Archive of Our Own

Alastor grunted as he once more burned his arm on the oven rack.

“You ok, Al?” Angel asked. He was one of Alastor’s sous chefs. He’d been at this far longer than Alastor, but Alastor had proven himself and his recipes time and again. And after a massive callout, they were on their own today. Thank god it was a weekday.

“I’m fine,” Alastor said.

Alastor hadn’t always worked the kitchen. Until his return about six months ago, he had been the host of the hotel. The face, the greeter, the helper. But he couldn’t do that. Not anymore. No, he’d lost his desire to deal with people, much less be nice to them.

It had been that long since…well. Suffice it to say, he wasn’t over it.

He had a room in the hotel. Charlie had put him in a nice suite. It was much roomier than the space he had previously occupied in the hotel. It almost pissed him off. Had he been sure she knew nothing of what happened, he would say she was taking pity on him.

And he would have left then and there.

He’d only seen his savior, Lucifer Morningstar, a handful of since he had returned. And now that the relief had passed, Alastor was back to hating his fucking guts. The man was pompous, self-centered. He reminded him of Vince—his mind stopped there. He blacked out for a long second before shaking him from his mind.

Lucifer was not his cup of tea.

Charlie was, though. And that’s the only reason he stuck around. He did have friends here, and Alastor doubted he’d be able to heal without friends. It didn’t matter if they had no idea what they did for Alastor’s psyche.

Alastor frowned down at his souffle. It was just a touch underdone, enough that should he put it back in it would be overdone too quickly to control. The diners wouldn’t notice, but Alastor did. Still, he wasn’t going to waste food.

“Angel, where’s Cherry?” Alastor asked.

Cherry was part of their waitstaff. Her and Pentious covered the entire dining room.

“She’s taking a smoke break,” Angel said.

Alastor scowled. That girl was always taking a smoke break. It was like she smoked more than she worked.

“Well, who is going to run my food?” Alastor asked, annoyed.

“I will,” Vaggi ran into the kitchen and put on an apron.

“Don’t you have duties as the host of the hotel?” Alastor asked.

“Right now, I’m needed here most. Pentious is sick and Cherry is taking him to the hospital,” Vaggi said.

Alastor raised an eyebrow.

“I don’t know why, Al, what I said is all I know about the situation,” Vaggi said.

“Hmm, Angel, help Vaggi serve the pile up of food we have sitting here. I’m going to find out if I can get Nifty here,” Alastor said.

“You want Nifty to serve food? To people?” Angel asked incredulously.

“Heavens, no. She’s going to take on your role today and you will continue serving,” Alastor said.

Angel cursed under his breath.

“Whatever you say, Alastor,” he finally said.

Alastor laughed quietly. Damn straight it was.

“Alastor, Charlie needs you,” Vaggi said as she picked up two plates from the kitchen.

“Are you serious? Tell her she needs to wait,” Alastor said.

“She wasn’t asking,” Vaggi said.

Alastor rushed to plate all the waiting meals he could before wiping his hands on his apron.

Alastor half-jogged out of the kitchen. The sooner he got to Charlie, the sooner he could get back to his food. Alastor took pride in his new job and didn’t want to give the hotel a bad rep because Charlie wanted to pull the now, only cook, from the kitchen.

He slowed when he reached the foyer. Big spaces made Alastor nervous. He couldn’t keep track of everyone in his surroundings and what if he was…

“Alastor!” Charlie came running. She hugged his waist and he laid his arms around her shoulder.

“Yes, dear. What do you need me for?” Alastor asked.

“Oh. Uh, my dad wants food,” Charlie said.

Alastor waited.

“Is that it?”

“Oh, no. He asked that you deliver his lunch. I told him you were busy but—”

“Charlie. My sous chef is running tables with dear Vaggi. Until I can get a hand I am the only person making food,” Alastor said.

“Well Nifty—”

“Here I come Alastor!” Nifty shouted, running around guests and stopping short in front of Alastor and Charlie.

“How can I help?” she asked, manic energy radiating off of her petite person.

“Nifty, can you catch up on cooking? I am apparently needed elsewhere.”

“On it!” she said, running to the kitchen.

That calmed Alastor a bit. Nifty could do the work of three people in half the time. She was just a little quirky.

“Did your father say why he needs me to deliver his food?” Alastor asked.

Charlie frowned.

“I don’t know. But he is being very insistent about it. I’m sure it’ll be quick.”

Charlie continued to frown at Alastor.

“I know it’s been a few months and I don’t want to pry, but—”

“Then don’t pry, my dear,” Alastor said lightly, only feeling slightly guilty at her deep breath and tension. His business was none of hers.

“What does he want?” Alastor asked.

“Um, he didn’t say,” Charlie replied.

Alastor raised an eyebrow.

“So am I supposed to read his mind? Or?”

“Oh, ok. Just bring him whatever takes the least amount of time to throw together,” Charlie said.

Alastor turned away, hiding his spiteful smile. He walked back to the kitchen without a word. A few feet away, Nifty was plating a beautiful penne vodka. Alastor skipped it and pulled out a ham sandwich.

He carried it up via the servant’s staircase. It was more secluded. The stairs ended on the floor below the penthouse. The elevator there had a code, which Lucifer had for some reason entrusted him with.

Alastor took a deep breath, and smiled brightly when he knocked on Lucifer’s door.

It opened right away.

“That was fast,” Lucifer acknowledged before turning his back on Alastor and walking away.

Alastor felt his facial muscles strain but kept the smile in place.

“Is there any reason you needed me to come up here personally?” Alastor asked.

Lucifer stopped in his tracks and turned around.

“Sit,” he commanded, pointing to one of the plush sofas in his living area.

Alastor complied, furious at himself for the sliver of fear he felt being in a place so similar…

His smile left his face. Lucifer smiled.

“How are you doing?” he asked.

Alastor froze, ire rising quickly.

“Are you serious?” he asked.

Lucifer tilted his head.

“Yes?” he said as a question.

Alastor opened his mouth to speak. He had a whole verbal torrent at the very tip of his tongue but it wouldn’t come out. This place, this power dynamic; it was just too similar.

“I should be in the kitchen,” he said quietly instead.

Lucifer was frowning.

“You can yell at me if you want,” he said.

Alastor was dumbfounded.

“Excuse me?” he said.

“I said you can yell at me if you want. Get some catharsis,” Lucifer replied.

“Are you…is this…no. I don’t have time for this. I’m leaving,” Alastor said, rising and doing just that.

“Whenever you’re ready to scream at a rich white guy, I’m here!” Lucifer called after him.

Alastor ignored him as he angrily punched the code into the elevator. As soon as the door closed he felt a light flush color his cheeks. No. Lucifer was still an asshole. He wouldn’t care about him just because he had been his way out; his savior.

But the offer was kind of sweet, in a roundabout way.  

***

Alastor sat at the quiet bar, nursing top shelf whisky. He billed it to Lucifer, as he had every day since he returned. Lucifer had offered and Alastor took him up on it. It felt more spiteful on Alastor’s part at this point.

Somehow Lucifer knowing how weak and pathetic he was made Alastor angry at him. Despite his lack of control in the matter.

Lucifer said nothing about it, so Alastor continued to spend his money.

“You look like shit,” Husk said. He wasn’t one to beat around the bush.

“Hmm. I feel like shit,” Alastor said with no follow up. Husk walked away as Alastor drained his glass.

He rested his face on the cool bar top for a brief moment before straightening up and stepping off his stool. He almost lost his balance but caught himself on the bar.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Husk,” Alastor said.

“You need a hand getting to your room?” Husk asked.

“No, thanks for the offer,” Alastor responded. His words were only slightly slurred.

“Have a good night, Alastor,” Husk said.

Alastor waved at him before walking steadily to his room.

