RP - Satan x Matilda Arc

Writing by Kate from our Devildom AU, featuring the death of study buddies and the official beginning of Satilda - aka the Solomon Arc.

Game nights became frequent. They got together for movie marathons most Fridays. Tuesdays at half noon were saved for lunch in the courtyard.

Sometimes the group of friends present changed. Manmon had a modeling gig some afternoons. Beelzebub and Nate had Fangol practice. Asmodeus had a date. The two always present for the get together were Matilda and Satan - Satilda, their couple name given to them by Nate and Kat. They weren't a couple, Matilda would promise, and Satan would just hum in response.

Satan had been testy lately. Moody. Broody, sometimes. The blonde was easily angered as of late, and it usually ended in a broken table, a scorched game board, sometimes even a fist fight between a brother and him. Usually Beelzebub would take the hits - his bulk could withstand it usually. One day during class he had given Kolraroth and his group of goons a beating that kept them out of school for a week. 

This evening was different. Everything was angering him. The way the ad on the Devil TV channel sounded. The way Mammon slung his arm around his shoulders during Catan. When Kathryn built a settlement, breaking Satan's longest road during the game, his patience broke. The air around the group grew extremely hot and an aura that felt like it could choke out the room's oxygen supply overtook the space around them. The brothers noticed immediately, and Satan's demon form took over a second later. 

During the first moment, each demon took over protecting a human. Mammon pushed Kathryn onto the ground, covering her ears and eyes. Beelzebub booked it out of the room with Nate over his shoulder. Asmodeus wrapped his own, now also demon form, body around Matilda and pulled her out of harms way.

The dust finally settled moments later, Satan standing in all his wrathful glory over a destroyed coffee table and a scorched game board. It was the fifth table and game he had destroyed this week alone.

"Would you CALM DOWN, Satan!?" Asmodeus shrieked, letting go from how he had been cradling Matilda's head when he had grabbed her. "Do you really want to have to tell Lucifer and Diavolo that you incinerated the humans? I dont think you want that."

"Yeah, well what if I incinerate you instead dear brother?" Satan asked as Asmodeus stood up to him, the fiery rage still crackling through his body. "I don't think you want that."

Asmodues groaned, lunging towards Satan and forcing him to look into his eyes. "Big brother," he cooed as his eyes glowed pink. Satan's wrathful aura slowly started to diminish as Asmodeus bathed him in his charm. "Calm down so we can all just enjoy our evening. You want tacos? Come on, my treat."

With the combination of Asmo's charm and the idea of having a good dinner, Satan calmed down. He thanked Asmodeus, and apologized for his outburst.

"I have no excuse," he said as he rubbed the back of his head, ashamed.

"Sure ya do," Mammon laughed, Kathryn pulled tight against his side. "It's not your fault you're the Avatar of Wrath. Of course your a hot-head!" He got a slap on the arm from Kathryn for that one, telling him to be nice to his brother. She didn't say anything about how closely he was holding her, she knew he just wanted to make sure she was alright after all of that.

"Did Asmo say he was buying us tacos?" Beelzebub asked as he came back into the room, a snack in his hand instead of Nate. "I'm in."

So after cleaning up the room Satan had just tried to destroy, they all headed out into the cool air, Asmodeus and Kathryn chatting about nonsense as they lead the way. Satan followed a little behind the group, not at all angry anymore but still feeling the buzz of his wrathful under his skin. That buzz never went away. It tingled under his touch, sounded in his ears at all times, the amalgamation of it all threatening to take over. 

His fists clenched and relaxed beside him as he walked, still seething under the surface, but only because he had lost control. Again. Satan couldn't help the breath of air that escaped him, trying to soothe his own soul. Easier said than done, lately.

A hand pulled him from his thoughts, Matilda touching his arm and giving a gentle squeeze. Satan looked at her and couldn't help but feel placate by the touch. 

"Grimm for your thoughts?" she asked, soft enough to not pull attention from their friends chatting just ahead of them. "Is there anything I can do for you, study buddy?"

Study buddy. Right.

"Thank you, Matilda. I must just be stressed," he answered, placing his own hand on hers, a smile making its way to his face.

Matilda nodded, understanding completely. "You have some hefty exams coming up," she agreed. "Its normal to feel more stressed than you would in a regular setting. I can meet with you later. Maybe tomorrow if you want to go over any of your study reviews."

Satan couldn't help but appreciate her effort. His upcoming exams weren't what was keeping him on high alert lately, but he didn't feel confident enough to talk about the real reason for now. Until he did, he would relish in the way Matilda cared for him. He deserved much less, but she was a Saint in his eyes and treated him with a kindness he wasn't used to.

"I except your assistance, then. Feel free to come by the House of Lamentation tomorrow. We can study in my room."

Matilda agreed, saying she would let him know before she came over before changing subjects and talking about what they were going to eat once they arrived to their destination. The change in subject was welcomed, Satan not wanting to think about his next inevitable outburst. The incidents seemed to be getting worse as well as more frequent.

When they all arrived to the food truck, the owner saw Beelzebub first and panicked, not sure if he could serve the demon without him being eaten out of house and home. Beelzebub behaved himself though, only ordering 50 Hellfire Tacos and extra sauce. Everyone else ordered a normal amount of food before sitting at tables to wait. Maybe Satan sat a little closer to Matilda than he normally would, but he didn't mention it all all, just craving the serenity that her proximity seemed to bring to him.

Nate and Beelzebub were telling everyone about their last Fangol game, and what was expected out of their upcoming one next week. Apparently it was an important one, but Kathryn and Asmodeus seemed more interested in talking about the players bodies. Their food arrived soon enough, and the conversation dulled for a while as they all ate. When Beel and Nate went up to order more, Kathryn slipped into the seat on the other side of Satan.

"Hey, hot-shot," she called endearingly, her hand rubbing at his shoulder. "You feeling better after a meal?"

Satan nodded, glancing at the redhead. "Yes, thank you for asking, Kathryn. I'm sorry for destroying your guys coffee table, by the way. I'll have it replaced by tomorrow." Lucifer was sure to make him repay all of the damages he had caused in the last month, and he was sure his wallet would be hurting soon.

"It's fine!" Kathryn laughed, not concerned at all. "Lucifer will get us another if I ask."

Satan couldn't help but groan. "What you admire in my brother, I will never understand," he said, though a smile tugged at his lips. Humans were certainly one of a kind.

"Which one?" Asmodeus asked, popping behind the group, his own hands finding Satan's shoulders and squeezing.

"Can you all please stop touching me?" Satan asked, though his hand searched for Matilda's. "I'd like to not ruin this establishment. I'm already banned from the Shawarma Shack for what I did to their line cook."

Kathryn laughed, scooting over a bit to give Satan some air. "That guy was an asshole though. He deserved it."

The group stayed at the tables after eating, Mammon ordering a cocktail to share with Kathryn as they all sat and hung out. Soon Kathryn was well on her way to tipsy, having drunk most of the drink, and Mammon suggested calling it a night. 

Kathryn gasped at the suggestion, holding onto Mammon's jacket and pulling him close. "You dog," she laughed, unable to act offended right now. "Did you get me drunk to take advantage of me?"

