Archive of Our Own

It was a well-known truth that Lucifer Morningstar hated Alastor Hartfelt. Ever since that ridiculously handsome smiling freak had arrived in the Hazbin High boarding school, the blond had detested him. Was it because Alastor called him short? Or because he surpassed him in every subject despite having transferred mid-year, overthrowing Lucifer from his former first place? There was something unnerving about the guy anyways – that shit-eating grin he constantly wore, the way he always walked chin high with unmatched elegance, how he was always poised, always impeccable, reminding everyone else how superior he was in literally any aspect.

Worst, he had started to give tutoring lessons to Lucifer’s younger sister Charlie – a task the blond could very much have done himself, thank you very much, if it weren’t for all the extracurricular activities that were eating all his time! After all, he was captain of the football team, playing violin in the school orchestra, student representative AND part of the art club! Though, to his utmost dismay, Alastor was also an excellent pianist, joined the running club and would definitely be student representative, had he started the semester earlier. It was infuriating…

If it weren’t for him, Lucifer would still be top student, drifting through life with passionless ease and enjoying his status of king of Hazbin High. But no, that stupid, stunningly perfect demon of a boy had to steal his title and taunt him every second! And the cherry on top, the peak of comedy, was that they had to be roommates. Obviously… How fate could be cruel.
It was totally not because the blond had arranged himself to sleep alone and take the only unshared room, the male students being an uneven number – meaning that logically, any newbie would be assigned with him in the dorm. No, destiny had plagued him, most definitely.

And of course, that Alastor guy was a neat freak! From the start, he had drawn a line separating both of their side – his being as impersonal and orderly as an Ikea display while Lucifer’s was a complete mess – books sprawled on the floor, duck plushies everywhere, piles and piles of clothes, discarded socks under the bed and post its stuck on furniture.
They could not be any different: Alastor was up at dawn, constantly studied and planned his days with mastermind-like strategy, whereas Lucifer liked to sleep in, mastered procrastination like a champ and thrived in utmost chaos.

Yet still somehow, the latter made it work and even gathered enough motivation to surpass himself and tail his rival. Now he managed to get better grades than Alastor in history, chemistry, biology and art, though the latter still remained outmatched literature, French – but of course, that prick was bilingual – philosophy, mathematics and physics. Both were even in PE – somehow both athletic and competitive enough to be of similar level.

If anything, at least Lucifer was the most popular – no one could really stand the new guy aside from Husk and Niffty, the former being unbothered enough to stand Alastor’s insufferable personality and the latter being too weird for anyone else anyways.

Still, students respected him, whether out of admiration or out of fear – only Lucifer seemed to escape Alastor’s charm and treat him like the annoyance he was.

"Morningstar, would you be so kind to keep your belongings on your side of the room?"

Lucifer rolled his eyes. Seriously? His shoes were just five centimeter past the separation line!

"Right, sorry, I didn’t mean to invade your immaculate space, you maniac! Seriously, how can you keep it so… blank? It’s as if you did not even live here!"

Besides Alastor’s clothes neatly folded in the wardrobe, there was no family pictures, no decorations, nothing that might indicate the boy’s presence at all.

"Well, I’m simply having enough self-respect not to live in filth, that is all! I’m maintaining that if you cleaned your half, it would make the space much more habitable…"

"To have it be as asepticized as yours? This is not a hotel…"

"If it were, at least someone would sustain proper hygiene…"

"This is not a raccoon lair, thank you very much!"

"Are you sure? I am certain I saw a cockroach roaming through your stuffs couple days ago… Maybe I should inform Niffty? She’s quite fond of insects…"

"You… "

"Yes, dear?"

"You are a complete asshole and I hate you."

"The feeling is mutual, sweetheart. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have more important business than to remind you of your shortcomings."

"At least I don’t behave like I’m standing above everyone else!"

"Your childish half-witted comments fall short, I’m afraid."

"Says the guy who towers just as high as his ego…"

"I’m afraid you’re at such a far vertical distance, I fail to hear you. Have a good day, my dear fellow!"

On this, he closed the door and Lucifer went straight to scream into his pillow.
No doubt: he really, really, really hated that nuisance of a demon in the shape of a boy that was Alastor.
One day…
One day, he’d show him what he was worth.
One day, he’d finally prove Alastor that he was better than him and shut him up for good.
And maybe that day, Alastor would finally act nice!

~

That day came earlier than anticipated. Adam, the PE teacher, had organized a race through the mountains to force the students to “breathe some fresh air, get off their phones and move their ass for once”, as the man had elegantly worded. The winner would get top score on the final grade as a reward…
And none of the boys was ready to let that opportunity slip.

"Ready to finally bite the dust, Alastor?"

"No need to be so pissy already, Morningstar. You haven’t even lost yet!"

"Whatever…"

"I hereby wish you good luck, my dear… You’re gonna need it."

"Yeah, same… break a leg or something."

Alastor simply chuckled, before they moved to the starting line. Very quickly, they took head of the race, soon leaving all the others behind. It was just them two, toe to toe, elbowing each other to take the first place. The scenery was breathtaking: horizon widely open on valleys below, towns like miniatures under the distance, fields as a patchwork of yellow, green and brown. Further, higher summits, snow powdered on sharp stone edges piercing the clouded sky. Yet, none of the boys had much time for sightseeing: they had one goal, victory, and none would let it fall into the hands of the other.

When the path got narrower and steeper, they pushed on. When it bordered a rather abrupt precipice, they pushed on. Alastor was in front, Lucifer right behind – he was so close to passing him… The wind was blowing in his blond hair as he sped up to catch up with his eternal opponent. The chase was so thrilling… He had not felt so alive in a very long time. Noticing Lucifer’s acceleration, his rival hastened the pace…
They were awfully close now, within each other’s reach.

"Tired already?" Lucifer huffed.

"Never!"

Alastor further increased speed. They were awfully fast now, probably more than it was recommended on such uneven ground. None of them cared. They had only one thought: to absolutely obliterate the other into defeat.

The blond shook his head. His rival was such a magnificent runner… His dark curls were for once messier than usually; his dark red sweater was perfectly highlighting his warm skin tone, he was so graceful… like a deer, maybe, elegantly leaping swiftly at an inhuman pace. His lean silhouette seemed to move like the wind itself… was he really running, or was he flying?
Really, there was no way someone so perfect could even be human.

Lucifer was a few feet behind, now. He hated to admit it, but maybe he was about to lose… maybe Alastor was just better, maybe he’d just always be. Unable to keep up such pace, he slowed down slightly, before nearly falling. The gravel under their feet was terribly unsteady – if Lucifer had not reduced his speed…
He opened wide open eyes. Did he just… nearly fall off a cliff?
Maybe they were being slightly imprudent… maybe they should actually stop!
He had to warn Alastor…

"Alastor wait… it’s getting dangerous. We should slow down…"

"Aw, you think I’m such a fool? I know you only say this cause you’re tired!"

"No, I mean it! I’ll let you win if you want. Just…"

"You think you can trick me like this? Well, too bad, cause the victory will be mine and no one can stop it. Not even you…"

"You stupid… you know what? Fine. But don’t complain if you fall!"

"That is absolutely ridiculous. I am nowhere near clumsy enough to–"

A rock rolled under his foot before he could finish his sentence. Losing balance, he tried to catch himself onto the edge of the path, but it was too late. Before Lucifer could even blink, his obnoxious rival had disappeared from his sight, violently tumbling down the mountain side.

"Alastor!"

Only deafening silence replied. Lucifer rushed to look down, fear tightening his heart. Could he be…
He scanned the area with his eyes, only to sigh with relief. The boy was lying a good twenty meters below, barely visible. Good news, he seemed to be moving – at least he was still conscious.

"You alright down there?"

"Quit it, Morningstar. I’m sure you’re dying to make fun of me…"

"Oh, trust me, you’ll hear about this forever. But first, let’s get you out of there… you think you can climb back up?"

"I’ll be fine… go finish the race, the victory’s all yours now."

"Not before I’m sure you’re safe!"

"Again, I’ll be fine! I don’t need concern nor pity."

"I’m not– will you stop being a prick five seconds and let me help you?"

"I don’t need your assistance."

"Fine, you prideful bitch!"

No answer. Worry slowly started to creep down Lucifer’s skin.

"Alastor?"

This was not normal… he should have made any sort of witty reply already, or at least want to have the last word… That was unlike him.

"Alastor, can you still hear me?"

"… unfortunately, yes."

"You… you’re not hurt, right?"

Once again, his rival stayed quiet.

"Alastor, answer me!"

Still no reply.

"Okay, I’m coming down!"

"Lucifer, I assure you there’s no need to–"

"Too late, I’m on my way!"

Now that he noticed, Alastor’s voice was strained with pain. That was not a good sign…
Careful not to slip, the blond cautiously slid to his enemy below. Now that he was getting closer, he could get a closer look – and, was it… yikes…

"Alastor, your leg…"

The limb was bent where it was clearly not supposed to, bone clearly broken between the foot and the knee. The boy whimpered slightly as he tried to get up nonetheless, avoiding his gaze.

"Woah, easy… stay put, better not move… you’re quite…"

"Pathetic? I know. There’s no need to remind me of my weakened state… go on, mock me. Say how helpless I look…"

"Alastor, no! I will not… Do you really think I would…"

"What, miss an occasion to make fun of me? Rejoice of my misery? Nothing stops you from… ow!"

"Shhh, you’ll be alright."

The blond kneeled at his roommate’s side, wanting to lay a comforting hand on Alastor’s shoulder. The injured boy moved away, his usual smile strained in a snarl, hissing like a wounded animal. Lucifer sighed.

"Al, I will not take advantage of the situation, I promise. Just… I just want to help."

"Why? You hate me. You should be happy to see me like this."

"I am not a monster. Just because I don’t like you does not mean I want you to suffer…"

Alastor sighed, before dropping the façade entirely, his usual shit-eating grin replaced by a pained grimace. He raised his eyes towards the blond.

"Fine. But there’s nothing you can do… I definitely cannot walk, so I’m afraid we’re stuck here. Did you take your phone? Mine broke during my fall…"

"I’m out of battery… I forgot to charge it last night."

Alastor rolled his eyes.

"Of course you did… So we have no means to contact the others. Do you think it will be long till they find us?"

"I don’t know…"

Thunder broke. Lucifer suddenly noticed the dark clouds that had piled up ever since. One drop of rain started to fall, quickly followed by another.

"We should better get to cover before the storm breaks out. There seems to be a cave here that seems to be large enough… We must–"

"Mmm, and how exactly? Again, shall I remind you that my leg is kind of broken? There is no way I could stand, let alone… what are you doing?"

"Carrying you, you idiot!"

"I’m taller than you, there is no way– let me go!"

"Shhh… I won’t drop you, relax."

"You better not…"

Lucifer had lifted Alastor in his arms bridal style, holding him like a swooning maiden in distress. Alastor blushed slightly. That was much more physical contact than he was usually comfortable with, yet for some reason he felt quite safe in Lucifer’s arms… The blond was stronger than he had anticipated. It was quite impressive, actually…
Though he’d never admit it out loud. He would not admit either that his help was actually much welcome either – he had not asked for it, after all. He would not express any form of gratitude…

"There you go…"

Very cautiously, Lucifer put Alastor down before letting go with infinite gentleness, as if he was some kind of precious treasure. He had been much lighter than anticipated… come to think of it, he was so thin! Was he even eating properly? Maybe he should at least ensure he was well fed in the future!
Nonsense… this is still your mortal enemy, he reminded himself. Just because they made a truce did not mean that prickly demon had suddenly turned into an absolute angel.

"Thank you…" whispered Alastor with a feeble voice.

The blond opened his eyes wide. Had that prideful bastard just thanked him?

"It’s okay…"

He helped him lean against the stone wall of the cave, before checking the injured leg once again. It was really not looking good… Alastor must be in so much pain. Actually, it was impressive how he managed to remain master of himself despite the circumstances… Wanting to get a closer look, he tried to roll up Alastor’s black legging, yet the latter let out a pained cry he failed to repress as soon as Lucifer’s fingers brushed against the swollen skin.

"Okay, maybe I shouldn’t touch it… there, there."

Unsure of himself, he took Alastor’s hand in his own, that Alastor immediately squeezed, head tilted back and eyes closed, mouth shut tight in an attempt to detach himself from any physical sensation.

"I’m here… you’re safe. I’m looking after you… you’ll be fine."

Normally, Alastor would have made some sharp and bitter retort, claimed that he was not weak, that he did not need anyone… Instead, he feebly nodded with a frail smile.
Lucifer felt his heart break upon that sight, drawing soothing circles with his thumb on the back of Alastor’s hand.
Outside, the rain was heavily pouring; a sharp wind had risen, and lightning was tearing the sky in half as the night started to fall. Alastor shivered. Without a word, Lucifer unzipped his own jacket before draping it on the other boy’s shoulders, who clutched it around himself like a blanket in a desperation for a glimpse of warmth.
It was freezing, but at least, they were kept dry by the solid natural roof above their heads.

"How you feeling?"

"Mmmm…"

Alastor was pale as death, his warm brown skin now looking somewhat grayer than usual. Lucifer hesitated a second, before gently stroking his hair. His companion did not protest. He was too tired to act tough, too tired to shy away from the comforting touch.

"I wish my mama was here," Alastor whispered.

"You’ll see her soon…"

"In heaven? Haha, funny… I always thought I’d go to hell."

"She… oh. I’m sorry. I didn’t know she was…"

"Dead?"

"Yeah…"

"She fell ill when I was seven, passed soon after. A friend of her took me in…"

"Not your dad?"

"That bastard abandoned us before I was even born. No, it’s just Aunt Rosie and me now…"

"I… it must have been hard."

He shrugged.

"It’s all past, now…"

A silent tear fell on his cheek. Lucifer bit his lip. Quick, say something… something comforting, something nice…

"At least if you go to hell you’d probably rank yourself among the highest demons given how much of an asshole you are."

Ugh… well done Lu. That was terrible.
Still, Alastor let out a chuckle, that quickly turned into a manic laughter that ended in a cough.

"Oh, you are quite something, Morningstar."

"I’ve been told…"

"What about you, then? Any family?"

Lucifer sighed.

"My parents are both very rich, and very busy, and their work is more important than taking care of their children apparently. Soooo, it’s just Charlie and me, most of the time. But at least, they’re… alive, I guess."

"How charming… Charlie’s a good kid. It’s good you have each other…"

"Yeah… I don’t know what I’d do without her. Especially… with depression and all… She’s the sun of my life. Without her, I might have… you know."

"I know."

Alastor held his hand tighter. Lucifer smiled sadly.

"But… it’s better now, somehow. I mean, there’s someone out there who forces me to get up in the morning and do my best… otherwise, he’d rule over this school and I cannot leave him the satisfaction. He’s kind of a smug piece of shit, you know…" he teased with a wink.

Said someone scoffed lightly.

"Glad to hear…"

The blond suddenly realized the weight behind his words. He had never noticed how much Alastor had actually helped him without knowing. Their competition, their constant bickering and petty squabbles, it had ignited a spark inside his soul, lighting a fire he had thought long gone. It changed him for the better. It challenged him to be better. To be as good as Alastor, who was so perfect…

"I admire you so much, actually. You’re so good… at everything. All the time. And you don’t even try…"

"I try quite hard, actually."

"You better not die on me, you silly."

"It’s just a broken leg…"

"Still. I… I need you."

"I thought you hated me?"

"I still do."

"You make no sense."

"Shut up."

"No. I like messing with you."

"Yeah, no shit, I figured…"

Time passed slowly as both sat side by side in silence. It was as if something had loosened between them – the atmosphere was less tensed, less hostile than before. They had almost come to appreciate each other’s presence rather than just tolerate it.

Alastor would never word it out loud, yet he was glad Lucifer stayed.

After a while, the blond eventually asked:

"Maybe… maybe we should try to sleep a little?"

Alastor nodded. He had gone oddly quiet, overcome by exhaustion. It was strange to see him at a loss of words… Lucifer would never have believed to think this one day, but he missed the usual spiteful version of his rival. Seeing him so vulnerable, it just felt… wrong.

The cave was just wide enough for them both to lie down. The blond helped his injured enemy settle, before lying by his side.
Both were shivering as their teeth chattered. The temperature had dropped even more. This was bad…

"If we don’t want to freeze to death, maybe we should… save warmth."

"And what exactly do you suggest? Alastor muttered through clenched teeth."

"Maybe we could… snuggle together? For… for survival purpose only, of course."

"As much as I despise it, it seems to be a sensible choice indeed…"

Lucifer moved closer, putting his arm around his companion’s shoulders in a tight hug. Alastor leaned in the touch, away from the cold and closer to his rival’s embrace.

" ‘night, Al."

"Good night Lucifer."

Huddled together, shielded from the storm roaring outside and finding comfort from each other, a weird sense of cosiness enveloped them both. Despite the cold hard ground, they quickly fell asleep, lulled by the sound of the rain and worn by their unfortunate adventure.

~

Lucifer snuggled closer to the warmth. Lilith was with him… good. His girlfriend stirred in her sleep and he clutched her tighter against his heart. He loved her so much…

"Morning, love…"

Slowly, he opened an eye… and jolted awake. That was not Lilith at all! They had broken up more than a year ago, how could he forget…
Thank god, Alastor was still sleeping like a stone, unaware of the blond’s confusion.

"God fucking hell, of course I have to be stuck here with him…"

He rubbed his eyes before looking outside. The storm had left place to the breaking of the dawn, sky lit up in a thousand hues of pink and red under the sun’s orange light reflected on the mountains.

"Alastor, wake up!"

"Mmmmng…"

"It’s so beautiful, you need to see this!"

Still, the boy lied as still as a corpse. Without his ragged breath, Lucifer might have even thought he was dead. Come to think of it, it was strange… normally, Alastor was always the first of them to wake up in the morning…

"Alastor?"

Still no reaction. His curls were damp with sweat; he looked as sickly as ever, dark circled under his eyes and skin a shade too gray. Lucifer laid a hand on his forehead. He was burning with fever…

"Oh god, this is not good. Al, please…"

Gently, he shook his shoulder, bringing him back to consciousness.

"Lu… I had the weirdest dreams…" he mumbled. "You were an angel and I was… Am I dead? It all hurts, I can’t–"

"Shhh, it’s okay. I am here, you’re alive, you’re alright, you’re gonna be alright. Open your eyes, maybe?"

Alastor blinked, gaze still unfocused.

"Where… this is not our dorm… what…"

"The race, remember. You fell."

"Oh right… mortifying. So shameful…"

"Just human."

"Therefore unacceptable."

"You’re harsh…"

"I have standards."

"You’re allowed to live a little, you know…"

"By breaking a bone?"

"You know what I meant."

"Mmmm…"

He tried to move before wincing.

"Ow…"

"How’s the leg?"

"Worse than yesterday…"

"Let me help you. There…"

Lucifer slid an arm under Alastor’s back to help him sit up. Gritting his teeth, the wounded boy whined a little.

"It’s okay, you’re doing good… here you go."

" ‘m not a child."

"I know."

He left him a moment to catch his breath, still steadying him, before whispering excitedly:

"Look at the sky…"

Alastor held his breath, taken aback by the sight. The sky had always looked a bit different after the storm… heavenly, almost. The scent of rain and wet grass was tickling his nose, petrichor it was called… The birds were singing. It was such a beautiful morning…

He turned towards Lucifer. His companion looked exhausted, yet somehow even more heavenly than the sky, blond hair shining like a halo under sunlight. His blue eyes were wide open with both marvel and concern, he could drown in that blue, it was hypnotizing, halfway through a deep ocean and a starry night… Lucifer’s cheeks were flushed by the cold, his breath turning into foggy mist… He had always found him way too annoying for someone who was the epitome of cuteness.

"Such a stunning sight…"

"See? Told you the sky was pretty."

Alastor smiled with regret, taking a deep breath – focusing to gather his scattered thoughts into a coherent sentence.

"You should leave me here. You’ll have a better chance to survive without me as a burden…"

"What? What are you saying…"

" We cannot stay here, with no water and no food. You cannot nurse me forever. You need to go…"

"But what about you?"

"You can still send help to my location as soon as you arrive."

"And leave you like this, in such a state? Absolutely not. What if… what if you don’t…"

"It’s okay, Lu. Very few would miss me."

"I would miss you! Who would argue with me, otherwise? You’re my favorite rival ever, I’m not replacing you."

"Lucifer…"

"I have a better idea…"

The blond slid behind him and grabbed him under the arms.

"I will help you stand up. I need you to put all your weight on your good leg… You can use the wall to steady yourself. Once it’s done, I’ll move around and you’ll hop on my back."

"This is ridiculous. I will only slow you down…"

"I’m not leaving without you."

"It would be more sensible…"

"I don’t care about what is sensible! I’m staying with you, whatever it takes."

"You silly, half-witted, sentimental idiot…"

Alastor sighed.

"Fine. But if you drop me…"

" I will not drop you. Now hold on tight…"

They thus made their way out of the cave. Nature seemed much more inviting now that they were no longer in a rush… Alastor closed his eyes, letting the peaceful atmosphere lull him along Lucifer’s steps. Slowly, his grip started to loosen; the blond could feel him slip from his back.

"Alastor!"

"Huh…"

"Alastor, I need you to stay awake."

"Apologies, I appear to have… dozed off…"

"It’s okay, just… don’t fall asleep, okay?"

"But I’m… tired… so cold…"

"It’s okay. And whatever happens, don’t follow the light. Please?"

"What are you saying? I’m already guided by my morning star…"

Lucifer blushed. How was semi-conscious Alastor so romantic, for some reason?

"Yes… I’m here for you."

"You’re the angel taking me to heaven… but I’m a demon from hell… aren’t I?"

"Nonsense. You’re… just human. And very lonely."

"How could I be lonely? A pretty boy just slept with me…"

Now, Lucifer was full red. Gosh, Alastor’s fever was getting worse and worse…

"You’re the one saying this…" the blond mumbled. "You are literally looking like a god."

"I am a god, you silly… now worship me…"

That was it, that was gonna be Lucifer’s end. More flustered than ever, he tried to ignore confusing feelings playing tug-of-war in his heart.

" …maybe later. Now be good and stay awake?"

"Mmmmmno. I don’t listen to someone half my size."

"Hey! Said someone is presently carrying you, if you wanna know."

"Still short."

"Fuck you."

"No, thank you."

"Oh gosh… you’re insufferable."

"And youuu… are impossible."

"Guess that makes two of us?"

Alastor giggled in approval. Lucifer smiled.

Gosh, what wouldn’t he do for that boy…
To say that he detested him not even a day ago…
He still did. Of course, he still did.
And yet…
Something had changed between them, even if he didn’t exactly know what.

"You really better not die on me, you moron."

"You wish…"

Still, he sounded tired. Lucifer hastened the pace. Alastor’s state was deteriorating, fast. He needed urgent care…
Soon, the path widened. They were almost down… Lucifer could see the first houses of the village below. He was almost running now…
When he arrived at the parking lot, Sera, the headmaster, was waiting for them, speaking animatedly through her phone. She turned her head, saw them, hung up immediately and ran towards the lost students.

"Morningstar, Hartfelt! There you are… I was so worried."

"Alastor is badly hurt. Call an ambulance…"

" ‘am fine… Morning, Madam Phim."

"Injuries?"

"Broken leg, fever… hypothermia as well, presumably."

"Very well. What about you?"

"I’m fine. Just tired…"

"Good. Adam was crazy to send you here alone…"

Shortly after, an ambulance was taking them both – Lucifer had insisted to come with his… rival? Were they still rivals? What were they?
It did not matter, as long as they remained together.

