nogitsune-the

[nogitsune-the]

Lucifer dotes on a pregnant!reader

・❥ Congrats, you’re pregnant! It’s not Luci’s, but nobody can tell the difference with how much he adores you and your baby

x: based on @ukor02’s prompt! reader is fem with no use of y/n. enjoy 🤍

~ 27k words!! Ya’ll…. :’)

[read it in chapters on my ao3!]

“Please, Mr. Demur! Can’t I pay you next week? I’ll have enough by then, I promise.”

“How many ‘next weeks’ are we going to here, hm? If I don’t start making money on these units, I won’t be able to pay off my own debts. I can’t let you keep living here rent-free!” 

You grimaced as your landlord continued to speak across the line, his voice harsh against your ear as you held the small phone against it. Your nails clicked nervously against the wooden countertop of your kitchen, the sound reverberating around the room, helping to drown out your thoughts.

You had been very behind on monthly dues. Your income wasn’t enough to support all your woes anymore, which meant you were struggling to pay rent and afford groceries. Hell’s inflation was getting pretty crazy, and without a second source of income, you were doomed.

You had a second source of income when your boyfriend lived with you and worked for maintenance at VoxTek. Until you found him rolling under the sheets with your next-door neighbor, one of Valentino’s girls who decided that she’d expand her interests to family men.

He had begged for your forgiveness when you dragged him by the ear towards the front door. ‘I won’t do it again, I promise!’ he had pleaded, moaning for your mercy. Right, like you were going to trust a demon from Lust to stay loyal any longer.

What a fool you were, giving him all those chances. Now, you were taking the hit for everything. Alone. Regret ate at the back of your mind, should you have let him stay? If not for your feelings, at least to have kept a roof over your head for you and…

Your gaze traveled slowly down to the small bump on your abdomen, the unspoken words shouting that you ever had relations with a man. Your unborn baby.

The baby your boyfriend knew about, a week before he brought that woman into your home. Yet, he still shoved you aside for a hotter piece of trash. The nerve.

How were you going to support a whole other helpless, tiny being now? If only you could get some empathy from your landlord, appeal to his second nature…

“I understand your difficulties, trust me, I do! But—”

“If you understand that,” your landlord over the phone finally growled out, “then you’ll understand that I’m giving you three days to pack up all your things, and get out of my unit!”

The line ended, that soft buzzing in your ear the only thing keeping you grounded atop the kitchen stool you were quietly shaking on.

Out? He was evicting you? That wasn’t fair! You’ve lived here for years, and a few late payments are what ends your relationship with the little one-bedroom apartment? Ridiculous! 

What were you going to do now? There was nobody to lean on for help, not anymore. Not after your boyfriend left, and your best friend ran off with some royal shitbag down to the Envy Ring, and who even knows where your parents were these days.

It was just you, and the little bean who’d call you Mama soon enough.

Your hand lowered, thumb grazing soothingly against the small protrusion in your belly. Tears pricked at your eyes, hot and angry as you fumed silently. Was this it? The end of any happiness in your life? Forced to grovel like a dog to some powerful entity, or sign a contract that rips free will from your grasp? 

You shivered at the thought. No. That's not how you were going to go out, not without a fight. Even in a dark and brooding place like Hell, you’d try to live a happy and comfortable life, if not for you, at least for the baby growing in your womb. 

Maybe, when the child is born, you won't feel so lonely anymore. They’d be someone to snuggle with at night, curled up against your chest as the two of you lounged on the sofa. The soft words emanating from the TV across the room like a lullaby to their tiny ears, as they drank in the warmth of your body, drifting into blissful sleep.

You’d lower your nose and breathe in that fresh, sweet baby scent from the top of their head, filling you with another dose of pure love and adoration. That child would be fawned over for, well, forever. Even if you were the only one going to share that love, you could wait for them to grow older and return some of it.

That made you smile, imagining the little pitter-pattering of feet against tile flooring as you baked the toddler delicious treats and cooked delicacies that made their little mouth water. That gleam of awe in their eye as the flavors swirled against their tongue, their brain growing fuzzy with pleasure.

That’s the life you would live, and not some cardboard box in the alleyway begging for scraps.

“Alright, looks like Mama has some work to do,” you spoke softly to the quiet, empty room. You weren’t sure whether the little bean could hear your voice nestled so far in your belly, but at this point, you were willing to chat up thin air if it kept your sanity. 

It wasn’t going to be easy, that was for sure. You needed a stable income, instead of picking up odd jobs popping up on the streets. Then, you needed to find a place to stay, it could be anything, even a barn. As long as it was somewhere with a little room and comfort, it would do for the time being. You’d have to upgrade when the baby was born, though, maybe to a two-bedroom apartment this time.

Quickly, you lifted your phone and typed in the now-familiar phrase ‘Places hiring in Pentagram City’. You scrolled, favoriting every job that offered a decent income and was manageable for you.

Being pregnant was going to make things difficult, seeing as you’d be unable to do many physical tasks sometime down the road in the coming months. Which would give you very few options soon.

Your feet hit the soft carpet of the living room, and you rubbed your eyes sleepily. That nausea that had been plaguing you early in the morning was draining you physically, and the stress that was beginning to build on your shoulders only zapped your mental strength.

A few hours of beauty sleep, and then you’d get your ass to work. 

Your stomach growled, moaning for substance, and you sighed. Okay, a nap and lunch… then, you’d be moving toward financial stability. One step at a time, and now a tiny bean to think about. 

Sooner or later, you’d get there.

Before eviction day, you had managed to find an open position at a small convenience store in a much quieter part of the city. Residential neighborhoods wrapped around the row of stores inside a quaint, little market at the edge of the city. 

You looked into the large display windows that bordered the front door to the dark purple shop. ‘We’re Hiring!’ in bold lettering on a corner of the glass pane, beneath the rows of chips and other snacks on a tall shelf standing a few feet behind the window. Right beneath that flashy sign, was a smaller piece of paper taped hastily to the glass surface. “Room Available for rent’ was scrawled in unkempt handwriting, and your eyes widened in excitement.

Taking a deep breath, you gripped the cold, metal handle and pulled the door open. The golden bell above your head jingled a faint tune as you stepped through the threshold. Your eyes take in the old, wooden shelves that hung on either side of the room, while shorter displays were lined neatly in rows spanning wall to wall filled with snacks, home essentials, and more.

The place was kind of a mess, but… it felt rather homey. A ‘Mom and Pop’ shop kinda of thing, stirring nostalgic emotions inside of you. When you reached an older demon, her back hunched slightly with age and the weight of the large shell on her back, you realized how your feelings couldn’t get any more accurate. 

Green skin sagged from the elderly woman’s face, deep wrinkles embedded into her reptilian features as she regarded you with suspicion. She resembled pretty closely to a tortoise, with that round, thick shell that lay upon her back and neck that extended high from her body. She held a broom in her long claws, halting mid-sweep as you smiled gently at her. 

“Can I help you?” She croaked.

“I’m here for the job opening, the general worker position?” Your smile widened, trying to look as presentable and friendly as possible. This may not be the job of your dreams, but it was a job nonetheless, a start. 

“You Hellborn?” 

“Yes.” What an odd question.

“You can lift and move large boxes?”

“Sure can!” You replied, with a quick nod. For the next few months, at least. If you couldn’t find a new job by the time your belly was unable to be hidden any longer, you’d spill the beans to granny.

“Hm,” the wrinkled demon eyed you with more interest, and she tilted her head in thought for a few moments, before meeting your gaze again, “I think I can make do with what’s in front of me, for now.”

Not even an interview? What a score!

A sigh of relief escaped you, the invisible weight on your shoulders lightening slightly as you shook hands with the turtle. The job wasn’t going to be that difficult, cashiering, stocking, talking to customers, easy peasy. Until the swollen ankles kicked in.

“Oh, and the room for rent! I’m kinda in need of some living arrangements for now. Do you still have availability?” You clasped your hands, smiling widely once more.

“We have space…” The old, turtle-faced demon sighed, turning her large shell to face you, before ambling away towards a dark hallway behind the small checkout counter. She beckoned you with her thick tail that slowly swayed behind her as she moved.

Slowly, you followed behind the woman, entering what seemed to be the large back room of the store, piles of boxes labeled as different foodstuffs, with thick, heavy bags of an assortment of goods. There looked to be a large freezer on one wall, as it blew cold air that seeped into your skin, sending a shiver down your spine as you crossed the room. 

The turtle demon stopped at a light-brown wooden door, before softly turning the handle and pulling it open. She leaned through the doorway as far as her wide shell would allow and tugged on a thin string hanging from the ceiling. With a click, the small bulb above your head flickered on, illuminating what seemed like a large, dusty storage closet. You gulped, this was tiny! It was the size of a small bedroom, but was supposed to be your entire living unit? You pointed into the lit room, quirking a brow in disbelief.

“Is this…?”

“The room available, yes.”

“It’s kind of… small.”

“Well, what did ya expect, a two-bedroom with a loft? It’s less than a hundred for a reason. The bathroom is next door, so it's a quick walk. We’ve got a hose in the back you can use to shower, and you got a place to buy most of your essentials just a hallway over.”

You thought for a few moments, rubbing your hands together as your mind raced with what other options you currently had. None, really. Anywhere else you had gone to seek employment had already found someone or deemed you unqualified for the position. Let's see… the alleyway or a closet? Hard choice.

“Also, utilities are included in the rent.” 

Well, that was a good bargain.

“Okay, sure” you nodded slowly, rubbing your face with a sigh, “This’ll work.”

“Good. We’ll just take rent out of your paycheck, then. The name is Alma, let me show you around.” 

You had followed her back out to the front of the store, before being walked through the job and every detail your new boss, Alma, found necessary to fill you in on. How to work the old cash register, keys for every door inside the building, where the gun was hidden underneath the counter in case anyone was to rob the store and use it for defense.

When you returned home later that day, your back hit the door and you slid to the ground with a sigh. Your stomach rumbled, and you tenderly rubbed a hand across the protrusion underneath your skin. Rising to your feet, you headed to the kitchen, digging through all the junk for any healthier options you had. There wasn’t much, but you settled on a small microwave meal and placed it into the little appliance.

As the microwave buzzed softly, it filled your head with background noise to your quiet thoughts. Thoughts about your future, your chances at success, your baby, or your loneliness navigating such a turbulent time in your life.

Hopefully, once you had a good night’s sleep and packed up in the morning, the doubts about your decision that were eating at your conscience would fade. Everything was going to be very different from here on out, but maybe, that wouldn’t be so bad after all.

“Looks like we have our work cut out for us,” you whispered into the empty room once more.

It had been a few months since you arrived at that quaint, little shop looking for a job and a place to stay. After a few months, your stomach only continued to grow. 

You had hidden the sight through baggy clothes at first, careful to keep your secret hidden from prying eyes. Until running to the bathroom all the time and your sudden bouts of exhaustion made you reveal the fact to Alma.

She had rolled her eyes, before grumbling how ‘as long as you’re still able to work’ there wouldn’t be any problems regarding your employment. 

There wasn’t much you brought over from your apartment, not even your bed could fit comfortably inside the little room. Instead, you resorted to a one-person mat that only lifted you from the floor a couple of inches. At first, it sucked, really, really sucked. Soon enough, you adjusted to the tension in your back that always woke you just in time for work.

You had brought a few trinkets with you, memories from your past, and small items to keep you busy. You brought that little microwave from your place, which was situated on a small coffee table on the wall across from your bed.

There was nothing for the baby, yet. You didn’t have anything to begin with, nor did you have the money to afford such things. Later, when the little bean was closer to arrival, you’d start hunting through garage sales and thrift stores. The only thing keeping you educated on your pregnancy was the few books detailing motherhood that were on sale at one of the local vendors. 

Standing atop your microwave, was a small flatscreen TV, your only source of entertainment nowadays. Sure, you touch grass once in a while, exploring the market, brisk walks around the block, that sort of thing. Getting a workout made you hungry, though, and with your tiny paycheck? Three meals a day was a luxury you couldn’t afford.

The problem? You were always craving something to eat. Sweet treats, odd vegetables, food you used to hate. Once, you even drooled over a slab of raw meat you were packing away into a freezer, the thought of ripping it apart and devouring it right then and there itching at your scalp. 

Instead, you opted for a large salad. While you made sure to eat enough to feed your baby, the quality of the food you were consuming wasn’t the greatest. Hopefully, you'll be able to afford healthier meals soon.

The work in the store was mundane, the customers lively but nothing worthwhile, and life was pretty stagnant after a few months of living there. Except for the changes in your body, those new aches and sores, the sudden dizziness that caused you to plop down upon the nearest surface.

It was one of these times when you felt your face numbing and your vision beginning to blur, and you fell upon an unopened box of goods. Hand lifting to wipe that dribble of sweat away, you took a deep breath. It was getting harder to do that, though, with how the baby in your womb was beginning to steal the space your lungs needed to expand.

It was a much hotter afternoon, the air simmered with acrid, dry heat that suffocated the store with its intensity. It was a weather normal pattern, but one you loathed nonetheless. A fan close to you finally swiveled in your direction, and you let the cool air smack you in the face with its soothing touch. 

Alma wasn’t around, which meant she wasn’t able to catch you on another one of your on-the-clock breaks. Standing on your feet, lifting boxes and other items all shifts was not fun with a baby rolling around somewhere in your guts.

You were enjoying the momentary peace, eyes shut as you inhaled another large breath. The small TV hanging from the corner of the room, right behind the cashier register hummed softly as the news anchors yapped quietly about something or other.

When you opened your eyes, the congregation of large shadows at the front door caught your attention. Quickly, you rose from the cardboard box, fiddling with another small pile as you took a knife and tore it open. Bags of chips nestled together, your stomach grumbled softly at the multiple flavors it hosted.

You did your best to look busy, just as the door opened with a creak and the bell above its frame jingled excitingly about the fresh, new faces. 

“I can't believe you made us take a walk in this weather, Charlie,” a feminine voice moaned as they crossed through the threshold. Their tall figure rose above the rows of shelves, pink fuzz popping from their partially exposed chest as they strode in. Both sets of arms were crossed, as they turned to meet the gaze of a woman with a bright red tuxedo.

Beside her was a shorter, gray-skinned woman who immediately placed herself in the direction of a whirring fan. One good eye scanned across the room, looking for nothing in particular.

A tall snake demon slithered in behind them, huffing as he collapsed onto a small bench next to the doorway. The hoods framing his face began to fan his heated skin, recuperating for a few moments.

“I agree with—huff—Angel Dusssssst,” The man hissed tiredly, swiping a claw over his brow to dry his forehead, “It sssseeems we have chosen a poor day to—huff—embark on our little excursion.”

“It is pretty hot today, but! That means we all sweat a little more, and burn off some of that negative energy!” The woman, Charlie, exclaimed as she clapped her hands together, “Clear our minds of all that clutter and embrace the heat of a new day!” 

Angel Dust rolled his eyes, grumbling something as he turned to a display of sunglasses, plucking out different pairs from the stand and fiddling with them on his face as he posed in the tiny mirror.

“Husk’a! Don’t I look fantabulous or what?” He turned towards a short, feline demon with quirked brows. He sent Husk a playful, sultry smirk which the feline only growled softly at, before reaching into a fridge for a large bottle of water.

“Ya look like shit,” he grumbled, popping the cap off and chugging down the drink in one go. It seemed like the guy did that often enough for the contents to disappear so quickly, which was pretty impressive. Hopefully, he was going to pay for that drink too.

“Awww, thanks kitty!” 

The demons dispersed from their little group, scanning the shelves for any snack that would satisfy their hunger after that draining exercise. 

You watched through careful glances as they wandered about. There was no doubt the group of demons had noticed you by now, but there was nothing special to see as you just continued hefting boxes across the room. The last one, a large crate of soda cans, was giving you a rough time.

Strength waning, you huffed as you slowly walked towards the wall of fridges. Straining as you try to shift your grip, your arm placement is awkward with your round stomach making it difficult to get good positioning on the container. Panic seized you for a moment, as you fumbled with your hold.

“Let me help you with that!” A cheery voice exclaimed from beside you, causing you to jump right as the crate was lifted from your grip into the arms of the apple-cheeked woman. 

Charlie smiled brightly at you before she turned away, setting the crate down gently next to the fridge door. You fanned yourself, taking in a deep breath as the woman turned back to face you.

“I’m sorry,” you smiled apologetically, reaching up instinctively to brush a thumb gently over your bump, “heat and exhaustion are just not a healthy mix.” 

“That’s okay, it wasn’t a problem! And—oh my,” the demon’s eyes gleamed at your swollen stomach, her gaze soft, “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude but are you…?”

“Pregnant?” You tilted your head, smiling softly as a hand instinctively reached up to caress, “I am, yes.”

“Awe, I love babies!” Charlie swooned, placing a hand over her heart. “How far along are you?”

“About four months! I just moved here recently, are you from around here?”

“Yep! Just around the corner practically, right up the hill there’s that big hotel? I run it! It’s called the Hazbin Hotel!”

The Hazbin Hotel? Why did that name sound so familiar?

“And, these are all residents at the hotel!” Charlie smiled gleefully, sweeping a hand across the room as she gestured at her band of demons, “Some of them work for me, and some of them are my clients! The pink one is Angel Dust, the snake is Sir. Pentious, the grumpy fella over there is Husker, and the lady over there is Vaggie, my girlfriend!” 

Your head spun with the quick introductions, but you only listened thoughtfully as she spoke a few more words about her job. 

“That’s very interesting,” you finally said after she finished her sentence, “I’ll have to look it up sometime, I’m sure you're doing a great job. Hopefully, everything has been going well for you so far.” 

“I hope the same for you, too,” she smiled, eyes flicking down to your stomach for a moment before her head swiveled to get a look around the room, “…you don’t happen to have a bathroom here, do you?”

“We do! It’s in the back, I can take you there,” you smiled softly, before turning towards the back door and crossing the room. Charlie’s heels clicked against the old, cracking concrete behind you, as the two of you entered the back room. It was filled with boxes and other goods, and Charlie’s gaze bounced across the new scene with interest. 

The dimly lit room sent shadows across the two doors on the far end, and your hand slid across the wall close to you to find the switch. The lights flickered on, revealing the matching doors standing side by side, and you turned towards the demon woman.

“It’s right over there,” you gestured toward the doors, backing up slightly as Charlie nodded. She made her way towards the bathroom, hand raising to grasp around the doorknob, before twisting it firmly. 

Your breath hitched in realization right as she pulled the door open. That was the wrong door, that was your door! There was no telling how the woman would judge you after seeing the pitiful place you called home.

“Wait! That’s my—!”

“Oh!” Charlie exclaimed as she took in the makeshift living quarters, illuminated softly by the bulb above her head.

Her gaze flicked to the sunken mattress, lying against the hard cement floor. The small TV stacked on that aging microwave, and the piles of books created a makeshift nightstand, with a little reading lamp and retro alarm clock. The mini fridge hummed softly against another wall, hardly big enough to fit a few day's worth of meals in it.

Charlie’s eyes rested on the stacks of labeled boxes nestled tightly against the wall for maximum space, the only remnants of your old life. Her heart beat rapidly, as she took in the flood of information she was gathering about your situation as she stared silently. 

You only watched her expression with weary eyes, rubbing your hands soothingly as you waited for her words. Slowly, Charlie turned towards you, her gaze meeting yours and she read your expression carefully.

“You don’t actually live here, right?” She laughed in disbelief before her smile quickly faded when your face showed no signs of humor. 

“This is terrible! Especially with someone in your condition!” 

Condition? You weren’t helpless just because you were carrying some extra cargo around for a few more months.

“Don’t worry about me, It’s not that bad it’s just—”

You were cut off by the sound of your stomach growling, so loud it practically reverberated around the room. The pitiful noises were followed by slight pain, a sign of how dreadfully empty your tummy was. The noises of hunger made Charlie’s eyes widen and her brows furrow deeper.

“Are you hungry?” She asked slowly.

“Yes,” you stated bluntly, your tongue subconsciously wetting your parched lips. God, you were so hungry. All. the. time. 

It was miserable, having to limit yourself on all the mouth-watering goodies surrounding you. You just wanted to stuff your face, fill up your stomach, and then some. 

“Have you eaten anything today?” Charlie questioned, crossing her arms and shooting you a look of concern.

“No.”

“Why not?”

“I get my paycheck tomorrow,” you answered quietly, averting the woman’s gaze as you gnawed at your lip. Embarrassment was bubbling in your chest, and tears were threatening to spill against you will.

You’ve never felt this… open with someone before, not in a long while. You were struggling direly, and now Charlie knew it too. And, revealing your financial situation to a customer you’ve just met? Alma would have your head! What were you thinking? 

Maybe, it was a subconscious cry for help. For some empathetic, kind soul to come swoop you off your feet into prosperity. 

But, you were in Hell, who would do something so selfless like that, for nobody like you?

Charlie bit her lip, breath quickening as her gaze darted from you to the thin mattress on the floor. She seemed antsy, like there were words behind her lips the woman was desperate to spill. Instead, Charlie only gulped them down, before her composure straightened and she sent you an awkward smile.

“Will you excuse me for just a second? I have to uhm, go talk to my girlfriend…” Charlie chuckled nervously, slowly backing away towards the front of the store, “I’ll be right back, don’t move!” 

You nodded obediently to the stern finger she waggled at you, before she pivoted and dashed towards the door at the end of the hall. Charlie wrapped a hand around an ash-gray arm, Vaggie jumped at her touch before she was dragged out of sight. The sounds of fast, hushed voices echoed to your spot in the dark.

Straining your ears, you tried to peep in on their conversation. With the way Charlie scrambled out of there, you were nervous about what exactly the two could be discussing around the corner. 

“We can’t just leave her here, Vaggie!” Charlie shook her head sternly, crossing her arms as she spoke to her partner. 

“Well, we can’t just take her back to the hotel. We don’t know the woman!”

“She’s pregnant with barely any food, and a terrible place to sleep! We can’t just do nothing!” The apple-cheeked woman growled, throwing her hands up as she paced in place near the freezers. The others on the other side of the room were too busy arguing over which flavor of ice cream was better to stop and listen in on the duo’s conversation. 

“I know,” Vaggie sighed, her brows creasing in frustration as she rubbed a hand down her face, mind racing, “I just don’t want to do anything that could put a wrench in your dreams, that’s all. We don’t know anything about her, she could bring trouble to our doorstep. There's enough of that as it is..”

“Nothing will happen, I promise,” Charlie replied softly, lacing her fingers with Vaggie, before soothingly brushing a thumb over her partner's knuckles, “We’ll just say she’s on… maternity leave! That way, she can have the baby stress-free, and then find a job either at the hotel or somewhere else. And, if any problems arise, we have Alastor to handle it.”

“Okay,” Vaggie nodded slowly, “If you think this won’t be an issue… then, I trust you, babe.” 

“Thank you, Vaggie.” Charlie smiled softly, “I haven’t told her yet. I just wanted to run it by you first, and figure out how to ask a stranger to, well, move in with strangers.”

You backed out of earshot, having gotten enough of the two’s words for your breath to quicken and your thoughts to spiral. Turning, you faced into your room, staring into space as you chewed absently on your lip.

They want to give you a place to stay, for free? No questions asked, just out of the kindness of their hearts?

You shook your head, a dry laugh of disbelief escaping your lips. That was impossible! This was Hell, and things like that never happened. You were born in Hell, and have practically seen it all when it comes to 

Murdering, whoring, and overdosing. That was Hell’s usual. Who was this woman, and what could she possibly have in store for you?

Your thoughts were interrupted when you heard the soft clicking of heels reverberate around the dimly lit room. You pivoted sharply, smiling innocently as your gaze met Charlie’s excited expression. She bit her lip nervously, before straightening her posture and clasping her hands together. 

“I know we only just met, but I would really love to offer you a place to stay. Something better than this, at least. We have large rooms with their own bathroom and little dining areas. It’ll be free! Plus, lounges, a kitchen, and a bar. Although, I’m sure you won’t be needing that anytime soon.” Charlie chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of her neck and she watched you intently. 

“Why would you do something like this for me?” You asked slowly, tilting your head as your fingers thrummed against your bump thoughtfully.

“Because when I see my people struggling, I don’t just stand by and let them. It’s my duty to help those in need.” Charlie placed a fist into her open palm, determination in her gaze and she spoke assertively.

‘My people’? ‘Duty’? What could she possibly mean about that? Such strange words coming from an even stranger woman before you, so desperate to hear your approval.

“I can definitely think about it…” you finally said softly, meeting her gaze after a moment.

“That’s a start! Here, take this, it’s my business card.” The woman patted down her pockets, before pulling out a small card from her pants, thrusting it excitedly towards you.

“I made them myself!” Charlie whispered, her eyes gleaming with pride as you stared down at the little writings across its surface. 

“I can call you tomorrow, with my answer,” you replied finally, slipping the card away for later. 

“Great! Thank you so much for considering! It’ll be worth it, I promise!”

A shadow loomed across the room, as Angel Dust poked his head into the doorway. He squinted into the darkness, before quirking a brow at Charlie’s figure.

“Ya comin’, toots? I’m hungry, and I deserve some R&R back at the hotel. ASAP.”

“Coming!” Charlie called, beginning to cross the room. She turned to face you, curving her lips into another bright smile as you stood there motionless. You didn’t say another word as she was consumed by the bright lights of the store, and you stayed frozen in place for a few more moments.

Your head spun, Charlie’s words still consuming your thoughts as you chewed at your lip. Just as you were about to head back to the waiting group, you heard grumbling from behind you, and the door to the back alleyway opened wide.

Alma ambled inside, returning from a friend’s business a few stores over. A large bag in her claws as she lumbered towards you, 

“I smell customers, are they Sinners? Ugh. Here, take this and put it in the freezer right away. I’ll go up front and get them out of here.” 

“Of course,” you replied, hardly listening while still untangling your racing thoughts. The box was changed to your arms, and you took it with a huff before lowering it gently next to the freezer.

You watched Alma enter the front of the store, chattering loudly to the group of demons you had acquainted yourself with as you pried open the box. Slabs of fresh meat were revealed underneath the thin, soaked red parchment shielding them. You wet your lips subconsciously, that ache in your stomach returning as you inhaled the flavorful, wafting scents.

Hopefully, you’d start craving something much more tasteful like ice cream or peanut butter.

Taking time to pack away the stacks of goods only kept your mind busy from Charlie’s offer. You still felt uneasy with her proposal, for all you knew, it could be a trick or some way to wrap you into a deal. There was no way someone like her existed in someplace like Hell.

That doubt still crept up your spine as you stood at the gates of her aging little hotel the next day, nestled on top of a small hill on the outskirts of the bustling city. Charlie’s handmade business card was clenched tightly in your hand, as your eyes read the address one last time before taking a deep, reassuring breath.

The hotel didn’t look too bad, in your opinion. An honest fixer-upper that would look really beautiful if done correctly. The colors were a little odd, not to mention the structure of the building was weird. Jagged even, as different parts jutted out from the center, your eyes traced the outline of what seemed to be… a boat? One that was nestled tightly against the outer walls of the hotel. The building seemed refined, like the owner before the apple-cheeked woman had good taste. Overall, if you did choose to stay here, it wouldn't be too bad of a place.

Except… why did it have to be on top of a hill?! Just the sight of the trek you were going to have to endure made your ankles start to ache, and you groaned, head thrown up in the air as your feet dragged up the cracked concrete path. 

‘Did these guys ever think of investing in a ramp?’ you groaned internally, wiping sweat from your brow as you continued the strenuous hike. If this were the kind of difficulties you were going to face throughout your pregnancy, you would have taken more laps around the block in preparation for this moment.

Sputtering for breath, and only halfway up, you rested for a moment with a huff. How many steps have you taken? To keep your shame, you refrained from counting as you continued the climb. Another two months, and this would be impossible, which made you deflate even more. 

You hated feeling so… helpless, useless, weak. People looked at you differently, as if you were the child, incapable of being able to support your own weight. Which was another reason you were resistant to the idea of moving here, you didn’t want to feel like a charity case–or a burden–to Charlie and her friends. Hopefully, you’d prove to them today there was more to you than the baby in your womb.

The final step up to the front doors was a hefty one, and you fought the urge to roll over in defeat on their doormat. You shot the cement path the finger, before turning towards the large oak doors. You squinted, trying to get a peek through the stained glass windows as you leaned in slightly.

‘Stop being so creepy and knock,’ you growled at yourself, before lifting a closed fist and rapping it against the sturdy, wood frame of the entryway.

Knock Knock

No response, but you waited patiently with clasped hands and a bright smile ready to go.

Knock Knock

You thought you heard shuffling behind the door, but still no response. You rolled your eyes in irritation, crossing your arms. It was getting hot out here and you needed somewhere to sit down. What kind of a hotel doesn’t greet their gues–

The large door opened slowly with a loud creak, revealing a tall, red demon. He was dressed rather formally, with a nice red tuxedo that hugged his figure perfectly. Large ears sat above his head, small antlers poking from bright red hair that framed his face. His lips were curved into a wide, toothy grin that made the hair at the back of your neck stand on end as you met his ruby-like eyes. They stared intensely into your gaze, as if reading every thought behind those wide eyes, partially shaded by that equally red monocle resting atop his cheek.

What was up with this guy and the color red?

“Can I help you?” He finally asked sweetly, static dripping from his voice, paired with a strange overlay that seemed to pour from his tongue as you watched him speak. It sounded as if he was speaking right through an aging microphone. With the door only partially cracked, you didn’t see much behind that large, charming smile of his.

“Hello, uhm, good sir! I’m looking for Charlie? She and I talked yesterday and–”

“Ohmygoshitsyoucomein!!” The words rolled off Charlie’s tongue just as she popped up right beside the smiling demon. She wrapped her hands around your forearms and pulled you through the threshold with a squeal. A gasp left your lips as you were dragged gleefully inside, and the door shut softly behind you.

For the next few hours, Charlie gave you a tour of the hotel while sharing her visions for the future. Dreams of happy days in Hell, and a second chance for the sinful. Sinners being redeemed and going to Heaven? Was that even possible? You didn’t know, and it didn’t really matter if they could, seeing as you weren’t one of them. 

You got better introductions to the residents, including new faces. Alastor, the demon from the front door, who welcomed you with that exotic voice and a humble demeanor that made you feel somewhat at ease. His voice seemed familiar though, reminiscent of horrible, violent rumors of a powerful demon on the prowl. One that scooped up Overlords and sent them to their doom. 

Why were people afraid of you being dangerous, when demons like Alastor resided under the same roof? He may have not looked at you with that same hunger he showed his enemies, but he still could send you six feet under in an instant. Which made your unease grow a little more, as you thought about the safety of your child.

Then, there was Niffty, the freaky little cleaning lady who had a constant itch to stab things. When she saw your baby bump, she lit up, rushing towards you with a skip in her step. You froze, watching the tiny woman approach you with a bashful grin.

“Can I touch the baby?” She sent you a puppy-dog stare through one large, glittering eye. Her arms were behind her back as she twirled innocently, a small, toothy smile on her lips.

“Oh, well, I don’t really mind,” you said softly, lowering yourself slightly so she could reach a hand up and place a warm palm on the fabric lying against your abdomen. She giggled softly as she rubbed your stomach tenderly for a few moments, as if she was petting your child directly through her soft touches.

“Do you have a name for it?” Nifty asked, lowering her arm back to her side.

“Not yet, but I’ll figure it out,” you had said, before turning your attention back to Charlie. Finally, the last stop of your little tour was getting a peek at one of the rooms you’d be staying in. Crossing a single hallway, the two of you stood in front of a dark, wooden door. With a twist of the handle, the apple-cheeked woman pushed open the door, and your breath stilled as you leaned through the threshold.

It was a rather large room, fully furnished to replicate a master bedroom. A bed, two dressers, a large wardrobe, even a small dining table with matching chairs on the other side of the room. You stepped into a white-tiled bathroom, taking in the large maroon bathtub and matching colored sinks. Everything looked clean, and honestly, the rooms didn't match the exterior of the hotel. There wasn’t much to complain about, other than some aging upholstery and building cobwebs.

You stepped back into the large bedroom, Charlie following your figure with a hitched breath as you circled the room again, inspecting it closely. You halted, silent for a few moments, before you pivoted to face the demon woman. 

“So, this is free? No strings attached?”

“Yep!” Charlie beamed.

“No secret legally binding agreement that I’m about to shake on?”

“Of course not!” 

“Well…” you started, brows furrowing in thought as you looked around the room. Charlie stared at you with apprehensive eyes, unable to read your expression as you considered your options, “I’d have to find a place closer to work, or figure out transportation from Alma’s”

“Work?” Charlie inquired.

