Chapter Text
The winter chill left you shivering as you cracked your eyes open. Shivering beneath the blankets and sniffling. Huddling close to the warm ball of fur underneath, cuddled close to your body. You didn’t leave any windows open. Ramshackle just had paper thin walls and drafts you couldn’t afford to fix.
Within a year of getting renovations, Ramshackle had already fallen into disrepair due to your ‘friends’ and your open door policy coming back to bite you in the ass. You couldn’t bring yourself to chew anyone out. You did hate living in Ramshackle sometimes. Crowley always promised he would ship you back home; and nothing came of it.
Your water heater had broken just a week before winter break began. Forcing you to shower in different dorms, since Crowley swore to fix the problem. And at the last second he informed you that he would fix it when he came back from vacation. A few days after the water heater gave up on you, Kalim had lost control of his carpet and crashed through one of your guest room windows. In the process he broke his arm, and you ended up being the target of Jamil’s wrath. Just because he had no one else to shout at.
You had to board up the window with plywood and seal off the room he crashed into. It didn’t keep the chill out enough. You did your best to utilize the fireplace. But every effort you made felt in vain. The chimney was always clogged up with ash and old soot you had no tools to clean. The room would be overwhelmed with smoke or the firewood just wouldn’t catch fire. In the case you asked Grim for help, it would be nothing but ash. Making the effort pointless.
You sat up in bed. The blanket hugging your shoulders as you looked around the room with a sniffle. You had fallen asleep in a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Wearing fuzzy socks and extra layers underneath. The window in your room was covered in a thin layer of white frost. You sniffled again. The air was both cold and dry as you huddled into the blanket. Looking down at Grim curled up into a tight ball. Grumbling in discomfort as he tried scooting closer to your body. The blankets shifting as he sought out your warmth.
“What time is it..?” He muttered. You stared absently at the window. A frown crossing your lips. Your phone was on the nightstand. Too far to see as you lazily shrugged. “Too early.” Because you were staying on campus, just like last year, Crowley gave you the daily chore to feed the fire fairies. And if you became friendly with them, there was a slim chance they would help with keeping Ramshackle warm until the rest of the student body returned.
You weren’t the only living thing on campus at least. A lot of mermen stayed behind due to the water temperatures being too cold to return to. Some students just didn’t want to go home or didn’t have anywhere to return home to at the moment. “What about breakfast..? Is it too early for that?” Grim asked. His tail swished against the blankets as you grumbled under your breath. You should get up and try to warm the house.
At this rate you would freeze to death. And you needed a shower. Ace said you were free to use Heartslabyul’s bathroom, but he never left you a key to get in. Either he forgot, or by the grace of the Seven the doors were left unlocked for you. “Are eggs okay?” You wanted something light. Some eggs on slices of toast with a little cheese and a splash of siracha and soy sauce. Just enough for the morning since you would be walking up to the school to feed the fire fairies. “I wanna eat at Mostro Lounge! Pleeeaaassee..?” Grim whined as he rolled over onto his back.
His grey belly exposed as you patted the space of exposed fur. “The Mostro Lounge? Are the guys open?” You didn’t speak much to the Tweels or Azul. You actually still held some resentment after the incident last year.
OctoTwerp, CephaloPunk, Creepy Squid. You could call him by any name under the sun. Claiming to be merciful and kind after your friends were indebted to him for doing something stupid. Grim included. He took Ramshackle from you as a form of collateral. Leaving you to fend for yourself in the night cold on a campus of all men. If Jack had not chimed in to convince Leona to let you stay in Savanaclaw, you would likely be sleeping in the gardens or in a classroom.
Or worse. And you were very grateful to have not experienced what ‘worse’ could be. Even if you did succeed in your end of the deal; there was still a foul taste in your mouth.
You couldn’t say you hated Azul. But you did not forgive him. You pat Grim’s belly with a soft sigh. “I must go feed the fire fairies. And then we can go. I just have to get dressed.” You nodded in agreement. You didn’t want to tell Grim ‘no’ just because of personal bias. It could be nice to have some seafood in the morning. Grim swished his tail some more. “I can try to warm up the bath for you.” He offered, with a smile. “I won’t boil the water this time!” He assured you and you nodded. “Could you?” The monster gave you, his pet hench human, a salute before he stretched out on the bed. He slid off the edge to the floor and walked out of the room to try and draw you a bath.
You sat in the cold room, looking around and you exhaled a breath. You could see your breath in the air. That was a bad sign. You wrapped yourself up in the blankets as you stepped out of bed. You knew that Azul would never offer you free breakfast. So you would need to get into your savings.