~

Now, Lucifer was waiting on a chair in the hospital waiting room. It had been hours… He himself had been discharged pretty quickly after being provided with food and water and a warm jacket. Alastor, though…
Apparently, his injury had been worse than he had let on. Of course, it had been worse than he had let on! This guy was allergic to showing signs of weakness…
He should have known. Still…
Apparently, the bone had pierced through his flesh, causing him to lose quite some blood, and the wound had started to get infected. In the darkness of the storm, Lucifer had not noticed… and of course, that prideful prick said absolutely nothing. Then, there were the bruised ribs, internal bleeding, a concussion…
But he was taken care of, now. He would be fine, now. Right?

Lucifer anxiously paced through the corridor, again, took another chocolate bar from the vending machine, again, scrolled his phone to numb his thoughts, again…
All he could do was wait.

Only much later did a doctor come to inform him of Alastor’s state.

"The surgery went well, he’s recovering now. You may see him, but I must warn you: he’s high on painkillers and may not talk coherently."

"Yeah, the guy never made sense anyways…" Lucifer grumbled.

"Anyways, he’s still under shock so I’ll ask you to be gentle with him."

Upon saying this, the doctor’s eyes darted on the little blond, who quietly nodded.

"You may follow me."

She guided him through the long corridors, to a little room in a corner. There lied the injured teen, cozily installed in a comfortable bed.

"Alastor! There you are you prick… I was so scared!"

"M-morningstar?"

Before anyone could stop him, he dashed into the room to kneel at his bedside.

"How are you feeling? Does it still hurt? They all took good care of you, right? If they didn’t…"

Alastor chuckled.

"It’s okay, Lu. I’m okay."

"You better be, you silly…"

The blond stroked his rival’s hair with fond tenderness, inspecting him as if to check upon him. His broken leg was now trapped in a cast, slightly kept upwards. Several machines were linked to him, monitoring his heartbeat and all that – there was also a blood transfusion, an IV line, so many things Lucifer could not even identify…

"I’m glad you’re safe," Alastor whispered.

"I should be the one saying this! Look at you…"

"I-I know."

Still, Alastor was dazzling – really, he had no right to look so hot even wearing a hospital gown. He still seemed tired, though – dark circles under his brown eyes blurry with tears and fever, and a weak strained smile.

"I’m sorry… about everything. You tried to warn me, and I didn’t… you had to carry me all the way… it’s so embarrassing. I… thank you."

How strong were these painkillers for Alastor to actually apologize? Maybe it was also fixing his temper.

"I would have brought you back from hell if I needed to…"

"Like Orpheus?"

" … yes."

"He failed, you know."

"I would not."

"Of course you’d turn, you sentimental softie…"

"But then I’d fight Hades in duel and take over hell just to save you!"

"Would that make me your Persephone, then? Aww, but I’m not really into flowers, you know…"

Lucifer blushed. Did Alastor even hear himself speak? Comparing them to mythological couples…
What was he even supposed to do? Go along or shake some sense into his mind? Gosh, Al was so out of it…

"You’re not too bad when you’re not insulting me, you know… Painkillers make you much more amiable. Maybe you should consider breaking a leg more often!"

"So that I get to be carried by my morning star?"

Both blushed.

"I-I was joking, of course. Stay safe – don’t fall down another cliff or something. I won’t always be here to save your stupid ass afterwards!"

"I’ll try…"

They stayed a little while in comfortable silence before Lucifer eventually got up.

"I should leave you, now…"

Alastor grabbed his hand with urgency.

"Stay…"

"What–"

"I… I don’t want to be alone. Stay…"

There was such panic, such vulnerability in Alastor’s voice… it was heartbreaking. Lucifer gave him a reassuring smile.

"Fine. I’ll stay."

Alastor sighed with relief before closing his eyes, soon soundly asleep. Lucifer looked at him affectionately. It was okay… He’d be okay, at least.

~

The next day, Lucifer could not focus on his classes. Actually, he could not focus on anything, really… His mind kept drifting towards Alastor. Was he alright? Was he in pain?
The school seemed so empty without him. How many times did Lucifer dream of the moment where he would not have to see his rival’s stupid face every day. But now that it was the case, he felt no joy at all. It just felt… off.

Their room was so empty as well without that annoying clean freak. Maybe Lucifer should hide rubber ducks in his side of the room…
Alastor would be mad, surely. The blond laughed at the sight. That would be delightful, actually…

He recalled the moments spent side by side on the mountain, astray from civilization with only each other’s company as comfort. Yes, it had been awful, and yes, they could have died, but somehow, Lucifer had had… fun? In some sort of twisted way?
Mostly thanks to Alastor. Because Alastor, though he would never admit it, had been an absolute sweetheart.
Gosh, he was so hilarious when feverish or drugged… There was a sweet side of him, a side Lucifer would have never thought to see. And yet…

Actually, there was much more about his obstinate rival than he let on. And Lucifer wanted to learn more about him, get to know him better, getting to know the real him. Not the smiling façade… No, who he really was, deep down inside, at the bottom of his heart.
Not that he cared… after all, they were enemies. He was just curious, that was all. Gathering information for the next time they’ll argue! Yes, that was it. He was not concerned, he was simply… investigating.

And it would be in that same spirit of… investigation that he counted the seconds till the end of the school day, waiting for the moment where he could finally come visit Alastor.
To bring him his homework and notes, of course. It would be unfair for his rival missed class, after all.

When he arrived, Husk and Niffty were already there. Alastor seemed to be engaged in a rather passionate soliloquy, animatedly retelling the tale of their misadventures.

" … it was barely hurting, of course. I am not lowly enough to fuss about such a superficial injury! Which would never have happened if it were not for that mountain path that was definitely not secure. Anyways, we were in the wild, all alone. Lucifer was scared, of course, but I was very brave, for there is nothing I fear! Despite my weakened state, I managed to reassure him, and–"

"You liar! You cried for your mama while I held you in my arms…"

Alastor turned bright red.

"That was not… I forbid you to even… You promised not to–"

"Well, then maybe you shouldn’t have lied!"

"You will regret this."

"Oh yeah? Make me."

Husk and Niffty exchanged a knowing look.

"The ultimate bad boy has returned!" whispered the tiny red-haired, while her grumpy companion facepalmed with a sigh.

"I don’t have time for this homosexual drama…"

Both Lucifer and Alastor blushed instantly.

"Hey! This is not…"

"Husker… remember where your allegiance goes. It would be a shame if something… misfortunate were to happen."

"And what are you gonna do with your leg like this?"

Alastor frowned, trying to sit up.

"For the record, I can still… OW!"

"Al, stay still, the blond whispered. It’s not worth your time."

Husk shook his head in disbelief.

"Yeah, whatever. We’ll leave you lovebirds alone. Come Niffs."

"Yayy!"

Once they were gone, Lucifer flashed his brightest smile towards Alastor.

"Soooo, who has the upper hand now? Not feeling all so high and mighty now, don’t you?"

"At least I know better than to make fun of a poor, bedridden, defenseless innocent. Not very chivalrous of you, Morningstar."

"You are not innocent, you prick."

"Oh, and what are my crimes?"

Alastor’s shit-eating grin was back, as well as his usual sharpness. Good… at least, it meant he was feeling better. Lucifer smiled, leaning awfully close to tower him.

"Being an arrogant, obnoxious, insufferable idiot… and a liar!"

"I have a reputation to preserve."

"Because you don’t want people to know you’re a softie?"

"I am not…"

"Softie!"

"Will you cease, you bird-brained pocket-sized possum?"

"What even for an insult was that? Are you still too tired to come up with proper reply?"

Alastor simply snarled, then looked away. Lucifer felt bad instantly. Of course he was still too tired… he was at the fucking hospital, goddammit!

"I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have exploited your weakness to make fun of you."

"I’m not weak!"

"Sure… Mister the poor, bedridden, defenseless innocent."

"Once I am healed, you will regret this…"

"No doubt I will. Come now, I brought your homework."

Alastor’s face softened instantly.

"Oh. What did I miss?"

The blond then started a full ramble on all the school gossip of the day, Angel and Cherri’s latest mischief, Pentious trying – very badly – to flirt with the Australian baddie, Baxter blowing up the chemistry lab by accident…

"Oh, and by the way, Charlie says hi. She was very worried about you… Couldn’t come today, but you can definitely expect her visit at some point."

Alastor’s smile warmed.

"Salutation to her too. I hope she is well."

"She is! And while you recover, I will be the one to give her tutoring lessons."

"You can wait to see her grades plummet, though. Hopefully, I will heal fast enough to fix the mess you’ll sure have made…"

"Hey! If you want to know, I will be an excellent teacher for my dear sister!"

"You bet… she will soon beg for me to come back."

"You…"

"Yes?"

"You’re the worst moron I ever met. You’re lucky you’re cute, otherwise…"

" You think I’m cute?"

Alastor’s teasing smile was unwavering, eyes glowing with mischief. Lucifer bit the inside of his lip.

"I mean, not in a cute-cute kind of way, more like, you know, sociopathic killer look but make it hot – I mean, not hot – but you… you’re just kind of an emo edge lord disguised as a prep guy and I think it’s ado– hum, detestable – and also you look way too good it should be forbidden, like, an asshole like you shouldn’t be this handsome, and, ah, fuck, forget it, I–"

Mortified, the blond covered his face with his hands. Alastor simply chuckled.

"I know, angel dear. You’re head over heels for me…"

"Wha-WHAT? No – of course not! Anyways, I should maybe go… bye! Go to hell, fucker!"

And on that, Lucifer purely and simply fled.
Alastor smiled. His roommate was profoundly stupid, but his stupidity had some kind of charm, he supposed.

~

Seconds seemed to last minutes, minutes seemed to last hours and hours eternity. Alastor did not know how long he’d still be kept in this hospital room. He missed his home, he missed his auntie, gosh, he even missed that shabby dormitory and that prideful devil of a roommate he was forced to share his space with…

Of all people, he had to miss Lucifer fucking Morningstar! He hated to admit it, but it felt nice to be in his company. There was something oddly steadying about him, a light the blond seemed to spread around wherever he went, as if he was some kind of fairy, or an angel maybe. His guardian angel…

Alastor blushed upon remembering their night alone together in the cold, the feeling of his arms around him, of feeling safe, protected… loved. It was foolish… Lucifer Morningstar hated him, and he hated Lucifer Morningstar. It was just a particular kind of loathing, that was all. The kind where they tacitly swore to remain each other’s worst enemy, that only the other could bring one’s demise and that it would be done under fair rules. It is only in such spirit of fairness that Lucifer had helped him, and carried him on his back for miles… and given him his jacket… and held his hand… and soothed his pain…

Yes. Spirit of fairness. That was all.

Ignoring that uncomfortable feeling in his heart, Alastor turned his head towards the window and looked outside. It was still raining, the sky sharing his melancholy. He closed his eyes, the sound of the storm lulling him… just like when they were…
No – this was not gonna make it. If only he could get out of here… but no, the doctors wanting to keep him in observation, whatever that means, and he was stuck on his own with his thoughts.

In an attempt to distract himself, he picked a book and tried to read for a while, but he could not really focus, eyes glaring at the page without actually grasping the words.
What now? He really hated to feel like this… helpless. Vulnerable. Exposed.

His mask was crumbling. He was looking a bit less perfect, a bit more… human? He couldn't afford to look human! If he did, then it would mean he was defenseless, it would mean people would try to take advantage of him… again. He could not let that happen, he could not let anyone close… Friendship was just an illusion, and so was love. He had to protect himself. Inspire admiration and fear, keep everyone at bay… he had to stay in control. He had to smile–

Why was it so hard? He could not…

Tears started burning his eyes, but he could not allow them to fall. He could not–

"Alastor?"

A middle-aged woman was standing at the door, her short white hair styled in elegant curls matching her bloody red lipstick.

"Rosie? You… You flew all the way from Louisiana just for… for me?"

"Of course, dear. And maybe to skin alive that pretty headmaster of yours. When I heard my baby boy got hurt, I was so angry…"

"I am fine, really."

"Nonsense! Look how pale you are… oh, that must really have scared you. Poor thing… You went through so much already… "

"I– don’t treat me as if I was fragile, I can perfectly–"

"I know, I know. I was just messing with you, Pumpkin. Now, how about you tell me how you feel? My, you’re so skinny… Good thing I brought you food."

"I told you, I am… perfectly fine…"

The tears were too much. Now they were rolling along Alastor’s cheeks, timid first, then falling in rivers, erasing the last remains of his smile.

"Aw… come here, love. You’re safe, now. It’s okay… Aunt Rosie is here."

"I–I know…"

He sniffed pitifully as the woman pulled him into a tight hug, mindful of his injuries.

"Now, how about you tell me everything that’s on your mind, huh?"

"I– I’m just scared people will think I’m weak… I can’t– I can’t trust anyone, but I… I’m so lonely…"

He then proceeded to tell her everything. His worries, that insufferable roommate of his, how said roommate actually saved his life, how much he was hurting, how much he had been afraid….

Rosie just held him tighter.

"Shhh… it’s okay. It’s all over, now."

She then smiled as she handed him a tissue. He removed his oval glasses to wipe his eyes, still sobbing softly. Her Alastor had always been so strong, so independent, it was so easy to forget how young he still was. Gently, she ruffled his hair, kissed him on his forehead.

"You’re alright, my little fawn."

He nodded calmly, before raising his eyes towards her.

"But… why do I still… how do I stop thinking about that blond idiot? He plagues my life! I cannot–"

"Oh, it simply turns out that you do have a heart, my love… as much as you hate it."

"How do I get rid of it?"

"Of what, your heart? Well, I know a few people on the black market… but this is not what you mean, is it?"

She chuckled softly, before cupping his cheeks into her hands.

"Sweetie. He is not Vincent."

"But…"

"Just because things went badly a first time does not mean it will forever be this way."

"But I don’t even like him! He’s just… prideful, and annoying, and way too competitive, and he always wants to have the last word, and he… he’s just so… frustrating!"

"Oh, it reminds me of someone!" Rosie laughed.

"What? I am nowhere near that chaotic, dumbass cinnamon roll of an overexcitable labrador with an attention deficit and a duck obsession…"

"You are more the black cat type indeed," she smiled.

"Yes. Him and I, we are like cats and dogs. Oil and water. We don’t– we hate each other!"

Rosie hummed knowingly. Young boys, they were so oblivious…
Right as she turned her head, she saw a disheveled short blond at the door, wearing a sport shirt and still damp with sweat, as if he had come directly after training.

"Sorry," he mumbled. "I did not mean to interrupt."

"Ah!" Rosie exclaimed. "Alastor, your boyfriend is here."

Her adoptive son immediately blushed.

"He is not… we are not…"

Lucifer was no better.

"I, what? It’s not… he and I? No way…"

"What are you, then?" the woman asked with mischief.

"Enemies!" they both answered with one voice.

Rosie shook her head. Unbelievable… Not one better than the other.

"In any case, I’ll leave you boys a bit of privacy. Alastor, I’ll be back soon enough. I’m staying at a friend’s… if you want to live with us for a while as soon as you’re discharged, you’ll be welcome. Otherwise, I can still come visit you at your dorm… I’m sure this little angel won’t mind," she said while winking at Lucifer.

Alastor hummed. Before leaving, Rosie turned back one last time.

"Take care little fawn, love you!"

Without waiting for an answer, she closed the door behind her.
Alastor sighed as he covered his eyes, mortified, while Lucifer laughed hysterically.

"Little fawn? This is cute!"

"Yeah, that’s just because… I liked to watch Bambi as a child."

"Awwww!"

"Shut up!"

"This is so cute. So the high and mighty Alastor does have a sweet side! Told you you’re a big softie."

"I’m not!"

"Sure thing, tough guy."

"What are you doing here anyways? You smell terrible."

"Yeah, sorry, I just had a football game."

"And?"

"We lost. I was… distracted about, ummm… stuffs."

Lucifer could not admit he thought about Alastor non-stop in a way that was frankly debilitating.

"So you came here to perfect your misery?"

"I came here because I was worried about you, dumbass! But since you very obviously don’t care…"

Confusing feelings mixed in Alastor’s heart; on his face flashed surprise, joy, fear, contempt and finally his familiar shit-eating grin from usual. Yet still, for a very brief second, the façade had crumbled.

"Indeed I don’t. Why would I? That would be ridiculous."

The blond took a hesitant step towards him. Noticed Alastor’s red eyes and swollen eyelids, the exhaustion showing on his face, the way his shoulders slightly were slumped, his gaze avoidant, his chin not as high as usual.

"Did you… did you just cry?"

"I most certainly did not!"

Yet the tears were back in the young boy’s eyes, the traitors, yet he could not afford to weep, not now, not in front of his worst enemy…

"Oh, Al…"

"Shut up! I am fine."

"I can see that."

They stayed for a moment like this in awkward silence, avoiding to look at each other.

"I brought your homework again."

"Thanks."

"How… how do you feel?"

"Peachy. You?"

"Great."

"Despite your shameful, humbling defeat in football?"

"Oh, shut up! I don’t take sporting comments from someone who cannot even walk right now."

"Well, at least, I compensate with wits and charm!"

"So behaving like a total prick counts as wits and charm?"

"Well, you came back to see me, didn’t you?"

"Someone has to take care of the wounded!"

"I don’t need your help!"

"But I’m here! What are you gonna do? Make me leave?"

"Don’t tempt me."

They were now looking at each other, eyes shining – not breaking eye contact once during their bickering.
With a mischievous smile, Lucifer leaned over Alastor, putting an arm on the bed frame.

"Well too bad, cause I am here to stay."

Alastor’s breath hitched. They were awfully close now… He could see the details of his enemy’s flushed face, his bedazzling blond hair and those deep, mesmerizing blue eyes…
Lucifer, equally troubled, suddenly jumped back, smiling awkwardly.

"A-anyways, you seem to feel better. I, um, school feels kinda empty without you, if you wanna know."

"Aww… Miss me?"

"I-I, well, I have no one to argue with, it gets boring! No one replies to the teachers’ questions now that you’re gone, I have no competition…"

"You’re free to shine, far from my shadow… I thought you’d be happier with me gone."

"Are you kidding me? You’re my light, my fire… without you, it all seems… it’s all worthless. You need to come back. When will they let you out?"

"In a few days, probably. I… I still need to choose if I stay with Rosie or come back at the dorm."

"Please, come back… I will take good care of you, I promise…"

"I don’t need–"

Alastor bit his lip, looked away.

"I… I’ll think about it."

~

It had been decided that Alastor would come back in the dorm for schooldays and stay with Rosie for weekends. His aunt had taken two months vacation to stay near him – she had her own business after all, and she could work from wherever anyways.

The boy still felt very tired and unsure of himself, clumsily walking with crutches at an excruciatingly slow pace. His leg was still hurting a lot – he had been given painkillers, but their effects were limited. Due to his bruised ribs, even breathing too strongly made him suffer.
Still, he refused to skip class any longer, even if the doctors advised him to rest a couple more days.

He had barely set foot on campus that Charlie had rushed towards him – followed by her devil of a sibling, of course – asking him three times if he was okay, if he needed anything, looking at him with concerned puppy eyes as if he was on the brink of death. It was crazy and perhaps a little unsettling how similar they were… The twelve-year-old girl would have smothered him into a tight hug if her brother had not held her back, reminding her of Alastor’s injuries.

"Oh, right, I forgot, sorry! she exclaimed. It’s so good to see you back up on your feet – or on your… foot? I guess? – anyways, I was so scared when Lu told me you fell down a cliff… you could have died! I’m glad you didn’t tho… you’re my favorite tutor and the smartest boy I know! You’re like a second big bro to me, I care about you, like, a lot!"

Alastor couldn’t help but look at Lucifer as she said it. The blond was making a clearly displeased face, rather possessive of his little sister – he was her one and only sibling after all! – and Alastor could only smile at his rival’s demise.

"Anyways," she kept on, "you must be in so much pain… Does it hurt?"

"It’s alright, dear."

It was not alright at all.

"Can I draw on your cast?"

Her brother’s face lighted up.

"Oh, yes please!"

"Absolutely not."

"Why?"

"It would look utterly unprofessional."

"Unprofessional? Dude, you’re like, seventeen!" retorted Lucifer.

"Still, it is no excuse to act in an inconsiderate manner–"

"You just have no whimsy!"

"And you just have no elegance!"

"I bet you already have a LinkedIn and all…"

" ... perhaps."

"You really are like one of those corporate no-life!"

"I’m only farsighted, that is all!"

"If by farsighted, you mean boring, bland, fun-killer–"

"Still pissed I’ve got better grades than you?"

"Well at least I’m standing on my own two feet, you jerk–"

"Enough boys!" Charlie interrupted. "Lucifer, Al just returned! You should be at least a tiny bit nicer… I know you guys don’t like each other…"

"Who could like a guy like him," mumbled Lucifer in his breath.

Alastor simply gave him a death-glare.

" …but Alastor is hurt and he needs all the support and kindness we can give!"

"I don’t… It’s just a broken leg, Charlie, no need for all this useless fuss!" the injured boy countered.

"Lu, would you look after him? You share a dorm, after all…"

"There’s no need–"

The blond sighed.

"I suppose I could maybe keep an eye on this ungrateful bastard."

"Great! You’re the best, big bro! Now that being said…"

She kept on chirping excitedly, at such a high speed that Alastor’s head started spinning. Her high-pitched voice was giving him a migraine already, how could she have so much energy? It had not even been five minutes, and his social battery was already running on empty. All of a sudden, he started feeling a little bit dizzy. He closed his eyes two seconds, wobbling dangerously…
The warmth of a hand on his back steadied him, anchoring him back to the present.

"Charlie, I think Alastor is still tired. You’ll tell him about your day later, okay? I’ll escort him back to our room."

"Oh, right! Sorry… See you later Al!"

"Bye, Charlie," he cheerfully replied.

His smile dropped as soon as she turned her back. Lucifer was still standing at his side, still supporting him quietly.

"Thank you…" Alastor whispered.

"No problem! I love her very very much, but she can be exhausting at times."

"Mmmm…"

"Besides, I promised I would look after you," the blond added with a wink.

"I don’t need to be looked after–"

The words had barely left his mouth that he tripped on his crutches and nearly fell, suddenly finding himself in Lucifer’s arms.

"Stupid… things…" he cursed under his breath.

"Careful, big guy. You good?"

"Yeah. Just… not used to walking like this."

"It’s okay. Want me to carry you once again?"

"In your dreams."

"Let me at least take your bag…"

"… fine."

As they – very slowly – made their way to the dorm, Lucifer couldn’t help but chuckle.

"What?"

"You really are like Bambi learning to walk."

"Shut up!"

"Sure thing… my little fawn."

"I will skin you alive!"

"Then try…"

Before they realized, they had arrived – Lucifer gallantly opening the door for his enemy to enter.

"Welcome back home, Alastor."

With a sigh, the wounded boy let himself fall on his bed, only for something to suspiciously squeak beneath the blankets.

"Lucifer… did you hide rubber ducks in my side of the room?"

The blond instantly blushed. Right… he had forgotten he had done that.

"Well… surprise! I was thinking that maybe your space needed a little touch up, to look a little less empty…"

"Never. Touch. My belongings. Without permission. Ever again."

"Alright, alright. Jeez… I just– I just missed you."

Alastor sighed.

"I suppose… it feels good to be back too."

~

Lucifer couldn’t sleep. No matter how he tried – he just couldn’t stop thinking about Alastor. His flawless, over competent rival, the boy with supernatural confidence, charm and wits, who was usually walking into a room as if he owned it…
Well, that boy had seemed unsure of himself for the first time since Lucifer had known him – as if the breach in his armor had not mended yet, taking as much time as his bones to repair.

The blond had noticed how tired his rival still looked, obviously – and, knowing him, that silly serious school-obsessed over performing straight-A student would soon overwork himself and crash. Hard. It was his duty, as a roommate, to ensure such thing did not happen…

It had been more than a week since Alastor had returned, and he had already started, actually. Despite being very visibly drained, the injured boy had tried to keep up the same pace as usual – catching up on all the classes he missed, taking advance on his homework, answering all of the teacher’s questions, going back to tutoring Charlie and otherwise spending all his free time in the music class playing the piano.