It was late enough that most guests were sleeping already, so Alastor took the elevator instead of the servant’s stairs. He stepped out on his floor and froze. A few doors down, he could see Vincent exiting a room.

Alastor crashed out. His breathing became heavy his throat closed up. He sank down onto the floor in complete and utter fear.

“Are you ok?”

Alastor caught his breath. It wasn’t him.

“Yeah, sorry I’m fine,” Alastor said, standing up.

The Vincent look-alike frowned.

“Can I help you to your room? Is there someone I can call for you?” the man offered.

“No. I’m fine. Just felt a little dizzy for a moment. Have a good night,” Alastor said.

The man still looked concerned, but walked away to the elevator.

When the door closed with an audible ‘ding.’ Alastor collapsed again.

Tears fell freely from his eyes. How could he be so stupid and pathetic? Fuck.

He looked back at the elevator.

Before he knew it, he was standing outside Lucifer’s penthouse. He hiccupped and rubbed the tears from his eyes. It was shameful to show his weakness, but he was afraid to be alone.

Lucifer opened the door before Alastor even knocked.

“Come,” he said, walking inside and allowing Alastor to follow.

He hesitated, but followed Lucifer all the way to a big comfy chair next to a fireplace. It wasn’t real, but it was quaint and cute. He sniffled and wiped his eyes again. He refused to meet Lucifer’s eyes.

Lucifer responded by handing Alastor a bag of chocolate and sitting on the floor near Alastor’s chair, facing away. It was like he was trying to comfort without pressure.

It was exactly what Alastor needed.

“It’s getting late. Do you want to sleep in the spare room?” Lucifer asked after a long while.

Alastor could feel the exhaustion, but he was terrified to stay. It was too familiar, too much like…

“I’m going to go back to my room, I think,” he said, standing.

“Thank you,” he added, meaning it from the bottom of his soul.

“Want me to walk you back?” Lucifer asked.

“No. And don’t think that we’re friends after this,” Alastor felt the need to add.

Lucifer laughed.

“Never,” he said.

Alastor smiled but hid it by turning away and heading to the door.

“Thanks for the chocolate,” he said awkwardly before anxiously pushing the door close button on the elevator.

The look on Lucifer’s face as the elevator doors slid shut wasn’t amusement, it wasn’t pity. It was almost a look of fondness that made Alastor’s insides feel funny.

He returned to his room and left all the lights on as he slid into bed. His head was already hurting from the alcohol and crying and he was not looking forward to tomorrow’s hangover. Thank God it was his day off.

***

Alastor sat up in bed, spacing out. He didn’t get much sleep; never did since Vincent. It was hard to quell the fear, then sleep through the nightmares, only to wake up feeling exhausted yet unable to fall back asleep.

He sighed and slid out of bed. He moved to his dresser and pulled out a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt. Before Vincent, Alastor wouldn’t be caught dead wearing anything short of business casual. Now, he didn’t care. In fact, he hoped it made people find him less attractive.

And, of course, he slid his hunting knife into a holster on his waist. Hidden, but there in case it was needed.

He’d only left the hotel a few times this month, and he felt like challenging himself. He put on a hat and sunglasses and walked down the servant’s stairs and out the back door. Before he could shut it, someone put their foot down to hold it open.

“Alastor, where are you going?” Charlie asked.

Alastor felt his features darken.

“How is that your business?” he asked, coldly.

Her eyes went wide.

“Oh my gosh no. I didn’t mean it like that. I wanted to buy Vaggi a box of chocolate for date night and I don’t have time to go out. I was wondering if you could pick one up for me? I’ll give you enough money for you to get something for yourself,” Charlie said.

Alastor smiled slightly. It was good to have a purpose, he supposed.

“Of course, dear,” he said.

Chalie pulled a $50 out of her wallet.

“Here, the change is yours,” she said.

Then the door shut behind Alastor with a loud snik.

Alastor pocketed the money. The chocolate shop didn’t actually open until 11 and it was 9 am now. He decided to go to the diner for breakfast.

The host there knew him. He also knew exactly where Alastor liked to sit. The first booth where Alastor could face the rest of the place with his back against the wall, right next to the door for easy escape.

He sat, eating his eggs benedict when suddenly he felt eyes on him. He glanced around, seeing nothing but unable to shake the feeling. His stomach in knots, he placed the money on his table and rushed out.

He walked down a few blocks and the feeling didn’t leave. His mind jumped to the private investigator that Vincent had set on him.

Breathing becoming shallow and difficult, Alastor ran across the street to the local park. There was a nice lake and there was a hiking trail there. He ignored it, not wanted to isolate in case someone really was watching.

Alastor walked, discreetly scanning his surroundings. Then he looked back and saw…huh. Alastor ducked behind a tree and watched as a bodyguard that Alastor recognized walked toward him, looking around as if trying to find something.

“Hi Anthony,” Alastor said when he was right next to him.

Anthony jumped in surprised, then flushed from embarrassment.

“Is Lucifer sending me with my own personal babysitter now?” Alastor asked.

“Well, uh, no, I mean, it’s not…sort of?” he stumbled.

Alastor laughed. He’d always liked Anthony. He was usually the one to pick up Lucifer’s meals and he was just a very friendly, slightly gullible guy.

“So, Lucifer wants you to spend the day with me?” Alastor asked.

“Nope.”

Alastor spun around in surprise.

“I’m going to spend the day with you. Thank you, Anthony. You have the rest of the day off,” Lucifer said.

Alastor frowned.

“Are you serious? Sending people to follow me?” Alastor asked.

“I’ve had people near you since you started back at work. You only just noticed it today because dear Anthony is not as discreet as some of my other employees,” Lucifer said.

“So, why are you here?” Alastor asked.

Lucifer shrugged.

“I was alerted that you seemed jumpy, and I was coming down this way anyway, so I thought I’d pick you up and we could have lunch,” Lucifer said.

“I just ate,” Alastor said, crossing his arms; trying to look as uninviting as possible. Lucifer laughed.

“You didn’t have time to eat. You bolted, remember?” Lucifer said with a flashy smile.

Alastor stared at him for a long, silent moment. Lucifer’s smile never wavered. Finally, Alastor sighed.

“I want Lobster mac and cheese,” he said, still feeling defiant. Like if he demanded too much, Lucifer would finally see him for the waste of a human he had become and leave him alone to rot in his own fears and anxieties.

“Of course, dear. Only the best for our head chef,” Lucifer said, taking Alastor’s arm and practically dragging him to the window-tinted black sedan waiting on the side of the road. Alastor thought it looked like a mafia car. He idly wondered what Lucifer had done to make his fortune.

Lucifer opened the door, like a gentleman, and Alastor slid inside, the plush black leather feeling cool against his back. Lucifer came in from the other side, shutting the door behind him and knocking on the divider. The car pulled onto the road.

“But…how does he know where to go?” Alastor asked, trying to mask the growing alarm in his tone.

“Relax, Alastor. I was pretty sure that your lunch request would be high-end so I’ve already told John to take us to Aroma’s.

“Oh,” Alastor said quietly. He had thought spending so much of Lucifer’s money would drive the man away. Apparently not.

He turned his head away as he felt himself blush in embarrassment. He’d thought Lucifer would have denied him his request. Now this opened up a whole other can of worms. What if something happened? He’s never been to Aroma’s and had no idea what the exit situation was.

Would they be seated so his back was up against the wall? Would he be close to an emergency exit? How many employees worked there? Could someone easily infiltrate with staff without anyone noticing? How many people could sit? What would—

“Alastor,” Lucifer said, cupping Alastor’s cheeks in his hands, “You’re safe. Ok?”

Alastor shut his eyes and took a long, deep breath.

