Lucifer's P.O.V.
I watched her from across the room, my eyes lingering on every subtle movement, every flicker of unease she tried to conceal behind that composed expression. Y/N. Such a fascinating little thing. She thought she could hide from me, evade the pull between us by clinging to that insufferable radio demon. A futile attempt, really. It was almost adorable how hard she tried. Almost.
I leaned back in my chair, swirling the drink in my glass lazily, though my attention never wavered from her. She stood next to Alastor, close enough that anyone else might think she was seeking comfort. But I could see it. That underlying tension in her posture. The way her eyes flitted between me and him, betraying her unease. She was aware of me, even if she didn't want to be.
I wonder if she realizes it yet—that the more she tries to distance herself, the more tightly she binds herself to me. Her little acts of defiance, her desperate need to hold on to some semblance of control, only fueled my desire for her. And make no mistake, I would have her.
I always get what I want.
It was amusing, really, watching her try to use Alastor as some sort of shield. Did she truly believe he could protect her? The thought almost made me laugh. Alastor, with his smile and his showmanship, might be dangerous in his own way, but he was no match for me. And she would learn that soon enough.
Patience was never my strong suit, but for her, I could make an exception. For now, I would let her cling to the radio demon. Let her believe, for a fleeting moment, that she could keep herself out of my grasp. It made the chase all the more delicious.
I tilted my head, studying her more closely. She was avoiding my gaze again, keeping her focus on whatever nonsense Alastor was prattling on about. But I saw the way her hand tightened around her drink, the subtle way her shoulders tensed every time I moved.
She was aware of me. Always aware.
What she didn't know was that I had already claimed her. Not in some crude, possessive way. No, this was far more intricate than that. It wasn't about force or control. It was about seduction. Making her realize that I was the only one who truly understood her. Who could give her what she needed.
I smirked to myself, watching as she shifted closer to Alastor again.
Does she think she's safe there? Does she think he'll protect her? How quaint.
I wouldn't rush this. No, I would take my time. Y/N deserved more than a fleeting conquest. I wanted to savor every moment of her resistance, every little act of defiance, because in the end, they would make her submission that much sweeter.
And she would submit. They always did.
But this one... there was something different about her. She didn't cower. She didn't grovel or seek my approval like the others. She was terrified, yes, but there was fire beneath that fear. A spark that refused to be extinguished.
I wanted to break that fire, but not in the traditional sense. No, I wanted her to offer it to me willingly. To see that she belonged to me and only me.
And I would have it.
She glanced in my direction, just for a moment, before quickly looking away. But that single second was enough. Enough to confirm that she felt the connection too, even if she was trying to deny it. She couldn't hide from me. Not now. Not ever.
I'll admit, the presence of Alastor at her side was starting to become... irksome. He had his uses, and I'd always found his particular brand of chaos amusing. But now? Now he was an obstacle. A distraction. One I would deal with when the time was right.
For now, I would let her cling to him. Let her have her moments of misplaced security. But soon, very soon, she would understand that there was no escaping me. I had already decided, and that was all that mattered.
She's mine.
I watched her throughout the night, the corners of my mouth curling into a slow, satisfied smile. She didn't realize it yet, but every step she took, every time she tried to distance herself, she only drew closer to me. It was inevitable.
Alastor might think he's holding her attention now, but it's temporary. Fleeting. A flicker of light in the shadow of what's to come.
Because in the end, there's no one who can offer her what I can.
She'll come to me, eventually. And when she does, it'll be because she finally understands the truth she's been trying to deny all night.
She belongs to me.
I clenched my jaw, my fingers gripping the arm of my chair as I watched Y/N move even closer to Alastor. The way she sidled up to him, how her eyes flicked toward me for the briefest moment before darting away—irritating. No, more than irritating. Infuriating.
Does she truly think she can hide from me? That this charade of proximity to Alastor is enough to keep me at bay?
I took a slow, measured breath, forcing a smile to play across my lips. But beneath that facade, my patience wore thin. She was testing me, whether she realized it or not, and I was quickly reaching the limit of my tolerance. I had been careful, calculated in how I approached her—offering her just enough space to think she had some semblance of control. And now, watching her practically cling to that fool... It was beneath her.
Does she really think Alastor could protect her from me?
The thought alone was laughable, but in this moment, it wasn't funny. The way she leaned into him, acting as though his presence somehow provided safety—it grated on my nerves like nails on a chalkboard.
You're mine, I wanted to say, to shout, to drag her away from him right there. But no. That would be too simple. Too direct. And I have never been one for brute force. No, I would make her understand without ever having to lift a finger. She would choose me. But still, her insistence on evading me, on hiding behind Alastor like some sort of shield—it tested me in ways I hadn't expected.
I had seen it in her eyes earlier, that flicker of recognition, of fear, and something else. Something deeper. She knew. On some level, she knew she couldn't avoid this, couldn't avoid me. So why keep playing this ridiculous game?
