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“Everyone gather around!” Charlie’s voice rang through the halls of the hotel, calling all of its current residents. Alastor heard her call from his room through the static of his speakers, one ear twitching. He had no idea what this was about, but she certainly sounded eager. Alastor slipped into the shadows and manifested back in the hotel parlor where Charlie was already standing in the center of the sitting area, her eyes wide and sparkling with excitement. Vaggie was sitting on the couch, admiring her girlfriend.
Alastor sat down on one of the chairs, crossing his legs and resting his staff up against the chair. Niffty rushed into the room and hopped up on the arm of the chair Alastor was sitting at. Husk begrudgingly walked over from the bar, sitting on the other chair. Sir Pentious and Angel Dust were the last ones to enter the parlor, both sitting on the couch beside Vaggie. “What’s this about Charlie?” Angel asked from the couch, putting his arms across the back. “I’ve a fuckin’ hangover.”
“You always have a hangover.” Vaggie shot him a glare, clearly ready to force them to listen to Charlie. Alastor’s gaze lingered on Angel for a few moments before he turned his attention back to Charlie. “Go on, honey.” Vaggie smiled.
Charlie beamed. “Well, everyone.” She began speaking. “I had a great idea!” She looked at everyone eagerly, Alastor was very curious as to what this idea was. “Its about time for Thanksgiving up on Earth, so I was thinking…we could have one of our own!” She exclaimed, catching them all off guard. Thanksgiving..? Alastor hadn’t thought about that holiday in decades.
“What?” Angel raised an eyebrow, looking just as confused as the rest of them. “You want to hold Thanksgiving? Why?”
“Becauuuuse.” Charlie turned to him. “It’s a great way for us to all bond! Sharing what we’re thankful for and having yummy food!” Her eyes were full of excitement and she clearly had a picture perfect idea of what a Hell Thanksgiving would be. Alastor wasn’t so sure it would go the way she wanted.
“Excussse me.” Sir Pentious spoke up. “What is this…Thanksgiving?”
“It’s a holiday in America where they all get together and eat a bunch of food.” Vaggie explained. “I don’t really know why, but I heard stories when I was still up in Heaven.”
“It’s history is from when America was colonized.” Alastor provided an explanation. “The real history is all very muddy and sugar coated as is most of America’s history, but Vaggie is right about what it has become. Though I imagine it’s quite different now than when any of us were alive.”
“You can say that again, Smiles.” Angel laughed. “You think they still put a buncha shit in gelatin?”
Alastor shuddered at the idea of ever eating something like that again. “I certainly hope not.” His tastes had drastically changed since then but the thought of ever eating those repulsive dishes again was enough to make him feel sick. “Though my mother always just made gumbo or jambalaya. Much better than anything else was eating.”
“You should make some!” Charlie’s sudden outburst caught Alastor off guard. “I’m…not the best cook but Vaggie is! You two can be on cooking duty, I was gonna help her with a turkey and you can make your jambalaya you’ve been talking about!”
Alastor thought for a moment, it had been quite a while then he had cooked for other, or really cooked in general. “I suppose I can do that.” He thought, thinking of how he would get the ingredients.
“Before Alastor does any cooking.” Vaggie spoke up sharply. “I’ve seen the type of shit you eat, please for the love of God make your food edible.”
Alastor hadn’t intended on serving the other hotel guests his usual cuisine of choice, but he found it very amusing that Vaggie expected him to “Well that’s certainly a lot less fun.” He grinned, tapping his claws on the head of his staff. “But I guess I can comply.” Vaggie just sighed and rubbed her temples. “Alright, now I do want everyone to help out in some way.” She looked at Sir Pentious. “Pen, can you and Niffty take care of deserts? Without destroying this hotel preferably.”
“I’d be honored!” Pentious agreed eagerly while Niffty vibrated in excitement.
“What about me an’ Husk?” Angel asked from the couch.
“Can you two cook?” Vaggie eyed them skeptically.
“Fuck no.” Husk drank from his bottle.
Vaggie let out an annoyed breath. “Fine, what about you Angel?”
“I haven’t in a long time, but I’ve been known to cook a few good meals when I was alive.” Angel replied with a smirk.
“Great, you’re helping Alastor.”
Alastor shifted his gaze over, meeting Angel’s who seemed a little uneasy for a split second. Alastor felt conflicted himself, things had been…complicated between them for a while now. Alastor had been doing his best to avoid him, but it seemed that would be coming to an end.
“Husk, we’ll find something for you too.” Charlie spoke again, taking Vaggie’s hand. “We’ve got two days to get everything ready! I’ll be inviting my dad too, and Angel you should ask Cherri!” Great. Alastor’s ear twitched in annoyance at the thought of being forced to spend time with Lucifer.
“I’ll ask, but I can’t promise she’ll be down.” Angel stood up, stretching out his limbs. “Well, Smiles.” Angel smirked down at him. “Looks like you’ve gotta teach me how to cook your mama’s dish.”
Alastor seriously questioned Angel’s cooking skills, but he would humor him for now. “Very well.” Alastor stood up as well, grabbing his staff and twirling it a bit. “First things first is ingredients. I don’t want to waste any time if we want this to be good.”
“Lead the way.” Angel followed Alastor out of the hotel while everyone else scrambled to get ready.
They stepped out of the hotel and started walking towards the main streets of Pentagram City. They walked in silence for a bit, with Angel lagging just a step behind Alastor. He could sense Angel’s awkwardness and thought he felt himself, he didn’t let it show.
Alastor’s mind drifted to the incident a few weeks prior that caused this tension between them. The two of them decided to share a drink after Angel got home from work and both of them drank a bit more than they intended. Alastor hated how…soft he became while drinking and he almost never drank that much in front of others.
The two had gotten lost in their conversation, Alastor couldn’t even recall what it had been about. Alastor had already been having conflicting feelings about Angel Dust before this, enjoying his company a lot more than he ever expected, even craving his companionship at times. Alastor had done a great job at not showing these emotions, then this night happened.
