. A film recorder, some lights, and a table, chair, and microphone set up with, at the moment, just a cloth backdrop. It was... frankly, pretty good for a home set up, but it was... charming, in a way. Someone with just a dream and what little money he had to make it all possible. Alastor took it all in from where he stood.

“What do you think?” Vox asked him after some silence. There's earnest hope for Alastor's approval in his voice.

“Well...! Look at you... brings me back to when I first appeared here... working out of my first living space.” Alastor let out a nostalgic sigh. “You've got even more reason to be proud of yourself.”

“...Heh... thanks... anyway... I know you... probably already know most of this stuff, but…”

Vox went on to show him his little set up excitedly--like a kid in a candy store. But he came to the video recorder that stood tall across from the film set he had.. It looked pretty beat up.

“So I guess I'm like--I dunno... developing some sort of powers? Because I noticed I can do this now!” Vox touched the busted recorder to a tap of his blue claw--electricity surged through him and it ticked to life without being connected to anything. “Check it out!”

Alastor watched the machine kick to life. Oh... so his little friend was starting to come into his own... another Sinner with the potential to rise above... 

“Applying yourself in the right direction, I see... that should come in handy for Step Three.”

Vox looked to Alastor, stunned. He'd only talked about his plan that one time fully and that was years ago and he.... remembered.

“...Y-yeah!” Vox piped up. “Exactly! And you know, I was thinking, maybe...

“A guy with so much experience with his own radio show could help me out! I mean, I know my strengths. I'm a performer. Good in front of a camera! Still need to learn the ins and outs of production and stuff to really make it great, so...

“...You know I was wondering... if…” Vox looked a little bashful. Still full of hope, though, as he looked at Alastor. “You wouldn't mind maybe helping me write up my first few episodes! Uh, not for free--of course, I wouldn't ask that…”

“Say no more! I'd be happy to help!” And why the heck not, Alastor thought to himself. His days are a little slower now that he hasn't really picked his next target yet... might be nice to just sit back and help with this little project for now.  “What's a favor between friends, hm?”

Friends. He tossed out the word so easily. That's what they seemed like in the eyes of the public though.. friends. Not that he ever associated so closely with someone before.

“R-really? Great! I'm--honored, really! I'm sure I can learn a lot!” The enthusiasm in Vox’s voice was hard for him to shake. He was… getting the chance to work with Alastor? What more could a fan possibly want? “....Anyway, enough about this for now. Dinner?”

Vox brought Alastor back downstairs. The two ate their dinner together, Alastor his venison and Vox a meal he’d gotten himself elsewhere. Alastor commented on the choice of food, praised the deer he has gotten, really... talked to Vox about this and that: that new band, another dive bar he saw lately that they could go to, giving him a few production tips for his show…

Somehow, the night was winding down after drinks with slow dancing to the radio in his living room. Vox had moved the table out of the way so they could have some room to move around without bumping into anything. His hold was firm. His sway was gentle… and Vox was content leading Alastor about, step by slow step. Of course, as far as Alastor was concerned, it wouldn't be a night out together if it didn't end on drinks and dancing. It was different today though. Maybe it was the more intimate setting, but he ended up having more to drink than usual. He agreed to the slow dance without hesitation. 

“...Heh, you know…” Vox began slowly as they moved. On the radio a soft love ballad was ringing along the walls. “I always have a great night with you. The best ending to every week.”

Alastor was silent as they danced. It was odd though, how much he allowed himself to be touched when they danced. It didn't matter if Vox led. He had such a confident hold that he couldn't say no - nor did he want to. 

“I admit... I do look forward to our little get-togethers…” Alastor’s fingers drifted over his shoulder. “It doesn't seem right to end the week anymore without them.”

“Haha... at this point I feel like my week isn't over without them! Might not be able to make it to the next. Hell is... well. You know. Hell.”

Vox swayed along with him, one hand on Alastor's waist, the other holding his hand up as they moved along his slightly creaking wooden floor. His grip was nice and firm... but not too tight...

Vox took a deep breath.“...There are some.. things I'm finding that are making it better.” Alastor, for one… the demon was definitely one of them. A night with him was a night he didn't have to think about his old life…

There wasn't much of a height difference between them so... it was easy for Alastor to step closer to Vox. He set his head against the other's shoulder as he moved with him. Alastor would hear something though: the low buzz of static as Vox's face heated up at their proximity. Alastor swore he could hear Vox’s heart pounding in his chest.

No one had ever gotten close to him in years, literally and figuratively... yet here he was, slow dancing in a small, cramped apartment with some Sinner he just so happened to run into on the street. He could have simply passed Vox by that day… but something in him had implored him to speak.

“Hell... is hell, old chum.” Alastor noticed Vox’s hold was tight. It was oddly comforting. His hand idly trailed over the shoulder he held to.  “Petty comforts are what keep it from being too much like Hell, I've found. Music... a proper cut of venison.. a night out with someone to end the long work week… wouldn't you agree?”

Vox’s eyes closed. There he saw it---soft body, warm smile, incredible dancer... undeserved tears. Things that shouldn't have been the way they were. Stuff he was blind to until he was forced to look at it, such as… how much of a coward he had been in life.

He'd been a coward.

Vox kept Alastor close, taking in a deep breath.

“Can you... help me with something else...?” Not just his little TV program.

“With what?” Was the quiet response from Alastor against his shoulder.

Vox signed. He's known Alastor for years now. This was okay. This was...

He... trusted him.

“...How I died, I…

“I killed myself.” Vox remembered that moment so vividly somehow even though he hadn’t been himself that day. “I... I'm not... still not... ready to... talk about it, but...

“I was a coward. I was a coward and I'd killed myself because of it.”

Alastor remained silent to let Vox say what he needed to… but… he remembered the things he had seen: POV shots of Vox's pale, large hands holding another pair of slender, darker ones...  looking at happily tapping feet on the dance floor...

Vox continued.

“I don't want to be a coward in this life.” His hold tightened on Alastor’s waist. “Make sure I'm not. Can you... do that? I know it's… a big ask, but…” And he trailed off.

Alastor listened to Vox’s request. Over time they'd bonded.. oddly bonded over drinks and dinner and dancing. And no one in Hell seemed to care if two guys occasionally took to the dance floor. Like it wasn't a huge deal. 

“It is a big ask.” Alastor didn't remove his head from Vox’s shoulder. “But I know what you're capable of. I think you're well on your way even without my help... but… if it makes you feel better…”

“You know, just... in case you see me being a fucking pussy…” Vox chuckled. “I have to make sure I complete my 5 Step Plan, you know?

Alastor chuckled... but he did pulled off of Vox’s shoulder to look at him, his eyes half lidded and focused, looking particularly crimson in the low light of the living room. “Now when have I ever said I saw you as weak? But if I think you're hesitating, I'll just give you a nudge in the right direction.”

“Thanks.”

Vox pulled away after a bit, slowing down their dance. He looked at Alastor.

“Same time next week? Maybe we can go to that new dive bar you were talking about....”

Alastor noticed that his chest was feeling... odd. Maybe he'd drank too much.

“I wouldn't have it any other way, friend.” He's drawing back, straightening up. “Congratulations on the new place, by the way. You'll be at the end of that five step program before you know it!”

“Heh, hell yeah! Like what do you think? Maybe five years, tops? Totally!” Yeah, Vox knew he was joking, dreaming, but anything to keep the mood light since his heart was... pounding and his stomach fluttering. He led Alastor to the door. “Gonna make it back home okay?”

His hand was on the small of Alastor's back. Alastor had gotten used to that touch, so he didn’t mind it… didn’t move to brush it away like he would with anyone else who tried to touch him.

“As always, your enthusiasm is infectious! Who knows where you'll be in five years... but I'm dying to find out. As for the walk home… don’t worrying about me. Of course I'll be fine. Don't you know who I am?”

The two drew back from one another. Alastor tipped his staff at Vox.

“I’ll see you next week.”

“Yeah. See you next week…” Vox leaned against his door frame, a grin splitting his face. He… felt…

Sure, a coward he promised not to be, but he... wouldn't just do something rash... though Alastor's lips looked… inviting.

And soon he was... staring at Alastor's face. Well, at his lips, rather…

Alastor on the other hand… he had no idea why he didn't quite want to leave just yet. Maybe that infectious enthusiasm of Vox’s had gotten to him. That dance they just had was still fresh in his mind. It felt... comforting . Right.  

He was caught off guard for a change though when he tried to focus on Vox’s face and noticed that… huh. Interesting. Is he staring at his lips... 

“...Vox...?” Alastor’s voice was soft. He could barely muster the breath to speak almost.

Vox’s own heart is pounding hard. Alastor's expression however was still ever smiling. He's had to learn to try to read Alastor’s eyes to glean what he was truly feeling. Alastor’s eyes were more telling of what he was actually thinking: annoyed, irritated, contemplative... there was no negativity that he could spot in those red eyes at the moment and right now he...

Vox noticed his hand was still on the small of Alastor’s back.

This... felt like the moment you'd kiss someone. They were standing so close, after a night of dancing, slow dancing even, a great dinner, amazing conversation--and when your... friend, was so attractive....

Maybe he still is a bit of a coward.

Vox pulled his eyes off Alastor's lips to his eyes. He straightened up, taking his hand off of Alastor’s soft body. It felt as though they both snapped back to reality whenever the contact was broken.

“Sorry, just uh--thinking. Tired. Yeah. Um…” Vox shuffled nervously, Alastor watching as he fidgeted in place. “I’ll see you next week.”

“Get yourself to bed, my dear. It's getting late, after all.” And Alastor tipped his head and microphone-cane towards Vox as he stepped out the door. “Next week. As usual.”

And with that, Alastor headed out the door… Vox watching as he stepped out into the street and vanished in a warping cloud of black shadow into the night.

Chapter 4: Vivacity

It was a few weeks later.

It was Friday again. Time for Vox and Alastor to meet us as they usually did. However, this time was just a little bit different.

Alastor was already at their usual meeting spot, waiting for Vox to get out of work. A low hum of a warble of soothing music crackled from his staff as he waited for his companion to arrive… this time, with a little bit of a surprise in store.

“Hey-hey-heyyyyy!” Came Vox’s upbeat voice, but it sounded more… crisp. Alastor looked over to where his friend was approaching and…

Vox’s head was different.

It was, well, simply put, still a box, still big and bulky and a deep brown--but this time, the frame was a shiny, sleek metallic with fancy metal knobs. However the most noticeable difference was…

That Vox’s face was no longer black-and-white, but in full color.

His eyes were a vivid, bright red on the screen. His smile was still wide, the display mainly blue tinted. He had his bowler hat still on his head. Vox was in a black suit with a bright red bow-tie, the color choice making the new-fangled color display on his head much more noticeable. This was something that Alastor certainly wasn't expecting... an upgrade? Still good ole' box-head of course but, there were noticeable differences now.

“Well, well!” Alastor approached a few steps forward as Vox met up with him, just to get a better look at the other. “The rise of color TV…! Decided to give yourself a little upgrade?” He tapped the side of his box lightly with his cane like he couldn't help himself.

“Yeah! Can you believe it!? You can see colors on the screen!” Vox flipped through channels that were currently playing on Earth, displaying them on his face. A news station with a pretty women with bright red lipstick. A jazz band jamming out on stage. A documentary about desert plant life. It clicked back to Vox’s face: his bright, smiling face.

“If I can harness this display capability... TV in Hell will absolutely take off!” He proclaimed. “We'll have to film our first episode in color to set a standard! That'll be how we get watches for sure! No one else can display in color yet!”

Alastor’s smile never left his face. Vox was really someone who was made for TV. Such a magnetic personality. It was captivating how Vox went on about things he was aiming to do: showcasing for all the world to see his plans, his far-reaching dreams. Alastor had to wonder if he was ever like that once... but his life on Earth had been so long ago. 

“You know,” Alastor began, “This will be absolutely groundbreaking for the state of Hell's media... the sphere of influence it'll have!” Our first episode though, Vox had said. He was being roped into it? Without a second thought? He had thought that Vox would see it all as his own. It was… kind of touching. “With all that you're aiming to do with it, I'd hate to have to consider you as competition down the line!”

