The feline glanced towards his boss for a moment, but Alastor seemed focused on his mug of mulled wine. "Got some more of that mulled wine shit if that's what you're after." He cleared his throat and adjusted his bowtie. "Or are you interested in something a bit more...aged?"
Alastor rolled his eyes. Honestly, when were the gifts going to be handed out so he didn't have to suffer through this?
The bartender's choice in words were not lost on him, his eyes flickering over the feline. Aged liquor indeed. Oh Daddy issues. Angel hummed softly to himself, again drawing lazy circles on the bar as he stared intensely with unmasked lust at Husker.
"I do like 'em old. Richer the flavor." Angel mused. "But tonight I am looking for something more in the holiday spirit. I have been craving something with a little cream in it. Ya think you can help me out with that?"
The corners of Angel's lips twisted up into a wicked smirk. Oh, he thinks he maybe could help in the sweetness department. But before he could dish out another cheesy pickup like, his game was thrown off by the sudden appearance of Alastor by his side. Excuse him, Al, he's working here.
Angel looked over at the deer with a cocked brow. "What are ya goin' on about? Me and Husk were talking drinks. What ever else you think is goin' on is on you." Angel's eyes snapped back to the bartender. "So whose dick I gotta suck for a drink?"
"What a coincidence! I'm also talking about food!" Alastor laughed before turning back to his seat and starting to walk.
"Fuckin' prick," Husk growled.
Alastor heard -- the feline knew he had -- but he chose not to respond, simply sitting back down and slowly sipping at his wine.
Thoroughly annoyed, Husk looked back to Angel and answered the spider's question: "Mine." His mouth twisted into a smirk as he saw Alastor choke for a moment. "But since it's Christmas, you can settle up your tab after the party. What're you having?"
Why was Al acting so weird? Angel made no attempt to hide his true intentions for this evening with the deer beforehand. Hell, he even helped him pick out the lingerie. Granted... that was forced upon him by Angel but still! It was almost like he didn't want him to...
HA! No, that couldn't be right. He would have said something earlier. There had to be a different reason. Angel tried to think if anyone else has ever openly flirted in front of Alastor... maybe this was just his normal reaction? After all he didn't like these things.
But even Angel himself was taken back by Husker's candid response to his off handed joke. Behind him he could hear the sound of the radio demon choking on his drink. Same, Al, same. Was he serious? Well... Angel was game to find out. It felt off having someone play into his senseless flirting after ramming himself against a brick wall for so long. Not going to lie, it was too easy. Even a little boring. But he found himself matching the feline's intensity, smirking back.
"Ain't that nice of you~ I'll have a White Russian to start. And Husk..." Angel leans in dangerously close to whisper. "I know I ain't your Secret Santa but, if you play your cards right I have a little gift for ya later~"
One of the spider's secondary hands teased at the hem of his dress to flash Husker something black and strappy around one of his thighs.
Had anyone openly flirted in front of Alastor? Of course not. Not since Alastor died and came to Hell. Honestly, Angel, did you forget how people fled at the sight of him?
Husk smirked as he started mixing, handing over the White Russian before making a second drink with vodka and cranberry juice.
Oh message received loud and clear. Someone was going to be coming down his chimney tonight for sure. It was almost too easy. This is what he wanted so why wasn't he feeling more... excited? Ugh, no time to think about it. Drink your drinks! It's a fucking party!
Eagerly Angel consumed his drinks to numb whatever the fuck he was starting to feel, exchanging more off handed flirting with the feline bartender. After this drinks were sucked dry, there was a pleasant buzz humming in his head that drowned out all rational thoughts. Sometime during his second drink, the spider had crawled up to sit on the bar, his long legs dangling behind it where Husker was working getting... really handsy with the cat.
"Has anyone ever told ya that your ears look... real soft?" Without waiting for a reply Angel's hands were already on the move to reach up and touch them.
Husk reached up to move his hands away. "Yeah but I'm not a fan of people scratching them. But I wouldn't mind you petting something else if you're interested."
Alastor practically leaped from his chair. "We're running low on treats, aren't we?! I'll go make some more!"
Husk cast a dour look in Alastor's direction as Charlie awkwardly laughed.
"Don't worry about the snacks, Al," Charlie said. "How about we open presents?"
Mentally Charlie crossed her fingers that the gifts Alastor and Angel had unknowingly gotten each other would patch up whatever had caused the obviously hurt feelings between them.
"Oh meow~" Angel's grin was vile, wicked from end to end. But his shoulders slumped with irritation at yet another interruption. It was like the universe was against him trying to get laid. Though... to be fair.... their flirting was on full display so he guessed he could understand a bit. Huffing a heavy sigh, Angel slipped off the countertop almost falling into the feline's arms.