“Ok,” he said. Lucifer kissed him on the forehead and sat back in his seat, pulling his phone out and answering text messages.

Alastor turned to look out the window. Now he was really blushing. What the fuck was that?

***

They arrived at the restaurant and Alastor froze halfway out of the car.

“Is something the matter?” Lucifer asked, sounding genuinely concerned.

“No, it’s just… I can’t eat here dressed like this,” Alastor gestured to his extremely casual outfit.

“Oh,” Lucifer said. He walked to the back of the car and Alastor remained where he was. Lucifer popped back into his line of sight

“Here,” he handed Alastor a dress shirt and pants, all black. As he took them out of the garment back, he realized it was exactly his size.

“Why do you have this?” Alastor asked suspiciously.

“I have less formal options if you don’t like that,” Lucifer said, smiling broadly.

“No, I’m asking…you know what? Never mind. I don’t care to know,” Alastor said.

“Come on. I can smuggle you in the back so you can change in the bathroom before going into the main area,” Lucifer said.

“Embarrassed of me?” Alastor held his hand over his mouth as soon as he said it. He said it as a joke but fuck, was it true? Alastor’s mind was spinning until Lucifer laughed loudly.

“Of course not. You can walk in dressed like this if you want. I don’t care. Fuck, if you want I can send someone to buy me sweatpants too and both of us will be comfortable,” Lucifer said.

Alastor frowned.

“No, it’s ok. I want to change,” He said, stepping out of the car, clutching the outfit in his hands.

Alastor ducked quickly into the bathroom which was conveniently close to the back door. He came out and brushed his pants as if straightening wrinkles.

“Lovely. You look good in anything,” Lucifer said and Alastor smiled, unable to make eye contact.

“Come,” Lucifer said, offering his hand which Alastor took.

Alastor looked around nervously as he assessed the space. If they sat near the back. The back door was a good escape route. Plus, he could lock himself in the bathroom until he was safe. They could also sit in the corner by the front end. That way he was away from the windows, his back was blocked and he had a solid view of everyone who came and went. Then maybe—

“Alastor,” Lucifer interrupted, an expression of patient amusement, “Relax. You can pick wherever we sit. Even if the seat is already occupied. You don’t need to overthink. I’m here with you,” Lucifer said.

Alastor took a grounding breath.

“Ok. Let’s sit in the corner in the front,” he said, luckily it was already vacant.

“Perfect,” Lucifer said, taking Alastor’s hand and guiding him to the table Alastor had selected.

Alastor looked down at where their hands joined and was so transfixed that he bumped into Lucifer’s back when he stopped. Lucifer smiled knowingly.

Alastor’s mind froze. What the fuck was he doing? This was Lucifer. He was supposed to hate him. For…for knowing his weakness. For trying to be so fucking supportive. For making Alastor fucking feel something other than fear. For making Alastor afraid that this was just another rich white man trying to possess and own him.

“Alastor,” Lucifer broke into his spin out, “Sit,” he said.

Alastor shook his head and scowled as he sat in the chair against the wall; opposite Lucifer.

“Ah, I see those walls have gone back up. Damn. I thought I had longer than this,” Lucifer said, laughing lightly.

Alastor glared.

“Why are you doing this?” he asked.

Lucifer tilted his head.

“Is that not obvious?” Lucifer asked.

“No. It’s not. Do you just feel sorry for me? Am I a toy for you to fix,” Alastor whispered, not looking for attention.

Lucifer raised an eyebrow.

“Listen, I’m not going to feel offended by what you just said because it is simply untrue. I also will not be offended of the fact that you see me in such a light,” Lucifer said, all humor gone. His tone sounded firm, sure of himself.

“I want to leave,” Alastor said, feeling overwhelmed to the point of tears. He willed them not to fall, feeling stupid that he was letting this man break down his walls even for a moment.

“Ok,” Lucifer said, again, sounding kind and not upset. It made Alastor even angrier. Who was Lucifer to try to bring comfort to a broken piece of shit like him.

They returned to the car and Alastor stared out the window the whole time, completely silent. He glanced over a few times and saw Lucifer’s entire attention on his phone.

They finally reached the entrance of the hotel.

“I have a few other things to take care of; are you ok from here?” Lucifer asked, making eye contact.

“Yeah I’m fine,” Alastor said. He was half-way out of the car when he remembered Charlie.

“Fuck,” he said.

“Problem?” Lucifer looked concerned. Alastor wanted to slap the expression from his face.

“I was supposed to buy a box of chocolate for Charlie and…”

“And?”

“And I was going to get chocolate for myself too,” Alastor said quietly.

Lucifer nudged Alastor out of the car.

“I’m on it,” he said, before pulling the door shut and speeding away.

“But…” Alastor pulled the money from his pocket. He wasn’t getting a handout. Fuck no. He’d just have to…go see Lucifer tonight.

***

“Alastor! Did you get the you-know-what?” Charlie asked quietly when he came through the kitchen.

“Why are you back here? Do you need help?” Alastor asked.

“Oh no, no. I’m just covering Angel’s lunch. You go relax,” she said.

“Ok. And Lucifer is picking up your confections,” Alastor said.

“Dad is? Ok. As long as he gets here before seven. We’re eating at five and I’m saving it for when we get home,” Charlie said.

“Not my business,” Alastor said, regretting it immediately when Charlie frowned.

“I’m sorry, dear. I hope you have a lovely evening,” Alastor amended.

“Yeah. I hope so too. I just want Vaggi to feel special,” she said before waving and walking off.

Feel special, huh? Whatever way he tried to spin it…Lucifer was trying to do just that. A surge of anger at himself, at Vincent for making him this way, pulsed through his whole entire being.

What was he even doing anymore. Everything felt so jumbled, so full of so many emotions that he couldn’t even stay afloat of his thoughts.

***

Alastor changed Lucifer’s nice clothing for something more comfortable. He held the outfit neatly over his arm as he took the elevator leading to the pent house. Every moment closer to Lucifer made the pit in his stomach bigger.

Alastor had been a total asshole. And Lucifer had been so nice. Why couldn’t Alastor trust anyone anymore?

He knocked lightly at the door and Lucifer opened it after a long, nervous pause.

“Oh, Alastor. I wasn’t sure you’d be here tonight,” Lucifer said, sounding excited. He was wearing an oversized sweater with pictures of rubber duckies littering it.

“Yeah. Um. I have your clothes,” Alastor said, offering the clothing up.

Lucifer waved it away.

“I can get more. Keep that outfit for yourself,” Lucifer said.

“Ok,” Alastor said.

There was a moment of silence during which Lucifer appeared to be waiting for something. Finally, he sighed.

“Come in, Alastor. I have your chocolates,” Lucifer said.

Alastor followed Lucifer in, shutting the door behind him.

Lucifer walked to the living space Alastor was familiar with. Now that he thought of it, he’d never been anywhere else in the spacious apartment.

“Here,” Lucifer handed over a bag of chocolate balls, “They’re hazelnut.”

Alastor refused to ask why he knew Alastor’s favorite candy. Instead, he took it with a quiet ‘thank you’.

“Alastor, I want to apologize. I pushed you too far and made you uncomfortable. I just…I just want to see you smile,” Lucifer said, looking genuinely upset. It was only in this moment that Alastor even realized he’d never seen the man without total confidence.

“It’s ok. It…” Alastor took a deep, steadying breath. “I want to apologize as well. You were being so nice and I…I was…I felt…” Alastor couldn’t find the words.

“It’s hard, coping with trauma. I’m not even going to say that you’ll get over it because you won’t. My family kicked me to the curb when I was a young teen. Apparently, I was too rebellious for them,” Lucifer said.

Lucifer seemed to space out for a long moment. Alastor was about to say something when he was suddenly back.

