Heaven Can Wait

[MaiusImperium]

Bright lights whizzed by in dazzling moments of eye-aching white in the dark, scum-caked window before his brown eyes. The subway train whirred and groaned and clicked and rattled as it sped along the track beneath the sprawling metropolis of New York City. It moved like his mind, at a fast pace and he had no control over the course the track took him, he didn’t even know the final destination. He didn’t much care either, for forty years Angelus had been forced to walk the earth for his transgression against the almighty and the pearly gates of heaven. And for forty years he had tried to make amends for his wrongdoings, it hadn’t helped and now Angelus got the distinct impression that He wasn’t even listening to him anymore.

The worst thing was he couldn’t confide in anyone, those precious few mortals who had the ability to open their mind to accept what he had to tell them were blind to him, and there were rules about confiding in other angels, or even demons, that walked the earth. Either He wasn’t listening or He was enjoying the punishment He had inflicted on Angelus. For a moment he wondered what it was like for mortals who’s father had disowned them, who’s parents wanted nothing to do with them.

The carriage whirred gradually to a slow stop at another station, the bright, unhealthy fluorescent like that bounced off the polished white tiles of the walls made his dark eyes sting and he scrunched his face up and tried to sink into his dark grey raincoat further, hiding himself away from the light. The doors hissed open and people got off, others got on and then the subterranean locomotive was moving again.

Nobody noticed Angelus, he was good at not being noticed, he just looked like another hopeless denizen of the city, his thick raincoat was dirty and tattered, and the shirt and cargo pants beneath it were an unremarkable shade of black. To the casual onlooker he probably looked like a bum, or a drunk, but those who really stopped to look closely would have found something slightly off with his appearance. Despite the tattered quality of his clothes and the shagginess of his brown hair his pale skin was unmarred and flawless, though his eyes seemed dark and lifeless. He carried himself with an understated grace and economy of movement and even now a faint aura of light seemed to radiate off his body. There were at least a few perks to being an angel. And Angelus’ appearance hadn’t changed since he had been banished to Earth.

Earth, earth was just another battleground in a war that raged across countless worlds and planes of existence, it was the war to end all wars, so massive in scale and so bitter in enmity that it would shatter the mind of a mortal just to know the extent of it. The war had been going on since the beginning, the roots of the war were long forgotten, even by the Angels themselves. They had forgotten what they were fighting for, Angelus suspected even He, the Him, had forgotten. It was a war for souls. Angels and Demons vied for the souls of the living across countless planes of existence. Angelus had given up actively fighting demons long ago, he focused on trying to save those who could be saved. He would swell Heaven’s ranks rather than diminish those of Hell, and even that he did with little apparent pleasure. He wasn’t doing this to strengthen the armies of Him, nor was he really doing it to save those who needed saving, he was doing it to get back home.

Once you had experienced Heaven everything else was a pale imitation of existence, and his heart pined painfully for the return home. It was the ultimate punishment for wayward Angels, to be constantly aware of Heaven, to sense it’s presence, but to never be allowed to step foot in it again. At least not until He deigned you had served your penance. Angelus’ clenched his fist angrily as he thought of His hypocrisy, his presumption and ability to judge all he saw so easily, without ever questioning himself. He was not worthy of worship! Even these human cattle deserved better than Him for a god. He felt the anger swell inside him, and those taunting voices came back, whispering seductively of power and rage at Him and everything He stood for. His pale cherubic face scrunched up as he fought to control himself, with an effort he beat those poisonous feelings back down. He had always been something of a firebrand, it was one of the reasons he had been banished after that…incident. He tried not to think about that, the pain was only a memory but dwelling on it made him hurt.

It didn’t do to dwell on the past, you could never go back and change things, not even Angels could do that. So Angelus raised his eyes to the carriage again to survey those around him. The faithful and the faithless, the lost and the found. Their auras shone brightly around their heads to his eyes, he could trace their meagre existences out from beginning to end. But he was looking for a certain something, a special kind of gentle soul. Everyone had problems, but there were problems and there were problems. Angelus needed a special kind of plight, a certain flavour of misery, one that he could heal from a person, a soul he could save, one more to add to the tally. It was a tally even He had to take notice of, eventually.

[If you are interested in this thread, please PM me and we can discuss it further]

 

[Alerdene]

OOC:

Alliandra Briton aka Allie
Age 24
Long deep auburn wavy hair
Green eyes flecked with gold
5'8", skinny, but still holding on to a vestige of tone, though it's going fast

IC

Allie woke with a start, her head feeling as if it would shatter each time she moved. Causing a bust of pain, her lank hair flew wildly around her as she sat up on the bed suddenly looking left to right. A deep breath exploded from her as her eyes found what she was looking for, the small lump under the blanket at the bottom of the bed. Pulling the blanket off slowly, her full lips broke into a smile that would have dazzled someone even a year before.

The boy lay on his stomach, his knees tucked under him, his bottom up in the air. He had a hand to his mouth as if he'd thought about sucking his thumb, but hadn't quite followed through on the idea. His sandy hair cascaded in curls around his little face. People kept telling her to cut it, he was a boy for goodness sake, but she thought the curls made him look like a little angel. Her little angel.

After leaning over to give him a light kiss on those beautiful curls, she sighed. Standing slowly, she stretched, her arms goign up high, the grungy t-shirt she wore rising above her hip bones, showing faded blue panties underneath. Another look at her baby and she disappeared into the bathroom, being sure to close the door in case he woke up.

She stared at herself in the mirror for a long moment, her green eyes sad as they looked upon what she had become. Five short years. That's all it had taken. Her fall from graces so to speak. Getting pregnant her second year of college. Dropping out to move away with that rat Allen.... who disappeared when the baby was 3 months old. Her family had disowned her when she dropped out of school, they had never even seen their beautiful grandson. One misstep after another, and it wasn't long before she was at the bottom of the heap. A drug addict who drank too much and had an on again, off again abusive lout of a boyfriend. It was so cliche. And yet something she couldn't seem to rise above.

Turning sideways as she pulled off the thin shirt, she looked at her side and grimaced at the long bruises Jorge's fingers had left on her hips. They matched the purplish splotch surrounding one of her eyes. Soon. She would leave him soon. As soon as she'd found a reliable babysitter and a job. Then she'd make her move. A nearly hysterical laugh escaped her lips as she realized she'd said the same thing for the last year.

Opening a small drawer, she pulled out the tiny packet of white powder. Staring at herself in the mirror again, she took a tiny amount and closed her eyes as she leaned over to snort it up, the fine powder calming her nerves almost immediately. Putting it away, she walked back into the other room, grabbing a clean shirt and pulling it over her full breasts. A tight pair of faded, ragged jeans went on next. Sitting on the bed, she pulled on some socks and slipped her feet into a frayed pair of ancient Reeboks. She ran a comb through her long hair, getting the worst of the snarls out as she thought about her day.

A job. That was on the agenda today. She'd had a job until a few days ago. At a porn bookstore. Not exactly what she'd pictured herself doing when she was in college, but it gave her some cash to pay for this hovel she and her baby lived in. Somehow Jorge had managed to mess that up too. Always coming in drunk, harassing the customers, talking lewdly in that loud grating voice he had. The manager had pulled her in at the end of her shift four days ago and told her she was finished. She'd begged him to give her another chance, that she could keep Jorge away, but he wouldn't hear of it. Fired from a porn store. You couldn't get much lower then that. Then Jorge had the nerve to slap her for losing her job.

Shrugging the thoughts away, she reached over and swatted the little boy playfully on the bottom, leaning over and whispering to him,

Come on Tyler, it's a new day. We have fun to find... not to mention a new job for mommy.

The four year old boy sat up and snuggled into her arms, giggling wildly as she tickled him. When he looked up, the smile drooped as his fingers reached up to touch the bruise around her eye. Giving him a silly look, she took his fingers away and kissed them.

Mommy's so clumsy. Can you believe when I came home last night I tripped on our rug in front of the door and fell right down onto that little side table? What a silly place to put a table. Maybe you can help me find a new place for it today? What do you say?

He nodded and jumped off the bed, running over to the tiny dresser that housed his meager supply of clothing. Grabbing a pair of shorts and shirts he brought them to her and allowed her to help him dress.

"Mommy, can we go to the park today? And donuts. You said we could have donuts for breakfast today."

Nodding as she mentally calculated the tiny amount of funds she had left.

Of course baby, donuts and the park. First on the list.

Helping him with his shoes, she managed a smile as she ruffled his hair. She loved him so much. If it hadn't been for him, she'd have probably given up long ago. Going to the tiny kitchen, she opened the freezer and reached into an empty tv dinner carton, extracting a small wad of bills. Very small. Shoving them into her pocket, she opened the half empty bottle of vodka that was there and took a long drink before replacing it.

Alright tiger, let's go find some donuts.

 

[MaiusImperium]

Angelus closed his eyes and let the gentle swaying of the tram car calm him, around him people babbled to themselves, other read the newspaper, a few listened to music. All crammed in like sardines, like cattle. Angelus did not have a very high opinion of humans. Oh Angelus were undying, they were beautiful in a fatal sort of way, they had powers most mortals would call ‘magical’, but in one fell swoop God, the Father, had given humans more than He had ever given angels. He had given humans a choice, they chose to follow, or not to follow. Angels were just servants of His will, as demons were followers of the Morningstar. He could feel that sense of injustice, that sense of anger boil up inside him again, Angelus hadn’t made a very good angel, even when he had been welcome in Heaven’s hallowed halls, he was fiery and wild.

And then the P.A. system crackled into a hiss.

“Next stop central park, terminus.” Just as the driver had finished his partially garbled transmission Angelus felt the inertia of the subway tram fade as the breaks were applied. Metal wheels on metal tramlines hissed and the locomotive came to a halt at the final stop. Angelus’ face was bathed in the harsh light of the underground fluorescent tubes outside the cart and reluctantly he got to his feet. The cattle made their way out of the tram, and for a moment it was completely empty, and silent save for the hum of the vehicle’s engine, and then a fresh set of noisy, loud people boarded for the return journey.

Angelus flitted through the crowds of people unnoticed, he was tall and yet managed to blend in, darting through the throngs of commuters silently and without fuss.

“Hey pal you spare a dollar so my dog can eat?” Angelus said nothing, didn’t even look down to regard the bum who crouched against the tiled wall of the underground tunnel by the escalators, a tired old Alsatian raised one puss-ridden eye to the Angel, and managed a quick whimper. As Angelus slipped passed the two of them he slipped a ten dollar bill into the man’s upturned cap, but he didn’t wait for thanks, he carried onwards, towards the surface. He stepped onto the escalator, sandwiched between the multitudes, he didn’t even know where he was going. He liked buses, trams, escalators, anything that decided the journey for him, there was a comfort in knowing you had absolutely no control over where you were going. He found it perversely calming, to surrender his will to fate.