Most everyone ignored the exchange, all having ordered their own drinks as a nightcap. Mammon was just scum and let his human drink too much. Nate agreed on calling it a night though, and offered his arm to Kathryn to help her hobble home. It was obvious she'd never make it without falling and Nate hoisted the girl onto his back so he could piggyback her home.

The brothers said their farewells, Mammon not allowed to take his drunken prize home with her human friends around. Asmodeus told Matilda to make sure Kathryn washed her face before going to bed so she didn't ruin her complexion. Satan chuckled, hooking his arm around Asmo's shoulders, a Tres Equis lager thrumming through him at this point in the night.

"Good night, ladies, Nate," Satan hummed to the humans, waving a little. "Matilda, call me if you're coming over tomorrow so I can clear my desk." It was covered in books, after all.

Satan and his brothers made their way home, and luckily nothing got on Satan's nerves. How could it, though? He was warmed with alcohol and thoughts of the girl he liked. His night ended without a hitch.

Nate and Matilda chatted idly as they walked home, Kathryn quietly sleeping as she was carried, warm from the jacket slung over her as she slept. 

"Satan sure knows how to liven things up," Nate commented. "I was going to win that Catan game too, dammit."

The night ended, Kathryn crawling into Matilda's bed after her cousin did do as Asmodeus had asked, making sure she washed her face before sleeping and Nate making sure they were settled before going to bed as well. The humans slept soundly through the night, and in the morning Kathryn was the first awake, needing to wash the smell of late night tacos and tequila out of her hair. Nate was up soon after, always waking early to go on a run. He offered for Kathryn to come with, get an early morning jog in, and she just laughed.

Matilda was the last awake, and she woke up to eggs and toast being carried into her bedroom on a tray by Kathryn. 

"Good morning, sleeping beauty!" The redhead called. "Thanks for letting me sleep in here last night." She went in for a kiss as she usually did, but even with Matilda being just woken up she missed.

---

Though it was late, Matilda found herself unable to sleep. Tossing and turning, she clutched at the sheets until her knuckles turned white, struggling to find a position that was comfortable and failing miserably. So much had happened between her housemates and the demon brothers. Everyone had grown so close. The time they spent in the Devildom felt more and more like staying with -- dare she say it? -- family.

"Umm, Mattie? Can you please stop moving around?" an irritated voice piped up, scattering Matilda's thoughts.

She'd almost forgotten that she wasn't alone; her cousin, Kathryn, was curled up in the space beside her, her hair spilling onto the pillow in a cascade of curls.

"Oh, Kathryn. I'm sorry. I've got a lot on my mind."

Matilda reached over and smoothed over her crown of red hair with her fingertips.

"What is troubling you so much?" Kathryn mumbled. "Does it bother you that I'm here?"

"That's not it."

"What is it, then?"

A part of Matilda wanted to tell the truth, to admit to everything she was feeling. The confusing emotions and thoughts swirling endlessly around her head. About Satan. What was up with that, anyway? Being friends with a demon seemed impossible enough, let alone being... anything more.

"Go back to sleep, it's late," Matilda chided gently. "I'll try and be still."

The younger girl let out a huff before turning around to bury her sleepy face into Matilda's chest, relaxing into the soft satin of her pajama shirt. Matilda lay as still as possible and soon felt Kathryn's breathing grow steady. She continued to stare up at the ceiling until morning.

---

The two of them ate breakfast together, Kathryn intertwining her legs with Matilda's as they cuddled in. Kathryn talked about her plans for the day, apparently having an extra credit assignment on spells. "Since I bombed the last quiz, Madam Magnolia is letting me do a more hands-on approach rather than just theory. She thinks I'll do better this way so I have to practice. I've got the fire extinguisher ready though." Kathryn tended to get a little out of hand when it came to fire.  "What time are you going to hang out with Satan?" she asked, knowing they had been talking about it the night before. 

Matilda wasn't really sure, but she was planning on trying to read some before she went out. "I need to stop at the store before I go anyway. From the looks of it, we're probably out of eggs now." Matilda told her, to which Kathryn confirmed. "Then I'll do that so you can practice your spells without me standing over your shoulder,  I suppose."

They finished their breakfast and Kathryn went off to wash the dishes, leaving Matilda alone with her thoughts. She took her time getting ready for the day and while she was brushing her teeth, received a message from Satan. 

'Looking forward to seeing you today :)'

It was a simple message, but she found herself reading it over and over again. Eventually after rinsing out her mouth and fixing her hair, she sent a reply.

'As am I. Let's have a late lunch together today.' She sent back.

It only took a moment for a response. 

'It's a date.' And then immediately following, a second response. 'Study date*'

Matilda didn’t spare too much thought to his message, knowing that they were definitely study buddies and that she had promised to help him study for his upcoming tests. Hopefully the review time would help ease his mood. Even for the Avatar of Wrath he seemed to have been blowing up more than usual.

She went on with her day, taking quiet time to read as Kathryn messed around in the kitchen before gathering her bag to go to the store. Luckily the little food shop wasn’t far so the humans never felt the need for a special chaperone just to grab some groceries every now and then. She made her way into the store, looking at the days produce and snacks, picking up a few things as she walked around. They needed eggs, they were low on milk, Nate really seemed to enjoy this particular candy, and Kathryn drank the last of their coffee the other day. She picked up some snacks with Beelzebub in mind too, and as she set them in her basket, she couldn’t help but think of the demon fondly. Most of the brothers she had a fairly okay opinion of, and as she thought of each of them and their quirks or charms, she found her thoughts lingering on Satan. 

Why had Satan been so on edge lately? It wasn’t like him to worry so much about an exam. It had to be something else on his mind. Wouldn’t he tell her if it was important, though? Matilda thought they had a fairly deep understanding of each other at this point. Sure, he was a demon so there was only so much she could actually understand about his life, but since they had gotten closer, he had never given her a reason to think he was hiding anything important from her.

Matilda was calling him before she knew it, walking out with her groceries purchased. When he answered, her name sounded pleasant on his tongue. “I’m going to drop off the groceries I just bought and I will head over to the House of Lamentation, okay?” she told him, holding her phone up to her ear. 

They chatted for a little while longer, and she said her goodbyes as she approached the Enchanted Place. After putting away the food she had bought, she told Kathryn that she was leaving, that she might be back late, not to worry. “Satan will bring me home if it’s too late.” she had promised.

When Matilda had arrived at the House of Lamentation, Satan was the one who answered the door, welcoming her in. They stopped in the kitchen for tea and a snack before making his way into the library, settling comfortably onto the large sofa together.

“What is it that we’re reviewing first?” Matilda asked, digging through her bag to get her pen and book out.

Satan sighed, making her pause in her actions. She asked him if he was feeling okay, that he didn’t look like he felt well. He shook his head a little, taking a drink of his tea.

“There’s a lot on my mind,” he admitted finally, his voice even. “I think… I have a feeling it is why I’ve been destroying so many things as of late.”

It wasn’t easy to talk about. He was born from Lucifer’s wrath, which meant that Lucifer was as much a part of him as he was of Lucifer. His pride hurt, having to admit there were just some things he couldn’t handle.