“Anyway, I’m not trying to sell you a sob story. I genuinely want you to know that that sort of stuff does get easier,” Lucifer finished with a bright smile.

Alastor tilted his head, his mind swimming.

“Do you have any whisky?” he asked.

Lucifer started laughing.

“I’ve kept a bottle of the good stuff for you. I assumed you liked it because you keep putting it on my tab,” Lucifer said.

Alastor flushed, embarrassed.

“Relax, Al. I wouldn’t shell out if I had a problem with it. You spend as much as you want at that bar,” Lucifer said.

Al? Alastor was weirdly ok with the nickname. He wasn’t going to bring attention to it though.

Alastor sat in the seat that he was beginning to view as his own. Lucifer was back quickly with a double shot of whisky. After handing it over, he sat in the chair on the other end of the fireplace. It seemed…domestic.

Lucifer pulled out a remote and pressed a button. Immediately, a wave of heat hit Alastor as the fireplace crackled with led flames.

“My space heater. Better than the real thing; chimneys take too much maintenance,” Lucifer said, sipping some kind of white wine.

Alastor hummed as he felt the heat relaxing muscles that Alastor hadn’t even realized he’d tensed.

They sat in comfortable silence after that, listening to the crackle of a fake fire.

“I should be going,” Alastor finally said, exhausted from his unusually eventful day.

“What’s your schedule tomorrow?” Lucifer asked as Alastor stood.

“Tomorrow? I’m not sure. If Charlie has no cover, which she rarely does, I’ll probably be working from eight to eight,” Alastor replied.

Lucifer tilted his head.

“We need more kitchen staff. I’ll communicate this to Vaggi,” he said.

“No need. I like working,” Alastor said.

“Of course, but it’s not just for you. The rest of the kitchen staff could use the help,” Lucifer said, “but that’s not my point. Dinner will be at nine. You don’t have to bring anything.”

Alastor was dumbfounded.

“I don’t want to go out for food,” he said.

“Of course not. We’re going to eat here,” Lucifer said cheerfully.

“Um,” Alastor racked his brain for an excuse, coming up with nothing.

“Great,” Lucifer said, ushering Alastor bodily out the door, “It’s settled. See you tomorrow!”

The door shut and Alastor’s mouth was still opened, waiting for the argument he didn’t get to have. He shut it, and walked to the elevator. It wasn’t until he was changing in his room that he realized he never gave Lucifer the money.

He’d also forgotten his chocolate. Which felt more important than it should.

***

Alastor woke up, feeling somewhat dazed about the day before. But, he had work to do so he shook it off and delved into his cooking.

As he expected, with Pentious out of commission and Angel running food to make up for it, he and Nifty were the only two covering kitchen duties. Thank god for Baxter, bussing and doing dishes.

“Nifty, what is your eta for the cream of turkey soup? I have a few people waiting on it,” Alastor said.

“Five minutes!” Nifty practically shouted.

“Alastor! Do you have a minute?” Charlie asked.

Alastor took a deep, calming breath.

“Charlie dear, I have no minutes. I have no seconds. Please come back later,” Alastor said, trying to keep the strain from his tone. It didn’t work as Charlie winced.

“Sorry, dad’s looking for you,” she said.

Alastor looked at the ceiling like the answer to all his problems was up there.

“I have no time for Lucifer. He can come get me after the lunch rush,” Alastor said.

“Sorry, Alastor. I’ll convey the message. Is there something I can help with?” Charlie asked.

Alastor sighed.

“It actually would help if you can serve tables,” Alastor said.

“On it!” Charlie said cheerfully, taking an apron hanging on the wall. Alastor smiled. Charlie’s joyful energy was infectious.

***

Alastor wiped the sweat from his forehead. The kitchen was officially closed. Eight was a bit early for a restaurant to close, but their restaurant wasn’t fully established yet and Vaggi was looking for more staff with the goal of staying open until at least nine.

Alastor wouldn’t mind help. Sure, he liked to be absorbed in his work so he couldn’t think, but it would be nice to not have to scramble for staff every day.

“Done?”

Alastor almost jumped out if his skin.

“Lucifer, fuck. Why are you so quiet?” Alastor said, holding a hand to his chest.

“It’s a skill that I have honed over time,” Lucifer said, “Now, are you ready for dinner or not?”

Alastor stared at him. He smiled patiently.

“What dinner?” he finally asked.

“I ordered food for us. It’s sitting in the kitchen. I just came down to get you,” Lucifer said.

“Well, I don’t know if I can—”

“Oh, you have other plans?” Lucifer interrupted.

Alastor frowned.

“I didn’t think so. Come on, have some food and wine and leave whenever you want,” Lucifer said.

Alastor assessed the man’s smile.

“Fine. What did you get?” Alastor asked.

“You’ll see,” Lucifer sang before turning on his heel and walking toward the hotel proper.

“Wait,” Alastor said quickly, locking the kitchen behind him.

“Yes?” Lucifer asked, spinning around.

“I want to shower,” Alastor said, “I’m all sweaty and gross.”

“Very well. I’ll be waiting then,” Lucifer said. He held out his hand and Alastor awkwardly took it. He was led to the elevator, which was somehow less nerve-racking with Lucifer.

Alastor dropped Lucifer’s hand as the lift stopped on his floor.

“See you soon, love” Lucifer said.

Alastor stared owlishly at the closing doors. What the hell did that mean?

He scrubbed himself raw in the shower; trying to distract himself from the weird…feelings that Lucifer was stirring within him. It wasn’t love, but it was something. Alastor was loathe to admit it, but when he was with Lucifer, he felt safe in a way that he hadn’t in a long time.

Alastor thought about dressing nicely. Maybe Lucifer would like that. The part of himself trying to push Lucifer away was starting to change. Now he wanted Lucifer to be there, be kind to him. He wanted to feel like he deserved love and kindness. He didn’t want to feel broken and alone anymore.

Still, he donned a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt.

***

Alastor took a deep, steadying breath before lifting his hand to knock. The door flew open before he made contact.

“Oh, that was fast. Come in!” Lucifer said cheerfully.

Alastor stepped inside, standing awkwardly in the doorway, unsure where to go. Lucifer stepped in front of him and guided him to the open kitchen area. He was…he was wearing sweatpants. How could someone look so good in sweatpants?

“Oh, like my outfit? I figured you shouldn’t be the only person comfortable,” Lucifer said.

“And what would you have done if I dressed up?” Alastor asked.

“It wouldn’t matter. You look good whatever you wear,” Lucifer said cheerfully.

Lucifer left him on one of the stools in front of the kitchen island before walking around to get the food from a paper bag on the counter. Alastor covered his heated cheeks with his cool hands. When Lucifer turned around, they were back by his side.

Lucifer’s smile didn’t change as he put something on a plate and slid it over to Alastor. He looked down and smiled.

“Is this lobster mac and cheese?” he asked, a laugh bubbling up from his chest.

“Of course. I actually got this from a dumpy seafood restaurant near the shore. They have the best fish around,” Lucifer said, “I also got stuffed clams if you like that.”

“I do. What did you get yourself?” Alastor asked.

“I got their crab-stuffed sole,” Lucifer said.

Lucifer dug into his food right where he stood opposite Alastor. Alastor poked the food with his fork.

“Why are you doing this?” Alastor asked after a long silence.

Lucifer swallowed his food.

“Because I like seafood,” he said, confidently.

“That’s not…”

Lucifer’s demeanor changed. He put his fork down and frowned.

“I’m not one to do anything for the good of anyone but my daughter. When you worked as the host of the hotel, I saw how you were with her. With all women, actually. You were like a knight in shining armor. And I envied the relationship you had with Charlie. So, I stalked you. Rather than finding something dirty, which was my intent, I saw a strong, kind, entirely too confident, beautiful man.