Crowley would sometimes give you an allowance to live on. You rarely spend money. You learned quickly how to save and behave frugally. Ruggie was a great inspiration. You could save your own coins without the additional scamming. Even Sam would offer you some shifts in his shop after classes ended for the day. You should have at least 60 thousand Madol saved up to use. Or, in a currency you’re used to; 400 Thaumarks. You kneeled to the wooden floor. Lowering your body to peek under your bed to grab a beat-up cardboard box.
Your fingers scraped over the dented lid of the old shoebox as you pulled it close to you. Lifting the top to grab some bills, only for the tips of your fingers to brush over the cardboard bottom. A chill shot down your spine. In a hurried movement you yanked the box into your lap. Tossing off the top in your shaking hands. You felt like vomiting. The box was empty. All your money was missing.
You slammed the top on the box. Panting softly as you shook in terror. Did you get robbed? You had an open door policy but no one would have stolen from you. Ace and Deuce came over the most but they would never. Grim would never. He had no idea the box existed. You lifted the lid again as cotton filled your mouth. It really was empty.
You blinked away tears that welled in your eyes as you tried to make sense of your missing funds. The ghosts had no need for human currency. It couldn’t be Grim, Ace or Deuce. And most of your friends on campus were born into wealth. Such few bills would be pocket change for them. Pointless to steal from one of the poorest people on campus. The last time you put money into the box was the 1st of the month after Crowley gave you some allowance. Today was the 22nd and the Headmage wouldn’t be back until the 2nd of next year.
Your sadness was quickly warping into fury. You didn’t do anything to anyone. You didn’t do anything to deserve this. You snatched your phone off the nightstand. Fingers punching in the Headmage’s phone number. It rang once, before you were sent to voicemail. You wanted to throw your phone. But you couldn’t bring yourself to risk cracking the screen. You dialed again and again. No answer. Crowley claimed and swore up and down you could call him if you ever needed something. Obviously, that was a lie.
You gave up, slumping on the floor in front of your empty box with your phone limp in your hand. This felt like a cruel joke. You never touched it unless it was to deposit cash. People did come in and out of your dorm. But you were always there. Grim called out to you from the bathroom. “I did it! I heated the water!” He sounded proud of himself as you rose to your feet sadly.
You nudged the box beneath the bed with your foot. “Thank you Grim.” You couldn’t bring yourself to tell Grim you had no money. As you left the room with fresh clothes in hand, an idea came to mind. Why not ask Azul for a loan? Sure, you didn’t like him. But the four-eyed fucker was sitting on a mountain of cash. Since he was so kind and benevolent, he could spare you a few dollars considering all the grief he put you through in the past.
xxx
You wrapped adjusted small black scarf around Grim’s neck as you carried him in your arms. You fed the fire fairies, and now you were making your way to the Hall of Mirrors. Skipping breakfast to complete your chore first wasn’t the best idea. You felt ornery. The snow on the ground was hardened by the chill. Crunching underneath your ankle height brown boots. The short ribbons on the back were at risk of getting wet as you adjusted Grim against your body once again. He was getting heavy. Sometimes you wished he was the size of a cat and not a child.
You didn’t have many clothes for the winter. You just couldn’t afford it. You wore white, knit socks and a pair of black fleece tights. A thick, coffee brown sweater dress that went down to your mid thigh, and a pair of black earmuffs. You are cold, however walking and running around helped give you the illusion of being hot. You passed through the mirror into Octavinelle. The bubble that carried you to the dorm was a respite from the biting air.
The Mostro Lounge wasn’t far now. “I want a king crab. With butter! And tons of rice on the side! Oh! And some lemon!” You flinched at Grim’s hungry commands. “What happened to a light breakfast?” You couldn’t afford that right now. Even if you begged Azul to let you scrub dishes all day and wipe windows. “But I’m starvin’~!” He whined as you started to frown.
You had no idea how much a king crab would cost. Especially being cooked and prepared this early in the morning. If you were lucky, the trio of slimeballs would refuse to cook it. And you could skirt away with a cheaper option of imitation crab sticks shredded on crackers. Back in Ramshackle, you had enough food to last you a week. Unless Grim got extra hungry. Then you had roughly enough to last you three days. “Grim there’s a chance they’re still in bed.” It was only 11am. If you weren’t freezing this morning, you would have slept in as well.”
“The Look Alike Brothers are there! I know it!” The monster protested as a tight knot formed in your stomach. Both from a lack of nutrients and anxiety. You were so passive. Easy to push around. And you knew deep down it would be the death of you. But telling someone ‘no’, especially Grim was a Herculean task. He never listened to your pleas anyway.