While they were talking, Alastor had caught himself admiring everything about Angel Dust. He had very little control over his thoughts in that moment, but he really couldn’t focus. He knew Angel was a little drunk too and the two shared laughs together. Then their eyes had met and the longest silence Alastor had ever heard followed.
Nothing physical happened between them, but that didn’t mean nothing happened. Alastor recalled feeling incredibly drawn to him, wanting to kiss him which was an urge he hadn’t felt in over 100 years. He remembered how Angel’s face had looked in that moment, his face was red and he could see in the demon’s eyes that Angel wanted to kiss him back. They almost did, Alastor felt like he had zero control over his actions. It was as if all his restraint melted away, and had it not been for Vaggie entering the room—Alastor was certain they would have kissed.
After she came into the room, not suspecting anything Alastor excused himself and returned to his own room, struggling with his emotions. He thought about talking to Rosie about it, but he really didn’t think that would help. Rosie would likely tease him, and he didn’t need to deal with it. Since that day, Alastor had been going out of his way to avoid Angel Dust, but now that had come to an end. It shouldn’t be too bad, as Alastor didn’t intend on ever drinking that much around Angel again, or anyone for that matter.
“Hey,” Angel’s voice pulled Alastor from the memory and he glanced up at the taller demon. “Do you think this is…a good idea? This whole Thanksgiving thing.”
“I think it’s another one of Charlie’s silly ideas.” Alastor replied. “But I don’t see how it could backfire unless of course Niffty causes some kind of catastrophe.”
“I sure hope you’re joking.” Angel looked a little concerned despite the smile on his voice.
“Mostly.” Alastor smirked, he knew Niffty better than anyone in the hotel. He knew that while the chances of her actually causing something like that were slim but not impossible. “I’m sure between her and Pentious nothing bad could happen.”
“Yeah, Pentious being involved doesn’t really make it sound much better.” Angel quieted down for a few more moments before talking again. “So uh, where do we get the ingredients for this? It’s like you said, there’s not a lot of fresh produce an’ veggies in Hell.”
“We’ll have to make do.” The two of them reached the main streets of Pentagram City. “I know where to get the meat, but the rest we’ll have to figure out. Likely imports from the other Rings. That’s where the meat comes from, anyway.” Alastor could tell that Angel was a little put off each time Alastor talked about meat. “Oh calm down, I promised I wouldn’t serve what usual meals.”
“I still don’t know how you can eat that shit.” Angel raised an eyebrow at him.
“You shouldn’t judge until you try it.” Alastor was definitely joking, he knew his personal taste in food was an…acquired one.
“Oh? You askin’ me on a date?” Angel’s voice slipped into a flirty tone and he leaned down a bit closer to Alastor.
Alastor felt his body tense and felt a very faint burning in his cheeks, but luckily they had arrived at the butcher shop. “We’re here.” He replied curtly without entertaining Angel’s flirting, but that somehow only seemed to amuse him more. Alastor ignored it and stepped inside, breathing in the taste of all the raw meat inside.
Behind the counter was the owner of the shop, a large Hellhound. He was older, his black fur lined with white. He had scars all across his body, but the most notable was the ones across the left side of his face. His left eye was completely missing, patches of fur ripped away leaving his skin exposed and his left ear almost completely torn off. Alastor didn’t know the story, and he didn’t ask. He knew that this particular butchershop wasn’t that popular since it was run by a Hellhound; but Alastor knew he took pride in his craft and didn’t really care much about Hell’s hierarchy, he dealt with enough of that when he was alive.
As they stepped inside the owner glanced over at Alastor and Angel. “Haven’t seen you in a bit, Alastor.” The butcher replied in his gruff tone. “Was startin’ to think you weren’t comin’ back.”
“Good evening, Knox!” Alastor greeted eagerly, approaching the counting and leaning on his staff. “Apologies for not stopping by sooner, I've gotten rather busy lately.” Alastor glanced over at Angel Dust. “This is my friend, Angel Dust.”
“You may have heard of me already.” Angel approached the counter as well, walking with a confident saunter. “Perhaps you’ve seen some of my work?”
Alastor almost found his attempt amusing, but he knew that Knox wasn’t that kind of demon. “Uh, I’ve seen your posters around.” Angel looked a little offended but didn’t say anything in response. Knox turned back to Alastor. “You gettin’ your usual?”
“Not this time, pal.” Alastor replied, looking over the selection of meat. There were Hellborn animals that did well enough to mimic those on Earth. “Just in the market for some chicken and sausage.”
“I can do that.” Knox reached into the case and started packing it up. “You doin’ that weird human holiday?”
“We are.” Alastor nodded.
“You’re involved in that weird fuckin’ hotel right?” He asked as he weighed everything. “This part of it?”
“Something along those lines.” Alastor glanced over at Angel again who was just looking around. When Knox finished, Alastor took the packages, blood dripping from them. It wasn’t the neatest, but it was good for what he needed. Alastor snapped his fingers and made some money appear on the counter. “Thank you as always for the service, my good man!” He glanced at Angel. “Shall we go?”
“I guess.” Angel glanced at Knox with a confused glance but followed Alastor out of the store. “You make friends with the…weirdest people.”
“How so?” Alastor raised an eye at him. “I do business with him often, it’s normal to have a friendly relationship.”
“Can’t relate.” Angel shrugged. “My…business partners aren’t really friends.” Angel smirked. “But they are real nice to me.”
Alastor’s eye twitched slightly. “Is that why you always come back to the Hotel looking like you got attacked by a rabid animal?”
Angel let out a dry laugh. “Haha, very funny.” Angel didn’t really seem upset, there was a playful look in his eyes. “Some of them certain fuckin’ act rabid.” Angel groaned to himself. “Not to get too TMI with ya’ smiles but the other night pretty sure one fucker was actually trying to eat me. Almost bit a chunk outta my thigh.”