Then you disappeared. And it felt like everything stopped. The hotel, the staff, my entertainment. When I found you, I was furious.

I’m not going to say that I want to fix you. I just want to be honest with myself and you. I don’t need someone to hold power over. I just want someone…who might want me too,” Lucifer said.

Alastor waited a long moment for that to settle in.

“You like me?” he asked finally.

Lucifer laughed.

“If that’s what you got out of that whole thing, yes. I do.”

Alastor hummed, shoving a bite of food I his mouth. He tried to think as he chewed.

“I…”

Lucifer smiled and touched Alastor’s hand.

“Alastor, I’m not looking for some sort of confession or reciprocation. I like spending time with you in any form. And if I can support you while you find your footing again, I’m happy to do that,” he said.

Alastor smiled. He said nothing further and they enjoyed their dinner in comfortable silence.

***

“Oh, Alastor. I’m sorry. I forgot to tell you that we’re shutting the kitchen today. They didn’t have time to fully clean out the kitchen after the fire,” Charlie said.

Alastor rolled his eyes. He held a strong suspicion that Vaggi was the one to start that fire. It wasn’t big; it didn’t fully affect the integrity of the kitchen. But Charlie was just a little too quick to make excuses.

“I suppose I’ll go ask Nifty if she needs help in housecleaning,” Alastor said, already walking back to the stairs to go change.

“Wait! Alastor!” Charlie shouted, running to catch up to him. Alastor turned his attention back to her.

“Since we’re closed, the kitchen staff is going to the beach. You can ride with me an Vaggi,” Charlie said.

Alastor smiled.

“And what excuse do you and Vaggi have for leaving the restaurant?” Alastor asked light heartedly.

“Oh. Um. My dad has some interns filling in,” Charlie said.

“Interns,” Alastor said, mild disbelief in his tone.

“Yeah. So, are you coming or are you coming?” Charlie asked, smiling broadly.

Alastor sighed.

“Of course, dear. I’ll go get ready now,” Alastor said.

Alastor returned to his room in a good mood. He dug around until he found a par of swim trunks. He pulled out an old t-shirt as well. Alastor hated showing skin now. He felt too vulnerable.

“Going to the beach?”

“HOLY FUCK,” Alastor spun around so quickly he lost his balance and fell on his ass.

“Oh. Sorry, I thought you heard me come in,” Lucifer said.

“No, Lucifer. I did not hear you come in,” Alastor held a hand over his rapidly beating heart. Lucifer knelt down to his level.

“Are you going to the beach?” he repeated.

“Fuck, Lucifer. Yes, I’m going with Charlie and the kitchen crew,” Alastor said.

“Ah. Ok. You can ride with me then,” Lucifer said.

Alastor stood, Lucifer mimicked.

“You’re going to the beach too?” he asked.

“Of course! I deserve a break from work too, you know,” Lucifer said.

Alastor stared at him.

“Are you only going because I’m going?” he asked.

“Most definitely,” Lucifer said, “But it’s not weird because Charlie did ask me.”

“Umhm,” Alastor hummed, “Get out I need to change.”

Lucifer looked disappointed as he stepped out and the door shut slowly behind him.

Alastor shook his head. He changed, took his wallet and stepped outside…right into Lucifer.

“Lucifer. WHY?”

Lucifer started laughing.

“Because it’s hilarious,” he said.

Alastor took a moment to take Lucifer in. He was too shocked to really see it before, but Lucifer was wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Alastor could see scars in strange places, including what looked like a bullet wound in his shoulder where the too-large t-shirt dipped down.

Lucifer didn’t seem to notice Alastor’s eyes on him.

“Let’s go then. I want ice cream,” Lucifer said cheerfully. It was only then that Alastor noticed the two large men leaning against the wall.

“Hi Ian, hi…”

“Frank. My name is Frank,” the rather large gentleman said.

“I’m Alastor. I’m the head chef,” he said.

“Yeah, wait’ll you try his butternut squash soup,” Ian said cheerfully.

Alastor couldn’t help but return Ian’s gentle smile.

“Come!” Lucifer said impatiently and the two men tensed up and rushed toward the elevator. Lucifer followed at a sedate pace, pulling Alastor with a firm grip on his wrist. It was so close to hand-holding that Alastor started to feel a little warm under the collar.

The car ride was boring, but Alastor’s mind was racing. Being so close to Lucifer when he was so dressed down felt almost intimate. That was insane because everyone else, including him, were also dressed down. But still…

“So, Charlie—”

“She knows you’re riding with me,” Lucifer said with a quick smile before looking down at his phone.

Alastor turned his attention out the window.

They arrived soon enough and Alastor slid out of the car. Lucifer was halfway out when his phone dinged and he glanced down.

“Oh you have to be fucking kidding me,” he said loudly. It stopped Alastor in his tracks.

“Mother… Alastor, I have to make a quick phone call. The group should be on the beach near the crab-shack. Take Ian with you,” he said quickly.

“I don’t need—” but the door already slammed close and Alastor could see nor hear anything inside the car. He frowned, but turned to the shore.

“Um,” Ian said nervously.

“I know where they are, just follow me,” Alastor said with a friendly smile. Ian nodded tightly and Alastor walked without looking back. He was only obsessively mildly curious as to what that call was.

“Alastor! You came!” Angel called, running up and stopping short in front of him, knowing that Alastor didn’t like to be touched. He knew it was hard on Angel, who was a massive hugger.

“Alastor, Vaggi brought an umbrella for you,” Charlie said, jogging alongside Angel.

“That’s very kind,” Alastor said honestly.

“Alastor! Beach volleyball. Now. Let’s go!” Cherry shouted from a few feet away.

“No thanks. I think I’ll just sit in the shade for now,” Alastor said.

“Ah, party pooper,” she said, smiling anyway and running over to one of several volleyball nets.

“Have fun, Alastor!” Angel called, following Cherry.

Charlie stood in place, looking longingly at the others. Alastor laughed under his breath.

“Charlie, you can go play. I’ll be fine,” he said.

“Oh. I just don’t want to leave you alone,” she said.

Alastor felt a flash of anger in his chest. He didn’t need a babysitter. His life didn’t stop just because…but tamped it down. She wasn’t doing this on purpose.  

“Dear, go and play,” he said.

She gave him one long look, then smiled and waved as she ran off.

Alastor could see every staff member playing volleyball, but he knew which umbrella was theirs immediately. It was a solid black color. Husk had purchased it, and Alastor would never understand why. He’d never seen anything like it on the beach.

Alastor sat on the blanket and sighed. When he looked around, he didn’t see Ian. It wasn’t his problem. This time he heard Lucifer coming.

“You don’t want to play with your friends?” Lucifer asked, sitting down beside Alastor.

“No.” he said simply. Lucifer was quiet, seemingly waiting for more. After a long moment of silence, Lucifer sighed.

“I want ice-cream,” he said.

“Lovely,” Alastor said, his gaze over the water where children and adults splashed in the waves.

There was another moment of calm silence before Alastor was being pulled up by his arm.

“I said I want ice-cream,” Lucifer said, petulantly, “let’s go.”

Alastor smacked Lucifer’s hand but stood up anyway.

“I don’t know why you need a partner to go get ice-cream,” he said.

“Because I know you love cookie dough-brownie ice-cream and they make it amazing here,” Lucifer said.

Alastor assessed him. He felt boundaries being pushed, but decided that he would rather have delicious dessert with Lucifer than be angry at him.

“Let’s go then,” he said.

The ice-cream bar turned out to be a little shack with a few shaded tables around. Lucifer guided Alastor to the last one open, before walking away. He caught a glance of Ian ushering a couple away down the beach and wondered if it wasn’t such a coincidence.

“Here!” Lucifer said loudly, handing Alastor a cone, the treat already melting.