You stood at the door to the Mostro Lounge. You adjusted your sweater, tugging sheepishly at the hemline as you gave the door a knock. You wished that no one would answer. That way you could go back to Ramshackle and feast upon dreams and prayers. But The Great Seven weren’t that kind. As Grim mumbled about cracking crab legs and stuffing his face with fresh fish, the door cracked open.
You looked up in horror to a pair of glowing eyes. “Oh? Have you come to visit us? What a pleasant surprise.” Jade hummed. “It’s only been a few days since we’ve seen you last.” The corners of his lips turning up as the door opened wider. “Shrimpy and Baby Seal came to see us ‘cus they were lonely. I’m right, aren’t I?” Floyd cooed and you suppressed an expression of disgust. You did not feel lonely. Floyd’s sharp teeth were on display as he chuckled. You nervously looked down at Grim. Before you could speak, the monster spoke for you.
“As if! Tell Azul we’re hungry! We want a big king crab! And tuna! And sashimi-” You placed a hand over Grim’s mouth now. You cannot afford any of that.
“We wanted to stop by for breakfast. We didn’t know if you were open or not since it’s winter break.” You corrected nervously. Swallowing down your anxiety as your heart pounded in fear. Jade’s eyes scanned over you as his expression softened. With a gentle touch to Floyd’s arm, the pair moved away from the door to allow you inside. “Of course. We’ll let Azul know you’re here.” The duo left you to find a seat in the eerily empty lounge.
You slid into a booth seat, freeing Grim from your hold as he sat beside you. You felt sick. The tendrils of anxiety squeezing your stomach and twisting it into a painful knot. You rested your shaking hands on the table with a slow exhale. You came here totally aware of your lack of funds. Unable to afford anything on their menu. But here you are with Grim. You wished you would have just told him no. That you would just eat at home for the day. Your shoulders sagged as the regret built and weighed down on you.
You saw a figure in the corner of your eye. Floyd sauntered over. A frown on his face and a notepad in hand. Obviously unhappy to be put to work this early in the morning. He yawned, his teeth on display as he looked down at the both of you. “You guys' suck. It’s too early to be takin’ orders.” He grumbled as Grim leaned over and pressed his paws on the table. “Hey! We came here with good money!” He snapped as you remained silent.
You would be scrubbing the dishes, windows, AND floors after this. Azul was not an easy person to talk to or work out a deal with. Last contract you had zero say in anything. Shoved into a corner and made to sign for the sake of those you cared about. You had to take the chance to be firm. You couldn’t let him sweet talk you into a scam.
“Shrimpy.” You didn’t hear Floyd’s voice as you squeezed your hands into tight fists. You wouldn’t take Azul’s shit this time. You wouldn’t allow him to toy with you like before. “Oi, Shrimpy.” Your brows creased as you remembered the helplessness you felt when he had you sign those papers. How angry you were at Ace and Deuce and Grim for dragging you into their bullshit. All because they couldn’t be bothered to study for a test properly. Nor did they read all the contracts fine print.
You nearly jumped out of your seat as Floyd slammed his hand on the surface of the table. Grim’s little paws gripped the sleeve of your sweater dress as you looked up at him in shock. Floyd had called your name this time. Not Shrimpy. Your real name. “Pay attention to me or I’ll squeeze ya.” He threatened as you nodded slowly. Shrinking into the vinyl seat with a worried expression. “What drink do you want?” He asked and you told him. You honestly lost your appetite.
He wrote it down with a click of his tongue. When he finished, he grabbed your chin and held it in his palm. His thumb and fingers curling into your cheeks. “What’s swimmin’ in your thoughts that you won’t listen to me? Want me to do something fun?” He asked as a smirk curled onto his face. His expression sly as Grim’s blue flames became hot. “Hands off, fish breath! Or I’ll turn you into an eel kebab!” Grim snapped as Floyd’s attention turned to the monster.
He was back to being irritated, which caused Floyd to begin crushing your skull in his hand. You winced in pain, reaching up to try and pry his arm away from you. Before anything could escalate further there was a familiar voice ringing through the lobby. “Floyd. Please unhand the custom- I mean... Please let go of our friend. That’s not very polite.” You weren’t ready to see or hear him yet.
There was the soft click of glasses being adjusted as Jade emerged from behind Azul. “Please pardon our lack of service. I was unaware you planned to visit us during the winter break.” Azul smiled. He looked genuine. “Not that any of us are complaining of course.” Floyd pulled away from you with a pout. His left hand shoved into the pocket of his slacks as he clenched his jaw. “Too bad Shrimpy, we’ll have to play later.” The taller twin sounded disappointed as he walked away. Heading towards the kitchen with a small kick of his foot.