Besides, it didn’t really matter where he went, looking for people with problems in New York was like trying to find corrupt politicians, it came with the territory. The haloes of all those who surrounded him were drab, barely present, viewing the strange shapes and symbols that floated above each mortal’s head he could trace out their existence, from birth to death. They were uninteresting and such trifling lives, an angel’s halo was vibrant and bright, and likewise a demon’s was easily recognisable. There were neither on the escalator to the surface of the city.

When finally he reached the surface the sun was shining, and for a moment it made his eyes ache, he stumbled blindly down the grey sidewalks. People bustled around him, the air was filled with the smell of choking car fumes and onions from the hotdog stands that littered the street. Angelus left the beaten path as quickly as he could, though finding solitude in New York was almost impossible. He changed from sidewalks to alleys, and they attracted a more desperate type of person. Prostitutes gathered in small groups of three or four, some with pimps, he ignored their crude catcalls and flitted past them without sparing them even a glance. He was searching, searching, all his thought was bent on it, he would know the soul when he saw it. Their halo would be different.

There was a ruckus up ahead, there was a diminutive redheaded girl, barely old enough to be out of school and she was flanked by two burly looking thugs, a large, rotund man stood in front of her as his two goons held her hands. The girl didn’t seem to be struggling, though she was arguing with the man. But that wasn’t what drew him to her, the aura, the halo that flitted above her was of burnished gold while those of the others were drab shades of brown and grey. A certain flavour of desperation. Yes, he could help her. And he could start now.

“Where’s my money bitch? You better not be playin me or Hank here is gonna put a pretty smile on your face, ear to ear if you follow me…” The girl was sobbing now as one of the fat man’s lackeys (the one he guessed to be Hank) took a small but large enough blade from the inside pocket of his leather jacket.

Angelus’ pace had quickened, but his feet were carried out of a desperation to not let this special one get away, for his own selfish needs rather than for any genuine concern for the woman’s wellbeing.

“Smile for me, bitch.” And then it happened. Angelus was suddenly there, behind the fat man. There was a loud, unhealthy cracking sound as Angelus’ clenched fist came into contact with the back of the fat pimp’s head, and he fell to the ground immediately, without another sound. One of the pimp’s goons let out an undignified yelp and bolted down the alley, but the lean one called Hank sneered and thrust towards the angel with his knife. Angelus’ body glided and bent like no human’s aught to, and avoided the knife thrust with inhuman ease. Before Hank realised what was going on his face was abruptly introduced to Angelus’ elbow. His nose cracked and splintered into a bloom of pain and he screamed and fell, clutching at his bloodied nose, the knife fell to the cobbles harmlessly.

There was a flurry of scrambling and the pimp and his goon picked themselves up groggily and bolted from the scene, following after their compatriot; the smartest of the three.

“Are you hurt?”

“You fucking moron! Jesus, a fucking hero, just what I needed. Get bent, you should have killed them, that’s what they’re gonna do to me when I get home.” The redhead smacked him across the face, the thick, gaudy gold rings on her hand imprinted on his pale cheek and he winced at the pain. He looked at her, completely dumbfounded, he managed to pick his jaw up from the floor. She was dressed like a prostitute…but she looked so young, she couldn’t have been more than 18 years old. It made him sad. One so young robbed of her youth. She spat at him and ran off after the three men, her voice shrill and begging, apologising and pleading with them.

Angelus moved to chase her, but something stopped him. He opened his mouth…to reassure her…to say he would look after her. But she didn’t want it., they rarely did. He sighed and straightened his coat, he immediately felt foolish, but also sad. It wasn’t the first time he’d been let down by human nature. The one that got away.

He turned back down the alley, and made his way back to the subway. He’d been awake for nearly 24 hours, he was tired and even Angels needed sleep. So he made his way back to the tenement.

 

[Alerdene]

They spent the entire morning playing in the park, eating warm doughnut holes picked up from a tiny family shop just around the corner of their building. She had taken a copy of the Times and sat circling any sort of potential employment that looked remotely close to their address.

Anyone watching would have seen a tired, haggard, down on her luck woman, keeping a close eye on a quite healthy, gorgeous young child. But when she would stop looking at the paper long enough to watch him run back and forth on the small playground, her entire demeanor changed. Her face lit up, her eyes sparkled and one could almost see the woman she used to be. It was a remarkable change.

It was close to noon when she motioned him over from where he'd been playing with a woman's golden labrador. His eyes excited, his cheeks flushed, he came skidding to a stop in front of her.

"Mommy, can we get a puppy? Can we please? I promise I'd take care of it myself, I really would. Can we mommy?"

His eyes were pleading, and she looked from the dog to him, hating to tell him no when he had so little anyway. In the end, she compromised.

We'll see Tyler. We'll have to wait until mommy finds another job ok? Then we'll talk about it some more. But it probably would have to be a smaller dog then that one ok?

He nodded, a little dejected, but soon cheered up as she gave him the last doughnut hole. Sugar lined his lips as he slipped his tiny hand into hers, walking down the path, distracted by everything he saw. She sighed wistfully, wishing she could be distracted so easily from their problems.

Her buzz wearing off, she decided it was time to go home, for a tiny pick-me up. Stopping by the bookstore on the way, she collected her last check, trying once again, unsuccessfully, to change the manager's mind. Walking towards their building, she led Tyler into the small check-cashing shop and left with the tiny sum stuffed in her front pocket.

"Mommy, I'm hungry, what's for lunch?"

We'll make some hot dogs inside, and then I'm going to see if Suze can watch you while mommy looks for a job, ok baby?

He nodded and skipped up the stairs ahead of her, their elevator apparently having broken down again, at least from the looks of it, the door stuck half open. Rummaging in her pocket for the key, she heard Tyler from half a floor above her asking her,

"Mommy, who put all our stuff outside?"

Taking the remaining stairs quickly, her hands went to tangle in her hair as she saw several small boxes of clothing, books and toys sitting outside their tiny apartment.

No, no, no. This can't be happening. Please, not today.

"Mommy?"

Not right now Tyler. It's ok. I just need to go and talk to the super ok? I'll fix it for us and then we'll have lunch.

She turned and went to the door across the hall and pounded on it until a small elderly woman with completely white hair answered and looked out, her head shaking in commiseration. Her voice was raspy from smoking for longer then Allie had been alive.

"Kicked ya out did he? I'm sorry honey."

I don't know what's going on. Jorge was supposed to pay the rent for me, he must have just forgotten. Can you watch Tyler for a minute while I go talk to Larry? Please? It'll just be for a few minutes and I"ll get it straightened out.

"Of course honey, you go ahead. Come on in Tyler, I think I have some ham left, I can make you a nice sandwich."

Waiting until she saw the door shut behind Tyler, she immediately knelt down and dug through the boxes until she came up with a small black make-up bag. Opening it, she gave sigh of relief as she saw the small bags inside, one of her coke and the other of grass. Shoving them deep into her pocket, she tossed the bag down and headed back down the stairs.

Going to the end of the hall, she pounded on the door until he finally peeked out, the safety chain on. Shaking his head, he stopped her before she could start.

"Allie, you're more then three months behind. I can't have it. You're out. I'm sorry."

No, no, Jorge said he would pay you this month? You didn't get it? Her voice was frantic and desperate.

"I didn't get nothing. The only thing Jorge has given me lately is the finger. I don't get why you let him come around you girl. And it's not my business. But you're out. I let you go a month extra already. I gotta get somebody who'll pay on time. You understand."

His tone brooked no argument and without giving her another chance, he shut the door, his face looking truly sorry. Tears began to leak out the corner of her eyes as she slid down the opposite wall, finally sitting, her knees up, her arms going around them as she cried, her sobs getting worse and worse.

Minutes passed and she finally calmed herself enough to dig out the packet of powder. Scooping some out with her fingernail, she inhaled deeply, and wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. Suze. Suze would let them stay with her for a few nights. She'd leave a note for Jorge in case he came by and then they'd go to Suze's.

Standing wobbly to her feet, she trudged up the dirty stairwell and knocked on Mrs. Brown's door again. Tyler answered, a Cherry Coke in hand as he smiled up at her.

"Look mommy, Mrs. Brown let me have my own Coke. And a sandwich and cookies too."

Trying to smile, but failing, she nodded and stepped inside to speak to the old woman. A few moments later, she was dragging the few boxes that held their entire worldly possessions inside.

I'll be back for them tonight or tomorrow Mrs. Brown. I don't want them to get in your way.

"That's fine darling. It's just me here, I've got plenty of room. Here Tyler, you take these with you in case you get hungry."

The woman handed him a baggie full of homemade cookies as he smiled broadly at her. Taking Tyler's hand, she thanked the old woman again and they slowly made their way outside, her shoulders stooped in defeat as they headed several blocks over to her friend Suze's.

 

[MaiusImperium]

The subway trip was uneventful, he didn’t find anyone else who needed help, not the sort of help he could provide anyway. On his way back he decided to stop off at the liquor store, it was only a short detour, and not far from the tenement where he had a room. It was funny, wherever desperate people lived liquor stores sprang up like mushrooms in the grass. The sun was almost reaching it’s zenith now, and would soon begin the slow descent into late afternoon. The city teemed with life.

Angelus stepped into the store. It was an old building on the street corner, the large glass windows had long been smashed and were now boarded up with large panels of cheap chipboard, the sign outside read “Booze 4 U”, the lettering was uneven, suggesting it had been painted on. It was not very welcoming to look at, but Angelus had something of a rapport with the owner, an old man called Marcellus. It was the sort of rapport that formed between proprietor and their best customer.

The angel said nothing as he entered the store, he walked down the small aisles with precision, as if he knew exactly where he was going. He didn’t bother looking at the deals or the offers, or the crates of beer. He went straight for the vodka, the cheapest available, the label was plain “Mishkin’s Traditional Russian Vodka.”, Angels was almost certain the vodka hadn’t even heard of Russia, let alone been made there. It didn’t matter, the alcohol content was in there, and that was what mattered. He picked up two bottles of the cheap vodka and helped himself to a bag of stay-fresh bread, the obligatory carton of milk and some candy bars. It was an odd assortment.

Angelus placed them on the counter, the old man nodded and offered him a smile.

“Yer be findin’ any work today?” The old Caribbean man’s drawled English could have soothed a lion, he had such a laid back manner, he was a rock of placidity in a sea of confusion, violence and desperation that surrounded him. For all the world he looked like he was sitting on the beach in Jamaica, and not running a grimy liquor store in the middle of New York.

“None.” His eyes never met the old man’s, of course Marcellus thought Angelus was just another bum, and for all the old liquor store owner knew the ‘work’ Angelus was looking for was no more spectacular than sweeping the streets or flipping burgers. In Marcellus’ more lucid moments he wondered how Angelus made ends meet, he never seemed to be short of money, though to look at him you’d think he lived on the streets.

“Better look tomorrow eh man?” Angelus slid a crumpled up twenty dollar bill and a fistful of quarters across the counter, gathered his provisions in a brown paper bag and within a minute he was gone.

He opted for the alleyway that led to the rear of his tenement, the walls of towering, cheap apartment blocks closed in on either side, the sun was completely obscured and the narrow alley was wreathed in shadow. The floor was slick with damp and mildew, it was like steeping into another world.