“Why didn’t you get bowls?” he asked, sticking out his tongue, lapping up as much as he could. When he looked up, Lucifer’s gaze was following his lips.

“Lucifer,” Alastor said, amusement in his tone.

“Hmm? Oh. Do you want me to get you a cup?” Lucifer asked, his gaze snapping back to Alastor’s eyes.

“No thanks, I’ll make it work,” Alastor said.

Lucifer happily lapped at his own cone.

“What did you get?” Alastor asked, taking a bite off the top of his.

“Sacrilege! You can’t bite it!” Lucifer said.

Alastor raised an eyebrow before taking another bite.

Lucifer shuddered.

“It’s vanilla,” he said.

“Seriously?” Alastor asked.

“Respect the classics,” Lucifer said.

Alastor rolled his eyes and smiled.

***

“Alastor! Come in the water!” Charlie said, a literal ball of energy shading where he was sunbathing.

“Why?” he asked.

“Oh, come on. The water is beautiful! You don’t have to go in deep. It’s nice even if you only have your legs in,” she replied.

Alastor lifted his sunglasses and leaned his head back until he was looking at Lucifer upside-down.

“What do you say, Lucifer?” Alastor asked.

Lucifer started typing quickly into his phone.

“Just one more second aaaaaand…done. Yup. Let’s go cool off!” he said.

Alastor allowed Charlie to help him up with a hand on his wrist. He didn’t look back until he felt a splash of cold water wash up and swirl around his ankles before retreating once more to deeper waters.

Then Lucifer’s laugher drew his attention and he smiled as the man started digging his heels into the wet sand.

“Don’t you have swim-wear?” Alastor asked, noting that Lucifer was still in his shorts.

“I’m not going all the way in. I’d rather watch the fun from afar,” Lucifer said before smiling brightly, “why don’t you see who can go the furthest?”

Angel overheard Lucifer and jumped up and down before diving into the waves. When he surfaced he waved his hands.

“Whoever gets the deepest gets to finish work two hours early tomorrow!”

“Hold on—”

“That’s two hours free paid!” Charlie shouted over Vaggi.

Vaggi scowled at her until Charlie turned on that award winning smile, then Vaggi sighed and smiled herself.

“Fine” she said.

The crew ran into the depths, kicking out as they tried to surpass each other.

“You don’t want some time off?” Lucifer asked Alastor.

Alastor hummed.

“No. I like my job,” he said.

Lucifer laughed.

***

The next few months were like a blur for Alastor. Lucifer had somehow wormed his way into Alastor’s mind and they spent most evenings together. Lucifer would sometimes take video conferences and Alastor would sit nearby reading a book or looking up new recipes.

“Alastor,” Lucifer said, returning to the living room. Alastor sat on the floor looking up DIY flower centerpieces.

“Yes?” he replied without even looking up, “do you think roses are too formal for the tables? Maybe daisies? Or tulips?”

“Daisies, definitely. But I have…news for you,” Lucifer said, hesitantly.

A cold chill ran up Alastor’s spine and he twisted to face Lucifer.

“Oh gosh, no, I’m sorry. It’s nothing bad. I just think it will…push you out of your comfort zone a little,” Lucifer amended quickly.

Alastor frowned and said nothing. There was a long pause before Lucifer continued.

“So the hotel is going to be catering a fundraising event. Something about animals; I don’t know. But you would have to go work in the venue’s kitchen.

Alastor’s initial reaction was fear.

“You’re…you’re going to be there, right?” he asked hesitantly.

“Oh, of course! I’ll be there to check on you as much as I can,” Lucifer said.

“And…the guests…” Alastor didn’t even have the words to form his real question. Thankfully, Lucifer read his mind.

“That asshole isn’t invited. I specifically informed the organizer that it was me or him. Seems they chose me,” Lucifer said.

Alastor let go the breath he was holding.

“Ok. I need my staff,” Alastor said.

“Of course, Alastor. But you only need someone to help with the cooking. They have their own waitstaff,” Lucifer said.

Alastor took a big, grounding breath.

“Ok.”

***

Alastor wore black to the event. He felt spills were hidden better on black clothing, and it wasn’t like anyone would see him anyway.

For the event, Alastor had created three menu options. They could get the filet mignon, a chicken dish, or a pasta for vegetarians. All three were made in different, delicious sauces (if he did say so himself).

But they had time for that later. At the moment, the hors d’ourves needed to go out. A string of waitstaff came in an out of the kitchen for more trays. The tuna tartar was a hit.

“Alastor, don’t get mad, but I burnt the crab cakes,” Angel called out, conveniently on the opposite end of the large kitchen.

“Ugh, fine. Please make more. I have extra paella to send out anyway,” Alastor said, only minimally annoyed.

“It’s almost dinner time. I’ll go bring out the steaks,” Angel called before walking away.

“Nifty, help him. I only have two more batches of apps to send out,” Alastor said.

The pair walked away and Alastor was alone in the kitchen. He bent down to put a fresh tray of the crab cakes in the oven.

“Hey baby boy,”

Alastor spasmed so hard that his whole hand pressed against the burning hot oven rack. He pulled his already-blistering hand, too panicked to even feel the pain.

“Da—Vincent?” Alastor choked out.

“Ah, I see you haven’t forgotten our time together. I hear you’re clinging onto that idiot Lucifer Morningstar. Tell me, does he fuck you as good as I used to?” Vincent whispered.

“I…you can’t…I can’t…uh,” Alastor couldn’t even tear his gaze away from those intense eyes, let along form a cohesive thought.

Suddenly he was back there; under Vincent’s thumb. He panicked, tears starting to spill from his eyes. He felt his back hit the wall and Vincent crowded him.

“You know—”

“Mr. Whittman!” Lucifer said cheerfully, entering the kitchen, “I saw you heading this way. Tell me. Why are you here?”

Alastor tore his gaze from Vincent to Lucifer. Lucifer was looking back at him. There was a small smile on his lips but his eyes looked furious.

“I just—”

“’You just’ you weren’t invited. And you sure as shit aren’t meant to be in the kitchen mingling with the help.” Lucifer said. Alastor did not much like his tone, but he could still see the quiet rage in Lucifer’s body language.

Vincent brushed invisible dust from his coat sleeve.

“Terribly sorry for the intrusion,” Vincent said before turning his full attention on Alastor.

“I’ll see you soon, baby boy,” he said so quietly there was no way Lucifer would have heard.

Vincent walked away and Lucifer followed.

Alastor cradled his hand and sunk down until he was sitting on the floor. He felt tears of fear dripping down his cheeks. He heard Angel and Nifty speaking, now coming back to the main kitchen.

“Alastor?” Angel called out.

Alastor was frozen. He couldn’t let them see him like this. But how was he supposed to leave? He was the fucking head chef.

“Give me a minute! I burnt myself by accident. I’m heading to the bathroom,” Alastor called, forcing himself to his feet and rushing to the staff bathroom on autopilot.

He locked the door and stood in front of the sink. He looked at himself, eyes wide like a frightened animal. He scowled and punched the mirror until his blood smeared the surface.

Pathetic.

“Al? Can you open the door?”

Alastor looked at the door, deciding whether he should let Lucifer in or just barricade himself in until Vincent left.

“I promise he’s gone,” Lucifer said, seemingly reading Alastor’s mind.

Alastor frowned and leaned against the wall, sliding down until he sat on the floor. He wrapped his arms around his knees and buried his face.

“I’ll be out here. Take your time,” Lucifer said.

Alastor glanced up at the closed door before burying his face again.

“Is Al—”

“Go start on the entrees. You’re head chef for the rest of the night.”

“Me? But what about—”

“Vaggi is here with Charlie. Grab her to help.”