“Hahaha, no way! Radio has it's own charm. That shit ain't going anywhere.” Vox waved off the statement about being competition, grinning. “So where we going tonight? Should we go to dinner? You hungry? I'd love to buy you dinner.”

Alastor laughed, and he moved a little closer to the other's side. He nudged Vox playfully

“As this is a cause for celebration, I think dinner would be marvelous. Anything in particular you're looking for?” And he's offering his arm out to Vox. Actually initiating contact, for once.

Vox froze when he noticed the offered arm. Oh.

His face flushed--ah, but now, it was clear it was a blush. The screen burned a bright, babydoll pink, replacing the new blue-gray it was neutrally. The sound of interference whined out of his speakers, signaling those close by of his embarrassment.

Vox looked away, feeling his frame heat up to where it felt as though he’s start emitting smoke from his vents.

“Heh!” Vox cried out loud enough to anyone around to hear. No one was paying them any attention, though. “No way, I'm not gonna take your arm like I'm some dame!”

Even though he had totally offered his own arm up to Alastor multiple times and also led him around the dance floor like he was the "dame"...

Alastor couldn’t help but be amused at just now it was painfully obvious now when Vox was flustered... but it was cute.

“Suit yourself!” And he quickly withdrew his arm, starting off down the sidewalk like he always did. “There's a place a street or so down.. decently good food and drinks. Would be a capital location to toast to your success!”

Vox swore under his breath. Dammit. He didn't even get the chance to try and cheekily offer out his own arm in response. But he followed Alastor, getting into step with the other demon. “Sounds good.”

The two dined together, like they always did on a good Friday night. Good food, good drinks... there was something different about being around Alastor that Vox just couldn't shake. Was it because he was an Overlord and it made him special? No... he didn't think being an Overlord had anything to do with his... unique charm... and good looks, and... everything else he found that he adored about the demon. 

Vox just... genuinely liked being around him.

He invited Alastor back to his place as he had started doing once he’d landed his new living quarters. Usually they'd go over some more stuff for the TV show that Vox was trying to pitch. Hell only had one broadcasting station and he needed a sharp, snappy news broadcast to bring to the table or else they'd just turn him down. Right now the only things on television was a gameshow called "Sausage or Cock", a 24/7 surveillance camera on an incredibly dysfunctional couple that fucked their feelings out, and another gameshow: "Win Money By Losing Your Fingers". All of these shows were currently in black and white. TV as a real entertainment medium hadn't quite hit Hell yet. Books, radio shows, and the newspaper and magazines were still the most preferred forms of entertainment for people. Vox didn’t see anything wrong with that, but he wanted desperately to find his niche in this world. TV was his way in.

But after a night of chatting over drinks to celebrate everything (the new flat, the new, well, head), Vox sat himself close to Alastor, his arm running along the back of the couch and behind the other demon's shoulders. A drink was in his other hand. He was... a little more tipsy than usual, and so he was waving around his drink a bit haphazardly as he told his most recent story about his job as a salesman. Alastor was

"...And then I was like, you know sometimes the customer isn't always fucking right , and then--"

He halted suddenly… and stared right at Alastor's face, expression trapped with wide eyes and an ajar mouth. Alastor had been listening, nursing his drink when suddenly Vox had stopped. It pulled him out a bit of what he’d been thinking about: was this what friendships were actually like? No pretenses, no need for masks just... them.

Their eyes met. Alastor blinked back at him curiously when Vox didn’t continue speaking.

“ ...What?”

Vox’s eyes were looking over Alastor's face. They were studying the other. Well, maybe he had to concentrate a little harder since he was fucking pretty close to being drunk. He lifted the glass and took another drink, though he had his eye on Alastor the whole time.

“Have I told you–

“You're...

“Gorgeous. Yeah.” Vox finished.

Cue a raised brow from Alastor… but he turned to face Vox properly, resting his arm on the backrest of the couch as he let his gaze wander over his companion’s face.

“I recall someone calling me beautiful barely half an hour into meeting me... so yes. You have. What about it?”

“Heh--d-did I?” Again, that pink screen returned. Alastor realized it was so much easier to read Vox’s emotions now that he was in color. And such vibrant emotions they were, too... so clearly displayed on that enthusiastic face. Vox set down his glass on the coffee table. “That was years ago.”

Vox’s hand lowered slowly off the couch and onto Alastor's shoulder. He drew the other in a little closer. Alastor allowed himself to be moved. It was Vox, after all. He's grown to trust that touch, allowed himself to be moved and dipped as necessary when they danced. He can't help but tilt his head, trying to get a better look at that clunky little boxhead.

“It was just... something I was... noticing again.” Vox finished lamely.

“You seem to notice a lot of things when you stare at my face. Care to share?” Alastor inquired.

“...Sure.” Vox was looking over that handsome face. “...You're always smiling, but... you know what's not always smiling?”

Vox leaned in a little bit closer to Alastor's face. They were almost a breath away from one another.

“Your eyes.”

For the briefest moment, Alastor’s smile briefly faltered to betray his surprise. Vox continued.

“Your eyes tell me your mood. Maybe it's just ‘cause now, I've known you for so long. Before, I couldn't tell. You smiled at everything--well, you--you still smile at everything but now…

“Now I know you're not always smiling.” He finished.

Alastor’s eyes were locked in place because now he realized they gave everything away. When had he allowed someone to get so close...? Was this still such a good idea? Over time, he'd grown to enjoy this small bit of entertainment to the point where he purposefully left his Fridays open just for Vox. Just to spend time with him.

“You're quite the clever little picture box, aren't you..?” Alastor’s voice had a faint crackle and steadily crescending whine to it. He stood his ground but was already mentally steeling himself. It was odd how vulnerable this made him feel: like a deer in the headlights mere moments before impact. 

“What can I say? Smarter than I look. And you know... I've gotten to have you around this whole time and you've taught me a lot... just... lucky, I guess.” Who else got to make regular company of an Overlord? And Vox never pried into Alastor's business--the rest of the week was the man's own as far as he was concerned: as long as Friday evenings were his.

Alastor’s expression remained stiff, unmoving. Yes, this guy… Vox… he was definitely smarter than he looked. Sure, his enthusiasm and hopeful nature seemed naive but... there was still a brain in that box somewhere. Alastor noticed his body was tense. Maybe he'd underestimated Vox somewhat but... even if he was just a momentary distraction, Alastor had to admit... he was an enjoyable distraction.  Except... this distraction was starting to turn him soft. He was clearly starting to let his guard down around the TV-headed man, allowing his mask to slip just the tiniest bit. 

Vox noticed the look in Alastor's eyes... deer in headlights . Vox slid his hand slowly onto Alastor’s shoulder, and he gave the other a gentle squeeze. That touch brought Alastor back. His body relaxed a bit. He... was safe here.

“Hey.” Vox accompanied his touch with a small shake. “Don't... look at me like that...

“...Like... I'm gonna hurt you or something.”

Alastor shook his head to clear his fight-or-flee response. This was fine, Here was fine. Vox was fine. Safe.

“Of course you won’t…” Alastor let out quietly. “Some habits just take a rather long time to die, my dear. That's all.”

Vox wondered just what habits those were. He was silent for a moment as he kept Alastor close to him in one arm. His heart was pounding again. His mind was wandering, thinking, wondering... when, when had he... starting really feeling this way? That Alastor to him was... more than a friend. Someone he wanted to... keep around. Be around...

He didn't know if he was.. capable of... that anymore. Of love . But...

He did feel desire. And desire was coursing stronger and stronger in his veins every time he met up with Alastor.... he... wanted to act on it. But... Alastor was the best thing he had going for him. He didn't want to... ruin things, and yet...

He wondered if Alastor noticed the string of silence between them.

“Why do you hate being touched?” Vox finally asked.

Alastor continued the length of silence as he considered Vox’s question.

Bargaining for his soul was both the smartest and dumbest thing he did. But it's what he did to survive. Most sinners clawed their way back to the top to rise above the others, after all. This was his method, the one he knew best... 

“Old habits, old chum. Like I said.” But Alastor didn't move his hand, didn't push him away. He just allowed Vox to touch him. It was no different from when they went dancing. And they did dance. Right in this room even, just a few steps away. He mulled over that night from time-to-time. He had let Vox into his space. Dare he say it, he… trusted him. 

“But I've gotten used to your hand…though, you have caught me off guard from time to time.”

Vox noticed something. He had asked a hard question and Alastor… he didn't open up. Like a broken record, he repeated the same answer. It felt....

Like something. Something that nagged at his heart. But, Alastor wasn't required to tell him anything. He was the one that wore his expression for everyone to see.

“Heh!” Vox looked away, at an empty wall in order to avoid showing off his face. “I should be more like you. More guarded with how I think and feel... or else... well…”

He glimpsed back at Alastor.

“I guess being too trusting of people is no good right? Especially if--you know--

“You end up trusting someone and wonder if they trust you back.”

And for once in his afterlife, Alastor felt.... regret. Was it regret? He wasn't sure. It was a new feeling. Foreign and almost painful. But it was something. Something in his chest that demanded he fix this. This man was his first actual friend after all.

He rose from the couch and held his hand out for him. Palm up like when they first met. No, this wasn't a handshake. This wasn't for his soul. This was just... for the connection. He owed his friend that much, didn't he..? There was one time he did allow himself to be vulnerable. 

“Vox...? Your hand, if you please.”

Vox looked at Alastor’s hand with a hint of confusion on his face… but, ultimately, took it.

Alastor moved that hand; he led it around his waist, letting Vox take hold if he wanted to. Indeed, Vox chose to hold him. Tighter. As if Alastor would suddenly slip away from his grasp and just vanish into thin air.

“There are... restraints... in this world,” Alastor began, keeping his gaze focused on Vox, who stared back at him, listening to his every word. “I mentioned the social hierarchy, didn't I? Once upon a time, when you had just arrived..?”

Vox nodded, urging him to continue. Alastor nodded back.

“Those restraints have something to do with why I've only let one man touch me after all these years.” And why he told Vox to not be so trusting. 

Vox knew about demons that made deals with others. People who were strong enough could tether the less fortunate to them. He was glad he hadn’t fallen for anyone's misdeeds. Maybe it was because he had met Alastor at just the right time. In truth, he felt rather... safe on the streets of Hell, and maybe it was because people knew him as 'the Guy that Hung Out with the Overlord, Alastor'...

It raised another question. One he had a hard time believing, but… he had to ask.

“Are… you restrained?”

In turn, Alastor said nothing… but the way his eyes slid away from the other's face was probably enough of an answer.

“Didn't I tell you how dangerous Hell was...?” Alastor’s eyes returned to Vox’s face. His hand lightly rested on Vox's shoulder. He... had never let anyone in on that. No one needed to know how he gained enough power to claw his way to where he was, after all. His hand squeezed Vox’s shoulder. Vox could feel ALstor’s claws prickle beyond the fabric of his shirt and into his skin just the faintest.

“Survive or adapt, Vox.

“You chose to adapt. I chose to survive.”

Vox stared up at Alastor in silence.

You chose to adapt. I chose to survive.

It... told him so much in so little words. And at the same time... not enough or... anything at all, somehow. But... what he did feel was...

That in his own way, Alastor trusted him. Enough to let him in... perhaps more than anyone else had ever been privy to.

“Can I tell you something?” Vox spoke up suddenly. “So… ...I can... keep my promise to myself? That I wouldn't be a coward...?”

“I did say I wouldn't let you be a coward, didn't I…?” Alastor let out a soft laugh, maybe mostly directed at himself. “Oh, do go ahead... while we're letting it out into the open…” His smile seemed just the slightest bit warmer at least.

“Sure.” There was hesitance again from Vox. He was thinking. How to word this…?

“Been... thinking this for a while. But... you know, you're the only friend I've made in this shitty place so far. Everyone else I haven't--clicked with. You know? Anyway, erm... hmm…”

Vox was rambling, but Alastor remained quiet for him to talk, to continue.

“Wanted to tell you this... but I didn't want it to... fuck everything up.”

Oh... god. Vox swallowed. Was he actually going to…?

Alastor shook his head. His hands rested on the other's shoulders so he could control their distance from each other. Old habits, like he said, died hard. 

“Come now, Vox... we're being somewhat honest with each other  now aren't we...? For what it's worth…”

That smile again. But it matched Alastor’s eyes this time.