“Still wandering, Angelus?” That soft, sultry voice made his eyes widen and he caught himself trying to a sword at his hip which wasn’t there, a sword he had given up decades ago. He’d have recognised that voice anywhere, it came from behind him. He didn’t turn, not straight away.

“Still playing the sneak, Lilith?” The alley was quiet, punctuated now by the soft click…click…click of the woman’s heels as she came nearer to the angel. The woman laughed a low, throaty laugh.

“Is it really so terrible, to see me again? After our little…tryst I didn’t think I would find you again. But here you are, skulking and lying in the shit with the flies.” That voice made him feel weak, and brought up too many painful memories.

“If I see you again, succubus, I will strip the flesh from your bones. I imagine it will be some time before the Morningstar will be able to find you a new vessel to inhabit, particularly one so pretty.” He turned and left, taking longer strides now, but not exactly rushing.

“Au revoir, my precious Angelus.” He could almost feel the smile on her ruby lips, her tone was unctuous and sticky, like sweet honey poured into his ear. He wished dearly in his heart of hearts that she would listen to him, but both Angel and Demon knew they would meet again.

 

[Alerdene]

Suze took them in without complaint, settling Tyler in her bedroom in front of a Disney video and ushering Allie into the kitchen, setting a stiff drink in front of her. Downing the drink almost instantly, she smiled gratefully as Suze made another and then sat down across from her in the tiny kitchen.

"So what's up girl? They locked you out? You got all your stuff at least? They can't keep your stuff ya know."

Shaking her head and running her fingers through her dirty hair, she took a sip of the fresh drink.

They dumped it all in a few boxes. We didn't have much. The furniture was theirs. Just a few clothes and personal things. Mrs. Brown has them, she let me drag it into her living room. I gotta get it outta her way soon though. Don't wanna leave it there too long.

I don't know what to do Suze. I got no job, hardly any money. I gave Jorge my entire check last week to buy us more stuff. I had a few hours left that I picked up today... but how'm I gonna find a place for us to live? I can't have him out on the street. Be different if it was just me, but I won't have it for him. I won't.

Her eyes lit with an almost dangerous spark as she spoke about her son.

"Shhhh, calm down. You can stay here tonight. I know the manager here. He's a client once in awhile. I know he just kicked a bum out last week so he's got a place open. I dunno if it's one or two bedroom though. I'm gonna give him a call and see if he'll do me a favor."

She winked once at Allie before going to pick up the phone. Grinning at Suze's use of the word client, she finished her drink, sitting back in the chair and closing her eyes for a moment. When Suze got off the phone, she was smiling brightly.

"He's got a one bedroom a floor down. The rent ain't bad 'cuz this place is a hellhole, but it still takes cash. You wanna look at it?"

I don't have much money Suze. Prolly not enough to get us in the door. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Why now? I was gonna look for a job today, get us going again. Now I'm gonna have to ask Jorge for money.

She didn't mention that apparently Jorge's promise to pay her last months rent had been completely forgotten the moment he told her. Suze looked her over carefully, coming to run her finger's through Allie's long hair.

"You know girl... you could work for JC like I do." Ignoring the shaking head, she put a hand on her hip and arched an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you gonna do for money? It's not that bad you know. It ain't like you gotta go stand on a street corner. We got to a few bars with JC, he finds what he needs and we come back here. He brings the guys, you lay there, groan a few times, and boom, cash in your hand."

I... I couldn't Suze. I just can't.

"Alright, no harm in asking. 'cuz you're hot you know. Couple of shampoos of that fine ass hair of yours, some make up, the right clothes... damn girl... you'd be raking in the cash. Anyway, let's go check out the apartment."

They checked on Tyler who had fallen asleep sprawled across Suze's bed, his chest rising and falling with the peaceful breath of one who hadn't a care in the world. Figuring they'd be gone only a few moments, the left him sleeping and locked the door, heading down the creaky steps to the end of the hall where a short, squat man with dark hair stood standing, a cigarette dangling from the corner of his mouth.

He slapped Suze on the ass as they walked into the dim room.

"Damn Suze, she's fine, she gonna work for JC? I might havta come around more often."

"Nah, she's not into that Len, you're stuck with me"

He nodded and flipped the light switch, a bare bulb overhead lighting up the room a bit. Enough to see how shabby it was. The beige carpet was threadbare in places, a large water stain covered one corner of the wall up near the ceiling. There was a lumpy looking couch and easy chair and a coffee table that looked as if it might wobble. Turning right, passed through a small doorway into the miniature kitchenette. A small two person table sat against the far wall, and the appliances looked ancient. Opening the refrigerator, she was surprised to see it clean and fully functioning inside. Walking back into the living room, she went down the hall and peeked into the tiny bedroom before stepping into the bathroom. The porcelain of the tub and sink were old and cracked, a brittle yellow color from age. But they were clean.

Walking back out, she nodded at Suze who was looking at her questioningly.

It's great. It'll work fine. How much to get in?

He named a price and she took a deep breath, pulling out the wad of money from her pocket and counting it. Handing it to him, she shook her head.

I don't have that much... can I give you this and I promise to get you the rest in a day or two? Please? I need a place, and I swear to you I'll pay every month.

Suze leaned over and whispered in his ear and he looked up at her amused. Glancing over at Allie, he stared at her hard for a moment before pocketing the cash.

"Alright. It's yours. But you owe me $150 still and I want it within three days? Understand? I got no problem throwing you right back out if you don't get it? And I'll keep the cash you already gave me. Clear?"

She nodded, too thankful to argue. He handed her a key and told her he'd drop off some paperwork she'd have to fill out later. Slapping Suze on the ass again, he chuckled as she squealed in mock surprise.

"Later babe, I'll be up to collect soon. Wear that little pink thing I like." Glancing at Allie again, "Suze tells me you ain't got a job. I suggest you get one soon if you wanna live indoors."

Whistling, he headed off down the hall, disappearing down the stairs. Tears began running out of her eyes as Suze turned back towards her. Misunderstanding, Suze ran up and gave her a big hug.

"Oh Allie, it's not so bad. It can't be that much worse then where you were. A few knickknacks, some pictures, and it'll cheer the place up."

Suze. Thank you so much. I thought we'd be looking for weeks. It's usually impossible to find a place.

"Yeah, you must have somebody lookin out for you that's for sure girl. Come on, let's get upstairs before that boy of yours wakes up."

 

[MaiusImperium]

Angelus slipped into the dank tenement quietly. The place seemed to be in a perpetual state of gloominess, the windows that weren’t boarded up were caked in grime and pollution that seemed to suffocate any vestige of natural light, and the place was light by cheap 40-watt yellow bulbs that flickered and hummed dangerously, as if they were about to give out. The walls had once been white, but were stained brown with dirt and nicotine, cracks coursed their way through the plaster and the entire building looked like it was going to collapse at any moment.

Clutching the paper bag to his chest Angelus made his way up the stairs, his legs pumping nimbly though the rotten wood beneath them creaked and cracked. His dark raincoat billowed behind him as he got to his floor. His eyes were downcast, all he could think about was her, the vile hag queen of Dyss, all he could see was that salacious smile on her pouting whorish lips. His eyes were glazed, as if he were walking through a dream when he bumped into two women outside the apartment next door to his, his dark curls framed his face and his eyes burned intensely into the dirty floorboards beneath his feet, he didn’t even see them, and he certainly didn’t recognise the girl’s halo.

He didn’t exactly barge into them, but he mumbled something; it wasn’t an actual word, it was as if he’d opened his mouth to utter an apology and hadn’t quite followed through on it. He slotted the key into his paper-thin front door and slipped into the darkness beyond. The door shut quietly behind him. The room was dark, very dark. The curtains were shot through with tiny shafts of light where moths had eaten through them, he went over and opened them. The early afternoon light filled the room. It was…sparse. Upon entering the room someone would have felt there was something not quite right with it. There was a low coffee table, a television that looked like it belonged in the seventies, a patchy couch, a loveseat and that was more or less it. Upon greater inspection it was clearly exactly why the place didn’t look right. There were no photographs, no pictures, not even a house plant. There was nothing that made it look lived in.

With the curtains opened Angelus walked into the kitchenette half of the room (which was simply divided from the living area by the breakfast bar), and placed the milk in the fridge, and the bread in an empty cupboard above the electric stove. With the food stored away Angelus sat himself down in the loveseat, which groaned under his weight but was comfortable enough, so long as you didn’t dwell on the musky cloth-eaten smell. He flicked the TV on and closed his eyes, leaning back into the seat. The news was on, the presenter babbled quietly and unobtrusively as Angelus dwelt on Lilith.

His eyes opened and he looked at the bottle in his hand. When he had first been banished to earth it had taken him five years to get used to being…human, or at least part human. Hunger, thirst, lust, they were all so foreign to him. Addiction, he’d never conquered that one. He poured himself a generous tumbler full of vile-smelling vodka and took the glass from the coffee table at his knees. He downed it in one, trying not to pay too much attention to the chemical burn as the liquid slid down his throat and warmed the pit of his stomach.

Tomorrow would be different, he had the same though every day, before sleep took him. Tomorrow would be different, he’d find the one, he’d find them. He had to, he had to get back home.

 

[Alerdene]

They had just turned and headed down the hall when a man came from the stairs. His head was down and he had a bag in his hands, his eyes apparently on his own shoes as he marched down the hall with no care of anything else. Allie scooted out of the way, her nose wrinkling at the tattered look of him, though she quickly realized she was no better then he, in her frayed clothing and dirty hair. He mumbled something under his breath as he and Suze bumped past each other, her annoyance clear as she tossed over her shoulder,

"Like... excuse you, other people walk here too!? Fuck. Fuckin bums in this building." Grinning at Allie then, "cept me and you of course."

Laughing softly, she agreed.

Of course. We'll up the property value tremendously I'm sure.

She gave the man no thought after that, used to living in scummy places and used to the kind of people that came with them. She was one of them after all.

The afternoon and evening passed quickly. Suze convinced JC to go and grab her few boxes for her in his truck and he dumped them at her door with a smile. He wasn't a bad guy... just a little unscrupulous when it came to business. She'd bought a little grass from him before, so who was she to complain. She'd had JC tape a note to her old door for Jorge who was supposed to come over later that night.

They ate dinner with Suze since she had no food or money to buy any for now. They left and went down to their own room when the short squat super showed up for his 'appointment' with Suze, his gaze learing at her until the turned the corner.

Tyler was happy with their new dump, though he grumbled about the small tv not getting cable.

Maybe when mommy gets a job sweetheart. We can just play games at night until then ok baby?

They spent early evening dumping out their boxes of things and putting them away in the small dresser in the bedroom. She was amused to see her half empty bottle of vodka in one of the boxes and she tossed it in the freezer to chill. Knowing she'd need it later if Jorge showed up. It was nearly eight o'clock when a knock on the door came and she opened it expecting Jorge.

"Hey hon, I thought maybe Tyler would wanna spend the night up at my place tonight. Let you get everything set and cleaned up? I brought a few cleaning things you can borrow if you need."

