Humble

by supergirl96

Summary:

Alastor, the terrifying radio demon, is bored to tears. He sees Charlie on tv and decides it would be almost TOO easy to use her as a pawn. She’s gullible, naive, and barely uses her power.

Boy, was he about to get humbled.

Notes:

Let’s get one thing straight RIGHT NOW:

I am aware Alastor is canonically AroAce. I am aware Charlie is bisexual. This is a Charlastor fanfiction. As in, a fictitious work about fictional characters. You are under no obligation to read it. I encourage you to please move on if you’re offended instead of leaving a nasty comment. I’m a person at the end of this keyboard. So are you. Be better.

But I love the rest of you and thank you for reading ❤️

Chapter 1: Picture Show Fiasco

Notes:

This is basically the plot of the pilot, so you can skip it if you want 🤷🏼♀️

Alastor was walking down the street and humming to himself when he noticed a crowd gathered in front of a window. As he got closer, he saw it was TELEVISION they were ogling at. He was about to keep walking when he saw what was happening. Princess Charlotte Morningstar was on the news and making an absolute fool of herself. This he had to see.

The bubbly blonde was dancing and singing about demons and rainbows, and it was absolutely hysterical! She finished her performance and was met with resounding laughter. The crowd in front of him was laughing too hard for him to properly hear, but the princess looked downhearted as that vicious harpie Katie Killjoy spoke. The crowd settled down enough just in time for him to see the princess glare and stand up in front of Katie.

“I have your PEN, BITCH!” 

Alastor couldn’t contain his laughter. His menacing cackle sent the crowd scrambling. It was absolutely hysterical seeing the sweet little princess try to stand up to the news woman. Then the fight started. 

 

He was puzzled as he watched it. She was Lucifer’s daughter, this shouldn’t be much of a fight at all! But she hardly used any of the power she possessed. Untapped potential…

 

As he continued his stroll, he overheard people talking about the news. “Can you believe it? That stupid bitch thinks we can actually be redeemed! At some stupid place called the happy hotel.” 

“She’s so desperate to redeem people that she’s letting that porn star live there. Angel Dust ain’t ever gonna change. But she’s gullible.” 

 

Alastor was struck with an idea. Yes, an EXCELLENT idea. He’d show up, offer his assistance, and gain her trust. Then he’d have a very powerful pawn. 

 

As he approached the hotel, he saw the girl sitting outside with a mobile phone. He stayed hidden and listened in. 

“Hey, mom. I know I keep calling and you must be busy... Really busy... But, um, the interview didn't go well, and... I don't know if I'm ever going to make a difference.  I don't know what I'm doing. I could really use some advice, mom. I... I think dad was right about me... Ahah, oof. Eh, anyway... I'll stop talking before this gets long.  Love you, bye…” She wiped tears from her face and went inside. 

 

Daddy issues AND an absent mother? Why, the girl would be desperate for anyone to lean on! Might as well strike while the iron’s hot. He put on his most charming smile and knocked on the door. 

 

The door opened slowly and he saw her eyes widen as she saw him. “Hel-“ SLAM! He blinked in confusion. The door opened again. “Lo-“ SLAM. That was rather rude. He could hear voices arguing inside, then the door opened slowly again. The poor girl was terrified. Clearly his reputation preceded him. “May I speak now?”

 

“Um…you may.” She squeaked out. Showtime!

“Alastor! Pleasure to be meeting you, sweetheart! Quite a pleasure! He shook her hand and pulled her close, then let himself in.

 “Excuse my sudden visit, but I saw your fiasco on the picture show, and I just couldn't resist! What a performance! Why, I haven't been that entertained since the stock market crash of 1929! Sooo many orphans…” he chuckled to himself.

 

Some freaky looking one-eyed girl shoved a spear towards him. “Stop right there, cabrón hijo de perra! I know your game and I'm not gonna let you hurt anyone here, you pompous cheesy talk show shitlord!”

How hilarious! She thought she could threaten him. He smirked and pushed her spear away. “My dear, if I wanted to hurt anyone here, I already would have.” He revealed more of his demonic form, intending to intimidate her. Unfortunately this was also scaring the girl he needed to win over. He returned to his regular form and smiled. “No, I’m here because I want to help!”

“Uuuh…what?” Charlie asked.

“Hello? Testing! Is this thing on?” He tapped his microphone.

“You want to help with what?”

“This ridiculous thing you’re trying to do! This hotel! I’d like to help you run it!”

“But…why?”

“Why does anyone do anything, dear? Boredom!” 

 

Charlie looked at him suspiciously. “So does this mean you think demons can be redeemed?”

“Of course not! That's wacky nonsense! Redemption, oh the non-existent humanity! No, no, no, no. I don't think there's anything left that could save such loathsome sinners. The chance given was the life they lived before, the punishment is this! There is no undoing what is done!”

“So then why do you want to help me if you don’t believe in my cause?” She asked with wide eyes. 

 

Time to crank up the charm. “Consider it an investment in ongoing entertainment for myself!” He grabbed her arm and pulled her close, twirling her around. “I want to watch the scum of the world struggle to climb up the hill of betterment only to repeatedly trip and tumble down to the fiery pit of failure!”

“Riiiiiight…” clearly she needed more convincing. 

“Yes indeedy! I see big things coming your way, sweetheart! And who better to help you than I?” He put an arm around her waist and led her away from the angry looking moth girl. She seemed to be the rational one, and he couldn’t have that.

“Think of what I’m offering here, sweetheart. I’ve got connections, I’ve got cash, and I’ve got powerful magic! You and me, working together? Why, we could FILL this place with sinners!”

She still looked unsure. Unfortunately the moth girl realized he’d gotten her alone and dragged her away. “Charlie, we need to talk.” 

 

The pair was having a heated discussion. He heard the grating sound of a straw sucking loudly. He looked for the source and found a lanky spider demon lounging on the couch. “So what’s your deal?”

“I’m sorry?” He asked. 

“The reason you’re here. It sure as hell ain’t boredom. What are you gettin’ out of this? And don’t worry, I don’t actually give a shit about this place. I just live here for free.”

“Entertainment, pure and simple! I’m between projects and terribly bored.” 

There was another loud slurping noise. “Why are you dressed like a strawberry pimp?”

 

Before he could answer, the little blonde stomped up to him with a determined look. “Ok, so Al. You’re sketchy as fuck and you clearly see what I’m trying to do here as a joke. But, I don't. I think everyone deserves a chance to prove they can be better. So, I'm taking your offer to help. On the condition that there be no...tricks or voodoo strings attached.” 

 

Excellent. “Do we have a deal?” He grinned and twirled his microphone, and a green glow surrounded them. 

“Nope! No shaking! No deals! I... hmm... As princess of Hell and heir to the throne, I, uh, hereby order that you help with this hotel. For as long as you desire. Um, does that sound fair?” 

This was absolutely pathetic. He’d be able to play her like a piano. “Fair enough! So, where’s your staff?”

 

“Uuuuh…it’s just me and Vaggie…”

“Ohohoho, you’re gonna need more than that!” He walked over to the demon lounging on the couch. “And what can you do, my effeminate fellow?”

“I can suck your dick.” He smirked. 

Alastor abhorred crass talk like that. “Ha! No. This won’t do. I suppose I can cash in on a couple of favors, liven this place up a little bit…” 

 

He pulled Nifty, his chaotic little maid out of the fireplace. Sure, she was odd, but she was excellent at her job. Time to wrangle up a bartender! Husk was angry and aggressive, as per usual, but all it took was a bottle of cheap booze to turn his head.

 

“Uh-uh! No bars! No alcohol!” The moth girl shouted.

“SHUT UP! SHUT UP!” The spider demon ran to the bar. “We are KEEPING THIS!” 

 

She still looked unconvinced. Time to bring it home! Luckily, he also had a flare for theatrics. He distracted her long enough to shove the moth girl out of the way. He began singing. 

“ You have a dream! You wish to tell!” He dressed her up in 1920s fashion and twirled her around. “ And it's just laughable! But, hey, kid, what the hell?” He tossed her into the air and caught her with ease, taking her hand. He was going to use his magic to make her dance, but it was unnecessary as she quickly caught up with him.

“ 'Cause you're one-of-a-kind! A charming demon belle! Now, let's give these burning fools a place to dwell!   Take it, boys! ” 

Shadow demons appeared from the floorboards and begin playing their instruments. The moth girl was trying in vain to get Charlie’s attention, but he had the girl wrapped around his finger with his song and dance. Truth be told, it was a nice change of pace to have a competent dance partner.

“Haha! Inside of every demon is a lost cause! But we'll dress 'em up for now, with just a smile! And we'll chlorinate this cesspool with some old redemption flair! And show these simpletons some proper class and style!”

He twirled Charlie in until they were nearly chest to chest and pinched her cheek. “Oh! Here below the ground, I'm sure your plan is sound! They'll spend a little time, down at this Hazbin Ho-“”

 

A loud crash shattered one of the walls of the hotel. There was a large warship floating outside with a demon at the helm. “Hah! Well, well, well. Look who it is harboring the striped freak! We meet yet again, Alastor!”

Who the hell was this? “Do I know you?”

“Yes! You do! And this time I have the element of SURPRISE!”

 

He didn’t have time to deal with incompetent wannabe overlords. He quickly summoned his tentacles and attacked the ship, destroying it and returning to normal in 15 seconds. He was quite proud of himself, but a quick glance to the side showed that the others were staring at him with shock and horror. “Well, I’m starved! Who wants some jambalaya? My mother taught me a WONDERFUL recipe!” He ushered the group back inside. He glanced up at the hideous sign for the happy hotel. No, that wouldn’t do. With a point of his microphone, the sign changed to Hazbin Hotel. Perfect!

 

Chapter 2: Elephant in the room

Summary:

Alastor’s reception is…mixed. No one quite knows how to interact with him. The princess, however, doesn’t seem to give a shit.

Alastor was standing in the kitchen preparing the jambalaya and could sense the little moth girl hovering. “It’s impolite to stare.” 

Vaggie came into the kitchen with her arms crossed. “I don’t know what your game is, but I don’t trust you.”

“A wise decision, really.” He hummed as he chopped ingredients. 

“Charlie may have decided to let you stay, but just know I’ll be keeping my eye on you.” 

“You only have one, dear, I’m sure you can find something MUCH more interesting to watch.”

The girl muttered something in Spanish and left. Good. 

 

Apparently he couldn’t be left alone in the kitchen, which was ironic, since he was literally holding a knife. “Yes, dear?”

“Oh! Hi!” Charlie waved and looked embarrassed. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt, I was just coming to see what smelled so good. I kind of thought you were joking when you said you were going to make jambalaya.” 

“Oh I’d NEVER joke about jambalaya, doll.” He winked at her. 

“What…exactly is it?” 

He gave her a surprised smile. “You’ve never had it?”

“No, I mean, I was born here. I’ve never really gotten to try different foods.”

“My dear, you are truly missing out! I’ll have to prepare some other dishes for you to sample sometime.” He waved her closer and she stepped forward, looking unsure. “The main ingredient is rice. Then you throw all sorts of tasty things in there, sausage and chicken, all sorts of spices…everybody makes it differently. My mother liked an extra kick, so she’d add a splash of tobasco.” 

 

“I suck at cooking. Vaggie said I can burn water.” He was surprised when she hopped up onto the counter and sat. She looked at him with a small smile. “Can you keep a secret?” 

“I’m excellent at them!” 

“This is my emergency cookie stash. I have to hide them or Angel eats all my Oreos.” She reached up under the cabinet and pressed a hidden button, dropping down a compartment. “Vaggie does too. As my new business partner, you are entitled to secret emergency cookies, so long as you keep them a secret.” She opened a bag and popped a cookie into her mouth. 

 

Alastor’s smile was genuine. What an odd girl. “You don’t have to worry about me, I don’t have much of a sweet tooth.” He stirred the jambalaya and looked back at her. “What constitutes a cookie emergency?” 

“Well…getting into a fight with a news anchor on live tv, for starters.” She popped another cookie into her mouth.

“Do that sort of thing often, doll?”

“No. And I hate that I did. I’m usually more in control of my anger. I have to be.”

“Why’s that?” Now he could begin to pry. 

“I know I don’t look like it, but when I go into full demon or even partial demon mode…I can’t control it. I’m super strong and shoot fire and it’s just a reeeeally bad time.”

“On the contrary! I think that sounds like a DELIGHTFUL time!” He grinned. 

“You would.” She chuckled. “Don’t think I haven’t heard the stories.” 

“I should hope so! I have a reputation to uphold.” He abandoned the pot and came to stand in front of her, closer than necessary and with an unnerving smile. How he LOVED making other people squirm. The princess, however, was unbothered. She looked up at him in surprise as she ate another cookie. “Do you fear me, Charlotte?” He asked with a crackle in his voice.

 

He was completely unprepared for her response. She SHRUGGED. “Like you said, if you were going to hurt us, you would’ve done it by now. And if you DO decide to kill us, it won’t really be my problem anymore.” 

“Then why’d you slam the door in my face?” He smirked. 

“Because you were literally the last person I would ever expect to be at my doorstep. Also I was very confused, so I opened the door again to make sure. And I couldn’t think of a single reason you’d be here other than to kill me or wreck the hotel.” 

“Nonsense! I have no desire to kill you, dear! Why would I?” 

She shrugged again. “A power move. Happens pretty often, actually.”

“People trying to kill you?”

“Kill me, kidnap me, plenty of other things…” she looked utterly bored as she rattled off the list. “But I can take care of myself.” 

“And what, dear Charlotte, do you do to your foes?” He was still standing in front of her. He liked to rattle people by invading their personal space. She was unbothered. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know.” She smirked. 

Alastor’s ears twitched. “Hide your cookies, doll.” 

 

Charlotte shoved the cookies behind her just as the kitchen door opened. Angel walked in and looked surprised to see the pair. “Am I interrupting ?” 

Charlie was suddenly very aware of how close Alastor was. 

Charlie laughed uncomfortably. “No, not at all! I was just pestering Al with cooking questions.”

Angel looked genuinely frightened. “Oh no. Tell me you ain’t trying to cook again.”

“I might! I should really learn.”

“That you’re a hazard in the kitchen? Because I agree.”

“Don’t try to distract me. I’m still mad at you.” Charlie glared. Well, Charlie’s equivalent of a glare.

“Whaaaat? Come on, I was just lettin’ off a little steam!”

“By participating in a turf war?!”

“You won’t let me do drugs! And besides, I ain’t the only one that fucked up today.” 

 

Alastor saw the flash of hurt across her face. “I know. I probably ruined everything. Who’d want to come to the hotel after that?” She jumped as Alastor’s hand waved right in front of her. 

“Forget about me already, sweetheart? Your fiasco on the picture show is WHY I came here.” He pinched her cheek and smiled. 

“Yeah, I don’t think you’re her target audience. Call me when dinner is ready.” He left the kitchen and Charlie looked upset with herself. She was startled as he shoved a cookie in her mouth, then patted her head before returning to the jambalaya. 

 

The dinner table was silent. Vaggie glared at Alastor, who simply smiled in return. Charlie glared at Angel, who was absorbed in his phone. And Husk glared at everyone. Nifty had declined to join them for dinner. 

 

“Soooooo. We gonna talk about the elephant in the room?” Angel asked, finally looking away from his phone. “Charlie kickin’ that news bitch’s ass and setting that Tom guy on fire?” 

“I lost my temper.” Charlie focused on her food. 

“THAT’S an understatement.”

“If you hadn’t been literally in the middle of a fucking turf war while she was talking about your rehabilitation, it wouldn’t have gotten so out of hand!” Vaggie snapped. 

“Certainly we can find something better to talk about over dinner! Tell me about your grand plans for the hotel, Charlotte.” Alastor gave her a winning smile. 

Charlie launched into a long winded speech while the moth girl continued to stare him down. He sent his shadow behind her and made it flick her in the head. “Hey!” She glared. Alastor just smirked. 

 

When they finished eating, Charlie smiled brightly. “Let’s all thank Alastor for preparing such a delicious meal for everyone! And I know that with all of your help, tomorrow will be a happy day in hell!” 

“Whatever. I’m going to my room.” Angel left and Vaggie approached Charlie. 

“Do you want to do something tonight? Take your mind off what happened?”

“Thank you, Vaggie, but I’m going to wash these dishes and go to bed.”

“Nifty can wash those for you, dear!” Alastor appeared beside her. “The princess of hell shouldn’t be washing dishes.” 

“I do a lot of things a princess shouldn’t be doing. And I like washing the dishes.” 

“At least allow me to take them to the kitchen for you.” He summoned all the dishes and held the door open for Charlie. She thanked him and headed to the sink. He smiled brightly at Vaggie, who scowled as the door closed.

 

Charlie liked washing dishes, it was kind of relaxing. She turned her mind off and focused on the warm water and the bubbles. She was in her own little world when Alastor popped up beside her. 

“Penny for your thoughts?”

“FUCK!” She dropped the dish she’d been holding and it shattered in the sink. 

“Apologies.” He snapped his fingers and repaired the dish.

“No, it’s alright, I was in my own little world.” 

“I know, I watched you wash the same dish three times. I figured someone oughta wake you up.” He stood beside her and picked up a dish towel and began drying. “You need an ear, sweetheart?”

 

Charlie wasn’t sure she could trust him. She’d JUST met him, she wasn’t about to bare her heart. She decided to just keep it vague. “Sometimes it’s hard knowing even the people I care about don’t believe in me.” 

“Well of course they don’t! Your dream is ridiculous!” He grinned and Charlie glared at him. “Luckily, it doesn’t matter one bit if anyone else believes in it. Do you believe in your dream, Charlie girl?” 

“Of course I do.” 

“Then what’s the problem?” He noticed she was nearly out of dishes and would use the opportunity to dodge the talk. He silently added a few of the clean dishes back into the water with his magic. 

 

“It’s just discouraging. Knowing that no one takes you seriously and is just waiting for you to fail. It makes my dream seem even more distant, because I’m alone.” She’d said the words out loud she did not intend to say. Her eyes were as wide as the plates she was washing and she was frozen in place. Alastor simply plucked the dish she’d been holding and began to dry. 

 

“That’s where you’re wrong, sweetheart. You’re not alone. I intend to stay here beside you whether this place succeeds or fails! Personally I’m hoping for the latter, as it’s MUCH more entertaining.” 

Charlie stared up at him with an expression he couldn’t read. 

“I still don’t know why you’re here.” 

“I told you, doll! Boredom!” 

“And you could entertain yourself in any of the nine circles you pleased. There’s much more entertainment than running a little hotel.” Her ruby eyes were fixed on his. Impressive! Most avoided eye contact with the radio demon. 

 

Perhaps she wasn’t as naive as he thought. He was just going to change tactics and put all his cards on the table. “You want a straight answer? I’m here because of you, Charlie Morningstar. Because I’m somewhat fascinated by you. You are the daughter of the KING of hell, you have to be incredibly powerful. Yet I watched you on the news getting your blonde patootie kicked. You could’ve destroyed that woman with a snap of your fingers. Why didn’t you?” He cocked his head in the way that made people cringe.

 

“Because I didn’t want to.” Charlie shrugged.

“But WHY?”

“I didn’t actually want to hurt her.”

“That still doesn’t answer my question.”

Charlie huffed and looked up at him. He could see a spark in her eyes. 

“Because everyone here has been hurt enough. I won’t contribute to it. I don’t enjoy hurting other people. I want to help them. I was born here, I’ll be here my entire life, and I guess I’ll eventually die here. But these people, MY people are human souls. People that laughed and danced and had families, watched the sunset…They messed up when they were alive. But does that mean their souls should be tormented for all of their afterlife? Who HASN’T fucked up and wished they could change it? And sure, I know some of them wouldn’t change a thing, because they don’t regret the things they did one bit. But there are others, people like Angel, who had a shitty life and did some things he’s not proud of. Why should he suffer for all of eternity? So no, I won’t hurt people. I don’t want to own any souls. I want to give people hope, and that’s something they don’t have here.” 

 

Alastor just stared at her. He wasn’t sure how to respond. Instead, he just patted her head and went back to drying. 

“I’m not a puppy.” She scowled. 

“But look at those big puppy dog eyes of yours!” He grinned. She had now picked up the same dish for the fourth time. He wondered how many times he could get away with it. 

“You don’t have to dry, you know. You and I both could clean this up in an instant.” 

“Yep!” He put the dish back for the fifth time, his grin growing wider. 

“So tell me- ALASTOR!” She finally caught on and glared at him while he cackled. “You think you’re funny, don’t you?” The little demon belle glared up at him, hands on her hips. 

“Oh I’m hilarious, doll! I was curious to see how many times I could get you to wash the same dish. That was number five, by the way.” 

“You’re such an ass.” She rolled her eyes but he saw the hint of a smile on her face. “What I was GOING to say, was to tell me if you needed anything or had any questions. I’ll give you my cell number, it’s-“ she jumped at the loud crackling that came from him. 

 

“I don’t fool with those ridiculous contraptions.” 

“What, a phone? Did you not have a phone when you were alive? Were they not invented yet?”

“I’m not THAT old, dear. I’ve used a telephone. But that THING is a soulless machine that sucks the life out of those that fall victim to them, staring at their little screens for hours and hours, rotting their minds and feeding the INSATIABLE MACHINE!.”

His antlers had grown and his eyes glowed red. 

 

Charlie laughed. She LAUGHED at him. He was so stunned that he immediately shifted back into his regular form. “Why are you laughing?” 

“Because I thought I was the only one around here with a flair for the dramatics!” She giggled. 

“I wasn’t being dramatic!”

“Oh you were DEFINITELY being dramatic. It’s a cellphone, a little rectangle. If I touch you with it, will you burn like a vampire?” She grinned and moved to touch him with the phone when his hand shot out and held her wrist in place. 

“ I don’t like to be touched.” He gave her a grin that he knew was particularly frightening. 

“Why?” She asked with a smile. 

“Because I don’t!” 

“That still doesn’t answer my questiiiion!” She repeated his own words back to him. 

A genuine grin took over his face then. It had been a long time since he’d had witty banter with anyone. Most were either too scared to be around him (good) or too stupid to hold his attention. 

“Touché, Charlotte.” 

 

“You wanna let me go now?” 

He realized with a shock that he was still holding her wrist. He dropped it like it burnt him and stepped back. “Apologies. I think I’ll retire for the night. See you in the morning!” And then he was gone. He appeared in his room and sat on the edge of his bed. Perhaps this would be more challenging than he thought. He’d assumed she was a little blonde airhead like everyone else. But he should know better than to underestimate the devil’s daughter. 

 

Charlie sat at her vanity table and brushed out her ridiculous amount of hair. It was always such a chore, but she didn’t mind. What an awful day. She hoped she’d made the right choice in partnering with the radio demon. He didn’t seem to be anything like he’d been described. In the kitchen he’d been almost playful. It was weird. She sighed and checked her phone, on the off chance she’d missed a call from her mother. 

 

She hadn’t.

 

She always felt a little better when she sang, so as she brushed her hair she sang one of her favorite songs.  She didn’t want to disturb the other residents, so she sang softly to herself. 

 

“ The sun'll come out

Tomorrow

Bet your bottom dollar

That tomorrow there'll be sun

Just thinkin' about

Tomorrow

Clears away the cobwebs

And the sorrow 'til there's none!”

 

Alastor’s ears twitched. What was that? Was someone singing? He opened his door and the song was louder. 

 

“When I'm stuck with a day

That's gray and lonely

I just stick out my chin

And grin and say, oh

The sun'll come out

Tomorrow

So ya gotta hang on

'Til tomorrow come what may.”

 

For such cheerful lyrics, it was a hauntingly beautiful song when she sang it. The princess was quite talented indeed. He stood in his doorway and kept listening. His curiosity was killing him, so he sent his shadow to see what she was up to. He pictured her standing in the middle of the room singing with a smile on her face. He was shocked with what he was actually met with. 

 

The princess was in a black silky nightgown and was sitting at a lighted table. She was brushing her ridiculous amount of hair and singing. He was about to call his shadow back until he noticed something else. 

 

She had tears running freely down her cheeks as she sang. 

“ Tomorrow, tomorrow

I love ya tomorrow

You're always, a day away

The sun'll come out

Tomorrow

So ya gotta hang on

'Til tomorrow come what may

Tomorrow, tomorrow

I love ya tomorrow 

You’re always a day away!” 

 

Charlie looked at herself in the mirror and sniffed. She looked pathetic. Her eyes widened as she swore she saw something move behind her in the mirror, but when she looked again she didn’t see anything. She figured she was just tired. It had been a long day. 

 

Well that was just downright depressing! Charlie was known for her obnoxiously happy persona, always a ball of energy and sunshine. That was a stark difference from the Charlie he’d just seen. 

 

But he felt like he saw the real one.

Chapter 3: Dinner Date

Summary:

Charlie and Alastor spend some time together, and Charlie’s dinner companion causes a stir…

Alastor didn’t sleep much, so he was up with the sun. He dressed for the day and headed to the kitchen to put on some coffee. He saw the light on under the door as he approached. Of COURSE she’d be up already. Some sort of obnoxious song was playing and she was singing along. 

 

“ The best thing about beeein a woman

Is the prerogative to have a little fun!

WOAH OH OH!”  

He silently appeared in the kitchen, not wanting to risk her seeing the door open. He leaned against the breakfast bar, resting his chin on his hands and smiling. She was preparing a bowl of something and had no idea he was there.

“ Man! I feel like a wo- “ she turned around and shrieked. “FUCK! You’ve gotta wear a bell or something!” 

 

“But then I wouldn’t get the joy of seeing that expression!” He grinned. 

“Jeez, thanks for the heart attack, Al. How’d you sleep?”

“Wonderfully! I got a full two hours.” 

“Somehow that doesn’t surprise me.” She sat her bowl down and sat across from him. 

“Charlie, dear. WHAT are you eating?” 

“Um, cereal? They’re hell-o’s.”

“They’re garbage.” He snapped his finger and made her bowl disappear.

“HEY!” 

“I cannot sit idly by while you ingest that sugary sludge. I’m going to fix you a proper breakfast.” 

“I LIKE that sugary sludge.” Charlie grumbled as she poured a large cup of coffee. He watched in horror as she added more and more scoops of sugar. Her eyes flicked up towards him. “Don’t you DARE take my coffee.” 

“Fine, I’ll just watch you ruin perfectly good coffee.” He grimaced when she added creamer. “Charlotte, you’re killing me.” 

“So get your own cup of coffee and don’t judge mine.” She smirked and sipped it. She closed her eyes and let out a contented sigh. 

 

He took the time to really examine the princess of hell. Her massive amount of hair was piled on top of her head and resembled a bird’s nest. She seemed to be bright eyed and bushy tailed with no trace of the downtrodden girl he’d glimpsed last night. She seemed to be wearing an oversized shirt with no pants, a fact she either wasn’t aware of or didn’t care about. The shirt went down to her thighs. His eyes widened when she turned around and reached for something off the top shelf and he saw a glimpse of bright pink underwear. She turned back around and saw his shell shocked expression. “What?” 

“I don’t know about you, but i was raised to wear pants to the table.” He smirked. 

 

“Oh!” Her cheeks flushed even brighter. “Oh god, I’m sorry. I’m always here by myself. Angel and Vaggie won’t be up for hours. I didn’t even think about…” she blushed and sipped her coffee. 

“Quite alright, dear. I thought perhaps you had a rather strange policy and I’d be forced to abandon mine as well.” 

Charlie choked on her coffee and laughed. “No! Oh god, I’m sorry. This is mortifying. I’m not making a very good impression.” 

“No, but you’re making an interesting one.” He smiled. “What ARE you doing up at this hour?” 

“I’ve always been an early riser. This is just a part of my routine. I come down here and have a quick breakfast and go over my plans for the day.” She gestured towards a bulky planner beside her. 

 

Alastor grimaced. “What is that thing? You’ve stuffed it to the gills!” 

“Oh! That book basically contains my life. It’s my planner, diary, scrapbook…proooobably shouldn’t have told you all that.” 

“Don’t worry, darling, I have no desire to read your innermost thoughts. I imagine it to be quite frightening.” He rolled up his sleeves and began getting ingredients out of the fridge. “How do you take your eggs?” 

She blinked at him in confusion. “Um…cooked?” 

“I mean scrambled, sunny side up, fried…” 

“Oh! Um…I don’t really know.” 

 

Alastor banged his head against the refrigerator. “You dear, sweet child. I don’t know whether to pity you or throttle you.”

“Excuse me?!”

“How do you not even know how to cook an egg?!” 

“Because I never had to! I grew up in a freaking palace! And that’s where I lived until I bought this place and moved in a couple years ago. No one ever taught me anything because they just assumed I’d have it brought to me on a silver platter. Do you know how embarrassing it was to not even know how to wash clothing?! So forgive me for not knowing how to cook a fucking egg!” 

 

Alastor grinned widely at her. The little demon Belle’s horns had begun to sprout and her eyes glowed red. “Oh my! I’m tempted to continue riling you up to see what happens.” 

Charlotte’s eyes widened and she immediately shifted back. “I’m sorry, I have to go.” She grabbed her book and bolted for the door. He managed to get to it with his shadow before her and keep her from leaving. “Alastor, let me go.”

“Forgive me, Charlotte. We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot this morning. I didn’t intend to upset you. Can we start fresh and have a civilized breakfast?” 

 

Charlie’s arms were crossed and her face was scrunched up in the most adorable way. “Are you going to stop being a dick?” 

“I make no promises.” He grinned. 

“Fine. But only because you stole my breakfast and I’m hungry.” She sat back down at the counter and huffed. 

“If you’re good, I’ll make you a special treat I just know you’ll love!” 

“Can we stop with the condescension? I’m not a child. I’m MUCH older than you. I’m not a silly little girl or a puppy to pat on the head. Got it?!” 

A red swirl of magic had surrounded him, coiling like a snake. He grinned widely at Charlie. “Didn’t think you’d be into tying people up, doll!” 

She rolled her eyes and waved her hand, vanishing the magic. “God, you sound like angel dust.” 

“Only teasing, sugar. It was an impressive little display.” 

 

He turned his attention to cooking, which Charlie was grateful for. GOD could he be obnoxious! She had not had enough coffee to deal with him this morning. She downed her cup and turned to grab the pot. When she turned back around to refill her cup, it was already sitting there waiting for her. She blinked at it and glanced at Alastor, who was still working away at the stove. She smiled and sipped her coffee. It was exactly how she took it. A peace offering. 