“I don't normally invite other men to go dancing with me on a regular basis, you know.”

Vox felt how Alastor moved his hands to his shoulders... he wouldn't be able to just lean into him without the other potentially pushing him back. He... had wanted to kiss Alastor before he lost his nerve...

Fuck it.

“Can— can I kiss you?”

That was a strange request, at least as far as Alastor was concerned. But... the steps had been laid out for him. He was pretty sure Vox was attracted to him, alien sensation that it was. For himself, he always thought he just hadn't met the right girl but... what if he was going about this all wrong..? 

Alastor’s eyes looked over the other's face. That dumb... sincere... bulky little picturebox with his new dials and newly acquired color display... 

He sat back down on the couch again, next to him. He hadn’t away. He wasn’t… disgusted by the notion. And… it seemed like something that Vox truly wanted.

“...Go ahead.”

Vox’s expression was stunned. Alastor, he... gave him permission...

Vox was silent for a moment, the only sound in the room the radio playing gently in the background. Nat King Cole. Vox’s hand came up slowly. It brushed tenderly against Alastor's face, his claws carefully running up Alastor’s chin, his jaw, his cheek… and finally a little into his soft red hair as his thumb stroked at Alastor's cheek bone.

When was the last time he kissed someone?

Was he still any good at it?

Vox’s mind fizzled out as it tried to pull up thoughts from the past. He didn't want them. Not at this moment. Right now, he just wanted to concentrate on... on this. This... face. Alastor’s face. Alastor’s lips.

“...You know, you can't... be smiling if I'm gonna kiss you…” Vox’s thumb moved to run over Alastor's bottom lip. Alastor’s expression, which was usually permanently frozen, began to steadily relax, his lips coming slowly together, relaxed, naturally puckered out the faintest. Perfect for kissing as far as Vox was concerned.

Vox leaned in, pulling Alastor flush into his body. He kissed him, pressing his lips to Alastor’s... no tongue, nothing too forward for their first kiss... maybe their only kiss, but... he's going to enjoy it anyway, while he can.

Alastor’s ears went flat. He tensed up, feeling that vulnerability against crawling up his spine. He's...nervous... just a malleable little doe in this other sinner's hands. His heart was racing and it was… both pleasurable and uncomfortable all at once...

But he lets Vox continue to lead, like he's led most of their dances.

Vox’s hand gently pet the small of Alastor's back, trying to soothe him when he felt that body tense up against him. But, he pulled back slowly, breaking the kiss. Their kiss had been both... oddly warm and cool... warm from his lips, cool from the temperature of the glass his face was mainly made of.

His heart was pounding. He didn’t know it was the same for Alastor. But what he did know was…

Yeah. He... he...

... liked Alastor. It was certain now.

Alastor was having a hard time processing his own… dare he say it… feelings. Yeah, forget letting this guy in close. He was in deep. Even if he didn't feel the same way Vox did... how did he feel? 

One hand remained on Vox's shoulder, the other sliding down his arm to seek out his hand. 

“I'm afraid I have no basis of comparison so I couldn't tell you if it was good or not.” Alastor let out, not sure what else to say to break the silence between them. His first kiss.. with another man. His words just ghost against Vox’s lips, barely murmured as he tried to sort out himself.

Vox couldn’t help it. He leaned in again, giving Alastor another kiss... a little deeper this time… a little more demanding as he held the other close to hsi body. He leaned forward, putting his weight into it as he pressed Alastor's back down into the couch. Alastor made a noise into their kiss as he was lowered, ears flattening against his skull. Vox leaned over him fully, lips locked together with one another. Alastor’s hand tentatively sought out Vox’s. The two laced fingers, Vox pressing Alastor’s hand into the couch, squeezing it tight.

Alastor’s body was soft underneath Vox’s own. Soft noises came from the both of them as the kiss deepened, more pressure between their lips but still no tongue. Vox shifted against Alastor to adjust his weight when–

— Shit.’

Vox immediately pulled back. He'd gotten hard underneath his trousers, his cock rubbing right against the other's leg like he was a dog in heat. How embarrassing.

Alastor was breathing in slowly. His smile slid back onto his face, pulled tightly back. But how he really felt was burned into his eyes.

“I should go.”

That had been too much. Far more than what Alastor was capable of handling.

Shit. Vox pulled back more so Alastor could get up from the couch. “Yeah. Of course.” Fuck. Fuck.

Alastor slid off of the couch, rising to his feet, his heart racing. His antlers are a little more visible with how his ears are positioned, flat against his head. He picked up his staff that had been leaning by the wall of the couch.

His fingers lightly touch his own lips.

“...I'll... see you again.”

Overwhelmed. He's just... overwhelmed.

Vox rose from the couch. “Alastor–”

He wasn’t able to get out what he was going to say. Alastor’s staff tapped the ground, and with a rush of shadows, he vanished into a wave of blackness, out of Vox’s townhome. He hadn’t even bothered to at least leave though the front door like he usually did.

Like the deer he was, he chose to flee.

He chose to survive.

Chapter 5: Vacant

Notes:

Hello! Sorry for the long pause in update, I had surgery so I am recovering from that!

For this chapter, some warnings that you might have seen being hinted at so far: there is some talk of racial segregation in this chapter. Please be mindful!

I wanted to add that I am working as an assistant writer to a Hazbin Hotel Podcast, Dizzy with a Demon! Please check it out as you can submit questions for Alastor to answer over the air!

https://dizzywithademon.carrd.co/

Otherwise, thank you for sticking with us and I hope you enjoy! I appreciate your comments so much!

Next Friday, Alastor isn't there to meet up with Vox for their usual night out. Neither is he there the Friday after.

The radios around town had been quiet, too. No spontaneous broadcasts of any sort… at least until Thursday of the third week when they finally crackled to life. 

"You bastard! I fucking trusted y–!”

But the angered, fearful protests eventually meld into screams that overtook the simmering static and white noise, lingering over the air like a dense fog that suddenly blanketed the city. The noise died down again. More radio silence.

Another life, gone, in an instant. But whose?

Vox… he had been simply keeping his nose to the grind stone. It was the only way he could make through another week when Friday rolled around… and Alastor wasn’t at his door.He’d even taken to dropping by their usual haunts in hopes he was there, that maybe his friend was simply waiting for him.

When Vox couldn’t locate him… he simply stopped trying to look for him. Alastor didn’t want to be found. So now his Friday nights were just him and a bottle of whiskey.

He fucked up. He should have just kept his stupid feelings to himself. Alastor was a man. How could he have also expected him to maybe be into men? He was reading the signs all fucking wrong. Just because Alastor was kind to him…

So he’d been fucking stupid and lost his friend. His.. friend, his mentor, his idol, his... everything down in this shitty, literal hellhole.

It was Tuesday of the fourth week of Alastor’s absence, though, when the radios all over town crackled to life again. It wasn’t screams this time.

Just Bing Crosby. 

Kiss me once, then kiss me twice

Then kiss me once again

It's been a long, long time

Haven't felt like this, my dear

Since I can't remember when

It's been a long, long time

You'll never know how many dreams

I've dreamed about you

Or just how empty they all seemed without you

 

Poignant? Timely? Maybe.

Or maybe a way for someone to apologize for his sudden departure... 

Then Friday rolled along into existence again. Friday of the fourth week. A full month since Alastor had shown his face. Vox has returned home after work and went straight into his new ritual—cracking open that bottle of whiskey, taking a swing, and letting himself sit on the couch in front of all the papers written out for the TV broadcast he wanted to pitch.

He tried working on it. Really. He tried.

…But recently it all seemed so…

…pointless.

It was later that Friday night when there was a knock at Vox’s door. It was ten pm now… a couple of hours into his drinking. Vox was playing music...dancing alone in his townhome with his tie undone and his jacket discarded, shirt part open, and about halfway to completely hammered. The knock caused him to halt. He was gripping his bottle of whiskey tightly.

What the fuck?

But he stumbled to the door, opening it, the breeze rustling his undone shirt.

“Whatever you’re selling, I ain't buyin-- Alastor! ” Seeing the other demon at his door sobered him up real quick. Alastor was on his porch with a bottle of bourbon.

“Busy tonight?” Alastor inquired. There may have been the hint of apology in his eyes at the inquiry. “I feel I... owe you an apology and an explanation.”

Vox’s eyes were wide because he couldn't believe what he was seeing. There was the sound of interference whining from his speakers for a moment.

“....Ah, yeah! Of course! Um-- shit. Come in.” He stepped to the side so Alastor could step in. Alastor walked inside just as Vox rushed over to the coffee table.

Vox’s usually clean house was in a little bit of disarray. Bottles of alcohol were all on the table along with papers of his work. Alastor watched as Vox tried to tidy up somewhat.

“Uh, sorry. Been kinda... busy and haven't had the time to clean.” Yeah, busy getting wasted.

Alastor walked over, cane tucked under his arm, the bottle in the other... which he set down on the table. 

“I leave you be for a month and this is down the road it leads you..?” He's chuckling lightly, though… it’s not a laughter that feels joyous by any means. “Don't... no... you shouldn't have to fuss. I came here to talk. Firstly to apologize, as I said... about leaving you alone for so long without so much as a single word.”

Vox looked at Alastor... ah, that beautiful face. He's missed it. He's taken to playing recordings of them dancing... just to see his face…

“..Heh... a... big bad Overlord's come to apologize to a common sinner?”

“Just because I happen to be Overlord doesn't mean I don't pay my dues.” Alastor drummed his fingertips on his cane before straightening up, stepping close. His tone changed though: softer. Less smug. Less of the mask and the pretense as he continued:

“I... may have left a friend abruptly at a very vulnerable moment. And left him probably wondering what had happened to me in that month prior... so... for that… I apologize, Vox.”

Vox was staring at him. Alastor…apologized...

This demon was something else...

“Heh... an apology. Wasn't... expecting that.

“I thought—”

Vox had to pause to gather his thoughts, because everything was trying to come up at once.

“...I was... stupid. Yeah. I thought saying what I was thinking that would... be a stupid idea. That kissing you was a fucking stupid idea. And I ended up being right. I ruined something really good.”

Alastor exhaled, reaching over to pat Vox’s cheek, holding it a moment, just watching him. Vox’s hand raised to keep Alastor’s hand on his face. 

Alastor hummed softly. “I forget sometimes that the rest of the world doesn't operate the way I do.” He sounded thoughtful, half to himself it seemed and half to Vox. “I was... overwhelmed, plain and simple. Being the focus of someone's desires in a way that I just can't… well... that I can't easily ignore was overwhelming for someone who has never felt those kinds of desires.”

“You've... never felt that way about someone?” Vox asked, his tone a little stunned. “Just… so good about someone... that someone makes you so... happy?”

Vox sighed a bit as he continued, “You… I haven't been... so happy with someone since my fiancé.”

Alastor shook his head.

“A foreign concept to me... both in life and in death, I'm afraid.” His smile seemed a little smaller. Regretful. “You must have made her quite happy, ardent little thing that you are.”

Vox’s expression froze. A strange noise left his speakers… and his  screen went black.

His grip released Alastor's hand. Alastor’s eyes blinked once, wondering what was going on as he caught Vox’s hand as it fell limply to his side. What was going on?

From Vox’s speakers was the loud, crisp sound of a gun shot firing in a small room, then deafening silence… followed by horrified screeching. There was the sound of people scrambling about, shouting to cut filming. To call the police. Alastor’s ears were completely up as he listened to whatever scene Vox was playing out.

The screen flickered back on--black and white at first, showing the scenery of a small bedroom. There was a slender, dark-skinned man laying in bed, white sheets pulled up only to about the hip. The screen started smoothing out into color. A man’s pale hand came out and touched the gorgeous man’s sleeping face. The young man, with his curly mess of ink-black hair, opened his eyes. There was a smile before he spoke.

"Good morning---" And whatever name he tried to speak buzzed with static even though his lips moved. Alastor wasn’t 100% lost to some similarities from him in his old life… but it wasn’t him in this image. But the Black man leaned in and gave him a kiss. The screen went black again. Alastor stayed silent as he witnessed all of this... what... what just happened indeed?

This poor fool... Vox really did wear his emotions on his sleeve much more than Alastor thought he did. What he just saw was likely… his past.. his memories... and likely just how he died...