“I pride myself on my extensive knowledge,” he continued, not looking at her just yet. “And yet here I am, unable to find the answer I’ve been searching for. I have never felt so lost, Matilda.” Or vulnerable. Even when he came into existence, just a child full of hate and anger, at least he knew what he was all about. Now everything constantly was threatening to crash around him at any moment.

“Satan, you’re certainly the smartest demon around,” Matilda said, not sure why he was feeling this way suddenly. Maybe he wasn’t worried about his exams as she had thought. “Will you tell me what’s going on? Maybe I can help. We can work through it together.”

That made his heart twist in a way he wasn’t sure he could handle. The feeling was kin to one of Lucifer’s punishments, and he still thought he would prefer one of those at this point. When Matilda’s hand moved to his own to cover it gently, he wasn’t sure whether to cry of happiness or scream of frustration. Instead he took a sip of his tea, turning his other hand to hold Matilda’s. Maybe he could talk to her.

“How do you,” he started, though he found himself hesitating. “How do you handle all of the emotions that a human feels?” he finally asked, looking at her. “The professor has been teaching us about the extensive range of emotions a human can go through every day. How? How do you handle all of that?”

Matilda stared for a few breaths, unsure of how to answer. “I… I’m unfortunately not the human to ask,” she admitted, squeezing his hand a little. “My range is quite lackluster. You’d have a better chance with Nate or Kathryn.”

Satan shook his head, looking at Matilda with an intensity he didn’t often give her. “They’re no good,” he explained. “I need you.” He paused, a blush coming to his cheeks. “I mean, you’re the only one I’m able to ask. They wouldn’t do.” Satan reached over, setting his tea down on the table in front of them so he could take her hand in both of his. His heart elated, pounding wildly. A buzz was under his skin still, but he felt excited rather than the normal dread when the buzzing would intensify. “Matilda, you’re the only one I-”

Whatever Satan was about to say was interrupted, Mammon and Levi running through the study, arguing about something. Money, most likely. Or a game. It was the most inopportune time, with Satan’s emotions so currently high strung. When Leviathan shoved Mammon, sending him flying over the back of the couch and directly in between Satan and Matilda, he saw red. The hot tea that spilled onto him didn’t help in the matter.

“Can I not get one FUCKING DAY,” Satan started, the air crackling with energy around them. “Just one. ONE with Matilda, dammit.” Satan reached directly for Mammon’s throat, deciding that today was the day he became third oldest instead without Mammon in the picture anymore.

Unfortunately, while Satan was open to learning about more of his emotions now, the only thing he could see was Mammon’s head on a pyre.

“Come here, you idiot!” Satan shouted as Mammon slipped away from him and ran out of the room, not wanting to be the reason the library burned down today. Satan was on his tail in seconds, the feather boa that materialized as his demon emerged flowing behind him. Screams from Mammon could be heard throughout the hallways as Matilda took it upon herself to start cleaning up the spilled tea so none of their study books could be ruined. When the screaming stopped, she wondered for a moment if Satan really had managed to become third in power now. 

Satan returned moments later, his demon still out, his wrath fully displayed, though Matilda could swear he was sad underneath it all. Maybe it was just her imagination.

Satan made his way back to Matilda, slumping on the couch and leaning into her side, his head on her shoulder. He didn't care if it was brash. He was tired. Still with his demon form emerged the way he was he felt on fire, but Matilda being close helped. 

"I'm sorry," he choked out, more emotion in his voice than usual. "You weren't burned, were you?" Hopefully the tea had only got on him and hadn't touched her. He couldn't guarantee he wouldn't lose his cool again if she had gotten hurt because of his brothers' chicanery.

She shook her head, letting him rest his head with no complaints. They were quiet for a while as they sat there, and after a few more of their comfortable silence Satan's human form took over again. 

"There you are," Matilda said gently, smiling at him as he lifted his head finally. "Feeling better?" 

Not really, no, but Satan nodded anyway.

"Have you tried meditation? Or possibly a kickboxing class?" Matilda asked, only half serious. She knew who he was. He couldn't change any of that and she didn't mind. He was special to her, and all that mattered was that she was just as special to him. Unfortunately,  he resented most of himself lately. He had done so well not to lose his hold for a long time. Matilda, beautiful and kind Matilda, had unraveled a century of effort. 

"Maybe I'll do that," Satan replied, a pull of his lips defying the actual anguish he felt. She really was so special. "Could we skip studying for today? I would prefer if you would just read to me. If you're up to it," he said with little caution. "If you don't feel like it, we can do something else."

Matilda couldn’t help the smile that formed on her face when Satan asked her to read to him. She agreed, telling him to get comfortable while she chose a book. Standing, she browsed the shelves and picked out a couple different options, coming back and sitting close to him.

“Would you like a collection of essays from the 15th century or would you prefer a novel?” She asked, and when he chose the collection of essays, she felt a little giddy. How fun.

Satan took a breath and held it for a moment before shifting in his spot a little. Matilda waited for him to settle and get comfortable, but when his arms went around her and she was tugged into his lap, she couldn’t fight the blush. When he muttered an apology, she forced herself to calm down enough to start reading. By the time she was able to relax some in his hold, he was still clinging to her, but a soft snore escaped from his lips. 

Did she keep reading? She had only made it halfway through the first essay after all. Well, she was interested and it seemed rude to move too much just in case Satan woke up. She decided to continue to relax in his hold, though she maneuvered one of the pillows on the couch to support Satan’s neck as he slept.

She sat there with him, sometimes reading aloud but mostly getting lost in her own thoughts as she watched his face, resting comfortably with him. Luckily since Satan’s freak out just earlier none of his brothers had bothered them. If they continued to stay lucky, they wouldn’t come into the library at all. 

The next thing she knew, she was waking up, still cuddled on the couch with Satan. A blanket was thrown over them and her D.D.D. was plugged into the nearest wall outlet. The clock on the wall read 4AM.

Matilda sat up carefully, pulling out of Satan’s arms that were languidly wrapped around her waist. Dreamy grogginess made her vision a little hazy, so she took a few moments to gather her surroundings before getting up to move over to her phone. 25 missed calls and a barrage of text messages from her cousin. Matilda couldn’t help but roll her eyes, but it was a pleasant feeling to know she cared so much.

Apparently her phone had died at some point, and if the text messages were any evidence of it, Kathryn was the one that had found her and Satan on the couch. Also apparently Kathryn was worried and had walked herself to the House of Lamentation a little before midnight to find her and ‘drag her ass back home’. There was only one more message after that, letting Matilda know that she would be in Mammon’s room in the morning, she’d walk home with her after breakfast. 

She felt bad enough imposing this much, but Kathryn surely wouldn’t take no for an answer. She was still standing, scrolling through the barrage of texts she had been sent. She could only imagine that Satan’s phone had the same amount of messages and calls. She was startled out of her thoughts then, Satan sighing and sitting up, a confused look on his face. Realizing this was the first time she had seen him wake up, she forced herself to stay calm, fighting the inevitable blush.

“You should go to bed,” she told him, setting her phone down and moving back to his side. “You would be much more comfortable in your own bed.”