 

Charlie was completely absorbed in her planner when a plate was set down in front of her. She jumped and looked up in surprise, having completely forgotten that Alastor was there. “Oh! Thank you.” 

“What’s on your busy schedule today?” He sipped his coffee and smiled. 

“Weeeeell I was hoping you’d have some time this morning to go over some of the business stuff with me, as well as plans for the hotel. After that I’ve blocked off a few hours to finish cleaning out the attic, and then I have a dinner meeting with a potential investor!” 

“Oh? And who would that be?” 

“His name is Vox, the demon with the tv head?” 

 

Alastor’s head snapped up and loud crackling and static filled the room. “ No.” 

“No what?”

“We do not need to associate with that grandstanding buffoon!”

Charlie raised her eyebrows. “Sounds like someone has some beef with Vox.”

“He’s an arrogant narcissistic asshole who is only interested in boosting his reputation and fortune.” 

“Sure, sure, you don’t seem personally invested at all. Well, you don’t have to join us for dinner.” 

“Absolutely not, Charlotte. We cannot trust that overlord!” 

“Do you REALLY wanna lecture me about trusting overlords, Alastor? Because your reputation is far worse than his.” 

“Surely you could find someone else to be an investor! Let me use my connections and set up a meeting.” 

 

Charlie sighed. “Alastor, we can’t afford to make an enemy of the Vee’s. I’m not going to agree to anything, sign any contracts, or make any deals. We are simply having dinner to discuss the hotel.” 

Alastor was silent. “I suppose I can’t stop you from going. But I think this is a bad idea.” 

 

What could Vox possibly want to do with the hotel? What would he gain from investing? What would he be getting out of this? He got his answer when Charlie came down the stairs that evening. She was talking to Angel as she fastened her earring. “I should be back in a couple of hours. Are you sure I’m dressed alright?” 

“Are you kidding?! You look smokin’ baby!”

“Thank you, but that’s not what I meant. I want to look professional and classy. Of course he picked a fancy restaurant.” 

“Let’s get strawberry’s opinion. Well? Is she a classy looking lady or what?”

 

Charlie was dressed in a deep blue cocktail dress that hit just above the knee, with sapphire earrings and tall heels. Her makeup was soft and her hair was curled neatly. 

“You look lovely, doll. Do you require an escort to your destination?” 

“No, thanks though! He’s sending a car.” 

“Remember, Toots. Confidence. So put on a smile, push up your tits, and win him over. Seriously, do those go any higher? Maybe you got a wonder bra or somethin’?” 

“Angel!” Charlie hissed. 

“C’mere, let me help.” He yanked her into the tiny office behind the counter. 

“ANGEL!” Charlie shouted. 

“It looks better!” 

Charlie came rushing out of the back, cheeks burning brightly. Angel just looked smug. 

“I’m tellin’ ya, Charlie. You’ve got a hot body. Use it! What good is it to look like that and not use it to your advantage? Take it from me, my tits have gotten me plenty of advantages. Actually, this is just chest fluff, but if I make it look like tits, I’ve got idiots drooling all over me.” 

“Charlotte does not need to use her body to succeed!” Alastor’s voice crackled. 

“Calm down, grandpa, I ain’t tellin’ her to sleep with him! Though it would help…” they both jumped as the static increased. “Jeez you’re uptight! I was kidding. Cool your jets. I’m just saying, I know Charlie can give a fantastic pitch, it just doesn’t hurt to put it in pretty packaging. Your car’s here, toots. Where ya havin’ dinner?”

 

“Chez Mal. Oh boy. Wish me luck!” Charlie walked out the front door of the hotel. 

“What’s the problem, strawberry? Feelin’ jealous?” Angel batted his eyes at him. “Because if you’re lookin’ for some company-“ Angel was stopped in his tracks by a shadow wrapping around him.

“Let’s get one thing straight, my effeminate fellow. Charlie may put up with your crass behavior, but I will not. You will speak to me with respect and I shall extend the same courtesy to you. Do you understand?” 

“Ooh, harder, deer daddy!” Angel grinned. 

“What's going on here?!” Vaggie said as she entered the hotel. 

“Just having a conversation, doll.” Alastor smiled. 

“Let. Him. Go.” 

“Calm down, Vagatha.” He released Angel. 

“That’s not my name. Where’s Charlie? I’ve been out all day passing out flyers for the hotel and doing the weekly shopping.” 

“She left for her meeting.” Angel replied, examining his nails and looking bored. 

“What meeting?” 

“The dinner meeting with Vox.” 

“WHAT?!” 

 

Angel blinked in surprise. “She didn’t tell you?”

“No she didn’t fucking tell me! Because she knows I wouldn’t have let her go!”

“Sorry toots, but you don’t own her and you can’t control her. No matter how much you want to.” Angel smirked. 

“And you! You know Vox is an asshole! You let her go?!” She snarled at Alastor. 

“To echo the spider, I don’t own her. I can’t control her. I did try to talk her out of it.” 

“Fuck! I don’t trust any of the Vee’s.” 

 

Alastor had an idea. “I coooould send my shadow to keep an eye on her. For a price.”

“I’m not selling you my fucking soul.”

“And I’m not interested in possessing it.”

“Forget it. I’m not making any deals with you. I’ll just go find her myself.”

“And do what, exactly? Drag her out of there? Scold her like a child?” 

“Fuck you! I can’t believe you two.” She headed upstairs and began calling Charlie. 

 

“Ignore her. She’s just bitter cuz she can’t get Charlie on her team.” Angel snorted. 

“I’m afraid I don’t follow?” 

“Vaggie is a taco eater. Charlie, while eating the occasional taco, prefers the sausage.” 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“She’s a lesbian! And Charlie ain’t!” Husk raised his head from the bar where he’d been passed out. 

“Oooooh. I see. Now I understand her behavior.” This was an interesting bit of information to have. “And does Charlotte know?”

 

Angel laughed loudly. “Charlie wouldn’t know someone was hittin’ on her if her life depended on it. She just thinks everyone wants to be her friend.”

Oh dear. That could be a problem. Because someone like Vox would absolutely use that to his advantage. Angel finished his drink, and when he turned around, Alastor was gone. 

“Charlotte! You look breathtaking this evening.” Vox helped her out of the car and kissed her cheek. 

“Thank you! I wasn’t sure what to wear, I don’t go to places like this a lot.”

“That, my dear, is a shame. A woman like you should be spoiled! Come, we’ve got a reservation for the finest table in the place.” He offered his elbow and Charlie took it, feeling a bit self conscious. He led her inside and pulled out her chair for her. She thanked him and tried to remember the pitch she’d prepared. 

 

A waiter appeared and poured them each a glass of wine. Charlie looked around and felt confused. It seemed to be an awfully romantic place for a meeting.

“Something on your mind, darling?” He smiled at her.

“I was just admiring the view. It’s lovely, you can see the whole city from here.” She smiled as she looked out the large picture window.

“Yes, the view IS stunning. I could stare at it all day.” Vox was smiling at her and laying on the charm. 

 

My god, Charlie WAS oblivious. Alastor slapped his palm against his face. He’d gone to the restaurant in case he needed to make a quick rescue, but for now he was outside and letting his shadow do the spy work. 

 

“I bet you can see the hotel from here!” Charlie grinned. Vox’s face (screen?) fell as he realized his flirting had gone right over her head. “I’m super excited to tell you about everything we have to offer! I even brought a binder you can take with you full of information about the project.” She snapped her fingers and a hot pink binder appeared.

 

Alastor laughed hysterically upon seeing Vox’s expression, making the other demons on the street scatter. Clearly he’d thought they’d put business aside and it would be a romantic evening. He’d underestimated Charlie.

 

They all did. 

 

45 minutes later, Charlie reached the end of her presentation and smiled widely. “Well?” 

“That was…thorough.” He smiled.

“You can take the binder with you to show the other Vees. I highlighted the important parts!” She shoved the binder at him.

He flipped it open and frowned. “It’s all highlighted.”

“Yep!” 

He shut the binder and gave her a tight smile. “Thank you for this. I’ll have to give it some thought.”

“That’s all I’m asking for!”

“Perhaps we can put business aside for the evening?”

“Oh, of course! I’m sorry, once I get turned on it’s hard to turn me back off!” She giggled. Vox choked on his wine. Alastor laughed hysterically. 

“Are you alright?!” 

“Yes, sorry about that.” He gave her a charming smile. “I have to say, Charlotte, that I find you quite enchanting.” 

“Oh you can just call me Charlie!” She smiled. 

“Charlie…you have a beautiful smile.”

“Aw, thank you! I think the fangs take away from it.” She giggled. 

“Not at all. You’re a vision, Charlie.”

“You’re so sweet!” 

“And it’s not just your looks, though they are stunning. It’s your personality, your drive. Your…passion.” He reached across the table and took Charlie’s hand.

 

Surely to GOD Charlie would pick up on it now. No one could be that oblivious.

 

He was wrong.

 

Charlie smiled brightly and put her hand on top of his. “It means so much to hear you say that. I’ve felt pretty discouraged lately. A lot of people hate my guts. Sometimes it builds up and takes a toll on me.” 

“How could anyone hate an angel like you?” He leaned closer. 

“Oh believe me, plenty of people do. Either because of my personality or my dad.” 

“They’d be a fool not to see how wonderful you are.” 

 

Ugh. Alastor hated Vox even more now. 

 

“You’re sweet. Thank you for tonight, this was great! I needed to get out. I live and work at the hotel so there’s days I never leave it.” 

“Well then, I suppose we’ll have to do this again.”

The bill came and Charlie reached for it, but Vox handed over his card. “I’m happy to have made you smile this evening.”

“Fine, but the next one is on me!” 

 

They headed outside and Alastor was right behind them. “Could I interest you in a nightcap?” Vox asked, his hand on her lower back. Alastor quietly steamed.  

“Oh, thank you, but I should really get back to the hotel.”

“Surely they can manage without you for a bit longer.”

“It’s just, we have some new residents, and I feel bad for taking off on them.” 

“Your devotion to your guests is wonderful, Charlotte. But is anyone devoted to you?” 

“I mean, I know I can count on my best friend Vaggie. We’ve been through soooo much together.” 

“But does anyone hold your heart?” Vox stepped closer, placing a hand on her waist. 

 

“Whaaaat’s happening?” Charlie asked, completely confused. 

“Someone should be devoted to you, Charlotte. Worship and adore you.” He brushed a finger across her cheek. Charlie was frozen in place with wide eyes. 

“I’m not…really the worshiping type…” she really wasn’t sure how to respond.

“Men should be falling at your feet just to earn one of your smiles.”

“That’s kind of dramatic.” She whispered it since he was moving closer. Uh, what the FUCK?

“Charlotte…” he cupped her cheek and leaned forward. Charlie was in full panic mode. 

 

“THERE you are, doll! I’ve been looking all over for you!” Alastor’s voice made them both jump. 

“What the fuck are you doing here?! Stay back, Charlie.” He stood in front of her. 

“Weeeell! Aren’t you noble! But that’s unnecessary. Charlie and I are partners.” He grinned.

“Partners?!” Vox looked stunned. 

“Right…I mentioned that I just took on a new business partner…” Charlie was anxious. This could be very, VERY bad. 

“You’re working with the RADIO demon?!” Blue lights flickered across his screen. 

“Sooort oooof?”

“Sort of? Why, we signed the papers this morning, didn’t we, doll?” Alastor slung an arm around her.

“Charlie, you shouldn’t be working with him. You have no idea what he’s capable of.” 

“I’d be HAPPY to demonstrate!” Alastor grinned. 

“NO!” Charlie stood in front of him. “Al, we talked about this.”

“AL?” Vox gaped at the pair. 

Charlie turned around with a bright forced smile. “Thank you for a LOVELY evening-“ she shoved Alastor’s hand off her shoulder. “And I’d love to continue this conversation another TIME-“ she removed his other hand. “And I hope that my association with ALASTOR-“ another smack. “Won’t influence how you feel about me or the hotel.” She closed her eyes and gritted her teeth as Alastor placed both hands back on her shoulders. 

 

“Of course, Charlie. Let’s talk about this again. ALONE.” 

“Thank you, Vox.” She removed herself from Alastor. She leaned forward and kissed Vox’s cheek (or where a cheek would be) causing his screen to flicker. “Goodn-“ was all she got out before Alastor grabbed her hand and took her back to the hotel. 

•  

“WHAT THE FUCK, ALASTOR?!” Charlie screamed at him, her horns growing and her eyes blazing red as they stood before the hotel.

“It was a rescue, doll! I could tell you didn’t want that waste of electricity to kiss you!”

“What were you even DOING there?!” 

“Keeping an eye on things.” 

“Alastor, we have to have boundaries! That was not ok!” 

“So I should’ve let him force himself on you?”

“He wasn’t going to force himself on me!” Their shouting had drawn the others out of the hotel. 

“Really? Would you have stopped him on your own? You looked like a deer in the headlights!”

“I WOULD HAVE HANDLED IT!” 

 

“CHARLIE! What the hell were you thinking?!” Vaggie stomped over. 

“I cannot deal with both of you right now, Vaggie.” 

“But-“

“PLEASE.” Charlie pleaded. Vaggie nodded and retreated. “Alastor, you’ve potentially ruined a HUGE opportunity! And over what?! And I swear to GOD if you say entertainment, I will kick your ass so hard that you’ll have to search all nine circles TO FIND IT!” 

 

Alastor was stunned. And pleasantly surprised. But he was the one in control here. He stepped closer to her and looked down on her with a smile. “The only opportunity I ruined, sweetheart, was the opportunity for him to get in your pants. He had no interest in your hotel. He wanted to fuck you. And if you cannot see that, you are even more gullible and naive than I thought.” 

 

“Ooooooh shit.” Angel whispered, watching the pair with wide eyes. This was either gonna get really good or really bad.

 

Alastor prided himself on always having the upper hand. He was always in control, and always prepared for anything. But what he wasn’t prepared for was Charlotte’s fist slamming into his face, knocking him to the ground.

 

“YOU DON’T THINK I KNOW THAT?!” She sobbed. “That’s how it ALWAYS is, Alastor! No one will ever take me seriously because of the way I look! You and everyone else believe that I’m a naive little girl, but guess what? I’ve been around longer than all your lifetimes combined. This is nothing new to me. There will ALWAYS be people who just want to use me, but it is up to ME to handle it! You have NO IDEA about ANY of the shit I have dealt with!  And I’m still here. So I don’t need a fucking knight in shining armor. I don’t need a guard dog. And I don’t need you.” Charlie turned and pushed past the other residents and went inside. 

 

There was tense silence. “We’re all gonna fucking die, aren’t we?” Angel finally said. 

 

Alastor was still on the ground, a large grin on his face. He was absolutely stunned. He was enraged. He was…

Aroused?

 

He teleported back into his room. He touched his cheek where Charlie had punched him and smiled wider, causing an ache in his jaw. For the first time in DECADES, someone was able to touch him. To keep him on his toes. To potentially kill him. 

 

FANTASTIC!

 

That was the first time he’d truly felt ALIVE in years. And if he wanted to keep this feeling, he needed to fix this. He knew exactly how. 

Charlie was furious. How DARE he show up and act like a jackass?! She would’ve handled it. She would’ve politely told Vox she was only interested in a business partnership. It would’ve been awkward, sure, but at least diplomatic. The Vees would never consider working with them now. 

 

The part she was the most upset about was that she had been a bit naive. She’d truly hoped it was a business meeting. But as soon as she saw the romantic setting and the way his eyes were glued to her, she knew it wasn’t. She’d hoped by being seemingly oblivious that he’d take the hint. He took that as being too subtle. 

 

What a terrible problem to have, right? Being TOO pretty? Well it fucking sucked. It had been this way her whole life. She remembered the first time she’d been told she was just a pretty face. She was still a child. 

 

“Charlotte? Come here a moment.” Her mother had called her. Charlie was about ten at the time, and reaching puberty for demons. Her body was already beginning to change. 

“Yes, mommy?” 

“Come here and sit beside me.” Her mother patted the spot on the bench next to her in front of the lighted vanity mirror. Her mother smiled at her in the mirror. “Tell me what you see.”

“Um…us?”

“Yes, of course. But do you know what else you’re looking at?”

“What?”

Lilith held her face between her hands. “Your most powerful weapon.” 

“I don’t understand?”

“We have a gift, Charlie. We have the gift of beauty. And men are such fools for beauty. They’ll wage wars and bow before you just for a scrap of your attention. This is a very powerful tool, Charlotte. With a pretty face, you can get whatever you want.”

“I still don’t get it.”

Lilith sighed. “Men will desire you, Charlotte. And if they think they have a chance to bed you, they’ll do anything you ask. You just have to give them a smile and a little bit of hope that you might pity them enough to sleep with them.” 

 

The next “lesson” she had was in high school. She sucked at math and needed help. She’d gone to her teacher and asked for assistance. He said he’d offer it, for a price. She saw the lust in his eyes. The way his gaze flickered across her chest. She thought of what her mother had said. She could probably just ask for a passing grade.

 

But that’s not who she was. 

 

Her high school was scrambling to find a replacement after their math teacher suddenly left with no warning or explanation. How odd!

 

She could think of hundreds of times she’d experienced things like that. And she thought about her first love, the one she’d given her virginity to. 

 

Seviathan.

 

She’d loved him so much. He made a lot of empty promises and always said the right things to string her along until he got what he wanted. Then he was gone. He told her that there really wasn’t anything between them. She was just a pretty face and a nice piece of ass.

 

Charlie sat in front of that same vanity she’d sat at with her mother and cried. She’d changed into her pajamas, intending to go to bed, but if she didn’t brush out her hair, birds would be nesting in it by morning. 

 

There was a quiet knock on her door. “Go away, Vaggie.”

“It’s not Vaggie, dear.” She heard Alastor reply. 

“Oh. Fuck off, Alastor.” 

“I’d like to apologize.” 

“I repeat, fuck off, Alastor.” It was quiet and she thought he’d given up. She should’ve known better than that. He appeared behind her in the mirror and she wheeled on him. “Jesus fucking CHRIST, Alastor! Do you have ANY boundaries?!”

“Not typically, no.” He smiled.

“I will ask you politely one time to get out of my room. After that, I will not be polite. Do you understand me?”

“I brought a peace offering.” He held up a plate of something.

“I don’t want your peace offering. I want you to leave.” She returned to her seat and began brushing her hair again. 

“It’s a sugary baked good…”

“Leave.” 

“Charlotte, please.” 

“Alastor, I am NOT in the mood to deal with you right now.” She put her face in her hands and groaned. She froze when she felt her hair being brushed. She looked up at him in the mirror and for once he wasn’t smiling. “Uuuuuh what the fuck are you doing?” 

“Attempting to undo the tangled mess on the back of your head. I don’t know how you deal with so much hair.” 

 

The radio demon was brushing her hair. BRUSHING HER HAIR. This was super weird. “Alastor…you know it’s weird to just start brushing somebody’s hair, right?” 

“Mhm.” He replied while continuing to work. “You may find this hard to believe, but I don’t typically interact with people. I work alone, and I have no need for companions. That’s the way I’ve always been, even when I was alive. So I realize now that, in my efforts to be helpful, I have overstepped and pushed your boundaries.” 

She stared at him in the mirror in thought. “Sorry, I don’t buy it. You were intentionally riling Vox up, admit it.” 

“Sharp as a tack, my dear. I was a fool to underestimate you.” 

“Why? And don’t you dare say entertainment.” 

 

Alastor sighed. “We have a personal history. He was once very cruel to someone I cared for very much, and that’s all I’ll say on the matter.” 

“Fair enough.” She watched the surprisingly gentle radio demon in the mirror. “Honesty works best with me, Al. And if we’re going to work together, I need you to be honest with me. I’m not asking you to tell me your secrets or bare your soul. I’m just asking you to communicate. You could’ve said ‘hey, I have a very personal problem with this guy. I’d rather not work with him.” 

 

Alastor’s eyes flickered to hers. “You have no idea how difficult that is for me to do. How difficult THIS is.” He gestured between them. “I don’t DO this.”

“Brushing people’s hair? I’d hope not.” She smiled. 

“Talk about personal things. It’s not my style, doll.” 

Charlie was thoughtful for a moment. “You can, you know. You don’t have to be the radio demon all the time. Sometimes I get tired of being cheerful Charlie. It’s a lot of pressure wearing a mask all the time. Sometimes you need to be able to drop that mask and rest. So even though I’m still mad at you…you can always talk to me.” 

 

Alastor froze mid stroke with the brush. He was silent for several moments. “Thank you, Charlotte.” 

“I think my hair is fine now, Al. Thank you.” She stood and smiled, taking the brush from him. He was still frozen in place. “Uuuuh Al? This is creepier than you smiling all the time.” 

He seemed to wake up and put his bright smile back on. “Sorry, sweetheart, lost my head for a minute. I brought you a peace offering, I think you’ll be very pleased with it.” He picked up the dish he’d brought and removed the cover. “They’re beignets. Sort of like a French donut covered in powdered sugar.” 

 

Charlie’s eyes lit up. “Oooooh!” She picked up a beignet and bit it. She closed her eyes and made an absolutely SINFUL noise. “Alright, I accept.” She smiled. 

“Good. I’ll get out of your hair now.” 

“Not so fast. I’d like to make a deal.”

He turned around quickly. “What?” 

“Make a deal with me. No more coming into my room unannounced and uninvited. In return, I will not punch you in the face again, because I still feel really bad about that even though you totally deserved it.” She smiled. 

“Hmmm. No dice, doll. I might need a good punch every now and then and you’re the only one that can throw it.”

“Alright. What do YOU want?” 

Alastor drummed his fingers on his chin in thought. What could he ask for? He smiled as it came to him. “One hour of your time each week. An uninterrupted hour of your company.” 

Charlie looked surprised. “Really? Why?” 

Time to try the honesty thing again. “Because clearly I need to work on my people skills and spending time with a blonde chatterbox should be helpful.” 

“Does it matter what day or time? And do I get to choose or do you just snap your fingers?”

“I know which one I’D prefer, but I’ll let you choose.” 

 

Charlie gave him a small smile. “You will stop popping up in my room unannounced and uninvited like a jack in the box. I will give you one hour of my time each week, which will be mutually decided on by both parties.” 

“Do we have a deal?” His grin grew as his palm glowed green. 

Charlie took it with a smile. “Deal. Now can I get some sleep?”

“Of course. Goodnight, Charlotte.” 

“Goodnight, Alastor.” She shut the door in his face once again.

 

He was beginning to like that. 

 

He turned around and saw the little moth girl gaping at him. “Goodnight, Vagatha!” 

“What were you doing in Charlie’s room?”

“That, my dear, is between me and Charlie. I’d suggest you leave her be for now, she was going to bed.” He hummed as he walked down the hall to his room, leaving Vaggie in stunned silence. 

 

Once he got to his room and shut the door tightly behind him, he fell apart. What the fuck was THAT?! What was wrong with him?! He didn’t TALK to people, and he CERTAINLY didn’t brush their hair. Even he knew that had been weird. But he was overwhelmed with the desire to touch it, and it might buy him an opportunity to talk. It did, mostly because she was too confused to be mad at him. He was mesmerized by the golden waterfall that was her hair. He enjoyed the silky feeling between his fingertips. 

 

And then he just COULDN’T SHUT UP. He told her way more than he meant to. He’d intended to go there and say something along the lines of “sorry I ruined your date but Vox is a jackass so I made the executive decision to end it!” Not ramble about not knowing how to interact with people.

 

It was true though. Even as a child, he didn’t know how to play with the other kids. He didn’t know how to engage with them. And that never improved. And then in his afterlife, he was a feared overlord so it’s not like anyone was lining up for a chat (he would’ve killed them if they did)

 

He enjoyed the look of fear in their eyes. He loved making them scatter just by showing up. It made him feel untouchable.

 

Until tonight. 

 

Yes, that must’ve been the problem. She’d socked him in the jaw so hard she’d knocked a screw loose, and that’s why he acted like an idiot. Now it made sense!

Chapter 4: Fondness

Summary:

What is this feeling? Alastor is in unfamiliar territory. Does he have...a friend? And we find out that Vox and Charlie have a history...

“THAT FUCKER’S BACK!” Vox slammed the doors open to the large apartment he shared with the other Vees.

“Which fucker would this be?” Valentino asked without looking up from his phone.

“Who else?! The radio demon!” 

“What? That grandpa’s back in town?!” Velvette’s jaw dropped. 

“That’s not all. He’s teamed up with Charlie.” 

Velvette and Valentino blinked at him. “Who?”

“Morningstar! Charlie Morningstar!” He was still met with blank stares. “LUCIFER’S DAUGHTER.” 

“Oh, FUCK!” Velvette dropped her phone. “How’d you find this out?” 

“Because he crashed our fucking date!” 

 

His partners stared at him, and that’s when Vox remembered he’d withheld that little bit of information. “Yes, I went on a fucking date with her, ok?! Kind of.”

“Kind of?” Velvette asked. 

“She thought it was a business meeting, even gave me a binder and a 45 minute presentation about her little hotel. But at the end of the date-“

“Meeting.” Valentino smirked. 

“-she was totally into me. Things were progressing, I was making my move, and that red motherfucker shows up OUT OF NOWHERE and interrupts us. Charlie looked mortified, and then he’s got his grimy little claws all over her-“

“Is she fucking the radio demon?” Velvette asked. 

“WOULD YOU LET ME FINISH?!” Vox’s screen flickered. 

“Calm down before you fry your circuits again.”

“Sorry, he just pisses me off. Anyway, he’s got his claws all over her, and suddenly she’s calling him AL-“

“She’s totally fucking him.” Valentino smirked.

“NO! No, she’s not. She seemed upset that he was there. Anyway, turns out they’re business partners and running the hotel together. And then he just up and vanishes with her! FUCK!” 

 

Velvette and Valentino exchanged glances. “I don’t get it.” Velvette finally said. 

“Don’t get what?”

“Why you’re acting like a whiny little bitch right now over some girl!” 

“She is NOT some girl.” He huffed and straightened his jacket. “It’s a long story.”

“Then give us the short one.” Valentino rolled his eyes. 

“I fucked up the chance I had to go out with her a long time ago. And I’m not going to fuck it up again.” 

“But WHY? What the fuck is so special about her?!” 

“You wouldn’t understand! It doesn’t matter, my FRIENDS should be supportive of me!” 

“We are, when you’re not acting fucking insane!” Velvette walked over to him and grabbed his shoulders.  “We’re in the middle of a fucking turf war. We’ve got bigger things to focus on than your FEELINGS about some girl! Who, by the way, won’t want SHIT to do with you when she finds out about all your dirty little secrets. So I suggest you GET YOUR SHIT TOGETHER, put on your big boy pants, and get the fuck over it!” Velvette stomped off. 

 

“She has a point. She’s too good for you. And I don’t mean she’s out of your league, you’re leagues above her in my opinion. I mean she’s too kind hearted.” 

“You don’t get it. That’s what I like about her.” Vox sat down and looked defeated. “She’s not like anyone I’ve ever met. She’s good. ” 

Valentino sighed and sat by his friend. “Personally, I think she seems like a pain in the ass. And where do you think this is gonna go? You’re gonna date the holier-than-thou princess who wants to rehabilitate sinners? And she’ll just be ok with how we run things? No. She won’t. She’ll get in the fucking way. I gotta ask- why did she think it was a business meeting?” 

“Because…I mentioned that the Vees were interested in investing in the hotel.” Vox grimaced. 

“Are you fucking kidding me? We’re not investing in that shit hole!”

“You don’t have to! I will!”

“Uh-uh. You’re not attaching the Vees to this. We have a reputation. And doing charity work for the little do gooder doesn’t fit our image. So if YOU want to give her YOUR money, fine. But you’re not attaching us to this.” Valentino groaned. “Can’t you just fuck one of the blonde whores from the club? Or any of them and we can put a wig on them?” 

“It’s more than that. You wouldn’t understand.”

“I really don’t. Things are so much easier when you leave feelings out of them.” He left Vox alone with his thoughts, and they drifted to the first time he’d met Charlie.

 

-a long time ago-

Well this sucked. Why did all the other demons get things like animal heads? He had a FUCKING TV SCREEN. He could hear the others snickering at him and making fun of him. He wondered how long he was obligated to stay at the party. 

“Hi there!” A cheerful voice said from behind him. He turned around and saw an angel smiling at him. She had to be an angel, with her golden hair and bright white skin. She was gorgeous.

“Hi.” He gave her what he hoped was a charming smile. 

“Welcome to hell! It’s probably not what you expected, right?” She giggled. “I’m Charlie! Nice to meet you!” She stuck her hand out and he shook it. 

“Victor. Victor Octavious Xavier.”

“Wow, that’s certainly a mouthful! I should tell you, if you do want to change your name, this is your last chance. Not that there’s anything wrong with your name! A lot of people just want to choose something else.” 

“Is that what you did?”

“Me? Oh, no! I was born here.” She gave him a nervous smile. “I’m…Lucifer’s daughter. Charlotte Morningstar, princess of hell. I don’t really like to lead with that. It tends to make people nervous.” 

 

He let out a nervous peal of laughter. “You’re joking, right?” 

“Nope. And I know what you’re thinking, isn’t Lucifer the big ugly red guy? But everyone forgets, dad is a fallen angel. Anyway, I have to give the orientation speech, but I hope to talk to you more later! Enjoy the party.” She smiled and walked to the stage. 

 

“Welcome to Hell! I know you probably have a lot of mixed feelings right now. Maybe you don’t know why you’re here. Ooor maybe you know exactly why you’re here. Anyway, it can be scary to start over, which is why I host this welcoming event! I’m here to help you get your feet on the ground. To your left, you’ll find pamphlets of information about hell, as well as information about the overlords and districts, and some of the opportunities available to you. To your right, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions! Also, counseling is available to you! Maybe you need to talk it out or just need a hug, but I’m here for you.”

 

“HOW BOUT A BLOW JOB, BABY?” A voice in the back shouted. Charlie let out a nervous laugh.

“Aaaanyway, you don’t have to go through this alone. I’m confident that if we all work together and try to make this place better, tomorrow will be a happy day in hell.” 

 

She was met with a roar of laughter. “Is this bitch for real?!”