“How else am I supposed to afford food and other necessities? I can’t just sit around all day waiting to pop!” You raised an eyebrow at the woman, 

“The point is you’re supposed to take it nice and easy until you’ve had your baby! Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of food to go around. Plus, I’m sure we can find a place to buy some baby essentials, like diapers and a crib. Whatever you want!” Charlie argued, that smile never faltering as she tried to win you over with charm.

“You’re just going to spend money like that on me?”

“That’s right! Like I’ve said, I’m willing to do anything to support my people.”

“But… how can you afford that? Who are you?”

“I guess I haven’t told you, huh?” Charlie laughed nervously, before rubbing her neck with a sigh, “I’m not a big fan of telling people right off the bat, but my full name is Charlie Morningstar.” 

Morningstar? As in the royal family? Charlie was the daughter of the king of Hell, Lucifer Morningstar? Oh dear. This was a joke, right?

You felt your heart beat rapidly, and you placed a hand on your chest to calm its racing pace. The Princess of Hell was standing right in front of you like she was any normal demon, which was crazy. The fact you were standing in front

“Your Majesty!” You lowered your head quickly, averting your gaze respectfully.

“Please don’t!” Charlie shook her head, walking up to you, “I don’t want you to regard me any differently just because I'm royal and all. I just want to help you.”

Slowly, she lifted a hand, lacing her fingers gently with yours as she stared at you with pleading eyes. You could feel the truth in her words practically radiating from her as she waited for your answer, her tone the complete opposite of manipulative, and you bit your lip in thought.

‘Please, live here,’ you read through her glistening gaze.

“Okay,” you finally said softly, a smile slowly creeping onto your lips as you looked up at her.

“Really?” Charlie asked, her eyes lighting up as you nodded in response, and she bounced giddily in place, “This is great! I can’t wait to tell everyone! Oh, I am so happy you said yes. We’ll need a day to prepare, but you probably need a day to pack anyway. Oh! I almost forgot…”

Charlie filled your head with more chatter about what was in store now that you were studying, and you listened intently as the two of you strolled down the hallway back into the lobby. By the time you made it to the front door, your feet were sore from all the walking, and your eyes were tired and droopy as you munched on a sandwich Sir. Pentious had kindly made for you as you left the hotel. 

When you passed through the open front doors, you turned back to Charlie, and a few other demons behind her. 

“Thank you for being so kind to open up your home to me,” you said softly to the small group, “I’ll be back tomorrow with my things. Have a good day!”

“Bye!”

“See ya, momma!”

“Ssssstay hydrated!”

By the time you walked the block and a half to the dark purple store on the corner, the air had cooled considerably, and the walk wasn’t so bad this time. The fans were silent, hibernating for their next use as you walked across the cracked tile of the shop, your boss fussing with change behind the checkout counter as you approached.

“Leaving?” Alma had asked slowly when you finally dared to inform her of your decision. The demon was mid-count of the register, her long neck lifting so she could meet your gaze with a curious expression.

“Yes, someone offered me a place to stay until I have the baby,” you nodded, rubbing your arm soothingly as you spoke, watching her expression carefully, “I believe it would be in my best interest to take that opportunity. I’m sorry for the short notice, so you can keep my paycheck if you want. I’ll be out of here by tomorrow, probably.”

Alma squinted at you, deep in thought as one claw tapped absentmindedly against the cracked, wooden countertop. The turtle demon grunted, before lowering herself to reach underneath the register, pulling out a long piece of paper and setting it onto the counter. 

Dipping a claw in ink, Alma scribbled some numbers onto the paper, before signing her name below. Carefully, she lifted the parchment towards you, quirking a scaly brow at your hesitation. Extending a hand, you took the paper from her hold and turned it over. It was a check, with the remainder of your pay. Eyes widening, your head lifts to meet the old demon’s calm gaze.

“Take care of yourself, then,” Alma croaked, nodding her head slightly at you as she continued to count the cash register. A smile bloomed across your lips, and you quietly turned towards your room, excitement to be out of that cramped little room making you move a little faster as you began to pack your things.

“Alright, everyone. My dad is going to be here in… one hour.” Charlie smiled awkwardly, eye twitching slightly as her disheveled figure addressed the small group of demons inside the lobby of the hotel.

You sat on the couch, munching on a morning snack as she spoke. The small bowl filled with goodies rested atop your swollen belly, now larger since you moved in a while ago. Apart from the sudden dizziness and aching back, some good things came with being pregnant, like your personal little dining table in the shape of a watermelon. 

Sometimes, you’d practice balancing different items atop the growing swell. Cups, books, anything that gave you some entertainment now that were limited in physical activities–mostly declared by Charlie, but you didn’t complain too much–and stuck inside most days. To an outsider, what you were doing may have seemed weird or strange. But, seeing as they weren’t the ones lugging around a whole nother being, no one had room to talk about what you did for amusement.

Once, you even let Niffty build Jenga on top of your bump, as you lay comfortably out on the sofa in the lobby. The little structure tipped slightly on the unlevel surface, and you did your best to control your breathing to keep it from toppling over as she gingerly placed each rectangular block. Angel Dust had walked into the lobby, adorned in revealing clothes and cat-eye sunglasses. His features were exhausted and drained as he halted in his tracks at the sight.

“What are you two doin’?” He slowly asked, lifting the shades from his face as he watched with a perplexed expression.

“Angel~,” you called, lifting your head with a smile to meet his gaze, “Fancy playing a little bit of risky Jenga? We were just about to start.”

The spider demon seemed to want to reject the offer, before his eyes flitted across the empty room–save for the familiar bartender cleaning glasses–to the clock. It was about eight o'clock at night, a Friday, and the pornstar was trying to find any possible reason to stay inside tonight. For once, Angel Dust was party-pooped.

“Huska’, pour me a tall one, won’tcha? I gotta get in my zone,” He had called towards the bar, his golden tooth glinting as he shot you a sly, toothy grin. 

The next rounds encompassed you trying desperately not to laugh at the sensations of the game. After each block was expelled, it tumbled down your tummy and tickled at your skin. You clasped a hand over your mouth, holding in your laugh as your stomach twitched, and the small structure began to teeter.

“Hey! Watch it, mama,” Angel laughed, grimacing slightly as the Jenga tower jiggled again, “I’m about to win!”

Niffty giggled beside him as you kept your mouth covered, unable to say a word with the fear that your laughter would bubble up past your lips given the chance. You stilled yourself and regained composure, the blocks settled back into place.

“What if…” Niffty said, a mischievous grin on her face as she lifted a claw towards you. Your eyes followed her finger right as it reached your abdomen, and you tensed, trying to prepare for the inevitable.

“Niff!” Angel gasped with a glare, right as the small white finger poked you in the side. Even with her claw, the touch was like a feather against your skin and you had no control as you reacted to the ticklish feeling. 

“Nif—HA!” You had blurted with a snort, your body pitching forward slightly at the sensation. Your lips quivered into a clasped smile just as the blocks tumbled over, losing their balance on top of your bump. They slid across the floor, and you sat up quickly.

“That’s it, missy!” Angel Dust rose to his full height, pointing an accusatory finger at Niffty’s innocent expression, “You sabotaged me on purpose! You did this at UNO last night, and I won’t have it no longer!” 

Pivoting abruptly on his heels, Angel adjusted his tight outfit and pulled back his hair, before he turned his head towards the two of you.

“Goodnight, ladies! This star needs his beauty sleep!” He waved as he strutted away, leaving Niffty to clean up the mess and you to return Angel’s empty drink to the bar. 

That day had tested your limits on how useful the bun in your oven was as a food rest, and you stuck to small items after that. Such as the bowl in front of you that you were tiredly nibbling on as you watched Charlie pace in place, anxiety obvious on her features as she muttered to herself.

The others around you tensed, before they dashed off in different directions, breathing heavily as if whatever was to be done was extremely important. You turned your head, watching them flee in confusion. 

Then, Charlie’s words finally computed in your head, the morning brain fog waning as you slowly sat up. Blinking, you rubbed a hand down your face, rubbing the sleepiness from your features as you processed the information. 

Charlie’s father, Lucifer Morningstar, was coming to the hotel? In one hour? 

The king of Hell, the most powerful man in the realm. Whose face had long since disappeared from the public eye, when before it adorned every magazine and cover photo that one could buy. 

What was he to think of you, a nobody with a boring story and a baby on the way? 

You felt a slight nudge inside your stomach, your child softly prodding your side, maybe in an attempt to get you moving as you shot up from the couch. 

“Your dad is coming here right now?” You asked approaching Charlie, and she stopped in her tracks to face you. 

“Yes,” she nodded, biting her lip, “I haven’t seen him in years, and his opinion of the hotel isn’t the most optimistic.” 

It seemed like it was difficult for Charlie to speak about her father, as if her—as husk had put it—‘daddy issues’ made the topic of her familial relationships sour on her tongue. 

“He’s just going to come and visit? That doesn’t seem too bad, I’m sure the place will grow on him after a quick tour.” 

“He’s my only ticket to Heaven,” Charlie sighed, using a hand to rake her unkempt hair back, “Everything has to be perfect. We just need to clean a little, put some balloons up, 

“What does your dad like to eat?” You said after a few moments. 

“What?” Charlie stared at you with perplexity, tilting her head slightly with a quirked brow.

“Well, as you know I’ve been practicing in the kitchen a lot, learning to bake and all that, and I believe it would be a nice idea if we made something your dad enjoys. That way, he feels welcome and less apprehensive.”

That was true, you had started working in the kitchen daily ever since you moved to the hotel. With Charlie being so kind and offering for you to live there for free until your baby was born, and the fact your large bump made it difficult to do many physical activities, you decided to stick to something more hands-on and less strenuous. 

Surprisingly, it was actually quite fun. Most days, you’d flip through pages of recipes from a cookbook Alastor had loaned to you, looking for that one treat that made your mouth water and the little bean inside of you flip around in excitement. The kitchen inside the hotel was actually quite large, with multiple fridges and ovens with wide counters that wrapped around the room. 

You’d gather all the different ingredients, following the directions closely as you worked. Sometimes, your feet would be so sore you’d pull up a chair and listen to some music while you quietly cut cookies into various cute little shapes, before decorating them and handing them out to all the residents inside the large building. 

Except Alastor, who claimed to hate anything sweet when you stood before him in the lobby one afternoon.

“Thank you for the kind gift, my dear, but I seem to have been born without that fabled sweet tooth. Chocolates are not my cup of tea.” The charming demon had told you, politely waving off your outreached hand as you held a small brownie with a frown.

“So… what do you like?” Your arm lowered, and you stared at the brownie for a moment. The thought of putting it in your mouth instead was very tempting.

“Have you ever tried Jambalaya?” 

“I don’t think so,” you shook your head.

“Hm. Well, perhaps you can add that to your list of recipes to try? With all that work you’ve been putting into cooking, I'm sure it’ll be no difficulty for you to concoct.” Alastor had tilted his head thoughtfully at you, hand resting leisurely against his cane as he leaned against the bar’s counter.

You had sent him a warm smile, slightly surprised by his good words. He didn’t seem like the kind of man to give others praise over himself unless it benefited him. 

Conquering the kitchen was a little more difficult than you previously imagined, and the two charred ovens on the other side of the room were a testament to that. 

At first, the confidence in your work was pretty poor. Whenever Niffty or Charlie would ask what you were making, you’d simply smile bashfully and quietly state you were making treats. One time, you let Sir. Pentious take a bite out of your chocolate cheesecake, which ended in the snake demon lying splayed out on the floor from a sugar crash after he devoured the entire pan of it. 

Needless to say, after most of your new friends begged for more delicacies from your hand, you let your ego swell a bit at all the praise. Now, the Egg Bois were deemed your official taste testers and would huddle around your area as you let them lick the extra dough from your used bowl. 

“More!” They’d cry happily, indicating another successful batch of sugar cookies. 

Now, you hoped your skills had improved enough to sweep the king of Hell off his feet. 

“What does my dad like…” Charlie said after a moment, pulling you back to reality as she squinted her gaze, rubbing her chin in thought. 

You stood there silently, waiting for a response. For some reason, Charlie was having trouble recalling anything of value at first, muttering this and that. Does she really not know what kind of things her own father liked? How long has it been exactly since they had a proper conversation?

“Apples!” Charlie finally proclaimed, nodding at herself in approval, “My dad loves apples, can’t get enough of them, it’s even on the royal seal.” 

Apples, the only earthly fruit to find itself all the way down in the pits of Hell. Even the harmless produce got the heavenly treatment by the big guys upstairs, and would never be allowed through the pearly gates since The Fall. 

Being born in Hell, you never got to experience life like humanity above, but at least the one good thing was that Heaven didn’t get to enjoy the savory goodness that was the red fruit. 

They seemed to be a cultural treat back on the living plane and came in all kinds of varieties. Pie, cake, chips, juice, alcohol, syrup, cereal? Humans couldn’t get enough of the fruit! Was there even a combination left to create with the crisp, tarty goodness?

Wait… that’s it! 

“Apple tarts!” You blurted excitedly, clapping your hands.

“What?” Charlie asked as you moved forward, taking her hand in glee.

“I’ll make him some apple tarts! I’m sure that’ll improve his mood and be more agreeable to you! I’ve got to get to the kitchen though, see you in an hour!” You spoke quickly as you hurried off, Charlie trailing your figure with wide eyes.

As you slid into the kitchen, your hand immediately dug for your phone, as you quickly pulled up any five-star recipe for the tarted treat. Then, there was frantic mumbling coming from your left, and you lifted your head to see a large figure rummaging through a fridge. The demon’s tail lashed nervously behind him as he stuffed more ingredients into his arms.

“Sir. Pentious?” 

The figure pulled his head out of the fridge in surprise, hitting his head on the way out with a grunt before pivoting to face you. 

“Itssss you!” He breathed out in relief, holding a clawed hand to his chest as he regained composure.

“What are you doing here?”

“Why, I am baking cookies for His Majessssty!” He held out the small pile of items towards you, before slithering to a corner of the kitchen on the opposite side of you, “What about you?”

“Apple tarts! I guess we’ll see who’s he prefers, huh?” You called playfully as you bent down with a grunt to collect utensils and mixing bowls hastily. 

“Ah, yesssss. Nothing like a friendly competition in the heat of the kitchen.” Sir. Pentious chuckled nervously, as he continued to pull ingredients from the cabinets, just as you were doing the same.

You grimaced at the cooking time of the apple tarts, it was going to be very close, but you were set on this delicious goodness and a little apprehension wasn’t going to stop you yet.

As you worked, you heard the remnants of your friends preparing outside of the kitchen, somewhere in the lobby. Heavy footsteps reverberated across the tile as they hurried about, and the sounds of plastic stretching, like balloons being blown up and the soft screeching of tables being moved around followed soon after.

You did your best to ignore the background chatter, as you sat upon your cushioned stool, a knife in your hand as you began to thinly slice a few apples in front of you. The recipe was simple, some apple slices atop the pie crust smothered in honey, cinnamon, and sugar. You weren’t sure what kind of apples they–you assumed it was Alastor who did the shopping–had stored, but hopefully Lucifer would enjoy it nonetheless. 

Thankfully, you already had a few pans of pie crust premade for another recipe, and began to slather the sugary syrup onto the crust, your mouth watering as you arranged the apple crisps on top. Sir. Pentious fussed with an appliance across the room from you, hopefully, the poor guy hadn’t forgotten to preheat the oven while he was prepping.

After throwing the tarts into the oven you set the timer, watching the apples begin to sizzle and shrink slightly against the pounding heat. Taking a large swig of water, you grabbed a small spoon from the counter before sweeping it against the side of a used mixing bowl and turning towards your friend cleaning the dishes.

“Sir. Pentious!” You called, holding out a small spoon towards him. That honeyed goodness oozed slightly from the edge as you presented the snake demon with some of your cooking. He slithered forward, his eyes wide with interest as he stared at the mixture on the spoon, before gingerly taking it from your grip and inspecting it.

The demon didn't hesitate to part his lips and swipe his tongue across the sugary batter, before letting it swirl on his taste buds for a few moments. Slowly, his eyes lit up, and his lips curled into a large, fanged grin. 

“Mmm! It iss deliciousness!” Sir. Pentious melted in front of you, before placing the entire end of the spoon in his mouth and sucking on it like a lollipop. The snake turned, before plucking out a chunk of dough at the bottom of his used mixing bowl. 

“Ssssalmonella free!” He smiled, the doughy ball held out between two long claws extended towards you. Right, he probably doesn’t use eggs in his cooking. Especially so close to the Egg Bois, who worked near the sink to quickly wash the dirty utensils spread about Sir. Pentious’ station. You even noticed one or two running over to your work area, and grabbing used dishes to clean. You would have to thank them for that later.

Reaching out, you gingerly took the cookie dough before placing it between your lips and chewing softly. The flavors hit your tongue, and you perked at the intense, sugary taste of the dessert. Sir. Pentious had taken the classic route and baked some very delicious sugar cookies, and you licked your lips of any remaining dough.

“Very good! Save one for me after the party, hm?” 

“I sssuppose we are an even match, then!” Sir. Pentious declared, sending you a large smile before turning away to watch over his Egg Bois. 

You turned away, your eyes darting up to the clock as it ticked closer and closer to the new hour. Soon, Lucifer Morningstar would be here, and hopefully, your apple tarts would please the most powerful man in Hell. Was he as handsome as the magazines made him out to be? Your eyes had always traveled to his porcelain figure in the supermarkets, that sultry, playful gaze he shot the camera that practically beckoned you with a hot, invisible finger. 

The ethereal radiance he exuded even trapped inside that paper cover already made your cheeks warm and your skin tingle, you couldn’t imagine how you’d feel when he was standing right in front of you. Especially when it came to your recent increase in… passionate perspectives.

You shook yourself, attempting to rid your mind of such thoughts as you groaned into your hands. You sat on your stool, waiting quietly in the dimly lit kitchen for your treats to finish. The lobby had quieted down since you had begun, now more casual discussion along with rustlings of party decor being adjusted and preps of introductions. You paid the others' conversations no mind, deep in thought as you brushed a thumb across your stomach softly.

The timer suddenly rang loudly in your hands, and you jumped from your seat slightly at the noise in your palm. The small, white clock vibrated in your grip, and you rushed to reset the mechanism to end its cry. You looked up at the clock hanging on the wall once more, how long had you just been sitting there thinking about gorgeous men? Lucifer could show up any minute! 

Settling the timer gently atop the marble counter, you slid off the seat and reached for the oven mitts next to the sink. Striding to the oven, you pulled its door open, the rush of hot air hitting your cheeks.

‘Imagine being late to greet the king of Hell,’ you growled to yourself as your eyes snapped to the clock on the wall, the new hour finally arriving, ‘A great first impression, good going.’

The yummy goodness in your grasp sizzled as you pulled the pan from the oven, breathing in the delicious scents deeply before placing the metal dish on the top of the stove. Steam billowed off the golden-brown apple slices, the cinnamon mixture oozing slightly underneath the thin crisps of fruit. 

Hurriedly, you cut into the tart, slicing the pie-like treat into smaller slices before placing them gently onto a separate tray. By the time you threw the remaining dirty dishes in the sink and made your way to the door of the kitchen, you heard those familiar rasps against the hotel’s front door. 

Knock Knock

You halted in your tracks right when Charlie swung open the front door to reveal a handsome, pearlescent figure bursting in to wrap his arms around his daughter. Those platinum blonde locks bounced softly underneath his tall brim hat, as he settled beside his daughter as they chatted. You were unprepared for those soft, yellow eyes that swept across the room with a playful glint in their gaze, or the confident, charming smirk that seemed so natural on the fallen angel’s features. 

That air of superiority radiated from Lucifer’s figure, with every demon in the room aware of the raw power he possessed. Those tantalizing stories of a ruthless and blood-thirsty ruler of Hell who crushed anyone who so much as sent him a heated glance refreshed in everyone’s memories as they smiled widely. The fallen angel hadn’t stayed in such a sought-after position since Hell’s creation for no reason, as only Heaven could match his strength. 

Lucifer made no show of the deadly undertones in his proximity, however, as he strolled farther into the lobby with a relaxed grin as Charlie introduced him to Angel and Sir. Pentious. The king’s looks were only improving every step he took closer towards your spot hiding behind the kitchen door, your breath hitching as you traced his figure from the cracked doorway. The tarts weren’t the only thing in the room making your mouth water anymore.

Should you just stay in here until he goes away? Mail the tarts to him, instead? Surely, meeting you wasn’t that important, and there was always a next time to introduce yourself. Inhaling a sharp breath, you shook your head to ease your nerves and expel those anxious thoughts. You were no coward, and even the prettiest face in Hell wouldn’t stop you from handing Lucifer the bakery sweets.

“I guess that’s why they called it the Has-Been Hotel, eh?” You heard Lucifer laugh from across the room, and you poked your head out from the doorway. 

Eavesdropping into the conversation for a few more moments, you gripped the small tray in your hands tightly as you waited for the perfect time to make your sneaky entrance. Right when his eyes left the place near Husk you were planning on scooching into, you took your chance and hurried across the lobby. 

Everyone’s eyes were on Lucifer and Alastor bickering, and it didn’t seem like anyone noticed as you slipped next to the shorter feline. That was until you felt the side of your stomach connect with the table's edge, and it slid slightly with a sickening screech. You clamped your mouth shut to stop a frustrated curse from leaving your lips as you tensed.

Curious gazes locked onto your figure, and the tray in your hands slowly lowered onto the table as you felt sweat bead down your forehead from the unwanted attention. The plan was to be as low-key as possible when you joined the group, not be thrust into the spotlight! 

Lucifer turned, his gaze landing on your stomach before anything else, and your breath hitched as his eyes lit up with an unreadable gleam. The king traveled up your figure, before resting on your face, and his eyes seemed to widen even more as he stared for a moment.

Gosh, how embarrassing. If he decided to burst out laughing at your clumsiness or make a public spectacle of your interruption, maybe it’s something you deserve—

“Woah!” Lucifer suddenly perked, before leaning backward, squinting his eyes as if he just got hit by a harsh ray of angelic light, “Someone tell Heaven they dropped one of their halos down here….” 

A pair of sunglasses materialized between his fingers as the fallen angel shimmied past Charlie, and you watched with wide eyes as he practically leaped over the table to reach your figure at the other end. 

“Because you are glowing, mama!” The king slid right up next to you, lifting the shades from his face as he waggled his eyebrows with a devilish smirk. Heat crept across your cheeks, and you smiled bashfully at his antics. Lucifer Morningstar was right next to you, and even so, up close you couldn’t find a single imperfection on his features. 

The demons around you blurred as you and Lucifer locked eyes for a few moments longer, the expressions flicking through your gazes enough to cover the silence. Lucifer’s smirk turned into a soft smile as his eyes flicked to your stomach then back to you with an adoring glimmer, his features gentle as he lifted a hand out towards you.

“Please,” you laughed softly, tilting your head away to try and hide the heat that was practically pouring off your face as you slid your fingers into his palm, “That’s just a fairytale, I’d say the truth of my appearance is the opposite right about now.”

The warmth radiating off of Lucifer’s porcelain skin made you want to melt like butter. You felt the ache in your joints subside softly, along with the feeling of bliss from his touch that made goosebumps ripple across your skin. 

“No, seriously,” Lucifer’s grin widened, patting your hand softly, “Even I am envious of your glow, sweetheart. You look great.”

You resisted the urge to scream into your hands like some kind of lovesick teenager at his words. Geez, you barely said a few sentences to this guy and he’s already trying to rizz you up. And it was working! 

“Thank you,” your voice cracked softly, and Lucifer gripped your hand tighter as he lowered himself slightly in a bow.

“Lucifer Morningstar!” He smiled as he met your graze once more, tipping his hat slightly as he spoke, “I’m sure you already know who I am, though, as do most who see my face. The question is, who are you?” 

That soothing warmth on your skin disappeared as Lucifer slowly released your hand and took a step back. You lowered your arm back to your side, silently pining for his soft touch against the fallen angel. 

“Oh, enough about me!” You wave off his question with a large grin, attempting to change the conversation, “You’re the special man we’re all gathered here for today!” 

Averting your gaze, you reach down towards a slice of apple tart on the tray nearby. The dessert is still slightly hot, and the heat that greets your skin followed by an itch of pain helps keep your focus in front of such a tasty snack. You were not talking about the tart.

Lucifer looks at it for a few moments, steam still slightly wafting from the golden-brown crisps of apples as you hold it towards him. The scents of cinnamon and honey hit the fallen angel’s nostrils, and he licked his lips subconsciously, eyes still locked onto your hand.

“What is this?” He quirked a brow, gaze flicking to the warm smile on your lips then back to the dessert.

“An apple tart,” you reply, your arm stretching farther towards him, “I heard a rumor that our ruler fancied red fruits, so I thought I’d welcome him with a snack.” 

Slowly, Lucifer lifted a hand and took the tart from your grasp. He turned it in his hands for a moment, before lifting it to his lips and taking a deep breath. The fallen angel sent you one last unreadable look before he placed the tart into his mouth. 

You licked at the crumbs on your fingers, savoring the little bit of flavor you received. Indulging yourself in food in front of the guy you were currently ogling over wasn’t on the top of your to-do list. You’d stick to satisfying your cravings in the privacy of your room. 

Lucifer chewed for a few moments, before he squinted in thought. He swallowed slowly, and then his eyes lit up with a surprised, but joyful, gleam. A smile bloomed across his lips as he reached over next to you to grab another of the pie-like treats.

“Okay, wow. I’m impressed. I might hire you as my personal baker from now on,” another tart was consumed by the king, as he licked hungrily at the cinnamon mixture that was dribbling down his chin. 

He seemed to be really enjoying them, which made you giddy inside. One, because Lucifer was enjoying your food, and two, because that would mean he was in a good enough mood for Charlie to convince him to get an audience with Heaven. 

“Dad,” Charlie finally broke the conversation between the two of you, before settling at your side. She put a gentle hand on your shoulder as she continued to speak, “This lovely lady was having a rough time with her living situation, so I offered her a place to stay while she was still expecting. She’s been a great addition to our little Hazbin family. Now, she’s taking it easy until the baby comes.” 

“That’s a good idea,” Lucifer nodded in agreement through the apple tart he was stuffing his face with. 

“I’m not completely useless,” you quickly interjected, clasping your hands together, “I help out around the hotel in any way I can, or however Alastor can use my assistance.”

“Right…” Lucifer shot Alastor, who was watching the three of you with interest a few feet away, a sharp glare as he spoke, “Your… manager over there isn’t pushing you too hard, is he?”

What was that? It sounded like Lucifer had held in a growl when he asked that, you could feel the reverberations from his throat underneath his tone. 

“Alastor has been nothing but kind to me, everyone here has. His Majesty is too kind to care for me like this. Don’t worry, I haven’t done anything that could affect me or the baby.

“Well, that’s a relief,” Lucifer said, as picked up the last tart from the tray.

The king’s gaze rested on you as you looked at the tart longingly, your stomach growling softly as you imagined the treat between your teeth. You had eaten breakfast, had a snack before Lucifer’s arrival, and had some cookie dough from Sir. Pentious, yet you were still hungry? Where was your self-respect in front of the most important figure in the realm?

Lucifer must have noticed your hungry gaze, as he split the tart apart and handed a small piece towards you. You stared at it for a moment, before shaking your head and gesturing silently for him to eat it while you heard Charlie conversing quickly with Vaggie nearby. 

The king didn’t let you refuse, when he squinted his eyes at you with a stern look and pushed the tart closer to your face, to where it was almost grazing your lips. 

With a sigh, you send him a warm smile in thanks and reach for the tart. It crumbled slightly in your hand and you quickly shoved the whole thing into your mouth, lifting a hand to shield your immodesty as you chewed softly. 

Fuck, that tasted so good. Your time in the kitchen has improved your skill as you happily continued chewing down the dessert, a content smile on your lips as you stood next to Lucifer.

“Just make sure not to let that creep over there make you do anything you don’t want to do,” Lucifer held a hand up to hide his mouth from the onlookers, shielding the quiet words that left his lips, “If you ever need me to smite him…” 

“Dad!” Charlie gasped, shooting her father a stern glare. 

“A joke, a joke,” Lucifer chuckled, elbowing his daughter softly in the side before turning away from you. 

It was then that the chandelier above everyone’s heads swayed dangerously, the rusting bolts loosening slowly from their hold against the thick plaster. You heard a soft creaking sound before your head shot up just as the bolts dislodged from their place and the large light fixture came crashing down.

It landed a few feet away from you, as glass shattered and splayed across the floor. You jumped in surprise, your hand automatically coming up to shield your stomach and Lucifer’s head snapped towards you in concern. You hadn’t been hurt, but his eyes still traced your figure for any injuries before he gave the chandelier a stink eye.

“Alright then,” Lucifer chuckled, and you watched with wide eyes as he slid from your side the floor beneath your feet shifted as he began to… sing? You backed away to the edge of the wall just as the fallen angel began to address his daughter, showcasing his magical talent as different objects poofed in and out of existence.

You had watched with wide, awe-struck eyes during the sudden musical number, your thoughts still on Lucifer's warm, gentle touch and his praise only moments before. Why was he so kind and out of the gate, was it because of your pregnancy? 

Did the king of Hell have a soft spot for babies, or did he take pity on your exhausted, worn figure? Even baking was becoming a chore, and standing on your feet for so long was beginning to wear down on you. Thankfully, the attention was finally off you now that Lucifer and Alastor were practically at each other's throats again. 

Did it matter what Lucifer thought of you? His attention alone made your thighs ache, and staring into those pretty eyes for too long made your lips dry and cracked and needed someone to wet them with their own.

Jesus, get it together! You just met the man, stop being such a weirdo! 

When you finally were pulled back into reality, blinking away the stars of hot emotions that were dancing on the edge of your vision, the music had ended and a strange, short woman had burst through the front doors of the hotel.

Mimzy, that was her name, and apparently a friend of Alastor’s back from their living days on Earth. You didn’t know Alastor had friends outside of the hotel, let alone friendly enough to embrace the woman. Even with all those nasty rumors about the red demon, Mimzy only looked at him with a playful glimmer in her eyes as she turned to get a look at the rest of the group. 

When she approached you with giddy steps and batted eyelashes as she grinned at your figure relaxing on the bar stool across the room. 

"Aw, suga, that baby bump of yours is just precious! I’ve neva’ seen one so adorable before! Who’s the lucky man?” Her eyes quickly scanned across the room, as if your baby daddy was hiding somewhere among the few pieces of furniture inside the large room. 

“Not here,” you replied with a sigh, “Never will be, unfortunately. He and I had some… disagreements a while ago. I haven’t seen him in months.”

Lucifer watched you carefully, drinking in your words with an unreadable expression from a distance before Charlie dragged him away to continue the tour around the hotel. 

"Aw, darlin', that's a tough break. But forget that fella! You're better off without him, sweetheart. Plenty of strong mamas out there held their own just fine. Down here in Hell, it's rough, but you don't need no man to look after you! Keep on keepin' on, hun."

You averted Mimzy’s gaze at her words with a bashful smile. Doubt had always itched at the back of your scalp, doubts of whether you were doing everything right and when you had the baby if you could be okay on your own. Now, you felt a surge of renewed confidence in how good of a mother you could be. The strange woman was right of course, you didn’t need a man to have a stable life. 

But, you still yearned for someone to caress you softly late at night, or whisper sweet words of adoration and care when you desperately needed it most. A man to kiss and cherish for the rest of your life, and someone who would love your baby as their own. 

Mimzy was loud and obnoxious as you sat next to her at the bar, but you assumed that’s what she did for a living, drawing people in with her charm to stay for drinks and watch her dance. Her job was to wow the crowd enough for them to give her and her flapping sisters big tips and lots of company.

She wasn’t too bad of a story-teller either, and as you and a few others listened to her story of Alastor’s interactions with previous overlords, you caught the way Husk growled when he spoke to her and how he’d shoot her icy glares whenever nearby. As if she was a rattlesnake ready to bring trouble, and only he could hear the warnings from her tail. 

You understood the suspicion the feline bartender was holding towards Mimzy when a large hole suddenly blew through the wall opposite from the bar, and harsh, angry voices snarled the flapper’s name. 

Adrenaline shot through your veins as you jumped from the bar stool, your first thought instantly going towards your baby. That maternal, animalistic urge to protect your child’s wellbeing at any cost, even if it meant sacrificing some of your own.

As your friends rushed around the room in a panic, and Alastor met the murderous loan sharks head-on outside, you locked eyes with Mimzy cowering underneath one of the bar stools. 

