Archive of Our Own ^beta

One:

Alastor first danced with the devil—the king of Hell himself—after he committed his first murder behind a building at a dark alley. 

It was unbelievable how chaotic the situation was for him. His emotions were clouded with all kinds of anger when that scumbag berated him for being—somewhat too determined—to get a position as a competent radio host. The mention of his mother was enough to make Alastor take the knife from his back pocket (and don't ask why he was carrying it. Anyone with common sense would understand that visiting an employee from a white company to negotiate was an easy way to get into trouble).

Alastor didn't regret killing him. He didn't feel sorry for killing any of these types of people. Especially when satisfaction coursed through his veins at what he could do. He chuckled, then laughed, ensuring his voice was low enough. However, he found it difficult to restrain himself, his hands clutching his stomach as he bent over, wheezing. Both hands were covered in blood 

“You poor miserable wretch,” he hummed. “All you have to do is to not reject me one more time and none of this would have happened to you. Why, you just made me realize how exciting this is! Ending your lot like this."

“Wow. That’s quite a plot twist, huh?”

Alastor stood up straight, feeling caught red-handed like a deer in the headlights. He turned and saw a man who was very short, with golden hair that complemented his ruby eyes, dressed like a ringmaster in a neat red and white outfit. Before Alastor could say a word, he saw a long tail sticking out from behind the man's clothes. 

Was he...? 

“What?” Alastor said flatly.

“Ehh, I just thought you regretted your little murder. Because your expression earlier looked a little... gloomy,” the man commented. “But suddenly you sound like a typical psychopath. I mean, I don't blame you. That guy does sound like a jerk—of all the free will that can be given to humans, they sometimes choose to create a system that is completely inflexible with each other, huh? And I thought only Heaven acted like that."

“Who are you?” hissed Alastor, already feeling like he was half hallucinating. 

“Oh! I thought you'd guessed, you seem smart enough to figure it out, ” the blond man chuckled, making Alastor glare at him even more intensely. “Lucifer Morningstar, pleasure to make your acquaintance, sinner, ” he grinned as he bowed dramatically. 

Alastor stared at him for a long time. Then he raised a sly smile, “Is that so? Then surely you must know my name, Your Majesty! Are you stalking me for your own satisfaction in witnessing countless tormented souls as well?” 

“Ugh, I'm not like you—I mean, not as much as you mortals write about me,” Lucifer muttered with a hint of annoyance. “And no, I’m not stalking you. Save your narcissism for Hell, Alastor. I’m just bored and observing some sinners regretting their own lives out of curiosity and self-guilt, probably," he laughed with little to no humor. 

“Well, if you need to know, I don't feel sorry for myself. And perhaps I want to thank you for giving humanity such a lovely gift! It's quite helpful for my needs, you see,” Alastor grinned, wiping his knife with the napkin he carried, even though it was already stained with too much blood.

“Uh huh, Heaven totally won't like you,” Lucifer snorted. 

“You seem to despise them yourself, my king.”

Lucifer stammered, “I don't— I'm not really fond of them! And all that.” He huffed, crossing his arms. “And don't call me your king.”

“Not yet,” Alastor hummed. This was the perfect moment to test the miracle that had been given to him. “But since you already know I'm worthy of a sinner, are you willing to assist me in cleaning up this mess? I assure you, your favour will be returned shortly after!"

“You mean like a deal?” Lucifer tilted his head, as if it never came across to him that a human would ask such a simple favour for a deal. 

“Correct, in exchange for your service! Isn't that what you mentioned yourself? Being the morningstar that you are?” Alastor narrowed his eyes. “That is, of course, if you are a liar—”

“A liar!? Me? Ha, you haven’t even seen anything that could surpass your own imagination, sinner. And this pathetic act?” He pointed to the smelly corpse beside them. “This is just a fraction of what you call a problem."

“Splendid! Do we have a deal then?” Alastor extended his hand.

Lucifer rolled his eyes, but accepted. Their hands touched and a strong flash of golden magic spun them around briefly before disappearing. “What's your repayment, then, hm?” 

"Oh, uhh, I haven't thought about that."

Alastor gritted his teeth through a tight smile.  “Well, what do you like, Lucifer?”

“Like?” Lucifer said a little stupidly. “Uhm, I like ducks. Yeah, ducks! They're awesome!”

“Anything else?” Alastor coaxed a little irritably.

“I guess I like dancing too. And music. And uh—”

“Marvelous!” Alastor immediately cut him off, taking advantage of an easy opportunity to return the favor without further complicating this strange situation. “I'll treat you to my most beloved spot in all of New Orleans! You'll be bound to meet many humans there, thus I would advise you to change your charming appearance.”

“Why in a public place?” Lucifer raised an eyebrow. “I'm curious, don't get me wrong. But—”

“Why, it has the most exotic drinks and finest music to ever perform!” Alastor said enthusiastically, adding, “Partially because I play there.”

“Wait, seriously?” His face lit up with amazement.

“You have to repay my favor first, so I encourage you to do it quickly,” Alastor said impatiently. “And change my clothes if you want to go there right this instant.”

Lucifer hummed amusingly, “Yeah, yeah, I get it.”

Usually, it wasn't like this when Lucifer visited Earth. He and Lilith were going through a rather... complicated phase, with her rarely speaking to him and only wanting their daughter to be raised by herself. They still lived together. But sometimes the atmosphere would slowly become dull. The overwhelming loneliness made him want to escape from Hell for just a second, searching for somewhere that’s a bit more lively. Even though seeing sinners only made him feel more and more guilty. 

But at this moment with Alastor, it was difficult for him to feel guilty, to be honest. 

Mostly because Alastor annoyed him. Like, really annoyed him. Every time Lucifer asked something that's even irrelevant about Alastor's personal life (because Lucifer also had manners, thank you very much), he would only respond with taunts! And often got on his nerves!

Lucifer felt a little out of place when he entered the bar, even though he seemed to fit in well with the other humans. He admitted that feeling their presence this close—watching them sharing drinks and laughter—made his heart a little happier than it did in the palace. Alastor was talking to a gorgeous woman, engrossed in their conversation beside him. 

“Oh Alastor, you sly fox, why didn't you introduce your new friend sooner!” Mimzy exclaimed, finally turning to Lucifer. “And who should I call you, sweetheart?"

Lucifer gaped for a moment before Alastor smoothly said, “Lucian was just visiting on some important business that I couldn't pry out of him,” he sighed. “It's unfortunate for all of us, but he bumped into me and asked for directions around here, so here we are! I thought I'd treat him first before he loses his way again.”

What kind of story was that!?

“Oh, is that so, Mister?” Mimzy turned to him, freezing Lucifer in his tracks. He glanced at Alastor, wanting to shoot a fiery glare at that annoying smirk. “Bet you kept that mystery of yours for the charm, don'tcha?” 

Before Lucifer could utter a word, Mimzy was called across the bartender's seat. "Oh well! Take care of your new gentleman, Alastor. Don't let him off the hook!" Mimzy gave a final wink, leaving them be. 

“Is she always like that?” Lucifer asked awkwardly.

“That is Mimzy, yes,” Alastor chuckled. The sound of a microphone beat filled the air, accompanied by other instruments. “Ah, and that's our cue!" 

“Huh—?”

He was pulled into the center of the room along with the other couples around them. Lucifer blinked slowly, his hands gently guided by Alastor, one on his shoulder and the other intertwined with his fingers. Lucifer refocused and met Alastor's gaze, who was still smiling—yet his smile was slightly different, as if a small tenderness had mellowed it. “You've danced before, haven't you, sire?”

“Uh, yeah, of course.” Last time was with Lilith, and only with her. He tried not to think about that. “Have you ever danced before? Or am I being lured by an amateur?”

Alastor snorted, “You’ll soon realize that I master many moves beyond your expectations!"

What a day this has been

What a rare mood I'm in

Why, it's almost like being in love

There's a smile on my face

“Oh yeah? Is that you inviting me for a second dance in the future?" Lucifer mocked.

“If you're willing to continue our little deal,” Alastor hummed, surprising the fallen angel. “I have a lot of killings to achieve, just so you know.”

Lucifer eyed him unreadably, “...You will get a high position in Hell, I can already see it.”

“Oh, I'm definitely planning on it!”

Their dance moved naturally, as natural as the other couples around them, as natural as when he danced with Lilith. He had never been in a position to follow in a dance, so it felt a little embarrassing when Alastor gave him a little twirl, eliciting a small squeak from him. Lucifer was dipped before he could predict their next move, their faces coming close together for one moment.

Lucifer's breath slightly hitched. Underneath the shimmering lights, Alastor had turned seemingly, utterly, and completely, radiant. 

There's a smile on my face

For the whole human race

“Enjoying yourself, sire?” Alastor grinned, lifting him back up. Why did he have to be so much taller than him?!

“Yes, if you weren't being narcissistic every minute,” Lucifer retorted, looking away even though his cheeks felt flushed. This goddamn sinner.  

He heard Alastor laughed quietly, a gentle tone that only he could hear. His voice was so distinctive, Lucifer was certain he would never forget it.

And from the way that I feel

When that bell starts to peel

They danced until the music ended. Then Lucifer forced himself to leave, feeling that he had been away from his family and his responsibilities for far too long (It's a lie, but he convinced himself it wasn't). He saw a glimmer of something in Alastor's gaze before he left, but Alastor just smiled as usual and bowed, saying his farewell.

Lucifer hurried away after that.

I would swear I was falling, swear I was falling

Why, it's almost like being in love

Two:

The second time it happened was several months later. 