Satan yawned, a little pale in his face as he slowly woke up. “So would you,” he muttered, voice full of gravel and sleep. “Let’s go to bed.”

She hadn’t been planning on following him, but he stood up and took her hand in his own, leaving the room and going to the stairway without another word.

A short trip up the stairs later and the two were in Satan’s room. Matilda was wide awake now, though Satan wasn’t quite all there yet. When he pulled off his jacket, her breath hitched. Oh no. He wasn’t about to undress, was he? When his hands reached down to his sweater, pulling the hem up over his abdomen, her ears started ringing. Was that an alarm bell? Was that her own mind panicking? Soon he had tossed his sweater to the side and his pants were quick to follow, though Matilda turned away so she couldn’t see what was happening. The hip bones she saw would be burned into her mind’s eye for eternity anyway, she didn’t need anything else.

When her name left his lips, she glanced over her shoulder. He had crawled into bed and was apparently waiting for her to join.

“Come here, go to sleep.”

As much as she wanted to turn and hightail it out of there, she was tired… and he was offering. Study buddies could nap together, right?

With a courage she hadn’t needed since she was dared to sit in his lap during a truth or dare session, she took a breath and got into bed with him. When one of his arms casually slung over her hip, she wondered if she’d be able to sleep at all.

Satan settled easily, his body warm and his breathing slowing as his arm around her grew heavier with sleep. No, she thought, she’d not be able to sleep for the rest of the night. While she was still fully clothed, his skin was completely exposed save for his underwear. His body was slender, yes, but it was toned in a way that Matilda was sure of Kathryn to describe as ‘delicious’. Kathryn, she thought to herself, had no idea how Satan looked under his sweater and jacket.

For some reason, that thought made Matilda smile to herself.

When Satan awoke in the morning, he was surprised that he was in his bed. What was more surprising was that he wasn’t alone. Had Asmodeus crawled into bed with him again? He blinked a few times, reality slowly setting in as he processed the body in his arms. A very soft body, softer than his younger brother. Smaller than his brother. Definitely not his brother. When he recognized the head of hair of the person cuddled into his chest, he had to hold back a shout. Oh no. What had he done?

“Matilda?!” He finally gasped, her name a mere squeak from his mouth.

Oh devils. The emotions were coming back, and quickly. His stomach churned and his head started to ache. He felt like Leviathan any time anything inconvenient happened. Was he having a panic attack? He pulled away from her, his arm asleep from having the girl before him lying on it through their rest together.

He realized quickly that he was only in his underwear. Fuck. What? He looked at her, taking in the clothes on her still sleeping form. Well, good.

Maybe disappointing. 

Shit. He was absolutely panicking now.

Satan went about getting out of the room as quickly as possible. He needed a shower to clear his mind - STAT. He made his way to the bathroom with a change of clothes to wash away his embarrassment and to remember how exactly he had gotten himself into the current predicament.

He knew Matilda came over… Mammon and Leviathan caused trouble… he lost his cool. Again. In front of the girl he was certain he was fond of. He… held her in his arms and she hadn’t really complained about it. He vaguely remembered going to bed and he was certain that was how he ended up with Matilda in his arms. Why had she stayed? If she had said no, he would have listened. Probably. He could be stubborn.

Had she wanted to leave? Had he not let her? No. No, that could be it. Matilda would never stand to let something happen if she didn’t agree with it. Maybe she had really been fine with it. He couldn’t let himself get worked up again. Matilda was sleeping peacefully in his room and that was good enough for him. Perfect, actually.

He finished his shower, feeling a little more calm after getting dressed for the day. When he came back into his room, Matilda was sitting on his bed, flipping through a book.

“Oh,” he said, smiling at her. “Good morning, Matilda.”

Was this awkward? Maybe. It’d be okay. Probably.

“Did you sleep well?” “How’d you sleep?”

They laughed at how they asked the same thing together. It really was comfortable when it was just the two of them.

“Well,” She answered honestly, thinking that it was one of her most comfortable sleeps. Sure, it was weird waking up in a bed that definitely wasn’t her own, but waking up surrounded by the scent of Satan was a comfort she hadn’t expected.

“Good. I did as well. I apologize for falling asleep last night as we were reading,” Well, she was reading to him. Semantics. “I do have to say I enjoyed it though. I haven’t felt so relaxed in a long while.”

He took a breath and decided that it was probably time for them to talk about what was going on with them. He was tired of feeling nervous and unsure constantly. He needed to know just how far their study dates were going to go. He needed to know the direction their relationship was headed.

“Matilda,” he said, slipping onto the bed next to her, close. His hair still dripped a little from the shower. “Could I ask you something important?”

Matilda’s breath caught in her throat as Satan sat down. The more she looked at his face, the clearer the image of his hipbones became in her mind. Shit. He was hot. Never had she really thought of anyone as such, admiring a few for looks, but never once just flat out being attracted to their body. Not only that, his intelligence only made him hotter. She stood no chance. She blinked out of her thoughts as Satan said her name again, and asked if he could ask her something important.

Important?

Why was he leaning in so close? ….was she also leaning in? 

He was really about to kiss her. She wasn’t sure she was ready for it with it being first thing in the morning. Though, maybe she didn’t care much.

“HEY! GUYS!” 

Who the hell was that? Was Mammon really screaming and pounding on Satan’s door right now? What the hell??

For as relaxed as Satan had been after last night, any trace of peace was erased as Mammon once again ruined something that was going well for once.

“I don’t need a brother,” Satan spat, as claws grew from his fingers, the demon inside of him taking over again as he stood up. Matilda called for him, just wanting him to finish what he was about to say, but Satan was already kicking down his own door to wring Mammon’s neck.

After Satan and Mammon ran off, leaving Matilda alone on the bed again, Kathryn poked her head in through the now broken door. “Morning, sweetheart!” She said. “I grabbed your phone from downstairs. Mammon’s in charge of food today. We just finished cooking breakfast together. You should come down and eat with all of us.”

Kathryn had come to the House of Lamentation prepared. An overnight bag for both of them so they didn’t have to wear the same clothes and so they didn’t have to eat breakfast with unbrushed teeth. Kathryn hooked her arm with Matilda’s, heading to the bathroom with her so she could take the time to brush and braid her cousin’s hair, asking how her evening had been.

Kathryn didn’t expect too much as far as actual juicy stories, but Matilda actually had kind of delivered.

“I read to him. I think Satan is lost in his own mind lately. He fell asleep on the couch. When we both woke up on the couch together, he… he brought me to his room. I slept very well, Kat.”

Oh, there she went. Sometimes Matilda could swear that her cousin’s excitement let off frequencies that animals surely could hear. She saw the way Kathryn’s eyes lit up in the mirror as she finished off the braid.

“How did you sleep?” Maybe she could change the subject quick enough.

“Oh,” Kathryn laughed a little. “I slept alright. I got a few good hours before the visions set in again. I’ll take a nap later.” How nonchalant her cousin was about the lack of sleep she got on a weekly basis. Poor girl. “Mammon woke me up before they got too bad.”

There wasn’t much that Matilda cared about Mammon for, but he treated Kathryn like a queen. She deserved it. 

“Good. Thanks for worrying about me last night. I’m sorry I didn’t answer my phone.”