Suze looked at her kindly and she nodded, knowing full well that the other woman just wanted her to know Tyler had a place in case things got ugly with Jorge. Deciding that wasn't a bad idea actually, she smiled at the little boy who was rubbing his eyes sleepily.

How bout it baby? I don't have the bed made up yet, so why don't you grab Teddy and sleep at Suze's tonight? I'll come tuck you in and be there first thing in the morning ok?

He protested at first until Suze mentioned a bedtime snack of chocolate ice cream. She walked them up saw him inside, Suze giving her a hug before swatting her on the ass.

"Don't let him get you down Allie. It's his fault he didn't pay the rent. Oh, and JC said you really should consider his offer. He said he'll only give you the nice guys. Nobody rough. It's decent money. Really. Enough to pay the bills and have enough left over to play a little. Think about it ok?"

She nodded but said nothing, making her way back down the dim stairs to her new place. Shutting the door behind her, she sighed as she looked around. It was really a dump. But it was a roof over her head. That's all that mattered for now.

She got a shot of vodka and fished around in her pocket, pulling the small, nearly empty packet out. Sighing, she dug some out on her nail and snorted it, sitting and waiting for the jolt to hit her. Peeling off her tight jeans, she tossed them into the bedroom and picked up the cleaning things Suze had left, getting to work on the kitchen first.

It was at least an hour later when the pound came on her door and the slurred voice came through the thin walls.

"Allie? Are you in there? Open the fucking door."

She had tied her hair up in a ponytail, and her thin t-shirt was stuck to her as thin layer of sweat covered her body from the work she'd been doing. Opening the door, she stood there, an uncertain smile on her face. A smile that disappeared when she saw the state he was in. A frown covered his face, and a half empty bottle of tequila was open in one hand. He took a swig and swaggered inside, kicking the door shut behind him.

Jorge, you got my note? I don't know what happened. Larry said you didn't pay him last month's rent.

Sneering at her, he dropped the bottle on the small coffee table and put a hand around her neck, pulling her roughly to him and kissing her hard. Releasing her, he picked up the bottle again, taking a large drink looking around.

"Jesus, what a dump. And why the fuck would I pay your rent. You got a job bitch. Or you did. Couldn't even hang on to that could you. Fuck. What a fuck up."

Her lips parted in annoyance.

You got me fired Jorge. And you took my last check to buy us drugs. Or did you forget?

Apparently he was drunker then she had thought, because he reacted instantly. His hand lashed out and caught her across the cheek, sending her stumbling across the room.

"I got you fired you little bitch? I don't fuckin think so. Your boss probably just got tired of fucking that skinny ass of yours. Don't fucking accuse me of shit. I offered to let you move in with me, but noooooooo, you didn't want to. Oh Jorge, I got Tyler to think of. Well fuck you then. Pay your own fucking rent."

He stalked towards her, grabbing her by the hair and pulling her tight against him, his erection pushing against her. Shaking her head as much as he allowed, she stammered, tears escaping her eyes,

I'm sorry baby. You're right. It was my fault. But look, I already got a new place. Suze helped me out. So it's ok. I'll get a new job and live here.

He snarled and his fingers reached up between them, cruelling digging into her breast.

"Stupid whore helped ya out did she? How nice. Did you have to fuck her too? That's the only thing you're good for you know. Why don't you show me how you do it. Give me a show. Dance for me Allie girl. Come on bitch."

He sat down on her couch and took another drink as she stood there uncertain. He was certainly in a mood tonight and she didn't want to upset him any more then he already was. She'd ask him about the $150 tomorrow. Giving him a small smile, her face aching where he'd slapped her, she started moving to music only she could hear. Lifting her shirt provocatively and giving him a peek of panties.

He rubbed himself and laughed at her as she stepped closer to him. Reaching up, he put his hand in the neck of the shirt and yanked at it as hard as he could, pleased when it ripped at one seam, coming off her shoulder.

Dammit Jorge, I don't have a lot of clothes, don't be ripping the ones I got.

Furious that she spoke out to him, he yanked her down to his lap by the hair, his other hand coming up to go around her throat.

"Bitch, don't fucking tell me what to do. Get on your knees and suck my cock and you better do it good too."

He forced her onto her knees in front of him, her hands going blankly to his jeans and unbuttoning them. Her mind was blank, the part of her that understood what was happening was quickly going off into it's own little corner where it could hide. Something that had been happening increasingly often of late. Her fingers wrapped around his large erection when it sprung free and she bent, her warm breath on him exciting him and he shoved her mouth down over his cock. Using her hair, he made her suck him until he was breathing heavy.

"Oh that's good baby, do it like daddy likes. Fuck yeah. Oh fuck."

She made no protests when he picked her up and carried her into the small bedroom, tossing her on the bare mattress which she hadn't made up yet. He ripped her shirt the rest of the way off and his teeth bit firmly into the flesh above one nipple. His hand went into her panties and he shoved a finger deep inside her. Her whimpers of slight pain seemed to excite him and he didn't play for long. Rolling her over, he pulled the thin panties off her legs and entered her roughly from behind, his hand tangling in her long hair, yanking her head up off the bed, causing another whimper to escape her.

He didn't take long and finished with a groan, rolling off her and promptly falling into a drug/alcohol/sex induced sleep. When she was sure he was out, she stumbled off the bed, walking gingerly into the bathroom. Turning on the shower, she stepped inside and let the lukewarm water run down over her. Slumping down to the bottom of the tub, she let the water cascade over her until it was cold, washing away her tears as they came.

 

[MaiusImperium]

Angelus awoke to a thud that reverberated through the floor boards. His head snapped back and he closed his mouth, his throat felt like sand, he’d fallen asleep with it open as his neck lolled back on the loveseat. It was dark now, he had only the vivid blue glow of the TV to light his pale features. His head felt like it was being hammered on from all sides, he let out a groan and lifted his hand to his temples, rubbing them gingerly with his fingers and thumb, anything to make the stabbing pain in his head ease. He became aware of the dampness over his thigh and he looked down to see he had dropped the tumbler full of vodka over his combats. He grunted and grabbed the tumbler clumsily in his fingers and leaned forward. He winced and his vision span, the earth seemed to move beneath him and the room was spinning, but he managed to push the heavy glass onto the table.

He didn’t move for minutes, his stomach lurched and twitched, he felt like he was going to be sick any moment. Next door there were raised voices, just another couple arguing. Damn, the walls were paper thin in this shit hole. He could practically make out what they were saying. He lay slumped against his chair, watching the colours dance across the TV screen as next door the abusive prick had his way with his girlfriend. We’re all someone’s dog, eventually His dark eyes regarded the TV coldly, he wasn’t really paying attention, the shouting had died down, but noises of a different sort were coming from next door now.

With an effort Angelus slumped out of the chair and crawled over to the sofa, he slide onto it and jammed his head between the stale couch and a pillow, trying to drown out of the sounds next door. Then there was a knock at his door. No one ever called at his door, no one apart from the landlord. He already knew who it was. He closed his eyes and pretended he hadn’t heard it, but the knock came again, and again. She wasn’t going to leave.

Groggily he got to his feet, stumbled over the empty vodka bottle at his feet, he kicked it to the side irritably on his way to the door. With the chain latched on he opened the door a few inches and peered out, the dim light of the corridor made his eyes ache, but he could see her.

That old, forbidden flame was stood there. Lilith was immaculate, she was an succubus after all. Her long curling raven hair was held away from her porcelain-flawless face, her deep blew eyes were intense and keen, her ruby red lips were curled in a slight smile. She seemed to be constantly amused at the world, that smile rarely left her face. After all these years he could still remember those little things about her. She looked like a fish out of water, surrounded by so much squalor and depravity she was dressed in a tiny black dinner dress; the kind that high class escorts wear. She was tall, but still shorter than Angelus, her pale dancer’s legs wrapped up in strapped stiletto heels that entwined themselves up her calves.

“Hello, Angelus.” Her sultry voice came softly through the gap in the door, along with the intoxicating scent of her perfume.

“What do you want?” He hated how she made him feel, he was a mess, they both knew it, and he held his face back in the shadows, even after all these years, after the betrayal, he still didn’t want her to see him like this.

“A word, for old time’s sake? Let me in, Angelus, please.” Her tone was soft, warm, honest. But she’d had a lot of practice, she had been created to come across as sensuous and genuine. He swore under his breath and unfastened the latch non the less. He opened the door for her and she slipped into his dank abode. His hand reached out for the light switch and he flicked it on. He immediately regretted it, the room was revealed in all it’s dank squalor. It wasn’t that he was untidy, Angelus had very little clutter to manage, but the place was dirty, derelict. Were it not for the glow of the television set and the vodka bottle by the loveseat it would have looked completely unlived in. He could sense her eyebrow quirk in surprise.

“No wonder you miss heaven so much.” He didn’t turn to face her, he strode over to the loveseat and plonked himself down in it, feeling a little more sure on his feet now, but no less hung over.

“What would you know about heaven, Harlot?” He waved vaguely to the dilapidated couch.

“Have a seat, if you dare.” He wanted to smile, he wanted to joke and seem at ease, instead he just felt sick and bitter. Lilith said nothing, she glided over to the couch and sat herself down on the edge, primly, and doing a commendable job of maintaining her modesty, given the risqué length of the hem of her dress.

“How did you find me?”

“I have my ways, sweetheart.” Came her somewhat mysterious reply, though her eyes looked at him with sympathy. “You’ve fallen a long way, Angelus.” Her eyes wandered over his body, oh it was certainly a fine specimen, but the cut of his cloth was leaving something to be desired. His dark combats had a stain over the leg, she could practically smell the vodka rolling off him, his white t-shirt was filthy with grime and his long, soft dark hair was a mess.

“I like it down here Lilith. We don’t usually have to deal with your sort.” He lied. He didn’t like it at all, but he was certainly not going to admit that to her, of all people. He could hear water begin to run…and it was then he realised it was next door. He had forgotten how thin the walls were here, his last neighbour had been a junkie, and a quiet one at that.

“Still searching for people to save, my angel?”

“Don’t call me that.”

“But it is true, have you been wandering since last we met? How many have you found, how many have you saved?” Angelus picked up the vodka bottle and drained the last few drops of it from the neck, not bothering with the glass. There was no point trying to pretend he was half the man he had been when they first met, the next best thing he could do was to revel in his squalor unashamedly.

“Well, we’re having this conversation, so obviously not enough.”

“I want to help you, Angelus. Will you let me?” She leaned forward and reached out to try and take his hand in hers. In a flash the drunken stupour vanished from the man and he recoiled from her as if she were a viper.

“Don’t touch me.” His fist clenched around the bottle in his hand, “what in the nine hells makes you think I would trust you? Of all the creatures in the multiverse, you are the last person I would trust, I would trust Lucifer over you. At least you know where you stand with him, whore of lies.”

“You can take my advice or ignore it. I am not here to pity you, Angelus, and I am not being altruistic. I have a vested interest in you getting back into heaven. If there is hope for you…then there is hope for me also…” She was broke off by his laughter, it was a short, incredulous laugh.