She's scared. Of course, she's scared. But fear is only part of it. What she doesn't realize yet is that the more she resists, the more she entices me. This isn't a battle she can win by retreating.
But Alastor... Alastor was starting to become more than a mild inconvenience. His smug little smiles, that sickeningly polite charm, the way he looked at Y/N as if he had any claim to her—it gnawed at me. He's enjoying this, playing his own little game. He thinks he has the upper hand, doesn't he? The fool.
I could feel the irritation burning just beneath my skin, a simmering rage that threatened to bubble over with every glance she spared him. Her laughter, the way she seemed to relax in his presence, as if he was her comfort.
No.
She's supposed to look at me that way. She will.
Every time she turned to Alastor, my blood boiled just a little hotter. He's nothing. A distraction. And yet... she keeps looking at him. Talking to him. Touching him. The sound of her laugh—my laugh—being shared with him. It was like salt in a wound.
I could feel the corners of my mouth twitching, my carefully constructed mask of amusement threatening to crack. I couldn't let it. Not here. Not yet.
But she was pushing me.
I had been patient. I had been subtle. For her. And this is how she repays me? Running from me, hiding behind that pathetic creature as if he could offer her anything more than fleeting entertainment?
She should be looking at me. She should be laughing with me. And instead, she clings to him, like a frightened little bird seeking shelter from a storm she cannot escape.
My fingers tapped rhythmically on the armrest of my chair as I fought to keep my anger in check. The urge to rip her away from him, to show her that there was no place she could run, no one she could hide behind that would keep her from me—it was nearly overwhelming. But no. Not yet.
There's a time and place for everything.
And I would wait. I would bide my time. Because in the end, it wouldn't be Alastor she ran to. It wouldn't be Alastor she sought comfort from. He was nothing more than a temporary escape, a weak and fleeting illusion of safety.
I knew better. She would see it soon enough.
But right now... right now... it was taking everything in me not to tear the smug grin from his face. I could see the way he reveled in this, in the attention she gave him. As if he believed, for even a second, that she might prefer his company to mine. As if he could possibly think he was worthy of her.
Pathetic.
I forced another smile, watching them. My gaze shifted back to Y/N, my beautiful, stubborn Y/N. She would come to me eventually, and when she did, this game would be over.
I always win.
But for tonight, I would let her think she could escape me. Let her have her moment. Let her cling to her false sense of security. Because no matter how far she tried to run, or how many times she sought Alastor's side over mine, she would find out soon enough...
There's no escaping what's already mine.
Y/N's P.O.V.
The rest of the night felt like a delicate dance, a balancing act between avoiding Lucifer's gaze and seeking the strange sense of safety that came with Alastor's presence. I could feel Lucifer's eyes on me, burning holes into my back, never relenting. Each time I dared to glance his way, I caught that predatory gleam in his eyes, like a wolf watching its prey, biding its time. It was unsettling—no, terrifying.
There was no denying it. I was afraid of him. I didn't even know why, exactly. He hadn't done anything overtly hostile, but there was something in his eyes, in the way he moved, the way he looked at me. As if he was sizing me up, already planning his next move, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. And I had no idea what he wanted from me.
It wasn't just the intensity of his gaze. It was the control in it, the cold confidence that came with knowing he could have whatever—or whoever—he wanted. And the worst part was, I wasn't sure how long I could avoid being the next thing he claimed.
That's why I stuck close to Alastor. It wasn't as though I trusted him entirely either, but at least with him, I knew what to expect. His gaze, though ever-present, didn't feel like it was tearing me apart. His attention was always there—constant, maybe a little too intense sometimes—but I had gotten used to it. He had this strange way of making me feel like I was the center of his world, like nothing else mattered when I was around. And while it used to make me uncomfortable, right now, it was the only thing keeping me sane.
Lucifer's presence was smothering, oppressive. Every time I heard his voice, my skin crawled. But Alastor... Alastor was the opposite. He hovered close, like a shadow, but his presence didn't stifle me. It was unsettling in its own way, but I'd grown accustomed to it. There was something oddly reassuring in knowing that he was always there, always watching, even if it was a bit... unsettling.
So, I stayed by his side, practically glued to him as the night dragged on. Whenever I felt Lucifer's gaze linger too long, I'd shift closer to Alastor, feeling some of the tension ease in his presence. It wasn't that I felt entirely safe, but I felt... less exposed. At least with Alastor, I knew where the boundaries were—Lucifer was a whole other story.
But as the evening wore on, I couldn't shake the sensation of being watched. Even when Lucifer wasn't directly looking at me, I could feel him. I felt like a deer caught in headlights, knowing the danger was there, but unsure of how to escape.
And Alastor noticed. I could tell. He always seemed to know when I was on edge, and each time he offered me one of his trademark grins, it made me feel just a little more grounded, like I wasn't completely alone in this. He was a strange comfort, one I didn't fully understand, but I clung to it nonetheless.