"To be continued~" Angel shot him a wink, dragging a long finger over Husk's chest as he turned to walk away. Seeing how no one seemed to be jumping to volunteer to go first, Angel chirped happily. "I'll go first!"
Pulling a small Santa sack out of nowhere, Angel strolled up to Alastor plopping himself down on the coffee table in front of the deer. Reaching inside he removed a small black velvet box tied shut with a red satin ribbon which was fastened into a neat little bow on top. The gift fit perfectly in the spider's palm and if Alastor was a betting man, its contents was probably what Angel hid in the depths of his pink and white bag.
"Merry Christmas Al." Angel said fondly, giving Alastor a warm smile. "Open it."
When the demon went to remove the bow and open the small box, Alastor would find an elegantly minted golden pocket watch. Embossed along the rim of the watch was a woodland scene intricately woven together that all encompassed the main center piece. Boldly engraved in the center was a magnificently regal stag, standing tall and proud.
"I saw it at the antique shop and it made me think of you and Buckley..." Angel chuckled softly. "I thought the colors would work well with your outfit too... I hope you like it."
Seeing the little box, Alastor had tilted his head to one side. Too large to be a ring box (thank goodness!) but what could it be?
He untied the ribbon and opened the box, looking at the golden pocket watch. It really was a work of art, built for both form and function. Why would anyone possibly part with it unless they had no other choice?
His shadow swooped upwards to take a look, clapping its hands mutely with delight.
Alastor cast his shadow a bemused look. "Yes, I quite agree." He looked to Angel, his smile more genuine than normal. "It's very thoughtful. Thank you." He looked down at it and began winding the watch. "Honestly, I don't think I ever owned anything quite so nice both living or dead!"
He hadn't been particularly wealthy in life. After becoming a successful radio host, it hadn't been for lack of funds but he'd just never really spent anything more than what he'd needed. Too used to not having enough for the basics much less anything particularly ostentatious. When the stock market crashed, it was an attitude that had helped him weather the storm somewhat.
Here in Hell and constantly on the move? Well, he might not see any possessions he owned for years depending on which of his bolt holes he'd stashed them in, so he typically kept only the bare necessities in them. It was best to keep things small enough to keep in his pockets. Whether Angel realized it or not, he'd picked a truly useful and touching gift.
Angel would have been lying if he said he wasn't a bit nervous about the gift he picked. He hadn't see the demon wear such a thing before and part of him was worried that it might be too flashy for his taste. Alastor was a tricky guy to shop for and with him being stuck a the hotel, his opportunities for shopping was limited. So he was fortunate that he had stumbled across in on their little outing. Seeing Alastor's reaction to his gift warmed his heart.
Angel leans back on his hands clicking his tongue, smirking proudly to himself. "It ain't over yet Al. Open it up~"
On the inside of the golden cover was an image of all the residences of the Happy Hotel. How Angel acquired such a picture, his lips were sealed.
"Now you can carry us where you go." Angel gave Alastor an all knowing glance.
Alastor was struck completely silent as he stared at the image. It was all of them at the bar in a relaxed moment. It must've been taken with a film camera because even Alastor could be seen clearly. (Anything digital attempting to take his photograph never worked properly, his own image coming out glitchy at best.) Even Vaggie seemed calm and less on-guard than usual. Even more unusual: Husk had a content smile on his face.
How had Angel gotten such a picture? When?
The Radio Demon had no heart. Everyone knew that. Yet something deep inside his chest keened with longing as he looked at the happy photograph. From the outside, they almost looked like the family Charlie claimed they were.
Charlie leaned over his shoulder to see what had struck the radio host mute. She beamed at Angel. "Oh, wow! Angel, this is incredible! When did you get the picture?!"
The rest of the hazbins of the hotel swarmed around to take a look, praising Angel's stealthy photography skills and teasing one another as was their want.
Alastor's throat constricted with the close proximity and the sudden surge of emotion. When was the last time he'd taken a photograph with anyone like this? When had people at least looked happy in his presence? Did Angel even realize what a treasure he'd given Alastor?
He swallowed, attempting to clear the obstruction and failing. His voice came out somewhat strangled as he said, "Thank you, Angel." He cleared his throat. "Excuse me a moment."