Vox’s face finally returned. He opened his eyes. He felt... dizzy. He reached up and touched his own box-head.

“...What... happened…?” Vox let out, groggy.

“...I believe... I just witnessed something I wasn't supposed to, my dear.” Alastor led him slowly to the couch, clearing a place for them to sit. This couch... where he thought his heart was going to explode…

Vox sighed as the two of them took a seat there. He laced his fingers together, looking down at them. No ring on that finger. He wondered what happened to... what became of...

“It wasn't a woman. It was... a man....” A small beat. “A... black man.” His thumbs started to fiddled with one another nervously. He was… finally admitting something that he wasn't used to admitting. Years had passed, though. It was the 50s back then... maybe things had changed back on Earth but... during that time, he wasn't supposed to really be dating outside of his own race... and... not only that, adding in the fact it was another man, no matter how beautiful…

“...I'm not sure what happened to him. If he's still alive or…”Vox sighed heavily. He had left his lover in such a terrible position back on Earth. “I know though... for a fact, he wouldn't fucking be in this shit hole, that's for sure.”

Alastor had busied himself about as Vox spoke, picking out a couple of clean- ish shotglasses and cracking open the bourbon he brought with him as a peace offering, pouring them both a bit before sitting back down. 

Attraction was such a strange thing.. he was mulling this over as he handed Vox his drink, who took it slowly. Sure, he's feigned it to get closer to his victims so he understood the concept but never… genuinely.

So that's what it was... a complicated relationship... he understood that much. He’d been around in the 20s and 30s after all…when the racial tensions between whites and blacks was something that had kept him from perhaps, being greater than he could have been. 

“...And that's how you came to be here...? That gunshot.” Alastor downed his drink, trying to fight down the shudder. That was one of the last things he'd heard before landing here, too.

Vox downed his shot. He'd been drinking too much…but not enough at the same time, it felt like.

“...Yeah. I did it. Took my own life... right on the air...  during my prime time broadcast…” He'd mentioned in life he had worked on TV and that was why he was so eager to continue that in Hell, too. It was what he knew. Being a performer. Entertaining the masses...

But everything seemed so much harder down here in Hell.

“Because—” And Vox hesitated. He felt it caught in his throat. But he lowered his head. " ...Maybe the 'why' doesn't fucking matter anymore.”

Alastor felt like he needed the drink too. That was... a lot to take in if anything, no matter how much he'd seen both in his life and in his afterlife. But then, death was the great equalizer. It didn't seem like their previous lives mattered at all... they started from scratch here, all of them. Every sinner no matter the circumstance.

“What did I say about commanding your own fate?” Alastor reached out, placing a hand on Vox's own. That smile again... almost as if he had tried to comfort him through it. “Hell is what you make of it, my boy. There were whys before you came here and there will be other whys in the future.”

Alastor was silent a moment as he let out a breath. “...Well. If you're anything like what you were in life now... I can confidently say that he was a lucky man to have known you so intimately, Vox.”

Vox was silent for a moment, feeling how soft Alastor's hand was on him. And then it dawned on him.

He---

He loved this man. He loved Alastor.  It hit Vox like a ton of bricks just like it had when he realized he had been in love with his beautiful, kind, brilliant fiance. But this was different.

He didn't stand a chance here.

This...

...really was Hell.

Vox looked up at Alastor. He hoped the desperation, the sadness, the longing he felt didn't show on his face just this one time as he said:

“Maybe we can't—” No, nothing sappy. Just say it. “...I hope... we can still at least be friends.”

Alastor chuckled. “Do you think I would have come all the way out here with my best bottle of bourbon if I wasn't trying to make amends? Honestly! I should be insulted!”

But Alastor  didn't pull his hand away, never once let that smile drop. Of course not. “But are you so sure you'd still want me around...?” He was a beast, after all... a cruel unfeeling beast.

“...Yeah. I still want you around.” A smile lifted on Vox’s face. “After all, who the fuck else is crazy and skilled enough to help me finish writing this TV program pitch...? I've been just coming up with crap this whole month and I really wanted to show something to the TV station by the end of the year....” He leaned in a bit to Alastor, grinning. “And you know, maybe some powerful, handsome Overlord I know wouldn't mind pulling some strings to get me an appointment a little faster.”

Vox rose to his feet... he took Alastor's hand in his, squeezing it. Alastor looked at their hands.

He didn't mind that squeeze... this was fine, strange circumstance that it was. They weren't quite friends... more than that... but Alastor wasn't quite sure exactly where they stood.

…but he'd be lying if he said he didn't think of that kiss every now and again.

“Thanks.... for coming back,” Vox replied.

“Think nothing of it…! I'd grown rather accustomed to your face, I'm afraid. It occurred to me that I was starting to miss you.” Alastor tilted his head. “Now! We've already wasted a month with my silly goings on.. Don't tell me you haven't managed to write a thing?”

Vox’s eyes shot to all the papers on the table. He looked back to Alastor.

“If I had to comment on the quality of what I was putting out this month...I think you and I would willingly sit down and watch 'Sausage or Cock'.”

“Vox, really. You just missed me that much that Sausage or Cock is better than anything you've put out...?” Alastor sighed. “How drunk are you right now?”

“Pretty fucking drunk.”

“Then we resume work tomorrow, hm?” Alastor patted his cheek… and paused to lightly stroke the side of his box. “I'm back now. We'll hunker down on that proposal of yours until it's ready.”

Vox offered him a smile. “...Thanks.”

But there was still something that had settled in the pit of his stomach, even if they had made amends.

Notes:

I'm psyched, haha, because Valentino finally makes his debut in the next chapter! Please leave a comment, I would appreciate it!

Chapter 6: Valentino

It was just a normal Tuesday night in Hell.

Vox had just left a bar, having needed a drink after work. He stepped outside, lighting up a cigarette. He took a deep drag from it as he mused on his thoughts.

He was still in his suit from work, a sharp slate grey number, paired with shiny shoes. He made it a point to always try and look his best. You never knew what sort of day you were going to have. You never knew what sort of people you were going to meet. It was always good to try and make the best first impression you could.

Vox hummed. He wasn't meeting up with Alastor tonight if he recalled so... he could take his time getting home... maybe take a walk around.

He hadn’t quite been paying attention to his surroundings, lost in thought. If he had, Vox would have noticed someone approaching him before he heard the voice.

“Hey,” Came a voice one could only pin as sultry from his left. “Spare a light?”

Vox’s turned his gaze to the speaker. His body stiffened a moment.

Hello.

Beside him was a Sinner with the longest legs he’d ever seen in his life. Vox couldn’t hide the cruise he gave, lifting up the legs wrapped in fishnet stockings, the cropped, asymmetrical black skirt—he was surprised, however, when his gaze lifted and it wasn’t a woman he was looking at, but a man with a rather plush, broad chest, four arms, and vivid red eyes with a matching, dripping red coat that hung towards the floor. The top of his head held some fluffy antenna that matched the fluff around his neck that looked like part of a fur coat, dotted in hearts. He was holding a cigarette.

Wow.

Vox wordlessly reached into his breast pocket, pulling out his lighter. It was a nice one; shiny and with a filigree design along the case. He flicked it open, moving close enough to the other man, lighting it for him.

“Thanks.” The tall, gorgeous man took a slow drag, blowing out a thick magenta smoke from his mouth that crawled upward. Fuck he needed that. But those red eyes returned to Vox, looking him over. Vox’s gaze didn’t quite pull away.

The stranger smirked. “So what's a guy like you doing in a place like this?” He cocked his hip out a bit to show off the lines of his body. “Night's still young.”

“Got out of work late... grabbed a bite to eat... just... thinking.” Vox went back to smoking. The new company was attractive at least. Vox himself was pretty tall, but this guy was even taller than him, which was something. “Trying to forget about shit I guess.”

He had a lot on his mind after all.

“You sound like you've seen shit.” The tall man tapped out a bit of ash as he took another drag. He seemed to decide something, before leaning in, his fingertips trailing over the bottom of Vox’s frame, making the other look back up at him. “Could help you forget, you know... if the shit's that bad. How about it?”

Vox looked over at him, his expression a little confused at first, but then he realized... oh. This guy was a prostitute. He was on that side of the tracks, wasn’t he.

When was the last time he'd gotten laid?

Fuck, he'd still been alive. Had he really just has his nose to the fucking grindstone for this long?

Vox’s thoughts went to Alastor. There was an expression of hurt on his face for a moment. But then...

“Yeah. Sure.” Vox was looking over the gorgeous stranger that had a tight skirt and loose legs. “My place isn't far from here.”

The red-eyed stranger looked a little surprised that he accepted-–but it settled into a smirk.

“Lead the way.” The man’s hand moved from Vox’s face down over his shoulders, idly resting there. “I'm surprised a gorgeous guy like you's alone in a place like this.”

Vox glanced back up at him. This... was nice. Even if the guy didn't mean a fucking word of it, it was nice to hear.

“I was thinking the same thing, you know,” Vox replied back flirtatiously.

Vox led him to his townhome, letting the leggy man inside. It was a far cry different now from when he first moved in. It was actually decorated, the furniture matched... the radio was playing some old tunes from the 40s, even though it was the 1970s now. This place... it definitely looked like it had been built for two. Two chairs, with two cups on the table, clearly used...

“Make... yourself comfortable. Bedroom is upstairs. Uh–” Vox glanced to the gorgeous stranger. “...Don't... worry about the cameras everywhere. I won't film you. Did—you want a drink...?”

“Sure. I never say no to a drink.” The man chuckled. “What's wrong, nervous?”

Vox walked to the bar... he started to make something for the man---something with a bite but still sweet. 

“Heh--well, uh… my love life hasn't been going well since I arrived here. Guess that's why it's fucking Hell.”

Vox held out the drink to the man.

The man had settled down on the couch while Vox made his drink. Vox noticed his eyes kept glimpsing over to the equipment. Vox handed the drink over.

“Tell me about it.” The leggy man sighed, sipping his drink. “Let me guess... long night? You need someone to suck you off? It's been a while since I got a good dicking.”

Vox spat his drink back into his cup, flabbergasted at how forward the other was. He looked over to him sharply, his eyes wide.

“Uh—” Who was he kidding? They both knew they were here to fuck but, talking so openly about sex was... beyond his time. He died before the period of "free love" and all that shit. “I mean…”

The man smirked, slowly uncrossing and then recrossing his elegant, long legs for Vox to watch. He gestured with his hand for Vox to step a little closer. The other obeyed, stepping in close to the couch. The man ran his hand slowly down Vox's chest, over the buttons of his dress shirt.

“Don’t let me scare you off. I promise I’ll make it worth your night, papi.”

Papi? Vox swallowed. “Uh, yeah. Of course.”

Vox eventually took the man up to his bedroom after having a drink... he–- why was he so nervous? Come on. You used to be a playboy back home! Women left and right. But—he was realizing that was literal decades ago...

But if he thought about it too much though he's just choke, so...

Vox took off his suit jacket, tossing it to the side. He reached up and pulled the other man down, giving him a deep, firm kiss, tongue instantly sliding out and into his mouth. The sort of kiss he had touched himself at night thinking about giving to Alastor.

His kiss elicited an eager moan from the tall prostitute, the man’s lower hands steadying himself on the bed, the upper set working on undressing his client. Through the kiss, Vox would likely taste it first before he felt it: a particular sweetness that brought about an enhanced arousal and a slight lightheadedness. Vox kissed deeper to taste more of that sweetness, fully embracing whatever the other man was drugging him up with. He didn't really care. Vox also worked on undressing the other, and soon he was mounting on top of the other man in bed, kissing and licking eagerly down that long, sinful body, his hands feeling the other up. This man... had a great body. Vox started kissing down the man’s stomach. He could feel his paid lay starting to get hard at being serviced.

“Mm…” The man moaned out, and Vox felt himself also getting aroused at the noise. “Keep going…”

Vox was in between his legs after a bit; he was eagerly sucking on the beautiful man's dick. He... was imagining someone though... wondering what Alastor's moans would sound like... how Alastor’s body would move against him.... how hard the red-haired demon would cum down his throat.

Vox’s tongue and saliva tingled, not quite electrifying, but more like a low buzz, like some electronic toy. It was almost a rejuvenating feeling. His claws were gentle, making sure to not prick the man as Vox fondled his hips and thighs as he went down on him.