Kathryn smiled, watching Matilda’s reflection. When she looked elsewhere, Kathryn swooped in for a kiss on her cheek.

“It’s fine. I was worried, but not much. I knew Satan was with you.” She smirked a little then, her hands trailing along Matilda’s shoulders, rubbing just a little. “Do you like him?”

“Of course I like him, Kathryn,” Matilda answered, a pink hue donning her cheeks. “He’s a very knowledgeable friend and-” She got cut off, Kathryn asking a more specific question.

“Do you think he’s cute and do you like him as more than just a study buddy?” She asked, turning Matilda around to look at her. “If Satan asked you on an actual date, no books, would you say yes?”

Matilda felt a lump forming in her throat. Kathryn could be so unfair at times!

“The answer…. isn’t no,” she muttered, before huffing heavily. “But why would he ever ask me out? We are hardly compatible. I could never possibly allow myself to really go out with a demon. And he simply enjoys our conversations. As do I. I’d hate for that to change. Geez, Kathryn. Just because you can shack it up with demons doesn’t mean we all should.”

She left the large bathroom then, face wildly red. She should skip breakfast. She had mortified herself enough. She couldn’t possibly impose any longer. Hopefully Satan had calmed down so she could at least say goodbye and thank him for his hospitality. 

Kathryn groaned as her cousin stormed out. While they might have been getting somewhere, it seemed that as soon as Satan and Matilda took a step closer to each other, something dragged them two steps back. If they kept getting interrupted like this, they’d never be able to confess to one another.

Matilda checked Satan’s room again, carefully moving around his broken door to gaze in, hoping to find him back. He wasn’t there, and Matilda decided to take that as a sign just to go home. She’d message him later an apologize for missing breakfast. Hopefully he’d buy the excuses that something came up.

When Satan had sufficiently scared his older brother and made him beg for his life, he finally had calmed down enough to go back to the room. He just wanted to have breakfast with Matilda and go to class like normal. When he couldn’t find the human anywhere, he sought out her cousin, asking where she had gone.

“She left already. She needed to grab something from home before she went to class. I forgot to grab it for her when I came.” Hm. Plausible. They did have an impromptu sleepover. Shit. He had exams today. How was he supposed to properly concentrate?

And where was his phone? Probably in the library still.

When he had retrieved it, he smiled as he unlocked the screen and scrolled through everything he had missed the night before. So many messages from Kathryn as she worried about her cousin. Cute. 

And one from Matilda, just now.

‘Had to run. Good luck on your tests today!’ His heart clenched in a delightfully painful way. This girl would drive him mad. He decided to send a sticker back, his cheeks heating up as he carefully chose the demon emoji blowing a kiss.

Too much? He hoped not.

The rest of the day had been hectic for Satan, a day full of exams and tutoring and homework. Breaks were coming soon, and the workload always seemed to increase. There was also a student council meeting after school, which he was hardly excited to go to.

Well, maybe a little. Matilda usually helped out, keeping the minutes and filing away paperwork after the meeting was over. As annoying as Lucifer was, he was glad his brother unknowingly gave them even more chances to see once another. Unfortunately for him, Matilda apparently had prior plans and had been excused from the day’s meeting, but Satan wasn’t going to let that get to him. He decided as he walked to the library after the long meeting, that he wasn’t going to lose it anymore.

If he was going to ask Matilda to be with him, he had to stop nearly killing the humans in his temper tantrums.

If Satan was going to overcome his wrath, he’d have to work diligently to do so every day. He’d done it before, so he’d definitely be able to do it again. He had a goal in mind as well. If he was honestly unable to control himself, he decided he didn’t deserve to be with Matilda. No one should have to fear a lover, and while perhaps Matilda stood by him without any fear, Satan himself had never been more afraid.

The feelings in his chest were alarming, and if he hadn’t read so many romance novels, the feeling would be something he was concerned medically with. He knew, through text, that this was a normal feeling. Normal for humans, at least. He loved his brothers, even Lucifer, but the way his heart turned circles in his chest when he thought of the young brunette was wild and exciting and so very new. 

Did Kathryn honestly feel this way everyday? About /everyone/? Maybe the ditzy redhead was stronger than anyone could imagine. This feeling was dangerous for someone like him. No wonder he blew up at the simplest of matters.

Satan missed Tuesday lunch in the courtyard, and on Wednesday when his brothers and the humans had planned to meet up for the Fangol game, he lost track of time. It wasn’t completely his fault, though. He was simply trying to learn how to process all of these feelings was all. When Matilda called on Thursday, asking why he wasn’t joining in on the usual fun they would have, he blanched. Was it really already almost the end of the week?

“I’m sorry. I’ve been busy, I guess. I lost track of time.” He was honest with his answer, not knowing what else to say. He had no excuse. Overthinking could have been as dangerous as daydreaming, though some might say it was the same. At least daydreaming could be fun.

“Satan,” said Matilda’s voice carefully. “You’re starting to worry me. Tell me if you need help.” A pause and a breath. Satan could hear his heart pounding in his ears. “That’s what I’m here for. To help you.”

“Could I possibly take you out?” Satan asked suddenly, face red as he sat on the 4th floor of the library in a room that was too silent for how loud his ears were suddenly ringing. “Tonight? Just us? Anywhere you want to go. My treat.”

Matilda was quiet, the question he’d just asked rolling through her brain. “To study?” she asked softly, chewing on her lip. Kathryn would scream if she found out this was happening.

Satan sighed, running a hand through his hair. “If we must.”

Matilda was quiet on the other end, pondering his answer for a moment. “You sound disappointed.”

“I’m not.” Did he answer too quickly? “Spending time with you is pleasurable under any circumstance. I’ll pick you up at 7. Don’t eat dinner.”

It took an hour before he was finally leaving the HoL. Sure, some of that was spent trying to get Asmodeus off his case about why he wasn't eating dinner with his brothers tonight. On his way to the EP, he felt a surge of confidence. Matilda would have to forgive him for forgetting his books tonight. Perhaps they could share. 

He stepped up to the doorway, knocking and waiting. He heard some commotion in the house and was caught extremely off guard when the door was thrown open and suddenly Kathryn was in his arms, hugging him tightly. This was... almost exactly the opposite of what he assumed would happen. 

"Kathryn? Hello. What is happening?" he asked, more confused than any possibility of being angry.  Why was the cousin of his crush holding him? Oh. The look in her eyes. The stars in them shone. She knew.

"Could you get off of him?" Matilda said, pulling a jacket on before grabbing Kathryn to yank her off of Satan. "We're just going to dinner before we study! Goodness!"

"Of course," Kathryn replied, grinning at Satan, sending him a wink, causing him to blush slightly. Kathryn definitely knew what he was up to. 

Matilda caught the wink she sent his way and for a moment she wondered being in close proximity to the Avatar of Wrath had her feeling a prick of anger as her extremely lovely cousin waggled her fingers at Satan as she turned to go back into the house. 

"Matilda," Satan spoke once Kathryn had left them, reaching to take her hands into his own, squeezing gently. "Where shall I take you for dinner tonight?"