He teleported into the kitchen: close enough to hear what was going on but far enough to reset himself. He grimaced as he heard the radio on the shelf behind the bar suddenly starting to croon with one of the more modern jazz performers' voice:
♪♫ I'm dreaming tonight of a place I love Even more than I usually do And although I know it's a long road back I promise you
I'll be home for Christmas You can count on me Please have snow and mistletoe And presents by the tree
Christmas eve will find me Where the love light gleams I'll be home for Christmas If only in my dreams ♪♫
Angel basked in the glow of everyone's shock at his handy work, still keeping tight lipped about how he managed to steal such a shot. He was a man with many talents~ But trust him, it wasn't easy. One of the good things about having so much time on his hands, it allowed him to capture this moment. His first few attempts were a complete disaster. Using his mobile hell phone, all the pictures distorted Alastor's face like some creepy horror movie curse. At first he thought it was just the lighting or his phone was fucked up, but it kept happening no matter how much he tried. He was about to give up when one day he was bored out his gourd, Angel found an old dusty film camera up in the cobweb infested old attic. Thankfully for him, it still worked and had a roll of film inside. But even then, there was a lot of trail and error to get the perfect photo. It was a pretty damn good shot if he didn't say so himself. When he found that pocket watch at the antique shop, he knew he had to do something more.
His high didn't last long as Alastor abruptly teleported away. Angel could feel his heart plummet to his stomach, his eyes going wide. Oh fuck oh fuck oh fuck. Did he do something wrong? Did he not like it? What did he do? Or... Was that it? He said he was going to leave after the gifts. He told no one else but him about that. So did he leave? In silent panic the spider sat frozen as the other residence gave each other knowing looks, all wordlessly agreeing to give the radio demon his space. For the next minute or so it felt like Angel was having an outer body experience, not fully connected to everyone else gathering around the tree to pass out the presents nestled beneath. Angel needed some air.... or another stiff drink. The latter won.
Finally gaining control of his body again, he rose to his feet to walk back over to the bar but something red caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. His head snapped over to see Alastor sitting by himself, alone, in the kitchen. The deer was still here. Relief surged through him and he quietly slipped away from the party to loom in the doorway. Secretly he watched Alastor for a moment, studying the sour expression on his face. Fuck. Did he screw up? Angel sighed, rapping his knuckles gently on the wood frame to announce his presence.
"You okay Al?" Angel asked sheepishly as he slowly stepped into the kitchen. "Sorry if I upset ya."
"No. I mean, yes, I'm fine. I just...I needed a minute. Too many people crowded around me. Not used to it."
Another "not entirely a lie" statement. Everyone crowding around to look at the photograph had put far too many people into his personal space bubble. Add to that his emotions running high from the actual photograph...well...he'd needed to bail to reset.
The pocket watch was open and cradled in his claws. He was staring down at it, face relaxing, as he resigned himself to "I'll Be Home For Christmas" playing in time with his scattered emotions.
His shadow waved to Angel, trying to draw his attention. Then it put on a little shadow play of a lone man walking past houses filled with people gathered together. All of the people including the loner were smiling but the lone man's eyes were turned downward, hinting that the smile wasn't genuine.
Unaware of what his shadow was doing, Alastor said softly, "This really is the finest gift I've ever been given. Anything I might've gotten you seems inadequate by comparison."
Quietly Angel listened to the radio host as he kept slowly approaching, being mindful to keep his distance. Alastor had just been through a lot of sensory over load and he didn't want to spook him. Watching Buckley's little puppet show made his heart ache a bit. Spending the day with him, he experienced a fraction of isolation he had endured for decades. For the first time since Angel had met this man, it was an understatement to say that the deer was guarded. This was the most open and raw he has ever seen him. Has hell frozen over? If he was to look outside right now, would it be a white Christmas?
Pulling himself up on the kitchen counter a little ways from the other demon, Angel stared down at his laced fingers. Funny... to find them again in this kitchen baring their souls to each other like this. Fate you wicked bitch.
"I'm glad ya like it. I was a bit worried I did somethin' wrong when you vanished." Angel started. "The day we spent together... I know you say you don't care about others but when I saw them run away... I could tell you were hurtin'. So I thought you might need a reminder of the people who do enjoy having you around." The spider paused, his heart pounding against his chest. "... I enjoy having you around. I'm sorry if it seems like recently I don't. I've just had my own shit to sort out, ya know? I felt like every time I was around ya, I ended up hurting you. I thought you would be better off if I wasn't around." Angel snorts bitterly reaching up to run his hand through his hair. "Fuck, sounds so damn cheesy when I say it out loud. And Al..." The spider turned to look at him. ".. it ain't a contest. You got me something?"
"I...yes. I was your Secret Santa," Alastor said softly. "I wasn't really shopping for one of the ladies. Besides, I've known Niffty for decades. Do you honestly think I'm so narcissistic that I wouldn't have at least some inkling of what she might like?"
He gave a wry chuckle at that.
"The shopping trip was actually to see what caught your eye. You and I are so different from one another that I was utterly lost on what you might want. If I have to do something, I prefer to do it right."
Angel had given him a token that held so much meaning to him, and what had Alastor done? He'd gotten him a record player.