Alastor often thought about asking Lucifer for help, but he wasn't that weak (and yet he distinctly craved it). He could learn to discipline himself with his thrilling gruesome schemes. 

The body was stored away for a later night, only because he was busy fixing the clumsiness he put upon himself.

A hiss of pain escaped his mouth as he tried to wash the blood from his hips with a warm cloth. The atmosphere was quiet, almost serene. 

And then Lucifer showed up. 

“Alastor? What happened?”

Alastor looked up with a disheartened gaze, “You always come at the wrong moment, don’t you?"

"I don't know about that, because it looks like you need some help there," the devil pointed at his wound as a matter-of-factly. 

“Why are you here, Lucifer?” he sighed. 

“Bored again, it seems. Then I sensed you were stressed—”

“I'm not stressed, mind you,” Alastor retorted indignantly. “I have everything under control. Just a few minor obstacles to overcome.”

“I can see you bleeding.”

Alastor ignored him. "I'd suggest you put your obsession with me on hold because I'm quite busy at the moment.”

“Obsession?! —- I'm not obsessed with you and literally fucking never, you self-absorbed lunatic—” Lucifer spluttered angrily, making Alastor choke with laughter. How cute the devil king was when he acted like that! He began to cough, the painful sensation returning. Lucifer widened his eyes and immediately approached him, “Here, I can heal you—”

“Did I ask for your help?” Alastor hissed.

"What? Well, no. But it would be faster if I heal you, you know that, right?"

“I will not ask for any charity from a celestial being that I've never believed in or adhered to in any book, nor do I care,” Alastor continued, forcing the words out with gritted teeth.   

Lucifer sighed, looking half-resigned before lighting up and said, “What if we make another deal? You agree to let me heal you, and then you can ask for my help in anything! Whether it's about your career, or those fuckers who bother you every day on said career, or—“ Lucifer thought for a moment, clearly returning to the memory of when they first met. ”—a second dance?"

Alastor wanted to laugh at that last suggestion. However, he couldn't, which was the most exasperating thing. Because a doubt immediately locked his throat, the same memory playing like an old cassette. He enjoyed himself in that moment, and he knew Lucifer did too.

Let's just get this over with, Alastor thought grimly as he offered his hand. “Very well.”

He caught a glimmer of happiness that lit up Lucifer's whole face, accepting Alastor’s hand almost too enthusiastically. Another spun of magic appeared. How could he be so expressive? Alastor didn't know—and he somewhat hated himself for being interested in capturing every Lucifer’s micro-expression that was spilled. “I think it's more fair to give the king a chance with his own talent that has been implied to me, hm?”

“You're right about that,” Lucifer grinned proudly. He reached out towards Alastor's skin, who suddenly tensed. Lucifer hesitated, then an idea came to him. “Give me your knife.”

“Planning to take our little dance directly to your lovely palace, I assume?” Alastor quipped playfully. 

“Wha—no, I'm not gonna kill you for satan's sake. Give me the knife now!” 

He took the knife from his pocket—wrapped neatly in a napkin like a gift. Alastor was a little confused as to why he so easily trusted a creature almost as powerful as God himself. Then he watched Lucifer do the unexpected. 

He slashed his own hand, not a hint of pain on his face. “Do you want me to put my hand on your wound or do you want to lick it?”

“That's an option?” Alastor asked in shock. 

“Ehh, if you're more comfortable with that,” Lucifer shrugged. 

And since Lucifer gave him two choices... “The latter.”

Lucifer blinked. “Uh, okay.” 

Awkwardly, he approached Alastor, their heights now equal as Alastor sat at the edge of the sofa. The golden blood oozed from Lucifer's skin, glistening like a reflection of light. Without thinking twice, he grabbed Lucifer's hand and licked it, the warmth of his skin mixed with the sweet and delightful taste of the angelic blood making him almost lightheaded. More than that, it was even addictive.

He heard Lucifer gasping. Resisting the urge to bite, he looked up and met Lucifer's eyes, which had turned red like those of a true devil. However, the gaze did not carry a frightening presence, but rather a hypnotic one.

Alastor felt himself choking as well, trying not to be transfixed by Lucifer's slightly different appearance. He wiped Lucifer's blood from his lower lip.

“Uh, look! You're healed now!” He broke the tense atmosphere. Alastor looked at his wound and voila, it was clean as before.

“Hmm, do you always offer your blood as alms to sinners?” Alastor asked curiously.

“Oh, uhh, no. This is actually the first time. But luckily it worked, right?” Lucifer smiled triumphantly. “I know it doesn’t taste like the fingers you keep in your freezer, but hey! It's a pretty rare appetizer, so to speak.”

Alastor widened his eyes, “How did you know—”

“Geez, Al, I'm the devil, remember? I know things you can't even imagine~” Lucifer said melodiously. “That includes this.”

The radio in the living room suddenly tuned a jazz song that set the mood. Lucifer reached out his hand and bowed.

“This deal is starting to become ridiculous,” Alastor said for no reason.

“It won't be if you take my hand,” Lucifer said casually.

Alastor hummed and took his hand, letting the fallen angel pull him into a two-step. There was no pain like there had been a few minutes ago. Lucifer smiled brightly as he led him, a waltz that Alastor easily followed, but found himself enjoying nonetheless.

I've got you under my skin.

I've got you deep in the heart of me.

So deep in my heart that you're really a part of me.

I've got you under my skin.

“Is this going to be a strange habit we’ll both be doing before I follow you to Hell?” Alastor teased.

Lucifer chuckled, “I don't know about you, but I find it pretty fun.”

“My, if this is your idea of fun on Earth then I must say, I'm quite flattered!" Alastor smirked.

Lucifer stammered a little, but didn't reply. He just looked away. Alastor was eager to get another reaction from him. “Surely you can do better than this, or did your tremendous talent get hampered by how short you were created?”

And it worked.

Alastor yelped a little, his gaze shocked by the majestic, large pair of wings that grew from Lucifer’s back. Then he spun Alastor so vigorously before dipping him, a movement similar to what he had done to Lucifer in their previous dance. Their faces were now closer than Alastor could maintain, noses almost touching. A smile full of teeth painted Lucifer's prideful expression. “Who's speechless now?”

Lucifer was beautiful; that was the first thought that crossed Alastor's mind, followed by his mockery.

Suddenly, he found it a little difficult to focus on continuing the dance, stumbling several times simply because Lucifer was now deliberately dancing in sync with Alastor's height, his wings flapping softly and slowly.

Lucifer quickly realized Alastor's continued fascination and his proud smile softened, “You can take a closer look if you want, we can stop.”

“May I?” Alastor asked right away.

Lucifer stopped their dance, touching both feet on the wooden floor again, and spread his wings. “Go ahead.”

The melody continued to play in the background, now slightly muffled to Alastor's ears as he approached Lucifer's wings and slowly touched them, feeling the softness of the pearly white feathers. Lucifer stiffened for a moment, his breathing quickening a little. Alastor glanced at him from the corner of his eye.

Yes, Lucifer was truly the most beautiful creature of all creation.

And Alastor had danced with this creature twice.

As a casual favour, strangely enough. He never thought his future would include moments like this for someone as completely irreligious as himself.

“Where's your tail?” Alastor asked, suddenly thinking of it.

“Oh, sometimes it appears, sometimes it doesn't.”

“I see,” Alastor muttered. 

The music went on.

I would sacrifice anything come what might

For the sake of havin' you near

Lucifer stayed relaxed while Alastor curiously caressed his wings. “That feels good,” Lucifer murmured, almost in dazed.

Alastor's heart skipped a beat. 

In spite of the warning voice that comes in the night

And repeats - how it yells in my ear:

Don't you know, little fool, you never can win?

And that was enough to pull Alastor back to reality, clearing his throat and putting on his charming smile. “I think it's time for you to return to your unpleasant domain, now that we've both fulfilled our agreements!” He pointed to the clock on the wall—trying to hide his surprise that it was almost midnight. “But I have a broadcast to announce tomorrow morning. It seems this is where we part ways and never to be met again."

“Oh! Uh, yes, okay—yeah, uhm,” Lucifer looked at him a little nervously. “You really don't want to meet again or...?”

Alastor's smile froze, as did all his muscles at such a simple question. “If there’s a sudden… urgency, you might cross my mind, perhaps,” he chose to say, not meaning to be sincere, but that's how it came out.

Why not use your mentality—step up, wake up to reality?

Lucifer smiled hopefully, and Alastor felt no regret for saying those words. 

Then Lucifer returned to his realm, leaving Alastor alone, his heart inevitably warm and filled with uncertain emotions, accompanied by the song that gradually faded away. 

The dance, Alastor admitted, had taken away all the fatigue he felt from his carelessness that night. 

But each time I do just the thought of you

Makes me stop just before I begin

'Cause I've got you under my skin.

Yes, I've got you under my skin.

Three:

Several weeks passed, and Alastor finally decided to deliberately summon Lucifer. 

Not to ask for help (though he could have used that excuse) or to make another ridiculous deal (he was still open to that), no, what he wanted was purer and a little sentimental for someone like him. 

He wanted to see him again. 

So, Alastor performed the ritual over and over again; sacrificing many victims, which usually satisfied his hobby of cannibalism in order to summon a very special devil. He did it every day, over and over again. He used a more concrete reason, seeing that his ritual was not working. And that reason was not far from his personal desire; to be the most powerful in Hell (someone who could stand beside an ethereal being like Lucifer, perhaps?).

Weeks passed again, and when Alastor was at the end of his rope—the feeling of being ignored, abandoned, took over his life—the ritual succeeded. 