“Oh you would seek to gain redemption? He reserves redemption for the cattle, Lilith. Not for the shepherds.” And then she did something he had never seen her do, not in all the time he had known her, she broke her eyes from his and her hands fidgeted restlessly. For the briefest of moments she seemed unsure, like a little girl. That pulled at something in his heart. You cannot trust her, she is a weaver of deceit, she lives to deceive. He could not fall for her a second time.

“Then we are both lost, aren’t we?” Her composure was back, worn like a flawless mask, it was the old Lilith back again. The one he had loved, and now loathed with hatred. She stood, regal and majestic, raw sex seemed to roll off her body and the aura above her head flickered into hues of red and orange flame.

“There is a girl next door Angelus. One that might prove…useful, in your quest. You can take my advice or leave it, I don’t care what you think of me, dear angel. But think on this, at worst you will have wasted an moment of your time, to glimpse her aura. That is all I ask.” She sauntered over to the door and opened it, he didn’t get up to say goodbye, he just looked at her as she looked back at him over her bare shoulder.

“Until the next time, Angelus.”

“Go.”

She closed the door quietly behind him. He closed his eyes and lolled back against the loveseat, running his fingers over his face, trying to rub the sleep from them. Next door the water trickled down the drain, along with the blood and the tears.

 

[Alerdene]

Realizing she was shivering, Allie finally stood slowly, her body sore from being used so roughly. Turning off the water, she grabbed a thin towel and wrapped it around her body after wringing the water from her hair. Stepping from the shower, she stood in front of the mirror, her eyes widening at the sight of the red broken skin on her upper breast where his teeth had been. Rummaging in a small box she'd set in the corner, she came up with a small tube of anti-bacterial creme that she kept for Tyler's scrapes. Squeezing a bit on, she rubbed it onto the wound, telling herself that it was her own fault for not being more understanding of him.

Walking into the living room, she picked up his nearly empty bottle and drank the rest, the fire burning all the way down as she coughed and sputtered, the burn having been unexpected. Rubbing her cheek which was still red from his slap, she sighed as she thought of having to ask him for money. He'd be hung over when he woke up and that always put him in a foul mood. He was scaring her lately with his fits and roughness. It was getting worse and she wasn't quite sure how to deal with it. Most of the time she figured it was her fault, but once in awhile, he'd go over the top. She'd have to be more careful around him.

Walking slowly to the freezer, she grabbed what was left of her vodka and took it to the couch, sinking down onto it and taking large drinks before the tears could start again. She was losing it. Crying more often then not lately.

Jesus Allie, grow up. It could be a lot worse. At least he doesn't try to bother Tyler.

Finishing the bottle, her eyes began to droop and she leaned her head back for just a moment. A minute to rest, that's all she needed.

In her dream she and Tyler were living like kings and queens. They had servants to wait on them, a huge house with a yard and a pool. Lots of food. Every kind of food. And a dog. A beautiful golden lab that gave Tyler lots of nice smelly pooch kisses. Lifting her cup to her mouth while she watched him play, she took a drink and suddenly was gagging...

Her eyes snapped open to find Jorge straddling her, his cock making it's best attempt to shove it's way down her throat into her stomach. Mumbling as best she could from around his flesh, she tried to tell him to move, her hands going up to push him backwards.

Laughing her her, he just grabbed her head and began fucking her mouth furiously, his own head thrown back in apparently ecstasy. "That's it you drunk bitch, do it for me. Who said you could get out bed anyway. ohhhh yeah, that's it..."

Her mind fled again and she stopped struggling, allowing him to move her as he pleased, almost as if she were a giant blow up doll fashioned for his every whim. He pulled out at the last moment and suddenly her face was covered in his hot semen, him laughing all the while. When he was finished, he reached down and rubbed his seed into her skin, forcing some of it into her mouth.

"There you go baby, better then that rot you drink isn't it. Now clean up why don't you and make me some breakfast. I got an early appointment."

She stood mutely and went into the bathroom, taking her towel from the shower with her, using it to clean up. Grabbing a clean t-shirt from the dresser, she pulled it on and went back to him, hesitating in front of him until he looked up from the small tv.

"What? Make me some eggs or something, and get cable already."

I can't Jorge. I don't have any food yet. And I don't have any money. I owe $150 still for the rent. Can I borrow it today please? And a little to get some food? I'll find a job today I promise.

"Oh for Christ's sake."

He stood suddenly and backhanded her, in what seemed real anger this time. It was the hardest he'd ever hit her and she went flying, catching herself on the doorway to the kitchenette. Blood dripped from her split lip and she didn't make a move, her hair half in front of her face, leaving her looking like a wild animal caught in headlights.

"I'm not paying for your place Allie. Get real. You want me to pay then move in with me and be a good little girl. I gotta go since you can't even fuckin make your man some food. I'll be back later, maybe tomorrow. Have some food alright?"

He walked over to her and gave her a kiss on the mouth, pinching her nipple and twisting it beneath the shirt before heading to the door, not bothering to shut it as he strode off down the hall, muttering to himself about what a dump it was.

She walked slowly to the door and pulled it shut, throwing the bolt before retreating to the couch. Sinking into it, she sat there a long while, options running through her head as she discarded each one. She needed money. She needed money fast. There was the rent money... she needed to get groceries... she needed booze at least, if not drugs. Suze's voice kept coming to her. It'd be easy, just lay there, groan a few times, and boom, cash in your hand.

How hard can it be Allie? They can't be any worse then Jorge. No... Jorge loves me. Yeah right. He does. Easy money. FUCK.

She spoke to herself, the last word coming out as a scream. Her hand clapped over her mouth as she giggled hysterically, her mind coming close to it's breaking point. Hovering there a moment, she finally calmed and stood to clean her face once again.

Dressing slowly, she left the apartment to head upstairs and fetch Tyler, having promised to be there when he woke up.

 

[MaiusImperium]

Angelus awoke to find himself in his bed. It was mercifully clean, the mattress was probably the only truly clean thing in the entire apartment, everything else seemed to have moths in it. Slowly he sat up and slid his feet over the side of the bed, he still felt dizzy and his throat was parched, but the headache had subsided. The sun fought to pierce through dark curtain, and he opened it uneasily, wincing as the bright light shone through. Outside the city bustled noisily, and for a moment he felt…ok. Then the memories hit him, he couldn’t remember too much of last night, but he could remember Lilith. No one ever forgot her, no amount of alcohol could swab her face from your mind, or that intoxicating perfume that drove even angels wild with lust.

The girl…the girl next door? She had told him to see her, to at least read her. What did he have to lose? He couldn’t trust her, Lilith was as capricious as they came, even for a succubus. He hadn’t dreamt about her, he thought he might, perhaps the alcohol had kept the dreams…the nightmares away. The girl next door, how had she known? Someone right under his nose and she knew about her before he did.

Angelus go to his feet sleepily and shuffled to the adjoining bathroom. The porcelain tiles were cracked and yellow, but it was clean enough. He stared at himself in the mirror and poured himself a glass of water. He drank thirstily, and poured himself a second, then third glass, gulping the water down to slake his ravenous thirst. He brushed his teeth and then slipped his underwear down his long, athletic legs before letting the shower warm up before stepping into it.

He rolled the rusty taps shut on the shower and the gentle roar of the water subsided, and then the noises from next door could be heard. There were raised voices, and then a loud thud, that he felt through his feet more than he heard with his ears. He could remember the sounds from last night, and for a moment she stood unmoving, listening. There came nothing else, then he could make out footsteps down the corridor and a male voice muttering angrily.

It was already approaching noon by the time he managed to drag himself away from the shower. He combed his long hair back away from his face and tied it at the back, allowing it to dry as he sifted through the wardrobe for some clean clothes. He took a little more care today, he couldn’t reason why, but he found himself paying more attention as he looked in the mirror and slipped the plain white t-shirt over his head and chest. Add some regular denim blue jeans and a black shirt to wear unbuttoned over the t-shirt and he looked almost…human. He still felt awful, but he felt more alive than he had done in months. What is Lilith? He wasn’t going to dwell on it if it was. Whatever she was up to he wouldn’t be used a second time, but if the woman next door was a special case, well, he would find out soon enough.

He decided to go out to get some coffee, caffeine always made his brain tick more smoothly, especially when he was fighting a hangover. Fate, in Angelus’ opinion, enjoyed playing tricks on people, and as he stepped out into the corridor he found that the woman next door had had the same idea. He paused for a moment, and then…her aura bloomed in front of him. There was an awkward silence as his dark eyes took in her aura, it was of brilliant shimmering gold, it waxed and waned like waves crashing against the shore. And there was an orbiting halo of white, she has a son. Finally his brain caught up with his body and he cleared his throat a little uneasily, realising that he must have been staring.

Her lip was swelling and bloodied, and her eyes were gaunt, but she was really quite pretty, beautiful even, beyond that.
“Good morning.” He said, a little uneasily, and then he stared at her a little more, likely she would think he was staring at the cut on her lip. And he was…but the aura, she was special, she was the one. Don’t just stand there gorping like an idiot He didn’t say anything else to her, he locked his door and quickly turned on his heel and went down the corridor, his mind racing away with him now.

 

[Alerdene]

Shutting the door behind her, she looked up and nearly let out a squeal of surprise. There was a man standing there in the hallway, and seeing as it was a rather narrow hallway, he filled most of it. She swallowed hard before realizing it was the neighbor. The one they'd nearly run into the evening before... though he seemed much less ragged this morning. Her nervousness came rushing back however as he made no move to go in or move, just stood there staring at her.

Her hand started up to touch her swollen lip when he suddenly spoke, saying good morning. His look was unnerving, almost as if he were looking right through her, but before she could find her voice to answer him, he was moving down the hall.

Waiting until he disappeared to move, she headed upstairs, knocking on Suze's door, glancing over her shoulder for some reason as if someone had followed her. The door was thrown open and she smiled as she heard Tyler's laugh coming to her from the kitchen. JC looked her up and down and stood back, letting her come in.

"I'm tellin ya Allie, the guys I get for you are a lot nicer then yours. And you get paid. Think about it. Now, I'm outta here, see you gals later."

He shut the door behind him as she moved into the kitchen, leaning against the door watching her son mix something in a bowl with Suze. Her eyes took in his curls, his sparkling eyes, everything about him... and in that moment she vowed to do whatever it took to keep him in a home. Not on the streets. Suze glanced up and immediately frowned at her.

"What the hell happened to you?"

Moving to the fridge, she opened it and took a Coke out, popping the top. Her head was killing her and she needed some caffeine since she was out of booze.

Nothing. I tripped. Not used to the new stellar carpeting job in the new digs. Whacha makin?

"Pancakes. We all slept late and nobody had breakfast, so we're havin it for lunch. Want some?"

Tyler looked up with a splash of batter on his nose.

"I made it for you mommy. All by myself. Welllll," he gave a coy glance up at Suze, "maybe she helped a little."

Laughing and going over to ruffle his hair, she gave him a kiss and a tight hug.