“I’m sorry, I just needed to get them off my back!” She grimaced as another explosion rocked the lobby, and you stumbled backward as debris from the ceiling fell across your shoulders. 

Your head snapped across the room, and you saw Alastor’s large demonic figure taking the brunt of the loan shark’s attacks. Tentacles whipped around him as they smashed a few snarling demons into a pulp against the ground. The thug’s aims weren’t very accurate, and some grenades bounced right past the giant demon’s figure and straight toward the hotel. 

Luckily, nothing had reached the inside of the building yet, but you weren’t going to take any chance as you turned on your heel towards the closed door of the kitchen. It was on the farthest side of the lobby and provided a large catalog of items you could use for self-defense.

If the time came when you had to cheese-grater a man across the face or make a kabob out of his eye, you had the tools to do so. 

As you moved, you turned your head to scan for the others still in the room. Sir. Pentious was slithering to cover behind a couch, Niffty tight in his hold as she lowered his head out of sight. Husk was somewhere behind the bar no doubt, and Angel Dust was poking his head out behind the large gap in the wall, cheering on Alastor’s bloodlust. 

Lucifer, Charlie, and Vaggie were still unaccounted for, most likely somewhere on the opposite side of the hotel by now. There wasn’t a doubt that the three of them heard all the chaos, but would they get here fast enough to lend a hand? Alastor was powerful, but he couldn’t be in two places at once if one or two thugs decided to take the fight inside. 

Right now seemed to be a really nice time to put that pure angelic power to good use!

Your ears rang loudly, heart pounding, right as you reached the kitchen door. You wrapped your fingers around the handle and pulled on it harshly. Except, the door didn’t budge. Again, you pulled on the handle, grunting with effort right as the floor shook beneath you. Your side harshly hit the door as you stumbled forward, before inhaling a sharp breath. 

You were stuck, the door behind you locked tight. 

Had the door locked from the inside when you had left earlier? You didn’t remember closing it, but perhaps the musical shenanigans from before blew a strong enough gust of wind to shut it tight. 

Your eyes darted across the room, looking for any other place to run that could give you even an ounce of protection. Unfortunately, you weren’t flexible nor small enough to actually fit inside or behind anything for cover at the moment, which limited your options. 

A loan shark cried out for help right outside the gap in the wall, a tentacle wrapped around his meaty legs as he harshly yanked him backward. The demon’s high-pitched scream faded as he was flung over the black gates and off into the distance.

Your gaze lowered, catching sight of a grenade from one of the few remaining thugs bouncing right off Alastor’s back, and colliding with a large boom against the hotel’s roof. The ceiling shook, pieces of plaster falling from the sky as you ducked to try to avoid them. Angel Dust dove behind the bar, beckoning you from across the room to join him and Husk as they lay low against the tile. 

Did they think you could actually run across the room before another explosion hit the hotel?

You didn’t have a chance to join them anyway, as a large support beam above your head shook violently, before the wall crumbled around the long, wooden post and it began to dislodge from its fasteners. 

Before one could blink, the beam began to fall from its place against the ceiling, its trajectory aimed right on top of you. Angel gasped and placed a pair of hands on his face, shielding his eyes from your doom. Husk only stared in horror, mouth agape as the large object descended upon you.

Backing against the kitchen door, you shielded your head and curled your legs against your stomach. 

‘This is it, I'm a goner,’ you thought as you squeezed your eyes shut tightly, waiting for the blow. 

Except, it never came. Nothing happened, actually. The deafening sounds of chaos and war around you faded slightly, as if you placed a pair of headphones over your head. You didn’t feel the sting of pain, or the sound of the large beam crashing to the floor. 

You were still alive, that was for sure with how hard your heart pounded against your chest. 

Slowly, you lifted your head and cracked an eye open, a golden light blinding you for a moment as your pupils adjusted to the ethereal glow. A dome of energy crackled around you, casting a mesmerizing golden hue across your figure. The thick walls of energy around you aren’t completely opaque, and you can see the lobby in shambles, but your little area under the bowl is completely intact. 

Taking a deep breath, you relax slightly and slowly stand from the door, the sounds of chaos still audible as you hear another explosion and screaming thugs.

“Look, Charlie,” Lucifer’s chastising voice rose above the chaos, his head turning from you to his daughter as another support beam crashed beside them, “What did I tell you? This is what happens when you invite people in and be kind to them… nothing but trouble! You should still stick to helping people that actually need it.”

Your head turned, watching Lucifer lean lazily against his cane as Charlie scrambled around the room trying to help the others. His back was turned to you, but seeing you were sealed in a practically indestructible barrier while he continued to yap, your safety was guaranteed now.

Finally, Alastor swallowed up the last of the thugs, the large demon licked his blood-stained chops before slowly shrinking back into his original form. Dust still swirled around the lobby, but the explosions had ceased, and anything that was in danger of falling had already done so. 

The dome of energy surrounding you flickered out of existence, any trace of its magical essence vanishing as you took a tentative step forward. The intensity of the light made your head ache, and you rubbed your temple with a groan. 

“Are you okay?” Lucifer asked softly, coming up to stand beside you, his fingers wrapped around your arm tight as you steadied yourself.

“Yes, just a little dizzy, I’m fine now,” you turned to stare at the fallen angel with an assuring smile, right as his eyes scanned across your face, only for his brows to furrow at the sight.

“Wait, you’re bleeding,” Lucifer tensed, before his cane dropped beside him and his fingers slid down to your wrist, and he turned your hand over palm-up. On your index finger was a small cut, which oozed with a thin trail of black blood, before dripping onto the carpet below. 

Lucifer dug into a pocket inside his white overcoat, before pulling out a hand-embroidered handkerchief. He reached up to your forehead, gently brushing the fabric against your skin to clean it.

You must have smeared some blood on your face when you had previously rubbed it, that’s why he was so worried. There was no pain from the wound, and you had no idea where it had even come from.

“It’s just a scratch,” you assured, not pulling away from Lucifer’s hold on your hand as he dabbed softly at your forehead. 

That warmth bloomed from his touch again, sending a shiver up your spine and your eyes to droop placidly. It’d be a lie if you said you weren’t exhausted from everything that had happened today, and that energy he exuded only feeding the urge to cozy up on the sofa a few feet away.

“Better safe than sorry” he retorted, worry dripping from his voice as he tore off a clean piece of his handkerchief, wrapping it around your finger before tying it taut against your skin. His fingers still lingered against your palm, as the two of you stood there around the demons trying to pick up the place a little.

“I’m guessing you’re the one that put that barrier around me, hm?” You asked with a soft smile. 

“Well, I didn’t expect to walk into the room with you about to be impaled by a giant wooden stake. It was pretty crazy for a moment there… is the baby okay?” 

The fact he was also worried about your child made you gush silently, swooning harder for the fallen angel than before. 

“Fine,” you nodded, reaching a free hand to gently caress your bump, “I felt them moving a bit when you came over.”

The baby had been quite active recently. Doing backflips, karate kicks, and whatever else there was for entertainment inside your womb. Earlier, when you were baking, you took a painful jab to the side by the little one, and that wasn’t the first time today.

It was then that you felt it, a kick against your inner walls, causing you to jerk slightly from the surprise of it. Lucifer jumped from your reaction, and you sent him a large grin with wide eyes as you curled your fingers around his hand. 

“They’re moving right now, even!” You perked, gently tugging his arm towards you with giddiness. Nobody has ever felt your baby kick before, a privilege usually reserved for parents or the child’s father. You had neither of those now, so if it meant showing a stranger the same feelings of softness you experienced? So be it.

Lucifer tensed, frozen in silence from your bold actions as you placed his hand against the fabric of your outfit. You still for a few seconds, the fallen angel’s warmth on your stomach welcoming as you waited for the baby to move again. 

Luckily, they did, right against the king’s hand against your bump. He hitched a breath as soon as he felt the sensation of your little one’s movements, his eyes widening with fondness.

You smiled widely, your bump growing ticklish at the feeling of your child’s restlessness. Then, you felt something odd going on against your abdomen, and you lowered your head with wide eyes as the tip of Lucifer’s finger began to glow. A soft, golden light that sizzled at your fabric, before it seemed to seep underneath and into your skin.

It felt like someone was pouring caffeine directly into your bloodstream, the exhaustion dissipating from your mind in an instant and your heartbeat quickening. The painful throbbing in your ankles subsided, and you felt renewed energy even deep in your bones. 

The light seemed to grow across your bump, and the strange magic that was flooding your senses suddenly had your mind racing. Could it be hurting your child? 

“What are you doing?” You asked quietly, taking a nervous step backward away from his touch.

“What..? Oh!” Lucifer’s hand retracted to his side in an instant, his lips curving into an apologetic smile as he averted his gaze. He seemed nervous all of a sudden, eyes darting across the room before they landed on Charlie brushing dust off of Vaggie’s hair across the room. 

“My apologies, have a wonderful rest of your night,” The king of Hell tipped his hat to you, refusing to meet your gaze as he backpedaled and pivoted sharply away from you, and began strolling towards his daughter who turned to him with a frown. 

Your stomach twisted at his sudden exit, regret bubbling in you. Did your question come off as too confrontational? Lucifer didn’t exactly ask for your permission to do… whatever he did, so it wasn’t wrong to react the way you had. 

Watching Lucifer leave for a few moments, you sighed softly, hands rubbing together in a soothing motion. Looking around the room, you searched for something to busy yourself with as your mind continued to race. 

That was the last time you had spoken to Lucifer for the rest of the night, his sudden departure after reconciling with Charlie leaving you to stew silently with your thoughts. 

Would you meet the king again? You desperately hoped so.

Your thoughts stayed on Lucifer even after you awoke the next morning, and the morning after that. Thoughts of his gentle touch, his strange behavior, and the way his magic had filled you with such strength. 

You felt renewed vigor after that sweet encounter with the king. It was like getting shot with a dose of ibuprofen and adrenaline all at once. The soreness in your ankles subsided, the strain on your back lessened, and you felt, dare you say… lighter on your feet?

Was that what angelic magic was capable of? Lucifer’s touch felt like nothing you had ever experienced before, at least compared to some of the other demons in the hotel.

Alastor’s magic was freezing to the touch, and whenever he was visibly displaying his power in the vicinity, you began to notice how your breath fell from your lips like fog. The Radio Demon’s aura played with your fight or flight instincts, putting you on the edge whenever his smile sharpened, those spots in your vision filled with strange symbols as he shot predatory eyes towards enemies of the hotel. 

Fear was the driving force behind Alastor’s power, the elixir to spur that blood-lust in his veins. A similar feeling itched at the back of your scalp anytime Angel Dust returned from Valentino’s studio, the stench of an emotionally driven display of dominance that always led to someone curling against the cold, hard floor in anguish. While you held no reservations for the pleasant-speaking, red demon, you still regarded him with caution at the amount of trouble he could bring into your life at any moment. 

Charlie had a lot of potential for being half-angel, the same magical essence that flowed through Heaven also flowed through her veins, mixed with the demonic presence imbued into her parents when they fell. It made you feel uneasy, being surrounded by such powerful forces with a child on the way.

Except, Lucifer’s aura was much different. It made you feel… grounded, and safe, like you could conquer the world. A boost of confidence with a hint of child-like giddiness that made a soft smile grace your lips the entire rest of the day.

That soft, golden magic that spread across your skin made warmth bloom through your body and sent pleasurable tingles up your spine. It eased the strain in your muscles and settled your nerves like a refreshing sip of red wine after a long day, making you dizzy for more. Even though you were the one to pull away first, that desire to get closer to Lucifer again didn't fade the rest of his visit. Which only made you frustrated at your own chaotic emotions.

Growling, you inspected your appearance in the bathroom mirror, steam coiling around your face as the plush fabric of the towel soothed your soaked, heated skin as it dried the water dripping from your figure. 

Curse these pregnancy hormones, for making you think such disrespectful thoughts! He was the king of Hell, not some pretty dilf with a thing for babies that made heat creep across your cheeks–and in between your thighs–without a second thought.

“I blame you for this,” you shot a glare down to your bump, before exiting the bathroom with a huff and reaching your dresser.

You began to change in an outfit for the day, which was taking much longer than usual now that your stomach was growing rounder by the day. It was obvious you were close to your due date, and that filled you with joy and anxiety.

Joy, to be finally holding your baby into your arms and letting them snuggle against your warm chest. Communicating through soft lullabies and whispers with the only response being kicked to your bladder wasn’t exactly the thrills of your pregnancy. When you finally had the little bean in your life, you’d do everything you could to spoil them rotten. 

Your baby wasn’t exactly a ‘little bean’ anymore, but until you settled on a name, that was what you would continue to call them. 

Thoughts about your baby always made your anxiety spike, thinking about what you would have to do to bring your child into the world. Labor wasn’t pretty in any realm, and the exhaustion and pain that would come with it wasn’t something you liked to think about too often. 

What would happen if something went horribly wrong? Who… who would take care of your child? 

You only sighed as you finished dressing, slipping on comfortable footwear as you crossed your room towards the hallway door. The trek from your room to the lobby had become quite a strenuous one, since you slept across the hotel from everyone else. 

When you had first arrived, you still dealt with the occasional twisted stomach, especially after your nose began to identify once delicious smells as revolting to the point you were gagging just smelling a once beloved candle. 

At your request, Alastor had found you a room with a small balcony that faced away from the city. It was the cleanest air, and smelled the least sulfury as that side of the hotel was hit with large drafts of fresh—or whatever was close enough in a place like Hell—air that you welcomed on days where you felt like emptying your last meal constantly.

Now, the long walk was killing your ankles, and the staircase conveniently placed between you and the lobby made your path even longer when you had to slowly waddle down the stairs. You haven’t come close to slipping yet, but seeing as you couldn’t see your feet any longer, it would surely happen eventually. 

As the door to your room shut softly behind you, the plush carpet beneath your feet felt refreshing to your swollen appendages as you began strolling down the hallway. Yawning, you rubbed the remaining sleep from your eyes as you closed in on the staircase. Since waking up, an exhaustion deep in your bones had been plaguing you. Today, the only thing on the to-do list was to watch the newest episodes of ‘Hell’s Greatest Bachelor’ and sleep.

“What are you doing up there?” A familiar voice called from the bottom of the staircase, sending you a stern stare as he leaned against his cane.

You stopped, one foot hovering just above the first step as your head shot up and eyes widened as Lucifer stared at you with furrowed brows. What was he doing here? When did he get here, and why did you choose today to wear something comfy and casual? 

Was he still upset about what happened last time?

“My King? W-what are you doing here?” 

“I believe I asked you first. What are you doing all the way up on those steps?” 

“Does His Majesty now quarrel with the stairs?” You teased, trying to contain a playful smile. Whenever you were in the fallen angel’s presence, you almost caught your lips curving into a goofy grin that was paired with heated cheeks.

It seemed Lucifer was in much better spirits today, his demeanor more playful than stern, and you sighed softly with relief. 

“No!” The king huffed, before placing his black-heeled boots onto the plush, red carpet of the staircase and slowly made his way up to you, “What I quarrel with is someone trying to kill themselves! Do you know how dangerous this kinda thing is in your condition?”

There’s that word again, ‘Condition’. As if it is some illness that has befallen you and taken the use of your legs and critical thinking skills. Maybe it was just your emotions getting the best of you, but you really hated that word. 

“I asked Alastor to put me over here, these windows have the best airflow” you shrugged, taking another step down the staircase which Lucifer only grimaced at.

“Stop moving, let me get to you,” Lucifer growled softly, watching you with unease before leaping up the final steps to your waiting figure.

He halted at a step just above you, and for the first time, you had to look up to meet the king’s gaze.

“I’m pregnant,” you squinted slightly, sending Lucifer a small glare as you frowned, “Not handicapped.”

“I know, I know…” Lucifer lifted an elbow to you, a gentle beckon for you to take his arm as he spoke, “But it’s always good to be a little extra careful! It’s not like I'm bothered doing this kind of thing for you, anyway.”

“You’re the king,” you take his gesture, sliding your arm around his as you lock elbows, warmth radiates from his touch and you relax slightly, “It’s demons like me who should be waiting on you like this.”

“I’m Lucifer Morningstar,” he puffed his chest slightly, quirking a playful brow at you, “I don’t need anyone to wait on me, because I can do it all with a snap of a finger.”

You rolled your eyes with a smile as he guided you down the stairs, silence following his proclamation. It was quite a long staircase and stole your breath most times you tried to climb it. Hopefully, this daily exercise would mean your next match with the cracked concrete path down the hill outside would be in your favor.

Lucifer’s hold on you was gentle but firm, as he used his other hand to softly tap his cane against each step. It was rhythmic, with purpose, and you thought in the silence of the large room you could hear him humming a soft tune, as he stared off in the distance.

“What are you singing?”

“I was singing something?” Lucifer perked, before he sent you an apologetic smile. 

“I don’t mind it,” you replied with a soft smile, turning your head to meet his gaze, “Your voice is very… pretty.” 

His eyes widened, face flushing slightly at the words that left your lips, which also caught you in surprise. Sure, you had gushed about his voice for the past three days, but you didn’t expect to be so blunt about it. Especially, when it was to the adult crush’s face!

“You think so?” 

“Yes,” you batted your lashes at him, hold tightening around his arm as you continued down the steps, “You have a very velvety, soft voice, even when you’re humming. Like a lullaby, something I'd sing to my baby before bed.”

You felt Lucifer puff his chest slightly, his posture straightening beside you and you could only smile in delight. It was obvious Lucifer liked your compliments, and you had no problem reminding him of how gorgeous he was.

You imagined that the fallen angel was carved from the smoothest marble with the most precise hands, a perfect sculpture of a man that humans could only envy. 

“I used to do the same for Charlie,” Lucifer replied after a few moments, a content smile on his lips as if he was replaying the memories with fondness, “I like to think she got her musical talent from all the nights I sang her to sleep.”

“That’s so funny, Charlie seems like she was a wild baby,” you laughed softly as the two of you continued walking down the steps, halfway there now. Envy itched at the back of your scalp as you imagined what it would be like to have someone else doting over you and your baby like that.

“She was,” Lucifer gushed, just as your feet hit the hallway flooring of the hallway. The happiness Lucifer displayed talking about his daughter only made your heart swell. 

If your ex had stayed around, would he have shown the same care Lucifer had in the short amount of time since you had met him? Probably not. At least you had done the right thing and dropped him the moment he chose his dick over a family, there were no regrets anymore about your past actions regarding that asshole of a demon.

“Thank you, Your Majesty, for helping me with that difficult task,” You slowly began to slip your arm out of Lucifer’s hold, and he hesitated slightly, but released his hold after a moment, “Now I believe it's your turn to tell me what you’re doing here so soon.”

“I felt I’d come in person to tell Charlie about the meeting with Heaven. I got in contact with them and arranged a date for her. I just wanted to run through some rules she should keep in mind when she’s up there,” Lucifer replied. 

You titled your head, smiling softly at his worried expression. His daughter is going someplace potentially dangerous where he couldn’t protect her, and that obviously made him uneasy. You’d feel the same if it was your child, the thought causing your hand to lift and brush a gentle thumb underneath your bump.

“Also, to apologize again,” Lucifer deflated slightly, rotating the apple-tipped cane between his fingers, “I overstepped my boundaries the last time we interacted, it was rude of me and I won't let it happen again.”

“Are you talking about that magic stuff you did to me?” You asked, tilting your head with a quirked brow.

“Yes… I didn’t realize I was doing it until you reacted. It’s just kind of an instinct for me, blessing babies. I mean–well, I can’t bless anymore, but it's still the same kind of magic. I understand if it made you uncomfortable and everything…”

“I liked it.”

“You did?” Lucifer asked in disbelief, his cane freezing in his grip as he stared at you.

“Yes! I was just taken aback is all, I’m sorry. Whatever you did, it felt very invigorating, like I could climb a mountain!” you nodded your head vigorously, eyes sparkling as you sent Lucifer a playful smile.

“Oh… well, I’m glad I could be of use to you,” he averted his gaze with a bashful grin, adjusting his long collar with flustered fingers.

“Would you do it again?” You asked with a raised brow, puckering your lips slightly as you batted your lashes towards Lucifer. Whatever he did felt like some kind of drug you craved, boosting your mood and energy like nothing ever has. 

“Uh huh…” Lucifer’s gaze drifted to your lips momentarily, before you unpuckered them and they curved into a pleased grin.

“Great! Here, you can even touch my bump again, if that makes things easier,” you beamed, lacing your fingers with Lucifer’sm who tensed at your bold touch. Gently, you pulled his arm towards the underside of your bump, lifting the fabric slightly so his finger could softly graze against soft skin.

Lucifer was deathly still, his hand obediently limp in your hold as you adjusted closer to the baby’s position. They had been very active this morning, playing patty cake with your bladder and parkouring against the walls of your womb. Even now, you could feel a slight nudging against the side of your stomach, and you pressed Lucifer’s hand gently into your skin. 

“...There! Can you feel it?”

Right on cue, your baby roughly nudged you, your skin shifting slightly against their jab, and Lucifer’s hand tensed at the feeling. That soft smile of his widened, that glimmer of adoration returning to his gaze as his index finger extended, a soft golden glow emanating from the skin Lucifer’s hand was softly pressed against.

Just like last time, a soothing burst of energy flowed through your limbs. The ache in your feet ebbed, that weight in your back lessening, along with the similar sensation of experiencing a sugar rush. The urge to do a few laps around the hotel, if that was even possible at this point.

And then, something strange happened. Something… different from the last time. You felt pulsing against your skin where Lucifer's fingers lay. 

Ba-dump, Ba-dump. Fast and rhythmic, beating with life. As your skin seemed to glow with the angelic light, the noise only got louder as it echoed around the room. Your fingers still wrapped delicately around Lucifer’s hand tightened slightly, as the pulsing grew stronger.

“Can you hear that?” Lucifer whispered softly, his thumb brushing softly against your skin as he met your gaze.

“Is that…?”

“Their heartbeat,” he replied with a smile, “It sounds very strong, too. A perfect, healthy baby.” 

Tears pricked at your eyes as you listened for a few more moments, the sounds of your child’s beating heart like music to your ears. 

After a few more moments, Lucifer slowly slid his hand out of your grip and away from your stomach. With his touch went the warmth and that magical, golden glow. The room fell silent again, that musical rhythm fading with the light. 

You wiped your eyes with a free hand, holding in a sniffle as you smoothed the fabric of your outfit back into place with the other.

“Better?” 

“Very much,” you nodded, your posture straightening that made relief bloom down your aching spine, “Enough to go for a walk outside, even!” 

“Alone?” 

“Well, who else?” You quirked a brow, turning towards the long hallway on the other end of the room, one hand resting on your bump as you walked, “Angel is working, Sir. Pentious sleeps until noon, and Charlie and Vaggie always spend their mornings together. Unless you are suggesting that I ask Alastor, who actually might be around here somewher—“

“—It's almost like, ” Lucifer slid up right beside you, arm softly brushing against yours as he sent you a charming grin, keeping pace with your slight amble, “There is a demon very close by that is perfectly capable of lending assistance. One that has done a fantastic job so far providing both protection and entertainment, don’t you agree?

“Doesn’t this demon have plans with his daughter this fine morning?”

“Apparently his daughter has plans with someone else, and I’d hate to interrupt the two lovebirds doing whatever it is that young kids do these days.”

“And you’d rather spend your free time with me?” You questioned with a soft, disbelieving laugh. Why would someone that could go anywhere he pleased and do anything he wanted, spend time with a random demon from the streets like you? 

“If the lady allows me,” Lucifer hummed with a grin.

What was so bad about letting him join you? It was only a quick walk, and you didn’t mind his company one bit. He was the king of Hell anyway, he could join you even without your consent. He was giving you a choice in the matter, and that just proved his character was more than that egotistical, powerful grin he displayed to his people on the covers of magazines. 

“His Majesty may join my stroll if he wishes,” you grinned, sending him a playful glance as the hallway opened up slightly as you neared the front of the building.

Lucifer seemed to have a little more pep in his step the rest of the way to the lobby, which was unusually empty as the two of you passed through the large room towards the front entrance. The fallen angel slid right past you to reach the doors first, before he opened one wide for you with a courteous tip of his hat as you passed by. 

“What a gentleman,” you teased with a giggle, patting him softly on the shoulder as you passed by, before stepping into the morning light. Basked in light red hues, you stepped onto the grass.

“There’s a dirt path that goes around the building, just a lap is all I needed to burn some energy.” You turned to him with a smile.

Before you even got to take a step in that direction, your stomach rumbled loudly, and Lucifer’s head snapped in your direction, before he quirked a brow at your averted gaze.

“Have you eaten anything today?” 

“No, it's still early. I get sick if I eat right away in the morning, ” you explained. Another addition to the list of pregnancy symptoms that liked to torment you. 

“Something light, at least,” Lucifer suggested, his eyes landing on a rickety old picnic table before turning to you with a pleading look. 

You don’t argue with the fallen angel, instead brushing past him to take a seat on one of the benches. With all the extra weight in your middle, sitting was also becoming a nuance, and the muscles in your legs were probably twice the size now with all the exercising you were doing lately.

“What’s on the menu today?” Lucifer asked from the other side of the table, rubbing his hands with a playful smile as he removed his hat and coat to lay gently beside him. 

After a few moments of thought, you indulged him on your latest food fix. 

“The lady is as cultured as ever,” the king responded with a grin, before snapping his fingers and lifting his hand palm-up to catch a plate of your desire and lowering it gently onto the table, before catching a tall glass of water in the other.

Digging into your gourmet breakfast, Lucifer watched you with a small smile, pleased that you were eating something at least. His thoughts pulled him away for a few moments as you hungrily devoured the food on the table. 

You both sat there in comfortable silence, drinking in the morning peace.

“What are your plans after you have the baby?” Lucifer finally spoke, his chin resting against his knuckles as he stared at you softly. The gentle breeze tousled his silky blonde strands, as you took a sip from your glass. 

“Probably find somewhere deeper in the city, where the jobs are. I’m sure there’s somewhere hiring that will take my skills. Maybe I’ll actually become a baker this time.”

“You don’t plan on staying?”

“I don’t want to be a bother,” you shook your head, pausing to take another large sip of your water, “Charlie’s already been accommodating enough, I can’t ask for more”

“Did he think you were a bother?” Lucifer suddenly blurted.

He? 

“Who?” 

“You’re… previous partner,” he slowly replied, stepping carefully to the subject of your ex-boyfriend. Someone who you had desperately tried to forget these past few months, to no avail. 

You blinked, tilting your head. Had Lucifer heard your conversation with Mimzy from when you first met? Had he been letting whatever thoughts stew until it drove him mad enough to ask you about it now? 

“I think he was more bothered by the fact he was going to be a father, than just me,” you laughed dryly, tracing the thin lines in the wood absently as you further exposed the shortcomings in your life.

Lucifer clenched his fist, pupils narrowing in irritation at your words. A soft growl resonated from his throat, and you lifted your head in concern at his emotional display.

“I’m sorry,” he shrunk slightly under your questioning star, averting his gaze to control his outburst. “It’s just hard to believe that anyone would treat someone like you with such disregard.” 

Your mouth parted slightly, but no words left your lips as you processed his statement, heart fluttering at his reaction. Guilt and regret crossed his features for bringing up the topic, as if you were a ticking time bomb ready to explode at the mention of your old lover.

Was Lucifer angry for you?

You found yourself overwhelmed by Lucifer's unexpected display of protectiveness and concern. His reaction stirred a mixture of emotions within you, ranging from surprise to gratitude. It was as though a veil had been lifted, revealing a side of him you only glimpsed before—a side that cared deeply about your well-being. 

“Lucifer I—“

“Let’s not dwell on the past,” the fallen angel interrupted you, rising from the bench suddenly as the empty dishes around you vanished with a burst of red smoke. 

He slipped on his overcoat and hat, before moving around the table to stand by your side. You looked up at him with a questioning stare once more.

“Shall we continue?” Lucifer asked softly, before lifting an elbow offering it to you.

You frowned at his change in the conversation, before lowering your gaze to his arm and slowly reaching up to grasp it with a small smile. Fine, you’d drop his sudden interest in your past and future.

Using his angelic strength, Lucifer helped you rise from your seat, a show of support you accepted gratefully. You locked elbows with him again, before turning towards the dirt pathway that wrapped around the hotel. 

For now, you’d let him dote on you without fuss. One day, though, you’d figure out what made the fallen angel so interested in you.

After that, Lucifer came to visit the hotel more often, which also meant paying a visit on your end too. It always started with a soft knock on your door, before he greeted you with that charming grin that instantly sent butterflies fluttering inside your stomach.

Then, he’d pull out an item from the inside of his coat, lifting it towards you like an offering. Usually, it was food that the fallen angel had noticed you taking a liking to. He’d lift a diverse array of mouth-watering goodies to your face, his lips curving into a knowing smirk as you hungrily accepted them.

Your cravings seemed to change by the week, so the poor guy began keeping a list of them all on the door of his fridge as a daily reminder of what could win your heart. Cravings weren’t the only things he kept an eye on, every interest you spoke of during those long conversations were memorized. 

As time went on, the gifts he offered you grew bigger, and so did your reactions to seeing them.

One day, Lucifer had walked you back to the staircase in an odd silence. He had never been so quiet before, and his demeanor was more anxious than usual. You didn’t have time to ponder that thought for long when the king cleared his throat to grab your attention.

“So…. I was a little bored last night,” Lucifer started, adjusting his long collar nervously as you regarded him with a quirked brow, “and, well, seeing as you didn’t have much for the baby, I thought I could give you a hand, soooo I made you this!”

His arm quickly lifted towards you, and you leaned forward to get a look at the small object in his hand.

Nestled in Lucifer’s palm, was a small, yellow rubber ducky. Your eyes widened, breath hitched, as your gaze flicked from the toy to Lucifer, then back to the ducky adorned with a small, white hat. He watched your reaction intensely, and at your silence, he cracked an awkward grin.

“For the little one, in case you didn’t have anything for them. It’s even got a little baker's hat, since I know that’s kind of your thing.”

Tears pricked at your eyes, and you took the duck gingerly from his hand, turning it over as you traced the outline of the beak, the cute little hat, and finally its adorable tail feathers curled at the back. It stirred something in you, your stomach swimming with emotions that were threatening to bubble up and consume you while staring at the toy. 

He made this… for your baby? As a gift to you? 

That was so sweet of him, and not even Charlie had given you something so thoughtful. Sure, she paid for a majority of your baby necessities—which you owed her your life for, no matter how much the girl disagreed—but she never presented you with something made from the heart like this.

Lucifer did, though. Even if he made a million matching yellow duckies beforehand, he still made this one specifically for you. Had your ex ever cared enough to do something like this for you? You couldn’t recall. And yet, a man who was practically a stranger before you was the one to care enough.

Fuck, you were about to cry. You tried to steel yourself, holding back tears. 

You met Lucifer’s gaze after a few moments, as you softly stroked the little toy with your thumb. The fallen angel only grimaced at your reaction, his smile faltering slightly as he watched your eyes well with tears and your lip start to quiver.

“Do you hate it?” He asked slowly, and you realized you were beginning to sniffle softly, hiccups building in your chest as you blinked in confusion. 

“Hate—hic—It? Why would you think…?” You started, before you felt tears welling up underneath your chin, and dripping softly onto the ducky close to your chest. 

You mentally slapped yourself, of course Lucifer would think you disliked it because of how emotional you were being. Shame ate at you after that. Here the king of Hell was, thinking about you and your baby and making something in his own free time, only for you to reward him with tears.

Curse these hormones!

Now, the quiet sniffles that escaped you were from both sadness and delight, as you clutched the rubber ducky closer to your chest. The tears spilled faster from your cheeks, wetting the ground beneath you. A few droplets landed on your exposed arm, and its cool touch was a welcome sensation from the heat boiling underneath your skin. 

“I-I-I’m sorry, Your Majesty,” you finally breathed, rubbing a hand across your face to get rid of the tears, before you inhaled a sharp breath to calm yourself, “I’m sorry for being such a… such a—”

You clamped your mouth shut, trying to rope in the last bit of control you had over your emotions that were threatening to come undone. You sucked in a large, sputtering breath and Lucifer leaned back, just as your lips quivered violently.

“—a wreck!” you wailed after that, placing your free hand to your mouth to try and hold in your sobs.

Lucifer jumped slightly, closing in the distance between the two of you as he rushed to your side. He bit his lip, what could he possibly do to make you feel better? If he would have known this was how you were going to react

“Wait, no! You’re not a wreck, you’re completely fine. Perfect, even! Oh, please don’t cry…” 

The man was starting to pace as you held a hand to your mouth, slowly but surely clamping down on your outburst of emotion.