Only to be accepted by a different demon. 

Alastor hid his disappointment by immediately asking for what he wanted most when he finally came to Hell; at least he could face Lucifer himself—an arrogant king like himself, Alastor thought furiously. 

“Seems like you were expecting someone a little bit different from the other side, weren'tcha?” Rosie smirked, her feminine voice echoing in the circle of symbols. “Do I need to call that cute little fella over before we can get down to business?” 

“No,” Alastor gritted his teeth, ignoring his cheeks that felt a little hot. “It is time I showed him that I am better at taming sinners.”

Lucifer felt his mentality slowly improving—or at least his severe depression was forgotten when Charlie invited him to the hotel. He didn't see him, really! He didn't. And when a static yet highly familiar voice behind him appeared and attracted the attention of many people, Lucifer's heart felt like it had been knocked right out of his chest.

“Just some of the renovations we had done! Adds a bit of color, don't you think?” Alastor chimed in, smiling with a smile that Lucifer could never forget.

“A—Alastor?” Lucifer widened his eyes. 

“Oh, you two know each other! This is perfect! Why didn't you tell me that you knew Alastor, Dad?” Charlie gushed, eyes sparkling with glee as she nudged her father towards Alastor. “Alastor has been here since day one and has been such a huge help to us!”

“U—uhm, really?” Lucifer made eye contact with him, and Alastor responded with his usual cynical gaze; a smile that was not as welcoming as he remembered. Many thoughts crossed Lucifer's mind at once, begging to be blurted out; how did you die? Did something happen in life before you died? Did you… did you miss me?

“Why, I’m honored that the king of Hell himself is familiar with me! Perhaps those years of radio broadcasting have achieved something worth engaging after all,“ Alastor drawled with a hint of temper behind his fixed grin. "Unfortunately, I haven't had the luxury to actually meet your father in person, my dear. But dare I say it's finally nice to put a face to the name. You, sire, are much shorter in real life!”

Lucifer snorted in disbelief. Straight to the point, huh? “A broadcast, huh? From a bellhop? I doubt it'll be any good.” 

“Dad! Don't be like that! He's been trying to promote the hotel through his broadcast! Err— it's not quite established yet, but we're working on it together!” Charlie quickly interjected. 

“Ha! Is that why the hotel is called the hazbin hotel?” Lucifer exclaimed, playfully nudging his daughter. "That's a good one Char-Char."

“Haha! It was actually my idea.”

“Haha! Well it's not very clever!”

“Haha! Fuck you.”

How did you end up becoming prettier? Lucifer suddenly thought as their faces were close to each other, as they always were when dancing.

He didn't know what to think now that he knew Alastor had been in Hell for a long time, and seemed to be helping his daughter while Lucifer isolated himself in such a worrying manner. Charlie herself seemed very warm towards Alastor's presence, which bothered him a little. The reason he created a musical battle in front of others was half out of annoyance and half out of a desire to annoy Alastor in a similar way. He couldn't fully focus on the fact that this was the first time Lucifer had seen Alastor play an instrument, and damn, the guy could play the piano incredibly well. 

He also wasn't fully aware of how much of a pain in the ass Alastor had always been, apparently.

Lucifer managed to catch up with him after consoling Charlie in the middle of a hallway. “Al? Can we, uhh, talk for a minute?”

Alastor narrowed his eyes, that smile seemingly permanently attached to his new look. A deer, Lucifer realized, staring at those two fluffy ears, looking extremely fluffy—

“And what, exactly, do we need to talk about?”

“Well, uh, I still remember the last time we met, you know? Time works differently here than on Earth, and honestly, I'm confused about how you got here and also when, because it sounds like you've been here for a long time—”

“I don't have time to share the details of my death, now get out of my sight,” Alastor snapped, walking past him. 

“W—wait! You look like you're really mad at me,” Lucifer said hurriedly. Alastor raised an eyebrow. “You shouldn't be because Charlie is my daughter and—”

“I don't care about your absent relationship with your infuriatingly noisy daughter or hear you talk any longer about what you deliberately ignore, Lucifer,” Alastor growled, eyes turning pitch black with static. 

Lucifer was taken aback, for a second genuine anger roared within him at being accused of being an absent father, but Alastor’s last words confused him. “What do you mean? Who am I ignoring? What am I ignoring? Is this about me not hearing your broadcast from the beginning?”

“Ha! How considerate of you, sire. I'm not entirely sure if you are genuinely unaware or if you enjoy being the most aggravating creation to ever exist.”

“You—” Lucifer sighed, looking at him seriously. “I genuinely don't know what you mean, Al. So please help me out here. If I've done something to you before or whatever, I want to know.”

Alastor stared at him for a long time, his expression slowly conflicting. His ears drooped, and Lucifer felt the tension drain from him. He then sighed, “I'd prefer to continue this conversation somewhere more... private, if you don't mind."

“Not at all! We can do it at my place?" Lucifer offered as he created a portal. 

Alastor hummed and stepped inside. The portal then closed. Lucifer's cheeks flushed at the sight of his messy room, filled with piles of rubber ducks everywhere. He looked at Alastor anxiously, who was looking around with a hint of curiosity, but remained silent. “Uh—I'm sorry—this is how I deal with—you know, everything, haha—”

“Deal with what, specifically?” Alastor interrupted, staring at him.

Lucifer's throat went dry. He fidgeted with his fingers, seeing Alastor waiting patiently. He took a deep breath, “Lilith and I weren't like a thing, y'know? For a long time. And well, she often chose to take care of Charlie throughout most of her childhood because—I'm not saying I deliberately became a bad father, but Lilith didn't want me to take care of Charlie just because I had a slightly different opinion about sinners than she did. Aside from our personal feelings changing for each other, etcetera, etcetera.”

Alastor said nothing. Silence slowly crept in. Lucifer couldn't make contact with him, feeling like shrinking in front of the Radio Demon. Ugh, he hadn't planned on pouring his heart out like that. He was certain Alastor didn't like it either—

“When did you two decide to separate?” 

"Oh, uh, actually, she suggested it, or implied it, more accurately. There was no clear confirmation between us, but after that she just… disappeared.“ Lucifer laughed weakly. ”The funny thing is, it was a few days after I last saw you."

Alastor looked down. Lucifer now dared to look up at him. 

Silence again. 

“Is that why you didn't answer my calls?” Alastor asked softly. 

“What?” Lucifer blinked. “Calls—what do you mean? Are you saying you tried to... summon me?”

Alastor tightened his grip on his staff, looking away. “Is there a need for you to neglect it?"

Lucifer stared at him for a long time, his mind replaying specific moments. Those moments where he cried messily for the loss of Lilith, the failure that weighed on his heart like a brick, the loneliness that embraced him every second that passed on the bitterly cold bed. And on the first morning after Lilith left, he was visited in a dream by a familiar human, with brown curly hair and skin as beautiful as chestnuts, whispering Lucifer, Lucifer, Lucifer like a prayer, as if worshipping him on his knees.

Sweat covered Lucifer's entire body, and he woke up with an embarrassing erection that left him feeling bewildered, stunned, and full of shame. Dreams about Alastor came more and more often, and Lucifer stopped sleeping, knowing that he didn't need to. He ignored Alastor's whisper tickling the back of his neck, too distracted by his severe depression, longing to be accompanied, held, and touched.

“Oh,” Lucifer croaked. So he wasn't just uncontrollably fantasizing all this time?. “Alastor... I...”

“Be honest with me,” Alastor hissed, his gaze sharpening on him. “Did you plan on ignoring me until I stop?”

“No! Al, you have to understand, I was in a deep depression—and I know that's not a good excuse, I know that! And in my defense, time passes very differently in Hell, remember, added to the never-ending busyness!”

“Busy crafting plastic ducks to accompany your pitiful soul, I presume? 

“Oh, fuck you, Al, they're not ALL plastic! And my powers aren’t always so clear to me either, and ironically, it made me unable hurt the sinners here, so I can’t sew that ugly yellow radio mouth off your fucking face if I want it to! And uh, I DO want it by the way!” Lucifer snarled. 

“What did I just hear? The Lucifer Morningstar cannot hurt a single sinner? What a cruel punishment!” Alastor suddenly laughed, making Lucifer stutter. Ugh, he shouldn't have mentioned that! “Tell me, sire, would you help me slaughter those insufferable creeps I encounter back home and punish them in a Hell where they receive what their rotten souls truly deserve, if you hear my call?” Alastor continued, his smile widening.

“Honestly?” Lucifer said seriously. “Yes. I'll help you. Of all people, you're the one I trust the most if I ask someone to punish them for me.”

Alastor blinked several times, gaze quickly darting away.  Lucifer grinned when he saw his neck flushing. “Awwh, don't tell me you fantasized of being the king's service, Al~”

“Shut up,” Alastor hissed, hitting him on the head with his staff.

“Hey!” Lucifer glared at him and created a rubber duck toy, then threw it hard at him, hitting him squarely on the nose with a squeak, freezing Alastor in place. 

“Throw that again, and I'll broadcast your little secret to the entire rings of Hell!” Alastor threatened, approaching him with malice until he was bending down level to him. 

“Ha! You wouldn't dare,” Lucifer growled. 

“Oh, is that so~?” Alastor smiled. Aha, his smile was different. 

Alastor was having fun with him again.

It made his heart flutter with pleasure.

“I want another deal,” said Lucifer, crossing his arms. “If you want it.”

“And what will I get?” Alastor coaxed, amused.

“What do you want, Alastor?”