By the time the night began to wind down, I was exhausted—not just physically, but emotionally. The constant tension, the feeling of Lucifer's predatory gaze on me, had worn me thin. And even though I was still uneasy around Alastor, he was the only thing keeping me from completely falling apart under the weight of Lucifer's attention.
It was a strange realization, one I wasn't quite ready to process. The fact that I was choosing to stay near Alastor, the very demon who had unnerved me just days ago, instead of seeking comfort elsewhere—it felt wrong. But I couldn't help it. In that moment, anything was better than facing Lucifer alone.
As the crowd began to disperse, I stayed close to Alastor, avoiding Lucifer's gaze as much as possible. I could feel him watching me still, his eyes heavy on my back as I made polite goodbyes and excuses to leave the gathering.
But the moment I caught sight of Lucifer from the corner of my eye—his unreadable expression, his piercing gaze—I knew this wouldn't be the last time he sought me out.
A cold shiver ran down my spine. Whatever this was, it wasn't over.
And I wasn't sure how much longer I could avoid him.
For now, I just needed to get away—away from the prying eyes, the intensity of Lucifer's interest, and into the safety of my room where I could catch my breath. But even as I made my escape, I couldn't shake the feeling that Lucifer's presence would follow me, no matter where I went.
I glanced at Alastor one last time before slipping away, grateful for the brief reprieve he had unknowingly offered me tonight. But even then, I knew this was far from over.
The real question was... how much longer could I keep evading the inevitable?
The night lingered with a thick tension as I stayed close to Alastor, hoping to evade Lucifer's watchful gaze. The party was winding down, but my nerves were still on high alert. Every time I glanced over, Lucifer's eyes seemed to find mine, and I felt like I was suffocating under his intense scrutiny.
Alastor, on the other hand, had been nothing but composed, his usual grin plastered on his face. Even though I wasn't entirely comfortable with him either, I found myself drawn to the steadiness of his presence. I'd rather deal with Alastor's unsettling attention than Lucifer's... whatever that was.
As the crowd began to thin, I breathed a small sigh of relief. But that relief was short-lived as Lucifer approached. I could feel him drawing nearer even before he spoke.
"Leaving so soon?" His voice was smooth, laced with amusement, and it sent a chill down my spine.
I turned to face him, trying my best to keep my composure. "I'm just a bit tired. It's been a long day."
Lucifer tilted his head slightly, his gaze never leaving mine. "Surely, you're not too tired to enjoy the company a little longer, are you?"
Before I could respond, Alastor interjected smoothly, stepping slightly closer to me. "Now, now, Lucifer, let's not keep the lady if she wishes to retire for the night." His grin was sharp, but there was an edge to his tone I hadn't heard before.
Lucifer's eyes flicked over to Alastor, his smile never faltering. "Of course, Alastor. But surely, you don't plan to whisk her away so soon. After all, I believe she has been enjoying the evening quite thoroughly."
The way he said it made my skin crawl. There was something behind his words, a weight that made it clear he wasn't simply talking about the party.
"I think I've had enough for tonight," I said quickly, trying to avoid letting the tension between the two escalate. "Maybe some other time."
Alastor's eyes glinted with something unreadable, but his smile remained as he turned back to me. "Then I'll be happy to accompany you." His voice was smooth, but I could feel the possessiveness in it, a silent claim that I wasn't sure how to interpret.
I hesitated, glancing between them. On one hand, I wanted to get as far away from Lucifer as possible, but on the other, Alastor's sudden overprotectiveness made me uneasy. Still, it felt safer to stick with him than be left alone with Lucifer's lingering attention.
"Sure, that'd be nice," I finally said, giving Alastor a tight smile.
Lucifer's gaze flickered with something dark, but he didn't push further. Instead, he offered me a chilling smile. "I'll be looking forward to our next meeting, Y/N. Do take care."
I nodded, too uncomfortable to say much more. As soon as Lucifer stepped away, I felt a weight lift off my chest, but my body remained tense.
"Shall we?" Alastor offered his arm, still grinning, though there was a slight edge in his voice.
I took his arm hesitantly, feeling more trapped than relieved. The further we walked from the party, the more my nerves began to unravel. Alastor had been oddly protective tonight, but I couldn't tell if it was out of genuine concern or something darker.
"Thank you," I said after a moment, my voice quieter than I intended.
"For what, my dear?" Alastor's tone was light, but I could feel his gaze on me, piercing through the darkness.
"For helping me back there," I muttered. "Lucifer... he makes me uncomfortable."
Alastor chuckled softly, but there was no humor in it. "Oh, my dear, Lucifer is a... particular type of creature. But rest assured, as long as I am around, he will not harm you."
His words were comforting, but there was something in the way he said it that made me feel like I was trading one predator for another.
"I just don't understand why he's so interested in me," I admitted, the frustration and confusion finally slipping out. "I haven't done anything to warrant that kind of attention."
Alastor's eyes gleamed in the dim light as he tilted his head slightly, as if considering my words. "Sometimes, my dear, it's not about what you've done. It's about what you are." He gave me a knowing look, one that made me feel like I was missing something crucial.