“Here, have another one!” A second rubber ducky appeared with a red burst of smoke, landing softly into his palm as he lifted it towards your face, “Don’t worry I have a lot more at home!”

The duckie's cute little apron, displaying a cookie and two tiny wooden spoons in the shape of an X, only made your lip quiver more violently. Lucifer slowly pulled the third ducky away from your view behind his back, staring with concern as you tried to catch your breath.

“It’s so cute!” you gasped through the tears, before rubbing your eyes once more.

“You think so?” He replied in disbelief.

You nodded your head vigorously, smiling through the tears as you clutched both ducks to your chest. Lucifer slowly caught on, before breathing a large sigh of relief like he just avoided doomsday.

“Are… you two okay?” Came a familiar voice from the edge of the room. You turned your head to see Charlie standing with a confused expression as she watched Lucifer fuss over your disheveled figure.

“Charlie!” Lucifer perked, shooting her an awkward grin as he stood beside you, “I didn’t expect to see you here! I just thought I'd swing by and give our friend here a little something for their child.”

You held out your hands to the princess, who leaned in to get a better look at the yellow toys. The familiar body shape, orange beak, and beady little eyes had her immediately recognizing the objects and the reason behind your emotional outburst. 

“Awe, that’s so sweet, Dad!” Charlie clutched her chest, swooning at the sight of the small rubber ducks in your hands, “To make something for her baby like that, so thoughtful of you!”

She walked closer towards you and Lucifer, passing right by a few feet away to a hallway on the other end of the room. 

“Well, I won’t interrupt the two of you any longer, comfortable in each other's company already” Charlie waggled her eyebrows at you, throwing her dad an encouraging thumbs up before walking around a corner and out of sight. 

That had been a very embarrassing moment for you, but after the initial upsetting reaction, Lucifer didn’t seem to mind the changes pregnancy had forcefully placed upon you. Emotionally or physically, he seemed to adore traits that you had acquired during these past few months.

The fallen angel had been helping you in the kitchen one afternoon, as you made apple empanadas at his subtle request. 

Since you had first introduced Lucifer to your cooking, he couldn’t get enough of it. Anytime you mentioned using the kitchen, his head would snap towards you, licking his lips with hunger. The fallen angel had never asked outright for you to make anything for him, but dropping hints like ‘I thought I'd drop off some more apples for your pantry, since I know you like to use them in your baking and all.’ 

You’d simply shake your head and pull out Alastor’s recipe book, flipping through the pages for anything that used the red fruit. Thankfully, there was more than just tarts and pie that you could try your hand at. 

Thankfully, Lucifer ate up your dishes with the ferocity of a starving child every time. 

“If you can just materialize any food you want, why not just make these yourself?” You had asked him once, as you took small balls of dough into round, flattened pieces against the kitchen countertop. 

“Your food is just much better,” he had shrugged next to you, folding the dough-wrapped apple stuffing into dumpling-like shapes, before setting them neatly on a cookie sheet to be baked. The sleeves of his dress shirt were rolled up to his forearms, his red-and-white-striped waistcoat covered by a tall red apron. 

Heat crept across your cheeks at Lucifer’s words and you averted your gaze to hide your flustered expression. With his help, you’d never fuss about making him sweet treats. Especially if you got to indulge in them as well. 

Picking up a light stack of dishes you walked around the counter towards the sink. Your walk wasn’t really a walk anymore, your gait altered to adjust for the weight of what was basically a watermelon strapped to your stomach. 

You were also much slower, and you hated it. 

Right as you reached the sink, a soft chuckle reverberated behind you. Lucifer’s gaze had followed your figure, his eyes glinting with amusement as you moved.

“What are you laughing at?” You shot him a playful, suspicious glance as you placed the dishes gently into the sink. 

“Your walk, it reminds me of a waddle,” Lucifer teased with a soft smile, "Like a duck, adorable without even trying.” 

That only sent you into another flustered mess, cheeks heating in embarrassment that it was quite obvious you were struggling with the growing baby weight so far into your pregnancy. 

Even with the multitude of compliments given to you by the king, your self-esteem had greatly deflated as the months passed. 

“I look rather unsightly now,” you had sighed, adjusting your outfit in the tall mirror near your room’s dresser. 

Lucifer was leaning against the frame of your doorway, arms crossed as he watched you analyze yourself meticulously.

“What? Who told you that?” Lucifer questioned with a soft growl, brows furrowing.

“Nobody,” you replied with a frown, crossing your arms, “Nobody needs to tell me I look terrible. It’s clear as day, just look at me!”

“I am,” he smiled softly, shooting you casual bedroom eyes, “And I am very tempted to show you just how wrong you are, but my daughter demands my presence, and who am I to deny my little girl’s call?”

“Looks like I’ll just have to see you later,” you replied as he strolled up to you with a cheeky smile. 

“Of course,” he had purred, his fingers lacing with yours before he lifted your hand to his face. Lowering his head, Lucifer brushed his lips softly against your knuckles, heat radiating from his touch. Your heart fluttered, breath hitching as you resisted the urge to melt right then and there. 

Lucifer had tipped his hat to you, releasing your fingers slowly before turning away and walking out the door. You had smiled like a dumb teenager then, your mood instantly brightening at his flirtatious demeanor. 

However long this… bond between you and Lucifer lasted, you prayed it was full of nothing but soft memories. Only time would tell whether the king would get bored of you and simply turn the other cheek at your presence, no indication that the two of you had ever held a conversation. 

‘Stop being so paranoid,’ you growled to yourself, shaking your head, ‘He’s only ever been kind to you. Caring, thoughtful, funny. What more do you want?’

With the last month of your pregnancy just around the corner, you were determined to make this last, mostly peaceful period a pleasant one with the people you cared about. 

Hopefully, things will stay peaceful until then.

But, as Extermination Day closed in, so did your due date. You were giddy for the arrival of the latter, ready for the freedoms that came with having total control of your body once more.

‘I can’t wait until you’re outta me, kiddo,” you patted your round stomach affectionately, before waddling out of your room. Which was about five doors down from the lobby now, closer to the rest of the residents. It was noisier now, but at least you didn’t have to walk a mile to get decent food. 

It was Charlie who had initially convinced you to move, citing the fact that if you were to go into labor during the night or somewhere too far from the others, it may pose a risk to your baby in the case of an emergency. 

She was right, and Lucifer had no qualms with the change, as expected.

The only downside to being close to your due date was the many false alarms signaling you of labor. False alarms that only heightened everyone’s unease that you were a water balloon waiting to burst at any moment's notice.

Lucifer’s anxiety especially spiked whenever you’d suddenly wince, hissing in pain as you put a shaky hand on your stomach. He’d come rushing to your side, and you responded to his concern with an assuring smile and a pat on your stomach. 

“I’m fine, just Braxton-Hicks contractions, nothing serious… I think.” 

The king would sigh in relief at your words, relaxing slightly before offering you water or something to snack on. 

In the final month of your pregnancy, you were under strict orders by the royal family to refrain from lifting a finger until the baby came. You found that when the two Morningstar’s weren’t busy, they were finding ways to entertain you and soothe the natural pains that came with being on the very last leg of your pregnancy. 

Seeing as Extermination Day was just around the corner, the two weren’t around much as the days went on. Charlie was disappearing more often to try and gather support against Adam’s forces, and Lucifer was slowly regressing into another one of his depressive episodes.

Lucifer’s woes weren’t magically solved simply because he was finding purpose in caring for you and the hotel, mental health was unfortunately not that smoothly paved of a road to traverse. The king still had days where he retreated into the darkness of his mansion, barely a word to you or Charlie during that time. Only to reappear with tired, sunken eyes and a handful of freshly crafted rubber ducks for your growing collection.

You always gave him the space he needed, it just was terrible timing seeing his daughter was preparing to fight an army of murderous angels. 

Until one day Lucifer appeared in front of the door of your room, knocking so softly you almost missed it if you weren’t right next to the wooden frame. Extermination Day was only a week away. 

“You should get somewhere safe,” He had started right as you appeared in the doorway, “This hotel is full of targets for Heaven, you shouldn't be in such a stressful environment with the risk of an attack.”

“I thought they can’t go after my kind?” You had questioned, head tilting in confusion.

“The contract explicitly states they can’t, but that doesn’t mean one idiot can’t point the spear at the wrong demon in the chaos. I just don’t want to risk anything.” Lucifer pleaded silently for your agreement, his eyes soft with concern.

“If that’s what you think is best,” you had replied softly, heart fluttering at the level of worry and care the fallen angel displayed towards you and your child.

There was a small villa nestled on the outskirts of the city Lucifer owned, quiet and peaceful with its own butler that you’d rely on while you stayed there during the extermination. Lucifer had nudged at the idea of you staying there for more than just a couple of days, insisting how much better equipped it was to house a baby and away from any danger.

You had considered it, but your answer wasn’t finalized by the time Extermination Day rolled around, and you awoke with packed bags and a twisting stomach. You had been feeling… off all morning. Your bump felt heavier as you completed your early routine, your baby a little more active than usual. Sleep was a rarity the past few days, and you tried to rid your mind of drowsiness as you stood in front of Charlie with 

“Okay, so there is a limo coming to pick you and your things up soon. I made sure to have them pull up at the top of the hill for you,” The princess spoke as Vaggie tightened her outfit from the back, adjusting it slightly against her skin.

It was a red suit that stuck to her figure perfectly, providing ample flexibility and movement during battle. You had never imagined Charlie in this kind of scenario, someone who strongly opposed violence walking straight into it? A surprising sight, but the princess was set on being on the frontlines with the rest of her people when Adam arrived.

“Thank you,” you replied softly, before wincing at a ripple of pain that hit your from your lower abdomen. 

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, sorry. I've just been feeling a little under the weather lately. Nothing to be worried about.” You smiled reassuringly to the princess. She had much bigger things to fuss about then you.

“Okay, just let me know if something changes,” She nodded, adjusting her red suit as she spoke, “I haven’t been able to get ahold of my dad this morning… I hope he didn’t forget today was when the big army was coming down to try and kill us all.”

You had chuckled nervously along with Charlie at her own words. As much as it seemed like a simple tease, you had a sneaking feeling Lucifer would actually lose track of time and show up to the battle halfway through.

Charlie had turned away from you with a quick farewell, continuing preparations for the coming battle as you stood at the entrance to the hotel, waiting for the private car to arrive.

Then, you were hit with a cramp that had an intensity you hadn't experienced yet. It was followed by a sharp pinch deep inside your abdomen, before liquid began to pool at your feet. You froze, heart pounding as you stood deathly silent.

Was that your water breaking? Were you going into labor now?!

“Charlie!” Your voice cracked painfully as you called for the woman, who was adjusting a heart-shaped shield against her arm. The princess turned around to meet your gaze with confusion, before it morphed into concern as she scanned your figure, looking for what had you looking so shell-shocked.

“Oh!” Charlie gasped, her expression a mixture of panic and delight as the dots connected, “Oh my! It's happening! Hold on, hold on, I’m going to grab my phone!”

Another contraction hit you as Charlie dashed off, causing you to double over in pain and Vaggie to rush to your side with concern etched on her features. The next few minutes turned into a blur as the limo pulled up, and you were slowly moved to its waiting frame. 

This was it, it was time to have this baby. A relieving thought as you reached the vehicle’s side, your heart beating rapidly and mind racing with a million thoughts at once.

Your mind was still racing by the time you arrived inside the hospital and assigned a room.

“You got this, boss!” An Egg Boi cheered atop a stool right beside your hospital bed, your hand clenched dangerously tight around his stick arm as you inhaled a sharp breath of pain. 

“Thank you, Frank,” You grimaced, adjusting your posture atop the mattress as you tried to find any amount of relief during this naturally uncomfortable chapter of becoming a mother. The contractions were getting closer together, and were increasing in l; length and intensity since you first started keeping track.

Immediately after telling Charlie the badly-timed news, she had you rushed off to a nearby maternity ward. At arrival, you were forced to change into a thin and revealing hospital gown, before being strapped to machines that read your baby’s vitals and recorded your contractions. 

Apparently, the small hospital you were in was the best medical facility in all of Hell, paid for and used by the Morningstar family and the rest of the realm’s royalty.

The employees signed strict NDAs on what transpires during their shift, to prevent them from spilling to the press if a tragedy were to strike among the highest nobility. 

You had been here for the past few hours, the warning sirens outside had gone off a while ago, signaling Heaven’s attack on Pentagram City. The shades were drawn in your little room, preventing the witness of any gruesome sights right outside your window.

You couldn’t stomach watching the live footage of the extermination on your teeny hospital TV, not right now. Instead, you had some childish cartoon playing for Frank, who Sir. Pentious had insisted on going with you since everyone else was needed in the fight.

The drawback of not knowing the status of the hotel only made your anxiety worsen, though. 

Was everyone okay? Was Lucifer with them? Did he know you were here? Maybe, they won already… or lost. A hundred unwanted thoughts sped through your mind concerning your friends, but when another contraction hit you and you grimaced against the feeling of your insides being squeezed silly, the matters concerning anything outside of this room were not on your mind any longer.

That’s right, focus on the baby. They were your priority right now, their well-being depended on how you handled the next few hours. Soon, you’d finally get to welcome your child to the realm and in your arms. Every change and ache you’ve experienced for the past few months won’t have been for nothing, and you’d be cool with not experiencing this again for a long while afterward. 

Right as your head settled exhaustively against the cool, sterile pillow and Frank soothingly patted your hand, the door to your room opened and a small bunny-faced woman quietly slipped into the room.

“Hello! I’m Nurse Smith, just coming in to check up on you. How are you feeling?” The sandy-colored demon asked with a pleasant smile, her black heels clicking softly against the tile floor as she moved to your bedside.

“I feel like we’re getting closer,” you croaked softly, lips cracked with thirst. Unfortunately, if you wanted a much less painful delivery, water was a no-no until your epidural. Your contractions had been manageable, but as the hour began to change, they were coming in more intense and closer waves.

“Let’s check, shall we?” Her long ears perked, as she moved towards the monitors displaying your child’s heart rate and other information, including how dilated your cervix was. 

“Oh, it looks like you’re dilated about 9 centimeters. I think we’re ready to meet the little one! I’ll call the other nurses, and the anesthesiologist for the epidural.”

“Thank god,” You breathed with relief, the numbing liquid would be your saving grace in these trying times. 

The nurse left the room to fetch the rest of the delivery team, your heart began to beat rapidly in your chest as you took deep, shaky breaths to calm your nerves. It wasn’t really working, and while you understood the need for all hands on deck to fight a horde of trained angelic killers, the lack of familiar, comforting faces inside the building.

Frank was a nice little addition, but he could only offer you so much support with eyes glued to the screen of dancing, animated fruit with baby features.

When the anesthesiologist arrived, surrounded by a multitude of demons dressed in white medical attire, he had greeted you softly before lifting a long, thin needle to your view.

Gulping quietly, you rose to face your back towards the doctor, and he began poking uncomfortably down your spine. When it seemed like he had found the perfect spot, you felt a sharp pinch in your back before faint warmth slowly crept from the spot the demon had injected. 

When that was finished, and you reclined back against your mattress, the staff around you were prepping the baby cleaning station and fussing around at the end of the bed near your legs.

Then, a tall woman with lion-like features strolled into the room, her commanding presence told you she was the head honcho of the small crew of white-clad women who were busy around you.

“Hello, I’m the OB that’s going to help deliver your baby today,” she walked up to the side of your bed, pulling light blue latex gloves onto her paws as her eyes landed on the egg-shaped demon beside you with an odd expression, “Is he the…?”

“No!” You gasped, releasing Frank's arm and scooching over an inch from the short demon, before raising a brow to the doctor with a gaze that silently questioned ‘Seriously? You think I’d bang an egg?’

She only shrugged, before turning away from you to speak quietly to a few nurses washing their hands. With a sigh, you twisted your head to face your innocent companion, tapping his shell softly to get his attention. Another contraction hit you, but the high-quality numbing agent had you barely reacting.

“Frank, sweetie, can you please wait outside until I get done with my… business here?”

“Sure thing!” The egg replied happily, his eyes moving from the cartoons to you with a thumbs up, before the demon tipped his little black hat in a bid of farewell and hopped off the stool beside your bed.

As the nurses scurried around your legs, before lifting them with care and slipping your ankles snugly inside. You felt bare and exposed—which you were—and while the room was much more comfortable and dimly lit than other hospitals you had been to, constant beeping equipment paired with the faint smell of the beach only heightened your anxiety at the fact you were about to give birth.

“Deep breaths for me, dear,” the OB spoke softly, before slipping a surgical mask onto her face, and retreating to in between your legs, two nurses at the ready beside her. Her figure became obscured as she bent down below the sheet that was covering the sight before your lifted knees.

Following her instructions obediently, you regained control of your breathing. Deep inhale, long exhale. Another, and another, then another, until you could feel your heart beginning to slow its racing pace. 

“Alright, it’s time. On my count, I want you to start pushing when you feel your contractions, okay?” The OB piped up from underneath the sheet, and your fingers gripped the rails on the side of your bed with deadly force as you mentally prepared yourself.

“1…” 

Deep breaths, you’ve got this.

“2…”

Please let this be a smooth delivery. 

“3…”

I wish Lucifer were here.

“Alright, mama, push!”

Straining against the stirrups slightly, you inhaled a deep breath and poured all your strength into your lower abdomen with a grunt as you followed the doctor’s command. After a few moments of heavy exertion, you felt the contraction begin to ebb. Your head hit the pillow with a gasp for breath, sweat beginning to down your forehead.

A contraction slowly builds in your abdomen, cueing you into gathering your strength once. As you readied for another round of pushing, you turned towards a nurse who was standing supportively on the left side of the bed.

“I’m never having sex with a man again,” you groaned, lifting your head from the pillow with effort.. 

“Oh, sweetie,” the much older woman laughed, patting your hand soothingly, “That’s what they all say.”

Lucifer stood proudly in front of the newly rebuilt hotel, the strobe of lights flashing rhythmically, lighting up the building’s tall figure with a tempting glow to wide-eyed onlookers. The small, misfit army of Hell had defeated Adam and sent killer angels back to Heaven. 

There were casualties on both sides, but thankfully only one demon that resided inside the hotel was taken from the realm. Sir. Pentious, an inventor, leader, and friend. Lucifer may have not known the snake demon for very long, but the respect he held for the brave captain was immense. 

“What a beauty! And it only took us one musical number to get it all done, that has got to be a record!” The fallen angel nodded his head approvingly, crossing his arms as he twisted his head to observe the small crowd of demons. 

The princess stood a few feet away, handing Cherry Bomb a small medical kit as she leaned against a bench. The cyclops woman sent Charlie a small appreciative smile as she took the metal case from her hands. 

Turning, she strolled up to her father with tired eyes, exhaustion evident on her features, both mentally and physically from everything she had just experienced in the short span of a few hours.

“We did good, if I do say so myself,” Lucifer grinned pridefully to his daughter, blonde hair swaying softly in the breeze as he met her halfway.

“Yeah. That's for doing most of the work, Dad. We wouldn't have gotten it done so fast without your magic.” Charlie nodded, smiling softly.

“Pfft, it was no biggie. Anything for my little girl,” Lucifer brushed off her compliment with a wave of his hand, before pulling up the sleeves of his white dress shirt.

Charlie and Lucifer stood next to each other in comfortable silence, as the princess absently rubbed the bruise on her throat. Adam’s grip had been suffocating, the intention of harm evident on his expressive mask before it was split in two by Lucifer’s powerful retaliation. 

“I think she’ll really like this place, If she hasn't already seen it on TV at the villa.” Her father finally spoke after a few moments.

She. Charlie didn’t need her dad to say your name to know who he was talking about. You were one of the few women that was on Lucifer’s mind these days, and it was obvious the two of you had grown closer these past few months. She was sure if you were at the hotel during the battle the king would have been a raging mess to keep both you and his daughter safe. Fortunately, you were far from anyone who would want to lay a hand on you.

“I think she’s a little busy right now, since she’s..”

It suddenly occurred, the cloud of exhaustion parting just enough for the recollection of where exactly you had gone to smack Charlie square in the face. The princess had been so busy getting thrown around in battle, mourning her friend, and helping rebuild the hotel she almost forgot why you had left so suddenly.

“She’s having her baby!” Charlie suddenly gasped, eyes widening before she threw her hands up to hold her head in realization. 

“She’s what?” Lucifer whispered, his face paling to an even whiter shade as he froze in place.

“She went into labor this morning, so I had her taken to that hospital you liked,” Charlie explained breathlessly, a few demons around them eavesdropping on their conversation as Vaggie walked over with a mirrored expression of realization.

“Alone?” The fallen angel replied, mouth slightly agape as panic began to set into his features.

“One of Pentious’ eggs is with her,” Cherry Bomb answered softly from her spot on the bench with a melancholy gaze, as she re-wrapped a nasty wound with gauze.

“Why didn't you tell me?” He demanded.

“I was kind of in the middle of a battle!” Charlie replied defensively, her mind racing now as she worried about you and how you were faring during such a stressful time. What about the baby? 

Lucifer didn’t respond, turning away from the gathering group of demons as he snapped his fingers. In an instant, his long overcoat materialized atop his shoulders, and his hat floated down gracefully to rest upon the king’s head as golden magic circled his figure, before disappearing without a word. 

“Why couldn't he have done that for the rest of us?” Angel Dust grumbled from beside Cherry, before standing with a sigh and cracking his back. Husk strolled up to stand beside him, mouth opening in a large yawn as he itched his chin with a claw.

“I’ll call a cab,” Vaggie replied, rushing off in search of a phone as Charlie began to bite her nail to try and relieve some of the stress that was beginning to bubble up in her stomach. A million unwanted thoughts of scenarios where something terrible happened to you or the baby eating at her mind.

The apple-cheeked woman’s nail was still at the mercy of her nervous chewing as she rocked self-soothingly in the chair next to Vaggie, who rubbed her shoulder softly in support. 

Five battered demons sat in cushioned armchairs arranged in neat rows across a small waiting room right outside of the maternity ward. 

Alastor had disappeared again sometime after the hotel had been finished, with no word of his whereabouts. Cherry Bomb had been too disheveled to join, tears brimming from her large eye as the rest of the demons squished into one taxi and sped off.

When they arrived, Lucifer was already inside the hospital, foot tapping impatiently in the front lobby as he pointed a commanding finger down towards a white, oval-shaped figure standing agape before him.

“You, talking egg,” The fallen angel began, voice deepening to display his superior authority as Charlie approached from behind, “You were sent here today to keep watch over someone very important. Now lead them to me… please”

Frank had stated wide-eyed for a few more moments, before saluting his king and marching off into a hallway on the right. 

Now, the king of Hell was displaying anything but the traits of an imposing leader. Hunched slightly, head lowered, an obvious nervous wreck as Lucifer paced along a wide pane of glass overlooking a more residential side of the city. 

One pink, fuzzy demon stared intently at the anxious figure with a large smile of amusement.

“Ten bucks she’s handling everything much better actually popping out the kid than this poor fella is over here,” Angel teased as he gestured towards Lucifer, before meeting Husk’s eyes from the chair next to him.

The feline’s gaze moved to follow the king’s continuous back-and-forth trail in front of the window across the room, the apple-tipped cane twisting between his fingers impatiently as he waited for news on your condition. Lucifer raked a hand through his hair, pulling back the tousled strands as he mumbled something incoherent.

It was obvious Lucifer and Charlie were related by much more than just their looks, one being how badly they handled stressful situations. You were being cared for by the best doctors in Hell, what could go wrong?

“Nah, you’re probably right,” Husk finally replied with a chuckle, before his eyelids slowly lowered and he drifted off into a light, cat-like sleep. 

A quiet purr resonated from his chest as he napped, and Angel smiled before lifting the pink phone in his hands and taking a selfie, Husk’s peaceful expression slightly visible from behind the spider’s figure. 

Somehow, Niffty had gotten hold of a handful of markers and was demonstrating her artistry on a living canvas for amusement. Frank sat on the floor near Vaggie’s feet while the tiny cyclops doodled across his shell, he didn’t move an inch.

When the door to the waiting room opened, a nurse clad in white slipped inside, and everyone froze to stare at the approaching demon. She lowered her gaze respectfully in Lucifer's presence, and halted right in front of the first row of chairs. 

“Huska’, wake up!” Angel Dust whispered sternly into the feline’s ear and a poke to the cheek, who popped a disgruntled eye open in response to the interruption. 

Husk turned to shoot Angel a glare before his eyes landed on the demon woman standing in front, his ears perking in interest. 

“The delivery went smoothly,” she smiled shyly, and everyone in the room exhaled a shared sigh of relief, “You’re welcome to visit now, just follow me.”

Everyone rose from their seats, Lucifer adjusting his appearance to look more presentable for you as he walked toward the nurse. Charlie turned to lace her fingers with Vaggie’s before following behind her dad. 

“Maybe I should stay back, I don’t do well with kids…” Husk started, still leaning back in his seat.

“Don’t be a pussy, pussy cat,” Angel teased, not looking backward as he joined the rest of the group by the door.

Husk growled softly, before lifting himself from the chair with a huff and exiting out of the door, his feathered tail swishing with anticipation as he crossed the hall and stood with the others at the last doorway on the end.

‘Shh, The Baby Is Sleeping!’ sign was hanging against its frame, before the nurse knocked on the door softly and turned back to the groups 

“Whenever you’re ready,” the nurse hummed, before backpedaling and pivoting on her heel to check in on another room nearby.

Lucifer stood frozen in place, one hand reaching for the door handle as he hesitated. Eyes stared expectantly at their king, who only backed up from the room and allowed Charlie to take the lead.

“I think it would be best if you go first, I’m sure she’s anxious to see you all safe and sound,” Lucifer said with a nervous grin, taking a step backward and slipping past the figures of your friends. 

Charlie only stared at him with a curious expression, as if she was going to argue with her father, before turning back to the door and slowly turning the handle to reveal the room inside. 

“Hi, everyone” he heard you greet them tiredly from the other side of the room before they responded with a mixture of soft words for the new mother. 

Lucifer couldn’t see past the looming bodies of the demons in front of him, and that gave him time to pull out a thin, delicate object from his coat and turn it between his fingers in thought. His mind racing with what he could possibly say to you in a moment like this.

“How are you doing?” Charlie asked as the small group of friends filed into the room.

“Much better now that you’re here,” you replied with a small, relieved laugh, “Although, I did expect Sir. Pentious to join, too.”

Radio silence, not a peep from anyone. How were they supposed to tell you that your baking buddy had sacrificed himself for all his friends? It was such a happy moment for you, they couldn’t dare ruin 

“Yeah, bummer…” Angel Dust murmured quietly, rubbing his arm awkwardly as everyone else tried to keep their lips from curving downward and find a topic to change to.

Then, the king heard Charlie gasp softly, her head turning to another obscured side of the room. The rest of the group turned their heads to follow their gaze, eyes widening at the sight. 

“Is that…?” She whispered in excitement. 

“Yes, would you like to meet my daughter?”

Lucifer’s heart fluttered at that. Daughter. You had delivered a healthy baby girl, and he was not going to wait around a moment longer to congratulate you. 

Finally, the king inhaled a deep, reassuring breath before he strode forward and stepped into the dimly lit room. The crowd parted, revealing your relaxed form on the bed across from him. Lucifer finally met your siren-like gaze and your lips curved into a delighted smile.

“Lucifer,” you sighed happily, eyes drinking in the fallen angel’s perfect figure. 

“Glad to lose some of that water weight?” He teased with that signature charming grin, taking a few steps closer to your bed.

Across the room, was a transparent bassinet nestled in the darkest area of the large space. Every demon in the room had their attention on the bundle of blankets lying still inside.

Slowly, Charlie scooted closer and closer to the cradle, before she leaned over with a smile. She stared in awe at the tiny figure sleeping soundly, before turning her head to meet your gaze. 

“I trust you, Charlie,” you smiled softly at the wide-eyed woman, “You can take her if you want, just be careful.” 

With a joyous smile, the princess turned back to look down at the little bundle of joy, before reaching down and carefully lifting the baby out of the bassinet.

She looked just like you, all cozy wrapped up in the thick blankets around her small body as Charlie held her tight, slowly lowering into a cushioned chair near the shaded windows of the room. The rest of the attendees in the room—save for Lucifer, who couldn’t take his eyes off you—gazed at your twin with adoration. Even Husk wanted a peak, nose twitching as he got a good look at the child with interest. 

“Look at her nose! It’s so tiny and adorable!” Charlie whispered and Vaggie leaned over the chair to get a closer look. 

You watched the small group huddle around your daughter, their gazes tender as they fawned over the sleeping child. Smiling softly, you turn your head to see Lucifer coming closer, his arm leaning against your bed's railing as he lifts a mesmerizing flower into view.

It was a beautiful red rose. Not the hellish roses that rarely grew around the outskirts of Pentagram City, but the classic Earthly version, which you recognized from one of Angel’s descriptions of life in the living realm. 

“I hope everything wasn’t too difficult,” Lucifer responded to your surprised stare at his gift.

There were no thorns present, designed specifically by pale hands just for you to enjoy without the fear of pain. Reaching an arm forward, you took the flower gently from Lucifer’s hold, your fingers brushing softly against his as you lifted it to your nose and inhaled a deep breath. 

The scent of the rose made your lips curve into a soft grin, as you met Lucifer's gaze again.

“Thank you, it’s so pretty,”

“Not in comparison to you,” he replied without hesitation.

You sent him a doubtful quirk of a brow. Having just delivered a baby, you weren’t exactly runway-ready, but Lucifer didn’t seem to care as he stared at you softly. 

Charlie walked forward, interrupting the tender moment as she offered your daughter for you to hold once more. Lucifer finally got a glimpse of your child as he stilled, eyes lighting with interest as he traced the familiar lines on their little features that mirrored so closely to your own.

He hitched a breath, right as you leaned forward and pulled your daughter into your grasp, pulling her flush against your chest. 

Pivoting slightly to face Lucifer, you beckoned the pale face closer to greet the new addition. Slowly, he sidled closer, leaning forward as his eyes traced over the tiny being all bundled up. 

“Hi there,” he spoke quietly to the child, whose features mimicked yours almost to the T. It was definitely your baby, and that only made Lucifer sigh with fondness as he lifted a tentative figure toward the bundle.

His claw delicately grazed against plump, soft cheeks which earned him an adorable coo from your daughter, and that only made the king’s lip wobble more.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you,” Lucifer whispered, gently caressing the baby’s cheek as you watched with a warm smile. 

Then, the king lifted his head to meet your gaze, tears in his eyes as he stared at you affectionately. You had to stop yourself from rising from the bed and comforting him. 

“Sorry,” he rubbed away the wet trails on his cheeks, “Moments like these get me pretty emotional.”

Slowly, you reached a free hand towards Lucifer’s, lacing your fingers with his comfortingly as you laughed softly, tugging him farther past the railings of your bed. Your daughter was nestled against your chest, her warm cheek pressed against your skin only made your smile curve wider.

“I couldn’t have done it without your help, or anyone else’s here. I’m glad I had that kind of support all these months.”

“Don’t worry, mama” he tenderly lifted your hand, placing his lips to your knuckles for a few moments, drinking in your scent that always had him dizzy for more, “We’ll keep that streak going for a long, long time.”

Tears began to well up in your own eyes, as they traveled over to the smiling faces watching you and your baby with fondness. Had you known this is what your life would have looked like all those months ago, you wouldn’t have been so anxious about the future.

Finally, you weren’t so alone anymore. Not with Lucifer, and the obvious care he held for your daughter already, promising you a comfortable life.

Perhaps, happy days in Hell really did exist.

holy shit guys i basically wrote y’all a novella about a baby-loving king wtffff somebody take my laptop away before i do it again 😏

Let me know what you think <3

tags 🏷️

@ohnoivefallen @doodlebob2726 @coleisyn @undertale-is-sansational @nehy019 @mixplara @chewbrry @yellowsubiesdance @airwolf92 @lxkeee @jellybellyrulez @catnoirsleftnut @mbruben-stein @froggybich @moonlovers34 @just-trash-yeah-thats-it @lil-bexie @wings-of-sapphire @the-tortured-poet @enigmatic-blues @bethleeham @blue122 @cherry-4200 @azullynx @luzzbuzz @for-hearthand-home @helluvapoison @th3-st4r-gur1 @concentratedconcrete @cimadreamer @marsenbie @guacam011y @maxiskindahere @purplerose291 @fictional-character-whore @0willowwisp0 @yourlocalgoldenretrieverboy @wpdarlingpan @halo-balo @chipper-chip @lvstyangel @acrazyartist @midorichoco

[nogitsune-the]

Hi!