Alastor felt his grip tighten slightly on his staff. He hated when Angel talked about his “clients” like that. Originally he thought it was because of disgust, but lately he was really starting to wonder if it was something else. He tried not to think about it, but instead had the invading thought of wondering just what it would be like to bite Angel Dust. That thought instantly made him feel flustered and he hated it. Please get yourself together. Alastor scolded himself.
“You doin’ alright. Smiles?” Angel asked, giving him a confused look.
“Of course I am.” Alastor adjusted his monocle. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
“Just heard a buncha static comin’ from ya and your ears went back.” These cursed ears. Alastor hated them sometimes, he hated them a lot.
“I can assure you, I’m fine.” Alastor quickly brushed it off. “We have some more ingredients to get and I don’t want to waste any time.”
“Alright alright.” Angel put his hands up. “You know where to get this shit so you lead the way.”
Alastor and Angel finished their shopping, getting the last of the ingredients they needed and returned to the hotel. They had managed to find a decent area to get some produce, it was an area he had heard Rosie mention before. They were even actual herbs and vegetables from Earth which was surprising, and Alastor didn’t know how exactly. He had heard before of some Hellborn demons being able to travel to Earth, but it didn’t interest him in the slightest. Though sometimes he was curious about the other Rings.
The two stepped into the hotel to find Charlie and Vaggie looking stressed. “How hard is it to find a turkey in Hell??” Charlie paced in a circle. “I didn’t think it would be this hard.”
“Maybe you should send them to your butcher friend.” Angel suggested, holding the bag of vegetables and herbs.
“Good idea.” Alastor gave Angel a nod and walked over to Charlie and Vaggie, he could hear Angel Dust close behind him. “Charlie, I may be able to offer some assistance.”
“Really?” Charlie looked over at him, looking down at the bags he and Angel held. “Did you find what you need?”
“We did. I know of a good butcher not far from Cannibal Town.” Alastor immediately noticed Vaggie’s skeptical and judgemental glare. “I can assure you its not that kind of butcher. He sells meat from the Hellborn animals. Its what Angel and I got.”
“Yeah it seemed pretty normal.” Angel shrugged. “Well, normal enough for Hell.”
“Thank you soooo much, Alastor.” Charlie beamed. “We’ll go right away! Come on Vaggie!” Before Vaggie could even really complain, Charlie was dragging her out of the hotel. Alastor watched them go with a smile on his face before heading towards the kitchen. It was empty, but from the flour all over the place he assumed that Niffty and Pentious had been in here.
“You know,” Angel spoke once they stepped inside, setting his bag of veggies down. “For someone who is just here “for the entertainment” you sure do go out of your way to help everyone around here.”
“It’s what I agreed to do.” Alastor replied matter of factly, not really wanting to get into this with Angel Dust. He started putting the meat away in the fridge to prepare for the actual day. “As I’ve told you many times, I don’t want to just sit by and watch, that isn't entertaining."
“I dunno, Smiles.” Angel smirked, crossing his arms. “I think we’re all growin’ on ya.” He teased while Alastor did his best to ignore him. “I’ve seen uh, a softer side to you.” Alastor’s body went rigid, this time he could hear the static that followed. “And that night you and I were drinking…I uh…”
“Nothing happened that night, Angel Dust.” Alastor quickly cut him off, turning to give him a threatening look. “We had some drinks, we enjoyed a nice conversation. That’s it."
Angel frowned and Alastor could see a hurt look deep in his eyes. He suppressed every single emotion he felt regarding the expression and turned away, adjusting his coat a bit. As he took a step away, he heard a low mutter from Angel. “Meant enough to make you avoid me.”
Alastor stopped in his tracks and shot his gaze back to Angel. “What did you say?”
Angel jumped and blushed faintly. “N-Nothing.” He took a step back.
Alastor clenched his fist, the sharp sounds of radio hissing around them. “Whatever you think happened that night, you are imagining it.” Angel’s eyes widened a bit and he backed up from Alastor, but Alastor matched every step he made. “And next time you wish to talk behind my back, perhaps you should say exactly what’s on your mind.”
“Fine, fine.” Angel raised his voice a bit. “I’m sorry, damn.” Alastor cut the theatrics, noting that Angel was now avoiding his gaze.
“Wonderful.” Alastor perked back up. “I’m going to make sure Niffty isn’t causing too many problems. I’ll let you know when we’ll get started on the cooking.”
“Right.” Angel genuinely looked hurt, his tone was bitter and his eyes still distant. “See ya.” Alastor once again swallowed all the emotions he felt, he couldn’t stay here and deal with them. He slipped into the shadows, leaving Angel alone.
The day of their planned Thanksgiving had come and the inhabitants of the Hazbin Hotel were working very hard. Charlie and Vaggie had their turkey in the oven and Niffty and Pentious had prepped multiple sweets for the night. Both Lucifer and Cherri Bomb would be in attendance, but now it was time for Alastor and Angel’s turn in the kitchen.
Since their last conversation in the kitchen, Alastor had been avoiding Angel even more. His emotions were becoming incredibly more frustrating to deal with so he wasn’t going to Alastor had changed into something that was more appropriate for cooking, and for once had his arms exposed. He normally didn’t do this, but he wasn’t about to dirty up his suit coat while cooking.
Angel had yet to arrive in the kitchen and while Alastor prepped everything he was starting to wonder if he would show up at all. Perhaps I crossed a line? Alastor briefly wondered but shook the thought away. While Alastor waited, he just got to work mixing up the creole seasoning, the scents made him awfully…nostalgic. He hadn’t smelled this particular scent in a very long time, it brought up memories of his mother.
“Sorry, Smiles!” Angel suddenly opened the door to the kitchen, making Alastor jump ever so slight and pulling him from his recollection. “Got caught up talkin’ with Cherri.” Angel walked in and Alastor looked over his shoulder, instantly feeling a rush of heat to his face as he saw Angel.
He was dressed up like a waitress straight from the 30s. It was a deep burgundy short sleeved dress that looked crisp and well taken care of. It was accented by a stark white collar and cuffs. The bodice had a row of neat, heart-shaped white buttons and it was all secured with a white apron that was tied tightly around Angel’s waist. “You like?” Angel grinned and Alastor really hoped his reaction wasn’t apparent on his face. “Found this in my closet from a photoshoot I did a few years back. Figured it fits what we’re doing.”