Of course, he was still smiling, still pretending to be fine, but the circles under his eyes kept darkening. He would not hold such rhythm for so long, Lucifer could see it. It already started to fall apart – Alastor had received a B in mathematics and had looked very pissy about it, despite quickly hiding the paper and retrieving his usual composure.

It was as if he tried to overcompensate for his weakened state, almost… by trying three times harder, despite the accumulating fatigue and crippling pain he was somehow hiding so well.
Meanwhile Lucifer… well, he had done the exact same thing as usual, which was, trying to get up in the morning, performing his daily tasks as quickly as possible to be able to slack off as soon as he could, carefree and flamboyant as ever. Still, his insults towards his rival had lost a bit of edge, bitter banter slowly turning into playful teasing.

Of course, he still detested Alastor! He was simply showing a little bit of mercy while his nemesis was still injured, that was all.

He sighed as he checked his phone – it was almost midnight; Morpheus still wouldn’t have him… great. As long as he still managed to get some sleep at all… Insomnia was nothing new for him, after all.
As he turned once more in his bed, he heard a muffled sob from the other side of the room.

"Alastor?"

Sitting up, he turned towards the origin of the noise. No doubt, Alastor was crying…
He turned on his bed lamp to look at his roommate, curled up on his side, turning his back to him.

"Alastor, you good…"

"Mind your own business. I’m totally fine…"

He absolutely did not sound fine at all. Unsure of himself, Lucifer got up, hesitated, crossed the line separating the room in two.

"Al–"

"You’re invading my space. Go away…"

"I just want to help. Tell me what’s wrong–"

"What is wrong is you being on my side of the room. Now just… just leave!"

Alastor turned his face towards him, cheeks wet with tears and eyes filled with angry sadness.
Lucifer took a step back, stayed nonetheless.
The sight was heartbreaking – he wanted to take Alastor in his arms, to soothe him, to make him feel safe.
Also, how come the guy still managed to look like a god while sobbing like a child? It was so unfair!

"Is… is it your leg that hurts?" he tentatively asked.

"It’s not just that…"

Alastor sighed.

"Since that night, everything feels upside down, and I… I no longer feel in control and everything feels too much and I’m just in so much pain yet I have to show no sign of weakness and I am so exhausted, and no matter how hard I try I always feel like I could have done better… like with that B I got, I’m just so stupid… only careless mistakes… I deserve it, I suppose, I should have… pushed harder… and, since I came back, I– I keep on thinking… but it’s alright, it does not matter, it’s just… I just… Don’t wanna do it all over again tomorrow."

"Woah… okay, that’s a lot. But, I’m here for you… and it’s okay to show signs of weakness, it’s human to know pain…"

"I-I really shouldn’t. It is childish to cry… I’m not a child anymore. I should be better at this. I apologize for the inconvenience–"

"Alastor, no! Look at me. It’s okay to cry… there, there. Let it out… if you don’t let the tears flow out sadness stays stuck inside of you and drowns you out."

"How poetic…"

"You don’t have to be perfect all the time. Or rather – being human is part of what makes you interesting, Alastor. You’re just so… incredible, because you are you."

"What I am… I am nothing more than what I show, Lucifer. That mask I forged, it is me. Without that, I am… no one."

"No! You are a very profound, emotional, sweet boy who learned too early to be strong yet who still has a heart beating deep down inside."

"I wish I could get rid of it."

"Of your heart? Please don’t… I like your heart."

A little silence followed, before Lucifer broke it again.

"Also, you’re not stupid, Alastor, you only need to rest… You’re one of the smartest people I know! It’s… it’s infuriating, even."

"I try."

Lucifer sighed.

"You… you’ve outdone yourself lately. Why do you keep trying so hard?"

Alastor chuckled.

"It’s so silly…"

"I won’t judge, I promise."

" …fine. If you really wanna know, I’m just scared that… I mean, I have to pitifully limp my way around while you continue to shine like a bedazzling star, and you already proved you were better than me in the mountain out there, and… I’m just scared that… if I fall behind, you won’t want me as a rival anymore."

"What?"

"You promised not to judge!"

"No, Al, it’s just that… shit, how could I word this… you’re literally perfect! You’re so handsome and so strong and so brilliant and so annoying, but even when you’re annoying, you still… you still look like… like the most beautiful soul in the room, and I’ve never met someone like you, and… when you enter a room you stand out instantly, you always seem to know what to do, what to say… it makes me so jealous. Compared to you, I… I’m just a complete mess. I could barely get out of bed in the morning before you moved in with me… I should be the one honored to have you as a rival."

"But you… you saved my life. I owe you something."

"You owe me nothing. Alastor, only your presence… I couldn’t… I need you, Al, I need you so badly… I wouldn’t have wanted to live in a world without you."

Alastor blushed.

"So… we’re still enemies?"

"We’re still enemies, Al. You’re my one and only rival… and nothing could change that."

Alastor smiled softly.

"Thank you, Lucifer," he whispered.

"You’re welcome! Now let’s bring you a bit of comfort, shall we?"

"What…"

"Trust me, I know what I’m doing."

In one instant, he ran around, brought his fairy lights back to Alastor’s side of the room and turned them on, before grabbing all his favorite duck plushies and putting them on Alastor’s bed.

"Take one… it will make you feel better."

"I told you, I’m not a child…"

"Well neither am I, yet I sleep with them all!"

"But…"

"Whimsy should not be reserved to children, Alastor. You deserve some softness…"

Hesitantly, Alastor took the most ragged of them all, a tiny duck that had seen better days, before holding it against his heart. Lucifer smiled at the sight. It was so, so cute…

"Good. I’m proud of you… now you look a bit less like you’ve got a stick up your ass!"

"Hey!"

Yet Lucifer was not done. He took his puffiest pillow and gently put it under Alastor’s leg, before taking one of his fluffiest blankets and draping it over Alastor’s shoulders.

"It should be better now…"

Alastor smiled.

"It is. But…"

"Wait! It’s not over…"

In the blink of an eye, Lucifer was back with bags of crisps and sweets he had hid somewhere in his mess. He then slid next to Alastor in the bed and opened his laptop. After a quick search, he finally found what he was looking for.

"Movie night! To bring you a bit of joy…"

"What? But…"

"We’re watching Bambi because I decided. I figured you’d like something familiar…"

"Lucifer, I…"

"If you don’t want to…"

Alastor’s eyes teared up again, for a very different reason.

"No, it’s perfect… thank you."

"I told you I would take good care of you," he winked.

For a second time, both boys were lying side by side – quietly watching the movie in the room now cosy and warm. Soon, Alastor fell asleep – head resting on Lucifer’s chest.
The blond affectionately looked at his now peaceful roommate, before putting his laptop aside and closing his eyes. He could have returned to his side of the room, yet he did not want to wake up Alastor, and besides, it reminded him of their night in the cave – except that now, they were both safe and sound, and Alastor was okay, he was healing, everything was good…

Everything would be alright.

~

Life was slowly settling into a tranquil and peaceful routine. Everyday, Lucifer and Alastor would get out of their room together, take breakfast together – and everyday, it was all the same. Alastor would often wake up slightly earlier, then shake the blond til he wakes up or hit him with a crutch if really, really, he wouldn’t move – it happened only once and Lucifer was still complaining about it – then, they would get ready, finally brushing their teeth together before class.

Lucifer carried Alastor’s bag. At midday, he’d take two plates on his tray since Alastor couldn’t carry one himself while being on crutches. The blond had grown quite protective of Alastor as well – always making sure he was not cold or in pain or anything. Due to the severity of his injury, he had to make regular medical checkups to ensure his leg was healing properly; Rosie would come to pick him up and drive him to the hospital once a week. He was still severely weakened, though he would never admit it, and the doctors had warned the teachers to be more lenient with him. But obviously, Alastor would refuse to take it easy, and Lucifer had made it his mission to make sure his recovering roommate did not overexert himself.

They had become a lot closer, actually – of course, they were still bickering all the time, but they looked more like a married couple than like mortal enemies. They were always together – Lucifer mindlessly yapping, Alastor playfully retorting some witty or sarcastic replies – soon becoming known as the infernal duo of Hazbin High. Everyone started wondering if they were actually dating; especially Lucifer’s friends, who were not seeing him as much now that he was following his betrothed rival like his shadow.

"Look how short king is all smitten by Smiles – look at the way he stares at him!" Angel exclaimed as he saw them passing by from afar. "I bet they’re having much fun at night in their ~shared bedroom~ if you know what I mean…"

"Don’t wanna know, Angie," replied Cherri.

"But I wanna know! I want all the details…"

"Then why don’t ya ask Niffty and… Husker? They know Alastor well, after all…"

Angel instantly blushed.

"Um… I mean, I would, but…"

"It’s about time you ask him out, no?"

The fancy pastel-pink-haired shook his head.

"Well… you see… I’m sure grumpy Kitty over here might be into boys, but I’m not sure I would be his type."

"Why? Cause you’re too much of a slut?"

"Yeaaaah…"

"Well, I’ve seen how he looks at you. He’s super into it, trust me."

"Oh? So, um, he does look at me?"

"Angel. You’re dressed in neon pink all the time – it’s pretty hard not to look at you. And also, yes he does. At least half as much as those two idiots over there… she said while waving towards the former rivals turned friends turned something complicated squabbling ten meters from them."

"Oh my gosh, don’t even dare comparing Husk to these two! A true match made in hell, I swear–"

"You’re just jealous because you are not laid yet."

"Naw, I can get laid whenever I want…"

"Talk to Husk. Now."

"Nuh-uh! Not while you and Pen–"

"Mind your own business, Angie!"

Charlie suddenly appeared out of nowhere.

"What were you guys talking about?"

"Your brother’s new boytoy," Cherri retorted.

"Ugh, you mean… Alastor? Yikes, no! They… they can’t stand each other."

"Oh, Charlie! Sweetie, just look."

"What?"

"My gaydar is going craaaazy right now," Angel smirked.

"And they are roommates," winked Cherri.

"Which means…"

Charlie blemished.

"No."

She absolutely did not want to know what her big brother was doing at night, thank you very much.
Trying to erase that piece of information from her brain, the younger Morningstar sibling walked away with a disgusted face.

~

The spring holidays approaching, most students would return to their family for a week. Alastor had already planned to stay with his adoptive aunt – after all, he did not have anything much to do.
As he finished to pack his bag, he felt a little pinch to the heart. Why did it feel like he would miss… school? Of course, he loved to learn, but leaving for a break had never brought him so little enthusiasm before.

It had been hard, though – walking with crutches was a pain and his leg often made him suffer and he had rarely felt so vulnerable before – yet somehow, it was the first time he was feeling truly supported.

Somehow, a ray of sunshine had pierced through his impenetrable walls – or shall he say, a morning star – and a softness he had not felt in a long, long time warmed his freezing heart.
He had not felt so comfortable around someone since his mother passed, actually… of course, he had Rosie, but it was different – they were not directly related, so nothing would technically prevent her from abandoning him – and he was always scared to ask for too much. As long as he was good enough, she would stay… that’s what he told himself.

But with Lucifer, it was all different. Unplanned. Unpredicted, and unpredictable.
He just... felt safe around him, for some unknown reason.
Which was highly inconvenient, for that they were still, technically, mortal enemies.

Speaking of the devil…
The little blond excitedly barged in the room, looking as ecstatic as a golden retriever high on endorphins.

"Alastor! Anything planned for the holidays?" he chirped.

" …staying with Rosie, I presume."

"So you would be free in two days?"

"Depending on your offer, I very well might be."

"Great! Cause one of my friends plays in a band and IIIIII might have got two concert places and I was wondering if maybe you’d want to come with me?"

"Why me? Don’t you have other friends?"

"Too bad, they’re all busy! Only you are left. Otherwise it’s a waste…"

He smiled awkwardly. Alastor sighed.

"Lucifer… with my leg like this, I’m not sure if standing in a crowd would be the best idea–"

"Oh, it’s seated places, actually! And we can go in advance to make sure you don’t get shoved around…"

" …you planned this in advance, didn’t you?"

"Whaaa– no!"

"You’d have taken seated places for yourself?"

Lucifer bit his lip.

"Perhapsssss…"

Alastor chuckled.

"Oh, you. It would be with great pleasure… I never went to a concert before."

"You… you WHAT? Oh, you absolutely have to– I can’t believe it! You’ll see how awesome it is."

"I suppose so."

"And we could even dress up, and wear our best outfits and all…"

"… like a three piece suit?"

Lucifer looked straight up horrified.

"To go to a concert? Absolutely not. It’s about time I take you shopping, you no-life!"

"My clothing style is perfectly fine, thank you very much."

"I– of course! I just… think you could maybe try something new? I bet you would look suuuuper hot all in black…"

"If you say so."

"Just– trust me. What about we go the morning before the concert? I could show you all the best shops in town! I bet you never went in a thrift store…"

"Why would I? And aren’t you… too rich to go in a thrift store?"

"It’s not– it’s eco-friendly and super stylish! It will be fun, I promise."

Alastor shook his head. Why did he have a bad feeling about this?
But also… Lucifer looked so hyped up, and his enthusiasm was kind of contagious.
He eventually sighed.

"Fine, but I have to ask Rosie first."

"Yay! You won’t regret it, I promise."

~

Alastor totally, whole-heartedly, most certainly regretted this. He had got Rosie’s permission at the condition that she’d drive them from store to store – she was still a little protective of him after the accident and feared taking the overcrowded metro and walking long distances would exhaust him too much – and since she was there, she had totally insisted to tag along for the fun. “I’m a simple woman," she had said, "I always love a good shopping session and a girl’s night“.

Lucifer had agreed, of course – Alastor simply rolling his eyes, since he, however, was already wondering why he had accepted to come in the first place.
The blond had already dragged them in a shop that looked absolutely suspicious. Within seconds, Rosie had disappeared through the shelvings while her adoptive son just stood there counting seconds.

The blond was already sampling clothes in his arms for Alastor to try on later, and the poised, serious, elegant, classy young man was staring at the lot with a look that was utterly skeptical – at best.

"Aren’t that kind of necklaces for dogs? There is absolutely no way I’m wearing this."

"But it’s called a choker, it would make you look super good! I mean, even more than usual and you’re already, like, god level, but–"

"It’s a no, Lucifer."

"You sure? I swear, it’s totally not weird–"

"No."

"Ugh… fine."

He then went to the fitting room with the mount of clothes his classmate had shoved in his arms, and… what was that, even?

"Lucifer, I will not be wearing leather pants."

"Whyyyy?"

"Firstly, they’re extremely tight and my leg is in a cast, it wouldn’t fit. And even, I’m just not wearing that."

"Okay," the blond pouted.

Alastor tried to pick the least dubious items, attempting to save his dignity while still not disappointing Lucifer. Still, he felt incredibly insecure – when he pulled the curtain, he wore a rather revealing top with a heart-shaped cut in the chest that showed way too much skin to his liking. Blushing hard, he looked down with heavy embarrassment as Rosie clapped her hand with excitement. Lucifer’s nose started bleeding – he could not speak, in fact, he could not process any thought.

"You… I… Uh… Wow."

"You look amazing, Pumpkin dear."

"Can I change, now?" Alastor asked with a feeble voice.

"N-no, you… you are keeping this."

"This is not me, Lucifer."

"But..."

"This is my final word."

He pulled back the curtain. Before he could argue further, Rosie laid a hand on the little blond’s shoulder.

"Lu darling, we both agree that our Alastor looks absolutely splendid like this. Yet it remains his choice – he will wear what he wants to wear. Do you know the time it took me to convince him to wear casual clothes at home instead of his formal attires?"

"He was wearing… formal clothes… at home?"

"Always in classy suits, ever since he was a little boy. Never wanted to wear anything else…"

"So he had a stick up his ass even when he was a child?"

"I can still hear you!" Alastor grumbled from the inside of the fitting room.

"Uh… sorry."

Rosie snorted as she shook her head, the blond turning crimson red.

After quite a few tries, Alastor eventually settled for a simple black T-shirt embroidered with red cryptic symbols, a long-sleeved fishnet undershirt, black cargo pants, golden chains hanging from a spiked black belt and a long silver necklace with a deer skull pendant. Lucifer, on his side, went for a pastel blue crop-top, a lacework cardigan, denim jorts, long pastel-blue socks with platform sneakers and a belt made of a chain of golden stars. He, however, totally went for a choker – also light-blue, with a star in the middle – as well as a long necklace with a blue cristal pendant. He also bought a snake-shaped ring and duck earrings that Alastor found absolutely horrid.

"It’s on me, boys! Rosie exclaimed. Oh, you look so good… I could eat you both," she chuckled.

Lucifer looked slightly unsettled by the last comment, yet Alastor remained perfectly stoic – he was used to his auntie’s morbid sense of humor that he also shared for the most part.

"Thank you, Aunt Rosie."

"You don’t have to…" stammered the blond. "I have money, my parents–"

"Nonsense, I said it’s my treat! You wouldn’t be as impolite as to refuse a present, sweetie?"

"N-no, of course."

The drive home was mostly quiet, Lucifer and Rosie idly chatting while Alastor was dozing off to recover from the shop’s loud music, bright lights and crowd that drained him.
Rosie had prepared jambalaya for lunch – it was her baby boy’s favorite dish, after all – and though Lucifer nearly choked on the spice, he still went for another plate.

"It’s so good, he complimented with his mouth full. Best dish I ever tasted… ever!"

"Manners, darling," gently scolded the charming woman.

"Sorry…"

"It’s Marie – Alastor’s mom – that gave me the recipe! She was truly the best cook in town… But her son inherited her talents, she winked. Your darling friend here is quite the chef when he finally sets his books aside to make his old auntie dinner!"

"Rosie…" Alastor grumbled.

"Oh, Al, I didn’t know you cooked! the blond excitedly chirped. Personally, I prefer baking… I really, really love desserts! Well, I nearly burned the kitchen once trying to make pancakes, but…"

"You WHAT?"

"It was two years ago!"

"I will never let you near a stove, you little walking fire-hazard!"

"But it was an accident!"

The grown woman chuckled as she watched the two teenagers bicker. Weren’t they so cute… it had been a while since she had seen her Alastor so alive. He had grown so much… she was so proud of him. This Morningstar lad was sure chaos incarnate, yet he would be good for her orderly, anxious and stern little boy.
It reminded her of her young days… what hadn’t she done either. Like that one time when she set her school on fire–

"Thanks miss Rosie! Lucifer exclaimed as he brought the plates back to the kitchen."

He then lent Alastor a hand to help him stand before pulling back his chair. It was rare to see Alastor accept such little attentions without complaints – proof that they really trusted each other.
Rosie nodded in silent approval of the little blond. He was a good kid… better than the previous guy Alastor brought home, for sure.

"Alastor, come! Lucifer chirped. We have to start getting ready for the concert… I brought some nail polish and eye shadow and liner and blush and sparkles…"

"But we’re… boys."

"So what? Make up has no gender, you silly! Now where’s your room?"

With a sigh, Alastor dragged him to his temporary lair – old-fashioned flower tapestry on the walls, a kitsch wooden bed and fluffy carpet, everything screaming ‘old lady’.

"As you can guess, it’s not me who chose the decoration… this is the house of one of Rosie’s friends, who’s in California for three months. She lent us her house in the meantime…"

"Yea, I figured… what is she, eighty year old? Who even has a has-been relic like this? asked the blond as he pointed towards an old radio lying on the bed table."

Alastor frowned.

"That, however, is mine…" he retorted.

"Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean to–"

"It is fine, you ignorant inelegant idiot. Not everyone can have refined taste…"

"Hey!"

The young boy turned on the old radio and a soft, old-fashioned jazz music filled the room with a cosy atmosphere. Lucifer smiled.

"Okay, I admit it is not too bad…"

"See?"

"Still, you have musical and fashion taste of an old-timey grandpa…"

"It’s called vintage, my dear!"

"If you say so…"

Lucifer then spread all his cosmetics on the bed before doing his own make up, putting glitter on his eyes on top of which he added turquoise eye-liner, an excessive amount of pink blush on his cheeks and a shiny lipgloss for the final touch.
When he was done, he turned towards his companion, reading beside him on the bed while waiting for the blond to finish.

"Tadaa!"

"You look like a clown."

"Hey! It’s just called whimsy…"

"Whatever…"

"It’s your turn, now…"

Alastor looked a little unsettled, unsure of what to do. Lucifer smiled tenderly.

"I can do it for you… if you’ll let me."

"Sure, whatever. Nothing too extra…"

"Just… trust me. Close your eyes…"

Very sweetly, Lucifer laid a hand on Alastor’s cheek before starting his work. When he was done, he gave his former rival a mirror.

"Alastor, you look… you look absolutely divine."

"If you say so."

It was indeed too extra for Alastor’s taste – black eye-shadow smudged from his eyes to his cheekbones and sharp eye-liner giving him a killer look, in an emo-goth fashion. Proud of his work, Lucifer was beaming with joy.

"Do you like it?"

"It is… tolerable."

He was still unconvinced, yet the blond was so happy… it was rather endearing. Maybe he could get accustomed…

Lucifer was now excitedly jumping around. In his pale outfit, he was truly looking like a beam of light… a star, a cherub, a pocket-sized angel. He was… adorable.
And… maybe the make up was suiting him.
Maybe even could one say he looked… rather pretty.
Alastor cleared his throat, looking away. Lucifer took his hand and the brunet blushed terribly.

"Now the nails!" simply shrieked the blond.

When they returned to the living room, Rosie nearly choked on her wine.

"Boys, you look… splendid. Lucifer, you did such a good work on my Alastor… my, my. My little nerdy prep schoolboy has now turned into quite the heartbreaker, I see. Such a charmer…"

"Rosie…"

"What? You look very hot, darling. Be nice boys, don’t end up in jail or something. Have fun, bye bye!"

"Bye, Rosie!" waved Lucifer.

And so, they were on their way – waiting for Lucifer’s friend to drive them to the concert hall.

~

As they were waiting in the street in front of Rosie’s temporary house, a bright pink car blasting loud music stopped in front of them in a drift – from which dashed out a hurricane of neon colors excitedly running towards them.

"Luuuuuuuu! It’s been such a long time… My, I’m so glad you’re coming tonight! And what a sweetie you brought… what’s the hottie’s name?"

The blond chuckled.

"Oh, this is Alastor."

"The Alastor? Damn, he’s even hotter than I thought! Hi, I’m Bee."

Ignoring her last comment, Alastor shifted on his crutches so he could extend a hand to the rainbow-haired young woman facing them.

"Pleasure to be meeting you, quite a pleasure!"

She disregarded his hand altogether to smother him into a soul-crushing hug. Alastor froze; his ribs were still aching and he was otherwise not the most comfortable with touch – except from Lucifer, for some reason.
Barely catching his breath, he witnessed Lucifer enduring the same treatment – maybe even worse, actually, since he actually seemed to choke as she squeezed him.

"Anyways, I hope you guys are okay! Aside from the, uh, leg…"

She winced a little as she stared at Alastor’s casted limb.

"What happened to you love? That must hurt like hell…"

"Oh, it’s nothing dear! I just fell down a cliff… a rather unfortunate incident, I reckon."

"You JUST fell down a cliff?"

"I had to carry him all the way back," teased the blond.

"No way! A true knight in shining armor…"

They settled in the car’s backseat – Bee was driving; a tall and muscular guy was sitting in the passenger seat, surprisingly calm and monochrome compared to the oversaturated whirlwind at his side.

"Alastor, Lu, this is my boyfriend Tex!"

He waved, and both boys greeted him in return.
Needless to say that Bee and Lu did all of the talking, Tex quietly nodding from time to time. Alastor was feeling strangely out of place – dressed in unfamiliar clothes, in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people. He did not quite know what to say – his charming façade and unwavering smile seeming a rather fragile protection to the uncertainty of the unknown.