Alastor's posture became serious. Lucifer knew what he wanted, but he wouldn't get in the way of their friendship (were they really friends? Whatever) after a misunderstanding had occurred. Then, as if Alastor had read his mind, he reached out his hand and quietly said, “For old times sake, I suppose." 

Lucifer stared at him in surprise, his heart pounding loudly. He took Alastor's hand, a burst of golden light surrounding them again as it met with an emerald light, just as a jazz tune played around them, more upbeat and energetic than the songs they had danced to before. The song was also instrumental, focusing on the fast rhythm and how Alastor pulled from his feet. 

Lucifer shrieked, then giggled, then laughed, his wide smile matching Alastor's sincere, broad grin. They spun around together until Lucifer's wings automatically appeared. Back and forth, left and right, seamlessly and elegantly. Lucifer felt alive, as if the flood of sorrow and heavy burdens that had been weighing him down had vanished in the blink of an eye. 

Their dance was only interrupted when Alastor accidentally stepped on one of the ducks, the squeak shattering the warm atmosphere. 

“Can't you handle yourself some other way?” Alastor commented dryly, kicking the toy duck into another pile, eliciting an offended sound from Lucifer. 

“Maybe you can bet on it for the next deal,” he grunted, directing Alastor to the center of his room. 

“What do you want from this deal again?” Alastor hummed.

“Don't tell anyone about my secret,” Lucifer said simply. “Can you do that, red guy?”

“Hmm, I don't think so! Knowing how sloppy you are,” Alastor exclaimed, instantaneously teleporting away with the melody replaced by his joyful laughter before Lucifer could attack him with a duck again. 

Their grip slipped from each other, causing Lucifer to stumble and nearly fall flat on his face. Alastor appeared again behind him with a smirk. 

Lucifer just snorted and tried as hard as he could to hold back the smile twitching on his lips. “Thanks for, you know, listening to me. And um—” Lucifer bit his lip, “Sorry for not answering your call. But hey! I'm here now, right?”

“Yes,” Alastor replied softly. The air was now more comfortable, with their gazes unable to look away from each other.         

Then Alastor broke it, “Well! This has been a very delightful reunion, but it seems I have an appointment with Rosie in Cannibal Town that needs to be attended, unfortunately!”

“Oh.” Lucifer's heart sank a little. “I know her. Was she the one who answered your... you know...?” 

Lucifer was only guessing, but Alastor's surprise answered everything. “Al,” he said softly. “You know I can free you—”

“You must know, Lucifer,” Alastor interrupted seriously. “Even though I’ve called out to you with every breath of my life, I’ve always been able to take care of myself.” 

And with that, he left. 

Lucifer began appearing at the hotel more often after that.

Four:

Alastor wasn't worried about Lucifer. No, especially when they were about to face the angels who were preparing to destroy the hotel that he, with all his disbelief, had dedicated himself to renovating and beautifying in every aspect, even without Charlie's permission. How ludicrous, indeed. 

He didn't know if the princess of Hell had contacted her father to come here. Or perhaps she had contacted him, but was met with silence. Alastor couldn't be entirely upset with Lucifer, realizing how little time he had to deal with his own severe depression over the many personal matters that had befallen him. 

So, he wasn't worried, nor did he want him here either. If Lucifer was too busy distracted by his flock of ducks? Who cares! 

Then his staff broke, which heavily bothered him. 

Oh, and he was also injured. Ugh. 

He wasn't at the hotel when they renovated; it took time to gather his remaining energy and life, without asking anything from Rosie of course, because it would definitely be an annoying hassle. Alastor knew fully well that Lucifer was the only person who could fulfill all the difficulties he was experiencing now, including healing him. 

Just as he had done when Alastor was still human...

No.

Lucifer hadn't reached him yet (he was usually the first to do so—not that Alastor was pleased or anything), and he was only healed before because Lucifer suddenly felt his distress, somehow, and poof; he was in front of Alastor in his vulnerable state. 

Alastor felt oddly warmed at the memory. 

But now he was stronger in Hell. He had become the Radio Demon. And vulnerability was not a good thing in a place like this. 

He would not ask Lucifer for favors again. 

By the time Alastor made sure his wounds would not reopen, he appeared at the hotel where the others were in the final stages of their renovation. He looked at Lucifer with his usual sly smile, and when Charlie was extremely happy to see him, Lucifer put on an exaggerated expression, but Alastor knew it was just for show. Lucifer stole a glance full of questions that reached Alastor's mind; are you okay, Al? His voice seemed so clear. 

But Alastor looked away, answering another question that demanded an answer as to where he had been all this time and why he hadn't helped with the renovations. 

He knew that Lucifer would catch him again soon. 

Which was in front of his door, before he could check out the new room Charlie had given him (and funnily enough, it was across from Lucifer's room). The fallen angel emerged from the portal with a weary and anxious look, his arms crossed. 

“Alastor.”

“Your Majesty!” Alastor bowed slightly, glancing at Lucifer's cheeks, which had turned golden again, looking a little stiff. “To what do I owe you the pleasure this time, hm?” 

Lucifer cleared his throat awkwardly, “I didn't see you when I arrived at... the battle. Then you just suddenly appeared!”

“Did I hear concern spilling from your serpent tongue?”

“Yes, dumbass, I was actually worried, because you just appeared! What happened?” Lucifer pressed again. Static filled Alastor’s ears. He hated that Lucifer was able to worry about him. “I asked Charlie if you were there earlier and she said you disappeared in the middle of the fight. Are you hurt or something? You know I can help if—”

“Ta, ta, ta.” He shook his finger right in front of Lucifer. “I'm not interested in making any more deals with you, Lu. That's out of my league now!” 

“What— so you were hurt then?” 

Static again. “I did not say that,” Alastor sneered through his teeth. 

Lucifer stared at him, “Is there something you're not telling me?”

“Missing your insults, now?”

“What! No, you asshole—”

“Then I don't know what you mean! Now move aside, I want to fix my room, which was most likely ruined by your pesky daughter!”

“Al, listen,” Lucifer began again, making Alastor even more irritated. “If there's anything, you can come to me. That's all I want to say, okay?”

“Fortunately there's nothing out of the ordinary that would make me need anything from you,” Alastor said cheerfully.

Lucifer sighed and stepped aside while muttering, “Whatever, Bambi.”

Static appeared once again. Alastor turned his head three hundred and sixty degrees, “What did you just call me?”

“I didn't say anything!” Lucifer said, quickly running away with his adorable giggles. 

Alastor held back—he really tried, but his itch wouldn't go away if he didn't do it.

He let his tendrils trip Lucifer, causing him to yelp and gave a big middle finger at him. Alastor rushed into his room, unaware that his smile had turned giddy. He froze when he realized it. Fuck.

He hated the feeling that he knew was beginning to take hold of him.

He hated even more that this feeling had been brewing for a long time, ever since the second fucking dance.

So, Lucifer had a problem. 

A problem he had only realized a few days ago, embarrassingly. 

He had a crush on Alastor. 

Scratch that, he was in love with Alastor. 

Was that worse? More predictable? He wasn't sure, but since they no longer made any deals or favours with each other, their interactions were solely based on their consistent routine of verbal sparring. 

Lucifer didn't complain, of course. He liked it, in fact. He sometimes deluded himself that what they had was a playful flirtation—whether Alastor thought so or not—because honestly, he didn't know if Alastor felt the same way. 

It was hard to deny that Lucifer was dreaming too big. Not when Alastor greeted him every morning, inviting him to fight over his first cup of coffee while Lucifer was still wearing his duck slippers. Even when reporters broke into the hotel, instead of helping his daughter as Alastor claimed, he just teased him relentlessly. 

It made Lucifer extremely upset. It made Lucifer's heart race endlessly as well, that psycho ass deer.  

No one could ignite his passion like this except Alastor, even before he arrived in Hell.

Lucifer preferred to think that what they had was enough, even though he could only imagine it differently on the other side. However, in the midst of his depression that came and went, in the loneliness of his room, which was only across from the person he loved, a burning desire often choked him, knowing that whatever they had now would never be enough.

He missed dancing with Alastor so much. 

Still, Lucifer went about his day at the hotel as he always did; as long as he could be useful to his beloved daughter. 

Today, Alastor was not in a happy mood. Lucifer failed to notice it sooner. 

He was decorating his mug with a cute little duck (a mug that matched Alastor's. He was the first to draw in his mug and mock him! So it made sense for Lucifer to retaliate by drawing in his own mug. Of course, it's not as if any of this was a deeply sentimental gesture for him, ha), then a tall figure appeared in the corner of his eye. 

“Oh! Look who it is interrupting this riveting conversation I was having with—” Lucifer turned to his right, finally noticing Charlie's other two friends on his side. “Who are you again?”

“Uh, Angel Dust?”

“Angel Dust! Haha, I knew that,” he said cheerfully (he forgot). “You're funny.”

“What—”

“You're still here?” Alastor retorted, his smile remaining relaxed, or at least still looking that way, with his matching mug in his hand. 

Lucifer pretended to yawn, “Someone has to actually help around here, Mr. Useless.” He rested his chin on his hand. And if his gaze was a little more flirtatious than he intended? Not his intention! “What do you actually do here?”

It was a pretty basic argument, but he liked getting attention; even in front of other people. He was a sinner of pride, after all. 

Alastor narrowed his eyes, as if asking, ‘do you really want to argue about something so idiotic?’ “I told you, I'm the host of the hotel!” he mused to him nonetheless. 