“It looks…” Alastor was really struggling to find his words, he hated that this of all outfits is what got him like this—he really was a product of his time. Why can’t I find the damn words? “It looks…accurate.” Stupid. Alastor scolded himself but he couldn’t dwell on it.
“Gee, thanks.” Angel replied walking up to him, but he was still smiling. “You don’t look too bad yourself.” Angel’s eyes looked Alastor up and down. “Didn’t think I’d ever see those arms.”
Alastor’s ears went down for a moment, regretting his choices a little but not about to run away now. “We need to get started.” Was all he said and turned back to what he had been doing.
“Well you’re in charge here, Smiles.” Angel stood beside him, Alastor found himself very aware of Angel at this moment. “What do you want me to do?”
“Could you please start by dicing the onion, celery and peppers.” Alastor asked, returning to making the seasoning, trying to be perfect with it and remember how he was taught.
“You got it.” Angel stepped to the side a bit, grabbing the vegetables and starting to chop them. Alastor glanced over at him, he was doing a good job. It wasn’t perfect, but he seemed to be focused on dicing them nicely. Alastor once again found himself slightly distracted by Angel’s outfit. He very much enjoyed how the deep red color looked on him, standing out against his pale fur. Focus. Alastor forced himself to look away and focus on dicing the meat.
Alastor did manage to find his focus, quieting his mind and just working on cooking. He started humming to himself while he prepared everything, heating up a pot on the stove. He turned to Angel, needing the vegetables. “Angel are you—” Alastor cut off as he found Angel looking at him already, his eyes incredibly warm and affectionate. It caught him off guard and his focus was ruined.
“I’m all done.” Angel nudged the bowls of diced veggies. “I was just watchin’ ya.”
Alastor fought the urge to feel flustered and grabbed the meat, pouring it into the pan and hearing the instant sizzling as they cooked. “And why is that?”
“Because I’ve never seen ya like this.” Angel leaned against the counter, watching Alastor cook. “It’s cute.”
Alastor’s ears instantly fell back and his face felt hotter, he quickly looked away as to not let Angel see. “You are playing a dangerous game, Angel Dust.” He tried to be threatening, but judging from Angel’s laugh he didn’t think it was working as intended.
“Damn, Smiles.” Angel continued laughing, but it wasn’t a mocking laugh. “Are you really flustered?”
“I am not playing your game, Angel Dust.” Alastor said sternly, forcing his ears to stand straight up, right now he wanted to rip them off.
“Alright, I’ll leave ya alone.” Angel spoke coyly. Alastor cast a side glance at him and saw the most satisfied, cocky smile on Angel’s face. Irritating.
“So how do you actually make this?” Angel walked over, dropping his teasing at long last.
“Right now I’m just searing the sausage, then the chicken.” Alastor explained. “After that I'll add all the vegetables.”
“Smells good so far.” Angel hopped up onto the counter next to Alastor, looking down at him. “And your ma’ taught you how to cook this?”
“She did.” Alastor nodded. “It was my favorite dish when I was alive.”
Alastor caught a soft smile from Angel, his own eyes becoming distant as he thought back to the past. “Mine was spaghetti and meatballs.”
“You lived in New York, right?”
“Yep. Brooklyn, actually.” Angel explained. “It’s weird, haven’t really thought about that life in a while. Guess celebratin’ this silly holiday’s got me all nostalgic.”
“It is indeed strange to think about that time.” Alastor had no idea how Angel lived his life, but the end of his life sure wasn’t that much different from what he did now. Though with significantly more power.
Alastor didn’t reflect too much more on his past and just focused on cooking. Him and Angel didn’t talk much, but he was still very aware of his presence. Alastor cooked up the vegetables and added the meat back.
Angel reached out and stole a piece of sausage, quickly popping it into his mouth and giving Alastor a cheeky grin.
Alastor glared at him, grinning back. “Keep your hands to yourself or I will throw you out of here.”
Angel laughed, it was a very…nice sound to Alastor’s ears. “Sorry, couldn’t help myself.” His gaze was warm. “Taste’s great, though.”
Alastor just grumbled to himself, but he wasn’t really upset. Something about the idea of cooking for Angel, doing something so…simple for him. The emotions he felt were confusing, but this sensation? He enjoyed it.
Alastor added in the rice and broth and put a lid over the pot. “Now we just wait.” Alastor glanced at Angel Dust. “Thank you for your assistance.”
“My pleasure, smiles” He jumped off the counting, looking down at Alastor still “Though you did all the work.”
“You still helped.” Alastor retrieved his staff from the place it had been leaning against the counter, away from any potential mess. “I suppose now all we do is wait, I hope the others worked as hard as us.”
Alastor noticed a bit of blush to Angel’s cheeks but didn’t pay it much mind, he just turned away. “I am going to go get ready, I will see you at dinner.”
“Sure thing, Smiles.” Angel’s voice was soft, it was almost soothing to Alastor’s ears. Alastor walked out of the kitchen and hurried to his own room, needing to take a breath and let his guard down for a few moments.
He closed the door, rested his staff against the wall and gripped his desk, looking at himself in the mirror. His face was still red and he couldn’t get Angel out of his mind. Alastor put a hand on his head, pulling a bit on his hair in distress. “What the fuck is happening to me..?” His claws pressed hard against the wood, creating a deep groove in the dark wood and matching the other claw marks he had put there over time.
Alastor forcefully turned away from the mirror, his ears still down as he reached for a pack of cigarettes he kept nearby and lit one. He needed to relax somehow or he would never get through this silly holiday.
He took a long drag of his cigarette, blowing out the smoke and closing his eyes, willing himself to calm down. He turned up the jazz playing through the radio and just focused on that, finally bringing himself down from being so flustered.
Alastor finished his cigarette and put out what was left in his ashtray. He looked at himself in the mirror again, looking a lot more collected. I can get through this stupid night. It’s just one night.