“Yep, that’s pretty much what I expected.” Charlie sighed and walked off the stage. He found himself following her to the bar as she got a drink and downed it. 

 

“I really liked your speech. I think it’s admirable what you’re doing.” He smiled at her. 

“You’d be about the only one.” She rubbed her temples. “It’s like this every week.”

“You do this every week?!”

“Yeeeeah. But I don’t mind! Even if I can make things better for one sinner, I’ll know that I made a difference.” She smiled. 

“I’m sorry, I just…how are you here? You seem so-“

“Nice?” She smiled. “I’m the devil’s daughter. I can’t change that. But I can try to use my power and my knowledge to make things a little better. Dad thinks it’s a waste of time, but I don’t care.” 

“I think it’s really great. You’ve certainly made me feel better.”

Charlie’s eyes welled up. “Really?” 

“You have. And I think I am going to change my name.”

“Oh yeah? What did you have in mind?”

He gave her a small smile and took a drink. “Vox.” 

 

-the present- 

 

Alastor wasn’t sure if Charlie would be in the kitchen for breakfast or if she’d be avoiding him. He opened the door and saw her holding an egg. She tapped it lightly on the countertop and nothing happened. She tried again, a bit harder and frowned. CRACK! She’d pretty much blown up the egg. 

 

“Fuuuuck!” She grumbled. 

“I always use my thumb to puncture the middle, then pull it apart.”

She didn’t even jump this time when he spoke. “Shall I take over?”

“Thank you, but no. I need to cook an egg.” 

“If this is about what I said yesterday-“

“Of course it is. And you’re right. I am HUNDREDS of years old and I can’t cook an egg? So I will!” She gave him a determined smile. 

“Charlotte, I really don’t mind.” 

“I need to do this.” She picked up another egg and whacked it on the counter, splattering herself with egg. “Why are they SO FRAGILE?!” 

 

“Charlie dear, look.” He picked up an egg and put it in her hand. He placed his hand over hers and guided it, lightly tapping it on the edge of the pan. “Then you use your thumb to break the rest of the shell and pull it apart.” The egg plopped down into the pan. 

“Nice! Thanks Al.” She began pushing the egg around in the pan, scrambling it. He watched briefly with amusement before pouring a cup of coffee. He fixed Charlie a cup too with a god awful amount of sugar and set it beside her. They were off to a good start. 

“Delivery for Charlotte Morningstar.” 

Charlie looked up in surprise. “Oh! That’s me.” 

“Sign here.” A delivery demon shoved a clipboard at her. 

“I wasn’t expecting a package. Vaggie, did you order anything?” 

“Nope.” 

 

The delivery demon headed out to a van and unloaded an embarrassingly large bouquet of roses. “Oooooh god.” Charlie watched with wide eyes. The demon brought them in and dropped them in the middle of the floor and left. Vaggie and Charlie gaped at it. 

“Uh…that’s…wow.” Vaggie cleared her throat. 

Charlie walked over to it and plucked the card off, though she knew who it was from. 

 

“ Charlotte,

 

Please forgive me for my behavior last night. I hope you’d be willing to give me another chance. I must admit my interest in you isn’t entirely professional, but you should know that in no way affects my investment in your hotel. Voxtech will be investing regardless. 

Give me a call sometime if you’d like to go out again. If you prefer to keep things professional, I can always send Valentino or Velvette to meet with you. 

I hope you have a great day and that these flowers made you smile.

-Vox”

 

Charlie grinned at the note. “YES! Voxtech wants to invest!” 

“And that required an elaborate bouquet of roses?” Vaggie asked skeptically. 

“Oh, um, there was some other stuff too.” Charlie blushed. 

“Charlie. You can NOT be considering going out with this guy.” 

“I don’t know, he seems sincere! And this is a really sweet note.” 

“I’m sure it is, because he’s playing you.” 

“Is it so hard to believe someone would actually want to go out with me and not want something?!” 

“When they’re a demon overlord? Yes, it is!” 

 

Charlie was shocked. “Vaggie, why are you acting like this?” 

“Because I’m sick of seeing you letting the wrong people in! You only end up getting hurt. You trust EVERYONE.”

“I’d rather trust everyone and be wrong than trusting no one.” 

Vaggie was silent. She had an expression on her face Charlie couldn’t read, then walked quickly out of the room. 

 

Charlie ran her hands through her hair in frustration. What was Vaggie’s problem lately?! 

“Weeeell! Someone’s trying to make a good impression.” Alastor said, coming to stand beside her and look at the flowers. 

“It’s…kind of a lot. I don’t really like things like this.”

“Flowers?”

“No, big showy displays like this. It’s basically saying ‘look at all this money I have to blow!”

“Roses ARE a classic symbol of romance, though.” 

“I know, but…no, it’s sweet. I shouldn’t complain. Oh! The good news is thaaaaaaat:” she paused for dramatic effect. “THE VEES ARE INVESTING!” She handed the card to him with a grin.

Alastor read the note and his smile grew tighter. What was this asshole’s game? “Wonderful. Though it’s not my area, I believe this place could benefit from some new technology. It would draw people in.” He handed the card back to Charlie with a smile. 

 

“Listen, now that I know your feelings on the matter, I won’t call him and we can work with the other Vee’s.”

“Nonsense! I can behave myself. Now, in what sense are you returning the call?”

“What do you mean?”

“Are you calling the Vee’s, or calling Vox?” 

Charlie looked conflicted. “Um… is it weird that I kind of want to call him? You know what, it’s weird. Never mind.”

“You should call him if you want to, Charlie.”

“But you-“

“There’s no reason for your personal life to affect our partnership. My problems with Vox are my own.” 

“I mean it, Al. You’re more important to me. Your feelings matter.” 

There was a loud crackle of static. “Oh Charlotte, don’t worry your pretty little head. Go out with him! Let him spend some of his excessive wealth on you!” He patted her on the head and left, leaving Charlie feeling confused. 

 

A few days passed and everything was fairly smooth. Alastor and Charlie had breakfast every morning and worked together through the day. It was a perfectly normal platonic partnership. Until that evening…

“Hey Al, have you seen Angel?” Charlie asked. 

“He left about an hour ago for work. Is there something I can assist you with?”

“Thanks, but this is really more of Angel’s area. It’s ok, I’ll figure it out.”

“Come on now, doll! What do you need?” 

Charlie looked embarrassed. “…my date is tonight. And I don’t know what to wear.” 

“Ah, fashion! I’m not entirely incompetent about it, I’d say I’m a pretty sharp dresser myself.” He gestured at his well tailored suit. “I’d be happy to lend a hand.” 

“I’d really appreciate it. I’m not very good at this sort of thing.” They went up the stairs and Charlie walked in her room, while Alastor stood in the doorway. “Al?”

“Forgetting something, doll?” He held up his hand and it was as if there were an invisible wall. 

“Oh! Sorry. Alastor, enter freely and of your own will!” Charlie grinned.

“Thanks, sweetheart, now I feel like Dracula.” 

Charlie’s brows raised in surprise. “You know Dracula?”

“Of course! Excellent book by Bram Stoker. A delightful read!” 

Charlie walked over to her bookshelf and waved him over. “It’s my favorite book. I have eight editions! I’m a sucker for a pretty cover.”

“You know, there’s a whole thing about not judging books by them.” 

“That’s true. I just like collecting different versions. I like to see the different designs. This one is my favorite. It looks the fanciest.” She plucked a black book off the shelf with elaborate gold detailing.

 

Alastor let out an appreciative whistle. “My, my, that IS a sharp looking cover!” 

Charlie put the book back on the shelf and opened her closet doors. He was taken aback by the enormous amounts of bright colored fabrics. “Oh my. Hurts the eyes a bit, doesn’t it?” 

“I know, I really need to get rid of some of it, but who has the time?!” She began shoving mountains of fabric aside. 

“And yet, I’ve never seen you wear anything besides that red suit.” 

“I know, I just feel like it’s the most professional. This closet is full of stuff I’d like to wear. But that’s a separate issue. Ok, here’s what I’ve narrowed it down to.” She grabbed an armload of dresses and brought them over to her bed. “I’ve got a little black dress, a red dress, a pink dress, and another blue dress.” 

“It’s difficult to choose without seeing them on you, doll.” 

“Right! I just didn’t want to take up too much of your time. I’m sure you’ve got better things to do.” 

“Such as?” He smiled.

Charlie blinked. “I actually have no idea what you do in your free time. I feel like I probably don’t want to know.”

“HA! You crack me up, Charlie girl! If you’d like to have our appointment tomorrow, I’ll show you.” 

Charlie laughed. “That’s a funny way to say hanging out.” 

“Hanging out?”

Charlie took her dresses into the bathroom to try them on. “Spending time together as friends! Which we don’t have to have an appointment for. Just ask!” 

 

Alastor was perplexed. Were they friends? He supposed they were. “I was referring to our deal.” 

“Ok! What time?” 

“How’s 7 PM?” 

“Sure! Ok, here’s option one.” Charlie came out of the bathroom in a little black dress. It was fitted and flared at the waist, giving her a cute silhouette, but it was short. 

“Alright, very lovely. Though a bit short, don’t you think?” 

“That’s what happens when you’re six feet tall.” Charlie smirked and headed back into the bathroom. 

 

While he was waiting, he was DEFINITELY going to snoop around. He walked back over to her bookshelf and saw a picture of Charlie with a green demon. She had her arms around him and was grinning widely. The green demon just looked smug. 

 

“Here’s the red one.” 

He turned around and let out an involuntary crackle of static. 

“Uuuuum, I don’t really know how to interpret that.” Charlie smiled. 

“It’s a lovely dress. If you’re a STREET WALKER.” The dress was short, tight, and had cutouts on the sides. 

“You don’t like it? Angel gave it to me.” She walked up to him and smiled widely. She did a slow turn to show him all angles. When she turned back around he was looking at anything but her. 

“I don’t think wearing something out of Angel’s wardrobe really suits you.” 

“What’s the matter, Al? Are you alright?” Charlie moved even closer and smiled sweetly up at him, but he saw the mischievous glint in her eye. 

“Just fine, dear. Just worried about your modesty.”

Charlie couldn’t contain her laugh any longer. “I’m only teasing, Al. I just wanted to see your reaction. There’s no way I’d wear this ANYWHERE.” 

“Then why do you have it?” 

“Angel gave it to me. He said I needed a clubbing outfit.” She shrugged. “Onto the next!” 

 

He continued to poke around her room, examining the different photographs. He stopped in front of a family photo and was surprised that she looked more like her father than her mother. She and Lucifer shared the same big eyes and smile. 

“I feel like a cupcake.”

Alastor turned around and laughed. “You LOOK like a cupcake, doll.” It was a ballerina style dress and enormously puffy. She turned around and headed back into the bathroom. A moment later, the dress came flying out of the bathroom. “Just burn it, it’s awful!” 

 

Alastor chuckled and picked up the dress. “What’s the story here?” 

“A stuffy wedding.” She replied. He realized she’d left the door cracked open and he could see her. She was beautiful. He quickly turned away.

 

There was a knock on her door. “Want me to get that, doll?”

“Would you?” 

Alastor walked over and opened the door. “Hello, Vagatha! How can we help you?” 

Vaggie was stunned. “What are you doing here?!” 

“Assisting. Did you need something?” He smiled widely. 

“Yeah, to talk to Charlie. Is she here?”

“Yes, she’s getting dressed. Charlotte! Vagatha is here, should I let her in?” 

“Sure! Out in a sec, Vaggie!” Charlie’s voice called out. 

Alastor opened the door wider with a shit eating grin. The little moth girl was pissed. “Make yourself comfortable. Charlotte, may I make a suggestion? I don’t think we’ve had any winners so far.” 

“Go for it!” 

He walked over to her closet and began going through the clothes and humming. 

 

“What the FUCK are you doing?” Vaggie glared at him with her arms crossed. 

“Helping Charlotte select her outfit. She asked for my assistance.”

“I find that hard to believe. Outfit for what?”

“Why, for her date tonight!”

Vaggie’s face fell. “Date?” 

“Ok, this one is pretty but kind of a pain in the ass.” Charlie walked over to them. It was a blue cocktail dress, but with a corseted bust that had to be laced up. 

“Hmmm.” Alastor examined her and circled her like a shark. “I guess it depends on whether or not you’d like to breathe.” 

Charlie laughed. “Well then you’d better find something better or it’s the black one! Hi Vaggie, what’s up?” 

 

Vaggie looked stunned. “Oh, uh, I was going to ask if you wanted to do something tonight, but apparently you’ve got plans.” 

“Yeah, my redo date with Vox is tonight. Didn’t I tell you?”

“No. I feel like we’ve barely seen each other.” 

“You’re right, I’m sorry! I’ve been so preoccupied with the hotel. How about tomorrow night: you, me, pjs, and entirely too much junk food?” 

“I’d like that.” Vaggie smiled. 

“Don’t forget, I have you from 7-8, doll!” Alastor added with a smile. 

“Yeah, it’ll have to be after 8. But that still leaves us plenty of time!” 

“Are you sure you can work me into your busy schedule, or are you too busy hanging out with any other overlords?” Vaggie glared. 

“Vaggie…”

“I’m sorry, I just…can we talk privately?” 

“Sure. Be right back, Al!” 

 

Alastor continued sorting through the racks of clothes and sent his shadow to eavesdrop. 

“What are you doing, Charlie?!”

“What do you mean?”

“Why is the radio demon answering your door and going through your closet?”

“Because we’re friends, and I asked for his help.” 

“You could’ve asked for MY help.”

“You hate this sort of thing. Vaggie, what’s going on with you lately?” 

“I just…I’m worried that you’re letting the wrong people in. You’re so kind and I know you want to see the best in everyone, but you have to be careful.”

“I don’t really know what you’re worried about. Al hasn’t once tried to murder me or overthrow me. He’s been really kind.”

“EXACTLY! He’s NOT kind. Do you have any idea how many people he’s killed? How many souls he owns? He’s known for causing chaos and terror, so it doesn’t strike you as odd that he’s picking out your outfit like you’re girlfriends?!” 

 

Charlie sighed. “He’s given me no reason not to trust him. And yes, I’m aware of the things he’s done, and I don’t expect him to change overnight and suddenly be a saint. But he’s here. He’s helping with the hotel. And I think it’s really unfair to keep treating him like this. I know you’re worried about me, and I’m lucky to have a best friend like you looking out for me. But I also need you to trust me a little bit. Alright?” 

 

“Alright. I will. Just be careful, Charlie.” 

Charlie hugged Vaggie tightly. “Thanks for being such a good friend. Think about what movie you wanna watch tomorrow night, ok?” 

“Sure. Have fun on your date.” Vaggie gave her a weak smile.

 

Charlie returned to her closet and found Alastor holding up a light blue dress. “Give this one a try, doll.”

“Oh, that’s pretty! I don’t remember this one.” 

“How would you know, with everything you have stuffed in here?” 

“It seems a little…dated.” 

“Just give it a shot!” 

“Alright…” she took the dress into the bathroom. 

 

Alastor wasn’t entirely sure WHY he’d created a dress for her. He just didn’t like the idea of her going out in any of those other so-called dresses. Charlie was elegant. Those dresses were not. 

 

“It’s not my usual style, but… I think I like it!” Charlie came out of the bathroom and did a little twirl. The puffy blue dress flared out around her. He’d modeled it after a 1950s style dress, which was fitted up top but full at the bottom. Since it was a formal occasion, the neckline was off the shoulder. 

“You look FANTASTIC! Just a few finishing touches…” he pointed his microphone at her and placed a delicate pearl necklace around her neck and fashioned her hair into a more vintage style.

“Al, you’re AMAZING! I might have to have you take over as my stylist instead of Angel.” She giggled and looked at herself in the mirror. 

“Angel should not be giving fashion advice to anyone. I’d recommend not taking ANY advice from him.” Alastor came up and stood behind her in the mirror. “See here? Beautiful and elegant, without being provocative.” 

 

Charlie started to move, then stopped and bit her lip. “Something wrong, doll?”

“I wanted to hug you, but I figured you wouldn’t-OOF!” He’d crushed her against his chest. Charlie grinned at her victory. He finally let her go and she smiled up at him. “Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome, sweetheart!” His grin was genuine. “Though between you and me, this is all going to waste with that squawk box.” 

“Speaking of…what are you NOT going to do?” She crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow.

“Hmmm, I don’t know what you’re referring to.” He smiled.

“ Alastor.” 

“I wouldn’t DREAM of ruining your little date, dear.” He tweaked her nose. “Why, I thought you were going to burn the hotel to the ground last time!” 

“I just…I don’t get to do this much.”

“Do what, doll?”

“Go on dates. People aren’t exactly lining up to go out with the princess of hell. Most people think I’m a joke.” 

“Those people, darling, are imbeciles. Total, utter idiots.” 

“I mean, I get it. I’m different. And my dad is literally the king of hell, so the idea of having to meet him one day…he’s scared off quite a few boyfriends. A few girlfriends too. And friends in general…” 

 

“Would this happen to be one of those boyfriends?” He summoned the picture of her with the green demon. 

“Oh. No, dad didn’t scare him off. He was just an asshole.” 

“Then why do you keep his picture displayed?” 

Charlie took the picture and chewed on her lip. “He was important to me. And this night was important to me. Dad FINALLY let me go to a dance. I was so excited. I made sure I had the perfect dress…but it wasn’t a great night. I mean, it started out that way. This picture was taken early in the evening.” 

She jumped when she felt Alastor’s thumb on her lip. “Stop that. You’ll chew your lip right off, young lady!”

 

“Nervous habit. Anyway, it was over after that night. But I kept the picture because, at the time, I was ridiculously happy. I’m not sure anything has made me feel like that since then. Being young and in love…it’s a powerful feeling.”

“I wouldn’t know.” He plucked a stray hair off her shoulder. 

“Really? You’ve never been in love?” She looked at him with big eyes. 

“Sweetheart, I never even LIKED anybody.” He grinned. 

“No one? There wasn’t a SINGLE PERSON you liked? Tolerated, maybe?” 

“I loved my mother. That was all.” 

“I find it hard to believe there was not one single person you remotely tolerated.” 

“Nope. Just me and my audience!” 

“So radio was your thing even when you were alive.”

“Of course! That’s how I became the radio demon.” 

“But Vox is a television demon and he has a tv as a head. You have fluffy ears.”

“FLUFFY EARS?” He scoffed. 

“Or is that your hair?” Charlie got a wicked smile on her face and stepped closer. 

“Careful, Charlotte.” He gave her a matching grin. 

“If you’d juuuust let me touch-“ she reached her hand out and he grabbed it. 

“You’ll have to try harder than thaaaat!” 

 

Husk and Niftty looked up at the sound of a scuffle, which was coming down the stairs. There was a red blur as Alastor came streaking into the lobby with a blue blur after him. “Give up, dear!” 

“NEVER!” 

“What the HELL is going on?!” Husk shouted as the pair crashed through the lobby. 

Alastor paused long enough for Charlie to leap onto his back. “HAHAAAA!” She shouted triumphantly. She rubbed his ears and smirked. “I win.” 

 

“Holy fuuuuuuck….” Angel walked in the front door with wide eyes. “I’m gone for two hours and she’s jumpin’ strawberry in the lobby?” 

 

Alastor and Charlie froze. Charlie was on his back with her legs wrapped around him, which he was holding to support her, and she had one arm around his neck and the other on his ear.

“Oh! Hi guys! This…is not what it looks like.” She let go of Alastor, but he hadn’t let her go yet. “ Al!” She hissed. He dropped her legs and she fell to the floor with a thump. 

“It LOOKS like you’ve got a death wish.” Husk was still gaping at them. 

Charlie stood up and cleared her throat. “Sorry, Alastor. I got a little carried away.” 

“Quite alright.” He appeared to still be frozen in place. 

“I, uh, better go straighten up before my date. Thanks for your help, Al!” She smiled brightly and headed up the stairs. 

 

The lobby was silent. Alastor was still frozen in place, trying to process what had just happened. 

“I SHIP IT!” Nifty screeched.

“You what?” Husk asked. 

“It means to want two people to be a romantic thing, even if they ain’t.” Angel answered. 

“I ship you and Angel!” Nifty said to Husk.

“The FUCK you do!” Husk glared. 

“Relax, she also ships me and the strawberry pimp.” Angel gestured to Alastor, but he was gone. 

“She say she had a date?” Angel asked as he sat at the bar. 

“Yeah. She’s going out with that dumbass tv demon.” Husk answered as he slid Angel a drink.

Angel’s face paled (as much as it could, he was covered in white fur.) “WHY?” 

“Fuck if I know.” 

“I gotta talk to her.” Angel ran up the stairs to Charlie’s room and began knocking. 

“Go away, Al! I’m busy!” 

“It’s Angel, toots.”

 

The door opened a minute later. “Oh! Hi Angel. I thought you went to work?”

“I did, but Val sent me home early, which is why I need to talk to you.” 

“Oh! Ok. Come on in.” 

Angel began anxiously pacing. “Look, I don’t like to stick my nose where it don’t belong, but I’m worried. Vox is NOT a good guy. You’d be horrified if you knew some of the stuff he did. But I also know you’re gonna say everyone deserves a second chance or some bullshit like that, so forget it. But what I’m worried about is Val.”

“Really? Why?” 

“Cuz I went to work like I always do, and Val tells me I’m gonna be working all night. Big surprise. But anyway, I’m there like two hours, we ain’t even really gotten started yet, when he gets a phone call. I could tell it was Velvette cuz that bitch is loud. She was yelling at him about needing to take care of something. Then suddenly Val has to go and sends everybody home.”

“I don’t understand.” 

“Do you think Val, my pimp and owner of my soul, is gonna be happy about his business partner going after you? You’re like the anti-Val!” 

 

Charlie absorbed the information. “But…why would he be so upset? I know we have our differences-“

“Because if you knew the things he did to me and the way the Vees treat people, you’d wanna take them down. Business comes first for Val. And if you’re a threat to it…” 

“You’re talking like he’s gonna try to kill me.” Charlie snorted.

“He might.”

“Look, I know he wants to protect his business, but attacking the princess of hell would be incredibly stupid.” 

“So he might not attack you. He might take it out on someone you care about.” Angel looked at her and she read between the lines. 

“No. Angel, no. I would NEVER let something like that happen because of me.” 

“Look, this could just be me being fuckin’ paranoid. Go on your date. Maybe he’s a charmer and I’m wrong about everything. And Valentino wouldn’t do anything right then. He’d just threaten you. But be. Careful. Why don’t you ask strawberry to play guard?”

“Because that would only make things worse. They have…issues. I’ll be ok. And I’m not completely helpless. Especially when it comes to my friends.” She hugged Angel tightly and he rested his head on hers. 

“Look, I know I give you a lotta shit, but you’re one of the only people that gives a shit about me. And I don’t want anything to happen to you.” 

“I promise I’ll be safe. Thank you for telling me.” 

“You’re welcome. Now what the hell are you wearing? You look like you’re from the 50s!”

Charlie was puzzled. Alastor had said his problem with Vox was that he’d hurt someone he cared for. So there WAS someone! She’d have to think about that later.

 

Alastor had been in his room trying to process everything that had just happened. The thing that confounded him most of all was the sheer JOY he had, running from Charlie and acting like an idiot. He hadn’t even minded when she caught him and touched his ears. It felt pretty nice actually. This was all dangerous, unfamiliar territory. He meant what he’d said. He didn’t even LIKE anyone. But somehow, Charlie had wormed her way in and planted a seed. 

He was FOND of her. He LIKED being around her. It was weird. He didn’t like not having control over everything, and that included his feelings (or usually lack thereof) so having FONDNESS for another person was incredibly frustrating. 

 

He felt like he should apologize if he’d made her uncomfortable. With what, he wasn’t sure exactly, but he saw the horror on everyone’s faces. He headed out into the hallway and was about to knock on her door when he heard her conversation with Angel. He stood there and listened, feeling anger begin to boil inside him. That disgusting, low life pimp had better not lay a FINGER on his Charlie-

 

Woah. HIS Charlie? Where did THAT come from? He didn’t have time to question it because the conversation was ending and Angel was about to leave. He knew one thing for certain:

 

There was no way in HELL she was going alone.

Chapter 5: Valentino

Summary:

As it turns out, the Vees aren’t happy about Vox going out with Charlie either. Valentino decides to take things into his own hands.

“Charlie! You look stunning.” Vox smiled widely at her. 

“Thanks! And thank you for the lovely flowers.” 

“Of course, my dear! Shall we?” He extended his elbow with a smile. Charlie took it and they entered the restaurant. They were seated in a cozy booth in the corner. 

“I have to ask, you didn’t bring any binders this time, did you?” He gave her a teasing grin.

“Not this time, but I’m ALWAYS prepared for a presentation. But I’ll spare you tonight.” 

“I hope you didn’t think I was deceiving you or trying to manipulate you with my investment. The truth is…I’ve never stopped thinking about you.” 

“What do you mean?” Charlie blinked in surprise. 

 

“When I met you that night, at that party…I was stunned. I couldn’t believe someone as wonderful as you could be in hell. I had an enormous crush on you after that. That’s why I kept attending your events, helping you get ready for them…”

“Oh. I thought you were just interested in my project.” She blushed.

“Don’t get me wrong, I was! I admired how you wanted to make hell a better place. I admire that about you now. But back then, I made a mistake. I let power and greed turn my head. It took me away from you and I’ve always regretted that. Sometimes I think about how different life would’ve been if I’d stayed by your side…” he took her hand with a sad smile.

 

Charlie’s eyes were as wide as dinner plates. So were Alastor’s, but no one could see him. “I don’t know what to say…” 

“And that’s alright. But I wanted to be straightforward with you, about how I felt. I’ve done a lot of shit in my time here. You’d turn and run if you knew some of the things I’ve done. You probably should. But I’m hoping you still believe in second chances, even for someone like me.” 

 

“What a sappy little speech.” 

They both jumped as Valentino appeared beside their table.

“Val. What are you doing here?” Vox glared.

“I was just out for a drink and lo and behold! Here you were! And with her royal highness. How unexpected.” Valentino slid into the booth beside Charlie. “I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure of meeting, princessa. 

“Nice to meet you! I’m Charlie.” She stuck her hand out for him to shake with a bright smile. 

Valentino took her hand and brought it up to his lips. “Forgive me for staring, but I had no idea how captivating you were.” 

“Oh, thank you.” Charlie blushed. Vox’s screen was beginning to flicker. 

“You know of my business, yes princessa?” 

“I do, yes. And you can just call me Charlie.” 

“Very well, Charlie. Your little hotel…it could benefit from some advertising, yes?” 

“Could we perhaps save business for another time, Val?” Vox glared. 

“Hush, I’m talking. You see, I could get your face and your hotel all over hell. Everyone would know of you and your project.” 

“And how is that?” Charlie asked, narrowing her eyes but still smiling.

“By making you a star! Look at you, gorgeous face, the body men dream of. Men AND women. And such an innocence about you.” He took a claw and dragged it slowly down her cheek. “All you’d have to do is make oooone little video with me.” 

“Get your fucking claws off of her. Now.” Vox snarled.. 

“Relax, you’re going to short circuit. What do you think, Charlie?” 

 

Charlie kept a bright smile on her face. “As flattering as your offer is, I’ll have to pass.” 

“Oh princessa, I always end up getting what I want.” Valentino chuckled. 

“You made your pitch, Val. Now leave.” Vox glared. 

“Relaaaax! Charlie doesn’t mind, right?” He draped a long arm across her shoulders. “Maybe she’d even like having me here. Think of the power at your fingertips if you were on both of our arms.” 

 

It was taking every ounce of Alastor’s willpower not to go in there and rip his fucking arms off.

 

“Ooook, so I’m going to be honest, I’m a liiiittle uncomfortable right now, so I think I’m gonna-“ Charlie felt like this was going south VERY fast.

“You’re not going anywhere, sweetheart. Not until we’re done.”

“Well, we’re done. So I’ll be going.” She said it more firmly. 

“Sit down, baby. You’re not scared, are you?” Val placed his hand on her thigh. 

 

Oh he was DEAD. He was BEYOND dead. Alastor was about to go in and tear him in two when Charlie spoke again. 

“I’m going to ask you one time, and one time only, to take your hand off my leg.” Her voice was even and calm. 

“Ooh, I like this side of you, princessa! You got a little fire in you! I like my girls to have a little spice.” He slid his hand even higher on her thigh. 

 

Charlie sighed, took a drink of her wine, and smiled sweetly at Val. “I REALLY think you should move your hand.”

“Oh? And what are you going to do if I don’t, babygirl?” He leaned his face closer to hers.

Before he could process what was happening, Charlie punched him in the face so hard that she knocked him out of the booth. He scrambled to stand up but a quick kick with her heels had him on his knees again. She grabbed him by the collar of his ridiculous coat and pulled him closer. “You seem to have forgotten who I am. I’m the princess of hell. And I don’t take shit from other demons.” She ran her claw down the side of his face like he did to her. “Don’t ever lay a finger on me again. And if you have any brains in your head, you’ll leave my friends alone too. Now, say goodnight! It was lovely meeting you.” Another swing of her fist knocked him out cold. 

 

Charlie straightened her dress and picked up a napkin on the table to wipe Valentino’s blood off of her hand. Vox was just gaping at her in terror and amazement. “I’m sorry, Vox, I don’t think this is going to work out. Personally or professionally. Goodbye.” She walked out of the restaurant and he followed her. 

“Charlie, wait! I’m so sorry! I had no idea-“ 

“You know who he is. You know how he behaves. How he treats people, how he treats ANGEL. And if he’s the company you choose to keep, I don’t want anything to do with you. I still believe in second chances, Victor.” His eyes widened at the use of his real name. “But only for those who truly deserve it. If you change your mind and decide to turn your life around, you’ll always have a place at the hotel. But you can’t keep a foot in both doors. Goodnight.” She leaned up and kissed his cheek. “You should go check on your friend. He’ll probably be out for a while. I hope I’ll see you at the hotel one day.”

 

Vox nodded silently and headed inside. Charlie sighed and fixed a strand of hair that had fallen in her face. “I told you I could take care of myself.” 

“I know.” Alastor appeared beside her. “I’m truly impressed.” 

“I think I made my point without TOO much violence.” Charlie sighed again. “I’m all dressed up and didn’t even get to have dinner. Wanna grab a bite?” 