It was unlike him to be so shy… usually, he always knew what to say, what to do – how to perform. This wasn’t school, though. Nobody cared if he was only scoring As, he could not make up for discomfort with politeness, could not impress with knowledge and wits. He would only be judged for himself, yet he was nothing without his mask – there was nothing more of him, really. At best, he could pass for slightly introverted, perhaps mysterious – at worst, for a creep.

So he silently watched the landscape pass through the window, losing himself in the ever-changing horizon.

After a little while, the car stopped in front of a rather modest-looking squarish building. Bee was already shrieking with excitement while clapping her hands, Tex tenderly looking at her. Alastor unfastened his seatbelt; somehow, Lucifer was already opening his door like a perfect gentleman, giving him a hand as usual.

"It’s gonna be amazing, the little blond chirped. I can’t wait…"

Just like Bee, he was buzzing with excitement. Alastor smiled. At least, it was endearing to watch…

"Gotta get ready with the band… See you boys later! I hope you’ll enjoy the concert."

"Thank you for everything Bee!" Lu replied, matching her excitement. "You’re the absolute best. Have fun!"

"I will! We’re gonna set this room on fireeeee… Metaphorically. I hope."

Bee waved them goodbye as she went with Tex to join her band and prepare for the show.
Lu laid his hand on Alastor’s back, guiding him to their seats.

"Are you well installed?"

"I am, thank you."

"Tell me if you need anything… Gosh, it’s gonna be so fun!"

Little by little, the crowd started filling the room. Instinctively, Alastor leaned slightly towards Lucifer. He had never been a fan of big gatherings and noisy places… Which, unfortunately, seemed to be quite the norm at a concert. The blond gently took his hand and smiled, and Alastor smiled in return.
They had grown used to being physically close to each other after Lucifer had carried him for hours; such comforting touch was now just the norm between them.
Even though we are technically still enemies, Alastor thought.
Were they?
Taking someone shopping and inviting them to a concert was a normal thing to do between enemies… right?
Because it was surely a plot from Lucifer to take him out of his comfort zone, make him feel anxious and prove his superiority… right? It could be nothing more –

Before he could pursue this trail of thought further, the lights darkened and loud cheering filled the room. Lucifer excitedly looked at him, before turning his eyes to the stage. Suddenly, a guitar riff broke the silence – a spot lighted up, revealing a very confident-looking Bee dazzling in a sparkling pink short dress and huge demona boots. The drummer was drumming, guitarist and bassist strumming – it was raw energy, pure rock music, both dark and powerful – something that resonated in the depths of one’s soul, like an echo of some spell long forgotten, a connection to a part of oneself buried beneath layers of city life yet that could awake by a spark alone. It was the roaring of thunder, the fury of rivers and the rage of the storm – it was the feeling of absolute, unlimited freedom – a vastness to which nothing could compare.

Then, Bee started singing – and that’s when it became truly magical. Her voice seemed otherworldly – so divine, mystical almost, her melodic lyricism completing the roaring instrumentals perfectly.

Alastor was caught – he no longer thought about the crowded room, or the noise, or the people – only remained the music, and him lost within its bewitching embrace. Never had he witnessed such an ethereal sight… A new, unknown emotion overcame him – a joy, an excitement, the feeling of living a moment that would forever feel truly special.

Then, the atmosphere shifted. The spotlight blinked, the music dropped, Bee’s glance became defiant – as if up to a challenge. She started rapping with a fierce voice, instrumental now adorned with a modern touch adding to the good old rock with medieval undertones. It was not just a concert; it was an experience, it was a time travel. And Bee stood there, majestic – she was the master of it all.

She was glowing, she was flamboyant. She was owning the stage like some sort of goddess. It was truly impressive, really.

At Alastor’s side, Lucifer was beaming. His sapphire blue eyes dazzled as a thousand stars as they reflected the spotlights. He was screaming the lyrics alongside Bee, loudly cheering, applauding like crazy. Alastor could only eye at him with adoration – Lucifer seemed so alive, so happy to be here. It was so endearing… In many ways, he was even more radiant than Bee on stage.

This, he thought, this is what I live for – why I feel happy to be alive, here and now…

Finally, Alastor relaxed a little, let the music transport him and finally existed in the moment – not stressing about the future nor analyzing the posture of everyone in the room nor being painfully aware of his own body – no, he was just, for once, letting himself be. And letting it be enough.

Because, somehow, Lucifer made him feel like he was enough.

As the concert ended, they both waited a few minutes for the crowd to disperse before themselves leaving their seats. Lucifer went first, always making sure there was enough space for Alastor to follow with his crutches without getting shoved. The blond was often looking back, making sure his companion did not fall behind. As they finally got outside, they waited by the door for Bee to join them.

The air was cold, their breath turning into fog as they spoke. Up in the sky, stars were shining; the mumbles conversation of the already sparse crowd were numbed by the stillness of the night.

"So… what do you think? You liked the concert?" Lucifer shyly asked.

"It was perfect. Thank you… Thank you for showing me this."

"You’re welcome. I was scared you wouldn’t like it. I know it’s somewhat new for you… but also, I did not have any other ideas. And I wanted to impress you for our first date!"

" … date?"

" Oh, I… I thought you would have figured by now. I… I’ve been wanting to tell you this for a little while now. I… kinda like you, Alastor. Like, I kinda like you a lot."

"What… what do you mean…"

"I… I have a crush on you?"

The blond’s cheeks were fully red, now. He looked away, nervous. Alastor took a step back.

"So… so you were just using me? All of this, it was just to have something from me in exchange?"

"N-no, I…"

Lucifer raised his eyes. Alastor looked horrified, and… betrayed. Conflicting feelings were showing on his face. His brown eyes were glaring with anger, his smile was tense, his voice broken with sadness.

No no no… This was going all wrong…

"Alastor, no! I would never–"

"Shut up! I trusted you. I actually trusted you, and you… you only wanted something from me, like all the others. I–I hate you!"

"No, wait–"

Alastor was already leaving. Lucifer wanted to run after him, to clear the misunderstanding, yet the tall boy brusquely turned, lightning in his eyes.

"Don’t follow me, Lucifer. I think you’ve done enough…"

The little blond stopped his race, watching his dear companion get away as fast as possible on crutches until disappearing in a nearby alley.
Tears started glistening in his eyes.
How… how could this all go wrong…

Alastor, now far from the blond’s sight, eventually sat down on the cold pavement with a sigh, taking out the new phone that his auntie gave him as a replacement for the one that broke. He composed her number.

"R-Rosie? Can you pick me up?"

He sniffed as he hung up, tears falling freely on his cheeks.
When the car finally stopped in front of him, he slid in the passenger seat without saying a word. Rosie greeted him with a loving smile.

"Oh, Pumpkin dear… what happened?"

"Nothing…"

"How was the concert? Little blondie is no longer with you?"

"The concert was fine."

"Should I murder that Lucifer if he’s the one who made you cry?"

"I’m not crying."

"Right, sweetie… So?"

"Whatever. I don’t care. I never cared about him anyways."

The rest of the ride happened in silence, most of Rosie’s questions remaining unanswered.

~

Lucifer spent the rest of the night with Bee and Tex, crying all evening in his pineapple pizza while they all watched Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind – and maybe a part of him wished he could actually forget Alastor, and never think of him ever again. He was glad his friends were here to comfort him, at least… The couple patiently listened to him weep and whine and whimper until late, still not understanding what went wrong.

The night had been perfect. Alastor had seemed to have had fun, from what he had noticed. They were still getting along perfectly, they still had the same chemistry…
He had thought…
But maybe he had been a fool to think someone like Alastor could love a disaster like him. Maybe he had never been good enough in the first place. Alastor was a literal god, and him… he was just a depressed, short, distracted teenage dirtbag. At best.
Maybe there was just something wrong with him. Maybe he was inherently unlovable…
Yet Bee’s hugs and Tex’s warm smiles prevented him from spiraling further.
At least, he was not alone in this… he was grateful for their kindness and support.

The worst part was when he returned to the dorm – it’s not as if his parents wanted their children back for the holidays, so Charlie and him usually stayed in the boarding school until the end of the break.
So he was forced to stay in the room he shared with Alastor.
Where literally everything reminded him of Alastor.
Oh god, that would be so awkward when he’d come back…
Lucifer had barely enough energy to get out of bed. He spent the following days crying, barely eating anything, with only Charlie there to support him.
He was about to spend yet another morning wallowing in sorrow and despair, when he received an unexpected text.

Rosie: What did you do to my boy?

Luci: What? What do you mean?

Rosie: Don’t lie, I haven’t seen him this sad since his mother passed and he won’t tell me anything. So, what happened?

Lucifer stupidly blinked at the screen. Rosie and him had exchanged numbers before the concert in case anything happened – yet he had not expected her to text him so bluntly. His eyes burned with angry tears as he shook his head.
Oh, so he cares now?

He couldn’t help but feel a sting of anger in his heart. Why would Alastor have rejected him if it made him so miserable? It didn’t make any sense.
Yet at the same time, the thought of his beloved roommate being so affected was kind of heartbreaking.
Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to remain calm.
No rash decisions, don’t do anything impulsive or stupid…

Luci: Nothing, that’s the problem! Nothing happened. I confessed my feelings for him and he just ran away. But it’s okay… I suppose he’s too good for me anyways…

Rosie: Oh no…
Rosie: I understand better now
Rosie: There’s something you should know about Alastor. It’s not mine to tell you that story, he will explain the details himself if he wishes, but you must know that the last time my dear boy got romantically involved with someone, it has been a total disaster. The guy was a total creep… it took proportions beyond imagination, and Alastor even had to transfer schools because of this. Now, my sweetheart has always been distrusting of people, but this… I think it completely destroyed his already skeptical vision of love. I’m sorry you had to go through this… He will need a lot of patience and time before he’s able to trust someone again.

Lucifer opened his eyes wide, recalling Alastor’s words. “I trusted you… I actually trusted you“… everything made so much sense now. And still, despite everything, Alastor had decided to trust him.
And he…
Of course, he couldn’t know, but…
Oh god, Alastor must have thought…
Wiping his eyes with his hand, the blond stifled a sob before reading the next message.

Rosie: If you two manage to talk things out, you’ll have to be extra gentle with him. Do you think you could do that?

Luci: Of course! Anything to make him happy… I’m sorry I messed up the first time. If there’s any way I could make it up to him…

Rosie: You know what? Why don’t you come tell him this in person? I don’t think I’ll stand to see him sulking one day more

Luci: Thank you sosososo so much! I won’t let him down this time

Rosie: You better do good. If you harm him in any way, I know where to find you…

Luci: Understood. Coming asap! Thank you again

Rosie: You’re a good boy. Don’t mess up

Luci: I won’t I promise

Jumping from his bed, the blond quickly took a shower and put on his nicest outfit before being on his way.
Soon he arrived; more anxious than ever, he took a deep breath and rang on the door.
As expected, Rosie opened with a smile.

"Aw, come in sweetie! I must warn you, perhaps he will not be delighted to see you…" she whispered. "I didn’t tell him you’d come."

"It’s alright…"

He entered, came into in the living room… and stopped mid step, flabbergasted. Nothing could have prepared him for the sight spread before his eyes.
Upon hearing the noise, the wounded boy distractedly asked without looking:

"Rosie, who is it? Were we expecting someone?"

Alastor, otherwise always the epitome of perfection, lied curled up on the sofa with a fluffy blanket wrapped around him, his injured leg resting on a stool. He was deeply absorbed by a true crime documentary playing on TV; from the dirty plates and mugs surrounding him, he had been there for a while. The usually impeccable boy was now wearing dirty pajamas, floating in grey linen shorts and an oversized deer patterned T-shirt stained with what appeared to be tomato sauce. His curly hair seemed greasy, unruly locks falling before his red swollen eyes underlined with deep, dark circles. He was the perfect image of despair – eating ice cream straight from the pot and surrounded by wet tissues.

The sight broke Lucifer’s heart, but at the same time, it was so ridiculous he had to hold back a snort.
He hated to see Alastor so miserable, yet it also felt good to see him so… human.

The brunet turned, freezing upon seeing the blond – like a raccoon caught stealing in the trash. His eyes immediately glazed with pure, sheer fury.

"You! he howled. What are you doing here? Get out from my house! I never want to see you again…"

He then proceeded to threaten him with his spoon, pointing it in his direction as if it were a weapon.

"I swear, if you don’t leave now, I will dismember you! I will eviscerate you and hang you with your guts and–"

Rosie sighed.

"Alastor, I love you but I don’t believe watching serial killer stories for three days straight is good for you. You boys should talk, I will not involve myself any further in your business."

Still, her adoptive son had no intention of getting less feral – now starting to throw pillows at Lucifer like a cornered raccoon with murderous intent.
The blond straight up ignored him as he sat on the opposite end of the sofa, still staying at a respectful distance.

"Alastor, I’m sorry…"

"What?"

"I shouldn’t have dragged you into all of this, I shouldn’t have rushed you, I’m so sorry… I, uh… I should have waited for you to be ready, I should have asked you, I… I’ve been careless. I’m sorry if you felt trapped and surprised, this has never been my intent… I never wanted to force you into a relationship. I just wanted to express… how much you meant to me."

"Liar…"

"No, I mean it! I do not expect anything from you in return! If you want to keep things as they have always been, it is fine. If you don’t feel the same, it is fine. Just being in your presence is enough for me… You’re a wonderful person, Alastor, you deserve to be happy. I just want what’s best for you, and if what’s best for you means me staying away, then… then I will. But I just wanted to clarify this."

Alastor froze, all hostility suddenly leaving him. Another feeling started to light up in his heart – a pervasive, dangerous feeling – hope. A hope he did not even want to feel… what if he was disappointed again? But he couldn’t help but wish that, maybe, Lucifer had in fact been genuine.

And above all… his own heart – the traitor! – did not want the blond to leave.

"Wait… so this was not a carefully orchestrated trick to get me to have sex with you?"

Lucifer opened wide eyes in horror.

"Wha– what? No! Of course not! Who would even do this?"

Alastor started shaking in relief, released from a tension he did not even know he had been feeling. Tears filled his eyes; he pathetically sniffed:

"I thought… I thought you did not actually care about me. That this was just to have something in exchange. I thought… I thought I meant nothing to you in the end…"

"Al, it’s the exact opposite… I would never force you, to anything. Gosh, I’m already honored to exist in the same universe as you… I like you for who you are, not for what you can give."

"I… I have been rather stupid, have I?"

"No… I should have been clearer… I’m so, so, so sorry…"

"No, I’m the one who should be sorry…"

Alastor took a deep breath.

"Lucifer, I… I kinda like you too. I mean, you are tolerable. I suppose."

He was blushing so hard, looking away. Lu felt his heart melt. How could he be so cute? He just wanted to squeeze him in his arms…

"Y-you do?"

"But… there’s something I must tell you. I… the last boy who told me he loved me, he… "

Alastor swallowed.

" … he… he was…"

"He was an asshole and the only reason he’s still breathing is because Alastor told me not to intervene," said Rosie as she came back in the room and sat beside her adoptive son.

A chill ran down Lucifer’s spine. Despite her being the sweetest woman he had met, he totally believed her capable of murder – especially when it came to protecting her family.

"It’s… fine. He would not have been worth the trouble…"

"I know, sweetie, I know…"

Rosie affectionately rubbed Alastor’s back in a comforting gesture.
He took a deep breath, before he found the courage to look up at the blond again.

"Vincent and I were best friends at the time. He and I, we had similar interests… the same deranged humor… it instantly clicked. We were inseparable. I… I have always been kind of a loner. It felt so good to finally have a friend… but then, he started taking interest in me, in another way. He confessed, told me I was the most precious thing in the world, that I was an inspiration to him, that he wanted to be my partner… I was unsure of my feelings – I don’t even know if I’m capable of love – but I thought that maybe I could give it a shot. It was not bad at first, he was very sweet to me, kind of a simp actually, but after a while… he… he wanted something more. Told me that if I didn’t comply, he would call things off. That I would be a terrible boyfriend if I didn’t –"

His breath hitched. Lucifer made a move towards him to comfort him, yet Alastor raised his hand to stop him.
He continued:

"So, one night that I was sleeping at his place, he… he insisted, and I… I let him touch me. I took… I took his– I took his cock in my mouth until I fucking puked. I-l let him fuck me dry… he didn’t even use– he just… It was… rather… uncomfortable. I told myself I had to bear the pain, that it was my duty as a boyfriend… that I was actually defective for not feeling any pleasure, that I should fix myself, that it was my fault if I did not desire him the way he desired me… I– I thought… I… "

"Alastor, I’m so sorry… this… this is so wrong…"

He shrugged.

"This was not even the worst part. After this…"

Taking a few seconds to collect himself, he went on:

"After this, I… started to doubt our relationship. I was not sure this was something I wanted… Vincent, he… he treated me as a possession. He objectified me, objectified my body, compared my appearance to other boys’, became increasingly jealous and possessive, wanted me to be with him all the time… every time I raised a complaint, he moaned and whined for hours, acting like the victim until I backed down. It got… suffocating. After I reached my breaking point, I eventually broke up with him… but… he... he didn’t stop…"

Alastor closed his eyes. He was breathing terribly fast, now. Rosie was still rubbing his back, looking at him with concern.

"My sweet fawn, you don’t have to tell him if it’s too hard for you…"

"N-no, I want to! I want him to know. Just… give me a minute…"

"Oh, love… do you want me to tell the rest of the story?"

Quietly, Alastor nodded. Rosie turned towards Lucifer.

"So, that questionable individual was not the type to take no for an answer. He quickly started to follow my Alastor everywhere, pleading for him to take him back. At times he’d shower him with compliments, at other times he’d straight up insult him, or try to guilt-trip him once again. Thank God, my dear boy is way beyond that… upon seeing nothing worked, Vincent behaved like a creepy stalker. He harassed Alastor online, sent him messages at any time of night and day until he blocked him, turned the entire school against him… He even followed him home, banging at the door while begging for Alastor to open. He ran when I greeted him with a baseball bat. Of course, my boy acted unbothered, as usual, but… I could see him getting more and more tired. He was no longer safe… One day, he cornered Alastor in a dark alley. Asked him to fuck him or he’d beat up his ass. Of course, my Alastor was very scared, nearly frozen by fear. Many would have been petrified, but somehow… somehow he found the resources in himself to fight back. When he returned home with bloody hands and face, I knew we had to do something. It could no longer go on, he could not live in fear like that… Of course, I would have liked to take care of that Vincent nuisance myself, but Al told me not to. That he was not worth the pain. And the headmaster wouldn’t do anything, no matter how much I insisted. All of this because that brat’s family was rich… So, my boy moved to the other side of the country. I was scared to let him go alone, but he insisted it would be fine, and also, I made sure to check with the school administration that such thing would never happen again. All of this to learn that my dearest sweetheart fell down a cliff–"

"Rosie!" Alastor whined.

"Sorry, I know… still, I think you went through enough suffering already. You deserve a bit of sweetness…"

"Mmmm…"

Lucifer looked at him – shivering, trembling, seeming so vulnerable yet still so strong… he did not know what to say. He just wanted to take him in his arms, to comfort him, yet perhaps it would be too soon… eventually, he stammered:

" … this is awful, I’m so sorry… you’re so strong, after you went through all of this– if there’s anything I can do…"

Alastor finally looked at him, eyes wide open with fear… and something else, something hopeful and fragile that could shatter at any moment. Hesitantly, he took Lucifer’s hand into his.

"You… you still want me… even after knowing this?"

"Of course! I want to give you all the love that scumbag didn’t give you… I want to show you how it really feels to be loved… I promise, I won’t be like him. If I ever start to be like him, please tell me, because I just… I couldn’t stand hurting you…"

"You… you are not. But I… I might need… time…"

"Don’t worry. We can go at any pace you want. As long as you are happy, I am happy…"

"Thank you…"

Alastor raised a tentative hand that Lucifer took in his, very sweetly, without rushing. Reassured, Alastor leaned in closer, still cautious in his movements, before ashamedly freezing.

"Perhaps you shouldn’t touch me… I haven’t showered in quite a few days, I’m– I’m probably stinky…"

Lucifer snorted.

"I couldn’t care less. Come here…"

The blond took him in his arms in a comforting gesture, without caging him. Alastor snuggled against him.

"I… I think I missed you."

"I missed you too, silly!"

Lucifer hugged him tighter, lifting him gently to sit him on his lap. It felt so good to feel the warmth of Alastor’s skin beneath his clothes, to hear his heartbeat, to feel him close…
And perhaps he liked this raw version of Alastor, the one without the armor. Now the tall boy was clutching to him, afraid he might disappear.

"It felt just… wrong not to have you in my life. Thank you for coming back… thank you for not giving up on me…"

"You should thank Rosie. She’s the one who summoned me to pull you out of your despair…"

Alastor chuckled.

"I’m ridiculous, aren’t I? She told me I 'look like Bridget Jones after a breakup'. Whatever that means… We weren’t even together!"

"Do you… want us to be? Together, I mean–"

The brunet hesitated.

"Perhaps… if we’re going slow?"

"Of course… anything you want!"

"Then… would you like to be my… boyfriend?"

The word sounded so strange in his mouth. The last time he uttered it, it was to talk about Vincent…
Maybe he’d need a whole lot more healing than he anticipated.
Fortunately, Lucifer was here for him, now… more than willing to show him a healthier vision of love.
The blond nodded.

"Yes… yes, I would very much like that."

Alastor’s breath hitched. He was so scared… how could he ever love anyone after–
But Lucifer’s embrace was firm and steady, anchoring him in the present and preventing him from spiraling towards the past.

"Aww, aren’t you so sweet!" Rosie exclaimed as she looked at them with unlimited fondness.

Both boys startled. They had fully forgotten about her presence…
The white-haired woman snorted.

"Oh, you! I’ll leave you sweethearts a bit of privacy now. You better be nice! Al my dear, if you need anything, I’ll be right in the room next door. Feel free to call me at any time, okay?"

"Thanks, auntie…"

"Lucifer, if you do not take good care of him, I’ll skin you alive!"

Rosie’s smile was unwavering, yet her eyes were shining with a concerning homicidal glaze. The blond swallowed.
Now he understood where Alastor’s strange habit of smiling inappropriately came from.

"Understood… he’s safe with me."

"He better be!" she hummed as she closed the door behind her.

Alastor covered his cheeks with his hands, mortified.

"Oh good hell… she can be so overprotective at times, I’m so sorry…"

"She loves you," Lucifer chuckled.

"Apparently so…"

Blushing terribly, Alastor buried his head in the curve of Lucifer’s neck.
The blond gently stroked his damp hair. Alastor almost purred.

"Can I… can I kiss you?" Lucifer shyly asked. "You can totally say no…"

Quietly, Alastor nodded. He stiffened, expecting Vincent’s hungry, rough tongue invading his mouth… only to feel very soft lips brushing against his, gently, in a very chaste kiss. It was so gentle… so unlike anything he’s known before.

It was almost… healing.

Immediately, Lucifer looked at him with concern.

"You alright?"

"Y-yes. Can we… can we do it again?"

"Yes, please…"

This time, Alastor was the one to lean forward, sliding a hand behind Lucifer’s head as he pulled him close. It was new for Alastor to be the one… wanting. He always thought love was about taking without complaining, about giving up freedom and independence… why then, did Lucifer make him feel safe and protected and warm? He made him feel like he could finally drop the armor, be a more unfiltered version of himself…
Never had he ever felt this way with Vincent. It was quite the opposite, in fact…

He shifted even closer from the blond, only to wince upon moving his injured leg beneath him.
Lucifer immediately looked at him with concern.

"Is everything okay?"

Alastor grimaced.