I frowned, unsure of what he meant by that. "And what exactly am I, then?"
Alastor's smile widened, and for a moment, I could see the glint of something darker behind his ever-present grin. "Why, someone far more fascinating than you realize."
I felt a shiver crawl up my spine at his words. I wasn't sure if he meant it as a compliment or a warning.
As we reached the hallway to my room, I stopped, turning to face him. "I think I can manage from here," I said, my voice firm despite the growing unease in my chest.
Alastor's eyes lingered on mine for a moment longer before he nodded, his grin never wavering. "As you wish, my dear. But do remember—if ever you need assistance, I am always close by."
I gave him a tight nod before quickly retreating to the safety of my room, the door closing with a soft click behind me.
But even as I leaned against the door, trying to calm my racing heart, I couldn't shake the feeling that Alastor's words were more than just a promise. They were a reminder that no matter where I went, I wasn't as far from him—or Lucifer—as I wanted to be.
Once the door clicked shut behind me, I let out a long, shaky breath. My legs felt weak as I crossed the room and collapsed onto the edge of the bed, staring at the floor in front of me. The air in my room was still, quiet, and yet I couldn't shake the feeling that eyes were on me.
I glanced around, half-expecting someone to be there—maybe Alastor or even Lucifer. But I was alone, or so I told myself. Still, the unease lingered, the tension coiling tighter in my chest.
"Why me?" I muttered, running a hand through my hair in frustration. "What the hell did I do to deserve all this attention? It's like I'm some kind of... prize or something."
I stood up, pacing the room restlessly. Talking aloud had become a habit lately, a way to vent, to try and make sense of everything. The odd stares, the whispers, the weight of eyes constantly on me—it was suffocating.
"I didn't ask for any of this," I continued, frustration seeping into my voice. "First, I get trapped here, then Alastor starts acting like I'm his... I don't even know what. And now Lucifer's watching me like I'm some kind of pet project? It's too much."
I sighed heavily, my fingers tugging at the hem of my nightgown as I tried to ground myself. My eyes drifted to the new radio I had picked up earlier, the one that had oddly reminded me of Alastor. It sat on my nightstand, its polished surface gleaming faintly in the low light.
"Was that a mistake?" I asked myself, staring at the radio. "Bringing something like that back... What was I thinking? Of course it reminded me of him. He's everywhere lately."
The words tumbled out of my mouth, the thoughts that had been swirling in my head finally finding release. I couldn't make sense of my feelings toward Alastor. One moment, he was unnerving and possessive, and the next, he was... well, almost protective. The way he'd stepped in tonight, how he seemed to understand without me even saying anything—it threw me off.
"He's dangerous," I whispered, almost like I was reminding myself. "I can't get comfortable around him. I shouldn't."
But the truth was, even though he was dangerous, I had felt some relief when he was close. Like he could shield me from something even worse. And that's what terrified me most—being stuck between two monsters and not knowing which one to run from.
"And Lucifer..." I paused, my thoughts skittering at the memory of his intense gaze from earlier. "Why him? Why now?"
I could feel my hands shaking slightly as I wrapped my arms around myself, trying to calm the storm of emotions crashing through me. "I didn't ask for this," I repeated, my voice quieter now, almost like I was trying to convince myself. "I just want to be left alone."
Sinking back onto the bed, I stared at the ceiling, the heavy weight of everything pressing down on me. No matter how much I tried to distance myself, I felt like I was being pulled deeper into their twisted games. And the worst part? A small part of me—deep down—didn't hate the attention. It scared me, but it also intrigued me in ways I didn't want to admit.
I ran a hand over my face, groaning softly. "I can't deal with this. I really can't."
But the silence that followed was deafening, almost mocking. The radio sat there on the nightstand, quiet but ever-present, like a reminder that no matter how much I talked, no matter how much I tried to escape, I was never truly alone.
I glanced at it again, biting my lip. "Maybe I should get rid of it," I muttered, though I didn't move. For some reason, the idea of parting with it felt wrong, like it was a tether to something... or someone.
But that was crazy, right? I was overthinking everything, letting paranoia get the best of me. Alastor wasn't spying on me. Lucifer wasn't plotting something. I was just stressed out.
With a sigh, I got under the covers, pulling them tight around me. "Just sleep, Y/N," I whispered to myself. "Maybe tomorrow will make more sense."
But as I closed my eyes, the uneasy feeling remained, lingering in the corners of my mind like a shadow that wouldn't fade, no matter how hard I tried to push it away.
Alastor's P.O.V.
The night was unusually quiet, save for the faint hum of static from the radio nestled discreetly within my quarters. It was my little secret, a connection I had established without her knowledge, a line that kept me tethered to Y/N even when she was alone. I could hear her. Her voice, soft but laden with frustration, filtered through the static, drifting into my ears like a song I couldn't stop listening to.