Fix it up for me then, I'm starving.

They ate in silence, Tyler the only one speaking much, though he didn't seem to notice. Suze kept giving her disapproving looks and she kept ignoring them. A sudden knock on the door made Allie jump and Suze chuckled.

"What's up? The boogieman coming?"

Standing she headed towards the front door, with Allie following behind.

No, but you know I ran into that grungy neighbor guy this morning. And he was weird. Just kept staring at me.

Suze laughed as she opened the door,

"He prolly just wanted a piece baby. Even with that lip you're fine."

Had there not been a strange woman at the door, Allie probably would have stuck her tongue out. Suze motioned the older woman in and with an exaggerated flourish introduced them.

"Mrs. Cartwright, meet Allie and her son Tyler. Allie and Tyler, this is Mrs. Cartwright. Mrs. Cartwright lives right next door to me and she watches my niece Sammi all the time. I thought maybe you guys would want to know each other. Allie has to find a job soon Mrs. Cartwright and if I'm not home or if I'm busy, she's gonna need someone to watch Tyler." Winking at the boy who had come in and shyly stood next to his mother, "Course, he's a handful, not sure you can handle him."

The woman laughed, her voice deep and comforting. "Well, we'll see about that. Do you like to play games Tyler? I have a whole closetful of games that my granddaughter keeps for when she comes over."

They sat and chatted for a bit and Allie realized she was more then comfortable with the woman and she knew Suze wouldn't steer her wrong for a babysitter. When she stood to leave, Allie gave her an impulsive hug.

Thank you Mrs. Cartwright. I can't tell you how happy I am to meet you. I think we're going to get along wonderfully.

"Me too Allie, me too." She disappeared out the door and Allie turned to Suze.

What're you like my fairy godmother? You found me a place to stay, a babysitter, all in one day. If I didn't know you better, I'd think you wanted something.

"What I want is for you to be safe Allie. Not sleepin on a damn bench or under a bridge. So go get your ass a job. I took care of the super last night, but he's still gonna want his money. And as much as I wanna help, I don't have it right now. Tyler, I know you've been forced to hang out with me a lot, but how bout a bit longer so mommy can look for a job ok?"

He nodded, quite happy ensconced in the happy little room that held no bad memories for him. He hugged his mother and skipped off to turn the tv on as she headed out the door.

Suze, I owe you. And I"d never dream of asking you for the money. I'll find something.

She headed upstairs with a fairly light spirits considering she was dying for a hit of something. Anything. Shrugging off the thought, she took another shower, washing her hair thoroughly. Twice. Drying off, she opened the closet and took out the one halfway decent dress she owned. It was black and went to her knees, the v-neck accentuating her curves. Or it used to. When she had any. The neckline still gave hint to her full breasts, but the rest hung from her increasingly skinny frame.

Sighing as she looked in the mirror, she vowed to cut down on the coke and drink more milkshakes. That brought a half smile to her lips as she began on her make up. A little eye-liner, some blush and a bit of clear gloss over her red lips and she figured she was passable. She had no hose, so slipped her black pumps on over bare legs and headed out, the paper from the day before in her hand.

*************************

She sat in the park, the afternoon light fading into shadows, her light mood from earlier shattered. Tears were once again streaming down her face, the paper in front of her in shreds. She'd walked and talked for hours it seemed and no one appeared interested. They all looked at her lip, her bare legs... and said no thanks, no help needed. Even in the places that had help wanted signs. The only offer's she'd gotten were extremely indecent ones.

Here and I thought my luck had changed.

Her heart was heavy when she realized she still had no money for groceries, much less vodka or anything else. Her conversation with JC and Suze plagued her, mingling with the eighty no's she had heard earlier. Remembering her vow of not losing this place, she trudged home, her eyes dull and sad.

Suze let her in and gave her a hug.

"It's alright babe, you'll find something tomorrow."

I don't have that long. I need money now Suze. Can you... her voice dropped to a mere whisper, Can you tell JC that I'll take him up on his offer.

 

[MaiusImperium]

After taking coffee in Starbucks Angelus had wandered the streets for a while. It was different this time though, today he wasn’t looking for souls to save, he was dwelling on the one he had met that morning. He couldn’t get the aura out of his head, normally he could read a mortal aura easily, and usually he could trace out their life, it was almost like divination, looking into their past and their future. But hers had been different, different beyond the fact she was a soul in torment. He could see that easily, he had heard it the night before. He’d lived in the tenement for about a year now, and the paper walls meant he’d become very familiar with the thuds, the shouting, that indicated domestic violence.

The city flew by him and he was oblivious. He took a walk through the park, ignoring the laughter of children as they played on the see-saws and the swings, the giggles of students enjoying the unseasonable good weather instead of attending lectures. His mind burnt upon Lilith and the face of the girl next door. He walked for hours around the city until finally his journey had taken him full circle and he was back at his apartment. He let himself in quietly and opened the curtains that kept out the light. He knelt down by the sofa and picked up the vodka bottle, throwing it into the trash, it smashed noisily at the bottom of the bin. After that he poured himself a glass of water and took out the bread he had bought the other day. He didn’t make a sandwich, nothing so elaborate, he just took out a couple of slices and ate them plain.

Angelus sat back down on the old couch and stared at a blank TV screen, chewing idly on the bread, his eyes empty and staring off into the middle-distance. For a moment he looked at the second bottle of vodka, it’s contents still very much in tact. He felt horrible…one little drink, one little pick me up would make him feel better. He decided to endure the rough feelings, he felt better today, more alive, at least. He had something to think about, he didn’t feel so lost in the world anymore, he had found someone to help, no matter what Lilith had told him. She could be lying, manipulating him, but he would be careful. Anything was better than the alcohol-fuelled torpor he had experienced these past few months.

Instead Angelus thought about what to do next, he was at something of a loss. Was he to just introduce himself? Knock at the door with a jello mould and arrange a house-warming party for his new neighbour? He’d never played the friendly neighbour very well, truth be told he didn’t play friendly at all well either. But…he’d have to do something fast…those noises, the cut on her lip…the bangs. Whoever he was, he assumed her boyfriend, if he was capable of that he could do much worse. He couldn’t afford to act too slowly.

 

[Alerdene]

Suze nodded slowly, her eyes guarded as she studied Allie.

"Are you sure Allie?"

Yeah. I'll do what I need to. Like you said, how bad can it be.

She managed a small smile, though it never reached her eyes as she called to Tyler.

Baby, let's go. Suze has stuff to do tonight, let's go home and I'll read you a story.

He brought his Teddy and gave Suze a quick hug before slipping his hand into hers. Another small smile crossed her lips as she thanked her.

Thanks for everything Suze. I dunno what we'd have done the last day or two without you. It means the world to me.

"I know. You're like a sis to me Allie. You guys have fun. I'll send JC up to talk to you in a bit, after Tyler's asleep. I got some work to do anyway."

Nodding, she headed out the door, stopping as Suze called out after her.

"Here, I almost forgot. I know you don't have any cash yet, so I put a few things together for you."

Feeling ashamed at taking even more handouts, she didn't protest much when Suze brought two full grocery bags out to her. Swallowing hard, she gave a nod of thanks, which was all she could manage.

With Tyler following just behind her, she headed down the stairs to their own place. The bare bulb in the hallway flickered once and she wrinkled her nose, hoping it wouldn't go out before she could unlock the door. Her luck held and she kicked the door open, motioning her son in before following him and dropping the bags on the small table.

Come here you, and help me unpack this stuff.

She grinned at him and started handing him things from the bags. It wasn't a lot, but much more then they'd had... hot dogs, eggs, bread, milk, a small container of ice cream, along with a few canned goods and boxes of macaroni and cheese. At the bottom of the second bag she found a bottle of vodka. The vodka stared up at her, beckoning her and she tossed it into the freezer and turned to her son.

Hungry? No? Alright, how bout a quick bath and then we'll take turn telling stories. See who can tell the funniest one ok?

The evening passed in a fit of splashes, laughter and giggles, tickles and a little bit of ice cream. She tucked him into bed the last time, sitting with him for a few minutes, singing softly to him until his steady breathing told her that was finally asleep.

Standing and stretching, she walked into the kitchen and took out the bottle of vodka and a glass. Carrying them both to the couch, she sank into it and poured herself several fingers, gulping them down. A knock on the door several minutes later roused her from her musings.

Dear Lord, what have I done. Steeling herself as she opened the door muttering, Whatever it takes.

JC stood there with several bags in his hand along with a million dollar smile.

"Hey cutie, glad to hear you came to your senses. I brought a few things and figured we could talk business ok?"

Nodding, she moved aside so he could enter and went back to her perch on the couch, pointing at the small armchair.

Have a seat.

He did, opening the bags at the same time. Tossing one to her, he grinned at her look of confusion upon seeing an array of lingerie.

"Suze told me your size. Or what used to be your size. They may be a little big, but they'll do. Can't have you entertaining my boys in a t-shirt now can we."

Not trusting herself to speak, she merely nodded, pouring herself more vodka and motioning at the bottle to him.

"Nah, I'm good. So you've got a couple outfits there, I brought a little booze over in case the fellas want a drink. And this... this is for you. Don't get too excited, I don't make a habit of supplying, but I know you're down on your luck. Don't go overboard alright though?"

From his pocket, he pulled out a small baggie of powder, tossing it to her. Her eyes took on a wary look as he proceeded to outline a few things to her. Her mind going numb, she just nodded at each thing he told her. He threw numbers around, percentages and she wasn't sure she heard any of it. Was she really going to do this? It was one thing to sleep with losers like Jorge, at least he pretended to care for her once in awhile. Was she really going to whore herself out to strangers? Her head turned to look at the closed door where Tyler slept and her resolve turned to steel, tears wetting her eyes, but not quite falling.

"You ok with this Allie? I don't wanna force it on you."

Nope. It's all good JC. Thanks for giving me a chance. I need the cash. You know that.

"Alright then. Tomorrow night. We'll start you off slow. Just one. Maybe two if he's fast."

He gave her a grin and stood to leave, standing in the open doorway for a moment considering her.

"I promise it's not that bad Allie. I don't bring bad guys around. I don't want you to get hurt alright? Cheer up. You'll have new furniture in this place before you know it."

With that, he spun and left, closing the door behind him.

New furniture? He's been sniffin his own blow. A demolition ball wouldn't make the place look much better.

She chuckled to herself as she snorted a nice nailful of the coke he'd left, but the chuckling quickly turned into a pensive silence as she sat there, letting the quiet sink in.

 

[MaiusImperium]

He spent another hour mulling the situation over, he was caught between trying to go to bed to forget the pounding headache the shakes he had, and stepping out into the corridor to introduce himself. He’d never been much good at small talk, but what choice did he have? She could be dead tomorrow…you know what sort of people live in these places…desperate people, people on the edge, the unclean bit of society no one wants to see…

He decided not to go to sleep and resolved to go talk to her. He poured himself a drink, just a little something to get rid of the damn shakes, he didn’t want to look a complete mess in front of her. He downed the drink quickly and grabbed his keys, he put his shirt back on and slipped out into the corridor. There was no sense in dallying, and if he waited any longer she might risk waking her up. Her door was barely metres away from his own. He knocked three times, if he’d knocked even a little harder the door felt like it would give way. They were all like that in this dump though.