“Huh? I thought that was uh,” Lucifer grinned, “I thought that was Charlie's girlfriend's job. Because she, my friend, is on it with running this whole hotel..." His grin widened. "...thing." And he heard a hint of irritation in Alastor's smile, that apparently became more… exaggerated?

“So you're doing a poor job at that! Oh,” Lucifer continued obliviously. “And I hear you got your ass kicked and ran away when Charlie needed you the most. It's a good thing I showed up!” He chuckled proudly, “Am I right? This guy knows.”

Angel Dust looked at him confused again, “What.”

Alastor stared at him like a predator, slamming his mug down on the table, causing some of his coffee to spill. 

“You—” Lucifer smiled playfully. “—should use a coaster.”

Then Alastor suddenly stood up, “That's it! Fuck this! I quit!” 

Wow, it was the first time Alastor didn't respond with his usual colorful insults. This made him even more proud, “That's it, Bambi. Walk away!” 

And just as that nickname became a code for being attacked by a tentacle, coffee was spilled on his shirt. “GAAH— you.”

Lucifer stared at him unamused, watching him leave. Huh, he was quick to leave his place. He stared at the wet stain with a little contemplation, barely hearing Angel's cheerful comment about how he should've come to the hotel earlier. 

Had he really annoyed Alastor that much? 

That afternoon, Lucifer tried to find Alastor, but he couldn't find him at the hotel. "What the hell? He just ran away and said he was quitting without giving me a better explanation!? Hah, who the fuck does he think he really is! What—if this is some new prank, I won't let him get away with it," Lucifer muttered to himself, planning to lock himself in his room until Alastor returned to the hotel, ignoring how his heart ached. Lucifer placed a sign in front of his room—to backfire him, of course. See if Alastor liked it.

It turned out that his staff was impossible to repair on his own. And every time Alastor slept, he found his wounds had torn a little more and woke up with a little pain, the first thing that came to his mind was Lucifer. He gritted his teeth, ignoring how his whole body heated up at the thought of Lucifer potentially helping him get a good night's sleep.

No—   

He shouldn't have felt this way—not at a time like this! He never imagined he could feel such intense and unfamiliar turmoil after his death. Alastor was completely convinced that what they called a relationship was something he would never experience, and that he would take his own word to his grave. 

But he had made an acquaintance with the devil. And now Alastor wanted him. He wanted him so badly it sickened him at times.

Alastor knew that the more he saw Lucifer, the weaker he became. He hated how vulnerable he was; how much he wanted Lucifer's help but was held back by his own ego; how easy it was to get really angry at Lucifer every time he appeared in every corner, pushing him into every stupid debate, his low, mocking voice making Alastor want to slam him into the nearest wall and bring their faces close together. 

It was maddening. And Alastor needed to fix himself quickly—because he didn't mean to be truly angry at Lucifer like he was that morning. He was just frustrated, completely frustrated with his own pitiful self. His self that was still tied to Rosie and couldn't do anything. 

So, he constructed a long, but very brilliant plan. He had to praise himself mentally first. 

To do that, he had to swallow his ego for the sake of his plan, which was to face Vox as before and let him be caught and humiliated throughout Hell. Lucifer would say how foolish he was for choosing a long-term game, and for what? But Alastor did like to prove to Lucifer how formidable he was; there was a different kind of pride in thinking about Lucifer's reaction when he found out about all this; a pride followed by a desire to be loved in return—admired! Admired in return, he meant. 

The plan was going according to plan. 

Then Lucifer appeared, calling out to Charlie like a madman. 

“Wait, Red Guy?” 

Alastor waved his hand unamusingly. He wanted to yell in exasperation, because how could he have fallen for Vox's trick?!

“—uh let me guess, the Belhop told you that one.”

“Host! And no, have you forgotten our favor so quickly, Lu?” Alastor taunted, raising his eyebrows. “It seems like he figured it out because you’re sloppy with your secrets.”

“Sloppy!? Really? This again?!” Lucifer spluttered. Alastor almost wanted to cackle. “Oh, just you wait, when I get out of here I will show you sloppy,” he growled, pressing his goofy face against the glass.

Oh, I'd like to see you try, Alastor thought in the back of his mind. 

“Hey, could you both shut up, please!?” Vox separated them further, looking highly irked. “This is my moment! I own you! I own the radio demon! I own Hell! And there’s nothing anyone can do about it!” he laughed smugly. 

Alastor rolled his eyes. 

“Yeah, okay, whatever gets you off, guy. Not to kink-shame, but you know, I am married—” Lucifer glanced at Alastor with a grin, as if there was an inside joke between them. “—Still. I think. Oof! That's kind of a snug.”

Alastor wanted to say something, but he still felt uncomfortable talking in front of Vox. What he had with Lucifer, even their petty fights, sometimes contained too many personal things that only the two of them knew about. It wasn't something Vox should hear unless he wanted to blow up that irritating tv head of his.

When the machine turned on and brought Lucifer further from the surface, Alastor's ears lowered, a deep sense of disgust and vengeance welling up inside him, wanting to erupt violently. 

How dare he.

“So what exactly did you do after you said you quit from the hotel? And why? Did I upset you because I suggested you should use a coaster?” Lucifer asked, slightly agitated. They were finally alone, with Vox leaving them for a moment to prepare for his phenomenal stage show, or whatever he's doing. “I don't believe you to be that petty, Al, no offense. Unless, yeah, you are, then you must've left your common sense back on Earth, ha!" 

“And you're positive yours didn't get lost in your massive duck collection?” Alastor sighed, ignoring Lucifer's protests. “Why are you here? Surely Charlie wouldn't have brought you all the way here from her beloved hotel.”

Lucifer grimaced slightly, looking down. “Uh... well, we actually... had a fight before this...”

“Oh?”

“I...” Lucifer shut his eyes. “I tried to scare Vox, thinking it would make many sinners fear me. But it seems I don't have that charm anymore. And honestly, they have a right to feel that way. I'm not really..." He trailed off.

Alastor was momentarily silent. 

“Lucifer.”

“Yeah?” he asked, hopeful. Alastor rarely called him by his name unless something serious was afoot. 

“I... want to ask you a favor.”

“Oh, absolutely! I mean— anything you need,” Lucifer corrected himself, face all lit up as if he had forgotten he was trapped in a fish bowl. 

“Let me take care of you, after all this.”

“Huh?” Lucifer blinked. "That's—that's ridiculous, you know that, right? Hah, you think I won't be okay because of what? Getting stuck like a fucking cheap battery?" 

“I have a feeling you won't. And knowing how stubborn you are,” Alastor looked at him knowingly. “I'll take my chances.”

“...And what about you? Are you... okay?”

Alastor's ears immediately lowered, his face looking shocked as static and anxiety escaped him. “Fine. I know how to free myself from Vox's idiocy. You just need to trust me.”

“I do. I just don't want you to get hurt.” Silence fell. Lucifer found it difficult to make eye contact with him from the height of his machine, but he saw Alastor glance down. "Hey, um, if you free yourself early. Please make sure Charlie is safe out there? This isn't part of the deal, by the way! But like, please, okay?"

“My, my, we're really nitpicking this one, are we now?” Alastor replied with a chuckle. Lucifer was about to snap at him, but Alastor continued, “Your daughter will be safe in my hands, sire.”

"Oh. Okay, all right. Good then,“ Lucifer swallowed. ”Uhm, this is uhh— very irrelevant haha, but uh... I kind of... miss dancing with you."

Silence again.

“You know, I half hoped you'd ask for another deal in exchange for dancing like we always did, haha, BUT UH— I understand it might be weird now since we've been apart for so long—”

The door opened, revealing Vox again in very different clothes. “Alastor! There you are. I almost forgot about you,” he teased, dragging Alastor's chair away with a cynical laugh. “Oh, I'm just kidding. When would I ever forget to include you in my grandest victories?”

The machine then turned on.

When the overlords had long since departed, Charlie bid farewell to Emily and the other angels of Heaven and invited everyone to the hotel. Alastor caught sight of Lucifer still lying on the ground; golden smoke billowed from his entire body as if he had been burned. 

Alastor glanced at Charlie, somewhat vexed that his own daughter was unaware that her father had been used against his will. He walked towards Lucifer and tapped him on the side with the tip of his radio cane, “My, you look utterly exhausted, sire!”

The touch made Lucifer scream in panic and immediately look up, “H—hah, no more tickling, please! — oh. It’s only you.” He looked at Alastor with irritation and lay back down on the ground. “Go away, Bambi.”

“Surely you don't need assistance for your damaged ego after what it’s been through?” Alastor persuaded, tilting his head with his characteristic smirk. “After all, you agreed to make a new deal with me, remember?”

“Oh, fuck you,” Lucifer retorted, looking up again only to give him a cynical stare. However, his gaze wandered over Alastor's ragged outfit, a hint of concern flashing across his face. “Alastor, you don't look well.”

Alastor smiled more rigidly, “Good observation as always, Lu. I proposed we should get out of this filthy ground immediately and clean ourselves up, don't you agree?" 

Dizziness hit Lucifer hard as he stood on his two feet, almost falling again before his body was supported by a tentacle that wrapped around his hips tightly but gently. “What—”

Then he felt himself being teleported. His view was now of the hotel hallway, where their respective rooms were located at opposite ends of each other. “It's a deal, Lu,” Alastor continued, his gaze lingering on Lucifer's entire body; an overprotective feeling was itching in his blood. “You'll get a dance if you agree.”

“Huh? Really?” Lucifer looked up, his eyes seemingly drunk. “You—you still want me?”

Alastor's face flushed. “Anything for my incompetent, distressed little king!” Alastor said cheerfully.