Alastor dressed up just a little for the occasion, enjoying the chance to doll himself up a little. He wasn’t wearing his usual coat, but instead a very dark red long sleeved dress shirt. He wasn’t about to show off his arms again, Angel seeing that much was more than enough for him. It was tucked into his pants and he felt he looked rather dapper.
Grabbing his staff, Alastor left his room and made his way to the dining room where Charlie was finalizing everything with Niffty’s help. It had been cleaned up nicely considering they hardly ever used it. “Everything looks lovely, Charlie.” Alastor spoke as he stepped inside.
Charlie looked around and eagerly ran over to Alastor. “You look so handsome!” She gushed. “I’m soooo excited!”
“I am too. This should be an…interesting evening.” Alastor’s gaze shifted up as Lucifer stepped into the room, instantly scowling at Alastor as he spoke with Charlie. Feeling a chance to piss Lucifer off even further, Alastor put his hand on Charlie’s shoulder. “It’s quite impressive that you convinced everyone to gather like this. You should be proud of yourself, I know I am.”
Tears and gratitude instantly filled Charlie’s round eyes. “Oh, Alastor. Thank you so much.” She gushed, holding her hands together. Alastor could see pure rage burning in Lucifer’s eyes and he quickly stormed over, shoving his way between Alastor and Charlie.
“Charlie,” Lucifer put his arm tightly around Charlie, pulling her close. “I knew from the start you could always do something like this.” Did you, though? Alastor’s smirk widened, enjoying how easy it was to irritate Lucifer. “And nothing is more important during this kind of holiday than family right?”
Before Charlie could answer, Alastor spoke instead. “I’d argue that this holiday is strengthened by found family, souls who only have each other to rely on—connected all to a kind soul such as yours, Charlie.”
Lucifer had a fire in his eyes and stepped close, glaring pure hatred up at Alastor. “And what are you doing, huh?” Lucifer challenged. “Looks like Charlie and her girlfriend did all the work.”
“Charlie and Vaggie definitely did a lot.” Alastor grinned down at him. “But I also made one of the meals, one that is quite tasty I might add!” Alastor narrowed his eyes, grinning more. “What have you helped out with?”
Lucifer’s face flushed with frustration. “You little--”
“Now now.” Alastor put his hand up. “We really shouldn’t be arguing like this. Not on a holiday like this.”
“Alastor’s right.” Charlie chimed in, putting her hand on Lucifer’s back. Her admitting that Alastor was right but was just the cherry on top and Lucifer looked like he was about to lose it, but Charlie reigned him in. “Come on, dad. You can help me set the table!”
As Charlie pulled him away Alastor turned his back on then, very proud of himself. That whole interaction had been incredibly amusing to him. He walked towards the kitchen, stepping inside and finding Angel looking into the pot of jambalaya, stirring it. Angel heard Alastor enter and looked over his shoulder.
He had changed out of the waitress outfit he had put himself in earlier and was not wearing an oversized, knit pink sweater and some soft looking black pants. It was…suprisingly modest. Certain thoughts tried creeping their way into Alastor’s mind but he shut them out. “Oh, hey Smiles.” Angel smiled. “Just checking on it.”
Alastor walked up to the stove where Angel was. “It should be done, just keeping it warm.” He stood beside Angel, subconsciously standing a little closer to him than normal.
“It smells really good.” Angel handed the stirring spoon to Alastor who stirred it himself, it did look quite perfect, especially since they had to improvise a bit on the ingredients. “I’m starvin’.”
“You can give it a try.” Alastor took a bit of the jambalaya onto the spoon, including a piece of sausage and holding it up for Angel to try.
Angel smiled and leaned down to take the bite. Right as he did this was when both of them seemed to realize what they were doing. He noticed Angel blushing and stepping back, coughing a bit on the food while Alastor pulled his back, feeling his own face heat up slightly. “That’s uh—hot, food’s hot, I mean.” Angel stumbled over his words. Alastor regained his composure quickly before Angel turned back around. “Tastes really good though.”
“Thank you.” Alastor said, putting the lid back on the pot. “I believe it’s just about time for everyone to eat.”
After a while longer, everyone began to gather around the table. Charlie and Lucifer had set it well and it was now covered with food and plates. The turkey Charlie and Vaggie made was in the center and Alastor set his jambalaya beside it. There were also some veggies and other small snacks.
He saw a display of various sweets, including a messy looking pie and some brownies made by Niffty and Sir Pentious. There was also multiple bottles of wine on the table, including one that Alastor in particular enjoyed. Husk’s contribution. Alastor figured. Charlie sat down at the head of the table, a lot of eager and happy emotions in her eyes.
At either side of her sat Vaggie and Lucifer and Alastor caught a taunting look from Lucifer as if he was bragging about the spot he was sitting at but Alastor didn’t really plan on sitting there anyway so he paid him no mind.
Alastor instead sat beside Vaggie, sitting between her and Niffty. On Niffty’s other side and the end of this side of the table was Husk, already taking a long drink of something Alastor couldn’t quite see.
Alastor saw Angel walk in with Cherri Bomb, the two of them laughing about something. Angel sat down beside Lucifer, directly across from Alastor and Cherri Bomb sat on his other side. Sir Pentious came in last and sat down beside Cherri, looking a little awkward about it but Alastor wasn’t sure why—he was only really focused on Angel.
“Thank you all so much for doing this.” Charlie started speaking, getting everyone’s attention. “I know this is probably all silly to you, and most of you did this when you were alive but…” Alastor could already see her tearing up. “I’m so grateful that you all decided to do this.”
“Not a problem, toots.” Angel spoke up, already pouring some wine into a glass and then pouring one for Cherri. “We’re all here for a good time.”
“I agree.” Alastor chimed in, pouring himself some wine. “Though the idea may be a bit silly, it’s fun to indulge ourselves every once in a while. Something we wouldn’t have been able to do without you, Charlie.” He raised his glass, briefly catching Lucifer’s irritated gaze. “To Charlie!”