"My leg… it… hurts…"

He was too tired to pretend being strong right now. In the safety of his own home, he finally allowed himself to stop hiding his pain. He knew the blond wouldn’t mind…
Gently, Lucifer placed a caring hand on the cast, laying the wounded limb on one of the sofa’s soft cushions. He then readjusted the blanket on Alastor’s shoulders before worryingly cupping his face in his hands.

"Did you take your painkillers recently?"

"Define 'recently'."

"Alastor…"

The brunet sighed.

"Not in a few days, no."

"I’ll get them for you… I should also put that ice cream pot back in the freezer," he chuckled.

The brunet immediately shot up, trying to found where on Earth he put his crutches.

"I’ll– I’ll do it! This is my home, after all. Sorry… it’s such a mess, I should…"

Lucifer gently forced him back on the couch.

"There… you need to rest. Let me take care of everything, now… let me take care of you."

"But I can–"

"Shh, I know. I just want to… if you’ll let me…"

Quietly, Alastor nodded. The blond cleared the messy table before bringing everything back to the kitchen, before returning with the medicine and a glass of water.

"Thank you…" Alastor muttered.

He then returned to sit on Lucifer’s lap, eyes half-lidded with fatigue as the emotional intensity of the past days caught up on him. The blond draped the blanket around them both, gently kissing Alastor’s forehead.

"What were you watching, by the way?"

Immediately, Alastor’s face lighted up with excitement, all exhaustion gone as he passionately chirped:

"Oh, it’s a series about one of the most famous serial killers of all times, the Bayou Butcher! He operated in New Orleans in the 1930s, dragging his victims in the swamp at night then dismembering them with an axe to practice occult rituals with their blood! What is particularly interesting about him is that–"

Lucifer lovingly listened to his boyfriend yap about true crime with a manic smile, wondering if perhaps he should fear for his own safety. Yet he didn’t mind… Alastor was happy and it was all that mattered.
Rosie quickly returned with tea – probably spying on them since the very beginning – and the three of them snuggled on the sofa watching the rest of Alastor’s disturbing documentary. The brunet was cheering at the gory detail, his auntie sipping on her tea with an enigmatic, somewhat deranged look – only Lucifer was wincing at the sight of blood, covering his eyes when images became way too unbearable.

Damnit, am I the only normal person in this house? he whined to himself in front of the other two’s lack of reaction.

Yet Alastor’s embrace and gentle kisses were enough to make him forget any hint of discomfort.
They all ate pizza in the warmth of their cozy home – Alastor not letting Lu put pineapple on his – united by their love for the injured boy. For once, Alastor felt fully safe. For once, Lucifer felt like he belonged in a family. And for once, Rosie did not feel like murdering her adoptive son’s partner.

It was all getting well in the best of worlds. Lucifer even stayed for the night – Alastor would not let him go too far from him anyways. They stayed entangled until late, talking about everything and nothing – Lucifer holding a now showered Alastor in his arms – from time to time exchanging little kisses or words of affection. Finally, they closed their eyes from exhaustion.

"Goodnight Alastor…"

"Goodnight Lucifer…"

"I love you."

"I– care about you too."

"Of course…"

Lucifer smiled. Alastor was going at his own pace, yet he was making so much efforts already…

After what happened with this Vincent guy, he was already willing to place his wounded heart in the hands of another.
And Lucifer was so touched he got to receive that honor…
And now, he finally got to cuddle his boyfriend…. Boyfriend! His boyfriend was the most handsome, smartest, wittiest, strongest, most amazing person on this entire planet.
His heart was about to explode…
He loved him, so, so much…

Overflowing with happiness and excitement, he looked at Alastor already asleep in his arms.
He was so beautiful…
The blond felt so lucky on that particular moment.
He’d do anything to protect his beloved Alastor, to make him feel loved and safe.

~

The sun was already piercing through the curtains when Alastor opened his eyes. Slowly blinking, he smiled fondly at the sight of Lucifer gently snoring, curled up against his chest. The brunet tenderly held him in his arms, letting him sleep a little bit longer. Surprisingly, Morningstar had never been a morning person…

He should have been named Midnightstar, Alastor thought to himself. But he’s way too bright… Like the sun… like an angel…

After a while, the little blond stirred and opened his eyes.

"Hi sweetie…" he said.

"Hello dear," Alastor replied. "Did you sleep well?"

"Mmmm yes… just five minutes more…"

"It’s already almost midday, love."

"But I wanna stay like this foreverrrr…" he whined.

"You would die of thirst within three days," Alastor corrected.

"I– this was metaphorical, you moron!" retorted Lu, now fully awake.

"Well, you should choose your metaphors more wisely."

"You’re such a romance killer…"

"Apologies if at least one of us has to stay realistic…"

"Apologies accepted."

"I was not– this was just a formal way of– I was not literally saying sorry!"

"You should choose your metaphors more wisely, then…"

Lu was smugly smiling. Alastor did not know if he wanted to kiss him or push him out of the bed.

"I hate you, Morningstar."

"I love you too, Hartfelt!"

Grumbling unintelligible insults, Alastor shoved the blond out of his way before sitting at the edge of the bed, rubbing his eyes and yawning. Lucifer looked at him tenderly. It was rare for him to see the other boy wake up in the morning… In the dorm, Alastor was often already ready when he himself got out of bed. The last time… the last time had been in the cave, when he was hurt… when he was literally dying…

"Al, I’m so glad you’re here…"

In a sudden affectionate urge, he rushed to hug him from behind.
This boy that he used to hate…
This boy that he could have lost…
This boy who has always encouraged him to be better…
… was now his boyfriend.
He loved him…

He loved him so much.

"Lu… you’re being clingy…" Alastor grumbled.

"S-sorry. Is that too much?"

"A little."

"Okay."

The blond promptly released him.

"I was just thinking… how lucky I was… that I get to be with you right now."

Alastor sighed.

" … if anything, I’m the lucky one."

"Wha– why? You’re perfect! You’re literally the best! At everything…"

"You… you saved me. In many ways. You’re my guardian angel…"

"Stop it… my life is so much better with you in it…"

"And mine with you."

They kissed; Alastor wiped his mouth, still unused to the wetness of it all. Still, it felt… nice. Sweet. Gentle.
Vincent had been a lot of things, yet never gentle.

"Wanna go have breakfast?" he asked with a still sleepy voice.

Lucifer nodded. Alastor grabbed his crutches and they both made their way to the kitchen, not leaving each other for a single second. Rosie was already there, putting bread, jam, butter, eggs and bacon, orange juice and coffee on the table.

"Good morning, boys! Slept well, I assume? If you ever slept at all," she winked.

"Rosie," Alastor grumbled.

"Aw, I was just kidding, love."

Lucifer obliviously yawned.

"Hi Rosie."

"Hi Lu sweetie! Have a seat, both of you! What do you drink? I’ve already prepared Al’s black coffee, now what about you?"

The blond blinked in surprise, not used to the warm welcome.

"A… a hot chocolate would be very nice?"

"Got you! Eat whatever you want, you’re at home now!"

"Aww… thank you!"

" … at least as long as you’re in Alastor’s good graces."

Her smile got a little bit more teethy as she looked at him like she could eat him whole. Lucifer anxiously gulped.

"O-of course," he stuttered.

"Good! Now, enjoy breakfast… I’ll be right back."

Alastor had already started helping himself, carefully spreading jam and butter on a piece of bread.

"Hot chocolate for breakfast? Isn’t that sweet…"

"I have nothing to hear from a guy who likes his coffee as bitter as his soul…"

"I thought you were quite fond of such a guy?"

Lucifer instantly blushed.

"Well, y-yes, but… oh gosh. I mean–"

"Oh, your last braincell has evaporated I see? You better drink your hot chocolate before it turns into a 'cold' chocolate… perhaps you will find back your words."

"You such a meanieee! Well, you’re no better… so cold-hearted for someone so hot… a true demon indeed!"

"Well, thank you!"

"That was not a compliment you silly!"

"You’re the silly, silly!"

"No you!"

"No you!"

"No you!"

"Shut up, you!"

"Oh yeah? Make me!" Lucifer teased with a wink.

Alastor shoved a slice of bread in the blond’s mouth.
The latter nearly choke, finally managing to swallow the food, before retorting:

"You were supposed to kiss me you idiot!"

"Was I? You told me to shut you up. I feel like it’s rather hard to speak with bread in your mouth…"

"I hate you!"

"Do you?"

"I, um… no, but…"

"Aww, silly you."

The tall boy then gently kissed the blond’s cheek, before taking a sip of his coffee.
Lucifer was so flustered he felt like he was about to explode.

They finished eating and got dressed; Lucifer was pretty reluctant to take off the pajamas Alastor had lent him – yes, it was too big anyways, but he liked the idea to wear his boyfriend’s clothes – yet he had to make himself look presentable, even if neither had any intention of leaving the house.
The blond smiled as he looked at his partner. More relaxed than usual, he was wearing a simple T-shirt and black loose pants; he still looked splendid though. Of course he did… Pensive, the dark-skinned boy was staring at nothing, lost in thoughts. Very sweetly, Lucifer took his hand.

"What’s on your mind, beautiful?"

"Nothing… don’t worry dear."

"You sure? I want to make sure you’re alright…"

"I–"

Alastor’s voice broke. He took a deep breath, trying to anchor himself.

"It just felt weird to bring up Vincent again. I often tell myself that this shit did not affect me in the slightest, however… Talking about it was… harder than I perhaps estimated. How preposterous… the past is past, it should no longer unsettle me. I shouldn’t be so… weak."

"You’re not weak, Alastor. On the contrary, you’re so strong… the fact that you’re still standing, still functioning, still holding on after all of this–"

"This was nothing. I can endure anything and nothing can reach me…"

"But you don’t have to… it’s okay to admit you were hurt. It’s okay to crave a little bit of sweetness. You don’t have to always wear your armor…"

"I don’t… I wasn’t… I should be fine by now."

"Aw, Al… it’s just like your leg. Your soul also needs time to heal…"

"My leg should also be fine by now," he groaned.

"You’re impossible."

"But it takes so long… all of this just for falling down a cliff?"

"My sweet fawn, do you hear yourself talking sometimes?"

"I just hate feeling so vulnerable."

"I know… but it makes one more excuse for me to carry you," the blond winked as he seized Alastor off the ground to lift him like a princess.

The injured boy squeaked and blushed as his boyfriend gently kissed his forehead.

"When I’m healed it’s gonna be my turn… I’m sure I can perfectly carry a short-ass twink like you."

"Hey! You’re one to talk… you’re so skinny, you’re twinkier than me!"

"I’m just very lean…"

"Well, so am I!"

"You’re both twinks and that’s okay!" Rosie yelled through the door.

Both boys blushed. Oh gosh, privacy did not exist in this house…
Without letting go of Alastor, Lucifer sat on the bed, his boyfriend safely held against him while sitting on his lap.

"Anyways, we were saying… you’re safe now."

"Mmmm…"

Alastor closed his eyes while Lucifer gently stroked his back. It was true indeed that he was feeling safe in Lucifer’s arms. He quite liked the feeling… How… unexpected.

"What do you want to do this week?" he mumbled. "We should definitely study at some point…"

"Are you fucking kidding me? We’re on holiday, Alastor. We are supposed to relax, enjoy our freedom, forget about school for a bit…"

"Precisely. We have free time, so we should make good use of it and plan ahead."

"But the finals are in two months… we have plenty of time."

"The earlier we start, the better it is. We have a lot of subjects to cover…"

"Heh. Nothing I can’t do in a day."

"Lu. If you do that, you won’t pass, no matter how smart you are."

"Aww, you think I’m smart?"

"I think you would be if you only took the time to think things through."

"What for? I have natural talent…"

"You will never beat me with natural talent alone. You would not even beat me if you work."

"Oh yeah? Bet. The loser takes the winner on a date?"

"It’s a deal."

They kissed to seal the agreement, then again, and again, and again… Eventually, Alastor leaned back, lips reddened by the contact.

"Oh by the way, it’s Charlie’s birthday next weekend! Sorry for not telling you sooner… It’s just that… you know, we fought, and…"

"Mmm, you did not want to see your ex crush who shattered your heart into a thousand pieces after you made him live literally the best moment of his life show up at your little sister’s birthday party, understandable."

"The concert was the best moment of your life?"

Alastor blushed.

"Perhaps. Though…"

He looked away.

" … yesterday was not too bad either."

"Aww, Bambi…"

They kissed once more.

"I’ll have to get her a gift," Alastor said.

"Yea, me too! I haven’t… found one yet. And she told me that if it was yet another duck, she’d make me eat it whole until I choke."

"Sweet Charlie said that? Oh dear. She must really be done with you."

"Don’t remind meeee… I cannot disappoint her."

"Don’t worry, I’ll help you choose one she’ll like."

"Hey! I’m her older brother! I’m supposed to know her better!"

"Too bad she likes me better, then!"

"She does not! You meanie."

"You sure of that? Especially that, since now we’re dating, I’m kind of her brother too…"

"Brother in law, you prick!"

"You know what they say… the family you choose is better."

"What a bunch of losers!"

"Stop it!"

"No you, stop it!"

They were interrupted by Alastor’s phone ringing. Lucifer rolled his eyes as his boyfriend picked up, making threatening gestures that the brunet splendidly ignored.

"Hello? Oh, hi Mimzy… How are you doing? It’s been a while… I’m fine! You wouldn’t believe this actually… a few weeks ago, I fell down a cliff – no, it was not a high cliff – yes I am fine, as I said! I just broke my leg, but it’s only a minor inconvenience… by the way, did I tell you that I have a boyfriend now? No, he’s nothing like that self absorbed wannabe influencer tech bro manipulator… I promise, it’s alright… Actually, the two events are not entirely unrelated… yes, Lu’s the one who… came to assistance… no, do not call him my savior! Not my hero either! He… He’s right beside me, it will get to his head… no… Mimz, come on… oh, you need help with an assignment? Sure… I’ll do it right away. Yes, we stay in touch. Bye."

He sighed as he finally hung up. Lucifer gave him an interrogating look. He explained:

"Mimz is an old friend from New Orleans. She’s the sweetest, but she can be quite exhausting at times…"

"I thought you were kind of a loner?"

"She was the exception. Oh, but she’s a party person, she comes and goes. Not the most reliable and often comes to me when she needs help, but she was there for me after the… after the whole Vincent situation."

"I’m glad, then."

"I should better start this assignment, then…"

"You don’t have to do it if you don’t want to, you know…"

"Oh, but I don’t mind. Schoolwork is often fun anyways."

"You fucking creep… wait till you have actual hobbies."

"I have true crime and piano."

"That’s what I said!"

~

Lucifer eventually spent the rest of the week with Alastor. Rosie was more than delighted to host him – in fact, she seemed to have grown quite fond of her “sweet little angel“, as she called him, yet he was not quite sure if it was because he made her baby boy happy or because she held the secret project of eating him whole. Regardless, he was fully welcome and had already made himself at home. He actually went back to the dorm to get more clothes that somehow were now spread all over the house, to Alastor’s greatest despair.

"Lu, how do you even managed to put one sock under the sofa and the other on top of the bookshelf?"

"Whoops… sorry!"

"You also left a half full hot chocolate mug in the bathroom… Seriously, I refuse for my house to become an extension of your side of the dorm that is messy, unhygienic and atrociously eclectic!"

"Al, could you please stop being a clean freak for a second?"

"This is my house, with my rules!"

Rosie rolled her eyes as she passed by.

"Technically, it is mine… Lu can do whatever he likes, I don’t mind."

"Auntie! Why are you picking his side? And technically, if you really insist on being precise, it is not even yours but your friend’s!"

"Alastor! Sweetie. Don’t you forget whose care you’re under! This is no tone to speak to your dear auntie… is it? I didn’t raise you like this."

Her smile got especially teethy as she stared at him with a menacing grin. Alastor froze.
He had misstepped. She was going to abandon him. He would lose everyone all over again… He was destined to be alone… unlovable… something was wrong with him…
They would all leave him…
Like his father did…
Like his mother did when she died…

"Alastor, shhh… it’s alright," Lucifer’s soothing voice rang from afar. "No need to fuss over a little bit of mess…"

"It’s not… It’s not just a little bit of mess! It’s just…"

Rosie preferred Lucifer over him.
Of course… how could anyone love him…
How could Lucifer even love him…
He was just…

"Alastor!"

A demon.
A freak.
A monster.

"Alastor, please… Lucifer pleaded. Tell me what’s wrong…"

"Lucifer, step aside, please," Rosie firmly ordered.

She very gently cupped her adoptive son’s cheeks into her hands.

"Alastor, you’re gonna breathe for me, okay? One… two... three… hold… then let it out… good. Again…"

The young boy suddenly realized how short of breath he was; air struggled to fill his lungs through his shaky gasps, he was suffocating…
Was he… panicking? Was it happening again?
He tried his best to focus on Rosie’s instructions. Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale, again and again and again…

When he felt more anchored in reality, the face of the white-haired woman less blurry and her touch more steady, he leaned away, still a bit shaky.

"Glad you’re back with us, Pumpkin," his caretaker whispered. "It’s been a while since the last…"

"I–I thought I was done with this…" Alastor whimpered.

"You know what caused it?"

"I…"

I thought you would get rid of me like one of those disobedient dogs people leave on the side of the road…
He choked. Very gently, she wrapped her arms around him. He dropped his crutches to return the embrace, holding back tears.

"Oh, my sweet baby boy… I’m so sorry… I shouldn’t have been so harsh on you like this."

"So… you won’t… dispose of me?" he sniffed.

"Of course not! My little fawn, we already talked about this…"

"But you… you… you prefer Lucifer, don’t you? He’s only been here for a few days but… I get it, he’s sweeter and… kinder than me. It’s okay. I can return to the dorm, and… find a job, and… you’ll never see me again if you wish…"

"Alastor, enough! You’re my son… just because I support Lucifer’s argument once does not mean I love you less! How could you even think that… you’re my dearest boy, my pride and joy, you’re… you’re so important, Alastor… How could you ever think I would abandon you? A little darling like you… How could I even? I love you so much…"

"But I’ve caused so much trouble…"

"Nonsense! just because bad things happened to you does not make you less lovable. None of this was your fault, Alastor. And even then, I would still accept you as you are."

"Even if I’m… broken?"

"You are not broken, Alastor, you will never be."

"And if I were to become like the Bayou Butcher?"

"Sweetie, I’d probably help you hide the bodies…"

"And if I were a worm–"

"Enough of that! Save these concerns for your boyfriend. Besides…"

She leaned closer to whisper to his ear:

"If I love Lucifer so much, it’s because I know he is just perfect for you, silly! He makes you happy, it’s all that matters, as far as I’m concerned…"

"Thank you Aunt Rosie."

"You’re welcome, dear!"

Alastor then turned to Lucifer, who had stayed quiet the whole time.

"I’m sorry you had to witness me like this…" the brunet murmured.

"It’s okay… you heard Rosie? Nothing can make us love you less, Al!"

"But…"

"Nope! You’re stuck with us, I’m afraid."

Alastor sadly chuckled as his boyfriend gently lifted him in his arms.

"Now love, we have to bake a cake for Charlie… do you think you feel well enough now?"

Alastor nodded, snuggling in the blond’s embrace.

For once, he felt like he was not alone… and it felt better than he would have expected.
Surrounded by the love of Lucifer and Rosie, he for once allowed himself to drop his guard a little.

Perhaps feelings were not so bad, after all.

~

"Lucifer, are you really sure– wait, that’s not how… did you just put whole eggs in the dough?"

"Yeah, they said to add them…"

"Without the shell, you smooth brained dimwitted damn fool!"

"And how the hell am I supposed to know this?"

" … everyone knows this!"

The blond apologetically smiled. Alastor sighed. He was at a loss of words, truly…
He jumped from the counter where he sat before taking the cursed mixture from his boyfriend’s hands.

"I love you very much but I think you should let me handle this… for both our sake…"

"But it’s not my fault… the dough wants me dead… I’m sure it’s alive… somehow. I can sense it…"

"The dough is very much not alive, and neither will be anyone having a taste of this at this rate! Now give me this."

"Buuuut… but baking is fun! I wanna participate…"

"Do you want Charlie to have a proper birthday cake, yes or no?"

"Yes, but…"

"Then let me take care of this. We can bake together another time if you wish."

"Mmmm fine."

The blond pouted as he sat on the counter, while Alastor quickly picked up the mess his boyfriend left to turn it into a proper cake-in-making. He was mixing the ingredients at ultra speed while softly humming, as if it was the easiest thing in the world. Perhaps it was, for him. Lucifer, on the other hand, had always been bad at following recipes. His scattered thoughts struggled with detailed instructions, he always ended up forgetting something. Not to mention he tended to be clumsy with the ingredients as well… but how the hell was he supposed to know eggshells were not for eating?

And there was Alastor, making it all look effortless despite standing on one leg…
It all felt unfair. Out of sheer spite, the blond threw a bit of flour at him.

"Hey! What was that for?"

"For being way too good at this."

"My, my… you jealous? It’s not my fault if you have just as much cooking ability as a startled weasel!"

"At least I don’t have the hobbies of an old man!"

"Well, at least I’m not three apples tall…"

"Really? That’s low… Okay, well… At least I did not fall off a cliff."

"I beg your pardon? You will regret this you moron…"

Quickly, Alastor retaliated before jumping at Lucifer, who yanked an egg at him before putting his head in the dough.

"Boys! Enough."

Rosie’s firm voice stopped them both, looking abashed like raccoons caught stealing. The kitchen looked like a war zone and both teenagers were not any better, both covered in flour and dough and eggshells.

"You better clean this and yourselves before you leave. My house is not a dumpster, and you are supposed to be old enough to behave. What will Charlie say if you show up in that state and without a cake, huh?"

"He started it," Alastor mumbled.

"No, he did!"

"I don’t care who started this, you better both clean! And no, Alastor, you get no special treatment cause you’re injured. As far as I know, you still have two functional arms to clean up the counter. Now, hush!"

They both reluctantly complied, and two hours later, they were both all clean and proper with a truly magnificent cake – as well as terribly, horrifyingly late.

"Rosie, we’re ready! You can start the car–"

"Tatatatata, I never said I would drive you! In fact, I have a prior engagement…"

"Seriously? But auntie…"

"You’re starting to get a little too spoiled, my dear… she laughed as she messed with Alastor’s hair. Don’t worry my dear… if there’s anything, you can still text me and I’ll be there. Lu will be here to look after you anyways… will you, Lucifer?"

"Yes Rosie!"

"Hey! I don’t need to be looked after…"

"Then you can take the metro like a big boy, then!"

Alastor rolled his eyes as he limped towards the door. The blond, however, was busy searching his bags with growing despair. The dark-skinned boy sighed with utmost exasperation.

"Lucifer, what are you doing? We have to leave, now!"

"I… I cannot find my gift for Charlie."

"Really? We’re already late, we cannot spend more time looking for it… especially if we have to get there by ourselves!"

"I know…"

"You don’t have any remote idea of where you left it?"

"Um… let me think…"

Lucifer tried really hard to concentrate, trying to ignore the increasing annoyance radiating from Alastor, before burying his head into his palm.

"What?"

"I, uh… I think I brought it back at the dorm?"

"We won’t have time to go back, you know?"

"I know… but I cannot disappoint her…"

Alastor sighed.

"Fine. We’ll buy her another on the way. If we don’t waste time, it should make it…"

The blond’s face lighted up again.

"Yes! Yes, that’s good… Thank you, Alastor."

"Welcome."

Soon they were entering the nearest store, Lucifer carrying the cake box while Alastor tried to go as fast as he could on his crutches. The blond was unsalvageable – already running around like a distracted squirrel while his boyfriend tried his best to keep him on track.