"I know you said it isn't a contest, but...you really don't know how much this pocket watch means to me." He chuckled. "I made my living off of almost nonstop chatter, and I now find myself utterly lost for words."
He finally looked up at Angel from his seat on the floor. It was a good thing his eyes were already multiple shades of red so it made moisture harder to see in them.
Oh he fucking knew something was up that day. Though he didn't know exactly what but Alastor was acting very suspiciously. Now he knew why. Wait. Something suddenly clicked into place in his head. Charlie. That sneaky bitch rigged Secret Santa! Though... he wasn't complaining. Well played Charlie... well played. He will think of a clever payback later.
"Of course... no thanks needed." Angel said warmly. "You know, in my line of work you learn real quick how to read people. But Smiles, you're a tough one to crack. I don't know what is left or right with you sometimes. And yeah, we're night 'n day on a lot of things but that's what I like about us. It's never borin'."
Angel kicked himself off the counter to carefully creep closer to the deer, getting on his knees to kneel before him.
"Don't beat yourself up over stupid material shit. You're such a fucking dumbass that you don't realize that you've already given me the best gift anyone ever could. Hope." Angel paused to let the weight of that sink in. "No one has ever given two shits about my situation, save for Cherri. And even if things don't pan out and I get pulled back into the flames well shit... its more than a filthy sinner like me deserves. Although...." A grin crept at the corners of his lips, leaning over until he was on all fours, his floof again dangerously close to spill over. "I'd be lyin' if I said I wasn't curious on what you got me~"
"Well, you can go find out. I just need another minute or two to pull myself back together." He adjusted his bowtie. "Honestly I should cut myself off for the rest of the evening. Too much mulled wine turns me into a complete fool, it seems."
He looked back down at the watch before clicking the cover closed. He leaned his head back against the lower cabinets, taking a moment to close his eyes and breathe. Just breathe...calm down...just breathe...
However, Angel would easily see that Alastor kept the watch cradled in his claws, not putting it away even though he'd closed it. The Radio Demon was going to be holding on to the trinket for quite some time.
"Nah, not a chance. I won't be opening any presents unless you're there." Angel moved to sit back down on his knees, shaking his head. "Yeah, you were goin' at it pretty hard earlier. Reminded me of someone drinking to forget."
Given what he knew about Alastor, that was probably not entirely untrue. The holidays must be a sore subject to the constant outcast. He didn't blame the guy for wanting to get plastered. Even Angel had plans to get trashed tonight but for a totally different set of reasons. Get wasted, fuck Husk, don't think about Al. Which, he was failing miserably to accomplish at the moment. The little box he stuffed his complicated emotions into was bursting at the seams watching Alastor clutch at his gift. He fought the urge to crawl beside him to rest his head on the deer's shoulder and wait with him. That would for sure set him back off. Fuck. Did he actually lik-?!
No no no. Were they friends? He just tolerates you. Barely. Stupid Angel, don't get your feelings twisted. He doesn't feel that way about you so let. It. Gooooo. Get back in the box and set it on fire.
Swallowing the lump that suddenly just formed in his throat, Angel rose to stand up and walked over to the sink. Taking a glass he poured a cup of water taking it back over the poor deer and placed it beside him.
"Drink this. It'll help ya sober up." Angel said turning to head back out, but paused at the doorway, looking back. "You better not think about disappearing tonight without sayin' goodbye. I'll kick your skinny little ass."
And with that, Angel rejoined the others and marched straight up to the bar with a slight distress look on his face. He wasn't drunk enough for this shit. "Oh Husky~ Can you be a doll and pour me a couple shots?"
Alastor watched Angel go, the kitchen around him turning black as the little shadow creatures swarmed him, cautiously approaching him to do what Alastor had no idea Angel had wanted to do. He chewed the inside of his cheek to try and calm himself as he clutched the pocket watch tighter.
Breathe...just breathe...
----------
Back at the bar, Husk gave a casual shrug to Angel's question. "Sure."
While Husk went to work, Charlie walked over. "Is everything okay with you two?" She chewed her lower lip, guilt all over her face. She'd thought her little manipulation of the Secret Santas would help things but it seemed like she'd just made things worse. "I could talk to him if you want." She fidgeted with her hands. "Or if you just wanna talk, that's good, too."
This is not how Angel thought this evening would go. Get drunk, have a little no string attached fun, escape his feelings. Nope. Instead he just got dick slapped in the face with a truck load of them. No matter how much he tried the cram those feelings back inside, he could no longer fight the reality that he liked Alastor. He liked Alastor. Seeing him curled up on that cold floor, he just wanted to sit next him to comfort him, to touch him. But he was afraid. As powerful as Alastor was, he was extremely fragile. Angel knew he was wanting something he couldn't have. He was going drown any thoughts of him wanting to kiss the other demon in cheap booze.