“I’d love to.” Alastor’s wide grin was genuine. “You just keep surprising me, Charlie. And may I say, you pack one HELL of a punch!” He took her hand and they vanished. 

Alastor watched Charlie slurp her milkshake with a smile. It was hard to believe she was the same demoness that had one of the most powerful overlords on his knees thirty minutes ago. 

“Go on, I know you want to ask.”

“Ask what, dear?” 

“About my history with Vox.” 

“I AM quite curious…”

“I totally knew you were eavesdropping. I thought about throwing something really wild in there just for you.” She grinned at him. “Anyway, the hotel isn’t my first project. It’s probably my tenth project. But the one he was referring to was my welcome parties. Every week, I’d host a party and invite all the new sinners that had arrived that week. I wanted to let them know they weren’t alone, and that resources were available to them, including counseling. I imagine that it would be terrifying suddenly arriving in hell and not having a clue what you’re doing. And I wasn’t stupid, I knew that almost everyone was happy to be in hell and had no intention of trying to improve. But at least I was arming them with knowledge so they weren’t just thrown in the deep and and left to drown.”

 

“So you’ve always been a bleeding heart. I don’t recall ever receiving an invitation to one of your soirées.”

“I don’t know exactly when you got here, but I only had a few more after that before dad pulled the plug.”

“And why was that?”

“One guy stabbed another, who stabbed someone else and so on until it was basically a massacre.” 

“Weeell now I’m really disappointed that I missed it!” Alastor grinned. 

“It’s not funny. It was awful. And it just reinforced dad’s opinion that I was wasting my time.” 

 

“I was surprised to hear Vox speak so freely with you.”

“I think he was sincere.” Charlie looked down at her milkshake and stirred it, avoiding eye contact. 

“Yet he made no attempt to defend you against his friend.”

“I know.” She plucked the cherry out of the milkshake. “Which is why I told him I wouldn’t see him again.”

 

What was this feeling in his chest? Did he feel BAD for another person? Was that even possible? “I’m sorry, doll. But listen, if you ever desire a night on the town away from the hotel, I’d be happy to escort you.”

“Thank you, Alastor. That means a lot to me.” Charlie rubbed her temples. “God I hope he doesn’t take it out on Angel. Hopefully I bluffed enough.”

“If he does, he’ll have to answer to us.” 

“Us? You’d fight him for Angel?” Charlie looked at him with puppy dog eyes. 

“I’d fight him because it was a Tuesday, but sure! I’d fight him for that effeminate fellow.” 

Charlie was beaming at him and he rolled his eyes. “Don’t get overexcited, doll. I’m not turning over a new leaf. I’m just volunteering my services.” 

“Too late! Now I’m excited.” 

“Do I need to do something terrible to balance the scale?”

“No! No!” 

“Fuck! How the hell is she so strong?!” Valentino was holding ice on his cheek. 

“Because she’s Lucifer’s daughter and you’re a fucking idiot.” Velvette glared at him. “Both of you are fucking ridiculous. You for trying to have some little fairytale romance and you for trying to feel up the princess. And you asked her to do porn? The goody two shoes?! I swear to god, men have no brain cells.” 

“You deserve it, you asshole.” Vox glared at Valentino.

“Stop acting so pissy with me. It wasn’t gonna work anyway.”

“I don’t even want to look at you right now.” Vox stomped off to his room.

“Tell me you don’t actually like the princess or I’m gonna fucking kill myself.” Velvette looked at Valentino with a glare. 

“Oh fuck no. She’s a hot piece of ass, don’t get me wrong. But I needed to fuck things up enough that she wouldn’t want to see him again. I wasn’t planning on her having a spine and punching me.” 

“God I would’ve loved to see that. But I think you fucked up. Do you really wanna piss off the radio demon?”

“You know…if he has a soft spot for the princess, we could probably use that to our advantage. Get rid of him once and for all.”

“We don't know if he has a soft spot for her. He didn’t show up last night to be her knight in shining armor.”

“Only one way to find out.” 

 

The next day, Charlie was working at the front desk when another delivery man came. “Flowers for Charlotte Morningstar?”

“That’s me. You can go ahead and deposit them right there in the trash can.” 

“Oh come on! Don’t you want to see what pitiful plea he’s made for your heart?” Alastor grinned.

“Fine. YOU can read it. I don’t care.” 

 

Alastor plucked the card from the bouquet. “Oh Chaaaaarlie! I think you’ll want to see thiiiis!” He said in a sing-songy voice. 

“Not reeaaaally. Vox can shove it.”

“They aren’t from Vox.” 

Charlie’s head snapped up. “Who are they from?” 

“Valentino.” Alastor smirked. 

“WHY?” 

“I thought you didn’t care?”

“When I thought they were from Vox! What’s it say?” 

“I’m afraid that’s for me to know.” He grinned and tucked the note into the pocket of his jacket.

“ALASTOR!” 

“Yes, dear?”

“Give me my note back.” She put her hands on her hips and glared. 

“Why, Charlotte! Are you trying to look intimidating? Because you’re failing miserably, darling.” 

“Give. Me. The note.” 

“Or what?” He grinned down at her. “And don’t you EVEN think about throwing a punch.” 

“Last warning, Al!” 

“I’m shaking, doll. Do your worst.” 

 

Angel came down the stairs to the sound of a scuffle. “GIVE IT BACK YOU JACKASS!” Charlie was clinging to Alastor’s back and trying to rip his jacket off.

“You guys wanna restrict your foreplay to the bedroom? I don’t wanna see this!” 

Alastor froze again, startled at being caught, and Charlie used the opportunity to snatch the note from his pocket. “HA!” She hopped off his back and opened the note. 

“ Dearest princessa, 

I want to apologize for my terrible behavior last night. Perhaps we got off on the wrong foot. Don’t waste your time with Vox. Let me take you out and spoil you, show you how you should be treated. I’ll be waiting for your call, babygirl. 

-Valentino”

 

“Eeeeew!” She wrinkled her nose. 

“See? Don’t you wish you hadn’t read it?” Alastor grinned. 

“Hold on, now ya got Val comin’ after you? Why are you such hot shit all of a sudden?” Angel grabbed the note and read it. “Ugh. Asshole. Please tell me you’re not going out with Val.”

“Absolutely not. Also, I don’t know why the fuck he’d send me this note after I punched him in the face last night.” 

“Woah, you punched Val?! Why?! Not that he didn’t deserve it, but why?!”

“He put his hand on my thigh and wouldn’t respect my boundaries.” 

“Hopefully he won’t be in a bad mood because of it. I gotta go to work. See ya.” 

Angel was in his dressing room when Valentino came in. “ Amorcito, how are you? You’re looking good!” 

“Fine. Why you actin’ weird?”

“Because you’re gonna do a favor for me. You’re gonna talk me up to your little princessa. Tell her how great of a guy I am.” 

“Are you fuckin’ NUTS? Charlie ain’t gonna want anything to do with you, especially after you tried to feel her up in the restaurant.” 

“Let me rephrase that.” A green chain wrapped around Angel’s neck and Valentino yanked him forward. “You’re gonna get me a date with the princess.” 

“I can try but I can’t make her!” Angel wheezed as the chain grew tighter. 

“You’d better try. Because you know how I get when I don’t get my way.” 

“Starting a relationship with threats and violence is a REAL winning strategy, Val.” 

“Make it happen. And get to work.” 

Chapter 6: Ding dong ditch, bitch!

Summary:

Alastor and Charlie spend some time together, and girl’s night with Vaggie takes an unexpected turn. And of course, there’s Valentino to deal with…

Notes:

It’s the middle of the night and I’m half asleep so if this doesn’t make sense, lmk and I’ll fix it when I’m awake and coherent

Charlie had received a note from Alastor asking her to meet him in his radio tower at 7. She felt like she spent way too much time trying to figure out what to wear. It wasn’t a date, right? No, because it was contractually obligated. Also he didn’t like her that way. Maybe. She ended up going with her favorite cropped sweater and jeans. It was soft and royal blue, but she never wore it. Which was dumb, because she realized she had a closet of clothes that she never wore. That was going to change! 

 

Alastor heard a light knock at the door to the radio tower. He sent his shadow to open it as he continued his broadcast. “Call the line at any time if you’ve got any requests! I may or may not play them, depending on how AWFUL your taste is! Now let’s throw it back with a little Jerry Lee, shall we?” He hit a button on his dash and turned around with a wide smile. “You made it! Find the place alright?” His eyes widened a little when he saw how she was dressed. Blue really was her color, and her midriff was showing, which made him anxious? Maybe not anxious. But it gave him an uncomfortable feeling for sure. 

“Yep! I only passed about a hundred keep out and do not disturb signs on my way up.” Charlie smiled and came closer. She noticed how his eyes drifted to her exposed midriff. “Oh, um, should I go change? Because I-“

“No need.” He gave her a tight smile. “I thought I’d show you where I spend most of my free time.” 

 

Charlie walked over to his control center with wide eyes. “Holy crap that’s a lot of buttons. I kind of want to push them all.” 

“I wouldn’t recommend pushing my buttons, darling. You might not like the consequences. ” 

Charlie’s stomach did a flip at that. Actually, she might enjoy the consequences. A lot.

“So give me the rundown! Show me how you do your thaaaang!” She grimaced. “God that was stupid. Please forget I said that.”

“On the contrary! I’ll be sure to remember those pink cheeks.” He leaned over and squished them between his hands. Then he snapped his fingers and she fell into a chair. “Watch and learn, doll. You’re about to see the master at work!” 

 

It was pretty interesting learning how his radio tower worked. She even took a couple of calls for him and wrote down the requests. But now it was slow and she was bored. A jazzy tune was playing, Al seemed to favor jazz, and she was spinning around in her chair. Then she was suddenly yanked out of it and on her feet, chest to chest with Alastor.

“You looked as though you were ready to fall asleep, doll! We can’t have that! I hope you’re quick on your feet.” He spun her out and she stumbled, but grinned when he caught her and pulled her back. She held his hand and his other rested on her hip as he twirled around with her. She squealed with joy when he tossed her into the air and caught her, spinning her around. “You’re gonna make me barf!” She giggled. 

“Oh dear, you’d owe me a new suit for that.” He smirked. He was still holding her in his arms as she smiled at him. Then she gasped. “Uh, Al?”

“Yes, sweetheart?”

“The song is over.”

Fuck! He nearly dropped her as he ran back over to the station, so he tossed her over his shoulder like a fireman, ignoring her protests. “Wasn’t that a great song folks? Onto the next!” He started the next song and set Charlie down with a grin. “I’m afraid my love of dancing distracted me. Could I trouble you for another?” 

“Are you kidding? I love dancing!” 

“I’m gonna take you for one heck of a ride, doll.” 

 

An hour later, Charlie was sweating and panting, completely exhausted. “Oh, Al! That was so much fun!” 

“Why, I haven’t danced that much in DECADES, doll! What a trip!”

Charlie was doubled over. “How are you not even sweating?!” 

“This was child’s play! I used to do this all night long!” 

“Is that what killed you? Because I’m halfway there.” Charlie reached up to put her hair in a ponytail, which exposed even more of her midriff, now glistening with sweat. 

“Unfortunately my demise came from a near-sighted hunter that shouldn’t have had a gun in the first place.” 

“Oh wow. That’s awful.” 

“I’ve never told anyone that. I trust you’ll keep it to yourself?” 

“Of course. Thank you for telling me. Can I hug you?” 

“You don’t have to ask, doll.” He smirked.

“Well I know you don’t like being touched, so I’m trying to respect that.” She threw her arms around him and squeezed. His hands landed on her exposed skin and it felt like he was touching something forbidden. She didn’t seem to mind. 

“YOU don’t have to ask. That exemption does not extend to anyone else.” 

“You’re gonna regret that. I’m a VERY touchy person.”

“Really? I never would’ve guessed.” He smirked down at her. His hands still rested on her waist and they were quite comfortable there. 

 

The moment was broken by an odd tune coming from Charlie’s pocket. “What the hell is that?” 

“Single ladies. It’s a great song. Helloooo?” She answered her phone. “Fuck! Sorry Vaggie! I'm on my way!” She hung up her phone and looked at Alastor. “I’m late! I got caught up dancing. This was so fun, Al! Can I come back sometime?” She rested her hand on his chest and looked up at him with a smile. 

“You’re welcome here any time, doll.” He looked at her with genuine affection. 

“I gotta run.” She opened the door and didn’t see Nifty at the top of the stairs. “God, I’m gonna be sore tomorrow! You wore me out, Al!” She turned and saw Nifty’s wide eyed expression, jaw hanging slack. “Wait that’s not what I-“

“I KNEW IT!” Nifty shrieked as Alastor cackled behind her.

“Charlie and I had QUITE the workout!”

“ALASTOR!” 

 

Charlie ran to her room and saw Vaggie waiting outside the door. “I’M HERE!” Charlie gasped and doubled over. “And apparently out of shape!” 

“Uh, why are you sweaty and weird?”

“I was dancing!” 

“Somehow I’m not surprised.” Vaggie smiled. 

“I was hanging out with Al in his radio tower and he asked if I wanted to dance. Turns out he’s a really fucking good dancer and I was NOT prepared!” Charlie laughed and led Vaggie into her room. “I’m sorry I lost track of time! But now it’s just ME AND MY BESTIIIIIE!” She sang and hugged Vaggie. 

“Charlie, I love you, but ew.” 

“Oh! Sorry! Let me go change. Did you pick a movie?” Charlie, being Charlie, didn’t give a second thought about changing in front of Vaggie, who was trying not to look.

“Yeah, one of those cheesy rom coms you like.” 

“Don’t pretend like you don’t like them too!” Charlie came back in pajamas covered with bunnies and matching bunny slippers. “I’ve got SNACKS! I’ve got popcorn, skittles, chocolate, taffy-“

“And I brought wine!” Vaggie pulled out the bottle she’d brought. “Don’t tell Husk, I snatched it on my way up.”

“VAGGIE!” Charlie giggled. “We tell Angel he can’t do that all the time!” 

“Yeah but this is one time and it’s your hotel, soooo.” She popped the cork. “Got any glasses?” 

Alastor was reflecting on his time with Charlie, something he found himself doing a lot lately. She’d even had the audacity to be in his dreams. He wasn’t sure how she’d feel about the radio tower, but it was important to him and he was going to give this “friend” thing a shot. Luckily she’d enjoyed it and seemed impressed. He watched her tap her toes to the beat and decided it was time to do some dancing. Charlie was a great dancer, not as good as him, of course, but who was? He hadn’t felt so alive in a very long time. 

 

His thoughts were interrupted by knocking on his door. As he walked closer, he heard giggling. When he opened it, there was no one there. Oh well. He closed the door to return to his desk when there was knocking again, followed by more giggling. This time he opened the door with his shadow just in time to see Charlie’s blonde ponytail disappear around the corner. What the hell was she doing? He closed the door and waited. Sure enough, there was a knock. But this time instead of opening the door, he appeared on the other side of it behind Charlie. She turned to run and crashed straight into him. “SHIT!” 

“Charlie, dear. What on earth are you doing?” 

Charlie collapsed into a fit of giggles and leaned against him. “Charlotte?”

“It’s called ding dong ditch but we don’t have any dings!” She giggled. 

“I’m sorry?” 

 

Vaggie laughed as she stumbled around the corner. “HA! Busteeeed!” 

“I dare you to do Husk!” Charlie grinned.

“No way!” 

“Come ooooon! I did Al! Angel isn’t here! And Nifty is stabby!” 

“Fiiiine.” 

“Al! Come on! You’ve gotta see.” Charlie giggled and took his hand, tugging him down the hall. 

“Charlie, are you drunk?” 

“Nooooo.” 

“Very convincing, dear.”

“Shhhh!” She pushed him into an alcove while Vaggie crept forward. He was frozen in place, pressed against the wall by Charlie, who was trying to suppress her giggles against his chest. 

 

Vaggie knocked, then tried to run but tripped and fell. “Fuck!”

Husk ripped open his door. “What the hell are you doing?!” 

“DING DONG DITCH, BITCH!” Charlie shouted from around the corner. 

“Aw shit. You’re wasted.” Husk sighed and yanked Vaggie off the floor. 

“I’ll take it from here, Husker!” Alastor stepped forward. 

“Fuck, are you encouraging them?”

“No, I was their first victim. Come along girls.” 

“You’ll have to CATCH ME FIRST!” Charlie let out a screeching giggle and tried to run, but slammed into a wall. “FUCK!” 

“Alright, if you won’t cooperate, we can do this the hard way.” Alastor picked Charlie up and used his shadow tentacles to grab Vaggie, who struggled and protested in Spanish. “Goodnight, Husker!” 

 

“I suggest you both get some sleep.” He deposited them in front of Charlie’s door. 

“Fiiiiine. Goodnight, Al!” She threw her arms around him and squeezed. Then she just sighed and relaxed against him. 

“Uh, Charlie. Let go of Alastor.” 

“But he smells nice.” Alastor smirked down at her. “And his ears are soft.” She tried to reach them but he grabbed her hands and held them in place. 

“You’ll pretty much have to pack her in here.” Vaggie sighed. 

“Charlie? Chaaaarlie? May I enter your room?” 

“Sure, come on in! Want some popcorn?” 

“No, dear. Time for you to go to bed.”

“Ok. Come on!” She took his hand and tugged him along. 

“Time for YOU to go to bed. Go on now.” He finally got her to get into the bed. 

“Lemme touch your fluffy ears!”

“If I do, will you go to sleep?” She nodded eagerly and he sighed. “Fine.” He leaned his head down and she squealed with glee and grabbed them with both fists. “Careful, dear, they ARE attached.” 

“Ok, I’m done! Thank you Aaaaaal!” She beamed up at him.

“Goodnight, doll. Alright, Vagatha, she’s your responsibility now.” 

Vaggie was looking at him with a sad expression. “Right. Thanks, Alastor.”

 

Alastor chuckled to himself as he got ready for bed. He was going to LOVE teasing her about this tomorrow.

 

Vaggie stared up at the ceiling as Charlie snored beside her. She couldn’t keep doing this. It was killing her to not be truthful with Charlie. Maybe it would be easier while she had a little liquid courage. “Hey Charlie?”

“No thanks, I’m stuffed.” She mumbled. 

“Charlie. Hey. I need to tell you something.”

“Ok imlistening.” Her words were groggy with sleep but her eyes were open.

“I need you to know….I love you.” 

“Love you too, Vaggie.” Charlie closed her eyes again. 

“No, Charlie…I LOVE you.”

“I love you too.” She turned on her other side.

“CHARLIE. I’m trying to tell you that I’m IN LOVE with you.” 

There was silence. “Charlie?” Then the sound of snoring. 

“I’d love to pet the penguin…” Charlie mumbled in her sleep.

“Fuck.” Vaggie sighed. 

Meanwhile, Charlie was now wide awake and completely freaked out. Fuck, indeed.

 

Charlie woke up the next morning alone with a screaming headache. “Oh god.” She stumbled out of bed and promptly fell face first on the floor. “Ow.” 

There was a light knocking at her door. “Charlie? May I come in?” 

“Sure, and bring an ax to finish cutting my head off.” 

She was still face down on the carpet when she heard Alastor come in. “My, my! Have a little too much fun last night?”

“Why are you screaming at me?” She groaned. 

“Come on, sweetheart, up and at em’! Time to face the consequences of your actions!” She was being lifted off the ground and the room was spinning.

 

Alastor sat her on the side of her bed and pulled the curtains wide open.

“FUCK!” 

“On your feet, dear! Go take a shower, it’ll wake you up. Go on now!” He ushered her towards the bathroom. While she was in the shower, he set up the breakfast he’d brought. Silly as it was, breakfast with Charlie was his favorite part of the day, and he had a feeling her massive hangover would keep her from the kitchen. He snapped his fingers and a small round table appeared, along with two chairs. He poured her a cup of coffee and prepared it in the disgustingly sweet way she liked it, along with a glass of water. He’d made her chocolate chip pancakes, which he thought would be right up her alley. 

 

Charlie shuffled out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her, nearly causing Alastor to jump out of his skin. “Sorry, forgot my clothes. Just turn around, ok?” He turned around and heard the sound of her towel hitting the floor. The temptation to peek was overwhelming, but he was a gentleman. “Ok, I’m dressed.” 

He turned back around and raised his eyebrows. “Are you?” She’d tugged on an oversized shirt which skirted the top of her thighs. 

“Relax, I have shorts on over here.” She tugged up the side of the shirt and showed him the VERY short shorts. “What are you doing here?”

“I had a suspicion you wouldn’t be feeling well this morning. I thought I’d make sure you had breakfast.” 

Charlie smiled sweetly at him. “Aw, thanks Al. And, um, sorry.” She blushed. “I get a little silly when I’m drunk.” She sipped the coffee and sighed. “Can I talk to you about something that happened last night?”

“Of course, dear. But eat your breakfast while it’s hot.” He gestured at the plate.

Her eyes widened in surprise, then she looked like she was going to cry. “I love chocolate chip pancakes. How did you know?”

“It’s a way to add extra sugar to your breakfast, I thought it was a safe bet.” 

She took a bite of the pancake and smiled. “SO GOOD.” 

“So what would you like to discuss?” 

Charlie looked anxious as she cut her pancake. “So after you had to basically wrestle me into bed, I fell asleep. Some time later, Vaggie woke me up and said she needed to tell me something. She said she loved me, so I told her I loved her too, I do that all the time. Then she clarified that she was IN love with me.”

“Oh my.” Alastor sipped his coffee. Charlie smiled at the “oh deer” mug. “How did you respond?”

“By pretending to be asleep…” 

“So you didn’t.” 

“No. I’m just…very overwhelmed right now. Vaggie is like a sister to me, but I don’t want to hurt her and lose her. What do I do, Al? Do I give her a straight answer, or pretend like I don’t remember anything?” 

 

Alastor drummed his fingers on the table and thought. “I’m afraid I can’t tell you what to do, sweetheart. But if you don’t address it, you’re gonna be freaked out about it and she’ll know something is off. I think you need to bite the bullet and talk to her.” 

“Oooor I escape out this window and spend the day running errands or something, and then avoid her until I go to bed.” 

“An excellent plan. I wasn’t aware that you could fly. It’s quite a fall from the third floor.” 

“Fuuuuuck!” Charlie thumped her head on the table. “Ow.” 

Alastor sighed and stood up. “Granted, I haven’t known you very long, but the Charlie I DO know doesn’t run away and hide from her problems. She punches them in the face, though I wouldn’t suggest that here. So you’re going to stand tall, keep your chin up, and talk to her.” He stood her up from her chair and frowned. “Though may I suggest doing something with your hair first?” Charlie playfully shoved him, then hugged him. “Thanks, Al. You’re good at solving my problems. I’ve had enough problems for now though, I’m fucking tired.” 

 

There was a knock at her door. “Hey Charlie? It’s Angel. We gotta talk.” 

Charlie opened the door and smiled at him. “Come in. What’s up?”

“We’ve got a problem.” He noticed Alastor and looked surprised. “I didn’t mean to interrupt, but it’s important. And actually, it involves strawberry too, so it’s good that you’re here.” 

Alastor conjured a third chair and they sat at the table. “I don’t know how to say this other than to just come out and say it. Val wants you. I’m supposed to talk him up so you’ll go out with him. Now I have no fucking idea why, but I suspect it’s because they want Al.” 

Charlie rubbed her temples. “I’m assuming if I don’t go out with him, you pay for it.” 

“Charlie, if it means you not having to put up with that sleaze, I can take it.” 

“No.” Charlie sighed and tried to think of a solution. “Why would they use me to get to Al?” 

“They think he’s got a weakness for ya, so if they have you, they’ll get him.” 

There was a loud crackle of static. “Neither one of you will get involved in this. I’ll go straight to them myself.” 

“No! It’s too dangerous.” Charlie grabbed his arm. “Not that I’m doubting your strength, but there’s three of them and they don’t fight fair.” 

 

“Charlie, I think the best idea is for you to play along and play stupid. They think you’re naive and kind of a dumb blonde. Use it. Get Val to let his guard down.” 

“And then what? Just murder him?!” Charlie stood up and began pacing. “He’s a bad person who has done a lot of bad things, but I won’t stoop to his level.” 

“I’d be happy to.” Alastor grinned.

“NO.” 

“Hear me out! Say you go with the spider-whore’s plan-“

“Thanks, asshole.”

“-and get Val to let his guard down. Perhaps you could even get him alone.” 

“Make him think you wanna fuck him! He’ll probably wanna take you back to his room. But the strawberry pimp will be waiting for him.” 

“But doesn’t he live with the other vees?” Charlie asked. 

“Yeah, but I can make sure they’re busy. Leave that part to me.” Angel answered. 

“I still don’t want Alastor to kill him.”

“Don’t worry, doll. I’ll do what I do best: make a deal.” 

“What kind of deal?” 

“He releases Angel from his contract and I let him keep all his limbs.” Alastor grinned. 

“Hey, you don’t have to worry about me, alright? I’ll be fine. He just needs to leave Charlie alone.” 

“But he’ll just take it out on you, Angel. I can’t live with that!” Charlie was crying. 

“I’m a tough cookie, dollface. But anyway, whaddya think?” 

 

The table was silent. “As much as I hate it, you’re right. I’ll play dumb. I’ll let him think he’s got me in his web. And then we kick his ass.” 

“Is he really going to believe she’s just going to overlook his transgressions?” Alastor asked.

“If Charlie plays up the doe eyed redemption queen, I think so. Again, they think you’re REALLY stupid.” 

“Assholes.” Charlie grumbled. 

There was another knock on Charlie’s door. “When did this become the meeting room?!” She walked over and opened the door. “Vaggie!” 

“Hey, can we talk?”

“Um, can it wait?” She opened the door wider, revealing Alastor and Angel. 

“Oh. Sure. Just text me when you’re done with…whatever this is.”

“We’re havin’ a three-way with strawberry.” Angel smirked and moved to put an arm around Alastor, who smacked it away with a shadow tentacle. 

“It’s too early for this.” Charlie groaned. 

“Just text me when you’re free, ok? I’ll see you later.” 

 

Charlie shut the door and glared at Angel. “For once, could you just NOT?” 

“Nope.” 

“Ok, so what do I do now? Do I just call Val and tell him I’m dying to go out with him? Because that’s fishy.”

“Perhaps you could ask him to meet you for lunch or something to discuss things civilly. Then you’re swept off your feet and agree to go out with him.” Alastor suggested. 

“Good idea. My biggest issue will be not gagging when he touches me.”

“ Must he touch you?”

“We both know he’s going to.” 

“So, uh, what is this? You two just fuckin’ or is there somethin’ else?” Angel asked. 

“I am entirely too hung over for this.” Charlie rubbed her temples.

“Did you get drunk? WITHOUT ME?” Angel was offended.

“Lower the volume, Angel! And yes, Vaggie and I had girls night and got drunk, and it was an embarrassing ordeal I’d rather not think about.”

“More embarrassing than you remember! I’ll wait for your hangover to leave before I tease you.” Alastor grinned. 

 

“Is no one gonna answer my question?!” Angel grumbled. 

“Not that it’s any of your business, but no, we do not have a physical relationship. We are just friends and business partners.” 

“Right, sure. Can’t remember the last time Charlie brought me an elaborate breakfast to my room.” Angel smirked. 

“Oh god. EXCUSE ME!” Charlie dashed towards the bathroom and they both winced at the sound of vomiting. 

“Listen, you’re gonna have to be less obvious if you’re trying to keep it quiet. You’ve been lookin’ at her like a lovesick puppy since I got here.”

Alastor sighed. “I shouldn’t have to explain myself to you, but I sense you won’t drop the subject until I do. I have always been a very solitary person. I never had friends and never needed them. Charlie has expressed interest in being my friend, so that’s what I’m attempting. It’s a completely foreign concept to me.” 

“Wow. That’s sadder than I thought.” 

“I would appreciate it if you and the others don’t tease Charlie about it or make her feel uncomfortable. She’s being very kind and patient with me.” 

“Charlie’s a sweetheart, that’s for sure. She’s the only one who’s ever looked out for me. That’s why I’m sick over the thought of Val using her…keep her safe, strawberry.” 

“Of course, spider-whore.” Alastor smirked. 

 

Charlie returned from the bathroom looking slightly better. “Sorry guys. Though that did help my headache. Should I call Val now?”

“May as well get it over with.” Angel shrugged.

“Ok.” Charlie pulled out her phone, but just stared at it.

“You need his number?”

“No, it was on the card, I just…I’m an awful liar. He’s gonna know.”

“You’re not lying to him.” Alastor replied. “You’re inviting him to lunch to give him a chance to explain himself. That’s actually happening.”

“Right, ok.”

“Put it on speaker so we can hear!” Angel was more anxious than he was letting on.

 

“Ok, here we go.” Charlie dialed and put the phone on speaker. It rang a few times before Val picked up. “Who is this?!”

“Valentino? It’s Charlie.”

The tone of his voice instantly changed. “Ah, Charlie! I’m so glad you called me, babygirl. You got my flowers then?”

“I did, and thank you, it was a nice gesture. Sorry I punched you.”

“No, baby, I deserved it! You put me in my place, princessa. That’s what I like about you. How about I take you out tonight?” 

“I don’t know, Val. After the other night, I just…what if we had lunch or something?”

There was a pause. “Lunch? I’ll take it! Anything for you, princessa. Should I send a car to your little hotel?”

“No, that’s ok. Just tell me where and when. I figure your schedule is probably busier than mine.”

“I’ll text you the details. I can’t wait to see your pretty face, babygirl. I’ll see you soon!”

Charlie hung up the phone and gagged. “God I’m gonna wanna punch him so bad if he keeps calling me baby girl.” 

“You can do it, babe. Remember, you’re all wide eyed and innocent and giving him a second chance, cuz you’re all about that, even for sleazy porno pimps.” Angel pulled her in for a hug. “Let’s figure out what you’re wearing.”

 

“I believe I’ll take my leave. Please let me know before you go.” Alastor gave her a pleading look.

“Of course. If you’re coming though, you’d better keep your distance. He’ll probably be expecting you.”

“You’d allow me to escort you?”

“I mean, I don’t really wanna go alone, if that’s ok.”

“Of course!” Alastor grinned. “I’ll leave you to it.” Alastor left and turned to Charlie.

