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Chapter Text

The king of hell had never been one to care much about anything other than himself, yet it was impossible to deny that hell had much more style with King Dice’s presence alone. That man knew how to light up a room and capture an audience. This did not only include mortals, whose souls got drawn in like insects by a Venus flytrap but also demons such as The Devil himself. For that reason one could say that The Devil had missed that man’s presence and as much as he hated to admit it, enjoyed having him back more than he ever expected. But did he care for King Dice? That was a question he had to answer himself now because it would decide over the other man’s fate at that moment. The man who was currently laying in his bed and sleeping only a few inches away from him.

It was a surreal experience to say the least, seeing his new casino manager lay besides him and entirely knocked out. Any other day this would be more than enough for The Devil to turn him to ash but today something was different. He did not remember going to bed nor what had happened yesterday after opening the casino. This was troubling him and making him reconsider watching King Dice combust before asking some questions. The demon hesitated, putting a hand on his manager’s shoulder to shake him awake. “Dice-! Wake up and explain yourself!” The Devil hissed, his irritation clearly showing.

The other man jumped, letting out a high-pitched scream and falling off the bed. He was awkwardly rubbing his head before looking up to the displeased face of the other. “B-boss?!”

“I’m waiting, Dice. Otherwise, I’ll have to look for a new manager…” He held his pitchfork down at the man, a fire enveloping the powerful weapon.

King Dice raised his hands. “Wait- I can explain-!” His panic settled slightly when his boss lowered the pitchfork and raised an eyebrow, urging King Dice to continue. The Devil didn’t have to tell him twice. “You weren’t feeling well after the party, so I brought you back and made sure you’re alright! That’s what a number one is there for, right?” The mortal replied with anxiousness in his voice.

He did remember the party. They were celebrating the grand opening of the casino and got a bit drunk. “Right… but do tell… which part of making sure that I arrive home safely required you to sleep in my bed-?” The Devil questioned, not pleased with the given explanation.

“Well… funny story…” King Dice began, still nervous and quickly getting up from the floor as he dusted off his clothes in an attempt to buy time.

“Humour me.” The Devil frowned, watching the other man scramble to his feet and growing increasingly impatient.

The Devil’s number one was lighting a cigar to calm his nerves, this was a rather abrupt and terrifying situation to wake up to. Not that he was scared of The Devil, they had known each other for too long. What he felt were more respect or reverence and nervousness than straight up terror or horror. He exhaled slowly before trying to put on his confident smile again, causing the Devil to groan and urge King Dice to get on with it. 

“Well-“ Kingsley began again before shrugging. “You might not like to hear this but you were the one who made me stay. Are you sure that you want me to elaborate on that?” A pink hue crept onto the dice’s porcelain skin.

“I did-?” The Devil’s expression changed to confusion as he lowered the pitchfork entirely, only to raise it again and hold it against the manager’s chest, “Do you really think that I would believe such a ludicrous claim? Are you asking to be obliterated?” The demon questioned in irritation.

Dice pushed the pitchfork away. “Come on, Big D.” He drew on his cigar again before grinning, his eyes shining in a sheen green like emeralds against fire. “Why would I lie about this? But alright, let me tell you what happened…”

10 Hours Before

- King Dice POV -

The party was buzzing. Many people were excited to take a look at the brand new casino that had just opened its gates to the unsuspecting people of The Inkwell Isles. After The Devil’s defeat he decided to lay low for a while until I had brought up the prospect of a brand new endeavour that would have souls flowing into his vault en masse. 

The Devil’s Casino.

He was skeptical at first but even my boss couldn’t deny how ingenious my idea had been, approving of it and creating the building only a few minutes away from the city. The Devil even put me in charge of it, giving me a chance to run this operation and prove myself to him after my show had been cancelled.

The preparations were going as planned; with the help of my charisma and subordinates of my choosing, everything was ready to go. I would not disappoint my boss again.

As the manager of this new established, it was important to me that I had competent lackeys, they might be second rate compared to myself but I could not have them ruin this opportunity. So, I only chose the best of the best. Minions that had the expertise I needed for this to be successful.

Mister Wheezy and Ginette being the most useful ones out of the bunch that I could rely on for my plans, which was proven further when The Devil entered our casino to take a look at my work and join the opening ceremony.

“Mister Devil, sir. What an honour to have you join us.” Ginette approached him with her tray of martinis. She was elegant and polite, as well as headstrong enough to put all the men in the casino to their knees. Certainly not the kind of woman you wanted to mess with.

“Thank you, dear.” The Devil took a glass, clearly appearing in a good mood. He had taken a new approach to his business strategy, working on his anger management with Henchman and appearing to have turned over a new leaf. Of course, I knew better, this was simply part of our witful plan and my boss had not changed outside becoming more devious and practicing patience as to not have those insufferable cups cause trouble again. Another reason that made me choose a casino: no children allowed.