The instant a single shot hit the counter, Angel snatched it up and pounded it back. Already it was feeling good to have the pleasant burn in his gut. Okay, pull yourself together. Slapping on his usual grin he turned to face Charlie.
"We're just peachy. We talked it out a bit. He just needs a moment to himself. A lot to take in." Angel waved his hand. "Its not a party if there isn't a little family drama, am I right?"
"Yeah, but this was supposed to be drama-free," Charlie said, continuing to fidget with her hands. "I thought it'd help you two clear the air or something. I couldn't help noticing you were avoiding Al and then he started avoiding you..." She chewed her lower lip again. "I didn't think I'd make things worse."
"And you haven't, my dear!"
Charlie about jumped out of her skin as Alastor's voice called from just behind her. She gave a shriek and whirled about to nearly end up smacking herself in the face with the tray of mugs Alastor was brandishing. Fortunately, Alastor lifted it up just enough to avoid disaster. He lowered it again, offering the tray to her, Angel, and Husk.
"Hope you don't mind I took the liberty to make some hot chocolate. The real thing, not that grotesque powder," Alastor said cheerfully, no hint of his earlier melancholy registering on his face or in his mannerisms.
"Um...th-thank you, Al." Charlie took a mug and then helped herself to quite a few of the mini marshmallows in the bowl in the center of the mugs.
In combination of Charlie's scream and the sudden appearance of the demon in question, Angel nearly jumped out of his own skin. Fucking Hell! His heart has been through enough this evening as it is. Throwing back another shot in quick session, he spun on the stool to look at Alastor. Someone looked like they were back to their old self. Though remembering the puppet show Buckley put on earlier, he had a feeling it was just a cover. Never the less, Angel grinned back.
"Damn, Smiles. You had time to do all that?" Angel reached out to take a mug for himself as well. "It smells good. Thanks~"
Spinning back around to the bar, without bothering to ask he snatched up a bottle of Bailey's and poured himself a hefty amount into the hot sweet drink. Must. Drown. Out. Thoughts. Putting the bottle back in place he took a long sip. Yep, everything was fine Charlie. Just fiiiiine.
"Mmm~ that hits the spot." Angel curled his fingers tightly around the mug. "Are all the gifts passed out all ready?"
"Yup!" Niffty chirped. She beamed up from the neatly-organized piles of gifts. She darted about, placing them next to their appropriate recipients as Alastor finished passing out the hot chocolate and returned to his former seat.
Alastor predictably had the smallest stack. However, he legitimately didn't mind that. Just being here to enjoy the evening was enough. It was more than he'd had in a long, long time after all. The extra set of presents -- all wrapped in green paper with silver ribbons and name tags without senders on them -- would be discovered later after Alastor had left. He'd made sure of it with a light glamour which deepened the shadows just enough beneath the Christmas tree for someone to overlook them. When he left, the glamour would be lifted so anyone would see the gifts.
"Surprised you don't have a pile of coal," Vaggie said dryly, nodding towards Alastor's meager gift pile.
"Given how hot it is down here, coal is a bit hard to come by since it isn't needed!"
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Alastor rolled his eyes. Honestly, when were the gifts going to be handed out so he didn't have to suffer through this?
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Oh Daddy issues. Angel hummed softly to himself, again drawing lazy circles on the bar as he stared intensely with unmasked lust at Husker."I do like 'em old. Richer the flavor." Angel mused. "But tonight I am looking for something more in the holiday spirit. I have been craving something with a little cream in it. Ya think you can help me out with that?"
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Husk wasn't blind and he certainly wasn't a prude like Alastor. He wasn't exactly rolling in offers either. It'd be fun to have a Christmas treat.
Alastor getting up to refill his glass of mulled wine from the little crockpot sitting on the bar made Husk's expression sour.
"Don't mind me!" Alastor chirped. "I just need something to was down the syrup."
Husk flipped off the deer, growling.
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Angel looked over at the deer with a cocked brow. "What are ya goin' on about? Me and Husk were talking drinks. What ever else you think is goin' on is on you." Angel's eyes snapped back to the bartender. "So whose dick I gotta suck for a drink?"
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"Fuckin' prick," Husk growled.
Alastor heard -- the feline knew he had -- but he chose not to respond, simply sitting back down and slowly sipping at his wine.
Thoroughly annoyed, Husk looked back to Angel and answered the spider's question: "Mine." His mouth twisted into a smirk as he saw Alastor choke for a moment. "But since it's Christmas, you can settle up your tab after the party. What're you having?"
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HA! No, that couldn't be right. He would have said something earlier. There had to be a different reason. Angel tried to think if anyone else has ever openly flirted in front of Alastor... maybe this was just his normal reaction? After all he didn't like these things.