“You suck at lyin’, so I’ll know. Did you hook up with strawberry?”

“No! I swear! We’re just friends. He’s a little intense, but he’s Alastor, you know? And I’m making a lot of progress so PLEASE don’t make him uncomfortable or tease him. I want him to feel comfortable around me.”

“Alright, alright. Now, let’s dress you up like a pretty little doll for Val.”

 

Chapter 7: Mission Impossible

Summary:

Charlie is going on a lunch date with Valentino (gag) and an unlikely alliance is formed.

“Well that was fun. Aren’t you just cute as a button!” Angel grinned.

“I look ridiculous.” 

“No, you look like a naive little princess. Perfect! What time are you goin’?”

“In an hour. I gotta catch up with Vaggie first.”

“That’s not a happy face. Something up with you two?” 

“Maybe? I don’t know. But thank you for your help.” 

 

She texted Vaggie and looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a pink plaid dress with a fluffy skirt and her hair pulled partially back with a pink bow. Angel had brought her a tube of pink lipstick because her naturally black lips “ruined the aesthetic.” She was applying it when Vaggie knocked on the door. “Come in!”

Vaggie opened the door. “Hey, how are-“ she stopped short. “What the FUCK are you wearing?”

“I know, I look ridiculous, but there’s a reason! And you’re not gonna like it.” She gave Vaggie the quick rundown of the situation which, as she predicted, Vaggie hated.

“So you have to get all dressed up for that creepy perv? Gross. Why can’t Alastor just go fuck him up like he did that snake guy?.” 

“Because he’ll hurt Angel. I can’t let that happen!”

“So you’re gonna put YOUR life on the line instead?”

“Of course! And Alastor will be there to watch me.”

“Watch what? Val put his slimy claws all over you? You’ve got to stop doing this, Charlie. It’s killing me to watch you put yourself in these dangerous situations for people you barely even know!” Vaggie closed her eyes and sighed. “Which is why I need to leave for a little while. I need a break.”

“Oh, ok, no problem! Just tell me which days-“

“A break from you, Charlie.”

 

Vaggie’s words hung heavily in the room. “Wh….what?”

“Charlie, I’m gay. And I love you so fucking much. And I can’t stay here and watch the person I love constantly do this stupid shit. It’s killing me. I’m sorry, Charlie. And I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable. But I have to go.”

“Vaggie, I-“

“Charlie, please. Don’t make this harder. Let me go.”

Charlie swallowed and nodded. “Ok. Goodbye, Vaggie.” She gave her a quick hug and pulled away. “Please be careful.”

“I think I should be telling you that. Goodbye Charlie.”

Charlie shut the door behind her and sunk to the floor, her chest heaving with sobs. She had no idea Vaggie was hurting so much and that she was the source. She just wanted to curl up into a ball and die. 

 

“Charlie needs you.” Alastor looked up as Vaggie entered the lobby with a suitcase.

“Oh, thank you. Going somewhere?”

Vaggie didn’t respond. “I see. Things didn’t break your way, so you’re running away.” 

“Fuck YOU, Alastor! You don’t know anything about it!”

“I know that Charlie was devastated at the thought of losing you. And that’s exactly what’s happening. What a wonderful friend you are!” 

Vaggie lunged towards him and he caught her with a shadow tentacle. “I don’t think so. You’re angry because I’m right.”

“Everything has been fucked up since you came here! You’ve ruined everything!” 

“By doing what, exactly?”

“I don’t know what you’re doing, if you’re using some sort of voodoo magic on Charlie, but you’re worming your way in and whispering in her ear. I just hope she realizes what a piece of shit you are before she gets hurt.”

Alastor could feel his antlers begin to grow. “I suggest you go. Now.”  He released her from his shadow tentacles. 

“Fuck you.” Vaggie left the hotel. Oh, Charlie. 

 

He appeared outside her door and knocked. “Charlie…I’m so sorry sweetheart.”

“Go away, Al. I need to be alone.”

“I really don’t think you do. May I come in?”

“No.” 

“You seem to think that’ll make me leave. Very well, I’ll just get comfortable here in the hallway. We can have a nice, loud conversation about it.”

“Ugh, you can come in, you obnoxious pain in the ASS.” She shouted. 

Alastor entered her room and looked around. “Charlotte?”

“I'm down here.” He followed the source of the voice, which was coming from a mound of blankets on the floor. 

“May I ask what you’re doing?” He sat beside her on the floor. 

“Hiding.” The blanket replied.

“From?” 

“Everyone.” 

“I see. And what will this accomplish?”

A pair of red eyes glared at him from beneath the blanket. “Ah, THERE you are!” 

“Why are you here, Al?” She disappeared under the blanket again.

“Vagatha sent me. She said you needed me.” 

“Well I DON’T. I don’t need anyone. Because all I do is hurt people.” 

 

“You do realize you’re being incredibly dramatic, right?” Al was suddenly under the blanket with her.

“FUCK!” She jumped and tossed the blanket off. “I hate when you do that!” 

“And I enjoy it. Now, this isn’t my area, so forgive me.” He patted the top of her head. “There, there.” 

“Whaaaat are you doing?”

“Comforting you?”

“Try again.” 

He reached out and placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a painful smile that he hoped came off as reassuring. She looked at him with a horrified expression. “Please stop trying to comfort me. It’s freaking me out!” 

“You’re going to have to help me out here, sweetheart.” 

Charlie huffed and stood up, extending her hand to him. He took it and she held onto it, instructing him to sit on the couch. He was surprised when she climbed onto his lap and buried her head in his neck. “Is this ok?”

“Yes. Is this comforting?”

“It would be if you didn’t look terrified.” She smirked. “I’ll make it easy for you. Rub my back and say nice things to me.” 

“Very well.” Alastor gently rubbed her back and cleared his throat, “I admire the way you organize your books. You’re very orderly.”

“Oh dear god.” Charlie groaned.

“Hang on, give me a moment!” He thought to himself. “Aha! You, dear Charlotte, are the only reason I’m not terrorizing sinners.” 

“Um…what?” 

 

He shifted her slightly so she could see his face. “I came here to watch you fail, and perhaps take advantage of your power. It was going to be a simple enough plan, especially when you just let me in the front door and agreed to work with me. I was planning to keep a cool distance and slowly gain your trust. But SOMEHOW, you drilled right through all of that right away. You got me talking. And then you hopped up on the counter to retrieve your secret cookies, and it was just…so oddly personal. So I tried to intimidate you and ask if you were afraid of me, and you SHRUGGED. You threw me off so much with your casual shrug, and I was stunned. Then after dinner, I joined you in the kitchen and you just opened up to me. You poured your heart out and I thought ‘my god! This will be too easy!’ But you cut straight through my excuses about entertainment and I realized that you were tougher than you looked. But what REALLY impressed me, was your answer when I asked why you didn’t want to hurt that anchorwoman. I’d never, in all my years dead or alive, seen someone speak with such certainty and determination. It was like it was the most obvious thing in the world to you. You said you didn’t want to hurt people or own their souls. You wanted to give them hope in a place that takes it all away. And then I knew I had to abandon my plan because you were just so delightful.” He grinned and pinched her cheek. 

 

Charlie glared at him. “You ASSHOLE! You were going to use me!”

“I was! But then, Charlie dear, you did the impossible. You changed my mind. I thought it was impossible to rehabilitate sinners, especially someone as awful as me. I’m not a saint by any means and I’m CERTAINLY not rehabilitated, but I went from ripping demons to shreds to cooking you pancakes. And I was content with that. YOU changed me, Charlotte. Your dream, your hotel, it worked and I hadn’t even realized it. So if you’re still giving away second chances…” 

 

Charlie had the most adorable glare. “I’m still mad at you.” 

“That’s fine. You should be.” 

Charlie’s glare softened. “I really changed you?”

“Charlie, dear, the powerful and violent radio demon is sitting in your room, trying to help heal your broken heart. What do YOU think?” 

Charlie’s grin widened and she threw both arms around him. “OH AL! THAT MAKES ME SO HAPPYYYY!” She squealed and hugged him tightly. 

“Now listen, I’m not going to be your poster demon for your hotel. I’ll go out and dismember someone right now if I need to. And if you EVER tell anyone about this…”

“I won’t. Thank you, Al. I’m really proud of you.”

“And I’m proud of you, doll. Speaking of, you look like you should be in a box with a wind up gear on your back.” 

“I know, it’s awful. I’ve gotta fix my makeup or Angel will be pissed.” 

“Are you sure you can still go on this date? You could always reschedule.”

“No, I think I need the distraction. I can do this.” 

“I have complete faith in you.”

 

“Charlie! So good to see you.” Val greeted her warmly as she approached. “And might I say, you’re looking lovely today!” 

“Thank you, Val.” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and attempted to look bashful.

“Please, have a seat!” He pulled out her chair for her. 

“Thank you. What is this place?”

“A little bistro I bought a few years ago. I love the view, and I wanted to make sure I always had a table.”

“So you bought the whole bistro?” Charlie giggled. 

“Call it a silly little impulse buy. “ he gave her a wink. “Charlie…I’d like to apologize again for my behavior the other night. I was COMPLETELY out of line…I only hope you’ll be able to forgive me.” 

Charlie smiled sweetly. “Everyone deserves a second chance. Why don’t we start over? Forget it ever happened.”

“Thank you, Charlie. You’re an angel.” 

“Speaking of, you should thank Angel…” she giggled and looked away.

“Oh? And why is that?” 

“He’s one heck of a wingman. He couldn’t say enough great things about you. I thought maybe I should see for myself.” She gave him a bashful smile. 

“Well, babygirl, I hope I live up to your expectations. You’ve already exceeded mine.” He picked up her hand and kissed it.

 

Alastor wanted to bang his head against the wall. He’d sent his shadow to eavesdrop again and he was nearby in case he was needed. He cocked his head as he saw a familiar flat-faced demon sneak closer to the restaurant. 

“Fancy seeing you here!” Alastor appeared behind him, making Vox jump.

“Fuck! I hate when you do that!” 

“And what are you doing here, hmm?” 

“I’m just…out for a walk. It’s a nice day. It’s none of your business, so just fuck off.” 

“It wouldn’t have anything to do with the blonde doll up there having lunch with your business partner?” He was surprised to see Vox look genuinely upset. 

“I just…I wanted to make sure she was ok. I don’t know why she called him. She told me she wouldn’t see me anymore BECAUSE of my partnership with Val, and now she’s seeing him?” 

Alastor sighed. “What a lovesick fool you are. It’s pathetic, really.”

“Just fuck off, Alastor. I don’t want to fight you.” 

“Who said anything about fighting? I believe we have a common interest, my flat faced friend.” He gestured towards Charlie, who was laughing at something Val said. 

“I don’t care if she doesn’t want to be with me, I still care about her and she needs to stay away from Val. He’s dangerous.” 

Alastor chuckled. “Advanced technology doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve got brains, now does it?”

“Uh, fuck you.”

“You and I both know Charlie. She’s a VERY intelligent girl. Do you really think she’d be naive enough to date the porno pimp? The one who owns the soul of one of her dearest friends?” 

 

Vox looked shocked. “Oh my god. Of course! I’m such an idiot!”

“No arguments in this corner!” Alastor grinned and turned to face Val head on. “Now, as deplorable as I find the idea of working with you, I do believe you’d be a valuable source on the inside.”

“What do you mean?”

“Must I spell out EVERYTHING for you? Perhaps television really does rot your brain. Pay attention to Valentino. Try to figure out what he’s planning. We can stay a step ahead of him.” 

 

Vox was torn. “I don’t know…”

“Does this influence your decision?” Alastor gestured to Valentino, who was now closer to Charlie and clearly flirting with her. 

“That prick. Fine. But how?”

Alastor groaned. “You have access to essentially ANY camera. You can spy on Valentino, listen to his private conversations. Watch him.”

“Right, good idea. How do I get you the information? Because I KNOW you don't have a cellphone.”

“By taking a little trip to our hotel. You should see the renovations we’ve done, it’s looking QUITE nice!”

“Fuck. Alright. Anything to keep her safe.”

“That’s the spirit! I shall await your correspondence. Oh, just one more thing.”

“What?” Vox screamed as a tentacle slammed him into the tree. 

“I do not forgive and forget. This alliance is temporary. And if you know what’s best for you and truly want what’s best for Charlotte, you will stay the fuck away from her. Talk to her at the hotel, of course, but outside of that? ABSOLUTELY not.”

 

“Don’t you think that should be up to her?! What are you gonna do, threaten and terrorize anyone who tries to date her?” Vox struggled against the tentacles.

“Not anyone. But social climbing power hungry assholes who trample anyone in their path? Oh yes.” 

“She wasn’t supposed to be there-“

“That doesn’t really matter now, does it? !” Alastor’s voice crackled loudly. “No amount of worthless apologies or excuses can bring my sister back. And if it weren’t for Charlotte, I would’ve already removed your head from your shoulders, but you’re of more use to me alive than dead. That may change later.” Alastor let him go and straightened his tie. “You may leave. I’ll be here if Charlotte needs me.”

 

Vox returned to the apartment with an ache in his chest. He hated the idea of Val laying a finger on her, especially knowing where those hands had been. But Charlie was smart, and Alastor made one hell of a guard dog. Did the radio demon still make him feel like he was going to shit his pants? Absolutely. But he was on Charlie’s side, which is what mattered. 

 

Sometime later, he heard Valentino come in. “Hey.”

“Hey.” Vox replied in greeting without looking up from his phone. 

“We need to talk.” Valentino sat at the other end of the long couch. “You should know, I’m going out with your little princess.”

“She’s not really MY princess, is she?” Vox glared. “But do whatever you want. I’m just going to focus on Voxtech.” 

“So you’re not gonna be pissy when I bring her around? Because I don’t want you to be dramatic and passive aggressive like you get.” 

“WHY are you seeing her? She’s not your type, AT ALL.”

“A hot blonde princess? Baby she’s EVERYONE’S type. And I like the idea of a good girl who’s only bad for me.” Val gave him a lecherous grin.

“You realize she’s not gonna be like the whores you own, where you can just snap your fingers and make them do whatever you want.”

“I know, but I DO enjoy a challenge. Especially when the prize is so sweet.” 

“I think you’re forgetting about the red menace she’s partners with.” 

“Oh I’m not worried about him. I’m not gonna give him any reason to go after me. I’m gonna treat her like a queen. If she’s happy, he won’t touch me.” 

“What happens when you get bored with her, or wanna fuck other people? Actually, you know what, that’s your problem. Alastor can kick your ass for all I care. I’m staying out of it.”

“Well I’m bringing her to the party tonight, so you’d better not act like an ass.”

 

Vox gaped at him. “Are you INSANE? You’re taking her to one of your Coke-filled ragers?!”

“Not MY coke-filled rager. Velvette’s. I’ve already got it worked out- we get there, see how SINFUL the party is, and we make the smart choice and leave. Then see where it goes from there.” 

“You’re jumping through a lot of hoops just to fuck the princess.” 

“Yes, but think of the power I’ll have at my fingertips!” Valentino laughed. “And she’ll be so happy that I chose to leave and made the virtuous choice. She’ll be wrapped around my finger.” 

“Don’t come crying to me and Velvette when you get your ass kicked, because we’re not sticking our necks out for your stupid plan.” 

 

“I think I need like, ten showers.” Charlie cringed. 

“It looked like it went well.” Alastor opened the door to the hotel for her.

“Oh yeah, I really played it up, being all sweet and innocent.”

“But AREN’T you sweet and innocent?” He smiled. 

“Sometimes. And sometimes I’ll kick your ass. You should know.” She booped his nose.

“Don’t ever do that again.”

“Good, stop tweaking my nose, I don’t like it either!” 

 

“Hey, how’d it go?” Angel was waiting in the lobby.

“Perfectly. And now I’m going with him to a party tonight.” 

“Aw shit, really? Is it Velvette’s party?” 

“I think so.”

Angel groaned loudly. “Fuuuuck. I’m the entertainment. You shouldn’t have to see that!” 

“He knows we’re friends, so maybe he’ll make sure I don’t see?”

“While you were batting your eyelashes, I secured us an alliance. Someone on the inside.” Alastor grinned. “I wasn’t the only one waiting in the wings. Vox was also there to keep an eye on you.”

“Really? Why?” Charlie asked. 

“He didn’t trust Valentino’s intentions either. He’s agreed to be our man on the inside and keep us abreast of Valentino’s plans.”

“What do Valentino’s tits have to do with anything?” Angel asked. 

“Not breast, abreast.”

“So just one?”

“Forget it. That’s not important. He’s going to inform us of anything useful.” 

“Why should we trust him?”

“A combination of his adoration for Charlie and fear of me is very motivational.” Alastor grinned. 

“Al!” Charlie frowned. 

“What? I only threatened him if he harmed you!” 

“I’ve gotta go lie down for a bit. I’m exhausted and still hungover. Thanks for keeping an eye out, Al.” She gave him and Angel quick hugs before heading upstairs. 

 

“I’ll try to keep an eye on her at the party.” Angel turned to Alastor. “These things are always ragers. Drinking and drugs and all sorts of shit. If she wants to leave, Val be damned, we’re leaving.” 

“Good. I’ll be nearby, of course.” 

Angel chuckled. “Boy are you gonna see some shit you never saw in your day.” 

“I’m going to be in my office working on the renovations. Please fetch me if necessary, I am expecting a delivery.”

“Fetch you? I ain’t your dog. See ya around.”

 

Alastor had been in contact with several architects and interior designers and was going over the plans. Truthfully, he was enjoying this little project more than he expected. He was very excited about the purchase he had coming: a grand piano for the lobby. He loved playing and he’d always thought pianos added a touch of class. 

 

There was a knock on his door. “Yes?”

“Hey, the tv douche is here.”

“Literally standing right here, Angel.” Vox grumbled. 

“Good. Let me fetch Charlotte. Excuse me please.” Alastor disappeared to get Charlie and Angel eyeballed Vox. 

“I still don’t trust you. You and Val have been tight for too long.” 

“Val is a narcissistic asshole who only cares about himself.”

“Yeah, but that’s always been true. What’s different now?” 

“It’s personal. And it doesn’t concern you.” 

“Whatever.” Angel walked away. 

Vox jumped as Alastor appeared in front of him again. Alastor grabbed him and shadows opened up beneath him. For a moment, he thought the radio demon had changed his mind and was just going to murder him, but then he realized he was now standing in a bedroom. 

 

“Vox, hi! Thank you for this. I thought it might be better for us all to meet up here in my room instead of the lobby.” Charlie smiled warmly at Vox. 

“Charlie, I’d like to apologize again-“

“Not important. And it wasn’t you, it was Val. Alastor said you had some information for us?” Charlie gestured to the sitting area in her room. She sat on the couch and Alastor sat right beside her, an arm slung over the back of the couch and essentially around her. The message was very clear: mine. 

 

“So Valentino basically started monologuing like a supervillain and told me everything.”

“I don’t follow.” Alastor looked at Charlie.

“I’ll explain later, go on.” She smiled at Vox.

“Basically he wants to woo you, make you think he’s a wonderfully changed man, and get in your pants.” Radio static filled the room. “Don’t shoot the messenger! I’m just relaying information. He thinks he can win her over and have her power at his fingertips. So you’re not in any immediate danger, other than him being a perv. Tonight especially. The party he’s taking you to is going to be a fucking nightmare. Drugs, drinking, strip shows. He knows you’ll be horrified and he’ll make the noble decision to take you away from all the sin.” 

“Take me where?”

“Ideally, his bedroom, but you can pump the brakes on that.”

“I don’t want you going anywhere alone with him.” Alastor’s finger twirled a piece of her hair absentmindedly. 

“I’ll have to if he wants to woo me. I’m not gonna make it easy for him though, where’s the fun in that?” 

“What does that mean?” Vox asked. 

“Oh I’m gonna be Charlie 2.0- even perkier, more energetic, and determined to share our thoughts and feelings, our hopes and dreams!” 

“The world isn’t ready.” Alastor smirked. 

 

“That’s all the info I have right now. Oh, I did bring something that will be useful.” He snapped his fingers and produced what looked like a small tv screen. “This will allow me to travel here faster and send private messages that no one without this technology can see.” 

“Oooooh!” Charlie grinned. “Where should we put it?”

“Since this is where we’re meeting, do you want me to install it in here?”

“HA.” Alastor’s laugh made them both jump. “You are not installing a portal to Charlotte’s bedroom.” 

“It was just a suggestion.” 

“I think my office would be best.” 

 

There was a knock on Charlie’s door. “Seriously?!” She walked over and opened it with a huff. “Oh! Hi nifty.” 

“This box came for you!” She heaved a large box over her head. 

“Oh, thank you!” 

Nifty caught sight of Vox. “Oooooh! A BAD BOY!” She went streaking towards him and climbed him like a tree.

“WHAT THE FUCK?!” 

“Nifty, dear. What did we say about climbing on strangers?” Alastor plucked her off of Vox. 

“Not to do it.” She said sadly. 

“Apologize to Mr. Vox.”

“Sorry, Mr. Vox. I just love bad boys. And you are a bad, BAD BOY!” She grinned and lunged for him again but Alastor held her firmly. 

“Alright, that’s enough, out you go!” Alastor tossed her into the hallway and used his shadow to shut the door. “Apologies. She’s mostly harmless.”

 

Charlie took the lid off the box and saw a note on top of red tissue paper. “ Princessa, please wear this to the party tonight. It is in celebration of Velvette’s upcoming line and everyone is to wear something from it. I thought this would look stunning on you. Yours, Valentino.” 

“Uh, there’s not a dress code for the party.” Vox walked over and looked at the note. “She’s got a new line coming up, but I don’t know where he’s getting the other bullshit.”

 

Charlie unwrapped the tissue paper and saw a red dress. Well, she assumed it was a dress but it seemed to be missing half of the fabric. “Uuuuuuh what is this?” 

“Oh that actually is one of Velvette’s new designs.” 

“And where is the rest of it?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“What I mean is that THIS DRESS NEEDS PANTS. This isn’t even a dress! This is just…a long tank top! And where’s the back?!” She examined the scrap of fabric from all angles. “How do you even WEAR this?” 

“It’s supposed to be drapey, I don’t know the terms. Angel should be able to help you.” 

“I’m not going out in public in this…ass napkin!” 

Alastor cackled. “Oh my dear, you crack me up. And while I agree, it’s practically indecent, I think it would be best to go along with Val’s plan.” 

“You guys would feel differently if it was YOUR ass hanging out.” Charlie grumbled. “Oh great, there’s hooker heels too. That’s ok, I didn’t want to WALK.” Her horns briefly flared and Alastor reached out and put a hand on her knee. 

“Charlotte, sweetheart. Breathe. Deep breaths.” 

 

Charlie took a few deep breaths and her horns disappeared again. “Thank you.” She leaned against his side. 

“I’m going to go get this set up and get out of your hair.” Vox awkwardly cleared his throat. “Show me where I’m installing it.” 

“Follow me. Charlie, shall I send Angel Dust?” 

“Please. Thank you, Vox.”

“I’ll see you tonight.” He nodded and followed Alastor. 

 

“I trust you’ll be keeping an eye on her as well tonight?” 

“Of course. Ugh, Val is gonna be all over her. Sleazy asshole.” 

“You know, I could save us all a lot of trouble and just kill him.” Alastor replied coolly, as if he were talking about the weather. 

“Do that and Charlie will never forgive you. Actually, go ahead, that puts things in my favor.” Vox smirked as he worked. “Alright, it’s set up. See you.” Vox touched the box and disappeared with a zap.

Chapter 8: Party Time

Summary:

It’s time for the party and everyone is on edge. Tensions rise as the alliance between Alastor and Vox is strained. Al says not to trust Vox. Vox says not to trust Al. Angel says not to trust ANYONE. But who can Charlie truly trust?

Notes:

Sorry guys, this one is a bit slower for me to update. I’m a fluff master so writing something a little darker and more serious takes a lot more brainpower.
BUT- I hope you’re still enjoying it.

When Alastor came out of his office, he saw Angel looking up the stairs with an amused expression. “Put all your weight on your toes, doll. It’ll keep you balanced.” He noticed Alastor and grinned. “It’s like watching a baby giraffe learn to walk.” 

Alastor looked up and saw Charlotte teetering on impossibly high heels. “These aren’t shoes, they’re INSTRUMENTS OF TORTURE.” 

“You’ve gotta come down the stairs, toots. You can’t walk into the party like that. Remember what I told you: tits forward, ass out, and lead with your toes.” 

Charlie straightened her posture like Angel had told her. She took one confident step forward and crumpled like a leaf. “FUCK!” 

“Oh my god, I DANCE in these! I fuck in these! Try again!” 

“These are stupid and ridiculous and I’m going to break an ankle!” 

“Again. You’ve gotta be able to own it.” 

 

After several more failed attempts, Charlie could (mostly) walk without tripping. “Hey look, I’m as tall as you!” She was at eye level with Alastor.

“Alright, climb those stairs back to your room and we’ll do it again with the dress on.” Angel ushered her back upstairs. 

 

A lot of time had passed and Alastor was beginning to worry. He heard chatter coming from the stairs and saw Angel and Charlie in nearly identical (and incredibly revealing) outfits. Charlie’s dress was cherry red and Angel’s was black. He could hardly believe this was the same Charlie that had been the picture of innocence that afternoon. Her hair was curled and pinned to one side, and her lips were painted the same red as her dress. She looked up and smiled at him. “Well? Do I look ready for a party?” 

 

Alastor seemed to have forgotten all the words in the English language. Angel just laughed. “You broke him, shortcake! I told you ya look hot!” 

Alastor cleared his throat and straightened his posture. “While I must say that I find that outfit entirely too provocative, I cannot deny that it looks lovely on you. Are you ready to go?” 

“Yeah. I’m riding with Angel, you wanna ride with us? We’ll let you out before we get there.”

“No, go on ahead, there’s something I must take care of first. Do be careful, and know that I’ll be close by.” 

 

Truthfully he had nothing to take care of, he just didn’t want to ride with Angel, who was a horrible driver. He felt worried for Charlie. She looked drop dead gorgeous and would no doubt be swarmed by sleaze bags. If there was any benefit to being associated with Valentino, it was that he could make them scatter like flies. He decided to go ahead and head to the party location and scope out the place. 

 

“I’m surprised Val didn’t wanna send a car to pick you up.” 

“He did, but I told him that was silly since we were both going, and we both live at the hotel.” Charlie shrugged. 

“Just…please be careful, dollface. Val is a sneaky, sadistic prick. I don’t trust the tv douche either. Or Alastor, really.” 

“It’s sweet that you’re worried about me. But I think everyone Is still thinking of me as a helpless princess.”

“It’s hard not to. You’re just so nice. Nice people don’t usually kick ass.” 

“Hey, I can be nice AND kick ass!”

“Yeah I gotta say, it was satisfying watching you punch Al in the face, even though I thought we were all gonna die.” Angel turned serious for a moment. “Listen. If at any point you wanna go, we’ll go, Val be damned. I’ll get you out.” 

Charlie smiled at her friend. “Thank you, Angel.” 

 

When they arrived at the party, Angel linked her arm through his and they walked in together. All eyes were immediately on the pair. “Remember what I said toots: tits forward, ass out. Confidence, baby.” 

Vox spotted Charlie from across the room and his screen flickered wildly. “What's the matter with you?” Val frowned. He turned and saw Charlie and Angel. “Aaah now I see! Excuse me while I go get my sexy little princess.” 

 

“Heads up, here he comes.” Angel whispered. “Cute and innocent.” 

“Charlie, baby, look at you!” Val greeted her warmly. He took her hand and licked up her arm and smiled. “Absolutely delicious.” He chuckled at her horrified expression. “You look irresistible! Come on, let’s mingle, shall we? Angel, you’re looking good too. Run along and find Velvette, she was looking for you.” Valentino wrapped an arm around Charlie, pulling her against his side. “You need a drink. What’ll you have? Anything for my amorcita.”

“I don’t really drink.” Charlie lied. “Some of my residents are working on their sobriety and I want to support them.” 

“That’s what I love about you, that beautiful heart of yours. Let me introduce you to some friends of mine.” 

 

Valentino clearly intended for her to be a showpiece for the evening. He kept an arm around her the entire time he spoke to people, and occasionally he’d run his fingers up and down her arms and give her little subtle touches. She wanted to crawl out of her skin. When she saw the shark demon across from her prepare to do a line of coke, she saw her opportunity. 

 

“I know drugs are really tempting, but there’s no reason we can’t have a good time without them! Relying on a substance for happiness only leads to more pain. How about you put that away?” Charlie beamed at the shark, who gaped at her like she’d grown another head. 

The shark looked at Val, who glared. “She asked you to put it away, Carlos. Listen to my lady.” 

Carlos begrudgingly put away his stash, and Charlie glowed with pride. “Why don’t we all get to know each other? I’m Charlie and I run a hotel to rehabilitate sinners! I love to sing and dance and help people get on the right path! What about you, Carlos?” 

 

Carlos looked utterly confused and looked at Val again, who motioned for him to proceed. “Uh, I’m Carlos. I’m a loan shark. I guess I like making money and breaking kneecaps.” 

“Wow, thank you soooo much for sharing, Carlos! So what is it about breaking kneecaps that you like?” Charlie had on her brightest, most charming smile. 

“I…I don’t know. I guess the power? You know, knowing I can take a guy down.”

Charlie nodded. “I totally understand. When we feel like we don’t have control of our own lives, sometimes we look for other ways to make ourselves feel more in control. For some people it’s their eating habits, or gambling, or breaking kneecaps. Is there something about your own life you’d like to have more control of?” 

Carlos looked ready to cry. “I wanna get outta debt. I don’t like owing people nothin’.” 

“There you go, that sounds like a pretty clear goal! Now it won’t be easy, but I promise it’ll be worth it to feel like YOU have control of your life. And it’s possible, Carlos, I know it is. No one is irredeemable. No one is broken beyond repair. All you have to do is start.” She smiled softly and placed her hand over his fin. 

 

Carlos’ lip began to tremble. “You really think so?”

“I KNOW so. And you don’t have to do it alone. Come to my hotel sometime. We’ll always be there for you.” 

“Thanks, Charlie. You’re a good kid. Excuse me, would ya?” Carlos quickly left, losing his battle with his emotions. 

 

Valentino was stunned. Genuinely stunned. How the FUCK had she broken through one of his top loan sharks?! If Carlos stopped working for him, that was a big chunk of profit lost. That couldn’t happen. 