Alastor heard nothing further. He swallowed the guilt of being so weak that he couldn’t even pull himself together enough to do his fucking job.

“We can go home whenever you want to,” Lucifer said after a very long silence.

Alastor hiccupped, immediately covering his mouth. He wasn’t sure if Lucifer heard him, but he said nothing.

After a few long minutes, Alastor sniffled and rubbed his nose. He stood, splashed water on his face (reminded of the horrible burn on his hand) and opened the door.

Lucifer was sitting on the floor right beside the door. He stood up hastily as Alastor came out.

“Come, on,” Lucifer said, reaching for Alastor’s hand.

Alastor quickly pulled it away, but he wasn’t fast enough to hide the burn. Lucifer’s face darkened.

“How did this happen,” he asked tightly.

“My hand slipped when…”

Lucifer took a deep breath before smiling gently at Alastor.

“Let’s go home, ok?” he said.

Alastor offered his other hand. Lucifer’s smile was genuine as he took it and guided them out the backdoor. They was already a car waiting for them. Lucifer watched Alastor slide into his seat. He gripped Alastor’s hand, pulling it to place a gentle kiss on his bloodied knuckle. He let go to shut the door and dash around the car to his own seat.

They sat in silence the whole way back. Alastor glanced at Lucifer a few times. Each time, he was staring angrily down at his clenched fists. Alastor knew it wasn’t directed at him, but it still made him nervous.

Afterall, Lucifer was just as ruthless as Vincent. He could… and the thought stopped. Lucifer would never treat him that way. Even he wasn’t fool enough to think otherwise.

The ride was a blur, and before he knew it, Alastor was sitting in Lucifer’s penthouse on his seat with a blanket around his shoulders. The fake fire crackled to life and a tumbler of scotch was placed on the small table beside him.

“Do you want me to go?” Lucifer asked gently.

Alastor shook his head before wrapping the blanket tightly around him and closing his eyes.

And when he opened them, he realized he had fallen asleep. Lucifer was sitting on the chair beside him, staring into the digital flames.

“Lucifer?”

Lucifer’s attention zeroed in on Alastor.

“How are you?” he asked.

Alastor shrugged.

“Just mad at myself,” he admitted.

Lucifer was kneeling before him in seconds, holding Alastor’s good hand.

“You hold no blame here. I was the one who didn’t notice that asshole until he got to you. I should have known yet I didn’t set up the proper precautions. This is entirely my fault,” Lucifer said.

Alastor smiled slightly.

“It’s not your fault, Lucifer” he said.

Lucifer frowned.

“Can we get this burn tended to?” he asked.

Alastor nodded and followed Lucifer into the bathroom. Alastor tried not to make any noises as Lucifer washed the blisters on his hand. He applied a burn cream then wrapped his whole hand in gauze.

“Do you want me to take you back to your room?” Lucifer asked, “you need to sleep.”

Alastor frowned.

“Can I…never mind,” Alastor said.

Lucifer looked at Alastor with a kindness that Alastor didn’t think he deserved.

“Do you want to stay here tonight?” he asked.

Alastor nodded stiffly.

“The spare room is set up. I always have it ready for you,” Lucifer said.

Alastor flushed.

“If it’s not too much trouble,” he said.

Lucifer rubbed his back.

“Pajamas are under the pillow,” he said.

“Actually, Lucifer,” Alastor said quickly.

Lucifer stopped immediately, looking back at Alastor with concern.

“Can I…fuck. Sorry never mind, it’s stupid,” Alastor said, moving past Lucifer to the spare bedroom.

Lucifer stopped him with a hand on his wrist.

“Do you want to sleep with me?” Lucifer asked, a gentle smile on his lips.

“It’s not like that. I don’t want to do anything,” Alastor said quickly.

“I wasn’t implying that. You may sleep with me, just sleep, if you so choose,” Lucifer said, “Your pajamas are under the pillow in the spare room. My bed is all the way at the end of the hall. I have a massive soaking tub if you want to take a bath before bed,” Lucifer said.

Alastor planned to accept that offer.

***

Alastor woke the next morning from the best sleep he’d had in months. He had no nightmares; didn’t wake up in the middle of the night in cold sweats. When he looked over, Lucifer was still asleep.

Alator watched Lucifer’s chest rise and fall with breath for a few minutes. Finally, he slid quietly off the bed and wandered out to the kitchen. He figured Lucifer wouldn’t mind if Alastor took some food.

He searched the pantries and fridge, finding only a loaf of bread, some cereal, and several condiments. He laughed to himself. Why have such a large and beautiful kitchen if it was never used? Alastor would kill for a kitchen like this.

“Want breakfast?” Lucifer asked, yawning as he entered the kitchen. Alastor smiled at the sight of him. He wore a t-shirt and plaid pants to bed and it was an odd juxtaposition to his usual formal attire.

“With what food?” Alastor asked.

“You make all my meals, why should I have extra food lying around?” Lucifer countered.

Alastor reflected. That was very true.

“So, I assume you want me to go down and make breakfast then?” Alastor asked.

“Oh, fuck no. You and I are both taking the day off,” Lucifer said.

“Doing what?” Alastor couldn’t stop the anxiety coloring his voice. He didn’t want to go outside.

Lucifer shrugged.

“I have streaming,” he suggested. Alastor grinned.

“Rom com?” Alastor suggested.

“Not what I expected, but absolutely!” Lucifer said with a wide grin.

Turned out, Lucifer had a whole TV room. The chairs were soft and fully reclined. They stayed in their pajamas and got food ordered in from the kitchen.

He wondered what Angel and the others must think of him missing so much time in the kitchen when he barely ever to a break before.

But he found that he didn’t quite care. Nothing beat watching Twenty-Seven Dresses curled up with Lucifer in a much-too-small-for-it chair.

It was in that comfortable moment, that Alastor had a big thought. Maybe… they could have sex? Alastor was afraid and he associated intimacy with pain and terror, but with Lucifer, could he erase some of those memories? At least replace them? Hmm.

***

His moment didn’t come until three weeks later. He sat with Lucifer, eating the chicken francese he had made for them after work.

“Will you sleep with me?” he said suddenly.

Lucifer finished chewing his food.

“You know you don’t have to ask,” he said.

“No, that’s not what I mean,” Alastor said, his face growing warm. He suddenly felt too embarrassed to go through with this conversation.

“You…oh! You mean fun time, not just sleep?” Lucifer asked cheerfully.

“I wouldn’t say it that way,” Alastor said quietly. He felt Lucifer’s hand on his knee.

“Alastor, I am super down with sexy times with you. As long as you want to,” Lucifer said.

Alastor sighed.

“I’m not going to lie, you’re making me want to change my mind,” Alastor said.

Lucifer laughed and took Alastor’s hand, kissing the knuckles. He led Alastor from the kitchen to his bedroom.

Alastor could feel his heart pounding.

Lucifer released Alastor’s hand and sat down on the bed. Alastor followed suit, moving back against the headboard as Lucifer crowded him.

“Say no whenever you want. And I mean whenever,” Lucifer said very seriously, “do you understand?”

Alastor nodded.

“Verbal confirmation, dear,” Lucifer pushed.

Alastor huffed a quick laugh.

“Yes,” he said.

“Great. Now, let’s get these out of the way,” Lucifer said, gently pulling his pants down.

Alastor halted the movement with a hand on Lucifer’s. Lucifer looked at him curiously.

“Do you want to stop? Because we can. You don’t have to feel obligated,” Lucifer said, sounding gentle rather than disappointed.

“No, I don’t want to stop. It’s just…I just…” Alastor trailed off. His anxiety must have shown on his face because Lucifer sat up and cupped his face, giving one cheek a gentle kiss.

“Do I have your permission to take your pants off?” Lucifer asked. It was proposed so seriously, it had Alastor laughing.