So as mabye many of you have seen, I have gotten very inactive other than asortments of reblogs on here. To say it bluntly I'm worn out and haven't had the energy or motivation for writing. I try when I do but can't ever quite seem to finnish what I start.

I struggle with cronic pains and have been dealing with a bad mental health and going trough different treatments to try and find out the reason behind years worth of pain amd issues.

So I just wanted to say that I might not be writing much anymore but I do love to repost the great works of writing I find and I will continue to do so until the day I might find the spark to write again. For now as I have been I won't be posting much of my own work but hopefully I will again in the future ♡

Just to end this of I wanted to say thank you to everyone that follows me and have been for years and still are here and thank you to all the new faces that I see coming by ♡

Hopefully I'll se you soon! Much love Neva♡ (Nogitsune-the)

[nogitsune-the]

Tolerate It | Thranduil

▹ Pairing: Thranduil x Human!Reader

▹ Genre: Angst

▹ Words: ~2k

▹ Summary: A political alliance makes you the new wife of the elven king Thranduil, trapping you in a gilded cage of elven craft.

▹ Notes: I couldn't get this idea out of my head.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ

The banquet hall of Eryn Galen was buzzing with high energy. 

The lights were bright, the drinks flowing. Each guest was too deep in their cups as the band played jaunty tunes that kept spirits high. You sat at the end of the table, to the direct right of Thranduil, Legolas seated directly across from you to the king's left. 

Everything was beautiful, similar to what you imagined heaven may look like. The celebration had been highly anticipated, the steward meticulously planning for months to ensure the night would be perfect. 

Each guest had dressed to the nines, and you had been no exception. Silks that flowed like a languid river, braids woven throughout your hair, and glittering jewels that rivaled the stars in the sky. You’d felt quite pretty after your handmaidens finished, taking in your appearance with rapt attention. 

Yet as the king - your husband - met with you, he barely paid you more than a glance. Not a single compliment or acknowledgment slipped from his lips, just the stiff offering of his arm and a cold demeanor you’d never been able to break through.

Not even the bitterness of the red wine you drank could ease the pain festering inside you. You glanced at Thranduil, his attention on his steward whispering something in his ear. Regal and commanding, you’d thought marriage to the elven king would be something out of a fairytale. Yet your story became twisted, and instead of a happy ending, you were trapped in a doomed marriage. It was like a wall separated you from him; you’d tirelessly beat against it with a hammer; Thranduil was on the other end, reinforcing the stone. 

You glanced down at your dress, the pale green fabric, Thranduil’s favorite shade. Even still, you were desperate for his validation and approval, like a child tugging at their father’s sleeves. A stray hair fell in front of your face, and you pushed it behind your ear, hands ghosting over your rounded ears. Maybe if you’d been an elf and not a human, he might view you as an equal and not a consolation prize. 

One hand below the table closed into a tight fist while you downed the rest of your wine in one gulp. 

Legolas met your eye from across the table with an almost apologetic grin. You returned it with a tight smile you tried to make pleasant. Legolas knew all too well the neglect his father could inflict, so he often preferred the forests over the palace. There was an understanding that made your pain more bearable. 

The handmaidens you brought from home and your stepson, who was older than your eldest living relatives, were all that kept you from falling into true despair. 

Like clockwork, a servant filled your chalice, and you gladly drank. This wine was sweeter and less sharp than the red you were expecting. Once again, you looked towards Thranduil, no longer speaking with his steward but quietly watching the party play out. You reached out, delicately placing your hand over his, only for his to push it away, not bothering to pay you a glance. 

The blatant rejection stung, always taking up too much space and time. Would Thranduil even notice if you’d stolen away into the night? If you pulled the dagger your marriage embedded in you, breaking free and leaving this miserable life behind. What might it be like to shed the weight of Thranduil’s cold disposition and an overly suspicious, judgmental, elvish kingdom? You’d be free and weightless for the first time in years. 

Yet, just as soon as the fantasies came, they fizzled out with the weight of reality. You had no money of your own, no survival skills, and nowhere to go. If you returned home, your father would ship you back to Thranduil. The dark forests and the creatures that lurked within would kill you. There was nowhere to go. No freedom to be found. 

You didn’t bother hiding the frown on your lips; no one in the room paid you much mind. They looked through you as if you were a phantom that clung to the residence of its former life. How was it possible to be in such a crowded room and yet still be so alone?

"How much longer do you believe this will go on for?"

At some point, Legolas had moved from across the table and was now seated to your left, watching the crowded room with thinly veiled discomfort.

" I hope for not much longer. I've never been amendable to crowds so large as this one."

Legolas laughed, the noise swallowed by the noise of the room. "And yet you are queen; should you not be used to such raucous parties?"

You tilted your glass towards him, a slight quirk on your lips.

"I could say the same about you, prince."

He nodded in silent agreement, quickly drinking from his glass, which you noticed was filled with water and not wine.

"I get to run off to the forest. How do you deal with all of this?" The smile on your face fell as your eyes dimmed, a reminder of your current standing.

"No one pays me mind. A blessing, I suppose." You attempted to laugh it off, but you couldn't keep the somberness from your tone. You were trapped in a gilded cage, a prisoner in your own home.

"Then I suppose I'll need to take more respites in the castle."

"You don't need--"

"I insist; what kind of friend would I be if I didn't check on your wellbeing."

So warm and inviting, it made you wonder how Legolas could be the son of Thranduil; he must take after his mother. You wondered, if only for a moment, how different your life might be if you'd been married to Legolas instead of his father. He was the more age appropriate option and if he didn't love you he'd at least respect you. But those thoughts were pointless; you'd been married to Thranduil and not Legolas.

"I think I'm technically your stepmother."

"But you feel more like a friend."

You didn't bother to argue, placing down your wine chalice to take a cool water drink. It was refreshing, soothing the burn the wine had created.

"Then I am glad we are friends."

Before he could respond, a member of his guard called his name. The elf enthusiastically waved him over, yelling something in elvish too slurred for you to understand.

Legolas shook his head, refusing the call, but you placed a single hand on his shoulder.

"Go, enjoy the night. I'll be fine over here."

He tried to discern if you were being dishonest but found nothing but sincerity. Just because you were miserable didn't mean he should be. With a single nod, Legolas left the table to join the group forming in the corner of the room.

Left in the chaos with no one to speak with, you picked up the chalice with wine. At some point during your conversation, Thranduil wandered off, talking with some of the higher-ranking nobles.

Thickly, you swallowed, hiding your face as you slowly drank from your glass.

When would this torment end?

---

The night dragged on at an impossibly slow speed. Your sorrow brought time to a near halt. By the time the crowd began to thin and Thranduil had escorted you back to your shared chambers, you’d forgotten how many glasses of wine you consumed. You managed to keep your composure and pride, not letting you show how light and lethargic the alcohol made you. 

Now, you sat before your vanity, preparing for bed as did Thranduil. There were so many pins placed in your hair that you struggled to pull them out without ripping your hair. Your head throbbed, and your frustration was building; you just wanted sleep. A cold hand pushed yours away, tangling in your hair. With practiced and fluid movements, Thranduil began to take down your hair. He was quick and efficient, his hands in your hair almost soothing.

The action was oddly domestic, and it caused a pang of pain in your chest. If the gods had been fair enough to bless you with a husband who loved you, this would be a nightly occurrence, not a rare show of care. 

“There’s too many pins in your hair.” Always critical; nothing would ever be good enough. 

A beat of silence passed; did he even want you to speak?

“It was a special occasion; I wanted something different done to my hair.” 

Clink. He placed the last pin on the table and stepped away from you.

“It was a bit gauche.”

Expression tight, you stared at your reflection, focused on your dark hair that tangled too quickly and your nearly pallid complexion. Gauche and graceless, the elves would never view you as their own. 

“I thought it looked nice.” 

His answer was to silently turn his back to you, moving to the other end of the room. The silence was maddening. Your attention never moved from your reflection, lips downturned as your eyes hardened. Pain turned to rage, pity becoming an all-consuming fire that threatened to turn all in your wake to ash. 

“Why marry me?” Your tone was harsh, firmer than you could remember speaking.

Thranduil let out a sigh, seemingly annoyed at your mere presence. Normally, his disregard made you shrink, and maybe it was the wine, but it only made you straighten your back, meeting his eyes through his reflection in your mirror. 

“To seal an alliance with your kingdom, you know this.” He was always condescending; he was so much older and wiser. 

“I understand political marriages, but why marry me? You’ve managed political alliances without offering your hand in marriage; you even have a son to marry off. So why--” You slowly stood from your chair, turning to face him directly. “-marry me?”

“Would you have preferred to marry Legolas?” 

“I’d prefer you answer my question. So I’ll ask once more: why marry me?” You strode towards him, eyes narrowed.

“To ensure an alliance with your family.”

“That is it? For no reason other than that.”

Thranduil looked down at you, his lips tight.

“Did you hope to hear differently?” He tilted his head, eyes ice cold and bitter. “Ours was a marriage of convenience, not love.”

You clenched your jaw, swallowing thickly. All of it for nothing, a marriage he knew would never succeed. He may have been content with a loveless life after the passing of his wife, but he knowingly dragged you into it. To turn your life into a void--

You wanted to scream, to yell obscenities at him, to spit all the vile venom his careless behavior filled you with. But it would do no good. An emotional breakdown wouldn’t mend your rift; there was no foundation of respect to rebuild. It was just endless nothingness. Standing at the precipice, you would simply fall into a never-ending pit. 

“I see.”

A hint of shock made his eyes widen a fraction, expecting an outburst like the one you fantasized about. Humans weren’t known for patience, yet it wasn’t patience that kept you silent. It was dejection; you'd given up hope of anything better than what you had.

You dared not move, not even blink until Thranduil turned towards the door.

“I think I will ensure the keep is secured. Goodnight.” 

Head turned, yet your eyes remained where he once stood; you remained silent. The door opened and quietly shut behind his retreating form. Only then did you exhale the breath you’d been holding. 

The bed was plush under your body, and the comforter was like a cloud, yet you’d never felt more miserable. You turned your back to the side Thranduil would take when he returned to the chambers. Eyes shut, soothed by the darkness, you dreamed of something more.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ

Tags: @jmablurry | @lunatichaotiche | @aearonnin | @emiliessketches | @vibratingbones | @moony-artnstuff | @ranhanabi777 | @kenobiguacamole | @ceinelee | @thranduil | @samnblack | @abbiesthings | @Strangebananabatranch | @bitter--fruit | @keijibum | @lifestylesleep | @themerriweathermage | @im-a-muggleborn | @sweetheart-syndrome | @boyruins | @AwkwardBecomesYou | @delyeceamaitare

[nogitsune-the]

A Whole New World Masterlist: Tsu’tey

Y/n a teacher leaves Earth after her friend Jake Sully tells her that she could make a difference on Pandora, figuring out what the hell she packs her things and heads to Pandora where she could fulfill her curiosity about the place if nothing else. After settling on Pandora, she meets Tsu'tey and something develops between them.

**Doesn’t follow the storyline of any of the movies**

Part One- Y/n a former teacher from earth arrive on pandora after receiving a phone call from her best friend Jake Sully inviting her to come take over Grace Augustine’s school. After arriving to Pandora and working with her avatar for a few weeks and studying the environment and people. Jake invites her to camp but on the way there, she ends up twisting her ankle and meeting the famous warrior Tsu’tey.

Part Two- Set a few days after the events in part one, your ankle is now healed and Tsu’tey has found himself wanting to know you more and make your stay with the clan more enjoyable and finds your curiosity about his world amazing. He also helps encourage you to ask Eytukan about becoming a teacher in the village at Dr. Augustine’s old school, and promises to teach you everything that you would like to know about the Na’vi culture. 

Part Three- you have officially started your teaching program with the Na’vi, and Tsu’tey continues to teach you about the way of the Na’vi and finds it so fascinating how curious you are about their world and your willingness to learn. Tsu’tey also asks you about the Sky People culture where you reveal something from your past and Tsu’tey finds himself falling for you and wanting to protect you more. 

Part Four-

Part Five-

[nogitsune-the]

The currents of destiny

Chapter 1: The present.

Requested by @tinystarfishgalaxy! Thank you very much🤍🫶🏻

Summary: "I would say good luck out there, but honestly? I hope you die screaming." Astarion's life takes a dark turn following his encounter with Cazador, as his lover Tav refuses to help him ascend. Left to face the aftermath of his choices, Astarion seeks understanding in his new reality. In his search for answers, he meets a seer named G'axir, who offers him glimpses into three different paths his life could take: his future as an Ascended Vampire, his future alone, and a future next to Tav. Now, Astarion must decide which path to follow before it's too late. Pairing: Astarion x Fem!Reader. Word Count: 2.9k Tags: Angst, post-cazador, Angst with a Happy Ending, Fluff and Angst.

[AO3 Link]

The air reeks of death and blood, the stench heavy and suffocating. Cazador's lifeless body lies in a pool of his own blood, a gruesome sight that only fuels Astarion's anger. His entire body trembles with rage, years of pent-up frustration boiling over.

He had lost everything - the chance to turn the ritual and become the most powerful Vampire, the chance to get back all he lost, the chance to be completely free.

And it was all because of her.

"Astarion?" Her voice quivers with fear as she approaches him cautiously. Turning to face her, his once handsome features contort into a twisted mask of fury.

"You," he growls, his voice dripping with venom. "You betrayed me."

Her body recoils at his accusation, but he pays no mind. The only thing he can see is red, consumed by a blazing fire of betrayal and pain.

"I only wanted what was best for you," she pleads, tears welling in her eyes.

"You had no right!" he bellows, making her flinch again. "This was my last chance!"

"Do you think I wanted to do this?" she cries, her voice breaking. "I did it for you, Astarion. It would have turned you into the very thing you despise."

His lips curl into a sneer and his fangs glint in the dim light. "Oh, spare me your platitudes," he scoffs. "You always did have a way with words, didn't you? You professed your love for me, claiming that my happiness was all you desired and that you would do anything to ensure it. Well, congratulations, now you've sealed my fate with disgrace."

The pain in her eyes fuels Astarion's anger even more.

"Please Astarion. I didn't mean..." she pleads desperately.

"But you did it," he seethes, baring his sharp fangs in anger. "You've taken everything from me."

"Please, let's go home," she begs, tears streaming down her face. "We can figure out a way together."

"Home?" Astarion laughs bitterly. "I have no home anymore."

She flinches at his words and takes a step back, fear evident in her eyes. The pain cut deep in his heart, leaving behind an irreparable wound. How could he have been so naive? To blindly put his trust in someone who would turn their back on him in his darkest hour? The realization hits him like a ton of bricks, shattering the remains of his shattered heart into dust.

"I would say good luck out there, but honestly? I hope you die screaming," he spits before walking away, leaving her behind in a pool of regrets and broken promises. He could hear her heart-wrenching cries as he left, but the anger and pain inside of him only led him further away from her.

-

The moon cast a faint glow over the dark streets of the city as Astarion walked, his mind consumed with seething anger. The sound of his own footsteps echoed through the empty alleyways, mingling with the distant chatter of late-night revelers. People turned to look at him, their gazes lingering on the blood stains that still marred his body. He couldn't bring himself to care, his thoughts completely fixated on the scene that had played out in front of him. He didn't even know how long he had been wandering for, only that the night was growing darker and colder. He had no destination in mind, his feet taking him wherever they pleased as he tried to make sense of what had happened.

Over and over again it replayed in his mind; the knife plunging into Cazador's chest, the man's pained cries echoing in the stone walls of the basement, and the remaining silence after his lifeless body hit the floor. With each repetition, Astarion's anger only grew. How dare he make him feel 200 years of torture, only to feel a mere minute of pain before dying? It wasn't fair. He deserved to feel the pain tenfold, to suffer for eternity just as Astarion had.

As he made his way down the street, his mind couldn't help but drift to Tav. The mere thought of her brought a mix of emotions - anger, hurt, and longing. She had betrayed him, yet her words still echoed in his head, pleading for him to understand. He couldn't deny the love he had once felt for her, but he also couldn't shake the pain she had caused him. Was it all truly for his sake?

Finally reaching a secluded spot on the beach, he sank down onto the sand. It hit him suddenly - he was truly alone once more. There was no one to lean on, no one who could truly understand and accept him for who he was. But he didn't want anyone either. People were fickle creatures; they could betray you in an instant without a second thought.

The waves crashed against the shore, a soothing rhythm that did little to calm Astarion's racing thoughts. He let out a scream of frustration as he punched the sand beneath him. His knuckles burned with pain, but it was nothing compared to the searing rage consuming him. With a groan of agony, Astarion let himself fall back onto the sand. The cold grains offered no comfort as he lay there staring up at the dark sky above. The stars seemed to taunt him with their twinkling, a reminder that he was completely and utterly alone in this vast, uncaring universe.

And then, as if on queue, a figure appeared in his peripheral vision. Astarion's head snapped to the side, his eyes locking onto the man who had suddenly appeared beside him. The moonlight revealed the wrinkles on his face, adding depth and shadow to his features. His long white hair flowed from underneath a robe that reached down to his feet, and in his hand, he held a staff. He exuded an aura of wisdom and age.

Astarion sat up, his hand instinctively reaching for a dagger that wasn't there. Of course he had left his weapons behind. He eyed the stranger warily, his anger still simmering beneath the surface.

"Who are you?" Astarion asked.

"I am recognized by myriad titles... yet for you... 'G'axir' will suffice," the old man replied with a gentle smile. "I have observed your journey... for quite a while"

He narrowed his eyes, wondering if this was some kind of trap. He had learned the hard way to trust no one, especially not strangers who appeared out of nowhere in the dead of night.

"Watching me?"

G'axir nodded. "Your destiny is ensnared in shadows... since you first rose from your grave."

Astarion felt a chill run down his spine. How could this stranger possibly know anything about his past?

"I'm afraid I have little patience for riddles tonight," Astarion said as he stood up and brushed off the sand from his clothes. "I'll be on my way now."

But as he turned to leave, G'axir quickly reached out to grab Astarion's arm. What in the sweet hells?

"You... are a light entering darkness. You... are a seeker of truths. You... are more than you realize," G'axir replied cryptically. "The Seer has spoken it because the Seer knows the fear you harbor."

Astarion's mind raced as he tried to make sense of the old man's words. How could he have secrets buried within himself? He thought he knew himself well enough, especially after living for 200 years.

Astarion couldn't help but roll his eyes in disbelief. "Oh, stop with the theatrics, I don't have any spare money, if that's what you are seeking."

G'axir shook his head. "Your life... is in the balance. Act wisely, act judiciously..."

Astarion yanked his arm away from the old man's grasp. "Must we continue with this tiresome charade? State your purpose and leave me be," he demanded, his voice shaking with fury.

G'axir's expression remained calm and serene, unfazed by Astarion's outburst. "I stand as your guide... offering wisdom to illuminate your path and aid you on your journey..."

Astarion scoffed, his usual sarcastic wit dripping from every word. "Please, I'm perfectly capable of navigating this world on my own. No need for any pesky guidance or assistance," he declared with a sour grin. "I've already had my fill of unwanted help today, thank you very much."

"The path ahead of you... is treacherous and filled with darkness," G'axir said solemnly.

Astarion scoffed. "Well, I've been living in the darkness for 200 years. I can handle it."

"But... can you handle the light... that could await you?" G'axir asked.

Astarion raised an eyebrow at the old man's question. Handle the light? What did that even mean?

"What light?" Astarion asked skeptically.

"The light... of truth and understanding," G'axir replied enigmatically. Astarion felt a twinge of curiosity stir within him despite his reluctance to believe anything this old man said.

"Why should I trust you? You could be deceiving me in an attempt to abduct me, or something," Astarion said suspiciously.

G'axir nodded in understanding. "In the dance of shadows where deceit finds solace, one who has waltzed through its embrace grows cautious of fellow wanderers. Yet, heed my words — I harbor no malevolent intentions directed toward you."

Astarion warily watched G'axir, but as the old man's gentle gaze met his own, he felt himself start to relax. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but there was something about G'axir that made him feel safe and at ease. It was almost like an aura surrounding him that emitted a sense of calmness.

A moment of silence passed between them before Astarion finally spoke up again.

"So what now? Are we having a psychic reading? Should I start handing over my palm and tea leaves for you to predict my future?"

"I do not need a crystal ball to see your future... for it is already written in the stars."

Astarion raised an eyebrow. "The stars?"

G'axir's smile widened. "All things, including yourself... are interwoven within the fabric of the celestial bodies... that have perennially molded the contours of our destinies."

Astarion rolled his eyes, not wanting to entertain the idea that his fate was predetermined by some cosmic forces. "You're telling me that my entire life has been planned out for me?" he scoffed.

G'axir shook his head gently. "Your will remains untethered, and the ability to sculpt your own fate lies within your grasp... The stars merely cast their luminous gaze, imparting guidance... and revealing glimpses of the myriad possibilities that unfold before you."

Astarion mulled over G'axir's words, unsure of whether he believed in them or not. However, he couldn't deny the feeling of intrigue and curiosity that continued to grow within him.

"Let's say I entertain this absurd idea for a moment," Astarion said skeptically. "What do the stars have to say about my bright, shining future?"

"Lay down... Let the whispers of the universe... respond to the questions lingering... in the silence of the night."

Astarion hesitated for a moment before laying down on the ground, looking up at the sky above, where the stars seemed to be laughing at him.

"Shut your eyes and... attune your senses... to the rhythmic cadence of your breath," G'axir instructed, his voice calm and soothing.

Astarion did as he was told, taking deep breaths and attempting to clear his mind. He could hear G'axir's soft chanting in the background, lulling him into a state of relaxation.

As he focused on his breathing, he could feel his body levitating, as if he were leaving this reality. When Astarion opened his eyes again, he found himself floating in the vast expanse of darkness and stars. Panic gripped his chest as he struggled to understand what was happening.

"What is this? Where am I?" Astarion yelled, his voice echoing into the void.

"You are in the realm between consciousness and the stars," G'axir's voice answered calmly.

Astarion turned around and saw G'axir floating next to him. He was still chanting softly, his eyes closed in concentration.

"This is impossible!" Astarion exclaimed, feeling a mix of fear and awe.

Astarion looked around, taking in the breathtaking sight of millions of stars twinkling in the void. He couldn't believe that he was actually flying among them.

"Is this real or just an illusion?" he asked, still not fully trusting G'axir's words.

"It is as real as you want it to be," G'axir replied cryptically.

G'axir's chanting grew louder as he reached out and took Astarion's hand. "There are cities below cities, dreams beneath dreams, the present laying buried beneath the crushing weight of the future... let me show you..."

As their surroundings blurred and twisted, the sky seemed to distort itself and reveal...the Elfsong tavern?

The image of the place had a hazy quality, as if they were viewing it through a smudged window.

"What are we doing here?" Astarion asked, but when he turned to see G'axir, the man was gone.

He was in the middle of the place, so familiar after the many days and nights spent here with his companions. The sound of merry chatter and clinking glasses filled the air, along with the tantalizing aroma of hearty meals being cooked. Astarion stood in the middle of the bar, his heart pounding with confusion and fear.

G'axir's words echoed in his mind... "the present lying buried beneath the crushing weight of the future." Was this a glimpse of the future? Of the present? Or maybe just an illusion?

If this was a glimpse into the present, then his companions had to be... Astarion's heart raced as he quickly climbed the stairs to the grand bedroom where they had been living for the past few weeks. When he reached the top, he burst into the room.Astarion could see his companions huddled together in a corner, but they showed no signs of seeing or hearing him. As he observed them, an overwhelming sense of dread filled his stomach. Familiar faces surrounded him: Halsin, Gale, Wyll, Yaheira, and Lae'zel. They stood in a circle, their expressions serious as they whispered amongst themselves. But one person was missing - Tav. He tried to call out to them, but his voice was nonexistent. It slowly dawned on him that he wasn't actually present in this moment, at least not physically. His spirit had been transported to this place, a mere observer in a realm beyond the physical world.

Suddenly, he spotted a figure huddled separately from the group. His heart rattled in his ribcage as he realized. "Tav?"

Her hair fell like a curtain around her face, obscuring what he could see of her expression. But it was unmistakable - the once fiery and headstrong leader was now slumped onto the cold ground, whimpering into her hands. Underneath a velvet curtain in a darkened corner of the room, she sat, knees drawn up to her chest, tears streaming down her face. Next to her Shadowheart was attempting to offer consolation through soft words.

Even though Astarion couldn't hear what she whispered to Tav, he saw her hand reach out to comfort the devastated woman. But Tav recoiled from her touch like it was a burning ember.

"Maybe if I had done it he wouldn't have left," Tav was whispering between sobs.

"You know that would have killed him on the long run! We did what had to be done to protect him and you know it."

"No, no..." he muttered, "this can't be..."

Astarion felt his own heart shatter at the sight. He took a step towards them but stopped himself, remembering the impossibility of the situation. He couldn't touch her, couldn't comfort her.

"Do you think he meant it?" Tav said, suddenly.

"What do you mean?"

"That he hopes I die screaming." Tav's voice cracked as tears threatened to spill from her eyes once again.

Shadowheart's surprised eyes met hers. "He didn't mean it, Tav... You know how Astarion gets when he's upset."

But Tav shook her head, her face drained of color and desperation evident in her tone. "He meant every word," she whispered, barely audible. "I could see it in his eyes." After a shaky breath, she added with a hint of resignation, "And part of me wishes I would too."

Each word she spoke felt like a physical blow, causing Astarion's chest to tighten and his heart to ache. He watched helplessly as her voice cracked with resignation, her head dropping onto his shirt in defeat. His shirt. Shit.

"No, please..." he pleaded. But it was too late, the damage had been done.

Astarion's heart ached at her words, but he couldn't deny the truth in them. He had said some unforgivable things to Tav in the heat of the moment, fueled by anger and hurt. Deep down, a part of him had wished for her to suffer just as he was suffering. But seeing her like this, broken and in pain, made him realize the gravity of his actions. He never wanted for her to actually die. Hells, he was so deeply in love with her that the mere thought of anything happening to her was unbearable.

He took a step closer, wanting to comfort her somehow. But he was trapped in this surreal vision, unable to reach out and mend the shattered pieces of their relationship.

Slowly, the vision began to fade, the colors blurring into the darkness. Astarion felt himself growing lighter, pulled back from the vision.

"No, wait! Tav!"

The Elfsong tavern phased out and he was back in the expanse of starry darkness. His heart pounded in his chest as he processed what he had just witnessed. He wanted to go back, to somehow fix the damage he had caused.

Suddenly, a figure appeared before him in a flash of light. It was G'axir.

"You," Astarion growled as he stepped forward aggressively, "What have you done? Bring me back!"

G'axir held up a hand placatingly. "You have glimpsed... into the unfolding tapestry of the now" G'axir stated cryptically "Behold... now your vision shall traverse the myriad paths of potential futures."

[nogitsune-the]

Hey bby! I’m just gonna come on here to request because I love the way you write Neteyam it has me kicking me feet oml.

Can you write a fic where metkayina reader has healing powers that are gifting by eywa, and she uses them to save Neteyam during the final battle? you can decide their dynamic and relationship if u want. if not that’s okay u can ignore this xx

don't blame me

pairing neteyam x metkayina! fem reader summary you were always rational, calm, and gentle. like eywa blessed you with all her tranquility. you always knew you had a purpose in life and that was to be a healer, the next tsahik. the great mother gave you the gift to do so and you never went against death because you knew it was meant to be. but what happens when the person you deared most has his door knocking by death? tags & warning reader has healing powers, reader is tonowari & ronal's eldest daughter, only younger than neteyam by 3 months, lots of descriptions than dialogue (bare with me pls), blood, hints of death index paysyul [water lily], tsaheylu [bond/neural connection] word count 1.6k

teyamsilly speaking ✩ there will be two more parts to this: part two & an alternate ending! there's more descriptions in the beginning describing reader, then reader and neteyam's relationship. dialogue will come later on! hope you'll like it <3

PART ONE | PART TWO | ALTERNATE ENDING

How Ronal found out she was pregnant with you was magical to her. She didn't have any problems with giving birth and it wasn't painful at all. She felt as if she was having trouble breathing and questioned whether there were troubles since you weren't weeping and crying the moment you were born. But to her surprise, your eyes glowed a brighter shade of blue momentarily as you gave her a wide gummy smile.

She knew you were gifted ever since your injuries would heal themselves. She took it as a sign from Eywa that you were next in line for Tsahik, that you would interpret her will. 

The tasks given to you came naturally for you. You've executed the duties of a Tsakarem excellently, not only that, you were loved by the clan. You were always rational, calm, and gentle like the great mother blessed you with all her tranquility. 

Ronal had never thought that your gift could be extended to another living thing. One time, a few ilu's came back injured from escaping an akula. They filled the water arround them with blood, screeching for help. Immediately, you went to them and cried like you could feel their pain. 

As you created tsaheylu with one, your hands gently carressed the chopped fin with tears slipping from your eyes. You surprised everyone when you took your knife and made a deep cut on your palm, then placed it on the ilu's open wound. The skin covered itself.

However, your gift came with a price. Using your blood meant losing your blood, it resulted you to lose consciousness from the loss of blood. Tonowari and Ronal decided that your ability to heal others should never be used again, so you didn't. 

Your mothers next words would ring in your head everytime you see an injured na'vi or animal: "She protects the balance of life. She does not take sides. What happens is meant to happen, ma'ite."

Neteyam Sully knew you were one of a kind when he saw you pass through crowd effortlessly with curious eyes as you observed each of his family when they arrived at Awa'tlu. Your eyes were nothing like he had ever seen before. Jewelled blue eyes that seemed to shimmer with every tilt of your head. He couldn't stop his tail from jouncing gently when your eyes met. He was sure that your eyes glowed before it's shine died.

When he heard the story from Tsireya of your birth and your miracle powers, he was at awe. It was obvious that you were in sync with Eywa and her creatures. And the way you walked, hips swayed, looked so graceful. It didn't surprise him that Kiri was quick to be cosy with you as she loves nature just as much.

Neteyam never had the opportunity to have a proper conversation with you since you are never present in their lessons because of your duties. The only time the two of you had a proper interaction was when Tsireya introduced them to you. When his name rolled of your tongue, he felt like he was in a trance with how soft your voice was. 

Your smile was something he would never get tired of, ever. Since then, whenever you two made eye contact, you just smiled at each other. He would sometimes stare at you with the intention of being caught. When you noticed him looking at you, he flashed you a boyish grin and tilted his head. Blood would rush to your cheeks making you look away. You swore you could hear his chuckle.

Neteyam would look for you after lessons, but you were always snatched away with another duty whenever he would try to make his move. But you couldn't be that busy, would you? Unless you were actively avoiding him. Tsireya would reassure him that you were being kept busy with your mother and how your attention was always needed in the healers' marui.

Lo'ak would suggest jokingly (not really) that he should get injured on purpose just to feel the carress of your hands touching his skin whilst adding smooching sound effects to tease him. Kiri would smack the back of his head afterwards for his stupid idea. Neteyam felt even more stupid for considering his brother's words.

Until the opportunity rose itself. Ao'nung held a small gathering– a party as Lo'ak called it– that night for na'vi his age. It was kept hidden from the adults because he knew that his parents would never approve of this, especially when he brought alcohol that he shouldn't be drinking because he is not of age yet.

You, the golden child of Ronal and Tonowari, never told on him. You loved how you get to worry about your tasks for a while and being surrounded with your peers.

Neteyam couldn't take his eyes off you. You were glowing, you always were, but it felt different for him today. You were smiling with your group of friends until one of them nudged your arm and pointed his direction. He quickly looked away and acted as if he was staring at the fire that served as the gathering's source of light. He scolded himself internally for acting like a coward. All the courage he collected to speak to you just left him.

"Neteyam?"

The forest boy spun around too quickly for his liking with his eyes wide. Your name stuttered from his lips.

You chuckle, "Hi. Are you enjoying yourself?"

He nodded, "I did not think Ao'nung had such drinks." He shook the wooden cup on his hands before looking at you. It seems to be his most favourite thing to do, just having you in his line of vision. 

"Hmm… my brother does not have the knowledge for this. To make a drink like this, you have to take paysyul that lives outside the reef. Take the petals off and then squeeze the ovary." 

Neteyam's eyebrows furrowed, then it relaxed when he realised. He scoffed as a smirk presented on his lips. "This is your doing? That is impossible."

You laughed, "How come?"

"Because you…" He stared at you with adoration, his smile never leaving his lips. And since then, Neteyam knew you were full of surprises. He was driven to get to know you even more.