But even Angel himself was taken back by Husker's candid response to his off handed joke. Behind him he could hear the sound of the radio demon choking on his drink. Same, Al, same. Was he serious? Well... Angel was game to find out. It felt off having someone play into his senseless flirting after ramming himself against a brick wall for so long. Not going to lie, it was too easy. Even a little boring. But he found himself matching the feline's intensity, smirking back.
"Ain't that nice of you~ I'll have a White Russian to start. And Husk..." Angel leans in dangerously close to whisper. "I know I ain't your Secret Santa but, if you play your cards right I have a little gift for ya later~"
One of the spider's secondary hands teased at the hem of his dress to flash Husker something black and strappy around one of his thighs.
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Husk smirked as he started mixing, handing over the White Russian before making a second drink with vodka and cranberry juice.
"It's a mistletoe. On the house."
About as subtle as a semi-truck but there it was.
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Eagerly Angel consumed his drinks to numb whatever the fuck he was starting to feel, exchanging more off handed flirting with the feline bartender. After this drinks were sucked dry, there was a pleasant buzz humming in his head that drowned out all rational thoughts. Sometime during his second drink, the spider had crawled up to sit on the bar, his long legs dangling behind it where Husker was working getting... really handsy with the cat.
"Has anyone ever told ya that your ears look... real soft?" Without waiting for a reply Angel's hands were already on the move to reach up and touch them.
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Alastor practically leaped from his chair. "We're running low on treats, aren't we?! I'll go make some more!"
Husk cast a dour look in Alastor's direction as Charlie awkwardly laughed.
"Don't worry about the snacks, Al," Charlie said. "How about we open presents?"
Mentally Charlie crossed her fingers that the gifts Alastor and Angel had unknowingly gotten each other would patch up whatever had caused the obviously hurt feelings between them.
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"To be continued~" Angel shot him a wink, dragging a long finger over Husk's chest as he turned to walk away. Seeing how no one seemed to be jumping to volunteer to go first, Angel chirped happily. "I'll go first!"
Pulling a small Santa sack out of nowhere, Angel strolled up to Alastor plopping himself down on the coffee table in front of the deer. Reaching inside he removed a small black velvet box tied shut with a red satin ribbon which was fastened into a neat little bow on top. The gift fit perfectly in the spider's palm and if Alastor was a betting man, its contents was probably what Angel hid in the depths of his pink and white bag.
"Merry Christmas Al." Angel said fondly, giving Alastor a warm smile. "Open it."
When the demon went to remove the bow and open the small box, Alastor would find an elegantly minted golden pocket watch. Embossed along the rim of the watch was a woodland scene intricately woven together that all encompassed the main center piece. Boldly engraved in the center was a magnificently regal stag, standing tall and proud.
"I saw it at the antique shop and it made me think of you and Buckley..." Angel chuckled softly. "I thought the colors would work well with your outfit too... I hope you like it."
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He untied the ribbon and opened the box, looking at the golden pocket watch. It really was a work of art, built for both form and function. Why would anyone possibly part with it unless they had no other choice?
His shadow swooped upwards to take a look, clapping its hands mutely with delight.
Alastor cast his shadow a bemused look. "Yes, I quite agree." He looked to Angel, his smile more genuine than normal. "It's very thoughtful. Thank you." He looked down at it and began winding the watch. "Honestly, I don't think I ever owned anything quite so nice both living or dead!"
He hadn't been particularly wealthy in life. After becoming a successful radio host, it hadn't been for lack of funds but he'd just never really spent anything more than what he'd needed. Too used to not having enough for the basics much less anything particularly ostentatious. When the stock market crashed, it was an attitude that had helped him weather the storm somewhat.
Here in Hell and constantly on the move? Well, he might not see any possessions he owned for years depending on which of his bolt holes he'd stashed them in, so he typically kept only the bare necessities in them. It was best to keep things small enough to keep in his pockets. Whether Angel realized it or not, he'd picked a truly useful and touching gift.
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Angel leans back on his hands clicking his tongue, smirking proudly to himself. "It ain't over yet Al. Open it up~"
On the inside of the golden cover was an image of all the residences of the Happy Hotel. How Angel acquired such a picture, his lips were sealed.
"Now you can carry us where you go." Angel gave Alastor an all knowing glance.
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How had Angel gotten such a picture? When?
The Radio Demon had no heart. Everyone knew that. Yet something deep inside his chest keened with longing as he looked at the happy photograph. From the outside, they almost looked like the family Charlie claimed they were.
Charlie leaned over his shoulder to see what had struck the radio host mute. She beamed at Angel. "Oh, wow! Angel, this is incredible! When did you get the picture?!"