Matilda and Satan found themselves at Hell's kitchen, sitting at a cozy corner table. Matilda took a bite of her the pasta she ordered, chewing and swallowing before continuing their conversation.

"So, the most interesting part of all of this is that while the works of Da Vinci are widely considered-"

"Matilda-" Satan cut he off suddenly, and while he loved to hear her talk so passionately about things, his ears were starting to ring again and he needed to get to the point of this dinner already. "Would you like to go out? With me?"

Matilda stared at him, thinking she might have misunderstood. "Aren't we already out now...?" She asked softly, eyes widening a little as Satan groaned and covered his face with his hands. 

This beautiful woman was so intelligent, but in this moment it was obvious she was related to Kathryn.

"Mat. Mattie. Please," Satan said, possibly a little desperate. "I like you so much. I would like our study dates to actually be... well. Dates. I'd like to date you, Matilda. Actually take you out on dates where we don't hide behind the pretense of studying."

Matilda felt her face heating up as she watched him. He wasn't the type to joke, so she had no reason to not take his words seriously. But he really wanted to date her? Like go out to the movies or walks in the park? Holding hands and... and kissing at the end of the night? 

"Do you... not want to study together anymore?" She asked, her head tilting ever so slightly. She was having a hard time grasping the concept, but she was trying.

Satan reached over for her hand, pulling it across the table to him before pressing his lips to her knuckles. "Silly girl," he muttered,  smiling a little even though he was sure he would have a heart attack in this moment. "I want to do everything with you for as long as you'll let me. Don't play with my heart like this, its unkind of you."

Just then he heard the familiar click of a camera and chuckles a few tables away from them, and turning his head toward the source of the sound, he saw red. 

"Mammon--!"

"Satan, no-!"

Oh no. Not again.

"Satan," Matilda hurried, turning her hand to hold his. "Don't even pay attention to them, they're not bothering us. Stay calm, okay? They don't even matter."

Maybe it was starting to make sense why the blonde demon was losing his cool so often. He had mentioned having trouble with emotions before and she could understand his struggle. He wasn't exactly pining for the most emotionally receptive person, after all. If he truly had liked her, the pieces were easier to put together. 

Satan took a slow, deliberate breath through his nose and out his mouth. The way Matilda was gently rubbing her thumb over his hand was helping in multitudes. He nodded, thought made a mental note to properly pay his brother and his little redheaded human back for their efforts at a later time. He started to apologize, but Matilda told him there was nothing to apologize for. 

What an angel. 

He was doing well, ignoring his elder brother for the most part. Kathryn seemed to be keeping him reigned in well at least. When Asmodeus and Beel came into the restaurant though, he could feel the familiar tingle of heat under his skin. 

When Asmo saw his brothers and their dates already there, he made enough commotion that finally they were all moving to a bigger table to sit together. So much for a date with just the two of them. 

When Matilda slid close in to him, arms brushing together, he decided that maybe an impromptu get together wasn't so bad. He hadn't hung out with them all properly in a while anyway. 

This whole week had been busy, and maybe dinner with the game night group was just what he needed.

At least that was what he had thought in the beginning anyway. Unfortunately for everyone around, Mammon decided it was the right time to tease Satan about finally getting a girlfriend and getting his nose out of his books all the time. Satan was handling it well enough, only somewhat steaming at the ears, but when Mammon mentioned that he'd have to do better at not losing his cool because it was so "unbecoming of a man to throw a tantrum", Satan felt the a couple more strings of his patience finally snap.

"Didn't I teach you a lesson last time?" He asked, his voice deep, a growl. "Do I have to do it again, scummy Mammon?"

When a waiter came up to mention that their group was getting a little too rambunctious, that they'd need to calm down or be asked to leave, it was over.

How was he ever supposed to properly date Matilda if he couldn't even make it through dinner without losing it? They'd have to find that out later, because it was time for another crack of energy to escape Satan, and when Beel tried to reel him in, wrapping his arms around his brother,  Satan sent him flying into the pillar behind the group. 

And that was how the support beam above them cracked and sent a portion of the ceiling tumbling down. 

Fuck. Lucifer was gonna kill him for destroying another restaurant.

The last thing he remembered after being tackled to the ground by Mammom and Asmodeus was another beam cracking and breaking around them and Matilda screaming for help.

It felt like an eternity before Satan could hear past the buzzing and ringing in his ears. When he did, he heard Kathryn first, crying out her cousin’s name. Beel was next, saying something about moving out of the way, he could lift the beam. Beam? Why was Asmo holding him down? 

There was commotion and unrecognizable voices everywhere, and Satan never had a great time coming down from a wrath high anyway, but this time was a struggle. Someone was crying, screaming in pain. Oh no, oh devils no.

“Matilda!” Satan shouted, struggling against his brothers. 

Asmodeus, who rarely got angry, growled in response, him and Mammon holding Satan down for the time being. “Satan, you have done enough, stay down for now!” 

Meanwhile, Beelzebub had removed the beam from the fallen divination student, though she was clutching onto her arm which had gotten pinned underneath it. Matilda cried, not having any sort of hold of herself at the moment, in too much pain from the collapse to even try and put up a face.

Kathryn was by her side the entire time, and even though scared tears fell from her eyes, she was busying herself with spells to help reduce pain that she had thankfully passed her last test on, her hands gently laying on her cousin’s arm.

“It looks broken-” Kathryn started, sniffling a little, feeling something sticking where it shouldn’t be sticking under her cousin’s skin.

“It feels broken!” Matilda screamed, angry and scared and still in pain even though what Kathryn was doing was helping. Hopefully her adrenaline would kick in soon and she could concentrate more. Instead, her breathing started to grow more shallow, and she could feel the telltale signs of shock setting in. “Kat-”

“I’m here, I know, they’re calling to get you to a doctor, ok? You’ll get fixed up…”

Kathryn’s voice seemed to fade away, and the next thing Matilda knew was waking up in a hospital, and for a moment after, she thought she was back home in the human realm. When she saw Asmodeus sitting next to her, felt his hand in her hair as he gently combed his fingers through it, she knew differently.

Kathryn was used to nightmares. She saw visions of tragedies and calamity most nights. She had to walk alone through the barren buildings of her dreams when all of humanity was wiped from the earth, leaving behind evil and despair. 

Nothing could have prepared her for the actual event of watching part of the building collapse in on itself. It all happened too quickly, and no one had time to protect anyone. When her eyes met with Matilda’s a second before she saw her cousin go down under the support beam, she tried desperately to wake up at first, but the feeling of her lungs and heart choking from the shock and the debris that had fallen onto her was very real. She was lucky she hadn’t passed out, and it took her a moment to gain her composure.

She immediately lost any of the composure she had just gathered, Matilda’s screams resonating in her bones. Her cousin was hurting, and her soul screamed to help her, to reach her and touch her and make everything better. Never would she complain about a nightmare again.

They were nothing compared to having to watch Matilda start hyperventilating as her body fell into shock. 

If anyone had asked her before how she acted under pressure, Kathryn would have laughed and said she was a crybaby, that she would crumble under the tiniest inconvenience, but now that her cousin had been suddenly crushed, all she could do was help. And cry, but she could help too.