“So, where is your manager? I need to discuss an important business matter with him.” The Devil asked, causing me to perk up and approach the two. 

“At your service, boss.” I straightened up; Ginette offered me a glass as well, which I declined. “That won’t be necessary. Would be rather unprofessional of me at a time like this.”

“Oh, but this is a celebration; is it not? I insist that you share a drink with me.” The Devil smirked.

I could hardly decline my boss, so I gave in and took a glass myself. 

“You are… acting different today.” The words escaped my lips as soon as Ginette left us alone to tend to another guest.

“Well, I expect that everything is running smoothly… I have given you everything that you have asked for after all. You wouldn’t dare to waste both my time and my resources; isn’t that correct, Dice?”

I simply nodded, taking a large sip from my drink because I sure as hell would need it. “Of course not-“

“Good. Then you have nothing to worry about; let’s talk business, shall we?” The Devil went ahead towards the bar, another drink in his hand as soon as he had finished the last.

He was definitely acting rather off but I tried to ignore this as he asked questions and told me his expectations for the casino, mostly regarding entertainment and advertisements to lure in more customers. He even said that I could keep all the money I make and split it with my minions as I see fit. It was the first actual business meeting we had; if I didn’t know any better, I would have thought that this wasn’t about collecting souls. But I knew better and was aware of my boss’ ulterior motives. The Devil seemed so mature and mellowed out during our conversation but something about his demeanour felt wrong, he did not seem happy. 

It bothered me to see him that way, it was as if he was just talking to a regular employee. As if he was a tired business man, drowning his sorrow in alcohol while talking about finances and line graphs. I could not accept this any longer and did something I would regret on any other day: I took him by the wrist.

The Devil’s dull and disinterested expression immediately shifted, first into surprise and then anger. “What do you think you’re doing?” He asked with a stern face, his eyes narrowing as they focused on mine.

“I’m ending this business meeting.” I said, as my body moved by itself and got up from the barstool; my hand still holding tightly onto his wrist. Anything to end this conversation, I knew that my boss needed something else at this moment even if he wouldn’t admit it.

“Dice. Unhand me and sit down.” The Devil ordered but I had already gotten too far to give in now. “We still have a lot to discuss.” His voice didn’t sound as powerful and demanding now, it was obvious to me that this was not what he wanted.

“We will. But for now, let’s just enjoy the party and relax a bit. You need to get your mind off work for a while, Henchman and I have been talking and we’re worried about you.” I finally admitted.

The Devil smacked my hand away. “Dice… you’re lucky that I have a reputation to uphold in public. But you are really testing my patience. I don’t know what you are trying to accomplish but you should know that—“

“That’s more like it… to see that fire in your eyes~” I held up another glass. “I want us to have some fun… let’s get wasted. Break the rules. Some… razzle-dazzle?” I winked at him, probably already quite drunk because otherwise I would not have pushed things that far. My inhibition around The Devil appeared almost entirely gone but I also felt lighter despite playing with fire.

To my relief, he accepted the glass after a sigh and a moment of hesitation. “Fine. If you finally shut up then…” It was probably a trick of the light but I could have sworn that I saw the Devil’s cheeks turn red for a moment.

“Splendid-!” A chuckle escaped my throat as I downed another martini, no idea what Ginette was putting into her drinks but they surely packed a punch. It didn’t take long for me to lose myself to the music, energy of the house and the booze; there was no telling how much time had passed as my memory and sense of self turned into a blur. I had a mental blackout during that time, only remembering snippets of what happened past that conversation, until further into the night when everything had calmed down a bit and most people succumbed to the cocktails.

“Are you with us, sir?” A feminine voice snapped me out of my stupor. 

“Huh-?” I looked up at Ginette’s face, Mr. Wheezy helping me back on my feet shortly afterwards. “Where is the boss-?” 

“Backrooms- said he needed to go to your office for something.” His rough smoker’s voice was barely getting through to me. Mr. Wheezy was a sleazy bastard, a criminal, but he was reliable at that moment; even though I hated to be touched usually.

“Well… I appreciate the help but I’ll be looking after the boss. You two got this-“ I dusted off my clothes, luckily they hadn’t gotten very dirty despite ending up on the floor.

“Oh, I’m certain you will.” Ginette smiled, her lips forming a slim line.

“And what is that supposed to mean-?” I rolled my eyes while checking my face in the reflection of a glass cabinet.

“Oh, nothing… nothing. It’s just that you and the boss, seem to be rather close.” She drew on the end of a cigarette holder that she was elegantly balancing in her hands. “The both of you have been singing and dancing for two whole hours before you collapsed. Quite impressive if you ask me.”

“I didn’t ask.” A scoff escaped my lungs as I pulled out a cigar from my jacket. “Now where is that-“ 

“Need fire?” Mr. Wheezy asked, offering his own lighter and giving me the opportunity to finally fill my lungs with nicotine.