The rest of the hazbins of the hotel swarmed around to take a look, praising Angel's stealthy photography skills and teasing one another as was their want.
Alastor's throat constricted with the close proximity and the sudden surge of emotion. When was the last time he'd taken a photograph with anyone like this? When had people at least looked happy in his presence? Did Angel even realize what a treasure he'd given Alastor?
He swallowed, attempting to clear the obstruction and failing. His voice came out somewhat strangled as he said, "Thank you, Angel." He cleared his throat. "Excuse me a moment."
He teleported into the kitchen: close enough to hear what was going on but far enough to reset himself. He grimaced as he heard the radio on the shelf behind the bar suddenly starting to croon with one of the more modern jazz performers' voice:
♪♫ I'm dreaming tonight of a place I love
Even more than I usually do
And although I know it's a long road back
I promise you
I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents by the tree
Christmas eve will find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams ♪♫
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His high didn't last long as Alastor abruptly teleported away. Angel could feel his heart plummet to his stomach, his eyes going wide. Oh fuck oh fuck oh fuck. Did he do something wrong? Did he not like it? What did he do? Or... Was that it? He said he was going to leave after the gifts. He told no one else but him about that. So did he leave? In silent panic the spider sat frozen as the other residence gave each other knowing looks, all wordlessly agreeing to give the radio demon his space. For the next minute or so it felt like Angel was having an outer body experience, not fully connected to everyone else gathering around the tree to pass out the presents nestled beneath. Angel needed some air.... or another stiff drink. The latter won.
Finally gaining control of his body again, he rose to his feet to walk back over to the bar but something red caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. His head snapped over to see Alastor sitting by himself, alone, in the kitchen. The deer was still here. Relief surged through him and he quietly slipped away from the party to loom in the doorway. Secretly he watched Alastor for a moment, studying the sour expression on his face. Fuck. Did he screw up? Angel sighed, rapping his knuckles gently on the wood frame to announce his presence.
"You okay Al?" Angel asked sheepishly as he slowly stepped into the kitchen. "Sorry if I upset ya."
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Another "not entirely a lie" statement. Everyone crowding around to look at the photograph had put far too many people into his personal space bubble. Add to that his emotions running high from the actual photograph...well...he'd needed to bail to reset.
The pocket watch was open and cradled in his claws. He was staring down at it, face relaxing, as he resigned himself to "I'll Be Home For Christmas" playing in time with his scattered emotions.
His shadow waved to Angel, trying to draw his attention. Then it put on a little shadow play of a lone man walking past houses filled with people gathered together. All of the people including the loner were smiling but the lone man's eyes were turned downward, hinting that the smile wasn't genuine.
Unaware of what his shadow was doing, Alastor said softly, "This really is the finest gift I've ever been given. Anything I might've gotten you seems inadequate by comparison."
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Pulling himself up on the kitchen counter a little ways from the other demon, Angel stared down at his laced fingers. Funny... to find them again in this kitchen baring their souls to each other like this. Fate you wicked bitch.
"I'm glad ya like it. I was a bit worried I did somethin' wrong when you vanished." Angel started. "The day we spent together... I know you say you don't care about others but when I saw them run away... I could tell you were hurtin'. So I thought you might need a reminder of the people who do enjoy having you around." The spider paused, his heart pounding against his chest. "... I enjoy having you around. I'm sorry if it seems like recently I don't. I've just had my own shit to sort out, ya know? I felt like every time I was around ya, I ended up hurting you. I thought you would be better off if I wasn't around." Angel snorts bitterly reaching up to run his hand through his hair. "Fuck, sounds so damn cheesy when I say it out loud. And Al..." The spider turned to look at him. ".. it ain't a contest. You got me something?"
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He gave a wry chuckle at that.
"The shopping trip was actually to see what caught your eye. You and I are so different from one another that I was utterly lost on what you might want. If I have to do something, I prefer to do it right."
Angel had given him a token that held so much meaning to him, and what had Alastor done? He'd gotten him a record player.
"I know you said it isn't a contest, but...you really don't know how much this pocket watch means to me." He chuckled. "I made my living off of almost nonstop chatter, and I now find myself utterly lost for words."
He finally looked up at Angel from his seat on the floor. It was a good thing his eyes were already multiple shades of red so it made moisture harder to see in them.
"But thank you."
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"Of course... no thanks needed." Angel said warmly. "You know, in my line of work you learn real quick how to read people. But Smiles, you're a tough one to crack. I don't know what is left or right with you sometimes. And yeah, we're night 'n day on a lot of things but that's what I like about us. It's never borin'."
Angel kicked himself off the counter to carefully creep closer to the deer, getting on his knees to kneel before him.