Everyone started to notice how close the two of you have gotten. Imagine the surprise Kiri and Lo'ak had when the eldest Sully child didn't come for their lesson and found him with you instead. He stayed with you in the healers' marui just to spend time with you.

They would notice how Neteyam's hand would rest on your lower back as you two would walk around Awa'tlu. How your gaze would linger on him longer. How one of your accessories consist materials from the forest. How Neteyam would intertwine your hands together to pull you away from something. How Neteyam's tail would swish excitedly at the sight of you.

Everyone noticed it. 

Your time with Neteyam made you think that his arrival here was not a coincidence but destined by the Great Mother herself. You cant imagine living your life without Neteyam anymore. He somehow made a permanent mark in your life and you cant move on from something strong like that.

Maybe this excuses your reckless behaviour. Maybe this is why Neteyam met you, because you could save him. Maybe it's why you didn't hesitate to sit beside his panting figure, reaching for his kuru immediately when you spotted the wound on his chest that didn't stop bleeding.

"Save him, please!" Lo'ak begged. Your eyes remained on his kuru, tears flowing out of your eyes endlessly. "I know this is a big move, a-and I know there could be consequences. But please save my brother, please," he croaked out.

His cry for help was unnecessary because you knew you would do it either way. The boy you love is dying in front of you. The sight of him scared and panicked, panting for breath made you sob. 

Jake watched with curious eyes as you created tsaheylu with his son. He's heard stories of your 'powers' but never seen them first hand. He remembered from Tonowari that healing any living creauture with your ability was dangerous, therefore was never used again. Yet he couldn't bring himself to stop you not when you could save his first child.

This was not how the bond should feel like, it was not how you wished for it to happen. You could only feel the pain on his chest and how his body is struggling to breathe for air. Neteyam could feel himself losing it, and you felt it too. You quickly took his dagger, tearing the skin of your palm apart making the wound deep. 

Blood gushed out immediately as you pressed your hand against his wound immediately. You groaned feeling your energy being taken away from you. Neteyam stopped struggling for air, his eyes starting to feel heavy,

Lo'ak panicked at this. "What? What's wrong?"

"It's okay, he will live," Tsireya reassured. She watched how the eldest Sully fall into slumber, his chest now heaving up and down peacefully.  The girl noticed how your body started to lean forward, eyes unfocused. She gasped when your eyes rolled back as you fell unconscious. "Sister!"

Jake caught your body before it could fall over on Neteyam. He and Tsireya gently laid your body beside your now muntxatan. Tsireya separated both of your kuru slowly.

Her eyebrows furrowed when the freckles on your cheeks started flickering on and off. The cut you made on your skin isn't healing. The wind arround them passed strongly. Your body turned pale, but heart still beating. 

Eywa gave you a gift, but it came with a price.

[nogitsune-the]

Master List

Astarion Epilogue: An Adventure in Making a Life (Pregnancy Fic) NSFW 18+, SMUT, Fluff, Angst, Blood, Violence, Pregnant Tav

Chapter One: A Night of Passion

Chapter Two: In sickness and in health

Chapter Three: All the Stars in the Sky

Chapter Four: Words from a Wizzard

Chapter Five: Together Again

Chapter six: On The Road With Secrets

Chapter Seven: Let The Water Wash You Clean

Chapter Eight: In too Deep in Waterdeep

Chapter Nine: Secrets Don’t Make Friends

[nogitsune-the]

Dreams Become Reality

Gale Dekarios x Fem!Reader

A/N: FINALLY got this finished lmao. Posted a teaser of this weeks ago and it has been sitting in my drafts ever since staring at me as I stared back it. Type a few words. Stop for a few says. Few more words, an even longer break. And so on lol. But it’s finally here! Based on the request.

Word Count: 3.1k

Warnings: 18+ ONLY, NSFW, smut, Reader is described as having female anatomy, fingering, gale comes untouched (kinda), choking, wet dreams, inappropriate use of Mage Hand, fluff and slight aftercare at the end.

The air around you is thick. 

Thick with tension. Thick with the warm breaths leaving both your lips. Thick with the smell of arousal. 

It’s all consuming - Gale, is all consuming. Surrounding and overtaking your every sense. 

The scent of him fills your nose - sandalwood, and old books, and right now, sweat. The exertion has made a thin layer form on his skin as his body slides against your own. 

Gale surrounds you in every way, cocooning you between his body and the sheets, his lips very rarely leaving your skin as he moves with you, thrusting his hips against your own, bringing you closer and closer to the edge you long to jump off of. 

“Gale…” 

His name falls from your lips in a whispered prayer, begging for more as he responds with a soft groan of his own. 

He calls your name, and you whine in response. But then he calls it again, the sound falling in a gasp from his lips as one of his hands reaches up to clasp your shoulder in tight grip. 

He calls your name again and this time darkness crashes around you as you startle awake in bed. 

Your sleep clothes cling uncomfortably to your sweat-damp skin. Blood rushes in your ears as your chest rises and falls with effort to suck in air. And worst of all is the ache in your core, arousal burning bright in your belly from what you now realize was a dream. 

Another gentle squeeze to your shoulder makes your eyes finally fall to Gale, who sits beside you in the bed and appears positively flustered. 

He’s as short of breath as you are, chest stuttering as he gazes at you, eyes wide. You look him over quickly, and even in the darkness of the room you’re able to see the way his pupils are blown wide with lust and dark flush on his cheeks. And, you definitely don't miss the sight of him hard beneath the covers. 

“Shit…” you mutter, your own face heating up as you realize what happened. 

“Did I wake you?” you ask softly, trying and failing to tamp down the images from your dream. “I was…I’m sorry-“

Gale shakes his head, his hand falling down to lace his fingers with yours as his lips tilt up in a small smile. 

“No need for apologies,” he tells you, ever so slightly leaning in. “Most people would consider that a compliment. When their partner dreams of them in such a manner, well - at least, I hope it was me that was plaguing your dreams considering it was my name falling from your lips-“ 

You cut him off as you lunge for him, covering his mouth with your hand as you shush him, embarrassment swelling in your chest. 

“Do you ever stop talking?” 

Gale hums beneath your hand, and reaches up to pull it away from his mouth. You expect him to respond but instead, suddenly, he flips you over and presses you back into the mattress, his body hovering over yours as his hands hold your own beside your head. 

“I do indeed know when to hold my tongue but…” He pauses for a moment, and you blink in surprise as a candle on the bedside table ignites with a wave of his hand, casting you both in a dim glow before he continues. 

“I find myself most curious as to what had you calling my name like that even in the deepest sleep.” 

Gods, you feel at war with yourself. The embarrassment creeping up your neck and heating your cheeks, clashing with the arousal still burning bright in your veins. The images from your dream flash behind your eyes as they slip closed, yet the thought of voicing them makes you shrink into the covers. 

As if sensing your hesitancy, Gale is the first to act, leaning in to capture your lips in a soft kiss, lips moving against yours before he pulls away just slightly, nose brushing your own. 

“How about I guess, hm?” he asks, his voice low as one of his hands lets go of one of yours. 

His fingers brush against the shell of your ear, traveling lower over your neck, down over your shoulder to brush against your clothed breast. Your breath hitches with the contact, and you watch through half-lidded eyes as Gale’s lips tilt upward ever so slightly. 

“Was I touching you here?” he asks, voice a mere whisper as his thumb rubs over the stiff peak of your nipple. “Or perhaps it was…here…”

His hand leaves your chest in favor of slipping ever downwards, toying with the thin fabric of your underwear beneath your sleeping gown. 

Without much thought, you nod your head, a moan slipping past your lips as the heat of your arousal burns brighter. 

Gale’s eyes twinkle with triumph, and instead of leaving him with that satisfaction, another flash from your dreams makes you speak before that earlier embarrassment can creep back up. 

“But…there was something else…” you manage to say, your voice soft as your cheeks blaze with heat. 

Gale’s head tilts to the side ever so slightly at your words, brows winging up in surprise as he stills. 

“Oh?” he breathes. “Now I must know what was going on in that beautiful head of yours.” 

Despite your best effort, something akin to shame wells up in your chest, regret at ever saying anything invading your mind. But Gale’s unadulterated interest, that ever present curiosity in his gaze, practically begs you to please him by voicing your fantasies. 

You let out a shaky sigh. “What if…what if you think it’s…what if you don’t like it?” you ask sheepishly. 

Gale lets out a small chuckle, eyes soft as his free hand retreats from between you to rest encouragingly against your hip, squeezing gently. 

“My love,” he says quietly. “I can assure you that you will receive no wayward looks or reprimands from me. Your desires and fantasies are your own, I must admit - but dare I say I would be more than eager to help you fulfill them.” 

His words soothe you slightly, but that doubt is still present, and Gale must know you’re about to protest when your lips part, because he stops you with another kiss. 

“I assure you,” he says as he pulls away just enough to hover over you. “If for any reason I am not comfortable I will make it known. Just as I would expect you to do if our positions were reversed.” 

You manage a small nod, muscles quivering in subdued excitement as you reach down to take the hand at your hip slowly bringing it back on your body. 

“You were touching me there,” you say softly, voice sultry with arousal. “But you were also…here.”

Your nerves are still tingling with a tinge of uncertainty as you guide his hand to the base of your throat. 

A shiver passes the through you as the calloused palm of his hand brushes over the delicate skin, his fingers twitching in surprise as you gently press them to wrap around the sides of your neck. 

You watch through lowered lashes for his reaction, your heart tittering when his breath hitches, eyes widening and going dark with lust all at once. 

For just a brief moment, you expect him to pull away, but Gale - as usual - surprises you. His fingers flex, pressing just a bit firmer into the pulse points of your neck, his palm placing just the barest of pressure to your throat, making your already labored breathing come out ragged as a moan slips past your lips. 

“Gods above…” Gale groans, leaning up so his lips hover over your own. “This is what you dreamt of? My hands on your skin, bringing you pleasure while also toying with the slightest bit of danger?” 

He presses his fingers in deeper, not enough to leave marks or completely cut off air, but more than before and enough to make you acutely aware of the blood pumping beneath his fingers, and the breath straining through your throat. 

You can feel new wetness pooling between your thighs, joining the arousal already present from your obscene dreamscape.

And Gale…Well, he seems just as affected as you are. His hips have slotted against your own, pushing up your nightgown as he presses himself against you. 

All you can manage is a small nod to his question, not sure you’d be able to speak if you wanted to. Ecstasy courses through your veins, buzzing delightfully and fanning those flames burning deep in your core even higher as his hand tightens just that much more around your throat. 

Another moan works its way up your throat, this time getting stuck before it can fully pass your lips, the sound smothered by the pressure again your neck. 

Gale lets out another sinful sound, his hips pressing more incessantly against your own, enough that you can feel the hardness of him against your clothed center. 

Just when you think he’s had enough, that all too familiar heated look in his eyes, he pauses. 

Your brows furrow as his grip against your throat loosens as he mutters an unintelligible incantation. You go to question him, but you hear his answer before you even voice the question. 

His voice is smooth in your mind, as if he’s speaking directly to you, his lips never moving. 

‘I don’t want there to be any question of if you’re able to stop me.’ His thought comes into your mind as easily as if he were speaking, and your eyes widen. 

“Detect thoughts?” you ask, shocked at the brilliance of the idea. 

Now neither of you need to physically speak to communicate, thus no fear for Gale if you need to stop. 

Gale smiles, leaning down to capture you lips in a searing kiss. 

‘Exactly,’ he says in your mind. ‘And now…there is no need for my lips to leave your skin, no distractions from fulfilling that dream of yours…’

“Gale, please-“ you beg aloud, your patience now gone, and your only desire being him touching you, taking you in the way he was before your dream was snatched from your unconscious hands. 

Gale chuckles, lips breaking from yours to travel lower, nipping at your jaw and trailing featherlight kisses down your neck. 

‘Though I must admit…those words sound much sweeter falling from your lips than floating through my mind.’

He continues his path downwards, no doubt leaving behind ample evidence of his attentions, until he’s stopped in his tracks by the collar of your sleep clothes. It’s then that you both finally move to divest yourselves of the offending articles. 

Your hands move frantically against Gale’s velvet shirt, the fabric clinging to your hands as you bunch it up to eventually tug it over his head. His pants are not far behind, the renowned wizard helping you with those before his lips are on you once more, only parting from you as he removes your nightgown, the fabric forcing you to separate for just a moment before you claim him again. 

It feels like déjà vu as Gale presses you back into the mattress, his body caging you in, cocooning you in a heady warmth as his scent surrounds you. 

Flashes of your dream come to mind once more, and you’re forced to swallow the moan that Gale lets out, his teeth nipping gently at your bottom lip as he begs for entrance. 

You grant his silent request eagerly, moaning unabashedly agsint him as his tongue presses forward to glide against your own. 

Gale has always been a giving lover, desperate to show you how much he loves you when his words sometimes fail him. Even now you can tell he’s hells bent on indulging your fantasies. But it feels different…It feels as if he’s more eager than usual. His lips less precise, his fingertips digging just a bit harder into your hips…

He’s ravenous. 

And who are you to complain? 

Sensing your thoughts, you can feel Gale smile agsint your lips, his voice flooding your mind once more as you open your own to the spell.

“Ravenous, indeed,” he affirms, his hand snaking it’s way back up your sternum, closing deftly around your throat as he pulls away only to gaze down at you. 

His lips are swollen from your charred kisses, chest quickened with short pants, eyes blown wide with lust as he fully takes you in beneath him. 

“I have seen your desires in your minds eye,” he says aloud, voice drenched in pure sin. “But perhaps I may make a suggestion?”

You can only nod, a whimper slipping past your lips as his fingers tighten against your pulse point, teasing you with the barest hint of pressure. 

He smiles down at you - a wicked cunning thing, and you can’t help the way the coil in your belly pulls ever more taut, blood hot with ecstasy at the gleam in his eyes. 

He leans back down, another soft incantation falling from his lips before they capture your own again, and he’s speaking in your mind again just as a ghostly touch brushes against the delicate skin of your inner thigh. 

“With my hands most occupied-“ he flexes his hand against your throat, finally giving you the pressure you wish for as his other hand support himself beside your head. “I’ll need another to assist.”

He gives you no true warning before you feel a hand at your center, palm pressed agsint your clit as two fingers drag agonizingly slow through your slick folds. 

Gale’s hand cuts off the moan that bubbles up in your throat, lips swallowing what little sound does slip through, as your hips buck up into his own. 

Mage hand.

You barely have time to register that the sneaky bastard had cast the spell before the extension of himself is teasing you one more, pressing against that bundle of nerves before moving down to sink two fingers into you. 

Gale presses his fingers deeper into the sides of your throat as you groan once more - both from the magic pleasuring you and the rush in your head from the way he chokes you. 

You don’t even realize how close you were to the edge until this moment. The pressure building in your core and in your head feeling like too much in the best way possible. 

Everything feels like it’s been dialed to one hundred. The threads of the sheets beneath your skin, the smell of Gale surrounding you, the way his lips brush against your cheek when he breaks from the kiss, the fingers moving inside of you - brushing against that spot that makes you see stars.

You can feel the way his breath comes out in short bursts, the air warm against your dewy skin as he presses his body into your own. 

It’s just like your dream again. Him cocooning you entirely, his smell making your mouth water, his hand against your throat making your head pound, and his magic finally throwing you over the edge. 

You come with little warning to the wizard above you, but you’re sure he is able to tell. Whether it be from your jumbled thoughts no doubt being shouted at him from your connection, or the fact that he knows you so well…He’s prepared. 

As you tumble over that precipice, Gale applies just a little more pressure to your throat, enough so you can still gain air, but just barely.

You can feel your pulse pounding beneath his fingertips, your breath scratching against your throat as ecstasy consumes you. It feels as if pure starlight ignites in your veins, a ragged moan breaking through as you arch up into the body above you, seeking more from your lover as he does the same, grinding his hips into yours.

Gale reaches his own end virtually untouched, the mere friction from your body against his and the pure pleasure of indulging your fantasy has him spending himself on your stomach with a groan. 

His grip around your neck loosens before disappearing entirely as he all but collapses against you, uncaring of the mess between you two as he slips strong arms around you before rolling to the side, taking you along with him. 

It’s a few moments before either of you speak, and you realize both the mage hand and the detect thought spells have ended. No doubt Gale’s own end brought about the disruption of his concentration. But when words finally come, it’s Gale who speaks first. 

His fingers brush against your neck gently, barely a whisper of skin against skin as he takes a deep breath. 

“I fear I may have gotten carried away,” he says softly, brows furrowed in concern as you pull away just enough to look at him. 

You reach up, your fingers bumping against his own and can feel the way your skin burns just slightly hotter where his hand was earlier. There must be faint marks of your activities, and you have to try to quell the new stab of arousal that shoots through you. 

“You didn’t,” you assure him, reaching up to cup his cheek. “It was perfect.”

His face relaxes at your words, lips tugging upwards slightly. 

“Yes, well…Next time perhaps you can indulge me with your deepest fantasies verbally, instead of waking me in the middle of the night.”

You raise a questioning brow at him, hands sliding up until you can slide your arms around his neck.

“Are you saying you didn’t enjoy yourself?” 

Gale scoffs, nearly choking on air. “By the gods, no!” He says, aghast. “I’m simply saying that perhaps, in the future, we can disclose our fantasies more readily…So we may indulge as we please.”

You hum softly, eyes widening at his words. 

“Our fantasties?” You question, watching as a blush starts to tinge the wizard's cheeks.

“Ah, well - ehm - Yes. You didn’t think you’re the only one with uh…secret desires, did you?”

Slowly, you move so that Gale is laid out beneath you as you straddle his wait, hands planted on his chest as you gaze down at him. 

“And…what would your fantasies be?”

Gale pauses for a moment, unsure. But you lean down to press a quick kiss to his cheek, before pulling back, a smirk on your lips.

“Come, my love,” you tease. “How about I guess, hm?”

Gale lets out a soft groan at your repeat of his earlier jest, and you can’t help but laugh as his hands come up to settle on your hips. You lean down to kiss him properly this time and can’t stop the excitement pooling in your belly once more. 

The night is still young, and you have a feeling that there is much more to discover.

[nogitsune-the]

Ahhh thank you!!

Hi there, I wanted to request a Gale or Halsin fic where they are woken up by you grinding on them in your sleep. Where they wake you up and ask about your dream and maybe helps you act it out? If you haven't done something like that before 😊 I hope that's ok to request. Thank you if you do, I absolutely love your writing ❤️

sorry for the delay my friend but I finally finished this! Hope you enjoy!

[nogitsune-the]

ONE OF US| neteyam x avatar!reader

summary: neteyam sully was the next olo'eyktan and for years had been focused on his training and his responsibilities only. he had never accounted for you to become one of them. when you got your avatar body and ended up in the forest alone, being brought to the village and offered to be taught the ways of the people wasn't what you expected. let alone it being neteyam, future olo'eyktan becoming your teacher.

pairings: neteyam x avatar!reader (aged up)

word count: 97,582 (completed: 02/01/23)

warnings/notes: enemies to lovers trope, slow burn, angst, swearing, mention of child abandonment, mention of sky people, mention of death, lo'ak x avatar!reader (if you squint), asshole!neteyam/protective!neteyam, smut in later chapters

masterlist | requests are currently open for now

please keep in mind that all characters in my stories are always 18+, and although I can't monitor who reads my work, if you are not 18+ I advise that you do not engage in my page or stories.

I. snga’itseng — just the beginning

II. the ways of the na'vi

III. the outsider

IV. iknimaya

V. na’viyä hapxì — one of the people

VI. as the world caves in

VII. one of us

VIII. the deepest sighs, the frankest shadows

one of us spotify playlist - any songs you might think fit for the series? lmk so I can add them.

poem inspos: let him be soft the sun and the moon

[nogitsune-the]

𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 𝐒𝐄𝐗 𝐏𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍

avatar masterlist

pairing: tonowari x omatikaya!fem reader

series summary: — after fleeing your homeland and seeking security in the reefs of Pandora, you find yourself caught up with the Metkayina leader, Tonowari.

series warnings: — fluff, declarations of love, one-sided pining [to begin with], mutual pining [in further installments] age gap (reader is 21), mentions of insecurity, pregnancy, bonding [tsaheylu]

nsfw content: — [dubious consent : chapter 1, bc of the irayo flower / sex pollen] nipple sucking, p in v, mating, breeding kink, creampie, lovemaking, first time blowjobs, oral sex [m + f recieving] fingering, orgasm denials,

key: ⭑ smut | ♡ fluff | ✄ angst

⭑ — sex pollen.

⭑ — the side effect.

⭑ + ♡ + ✄ — the aftermath.

♡ — the final beginning. (coming soon)

overall wordcount: — 15k (including chapter 4)

[nogitsune-the]

Send Me an Angel - Ch. 2

Halsin x Fem!Angel!Reader

A/N: finally finished up part 2! I hope you all enjoy!

Word Count: 4.8k

Warnings: graphic mentions of pain/injuries, canon typical violence.

Not beta read, please excuse any grammatical errors.

The first thing you register is pain.

Blinding pain that seems to consume you whole as memories flash in your mind. The wrath of a god, the feeling of pure power pushing you from the heavens, bright white light and heat. A heat so searing and painful it had almost felt  cold - as if you’d been dunked in the highest mountain spring in winter. 

You don’t even remember hitting the ground, only waking up beneath the very man who started this all. 

Halsin…

You remember stirring only for a moment - a face you know too well greeting you in your brief acquaintance with consciousness. The scars along his brow, the tattoo trailing over his cheek, and those hazel eyes widening in surprise as his name slipped past your lips before the darkness consumed you once more. 

Now it’s released you from its grasp, the suffocating but numbing darkness ebbing away as the outside world works its way in. The pain you feel is as foreign as it is excruciating. You’ve never felt pain before. Nor hunger, or thirst, or any mix of woes that afflict those in the mortal plane.

Now they all bombard you at once, forcing a cry from your lips as your eyes peel open, trying to take in your bleary surroundings. It’s dark, and for a moment you think you’re falling back under again - but the pain and the briefest flash of dim moonlight coming from an open tent flap tells you otherwise. 

A presence joins you in the darkness, and you know immediately who it is. Your very soul calls to him as he crouches down next to where you lay. Your eyes adjust quickly to your  dim surroundings, and you’re able to see the faint crease in Halsin’s brow as he hovers over you. Magic pulses in his hand, casting the inside of what you assume to be his tent, in a gentle golden light. 

“You’re in pain,” he says simply, moving his hand down the length of your body, keeping it hovered mere inches from your skin. “Tell me what hurts.”

A wave of agony rolls through you as you try to sit up, ripping a gasp from your lips and making your vision swim as you are forced to lay back once more.

“Everything.”

Your answer comes out on a broken gasp, tears leaking from your eyes as the pain only seems to grow with each breath. It feels like your very bones are aching, agony like liquid fire in your veins. But what hurts the worst, the pain that won’t seem to let up, is the searing, soul-deep ache in your wings. It feels as if they’re being held over a roaring fire, the flames licking at each feather and tendon and bone. 

It feels like they’re dying. 

Halsin shakes his head as you quake with agony beneath him, your very body unable to handle the overwhelming pain it is so unaccustomed to. 

“I’m afraid I do not understand - I-”

“My wings!” you finally cry. “It’s my wings, they - they’re on fire-”

You see a flash of concern wash over Halsin’s face before a firm resolve tugs his lips into a thin line. The magic in his hand pulses brighter, and you think you see a faint hint of apology fill his eyes. 

“I will do what I can.”

His words are solemn and filled with promise before a rush of blissful nothingness washes over you. The pain disappears under a soothing blanket of relief. Your body sags, muscles no longer wracked with pain and then -

There’s darkness once more. 

—--

It takes several more days much the same before you wake with almost no pain fogging your mind. Your brief bouts of consciousness give you little to no time to speak with the man who's been by your side the entire time. 

Only now, when you feel somewhat clearheaded is he absent. You notice immediately that the darkness is not as dense, a brighter light seeping in beneath the edges of the tent. 

It must be daytime. Or at least, what passes for daytime in the Shadow Cursed lands - assuming that’s where you are. 

You move to sit up, and while the all-consuming pain isn’t present anymore, you are still aware of an ever present ache in your bones, and a sharper burning in your wings. You only hope it will ebb with time. You did fall from the sky - it’s a miracle this is the only pain you have. 

You’ve just managed to move to sit completely upright when the entrance to the tent opens, revealing your savior standing before you. His eyes widen slightly, and you take note of the two bowls perched in his hands.  

He gives you a small smile when the surprise falls away, coming fully into the tent as he crouches to one knee. 

“I did not expect the sleeping effects to wear off that quickly,” he says softly, setting the bowls by your feet as he moves to light a few candles. “But I suppose I haven’t treated many angels in my time…you must function differently than most of us do.”

You offer no words, not because you don’t want to speak to him, but because you are simply at a loss of what to say. 

The uncomfortable silence settles for a moment, Halsin’s smile never fading as he observes you gently for a moment before returning his attention to the bowls he brought in. 

“Here, I brought you something to drink, as well as a healing draught.” He pauses for a moment, letting out a chuckle. “I’d recommend the medicine first. I try my best, but ah…the taste is never pleasant.” 

He offers you the smaller bowl first, and you reach to take it. Your fingers brush against his own as you do, and you can’t stop the small shiver than runs through you. 

Bringing the bowl up to your lips, you take a tentative sniff, nose scrunching up in distaste as the sharp tang of medicinal herbs greets you. Your eyes flash to Halsin, and he just laughs again. 

“I told you it’s not pleasant. The quicker you take it, the better - try not to dwell on the smell,” he advises. 

You take a deep breath and bring bowl up to your lips, doing your best to swallow the mixture quickly. But it’s thicker than you were anticipating, the viscous liquid coating your throat and forcing you to pull the now empty bowl away as you cough. 

A warm hand settles on your back, rubbing up and down in a soothing manner before another bowl replaces the old one. 

“Here,” he says, “wash it down with this. I promise it’s a much better experience.” 

You being the bowl to your lips and drink greedily, only pausing because of the almost too hot temperature of what you assume is a tea of some kind, a light honey taste coating your tongue. 

You look to Halsin again, taking another sip before finally finding your words. 

“Thank you,” you tell him softly. “This is…good. I think?” 

Halsin smiles. “You think?” 

You hum in response as you take another sip of the tea before responding again. 

“I’ve never…consumed anything before. Angels we don’t - we don’t feel the need for physical sustenance. Hunger, thirst…it was all foreign to me until…” You trail off, eyes falling back down to the bowl in your hands. 

Until your fall. 

“Ah,” Halsin says, voice full of understanding. “Well, we have not been known to go hungry often, and there is water a plenty near this camp. I promise you will be well cared for as long as you are here. No harm will come to you.” 

You nod, but refuse to look at the man before you as guilt wells up in your chest. 

If only he knew who he was helping. 

The tea, despite its initial pleasantness, now tastes sour on your tongue. You set the bowl down beside you as you look back to the bedroll behind you. 

“I think…I think I’d like to rest.” 

You see Halsin’s brow furrow at your request, and you almost expect him to insist you finish the drink, but he must think better of it. Instead he only nods, taking both bowls in his hand as he turns to exit the tent once more. 

“Of course. If you need anything, I will not be far. You only need to call for me,” he says. 

And then he’s gone once more. And, for the first time since you fell, you can’t help but fear the loneliness that settles in around you.

———

You don’t end up resting very much. The constant ache in your wings prevents you from falling asleep. So, after much tossing and turning, you decide to see what’s outside the tent that’s become your sanctuary. 

The first thing you notice is the way your legs wobble dangerously beneath you, shaking under the weight of your body. You take a moment to make sure you won’t fall before reaching to pull the tent flap aside, immediately sighing at the cool air that kisses your face. 

One look outside tells you that you were correct in your assumption that you fell in the Shadowlands. Despite it looking like the camp is protected by a multitude of torches, life does not thrive here. The trees are dead, the earth dry and void of life, and you can’t even hear the typical scurrying of creatures in the underbrush. 

The lack of life makes you shudder, but you continue your adventure anyways, taking a shaky step outside the tent. 

Halsin’s tent is set up away from the main bustle of the rest of the camp, settled in a small alcove of his own, but you can still hear the soft chatter of his companions, no doubt sitting around the fire after dinner. 

Part of you yearns to go to them, to see who Halsin has been spending these last weeks with. Mortals have always intrigued you, but you push your curiosity away in favor of the sound of slow running water. 

You notice as you turn towards the river that Halsin is nowhere to be seen. He’s either with his companions you cannot see, or he’s off tending to something else. 

You have to fight off the spike of worry at not knowing where he is, instead finally working your way slowly to the edge of the water near his tent. 

You kneel in the soft silt, water lapping at your knees as you lean over to stare at your reflection. 

You don’t even recognize yourself, not only because of the small ripples on the surface, but because of the changes that have come over you because of your fall. 

But the thing that captures your attention most is your wings. You have to fight back the gasp that wants to slip past your lips as your eyes trail over the damage. 

On instinct you unfurl them from your back, bringing them to curl around you so you are able to see them better. Tears spring to your eyes as you see them for the first time, truly see them. 

You weren’t wrong when you woke the first time. Your wings are dying. 

They are still the pearlescent white you’re so familiar with, but they’re damaged beyond repair. Singed and burned black in some places and some chunks of feathers gone all together. 

Even the simple motion of unfurling them to wrap around you sends a handful of white feathers falling off, landing softly to the water's surface where the current starts to carry them lazily away. 

You can’t help but find the small moment fitting. Natures’ current carrying the feathers down stream and out of sight. Pulling them away from you, away from all they’ve known, the only place they’ve ever been. 

Just like you. 

Sadness wells up inside you, but this time it’s accompanied by something else. Something dark and thick and viscous inside your chest. A black mass that bubbles and burns and threatens to boil over until a gentle hand lands on your shoulder, reducing the boil to a simmer as you turn to face your companion. 

Halsin gazes down at you where you kneel in the silt, eyes soft and full of more understanding than you deserve. 

“I am sorry I have been unable to do more,” he says softly, moving to kneel beside you as he reaches out to pluck a feather that had gotten stuck in the sand. “My magic is…well it hasn’t been the same in recent days,” he admits, voice filled with guilt. “I think the shadow curse is affecting even that - a deserving punishment I suppose.” 

You shake your head as you look at him, your own sense of understanding cloaking any sadness you felt just moments ago. 

“You’ve done everything you can,” you assure him, turning back to face your rippling reflection in the water. “These injuries are beyond the best healers. It is a punishment. Not meant to be repaired by mortal hands.” 

It’s quiet for a moment, neither of you sure what to say next. So, Halsin just gives your shoulder a soft squeeze before standing to his feet and offering you his hand. 

“Why don’t you come meet the others? Sit by the fire and warm up and perhaps eat something?” 

At first you want to refuse. All the feelings swirling around in your chest and thoughts in your mind feeling like too much to do much else but dwell on them. However, one look at Halsin’s gentle smile has you unable to refuse, and for the first time since your fall, you find your lips tugging up in return. 

“That would be nice. I owe thanks to those who have let me stay here if nothing else.” 

Still smiling, Halsin shakes his head as he leads you towards the center of camp, never dropping your hand. “There is no thanks needed. Our leader has a habit of helping those in need, and it just so happens that I do as well. You needed help, it is only natural to offer it when able.”

His words bring forth that all too familiar wave of guilt. Guilt over the fact that of all people he is the one that found you. Guilt over the truth you’ve been keeping from him.

You are the last person who deserves help. 

All you can manage is a weak nod in response, any joviality you’d felt disappearing with just a few simple words as you approach the last stretch to the center of camp. 

Only when you start to hear other’s voices do you stop, Halsin doing the same when he feels the gentle tug of his hand. 

“Wait,” you say softly, pulling your hand from his as you cast a glance at your wings. 

They still look the same as they did moments ago, damaged and dull gray in majority of places. You have no desire for anyone else to see them, not now. Not yet. 

You search within yourself for a moment, unsure if the power that you seek is still there. Only to be surprised when you find a barely there glimmer within your chest. Maybe your god hadn’t completely forsaken you. 

Or perhaps he only felt pity for your state, not wanting mortals to lay eyes on his disgraced angel. 

Sighing, you reach for that small pool of power, using what little you have left to cast a simple glamour over yourself. Your wings disappear with a spoken word, leaving Halsin looking at you with a raised brow. 

“You’re able to dismiss your wings?” He asks, voice curious as you both continue your earlier path. 

“No,” you tell him. “It’s a glamour. Just to hide them for now. I’m not…I’m not sure I’m ready for the questions they’d raise just yet,” you admit softly. 