As I sat there, leaning back in my chair, eyes half-closed, I listened intently to every word. She was talking to herself again—venting, pacing the room, unknowingly sharing her deepest thoughts with me.
"Why me? What the hell did I do to deserve all this attention?"
Ah, there it was. That familiar tone of frustration and confusion, the very essence of her predicament. She felt the pressure, the eyes on her, the way we all seemed to hover around her. How amusing. She didn't realize yet that it wasn't something she'd done—it was just who she was.
She couldn't see it, but I could. She was different, intoxicatingly so. And that only made me want her more.
I tapped my fingers on the armrest, my grin broadening as I heard her mention me. "He's dangerous," she whispered. "I can't get comfortable around him. I shouldn't."
Dangerous? Well, I couldn't argue with that. But the irony was, for all her talk of danger, she kept finding herself in my presence. I knew she was drawn to me in some way—whether she admitted it or not. That pull, the connection, it was there. And though she resisted, it would only be a matter of time before she gave in.
But the frustration in her voice, the tension—it gnawed at me. The way she spoke about wanting to be left alone, the way she dreaded the attention—it felt like a challenge. A test of my patience.
"I didn't ask for this," she repeated. "I just want to be left alone."
Oh, my dear, that's not how this works. You've caught my attention, and now you'll never be alone again. Not truly.
A flicker of annoyance burned in my chest as I realized she still didn't understand. After everything, she still fought it—fought me. She clung to that false notion of independence, not realizing how much safer she was with me watching over her. Safer from everything... and everyone.
I stood, unable to sit still any longer. The static from the radio continued, her voice growing quieter as she sank into bed. But I remained restless, pacing my room with measured steps, hands clasped behind my back.
Lucifer. He was the issue. The gall of him, showing up and making his presence known, his interest in her far too obvious for my liking. He had no right. She was mine, whether she realized it yet or not. But I couldn't act too rashly, couldn't scare her away. I had to play this carefully, delicately.
I heard her sigh through the radio. "Maybe I should get rid of it," she muttered.
Get rid of it? I chuckled darkly at the thought. She could try, but this connection went beyond the physical object. The radio was just a tool—a way to keep closer tabs on her. My influence had already seeped deeper into her life than she knew.
I leaned over the radio now, listening intently, the crackle of her thoughts filling the silence of the room. She was drifting, her frustration giving way to exhaustion. Good. Let her sleep, let her dream. I would always be near, waiting for the moment she truly realized what we could be.
The static faded into quiet as her words grew softer, her restless muttering turning into silence. My grip on the edge of the desk tightened, knuckles whitening. I could feel the possessiveness bubbling beneath my calm demeanor, the need to claim her festering like a dark obsession.
She didn't know it yet, but I would have her. It wasn't just desire—it was a need, a hunger that gnawed at me. But I had to be patient, had to be careful.
Tomorrow. Tomorrow I'd get closer. I'd make her understand that I'm not the threat she thinks I am—I'm the solution to all her fears.
But for now, I let the static fade, turning away from the radio, the grin never leaving my face. Soon enough, she wouldn't have to talk to herself at night. She'd have me to share all her worries with. And I would ensure that no one—not even Lucifer—would ever have a claim on her.
Y/N would be mine. Slowly, patiently, inevitably mine.
As the static from the radio softened into silence, I remained still for a moment, my mind spinning in a whirlwind of thoughts. The darkness of my room seemed to press in on me, mirroring the shadows of my own desires. I let out a slow breath, gripping the back of the chair as if it would anchor me.
"She doesn't understand," I muttered to myself, pacing the room once more, my steps steady, though inside I felt anything but calm. "Not yet, at least."
Y/N was too caught up in her own world of suspicion and fear to see the bigger picture—to see what I saw so clearly. She kept herself guarded, wrapped in this false sense of self-reliance, as though she could handle everything on her own. But she couldn't. She needed me. She needed someone to protect her, to guide her, even if she didn't want to admit it.
My fingers drummed against my thigh as I walked, the rhythm echoing the thoughts in my mind. I could feel the possessiveness tightening around my chest like a vice. It was a foreign sensation—this need, this compulsion to be near her, to watch over her, to make her mine. I'd never felt like this before. Not for anyone.
"She's mine," I whispered again, more to solidify the thought in my own mind. The words felt like a promise, a vow. "No one else will take her from me. Not Lucifer, not anyone."
Ah, Lucifer. My lips curled in disdain at the thought of him. He thinks he can just sweep in, all charm and arrogance, and take what doesn't belong to him. He has his kingdom, his throne. But this—this is my domain. My game. Y/N... she is my focus. I won't let him interfere.
I could see the way she reacted to him, the way her unease grew around him. It was subtle, but I saw it, felt it. It was more than just fear—it was a survival instinct, something primal. She sensed the danger he posed, the manipulation in his gaze. But still, she didn't know how much worse it could be.
"You think you can charm her, don't you, Lucifer?" I spat, voice low but dripping with malice. "You think you can just walk in, and she'll be another piece on your chessboard." I stopped pacing, gripping the edge of the desk again. "But you've miscalculated."