“Nh…” The man was gripping the sheets now, his lower arms lightly clawing at Vox’s shoulders and back.

Since his mouth was preoccupied, Vox’s voice came from his speakers instead of his lips:

“Fuck, you're gorgeous... fucking cum in my mouth baby…”

“Mn... mierda.. your mouth's fucking amazing.. gonna make me cum…!” The man’s red eyes shut tight as he felt his climax building. God, he could normally last longer than this… but— “Nh! Fuck...!”

And he came suddenly, gripping tight to the sheets and Vox's shoulders. Damn... this TV-headed dude got him to cum just like that?! Perhaps it was part the fact that his saliva and tongue had some sort of pleasant effect...

But, it was also in good part Vox’s own eagerness in wanting to just suck cock. There were... too many faces flashing in his head. His fiance back on Earth, Alastor... and now, this guy. This gorgeous guy with his sweet tasting saliva and his gorgeous body.

Vox pulled back, licking his lips, swallowing thickly. His cock was rock hard now... and it was large, thick... a strange ribbed pattern naturally running along it like it was made of electronic parts... and currently, already dripping with his precum from how eager it was to bury inside of something.

“Heh... there you go, baby. Let me make you feel good…” Vox replied.

He had some lube, luckily... he'd found his cock wasn't easy to deal with and even jerking himself didn't feel good unless he was well-oiled like the machine he was. He got it from the drawer, squirting it on his huge cock and letting the lubrication drip down him....

And then he was mounting the other, pinning the tall prostitute down into his soft bed, one hand on his shoulder, the other on his hip. Vox started to grind his cock against the other's entrance, the slick lubrication rubbing onto that tight hole. Fuck... that felt amazing.

“Nnnh, fucking you is gonna be incredible, I can tell…” Vox groaned out.

The man purred low as he felt that body pressing close, one hand moving to stroke Vox’s waiting cock, making sure he was properly slicked up. He started kissing slowly over the other's pulse, a free hand dragging idly down Vox’s back.

“You're getting top quality ass, babe... of course it's going to feel fucking amazing.” His thumb brushed against the tip of Vox’s cock, teasing the slit. “So get it in already.”

“Nnnh--yeah–!”

Vox buried himself into the beautiful man, his cock practically swelling up even more inside of him at being able to feel something this good after such a long time. A groan left him. He leaned in, kissing the prostitute deeply, one hand leading the man’s arms around his neck. Even though Vox knew he was paying for this interaction, he wanted… was looking for something a little more... passionate, romantic even.

Vox started to thrust into him slowly as he kissed, rocking his hips, really savoring the pleasure building between them.

The man groaned, his eyes closing as he kissed Vox back, finding himself holding on to the TV demon as he took those slow thrusts, his moaning muffled by that kiss.

Vox’s thrusts were---this man wasn't just fucking this stranger, this man was making love to him. His motions were purposeful, meant to invoke pleasure. Vox’s hands smoothed over his skin, touching him all over, feeling his soft muscles and skin with tender fingers as his cock moved deeply in and out of the other, filling him up completely with each thrust inside.

“Nnnh…”

“Nnh... that's it baby…” The man couldn't help it. His back arched at a particularly good thrust Vox buried into him. “M... make me cum…” He was panting heavily, scratching at Vox’s back, his hands gripping tight to the sheets and his shoulders. Begging. His body was begging for release.

“Fuck... nnnh…” Vox’s thrusts started getting a bit more frantic, desperate, pumping in and out of the other as he started to rail him a bit more roughly into the bed. “Yeah, baby... I--I want to make you feel fucking good…”

“H... harder, papi…!” The man gripped the sheets, eyes closing as he held to Vox, panting eagerly. Close. Again.  “ Going to... nh!” And he came suddenly, practically gasping as his back arched off of the bed and against Vox.

Vox tensed up. Oh fuck, shit, shit... feeling the other tighten up made him cry out and cum right after, deep inside of the tall man, and... there was a lot.  He came gratuitously, so much that it was leaking out of the other. Vox held the other to him, his face landing against the other's shoulder, panting. Damn, that felt good…

“Hah… looks like that massive dick wasn't just for show…” The prostitute replied. “Been a while since I got fucked that good.”

“Can.... we do it again...?” Vox asked eagerly, his antenna lighting up. Getting recharged, it seemed.

The man laughed. “Well shit... you're either horny as all hell or haven't gotten laid in forever.” He tipped Vox’s chin close, kissing him because why the hell not. “You have me all night, papi. I'm down for a few more rounds.”

“Heh...! Hell yeah....”

Vox was definitely... both of those. Horny and hadn’t gotten laid. He definitely had the other in a few more positions--legs over his shoulders... on his stomach... riding him...

It took another couple of hours before Vox was finally sated, laying on his bed with the other and smoking with him....

“...Damn... haven't fucked like that since... I got engaged.” Vox replied as he relaxed in bed.

“I'm surprised a guy like you doesn't manage to get some good pussy on the daily…” The prostitute took a long drag, looking at his bedmate. There was a story there though... this flat looked like it was made for two but he'd invited a hooker over.  “So what's the deal? Broke up with someone so you're letting out your frustrations on a guy who can take a pounding?”

Well. Technically…

“No, nothing like that.” Vox’s expression and his voice was thoughtful. ”Haven't been with anyone since I died.”

“And how long have you been here anyway?”

There was a looooong exhale of smoke from Vox.

“...Twenty years.”

“....You went twenty years without getting any? No wonder you needed to get it out of your system.”

“It's... easy to lose track of time down here when you're... single-mindedly trying to crawl to the top and out of whatever shit hole you landed yourself in.” Vox put out the end of the cigarette, flicking it into the ashtray. He laid on his side and looked over at the other. “How long have you been here?”

The gorgeous man remained on his back, his lower hands resting idly on his stomach, his upper hand busy with the cigarette. Damn, when was the last time he got a good dicking and decided to shoot the shit with the client after? 

“Couple of months.” Another drag. “Guess they weren't shitting anyone when they said Hell is forever.”

“Yeah, it's... definitely forever.”

Vox’s eyes drifted closed. Damn, he was tired. “Mm... did you... wanna... stay here or... you got other places to be?”

“Between you and me I don't think I got it in me to move right now. Go to sleep or whatever. I'm not gonna rob you blind.”

The two both passed out eventually. But come morning, Vox would find his bed empty....

And some frustrated muttering coming from some other place in the house.

Vox heard the muttering. He got out of bed, getting into just some pants as he went out into the living room to discover—

...

“What... are you doing...?” Vox asked the other man. The leggy thing was bent over one of his setups.

“Something that's been pissing me off since I stepped in here.” And the hooker was adjusting the lights Vox had with his little setup, his muttering punctuated with little... squeaks. “Your lighting angles are shit. It's fucking everywhere and the footage is going to be washed the fuck out, you mark my fucking words.

Vox watched as he finally took a step back to check his work 

“You're some kind of media guy and you don't know this?”

There was a stunned expression on Vox’s face was he watched his lights get fixed up. He looked at it... to the set...

“Huh. I... was wondering why it looked off.” He looked the other man up and down again with a new eye. “...What's your name?”

“Valentino.” And the gorgeous little number that was apparently named Valentino glanced over at Vox, tilting his head as if studying him a moment. Clunky little TV head... had a smoking hot body and knew how to use his dick. But apparently might need help with his set.  “So... what is this, some amateur hour set?”

“Er—well…” Great, getting read to filth here by some whore. But, this was a good thing, right? Someone who looked at his set and knew what was happening. “Uh, yeah. Kinda---hoping to record a promo for a TV show... uh, you might of noticed Hell only has like... three shows…”

“Like the rest of it's fucking media. The porn scene's absolute garbage!” Valentino slid over, moving an arm slowly around Vox's waist. It was a massive change from Alastor who barely made contact, whose only form of touch was usually light brushes of his fingers. “Taking dick's not the only thing I'm good at, papi. .. could take care of your set design for you. I think we could have a pretty sweet deal going on.”

“Really? I mean... yeah. I could... use the extra hands.” He glimpsed at Valentio's body, then back up at him. “Literally, even. I got a demo I need to record in like... two months. Still working on the production quality when it comes to like... the script and the outline for the executives to see... hm... would be interesting if I could pitch some more television ideas too, but, I'd need to come up with some quality content they'd be interested in hosting…”

“Two months…” Valentino mused. Sounded doable. Well, it wasn't like it was going to be a major production. “Anything's going to be better than the shit they've got on now.”

Valentino rolled his eyes… but then focused back on the little TV demon that was in his grasp.

“Oh, but where are my manners... didn't even ask for your name.” He tipped Vox’s face up, letting his fingers play along his frame. “I don't normally in my line of business… but I have a feeling our relationship just took itself out of just the bedroom.”

“Vox.” He removed the hand from his frame– and instead, kissed the back of Valentino's hand. “Looking forward to working with you.”

Clearing his throat, Valentino pulled his hand back, smoothing his antennae back with it instead. “The feeling is more than mutual, papi. Together, we'll pioneer a new age of actual decent fucking entertainment into this circle. I don't suppose you'd be interested in filming a more... exclusive kind of entertainment...?”

Vox was excited. Was he–-building a team? A skilled radio star and now this guy who knew his set design stuff?

But he tilted his head up at Valentino. “What do you mean?”

“Oh, nothing too complicated... “ Valentino tipped Vox’s chin close, trailing his fingers down his frame again. “Just that I wouldn't say no if you helped me in my own little projects. We have the same motivation, you and me... except I'm out to revolutionize the porn industry. Are you in?”

“Sure. I'm in. Seems like it could be mutually beneficial, I think.” That or he was getting himself sucked into some gorgeous guy's plans. Man. Maybe he was just a sucker for a beautiful face. “You'll need to meet Alastor sometime. He's part of the production team... which was... well, just him and I. He used to be a radio show star back in his time on Earth.”

“Sure it is... you get your dick sucked, I get my material. Win win.”

Vox coughed, embarrassed, as Valentino drew his hand back.

“Looks like your little production team is coming together... keep this up and you'll make your two month deadline. When's the next time I should see you, hm?”

“..Uh, how about Wednesday? Alastor is dropping by to work on some stuff so I can introduce the two of you.” There was a pause, then, sheepishly:

“...Er, how much do I owe you...?” Damn, he should have asked before saying yes to him. This gorgeous guy was probably expensive.

“Well, I normally charge four figures but... for you, darling, and our budding enterprise, I'll go for less than my usual. Call it... what was that... buying shares into your company? Three hundred. That's it.”

“Ah--yeah, I can... do three hundred.”

Damn, that could have been a... really, really expensive lay.

Well, Vox paid him, his screen turning pink as he does. He just totally paid for sex. He'd never done that before. He'd never had a hard time getting laid back on earth. Maybe... he really had changed a little. His... fiance would be proud. Not so much of a fuck boy anymore. Though, there goes him asking if... Valentino wouldn't mind doing that again. There's no way he could afford him at whatever he normally charges.

“You know where to find me, papi.” Valentino tipped his chin close, kissing him lightly. “Just ask for me. Someone can point you in the right direction.”

“Ah, right. Though... I don't think I could afford a guy like you at your usual rate.” Vox replied.

Valentino laughed. “No... maybe not now but eventually.” He smirked as he pinched the side of his screen . “Though for someone as hot as  you, I don't mind if we just keep a tab, hm?”

Vox’s face turned pink. “...Yeah. Don't worry. I'll pay you back. I'll be able to afford you soon.”

He didn't work this hard to not make it big in Hell.

“See you Wednesday around 8pm.”

Valentino headed off. But… this was a new development. He gave Alastor a call as he started getting dressed for work.

“Hey! Guess what! We got someone new on the team! A guy who knows about lighting and set design!”

“Good to know! That's half your problem done and dusted, isn't it?” Alastor replied back. Man, Vox was really serious. But he should have known that. “Someone from work?”

“Ah... no. Ran into him last night after dinner.”

“Our little project is turning to be quite serendipitous , isn't it..? I manage to fall into your lap and now you've found a director! And? When are we meeting? I assume that's why you're calling.”