Halsin nods in understanding, lips turned downwards slightly. “I understand. If it makes you feel at ease, I have instructed the others to be gentle, to stay away from topics of your…situation,” he says carefully. “They all seemed amenable to the request.”

You nod, a small weight lifted from your shoulders. You go to speak, but are cut off as you and Halsin finally approach the epicenter of camp, several voices calling out in greeting from around the fire. 

“Oh! You’re just in time-“ A human man calls as he spoons something from the pot over the fire into bowls before passing them around. “I’ve just finished dinner, beef stew if you can believe it. I never thought we’d be able to find edible meat in this cursed place…” he laughs as his eyes turn from Halsin to you.

“Hello! The name’s Gale - resident wizard and defacto cook of the camp, since no else else seems to understand what seasoning is-“

The mans introduction is cut off as a githyanki woman all but snatches a bowl from Gale’s hand. “Chk, seasoning is for those weak of stomach, the best warriors can eat even the blandest most wretched of sustenance.”

Gale scoffs, spooning out another portion to hand to a smaller dark haired woman. “Just because it’s possible, Lae’zel, does not mean one should settle, I think we deserve a little flavor in our lives, all things considered.”

You watch as the gith, who you now know as Lae’zel, lets out another small noise before retreating to her tent just as a tall elven woman walks up, smiling kindly as Gale hands her a portion of stew.

“Well, I for one am beyond grateful for a good meal. I was getting tired of road rations,” she says, her eyes falling to you as she smiles again. 

She approaches you and Halsin with quick graceful steps, the tattoo on her face crinkling as she smiles and offers you her bowl. 

“I’m Tav,” she says. “Halsin told me a bit about what happened and I just wanted to let you know that you are more than welcome here. So, don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise-“ she casts a look over her shoulder to a pale elven man lounging languidly by the fire. “I’m talking to you Astarion. Be nice.”

Astarion scoffs, placing a delicate hand over his chest. “Me? Not Nice? Darling, you wound me. I would never dream of being cruel to our new angel friend,” he lets out a laugh. “In fact I could probably use a few friends in that department, so it’s in my best interest to be overly nice, is it not?”

Tav rolls her eyes, turning to walk over and take a seat next to him. “Yes, because you have the most wonderful habit of being nice to strangers…”

Your attention drifts from the two to instead turn to look up at Halsin just as he places a gentle hand on your low back. 

“Why don’t you have a seat? I’ll join you in a moment.”

You oblige quietly, taking a seat on a log by the fire, as you cradle the bowl carefully in your hands. You don’t even realize the feeling of hunger in your belly until you look down at the contents. Chunks of beef and vegetables in a thick dark brown gravy has your mouth watering as the scents hit your nose. Before you can even think about it, the edge of the bowl is pressed against your lips and you’re swallowing faster than you can chew. The gravy is salty on your tongue, the meat savory and the vegetables tasting of the earth. 

Right now, it feels like the most exquisite thing you’ve ever experienced. 

“Woah, slow down, little one,” Halsin’s voice meets your ears as he eases the bowl from your lips as he sits down next to you. “You’re likely to make yourself ill if you eat that quickly. There will be more if you’re still hungry after.”

Heat rushes to your cheeks at his words, your eyes falling sheepishly to your now almost empty bowl, avoiding the gazes of the others as they try and fail to be subtle in their eavesdropping. 

“I’m sorry,” you say softly. “I just…I’ve never truly felt hunger before. Not like this.”

You hear Astarion scoff from his place across the fire, mumbling a quiet, “Must be nice.” Which is followed quickly by a muffled thud as Tav smacks his arm and commands him to be nice again. 

Halsin merely chuckles at their antics before returning his gaze to you, eyes soft as he speaks. 

“It’s alright. It must be an adjustment, certain things will come with time.”

You nod, offering him a quiet thank you before returning to your dinner at a more reasonable pace. Halsin even replaces your soon empty bowl with a new full one, smiling warmly at you as the others soon return to their own conversations. 

The evening continues much like this. Everyone eating their fill and then settling in around the fire to talk or tell tales of their past. Even Lae’zel joins back in when a particular battle story catches her attention. Soon, you’re introduced to all of Halsin’s companions, all of them piping in the conversation in one way or another. 

You even find yourself laughing at one point, a particularly humorous story of Karlach’s making the laughter bubble up in your chest. 

It feels good.

Good to be able to forget just for a moment all that has happened in these short few days. Good to feel alive again, that sadness, and grief, and anger all but forgotten amongst this unlikely group of friends. 

But nothing lasts forever. 

You are the first one to notice it. The smell of sulfur making your nose wrinkle in disgust and the ever so subtle shift in the air making the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. 

Your spine stiffens, the smile falling from your face as your entire being reacts to what you know is coming. Halsin notices immensely, brows furrowing in concern as he places a hand on your back.

“What is it? What’s wrong?”

There’s only one word you’re able to utter before a large burst of infernal light explodes across the campfire from where you sit. A man appearing in the aftermath, a smug smirk on his face. 

“Devil.”

Halsin is standing just as you do, putting himself between you and the creature that is by very nature your sworn enemy. The other companions follow suit, all of them standing up immediately, some hands falling to weapons while others brace for spellcasting. 

Yet, none of them leap into battle. Instead, the devil takes this moments pause to speak.

“Ah, if it isn’t my favorite band of heroes,” he says, his voice unmistakable. “I believe a visit is overdue. I have information you desire and well…you have something I am most curious about.”

At this, you hear Astarion pipe up, unable to see the rogue from your position behind Halsin. 

“It better be information about my scars, devil. We killed the Othon, now it’s time you held up your end of the deal.”

You hear the devil chuckle, and you can’t help but to lean around the druid in front of you to lay eyes on the infernal intruder. 

“Yes, yes, all in due time, Astarion,” the devils says dismissively, his eyes searching the crowd. “For now, I’ve heard whispers of a certain divine being falling from the sky.” 

The moment he speaks, his eyes land on you, that infuriating smile tugging even wider. You step out from behind Halsin, that familiar blackness bubbling back up inside of you. 

“Do not speak in riddles, Raphael, what do you want?” You ask, voice venomous. 

Raphael lets out a ‘tsk’ , a faux frown tugging at his lips. “Now, now, no need to be so contrite. I’m here to help after all.”

You watch, eyes widening as he snaps his fingers and you feel your glamour shatter, your wings revealed to everyone around you as they seem to expand outwards of their own accord. You can see the way the others stare in awe, pity quickly filling their gazes at the state of your wings. 

Before you can blink, Raphael is standing right in front of you, dark eyes challenging your own as that clever smile returns.

“So, the little angel loses her wings…What a shame,” he tuts, voice mocking. “Tell me,” he says, reaching out to brush a finger over the tops of one of the damaged appendages. “Do you miss them?”

“Don’t touch me!” You say, reaching out to slam a powerful hand into his chest. It sends the devil flying backwards, landing him in the dirt a few feet away until you stalk towards him, your anger building as that stupid smile never leaves his face. 

“You forget to whom you speak,” you hiss. “I will not bargain with the likes of you. Not for my wings. Not for power. Not even for my life.”

The devil tuts again as he stands, brushing off the front of his doublet. “A shame,” he says simply. “But, you know where to find me should you change your mind. And I do hope it changes,” he smiles that infuriating smile, “I would so love to have an angel in my debt.”

And in a flash of light and infernal power - he’s gone.

“What?” Astarion asks incredulously. “Where did he go? He was supposed to tell me what my scars say!” He growls in frustration, crimson eyes snapping to your own.

“You might be too holy to accept help when offered, but some of us don’t have such qualms-“

“Astarion-“ Tav cuts in sternly, leading the pale elf away as you turn into yourself. 

Without so much as a word, you turn on your heel to walk back towards Halsin’s small clearing away from camp, your emotions threatening to overrun you. 

“Wait-“ Halsin says, a warm hand landing on your shoulder. 

You shrug it off, refusing to look at him. “Not now Halsin I…I need time to think. I need…just-“ you sigh. “Please.”

He doesn’t respond immediately and for a moment you think he’s going to argue. But soon his hand falls away from you, and he lets you go. 

———————

You’ve come to find that the water surrounding the camp is calming. But even as you sit by the river’s edge, the silt soft beneath your knees, you find that nothing is getting rid of the cloud of anger in your chest. 

You want to ask why. Why has this happened to you? Why did your god cast you out? 

But you already know the answers. And perhaps, that is why when you hear footsteps approaching you, you’re unable to properly direct your anger inwards. But you try, you truly do try.

As Halsin approaches you, taking a seat by your side as his eyes too fall to the slowly passing stream, you try to keep the anger at bay. You try to keep that blackness festering inside of you from slipping out. 

“I brought you some new clothes,” He says, handing you a small bundle of cloth. “They should fit. Tav helped me guess your size, and from all of us we found something that should suffice.”

You never expected a kind gesture to be the thing that would make you break. But the small pile of clothing, soft between your fingers, makes something inside of you snap, and that blackness comes rushing out as you turn to look at Halsin sharply. 

“Why are you doing this?” You ask, voice cold. 

He seems taken aback at the words and your distant tone. He pauses for a moment before speaking. “I only thought…your dress was torn, i thought you might like something else-“

“Not the clothes, Halsin!” You cry, standing to your feet causing more feathers to fall from your wings. “This! Help me. Why are you helping me?”

He looks even more confused now. “You were hurt, injured. I could not very well have left you to the shadow curse. It’s not…It’s not right.”

His words do the opposite of his earlier actions. They make that blackness, that anger evaporate as quickly as it came. Leaving room for grief to pour in.

Halsin…The sweet archdruid, who has faced more hardship in his life than most, would help a stranger. A stranger he has yet to know the truth behind. A stranger that knows more about him than he could ever imagine. 

You collapse back down to the sand. Hands curled tightly into the bundle of clothes as tears threaten to pour down your cheeks. 

“You wouldn’t be helping me if you knew,” you whisper.

“Knew what?” He asks, voice kind. 

You have to force down the lump in your throat to speak. 

“It was Silvanus,” you say softly, the tears finally slipping from your eyes. “I was his angel. Silvanus was the one to cast me out.”

You hear his breath hitch, and you know - you know, what you have left to say will break him. But you refuse to lie any further. 

“The Oak Father? Why…” he pauses, voice full of confusion. “Why would he cast you out?”

You take a shuddering breath before forcing your watery gaze to meet his hazel one. 

“Because of you.”

[nogitsune-the]

Astarion Epilogue :An Adventure in Making Life

Chapter 2: In sickness and in health

Warnings: Blood, Smut, Violence, NSFW 18+, Fluff, Angst, pregnancy

Relationships:

Astarion (Baldur's Gate)/Original Female Character(s)Astarion/Tav (Baldur's Gate)Astarion (Baldur's Gate)/ReaderAstarion & Tav (Baldur's Gate)Astarion/Charname (Baldur's Gate)Astarion (Baldur's Gate)/Original Character(s)

Characters:

Astarion (Baldur's Gate)Karlach (Baldur's Gate)Gale (Baldur's Gate)Wyll (Baldur's Gate)Shadowheart (Baldur's Gate)Lae'zel (Baldur's Gate)Tav (Baldur's Gate)Jaheira (Baldur's Gate)

Summary: It’s been a month of bliss while you and Astarion have taken time off from your adventuring. All is well until suddenly Tav is hit with a mysterious illness and Astarion runs to find help in the form of an old Druid that lives down the road. Jaheira.

Astarion kept to his word. It has been a month since you came back from the last adventure and so far it looked like you were staying put in Baldur’s gate for a little while longer than usual, which was a lovely rest of always being on the move. Four weeks of blissful, boring, mundane living. You didn’t have to sleep on the ground, you got to go to bed every night after a nice warm bath, and best of all you got to see domestic Astarion. And while he would never admit it Astarion was enjoying his peaceful nights curled up with you in his lap, both of you reading the books the two of you picked out.

Since the start of the four weeks, after the night of passion you had on your soft feather bed, you had been able to read eight books. Only two of them were cursed, but that was nothing a simple counterspell couldn't fix. The rest were books that Gale over the years had recommended to you or had appeared in your home after he had teleported them to you. As you pulled another book from your shelf, you made a mental note to visit the old wizard. He was getting up there in years and you and Astarion needed to make time to see him before he left the material plain and entered the afterlife.

Your home felt quiet as you contemplated everything you had missed over the last fifty years. Not that the time you spent with Astarion was a waste, but you had missed so much of your friends' lives. Besides the random letter, it had been years since the last you all got together and talked. Before you and Astarion set off on your next adventure you were going to sit down with him and make him see everyone before the two of you set out.

That would have to wait as Astarion had set out earlier looking for your next adventure. Astarion had stated before he left an hour ago that he was going to the local tavern to see if there was any news on anything going a miss around the city or just outside. He asked if you wanted to come with him, but you politely declined. Not that you didn’t want to go, but you weren’t feeling your best at the moment. Not that you would tell him that. No need for him to worry over anything so trivial. It was probably just a cold anyway. Your muscles ached especially around your chest; you felt dizzy if you stood up too fast, and nausea plagued you all this week. You felt confident that all you needed was a week more of rest and you would be over this cold and ready to set out on whatever adventure Astarion had found.

You were sitting by the fire catching up on book number nine when your stomach alerted you to how hungry you were. Since the nausea you took to eating very light for fear that your stomach wouldn’t agree with whatever you were eating and quickly return it to the outside of your body. Which would cause Astarion to make a fuss over you and make you see a healer for something that would only be around for at most another week. It's better to save your time and money and just eat light for a few more days.

You placed your book down on the table beside your chair and slowly started to stand when all your blood seemed to rush to your head all at once and you swayed. You found your center of gravity and caught yourself before you toppled over and greeted the floor with your body. That didn’t stop the room from spinning however as you reached up with your left hand to see if the sensation of touch would make everything stop spinning.

Instead, you found that you were hot. “Hells now a fever has set in…. Just what I needed.” You said a loud talking to empty air. “The second Astarion touches me he's going to know I’m sick and make me go see a healer.”

You slowly started towards a bucket of cool water you had drawn earlier to do some laundry and instead thought about using it to calm this fever. With every step you took, it felt as if the bucket was getting further away. Your breaths became more labored and your vision became more blurry. It was also by this point you thought that something else was going on besides a cold. No cold in your long life ever felt like this. Elves didn’t often get sick but when they did it still wasn’t anything compared to this. This felt like your life was being sucked from your very body and at any moment you would lose conciseness and no one would be around to help you.

“Maybe I should have just gone to see the damned healer.” You said out loud a thought would do you no good now.

You felt bile rising from your stomach. You were over-exhausting yourself and empty stomach or not something wanted to come up and it was not going to be pleasant. With one hand on your head and the other clutching your stomach you fell to your knees all your strength gone from a journey that seemed like a mile but was only a few feet. Your breaths were short and labored coming in hard drags that burned your lungs.

“Did I forget to cursed book?” The sound of your own voice was the only thing that was keeping you from passing out completely. So you voiced all the little things you thought could be going on with you. “Maybe I’m too weak from not eating anything.”

The food you knew was in the house was about fifteen feet away from you too far for you to get if just a few feet did this to you. Your mind started to spin faster as panic set in. Your heart began to beat a thunderous rhythm. fear gripped your heart as you feared what was happening to you and if you were going to be okay at the end of all this.

“ASTARION!” You started to scream his name in hopes that he was close enough to hear you. Close enough to come and save you from whatever was going on. Close enough to take you to that healer you so desperately didn’t want to see but feared that if you didn’t you were going to die. “PLEASE! ATARION! I DON’T WANT TO DIE!”

You felt tears stinging your eyes and a burn in your throat as bile flowed up your throat and landed on the floor in front of you. Suddenly, the floor was coming up to meet you and the last thing you remember was hearing the hard, wet smack of your head as it met the floor and you lay in the pool of your own bile.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Astarion felt proud of himself as he walked the street of Baldur’s Gate he had found three leads on adventures that you and he could go on. One about a dwarf that had gone missing by Neverwinter, another about a dragon's hoard, and another about quite a few people going missing near Ravenloft. He would let you choose since you were the one that asked for the break and you would be more likely to pick one that you were interested in.

As he walked Astarion took his time soaking in the sun on his skin and making up for the time he spent in the dark. It may have been fifty years since he broke free of his chains and took back his life but Astarion still feared it could all be taken away from him. He felt for the ring on his left ring finger at least twenty times a day just to be sure it was still there. Without the ring, his days in the sun were over and he would be forced to return to the shadows.

You wouldn’t let that happen to him. You were the one who searched day and night for weeks for any word, news, or myths about anything that could help him walk in the sun again. Astarion didn’t know what he would have done without you and what he would do when you were long dead and he was left to wander this plain along once more. The thought caused Astarion’s chest to grow tight and he quickly shook the thought away. You were a high elf and were in the prime of your life. That was something he didn’t have to think about for a long while.

To get the thought of death out of his mind Astarion decided to pick up some of your favorite fresh flowers and something light for you to eat. Despite you trying your best to hide it he noticed that you hadn’t been eating much and what you did eat was fruits, broth, and occasionally some bread. He didn’t want to fuss over you because he knew you didn't like when he did and would shrug off all attempts of him trying to get you to see a healer. So, he kept a close watch. He made an exception today because he noticed there were only a few apples in the home and he wanted to get you something to eat without making a fuss.

Astarion walked through the local flower shop and was greeted cheerfully by the shopkeeper. “Astarion! Come to buy some flowers for that lovely wife of yours?”

You and Astarion never formally got married but the ring on his left hand left no question that he belonged to someone. “Of course, it’s how I get her to fall in love with me every time I walk through the door.” He flashed a smile that would make any woman or man swoon.

“You are too much Astarion. Let me just wrap them up for you.” She began wrapping the flowers while Astarion paced around the shop.

A sudden feeling of dread laid host in Astarion’s stomach. He got the sense someone was screaming his name and not in the normal way he liked hearing his name screamed. This was desperate, pleading…. scared. Astarion started moving towards the door slowly and with caution something was wrong he needed to get home as soon as possible.

The shopkeeper walked over to Astarion and handed him the flowers. “Here you go, love. On the house.”

“I’m sorry Ida… I’ll have to come back for the flowers something is wrong.” Astarion busted through the front door and sprinted toward home without ever looking back at Ida.

Astarion makes quick work of weaving through crowds of people and making his way through the streets of Baldur’s Gate to make it home to you. All the while the closer he got to home the stronger the panic grew in his chest. He knew his eyes were fully dilated and that he conveyed a sense of desperation. On his way back home people took one look at him rushing towards them and gave him a wide birth. A walk that would usually take thirty minutes only took Astarion ten as he stood at the front door of the home you two shared dripping sweat and taking in large gulps of breath.

Astarion flung the door open and when he didn’t see you immediately he felt the blood drain from his face. “Where are you? Say something!” He stepped through the door and the smell of bile hit him. Walking further into the room he found you face down in a pool of your own bile. “No!”

He was at your side in an instant, picking you up out of your bile and having you lay limp in his arms. “Wake up damn you!” He shook you not enough to cause harm but hopefully enough to wake you enough to open your eyes. But your eyes didn’t open. “Damn you. Don’t you dare leave me!” He cupped your face with his right hand and flinched at the heat coming off your skin. “Why didn’t you tell me you were this sick?”

You moaned in response to his question and Astarion let out the breath he didn’t realize was holding. Knowing that at the very least you were coherent enough to respond to him he picked up your body and carried it to the bed laying it down gently.

“I’m going to go get the only healer I know that will get you to listen.” Astarion turned his back to you lying on the bed and started to walk towards the door again. “I’ll be right back she’s not far.”

Atarion ran through the streets once more but this time a few blocks away from the home you shared with him. The home he was making his way towards was near the upper city gate and covered in Ivy, adding a layer of the rare forest in the city of Baldur’s Gate. He wasted no time busting the door to the house open and screaming the name of the one person who could help him at that moment. A wise old woman that if she heard him say such words she would rip the sunwalker ring from his finger and watch him burn alive in the sun and call it justice.

The moment he started screaming she rounded the corner. “What in the nine hells are you doing Astarion? Are you looking for me to sign your death warrant?”

Her hair was white and she had a few more wrinkles, but Jaheira was the same as the last time Astarion saw her. As a half-elf by all rights, she should have died from old age by now but since she was also a druid that meant that she could live for thousands of years without dying. Which was great for Astarion at this moment because he didn’t know of any other healer that would help him without asking too many questions.

“Yes yes kill me later but I need you now.” Maybe it was the look of desperation in Astarion’s eyes or maybe Jaheira knew that the Vampire wouldn’t come to her unless he truly needed help.

“Where is she?” Jaheira started moving towards the door.

“At home, I went out for a few hours to get some information and to pick her up something to eat and I came home to find her passed out on the floor face down in a pool of her own vomit.” Astarion followed after her explaining all he knew to catch Jaheira up on the way.

Jaheira kept pace with the vampire despite her age. “Was she sick before today?”

“I mean I noticed that she wasn’t eating very much this past week but nothing else out of the ordinary.” Astarion was kicking himself for not noticing more. Next time, he would pay more attention to you. Touch you more often to gauge your temperature.

“Don’t beat yourself up Astarion it sounds like she was hiding the bulk of her symptoms from you. Probably so you wouldn’t come get me so I could yell at her about her health.” Jaheira mused as the two of you turned the corner on your home's street.

She was right of course. Jaheira could make anyone do what she wanted that’s what made her such a good leader and why she had led the harpers for so many years. Jaheira turned into your home and walked straight to the bed. She examined your body for any cuts, strange puncture wounds, or anything that pointed towards poison. Nothing.

“I’m going to use magic to see if I can sense anything.” Astarion stepped back as Jaheira’s eyes glowed and green waves of light pulsed from her hands and hovered over your body. It only lasted a few moments. “What in the hells….” She dropped her hands and looked towards Astarion and back to you then back to Astarion again.

“What? Did you find out what’s wrong with her?” Astarion asked wondering why Jaheira kept looking back and forth between him and you. “Just spit out what is wrong with her we don’t have much….”

Jaheira cut him off and held her hand out in front of her. “Give me your dagger Astarion.”

Astarion flinched back at her words. “Are you meaning to kill her because I won’t let you.”

Jaheira rolled her eyes. “No, I’m trying to save her now give me your dagger now!”

Astarion, sensing no hint of deception coming from her words, handed her his dagger that he kept on his belt and then watched as Jaheira cut her own wrist open. Astarion watched in confusion as Jaheira propped you up using her body and placed her wrist to your mouth.

“Drink if you want to live girl.”

Your eyes fluttered open at the smell of blood and you looked to Astarion as you took Jaheira’s wrist into your mouth and sucked. The blood that filled your mouth was warm and tasted like iron. You gagged as the blood hit the back of your throat and you weren't used to the taste.

“Drink, I will take it away when you need to stop.” Jaheria’s words gave you the will to drink. As the warm blood hit your stomach you could feel yourself gaining your strength.

“What in the hells is going on?” Astarions voice shook. “Are you a vampire and just didn’t tell me?”

The look on Astarion’s face was laced with the look of betrayal. But the truth was you had no idea what was going on. You were just as confused as he was. Why was Jaheira’s blood giving you strength? Were you just low in iron and this was the fastest way to make your anemia disappear? You were completely clueless.

“Oh calm yourself Astarion she’s not a vampire.” Jaheria plucked her wrist from your mouth and began wrapping it with a strip of clean cloth. “But she is growing one inside her belly.” Jaheira’s smile was giant across her face. “Congratulations daddy.”

[nogitsune-the]

Send Me an Angel - Chapter 1

Halsin x Fem!Angel!Reader

A/N: So so so excited to reveal this little series to you guys! Had this idea and with some wonderful brainstorming help from @thedreamlessnights it is finally coming together! Hope you all enjoy <3

Word Count: 1.7k

Warnings: Reader is described using she/her pronouns in this part, female reader, canon typical gore/injuries, hurt/comfort.

Halsin's POV

The night, as all of them have been since arriving here, is cold.

The Shadow-Cursed Lands are just as he remembers them, if not worse. And, despite having saved Thaniel and reunited him with Oliver, his mind still feels heavy with the burden of this place. 

That’s why he stands here now, at the edge of the protective barrier of Last Light, eyes turned up towards the stars. Here, they are the only things of nature that are not corrupted by the shadows, and perhaps in these times of need, Halsin is silently seeking guidance from the celestial beings. 

He’s been outside for some time, lost in his own thoughts, and is just about to turn back towards the inn when a faint, flashing light in the sky gives him pause.

It looks like a star, at first, shining brighter in the blanket of night, winking at him as he gazes upwards. But as he continues to watch, Halsin realizes that the star is moving - and it’s moving faster as each moment passes. It seems to tumble from the heavens, leaving a trail of starlight in its wake as it travels westward, towards the mountain pass. 

Without much thought, Halsin’s feet carry him in the direction of the falling star, stopping only to grab a torch as he leaves the inn’s protection to head further into the Shadowlands. He tries his best to follow the star, but as it hurtles across the sky and gets closer and closer to the towering trees, he starts to lose sight of it. The only evidence that it makes it to earth are the sudden tremors beneath his feet.

The star has landed. 

Halsin’s heart races in his chest as he travels toward the last place he’d seen it. And for reasons he can’t describe, he can feel something calling to him. A power like he’s never felt before seems to reach out and wrap around him as it pulls him through the decaying landscape. 

Rocks crunch beneath his feet, dead tree branches rustle, and the only other sound he can hear is his own breathing and the blood rushing in his ears. These lands have always given him a sense of unease - a feeling that seems tenfold now as he wanders them alone. 

He walks for much longer than he’d anticipated, and he’s worried for a moment that he has somehow passed by the impact site when an otherworldly glow starts to break through the trees as he crests a small hill. He follows the light, and the feeling tugs at his chest until he reaches the top, his eyes widening as his breath stutters in his chest. 

The crater in the ground is larger than he expected and the sight before him is like nothing he’s ever seen. Dust floats in the air around the site, still unsettled from its misplacement among the earth. An acrid, burnt tang makes Halsin’s nose tingle unpleasantly, the smell settling on his tongue. 

But it’s not these things that bring Halsin pause. No. What makes the old druid stop is what sits in the crater itself–for it is not simply a star he witnessed fall from the sky, but an angel. 

He can see their form, illuminated by the ethereal pale white light they seem to give off, and as he walks closer, torch held high to warn off any shadows who may dare to venture close, he realizes that they are actually a she. 

He’s struck first by her beauty.

It’s nothing as extravagant as he remembers from the tales of fallen angels as a child, where those who looked upon them would be blinded by the otherworldly allure. This angel is in fact beautiful, but in a more natural way. Still striking to Halsin, but perhaps appearing more subdued to others. 

It’s only when he’s at the edge of the crater does Halsin’s mind finally shift from surprise, to utter concern. The acrid smell he first noticed must have come from the way the angel burned as she fell from the sky. He can see now that the great white wings extending from her back are heavily injured, the white feathers majority singed gray and black, and some even falling away from her wings completely. One of the appendages even seems to be bent at an odd angle - broken, if Halsin had to guess from this distance. 

Her person is in much the same condition. Her pearl-white dress is torn, ragged, and stained a dingy gray. Blackened smudges cover most of the skin he is able to see - soot, dirt, and what he assumes must be blood, if the various injuries have anything to say. For a moment, Halsin fears she may not have survived the fall. But as he inches closer, kneeling by her side, he is able to see the rapid rise and fall of her chest. This closeness also reveals another problem. Her breathing is erratic, and each breath comes out with a faint wheeze, as if something is flooding her lungs. 

Before Halsin can truly think, he is already acting. He plants the torch in the ground beside him, moving to gather the angel in his arms. First, he softly tucks the being’s wings behind her back,  careful not to jostle the broken one more than needed. Then, when he is confident that he can gather her into his arms, he does just that. He worries she may wake as he moves her, the pain stirring her from her unconscious state, but she stays under, not so much as twitching as Halsin stands with her gathered to his chest. 

For a moment, as he fully remembers his surroundings, an icy fear clings to him.  How will he traverse the curse with no hand to hold a light source? But when he steps from the crater, he is surprised to find that the pale white glow is emitting from the angel herself. As if protected by pure moonlight.

Haslin hasn’t been sure of much as of late, but he knows deep within his being, that he must save her. 

No matter what it takes. 

─── ⋅ ∙ ∘ ☽ ༓ ☾ ∘ ⋅ ⋅ ───

The walk to camp is uneventful, but Halsin’s arrival with a woman in his arms, is not. 

He hears Astarion scoff before he sees the vampire, the sound echoing across camp. 

“Another one?” Astarion sighs. “I mean, really? The camp is crowded enough already.” 

Halsin, usually one slow to anger or frustration, pulls the angel closer to him as he bites back. “I will not stand by when another creature requires my help, even if you might, Astarion.” 

He doesn’t stay around to listen to the man’s reply, but thinks he hears Astarion mutter something about a bear and claws. 

Halsin makes for his tent, and the only other person to inquire about the being in his arms is Tav. They are kind enough to only ask if he needs anything rather than prying, which Halsin appreciates but declines nonetheless. 

He can’t help the sudden possessiveness that overcomes him, as if this angel is his to protect and his alone. Only Thaniel is by his side when he enters his small, secluded part of camp, the small boy eyeing the creature curiously. 

“An angel?” he asks as Halsin moves to set the woman gently on his bedroll just inside his tent. 

Halsin nods. “I saw her fall from the sky myself,” he says, now fully taking in her injuries. “She has been gravely injured. I only hope I am able to help.” 

Thaniel is quiet for a moment before he crouches beside the Druid and reaches out to run a soft hand along the angel’s wings, careful not to injure her further. 

“She is here for a reason,” he says cryptically, eyes turning up towards Halsin. “You were meant to find her. I can feel it as clearly as if the forest itself is speaking to me.” 

Halsin pauses his work to look at the child, always one to know more than he may appear. 

He knows at a fundamental level that Thaniel’s words are true. Nature does not continue without due cause, it was fate that allowed him to find this angel. 

What he can’t figure out…is why? 

Halsin shakes his head, ridding himself of these thoughts for now as he sends the boy away. He can worry about fate and reasoning later. Right now, he must try to keep her alive. 

Although he is powerful, he has only a limited supply of healing magic, a supply he chooses to use on her internal injuries, those he cannot fix without its aid. 

He focuses his attention inward, drawing on the power he has as he hovers his hands over the angel’s ribs, that familiar yellow glow pulsing from his hands and into her body. 

It takes longer than usual, telling Halsin her injuries must have been worse than he thought. But, after a few moments, her labored breathing eases, no longer a bubbling wheeze but a slow and smooth rhythm. 

The last of his magic, he uses to heal her wing, wincing as it snaps back into place under his hands. Only then does the magic glow ebb away. 

He reaches out to run tender hands along the main structure of her wings, checking for any other abnormalities. He’s just reached the tip of her newly-healed appendage when the woman jerks beneath him, her hand shooting up to grip his wrist with an unnatural strength. 

The cry that falls from his lips is one of surprise more than pain, but he can’t help but be aware of the ache settling deep in his bones as they seem to grind together beneath her supernatural grip. 

He glances down at her face, his lips falling open when he’s met with eyes glowing pure gold, complete power coming off the being in waves. She gasps in pain as she moves, and Halsin watches in complete and utter shock as the light slowly drains from her eyes, the strength in her grip waning as it does so. Only when the regular eyes of a human meet his own does the angel finally speak. 

“Halsin…”

His name is but a whisper from her lips before her eyes roll back and she slumps unconscious onto his bedroll once more. For a moment, Halsin is worried that she has passed on, her form eerily still once again. But the steady rise and fall of her chest assures him she still lives. 

Only when he is sure she still breathes does his mind jump back to what had just occurred. 

How did she know his name? 

[nogitsune-the]

Fast Track

Bucky Barnes x fem!reader

Summary: You see him on the train on your daily commute. You secretly pine. and pine. and pine…and pine. Day after day. And then you finally get a chance to talk to him.  Warnings: Angst w/happy ending, hurt/comfort, use of y/n, very insecure and soft bucky, reader using petnames slightly excessively, swearing, some references to sex, mdni!

Hope you enjoy :) Leave me some feedback pls and thx xx

Keep reading

[nogitsune-the]

day 8

Alpha!Aizawa x omega, fem!reader

Warnings: Cockwarming, smut, cocwarming for comfort, 18+, mentions of breeding even if it isn’t the prompt, and breeding prompt comes later, heat, ABO dynamics.

Wordcount: 1129

Tip Jar (food money) 🍸        Masterlist        BNHA Masterlist         Kinktoberlist

Aizawa is a loving mate that always takes care of you. it seems like people think that he would be a lazy alpha and mate but he isn’t. He’s attentive and he keeps a good eye on you and knows how your feeling just by the subtle signs you show or the slightest changes of your scent. He was the best alpha you had and you wished he was the first alpha you courted but sadly he wasn’t. But he was your alpha now and that’s all that matters. 