“Thanks-“ Once the smoke escaped my lungs again, I glanced at my subordinates. “Well, I’ll be off. Make sure that everything runs smoothly.” With those words I left them, still feeling their gazes in the back on my neck. I had danced with The Devil, huh?

My knuckles connected with the wooden surface of the door; despite this being my office, I tended to avoid walking in on my boss unannounced since I’ve seen him turn demons to ash without forewarning. “Boss-? Are you alright?”

“Go away, Dice…” The voice of my superior sounded troubled, the effects of Ginette’s beverage still taking their toll on him. Not that I was fairing much better, an intense headache consuming my mind.

“I’ll come in-“ Without another moment of hesitation, my arm moved forward to push open the door. 

“You’re really not up to taking orders today, are you?” The Devil said annoyed but without his usual bite, merely sarcasm escaping his tongue.

“I’m afraid that your well-being is more important in this matter.” I sighed, approaching the demon on my couch. “I’m asking again, are you alright? I can bring you some water.”

The Devil chuckled. “What’s up with you~? The King Dice is offering help? Stooping so low as to bring me a drink and suggesting to nurse me back to health?” Sarcasm was dripping from his words now, like the venom of a snake.

“Boss… that’s rather uncalled for, sir. I am merely trying to hel-“

“Save it.” The Devil interrupted me. “I don’t want to hear it, when did you ever care about anyone other than yourself? Spare me the act, I am not in the mood.”

Anger was boiling up inside of me. “Act? I am the one who only thinks of himself? You’re calling me the selfish one when all I ever did was just to get your approval and sacrifice everything else in my life for you?” I hadn’t noticed the tears that were welling up in my eyes. I was so angry and frustrated with him but part of me was also hurt that he still thought of me this way.

The Devil fell silent, his expression unreadable as he groaned and let gravity press his body into the fabric. “Fine- bring me a glass of water, will ya? If you won’t leave me alone, at least make yourself useful.”

While I wasn’t very fond of his tone, I couldn’t help but smile when he gave in and let me take care of him. “Already at it, boss.” Was all that I replied before walking over to the water dispenser and getting him a glass. “Here you go.”

The Devil eyed me shortly before sighing and taking the glass to drink it.

“Come on, let’s get you home.” I offered a hand, rather surprised when The Devil accepted it and his cheeks turned red. “Ah…” I chuckled. “Are you sick, drunk or just happy to see me~” I wasn’t sure what I was thinking but probably not much because my drunkenness clouded my mind.

“Yeah- I’m sick of you, just… get me back to my private chambers and we can forget about this embarrassing evening.” He tried so hard to be angry and shut me down but something about his expression betrayed him, making me feel as if he didn’t mean any if this and causing me to chuckle.

“Why are you laughing…?” The Devil clearly wasn’t pleased but I couldn’t help it. 

“I don’t know, you’re just… kinda cute when you’re upset like this-“ I giggled, clearly out of my mind to say something like this and react in such a way. 

“Dice, what has gotten into you?!” The Devil’s expression was one of utter confusion, a mix of irritation and embarrassment. “Let’s head back, something is clearly wrong with you…” 

“Alright, boss.” I couldn’t help smiling, for the first time it was me who had taken The Devil aback and not the other way around.

“Wipe that stupid grin off your face or so help me I’ll be turning your body into a pile of ash-“ He threatened, the words falling on deaf ears as I just helped him up, my smile never leaving me.

The Devil was uncoordinated and weak on his feet. I had to help him stand, guiding my boss outside and calling the elevator that would bring us to hell. He wasn’t even complaining that I was carrying his pitchfork, as the demon was clearly not able to hold onto it himself without potentially injuring himself… or me.

We spend the way down in silence, both of us making our way into The Devil’s private chambers. I had never been there myself, not being allowed to enter; this was something only Henchman was permitted and it had always seemed unreasonable to me. I was his number one after all! I would lie if I said that I wasn’t envious of the privileges that lackey possessed and how close they were; it should have been me who served as his right-hand man.

These thoughts were cumulating in my head like dark clouds before a storm, until we eventually arrived at my boss’ chambers. “Well, seems I fulfilled my duty. I’ll be heading back to the casino to make sure that everything runs smoothly for you. There is still a lot to prepare for tomorrow-” I tried to push away my thoughts and put on a positive facade, maybe he’d finally respect me if managed to catch a bunch of souls on the first day. My planning got interrupted when The Devil took the pitchfork from me and placed it besides the bed, losing his balance as soon as he has lost it as a walking stick.

I was fast enough to catch him, before he could hit the ground. A frown spread across my face as I held onto his body. It was warm, his fur incredibly soft and I started to wonder what it would feel like without my gloves on. “B-boss…” I snapped out of it, helping the incapacitated king of hell into bed. “You need to rest. I will take care of the casino tomorrow, while you stay in bed.”

“Don’t tell me what to do-“ He slurred, his complain coming off more like an upset child than The Devil ordering around one of his subordinates. “I’m fine—“ His voice cracked, a mere whimper leaving The Devil’s lips.