“Wednesday! You've been coming over then so I figured that would be a great time for you both to meet!” Vox sounded so thrilled. His dreams were coming to life.

Alastor’s smile was genuine for the briefest moment. Vox sounded… happy. It was endearing, really. “Wednesdays are for work... but Fridays are still our nights on the town, remember that. You know what they say: all work and no play?”

“Absolutely! Wouldn't trade our Fridays for anything in the world!”

And so, Wednesday. Arrived. Vox felt... nervous, maybe. His first group meeting. He made sure to get drinks, food... his notes... he's dressed down in just a button up that's undone to past his chest, work pants...

And, a new head. It's black now. Still a box. Silver detailing. A slightly better screen with sharper imaging and better audio quality.

Alastor was the first to arrive. When he did… well. Huh. A new head on Vox. Interesting.

“Decided to get yourself spiffied up now that we're clearly about to start production..?” Alastor inquired as he studied Vox’s new head while the other went to the bar. He was making Alastor a drink.

“Yeah! Wanted to make sure I was top of the line before recording started! I wanna make sure to wow the broadcasting studio with the best quality I can give!” Vox walked over to Alastor, handing him over a drink.

Alastor looked Vox over again... another upgrade. But it was all for the cause, wasn't it? Impressive but... curious. “And we're well on our way, aren't we?” He sipped his drink. “I take it your friend's running late?”

“...Well, he seems the type that will roll in when it's convenient for him. Might have to keep him on a collar and leash.” Vox was joking but did not understand the implications of that statement and how it very clearly reflected the "restaints" that Alastor had spoken of that one time. He's naive. He doesn't know.

He doesn't know.

He doesn't know, is what Alastor was telling himself… but hearing it so casually has him loosening his bowtie slightly, as if he can feel those restraints even just from the thought of it. 

“Not even a number to get him on!”

But thankfully, Valentino was a man dedicated to his craft. He did show up about ten minutes after, kind of... miffed as he walked through the door.

“You wouldn't believe the shit I had to go through at work. Asshole was trying to bargain even though I said he couldn't. Would've been here earlier if it wasn't for that pendejo!”

“...Welcome.” Vox let out, not sure what to say to... that because... what kind of work. “ You... look like you could use a drink.”

“Absofuckinglutely…” And he's blinking at the little red deer on the couch who is just... watching him. “Oh... I take it this is... Alastor, yes? Vox mentioned you when we were talking about his little project.”

“All good things, I hope? He did mention he'd found someone who knew their way around a studio set,” Alastor replied.

“Yeah!” Vox looked between the two. “Alastor, this is Valentino.... Valentino, this is Alastor. He's an Overlord around these parts, so... treat him with a little respect, please?” Cause his new friend seems... irreverent.

“Of course, papi…” Valentino drawled out, smirking as he cocked out his hip, resting a hand on it. “If we'll be working together, the last thing we'd want to do is want to tear each other apart, hm?”

Alastor looked to Valentino. Papi? His brow is sooo high right now…

But when Valentino offered his hand for him to shake… he simply eased down with his cane. 

“No, I agree, absolutely... we're all after the same goal, after all.” Alastor replied with his usual smile.

Oh boy, right... the no touchy thing. Vox was... realizing these two are on the complete opposite end of the touch-spectrum so he's going to have to simply be... a barrier between them. That's fine. He–-he has found he has missed skinship and doesn't mind Valentino touching him. In fact, the tall moth man was already sliding an arm around his waist as he stepped to the couch.

“Okay! Well–”

After he made sure everyone got drinks and some food... Vox went over their little plan for the demo for the news broadcasting and what segments should be in it...

“And... I think the two month time frame is doable! So... any questions from the two of you?”

“None.” Valentino replied. “Just tell me when you want to start filming. I'm guessing you're either going to use your head as the main camera or our main monitor....?”

“Just for when we need to show it off. I can transfer my specs to any camera, even an old, shitty one. The better it is, though, the less power I need to use.... but, yeah, my head is definitely the best. I'll use it to film anything that I'm not personally in.” How about next week on Saturday?” Vox looked to Alastor. “Ah, you're more pre-production, so, if you're busy, you don't need to be there…”

“When have I ever been too busy for you, my boy? I'll be there... just say the word. This is, after all, all those years of planning finally bearing fruit.” Alastor replied.

“Sure, Saturday works,” Valentino added in, “But I'm only good until six.”

“Okay! Ten am sharp, then. Sharp.” Vox looked over to Valentino to clarify. “...I'll have breakfast for our day of filming.”

Valentino leaned into Vox, smirking as he gave him some obvious bedroom eyes. “Maybe I should just stay over and have you for breakfast, eh, papito...?”

Alastor looked at Valentino…. But said nothing.

Vox’s antenna sparked a bit. “Er--if--you want.” He's just horny enough to not even turn that down, even in front of Alastor. “If it guarantees you'll be here on time.”

“You did want me there on time, right?” Valentino purred back.

Alastor sipped his drink. “Did you two need some privacy?”

Vox shot Alastor a look, but then sighed. “Anyway! Like I said. Saturday. 10am.” He looked to Valentino. “Alastor and I have a guy's night out on Fridays, so if you do wanna come around, it'll probably be kinda late. He usually heads out around... what? Eleven or Midnight? Though uh... maybe that won't be too much of a problem for you…”

“Friday night's when I pull in the big bucks. I'll see you after work,” Valentino replied.

Alastor took another drink. Why did he feel... oddly... relieved at that reassurance? But then they've been going out on Fridays for decades now. He wasn't sure when he'd started to look forward to it but he did. And he was. It was their thing. 

“Well..? If that's all then, we can call it a day,” Alastor stated.

“Yeah. Sounds good.” Vox rose to walk Alastor to the door, the Overlord rising to head over with him. Vox stood close to the other, his hand lifting for Alastor to see, before leading it to the small of his back to guide him. Alastor… did appreciate that. He preferred the small prompting before he was touched. It set off his flight response less.

“..See you Friday?” Vox replied. “There's that new rockabilly club downtown that opened. You'd love it I think, it's pretty close to swing. Maybe we can go there?”

Alastor found himself moving a bit closer against the other while he was walked to the door for some reason.

Maybe he was feeling a bit possessive...

A little… territorial... 

“You know what I like, my dear.” Alastor replied. “I'll see you Friday. Same time as usual.” And he chuckled. “Don't stay up too late. You likely have work tomorrow, don't you?”

“Yeah…” Vox sighed, looking tired. “...Pushing a new product, too, so... that's gonna be a doozy.” He made good money as a salesman though, enough to support getting stuff for his sets, new equipment.... going out with Alastor...

Vox looked Alastor over, before offering him a warm smile.

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” Alastor found himself… in this moment… wanting to be touched. He moved, facing Vox and placing his hand on Vox's wrist, the same hand that was on the small of his back, letting it move over his arm a moment before stepping away and just.. heading off.

Valentino was silent as he waited or Vox to come back inside before speaking up 

“You’re pathetic, you know that..? I know a simpering look when I see one.”

Vox looked to Valentino. He went to the bar to... make himself another drink. God, he needed one. “What are you talking about....?”

“It's obvious. Don;t bullshit me.” Valentino shrugged. “You're love with him.” A small smirk as he went to light up a cigarette. “And if I'm reading it right, he's starting to fall for you, too.”

“Uh... no. ” Vox turned around to face Valentino, drink in hand. He leaned against the bar. “You're wrong. He... pretty soundly rejected me not too long ago. I confessed, I kissed him, and then he refused to talk to me for a fucking month.”

“Then what was that? You don't just touch a guy who solidly rejected you like you were feeling up his arm.”

“You’re reading into it too much. No. He’s not into me. Besides he's a fucking Overlord. Overlords don't date "common" demons like us.”

Valentino let out a puff of smoke.

“If you ask me, they could date whoever they want if they're so powerful. I wouldn't write yourself off just yet, papi. After all... you guys still go out. You'd think a big scary Overlord like him would put that to a stop if he absolutely rejected you.”

Vox looked away for a moment.... sipping his drink... before setting it down. He fussed with his shirt, unbuttoning it the rest of the way to get more comfortable now that Alastor was gone.

“Don't get my hopes up.” He sounded dejected--but, now you know why this guy was fucking his feelings out when you saw him last…

Valentino headed over, sliding his lower arms around Vox from behind, his hands sliding into his shirt to feel him out. Yeah, that made absolute sense now... the desperate kiss, the sudden slow lovemaking... 

“I'm not. I'm just saying... you're probably more important to him than you think... I know a jealous man when I see one.”

There was a soft noise as Valentino put his hands on Vox's skin, the other giving a small shudder at the touch. He liked it... it... felt nice to have someone touch him after so long...

“Him? Jealous? I... I doubt it… But... would be kinda nice to think about. Uh, but... don't... go causing trouble.”

Valentino leaned in, kissing down Vox’s shoulder, nipping lightly at the skin

“Wouldn't dream of it. But you know…” Valentino chuckled against his skin, his hands idly feeling up his waist. “...the look he was giving me when I was hitting on you told me everything I need to know.”

Was... Alastor actually jealous...?

No... he really doubted it.... But…

But wouldn’t it be something.

Vox did end up going another round with Valentino that night... the other was good at taking his frustrations out on by pounding that "pussy" into oblivion and getting nice and handsy with that body. He was… there. He was easy. He was sexy. He…

Took Vox’s mind off of Alastor.

…If only for a little while.

Chapter 7: Visitor

Friday rolled around.

It was always casual Friday at work, but Vox had built up a reputation of always looking sharp on Fridays, anyway. 'Hot date' , he would always reply with a grin when he got a compliment on his suit from one of the pretty girls at the office.

He was feeling pretty good. They were going to start finally filming to prepare for the broadcast station meeting, he'd found a guy great with sex--er, sets , fuck--and his relationship with Alastor was back on track and he wasn't wasting away in his apartment anymore. He was well on his way to actually doing this 5 Step Plan (though... admittedly... Step Five was looking to be... maybe complicated now).

Alastor was always on time--maybe even early. Vox was meeting up with him, and he waved as he approached the other demon, all smiles.

“Hey there, gorgeous.” He was feeling a little more confident. After all, maybe Valentino made him think maybe, just maybe... he had a chance again...

Alastor, on the other hand, had spent the evening brooding in his tower the night he last saw Vox, trying to figure out what exactly had him out of sorts. Seeing someone else have an interest in Vox, his silly little boxhead-- wait, when did Vox become his , exactly? It wasn't as if they were contracted.

The radios all over Pentagram City  did crackle that night but it was something different this time. No screaming, no music. Just a jumbled cacophony, as if someone was trying to find a frequency, trying to tune in using a dial that couldn't pick up anything right. It lasted for about fifteen minutes until midnight hit and abruptly stopped.

It was confusing, terrifying, but at least no one died. By the time Friday rolled around, the masses had moved on to something new to talk about. It didn't happen again and Alastor showed up with his usual manner, on time as always. 

“You know, you're always so dapper when I see you for our Friday... dates.” He's calling it what it is... and approaching to spiffy Vox up a bit; dusting off his jacket, fixing his shirt “I'm flattered you get dressed up for this.”

“I mean, you know... night on the town and with an Overlord? Gonna make sure I'm up to snuff.” Vox grinned again, letting Alastor fix him up. Alastor normally didn't touch him this much. He liked it, even if it was more his clothes rather than... him. Still...

“Perfect.” Alastor stepped back after finishing dusting Vox off. His smile was fond though, his gaze warm as he looked his.. friend... over. “My dear, when have you ever disappointed? Well... lead the way since you know the place!”

“Gladly.” And... well... take a chance, Vox. He held out his arm for Alastor to take

“So the reason you wouldn't take my arm was because you didn't want to look like a dame?”.. Alastor’s usual smile was unreadable. Teasing? Fond? Mocking? “But you do lead all of our dances. Why would this be any different?” He's taking Vox’s arm. This is not a drill he is absolutely taking his arm.

Vox’s screen turned pink--sparks lit up at his antenna. He--couldn't hide it even if he wanted to. This was Alastor, after all, and... well. The other already knew he had feelings for him. What was the harm? 

Alastor figured it couldn't hurt. And maybe it was the beast in him that urged him to make sure no one was trying to encroach on his territory. Part of him wanted to claim it, make sure it was never taken away... 