There was no answer, he knocked again, as loudly as he dared, and wondered if she would ignore him, or if the boyfriend had her in his clutches. That raised a few doubts; he wasn’t looking for a confrontation. He waited for a moment, and just as he was about to turn and head back to his own place the door slowly opened, just a crack, darkness was beyond it but in the shadow he could make out her face, lip still split and a small streak where the scab had formed.

“Hi there, my name is, uh Adam. I’m your neighbour, I think I heard you move in yesterday. I’m sorry ‘bout barging into you like that, wasn’t looking where I was going. Is…is everything alright?” It wasn’t that difficult to play the clumsy dolt, it was a part Angelus was pretty good at these days, for a moment his eyes strayed from her face and he tried to get a glimpse her apartment behind her, but it was dark and the door was only slightly ajar.

 

[Alerdene]

She had sat there in the dark for who knows how long before falling into a light, alcohol induced sleep. Suddenly she sat straight up, her eyes wild, hair flying.

What the hell...

There it was again. Pounding. The door. Her eyes flew sluggishly towards it, realizing someone was knocking on her door. A slight laugh that sounded more like a bark escaped her lips as she stood and walked somewhat unsteadily towards the door.

She didn't bother with any lights and her bare feet were silent on the thin carpet as she cracked open the door, figuring that it had to be Suze or Jorge. He had just turned away from the door as she opened it and she looked at him in confusion as he turned back.

Her body was in front the door and she wished that there was a security chain on the door, though with the flimsiness of the door itself, it wouldn't have done much good. It finally dawned on her who he was just as he began speaking, introducing himself.

Her delicate brows arched together as he apologized for bumping into them earlier and when he asked if everything was ok, her hand rose unconsciously to her lip before she realized it and immediately dropped it to her side. Her other hand raked through her hair to get it out of her eye as she watched him, trying to figure out how to answer. Studying him as she spoke, hoping that her voice was slurred.

Yeah, everything's fine. Why wouldn't it be? Adam is it? I did just move in, I have a friend that lives upstairs.

She stopped speaking for a moment as his gaze went behind her through the small crack as if trying to ascertain if she was alone or not. Realizing Tyler could wake at any moment, she bristled, realizing she was in a rather vulnerable position at the moment. Her voice turned stern as she moved a bit to get his attention.

Adam, it's nice to meet you. But it's late, I've had a really shitty day, and I'm tired. So if you'll excuse me, I'm going inside. Maybe I'll see ya around.

For some reason feeling suddenly insecure, she gave him a tight smile and closed the door, throwing the bolt quickly. Backing up, she sat down in the middle of the couch, curling her legs up underneath her and staring at the door as if it might be broken down any moment. As she watched the door, she suddenly realized she hadn't even told the man her name.

Oh nice one Allie, be a bitch to the neighbor. He was just trying to be nice and you're a rude hag. Lovely.

Pouring herself a small drink, she closed her eyes and thought about the odd encounter. He cleaned up decent, that much was for sure. She'd been too nervous to inspect him closely, but she remembered thinking he was quite pale. The last thing she thought of as she drifted back to sleep was that she'd have to apologize later about being so rude.

 

[MaiusImperium]

“Goodnight.”

She had shut the door before he had even opened his mouth, and he stood in front of her door a moment and frowned. He thought about knocking again but decided to leave it, it was late after all, maybe he could catch her tomorrow. Still, at least she knew he existed now, though he still didn’t have a name to put to the face.

With the door firmly shut in his face he went back to his own little hovel and sat staring at the TV blankly for an hour. The bottle of booze stood on the coffee table, the heavy glass tumbler by it’s side, just sitting there…invitingly. He picked the bottle up and decided to scurry it away in the cupboard above the fridge, along with the glass. It was better now that he had a direction, and suddenly the alcohol seemed more a distraction than escape.

Finally he resigned himself to bed and padded into the small room, there was a lumpy double bed and a wardrobe, and very little room for anything else. The streetlights outside shot through the slats in the battered blinds that covered the window out onto the street. Outside the night was filled with the hum of taxis and the laughter of drunks making their merry way home after a hard night’s drinking. He slipped out of his shirt and pants and shivered at the coolness of the air. He shut the grimy window and with it some of the city noise before slipping into the relative comfort of the bed sheets.

Be patient. He stared up at cracked plaster of the ceiling and drifted. He could have broken into her apartment…he could have whisked her away and she would be safe. That was how demons thought…he’d never be able to gain her trust like that. Patience, patience.

I must keep reminding myself of this. When the shadows descended and sleep took him he was stood in Heaven, that old familiar sword in his hand. He knew the scene, he had replayed it over and over. The pillars were blackened with smoke and the barbarians were at the gates. All he could remember was Lilith’s laughter.

 

[Alerdene]

She spent most of the night dozing on the couch, but at some point awakened enough to go slip into bed, staying on the far side so as not to wake up Tyler. Morning came before she was ready and she sat up stretching and stifling a yawn. An eyebrow arched as she noticed one of Tyler's eyes open and watching her before he slammed it shut and made a point of breathing deeply.

Hmmmm, too bad I'm the only one awake. I guess I'm the only one who gets any breakfast!

With a squeal of laughter he jumped up into her arms.

"Me, me. I'm awake mommy. I want some breakfast."

Grinning and giving him a bear hug, she nodded.

Alright, up you go then. Wash your hands and face, brush your teeth and then come and I'll have you something made. French toast ok?

He nodded and went scampering off to the small bathroom. She stood slowly, stretched again and grimaced as the small cut in her lip pulled at the scab. Ignoring it, she headed into the kitchen and quickly made a light batter for the bread.

Tyler came running in and made a flying leap into his chair just as the first sizzling piece came out of the pan. She finished cooking and they ate slowly, in no hurry, making silly jokes to each other.

"What're we doin today mommy? Are you looking for a job again? Or can we go feed the birds in the park?"

He looked so hopeful that a large smile burst out as she shook her head, tossing their plates in the sink and rinsing them.

We can go to the park. Mommy got a job. Sort of. You may have to stay at Mrs. Cartwright's for while this evening though ok? And I expect you to listen to her and be a good boy.

"I will. Can we take some bread to the birds? Please?"

She nodded and followed him into the bedroom, helping him dress before pulling on a pair of faded jeans and a deep blue v-neck t-shirt. Pulling her old tennis shoes on, she went in front of the mirror, digging into her make-up bag and coming up with a thin rubber band. Combing her thick hair out, she pulled it up on top of her head into a high ponytail that cascaded down around her neck. Grimacing at the faded bruise on her left cheek and the red line marring her lip, she sighed and turned around to find Tyler looking at her.

"You look pretty mommy."

Her hands went over her heart clasped together as she fell to her knees before him in an over the top performance,

And you little man, are the handsomest man I have ever seen. Will you love me forever?

He nodded somberly before breaking into a big grin.

"Forever and ever."

Turning he ran out of the room towards the kitchen and she stood slowly, her voice soft as she followed him.

Me too baby. Me too.

She wrapped three pieces of bread that she'd set out in a paper towel before grabbing her keys. Unlocking the bolt for him, she turned back and went into the kitchen, taking a large slug of vodka straight from the bottle before returning to him, where he waited patiently in the hall.

She handed him the bread before she turned to lock the door.

Don't drop that, there's no birds in here, just bugs which we don't want as roommates.

They walked down the hall and she glanced once at the neighbor's door before passing it. A few steps down, she scowled, supposing there was no time like the present.

Wait a sec Tyler, I need to talk to the man who lives here for a sec.

He stood behind her as she knocked on the man's door, attempting to brush her hair out of her face before remembering she'd pulled it back. There was no answer and she heard nothing from inside as she knocked again, a bit louder this time.

"Come on mommy, he's not home. Let's go, the birds are hungry."

Giving a last glance at the door, she shrugged and took his hand after ruffling his hair and headed off down the hallway.

You're right, and we can't be having hungry birds now can we.

 

[MaiusImperium]

His eyes opened slowly, flickering reluctantly open as he knocks at his door came. He made no effort to get up, he felt exhausted, he was sweaty and warm, with an effort he pushed the covers off him and allowed the sweat on his skin to cool him. The morning sun shot through the blinds that covered the window and drove any thoughts of sleep away. The nightmares…they were just that, God but it had felt like he was reliving it again. He felt like he’d run a hundred miles, it was as if he hadn’t got any sleep at all. Angelus groaned and rolled over onto his side, gazing blankly at the cheap battery-powered analogue clock on the rickety stool by his bed.

Groggily he reached out and pulled the blinds away from the window, he looked out into the street, filled with yellow taxis and the bustling masses. Then his eyes caught site of the girl next door, a little curly-haired boy clinging to her hand and toddling to keep up with her. Suddenly he remember the knock at his door. He sighed and got to his feet. He felt awful but he pushed the weariness of his limbs to the back of his mind and got ready. He didn’t waste time with a shower, though he splashed his face with cold water just to make himself feel awake. He dressed quickly, slipping on a fresh t-shirt and the same short-sleeved dark shirt over it from the other day.

Angelus took another look at his window and saw the two of them disappear into the park. He decided it best to follow them and see what she wanted, it had to be have been her who knocked at his door. The angel never got anyone knocking at his door…unless…it couldn’t be Lilith, could it? No, she’d have knocked until she got an answer, he was sure of that.

It didn’t take him long to track mother and child down, a few minutes of wandering in the park and he soon caught sight of them perched on a bench by the duck pond. He didn’t come upon them immediately, he kept a safe distance and watched, propped against a thick oak tree he watched mother and child at play. The sun was out, it was a glorious day and the boy’s bread handouts were attracting a lot of avian interest. Pigeons cooed and squabbled over the crumbs of bread before several of the ducks waddled out of the water and came to inspect the bread, driving away the smaller birds.

They quacked loudly and gobbled up the bread in their orange beaks, much to the little boy’s delight. He squealed and giggled delightedly as they ate up his bread. The two of them laughed together, and Angelus allowed himself a soft smile at the two of them. After hearing the fight…well, it was nice to know they could still share a moment like that, he wondered if her boy was the only thing that kept her going.

Once the bread was finished with he decided to go over to them, he walked down the path slowly towards them, trying to his approach obviously.

“Hi there.” He smiled pleasantly enough. “Mind if I join you?” He sat himself down on the edge of the bench, keeping plenty of distance between him and the girl, he didn’t want to make her uneasy, much less frighten the child.

“Hey, I’m sorry if I woke you up last night, I just wanted to come say hello, if you need any help settling in you can knock me up any time.” That must have been the first time he had been a ‘good neighbour’, he wasn’t sure it fit him. He was generally cold and distance, mumbling platitudes made him feel uncomfortable, they felt…foreign on his tongue, but at least he was making an effort. “I never did catch your name…”

 

[Alerdene]

It was a pleasant little park, complete with a duck pond and small play area for the children. Pleasant during the day that is. The homeless that normally overwhelmed the area at night had shuffled off already to the shelters for their free breakfast and for a few hours at least, the park was a peaceful haven for those that wished a tiny bit of nature.