You locked eyes with Azul. Frozen in your seat as he tapped his fingers over the head of his walking cane. With just a stare and the click of his thin wire frames; the fire within you had been doused. “I must say I am ecstatic you came to spend your morning here in Mostro Lounge. We were just preparing to do some inventory. Unfortunately there are no holiday discounts. And we actually charge an after-hours fee since you came at a time we aren’t normally open.” Your stomach began to twist again. “However,” Azul paused, his smile remained. He waved a hand dismissively with a small shake of his head. “I am happy to make an exception for someone who has helped me in the past.” Like saving his life after he Overblotted. Maybe you can cash in on these brownie points.
“Um...” Your train of thought began to derail. You slowly got to your feet. Azul shifted his weight as you looked around nervously. The only thing keeping you grounded now was the cool sensation of the lounge table against your fingertips. “Azul can I talk with you?” You asked, noticing how Jade’s eyebrows raised from behind Azul. The merman blinked before giving a curt nod. “Why of course-”
“Alone. If that’s okay?” You asked as you folded your hands neatly in front of you. Looking hopeful as a small flush formed in his cheeks. His nod was more expressive the second time. Clearly, you caught him off guard. The long-curled hair in his bangs bounced as he rested his hand against his chest. “Of course, I certainly don’t see why not. Please, come to my office.” He motioned towards the hall as Jade looked between the two of you with a curious expression. Just before he walked away, likely to join Floyd in the kitchen.
You took a step away from the table as Grim stood on the cushions. “Well, I’m comin’ too!” Grim announced and you turned back to face him. “Oh, no. Grim, it’s okay. I just have to talk with Azul. You stay here and watch my drink for when Floyd gets back.” You didn’t want Grim to come along.
You felt embarrassed. Grim was already digging you a hole you couldn’t crawl out of. You didn’t want his big mouth to ruin any chances of you speaking and making a deal with Azul. He couldn’t know about this. Ever. “A young lady has her reasons Grim. I’m sure it won’t take us long.” Azul was kind enough to take your side. You felt grateful, however you also wanted to scoff at the kindness. Azul was willing to take your home from you and leave both you and Grim to fend for yourselves in the freezing night. As if something like you wanting to speak in private was any of his concern to stick up for you; How laughable.
You waved goodbye to Grim as you approached Azul. Leaving Grim alone at the table, watching you leave with folded ears. Azul offered his hand that wasn’t holding the cane. “Shall we?” You looked at his pristine white glove. Turning your eyes away and stiffly crossing your arms. “I’ll pass thanks.” You walked past him, making your way down the dim hall towards his office. “I’m sure there’s a guidance fee. I know my way, don’t worry.” Your tone was sarcastic, and you could hear Azul let out an amused sound from behind you.
You rehearsed a script in your mind during your short walk. You would politely demand money from Azul. Since he was so kind and gracious. And since you deserved the financial help. It was compensation for your suffering. It was because Azul’s glasses framed his face nicely, and his eyes were the most gorgeous shade of blue you had ever seen. And you did charge for compliments. Not to mention an extra fee for anyone you couldn’t stand sharing oxygen with.
You now stood in front of the door to his office. You reached for the doorknob only to freeze at the reflection within the yellowed brass. Before you could turn around, Azul slammed his hand into the wood of the door. Caging you against the surface between him. It startled you how quiet he was. Maybe you were just that deep in thought?
You took in a small inhale of his cologne. The scent was expensive. A faint lingering mint, mixed with a fresh scent like he had just stepped out of the shower. You craned your head back. Your hands pressing against the surface of the door as you met his narrowed eyes. He was so close. His face centimeters from yours. “You really did find your way here without me.” He sounded amused, his breath tickling your skin as goosebumps prickled on your arms.
“Of course I did. I don’t need your help.” It came out before you could stop yourself. You felt meek now as Azul pulled away, allowing you some space as your heart punched against your ribs. “I mean... Walking here. My legs are fine.” You corrected awkwardly as you grabbed the doorknob. Quickly letting yourself into the office to get away from Azul.
You darted away from him the moment something brushed against your back. Likely his hand. You sought refuge in one of the leather chairs. Gripping the fabric in your fingers hoping to use it as a shield from the merman and whatever evil plans he had in mind. Maybe coming alone was a bad idea. But you’re an adult now. You can handle yourself.
Azul adjusted his glasses, his cane tapped against the floor with each step he took as the door to his office was closed. He walked along the opposite side of the room from you, taking his seat at his desk with a smile. “So,” You felt like he was sizing up a small fish to devour. A weak prey for the hungry octopus. “What did you need to discuss?” He asked with that same smile from before.
You realized now it wasn’t as genuine as you thought.