Lucifer immediately switched back to his grumpy mode. “Hey, I'm not the one in distress here, you prick! Remember that you were captured by the TV head guy before me? Amongst both of us you were way more pathetic! Logically speaking.”

Alastor knew Lucifer was just mocking him back. However, he couldn't hold back the disgust and anger that lay within him when that memory came back again. “That's none of your business to pry on,” he sneered, eyes filled with nothing but blackness and red pupils.

Lucifer flinched as the tentacle remained around his waist, suddenly feeling it tighten, yet still surprised by Alastor's provoked reaction. Alastor immediately realized the tight grip, calming down as he slowly released Lucifer. 

“How about we go to your room first, hm?” He held out his hand.

Lucifer looked at him, then took his hand. A spell enveloped them simultaneously; a new deal. Then Alastor guided Lucifer along the slow walk, glancing from the corner of his eye as Lucifer stumbled a little, still dizzy. 

Good. Lucifer didn't need to think about how much Alastor wanted to hold his hand, to feel its reassuring heat.

Weeks passed, and his exhaustion made Lucifer fall into a sleep similar to his past depression. He didn't even have the energy to make a single duck, making him even more depressed than he should have been. If it weren't for his concern for Charlie in running the hotel without his useless father, his mind would have wandered to a bellhop who usually filled his days with trivial objections. Why did he agree to such a silly deal? 

Oh yeah, so he could dance with that deer again. 

Was he always this hopeless?

When there was a knock on the door, he woke up and rubbed his face with his oversized pink sleeves, blond hair messy and sticking out everywhere. 

Alastor appeared with his usual unnerving smile, carrying a tray before Lucifer could respond. “Uh, by what virtue did you allow yourself to come here in the middle of the night?” Lucifer teased lightly, even though he absorbed every Alastor's visit like breathing.

“Don't I need to remind you who created free will, sire?” Alastor said sarcastically.

“You're using free will to keep visiting me? Careful, Bambi,” Lucifer snickered, sleeping on his stomach while propping his chin up with both hands. “Everyone will think you have a crush on me.”

Expecting a retort, Alastor froze like a statue for a moment, his eyes twitching slightly. “I made sure no one saw me entering your room, actually. The sign on your door helped. Besides!” he replied chirpily, sounding a little forced. “I’m not the one who’s eager to get the return on this deal.”

“Err—what,” Lucifer cleared his throat, receiving a smug smile in return. “Hey! You offered it to me first! That says something about you too, dumbass!”

“And yet, you agreed like you won the lottery!” Alastor boldly approached Lucifer, hovering over his mouth as both of their breaths tickle one another. “It seems I'm not exactly the one who has the attraction here, hm?”

What the hell is this!? Is this—are we seriously flirting right now!? Lucifer thought rapidly.

Lucifer did the first thing that came to mind. He smacked Alastor with a pillow. “Ha! As if!”

“Hmm mm.” Alastor brushed the pillow feathers from his hair with a quiet fond smile. “You have to stop obsessing over me, now, bon appetite!”

Lucifer's eyes sparkled when Alastor made jambalaya again. He didn't make it often, keeping the food fully varied. Charlie sometimes gave him food, never realizing that Alastor always gave him first. 

“Why are you cooking at this hour, Al? Obviously you could poison me tomorrow morning. It's more efficient and makes you less desperate,” Lucifer joked casually as he took a spoonful. 

Alastor's smile faded instantly, “I... couldn't sleep. So I kept myself busy.”

Lucifer blinked. “Oh, what's wrong?”

Alastor tensed up. But Lucifer just shifted himself to make room on his bed, gesturing for him to come over. “If you want to talk about it, of course.”

Hesitation remained in Alastor's expression. However, after a moment, he chose to sit at the edge of the bed, his back facing Lucifer. Then, “I have... recurring nightmares about when I was imprisoned.”

“By that TV dude?”

Alastor tensed even more, “Yes,” he hissed. “He did... things to me.”

“Like what?” Lucifer coaxed, setting the softest tone possible.

“You should know,” he exhaled. “Vox and I used to be... close. And he occasionally wanted more than I was willing to give him.”

The last sentence was spat out more hastily. Lucifer stared at the back of his head in puzzlement, the full implications of what Alastor meant suddenly hitting him like a ton of bricks, tensing him as well. “He...”

Alastor clutched the bedsheets abruptly. 

“If only I could have killed him back then,” Lucifer muttered bitterly, admittedly startling Alastor. 

The silence continued. Lucifer slowly touched his hand, “I'm sorry for that—”

“Don't pity me,” Alastor hissed, facing him.

“I'm not pitying you!” Lucifer quickly added. “I... I just wanted to say that I'm here.” His throat went parched. “I know it sounds strange and empty and also like, what kind of guy am I, right? Haha, I'm powerless even though I have this much power. But you really didn't deserve that. And I'm sorry you were alone back then.”

“I did it on purpose,” Alastor clarified absentmindedly. 

“Yeah, to fix your mic or whatever. I'm still confused why you didn't just come to me. I mean... am I not as helpful as I used to be?” Lucifer's voice shrank a little.

Alastor widened his eyes, “I never meant to imply as such.”

“Then what, Al?“ Lucifer bit inside his cheek for a bit, forcing the words out. ”I know we're not technically uhh, friends or anything—I don't know—doesn't matter. Is it because you're still mad I didn't answer your calls? You can be honest because—" Lucifer chuckled faintly, his hand slowly pulling away from Alastor's. “Well, after what happened with Lilith... I'd rather know my mistakes more clearly now, if I don't want to fumble with something very important to me.”

Alastor immediately grasped his hand again, “I don't have any pent-up anger towards you, Lucifer,” he said softly. His eyes looked a little sorrowful. “I only… hope I can fix my own doings. It's why I want to be the strongest overlord in Hell after all!”

“I can make you the strongest,” Lucifer murmured, staring at their fingers together. Alastor kept on being stunned over that topic. “I still trust you. I guess there's no moment where I don't trust you, if I'm honest.”

There was a pause.

“My mistake,” Alastor finally said. “I'm not good at showing my vulnerability to others.” 

“Lucky it's just me, right?” Lucifer smiled, sitting down at the edge of the bed so they were side by side. “I don't want to help you in the sense that you can't help yourself, by the way. You're pretty good at that, Al. But if the situation gets a little... critical, I'll answer you from now on."

Alastor pondered further, their fingers still intertwined, knees now brushing against each other. Lucifer felt a little giddy from all the physical contact Alastor was allowing at this moment. “Uhm,” Lucifer began nervously. “You can stay here if you want—you can leave in the morning before the others wake up! How about it?”

Wow, very smooth, Lu, Lucifer thought, not daring to look at him and continuing to stare down. Why are Alastor's legs so long—

“And you'll be comfortable all night?”

“Of course!” Lucifer looked up, flashing him a sincere smile before fear stopped him. “I want you to sleep comfortably too, knowing what you've done for me.”

“This is part of the deal.”

“Yes, but you wouldn't have made that deal if you didn't care about me at all, right?” 

Alastor let out a short ‘hm’, then sighed dramatically, “All that agony and none of it could overcome your foolish dignity!"

“Oh, you fucking—, come here before I kick you out!” Lucifer snapped, earning a gleeful cackle from the demon.

They ended up sleeping side by side. Not completely close, but close enough for their shoulders to brush one another.

“I'll make sure your nightmares don't come back,” Lucifer said in the darkness, facing him.

“I appreciate the sentiment,” Alastor murmured, his gaze fixed on the wall. Then the red glow in his pupils faded. “Goodnight, Lucifer.”

Lucifer closed his eyes too, soaking in the warmth beside him. “Goodnight, Al.”

Alastor didn't move much in his sleep. And even though he naturally slept with little movement, even before being scarred with wounds, he somehow couldn't... move?    

Gradually opening his eyes, his muscles tensed briefly, staring directly at where Lucifer had embraced his entire torso, head buried in his clothes while breathing peacefully. Alastor stilled, staring at him for a long time. Then he moved his leg—feeling it brush against Lucifer's leg. Good grief, even their legs were entangled with each other. 

Alastor's face grew hotter, heart thumping endlessly. And there Alastor realized; his nightmare never came. 

It was the first time he had ever slept with someone. 

Strangely, in the quiet early morning like this, he found it rather... pleasant at the idea (if only with Lucifer). 

Without thinking, Alastor gently stroked Lucifer's hair; just once. Lucifer let out an adorable, satisfied sound, tightening his grip on Alastor's hips—

And that's when the pain hit him.

“Fuck,” Alastor hissed, pushing Lucifer away abruptly. He widened his eyes, “Lucifer—”

“What—huh? What happened— oh! OH! I’m sorry, Al, I uhh, I didn’t mean to—” Lucifer stammered, immediately jolting up. “Woah, uhh, are you okay? Did I just spot... blood?” 

There was no point in hiding it this time. “Not your fault, need I assure you,” Alastor muttered. “Just a thing I ought to take care of.”

Lucifer blinked several times, and he blurted out, “Let me heal you.”

Alastor didn't deny him further. 

“As you wish.” Alastor slowly slipped on his coat, and Lucifer instantly looked away. It was adorable, if you asked Alastor himself, to see the king of Hell act in such a manner (because of him).  

He went on to each button, one by one. His heart came back pounding loudly, almost echoing around his ears. Lucifer glanced back when Alastor was done, revealing the bandages that wrapped around his hips to his chest, tied with thread.  

“You can heal me now.”

“Are you sure about this?” asked Lucifer, a little nervously. 