"Look, Al! There’s tiny ducklings… and here! These hats look so funny–"

"Lucifer… we’re here to find a gift for dear Charlie, so if you’re done fooling around–"

The short boy blinked, turning towards his partner. Alastor seemed tense – the crowd, the noise and the lateness clearly not helping with his nerves. He hated these huge department stores that smelled all the same and had those same big bright white lights and that horrendous music blasted horrendously too loud – it was a waste of time. Not to mention the endless lines of products that all looked the same, too bright, too colorful, to fake and very certainly produced out of unsustainable materials in dubious conditions at the other side of the world. No, really, the boy preferred old fashioned items, objects with a story seeking a new home, or carefully handcrafted marvels made with love and care… like his clothes, or his old radios… Suddenly, he blinked.

"Lu, we’re never gonna find anything for Charlie in here."

"Wh– why?"

"You really think your kind-hearted dear sister would want some consumerist bullshit produced by impoverished children with dangerous chemical products probably dejected in a river somewhere in Asia?"

"I doubt Charlie would think as far as–"

"Well, she should. Regardless, I have a better idea…"

"Al, you said it yourself, we don’t have time–"

"Do you trust me?"

The blond sighed.

"Yes. Of course I do…"

"Great! Now follow me."

Three street further was a little independent toyshop, everything made by hand by the irascible owner, Susan. Alastor knew her well by now – she had sold him an old radio she had collected in a vintage market once; Alastor had repaired it himself, with a lot of patience and some YouTube tutorials.
As expected, she greeted them with a frown and some acidic comment.

"Get out! You brats have nothing to do than to be in the streets at this hour? Oh, Alastor, it’s you! I thought I’d recognize that creepy smile. How’s your leg since last time? Still hurting much? What a silly idea to run near a cliff, I told you…"

"Greetings, Susan. I am well, thank you for asking. This is my boyfriend Lucifer–"

"Boyfriend? Huh. So you found someone who could stand your temper… good for you. Though, what a silly idea to date a man… they only ever caused me trouble my whole life. I should have gone for women…"

Lucifer chuckled, looking at his partner like an enamored puppy.

"I’ll take good care of him, I promise!"

Alastor rolled his eyes, before venturing further into the shop. Susan laughed.

"It’s okay, blondie, Allie’s the cold-hearted type!"

"Don’t call me that! the brunet retorted. Lu… you coming?"

"Yes… yes, I’m coming."

Immediately, the blond started looking around, stars in his eyes.

"You’re right, Al, this is so much better than that dumb store from before…"

The tall boy smirked, before turning towards him.

"True human artistry will always outmatch industrial slop," he declared.

"It’s so easy to forget things have not always been the way they are now… that there are other ways…"

They slowly advanced through the alleyways, Alastor smiling softly at Lu’s wonder. The blond was particularly bewitched by a tiny duck statue painted in yellow and gold, with a tiny hat on its tiny head.
Catching his boyfriend’s stare, the blond startled.

"Um, sorry, we should focus… right."

Not without looking back, he pursued his walk until seeing two winged goat plushies.

"Hey, Al! Look at them. Aren’t they so sweet?"

Alastor nodded.

"Charlie would like them."

"Hey I have an idea! How about we take one each and gift the two to her? It would be cruel to separate them… we can always give her the gifts we already have next Christmas or something."

"We could indeed."

"So that’s a yes?"

"Mmmm… yes."

"Yippee! I love you, Al."

They both paid and thanked Susan. Before leaving, Al discreetly whispered something in her ear without Lu noticing, telling her to save the duck statue for him later – with full intention to give it to Lucifer at the first occasion.

"Now, when’s the next metro?"

"Lu… we have a problem. We have to be at the station in six minutes… it takes ten to get there. I cannot run with my leg like this, and you cannot carry me and the bags… and if we miss that metro, then we have to wait twenty entire minutes…"

"What do we do, then?"

"Perhaps… you should go… without me?"

"Nah… never. I said I would look after you! Wait… let me think…"

Suddenly, Lucifer’s face lighted up.

"Wait! I have an idea. I’ll be here in 30 seconds!"

And just like that, he was gone. Alastor sighed.

"Of course…"

Lucifer reappeared with a fucking supermarket cart. The brunet opened wide, consternated eyes.

"Did you steal it?"

"Noooo, let’s say it’s more… borrowed? Anyways, get in loser!"

"What?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Not in the slightest."

"Perfect then!"

Lucifer threw his boyfriend in the cart with the bags, before running full speed straight ahead.

"Hey! Lu, stop this–"

"Wait, where’s the metro station?"

"You don’t even know– turn left! No, the other left! Careful… Aaaa!"

"Calm down, Bambi, I know what I’m doing!"

"Let me doubt this…"

That was, until Lucifer nearly dropped him in a steep downhill road. Alastor gripped the edge of the cart as he closed his eyes shut. So, this was how he was gonna die…
Somehow, Lucifer caught back the cart just as it was about to barge on the crowded street.

"Sorry, Al. Where do we go now?"

"Mmmm… right?"

He was about to throw up. This was… this was not regulatory!
Somehow, they made it to the metro – the doors closing right behind them.

"Told you… to… trust me…" muttered Lucifer, out of breath.

Alastor, still in the cart, was livid – heart pounding in his chest.

"You tried to kill me…"

"Nah… I just… gave you wings!"

"All you gave me is an almost heart attack, you absolute idiot!"

"But we made it!"

"We made it…"

The other passengers were staring at them weirdly, probably because of the cart, certainly because of the cart, but they could not care less. As the metro departed, Lucifer gently kissed Alastor’s forehead while massaging his shoulders to help him relax.

"It will be okay… you’re safe now."

"Not thanks to you!"

They arrived still late and terribly disheveled, and the cake had suffered slightly during the rather chaotic transport – though perhaps not as much as Alastor’s sanity – but they arrived.
Charlie opened the door to the improbable view, blinking slowly.

"Alastor, what are you doing in the cart? What…"

"Long story. Ask your dear brother," he sighed.

"Hey Charlie! Sup?"

"Lu? Care to explain?"

"Well my beloved weak and injured boyfriend could not run and we were late, so we improvised…"

"You… what… hang on… boyfriend?"

"Oh yeah! I forgot to tell you. Al and I are dating now! Surprise!"

"What do you mean, you forgot ? Ugh, I owe Angel so much money!" she whined. "For how long?"

"Just a few days."

"Only?" yelled Angel as he appeared in the doorframe. "Man, you really took your time, you lovebirds!"

Very softly, Lucifer helped Alastor out of the cart, strongly steadying him, before turning to his classmate.

"It’s not… that’s not…"

Alastor hesitantly looked towards his boyfriend. He knew it was his own fault if they did not start to date sooner. If he had not been so difficult to approach, if he had not turned down Lu the first time…
If he had been fucking normal…
Sensing him tense, the blond gently squeezed his shoulder.

"It was worth the wait…" he whispered.

Alastor blushed. He had no right to look at him like the cutest angel!
Lucifer giggled upon seeing his reaction, before greeting the rest of the guests. Of course, the usual gang was here – Cherri, Pentious, Niffty and Husk – as well as some of Charlie’s classmates. She seemed especially close to Vaggi, a quiet girl with long dark hair and a piercing gaze who seemed to follow her like her shadow.
Naturally, both boys noticed Charlie blushing when looking her, and the confident, bubbly girl was left a stammering mess when talking to her friend.

Lucifer chuckled.

"Hmm, so I’m not the only queer sibling. My parents will be delighted… At least, they can’t disown both of us… can they?"

"Screw them," whispered Alastor as he held the blond closer.

The rest of the party happened peacefully, Angel, Charlie and Lu wildly dancing, Alastor reading a book in a corner, Husk complaining about the lack of alcohol, Niffty chasing bugs and Vaggi watching Charlie in awe. Cherri and Pentious were nowhere to be seen – perhaps making out somewhere hidden.

"The cake is amazing, guys! You both are the best bros I could ever dream of."

"Hey! He’s not your brother. I am!"

"Lu, she admitted it! And I am her favorite…"

"There’s no favorite, sillies," she sighed. "You are impossible… both of you!"

"Of course we are…" Alastor smiled. "Though, perhaps you should not praise Lu for his baking skills. In fact, he tried to sabotage my efforts…"

"I would have done perfectly fine, okay?"

"By putting eggshells in the dough?"

Charlie laughed, gently punching her brother on the shoulder.

"Of course you would do that! Thank you, Alastor, if you weren’t there he would have poisoned us."

"Yet you charged him of bringing the cake," smiled the tall boy.

"He insisted…" she sighed.

They then proceeded to give her the gifts; every time she smiled and clapped excitedly and warmly hugged whoever bought her the present she had just unwrapped.
Angel had bought her beauty products, Cherri a customized jacket, Pentious, Husk and Niffty a polaroid camera, and Vaggi a gorgeous heart-shaped necklace that the blond girl immediately tied around her neck, kissing her classmate on the cheek to thank her – the dark-haired girl heavily blushing.
Both boys came last, yet Charlie seemed delighted upon discovering the two plushies.

"Thank you both! I’m gonna name them Razzle and Dazzle. They’re so prettyyyy…"

She hugged them both as she exclaimed:

"I’m so lucky to have you two as brothers…"

"He’s just the in law…" Lucifer whispered.

"She still prefers me," Alastor countered.

"Ugh… stop, you two, I hate you both!"

The rest of the evening unraveled in peaceful laughter and soft music. The Morningstars, Angel and Cherri danced while Vaggi, Alastor, Husk and Pentious were standing aside watching them – Niffty probably chasing bugs somewhere – that is, until the former forced the latter on the floor. Alastor was still bothered by his crutches, so his boyfriend just took him in his arms once again to make him swirl.

"I swear, for prom we will do better than this," the injured boy muttered.

"So you’re asking me out to prom?" Lucifer smiled.

"I mean, we’re dating so that would be the most logical choice…"

"I was just teasing you, big guy…"

They softly kissed, a collective “aww“ resonating in the room.

Lucifer blushed, while Alastor hid his face in his boyfriend’s shoulder.

Tired from the effort of carrying his partner, the blond went to sit on the sofa, his partner comfortably resting on his lap. Lucifer knew Alastor was usually not the most comfortable in big gatherings, yet for once his smiled seemed somewhat genuine. Perhaps he was starting to get used to these people…

They cuddled for a while, taking a break from tiring social interactions, before Charlie joined them, pleading:

"Al, can we draw on your cast please please please please please?"

Alastor sighed.

"Fine."

"Yay! You’re the best…"

"No, for real?" Lucifer smiled.

"Don’t do anything ugly…" the brunet grumbled.

Leg resting on Lucifer’s lap, he then lied down while both sibling carefully decorated the limb.

"Can I draw something too?" Niffty asked.

"Me too?" Angel added.

"As long as it’s not something of sexual nature…"

"Aww… no fun."

In the end, everyone took turns to draw their masterpiece. Alastor sighed.
This was a bad idea… he thought as he closed his eyes.

He was starting to doze off when they collectively yelled:

"It’s over!"

He sat up to see the result – which was arguably less bad than what he had feared. Lucifer had drawn Bambi with a duck, Charlie had added rainbows and sparkles, Angel had added a spider, Husk some cards, Niffty some roaches, Pentious some steampunk gears and Cherri some cherries – of course.

"Like this, you will carry a piece of us with you. To forget that you are not alone… your friends will always be in your heart."

"Friends…"

Alastor found himself tearing up. He was not used to this… to not be alone.
He had Rosie, then Lucifer, then… all of them.
He wasn’t alone.

"Thank you, everyone…"

"Aww, look at him, he’s crying!"

"I am not!"

"Yes you are… softie!"

And for once, in his boyfriend’s embrace, surrounded by the love of all his… friends, he did not wish to be anywhere else.

~

As school started again, both boys were closer than ever – never apart for too long, as if glued to each other. Their small beds made it hard for them to properly sleep together, but it was not rare for Lucifer to slide in Alastor’s bed for cuddles before nighttime. For the most part, their routine had not changed; they were already acting like a married couple before even getting together. It had only gotten worse now that they were properly dating. Wherever they went, they were in each other’s arms – except maybe in class; Alastor had firmly refused to act lovey-dovey with his boyfriend in front of the teachers. The tall boy was dragging the blond into endless study sessions; as a revenge, Lucifer was trying his best to organize fun dates or squeeze some movie nights in their already packed schedule. Still, they had to part for Alastor’s piano lessons and Lucifer’s football trainings – and still, the blond attended his boyfriend’s every concert while the brunet never missed any of his partner’s games, though he never failed to complain how stupid and nonsensical this sport was.
Lucifer had given up on playing the violin – he never found the time or the motivation to practice anyways. Alastor had gently scolded him, yet he could not help feeling guilty about this. He knew that the blond had sacrificed a lot of time to take care of him, all of this because he had not even been capable to handle himself properly due to his stupid injury…
Lucifer had assured him he had never been happier, though. With Alastor by his side, he felt like he could do anything…

In fact, that was for sure the case academically; his grades had significantly improved since the start of their relationship. As if Alastor’s diligence had had an influence on him… the brunet was still the better of them two, however. He seemed to always be two steps ahead of everyone in literally every subject, so much so that it would have been infuriating if Lucifer had not been so proud of him above all else. He felt so lucky to be dating this unbelievably handsome and smart and sassy and adorable wonder of a boy that was Alastor.
He was fully bewitched.

Alastor, on his end, had become accustomed to Lucifer’s constant presence by his side. He had thought himself not to be one for relationships, yet, unlike with Vincent, he for once did not feel like a bird in a cage. On the contrary, the blond’s support felt comforting without ever being oppressing. It felt… nice.

Life was sweet. His leg was healing, too – as time passed by came the day for him to get his cast removed – fucking finally!

Lucifer and Rosie had come with him to the hospital, each holding one of his hand as Dr. Peter finally freed him from the restrictive shell.
His limb had grown so thin underneath… forced immobilization had caused all his muscles to wither. It felt… so strange to move it. His ankle was so stiff, he was still feeling so frail…
But it was all normal, right? Now that the cast was removed, it was the end of his ordeal.

He was going to be able to walk again… this nightmare would soon be over… no more feeling weak and useless… no more being limited in his movement… and, for once, he’d be able to carry Lucifer around too and dance with him and–

"Of course, you won’t be able to walk right away just yet, Emily – the physiotherapist – informed him. Your leg suffered consequent damage, you were already lucky to heal so fast…"

"Fast? It’s been two months…"

"I know, what I mean is… you’ll need to go slow. Keep your crutches at first, until your leg can bear more and more weight… you’ll have to do quite a few physiotherapy sessions as well."

"Preposterous. The bone is healed, right? So I should totally be able to–"

"Alastor, no!"

Before anyone could stop him, he got up from the hospital bed and attempted to take a step. As expected, his weak leg gave out under him. Before he could fall, both his adoptive mother and his boyfriend grabbed him and forced him to sit back.

"Alastor, what were you thinking? Did you not hear the doctor?" Rosie yelled.

"You could have hurt yourself more…" Lucifer added.

The wounded boy bit his lip, trying to hold back tears. Would this never end? What if he… what if he never…

"I just want to be done with this," he whispered.

Rosie smiled sadly, comfortingly rubbing his back.

"Soon. For now, you will have to be brave just a little longer. Do you think you can do this?"

Alastor nodded.

"That’s my good boy…"

"But… prom’s next month… will I be able to dance?"

Both Peter and Emily winced.

"That will be complicated… I doubt you’ll be able to walk unassisted by then. But there will be other occasions…"

Alastor could feel his heart sink.
There would not be other occasions.

It was unlike him to care about silly things like prom, yet for once… for once, he wanted to have his moment of fun. With Lucifer by his side. He had thought they could show off the power couple they truly are, be kings of the night and celebrate the end of school together…

But now…

"If you wanna go with someone else, I’d understand," he murmured without looking at his partner.

The blond grabbed him by the shoulders, locking eyes with his.

"Al, you’re my boyfriend… there’s no one else I would go with! Even if we cannot dance, we’ll find a solution… I’d make you spin on a chair or something…"

"Don’t be silly."

"I’m very serious… I love you, Al."

"I love you too," he whispered.

Lucifer’s breath caught. Was this the first time Alastor said “I love you“ back?
He hugged him tenderly, his partner melting in his arms. The medical staff looked at them tenderly.

"It’s good to see that he has a good support system," the doctor whispered.

"Look at them being so cute!" Emily added.

Both boys blushed. Rosie snorted, ruffling their hair.

"They’re adorable indeed, and they’re mine! I’m always proud of my Alastor," she smiled.

"That’s only because I am the best. You wouldn’t be otherwise…"

"Aw, Al, don’t say this! How many times will I have to repeat this… I love you as you are, no matter what! You should learn modesty, also."

"It’s true, tho! I’m top of the class…"

"I know. And I’m always impressed… you’ve always been so bright… but above all, I want you to be happy, dear."

Alastor startled, before snuggling further into Lucifer’s embrace.

"I… I think I am," he whispered.

"That’s good."

As Rosie discussed further with the medical staff about the next steps and following appointments, Lucifer took Alastor’s hand.

"Everything will be okay, I promise. I’ll be there to support you, as always."

Alastor wanted to make a cutting remark, yet nothing came out. He closed his mouth.

"Thanks…"

~

It was not easy for Alastor to juggle with his physiotherapy appointments and his studies, yet on the surface, he was showing no sign of struggle – always diligently greeting nurse Emily with a smile, before returning to the library to get lost in his books. He was sometimes taking even more time to repeat some exercise she had shown him in between two pages, moving his leg as much as he could. He thought that perhaps, if he did twice more efforts, he would recover twice as fast…

The young boy was hopeful at first, hitting milestone after milestone. The mobility of his leg was significantly increasing; it was getting stronger as well. He was able to rely on it more and more, at first taking little steps with the help of his crutches or with Lucifer supporting him.

The blond was always eager to let his boyfriend rely on him, rewarding him with hugs and kisses for every step he took.
It felt nice being able to walk again, though every improvement made him realize how long the path ahead remained. Rosie noticed his dismay, of course. She noticed the dark circles growing under his eyes, his clenched teeth, the tension in his shoulders. There was not much she could do to comfort him besides showering him with love and encouragements and making him his favorite meal every time he came to visit.

Alastor was so impatient to fully heal that he was pushing himself more and more, ignoring the flourishing pain that was growing in his leg. On their next appointment, Emily saw immediately that something was wrong. The boy was doing his best efforts to hide his tensed grimaces and act as if no ache was bothering him, yet the rigidity of his movements was telling otherwise.
As she went to massage his leg like usual, he could not suppress a whimper when her fingers pressed his skin a little too hard.

"It hurts, doesn’t it?"

"I’m perfectly fine. Barely a mere discomfort, I almost don’t feel it– ow!"

"No more hiding, young boy. As your physiotherapist, I must know if you feel pain somewhere."

Alastor sighed.

"Fine. Perhaps I can sense a slight… bother in my leg. Nothing too bad, though! I swear… I can still totally walk without my crutches soon… please, I swear, I am ready–"

She shook her head in dismay, inspecting him further.

"Have you been doing more exercise than I advised you?"

He looked away.

"It’s bad, isn’t it?"

"Oh, sweetie… it’s okay. It’s just… a minor setback. You’ll be okay, eventually. Just maybe, avoid putting any weight at all on your leg for a few days. We’ll see how you feel afterwards."

"Then why–"

"No need to worry. You’ve been overexerting yourself a little, but it’s not too serious. Just… don’t try to speed up the recovery process, okay? Your poor little muscles had to work more than they can take, and now they’re all tired. That’s why you’re in pain…"

"But I will recover 100%, right?"

"The doctors are pretty confident, yes. But no more exercise for a little while, understood?"

Alastor nodded, both relieved and disappointed.

"So… I will still need crutches in two weeks?"

"At least one, yes. And you’ll have to be careful not to go too crazy at the ball. I know you, young boy…"

"Fine. Thank you…"

She smiled.

"Soon, all of this will be nothing but a bad memory, okay? Do you want a hug?"

Hesitantly, Alastor nodded. She warmly took him in her arms, before happily releasing him for the day.

~

After Rosie drove him back to the dorm, he sank in Lucifer’s arms.

"Apparently, I’ve hurt myself more trying to do too much…"

The blond chuckled.

"That sounds very much like you indeed."

"Ha. Ha. Ha. Hilarious."

"Will you be okay, though?"

"Yes. Yes, I’ll be fine."

"Glad to hear."

They fell back into their study routine, Alastor soon entering deep focus while Lucifer reread the same page four times.

"Ugh, I cannot focus," the blond whined. "Why does it have to be so boring? I swear, I cannot do this–"

"Yes you can, love."

"But it takes so looooong… should I just… give up? Perhaps I was never made for academic studies. Perhaps I should just buy a farm in the countryside and adopt ducks and open a bed and breakfast and–"

"Lucifer. Don’t be silly. We already discussed this. Remember the bet we made? Do you want to beat me, yes or no?"

"Yes, but…"

"Then work."

"But what if I can’t? Let’s be realistic, I’ll never be as smart as you, Alastor."

"You already are."

"What?"

"You already are as smart as me. It simply doesn’t show because you never use your brains."

"Hey!"

"But you are perfectly capable of doing this and I believe in you."

He then punctuated his words with a kiss on the blond’s cheek. Lucifer blushed, stammering:

"Th-thank you, Alastor."

The tall boy rolled his eyes.

"Will you seriously enter gay-panic every time I give you compliments?"

"B-but you are just so sweet and so perfect and handsome…"

"Aww… not as much as you," replied Alastor with a devilish grin.

Lucifer knew very well his intent was less to reassure him than to fluster him even more. The worst part is, it was very much working.

"Stop it…" he whispered, face crimson red.

"Or what?"

"Should I tickle you?"

"But I am still injured and weak… it would be so unfair. Threatening your poor boyfriend that cannot even walk…"

"I’m sorr– ah!"

Of course, it had been all a ruse. Alastor had attacked him first, the blond trying to push him away in panicked laughter.

"No one told you the best defense is attack?" the brunet teased with a wicked grin.

"You demon–"

"Don’t say I never warned you…"

"You will pay for this!"

They wrestled a bit more on the bed, before Alastor hissed in pain. Lucifer immediately froze.

"Sorry, are you alright?"

"Yeah, it’s just… the leg, as usual."

"For real? Not a trap, this time?"

Alastor winced.

"I’m afraid not."

"Oh… come here. Show me."

Very sweetly, the blond caressed the scar on Alastor’s shin, his skin lighter where the bone had pierced the flesh before the surgery put it back in place. It must have been so painful…

"Does it hurt when I… do that?"

"Not really. It just feels a little weird."

"O-okay. Is there anything I can do?"

Alastor hesitated, before replying:

"Perhaps…"

He showed him how Emily proceeded on his leg to force his weary muscles to unwind, the blond trying his best to reproduce the gesture with his small fingers and a devoted application.
After a few minutes, Alastor sighed in relief. Lucifer smiled, happy to notice his boyfriend finally relaxing.

"You will heal in no time, I am sure."

"We can only hope," the brunet sighed.

Lucifer smiled, before gently kissing the scar.

"That was a magical kiss! Now you will recover even faster."

"That’s bullshit, Lu."

"You just have no whimsy…"

They cuddled for a little while, both re-reading their study notes while snuggled together under the blankets.

"Thank you for making this exam session more bearable," Lucifer whispered.

"And thank you for…"

Alastor stopped, looking for the right words.

"... for giving me a shoulder to rely on, in all the ways."

"You’re welcome."

The brunet’s face lighted up as he started to ramble:

"By the way! What I just said, it’s a syllepsis. Because it applies both literally and metaphorically! You should remember this for literature class."

"I hate you…"

~

As the exams approached, Lucifer’s nervousness dramatically spiked – he was having frequent anxiety attacks, often freezing in front of his books muttering what Alastor gently qualified as dramatic nonsense.

"I can’t– I can’t do this– what if… what if I fail? What if I am too stressed out and forget everything and get terrible grades and don’t get accepted into uni and just end my life miserable and homeless and alone?"