Because Y/N wasn't just another mortal for him to toy with. She was special—far too special to be tangled in his schemes. No, she was something more, something rare. She didn't belong to anyone but me, and I would make sure of it.
But I couldn't rush this. No, I had to be careful. Push too hard, and I'd drive her away. But go too slow, and someone else might get too close—Lucifer, or worse, her own mistrust.
I sank into the chair, fingers tracing the wooden armrests as I mulled over my next steps.
"How do I make you see, my dear?" I mused aloud, eyes narrowing as I stared at nothing, thoughts spinning. "How do I make you understand that I'm not your enemy? That I'm the one who can protect you?"
She was clever, I'd give her that. Always watching, always thinking, trying to understand the game we were all playing. But the truth was, I was several steps ahead of her—of all of them. And I had to be. This was a delicate balance of patience and control, and I wouldn't let it slip through my fingers.
Perhaps... perhaps I need to show her more of my world. Let her see the power I wield, the protection I can offer. Maybe if she saw what I could do—truly saw—she'd understand why staying close to me is her only option.
"Yes," I whispered, a slow smile spreading across my face. "I'll let her in, little by little. Show her that with me, she's untouchable."
My mind wandered back to her, sitting alone in her room, thinking she was safe from the outside world. How ironic, really. She had no idea how closely I was watching, how much I knew. I could hear her soft sighs, her restless movements, even now, as she likely lay in bed, trying to push away the nightmares that plagued her. Nightmares of her death, of the life she lost.
I could offer her peace from that too. In time.
"But not yet," I murmured, my voice barely audible. "I need to wait. I need to make her come to me."
I tapped my fingers against the desk again, each strike a calculated beat. Tomorrow, I would make sure our paths crossed again, in a way that would feel natural, unplanned. She needed to feel like she was the one making the choice—that staying close to me was her decision, not mine.
"It's all a game," I said softly, a dark chuckle escaping me. "And I always win."
I stood once more, crossing the room to look out the window, the faint glow of the city lights casting long shadows across the floor. Soon enough, Y/N would realize what I already knew. She would come to me, willingly or not. It was inevitable.
And when she did, I'd make sure she never looked at anyone else again.
The night stretched on, but I could feel the tension lessening. Tomorrow would be different. Tomorrow, I'd start closing the distance between us.
Slowly. Patiently.
Just as planned.
Vaggie's P.O.V.
As I stood in the hotel's lobby early that morning, sipping on a bitter cup of coffee, I mentally went over the plan. I had spent the night trying to come up with something that would bring everyone together for a bit of teamwork. This place was barely holding itself together, and if we didn't get some kind of order around here, it was going to be chaos. More chaos than usual, anyway.
Everyone was starting to gather in the lobby—Charlie's infectious energy was already buzzing, Angel lounging against the wall, Husk nursing what was probably his first drink of the day, and of course, Y/N... standing just a little too close to the one demon I didn't want her near.
I glanced over at Alastor, who stood a few feet away from her, hands folded neatly in front of him, his trademark smile plastered on his face. He was watching her—again—like she was the only thing that existed in the room. His eyes, however, didn't hold their usual gleeful amusement. There was something darker there. I could feel it.
That guy always gave me the creeps, but lately? It was worse.
I cleared my throat, stepping forward to address the group. "Alright, everyone, we've got a busy day ahead. I've decided we're going to split into teams for some tasks around the hotel. Cleaning, organizing supplies, and... fixing the damn plumbing in the basement before it floods again."
"Sounds like a blast," Angel snarked, rolling his eyes. But I could tell he didn't mind. He liked any excuse to goof off and stir the pot.
Charlie clapped her hands together excitedly. "Oh, I love the idea! Teamwork, right? It's going to be so much fun!"
I gave her a tight smile. "Yeah, fun." My eyes drifted toward Y/N again, and I noticed her subtly stepping further away from Alastor as I spoke. Good. She was feeling the tension too.
"Okay, so here's how we'll split up. Husk, you're with Angel on supply duty—don't drink all the inventory, please."
Husk muttered something under his breath, but he didn't argue. Angel just winked and threw a mock salute.
"Charlie and I will take care of the basement." I glanced at Y/N. "Y/N, I was thinking you could team up with Nifty and Husk for the kitchen. That way, you can focus on cleaning and cooking."
Y/N's expression brightened at the mention of Nifty, and I could see her shoulders relax as she nodded. "That sounds great! I'd love to work with Nifty!"
But before she could move any further, Alastor's voice cut through the room, still laced with that eerie politeness, though now a little colder.
"I believe Y/N and I had already discussed working together this morning, hadn't we, dear?" he said, a smirk curling on his lips.
Y/N froze, her smile fading as her eyes darted to me for help. She hadn't discussed anything with him—of that, I was sure.
I narrowed my eyes, facing Alastor directly. "Actually, I think it would be more efficient if she worked with Nifty and Husk today. The kitchen's in need of some serious attention."