“Are you sure?” Concern was sneaking its way into my words, my expression faltering when seeing the big boss this vulnerable.

“I am, now get out-!” The Devil hissed, red tears had formed in his eyes. Was he crying? That wasn’t something I expected out ot him, he could be pouty at times but at this moment he appeared genuinely sorrowful and in need of a hug. I wouldn’t press the matter though if he needed space, he was still The Devil and very much capable of turning me to dust in an instant; he was also my boss and I had ignored his orders enough for one day.

“Alright-“ My drunken mind wasn’t really considering consequences, causing my body to move by itself as I leaned forward to hug him. As I came to my senses, panic filled my body; this caused me to quickly let go and avert my eyes. “I-I’m sorry, boss. I will see myself out, this was uncalled for! I simply thought that you might need it and I didn’t want to see your sad face anymore… please forgi—“

Claws got a hold of my upper arms, as I froze in terror until the realisation hit me: they weren’t digging into my skin, they were simply holding me in place. His body was trembling, which was odd enough for me to take a look at The Devil’s face.

He was crying, it wasn’t just a few drops as before but a stream of red-coloured tears. “I did need it…” His lips eventually parted as those words escaped him, they seemed so distant as if they came from the depths of The Devil’s chest. “Maybe stay a little longer, don’t say anything… just stay.”

My heart sank. This was not what I expected, at any point in my life. “Alright…” I complied, hesitantly moving closer to sit down on the bed with him; my hands got a hold of The Devil’s, getting them off my arms and keeping them between my own. We stayed like this for a while, that was until my boss, pushed me onto the bed. He didn’t use much force, in fact his movements were slow and hesitant; I let him. Once my body was in a horizontal position, The Devil did the unthinkable and seemed to cuddle up to me, holding onto my body as if I was a large pillow. This was a strange situation to be in but in no way an unpleasant one. I was merely helping out my boss, nothing more.

I carefully moved my arm, trying to get the fabric of the blanket between my fingers when I felt a gentle rumble against me and heard my boss growl in disapproval, he clearly didn’t like that I was moving. Luckily, the blanked was close enough to get a hold of it without having to move too much. A soft chuckle came out of my throat as I pulled the fabric over the two of us. “Hey… you need to be covered, don’t want you to get sick, boss.” 

“Thank you, Dice.” His eyes were closed when The Devil spoke those words. The Devil was thanking me, his number one! I was so happy that it was hard to contain myself and then the unthinkable happened; another vibration was coming from my boss: he was purring.

I couldn’t believe my ears, any of my senses for that matter. This was not what I had expected from this evening, this was not something I expected even in my wildest dreams. This was so surreal that the thought crossed my mind that I was dead. The Devil must have incinerated me at some point before this and now my mind was playing tricks on me in my fleeting last moments before I’d either wake up in hell as a incorporeal entity or just ceased to exist entirely. Safe to say, neither happened. And the next thing that I was aware off after drifting off to sleep was my boss rudely waking me from my slumber.

Present

- The Devil POV -

My head felt as if it was going to combust when King Dice finished his story. I would have destroyed him for telling such an elaborate lie but part of me knew that he was speaking the truth. My memories were blurry and disordered but with that explanation, I could connect some missing dots that had been indecipherable from my blackout.

“So, you’re telling me that we didn’t just spend the night in the same bed but also cuddled?” I asked with disgust as if these words were so bitter on my tongue that it would possibly shrivel up and fall off.

“That’s precisely what I am saying.” King Dice drew on his cigar and looked at me with a victorious smirk. It was as if that good-for-nothing lackey actually thought that he was in charge of this situation! The audacity that man possessed was unmatched.

My body’s temperature rose as I got up, opening my mouth to yell at this disrespectful, infuriatingly vain mortal! He was unbelievable! But before I could speak up, I felt a soft pressure on my head. Was that man petting me!? I looked at him in disbelief, my body relaxing involuntarily as the insults that I had prepared for him got stuck in my throat.

“Relax, boss.” King Dice’s smile grew softer as his hand moved to the side of my face and cupped my cheek, his thumb and index finger caressing my ear gently as all anger left my body. “I won’t tell anyone about this, I merely did you a service as your number one. That’s part of my job.” There he was going on again with that number one nonsense… he truly thought that he had a special place in my reigns. Pathetic. But also not wrong… Kingsley Dice had been extremely loyal and has been showering me in admiration for a few years now. He was also the first mortal who dared to approach me and offer himself to me without asking for anything in return. He just wanted to be close to me and offer his service. I gave him eternal youth to make sure that he wouldn’t age and die on me because that would make him useless but that man was always trying to court me and get my praise no matter how terrible I treated him for fun. He always returned to me, even after I threatened to destroy him. It was strangely endearing. No! What was I thinking?! He was pathetic! A mortal! At best a snack I could have as soon as as I, The Devil, grew tired of him!