“If you don't act quickly, sire, I'm afraid we'll never get the returned favour we both want," Alastor pressed on, half exasperated.  

“Oh! Right, right. Okay,” Lucifer approached him closer. “Wait. Do you want to drink my blood again or—”

“Can you not do it through touch?” Alastor asked, gaze glancing away.

“I can, yeah! I can, uh, if you want,” Lucifer replied, all flustered. 

“Then get on with it.”

Lucifer carefully reached out and brushed over his skin, sweeping over the wound. A high agonizing energy coursed through Alastor's veins. But before he could react, the healing was already complete. He blinked slowly, staring at his perfectly clean chest. 

“Done! How do you feel?” 

“Lovely,” Alastor said softly, then simply held out his hand. “Shall we?”

Lucifer's heart felt like it had been dropped into his mouth. “Uhm—huh—what—do you want to—HUH?” 

“Now or never!” Alastor grinned more confidently as he got up from the bed. 

“That—that’s not how the deal works!” Lucifer chided, following him on the floor even though he stumbled when getting out of bed. He faced Alastor, then blushed when he saw his bare chest. He buttoned him up quickly, grumbling, “Couldn't you have gotten dressed first?”

“Don't pretend you don't like the view.”

Lucifer's fingers slipped between the buttons, his tail immediately appearing on its own just to sway back and forth eagerly. His body was a fucking traitor. “H—hey! You cannot just say things like that—”

Alastor laughed and grabbed Lucifer's hands, positioning them for a dance where he'd be leading. “But it's such a delight when you're so responsive!”

“Responsive?” Lucifer croaked, at the same time a soft piece of jazz filled the air. “Excuse me, who told you to lead?”

“Obviously the one who's dressed more appropriately!” 

Lucifer rolled his eyes. So why was he still in his oversized pink sweater? Alastor wanted to dance at this hour! The shouting voices in the distance gave a distinctive impression of Hell in the early morning, but the sound was muffled, ensuring that the music focused only on their comfort zone. 

The whole thing felt very... domestic. 

Unforgettable that's what you are

Unforgettable though near or far

Like a song of love that clings to me

How the thoughts of you go to me

Alastor effortlessly spun Lucifer around and guided him across the room, avoiding every duck on the floor. Lucifer was truly impressed by his attentive coordination. 

Unforgettable in every way

And forevermore (and forevermore)

That's how you'll stay (that's how you'll stay)

“That's why, darling, it's incredible,” Alastor sang, melodically and taking Lucifer's breath away. Because with every lyric, he felt it. “That someone so unforgettable, thinks that I am unforgettable too.”

The song ended when every lyric had been sung, but the instrumental continued to play in a loop, now slower and mixed in the background. Lucifer lifted his head, their gazes locked. And after Alastor sang the last lyric, at the end of his breath, Lucifer's mouth moved on its own. 

“I want to kiss you.”

The song was suddenly overpowered by static noise.

“NO, THAT'S NOT WHAT I MEANT.”

“No?” Alastor repeated, a bit guarded. Lucifer grew even more panicked. 

"No, no. I really want to kiss you—but that's not how I want to confess! Because, like, I haven't confessed that I'm in love with you,“ he choked on his own saliva. ”Did I just say that? I SAID IT, DIDN'T I? Shit, Alastor, I'm sorry, this isn't how I meant to—"

“Lucifer.”

“Uhh, yes? Listen, I'm really sorry—” both cheeks were cupped and pulled close. Lucifer gasped, his breath meeting Alastor's; their lips met. 

He shut his eyes, kissing back fervently. All his veins surged with desire, feeling every sensation enveloping him. Alastor let out a small whimper, opening his mouth slightly, and Lucifer eagerly entered. The kiss intensified as if they wanted to devour each other's souls. Gradually, it became slower and gentler, and Lucifer felt Alastor's thumb caress his cheek, slowly pulling away first. 

“Uhm—woah, uhh,” Lucifer gasped. Both of them out of breath. “Wait, wait! Does that mean—”

“I'm as equally in love as you are? Yes,” Alastor cut in, fully flushed. “More profoundly, dare I say…”

Lucifer couldn't believe it. His smile beamed as brightly as the morning star. He had long forgotten what it felt like to be this happy. “You—does that also mean we'll be sleeping together?”

Alastor tilted his head, squinting playfully. 

“I mean like what we just did, you perv!” Lucifer stuttered, glaring at him as if Alastor was the one at fault. 

“I did not say anything,” Alastor said innocently. “But that can be arranged, yes.”

“Okay. Great, that’s really great! Heh.” Lucifer realized they were still holding each other. “Uhm, thank you for... you know, taking care of me and dancing with me again.” 

“I supposed I should also thank you for healing me the second time now and...” Alastor looked away for a moment, a little embarrassed. “Accompanying me tonight.”

“No nightmares?”

“None.”

Lucifer practically wanted to bounce around like a ping-pong ball, his legs itching to jump up and down on their own. Alastor, of course, was aware of this but made no comment, finding it oddly endearing. “Hey, Al, uhh, what do you think if I take you out on—”

A knock on the door. 

“Dad! Are you awake?”

Before Lucifer spiralled into panic, Alastor kissed Lucifer's forehead, murmuring, “I'll be seeing you soon, dearest.” Then he vanished. 

The door opened.

“Dad! You look healthier!” Charlie cheered, throwing herself into a tight embrace. 

“Hey, sweetie pie. I do feel better,” Lucifer chuckled, hugging her back tightly. He was relieved that his daughter was unaware of his face, which was still flushing. “What’s up?”

“Oh! I just wanted to invite you to breakfast, since you’re feeling better and can join us at the table! Alastor is always up early and prepares everything. But it seems like he's not in the kitchen,“ Charlie sighed. ”I don't want to leave him out of breakfast if he's not back at the hotel yet. I knocked on his door, but it was empty."

“Ah, haha, I'm sure he'll be back, sweetheart. How about we wait for him at the dining table?"

“If you say so,” Charlie smiled weakly. “Are you and Alastor closer now?”

“Wha— What made you think that!?” Lucifer squeaked 

Charlie looked at him a little baffled, “You guys aren't as hostile as you used to be when you fight. And sometimes I see you guys joking around together, not just towards each other. So I thought…”

“Oh… Oh! Yes, we are like that sometimes, haha,” Lucifer flashed a thumbs up with a grimace. He needed to discuss his unspoken secret relationship with Alastor first and foremost. “Maybe the lessons you taught us paid off!”

Charlie’s smile brightened. “Really? I’m so glad to hear that! That’s all I want for the two of you, I know you can work well together for the hotel! Oh, and, Dad,“ her smile turned apologetic. ”I'm sorry again for not visiting you often when you're recovering." 

“Ah, no, no, don't ever feel guilty, Charlie," Lucifer said firmly. "You have new responsibilities, and I won't stand in your way. I’m glad you’re so dedicated to your dreams! That’s what I want to see from you too.” 

Charlie smiled happily, tears welling up. “Thank you so much, Dad.” 

“Anytime, sweetie pie.” 

Five:

Sinsmas was approaching.  

Before that, Lucifer had taken him on various dates. Several days a week, Alastor slept in Lucifer's room and vice versa. On other days, he liked to sleep alone, but always spent time together on earlier nights. Then it repeated.

Alastor was genuinely blessed to have eternal Hell all to himself. 

The others haven't caught on, or at least, haven't spoken a word. Until now.   

They found the two of them together when there was an unexpected duet in the middle of the night. Lucifer on the violin and Alastor on the piano. Charlie had given them the full freedom to decorate the main lobby, and yet they spent half of the day fighting like their lives depended on it. 

They ended up drinking after.

“I bet you mortals have such a small immunity that you can't even rely on drunkenness for too long,” Lucifer retorted, already half way with his second glass. “Even a demon like you wouldn't last long.”

“Well,” Alastor's smile widened defiantly. “If I prove you wrong, then I'll be the first to defy your logic, correct?” 

Lucifer shrugged,  “Why? Interested in making a dangerous deal with me?” 

“Elaborate on what you're offering me, hm?” Alastor moved his chair closer. 

“I'm curious,” Lucifer moved closer too. “Can you still dance if you're drunk?” 

“Try to underestimate me, sire?” 

“Hmm, let me think...” Their knees pressed against each other. “Tango?” 

“Is that a challenge, I hear?” Alastor laughed dismissively. 

Lucifer bared his teeth, white and fierce. “Unless you're a coward.”

“And the returned favour?”

Lucifer leaned close to his ear and whispered, “Under you. However you want me.”

Alastor's expression didn't change, but his muscles twitched slightly. 

It was a silly deal created from a drunken state. However, Lucifer was more conscious than Alastor. But his joy made his drunkenness thicker, especially with his lover. 

Starting with a classic song, the iconic rhythm of the tango dance filled the darkness of the atmosphere that had been filled with hushed talks. Sharp voices of insults were followed by laughter and giggles throughout.

Charlie woke up first, then dragged Vaggi when she realized it was the sound of her father and Alastor. Peeking from the top of the stairs and suspecting a brutal, magical fight was taking place, she found something far outside her imagination. 

“What... are they doing?” whispered Vaggi baffingly.     

Alastor liked to pull Lucifer's hair, and so did Lucifer to his; it was something that ignited a growing intimacy between them. So it was no surprise that their hairs were messy, clothes gone wrinkled, faces flushed from the alcohol and the high intensity of their dance moves. 

“Uhh... it looks like they're dancing?” Charlie grimaced at her own answer. 

“They look like fucking to me.”