Now you had been at the beginning of your heat and had stayed home from work waiting for him to come home from work, you had called and told him that you were in pre-heat meaning you would get your heat in a day or two, and told him. He had asked you if you wanted him to come home early but it had been ok, and it still was. You were uncomparable but it was manageable. You could feel slick starting to form where you sat and even if it was just pre-heat you knew it was a chance for Aizawa to trigger it into full heat already today. 

It wasn’t an uncommon thing to happen when you were in pre-heat with Aizawa close to you, and it had only gotten worse after the two of you moved in with each other and you were surrounded by his scent all the time. It’s the second heat you have had since the two of you moved in together and the last time it was triggered super early due to the scent around you.

But now your body was more used to it it didn’t happen as fast as the first time and since you were so close to heat anyways it didn’t bother you. It was just that the scent was more intense, and you also knew that your Alpha would be home soon and that made you fidget in your seat. You could feel your body become warmer and your body begins producing more slick getting ready for him. 

Keep reading

[nogitsune-the]

Family for Christmas

“Merry Christmas love,” Henry said kissing your shoulder as you slept. 

“No it’s too early for Christmas. It doesn’t start til 7 not 8,” you said turning your head to face your boyfriend and pulled the blanket over your head. 

“Well I hear little feet that says it’s now,” he commented hearing your son running from his room to the living room and now heading to your room.

You and Henry have been dating for 2 years now and your son loves him more than he loves you. And you know Henry adores your son. Sometime you notice Henry spends more time with Scott than he does with you which warms your heart. Scott needs a man in his life and Henry has been a great influence on your 6 year old. 

“Mommy, Henry wake up. Santa came it’s Christmas,” Scott yelled jumping on the bed landing on Henry’s stomach. 

“No Santa said we can’t open presents til 8,” you said pulling the blanket from over your head and pulling your overly energetic son into your arms. 

“No mommy, Santa didn’t say that. We open presents in the morning. It’s morning,” Scott said trying to wake you up. 

“How about we make mommy a cup of coffee and see if that will wake her up,” Henry offered pulling Scott over his shoulders like a sack of potatoes. 

You rolled onto your back and watched your loving boyfriend and your son head to the kitchen to make you coffee. Henry never hesitated or was put off because you are a single mother. After he met Scott he said it didn’t bother him, he just has two best friends. Everything about how Henry is with Scott made you love him so much more but you were taking things slow for Scott’s sake. You didn’t want him to get confused or too attached incase things didn’t work out but based on the laughter in the kitchen Scott would definitely take your boyfriends side in any fight over yours. 

A few seconds later your two boys came back into the room with a giant cup of coffee with whip cream and sprinkles on top. Scott had a giant smile on his face and a bit of whip cream on the corner of his lips. 

“Oh wow, this looks amazing,” you said sitting up and taking the cup from your 6 year old. 

“I did it all by myself, Henry didn’t help at all,” Scott explained excitingly. His eye were wide with pride as he waited for you to take a sip. 

“Oh it’s the best cup of coffee I’ve ever had,” you said putting the cup on the night stand and pulled him into a hug.

“Really, mommy,” he asked looking up at you. 

“Oh yes, if you can make me this every morning I would never go to Starbucks ever again.”

You took another sip of the overly sweet coffee and your son jumped off the bed and grabbed Henry’s sweater that was lying on the chair in the room and threw it at you. 

“Now presents. I’ve fed the mommy monster now I want my presents…… please,” he said with a cute smile and a tilt of his head. 

“I don’t think calling the mommy monster that to her face was a smart idea,” Henry said stepping away from your son. 

“Im not a mommy monster,” you said throwing your pillow at your boyfriend.

“Yeah your a lot nicer after your have your coffee. Less monstery,” your son said standing front of your boyfriends trying to protect him. 

You laughed and threw Henry’s pillow at your son but Henry caught it before it hit him in the face. Your boyfriend picked your son up and they ran out of the room yelling for you to get up. You put on Henry’s sweater and grabbed your coffee walking out of your room into the living room. 

There were maybe 20 presents under the tree. Mostly from Santa cause you were not going to spoil you kid. Henry on the other hand could never say no to your kid so he definitely has a few gift hidden from you for Scott. Your son was hitting by the tree with a present in his lap and talking to Henry about what toy he thinks Santa brought him.  Henry was waiting for you on the couch with a fluffy blanket. 

“The sun is barely awake. I’ll give you 20 bucks if we can sleep for another hour,” you tried to bribe your son. 

“No presents, this is for you Henry,” your son said grabbing the present in his lap and brought it over to you furnace of a boyfriend. 

“Thanks buddy,” he said opening it up. 

It was a superman Christmas sweater with the big “S” on the front and a cape on the back. Scott saw it in the store the other day and kept saying he had to get it for Henry that he would love it and wear it all the time. 

“DO you like it,” Scott asked jumping up and down. 

“I love it buddy,” he said getting up off the couch and putting it on. “How do I look?”

“Super,” Scott said running and jumping into his arms. 

Scott was explaining the sweater with the symbol and the cape while you got up and grabbed a couple presents so the three of you could stay under the warm blanket. You expected all three of the presents to be for Scott but was shocked to see your name on one of them. 

“What is this,” you asked holding up your present.

“Its a gift mommy,” Scott said running over to you and pulling you onto the couch so you could open it. 

“Hen, I thought we said no gifts,” you scorned your loving boyfriend. 

“Well I got this amazing gift so,” he said standing in the superman pose. 

You laughed and shook you head at the man who was a giant child. You opened the present and inside was a pandora bracelet box. You opened it and saw it was a silver charm bracelet with S and H dangling from it. 

“Oh my god this is beautiful,” you said wiping a tear from your eye. 

“I helped pick it out mommy. S for Scott and H for Henry. When you wear it you will know we love you. So never take it off,” Scott said taking the bracelet and trying to put it on your wrist but failing. 

Henry leaned over and helped him out and watched you admire your new piece of jewelry. You kissed your sons head then stood up and pulled Henry in for a kiss. 

“I love it,” you said kissing all over his face causing a small “eww” to come from behind you. 

“Merry Christmas darling,” Henry said returning the gesture of a millions kisses getting a fake gaging sound from Scott. 

“Gross. There is no kissing on Christmas just presents,” Scott said opening his gifts. 

He got actions figures, legos to build with Henry, a switch so he could play some video games with Henry, books and nerf guns. There were no other presents under the tree but Scott held u his little finger and ran in to his room and came back out with a poorly wrapped gift with way too much tape and glue. 

“Merry Christmas Henry,” Scott said handing the gift over and taking a big step back to watch his reaction. 

Hen looked over at you but you had no idea what this gift was. He slowly opened it and saw it was a framed drawing of the three of you. You then noticed that there was a dog flying in the background which was probably Kal. 

“I drew it for you,” Scott said slowly stepping forward and making his way between you and hen. 

Once he sat down he pointed out every little detail of the photo. After he just stared up at Henry who was still silently staring at the photo. 

“You don’t like it,” Scott sadly said filling the silence trying to take the photo back. 

Henry pulled Scott into a hug and you noticed that his cheeks were wet. Henry pulled your son into his lap and kissed his head.

“I love it buddy. It’s an amazing picture of all the people I love,” Henry reassured as he kissed Scott head again. 

“You really like it,” Scott said happily looking up at him. 

“Yes, it’s the most important thing I own now. I’m going to take it with me everywhere I go so I know I have the two most amazing people waiting for me.”

“I love you Henry,” Scott said wrapping his little arms around Hen’s neck.

“I love you too, buddy.”

You left those two to play with the new toys while you started getting ready for Christmas dinner at your parents. You were in the kitchen making a few things and just listening to Henry explain to Scott how to play some game. While the food was being set aside in the fridge to be cooked at your parents house you noticed it was almost 8 am and decided to start making breakfast. 

“Scotty what do you want for breakfast,” you asked looking in the fridge making a mental note of what you had and what you needed to get when you go to the store in a couple of days. 

“Get dressed,” you heard Henry said walking into the kitchen and closing the fridge. 

“Where are we going,” you asked before making sure Scott wasn’t looking then kissed Henry. 

“I’m taking you guys to breakfast. So you don’t tire yourself with cooking so much today.” 

“But I don’t wanna,” you whined thinking about wearing actually clothes this early on Christmas. 

“Grab a pair of my sweatpants and meet me and Scott in the car in 5 minutes,” he warned slapping you ass. 

Scott was waiting by the door with one of his non-superman action figures and his coat and rain boots. You gently slapped Henry’s chest and went to your room to do just at he said. When you finished getting dress Henry and Scott where already in the car jamming out to Christmas music. 

“Mommy do I have to sit in my car seat i’m a big boy. This is for babies,” he complained sitting next to the car seat. 

“How far away is the restaurant,” you asked looking at Henry. 

“8 minutes tops,” he replied. 

“Ok but you sit right and sit back. I’ll have to get you a booster seat later,” you said placing your hand on Henry’s thigh trying not to cry cause your baby is growing up. 

Henry waited til he was sure Scott was buckled and sitting right to start the car. You noticed out of the corner of your eye that every so often he would look in the rear view mirror to make sure Scott was siting right. Henry held your hand as Christmas music played and Scott was in the back playing. It wasn’t long til Henry pulled into the IHop parking lot. As soon as Scott saw we were at his favorite restaurant he started leaning forward and jumping in his seat.

“Scott buddy you need to sit still. I know you’re excited but its dangerous if you don’t sit right,” Henry said stopping the vehicle in the middle of the parking lot. 

“Im sorry,” you son said sitting right which prompted hen to park the car. 

The three of you got out of the vehicle and went to grab a table. Scott walked up to the hostess wished her a merry Christmas then asked for a table. 

“Of course sir, just follow me,” she said grabbing menus and headed further into the building. 

The waitress stopped at a booth and asked Scott if this table was acceptable and he responded with a Kurt nod. She placed the menus on the table and walked away. You sat on one side with Scott and Henry sat across from the two of you. 

“I want hot chocolate and a smiley face pancake and bacon,” Scott said looking at everything in the menu. 

“Ok scotty,” you said messing up his hair. 

The waitress came back and Scott ordered his food and Henry ordered 2 more hot chocolates, French toast for you and a breakfast sampler for him. While you waited for the food, Scott was explaining how excited he was to go to visit Henry’s family for a late Christmas next week. 

“I wanna see the guards with the silly hats. Can I get a silly hat,” Scott asked.

“If we can find one yeah,” Henry said. 

It didn’t take long for the food to come and when it did the three of you sit ate in silence. In the middle of eating a boy around the age of 12 came up to the table holding a notebook and a pen. 

“Im sorry to bother you but can I have your autograph,” he asked Henry. 

Henry held up his hand cause the kid came up to the table when he was mid bite. You grabbed the book from the kid and placed it in front of Henry. 

“Of course he will,” you reassured the kid. 

After Henry got his food down, he signed the notebook and smiled at his sweater. 

“I got that for him,” Scott said staring the kid down. 

“Its so cool that you know superman,” the kid told Scott. 

A second later an older man came up and apologized for the kid interrupting our meal. He tried to take the kid away but then he asked for a photo. 

“Sure,” Henry said wiping his hands and his mouth then getting up from the booth. 

He took one photo and once the kid was satisfied he ran off and told his mother all about meeting superman. Henry sat back down and Scott went to sit next to him. 

“What’s wrong buddy,” he asked gently nudging him with his elbow. 

“Why did he want a photo,” Scott asked. 

“Cause i’m famous buddy, a lot of people ask for photos and autographs.” 

Once Scott wrapped his head around Henry’s famousness he finished scarfing down his breakfast and talked about how he wanted to play his new video game with Henry before we left for Christmas dinner. 

“Sure but we have to help mom clean up and cook first.”

Scott reluctantly agreed and finished his food. The waitress came back to the table and left the check on the table. Henry left money on the table and a nice tip as you left the restaurant. The car ride home Scott sat without being told to sit back or anything. And once you got back home you cleaned up the wrapping paper that was all over the place and Scott grabbed your coffee mug while Henry went to help put Scott’s new things away in his room. Seeing that you still had 4 hours til you had to head out you went to lay down for a bit longer seeing how you were rudely woken up. 

Henry and Scott came into the room too which would have made you whine in protest but Henry sat you up so you can sleep on him and Scott sat next to you and you three just laid in the bed. You slept while Henry was playing some game on the switch with your son. 

You woke up to Henry kissing your head. The shower in your room was running and you could hear Scott laughing and water splashing. 

“Wake up love, it’s time to get ready. Scott is taking a bath and I have your shower running,” he whispered tearing the sheets off you. 

He left you to attend to Scott and you just heard Scott yell ‘ho ho ho’ which meant he had a bubble beard. You slowly got up out of bed and hopped in the warm shower. You were enjoying the hot water hitting your back when you heard Scott come into the bathroom.

“Mommy I don’t want to wear a suit,” he whined.

“Grandma loves when you wear a suit,” you told him. 

“But I get I don’t like it. I want to stay in my pjs,” he stomped his feet. 

“How about suit no jacket,” you suggested.

“Can I wear my cape.”

“Yes.”

“Deal,” he said closing his eyes and sticking his hand in the shower to shake. 

You shook his hand and pushed him out of the bathroom. While you were washing your hair, the door to the bathroom opened again. 

“Scott we already made a deal,” you shouted thinking it was your son. 

“Not Scott. He’s picking out his cape,” Henry said getting undressed and stepping into the shower with you. 

You felt his hands on your waist and let out a small shriek. 

“Henry, Scott could come in any second,” your said slapping his hands. 

You quickly finished your shower and got out so you wouldn’t have to pay for your son’s therapy in the future. After you got out of the shower you wrapped yourself in a towel and started drying your hair. 

“I want to apologize in advance for that you are about to experience Hen,” you told him as you stared at your reflection. 

“Ive been to your family dinners before what’s going to be different,” he asked sticking his head out. 

You looked at him and saw that his head was covered in his shampoo and just smiled at the domestic vibe of everything. 

“Well there’s going to be people you haven’t met there and whom I don’t like so there’s that.”

“Judgmental aunt,” he questioned.

“No you met my judgmental aunt and you know that my family doesn’t mean have the stupid stuff they say but these people do. They don’t jokingly judge they judge judge and think they have an opinion in your life and want to give you relationship advice on a guy who’s a dead beat and you are better off without but insist you should give him another go cause its how a family is suppose to be,” you ranted not realizing til Henry let out a joking whistle. 

“Sorry,” you said putting your hairdryer down and sitting on the toilet. 

“Don’t apologize,” he comforted still sticking his head out of the shower. “You’ve never mention Scott’s father before.”

“Cause he’s not worth mentioning. He was super excited about having a baby but after 9 months of Scott being born he said its not what he expected. Not as fun and exciting. It was too hard for him,” you confessed. 

“Well he’s stupid. Scott’s amazing,” he responded going back to his shower.

“He is, but it still hurts you know. I see his face when a father son event comes around and he says he can’t go. Scott doesn’t deserve a dead beat for a father. Philip hasn’t even sent a card or called for his birthday.”

The shower turned off and Henry stepped out and grabbed the towel hanging on the rack. After covering up he knelt in front of you and held your hands.

“You are an amazing mother raising that amazing kid all by yourself. Don’t let anyone try to convince you differently. I’ve seen children with both parents around be a complete arsehole. And your son isn’t an arsehole so that’s an achievement.”

“God I love you,” you said grabbing his face and firmly pressing your lips against his. 

“I love you too, now let’s get ready,” he said standing up and pulling you up with him. 

You went back to drying your hair while Henry went to get dressed. To make Scott feel better he decided to wear a suit like him. After you did your hair and make up, you put on your simple green dress. When you walked out Henry was helping Scot with his tie which matched your dress. Scott decided to wear his superman cape because it was red which is a Christmas color. 

“Lets go I wanna see grandma and becky and willy,” Scott said standing like superman then running around the room so his cape flowed in the wind. 

“Wait, we gonna do the bet,” you said taking your wallet and placed a 20 on the table.

“Um i'll eat all my vegetables and i'll go to bed an hour early,” Scott offered. 

“And you will pick up without having to be asked.”

“That’s asking for to much mommy. Don’t get your hopes up. Veggies and early bed take it or leave it,” he offers holding his hand out causing you to chuckle. 

“What’s the time,” Henry asked.

“2 hours,” you stated. 

“Ok i’ll double it if you can go the entire time, from start to end no stain no mess,” Henry said putting another 20 on the table. 

“5 hours can you do that Scott,” you asked putting the money in an envelope and handing it to Henry. 

“Yes I can, I hate veggies,” Scott replied. 

With the family bet made you piled into the car and started to head to your mothers house. Since your mother’s house was pretty far away, Scott had to sit in his car seat which he wasn’t happy about. 

“Mommy when I win I’m getting a new car seat. One for big kids,” he said crossing his arms in anger. 

“Okay baby, first thing tomorrow we will get you a new one,” you said reaching behind you and gripping his foot. 

Henry placed his hand on your thigh and gave you a reassuring squeeze as you looked out of the window. 

“Henry if things get heated please take Scott somewhere else,” you asked him.

“Things didn’t get heated last year,” he questioned.

“I was still trying to impress you,” you joked holding his hand. 

“If it gets too much we can leave for England tonight and never come back,” he joked.

“Don’t joke Hen cause I might take you up on that.”

Even though you stomach churned as you got closer to your mother’s having Hen touching you settled the butterflies. Sometime you still don’t believe he’s your boyfriend. You can’t believe how lucky you’ve been with him coming into yours and Scott’s life. When you pulled up to the house your niece becky was outside with your siblings. 

As soon as the car stopped Scott unbuckled and jumped out of the vehicle to hug his aunt and uncle. “Happy Christmas,” he shouted before hugging becky and running inside. 

Becky ran over to you and jumped into your arms but then went to Henry. She held her hand out and tugged his hair a bit. Her mother ran over and apologized before taking her from your boyfriend.

“She just started walking and she can’t be stopped,” you brother stated. 

“Scott is still that way,” you warned him. 

After helping him get becky’s diaper bag and play pen the four of you walked into the house. Your mother was in the kitchen. She turned and looked at you and engulfed you in a hug.

“My baby I’ve missed you,” she cried like she hadn’t seen you last week. “Were the food.”

Before you could even stress about leaving the food Henry put the diaper bag down and said they were in the car. He walked out and came back in with 3 dishes. He put them in the oven and came back to give you a kiss. 

“You really are super,” you joked laying your head on his chest. 

You walked around the house greeting everyone and were having an amazing time. Til the front door opened and you could just feel the judgment fill the room. Your uncle’s mother, Brenda walked in with her bags of gifts and her nasty perfume. 

She walked in greeting everyone with kisses to the cheek. After she greeted you she announced she has brought a guest. And as if this night couldn’t get worse, in walked in your ex Philip. 

“Hey, (y/n),” he said wrapping you in a hug. Which you was accepted just because you were too shocked to protest. 

“What are you doing here Philip,” you asked coming to your senses and pushing him off you. 

At the sound of your ex’s name Henry placed his arm around your waist and pulled you close to him. Philip glared at the motion then turned back to Brenda. 

“I ran into Philip the other day and just thought how long it’s been since he’s been to a family event and thought it would be nice to see him again,” she said putting her purse on the table and taking a seat.

“Nice for whom,” you asked louder than you expected.

“He’s family dear. It was time you moved past your childish behavior and did want was best for Scott. He needs his father,” she said ignoring the looks of disgust on your face.

“I don’t see him anywhere all I see is a dead beat who thought a baby was too boring and wanted excitement so he left,” you whisper yelled worried that Scott would hear from outside where he was playing. 

“You kicked me out,” Philip objected.

“You wouldn’t even look at Scott without this distain for him like he ruined your life.”

“Dear, stop being so dramatic you need to do the right thing and have a normal family. You don’t want to confuse Scott,” Brenda said stating her unwanted opinion. 

The back door opened and in walked Scott. Philip started walking over to him but Scott looked at him like a stranger which, he was, then ran over to Henry.

“Henry can you come play. Willy and Becky are the supervillains and I need your help to save the city,” he said pulling his hand not waiting for his answer. 

Knowing things were going south, he let Scott pull him outside. But Philip stoped him and knelt before your son. 

“Hey buddy it’s me dad,” he said as if he’s been gone are a year not his entire life.

“Not your buddy,” he said pushing past him causing you to let out a chuckle.

“Really, you turned our son against me,” Philip yelled after the door closet.

“Can’t turn him against someone who has never been in his life. I never told him about you cause I didn’t want him to know that you met him, spent 9 months with him and the thought ‘nah I don’t want him’.”

“That man your dating is not his father and I don’t see why your letting him treat him like one,” Brenda butted in. 

“Im doing no such thing. Henry is just being himself. He loves Scott and has been there for him for the past two year. Two year. You could stand to be in Scott’s presence for 9 months. So as far as i’m concern your not his father either,” you yelled. 

“I have a right to my son. And I don’t want that man around him,” Philip said sitting down as if he was having the last word. “And i’m going to take him til school starts again.”

“What,” you nearly screamed. “You are not taking MY son for even a second.” 

Guessing your were too loud Scott ran in worried about you. Philip pulled him into a hug and you could see the uncomfortable look on your sons face. He tried to wiggle out but Philip wouldn’t let him.

“Scotty you’re going to come home with daddy and we are going to spend time together,” he said ruffling his hair.

“What about the England trip and my funny hat,” he questioned. 

“We are still going baby, Philip is joking,” you reassured him mentally pleading for someone to remove your child from his arms. 

“What trip,” Philip asked gripping your son’s arms.

You could feel the anger seeping from every inch of his body. Philip was never violent but he doesn’t have the patience to take care of a child. 

“We are going to have second Christmas with Henry’s family in London next week. We are leaving on Wednesday,” he explain still trying to get out. 

Henry stepped closer to Scott hoping to grab him but Philip snapped at him to stay away from his son which cause Scott to go from uncomfortable to scared.

“Mommy what’s going on,” Scott asked.

“Nothing baby, Philip is going to let go of you and your going to go outside til us adult solve a little problem,” you said in a calming voice trying to sooth your son’s fear. 

“I’m his father, you’re not taking him out of the country without me and definitely not with him,” Philip said nodded his head towards Henry who was starting to get angry.

“Ow,” Scott said as Philip gripped his arm tighter.

“Let him go now,” Henry whisper yelled not wanting to scare Scott even more.

“You do not tell me how to deal with my child,” Philip said pushing Scott off his lap and standing up.

“Leave now,” you mother said checking on Scott before she ushered him outside. “You are not and will never be welcomed here.”

“Not without my son,” Philip said taking a step to the back door. 

Henry blocked him. Philip tried to step around him and Henry wasn’t going to let him anywhere near Scott.

“Jesus (y/n) that man has no right to stop Philip from seeing his son this is a family event. I’m not sure why he is here anyway,” Brenda yelled standing up for Philip.

“Henry is my family he is Scott’s family. Philip is not, you are not. Your my uncle’s mother you are not my family so why are you here. And I don’t see how any of this is your business. You have never and will never have a decision or opinion that is relevant to how I raise my son,” you yelled back at her. 

“How dare you speak to me that way. I’m worried for Scott cause you are not doing a great job raising him I mean look at how rude he has been and disrespectful,” she stated.

“Enough,” Henry stated raising his voice scaring you a little as how you haven’t heard him this angry. “I won’t stand here and listen to you question her parenting. (Y/n) has been a mother and a father to Scott for 6 years. While you decided being a father wasn’t worth it, she didn’t waver to it for a second. And I may not be his father but i’m never going to abandon him. And as much as I would love to take credit for a fraction of the kid he is, I haven’t and wouldn’t dare try to parent him that’s not my job but I do stand by her every decision.”

“You have no right to speak to me that way,” Brenda cried.

“I do when you keep trying to tear down the woman I love and plan to spend the rest of my life with,” he said looking over at you.

You could see in his eye that he want to come hold you not to give you strength but to get some from you but he didn’t want to give Philip a direct line to Scott. The room fell into an awkward silence when the kids came back inside cause it was too cold. Scott quickly came to sit next to you and Henry was not far behind. 

“Is the problem solved,” Scott asked.

“For now yes, but are you hungry,” you asked him. 

“Yes I want ham and Mac and cheese and 3 biscuits,” he said with a smile looking at Henry mentally asking him to make his plate. 

Before Henry could get up Philip made the plate and placed it in front of Scott. He looked at the plate then at Philip then Henry and laughed.

“These are scones not biscuits silly,” he said taking the biscuits off.

“Those are biscuits,” Philip said confused.

“He mean cookies,” you stated. “He’s been learning some of the English slang from Henry.”

This time Henry got up and got the cookies that Scott wanted. One by one people went to fix themselves a plate but the awkwardness didn’t fade. After dinner it was time for presents. With the presents it was like the giant fight that we had before never happened. That was until Philip opened his mouth. 

“So Scott did Santa bring you everything you asked for,” he asked sitting down next to him as he played with his new race cars.

“No,” Scott said nonchalantly.

“Baby, what did you want,” you asked him worried that you forgot something major.

“I don’t want to say. I might make you upset or mad,” he said not looking up.

“Oh baby nothing you can say right now will make me upset or mad. What did you want for Christmas,” you asked siting next to him and forcing him to look at you. 

His eye went from you to Philip to Henry to your mother then back to you. “I want Henry to be my dad,” he said putting the toys down. 

You sister stood up and announced that she planned a scavenger hunt for the kids and took them back outside. She was out there for a few minutes then came back in stating they are going to be preoccupied for half an hour at best. 

“What the fuck,” Philip yelled as soon as the back door closed. 

“Calm down,” you told Philip.

“Why when you are trying to get my son to replace me with your current booty call,” he yelled waving his hands around.

“Im doing no such thing and he is my son. You don’t get the right to call him your son when you’ve been out of his life more than you have been in it. And don’t go blaming Henry for any of this either. Don’t get mad cause he constantly makes Scott feel loved and safe and happy,” you yelled back.

“I don’t trust him around Scott he is not family,” Brenda said once again thinking she had a say in the matter.

“Oh but you would trust your husband to watch my son or your grandkids even though he’s in jail for touching little kids,” you announced. 

“Damn,” you heard you brother laugh under his breath. 

“You don’t know what you’re talking about. That was all a lie,” she stuttered out. 

“I’ve been nice Brenda. I’ve listen to you nag about what is best for a kid you see once a year or twice at most. I’ve been nice for the sake of my mother and my sister but i’m done. I don’t want to hear another word in relation to Scott or my relationship with Henry come out of your mouth ever again. So you’re going to sit there and just wait keep your mouth shut which we make everyone here happy,” you scorned her then turned to Philip, “I’d rather not take this to court cause I shouldn’t have too. If you would have walked in here and apologized and asked if you could see Scott I would have probably said yes but no you come in here all fragile masculinity type demanding to see him and then you have the nerve to scare him and hurt him. So consider this your informal serving. When we get back from London i’m getting a lawyer and fighting for legal fully custody.” 

You could see the anger filling his face as you pressed your index finger against his chest with every word of your threat. Philip grabbed your hand and twisted it. 

“Im not going to let you keep Scott away from me,” he growled twisting you wrist more causing you to cry out in pain. 

Henry grabbed Philips wrist where he was hurting you and squeezed til he let go of your hand. “Touch her or Scott again and I will hurt you,” he threatened as he turned to come check on you. 

In all of the commotion you didn’t notice Scott run back in the house and open the front door. Two police officers walked in and tried to calm everyone down. Henry gently took your arm to check you wrist when Philip tapped on his shoulder and went to punch him in the face but without thinking Henry dodged the fist and Philip ended up hitting you on the chin. 

You didn’t even register the punch all you hear was Scott crying out and you just wanted to see is Scott was ok. 

“Shit, darling are you okay,” Henry asked touching your chin causing you to wince. 

The officers slammed Philip against the wall and put him in cuffs then pushed him on the floor. The female officer walked over to you then radioed for EMS to come check you out. 

“Ma’am are you okay,” the female officer asked trying to get your attention. 

“Where’s Scott,” you asked wincing as you moved your mouth. 

Suddenly little arms wrapped around your neck and you could feel the little tears fall from his cheek to your neck. 

“I called them mommy cause you said to call when you need help and that guy wasn’t listening and he was scary,” Scott confessed as he sat back and looked at your face.

“You did the right thing kid,” the female officer told him. “You were really brave.”

“The bravest,” you said pulling him into another hung. 

Philip started to yell that he was Scott’s father but the male officer told him to shut up then brought him out to the police vehicle. 

“I don’t want a dad if he’s it. I just want a mommy and a Henry.”

After EMS came and checked you out and you gave the officers your statements, you and Scott sat on the couch and watched the grinch. Henry was in the kitchen grabbing you a bag of ice seeing how you refused to go to the hospital. Your aunt stood up and let out a small laugh saying how Henry ruined Christmas. 

“I hope you’re happy about breaking up a family,” she commented pouring herself some wine. 

“Goodbye mother,” you heard your uncle say as he held up his mothers purse. “I speak for everyone here when I say go home.”

She was in shock but left once she saw how no one was coming to her defense. She slowly walked out the door and your mother slammed it shut behind her and locked it. Everyone sat down on the couch and you rested your head on Henrys shoulder as he gently pressed the ice to your chin. 

“Well seeing how (y/n) is the family disappointment it doesn’t matter that I dropped out of college does it,” you cousin announced trying to lighten the mood. 

You let out a small laugh making your chin hurt. Even your uncle laughed til he realized his daughter wasn’t joking. 

“Im sorry you what,” he asked angrily. 

“Henry is the home wrecker,” she cried trying to get the attention off her. 

“Good cause you two are mine,” Henry whispered in you ear holding on to you tighter. 

You lifted your head and placed a small kiss on his shoulder. Scott looked around the room and then got off the couch and ran outside. Your mother gave you a confused look and went to go after him but you stopped her. 

“I’ve got it,” you said getting up and dropping the bag of ice in Henry’s lap. 

You found Scott outside in the rocking chair crying. You knelt in front of him and just rubbed his knee.

“What’s wrong baby,” you asked him. 

“I ruined Christmas,” he cried out hiding his face in his hands.

“You did no such thing.”

“I made everyone fight.”

“Sweety, it’s Christmas. It’s a time where family get together after not see each other for a while. There’s bound to be a fight but that’s ok cause families fight but we still love each other and we still show up for other family event,” you explained to him. “I’d be worried if we didn’t fight.”

“Do you and Henry fight,” he asked finally taking his hands out of his face.

“Yes we do,” you told him wiping the tears off his face. 

“We fight about me leaving my smelly socks around, and when she takes forever to get ready for an event for my work but it’s always my fault,” Henry said kneeling next to you. 

You didn’t hear him come outside but glad he did cause a smile appeared on Scott’s face when he told him what you fight about. 

“But your still here,” Scott stated processing that fighting doesn’t mean leaving.

“Of course I am. I love your mummy even when she puts her feet on me when she is cold or when she wakes me up when she can’t sleep but she doesn’t know I know that,” he told Scott whispering the last part. “And I love you even when you think batman is better and even when you steal the last bite of my food. I’m not going anywhere. And god forbid your mum is ever tired of me and we break up, you are still my best friend and I will always be there for you.”

Scott jumped into into Henry’s arms and let out a little cry. “I still want you to be my daddy Henry.” Henry pushed Scott back so he could look at him and wipe any remaining tears away. 

“I was going to wait til we got to England but your son is stubborn and persistent,” Henry said reaching into his jacket pocket and pulling out a little black box. “I know how you hate doing anything cheesy in front of family but I want both of you and your family and the entire world to know you guys are stuck with me and I’m stuck with you two. No matter the fights. My world is so much better with you guys in it.” Henry opened the box and there was a beautiful ring with with a rose gold band and an emerald stone. 

“Henry,” you cried as he slid the ring on your finger. 

“Will you marry me?”

You were too busy crying and looking at the ring so you didn’t answer which was stressing Scott out. “Say yes mommy. I promise to clean up for a whole month.”

Henry let out a laugh and you slowly started to nod your head. “Yes i’ll marry you,” you said throwing yourself in his arms cause the three of you to fall the ground. Henry gently grabbed your face and firmly pressed his lips against yours. He let you go when he heard you wince but you didn’t let him get far. You pulled him back to you and ignored the pain. 

“Can I call him it now,” Scott asked standing up.

You let out a laugh and nodded your head not caring about what your family will think or how it would make Philip feel. 

“I love you daddy,” Scott screamed as he jumped on Henry. 

“Love you too, buddy.”