She might have been classed as a ditz and might not have been as studious as Matilda, but she studied hard for things she was interested in, and had a good handful of spells to reduce pain or speed healing always would interest the empath. They certainly were coming in handy now.

When Matilda raised her voice, but agreed on the arm being broken, she focused on the bone. Maybe she could reset it herself?

She didn’t have much time to ponder the idea, because Matilda was losing the focus in her eyes. Shit. She said her name, cried it, didn’t want her going anywhere that she couldn’t follow, but she still promised it would be okay, that they were going to get her help.

The next 20 minutes had Kathryn on edge. Asmodeus and Beelzebub threw Satan out of the restaurant, Lucifer coming to drag him away and force him to calm down and stay calm while Matilda was carted off to a hospital. Kathryn cried in Mammon’s arms, beating on his chest and blaming themselves for this whole predicament. If they weren’t here, if only they hadn’t come tonight, none of this would have been escalated. Matilda would still be okay. She’d be awake.

Kathryn managed to work herself into a panic attack once they were in the hospital and she finally saw her cousin in a bed, an IV in her arm giving her fluids that she was pretty sure were glowing faintly, and had herself sent to a room to calm down before she was allowed to go again.

Mammon stayed with her, though she desperately wanted to see Matilda, she knew that she was no good if she didn’t calm down. All Matilda needed upon waking up was her overreacting and bombarding her, after all. When a doctor came in to tell her that Matilda had woken up though, she almost choked on the juice she was drinking in her hurry to get up off the bed to go see her.

When she walked into the room, Matilda was sitting up, her arm in a sling and wrapped tightly to keep the bones that had broken in her arm in place. Kathryn had told herself before she came in that she was going to play it cool, but when they locked gazes, her heart betrayed her and she hurried to her side, hugging her carefully as to not jostle her, the tears freely flowing again.

“There, there,” Matilda said, her good hand reaching up to pat the curls of her hair as she blubbered on about being so scared. “Nothing to be scared of now,” she promised, though her own heart was twisting now that Kathryn was with her again. Matilda would never be able to properly thank her bubbly friend for how strong she had been in those moments, so she’d just let her sob into her side for as long as necessary instead.

Matilda and Kathryn were able to go back to the Enchanted Place early the next morning, and Kathryn was over reacting at every chance she could get. Was she comfortable? Did she need anything to drink? A snack?

“Do you want a book?” Kathryn asked, sitting on the floor next to where Matilda was lying back on the sofa in the common room. “Nate is making breakfast, do you want some tea?”

Matilda chuckled a little, not minding the 20 questions much. “I’m fine, Kathryn,” she told her, reaching out to take her hand. “Just stay here with me, okay?”

“Deal.” 

When Kathryn went to kiss her head, Matilda didn’t pull away like normal. Kathryn took that as an invitation to pepper kisses all over her face, squeezing her hand tight and telling her over and over again how much she loved her and promised to always take care of her.

During breakfast, Matilda had to remind Kathryn that she wasn’t useless, and that only one arm was invalid right now. Kathryn didn’t seem to hear or care, because she continued doting on her the entire time. They finished eating, and Matilda told her roommates that she was tired, she’d like to sleep in her bed now, and they nodded, Nate promising to clean up, knowing that all of Kathryn’s attention was focused solely on Matilda’s needs right now. 

Kathryn went with her to her bedroom, pulling back the covers and helping her get situated in bed. When Matilda asked for some privacy, exhausted from all of the commotion before and just wanting to be alone for a while, Kathryn tsked.

“I’ll come check on you. I don’t want you alone long. Call for me if you need anything at all. I love you.” Kathryn placed another kiss on her forehead, eventually leaving the room.

After Matilda was alone, she reached for her phone, sending a message to Satan, asking if he was okay. After all, Satan had just disappeared for all she knew. The last time she had seen him was when he had thrown Beelzebub into the support pillar in Hell’s Kitchen. After that, everything was just sort of a blur.

She had been surprised when it was Asmo by her side when she woke up at the hospital, having expected Kathryn first. She thought Satan would be there too. It would have made sense anyway.

After all, minutes before disaster, he had asked her quite seriously if they could date. She needed to give him a proper answer.

Matilda wasn’t too surprised when she didn’t receive a reply. It was still early, after all. Satan wasn’t a morning demon, so he’d reply once he woke up properly. It was still disheartening to not hear from him yet, though, but she was tired so Matilda decided to focus on sleep instead.

Meanwhile, Kathryn was clinging tightly to Nathaniel, crying in his arms and relaying the previous night’s events, all the way up until the morning when they arrived home. He rubbed her back slowly, large wide strokes up and down her spine as she released all the tears she still had on her heart.

“You did so well,” Nathaniel whispered into her hair, pressing kisses in the curls as she sobbed. “I’m sure Mattie appreciates everything you’ve done,” he said, pulling away to look at her for a few moments, a hand moving to cup her cheek and pull her in for the softest of kisses, just a whisper of their lips brushing together to hopefully lend her some comfort. “Come on, you need to lie down and rest, too.”

When Kathryn admitted to not wanting to be alone, Nathaniel took her into his room, lying down with her hoping his arms around her would help. It did if the soft snores he finally heard meant anything at all.

The next morning when Satan woke up, he was hurting in more ways that one. Lucifer had nearly killed him with how angry he had been. Asmodeus had talked his ear off once he had returned to his room, updating him on the girls and how they were doing when they had been taken home. 

Matilda was safe. That was all that mattered.

Not that it actually mattered at all anymore. 

He had just gotten finished promising himself that he wouldn’t cause anymore disasters, that he had to be better if only for her. How was he supposed to properly love and protect her if he was the reason she was in danger?

She had a broken arm, and Satan found himself wondering if breaking his own arm could atone for any of it. Knowing her, she probably wouldn’t blame him for any of it. She was just like that.

For as much as she distrusted demons, she had always been open with and trusting of him. Now, he was wondering if he should have distanced himself from the beginning. Scared her enough to never give her the chance to find similar interests with him. She deserved more than him.

Matilda deserved more than any demon, honestly. She was a pure soul, and he couldn’t believe she was letting him in to experience any of her kindness, let alone spend as much time together as the did.

When his phone dinged, he checked it, and blushed at the name that popped up. For the longest while, he couldn’t even open the message, afraid he would find her saying that she never wanted to see him again. Even though he knew he was a monster, the confirmation of it would kill him. Hours later, long after lunch, he finally gained the courage to read it, sure that it would be the end of everything they had shared.

His heart stopped when it was anything but that. She was actually asking him if he was okay? She was concerned for him after everything that had happened?’

Even though he knew the message would be shown as read, he told himself he couldn’t reply. He couldn’t ever reply again. Matilda deserved the moon and the stars and everything in the world, and all he could do was destroy.

It had been three days. 

Things were slowly getting back to normal, though Diavolo had given Matilda the full week off to rest and recover from the incident - not that she wanted to take it, but the demon lord’s son and insisted. Pleaded with her, honestly, to take a break. Kathryn hated it as much as Matilda did. Her heart ached every time she had to tell her cousin goodbye in the morning, and she called during any break she could get, just wanting to make sure she was okay.