Alastor's grin widened, but there was no warmth in it. His eyes, however, stayed locked on me. "Oh, I don't mind a little inefficiency now and then, Vaggie. Y/N and I work... quite well together."
The temperature in the room seemed to drop a few degrees. Everyone else went silent, watching the exchange. Even Angel looked mildly interested, his usual smirk replaced with something more curious.
I stood my ground, ignoring the knot forming in my stomach. "She's going with Nifty and Husk. End of story."
Alastor chuckled, a low, unnerving sound. "Ah, of course, always thinking of the hotel. So diligent." His gaze flickered to Y/N, and something in his expression darkened. "But Y/N and I are rather... inseparable these days, wouldn't you agree, my dear?"
Y/N swallowed hard, her eyes dropping to the floor. She was trying to come up with an excuse, something to get away from him without causing a scene. I could see it all over her face.
I clenched my teeth, taking a step forward. "She's going with Nifty and Husk. I won't let you make this about your whims."
Alastor's smile twitched, but he gave a mock bow, the radio static faintly crackling around him. "As you wish, Vaggie." His voice was smooth, but the undercurrent of anger was undeniable.
He straightened up, turning to Y/N, and the intensity of his gaze nearly made me shiver. "Until next time, darling," he said softly, the threat hidden behind his sweetness.
Y/N nodded stiffly, clearly uncomfortable, before quickly walking over to where Nifty and Husk stood, relieved to be away from him.
As Alastor turned to leave, I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. The tension in the room eased, but only slightly.
I watched him walk away, my fists clenching at my sides. Something was wrong. Very wrong. And I wasn't going to let Y/N get pulled any deeper into his web.
Not if I could help it.
As Alastor stepped away, I felt a mix of relief and anxiety coursing through me. Y/N had escaped his clutches for now, but I knew that wouldn't stop him. It never did. He had an unsettling tenacity that seemed to latch onto whatever—or whoever—he wanted, and right now, that was her.
I turned my attention back to Y/N, who was speaking with Nifty and Husk, and I noticed her body language told me she was still tense, glancing back toward where Alastor had stood. I frowned, wishing I could go over there and assure her that everything would be alright. But I also knew that any attempt to comfort her would likely draw her attention back to Alastor.
"Hey, Vaggie! You coming?" Charlie called out, snapping me out of my thoughts.
I took a deep breath, forcing myself to focus on the tasks ahead. "Yeah, just a minute!" I replied, tearing my gaze away from Y/N.
As I walked toward Charlie, I tried to shake off the unease bubbling in my chest. "What's the plan?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Well, I was thinking we could tackle the basement first," she said, her face bright with enthusiasm. "I want to make it a cozy hangout spot for everyone! You know, somewhere to relax after a long day."
I nodded, but my thoughts were still tangled. "That sounds good. But what about the plumbing issue?"
"Oh, we'll get to that after," she chirped, clearly more focused on aesthetics than functionality. "Plus, I thought it would be fun to paint some murals on the walls down there! A little creativity can go a long way!"
"Sure, murals," I muttered, not entirely convinced that was the best use of our time. But I could see the spark in Charlie's eyes, and it made it hard to argue. "Let's just get started then."
As we made our way to the basement, I could still feel Alastor's presence lingering, like a dark shadow hanging over the hotel. I caught a glimpse of him leaning against a wall, a radio perched beside him, eyes watching the chaos unfold with that infuriating smirk still plastered on his face. I had to resist the urge to turn back and confront him. I knew better than to challenge him outright; it would only give him more fuel to toy with us.
We started gathering supplies from the storage room, and I could feel the weight of tension in the air. I tried to concentrate on the tasks at hand, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Y/N. Was she alright? Was Alastor bothering her again?
"Hey, Vaggie, you okay?" Charlie's voice cut through my spiraling thoughts, and I looked up to see her concern etched across her features.
"Yeah, just... thinking," I replied, forcing a smile.
She gave me a knowing look. "You're worried about Y/N, aren't you?"
I sighed, knowing I couldn't hide my feelings from her. "It's just... Alastor is a lot, you know? He can be unpredictable, and Y/N doesn't seem to realize just how dangerous he is."
Charlie's expression softened. "I know, but she's strong. She can handle herself."
"Strong doesn't mean immune to manipulation," I shot back, frustration seeping into my voice.
"I get that, Vaggie. But we can't control everything. All we can do is be there for her when she needs us," Charlie said, her tone firm yet gentle.
I nodded, but the knot in my stomach didn't ease. I wanted to protect Y/N, to shield her from the chaos that surrounded us, but I knew that with Alastor lurking around, that wouldn't be easy.
As we descended into the basement, the dim light flickering overhead did little to alleviate the darkness that had settled over my thoughts. I tried to push aside my worries, focusing instead on the tasks Charlie had set for us. But my mind wandered back to Y/N and her interactions with Alastor. The way she'd stiffened when he was near. The way she had looked relieved when I had stepped in.