“Yes,” he said. He swallowed his anxiety as Lucifer pulled his pants and boxers off, tossing them to pile beside the bed.

“Oh, I see,” Lucifer said.

“I’m not a woman!” Alastor said defensively.

“I never thought you were,” Lucifer said.

“But…” Alastor trailed off.

“Alastor, you’re a man. Always have been, always will be. Just because you have a fun little pussy doesn’t change that,” Lucifer said, furthering his point by licking the gentle folds.

Alastor shivered at the contact.

“Sensitive?” Lucifer asked, pushing Alastor’s shirt up until he got the hint and pulled it off, throwing it on the floor as well.

Alastor frowned down at Lucifer.

“You, AH,” Alastor shouted as Lucifer dipped his tongue between his folds.

“I?” Lucifer asked continuing his ministrations.

Alastor grabbed Lucifer’s head by his hair and pulled. Lucifer followed without complaining, a sly smile on his face.

“I was trying to say that I’m naked and you’re still wearing a full suit and tie,” Alastor said.

Lucifer laughed.

“Kind of kinky, no?” he asked.

Alastor blushed because yes, it kind of was. But.

“Please just take your clothes off,” he said. It somehow felt safer. Especially since Vincent would—Alastor stopped that train of thought. Suddenly he felt floaty.

“—aster, Alastor!” Lucifer pinched his cheek.

“Ouch,” Alastor snapped back to reality, rubbing the spot.

“You’re thinking too much,” Lucifer said, having removed his clothing while Alastor was having an internal meltdown.

Alastor took a shaky breath. He followed Lucifer as he guided Alastor once more onto his back before positioning himself back between his legs.

This time, Lucifer hit a spot that made Alastor see stars. His hip jerked and Lucifer laughed lightly before circling the tiny nub over and over with his tongue. He stopped momentarily and Alastor realized his eyes were closed.

By the time he peeled them open, Lucifer returned. But this time, Alastor felt a cool, went finger tracing the rim of his hole before pushing in.

“Lu—” and Lucifer was back on his clit.

Alastor felt overwhelmed in the best possible way. Even the few times he’d touched himself, he never felt this sort of excitement. Because it wasn’t just the act, it was that Lucifer was the one doing it.

Alastor’s climax was sudden and blinding. He gasped in air as he began to come back down from his high.

“Delicious,” Lucifer said, licking his lips.

Alastor felt his face heat.

“Do you…”

Lucifer chuckled.

“Alastor, whatever we do is fully up to you,” Lucifer said.

Alastor frowned, before grabbing Lucifer’s arm and guiding him onto his back on the bed. This time, Alastor took his place between Lucifer’s legs. He took hold of Lucifer’s already hard cock. He started by just touching it. His fingers skimmed its length, pausing to scoop up the bead of precum bubbling at the head.

Lucifer gasped. Alastor looked up and saw that Lucifer’s eyes were shut tight, like he was trying to control himself. It made Alastor smile wickedly. He liked having this control. To be able to do absolutely anything he wanted with no pressure or commitment.

Back to Lucifer’s cock, he gripped the base and guided his hands up and down a few times, before he increased the pressure. Immediately, Lucifer gasped, his hips bucking slightly; a subconscious movement.

Alastor slowed and Lucifer bit his lip to smother a groan. He looked down. Lucifer’s erection looked painful. There was more precum leaking out of the head. Alastor shuffled back and licked the spot experimentally.

Lucifer did groan then. His eyes were squeezed shut and his fingers twisted into the bedsheet, but he didn’t make any move to pressure Alastor. Alastor smiled to himself before licking Lucifer’s length from base to tip.

Negative thoughts began and Alastor stamped them down; focusing instead on the face that Lucifer was making. He wanted Lucifer to moan for him.

With a little more confidence, Alastor wrapped his lips around Lucifer’s cock and swallowed him down as deep as he comfortably could. It wasn’t all the way, so Alastor supplemented the difference with his hand.

Alastor found a rhythm where his mouth and hand met with every bob.

“Al, fuck…I’m gonna come,” Lucifer said.

Alastor responded by sucking until Lucifer came.  Alastor coughed a bit, the liquid thick on his throat. He sat up and wiped the spit on his mouth with his naked arm.

“Aw, fuck Alastor,” Lucifer said in awe, sitting up and pulling Alastor onto his lips by his hair.

Alastor lost himself in the kiss, wet and messy. Lucifer pulled away and Alastor blinked himself out of his daze.

“Lucifer,” Alastor said.

“Yes, dear?” Lucifer asked after a small silence.

“Can you order Chinese food? I’m hungry,” Alastor said.

Lucifer laughed.

“That sounds amazing,” Lucifer said.

***

“Heya, boss. You’ve been spending quite a lot of time with big daddy himself, huh?” Angel asked one morning as Alastor prepped for lunch.

“Tread lightly. Accidents happen a lot in the kitchen. I wouldn’t want you to accidentally cut your finger off chopping vegetables,” Alastor said cooly.

“Ooh, guess I hit a nerve,” Angel said to himself, loud enough that Alastor heard.

“Speak up, my dear,” he said, holding his butcher’s knife aloft.

“I said I need to sharpen my knife! Don’t worry, I’m on it!” Angel said, rushing completely in the opposite direction for where the knife sharpeners were stored.

“That’s what I thought,” Alastor said under his breath, returning to slicing his steaks.

“Ala—”

“Nope. Out of my kitchen,” Alastor said. Lucifer stopped where he stood, frowning.

“But I was gonna—”

“Whatever you want to say or do, not right now. I have a party of ten people coming in at exactly opening, all of whom want steak cooked every possible way. I do not have time,” Alastor said firmly.

Lucifer sighed.

“I’m going to a work lunch at Jordan’s. Do you want me to bring you some lobster bisque?” he asked.

Alastor stopped slicing.

“You know the answer to that,” he said, sighing.

“Hell yeah I do. I just wanted to let you know to look forward to it!” Lucifer said.

“Good. Out of my kitchen,” Alastor said loudly. Lucifer was halfway to the door when Alastor added a quiet “thank you.”

Lucifer acknowledged it by blowing him a kiss.

Alastor rolled his eyes, but felt a traitorous heat in his cheeks. Thank God no one was around to see—

“Bossman! Oh, hey, you ok? You’re looking a little overheated. Do you need a break?”

Alastor spun so that he was completely facing Angel. He gripped his knife and scowled.

“Uh, I forgot to take the…uh…” Angel rushed off in the opposite direction.

Alastor wiped sweat from his brow with his sleeve. He idly thought to tell Charlie they needed a better AC in the kitchen.

***

“Did you have a good day?” Lucifer asked as Alastor spooned bisque into two large bowls.

“I had a lovely day. How was your business lunch?” Alastor responded.

“Oh. I acquired a chain of florist shops of all things. It won’t have a huge output, but they were all owned and operated by one family and I allowed them to continue running as normal, just with some of the profit trickling to me,” Lucifer said.

“That sounds like a terrible idea,” Alastor said.

“It is. But that’s not the point. Think of it like charity work. The money I’m putting in is mere pennies to me,” Lucifer said.

“Hmm.”

They sat in comfortable silence until Lucifer was putting their dishes away.

“I got you chocolate, if you want to eat it by the fire,” Lucifer said.

Alastor smiled, thinking back on that first night Lucifer had given him chocolate. He’d felt so differently then, so scared, so alone. Now having Lucifer…it just felt like to he could handle whatever the world would throw at him.

“I’ll pour the whisky,” Alastor said.

He brought the drinks to their chairs and sat down beside Lucifer. Lucifer reached out, taking Alastor’s hand in his own and kissing his knuckles. Alastor sighed as he watched the fake flames.

He finally felt alive again.