"Too bad, then," commented the tall boy without raising his eyes from his book.

"No but you don’t understand… my life is over already!"

Alastor sighed, before reporting his attention on his boyfriend.

"Your life is not over, you have not failed yet, you most likely won’t and even if unfortunately you did, it would not erase your entire future – you would still have many possibilities, many adventures yet to live, and I would not love you any less."

"You… you wouldn’t?"

"Of course not! I already knew you were bird-brained before we even started to date."

"Hey!"

The tall boy smirked, slowly massaging the blond’s shoulders to help him relax.

"Besides, unless you splendidly fuck up out of nowhere, you won’t fail. We studied together, you memorized the entire program with me, I answered all of your questions and I am an amazing tutor. You will ace this, Morningstar. You’re more stubborn than the devil himself."

"But…"

The brunet gently kissed him to shut him up.

"Ta-ta-ta… no more doubting, okay? Just breathe with me. Think about something good… like, where you will take me on a date once I obliterate you in our little challenge."

"Are you kidding me? I will be the one to win. And you better take me somewhere nice!"

"Mmmm… feeling confident again, aren’t you? Glad I could help."

"I… You… You planned this!"

"It worked, didn’t it? So, why would you complain?"

"You miserable…"

"Just say I’m the best."

"You’re exhausting, you’re an insufferable, obnoxious piece of shit…"

"Mmm… because I know I am better so I act like it."

The blond blinked, startled.

"How are you always so confident?"

Alastor softened, opening his arms for Lucifer to snuggle in.

"Just because you see a smile doesn’t mean you know what’s going on underneath. I am just… good at this. At hiding it. Not showing weakness, ever. Besides, I know what I worked for. I master all classes perfectly. I’m very aware of all knowledge I’ve sampled so far, of where the expectations stand, of how I stand towards it – which is, by far above. I’ve put all chances on my side, given all I could. Stressing out would be… preposterous."

Lucifer chuckled. His boyfriend explanation made sense, he supposed…

"I wish I could have the same faith in myself."

"You could. It’s only for you to decide…"

"You don’t decide how you feel."

"Of course you do. You choose which thoughts you let flourish and which you leave to wither. You choose which ideas you pursue. You can either leave room for your fears or room for your hopes."

The blond shook his head. It was not that simple… he never chose to have this voice inside his head whispering him he would never be capable of anything. He never chose for his days to feel like a constant battle.

"You make it sound so easy."

"It is easy."

Lucifer pouted.

"No it’s not!"

Suddenly, he remembered all the time he had seen Alastor afraid, or unsettled. All the time when he had seen the façade crack.
Just because you see a smile doesn’t mean you know what’s going on underneath…

"Liar… he whispered. You also happen to be afraid scared sometimes. Especially outside of academia…"

Alastor suddenly tensed.

"I don’t know what you’re talking about."

"Every time you meet a new person, or face a new environment, you’re always nervous…"

"Nonsense. I learned how to master human interactions perfectly. It’s all about keeping a smile, remember? Add a bit of cheerfulness, a sprinkle of faked altruism… read the others’ emotions with care, react accordingly, adjust, redirect… I’m dealing perfectly well with any new situation I face. I made sure I have the skillset for it. It’s not that difficult. I only have to calculate every possibility, and have a detailed plan for each… Remove the uncertainty… Remind myself I am capable, suppress any hint of fear… And people don’t notice. They won’t notice if you’re struggling. Trust me, it works!"

The brunet was enthusiastically smiling, yet his laughter sounded anything but sane.
Lucifer winced.

"Alastor, it sounds… pretty awful."

"It’s not! I told you, it works. I use these techniques all the time…"

"I know, it’s not… it’s not what I meant. I mean, it must be exhausting… to think this much about everything constantly…"

"Darling, it’s just called life! I never said it was an easy game…"

"You just admit you were struggling."

"I… I did not! It was purely hypothetical…"

"Sure."

The blond hugged him tighter, before murmuring:

"You don’t have to hide who you are with me, you know?"

Alastor tilted his head, confused.

" … hiding? But I don’t hide. This… this is what I am."

"Alastor, I–"

"This is what I am, Lucifer. I am nothing more than the mask I wear."

"Are you? Then why did I get to see a less… filtered version of you? A version of you that I adore. And that’s so precious to me… I must thank you again for your trust."

"I… I fail to understand."

"I’m talking about the Alastor who dares to be vulnerable. Who’s always sharp and witty, whose sass never misses. The Alastor who likes talking enthusiastically about true crime, and unapologetically rambles about disturbing topics with deranging cheerfulness. The Alastor who collects old radios. The Alastor who cries for his mama when he’s alone in the dark, the Alastor who’s afraid of being alone, of being left behind again. The Alastor who loves his aunt Rosie so much. The Alastor who cares deeply about others, who gets to make new friends and enter people’s hearts…"

"Enough!"

Alastor took a few seconds to recollect himself, out of breath. He had not noticed he was shouting. Why… why were his hands trembling? He was supposed to reassure Lucifer, wasn’t he? It seemed like he had done a poor job at that. All these years studying human behaviors… and still, he was so bad at it. No matter how he smiled or tried to hide it… Lucifer was right. He was just a liar. A faker. He was not–

"Alastor… Are you alright?"

"I–I need to go…"

"Alastor, wait! I… I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed you…"

"Mmm…"

Heart pounding in his chest, Alastor tried to force his breath to slow down. It was fine. Everything was fine. This was nothing…

Lucifer rubbed his back, anxiously looking at his boyfriend.

Why did he even say all of this? Was it really out of concern, or because he selfishly rejoiced in knowing his partner was not as flawless as he liked to pretend?
Yet again… it’s precisely because Alastor was not perfect that he adored him so much.
It made him… human.

"I guess, what I’m trying to say is… I love you for who you are. All sides of you."

The brunet looked at him, blinking slowly.

"This… is true for you as well. So, you needn’t worry about your results, Lucifer Morningstar, for I will always believe in you."

Lucifer’s breath caught. Damn, how could his boyfriend be so cute…

"Thank you, sweet fawn."

"No worries, silly duck."

"So, let’s do this, then."

As Lucifer sat in the exam room, he remembered that discussion, took a deep breath and focused on Alastor’s soothing voice, on his bedazzling eyes and his soft hands…
He thus traced in messy letters, his pen scratching the paper in an anchoring melody:
“Rochester’s blindness can be read as a syllepsis, for it actualizes literally his inability to see his love for Jane, or look beyond social status and appearance. The flames symbolically purge him from his past shortcomings in an almost biblical symbolism, while also allowing for new beginnings–“.

~

Against all odds, they survived the exam session. They never missed to support each other, Alastor reassuring Lucifer before every test, and Lucifer helping Alastor with daily tasks and giving him plenty of kisses whenever he was feeling discouraged. In the end, they were both sleep deprived, over caffeinated and stressed out, yet somehow relieved it was all over.

"Do you think you did good?" the blond asked as they entered the hall together.

"Sure I did. What else would there be to expect?" his boyfriend replied.

"Of fucking course…"

That was it. The wall where the results were displayed, in front of which students gathered like ants towards a delicious summer picnic, like wasps around sugar, like flies on a bloody corpse. Some were sighing of relief and shouting with joy, others were crying and shaking their heads with despair. Lucifer really really hoped to belong to the former rather than the latter.

Before they could approach any further, Angel came running towards them excitedly.

"Boys, you will never believe this. You have to see it for yourselves…"

"What? the blond stammered anxiously. Did we… did we fail? Did we both fail? Is this our first step towards homelessness?"

Alastor rolled his eyes, while Angel simply grabbed the tiny blond stress ball by the hand.

"Shut up, short king. You have a perfect score! Both of you."

Lucifer blinked, startled.

"Wh-what? It can’t be…"

He had done it. He had done just as good as Alastor…
The brunet interrupted him.

"Of course we did. I would have tolerated nothing less."

Lucifer looked at him in disbelief.

"That’s it? We just did the impossible! You should rejoice a bit more."

"For what? Failure was not an option. We did the job, that is all."

"You’re impossible…"

"And you, you’re way too easy to satisfy. The road is merely beginning. We now have to graduate university, then do a master thesis, then perhaps a PhD, and then–"

"Al, relax, Angel sighed. You’ll have plenty of time to think about the boring stuff later. For now, how about we celebrate, huh?"

"Yay! Lucifer chimed. How about a nice little picnic by the lake? Perhaps we’ll see ducks here–"

"Booooorinnnng! the pastel-pink haired boy interrupted. We should bring booze and turn this into a proper parteyyyyy! What do you say?"

The tall boy shook his head.

"I’m not sure–"

"I’m in! Husk yelled from across the room."

"It’s a date, then!" Angel chirped. "The lake, 9pm then? I expect to see you there… both of you!"

"O-Okay, yeah."

" … this would be ridiculous and unwise," Alastor snickered. "That kind of frivolous amusement is preposterous, foolish and vain! There is no time to waste in–"

"Whyyyy? For someone who smiles that much, you really don’t know how to have fun! Come on… it would do you good to chill out for once. How could Lu fuck you properly with that stick you have up your ass?"

The couple turned crimson red on instant.

"I–I beg your pardon?" Alastor stuttered.

"That’s not… I forbid you to–" Lu mumbled.

Angel gently poked Alastor’s nose.

"Just sayin, tough boy. If you don’t loosen up a little, your boyfriend will get tired of you. How about you let him have some fun too?"

The brunet’s breath caught.
Could this be true? Would he lose Lu if he–

"That is very much not true! the blond stepped in. He’s allowed to express his needs, and I will love him regardless."

Alastor sighed.

"Fine. I will come."

"You don’t have to…" his boyfriend whispered.

"I want to. It’s decided…"

"Perfect!" Angel chimed. "See you tonight, lovebirds!"

~

"Are you really sure you want to do this? Lucifer asked as he walked hand in hand towards the lake with his boyfriend.

"I already told you," retorted Alastor.

"Angel’s been a bitch. You don’t have to listen to him–"

" What Angel said did not affect me. I am here because I chose to."

"Okay, fine…" the blond sighed.

Still, he couldn’t help but worry. He was not blind, he could see how tense Alastor was. Yet there was nothing he could do… was it?
The others were already there, Angel waving excitedly at them while Husk acknowledged their presence with a small nod. Niffty was busy running around chasing bugs, and Cherri had already opened a bottle of vodka.

"There you are," the pink-haired boy exclaimed. "I thought you might have bailed out…"

"Never," Alastor replied with a snarl.

Lucifer gently laid a hand on his shoulder.

"We came and we brought cookies!" he calmly added. "Now, how about we put on our swimsuits and go for a dip?"

Alastor forced himself to exhale and take a deep breath before nodding.

"Yes, that sounds like a good idea."

"Great!" the blond chirped. "Everyone ready? The last one in the water is a wimpy chicken!"

"Lucifer…"

The short boy immediately stopped his run to turn towards his boyfriend. Alastor was still awkwardly leaning on one crutch, not seeing much more than a blur without his glasses that he had just taken off.

"Oh shoot! I forgot…" Lucifer cursed.

How could he have forgotten? His boyfriend was still unable to run…
He immediately turned back to sweep Alastor in his arms.

"Wh-what are you doing? Put me down!" the brunet stuttered.

"Okay!" his boyfriend replied before throwing him in the water.

"Hey! You’re gonna pay for this!"

Alastor quickly regained his footing and tried to drown Lucifer, who fiercely fought back. The brunet was advantaged by his height, yet he could not fully lean on his bad leg. Still, he managed to push his partner underwater, the blond soon gasping for air. Alastor took him in his arms to help him afloat before whispering:

"Already begging for mercy?"

"Never!"

They continued their battle in a happy laughter. As they became more tired, their struggle turned into a gentle embrace.

"Alastor…"

The sun was starting to set, tainting the sky in hues of pink and orange. In such light, the brunet was glowing, his now damp curls falling in his lovely brown eyes in the cutest way. His usually sharp smile had softened, his lips were so sweet… the blond could only kiss him again, and again, and again.

"I love you, Alastor…"

"I love you too, Lucifer."

If this wasn’t happiness… It felt like heaven.

They eventually made their way back to the shore, the blond helping Alastor out of the water. He tried really hard not to devour him with his eyes – his boyfriend was just so hot wearing his simple, red bathing shorts, it was just showing too much of Alastor’s lean muscles and his soft skin and Lucifer could lose himself in the contemplation…

"Lucifer… you are staring."

"No I’m not."

"Yes you are."

"Well… it’s not my fault, you’re just too handsome and hot and splendid… why aren’t you staring?"

"I haven’t got my glasses, I can’t see shit."

"You silly…"

"Why would I be the silly?"

He squinted at his boyfriend.

"Are you wearing duck-patterned shorts?"

Lucifer blushed.

"Umm… yeah… perhaps…"

"You are wearing duck-patterned shorts and you dare to call me the silly one?"

They retrieved their towels and belongings, allowing Alastor to witness his partner’s dubious fashion choices properly.

"That is somehow even worse now that I have my glasses on…"

"Liar, I am ravishing."

"The only thing that you ravish is my eyes… what a distasteful sight…"

"I’m sure you find it cute."

"If by cute you mean horrid…"

"Well, sure! Forget I ever called you hot ever."

Alastor sweetly laughed.

" But you already know I find you dashing…"

Gently, the tall boy caressed his boyfriend’s cheek, letting his finger trail down his neck and chest, tracing the outline of his abs… The blond held his breath, trying really hard to keep his composure.
He felt like he could melt in Alastor’s touch… was this his life from now on?
Having his heart captured every day by this god of a boy that somehow took a liking in him?

Perhaps was his future not so bad, after all…

"Hey, get a room you two!" Angel yelled from afar.

Both startled before lightly laughing.

"It’s you who wanted us to come!" the blond yelled back.

"I just want to see Alastor drunk, not you two making out in front of me… unless?"

"Ugh, get lost!"

Now fully clothed, they went to join Angel, Husk, Niffty and Cherri throwing a volleyball at each other.

"Perfect! We’re all here now…" the pink-haired boy exclaimed. "Why don’t we spice it up a little? The first one who drops the ball drinks a shot."

"Woohoo!" Cherri cheered.

The blond anxiously eyed at his boyfriend.

"Will it be okay with your leg?"

"Of course… It’s almost healed, remember?"

Lucifer knew Alastor well enough to see the anger behind his smile – not directed at him, but at Angel as the brunet looked at him with bitterness.

"Mm, but don’t push yourself, okay?"

"I told you, I’m fine."

"I know… But I want to make sure you have fun–"

"I have fun! I’m perfectly chill and relaxed and… totally ready to indulge in this absolute nonsense of a tomfoolery like any average teenager, okay?"

"Okay…"

The blond sighed. Alastor was in one of his bad moments, he could tell, but there was not much he could do about it anyways… he would not be able to help him if Alastor did not want to be helped.

"Let’s go, then! What are we waiting for?"

The game started – Cherri was surprisingly very good at this, as well as Lucifer and Alastor who had always been good at sports. The latter struggled a little to find his footing at first, not used to move without the help of his crutches, but quickly recovered his former confidence. Both boys were often exchanging competitive looks – neither willing to fail more than their partner, just like in the good old days of their rivalry. Niffty was over energetic as always, the contrary of Husk, who clearly could not be bothered to jump to catch the ball and was here for the alcohol anyways. Same for Angel, except he tried especially to aim at Alastor, who somehow never missed.

That was until Cherri made him a particularly nasty throw, just out of his range. As he tried to jump to catch it, his leg gave out under him, nearly having him fall if it weren’t for his boyfriend’s quick reflexes.

"Al, you alright?"

"Yes, I just tripped. Now I drink, I suppose. The rules are the rules, right?"

"Yayy, first one for you, Smiles!" sang Angel as he handed him a shot of vodka. "You’ll see, this is so fun!"

Alastor chugged it down on one go with a grimace, refusing to cough or give any hint that the alcohol was burning his throat. He had never drank anything besides wine that Rosie had let him taste once – there had been that one glass of whiskey shared with Vincent as well, but that could hardly count. He had never been drunk, the idea of losing control was terrifying him and honestly he did not quite see the appeal.

But… it would not hurt to try, right? As Angel said. This was supposed to be fun.

So he took that one glass, and the next one, and the one after that.
They soon moved to a different game, all sitting in a circle as Angel began saying:

"Never have I ever… oh guys this is so hard it feels like I have done everything already… that or everything has done me… um, let’s see… had a passing grade in maths?"

"Dude, seriously?" Husk grumbled. "You found nothing better?"

Literally everyone took a sip except for Cherri.

"Angelll! she yelled. I wanna drink!"

"Okay, then go for it!"

"Never have I ever…" she started. "Fallen off a cliff."

"Ohh, good one!" Angel encouraged.

"I hate you all…" mumbled Alastor as he raised his glass.

"Your turn, then."

The brunet frowned. What the hell could he say?
Something that would not be morbid nor sad...

"Never have I ever… been to detention ever."

"Oh, the good boy!" Angel commented.

Literally everyone else drank.

"Even you, Lu?" Alastor asked.

"There was that one time when I… you know what, forget it."

"What?"

"Um… I forgot to wake up on time and arrived in my pajamas and when the teacher sarcastically asked me if I wanted a coffee with that, I took it literally and said 'yes, with milk and sugar' and she… did not like it? And I also… called her name wrong… but I was depressed and… that was before sharing a room with Alastor, obviously."

"Oof… yeah. Go on, then."

"Never have I ever… had sex."

"Oh, really? Alastor, what have you been doing?"

"Angel, quit it," the blond spat. "We go at our pace."

"Alright, alright… Husk, your turn now."

"Never have I ever taken drugs at a party."

Angel and Cherri drank.
Then Niffty started:

"Never have I ever… gotten fucked from behind!"

Everyone startled – that was so unhinged, even for her.
Of course, Angel raised his glass, as well as… Alastor. The pink-haired boy nearly choked.

"Wait… what? So you’re really the bottom?"

"Forget it…" Alastor mumbled.

"Lucifer, you little freak…"

"It’s not… it’s not what you think."

" It’s not Lu! He said he was still a virgin…"

"Oh, come on! What else…"

"Who, then?"

"Oooo, Smiles has a secret past?"

"Forget it, I said!" Alastor yelled. "I did not even want it, it was… it was just…"

He was shaking, now. Lucifer quickly held his hand, rubbing his back.

"Hey… it’s okay. You don’t have to tell them."

"Tell them what?"

" ’s just an ex", he mumbled. "Nothing interesting."

"O-okay," replied Angel.

For once, he did not push. Instead, he kindly smiled at him:

"I… For what it’s worth, I know what it’s like. My last ex, Val, he was… yeah."

"Yeah," Alastor replied.

He tried his best to push all memories of Vincent far from his head. Vincent was not here… he was safe.
The game started back, slowly first, and then regaining intensity.

"Never have I ever kissed anyone," Husk declared.

"Oooo, that can be arranged," Angel replied.

"Go on, then," Cherri pushed.

"No thanks. Not like this."

"Never have I ever… played a piano concerto," said Lucifer.

Only Alastor drank.

"Never have I ever… been football captain."

Lucifer drank.

"Never have I ever…"

He blushed.

"Never have I ever loved anyone like you."

"Aww… so cute, but not how you play this game!" Angel replied.

"Let them have their happiness too," Husk interrupted. "Al deserves it."

"Sure you don’t want a kiss?" the pink-haired boy asked as he pointed at the couple making out in front of the assembly. "We can't let them third wheeling all of us!"

"Why not," Husk sighed. "At this point..."

"Kiss kiss kiss kiss kiss!" Niffty chanted.

"Too bad Pen’s not here," Cherri moaned. "Lab projects with Baxter, he said… My ass, yes."

"I drew yaoi of them," Niffty replied with a deranging smile.

"Girl, what?"

"What? Baxter’s cute. Good boy love material."

"Ugh…"

The party continued. Angel was blasting some trendy music Alastor was finding objectively bad – why did no one like jazz anyways? The conversations were going too fast – he did not understand half of it, did not know anything about celebrity drama or concerts or love or any other topic coming up. He could not even dance… So he was taking drink after drink after drink. Lucifer had abandoned him to talk about some video game with Husk, Angel and Cherri were singing off tune, Niffty had straight up disappeared and Alastor was feeling more lonely than ever.

He did not know how much time had passed before Angel grabbed him by the shoulders.

"Watcha doing here all alone, Smiles? Come with us."

Alastor got up, why were things so blurry all of a sudden?

They took another shot, now he could still not keep up with the conversation but it was less about what was said than the fact that everything seemed to be like from a distance.
It was so strange… he was not sure he liked it, but it did not feel bad either… as if he was numbed from all worries… everything feeling like an echo… he tried to take a step, nearly stumbled. He had to focus… walk straight… pretend he could handle all of this… was this how he was supposed to feel? Oh wait… didn’t he have crutches? He had lost them…
He raised his eyes to the sky, the stars were so beautiful… not as much as his Morningstar, though.
As he looked down, he noticed the blond coming towards him. He blinked, now Lucifer was standing in front of him.

"Al, you here! Are you having fun?"

"Are you?"

"Yesss! It’s so cool…"

Wait… he was supposed to show Lucifer he could have fun, wasn’t he?

"Want another beer? he said."

"Hell yeah, that’s the spirit," Angel replied as he served the three of them.

"You sure you good, Al?" the blond worried. "Usually you never drink, and…"

"I bet I’m less drunk than you!"

"Oh yeah? Don’t be so sure, big guy!"

"Well I could sustain many more drinks."

"So could I!"

"Wanna bet?"

They cheered.
It lasted for a while, Alastor and Lucifer exchanging competitive looks while swallowing their drinks, before the blond left to pee. It took him a while to come back, he got lost on the way and threw up in the bushes, but he eventually retrieved his friends. Alastor was nowhere to be seen – but hey, there was music, and Angel and Husk and Cherri were dancing, and Niffty was singing, and…

"Where the fuck is Alastor?" Husk suddenly asked.

"Yeah, where is your boyfriend?" Angel added.

"Wasn’t he with you?"

"Actually, we thought he was with you… making out in a dark corner or something…"

"No… I haven’t seen him since I left."

"Oh fuck… this is not good. Alastor?"

"ALASTOR!"

They searched the area, suddenly worried. Lucifer felt his heart pounding in his chest, tears blurring his vision.

"If anything happened to my Alastor…"

"He’s probably very fine," Husk tried to reassure him. "He’s a tough boy… he… oh, fuck."

Alastor was right there, lying in his own vomit, seemingly unconscious. The blond suddenly felt his blood run cold.

"Alastor…"

He rushed beside him, shaking him violently.

"Alastor, wake up… please please please…"

"Mmmm…"

The brunet half opened his eyes.

"You… you see? I can… I can have fun too…"

Lucifer shook his head.

"No… no, Alastor, this is not fun, this is…"

"So you think I… you think I’m boring? I should… I should get another drink…"

The tall boy attempted to get up, only to fail and fall back down in his puke.
Lucifer shook his head,

"Al, I’m sorry… let’s go home."

"But I don’t… I don’t wanna…"

"Lucifer, stay back," Angel intervened. "Cherri, keep him away. Husk and I take care of Alastor."

Very carefully, the pink-haired boy put Alastor on the side while Husk gave him water.

"It’s okay, it’s gonna be okay…"

"Don’t feel… so good…"

Alastor suddenly lurched forward to throw up again, before falling back unconscious.

"Oh, no… stay awake, stay awake…" whispered Angel while gently slapping him.

He turned towards Lucifer.

"We need to do something… he’s really in a rough spot."

"He’s gonna be okay, is he?" the blond asked, tearing up.

Angel shook his head.

"I don’t know… I really should have stayed with him… I have more experience with all of this, and I just… I really shouldn’t have pushed him…"

Husk gently took his arm.