“To Charlie!” Everyone else raised their glasses, clinking them with those closest. Charlie looked like she was about to start sobbing, but in a good way. Her face was flushed with the admiration from those around her.
“Thank you.” Charlie wiped her eyes with a napkin and squeezed Vaggie’s hand. “Let’s eat! All the food looks so yummy!”
Everyone started reaching for some of the food provided, Alastor certainly helped himself to plenty of the jambalaya he had made and also helped Niffty who couldn’t really reach across the table. Everyone started eating and enjoying the meal, engaging in conversation with those around them.
Alastor didn’t talk right away, he enjoyed the food and found his gaze kept drifting to Angel. He was laughing and smiling as he talked with Cherri, eating his food and sipping his wine. Alastor couldn’t help but think back to the moments that had shared recently, and how much more he found himself enjoying Angel’s company. I can’t keep this up. Alastor told himself silently. I need to stop this…but for tonight I won’t let it consume me. He took a bite of the turkey, it was good though he still preferred his own type of meat that he normally ate.
The conversations continued until everyone was full, Alastor had very much enjoyed the food and was pleased to see that the jambalaya had been eaten completely, he felt a sense of pride in his cooking.
“That was all incredibly delicious.” Pentious spoke, wiping his mouth with a napkin.
“Yeah that shit was tasty.” Cherri added, finishing up her glass of wine. “I thought Angie was jokin’ when he invited me to this shit. But it was fun.”
“I’m so glad everyone enjoyed.” Charlie gushed. “Before we have dessert, we should all go around saying what we’re thankful for! That’s what they do on Earth during this holiday. I’ll start!” Everyone let Charlie lead them off, though Alastor wasn’t sure was he was going to say. “I’m so thankful to all of you.” She looked at Vaggie. “For Vaggie, for being my partner and my rock. For my dad, for being back in my life again, for Angel and Pen for trusting me to help try and redeem you. For Niffty and Husk who, although a little unwilling, help me keep this place running, and for Alastor who despite being here for…different reasons has helped the hotel so much.”
“It’s my pleasure, dear.” Alastor lifted his glass slightly again before finishing off his wine.
“Why don’t we go around the table now, you can go next dad!” Charlie smiled at Lucifer.
“Oh, uh sure.” Lucifer looked awkward, looking a bit troubled as he thought it over. “Well uh, I’m grateful to have you, Charlie.” He took her hand. “I’m…proud of everything you’ve done.”
Charlie smiled, tearing up more and putting her hand on her chest. “Thank you, dad.” Lucifer leaned over and hugged her tight. “Your turn, Angel.”
Angel nervously rubbed the back of his head. “Well…I’m thankful for..” His eyes shifted to Alastor for just a brief second, Alastor was certain that he had been the only one who caught it. “Thankful for the chance you’ve given me, Charlie. Even if I end up fuckin’ it up in the end, thanks for takin’ a chance on me.”
Alastor struggled to listen to the others as they talked. He found that Angel had looked back at him, giving him a bashful smile and taking a sip of wine. Alastor couldn’t help but admire Angel’s smile. Why am I so drawn to him? Alastor looked away, just as Husk started to talk.
“I uh…I don’t fuckin’ know. I’m grateful for the booze…and I guess…” Husk growled. “You lot ain’t the worst to be around.”
“Tell me how you really feel, baby.” Angel flirted from across the table, making Husk just grumble things to himself. Alastor felt a biting sensation of…possessiveness. He didn’t like Angel flirting with Husk, but he had to force that down as well.
Next was Niffty and she eagerly spoke up. “I’m thankful for all the roaches I get to kill! And all the disgusting stains I get to clean up!”
“That’s…great Niffty.” Charlie said a bit awkwardly but smiled. “We’re glad to have you here.” Charlie looked at Alastor. “And you, Al?” He could feel them all looking at him and he caught Angel’s gaze for a moment.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity.” Alastor grinned. “This wayward bunch of unruly souls certainly provides me with plenty of entertainment.” He noticed Husk roll his eyes but Angel just laughed quietly, blushing faintly, making Alastor smile just a bit more.
“And Vaggie?” Charlie looked at her girlfriend, eyes full of love.
“I’m thankful for you, Charlie.” Vaggie took both her hands. “I’m thankful that I get to be by your side and watch your dreams come true.”
Charlie had been fighting tears this entire time, but they finally came out and they leaned in and shared a sweet kiss. It was a cute moment, Alastor had to admit. With the moment winding down. Everyone started helping themselves to dessert but Alastor wasn’t interested. He had another glass of wine and observed them.
Cherri and Sir Pentious were drinking quite a bit of wine, but Alastor noticed Angel wasn’t drinking as much as he usually did, only on his second glass of wine but Cherri was one her fourth and Pentious on his third.
When everyone finally finished, Alastor stood up glancing down at Niffty who was already haphazardly gathering everyone's plates. “Niffty, dear. Would you like assistance with those?”
“No thanks, Alastor!” Niffty looked over at him, her one eye wide with excitement. “I like cleaning the filthy dishes.”
“Your hard work is always appreciated.” Alastor watched as she rushed off to the kitchen, he heard a couple dishes fall and shatter. Feeling full and satisfied with the day, Alastor excused himself to return to his room for the evening.
Once in his room, he rolled up his sleeves a bit, setting his staff down and letting himself relax. He decided to smoke again, trying to wind down from everything that had happened. He sat on his bed, taking a long drag of the cigarette, thoughts of Angel flooding his mind. He closed his eyes, sighing as he breathed out a cloud of smoke.
He had enjoyed each moment, and that’s what confused him the most. He was not used to these kinds of thoughts, and he didn’t like it. He felt like he didn’t have any control over his emotions, and that was not something he liked feeling. Alastor thrived on having control, on having complete composure. Yet Angel seemed to shake the foundation of all of that. He needed to figure out what to do about this, but he didn’t know what the answer was.