He wasn't so sure about that side of himself. Why now, all of a sudden? Why Vox?

Vox grinned, unwitting about Alastor’s thoughts, leading the other demon along down the sidewalk and into downtown where the club Rockin n' Dyin' was at. When they walked in, the dancing, like Vox had mentioned, was very similar to swing... maybe a few more new jazzy moves in... the music was a mix of playing jazz and then also rock, in line with the 50s to the 60s. But they started out as they usually did: to the bar, first, to try the drinks....

“Hm... it isn't our usual scene but... I think I could get used to it.” Alastor replied after they’d gotten their drinks. He was nursing an Old Fashioned, his usual go to to start the night. “I take it this was closer to your time?”

“Exactly! Definitely more like the clubs I frequented with the ladies... and eventually, you know... my… my fiance.” Vox looked out to the dance floor, where people were dancing. He looked back to Alastor. “Lots of drinks, lots of dancing…” Lots of sex. “...Good times. Though--I've definitely gained an appreciation for all the jazz clubs and speakeasies.”

Alastor was quiet as he considered his drink and listened. A change of pace. This seemed to be a good change of pace. “Why don't you start taking me places more familiar to you, hm? It's hardly fair, you know... I was practically a celebrity in your time and yet..”. His grin mellowed to a smile. Warm. Fond. Calm. “Yet I know nothing about you. Can I truly call you my dear despite that..?”

“I mean, you know... I wouldn't just tag along if I didn't enjoy it”. Vox liked learning about Alastor. Being in the environment he was familiar with. Seeing him in his element. Of course he did. He was... in... ...in...fatuated. Yeah. That's it. Cause it couldn't be love right? “But I mean... if you want.”

“I insist!” Alastor settled himself a little closer, rather wanting to be closer to someone he knew rather than a stranger in the crowd. “But of course I'll let you know if I've found somewhere I absolutely must take you!”

“All right! You're on, then!”

 The two happily drank, ate a little... talked about the usual: weird shit at work, Vox’s buzzing excitement for finally filming, Alastor’s going ons… it was during this that Vox finally piped up:

“Oh! Wanna see something cool?”

“Why not?” Alastor replied, turning to give his friend his full attention.

Vox looked around... before pointing behind the bar at a sign. It was lit up with neon lights. “Look at the sign.”

Alastor glanced at the sign Vox was talking about: just a little sign that read ‘DRINKS’ in thick, bright letters.

Vox lifted his hand. There was a pulse in the air. The sign started flickering--before it shut down all together–

....As well as all the other lights in the bar and the club. There were screeches from girls, people shouting, the musicians halting in their playing. Just noise of mild chaos.

“Uh--whoops. Didn't mean to--do it that much.” Vox snapped--the lights all flickered right back on, back up as if nothing happened. “Hahaha....!”

Alastor took a slow drink. Yes, yes as much as he hated to admit it, his... friend... had potential. Not every sinner manifested with power.. only those with great ambition.. with something that set them apart from the masses. 

“Impressive... learned a new trick?” And those were sinners that had the potential to be Overlords. This one... this one didn't know it but he had just painted a target on himself.

Right in front of the dreaded Radio Demon...

Vox had no idea his friend was the one just... murdering Sinners with great power. Mainly because it seemed strange for another Overlord to murder other Overlords, but, what did he really know about the demon hierarchy? Nothing, really. 

“Heh, yeah! Something, something... maybe with electricity? I can't really do much right now but turn lights on and off, but-- it's cool, right? Helpful when I'm in bed and don't wanna get up and turn the lights off myself.” And Vox laughed

Alastor been good at covering up his tracks, both in life and in death... he was sure he had nothing to worry about. Vox trusted him, after all... but maybe this five step program would lead the little picturebox up heights neither of them thought possible... 

“It's practical, if anything... good job figuring it out. Now it'll be just a matter of honing it so we don't risk... oh say... accidentally shutting down the entire city's power grid! Ha ha ! Wouldn't that be something!”

“Hahaha, if I could do something like that, that would be insane. I just wanna, you know, have a TV show again. That's not a huge ask... right?” Such a simple dream, and yet... maybe Alastor was right... and his ambition would lead to something more.

 But, they danced again... Vox showed him some moves that were more rockabilly than just swing... he'd show Alastor things like gently tossing him.... moving him around a bit more....

 But, it was time to head home. The next morning was filming, after all... he walked with Alastor back home to his place. It was almost midnight. 

“You're a natural at everything, I think,” Vox replied. “Your dancing was great!”

“ Dance comes easy once you know the basics.” Yeah... yeah, Alastor was definitely enjoying his time with what was just supposed to be a temporary distraction. He almost wanted it to be a permanent distraction. Hell was forever, after all... why not spend it by the side of someone whose company he enjoyed? “I wonder, my boy, how are you at ballroom? I don't think we've–”

 Vox looked confused when Alastor suddenly stopped mid-sentence. But Alastor had caught sight of someone familiar close by.

“I take it someone was serious about staying over…” Alastor let out, and Vox followed Alastor’s eyeline to see just what he was looking at.

Valentino was loitering Vox's place, wings folded back to expose his arms and that tight halter top and tiny mini skirt he's got on, already blowing a steady stream of smoke into the air.

"Hey, Valentino!" Vox called out. His heart gave a little skip at spotting the gorgeous moth man. So... Valentino actually came over. He was arm-in-arm with Alastor as he walked over to the other. "Did you have a... lucrative night?"

Valentino ground out his cigarette when he heard them coming over. “Eh... so-so. Could be better. But my night's much better now that you're around.” But as the couple approached, Valentino definitely noticed the arms linked together. “You two look close. Had a good boy's night out?”

“ One of our better nights, I'd say!” Alastor exclaimed. Ah, but Vox could probably see it in his eyes: his smile wasn't genuine. A bit tense.. especially with how he held his arm. “Well, it's late enough and we've got an early start tomorrow!”

Was... Valentino right? Was Alastor... jealous? No. No, he'd already confessed and the other wasn't interested. 

Unless... something had changed since then? But what? He hadn't done anything different. Well, he did change his head. Did he like his new head better? 

Vox felt Alastor tighten his grip on him… but, he reached up, putting his hand gently over Alastor's. Alastor’s eyes pulled away from Valentino to look at the other man. Vox turned a bit more to him, giving him a smile. 

“Yeah. We have a big day tomorrow.” And Vox gently pet his hand. “I'll see you at ten, okay? And yeah-- Ballroom? I'd love to try it with you.”

Alastor’s ears had gone subconsciously flat... but flicked back upward when he was touched before he finally let go. Wow... what... was that visceral reaction? 

“And not a minute later, I assure you. Tomorrow then. I'll... mm... we'll consider ballroom next week if you're agreeable to it…” And with that, he pulled away from Vox, heading off.

Valentino waited before Alastor was out of earshot before putting a hand on Vox's back 

“What did I tell you, papi...? I can tell when a man's jealous. I've seen it too often.”

Vox glanced up at Valentino when he felt that hand on him. “Huh... Maybe you're right.” But he did look confused. Why would Alastor be feeling any differently now? He led Valentino inside of his house. “I'm starting to think if you're gonna come over, I might as well just get you a key.”

“Trusting me that much already ..?” Valentino chuckled, following after Vox, folding his wings back around himself. “Spare key is boyfriend level.” And he gave Vox a small teasing smirk. “But if you insist~”

“Boyf—” Vox looked back, embarrassed. “No! It's for the sake of ease if you're just gonna be coming around! Besides, you're on the team!” Though Alastor didn't have a key to his place... but, Alastor was... different... somehow. Hm. Even though they were close, there was still some sort of... unbreakable barrier between them. “Feel free to have a drink. Have you eaten?” 

Valentino really wasn't the kind who wanted to go steady. It was just nice to tease the little boxhead... see how he reacted. He was not going to point out the fact Alastor didn't have a key though. No bruising his ego needed. “Mhm. Did a bit of escort work tonight. Those ones aren't shy about dinner and drinks before they get their rocks off.”

Valentino wandered towards the kitchen.

“ ...want a drink?” It was nice though, he had to admit... being taken care of. Having someone to come home to.

“...Actually, a drink wouldn't be so bad to get me to sleep.” Vox looked over at him. “So... tell me about what you'd like to film. Do we... need to try and recruit some other people?”

Valentino fixed them both something... the kind of drink Vox made for them. He'd figured it out at this point. He handed one to Vox with a smile.  

“I'm fine on my own to start.” Valentino took a sip of his drink. “Nothing too complicated. Just some basic amateur shit, I know a guy who knows a guy that can get it on the shelves.” He trailed his fingers down Vox’s chest. “But I'm gonna need some help, you get me?”

“Uh, I mean--of course I'll record for you to get the best quality. That's not a problem…” Vox replied, feeling his face flush a bit at Valentino’s touch.

Valentino stared blankly at Vox. Wow. What a naive guy. It’s…kinda cute. But also kinda headache inducing how pure this guy is when it comes to sex things.

“Vox, you idiot.. I meant your dick. I need your dick. I know my dick's pretty fucking amazing on its own but I can't fuck myself .”

Vox spat out his drink a bit into his glass, looking up at Valentino, stunned.

 “M--me?! In porn?!” But then he realized what he was saying. Really, he's in Hell it's not like it's some kinda career-ending thing. It can only help him, really. “I've--never--- I mean…” His screen keeps burning pink, his antennae spitting out some static. “Uh... if you're sure.”

“ Please. Like I'd trust anyone else with this.” Valentino finished off his drink. “Your dick's fine. If you're worried about being ID'd, we'll get you some gloves or something.”  He circled around to slide an arm around Vox, turning to nuzzle him gently. “Besides. I like the way papi handles my body. Your technique's gonna look great on camera.”

Vox swallowed. God, this guy. Valentino's good at his job. He makes him melt. He makes him feel special. 

He needs to be careful not to accidentally fall for this guy, cause... well... he's an escort and that's what he does. 

“Well... okay. We can plan a day to film then. Just tell me what you need me to do.” His own arm slid around Valentino's waist, nuzzling him back. “Hey... are your kisses... drugged or something? Cause... ...When you're around, I keep thinking about kissing you to taste you again…”

Valentino chuckled, tipping his chin up again. “Clever... you picked up on one of my trade secrets.” He traced Vox’s screen where his lower lip would be with his thumb. “Just a little something I've been able to do since I got here. I figured why not use it in my line of work? Keeps them coming back for another hit.” Unlike now... where he's the one who keeps coming back.

“ Huh... I bet that definitely comes in handy, then…”

Valentino wondered just why he kept coming back. Is it because this guy is nice? Has a big dick? Ambitious? A combination of all those things? He finished his drink. 

“I'm headed to bed.” Vox replied as he set his drink down.

Valentino knew he was staring at Vox with a strange expression. What? He is right here in the tightest fucking outfit he’s got, standing around all hot and sexy and Vox wasn’t hitting on him? He didn't ask him for anything... just... shoot the shit, get some drinks, bed. That's it.

“Yeah. Sure.” Valentino decided to be nice and wash the glasses at least... never let it be said he was completely useless to the guy that let him crash.

Valentino headed to Vox’s bedroom after a bit. He saw him: halfway asleep, just in his boxers. Well, he could do the same. He stripped out of his clothes until he was just down to his panties before joining him, draping his wings over the other.

Vox’s eyes opened a bit when Valentino got into the bed. He made sure to scoot over more so he could make sure the guy with his huge wingspan could fit comfortably in his bed. It was made for two, just…

...Admittedly, not the guy he thought would be in his bed...

Valentino realized he never really just... slept beside someone before. It's odd but... it's a nice change of pace. He spooned himself against Vox, under one wing, keeping an arm loosely draped around the TV demon. Sorry Vox, yes, you’re smaller than him so you’re the little spoon, get over it.

And he did. Vox simply fell asleep beside him, the two snuggled up together.

Chapter 8: Video

Vox woke up in the morning around 8am to his alarm going off. He stared at it blearily for a bit. Usually he slept in a bit if he didn’t have work--and for a moment, he wondered why it went off in the first place--before he felt the warm body beside him and remembered: it's GO time.  

Vox turned to look at Valentino. He leaned in… and found he couldn’t help it. He gave the other man a small kiss. 