“I think that went well!” Charlie beamed up at him. “Your friends are nice, Val.” 

Valentino cleared his throat. “I’m glad you think so.” He forced a smile. “Excuse me for a moment, I’m going to get a drink. You sure I can’t get you anything?” 

“Nope! Thanks though!” 

The second Valentino was gone, Vox rushed over. “Charlie, what did you do?!”

“What are you talking about?” 

“Val is pissed, I can tell. You don’t want to piss him off.”

“That’s where you’re wrong, I DO want to piss him off. And I may have helped someone.”

“No, you didn’t, Charlie.”

“I did, I could tell Carlos was really moved!”

“Val will never let him go to your hotel. He doesn’t own his soul but he owns basically everything else.” 

Charlie’s face fell. “Oh. Will he be hurt because of me?”

“He might, Charlie. I don’t want to lie to you. I know you want to help people, but you’re playing a dangerous game. And I don’t want to see you get hurt.” Vox smiled and brushed her cheek with his hand. 

“Don’t worry about me. Really. But I am worried about you, because if Val comes back and sees you with me, won’t that make things worse?” 

Vox seemed to consider something. “Fuck it, he doesn’t own you. Do you want to dance?” 

“Sure, I’d love to!” Charlie took his hand and followed him onto the dance floor. 

 

“That little bitch got through to Carlos in five minutes! He wants to quit!” Valentino hissed at Velvette. 

“Well whose fucking fault is that? You’re the one that brought her. What are you even getting out of this to make it worth it?” 

“The POWER, Velvette! She is the fucking princess of hell. So if I’m patient and the most fucking polite and charming gentleman, I’ll win her trust, and I can start taking some of that power for myself.” 

“You think she’s just gonna start offing people because she likes you? She’s not gonna do anything she doesn’t want to.” 

“Don’t you worry about that. Besides, we can always whip a little something up to make her a bit more…easy to persuade.” 

Velvette rolled her eyes. “Where’d you leave the little do gooder? She better not be fucking up my party.” 

“She’s sitting over- oh, fuck!” He saw her dancing with Vox and shattered the glass in his hand. “He’d better get his fucking hands off my girl.” 

“My GOD you two are exhausting. Why are you acting like a jealous asshole? You don’t actually care about her!”

“Yes, but she IS mine, and I don’t like when people touch my things.” He snarled.

“Ugh, I can’t even talk to you right now. Just don’t make a fucking scene if you want her to like you.” Velvette stomped away. 

 

“I hope you’re having a decent time, despite everything.” Vox smiled at her. “And you look stunning, but the way.”

“Thank you, but it’s not my style. And honestly, neither are big parties. I’m dying to get out of here.” 

“Do you want to leave? Because we’ll go.” Vox stopped dancing and took her hand.

“No, I haven’t been here that long, I’m sure I can find some more feathers to ruffle. Thanks though.” 

Vox’s eyes were filled with pain. “I’m sorry you’re in this situation because of me.” 

“Things happen. And who knows? Maybe I can help some people along the way.” 

“You’re too good to be here, Charlotte. Places like this and people like me will tear you down. It’d break my heart if that happened.” 

“You don’t have to worry about that. I can take care of myself.”

“I know you can, but wouldn’t it be nice for someone to take care of you for a change?” 

“No, I’d go stir crazy.” Charlie chuckled. “But I appreciate the sentiment.” 

Vox looked into her eyes and smiled softly. “You’ve already given me more chances than I deserve, and I have no right to ask for another one. But after this, if I leave the Vee’s for good…would you give me another shot?” 

“I think that I would.” She smiled. 

“Really?!”

“Of course. I know how difficult that choice would be for you. You wouldn’t make it lightly. I know you’d really be trying.” 

“Thank you, Charlie.” 

 

“I go for a drink and you steal my girl?” Val chuckled as he approached. 

“Only for a dance! It was a shame to see a pretty lady sitting alone at a party. She’s all yours.” Vox smiled and let go of Charlie. “See you around, Charlie.”

“ Amorcita, this doesn’t seem like your scene. Perhaps you’d like to go somewhere quieter where we can talk?” 

“I saw some people go up to the rooftop patio, maybe we could go up there?” 

“A great idea.” He escorted her up the stairs and onto the roof. 

“It’s a beautiful night!” Charlie smiled. 

“The beauty of the night is nothing compared to the beauty beside me.” Valentino kissed her hand. 

Charlie giggled and tried to look bashful. “You’re just flattering me.”

“I’m not! Babygirl, listen. I work with some of the most beautiful souls in hell. Not a single one of them compares to you. You’re beautiful inside and out, Charlie. Your soul is what really makes you shine. There’s no other soul like it. I’m captivated by you. You’re so good and so pure, you make me want to be better, amorcita. Will you help me?”

“Really?!” Charlie gasped. “I’d be happy to!” 

“I’m afraid I can’t move into your hotel, it’s a bit out of the way for me with my work, but would you still be willing to help me?”

“Of course, Val! I’m really proud of you for deciding this. I know it’s a difficult choice.” 

“Not when it comes to you, baby.” Oh god, here it comes. He was making his move. He leaned forward, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear before gently bringing her lips to his.

 

It took every ounce of her willpower not to cringe and freeze. She hoped he’d mistake her discomfort for shyness and inexperience. She broke the kiss and giggled shyly. 

“You’re absolutely adorable, princessa. Was that ok?” 

“It was more than ok, it was…really nice.” She looked away bashfully. 

“I’m more than happy to supply all the kisses you need.” He stroked her cheek. 

“Thank you, but I think I should head home for the evening.” 

“Are you sure? It’s such a nice night, we could spend more time together. Get to know each other better…” 

“This is going to sound silly, but…it’s past my bedtime. I try to keep a strict schedule, I’m usually in my pajamas by 9!”

Valentino laughed. “My goodness! It’s a wonder you’re still awake then!” 

“I know, I wish I could stay longer but I’m getting tired. Thank you for a lovely evening.” 

“Do you need a ride home? Angel has to stay and work a while.” 

“No, that’s ok! Thank you though. Goodnight, Val. I had fun.” She stretched on her toes and kissed his cheek. He took the opportunity to turn his head and capture her lips. 

“Val!” She giggled.

“Sorry, baby girl, your lips were too tempting. Goodnight, amorcita. ” He kissed her hand. 

 

“Ew ew ew ew ew ew.” Charlie whispered to herself the whole way out. Hopefully she could find Al and he could teleport her out, otherwise she was finding a cab. As she walked outside, she saw a shadow scuttle towards her. “Al?” She whispered. It nodded, and motioned for her to follow. She followed it away from the party and towards the tree line. 

“Ready to return home, sweetheart?” Alastor asked with a smile as he leaned against a tree. “I imagine you’ll want to brush your teeth a dozen times.” 

“Yes please. And maybe drink a gallon of mouthwash.” She took his extended hand and they were back at the hotel. “He tried to slip me his tongue but I didn’t let him.”

“I nearly tore him apart when he licked you. The disgusting creature.” Alastor snarled. 

“So how does it work? Can you see and hear everything with your shadow?” Charlie asked as they walked inside. “Hang on.” She kicked off her shoes and picked them up. “I was sick of those.” 

“Sort of. It’s basically an extension of myself. I can’t see and hear as clearly as if I were in the room, and it’s less clear the further away I am.” 

“That’s pretty cool. I think it went ok.” 

“It would’ve gone better if that flat faced simpleton hadn’t tried to turn your head.” 

“What do you mean?” Charlie looked up at him. 

“Saying all those sweet words, asking you to give him another chance…” 

Charlie stopped. “So basically you were eavesdropping the entire time?”

“I was doing what you asked.”

“I asked you to watch my back if I got into trouble! That’s crossing a line, Al.” 

“You can’t have it both ways, sweetheart. If I’m to protect you properly, that includes ensuring Vox isn’t meddling!” 

“Oh my GOD, he’s not! He even wants to leave the Vees, but I guess you already heard that!” She ran her hands through her hair in exasperation.

“He wants you, Charlie! He’ll say anything you want to hear!” 

 

Charlie stomped towards the stairs. “Thanks for watching my back. It won’t be necessary again. Goodnight.” 

“This conversation isn’t over, Charlotte. ” He followed her up the stairs. 

“Oh yes it is, Alastor!”

“He’s biding his time until he can win you over!”

“And?” Charlie stopped suddenly, causing Alastor to nearly crash into her.

“And what?”

“And what if he wins me over? What’s the problem?”

“The problem is that he is a vile, despicable excuse of a man. You have no idea what he’s done.” 

“So tell me.” Charlie crossed her arms. 

Alastor was silent. “I can’t.” 

“And why not?”

“Because it’s…deeply personal.” 

“Is that true, or are you using it as an excuse not to talk about it?”

Alastor looked wounded. “I would hope you’d know I speak truthfully with you.” 

“That’s the thing- I DON’T know! You tell me not to trust Vox, Vox tells me not to trust you, Angel tells me not to trust anybody. I trusted Vaggie and she LEFT. Clearly my judgment sucks! I can’t handle this right now. Goodnight.” 

 

Alastor was furious. “Charlie!” 

“Goodnight, Al.” 

He appeared in front of her door, blocking her way. “Al, I swear to god-“

“He killed my sister.” 

Charlie’s eyes widened and she was quiet. “What?”

“Vox killed my sister. My twin sister, Alison. And he didn’t even care.” 

Charlie’s eyes searched his. “Oh, Al-“

“Please don’t. I don’t want to discuss it. But that is the reason I don’t trust him. And I’m only sharing this with you because I need you to trust me. Ok?” Seeing Alastor without his smile was somehow more frightening than his ghoulish smile.

 

Alastor had never uttered those three words in his entire life: I need you. But it was true. In Charlie, he felt he’d finally found companionship with Charlie and he wasn’t going to let that go without a fight. 

Charlie didn’t say anything or move, she just stared into his eyes. Then she moved forward and rested her head against his chest, wrapping her arms around him. He sighed and hugged her back. 

 

“I’m sorry.” Charlie mumbled against his chest. 

“It’s unnecessary.” He replied against her hair. 

“I’m just so tired. Mentally, emotionally.”

“I know.” 

Charlie sniffed and he realized she was crying. “I don’t want to be alone.”

“You don’t have to be.” 

“Will you stay with me?” She looked up into his eyes and her expression shattered his heart. 

“Of course.” He whispered. 

Chapter 9: Fallout

Summary:

Alastor is confused about his feelings towards Charlie. Perhaps this was what it felt like to have a pet? And the hotel is getting a new resident…

Notes:

Sorry if this one feels short, if I didn’t break it up it was going to be ridiculously long and I wanted to at least post part of it for you!

“Will you stay with me?” She looked up into his eyes and her expression shattered his heart. 

“Of course.” He whispered. 

 

“Thank you.” Charlie opened her door and led him inside. “I’m gonna change.” 

“Alright.” He was unsure on what to do, so he made his way over to her bookshelf again, examining the titles while she changed.  

“Do you need anything?” Charlie asked. “I’ve got some soft T-shirts…” she looked so innocent once again, free of the heavy makeup, hair piled on top of her head, oversized T-shirt that made her look tiny… 

“Thanks, doll. I’m good.” He smiled. 

“Left or right?”

“I’m sorry?” 

She gestured towards the bed and his eyebrows raised. He wasn’t aware that she’d wanted to SLEEP with him. She saw his expression and held her hands up. “Oh god, I’m sorry, that seemed forward. I’m not propositioning you. I just want to sleep with you. Wait, that didn’t sound any better…actual sleep. Unless you’re too uncomfortable?”

“The right is fine.” He smiled, enjoying the color flooding her cheeks. 

“Ok, cool. Um, sorry.” Charlie laughed nervously.

“Quite alright, dear.” He snapped his fingers and was wearing his red silk pajamas.

Charlie snickered, then slapped a hand over her mouth. 

“Something funny?” He smirked. 

“No, it’s just- somehow I just knew you’d have the most extra pajamas.”

“Extra?”

“Fancy. Red, silky, embroidered with an A…” 

“I’m a man who enjoys the finer things! Not all of us want to look like homeless ruffians while we sleep.” 

“Hey!” Charlie pouted. Alastor smirked and snapped his fingers again, transforming her pajamas to match his, except the A was changed into a C. 

“There you go, sweetheart. Now you’re sleeping in style!” 

Charlie rubbed the silky sleeves of the pajamas. “Ok, these are pretty nice.”

“See?” He smirked. 

“Fine, you win this round.” Charlie crawled under the covers. 

 

Alastor crawled into his side of the bed, feeling uncharacteristically nervous. Charlie turned on her side to face him. “Thank you for looking out for me. And sorry I yelled at you.” 

“WAS that yelling? Or just speaking slightly louder?” He smirked.

“That was yelling for me. I don’t do it a lot.” 

“Neither do I.” 

“I know, you get quieter and it’s somehow scarier.” 

“Is it, now?” 

“Yeah because you’re close enough to fuck somebody up.” 

“I don’t have to be close for that. You saw how I fought that snake that showed up.” 

“You mean how you wiped him out in fifteen seconds and terrified everyone?”

“Well I had to flex my strength a bit now, didn’t I?” 

The silence in the room felt heavy. 

“Hey Al?”

“Yes, dear?”

“Thank you for being my friend.” She smiled at him so sweetly that it was like a direct beam of sunlight on his heart. 

“Thank you for allowing me.”

“Is it ok if I snuggle you?”

“Only if you swear on your life that you’ll never tell anyone the radio demon snuggled you.” 

Charlie grinned victoriously and scooted over. “Thank you, Al.” 

“You’re welcome.”

“Goodnight!” She nestled against him and was asleep within minutes. Alastor sighed. What was he doing here? He was the radio demon, not a teddy bear! Yet he couldn’t deny that there was a certain comfort in the proximity of another person. She made him feel at ease, something he typically didn’t experience. And he enjoyed making her smile and caring for her. Perhaps this was what it was like to have a pet? Something cute and snuggly that you just wanted to hold and protect. Yes, he’d protect her with his life. He’d scorch the earth and all nine rings for her. That was a normal feeling, right? 

 

He thought of the things Vox had said to her and held her a little tighter. No, that simply wouldn’t do. Now that he had this…companion, he wasn’t willing to share her. It would be best to get rid of Vox sooner rather than later. Charlie didn’t know what a horrible person he was, and it was up to Alastor to intervene for her safety. Not because the way Vox looked at Charlie made him want to shatter that stupid screen into a million pieces. No, no. It was purely for protection.

 

Charlie would be furious if he harmed Vox, so he’d simply have to convince Vox to part ways on his own. He could be very convincing. Valentino, however, would receive no such mercy. He thought of the unbridled rage he’d felt when that disgusting pimp kissed her. He’d been prepared to wipe him out with a shadow tentacle then and there. But a little voice in his head (that sounded suspiciously like Charlie) said no. Charlie could handle it. He’d intervene only if necessary. He’d just have to be satisfied imagining all the ways he’d destroy Valentino instead. He drifted off to sleep with Charlie in his arms and sweet dreams of ripping the pimp’s limbs off and beating him to death with them. 

 

Charlie woke up to her phone ringing on the nightstand. She was startled when she felt an arm grip her tighter, then remembered she’d asked Alastor to stay. She felt a bit embarrassed now, but she knew if she’d been alone, she would’ve had a breakdown. She fumbled for the phone and answered it. “Hello?”

“Hey doll, it’s Angel. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but we’ve got somebody down here interested in checking in?” 

Charlie leaped out of bed so fast that she sent Alastor rolling off the other side and onto the floor. “Are you serious?!”

 

“Says his name is Carlos and you met him at the party?” Angel held the phone out from his ear as excited high-pitched squealing burst out of the phone. “Chill, Charlie, only the dogs can hear you at that pitch.” Angel hung up and looked at the shark warily. “She’ll be down in a few. You want some coffee or anything?”

“No, thank you.” Carlos looked uncomfortable. “You’ve been here a little while, right?”

“Yep.” Angel poured himself a large cup of coffee, he was going to need it to deal with Charlie’s hyper ass. 

“Has it helped? I saw you last night, you’re still working for Val.”

“I’m still working for him cuz he owns my soul, but thanks to this place he doesn’t own me outside of the studio. I got a place to come to. And to answer your other question…I've been clean two weeks now. I still drink, I ain’t giving up ALL my vices, but I’m off the dope.”

“How’s it feel?”

Angel sighed and sipped his coffee. “It’s rough. Some days I wanna crawl out of my skin and all I can think about is getting high…but then I think about how I felt afterwards and all the shit I did…it’s tough, but I’m proud of myself. Listen, Charlie can be… A LOT. But her heart is in the right place, and if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll be glad you did. Charlie’s the only person to ever give a shit about me. I wouldn’t trade that for nothin’. Now don’t go telling her that or she’ll get all weepy and clingy.” Angel couldn’t help but smile at the thought. 

 

“I KNEW that I got through to him! I can’t believe he came! Oh my GOD, Al, this is incredible!” Alastor was still half asleep and trying to figure out why he was on the floor while Charlie sprinted around the room. 

“How can you be sure he isn’t a plant?” 

“Even if he is, does it matter? We have the chance to HELP him, Al!” Charlie turned around and realized she couldn’t see him. She saw one of his legs sticking out and grinned. “Why are you on the floor?” 

“I don’t know, I was sleeping quite peacefully until I was thrown off the bed by someone shrieking.” He slowly stood up and was startled to find Charlie grinning at him on top of the bed. 

“Sorry, I got excited. But THIS IS AMAZIIIIING!” She began jumping up and down on the bed. 

“Dear god, if this is how you are in the morning before you’ve even had your sugar infused coffee…” he shook his head, and only had a moment to react before Charlie jumped on him. He caught her, thankfully, and she grinned and giggled. 

“So I know you’re my partner and should get a say in the residents and all that, but since I met him yesterday I think I should talk to him first. He’s already nervous and talking to the radio demon isn’t going to help, no offense.” She let go of him and beamed before running to her closet.

“No objections here.” He watched with an amused smile as articles of clothing came flying out of her closet. She came out a moment later, buttoning her jacket. “Charlotte, dear, slow down! You’re wearing two different shoes and your hair looks as though birds have built a nest in it.” 

“Uuuuugh I’m just SO EXCITED!” He walked over to her and pointed his microphone at her, fixing her hair and clothing. “Ooooh! Can you do that every day?” She grinned. “Also, thank you for staying. I know it was a lot to ask but I really needed someone and you were there for me. Thank you, Alastor.” She hugged him tightly. 

“No problem, doll. How about I whip us up some breakfast while you meet with the new resident?” 

“You’re the best!” Charlie sprinted out the door, leaving him in her bedroom. He chuckled to himself and shook his head. Her bubbly attitude was infectious. 

 

Alastor was in the kitchen putting French toast on a plate when the door swung open and Charlie came in dancing. “Weeee have a new reeeeesideeeent!” 

He put the plate down and quickly grabbed her hand, twirling her around. “Congratulations! I knew you could do it.” 

“He’s getting his stuff and he’s going to move in this afternoon. Oh my gosh there’s so much to DO! And you know what? We need to have a welcome party! How many balloons should we get? Personally I don’t think you can have too many-“ she was silenced as Alastor shoved a forkful of French toast in her mouth. 

“Don't make me regret fixing you a sugary breakfast.” He handed her the plate with a smile. 

She hopped up on the counter with it and he rolled his eyes. “So undignified for a princess.” 

“So back to the balloons: I’m thinking at LEAST a hundred. But what colors?” 

Alastor sighed, but smiled to himself. Then he listened to her about balloons for the next half hour.

 

The afternoon arrived and they all waited for the new resident. When afternoon turned into evening, Nifty left and Angel had to go to work. Husk stayed only because he was supposed to be working the bar anyway. Eventually he too called it a night and went to bed. 

“Charlie…” Alastor came back to check on her again. “Sweetheart, I don’t think he’s coming.” 

“He said he would be back.” Charlie said firmly.

“It’s nearly midnight.”

“I know what time it is, Al.” 

 

Charlie had been in the decorated lobby all day, waiting for the new resident. The lobby was filled with balloons, streamers, and a huge welcome banner. Alastor had tried to convince her to have dinner and call it a night but she’d declined, saying she had to be there for when he arrived. He hated seeing her like this, trying so hard not to crumble beneath her smile.

 

“I’m sorry.” He walked over and hugged her. They saw a blue flash from behind them and Vox stepped out of the office. 

“Vox? What are you doing here?” Charlie asked. Alastor didn’t loosen his grip on her. 

Vox looked incredibly anxious. “Charlie…I’m so sorry…”

“For what?”

Vox exhaled before speaking. “Carlos is dead.” 

 

Charlie’s legs would’ve buckled out beneath her if Alastor hadn’t been holding onto her. “Oh, Charlie…” 

“Let me go, Al.” 

“I don’t think so, sweetheart.”

“I can’t…I need…”Charlie collapsed into sobs and Alastor held her tightly against him, stroking her hair and whispering to her. Vox felt uncomfortable watching the pair. 

“I’m sorry. I wanted you to hear it from me.” 

“What happened?” Charlie asked between hiccuping sobs. 

“I’m not sure that’ll help you, sweetheart.” Alastor said quietly.

”Please. What happened?” Charlie pleaded with Vox.

 

Vox was torn, but Charlie deserved to know the truth. “After coming here, Carlos went to Val and told him that he wanted out. He would pay off his debt, but after that he didn’t want to keep working for him. He said what you said really got through to him, and that Val had a good one. Valentino told him he understood, and then shot him in the head.”

 

Charlie gasped and sobbed and Alastor glared. “Was that really necessary?!”

”She deserved to know!”

”Charlotte, sweetheart, look at me.” Alastor took her face in his hands. “Do you want me to take care of it?”

”What?” Her expression broke his heart.

” Do you want me to take care of it?” He said it more seriously, looking her dead in the eyes. 

 

Charlie sniffed and shook her head. “No. I won’t be responsible for anyone else getting hurt.”

”But Charlie-“

”NO, Al. No.”

He sighed and closed his eyes. “I understand.”

”I’ll, uh, I’ll leave you guys alone. I’m really sorry, Charlie. Truly.” Vox headed back to the office and disappeared with a blue zap. 

 

“Come on, Charlie. Let’s get you to bed.” He put a hand on Charlie’s back and led her up the stairs. He escorted her to her door and she was seemingly in a trance. “Charlie, may I come in?” 

She nodded weakly. He supposed that filled the terms of their deal. He took her inside and led her to her bed, sitting her on the edge of it. She continued to stare off into space, eyes glassy and face expressionless. He got on his knees and gestured towards her shoes. “May I?” She nodded again and he slipped them off, tucking them away. He took off her jacket and hung it up, then used his microphone to change her clothes into pajamas. He picked up her hairbrush off her vanity and removed the ponytails from her hair, then brushed it out. 

 

He came around to face her again. “Do you need anything? Something to eat? Drink?” She shook her head in response. “Do you want me to stay?” She nodded. “Ok. Now get into bed, young lady.” He gave her a weak smile and received no response, but she did move. He tucked the covers around her gently before going to his side of the bed. It struck him as funny that he had a side of her bed. He used his microphone to change his own clothes, then slid in beside her. Without prompting, she scooted over and clung to him. He felt warm tears dripping onto him and he held her close, rubbing soothing circles on her back. “I know, sweetheart. I know.” 

 

They stayed like that for hours, with Charlie rotating from quiet tears to heavy sobs. He was mildly concerned that she would become dehydrated. She fell asleep sometime around four and he didn’t dare to move an inch. She was still pressed tightly against him, with her head tucked under his chin. He wasn’t quite sure what possessed him to do it, but he placed a light kiss on her forehead. “Oh, Charlotte.” He sighed quietly. He rested his head on top of hers and drifted off himself. 

Everything was numb. Charlie was aware of Alastor’s presence, but that was about it. All she could think of was that it was her fault, her fault, HER FAULT. She’d only wanted to help and now Carlos was dead because of her. How many others would suffer the same fate just by being near her? The thought of something happening to one of her friends made her physically sick. 

 

A small part of her brain spoke up. “Why shouldn’t Alastor kill him? Think of the lives you’d save.” And it was tempting. It was a really, REALLY tempting thought. When Alastor had asked if she wanted him to take care of it, she’d almost said yes. How many people would she save by killing one? And it wouldn’t really be HER killing him, Alastor was more than happy to do it. 

 

But by sentencing him to die, she’d only be proving herself wrong. She’d be saying he was irredeemable. A lost cause. That someone WAS broken beyond repair. Was she really willing to give up? 

 

Chapter 10: The art of the deal

Summary:

Charlie and Alastor spend some time away from the hotel, and Rosie is determined to help them realize their feelings for each other.

Buckle up, buckaroos. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows in this chapter.

Alastor was amazing, and Charlie would have to thank him when she could. She felt completely exhausted and sick, and slept for most of the next day. Al took care of her AND things around the hotel. Angel had heard what had happened and was doing his part to help out as well. Alastor refused to leave her side, tending to her needs and attempting to get her to eat or drink. He stayed with her that night as well. She was getting a little too comfortable falling asleep in his arms.

 

“Alright, Charlie girl! Up and at ‘em!” 

Charlie blinked against the bright sunlight and turned over with a groan. “Sorry, doll. Time to get up!” 

“Leave me alone.” Charlie grumbled and pulled the covers over her head. 

“Oh you silly girl, you think that’ll stop me?” Alastor chuckled. The covers were ripped off of her and she huffed. 

“What the fuck, Al?!”

“You spent yesterday in bed, but today we pick up the pieces and keep going. So you’re going to get up out of this bed, into the shower, and we’re facing the day!” 

“Just leave me alone!”

“Not a chance! Would you like to do this the easy way or the hard way?” 

Charlie glared up at him, a fire in her eyes. Alastor sighed. “Very well.” He walked out of view and she thought he’d given up. She closed her eyes, only to be hoisted out of bed by a shadow tentacle. “WHAT THE FUCK, ALASTOR?!” 

“Clearly you chose the hard way! So I suppose I shall have to carry you and force you into the shower myself. Unless you’d like an unpleasant experience for both of us, perhaps you’d like to do it yourself?” He smiled brightly. 

“You are SUCH an asshole!” She squirmed against the tentacles.

“I’ll ask again- the easy way or the hard way?” 

She glared daggers at him. “The easy way.”

“There you go!” He set her down and she continued to glare at him. “Shower’s that way, doll.” 

“Dick.” She grumbled and stomped towards the bathroom. Alastor smiled brightly. He’d take anger and swearing over the blank slate she’d been yesterday. He didn’t like to admit it, but he’d never felt fear like he had when he saw her shut down. Seeing Charlie, his bright, sunshiney, giggly Charlie, glassy eyed and expressionless was terrifying. It was as though someone had turned off the sun. 

 

He hummed to himself as he went to her closet, selecting an outfit. He picked a pretty blue sundress he thought would look nice and stuck it in the bathroom (quietly and without peeking, of course! He was a gentleman) and then he changed his own clothes to something a bit more casual than his usual suit. 

“What's with the dress?” Charlie asked from inside the bathroom. 

“Put it on, we’re going out this morning!” 

“Ugh, why?”

“Because, my dear, it’s a beautiful day outside and you’ve been cooped up in the hotel. It’ll be wooooorth it, there’s a bakery on the way with homemade cookies.” 

There was silence. “Fine, but they’d better be some damn good cookies.” 

“There you go! That’s the spirit!” 

 

Charlie came out wearing the dress and still looking quite grumpy. “Can you do the thing and fix my hair?” She gestured at his microphone. 

“Certainly! If you ask nicely.” He smirked as her glare deepened. 

“Alastor, would you pretty please fix my hair?” She batted her eyelashes. 

“But of course!” In a flash, her hair hung in loose, bouncy curls. “Grab some comfortable walking shoes and we’ll be on our way!” 

 

Charlie was still glaring as they walked down the street. Alastor was relentlessly cheerful and she wanted nothing more than to go back to bed. She’d considered an escape attempt, but he’d been one step ahead of her and had her arm linked through his.

“Alastor! How doth thee fare on this fine day?” A deep voice asked that sent a chill down her spine.

Charlie looked up and saw a large, intimidating demon. Alastor smiled brightly before answering. “Ah, Zestial! Wonderful to see you! I’m doing well, and yourself?” 

“Fine as well. And wouldst thou introduce me to your companion?” 

“Ah, apologies! I assumed you’d already made her acquaintance. This is Princess Charlotte Morningstar. Charlotte, this is Zestial, the oldest of the overlords.”

 

Zestial dropped in a sweeping bow. “A pleasure, my princess. My sincerest apologies, for I did not recognize you. When last I was in thy presence, thou were just a child.” 

“Oh, um, that’s alright! Nice to meet you.” Charlie smiled politely. 

“I must say, Alastor, that it pleases me thou hast found companionship, especially with one as fair as thy lady.” 

“Thank you, Zestial! We’d love to stay and chat, but I’m afraid there’s business to be tended to.”

“I shan’t keep you from your plans. Fare thee well, princess.” Zestial bowed again and continued on his way. 

 

“Uuuuuh I haven’t met a lot of overlords, but he was weird, right?” Charlie asked. 

Alastor laughed. “I suppose he is a bit strange, but that’s only because he’s ancient. He’s also one of the most polite overlords you’ll ever meet.” 

“Soooo where are we going?” Charlie didn’t recognize the part of town they were approaching. 

“To visit a dear friend of mine.” 

“I thought you didn’t HAVE friends?” Charlie smirked. 

“You’re right, I suppose Rosie is more like family. She’s a lovely woman, you’ll adore her. She’s the leader of cannibal town.”

Charlie stopped in her tracks. “Wait, WHAT?” 

“Oh yes! And she’s loved by all.”

“We’re going to cannibal town?!”

“Yes ma’am!” 

Charlie looked panicked. “Don’t tell me that’s where the bakery is.”

“It is.” 

“WHYYYYY?”

“Because not EVERYTHING is made with flesh. Think about it, how many cupcakes have you had with meat on them? They’re just regular sweets that happen to be made by cannibals. Just avoid the deli.”

 

As they approached cannibal town, Charlie was shocked. “It looks…nice? And not at all what I was expecting?” 

“Just because they’re cannibals doesn’t mean they lack class and manners. They’re happy and they all work together to maintain their town. Rosie keeps them in line and they adore her. It’s arguably the nicest place in hell.” 