“Angel!” Vaggi shushed him as Angel Dust suddenly joined in peering behind them. Meanwhile, Charlie's eyes widened. 

“What? I'm just saying, there's usually porn involved, though the plot is usually less when it's assigned to me,” Angel grinned, hands on his hips. “I mean, it's not surprising to know that Smiles and Apple Daddy there were sexting with their eyes every time they fought. Not so different here!”

“Charlie is here,” Vaggi glared at him. 

“Wait, Angel, are you saying… My dad and Alastor like each other? Like, in a romantic way?” Charlie gushed, grabbing Angel Dust’s shoulders demandingly, making the pornstar stiffened. 

“Uhh—”

“Ehh, Angel isn’t far off in my opinion.” They turned to see Husk in his pajamas leaning against the wall, watching the tango dance from afar. “If what they’ve been doing all this time isn’t considered flirting, I don’t know what is.” 

“Uh, the things I said to you counts, don't they?” Angel chimed in with a smirk. Husk instantly glared at him and was about to say something before being cut off.

“Okay! We don't need to know that, nor what you two here are implying,” Vaggi said firmly, crossing her arms. She glanced at her girlfriend, who was looking down with a faint hopeful expression. “Hey, babe, are you okay?”

“If Angel is right, why didn't Dad tell me sooner? Was he afraid I'd get mad at him again?” Charlie asked with a slight wobble in her voice. The last time she had seen Lucifer dancing was with her mother. Now she's seeing the exact happiness returning to his face. “I'll be really happy for him, Vaggi. Even if it's with Alastor—I think I can see how they could be good for each other.” 

“Don't blame yourself, Charlie. I think your dad just wasn't ready to tell you yet,” Vaggi assured her gently. “Maybe he’s planning to tell you when Sinsmas finally comes?” 

“Pfsh,” Angel snorted. “What, you think Al is going to prove it by kissing Lucifer under the mistletoe—” 

“Bad boy is kissing Alastor!” 

Many things happened at once. 

Nifty, who had shouted over the railing, was immediately pulled back by Cherri who covered her mouth panickingly. 

Angel Dust distraughtly shouted, “WAIT, WHAT?” 

Charlie's dramatic gasp while catching her father's eyes, who had turned to look at them all, looking like he had just been caught in the most outrageous scandal of all time. 

Meanwhile Alastor's ears only perked up, letting out an amusing 'hm!'.

The song had stopped halfway through.

“Ah! It seems your daughter finally knows,” Alastor chided in when everyone was quiet. 

“C—Charlie!?” Lucifer squeaked.

“DAD! UH—hi Dad! And hi to you too, Alastor!” Charlie waved at them awkwardly. “We just uh—we heard a noise from our room and we just checked to see if everything was okay—we weren't spying on you guys, nope!” 

“It's not—it's not what you think!” Lucifer exclaimed, cringing at himself. “I was just—I was drunk, sweetheart! Yes, a little drunk, haha! It's not my fault though!”

“HAH! Now you admit your failure,” Alastor remarked proudly. “I won this bet!” 

“EXCUSE ME!? I'm not the one who's more drunk here, you cocky piece of shit!” Lucifer snapped, but only gripped Alastor's hand tighter. 

"Oh, really~? Then why did you deny to the princess of Hell that you're not mine? Surely you must be even more drunk to not remember who you belong to," Alastor drawled as he pulled Lucifer's shirt with a hint of possessiveness. Lucifer swallowed. Oh, Alastor knew very well that Lucifer found him hot now. 

“Holy shit, so it's true!?” Angel Dust screeched. “You two are a thing!?” 

“Err—yeah, sorry for finding out like this,” Lucifer grimaced, then gulped. “Uhm! Don't be mad at me, Charlie!”

“Dad, why would I be mad at you? I'm so happy for you!” said Charlie, smiling with teary eyes. “Can I give you both a hug?” 

“Uhh, of course, honey!” Charlie beamed and ran down the stairs quickly, Lucifer choked along with Alastor after getting squashed around his daughter's arms.

“I'm the one who should apologize for interrupting your private time like this!” Charlie turned to Alastor with gleaming eyes. “Thank you for making my dad happy again, Alastor.” 

“No need to thank me, my dear!” Alastor patted her hair. “It just took a little effort for your father to sort out his obsession over me."

“Huh? ME? You sure you don’t have that the other way around?” Lucifer huffed. 

“Don't you remember the agreement, my love?” Alastor glanced at him, holding back a giggle. “I'm not going to be the one begging for my own name.” 

“What—ALASTOR, YOU CAN'T JUST—”

“No, no, let him continue. I want to know more,” Angel Dust persuaded, resting his chin on one hand over the railing. Husk punched his shoulder, receiving an offensive ow.

“All right, everyone! Let’s go back to sleep before we can open the hotel for the sinners tomorrow morning! Am I uhh, clear here?” Charlie exclaimed hurriedly, looking at each of her friends. 

“My hypothesis is that none of you will wake up in the morning and will likely continue to overreact late at noon, knowing how the human psyche processes the unexpected, ” Baxter said suddenly on the stairs, making everyone turn to him in stunned silence. “However I could be wrong.”

After waiting for the others to return to their respective bedrooms, Alastor then teleported himself and Lucifer to his room. “It’s time for my reward, my dear,” Alastor purred, pushing Lucifer back to the mattress who giggled, already forgetting what happened minutes ago. His gaze now filled with something else. 

He successfully brought Lucifer back to heaven that night. At the risk of getting a severe hangover the next morning, and a not so pleasant memory that included everyone in the hotel.

+One:

It was several months later. 

By late afternoon, the king of Hell was in a state of high anxiety, while his Radio Demon sat judgmentally with his legs crossed and hands clasped together. 

“All right, all right, what about now?” Lucifer asked for the millionth time, turning around to show off the outfit he had chosen for Charlie and Vaggi's wedding tomorrow. 

“Beautiful,” Alastor murmured sincerely. “But the bow is too big, I recommend a slight modification.”  

Lucifer groaned and turned back, muttering something unintelligible as he tried to fix the bow in front of the mirror.  

Alastor stared at him for a long time, his heart beating fast and slow at the same time. His hands were cold and sweaty. Static almost spilling uncontrollably due to his nervousness. 

Wedding.

Alastor inhaled quietly. 

There was no other plan. There was no special tolerance for this. He knew he wouldn't be able to make a grand and meaningful gesture except by being direct as he usually was.

“Lucifer.” 

“Not yet.”

“Turn around.”

“I'm not ready!”

“Look at me.”

Lucifer turned around grumbling, “Look! It's still ugly— ...what?” 

There, Alastor was kneeling on one knee, holding a velvet box. 

It was quiet.

“Lucifer,” Alastor began.

And Lucifer finally burst out. 

“Wha—holy fucking hell! Don't tell me this is a trick because—I won't forgive you after that, Al! YOU BETTER NOT BE TRICKING ME—”

“I assure you, this is no trick as I don't have time for that,” Alastor cut in, rolling his eyes fondly. “If you let me continue...”

“Yeah, yeah, okay, I understand. You may continue,” Lucifer croaked, resisting the urge to chatter more. Alastor raised his eyebrows when Lucifer’s tail had appeared, moving back and forth with unstoppable excitement. 

“It never crossed my mind that I might end up in an afterlife like this, with you. Even when we became acquainted in that dark alley. Admittedly, It made me nostalgic as I thought back,” Alastor proceeded softly. “But this is my final decision. One that is equal to a mutual agreement, yet far more superior than any silliness that we’ve made. I want this to be more than that, a vow, to be exact." 

Lucifer's horns reared up high. 

“Lucifer Morningstar,” Alastor smiled charmingly. “Would you do the honour of being my eternal significant other for as long as we're both stuck in this pit of rotten Hell with one another?” 

Pairs of wings spread large and magnificently. Alastor was attacked in a tight embrace and spun around so fast in the air, he felt like he was about to vomit, static crackling with bewilderment. 

“Yes, yes, yes, YES—” Lucifer babbled, tightening his grip.

“Put me down now,” Alastor hissed.

Lucifer laughed freely, setting Alastor down as he still hovered above the surface. His hands didn't want to let go of his future husband—fucking hell, was this really happening to him? An eternal happiness he never thought he would find again? 

“So the answer is yes, I assume?” Alastor quipped. 

Lucifer rolled his teary eyes, a smile impossible to wipe away. “There's literally no other answer for me, idiot.” 

“Your idiot.” Alastor slipped the ring onto Lucifer's finger gently. 

“Yes,” he whispered, sniffing emotionally. He stared at the ring for a long time. Then, “Dance with me.” 

“Oh? What's the new deal?” Alastor let his fiance position them both, with Lucifer leading the dance. He immediately played a song in the background. 

Strangers in the night exchanging glances

Wondering in the night

What were the chances we'd be sharing love

Before the night was through

“No deals or favours,” Lucifer smiled tenderly. “I just want to dance with you.” 

Alastor hummed, stroking Lucifer's fingers as their hands joined together in a smooth waltz. “If that's what you wish, my king.” 

Lucifer kissed Alastor's knuckles before spinning them around with a heart-felt laugh that Alastor joined in. It felt like he was flying with his angel. 

“Something in your eyes was so inviting,” sang Lucifer resonantly, plucking at Alastor's heartstrings until his whole body warmed up. “Something in your smile was so exciting, something in my heart~”

Lucifer pressed their bodies together, leaning against Alastor's chest, eyes drooping with pouring love as Alastor chuckled amusingly, ears twitching in contentment. “Told me I must have you~”

It turned out dancing with the Devil was the best deal he had ever made all along.