“Number one to Big D~” King Dice’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. “Are you listening to me? I asked whether you feel better yet. You’re still quite red.” His teasing tone caused me to step back. 

“Dice-! Are you testing me? Because if you are trying to fuck around and find out what it takes for me to scorch you, then you’re on a good path!” I didn’t feel angry anymore, embarrassment audible in my voice despite my best attempt to hide it. Curse that man! Curse him!

He just chuckled. “Alright, boss…” Was he blushing? That man was clearly blushing! How dare he! Did he think that his incisive flirting would get to me? The Devil?!

I could go up in flames but instead just turned away and crossed my arms. “W-well… I am clearly doing better, not thanks to you though-! Now, leave me be, you have bothered me enough. Get to work!”

Dice sighed, appearing rather disappointed but accepting defeat at last. “Alright, I understand.” 

King Dice left my chambers when I dropped back onto the bed, letting out a scream of frustration as I singed the bed, my body causing an inferno that turned the entirety of the room black. “I hate that man…” I spoke with enough insincerity that I couldn’t even convince myself of my words. Why was that mortal making me feel this way? It only took a quick movement of my pitchfork to return the room back to normal, just in time for Henchman to knock on the door.

“Boss? Are you okay? There was smoke coming from your door just a moment ago-“ His concern was always so genuine, it was one of the main reasons why I kept him around. He cared but he was also the most competent subordinate I had and my personal assistant. It was also thanks to him that Dice was still alive after I had my… moment a few months ago. I didn’t really think much about it at the time but in retrospect I was glad that both of them were alright. That’s when I stopped my train of thoughts, was I still drunk?! What was I thinking? The Devil doesn’t care for anyone! Only himself. Those thoughts must have been induced by that devilish drink!

Henchman entered when I took too long to reply, worry spread across his face as he peaked inside. “Boss—?” 

“Yes, Henchman?” He sat on my bed, trying to sit straight and proud but that was impossible.

“I wanted to bring you breakfast and the newspaper, I’ve seen Mister King Dice leave your room in a hurry and then I heard-“

“It’s fine. Everything is fine. Just… put it over there and leave me be. I have important matters to tend to-“ I tried to shoo him away but instead, he just got closer to offer me a plate with pancakes and blueberries on top. Could hardly resist those, Henchman’s baking was immaculate. “Thank you, Henchman.” I sighed, it seemed no one was taking my orders anymore at this point.

“Uhh… so, boss. What’s troubling you? I though you were happy that the casino’s opening was a success…” Henchman asked hesitantly, fumbling with his hands in a nervous manner. 

I gave in, there was something troubling me after all and maybe Henchman could help with that. If not him, then certainly no one could.

“Well…” I put down the plate. “It’s King Dice- ever since I let him return, things have been… different between us.” 

“…Different?” Henchman asked, appearing rather confused at my statement and forcing me to elaborate.

“Urgh- you know… different! Just making me feel weird and getting even more annoying and up in my face lately! He didn’t even listen to my orders yesterday, he always listens to my orders. As he should, I am The Devil after all!” I pouted, holding onto my pillow, it still smelled like him. That fool…

Henchman looked down, appearing troubled himself now. “Duh… well, how does he make you feel? I got the feeling that you’re particularly harsh on him but also let him get away with more than any of the other mortals or imps.”

“I’m not letting him get away with anything-!” I sat up and glared at my assistant, who flinched back at first and then just sighed. 

“I actually talked to Mister King Dice, he asked me for advice on how to satisfy you and make you proud of him…” My expression fell, that man really had spoken the truth. I let Henchman continue. “We were also worried that you might have been overworking yourself since… uh… you lost Miss Chalice’s soul.” His hands touched, rubbing against each other to quell his nervousness.

“Is that so…” Instead of blowing up at the mention of that name, a different heat took place in my chest. A pink hue taking over my face with a tingling sensation that was new to me. “He does care about me…” My ears dropped, what was happening to me?

Henchman’s expression had turned from confusion and concern to realisation, his eyes widened as his mouth opened into a silent gasp. “Daw—!” Was all that escaped the other demon after a moment’s hesitation. His wings fluttered, while putting his hand together and holding them up to his cheek. “Boss, boss, boss…” 

“W-what?” I asked. “Do you know what’s wrong with me? Can it be fixed?! Tell me!” I demanded but instead of a fearful reaction, Henchman just kept this questionable grin plastered on his face.

“Oh, boss… seems you’re in love.” 

My expression fell into the depths of the ninth layer, it took me a moment to realise what he had said and even longer to fathom that he was serious! 