They sat at the edge of the pond, she on a bench, Tyler wandering between the water's edge and her bench, squealing and running back to her if a duck waddled too close to him. The bread was gone and she'd thrown her head back for a moment, letting the warmth soak into her pale skin while Tyler scratched designs into a small pile of dirt with a stick. Digging for worms he'd told her.

Hearing a step somewhat close, her head came up and she glanced around, stiffening slightly when she saw a man headed their way. Her unease went down a notch however when she saw who it was, though she still held a guarded look as he sat down, seeming nothing more then the friendly neighbor.

He made no move to be close to her, in fact seeming more comfortable at the far end of the bench and she tried not to look so unfriendly, knowing she'd been frowning for a moment.

“I never did catch your name…”

A slight blush colored her cheeks as she bit her lip nervously, an apologetic look coming over her face, softening it as she noticed he appeared to be as nervous speaking to her as she was to him.

I'm so sorry. Alliandra. Or as those who find that a cumbersome mouthful of a name... it's Allie. I'm Allie, and that's Tyler, my son.

She motioned to the boy who was watching them from the corner of his eye, trying to appear as if he were only interested in his worms.

I didn't mean to be so rude last night, I'd just had a bad day. It was nice to meet you Adam. And I apologize as well for most likely waking you this morning. I just felt bad about how I was before...

Her voice trailed off as she watched Tyler for a moment, finally turning back to him. He was dressed much neater than he had been the first time she saw him, his hair long, clothes plain but clean. His skin was pale, she had remembered that much right at least, but it was beautiful. She wasn't sure she'd ever seen such a glowing complexion. Realizing she was staring at him, she jerked her eyes back towards the pond, heat flushing her neck and cheeks again.

Her nervousness returning about why he would have followed her out to the park caused her to fidget for a moment, picking at one of her short nails and nearly breaking it. She wasn't used to having 'friendly' neighbors. In fact all she'd had lately were the increasingly unfriendly kind that wanted to keep to themselves. Glancing back at him, she offered him a small smile and forced herself to try and be social.

So you've lived here awhile? New York I mean.

 

[MaiusImperium]

“Nice to meet you, Allie. I’m Adam, but you already knew that.” He smiled, though he felt a little uneasy at the lie. It was one he had told to everyone…everyone that surrounded him anyway, Angelus wasn’t exactly a common name, it wasn’t really a name at all, certainly not amongst mortals, so he’d simply chosen Adam. It wasn’t an inspired choice, but a name close to Him, the Almighty, it fitted him well enough.

Angelus, or Adam, leaned back against the back of the bench, it creaked under his weight slightly as he was introduced to the boy, her son. He already felt a little easier with her, and it was turning out to be a pleasant day, weather-wise. He watched the boy for a few moments, lost in the perfectly peaceful look on his face. It had him feel young, and captivated in a strange way, he couldn’t remember being young. But children always seemed completely at peace with themselves, there were no demons to haunt them, a all save a few truly unfortunate souls had at least a mother who could take the pain away from them. He yearned for that on some level.

“Hey there little man.” The golden-haired boy grinned shyly before hiding his face away in the dirt and waving in that clam-fisted way young children do, which brought a smile to Angelus’ lips before he moderated it when he felt her eyes on him. He didn’t notice that she was looking at him especially closely, he sat and watched the park placidly as he spoke.

“I’ve not been here long, few years maybe…” He worried that he’d let that slip, it was difficult for mortals to comprehend what was a long time, a few years was a long time for them…but his time in ‘The Big Apple’ had all gone by in the blink of an eye to him.

“It’s not a bad place to live, that apartment block…I mean it’s not exactly the Ritz, but there’s some good people who’ll look out for you, including myself I guess.” He smiled when she blushed and looked to the pond. She hadn’t exactly looked bad in the dark light of the apartment, but in the daylight she was very pretty indeed. Her skin was smooth and her eyes soft and captivating. Ah, the human aesthetic, that had been something he’d had to get used to as well. Though technically immortal when he’d been sent down to earth he’d been effectively given a human body, and lust was just one of the many minefields a mortal had to navigate that angels rarely had cause to fear. Unless confronted by a succubus of course…Lilith….

“You new to town then or?...” He’d made a note not to mention the cut on her lip…or the noises, there was no point making her feel uncomfortable. Maybe once he got to know her better he could pry that deeply, but for now he could would be content with knowing a little more about her, the woman he was going to ‘save’.

 

[Alerdene]

She chuckled for a moment when he asked if she was new to town.

Nah. Been here for six years or so, and I grew up a ways north. Came to go to NYU, but it didn't work out.

She grew quiet for a moment, wishing she hadn't really brought that particular subject up. Straightening on the bench, she wrinkled her nose in a funny face at Tyler who was peeking at them from behind a tree.

The apartment's not bad though. It was surprisingly clean. Drab and run-down, but clean... or at least the important parts were. And I needed a place quick, so here I am.

Tyler came up behind them, staring at the man and inching his way around until he was finally standing straight in front of them, his eyes appraising Adam carefully. As she was about to remind him it wasn't nice to stare he spoke.

"Do you have a dog Mister? My mommy is gonna get me a dog when she gets a job. She said so."

Her mouth dropped open, half in surprise, half in consternation.

Tyler! I said maybe. And I dunno now that we had to move. They probably don't even allow dogs here.

She looked at Adam apologetically.

I'm sorry, he latches onto something and doesn't let go usually. Speaking of which, we should probably be headed back, I don't wanna keep you from anything important. Do you work around here?

Realizing that was a somewhat personal question she blushed yet again.

 

[MaiusImperium]

Angelus found himself shifting a little under the little boy’s gaze. He’d gotten used to mortal mannerisms…but children were a different matter altogether. He had no fear of Angelus, or anyone for that matter, only shy curiosity. What he’d give to feel like that again. He smiled when Tyler asked about the dog.

“I don’t have a dog, but I’ve seen some of the other tenants bring them in…I’ll have a word with Mrs Cripslock, I’m sure it’ll be ok.” Oh he would, would he? The voice mocked him, suddenly he was the concerned good neighbour, running errands and poking his nose into everyone’s business. He didn’t even know Mrs Cripslock, they didn’t have a rapport, aside from the fact that Angelus paid on time, every time. Perhaps that would count for something.

When she asked him about work he fumbled for a minute, trying to think desperately. To everyone else he was just a quiet man, too young to be truly creepy or disturbing, a junkie or an alcoholic maybe…but that didn’t sound so impressive did it?

“What? Oh, um, I’m between jobs, you know how it is. Hey if I hear of any openings I’ll let you know.” He tried to smile reassuringly and got up from the bench. “I got nowhere I need to be, not today anyhow, I’ll walk you back.” Tyler ran between them and around them like a frantic satellite in a decaying orbit, the pathway out was lined with large sandstones, and Tyler squealed excitedly as he jumped from on to the other.

“I’m gonna be Indiana Jones when I grow up!” He proclaimed with beaming face as he dodged rolling boulder traps and avoided tribal blow-darts on the way out of the park. Angelus kept a respectable distance away from Allie, though they two of them walked side by side as the boy played. He didn’t say too much, though inside he was burning with questions, was that guy he’d heard the boy’s father? He wondered how many times the little one had seen their parents fight…if at all, he didn’t show but. But children were strong in a special way, far stronger than grownups.

“Can you spare a minute? Just give me a sec and I’ll be back, my treat.” He excused himself awkwardly and slipped into the coffee shop that they approached. Thankfully it was past the early morning rush hour, and the lunch hour had been and gone, the queue was mercifully short and Angelus quickly returned triumphant with two tall lattes in paper cups and a polystyrene cup full of ice cream for Tyler. The boy practically snatched it from Angelus’ offered hand with glee, not waiting for his mother’s approval.

“Hope you don’t mind, just think of it as my uh, house warming gift.” He smiled and blushed awkwardly as he handed her the coffee. Tyler’s face was buried busily in the ice cream, it was vanilla but covered in a colourful rainbow of syrups and sprinkles, and Tyler’s little face was gradually becoming more colourful as the sauce was smeared around his lips.

When they reached the tenement and it was time to part company he finally spoke up once more.

“Well I better leave you to it, I’ll keep my ears open for any jobs going, been a bit scarce these last few months though. I’ll let you know. Take care Allie.” He spared a smile and a wave for the ice-cream caked Tyler and slipped into his own apartment.

 

[Alerdene]

They walked back slowly, Tyler having come out of his shell with all the dog talk. She started to protest as he ran ahead into a coffee shop, but shrugged and walked even slower, watching Tyler peer in through the windows at him.

Her mouth dropped open slightly in surprise as he came out with his hands full. Tyler nearly tripped over his own feet, in such a hurry to snatch the ice cream before she could say no. He dug in with the glee only children seem able to manage and she smiled watching him.

Taking the cup from him, she thanked him, her voice soft and somewhat unsure sounding. Covering her surprised expression, she took a sip, the foam on top tickling her upper lip. It slid down like heaven into her stomach, it'd been a long time since she'd splurged for any sort of treat for herself.

It's delightful, thank you again. I'll repay the favor sometime soon.

They reached the building and he disappeared into his apartment, his last words echoing in her ears as Tyler hopped up and down in front of their door, waiting for her to unlock it.

"Take care Allie"

Such a simple phrase. A friendly one. But one that she'd not heard in quite some time from anyone, much less a stranger. Frowning slightly, her paranoia about why he was being so friendly went up a notch. Berating herself, she reached for the door knob, her frown deepening as the knob turned, unlocked. Holding Tyler by the collar, she slipped inside first and a sigh of relief whispered out her lips as she saw Jorge asleep on the couch.

Motioning Tyler inside, they went straight to the bathroom to clean his face. He suffered her motherly ministrations with a display of clown-like faces, giggling as the colors slid around his face before finally disappearing into the washcloth she wielded. Settling him onto the bed with a coloring book, she headed back into the living room, drinking more of the latte, the caffeine hitting her nicely.

"Where the hell have you been?"

She jumped at hearing him speak, not realizing he was awake. Determined that he wouldn't spoil her pleasant mood, she shrugged.

I took Tyler to the park to feed the ducks. Do you want some lunch?

Without waiting for an answer, she stood and began fixing a simple meal. In a few moments, she handed him a two grilled cheese sandwiches with a bowlful of potato chips. He grunted and slapped her on the ass as she walked back to get him a drink.

"About time you got home. I thought I was gonna starve. I can't stay long, just dropped in to make sure you were behavin."

She bit her tongue, holding back the sharp retort that was there, merely relieved that he wasn't staying long. Her new 'job' was set to start tonight, and she somehow figured that Jorge wouldn't take kindly to it. They'd talk about it eventually, but not yet. Her hand went unbidden to the scab on her lip and she shook her head unconsciouly. Definately not yet.