"Angie, it’s not your fault. Alastor could have handled himself… he’s not a child."

"Yes, but…"

"It doesn’t matter, what you could have done. What matters is what we do now. We cannot leave him like this…"

They both looked at their drunk friend, still unconscious.

"Lucifer, is there anyone that could pick him up? Like, a parent or something?"

"Rosie… but… she doesn’t know we’re here… she’s gonna be so mad… and if Alastor knows I warned her–"

"It’s either that, or we call an ambulance."

"Oh my god… he’s gonna die?"

"No, he isn’t. Now call Rosie."

"But…"

"Lu, I know you’re scared, we all are, but panicking won’t help him, okay?"

The blond nodded, then tried his best to get his breath to calm down before pressing Rosie’s contact.

"Please, please please please… please answer…" he mumbled to himself.

Despite the late hour, she picked up immediately.

"Lucifer darling, you better have a very good reason to wake me up at 3am."

"I-it’s... it’s Alastor."

"What? What happened to my boy?"

"He… there’s been a party and he drank too much and he won’t wake up and… and we’re all worried…"

"My Alastor… drinking?"

"He… we kinda pushed him to but… we shouldn’t have, and now he–"

"So, if I understand you well, you threw a party, made my Alastor drink and now he’s unconscious?"

"Well…"

"Where are you now?"

"The lake. I… I’ll send you our location."

"Please do so. I’ll be there asap. Give him a lot of water in the meantime, and try to have him wake up. And if anything happens to him before I arrive, I assure you’ll regret ever being born. Understood?"

"Y-yes, Miss Rosie."

"Get him to the closest road. I’ll meet you there."

As ordered, they quickly packed up their stuffs, ready to leave.

"Lucifer, what are you doing?"

"Casting a spell on my Bambi… to make sure he’s okay…"

"What?"

"Drop it, Angie," Husk grumbled. "He’s too far gone, he ain’t any better than smiling drunkard over there."

Lucifer had insisted to carry Alastor, but he himself was terribly wobbly on his legs, not much better than his partner. Angel and Husk eventually both dragged the drunken teenager together, gently talking to him in the meantime.

"Smiles, come on. You can do this, one more step…"

"Hey Alastor. You made it through the school year. You fell off a cliff and you survived. You’re gonna get through this, tough guy."

"Husk’s right… you cannot give up yet. Lu would be so sad…"

Alastor opened an eye.

"Lu? He… there?"

"Yes, he’s there and he’s worried about you. You did us quite a fright. Now, have a bit more water…"

"Mmm… don’t want water. I will…"

They stopped for him to throw up once more, before resuming their walk. They were incredibly slow, Alastor was barely moving, Lucifer was clearly not helping… The relief they felt when they saw Rosie’s car was more than immense.

As soon as she saw them, the white-haired woman got out of her vehicle to rush straight to her adoptive son.

"Oh my god Alastor. You’re in so much trouble, but first, we’ll get you out of here, huh?"

She then turned to Angel and Husk.

"Thanks for looking after him. I’ll take care of him from now…"

Very carefully, she lifted the teenage boy in her arms as if he weighted nothing, with absolutely no regards for the puke staining her pristine dress.

"It’s alright, little fawn… Rosie’s here… "

"Mmm... you… you’re not supposed to know…"

"Don’t worry about it, honey. Let’s go home…"

Lucifer stepped forward.

"Can I come with him? I don’t want to leave him alone–"

"It’s a bit too late for that, don’t you think? But now that you’re there, hop on. You’re not looking too good either, after all. Anyone else in need of immediate assistance?"

"Nah, we’re good," Angel replied. "These two are the worst off… Thanks, ma’am."

"Lovely. Now if I find my Alastor like this ever again… I doubt I’ll even let you see the next dawn. Understood?"

"Y-yes, ma’am."

"Good. Now get home safe, children."

With a sigh, she turned towards the two drunken boys.

"Lucifer, you better watch him until we arrive. And if any of you throws up in my car–"

"Too late."

"Good god…"

~

Alastor opened an eye, to close it again immediately. Had the daylight always been so bright? He whined slightly. It felt like his body was weighting a ton, a vivid pain was throbbing in his head, what had happened? He felt sick…
Suddenly overcome by a wave of nausea, he promptly got up, noticing a bucket on his bedside already half full, and emptied his stomach inside.

"What…"

"I see our drunken princess is already awake…" greeted Rosie through the opened door.

She was smiling, yet her voice was everything but amiable.
She was upset… Alastor had done something… Wait a minute… he was home! What day was it… focus, yesterday, the results were displayed… and then… oh no.

"I… I did something bad, didn’t I?" he pathetically squeaked.

Before Rosie could answer, he lost to the sickness again, once more throwing up. The woman sighed, handing him a glass of fresh water.

"Drink up. How do you feel?"

The water felt like a blessing. His mouth felt dry, his stomach hurt, his head hurt, he was so tired, his mind was blurry and he was feeling so fizzy inside…
He let himself fall back on the bed.

"Am I gonna die?" he feebly whimpered.

Rosie laughed without humor.

"No, you are not gonna die, unless I kill you first. Now, what were you thinking?"

"I…"

– You went to a party without informing me, got blindly drunk to the point of alcohol poisoning, your friends had to drag you to my car, you almost did not make it home… you were lucky, young boy. What if it had not turned out so well? You could have fallen into coma, or died, or…

"Don’t yell so loud, my head hurts…"

"Mister Alastor Hartfelt, this is serious."

"I know. I’m… I’m sorry… I just wanted…"

He sighed.

"I just wanted to feel normal for once."

"What do you mean, Alastor?"

"I… I always strive to be perfect, and I manage to do what is expected of me, but… I never… I never understood people my age so well… I just get by by smiling all the time, but… I… I am not fun, Rosie. People find me boring or obnoxious and usually I don’t mind, cause I’m the best and all, but…"

But it was fine as long as he didn’t have anybody to lose. Unlike now…

"Aww, sweetie… you are perfect as you are. You don’t have to change for other people. Even less to put yourself in danger… There is no such thing as normal. We love you for who you are, little fawn. "

"But… but I’m weird, and Lucifer, he…"

"He loves you very much and was very worried about you."

"Is he… is he alright?"

"He’s still asleep on my sofa. He threw up on my carpet, that young rascal…"

"Don’t be mad at him, it’s not his fault…"

"The hell it is!"

"Alastor, you’re awake!"

Lucifer’s little head appeared in the doorframe, before he rushed to hug Alastor.

"We were all so worried, and… and you looked like you were dead, and…"

"Ow, why is everyone so loud this morning…"

"LUCIFER MORNINGSTAR! Get here you damned irresponsible child. I need to have a talk with you!"

"Ro... Rosie?"

"Don’t shout…" the brunet whispered as he braced himself for another headache.

Rosie did not stop shouting, still turned towards the blond.

"The only reason why I let you date my son is for you to look after him and make sure he is alright, happy and safe! And now you were with him the entire time and he still came back to me in that state?"

Alastor cleared his throat.

"Leave Lucifer out of this, it is entirely my fault if–"

"Shut up, you! Now, young boy, you better have an excellent explanation for all of this–"

"I… I’m sorry."

Lucifer lowered his head.

"I… I should have been more careful… I just… I… This won’t happen again… and if you think I’m not worthy of Alastor, it is entirely correct, this only proves it, and I…"

"You swear it won’t happen again?"

"Of course! I won’t let him down ever again, I promise."

"Good. Don’t disappoint me…"

"Thank you, miss Rosie! Thank you so much…"

"You guys are too loud…" Alastor whined as he buried his head in the pillow.

"Sorry, love…" his aunt murmured as she tenderly ruffled his hair.

"It’s okay… I’m here now… I’ll take good care of you…" the blond whispered.

"Start with yourself, maybe," the white-haired woman corrected. "You both need a bath… urgently."

"But I don’t wanna get out of beeed…"

"Alastor. You have three seconds to get up. Now."

"But…"

"One."

"I’m still not feeling good…"

"Two–"

"Fine..."

Lucifer gently helped Alastor to the bathtub, the tall boy still unsteady on his legs, both due to the hungover and his injury. The brunet was barely awake; he even allowed his boyfriend to wash his back and his hair, Lucifer’s small hands tenderly caressing his skin and massaging his scalp. He who was always so prideful felt a little ashamed to enjoy so much getting cared for… but he did not have to admit it out loud, right? If he kept the façade, no one would know… but his satisfied smile and gentle whimpers were betraying his comfort. The blond felt his heart melt. Right now, Alastor half asleep, wet and covered in soap and bleating like a little fawn was the cutest sight ever.

Very tenderly, he untangled the unruly curls and gently kissed the top of his head.
Alastor was melting in his embrace, dozing off already, lulled by his boyfriend’s tender care.

"Hey Al… you’re adorable right now, but don’t sleep so soon, okay? We still have to get you dry and put on a clean pair of pajamas."

"Mmm… but you’re too comfy…"

"I know. But you have to get up, okay?"

"Mmm… no."

"Please… you’re getting kinda heavy. Get up for me, okay?"

"Should I? Perhaps. Will I? No. Do I enjoy being difficult? Most definitely."

Lucifer chuckled. He was impossible… kinda like a cat. A very feral cat.

"I know you want to stay in my arms for ever, but we can cuddle on the sofa."

"Fine…"

He eventually deigned to move enough for Lucifer to help him dress, dry his hair and carry him to the sofa. His moves were still very slow and clumsy, the alcohol still not completely out of his system.

"You’re really like a princess, aren’t you?"

"Shut up… my leg hurts and I’m dying…"

"Aw… good thing your Prince Charming is with you, then."

"You’re not my Prince Charming. I’m the king and you’re my loyal subject."

"Careful… bold of you to say that while in my arms like a swooning maiden. I could drop you at any time…"

"You love me too much for it."

" … I hate that you’re right."

"Ha! Got you."

"Now shut up and let me take care of you, will you? I’ll make tea for the both of us and we can nap until Rosie comes back."

He had lost his crutches at the lake; Rosie had left in an attempt to retrieve them. She was still mad, but most of all relieved her boy was fine. She had been so scared… Never would she have thought it would be such a ride when the took in that little boy, so many years ago… he had been so small, so polite, so… sad. So mature for his age, in a way that was almost concerning, the way of the children who had to grow up too fast. She had tried her best to bring him happiness, to make him feel loved and protected, but he had always been so independent… so perfect. Never caused any trouble, never complained… and now, in the span of two years, he had escaped an abusive boyfriend, moved across the country, fallen off a cliff, graduated with perfect score and now, he was behaving like a rebellious teenager over again? After all he went through… Gosh, her heart would not survive thinking she’d lose him ever again. Nothing had prepared her for being a mother… and yet, she regretted nothing. And she was so glad that, in times of hardship, her precious little boy chose to rely on her a little bit more, to trust her a little bit more and show her parts of himself he was less confident about. She just loved him so much…
She knew he was strong, and a very fine young man, but to her, he’d always be her baby boy.

When she returned, she found both teenagers, now clean, cuddling on the sofa, a blanket tucked around them.

"Alastor, I’ve got your crutches. You better feel very grateful…"

"Thank you, auntie."

"Still feeling sick?"

"Mmm… head hurts."

"I’ll give you medicine. Lu, what about you?"

"Better than him, but I’d appreciate some as well…"

"You’re both impossible."

As she went to the kitchen, Lucifer hugged Alastor a little bit tighter.

"I’m so glad you’re okay… I’m sorry about yesterday. I knew you were tense, I should have been there for you…"

"No, it’s all my fault… I wanted to prove you I was fun and worthy of your love, and I was afraid you would get bored of me… after what Angel said…"

"How could I ever get bored of you? You… you are the most interesting person I’ve ever met, Alastor, you are… you are my everything. Compared to you, I’m just…"

"The most radiant star in the sky?"

"Oh you…"

Alastor sighed.

"Perhaps you forgave me, but the others are probably still upset I ruined the party…"

"You didn’t ruin the party, Al! And in fact, they’re mostly all worried about you… Angel feels very guilty, you know? We should tell them you’re alright!"

"They… Why would they worry about someone like me?"

"Because you’re our friend, Alastor. You silly…"

"So they… do more than just tolerate me?"

"Of course! You are so loved, Alastor…"

"If you say so…"

"Now smile! I’ll send proof that you live."

"Wait, no!"

Too late; the blond had already taken a picture of his boyfriend and sent it on the group chat under the caption “the wendigo is awake“ – Alastor looking like his most irritable self in his pajamas and disheveled hair and half lidded eyes and tired face and angry snarl.
Immediately, a bunch of replies appeared on the screen.

Angel: OMG Smiles I’m so happy you’re alright I’m so sorry for everything I said please never do this again

Husk: Hi Boss. I’m keeping you far away from the booze from now on

Niffty: Alastorrrrr hiiii how are you

Charlie: Why what happened?

Angel: Ugh I forgot the CHILD is on this group chat well Charlie never drink

Charlie: WAIT Alastor got DRUNK?

Cherri: He nearly died actually

Charlie: He WHAT?

Alastor took a big breath, before replying.

Alastor: Thank you all for your concerns. I am fine, and I apologize for any trouble or worry I might have caused. I would understand if you were upset with me. I take all responsibility for what has happened and promise you it was the last time I fail both you and myself in such detestable manner. You have all my gratitude for helping me return home. I hope you all are well and still had a pleasant night despite my shortcomings.

Angel: You gotta be kidding me? The dude was passed out on the pavement the other night and now he talks as if he was a minister or something

Cherri: You don’t have to apologize mate!!! We’re mostly happy you’re alright

Niffty: You’re the baddest boy now

Angel: No he’s still a nerd. But he’s our nerd

Charlie: Alllllll take care of yourself Luci you better take care of him!

Luci: He’s in good hands, don’t worry sis

Angel: You guys are really the cutest <3 take care

As Alastor was about to set his phone aside, he noticed he also received a private message.

Angel: Hey Smiles, I’m really sorry for yesterday… I’ve been a bitch, I shouldn’t have said all these things. I was just jealous I guess… you’re smart, and you and Lu are so in love, and you always succeed… in everything… but I’ve been stupid and it does not make you boring at all and we love you as you are. Even if you can be a prick sometimes, but you’re our friend… I’m so happy you’re alright. I really shouldn’t have pushed you to drink, I’m sorry

Alastor: Thank you. I’m not used to this friendship thing, it is quite new for me. I’m glad you guys still want me as a friend.

Angel: Of course we still want you as a friend!!! You’re one of us now <3

Alastor: :)

Lucifer lovingly looked at Alastor.

"See, they still like you."

"Seemingly so."

"Want to cuddle and watch a documentary about ducks?"

"What about true crime?"

"Nah Al, I’ve already felt nauseous enough for the day…"

"You’re too soft."

"And you’re deranged."

"But you like me this way."

"I do…"

They gently kissed, before snuggling in the soft pillows and blankets.

"You should drink more water… There. I’m so glad you’re safe…"

"I… I don’t remember everything from yesterday… was it… really that bad?"

"It was really scary."

"Oh…"

Lucifer was looking away, as if caught up in the memories of the night before. Alastor protectively kissed him on the forehead, whispering to his ear:

"But I’m alright now. We’re both alright."

"I thought…"

The blond hugged him tighter.

" love you… you’re my favorite demon, I can’t lose you."

"You won’t lose me. I’m tough remember? And I would never leave you behind… You’re my sweetest angel… my brightest star…"

"So as an apology for scaring me, again, we watch the documentary about ducks?"

"Okay, fine."

"Now rest. You need to save your strength… Prom is in two days, remember?"

"How could I forget? I hope Rosie lets me go."

"I’m sure she will. You still kinda aced your exams? It compensates."

"But I wasted it all–"

"Shush, stop worrying now."

"Mmmkay."

The blond softly smiled as he watched his boyfriend doze off slowly until he was gently snoring in his arms.

"Sleep well, stubborn fawn," he murmured as he joined him in Morpheus’ embrace.

~

"Aw, Alastor, look just how dashing you look!"

The white-haired woman readjusted her adoptive son’s bowtie one last time, a proud smile on her face. Oh, how splendid he looked! She totally did not regret the decision to make his prom costume herself. He was just so magnificent in that black shirt with its red embroidered collar, his thin waist highlighted by his dark red corset and his long legs sublimed by his perfectly fitting black pants.

Of course, his black and red vest was perfectly completing the outfit, as well as his deer brooch adorning his pocket along with a dark red rose – her personal touch, of course.
He had allowed her to put some make up on that fine face of his – dark red and golden eyeshadow and a fine line of kohl to highlight his soft brown gaze as well as a bit of blush to showcase his high cheekbones. And of course, his finest accessory – his smile, that he wore with just enough carnivorous charm for it to be dangerously elegant.
Oh, perhaps she had not brought him into this world, but her dear Alastor was undoubtedly her son.

"I bet Lucifer’s gonna faint when he’s gonna see you like this… you little heartbreaker."

He pouted.

"Thanks Rosie… Too bad I still have to use this ugly crutch to walk around… it wastes all your efforts."

"About that… I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes…"

Gently, she put his hands on some wooden object with a metallic end.

"Now you can look."

The young boy opened his eyes, to give a marveled stare at the beautifully crafted cane resting in his palms – the silver pommel engraved with roses.

"Wow, it’s… magnificent."

"It used to belong to my mum and I was saving it for my old days, but you can have it just for today."

"Thanks, auntie… you’re the best."

"Now now, don’t mention it. Now go and have fun, will you? You worked hard for this, you deserve to celebrate… properly."

Alastor gulped, ashamedly remembering the party. Definitely, a ball was more suited to his tastes in celebration.
He quietly nodded. She smiled, resisting the urge to mess with his now perfectly styled hair to simply boop his nose instead.

"I’m so proud of you, little deer."

He shyly smiled at her. He was so glad to have her in his life…
As promised, she drove him to the place, before opening his car door and helping him out.
She took him by the hand as she escorted him towards Lucifer, waiting for him at the entrance.
Of course, the little blond did not waste a minute – as soon as he saw them, he ran towards them excitedly before stopping short, flabbergasted.

"A-A-Alastor, you look… you… you are…"

"You’re not too bad yourself, Morningstar."

Lucifer turned crimson red.

"Y-you think so?"

Alastor chuckled. His boyfriend looked like a candy, all in pastel blue, white and cream. He had put sparkles everywhere in his hair and face, his cerulean gaze highlighted by blue eyeshadow and his round cheeks covered in pink and golden blush. His blond mane was slicked back, decorated with blue butterfly clips and a golden crown like a halo. He looked like a renaissance poet with his lacework shirt with his pastel blue sparkly vest and magnificent blue coat embroidered in silver and gold.
The brunet’s smile turned dangerously hungry.

"You look delicious, I could eat you whole."

"Aaa… I, um… whatever you want…"

"So flustered already, and the night has barely begun?"

Lucifer hid his face in his partner’s chest. He was agonizing… what right had Alastor to be so hot? Did he have no mercy for him? Why was it so warm all of a sudden… he was like electrified, turned into the average horny teenager in a split second… he really hoped Alastor had not noticed how enticed he was feeling right now…

"Lu?"

"Y-yes?"

"Shall we go?"

"Give me a second…"

"Oh, I knew you would be eager to see me, but that much?"

"Sh-shut up…"

They kissed softly, before making their way in together after a last goodbye to Rosie.

"Woah… It’s so beautiful…"

Their prom was taking place right outside the school, the paved courtyard decorated with archways of ivy and lilac, fairy lights and flowers. Large tables were decorated with golden placemats and candles and champagne bottles.

Angel and Husk were already inside, the former in a bright pink, sparkly, rather revealing attire while the latter had opted for a classy black and white tuxedo.

"Boys, over here! the pink-haired boy chimed. Oh my gawd, Alastor, you look incredible… vampire style, almost! And Lu… you slay! Power couple, or what?"

"You and Husk are very handsome as well! So, you guys are official?"

They both exchanged a shy look.

"Well... kinda?" Angel replied. "I mean… after the party, we spent the night together and.. we talked, and we realized that we had a lot more in common than we thought and…"

"Come on, Angie. Why so prude all of a sudden? We did a lot more than talking…"

Angel blushed.

"Huskie, please… why don’t we dance, huh? Instead of talking nonsense…"

Lucifer and Alastor exchanged a knowing look. They were so happy for their friends; they too deserved their happy ending.
The blond took his partner by the hand.

"Do you want to dance too?"

"It’s just… I don’t know if I can…"

"Just… trust me, okay? I will lead and you will lean on me. And we stop as soon as your leg hurts, okay?"

"Okay."

Taking a big breath, Alastor set his cane aside and fully relied on his boyfriend to support him. Slowly, they began to waltz, letting the music transport them.

"Lucifer, I love you…"

"I love you too Alastor."

Not far from them, Cherri was dancing with Pentious and Niffty with Baxter, Angel and Husk were making out somewhere, everyone was smiling – everything was perfect.
Under the moonlight, Alastor and Lucifer stepped and twirled in perfect harmony – drowning in each other’s eyes, forgetting everything else. There was only them, and a sky full of stars, and their love to share.
After a little while, the blond noticed the slight tension in Alastor’s shoulders, his clenched teeth and the very little desynchronization in his steps. He sighed. Of course his boyfriend said nothing…
Gently, he laid a hand on his cheek as he murmured:

"How about we take a little break, love?"

"Tired already, Morningstar?"

"Alastor. Please… We said we’d stop as soon as your leg hurts."

"It’s fine… I can continue."

"Sure?"

"Yes..."

He tried to smile convincingly while dancing even more fervently yet was cut short in his movement by a particularly bad flaring pain, having to put all his weight on his partner not to fall.

"Yeah, that’s what I thought…" Lucifer murmured. "Come."

He helped him towards a chair and grabbed drinks for the both of them.

"See? We managed to dance."

"We did… thank you, Lucifer."

"Anything for you, Alastor…"

He once more lost himself in the contemplation of his boyfriend’s perfect face, and soft brown eyes, and those lips, and that smile…
To think that less than four months ago, they were still enemies… and now…
Now there was no one more important in his life than this very person he swore to defeat, in what seemed now like another life.
That day when Alastor broke his leg, when they slept together in that cave and he carried the wounded boy to safety, that day was the day his heart finally found a home.
The brunet shook his head, before kissing him on the cheek.

"I must thank you, Lucifer. For everything you gave me. For saving my life… and healing my soul… for holding my hand everyday, and supporting me and loving me even though I’m… difficult."

"You’re not difficult, Alastor. In fact, you’re pretty easy to love. Even though you’re kind of a diva sometimes…"

"I am not! I shattered a bone, I almost died, I…"

"I know. I don’t know what I would have done… if…"

"It’s okay. It’s all over now. I’m almost healed, and there’s so much more adventures to live… the future awaits us."

"What about now? College, huh?"

"With our results, we could get accepted pretty much anywhere, Lu. You understand? We can stay together for our studies… and then…"

" … for the rest of our lives?"

"I would wish for nothing more."

They smiled at each other and then kissed, feeling so lucky to have found each other – two lonely souls finally found solace in their love, united, at last.

When Rosie picked them up, they fell asleep in the car, both snuggled against each other, happier than ever.

~

"Ready?"

"The doctors said I was all clear… so, it should be good…"

"Still… we’re gonna start slow, okay? And at any sign of pain, we stop. Do not try to outrace me, got it?"

"Aw… is this a challenge?"

"Alastor, no!"

"I’ve always been the better runner anyways."

"You’re impossible– wait!"

Of course, the brunet had already left, his partner rushing after him. Alastor was now fully healed, and they were having their first run together since the accident. They were going rather easy – after all, it had been a long time since he had last done any sport – but Alastor was so happy to be once again able to feel his steps on the pavement and the wind in his hair, the horizon getting closer each step as if they were flying, as if they were as free as birds in the open sky.

They were young, they were in love and this was just the beginning – the future like a blank page for them to write many, many more beautiful stories.