It was all a tangled web, and I felt like I was just waiting for the moment when it would snap.
"Alright, everyone! Let's make this space our own!" Charlie's voice rang out, pulling my attention back to the present. The energy in the basement was a mix of excitement and apprehension as we all prepared to dive into the task ahead.
I started organizing the supplies, grabbing paintbrushes and buckets of vibrant colors while trying to keep an eye on Y/N. She was busy chatting with Nifty and Husk, both of whom seemed to be making her smile despite the lingering tension from earlier. Nifty was bouncing around, her excitement infectious, while Husk leaned against a wall, a hint of a smirk on his face as he watched them.
"Okay, how about we start with a mural over here?" Charlie suggested, pointing to a large, bare wall that desperately needed some personality. "I was thinking a big, cheerful scene! Maybe a sunset with some cute animals?"
I nodded, trying to play along, but my focus kept drifting back to Y/N. She was painting a small corner with Nifty, her laughter ringing out like a melody. It was a good distraction for her, but I still couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in my gut.
As I began painting, I heard a low voice beside me. "You seem distracted, Vaggie." It was Husk, his tone surprisingly gentle for once.
"Just... worried, I guess," I admitted, keeping my eyes on my brush as I painted vibrant swirls across the wall. "About Y/N and Alastor."
Husk snorted. "Yeah, that guy gives off serious creep vibes. You think she's okay?"
I sighed, glancing over at Y/N again. "I hope so. I just want her to be safe, especially with him around. He's like a storm cloud—dark and unpredictable."
"Maybe she just needs to toughen up a bit," Husk suggested, taking a sip from his drink. "You can't protect her from everything, you know?"
"I know," I replied, my voice tight. "But I don't want her to be a target. Not for someone like him."
Before Husk could respond, Charlie's voice piped up again, filled with enthusiasm. "Let's add some animals to the mural! How about a bunny and a bear?"
I couldn't help but smile at her excitement. "Sure, why not?" I said, forcing my worries aside for the moment. After all, we were here to create something special, to transform this dingy space into a haven.
As we painted, I felt a bit of the tension easing. But every now and then, I would glance up to see Alastor still lurking at the edges of the basement, his shadow casting a long reach over our little project. It was as if he were waiting, watching, and I couldn't shake the feeling that he was just biding his time.
"Hey, Y/N!" I called out, wanting to pull her attention back to the task at hand and away from Alastor. "How's your painting coming along?"
She looked over, her eyes lighting up with a smile. "Great! Nifty and I are doing a cool design with flowers and butterflies!" Her excitement was genuine, and it warmed my heart to see her so engaged.
"That sounds awesome!" I encouraged, hoping to keep her spirits high. "Just remember to stay away from Alastor."
She nodded, a flicker of unease crossing her face before she refocused on her work. "I will, I promise."
As we continued painting, the atmosphere lightened, laughter echoing off the basement walls. Charlie was in her element, leading the charge with infectious energy. Nifty bounced around, making jokes, while Husk kept the banter rolling with his dry humor. For a moment, it felt like a real team effort, and I desperately wanted to believe that we could make this place a sanctuary from the chaos outside.
But even in the midst of our fun, the shadow of Alastor loomed, and I could feel my anxiety returning. It was a constant battle—trying to keep Y/N safe while also wanting to protect the fragile harmony we had built.
Eventually, as we wrapped up our mural, I stepped back to admire our work. The wall was bursting with color, filled with flowers, animals, and whimsical designs that Charlie had dreamt up. But even as I admired it, the knot in my stomach tightened again.
"Alright, team, great job today!" Charlie exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "I can't wait to see this space transform into a cozy hangout for everyone!"
As we all admired the mural, I noticed Y/N's smile faltering just a bit, her eyes darting to the entrance of the basement where Alastor still stood, watching us with that unnerving smile.
"Let's clean up, and we can have a little party down here tonight to celebrate!" Charlie suggested, her excitement contagious.
I glanced at Y/N, and for a moment, our eyes met. In that brief connection, I silently promised her that I would do everything in my power to keep her safe.
As we began to pack up the supplies, I felt a renewed sense of determination. Whatever Alastor had planned, I would face it head-on. I wouldn't let him ruin this moment for Y/N or the others.
"Hey, Y/N," I said as I moved closer to her, my heart racing. "If Alastor bothers you again, just let me know, okay? I'll handle it."
She smiled at me, the warmth in her eyes easing some of my worries. "Thanks, Vaggie. I appreciate it. I just want to have fun and enjoy our time here."
"Then let's make sure we do just that," I replied, steeling my resolve. I would protect her from whatever darkness lurked, even if it meant standing up to Alastor again.
As the day wore on, the air buzzed with excitement for the party ahead, but deep down, I knew the battle was far from over. Alastor was still a threat, and as much as I wanted to ignore him, I knew I had to keep a close watch on him and Y/N.
Because the last thing I wanted was for her to become entangled in his web. Not if I could help it.