“Hey. Morning,” Vox said softly as Valentino roused from sleep. “You can sleep in. Gonna get dressed, go out and grab us all breakfast. Want anything in particular?”

Valentino found that kiss was enough to get him stirring. He yawned as he looked over Vox’s face. “Mn.. Just get me some coffee, I'm good.” /He retracted that wing, curling it back around himself. Weird. He spent a night at a guy's house and actually woke up in it. But then, that was the point, wasn't it? He did stay over so he showed up on time.

“Um, yeah, no. I'm gonna get you real food too.” Vox got up. He got dressed and even polished up his screen even though he'd done so the day before. He always shined up before he saw Alastor. Then, he headed out, thinking about his breakfast errand. Coffees... some juice just in case... and some take out containers of sausage and bacon, biscuits and gravy, eggs and fruit…

He carried it all home in a few bags... man. Maybe he should get a car... ugh, he can't afford a car... not unless it's something with affordable payments. He made pretty decent money but he was trying to save it to put towards his goals here.

He got back home around 9:45, starting to set up everything in the kitchen. 

“Valentino! I'm back!” He called out. “Alastor should be here soon so make sure you're ready, too! And come eat something! Not just coffee!”

Lucky for Vox, he couldn't stay in bed long after being woken up Normally, he'd be in bed til noon considering he worked nights but today... today would be different. By the time Vox was back, he'd showered and was already checking the set: making sure the lights were right, adjusting them to accommodate for Vox's increased output quality, The cameras... well, he'd leave that to when they finally started.

“He's anally prompt, isn't he, that Alastor?” Valentino asked as he walked into the kitchen.

“Yeah. Love it about him.” Vox glanced at his watch. “Just a couple of more minutes…”

“Is that all you like about him, papi..?” Valentino was sashaying about with his coffee... his precious... precious coffee… “I'm pretty sure that buttery smooth voice might have been front and center of your wildest dreams…”

Vox screen glitched in a tell-tale way---there's a brief, vivid, full-color clip of his face between Alastor's legs, making the pretty demon cry out in pleasure---the sound is distorted cause he has no idea what that would sound like--- 

His face returned to normal but it's burning red. “ Don't!”

“It's cute... that little crush of yours…” And there's the usual polite knocking at the door. “Right on time.” To the dot.

Vox shot Valentino a look–-there's a small... spark in his left eye, but it's momentary. He walked over to the door, glimpsing in a mirror to make sure he looked nice, before opening the door for Alastor. 

“Good morning!” He greeted cheerfully--and realized... this is actually the first time he's seen him... in the morning. It's always been evening or night...

Alastor smiled back. Usually he was busy in the morning.. calling on favors, making new ones, spending time with potential... targets... but today was different. He cleared his schedule for this.

“Chipper as always, even so early in the morning. I take it you... both... slept well?” Alastor posed.

“ He went to bed before I did..” Valentino replied, eyeing Alastor as how he asked the question. Look he knows not to sabotage work at least.

“Yeah. Ready to work? I got breakfast. Coffee, juice, and uh--well, lots of stuff. Have a seat and eat first. I'll grab our notes so we can go over stuff before we start filming.” Vox brought Alastor to the kitchen, pulled out his chair for him… Valentino eyed Vox at the treatment he was giving Alastor, like little red demon was some precious treasure…

 But once Vox had given Alastor his coffee and some juice, he headed off... leaving the two of them... alone.

“Go get the shotlist while you're at it, papi…” Valentino called after Vox as he headed off. “I want to look it over before we start.” He just leaned against the couch, sipping his coffee. It's really really obvious how much Vox is into this guy. It's not the usual simpering "I'm just bending over because he's an Overlord" sort of thing. It's a pure, genuine interest. An undeniable "I am absolutely into this guy" sort of thing... to the point where he doesn't really mind if they got together. Hell, he'd help them.

 But he's noticing that look Alastor's giving him... it's piercing... like he's being stalked by some sort of predator that's bound to attack him at any moment if he lets his guard down. The kind of look that gives one the unpleasant shivers... and all Alastor was doing was sitting at the table, sipping his own coffee... innocently eating a little bit... still unnerving.

 The silence is heavy while they wait

“Okay!” Vox walked back in a few moments later, interrupting the tension he had no idea was present. “So--!”

 And after everyone had eaten, they were in his recording studio room, really to film. Vox changed again to make sure he didn't ruin his outfit while eating, in his best suit and tie. He's --so nervous....

 He kick started the cameras, they ran on their own. He's got them hooked up to monitors that are also in color so Valentino and Alastor can keep an eye on them. 

Valentino was directing, so he let him, well, direct. He's just an actor right now, and he knows he can trust Valentino to tell him what to do. Luckily, Valentino also wasn't working with an amateur. He'd been a TV personality for what, fifteen years? 

...But it's been so long... he's... actually a little nervous.

 As he took his seat, his antennae spark a bit.Alastor was also there, too. His… his idol. He was going to see him act for the first time.

Valentino was going around checking and rechecking lights, connections, the boom mic that only he can reach... but he does end up squinting at the monitors every now and again. He finally sat himself next to Alastor giving Vox the okay to start.

Alastor watched Valentino fuss with things before settling his attention on Vox. Admittedly, he was only there to see things come together. It's something he had a hand in building after all. He was... admittedly curious. Curious to see if Vox's skill would be able to live up to his enthusiasm or if he had all been talk.

Vox took a deep breath. This was it. The moment he'd been working towards for twenty years . 

This was Alastor meeting him on the park bench. This was all those nights on that shitty spring bed in the seedy motel. This was him hitting the streets for the Daily Hellraiser to make scraps. This was all the hours and sales he made at work. This was every Friday night out. This was kissing Valentino. This was…

  Showtime.  

And with the lights on him, those bright burning lights, his slightly too tight tie, he was back on Earth with a staff of people watching him work his magic, where his fiance waited at home to see him on television, where he flashed a grin and America watched with vapid expressions–

“ Greetings denizens of Hell! You're watching Triple 6 News , bringing you Pentagram City's News Avower of the Hour! I'm Vox, and this is your #1 source for the most up-to-date broadcast!”

 His lines were delivered expertly, his voice smooth, crisp, confident ... a voice made for radio and a face made for TV--- literally a TV, now.

“Our top of the hour discussion--!” And he launched into the demo script to show how he'd present certain topics to the audience.

Alastor watched with the usual expression his face, but his thoughts ran a mile a minute. Oh... oh now this is different. This is a different side of Vox he'd been curious about: the face that was made for TV. He seemed competent... charismatic even. The Pride circle was going to love him. Hell, even his director was just as competent. Interesting.. two sinners trying to carve a hole for themselves in a way that didn't involve carnage. 

It's... rather admirable... and he finds himself looking s little more closely at his favorite little picturebox.

Valentino was watching from his spot, taking in Vox as he ran through his lines. He was absolutely perfect. Captivating even... was this what he was like in life? That's the kind of confidence people found attractive. Hell, he certainly did... 

And he couldn't help but glance over at Alastor... but found himself intrigued. The Overlord wasn't looking away. He seemed just as drawn... like he didn't want to miss a moment of it.

Vox finished the first take, ending with: “ And that is your Hellish Breakdown for tonight! I'm Vox with Triple 6 News...! See you before your next sin!” He grinned to leave enough time for the footage to be cut off after him, then, looked towards the other two. His smile went sheepish. 

“...How was that? It's... been awhile since I've gotten to do this... it felt great. But... was it okay?”

Alastor was the one who spoke up first. “Well, well! Bravo, old chum. I may have underestimated you just a bit there... my sincerest apologies. You did quite well for your first broadcast after several decades!”

“I have to admit, you look natural behind the camera, papi… ” Valentino had to let him have his moment...

“Really? Great...!”   Vox looked... so happy. Alastor couldn’t help but feel his heart do something… funny. “Well... let's look it over! See what improvements can be made... and... take it from the top!”

 The plus was Vox was so good with any criticism... he lets Val fix any lighting or set issues... has Alastor straighten him up before he goes back on camera... 

He is a pro. He's able to do retakes, redos, and it doesn't even look like he's tiring. Well. Valentino is already very aware of his, ahem... stamina.

And all the while, Alastor’s eyes were on Vox. He's such a hard worker... so determined... he's definitely going to see an upheaval in the power structure when he gets big. Not if. When. Vox was already manifesting some strange abilities... and it certainly wouldn't surprise him if this Valentino had something up his sleeve, too.

Alastor felt his chest doing something weird again... was this from seeing this side of his close friend? That confidence and competence to back up his word?

But they finally wrap up their recording.

“We did it! Hell yeah!” Vox very cutely took Valentino's hand and did a little spin in the room with him

“Ha! That went better than I thought it would! Much more satisfying than blowing a whole room of guys.”Valentino replied.

“...What?” Vox let out.

Alastor raised his brow at the comparison. “Well! I believe congratulations are more than in order... I'd say that was a job very well done.”

Vox went over to Alastor happily---he paused, though, a bit in front of him, realizing he was about to go in to hug him he was so happy, but....

Vox simply smiled at Alastor, holding his hand out. “Well done. All of our hard work is finally paying off!”

And Alastor realized…he had no one to blame for that. It was his own personal walls that stopped anyone from getting close to him. It never really bothered him before but... now... 

Alastor took that hand, smiling back at him. “Rather proud of you, my boy... This is just the start, but I'm looking forward to seeing what else this second chance at life has in store for you.”

“Once the TV Station sees this, there's no way they'll turn it down! We should celebrate!” Vox proclaimed.

But, after having some drinks at his place... Valentino heads out at 6 like he said, most likely to work his, well... other job.... and then it's just him and Alastor... 

“Heh, you gonna head out as well...?” Vox inquired as he poured himself another drink.

“...I should. There are a few things that need my attention tonight, I'm afraid.” It's still fairly early in the night... but he figures... “Same time as always this Friday?”

“Yep! Same time as always! Maybe a familiar haunt...? And then we can look more into that ballroom scene we were talking about...” He led Alastor over to the door, his hand on the small of his back gently.

“Sounds capital. Just the thing to toast your success... You did quite well today... I must say I'm impressed....” He's walked as always... but Alastor stopped this time, turning to face Vox. “Will you stay still for me a moment?”

Vox gave Alastor a confused look, but nodded. “Yeah, sure.” He straightened out a bit so he could stay perfectly still for him.

Alastor adjusted Vox’s jacket like he'd been doing all day... like he was leading himself up to something much grander. 

“You're quite a natural in front of the camera. They'll love you when you finally make your big screen debut…” 

‘But for now... you're mine’ is what's going through his head…

 And that's when Alastor does it, leaning in to kiss the other. Properly.

At first Vox had no idea what was happening because Alastor's face was on his face. Kissing. Alastor... was... 

He was…! 

And so Vox did stay perfectly still , because he didn't want to scare away his beautiful, gorgeous fawn. His antennae, however, buzzed with electricity as it coursed between them. His screen turned into one big giant heart display

Alastor wondered just what he was doing... but his impulses dictated he needed to do this. Hell, he'd been wanting to do this all day for some reason. Maybe it's the competence he was shown? Maybe the confidence was a kink? Maybe he was just feeling extra territorial... who knows.

He pulled back after a moment again, ears flat like he couldn't believe what he'd just done.

“...I'll see you Friday…” And then Alastor gave Vox another kiss, light, just by the side of his screen before he just... let himself melt away into the darkness before he can do anything else.

Vox watched as Alastor just... vanished without him being able to say anything. That was... 

He touched his lips. Alastor kissed him. His heart was pounding. That was just— his mind couldn't... really comprehend the thought behind it. Alastor just sort of did what he wanted to do, after all. Sometimes he felt like he was kind of being pulled and tugged about. Just a part of the Overlord's game, but... he didn't know what kind of game he was playing. 

Whatever it was, he definitely felt like he was playing with a losing hand most times. Still, that kiss... it made him feel... giddy and lifted his spirits…

And he couldn’t help but blab all about it to Valentino when he saw him next while they were editing footage, the older man simply rolling his eyes at how lame Vox was being, that just something as simple as a kiss could make him so… happy.

It was, almost, envious.

Notes:

Please leave kudos and comments to inspire us for more! If you haven't read my newest RadioStatic Fic, "Bees Knees & Brandy Alexander", please check it out!