“Henchman- I… what are you… that’s…” It was as if my brain was overwhelmed, unable to form a single coherent sentence; only after a few seconds my ability to speak returned. “There is no way that is what’s going on. You… I… I am The Devil- I am not able to love, love is my enemy! The reason I couldn’t get those cups’ soul and spared that elderly kettle— and the reason I ended up like this in the first place! You should know this better than anyone…”

Henchman’s smile left him. “Boss… come on… it can’t be good to deny your feelings forever. That… was a long time ago, maybe it’s time to let go and try letting someone in-“ His hand touched mine, a warm smile on his face. “I even made your favourite pancakes~ “ He held up the plate, I hadn’t even noticed that I started crying at his words until a tear fell onto it. 

My hand shakily held onto the plate as I laughed bitterly. That damn fool had actually been successful, a chuckle was escaping me as the realisation hit me like that old jasper’s car. “Thank you, Henchman…” He petted my back as I took a bite. They were delicious… yeah, I loved those pancakes. These pancakes were amazing, so full of energy and sweet. Always there for me no matter what and charming. And so soft, as well as deceivingly kind and attractive and… hell, I really wanted to hold them. They were only pancakes but they were so good that it made me cry, sobs escaping me while Henchman stayed by my side. 

He was right, his pancakes were delicious, and I was deeply in love with King Dice. 

Chapter Text

Henchman had left The Devil alone not shortly after the demon had finished his breakfast and lay down. No one had seen The Devil for the entirety of the day, causing King Dice to get rather anxious but he had to focus on his work; the first day in the casino was a huge success and many people grew addicted in no time, already wanting to return and become regulars after the first few games. It was child’s play, Kingsley was in his element, as if he was born to do this. Not only had the man no trouble adapting to this new role as the casino’s manager, he could also still perform and pull in an audience for the casino that way. He was basically living his best life; the king had everything that he possessed before and more: money, fame, his boss’ approval, power, his boss’ approval, hundreds of men and women who would get down on their knees and marry him on the spot, his boss’s approval, lackeys, his boss… the man paused, his eyes mindlessly staring at the game as the die came to a stop. The Devil’s number one realised that he didn’t have everything before perking up and fixating on the result. “Snake Eyes.”

-

“You look tired.” Ginette put down a glass with a clear liquid in front of King Dice’s eyes, he had been sitting at the bar for the past twenty minutes in an attempt to get rid of his headache.

“What is that-“ The manager asked, frowning slightly as he eyed the cold drink.

“Water.” The woman drew on her cigarette holder before dropping something into the glass. “And aspirin.” 

King Dice chuckled, holding onto the medicine to watch it dissolve before taking a long sip and finishing it in one go. “Trying to make up for poisoning your superior?”

“You’re a grown man, sir. You’ll live.” 

“What a relief.” A sarcastic smirk flashing on the man’s face before a sigh escaped his lips when he leaned back. “Would be a shame if this pretty face met its end so soon~”

“Not interested.” Ginette merely replied while cleaning some used glasses, not even looking at the man during their conversation.

“That’s not—“ The manager tried to speak up before getting interrupted.

“I know. And I also know that you have your eyes on someone else.” Ginette smirked.

The man just stared at her in surprise, a pink hue taking over his entire face as he glanced at his glass, almost as if he hoped that another, stronger drink would manifest itself in it.

“I’m just teasing ya… though, your face tells me that I hit the jackpot. It’s rare that someone gets the chance to shut up The King Dice. No witty comebacks?” Ginette handed out a drink to one of the customers before standing in front of Dice with crossed arms. “How long do you intend to keep this game up?”

“What are you getting at?” King Dice’s voice was low, a growl forming in the man’s throat before he got up and looked at her with viridescent eyes, slamming his hands onto the countertop.

“You got a crush on The Devil.” Ginette glared at him unimpressed, immediately shutting her superior down. King Dice’s confidence left him as his expression fell and the pink hue became more prominent.

“Though, crush is a bit of an understateme—“ Her mouth got covered by her opposite, who had almost lunged over the counter, before she could finish speaking.

“Quiet- what if anyone hears you?! And how do you know?” The man hissed, too flustered to show any amount of confidence.

Ginette pushed away his hand, frowning at her manager’s action. “Sir, by all due respect- Everyone knows. In fact, it is so obvious that it’s honestly a surprise that the boss is the only one who still doesn’t know…”

“Well- I…” He was rather taken aback by this, Dice was so certain that he had been keeping this a secret for a long time.

“You should tell him.”

“What? No way, have you lost your mind? Do you want me to get my soul ripped out and have him make me watch as he turns my body to dust? Because that’s exactly what will happen- and more importantly he’ll only do it to mock me and laugh at me for such an insane proposal before restoring my body and sending me to work, making me wish that he just ate my soul instead of having me live with the shame-“ He got all teary-eyed while making up this scenario, his body tensing up.

“You done-?” She drew on her cig again, raising a brow.

“Yeah-“ He cleared his throat before uncomfortably fixing his bowtie. 

“Damn, you’re a mess.” She exhaled the smoke before pausing. “So, tell me. How often has he tortured you again?”

“Where’s that—“ 

“Just answer.” Another draw before she sighed and let the smoke escape.