 

Charlie admired the lavender building they were walking towards. “Rosie’s emporium?” 

“Rosie sells just about anything you could want or need! You never know what she has in store. I always find something wonderful.” 

 

They entered the shop and a bell over the door dinged. There was a tall, nicely dressed woman behind the counter chatting with a line of customers. She looked up at the sound of the bell and grinned with a mouthful of sharp teeth. “Alastor! Good to see you!” At the mention of his name, Charlie noticed several customers clearing out. 

“Why don’t you have a look around while I speak with Rosie for a moment?” Alastor finally let go of her arm. “See if you can find anything that piques your interest.” 

Charlie wandered over to the closest display and began looking at the delicate glass figurines on display. They were gorgeous and seemed to reflect a rainbow of colors. She smiled for the first time that day and continued browsing.

 

“Hello, Rosie! Forgive my unexpected visit.” 

“You’re welcome to stop by anytime! Is this a social call or do you need something?”

“Both. Could you spare a few moments of your time?”

“For you? Of course!” She finished checking out the customer she was helping, then addressed the others. “Sorry folks, I’ve gotta close up shop for a bit. Come back this afternoon and I’ll give ya a discount for your trouble, alright? Thank you!” As the customers cleared out, Rosie dropped her professional persona and grinned excitedly. “Don’t think I didn’t see that gorgeous girl on your arm! Tell. Me. EVERYTHING!” 

“I’m afraid there’s not much to tell! That’s Princess Charlotte Morningstar, the owner of the hotel I’ve begun working at.” 

“Oh bullshit.” Rosie smirked. “You were touching her voluntarily and you look like you’re walking on air.” 

“Charlie is my…friend. Companion? I’m uncertain of the term.”

“Lover?” Rosie wiggled her eyebrows.

“I assure you there’s nothing of the romantic sort. I’m just fond of the girl.” 

“And you’re not fond of anyone. So you can’t convince me otherwise. You don’t think I’ve known you long enough to see through that facade? Please! Rosie always knows.” 

 

Alastor knew she wouldn’t give up and sighed in defeat. “She’s special to me in a way that’s difficult for me to comprehend. Like having a pet, perhaps?”

Rosie gave him a look that said she was NOT buying his bullshit. “It’s called love, Al. And the sooner you figure it out, the better. Now, what do you need?” 

He explained the situation and Rosie listened intently. “I was hoping you may be able to offer her advice or a perspective I cannot.” 

“I hear you. Alright, introduce me!” 

 

Rosie’s shop was incredible, and Charlie was glad Alastor had forced her out. She was looking at a little furry robot when Rosie spoke from behind her. “They’re called furbies. I think they’re creepy but people love ‘em!” 

Charlie jumped and put the furbie back down. “Sorry sweetie, I didn’t mean to startle you! I’m Rosie, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Rosie stuck her hand out and Charlie shook it. 

“I’m Charlie! I like your store.”

“Well thank you, doll! Come on back and I’ll fix us all some tea.” She followed Rosie to a room behind the front counter. There was a little table set up and Rosie gestured for them to take a seat. Rosie smirked triumphantly as Alastor pulled Charlie’s seat out for her. 

 

“Anything catch your eye out there?” Alastor asked, sitting beside her. 

“She’s got the COOLEST STUFF! I could spend all day looking around here!”

“See? I told you it’d be worth the trip! And we haven’t even made it to the bakery yet.” 

“Al…” Charlie took his hand in her own and looked up at him. “Thank you. For everything. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you. I can’t tell you what it means to me that you were there for me when-“ a tear threatened to spill over and she blinked it away. She cleared her throat before continuing. “When the person that was supposed to always be there wasn’t. I only hope that I can be there for you in the way you’ve been here for me.” 

Alastor gently swiped the tear off her cheek. “I’ll always be here for you, Charlie.” 

“But that’s the thing! You don’t have to be! So I don’t know why you are. Unless it really is for entertainment. And if you say it is, I WILL punch you in the face again.” 

 

Alastor laughed. “I suppose to some extent it’s entertainment, because you, my dear girl, entertain me. I enjoy being around you, a concept that was previously foreign to me. So as long as you continue to tolerate me, I shall be with you.” 

“I think it’s more about how much YOU can tolerate ME.” Charlie grinned. “Because I can be a lot.” 

“I look forward to the challenge.” 

 

“Oooh, don’t mind me! I didn’t mean to interrupt!” Rosie pushed a cart with a tea tray on it. “Just tell me how you take your tea, doll.” 

“An excessive amount of sugar and cream.” Charlie smiled and Alastor rolled his eyes.

“You should see what she does to coffee. It’s practically criminal.” 

“Why drink bitter coffee when you can make it taste a lot better? You don’t get extra manly points for drinking it black, you know.” 

Rosie served them their tea and noticed that Alastor was still loosely holding Charlie’s hand. She was ecstatic, as she’d tried (and failed) many times to set him up over the years, but he’d never been interested. She decided this girl must truly be special. 

 

They chatted over tea for a while, and Charlie absolutely loved Rosie. She was a bit jealous of the way the sophisticated overlord spoke so easily with Alastor. She was glad now that she’d worn a dress, because she would have felt plain and mannish next to Rosie, the picture of elegance. 

 

“Al, I just got a new batch of records in. Feel free to take a look before I put them out.” 

“Excellent! If you’ll excuse me, Charlie, I’m going to browse.” Alastor took his cue to leave, allowing the ladies to talk. 

“More tea, sweetie?” Rosie asked. 

“Sure, thank you!” 

“I’ve gotta say, it’s so nice having a lady visit! Come back anytime, doll, you don’t have to come with Al. Though it does make me happy to see him with you. And you’re just cute as a button!” 

“You’ve known Al for a long time, then?”

“Oh, decades! Back to when we were alive.”

“Really?!” Charlie was shocked. 

“Oh yes. You see, I came from a wealthy family so they married me off to some prick from another rich family. Oh, he was awful. For over forty years he belittled and beat me. Then I heard rumors about a young man who specialized in taking care of men like my Franklin. He was a bit of a vigilante, killing the rapists and abusers. A friend of mine put me into contact with him, since he’d done such a good job taking care of her husband.” 

 

“Soooo Alastor was like a hit man?” Charlie asked. “Eh, depends on how you frame it. The papers said he was a serial killer, the people said he was a hero. But he was wonderful. Everybody knew Franklin was a drunk anyway, so they didn’t think anything of it when he just didn’t wake up one day after a night of drinking.” 

“Oh wow.” 

“I was finally free, after forty years with that bastard! With the money I got from his life insurance, I opened my first store and gave Al a share of the profits. And when I got to hell and found Al, we did it again. Franklin is gone for good, and I get to run my store.” 

 

Charlie took a moment to absorb the info. “Rosie, I have to ask, and I’m sorry if this is inappropriate, but…how did you end up here if Al is the one who killed him?” 

“Oh, I don’t mind telling you, doll! You see, I’d always been curious about something, and I happened to have a way to satisfy my curiosity. I ate his liver.” 

Charlie choked on her tea and Rosie laughed. “Sorry, dear, I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“You didn’t! I just wasn’t expecting that.” Charlie smiled apologetically. 

“Anyway, it worked out well, because Al needed to get rid of bodies, and I needed to satisfy my appetite. A win-win!” 

“It’s nice that you’re still friends, even here.” 

 

Rosie smiled softly at Charlie. “Some people do bad things for good reasons. Al murdered a bunch of people, but how many did he help? He saved lives, he freed abused women, and took dangerous people off of the street. And I know if he were given a clean slate, he’d do it again. So would I. It’s not so much that some people are irredeemable, but that they don’t want to be redeemed. And that doesn’t mean you can’t help them in one way or another. I know for a fact that Alastor is happier than I’ve ever seen him, and that’s all you, doll. So there are people like me and Al who did bad things for good reasons. We deserve to be here. And then there’s people who do bad things just because they want to. They do it for the power and the money and the thrill they get from hurting others. And those people? They definitely deserve to be here. They thrive here. They don’t want change and they never will because they love the power too much.” 

 

“I think I see where you’re going with this.” Charlie smiled. 

“Say Al kills the pimp. Yes, it’s murder, a big sin and all, but how many people does he help? How many souls are free from Val’s chains? How many more people will be saved from signing their souls to him? Now I’ve seen your commercial and heard all about you. I know you think everyone is redeemable, and that’s admirable, really. But I think when it becomes a matter of life and death, there’s a bit more to consider. You wouldn’t be giving up on Val, because Val doesn’t want you to fight for him. He’s happy to go on killing and owning souls and pimping out your friend. You can’t save someone who doesn’t want to save themselves. And that’s not a failure on your part. You can do everything in your power to help someone, but if they don’t want it? You’ll never get anywhere.”

 

“So you think I should let Alastor kill Valentino.” 

“That’d be my first choice, sure. Take the scum off the streets and free all his souls. He’s got hundreds and that number grows daily. But if you absolutely can’t stand the idea of having him wiped out, at least beat the snot out of him and let him know that, if he keeps it up, you’re coming for him.” 

 

“Wow. That’s actually really good advice, Rosie. Thank you!”

“You’re very welcome. Can I offer you some more?” 

“Sure.”

“Go after what you want. Al is never gonna make the first move.”

Charlie was stunned. “I don’t-“

“Please, I’ve been around long enough, I’ve seen things. I’ve never seen Alastor look the way he looks around you. He adores you, and I can see why. You’re good for him. But if you want something more with him, it’ll have to be you. You'll just have to say ‘Al, I love you and have romantic feelings for you.’ Make it clear as a bell for that one.”

“Oh, I don’t think love-“ Charlie stuttered and Rosie waved her hand. 

“Rosie always knows. If you don’t believe me, pay more attention. He looks at you like you’re his world. And that’s not something to shirk at, because as far as I know you’re the only person I’ve ever seen him have feelings for. So for Al to willingly welcome you into his life is a big deal. Just…be patient with him. He’s an odd duck.” Rosie winked. “Now come with me, I’ve got a dress with your name on it. Oh I’d kill for your figure, and I mean that!” Rosie laughed. Charlie couldn’t help but smile. She’d definitely be back to visit Rosie. 

 

“Where’s Charlie?” Alastor asked.

“Fitting room, I have a dress that’s perfect for her. I think we had a good conversation. Oh Al, I just adore her! She’s so perfect for you!” 

“Now Rosie, I hope you didn’t go meddling into my affairs.” 

“Not at all, dear! Find any records?”

“Several! Did Charlotte select anything? If she did, put it on my tab.” 

“She was looking at the creepy little furry robot earlier, she seemed to like that. Though I think a girl like her deserves jewelry!” 

“Oh she does, but it’s not her style. She’ll get much more enjoyment out of the furry robot.” 

“No complaints here, I’ll be glad to have that thing out of my store.” Rosie plucked it off the shelf and put it in a bag. “I’m putting the dress on your tab too, because once you see it, you’ll agree it was made for her. You’ll never want her to take it off. Or maybe you’ll like it so much you’ll be dying for her to take it off.” Rosie grinned. “Go check on her.” 

 

Alastor headed back towards the clothing section. “Charlie? Are you alright?” 

“Um…yes!” 

“You don’t sound so certain. Something wrong?”

“No, not really. It’s…hard to explain.” Charlie swallowed. 

“What do you think of the dress?” 

“That it makes me look like my mother.”

Alastor paused. “I don’t know how to interpret that.” 

“I’ve always thought I looked more like dad…bright red cheeks, big eyes. Cute, you know?”

“Yes, I know.” Alastor chuckled. 

“But now I don’t look cute. I look…beautiful.”

“May I see?” 

There was silence. “Maybe.  Just don’t make a big deal out of it. I feel like I shouldn’t be wearing it.” Charlie slid open the curtain and stepped out in a form fitting floor length white silk gown  that was covered in sequins. It had a slit going up one thigh and was the perfect blend of sexy and elegant. 

 

Alastor’s eyes were wide and he couldn’t think of a single eloquent thought. All he could think about was how gorgeous she looked and how he wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her and-

Uh oh. 

 

“Ok, you can say SOMETHING, I can’t tell if you hate it or not. It’s too much, isn’t it?”

“NO!” He spoke too loudly, then cleared his throat. “You look breathtaking. It’s as if that dress was made for you.” 

Charlie turned and examined herself in the mirror and Alastor noticed the low dip in the back. “It is a gorgeous dress. I just don’t have a reason to wear something so extravagant.” 

“Then we’ll create one.” He smiled at her in the mirror. “The world should see your beauty, though I selfishly want to keep it for myself.” He snapped his fingers and a slow jazz tune began playing. He extended his hand with a bow and she giggled and accepted it. He pulled her close and swayed with her around the room. 

 

“I love this song.” Charlie sighed. In that moment in his arms, she felt so safe and at peace. His arms felt like home. She began to quietly sing along.

 

“ Unforgettable, that's what you are

Unforgettable, though near or far

Like a song of love that clings to me

How the thought of you does things to me

Never before has someone been more…”

 

“Are you certain that you'd rather run a hotel than perform? Because it’s an absolute shame for that voice to go to waste yelling at Angel for leaving his underwear in the lobby.

  Charlie snorted. “I still don’t know, nor do I want to know, how they ended up there.” 

“It’s best not to think about that one too deeply.” Alastor smirked. 

 

Rosie watched the pair with a smug smile. Not in love, her ass! She was glad to see Alastor looking so happy. She halfway wondered if she should just save them all the trouble and kill Valentino herself. 

 

After they danced, Charlie changed and they visited with Rosie a bit longer before heading to the bakery, which actually was pretty nice. She just turned a blind eye to the deli portion like Alastor had said. She’d bought cookies and cupcakes to share at the hotel and was practically skipping back. Alastor smiled dreamily after her as she chattered on about Rosie’s store. 

 

When they reached the hotel, Alastor knew something was wrong. He grabbed Charlie and pulled her back. “What’s wrong?” She asked with wide eyes. 

“Valentino is here. Let me send in my shadow.” 

 

Alastor’s shadow slipped into the building and he saw Valentino sitting on the couch, an arm loosely draped around a bloodied and bruised Angel Dust. 

Alastor turned to Charlie and grabbed both her shoulders. “Listen to me. I need you to stay here, alright? Do NOT come into the hotel. Do you understand?”

“Al, what’s going-“

“CHARLIE. Do you understand?!” 

She looked at his panicked expression and nodded. “Ok.”

Alastor looked unsure of himself, then reached out and pulled her into a tight hug before disappearing into the hotel. 

 

“I’m afraid there’s no loitering in the lobby, so unless you’re here to check in, I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to leave.” Alastor smiled brightly at Val. 

“Ah, there you are, the thorny prick in my side. Where’s Charlie?” Val sneered.

“Not here. What do you want?” 

“What do I want?!” Val laughed. “Many, many things, but I’ll settle for you out of the picture.” 

“Not happening.”

“I thought you might say that. Vox?” 

 

Vox came around the corner equally bloodied and bruised, a large crack in his screen. “Lemme fix that so Alastor can see.” Val snapped his fingers and repaired the screen. “Show me Velvette.” 

Velvette’s face appeared on the screen and she had a streak of blood on her face and an annoyed expression. “You fucking owe me, Val! You said she wouldn’t put up a fight but that bitch clawed the shit out of me like a fucking cat!” 

“Oops. Clearly you were able to handle it. Why don’t you show the radio demon what you have?” 

Alastor’s blood turned to ice as Velvette panned the camera to Charlie, who was unconscious and laying in a puddle of blood in what looked like a warehouse. “Before you get your knickers in a twist, most of the blood is mine. Not all of it, though.” She smirked. “Your girlfriend and I are gonna have a little girl time, so if you’d like her back in one piece, I suggest you shut the fuck up and listen. Later, bitches.” The screen went dark. 

 

“You’re going to experience pain and suffering you didn’t know was possible.” Alastor began to shift into his demon form and Valentino tutted.

“Don’t be stupid, you don’t think I had a contingency plan? You hurt me, she dies. Velvette will know and end her fucking life the second you touch me.” 

“What do you want?” Alastor snarled as he returned to his normal form. 

“To make a deal, amigo! You are going to give up your power. Your souls become my souls. You will become a powerless little cockroach. In exchange, Charlie will not be harmed. Her safety will be guaranteed by the bonds of the deal. How’s that sound?” 

“What will happen to her?” Rule number one of deal making, double check all the terms and conditions. 

“Eh, she can go back to running this little shithole for all I care. Just as long as she doesn’t fuck with my business.” Val shrugged casually. 

“And how do I know you’re not going to kill me the second I’m powerless?”

“Ah, I forgot who I was dealing with! The radio demon, master of the deal. Alright, you’ll have 24 hours to make yourself scarce.” 

 

Alastor thought of his options. There weren’t very many, and only one guaranteed Charlie’s safety.

“We have a deal.” 

 

Notes:

OH NO I DIIIIIDN’T! I hate leaving cliffhangers but you know, drama. Also I have other things to do first before I knuckle down and finish the story. Stay tuned!

Chapter 11: I suck at making titles

Summary:

The action continues to build!

Notes:

OOF you guys had A LOT of thoughts on my last chapter. Like damn, that’s the most comments I’ve ever gotten that fast. Hopefully this chapter answers some of your questions and appeases you until I can finish the next one!

And a reminder, I am a human with thoughts, feelings, and anxiety. Please be polite. If you don’t like my fic, don’t read it. I write for fun, and seeing people get heated over my stuff takes the fun out of it.

-The day before-

Valentino frowned at his phone. He’d sent Charlie a few sweet messages to keep things on track, but she hadn’t answered. Odd. He tried calling and received no response. Something was off. She couldn’t possibly know that Carlos was dead. Unless…

 

He recalled seeing Vox leave around midnight, which was odd for him. He returned within a few minutes looking upset. Where had he gone? As if on cue, Vox entered the living room. “Hey.”

”Hey yourself. Do anything interesting last night?”

”I guess that depends on whether or not you find research interesting. I’m working on some new equipment for Voxtech.”

Valentino decided to gamble. “I was referring to your little late night visit with the princess.”

Vox froze and his screen flickered. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Valentino stood up and walked over to him, glaring down at him through his pink glasses. “Your screen gives you away every time. Now what were you doing visiting the princess?”

”Fooling around with her, ok?! I know she’s yours but I still have feelings for her.” His screen flickered again. 

“Lies, lies, lies. Are you really going to keep trying that?” Valentino grabbed Vox by the collar and hoisted him up. “You backstabbing little prick. What did you do?!”

”I told her what you did, you bastard! You know you could’ve afforded to lose Carlos! But your greedy ass would rather have him dead than not working for you!” He shoved Val off of him and straightened his suit. “Give it up. She knows what kind of person you are and what you’ve done. It’s over. Move on. She’s got the radio demon wrapped around her finger and you’re never going to be able to touch her. Consider yourself lucky to be alive. He wanted to kill you, but Charlie said no. Because she thinks there’s some ounce of good somewhere in you, even though the rest of us can’t see it. I’m done with you and the Vees. Fuck you.” He turned and began to walk away. 

 

“I’m sorry, you think you can just walk away? From ME?” Valentino laughed. “It seems that you forgot which one of us holds the real power.” He chuckled darkly as red mist filled the room. “You made the wrong choice.” Vox’s screams echoed through the spacious apartment. “Don’t worry, your screen should be under warranty!”

 

Vox woke up some time later in incredible pain. He couldn’t move his arms or legs and his screen radiated with pain. He tried to get up and felt electric shocks coursing through his body. 

“You’re not the only tech-savvy one around here. Since you forgot where your loyalties lie, I thought I’d remind you.” He heard Valentino speak, then screamed as the shocks tore through his body. “You work for me, bitch. So you can either cooperate and help me find Charlie or I can fry your circuits.”

 

”Fuck…you!” Vox spat. 

“Let’s crank up the voltage, shall we?”

Vox held on for as long as he could, withstanding several more rounds of increasingly painful shocks, but knew he was running out of resistance. “OK! Let me look.” He did a quick search and didn’t see her on any screens in the hotel, so he expanded his reach. His screen flashed and flickered as he searched every screen he could. “She’s in cannibal town.”

”Alone?”

”No. Alastor’s with her.” 

“Well, well, well. This seems like an excellent time to pay a visit to the hotel then, doesn’t it?”

 

Husk slapped his cards on the table. “Read ‘em and weep!”

”Aw, damn it!” Angel tossed his cards down. “You’ve gotta be cheatin’!”

”Show your hand, Nifty. Nifty?” Husk looked to where the little maid had been sitting a moment ago. Angel bristled as they saw Valentino and Vox standing in the lobby.

“Oooooh the BAD BOYS are here!” She climbed Valentino like a tree and held on. “I LOVE bad boys!”

”Well, aren’t you just adorable?” Valentino chuckled. 

“What the fuck are you doing here?!” Angel leaped up and whipped out his guns. 

“It’s a hotel, isn’t it? I was just coming to check out the amenities! Maybe even think about checking in…”

”Get. Out.”

”My, lacking in the hospitality department, aren’t you?” 

“Get your ass outta here unless you want a hole in your head.” Husk pulled a shotgun out from under the bar. 

“So hostile! Alright, I can work with that.” He wrapped his hand around Nifty’s throat and began squeezing, cutting off her air supply and dangling her in the air.

“Let her go!” Angel shouted. 

“Not a chance. Here’s what you’re going to do: You’re going to go with Vox so that the radio demon and I can have a little chat. Then-“ He screamed as Nifty pulled out her knife and plunged it into his hand. “YOU CRAZY LITTLE BITCH!” He dropped her and Angel and Husk began firing. With a flick of his cape, the room filled with red mist, vanishing him from view. 

 

Angel was in full panic mode as he swung his guns around. “Nifty, get behind me.”

The little maid hunkered down behind his leg as they waited for the haze to clear. There was the sound of a loud shot and a scream from Husk. 

“HUSKER!” Nifty dashed out before Angel could stop her. Val kicked her across the room like a soccer ball and she slumped onto the floor. As he turned to fire on Valentino, he was smashed in the back of the head with something and crumpled to the floor. “I’m sorry.” Vox said quietly. 

 

“You fuckers couldn’t wait five minutes? You had to start having fun without me?” Velvette appeared, hands on her hips and glaring. 

“Oh you’ll have your fun. I saved the best task for you. You, my dear, get to take down the princess.”

”And how the fuck am I supposed to do that with her guard dog, huh?”

”Don’t worry about him. What I need is for you to hide out and wait for Alastor to come into the hotel. He’ll know I’m here and make her stay outside, trust me. Then you knock the bitch out and use your VoxBox to take her to the warehouse.”

”Are you joking? That thing only works half the time!” Velvette pulled out the little box with a V on it, easily mistakable for a cell phone.

”Use it. As long as you’re holding onto her, it’ll take you both there. Make sure you keep her alive.” 

“Isn’t she freakishly strong? Her father is the fucking devil!”

”Oh she’s not a fighter. You shouldn’t have any issues.”

“Al is gonna…fuck you up so bad…” Angel let out a wheezy laugh and Valentino kicked him. 

“Then I guess it’s a good thing I have three bargaining chips. Let’s have a seat.” 

 

Charlie felt like she was going to crawl out of her skin waiting for Alastor. She heard a scuffing sound and turned just in time to see a fist coming at her face. It knocked her off balance and made her ears ring. Her vision focused enough to see Velvette rushing towards her. She held her hands up to brace herself and realized her claws had come out. She slashed at Velvette, who shrieked. “This dress is one of a kind, you bitch!” Velvette lunged at her and Charlie swiped blindly. She could tell she’d made some impact and opened her eyes in time to see Velvette swinging a small device at her that was making a loud crackling sound. That was the last thing she saw.

 

Charlie crumpled to the ground and Velvette smiled proudly at her taser. Handy little thing it was, good for clearing out a crowd or knocking out a princess. She pulled out the teleporter (VoxBox was a fucking stupid name, she was bringing it up at the next meeting) and grabbed Charlie’s arm before pressing the button. Then they were gone. Kidnapping made quick and easy, brought to you by Voxtech. 

 

-and now-

 

“We have a deal.”

Valentino chuckled darkly and stuck his hand out, and a red mist swirled around them. Alastor sighed and shook his hand. He felt the instant drain of power and nearly collapsed. 

“Pleasure doing business with you. Well, not really. You have 24 hours to play hide and seek. Then you’re mine.” Shadows swirled beneath Valentino’s feet, then he and Vox were gone.

”What the fuck did you do that for?!” Angel lunged at him and shook him by the shoulders. “You coulda just wiped him out in a second!”

”And risk Charlie’s life? I'll gamble with my own, but not hers.”

”But you just did, because now you gave Val more power and we don’t stand a fucking chance. FUCK!” Angel had tears streaming down his cheeks. “Go check on Nifty, would you?” He kneeled beside Husk, who was clutching his arm and groaning.

”Luckily that pimp is a lousy shot. Just got my shoulder.” He tried to sit up and Angel made him stop. 

 

Alastor ran over to Nifty’s tiny form. “Nifty, dear? Are you alright?”

”I don’t like that bad boy.” Her large eye met his and he could tell she was in pain. 

“I’m sorry, dear. Let’s get you some help. Husk, can you walk?”

”Yeah.”

”We need to take a trip to cannibal town.”

 

Charlie woke up in the dark, alone and confused. She saw a shadow creep across the floor. “Al?”

”Guess again.” She heard Valentino’s voice, and the click of his heels as he approached. “How are you feeling, princessa?” 

“My head hurts…what’s going on?”

”What’s going on is that your little boyfriend must reeeeally love you. That or your pussy is just that good, I don’t know. But the radio demon gave up his power for you.”

“He what?!” Shadow tentacles hoisted her up off the floor and brought her over to Val.

”In exchange for your safety, he gave me his power. Awfully noble of him. And stupid.”

”What’s going to happen to him?!” Charlie thrashed against the tentacles.

”I gave him 24 hours to make himself scarce. After that, he’s fair game. And payback is a bitch. No need to worry your pretty little head though! You’ll be just fine. Since Vox has turned out to be completely useless, there’s a spot open with the Vees, and we’d just LOVE to have you come aboard!”

”Why the FUCK would I do that?!”

”Because you want to keep your little friends safe. What a ragtag group they are! And so spunky, the creepy little maid especially. If you play nice, they get to live.”

 

Fuck. Charlie was trying to go over her options and was getting nowhere. She decided to play innocent again. “Why are you doing this? I thought you liked me.”

”Oh, cut the bullshit, Charlotte. You were playing me just as much as I was playing you. I really underestimated you, turning my own friend and business partner against me? Impressive!”

”And all of this is for what? Power? Money? Your business?”

”See, this WAS just about my business at first, I couldn’t have you interfering in it. But then I thought, why stop there? With the princess of hell by my side, I can keep climbing the ranks. Hell, I might even go toe to toe with your dear old dad!”

Charlie laughed. “You can’t be serious. You can’t ACTUALLY think you’d stand a chance against my dad.”

”Maybe not in a fight, but I think he’d do anything for his darling daughter…but that’s a plan for another day. For now, you’re going to stay here and be a good girl. I have better things to do than babysit. But don’t think I’m leaving you unattended. I have an excellent security system.” He turned Charlie around and she gasped. 

 

Vox was attached to the wall, wires sticking out in every direction. “If you try to leave, my former partner here gets a juicy little shot of electricity. How about I give you a little taste?” He snapped his fingers and blue sparks crackled around Vox and he screamed in pain. 

“Stop! Please!” Charlie sobbed. 

The electricity stopped and Vox’s body went slack. “Are you gonna be good for me, princessa?”

“Yes.” She sniffed and glared. 

“Excellent.” The tentacles disappeared and she dropped to the floor with a thud. “I’ll be back for you tomorrow. Bye bye!” He swished his cape and he was gone. 

 

“Vox!” Charlie rushed over to him in a panic. “Are you ok?!”

”I’m fine. I can handle it.” He smiled weakly and his screen flickered. 

“I can get you out of here, let me just-“

”No, Charlie. Your friends will only suffer for it.”

”But I could get us out, he’s not allowed to hurt me, I can fight him!”

”You don’t think he’s thought of everything?” Vox’s screen flashed blue momentarily. “The best thing you can do is cooperate. He’s won, Charlie. He always wins.” 

 

Charlie sank to her knees and sobbed. “This isn’t fair!”

”It isn’t. You’re a good person, Charlie. You give me and so many others hope that things don’t have to be so shitty. That we can be better people. Like you. You make hell a better place, Charlie.”

”I’m so sorry, Vox. You don’t deserve this.”

”Yes, I do. I’ve done a lot of shit, Charlie. I’ve been an awful, awful person. You wouldn’t believe some of the things I’ve done. But you need to know.” He exhaled and closed his eyes. “I want to tell you about Alastor’s sister.”

“Al? Back already? Where’s Charlie?” Rosie’s face fell when she saw the others. “What’s going on?!”

”These three need medical attention. And I need to cash in a couple of favors.”

Rosie tended to their injuries while she listened to Alastor. “I knew I should’ve just killed that bastard myself. What are we waiting for?”

”Rosie, he’s got my power in addition to his own. He’s incredibly powerful, nearly unstoppable. We can’t just charge in and kill him.”

”Well then, I guess we just have to call in some reinforcements.” 

 

Rosie had made a few calls and word quickly reached the other overlords. Angel felt about Nifty’s size standing between all the powerful figures.

”Thank you all for coming on such short notice. We have a problem on our hands, and his name is Valentino. He was already pretty powerful, but now he’s acquired Alastor’s power.”

There was a whisper of surprise among the overlords. “How hath this occurred? For you had your power when last we spoke only hours ago.” Zestial asked. 

“Charlie was in danger, and the only way I could keep her safe was by making a deal with Valentino to give up my power.” Alastor answered. 

“And who is Charlie?” Carmilla Carmine asked.

”Princess Charlotte Morningstar, daughter of Lucifer and owner of the Hazbin hotel.” 

“I don’t understand. If she’s Lucifer’s daughter, why couldn’t she take care of him herself?”

Alastor sighed and smiled. “Charlie is a rose amongst the thorns. She’s incredibly kind and believes everyone is capable of redemption. She refused to stoop to his level.”

”I still don’t understand how this led to you losing your power.” Carmilla replied with a shrug. 

“Because he loves her!” Rosie declared and the other overlords gasped. 