He considered talking to Rosie, but he really didn’t know if that would help or if she would just tease him. Alastor took another drag, rubbing his temples. A knock at his door brought Alastor’s focus back. He tensed just a bit and stood back up to put the cigarette out and went to the door.
When he opened the door and saw Angel Dust looking down at him his ears went back very slightly, not enough for Angel Dust to notice thankfully. “Oh, Angel Dust.” Alastor greeted, not showing that he was caught off guard at all. “What can I do for you?”
“I was uh,” Angel had a perturbed expression on his face. “I was hopin’ that we could talk.”
Say no. Alastor tried to force himself, but for some reason he just gave a small nod. “Very well.” He stepped to the side and motioned for Angel to enter his room. What am I doing? Angel looked around curiously. “I’ve never been in here…” He glanced towards the part of his room that looked more like a bayou. “That’s…”
“It reminds me of home.” Alastor chimed in before he could say much else. “What did you need to talk about?”
“Right.” Angel took a deep breath, clearly trying to gather his thoughts. “Look…shit’s been kinda weird between us.” Alastor already didn’t like where this conversation was going. “And I don’t want it to be.”
“It doesn’t have to be.” Alastor replied, trying to put a stop to his train of thought. “I don’t think there is anything weird between us.”
“Alastor,” Angel’s voice was strained, almost sounding frustrated. He sighed again. “You told me to tell you exactly what was on my mind, so I’m going to.” Alastor’s ears went down more and he tightened one fist, very quickly regretting his choice of words from that particular interaction.
“Very well then.” Alastor forced his ears back up. “What do you have to say?”
“That night you and I drank together.” The look in Angel’s eyes grew distant as he reflected on that moment. “It was…” He shook his head, a bold expression overtaking his face. “I almost kissed you.” Alastor’s face burned as the sharp hissing of a radio filled the room. “You can deny it all you want but you’re not fuckin’ stupid. You noticed it too and you didn’t stop me. Then you avoided me for two fuckin’ weeks.”
Alastor stepped away, moving back towards his vanity, leaning against it slightly. “I don’t know—”
“Don’t give me that shit, Alastor,” Angel snapped, cutting him off. “You know something is going on. You go from ignoring me, to being weirdly kind and soft to me then trying to scare me. It’s fuckin’ confusing.” Angel held his arms. “I—” Angel tripped over his words. “I have weird feelings for you, okay? And you’re not helping by being even more fuckin’ cryptic around me than usual.”
Alastor felt his face burning, his body tensing at Angel’s outburst and partial confession. “That’s just who I am, Angel.” Alastor explained, trying to dismiss everything. Perhaps I’m being a coward. He ignored the thought.
“I’ve seen how you act around everyone else.” Angel retorted, there was a swelling storm of emotions in his eyes. “And it’s not the same. I’ve seen you get flustered and shy around me. You don’t do that with anyone else.”
Alastor’s ears went back and his eyes darted to his staff for a brief moment. “That’s not what I’m doing.”
“Bullshit.” Angel stepped closer, through the pain and frustration, Alastor could see something else; a sense of longing. “You’re doing it right now. I can see clear as day, Smiles.” He moved closer and Alastor panicked for just a split second. He grabbed his staff and with a crackle of green energy, two shadowy tendrils shot up from behind, wrapping around two of Angel’s wrists and stopping him from moving. Angel looked over his shoulder at them, pulling against the shadows. “What the fuck is this?” He looked back at Alastor, his eyes pleading. “Are you really too chicken shit to admit to anything?”
Alastor was rapidly losing his composure and he hated it. He stood up straight, gripping his staff so tight his hand trembled as shadows and dark energy formed around his body. “I think our conversation is done.”
“Fuck that.” Angel grit his teeth and pulled harder against the shadows. Alastor reinforced them, but he wasn’t completely focused—of all the things that weakened his power, Angel Dust wasn’t supposed to be one of them.
There was a sudden snapping noise as Angel broke through Alastor’s restraints. The amount of effort Angel had been exerting was enough to send him flying forward. Alastor couldn’t react in time and Angel’s body collided with his. He lost his grip on his staff and it fell to the ground, but he managed to at least catch himself on the vanity so he didn’t completely fall to the ground.
Angel unfortunately caught himself on Alastor. He could feel Angel’s body against his and the taller demon towered over him. His claws dug deep into the wood to keep himself up and Angel put one set of hands on the vanity, placing them either side of Alastor. Angel lifted his head, clearly a little winded from his fall.
Their eyes met and Alastor saw his face turn red, and as much as he hated to admit he knew his was the same—ears flat against his head. He was forced to stare into Angel’s eyes, the spider demon blinking as he seemed to think about the situation they were in. Alastor knew he should move, but he couldn’t. Being those close to Angel suddenly brought him back to the night they nearly kissed, and it didn’t help his current frozen state.
Alastor didn’t know what he expected from Angel, but it certainly wasn’t for him to smile and laugh. He was confused, he was flustered and everything he felt was so incredibly frustrating. “Sorry, Smiles.” Angel stood up straight, stepping back and giving Alastor some space to gain his composure. “Look.” He sighed, his expression softening and rubbing his arm. “I get it, I do.” Angel sighed quietly. “I know what you’re like…well kinda. Whatever you do feel for me,” A slight shadow crossed his eyes. “But I do get that you wouldn’t want…anything with someone like me.” Someone like you? “I lost my temper, and got…overwhelmed by my emotions. I’m sorry.” Angel glanced back at Alastor. “I just…wanted to let you know that…I do have feelings for you.” He quickly looked away, Alastor still frozen from his own emotions. “I don’t know what you feel for me, but…you don’t have to tell me.”
Angel turned his back to Alastor and headed for the door. Alastor knew he should just let Angel walk away, maybe then all this would finally stop. However, a more deafening thought overtook all the others. If he let Angel Dust walk away now, there would be no turning back. “Angel Dust.” Alastor finally spoke up, making Angel stop in his tracks before opening the door. He looked over his shoulder at Alastor. Alastor exhaled slowly and stood up straight, adjusting his monocle. “I’m not good at…this.” He reached for his staff. “I want it to be known that my hesitations have nothing to do with who you are or what you do.”