"Don't beat yourself up over stupid material shit. You're such a fucking dumbass that you don't realize that you've already given me the best gift anyone ever could. Hope." Angel paused to let the weight of that sink in. "No one has ever given two shits about my situation, save for Cherri. And even if things don't pan out and I get pulled back into the flames well shit... its more than a filthy sinner like me deserves. Although...." A grin crept at the corners of his lips, leaning over until he was on all fours, his floof again dangerously close to spill over. "I'd be lyin' if I said I wasn't curious on what you got me~"
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He looked back down at the watch before clicking the cover closed. He leaned his head back against the lower cabinets, taking a moment to close his eyes and breathe. Just breathe...calm down...just breathe...
However, Angel would easily see that Alastor kept the watch cradled in his claws, not putting it away even though he'd closed it. The Radio Demon was going to be holding on to the trinket for quite some time.
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Given what he knew about Alastor, that was probably not entirely untrue. The holidays must be a sore subject to the constant outcast. He didn't blame the guy for wanting to get plastered. Even Angel had plans to get trashed tonight but for a totally different set of reasons.
Get wasted, fuck Husk, don't think about Al.Which, he was failing miserably to accomplish at the moment. The little box he stuffed his complicated emotions into was bursting at the seams watching Alastor clutch at his gift. He fought the urge to crawl beside him to rest his head on the deer's shoulder and wait with him. That would for sure set him back off. Fuck. Did he actually lik-?!No no no. Were they friends? He just tolerates you. Barely. Stupid Angel, don't get your feelings twisted. He doesn't feel that way about you so let. It. Gooooo. Get back in the box and set it on fire.
Swallowing the lump that suddenly just formed in his throat, Angel rose to stand up and walked over to the sink. Taking a glass he poured a cup of water taking it back over the poor deer and placed it beside him.
"Drink this. It'll help ya sober up." Angel said turning to head back out, but paused at the doorway, looking back. "You better not think about disappearing tonight without sayin' goodbye. I'll kick your skinny little ass."
And with that, Angel rejoined the others and marched straight up to the bar with a slight distress look on his face. He wasn't drunk enough for this shit. "Oh Husky~ Can you be a doll and pour me a couple shots?"
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Breathe...just breathe...
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Back at the bar, Husk gave a casual shrug to Angel's question. "Sure."
While Husk went to work, Charlie walked over. "Is everything okay with you two?" She chewed her lower lip, guilt all over her face. She'd thought her little manipulation of the Secret Santas would help things but it seemed like she'd just made things worse. "I could talk to him if you want." She fidgeted with her hands. "Or if you just wanna talk, that's good, too."
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The instant a single shot hit the counter, Angel snatched it up and pounded it back. Already it was feeling good to have the pleasant burn in his gut. Okay, pull yourself together. Slapping on his usual grin he turned to face Charlie.
"We're just peachy. We talked it out a bit. He just needs a moment to himself. A lot to take in." Angel waved his hand. "Its not a party if there isn't a little family drama, am I right?"
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"And you haven't, my dear!"
Charlie about jumped out of her skin as Alastor's voice called from just behind her. She gave a shriek and whirled about to nearly end up smacking herself in the face with the tray of mugs Alastor was brandishing. Fortunately, Alastor lifted it up just enough to avoid disaster. He lowered it again, offering the tray to her, Angel, and Husk.
"Hope you don't mind I took the liberty to make some hot chocolate. The real thing, not that grotesque powder," Alastor said cheerfully, no hint of his earlier melancholy registering on his face or in his mannerisms.
"Um...th-thank you, Al." Charlie took a mug and then helped herself to quite a few of the mini marshmallows in the bowl in the center of the mugs.
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"Damn, Smiles. You had time to do all that?" Angel reached out to take a mug for himself as well. "It smells good. Thanks~"
Spinning back around to the bar, without bothering to ask he snatched up a bottle of Bailey's and poured himself a hefty amount into the hot sweet drink. Must. Drown. Out. Thoughts. Putting the bottle back in place he took a long sip. Yep, everything was fine Charlie. Just fiiiiine.
"Mmm~ that hits the spot." Angel curled his fingers tightly around the mug. "Are all the gifts passed out all ready?"
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Alastor predictably had the smallest stack. However, he legitimately didn't mind that. Just being here to enjoy the evening was enough. It was more than he'd had in a long, long time after all. The extra set of presents -- all wrapped in green paper with silver ribbons and name tags without senders on them -- would be discovered later after Alastor had left. He'd made sure of it with a light glamour which deepened the shadows just enough beneath the Christmas tree for someone to overlook them. When he left, the glamour would be lifted so anyone would see the gifts.
"Surprised you don't have a pile of coal," Vaggie said dryly, nodding towards Alastor's meager gift pile.
"Given how hot it is down here, coal is a bit hard to come by since it isn't needed!"
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