“You, Alastor? You’re in love?” Carmilla asked in shock. Everyone looked at him for a response.

”Yes. Very much.”

”I fucking told you!” Angel punched Husk in his good arm.

”Well then, that settles it. I vote we band together and take down Valentino. All in favor?” Carmilla asked. All the overlords voted in agreement. “Let’s destroy him.” She smiled wickedly.

Notes:

I PROMISE I WILL TRY MY BEST TO ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS AND GIVE YOU A SATISFYING ENDING
This is why I usually write fluff. Drama stresses me out!

Chapter 12: The end(ish?)

Summary:

It’s the fiiiinal countdooooown! We learn about Al’s sister, and our overlords are ready to fight. Oh yeah, it’s all coming together.

Notes:

Disclaimer: I just finished this at like three AM, and I didn’t proof read. But I cranked out THREE CHAPTERS for you guys today, so ignore any errors. And buckle up!

“I used to work with Alastor and his sister Alison. We were hell’s entertainment trio. Alastor was in charge of radio, I worked in television, and Alison was basically the bridge between us. We’d butt heads a lot and Alison was always the mediator. I’d started spending time with some powerful people who offered me an opportunity. They wanted my assistance in a turf war, and in return they’d make me an overlord. A low level one, but still. The three of us were popular and everyone knew we didn’t have a dog in the fight. We just kept to ourselves, no one would suspect me. I brought the opportunity up to Alastor and Alison and we fought. Alastor said we didn’t need to be under anyone’s thumb, and if I really wanted to be an overlord we’d do it on our terms. Alison didn’t like the idea at all, she was much less confrontational than him. She said we should just stay under the radar. I got pissy and said to hell with both of them. I went to the overlords and told them I’d do what they asked, but I wanted the power up front so I could really come onto the scene swinging. They signed over a dozen souls and man, did it feel good. I was eager to play with my new power, so I went to the bar I was supposed to destroy. It was a message for the owner, so I just had to wreck the place. I’d never felt so alive. I went a little over the top, but I was drunk with power. I lit the place up, started a fire with my electricity and watched it burn. I didn’t think about the people inside. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was only afterward that I found out Alison had gone to the bar to talk to me. She knew I was going to agree to it and she thought if I saw her, she could get through to me. But I never went in. I just…destroyed it.” 

 

Charlie absorbed Vox’s words. “You didn’t know.”

“But that doesn’t matter, does it? I killed her. She died because of my actions, my choices. I was hungry for power and didn’t give a shit about who would get hurt. Obviously Alastor never forgave me, and he shouldn’t. He started climbing the ranks after that, and the rest is history.” 

“Everyone makes mistakes, Vox.” Charlie placed her hand on his. 

“I know. And now I have my chance to fix it. Run, Charlie. Get out of here and go kick Valentino’s sorry ass. He’s in his office at the Vee tower.”

“I can’t, you’ll be hurt!” 

“I know. And it’s ok.” Vox smiled sadly.

“No, it’s not fucking ok! I won’t hurt you.” 

“You have to, Charlie. Save yourself. Save your friends. Let me redeem myself.” 

Charlie had tears running down her cheeks. “But you’ll die.” 

“I know. But it’ll be worth it, knowing you’ll be safe. Kick his ass, Charlie. Don’t let him win.” 

“I’m so sorry, Vox.” Charlie hugged him as best she could since he was on the wall. 

“It’s ok. You’re worth it, Charlie. Hell needs you.”

Charlie leaned up on her toes and kissed his cheek. She ran for the doors, sobbing and not daring to look back. She winced as the hum of the electricity grew louder and the room behind her filled with a blue glow. She knew she couldn’t stop now. 

It was time to kick some ass. 

 

“So were you just screwing around and decided you loved her? Because I KNOW you slept with her a few times.” Angel asked.. 

“LITERALLY slept, spider whore.” Alastor smirked. “She was upset and asked me to stay with her.” 

“Come on, you can’t tell me there wasn’t even a little- OW!” He winced as Husk punched him in the arm. 

“None of that matters now. And it’s private.” 

“Gossip later. Arm yourselves.” Carmilla snapped. “We won’t be able to defend you if we’re busy fighting.” 

Nifty was trying to lift a large sword, which Husk plucked from her grasp. “Right attitude, wrong weapon. Here.” He handed her a dagger and she giggled gleefully. 

“Get your weapons and let’s get a move on. Vamanos!” Carmilla rushed them. 

 

The closer Charlie got to the Vee tower, the angrier she got. She thought of all the pain Valentino had caused, all the lives he’d ruined, and she was determined that he was going to pay. She knew her horns and tail had grown, and she was shifting into demon mode. Good. 

 

The guards in the lobby of the Vee tower looked at her and then each other. “You should go. You don’t deserve to get caught in the crossfire.” Another look at the flames flickering in her eyes convinced them to agree with her. She got into the glass elevator and pressed the top floor. She chuckled to herself, it was kind of anticlimactic to have to wait for the elevator before she could kick some ass. Finally, she reached the top and stepped out. 

 

Valentino’s office door swung wide open. “Why don’t you have a seat?” The pimp smirked at her. “Let’s have a chat.” 

“I think we’re a bit past that.” Charlie stepped closer. 

“Oh come on! I’m sure we can reach an agreement. I can’t hurt you but that doesn’t mean I can’t hurt the people you care about.” He held up his hand and produced an image of the hotel up in flames. He saw Charlie pause and laughed. “I’ve still got the power here, Charlie. Now if you’ll just be a good little girl-“ her fist crashed into his face, and there was a sickening crunching sound. 

“Call me a good little girl one more time and see what happens, you condescending mysogynistic ASSHOLE.” 

“So that’s how you want to play it?” Valentino stood up and wiped the blood from his face. “Just because I can’t hurt you doesn’t mean I can’t slow you down.” Shadow tentacles shot out and began snaking up her legs. Flames shot out of her hands, causing the shadows to shrink and retreat. She looked Valentino in the eyes and smiled. “You shouldn’t play with fire. You’re bound to get burned.” 

 

The overlords appeared outside the Vee tower, unsure of how to proceed. They were discussing whether they should just charge in and tear shit up or if they should be more stealthy when they heard glass shattering above them. 

“Is that an angel?” Rosie squinted to see the white winged figure that had just crashed through the glass. 

“I believe that’s my angel.” Alastor smiled. “You’d think I’d know by now not to underestimate her.” 

 

Valentino struggled against Charlie as they wrestled in the air. She was in full demon mode, and even she had been surprised when the large white wings had sprouted. She’d charged straight towards him and tackled him right out the window. No sense in just hovering there. She dove straight downward, slamming him into the ground below. Unfortunately he’d absorbed the impact with the shadows, which had wrapped around him like armor. He rolled out of the way as she dove at him again. Flames licked at the shadows and he frantically tried to fight them off. Charlie was relentless in launching fireball after fireball at him, bombarding him and giving him no chance to recover. 

 

Velvette watched the fight from her own office and sipped her tea. She was torn between watching it play out or saving Valentino’s ass. She sighed and walked over to her shelf of potions, plucking one up and filling a half a dozen syringes. She’d just have to get close enough and she could jab the bitch and calm her down. It was a recipe based off the love potion, which produced artificial feelings of lust, but this potion made the drinker much more agreeable and open to suggestions. She hadn’t worked out all the kinks, but it was that or get her own ass kicked next. She sighed and rode the elevator down. She was the fucking backbone of the Vees, and her partners were absolute imbeciles. Time to take matters into her own hands. 

 

Charlie had tackled Valentino to the ground and was wailing on him with both fists when she felt a sting in the back of her neck. She was overwhelmed with dizziness and felt like she couldn’t focus. Everything was hazy and she felt like she was dreaming. “Stop fighting, bitch.” Velvette’s voice sounded distant and echoey. 

“Ok!” She was tired of fighting anyway. 

 

“Took your fucking time, didn’t you?!” Valentino snapped. 

“How about a thank you for saving your ass?!” Velvette rolled her eyes. 

“Fine, thank you for saving my ass.”

“I wouldn’t thank her just yet.” Alastor’s voice made them both turn their heads. 

“You’re even stupider than I thought to show up here. You’re on borrowed time, asshole.” Valentino smirked. “And you don’t have any fucking powers! What did you think you were going to accomplish?” 

“Nothing by myself. But you should understand the benefits of being well connected.” 

 

Valentino saw the other overlords and laughed. “Seriously? You’re all gonna team up with the radio demon?! If the shoe was on the other foot, he’d hang you out to dry.” 

“Speaking of shoes, you’re stepping on some toes with your newfound power.” Carmilla stepped forward. “We’ve overlooked your attitude and disrespect in the past, but this is unacceptable. By involving the Princess of hell, you endangered not only yourself but all of us as well. Unless you’d like Lucifer at your door, I suggest you end this foolishness now.” 

“Oh please! You just wish you’d grabbed this power for yourself. I’ll give you one chance to go before I fuck you all up.” 

“Your arrogance shall be your downfall.” Zestial stepped forward. 

“Fuck you, grandpa! Charlie, I think it’s time for our guests to leave. Make them.” Velvette smiled at Charlie, who turned towards the overlords with flames in her eyes. 

“Aaaaaaand we’re fucked.” Angel sighed. 

 

Zestial pulled Alastor out of the way as Charlie streaked towards them, fire blazing in her hands. The overlords charged forward, focusing their efforts on Valentino. He blocked every attack with ease and laughed. “You all think you’re such hot shit, don’t you? You’re wasting my time. I’m ending this.” He raised his arms and massive shadow tentacles burst out of the ground around him, lifting him high into the air. Then they shot towards the overlords. 

 

Between the barrage of Charlie’s fireballs and the powerful shadow tentacles, the overlords weren’t faring too well. Velvette had tried to escape, but was now fending off attacks from Nifty, Angel, and Husk. No one fought with as much rage as little Nifty, who gave even Zestial the chills. Carmilla slashed through tentacle after tentacle with her ballet slippers. She was a graceful fighter and her attacks almost looked like a dance.

 

Valentino summoned shadow soldiers that charged towards the overlords. Zestial was agile and cut through them with ease. He wielded a cane that was equipped with a sharp blade. He swung the cane with the sort of precision that came from years of practice. Despite his age, Zestial could hold his own in a fight.

 

Perhaps the most surprising fighter was Rosie. Despite her refined appearance, there was a reason she was the leader of cannibal town. She swung a parasol, striking the shadow soldiers and then ripping them to shreds with her teeth. It was a terrifying sight to behold.

 

Alastor felt somewhat helpless, watching the battle around him. It was then he realized that he knew how to break the deal, but it wasn’t going to be easy. 

“CHARLIE! Listen to me! You don’t want to do this, this isn’t you!” Alastor shouted, getting her attention. “Just stop and think about it!” 

“Fuck him up, Charlie!” Velvette shouted as she continued to fight Nifty. “Then take care of these fuckers when you’re done!” 

“Charlie! You are a kind, gentle person with a heart of gold. Your heart is what I love the most about you. One of the many, many things I love about you, Charlotte Morningstar!” He leaped out of the way as she launched a fireball at him. He was going to have to try harder to break through. “I love the way that you hum to yourself when you’re working! I love the way you absolutely ruin your coffee with a mountain of sugar! I love the way you put me in my place when I need it! I love the way you humble me, Charlotte! Because you are a powerful, dazzling girl who fears no one, even the pompous radio demon! Hell, I even loved it when you punched me in the face!”

Charlie seemed torn. Velvette continued to scream orders at her, but Alastor held her gaze. “I love you, Charlie.” 

He saw her resolve break and she smiled sweetly at him. “Al!” 

He held his arms out and she rushed into them. Alastor held her tightly for a moment, then sighed. “I’m sorry. I hope you’ll forgive me.” 

“What are you-AAAAH!” She screamed as a knife sliced through the flesh on her leg. 

 

Valentino looked around in shock as the shadow tentacles disappeared around him. “What the fuck?!” 

“The deal is broken because you didn’t hold up your end.” Alastor smiled and gestured to Charlie. “Don’t pull it out, ok sweetheart? I know it hurts but I had to.”

“YOU COULD’VE JUST GIVEN ME A FUCKING PAPERCUT, AL!” Charlie snarled from the ground, clutching her leg with a knife sticking out of it.

“No no no no no, the deal was supposed to keep her safe, I specifically said her safety would be guaranteed by the deal!” Valentino was panicking. 

“Deals are tricky little things, very technical. By the terms of your deal, Charlie wouldn’t be harmed and you would get my power. But since she was harmed…” Alastor summoned the powerful shadow tentacles. “I’m going to end your fucking life.” Valentino screamed as the tentacles grabbed him and tossed him around like a rag doll.

 

“You ok, sweetie?” Rosie kneeled beside Charlie and wiped the blood with her handkerchief. 

“Just great!” Charlie was grinding her teeth. “Can you help me up?” 

 

Alastor was unleashing every attack he had, battering Valentino over and over again. He thought of Charlie and how he could have lost her and fueled his attacks even more. He slammed Valentino into the ground, threw him against the building, and sliced through him as though he were made of paper. He would make sure Valentino suffered before dying.

“Alastor.” Charlie spoke softly from behind him, making him pause in his attacks.

“Charlie, sweetheart, you know I love your optimism but you cannot possibly still think-“

“I want to do it.” 

He looked at her in shock. “You…what?” 

Charlie hobbled forward. “Let me kill him.” 

“Charlie, I don’t…this is something you can’t undo. I don’t want you to regret it.” 

“I won’t. Let me.” 

On one hand, seeing Charlie kill Valentino would be incredibly satisfying, as no one deserved death more than him, especially at Charlie’s hands. But it wasn’t who she was. 

 

“I’m sorry, sweetheart, but no. Because that’s not who you are.” He walked over to her and took her hands. “If you killed him, you’d be killing a part of yourself too. I can’t let that happen. You’re different, Charlie. You’re good, and kind, and I can’t stand the idea of you losing that part of yourself. Alright?” He gently touched her cheek and smiled at her. 

Charlie’s lip trembled and she let out the tears she’d been suppressing. “Damn it! You’re right, I know you are, and I hate that!” She threw her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. She pulled away and looked up at him. “Help me over there? I need to talk to him.” 

 

Alastor led her over to Valentino’s bloodied and bruised form. He was breathing heavily and looked to be in incredible pain. With difficulty, Charlie lowered herself down beside him. 

“Maybe I’m naive. Maybe I’m stupid to think you could change. But I want you to remember this moment, and I’m pretty sure you will unless you have brain damage, then I’ll write it on a post it note or something. Even after everything you’ve done, all the people you’ve hurt and the pain you’ve caused, I chose mercy. You can start over. Be a better person. All you have to do is try.” 

Valentino let out a wheezing laugh. “Unbelievable. You self righteous, holier than thou little cu-“ his words were cut off as a spear pierced his throat, ending his life. 

 

“He was fucking obnoxious. And he was literally going to stab you while you weren’t paying attention.” Vaggie gestured to the dagger in one of Valentino’s hands. 

“Vaggie?!” Charlie gaped at her. 

“Hi. Sorry to mess up your moment, but I thought one stab wound was enough.” 

“What are you doing here?!” 

“I got a really weird phone call, I thought it was some kind of prank at first. It was Vox, and I could barely hear him, but he said you were in danger. He’s ok, by the way. He got a little fried, but he’s alive.” 

Charlie grinned and sighed in relief. “Good. And, um, thanks.” 

“I have a lot of things I need to say, but I’d feel better if we got you to a hospital first, or at least somewhere with some first aid, since Alastor fucking stabbed you.” 

“Again, could’ve just cut me.” Charlie glared at him. 

“Sorry, love. Forgive me?” Alastor grinned.

“I suppose, since you technically saved the day. Also, um, there was something you said earlier? I don’t know if you said it just to get through to me-“

“I love you, Charlie.” 

Charlie blinked in surprise and smiled. “You do?” 

“Very much, yes. Embarrassingly so.”

“I love you too.” She grinned and grabbed Alastor by his collar, pulling him down and kissing him. 

 

“Al’s first kiss! Oh, I’m gonna cry!” Rosie fanned herself. 

“Yeah, it shows.” Angel grimaced. “Before you start going at it, what are we doing with this one?” He pointed at Velvette. “Personally, I say we let Nifty loose and see what happens.” He held up Nifty, who was wildly swinging her knife. 

“I guess that depends on Velvette.” Charlie smiled at her. 

“Gee, try to behave or get stabbed by the little psycho?” Velvette snorted. “Don’t expect any miracles but I’ll give it a shot.” 

Charlie grinned up at Alastor. “See?!”

“I’m not holding my breath, she just doesn’t want to be stabbed.”

“I understand the feeling.”

“Not going to let that go, are you?” He smirked. 

“Not when there’s still a knife in my leg, no.” 

“Let’s go home.” Alastor held Charlie and disappeared into the shadows. 

 

“Guess the rest of us will just fuckin’ walk then!” Angel shouted. 

“Angel Dust, thou hast been granted freedom. Do not squander this opportunity.” Zestial placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I don’t plan on it. I could definitely use a drink right now. Any of you overlords wanna join me? I’m going to the hotel bar.”

“Who needs the bar? I’m always packing.” Rosie grinned and pulled a flask out of her pocket. 

“I like you, sister. I think we’re gonna be good friends.” 

 

Notes:

An epilogue will be coming! But for now, I hope you enjoyed my story. After this, I will be returning to the fluffy side where I belong.
Seriously, if you hated it, don’t tell me cuz I’ll cry.

Chapter 13: Epilogue

Summary:

We did it! I made it to the end! Enjoy, it also features Alastor’s ~first time~ so if you’d like to skip the spice, it’s the last part.
Also there will be an unofficial poll at the bottom, k thx

“Aaaaand done!” Vox stepped back and admired his work. “Now we’re all set for movie night.” He’d just finished installing a huge tv screen and a projector. 

“It looks amazing! Thanks, Vox!” Charlie grinned. “Ok, technology, check! Next up, snacks! Angel?”

“There’s enough sugar here for five Charlie’s, so that should be more than enough for normal people.” 

“I was fiddling with that old popcorn machine and got it working.” Husk smiled.

“Excellent! Our inaugural movie night is off to a good start! Has anybody seen Al?”

“Right here, my love.” Arms wrapped around her from behind. “Zestial and Carmilla declined your invitation, but thanked you for inviting them. Rosie is coming, though.” 

“Yay!” Charlie spun around and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I missed you.”

“Not as much as I missed you.”

“Ugh.” Angel gagged and rolled his eyes. 

“I got you a little something.” Alastor grinned and reached into his jacket pocket.

Charlie gasped and squealed. “A furbie!”

“No! No more of those freaky little robots!” Velvette glared. “Those fuckers are everywhere and I hate them!” 

“You just hate them because you can’t get them to like you!” Charlie held her furbie proudly.

“I hate them because their beady little eyes stare into my fucking soul.” 

 

It had been a month since the battle with Valentino, and things were going really well. Vox had recovered, though he required some reassembly, and he’d taken over Valentino’s portion of the business, though he had no interest in running the porn studio. Luckily he knew someone who had plenty of experience in the field and had a lot of ideas for improvements. Angel was now the head of the studio, and while he did still star in the occasional film, he enjoyed directing more. He also made sure everyone felt safe, fairly compensated, and had all the breaks and lube they needed.

 

Velvette was actually more productive than ever without Valentino throwing his hissy fits and trashing her studio. She lived part time at the hotel, something she’d originally argued against but had secretly come to enjoy. It was nice coming home to other people who were genuinely glad to see you. And there was one person who she was glad to see in particular. 

 

Vaggie had apologized to Charlie and the two had made up. “I was just letting my feelings for you get to me. I love that you care so much for other people and want to help them. It’s what makes you you. I was just angry and jealous and I’m sorry.” 

While Vaggie didn’t LOVE that Alastor and Charlie were dating, she couldn’t deny how happy they made each other and how Alastor treated Charlie like a queen. 

“You and princess sunshine and rainbows work it out?” Velvette asked one evening. 

“Yeah, I apologized. It’s still going to be hard, seeing her with Alastor, but I love her too much as my friend to not want her to be happy.”

“Oh. I thought you were dating.”

“No, I told her I loved her and left, because I was being a selfish idiot, but we’re just friends.” 

“I see. Well if you ever want a night out to drink away your sorrows, I know some great gay bars.” 

“Oh, I didn’t realize you were-“

“Quietly. But that’s going to change. I’m here, I’m queer, and everyone can get fucking used to it.” 

“That’s a good attitude to have. And I could use a drink. Got any plans tonight?” 

Velvette grinned. “I do now. Let’s go, bitch!” 

 

Not much had changed for Husk and Niffty, but they were grateful their boss was in a better mood now. They could see how Charlie softened him, and they were happy for him. “She’s like the dryer sheets of his heart!” Niffty said one day. 

“The what?” Husk asked.

“Dryer sheets! She softens his heart.” 

“Well why wouldn’t she be the fabric softener of his heart then?” 

“IT’S NOT THE SAME!” 

 

Things between Alastor and Charlie were better than ever. He doted on her and practically worshiped the ground she walked on. They’d had a bit of trouble at first, because Alastor was a gentleman and was taking things very slow. Charlie wanted to rip his pants off. 

 

“Another wonderful evening, my dear.” Alastor walked Charlie to her door. 

“It…doesn’t have to be over yet?” Charlie tried to hint. 

“It’s getting quite late, and while I’m happy to enjoy your company I figured you would be tired.” He smiled. Ok, she was going to have to be more direct. 

“Alastor…I’m inviting you into my room.” She looked into his eyes and spoke intently.

“Oh. It would be rather inappropriate for me to be in your boudoir at this hour.” 

“Yes, that’s the point.”

“I’m afraid I don’t follow.”

Oh dear god. “Ok, could you at least come inside to talk? Please?” 

“As long as you’ll forgive my impropriety.” Charlie yanked him inside before he finished his sentence. She took him to the couch and sat him down. She remembered what Rosie had told her before. Be very clear in what she wanted. She sat beside him and took his hands. “Alastor, how do you feel about taking things to the next level…with us…physically?” God this was awkward. 

“I’m…not quite sure what that means.” His cheeks had the most adorable blush on them. 

“I’m ready to be intimate with you, but I also know that’s a very big step and I don’t want to push you into anything.” 

“And by being intimate…”

“Sex, Al. I want to have sex with you.”

“Oh, my.” His cheeks were even redder than before.

“But we can go as slow as you want to, I want you to be ready.”

“I would like that very much, I just…” he cleared his throat. “I’m afraid I wouldn’t know what I was doing and disappoint you.”

“You could never disappoint me. I love you, Alastor. And I’ll help you. But only when you’re ready.” She smiled at him. 

“Alright. I…am ready.” He said anxiously. 

“You don’t seem ready.”

“Oh believe me, darling, I want this very much. Just a bit of nerves.” He smiled and squeezed her leg. 

“Maybe this will help you.” She leaned forward and kissed him, and she felt him relax. She pushed back a bit and climbed onto his lap, straddling him. “Is this ok?”

“Oh yes, definitely!” She could already tell he was affected. She smiled and kissed him again, her hands tangling in his hair. He kept his own firmly in place on her sides, terrified to move them an inch and overstep. Charlie just reached down, took his hands, and lowered them to her butt. “You can touch me, Al. I want you to touch me. Do what feels natural.” 

 

Alastor’s heart was hammering in his chest. His hands were on her bottom, oh dear GOD, his hands were on her bottom! And it was…quite nice. He gave a gentle squeeze and she smiled at him. Ok, progress. He could handle this. This was nice, the closeness. Every one of his senses was filled with Charlie. Then she sort of rolled her hips against him. 

Oh. Dear. God. This was how he’d die. And he’d die a happy man. Charlie, seeming to sense his pleasure, rolled her hips again, drawing the most improper moan out of him. He slapped a hand on his mouth and she took it down. “I want to hear you.” She grinded her hips against him again and he let out a mortifying strangled sort of sound. She merely grinned in response. 

 

She grabbed the hem of her Tshirt and pulled it up and over her head, tossing it aside. Alastor had stopped moving and was seemingly frozen. “Al? Are you ok?”

“Just fine, dear.” He whispered.

“Are…you sure?”

“Mmhmm!” He still sounded strangled. 

“Can I take my bra off or is that too much?”

“Please, allow me.” He could do this. He could take off a brassiere. He kissed her again and moved his hands to the thin red band on her back. Ok, where was the hook? Didn’t these things hook somehow? He ran his fingers across the band. It was smooth. Where the hell was the little hook?

“Al, just let me take it off.” Charlie smiled.

“No, no, I can get it. Could you turn around?”

Charlie tried not to laugh as she stood up and turned around. “It’s got three hooks.”

“THREE? I wasn’t aware an engineering degree would be required to remove a brassiere!” 

He finally managed to unhook it and shouted victoriously. He was so proud of his victory against the ridiculous contraption that he nearly forgot that Charlie was now bare chested until she turned around. He looked like a deer caught in the headlights. Charlie figured he was already shell shocked, she may as well take off her pants too. She slid them down and tossed them aside and stood before him in only her panties. “Alastor. If this is too much, we’ll stop. It’s ok.” 

 

“May I….may I touch you?” He asked quietly. His brain had shut down. The lights were on, but no one was home. Charlie sat back down on his lap and he slowly brought his hand up to her breast. He cupped it and ran his finger across her nipple, making her inhale. “Apologies, is that unpleasant?”

“No, the opposite. It’s…really good. You should keep doing that.” She smiled. 

“Happy to.” They resumed kissing and Alastor was growing more confident. He liked the way Charlie responded to his touches, and he was thoroughly enjoying himself. Charlie broke the kiss and looked him in the eyes. She took his hand and brought it down her stomach to the waistband of her panties. She moved it even lower and pressed his fingers against the damp fabric. “Feel that? It’s because I want you.” 

“Is that…a good thing?”

“Yes. That’s what happens when women are aroused. We get wet.” She rolled her hips against his palm. “And my panties are soaked.” 

 

Holy fuck. She was right, the thin fabric was very wet. “So how do we…proceed?” 

She stood and took his hand and led him over to the bed. “I think since it’s your first time, it would be easier for me to be on top, so lay down on the bed, ok?” 

He did as he was told, and Charlie crawled on top of him again. She began slowly unbuttoning his shirt, placing kisses on his neck and chest as she did. After she peeled it off of him, she examined him with a smile. She gently ran her nails down his chest, making him inhale sharply, before venturing to his pants. She unbuttoned them and he lifted his hips to help her take them down. She palmed him over his briefs and looked into his eyes. “Still ok?”

“Yes, darling.” He grinned. “Please, continue.” 

She smiled and slowly brought down his underwear, releasing his erection. “Oh fuck.” She quietly whispered.

Alastor felt panicked. “Is something wrong?”

“No, it’s just…you’re BIG. That’s a good thing.” She reassured him. “I was just surprised. Most guys with dicks like this are assholes.”

This made him laugh, which quickly changed to a hiss of pleasure as she grabbed him. She pumped him a few times with her hand before lowering her mouth onto him. 

 

He nearly bucked off the bed, thrusting upward and gagging Charlie. “I’m sorry! I'm sorry!” 

“It’s fine, Al. I just wasn’t ready.” Charlie giggled and took him in her mouth again. He tried his hardest not to buck his hips upwards but it was difficult. This felt incredible! A little TOO good. 

“Charlie, dear, I’m afraid if you continue we so t get to the main event…” 

There was a pop as she pulled her lips off of him. “Ok, are you ready? I’ll go slow.” 

“I’m ready.” He nodded. She stood and pulled her panties off, tossing them aside. She got back on the bed and positioned him at her entrance. She began to slowly sink down. 

 

Alastor couldn’t breathe. He understood now why men acted like such fools in pursuit of sex. 

“Breathe, Al. You need to breathe!” Charlie snapped him out of his haze.

“Apologies. I was a bit overwhelmed. Please go on. Please.” He practically whispered the last please. Charlie lowered herself further and he let out a groan. “Oh dear. Oh my. This sensation…is quite tight.”

“That’s why I’m going slow.” She moved a little more, making sure she was comfortable with his size, and then finished dropping down, bottoming him out. She was incredibly concerned because Alastor looked like a fish out of water. He was sort of gasping with wide eyes but no sound was coming out. It was kind of adorable. “Alastor.”

“Exquisite. Absolutely exquisite.” He groaned. 

“Are you ready for me to move?” 

“I’m begging you to, darling.” 

Charlie grinned and raised herself up slightly before lowering down. His breath hitched and his hands shot up to her hips. Once he seemed alright, she began moving more. 

 

This was Heaven. Absolute heaven. He’d never known pleasure like this! Unfortunately it wasn’t going to last very long, because he was quickly losing control. Charlie took his hand and moved it to her pelvis. “Rub circles here.” 

He did as he was told and saw Charlie throw her head back and smile. He took this to mean he was doing something right. Then she started to breath heavily and he felt her get even tighter. 

“Charlie…can we…switch? I want to…” he groaned and couldn’t get a whole sentence out. Luckily she understood and sort of rolled, pulling him on top of her instead. He thrusted his hips, going deeper into her and making her cry out. 

“Yes, Al! Just like that! Oh god!” 

He was done for at that point. “CHARLIE!” He let himself go and they rode out their highs together. “How…was that?” He panted and flopped onto his back. 

“Great! You couldn’t tell?” Charlie grinned and turned on her side to face him. 

“Well I knew I was having a wonderful time, but I wasn’t sure if you were.” He brushed her hair out of her face.

“I was. Don’t worry. How do you feel? Are you ok?”

“Ok? I’m fantastic!” He grinned and snuggled her close. “And as soon as we’ve rested, I’m going to see if I can figure out how to make your eyes roll back into your head.”

Charlie giggled and kissed him. “I love you, Al.”

“And I love you, my darling.” 

Notes:

I hope you liked it! I have a few series going right now, and a folder full of stories I started and couldn’t decide if I should continue. Which, if any of them, would you want to read next?
1. Alastor needs Charlie to pretend to be his girlfriend to avoid marrying Mimzy
2. A friends with benefits situation where Alastor realizes he wants more
3. Charlie goes on a date and Alastor realizes he’s jealous
4. Charlie’s ex is coming to the hotel, and Alastor introduces himself as her husband. Chaos ensues.
5. A long, sloooow burn romance.
6. An AU set in the 20s where Charlie is a performer in mimzy’s cabaret that Alastor falls for
7. A slow burn roughly following the plot