“Never.”

“And how often did you fail him?”

“Well, that’s just-“

“How often?” 

“I dunno… two, three times…” He mumbled, looking down like a beaten puppy, as his voice cracked.

Ginette rolled her eyes before offering him a smoke. “Here. It will calm your nerves.”

King Dice put the cigar between his lips without a word, letting the bartender light it.

“You still live. He asked you to come back and even put you in charge of all this, not to mention the way you two were inseparable yesterday, clinging to each other during every dance-“ She looked into the distance, absentmindedly taking in the games at their tables.

Dice’s expression softened. He hardly remembered the last night but her words made his heart flutter as if his soul still recalled every moment that he was holding onto The Devil… and then there was the fact that they shared a bed. He did remember that part vividly.

“You will regret it, you know?” She brought him back to reality.

“Huh-?” He looked at her, his brain still catching up to the present. 

“If you don’t confess to him, maybe it will be too late when you finally find the courage.” Her voice was melancholic, experience speaking through her as the ashy tip of King Dice’s cigar hit the countertop of the bar.

-

The Devil had lived since the very beginning of time; spending his existence in heaven, hell and on earth while taking many forms to deceive mortals and acting benevolent only to play with their hopes and dreams. While striking fear into their hearts wasn’t hard, making them willingly surrender their souls was more complicated. This was why King Dice was a miracle to him. That man had come to him without asking for anything in return. he had everything a mortal could wish for: fame, money, a pretty face, a captivating voice and the ability to manipulate people in a way even the Devil wasn’t capable off. While the king of hell had to promise something in return and trick them, that man had the ability to make people surrender themselves in awe and without expecting anything from him. He had enough charisma and talent to get anything he wanted from anyone. The Devil was certain of this and for that reason it was still unexplainable to him why someone like King Dice would give himself to a being of pure evil, only to doom his soul and get into a role of subservience. That showman didn’t seem as if he hated the world or was insane enough to just want to watch it burn; neither was he satanic or sick or anything that would make sense. Maybe this was a game to him. Maybe he was a masochist and more insane that he let on. 

The Devil was on his bed, having his claw dig into a pillow while he pondered about this. King Dice’s faint scent was fading away and he wanted to keep all of it close until the last moment when it would dissolve. The fact a mortal could get such an emotional reaction out of him was infuriating. It wasn’t hate or anger as he experienced with those cups, but it was an intense emotion that the immortal being couldn’t quite place. Thinking of that man made him happy but also sad and frustrated, it was all terribly confusing to a point it was scaring him.

“Oh… Old Scratch, you really did it now…” The Devil mumbled. He already knew that he loved King Dice, Henchman was right and he couldn’t deny that fact but that didn’t mean he couldn’t at least try. There had to be a way to convince himself that Dice was only tricking him. Oh, his sweet Dice. His head was thinking such weird things ever since he had talked to Henchman. All he wanted was to look for that man and jump on him to feel his body once more, have that man’s scent on his fur and hear that incubus-like voice. And what a captivatingly beautiful voice it was… the demon had made up his mind! He had to tell King Dice how he felt before someone else made the first step! But how would he do that?

The Devil screamed into his pillow when he heard someone knock on the door. “Not now, Henchman…” He replied, not expecting anyone else to come even near his chambers.

“What about your number one…?” King Dice perked inside with a shy smile, one that was quite untypical for the man.

“W-what are you doing here?!” The Devil hissed, his face immediately heating up and turning red as small sparks escaped the fur on his cheeks.

“I believe that we need to talk… if you want to punish me, please at least let me talk first. Just this once… it’s important.” The man stepped inside without waiting for a reply.

The Devil was rather taken aback; for one, he did not expect the man who occupied his mind to just show up in flesh and blood and then there was the way how Dice approached his boss. He wasn’t confident for once but there was a determination in the man’s eyes that paralysed the demonic being and left him in awe as his heart accelerated. 

This was all happening too fast, too soon! What was that man planning? Didn’t matter, this was his chance!

“Boss… last night—“

“No, Dice. I need to tell you something first…” The Devil got up.

“This is more important, please.”

“No, this is more important.”

“Boss, I really need to say that-“ Dice raised his voice.

“Dice, I have to tell you that-“ The Devil spoke simultaneous, both of their voices fighting against each other.

“I LOVE YOU!” They both called out as their voices reach their maximum volume, eyes closed to avoid seeing the other’s reaction immediately and brace themselves for rejection. “What did you just say-“ The Devil and King Dice stared at each other in disbelief.

Old Scratch’s fur was glowing as it heated up while the musician’s face was a vibrant pink; both of them looking at each other, unable to avert their eyes.

“You love me-?” The Devil whimpered in disbelief, appearing weak and small all of a sudden.