Angel looked surprised at me. “Really?” He said in disbelief.
“Yes.” Alastor nodded slowly. “You have one of the oldest professions, I didn’t judge it when I was alive and I don’t judge it now. Sometimes I do take issue with your…flirting.” Alastor pushed his way through this, trying to find the words to somehow match his feelings, it honestly felt like he was just talking without any actual train of thought. “The truth is I don’t know what I feel. I haven’t embraced this kind of emotions well…really ever.” He glanced down at his staff, tapping his claws against it.
“So what do you know?” Angel’s tone wasn’t pressing, it seemed concerned and definitely curiously.
“I know that I enjoy spending time with you, more than other demons.” Alastor managed to admit.
Angel let out a small, amused laugh. “Well that’s somethin’ right?” His eyes softened with every word Alastor spoke, something about his gaze made this all the slightest bit easier.
“I thought you looked…nice in that outfit you wore earlier.” Alastor’s face burned as he admitted this. “And now, frankly.” He was a little surprised to see Angel blush at this compliment. Surely he gets compliments all the time. Alastor struggled to find more words, he hated this. He hated not being able to speak when he was normally so articulate and put together, it was embarrassing.
“I can see this is hard for ya’.” Angel spoke instead, walking closer to him “I don’t need some big…dramatic speech. Just knowing you don’t hate me is enough.” Angel reached down, taking one of Alastor’s hands in his own and he didn’t stop him, he liked how it felt. “I never want to force you to be something your not, that kinda defeats the purpose of me fallin’ for you.” Falling for? “I wanna make this easy for you. We don’t hafta do anything crazy. So lemme make it simple. Do you want me to leave? Yes or no?”
Alastor hesitated for only a brief moment. “No.” He replied, managing to find his compliments.
“Then I won’t.” Angel held Alastor’s hand a little tighter, moving in closer to him, interlocking their fingers. Alastor felt himself being gently pulled closer to Angel and the burning in his cheeks only got more intense, his ears still flat against his head. “You can relax around me, Smiles. It’s just us.” Angel got a bold look in his eyes and another one of his hands reached up. Alastor’s body went rigid as he felt Angel touching his hair, his hands going to the base of his ears. “These things must piss you off, huh?” Angel gently pet one of his fluffy ears and he hated how soothing it felt.
“You have no idea.” Alastor grumbled. “I can’t always…control them.”
Angel laughed quietly and sweetly. His hand moved through Alastor’s hair and down to his cheek, his fingertips soft against Alastor’s skin. Every single thing Angel did was so soft and he seemed to be watching Alastor’s reactions closer. “I don’t want to push you, Al. Even if I do love seeing ya all flustered like this. It’s really cute.”
Alastor’s eye twitched, of all the ways he had been described he hadn’t been called “cute” since he was alive, he couldn’t help but let out somewhat of a growl that only seemed to amuse Angel more.
“I’ve got one more question for ya, Smiles.” Angel kept his hand on Alastor’s face, still holding his hand. Alastor tilted his head slightly, wondering what it could be. “I’m all about spontaneous romance…but I’m not sure you would be so I just wanna ask…” Alastor noticed a deep blush spreading across Angel’s face. “Can I kiss ya?”
The question caught Alastor completely off guard, he dropped his staff to the ground. He hadn’t expected this, though they had almost kissed once before now it was completely Alastor’s choice. Is this what I want? He looked over Angel’s face and saw patience and sincerity. Angel had been right about the fact that it was just the two of them, no one else could see Alastor; he had already shown more than he ever intended to Angel, something that there wasn’t any turning back from.
“Yes.” Alastor finally replied, hoping that this wasn’t something he would end up regretting.
Angel smiled softly, his eyes were gentle, kind and full of a gentle desire. Alastor stayed still as Angel leaned in closely, pressing his lips to Alastor’s. Loud static filled the room around them as Alastor felt a whirlwind of emotions raging through his mind and body. He couldn’t remember the last time he had kissed someone, but Angel’s lips were soft and gentle. They felt…familiar in a way that Alastor couldn’t explain.
A soothing warmth spread slowly through Alastor’s body, the epicenter being where his and Angel’s lips met. He felt his body calming as the initial shock wore off, his ears returned to a more relaxed state and he felt…at peace. The kiss only lasted for a few seconds despite everything Alastor felt.
He could feel Angel pulling away, clearly not wanting to push Alastor into something he didn’t want. But I do want this. Before Angel could pull too far, Alastor reached out and grabbed Angel by his sweater and pulled him back into the kiss.
He heard Angel gasp against his lips and instantly what started as a gentle first kiss turned into something more. Angel moved his hand back up into Alastor’s soft red hair. While his one hand still held Alastor’s free hand, his other two moved to Alastor’s shoulders—pulling himself closer to Alastor.
Alastor leaned more into the kiss, their bodies getting as close as they were when Angel had fallen against him. He could feel Angel’s warmth, his comforting presence and the kiss deepened. Alastor let go of Angel’s sweater and moved his other hand to Angel’s back, closing the gap completely between their bodies as he pushed Angel a little closer.
He didn’t know how long this kiss lasted, he lost himself in the sensation of Angel’s lips and the subtle taste of wine and strawberries, it was almost hypnotic. Alastor didn’t ever think he would enjoy something like this, but he did—he really did.
They finally separated slowly, Angel stealing one more soft peck on the lips before smiling sweetly. They stayed closed together, holding each other just as they had done during the kiss. “You’re full of surprises.” Angel spoke, his voice so soft and sweet to Alastor’s ears. “Happy Thanksgiving, Smiles.”
Alastor looked up at Angel Dust, he felt a lot calmer now. There was no longer an inferno of confusion and overwhelming emotions raging inside of him, he still didn’t quite know what would come of this. This was the last outcome he ever expected from Charlie’s decision to share a Thanksgiving meal, but Alastor could now confidently say it wasn’t a bad thing. “Happy Thanksgiving, Angel Dust.”