King Dice’s lips curled into a smile when realising that he was hearing him right, never in a thousand years would that man have expected The Devil to reciprocate his feelings. Let alone confess first! Or rather simultaneously… either way this seemed like a dream but if it was, he didn’t want to wake up. “I love you…”  King Dice spoke more softly, the most gentle smile forming on his face.

The Devil was overwhelmed, not saying anything as he approached his number one. His steps were strong and determined even though his heart was beating like crazy out of anxiousness. 

Once he was close enough, Dice’s boss took his hand and held onto them shakily, his gaze downward. “Boss-?” King Dice was worried now, had he imagining things after all? This behaviour was extremely untypical for the king of hell though. “Are you al—“

The Devil kissed his number one before it was possible for the man to react. Now it was Dice’s body that was heating up unnaturally, an intense tingling going through his body like a wave. It look the casino manager a moment to catch himself and then lean back into The Devil’s kiss. Both of them staying like this for what felt both like an eternity and yet too short.

The Devil eventually let go, tears running down his face and causing the fur in his face to become wet and salty. 

“Hey… what’s wrong?” King Dice stroke The Devil’s cheek to fight the tears for his opposite

“Nothing…” The Devil sniffed.

“You’re crying… didn’t think that I was that bad at this.” He laughed awkwardly, trying to lighten the mood.

The Devil turned away, crossing his arms and holding his mouth to stifle his sobs.

King Dice approached him and gently took his boss by the shoulders to sit him down on the bed. “Is this not what you want?” He sounded hurt but was understanding, he wouldn’t do anything that made the man he loved uncomfortable. 

“No… this is… everything I could wish for.”  The demon’s tail was wagging nervously on the sheets. “I’m just… scared.” The last word was a mere whisper, hardly making it out of the Devil’s throat.

“Scared…? How so? You are the most powerful and amazing person on earth and in hell! And probably even above, I’m sure of it!” King Dice squeezed his troubled boss’ hand a bit to give him some more hold. 

The Devil smiled at his number one’s compliment, especially considering how happy the man looked while talking about Old Scratch’s greatness. “You see me as a person-?” He asked softly, that was the part that caught his ears. He knew the rest already.

“What? Of course! What else would I see you as?” King Dice laughed amused at his boss’ silly question.

“I don’t know. A monster.” The Devil’s voice was somber.

There was silence, the musician’s smile disappeared shortly after the unexpected answer. “What?”

“You know, I’m The Devil.” The king of hell tried to make his subordinate understand.

“I… am aware of that, boss? What are you getting at?” King Dice laughed and appeared confused, looking at the other man with puppy eyes that could make him melt.

“I could kill you, rip out your soul and devour your mortal flesh with ease. Or I could turn you to dust, have nothing remain.” The Devil glared at Dice with snake-like eyes.

“Well, I am aware of that too. You have threatened me more than once- and I’ve seen what you’re capable of.“ The manager chuckled before blushing more intensely again. “I can’t really help it but that thought makes me excited, it’s a feeling I haven’t known before. I am scared but it’s also kinda hot…” The man bit his lip.

The Devil stared at the other in disbelief. That man wasn’t masochistic or insane! He was clearly both!

“Don’t get me wrong… I don’t want to die but the fact you could do those things but still choose to keep little old me around… it makes me happy. And you can be quite adorable just like the face that you make right now.” The man grinned.

“Ahhh—! Stop it! Quit being so charming, you insolent fool!” The Devil poked the man’s head. “You think I wouldn’t?! Don’t underestimate me, Dice!”

King Dice laughed cutely. “Alright, boss, you’re very intimidating right now—”

The Devil fell quiet again before opening his mouth a bit. “You mean it…?”

“No, you’re not very intimidating like this. More cute.” Dice leaned back a bit, his hands pressing into the bed as he smiled at The Devil.

“Not that…” The demon blushed. “That you think I’m cute and you like me as a person…” He hugged his legs.

“Of course-“ Dice took The Devil’s head into his hands and smiled. “I already told you, do you not believe me? Let me proof it—“ He kissed his boss longingly, not letting go as he pressed himself into the other man’s fur, eventually causing both to fall onto the bed with Dice on top of the king of hell.

The Devil smiled up at his newfound lover. “Everyone else would get destroyed for this-“

“I’m not everyone… and I know you have the power to stop me. Or just say no.” Dice grinned.

The Devil pulled his number one closer to kiss him again. “Don’t stop, please…” 

The musician chuckled and let himself get pulled in, this moment of closeness occupying his mind entirely. “Hell… I love you so much.” The man spoke as soon as he had a chance to breathe.

“I love you too.” His boss hugged him, purring contently.

Henchman had approached the door to check on his boss and had been about to knock when hearing the two inside. A smile formed on the demon’s face when listening to his best friend being happy and united with his number one. He decided not to interrupt the two, so they’d have their privacy. A wide grin plastered on his face, he was so proud of his boss… was about time as well, even the big boss’ assistant knew about the casino manager’s obvious feelings. And his boss’s not-so-secret feelings.