“Katty,” Matilda cooed affectionately one day during one of her phone calls. “I’m supposed to be resting per Lord Diavolo’s orders. How am I supposed to rest when you’re calling every hour?” When Kathryn just stated her worry that something would happen to her, she promised her that she was fine, and currently wrapped up in a blanket cocoon safe from the outside world. “I have that book you lent me, as well. The one about Discworld? It’s very cute. I can see why you enjoyed reading this series when you were younger.”

The cousins spoke on the phone for a while longer before Kathryn had to go to her next class, Mammon in the background telling her to hurry up, that she was the one getting punished if Lucifer caught them late again.

“Don’t threaten me with a good time, Mammoney,” Kathryn laughed, before turning her attention to her phone again. “I love you, Mattie. Call as soon as you need anything at all.”

“Of course. I… I love you too, Kat.” Why it made her blush, she wasn’t sure, but Matilda didn’t think she could ever feel more loved than how her cousin had been making her feel. “Oh, by the way… is Satan okay?” Matilda asked before Kat could hang up.

“.…I haven’t seen him,” Kathryn said softly after a moment. “He hasn’t been in class all week.”

Kathryn truthfully hadn’t seen Satan at all during classes that week. If she had, she’d have given him a piece of her mind. According to Matilda, he wasn’t answering any of her calls or texts, and Kat couldn’t get a straight answer out of any of the brothers about it when she asked around herself. 

Hadn’t Satan practically confessed his feelings? Sure, some crazy stuff happened afterward, but that didn’t mean the end of the world or anything. Even with as upset as Kathryn got when she thought about the accident, she knew none of it was anyone’s fault outright. A lot of things could have gone differently, after all. 

Finally,, Kathryn had had enough, and invited Mammon over one night, saying she wanted a cuddle sesh. Mammon was quick to agree, albeit with his usual tsundere excuses for not really having the time or not really wanting to.

“Please~” Kathryn asked, devil-timing him on her D.D.D., giving him a pout that she knew he wouldn’t be able to resist. “I’m lonely.”

When Mammon agreed to come over and keep her company, she thanked him, telling him she’d leave the door unlocked for him, just come in and lock it behind himself. He did just that, arriving shortly after their conversation and making his way to Kathryn’s room quietly as to not disturb Matilda or Nathaniel. He went straight for a kiss when he got there, and she pulled him to her bed, grinning as she fell back onto the bed with him over her, their lips colliding in a kiss.

Kathryn’s kisses always made Mammon’s head spin. So much that she could do anything to him and he’d not have any complaints in the whole Devildom. When Kathryn pushed him back so he was the one lying down, he went easily, hands moving to her sides as she straddled his waist, kissing down his neck. She bit his neck - hard - and he cursed.

“Oi,” he huffed, nails digging into the soft skin of her hips before she had grabbed his wrists in one hand and pinned them above his head. “Careful with the merchandise! The hell was that for woman?”

“That,” Kathryn hissed, poking her free hand’s finger into Mammon’s chest. “was for avoiding my questions about your brother all week.” She grabbed his face then, squeezing his cheeks so his lips pursed. “Are you gonna tell me what I want to know?” She asked, and when he shook his head in the negative, she slapped him before grabbing his face again. “Mammon, I swear the every goddess, I will curse your ass for eternity. What the actual fuck is your brother doing ignoring Mattie?”

Mammon couldn’t help that this situation was completely scary and also a total turn on. Her slaps were starting to sting though, and he believed her when she told him that she curse him for eternity. There was a fire in Kathryn’s eyes that normally wasn’t present.

“I’m gonna ask you very nicely one more time, babe,” Kathryn said, leaning down to kiss Mammon’s nose gently. “What the fuck,” she started, her nails starting to dig into his cheeks as she still held his face. “Is your brother doing? He confessed to her and hasn’t so much as said a word to her since then. He wasn’t at class all week. Y’all scared? I’ll give you something to be scared about.”

Mammon couldn’t help the groan that left his lips. Kathryn could be terrifying. 

“Kat, baby,” he said hurriedly, not really wanting to get slapped again. “He’s avoiding us, too. He only talks to Asmo. I think he’s still mad at me,” he finally confessed. “You gotta admit, it was kinda my fault. I egged him on. If he’s not talking to Mat, it’s probly ‘cuz he’s embarrassed.”

Kathryn supposed that made sense. Ugh, maybe Mammon really didn’t know anything. “Why would he just… leave her hanging like that?” she asked finally, letting go of his face and wrists, sitting up a bit.

Mammon took a deep breath, shrugging a bit. “Beats me,” he answered. “For as smart as he is, sometimes he’s kinda dumb.”

Kathryn nodded, but smiled a little. “So are you. But it’s cute.”

They went to bed soon after that, tangled together, and Kathryn sighed, worried about Matilda.

Mammon piped up softly, a simple oi, chewing on his lip as he did. “Y’know, if you wanted to pin me down more often and rough me up a bit, just ask next time, ok?”

Saturday had the girls in the kitchen, cooking up pancakes together after Kathryn had gone into Matilda’s room first thing to perform another healing and pain relieving spell. Kathryn had been hesitant about having Matilda helping and being on her feet so long, but Matilda insisted.

“I do really feel better,” she had promised, holding onto her cousin’s hands when Kathryn had tried to get her to sit back down. “You are really becoming quite talented at your spells. I wouldn’t feel this well without your help.”

That was the only way that Kathryn allowed Matilda to help her with breakfast. She was down to one arm after all, she had to be careful. Oh well, she could flip pancakes at least.

Kathryn did everything else, setting the table for four places - Beelzebub usually ended up dining with them - and grabbing things out of the refrigerator for their breakfast, accoutrements and drinks and such. As she sat a bowl of cut fruit on the table, she paused for a minute.

“Babe,” she said softly, looking to Matilda. “Have you heard from Satan yet?” She heard a sharp intake of breath, and unfortunately was afraid of the answer.

“No, he hasn’t answered,” Matilda said, staring down at the pancakes as she piled them onto a plate. “Have you seen him?” She turned around to look at Kathryn, and Kathryn felt her heart shatter, softly saying no.

Maybe to a stranger or acquaintance, Matilda probably looked fine, maybe a little tired. Kathryn could tell Matilda was stressed and hurting, and from more than just her arm. She went over, taking the plate from Matilda to set it down before wrapping her arms around her in a hug. There wasn’t anything she could say, but she could offer her love at least. Kathryn had a feeling that Matilda needed that the most right now.

With a kiss to the top of her cousin’s hair, Kathryn asked if she could go get Nathaniel for breakfast. Matilda leaned into the hug she was given for a few moments longer before nodding and pulling away to fetch Nathaniel. 

As they sat down together for food, they chatted about their plans for the day. Kathryn and Nathaniel had been bringing all of Matilda’s school work so Matilda said she was going to try and catch up now that she was finally feeling better. Nathaniel was going to the gym with Beelzebub after breakfast then see where the day took them. Kathryn allegedly didn’t know what her day had in store for her, but she was sure she’d find something.

Except she knew exactly what she was going to do. She was going to fix whatever the hell was going on and get a straight answer out of the MIA Satan, and while she had never actually cursed anyone outside of class, she was willing to give it a shot for her cousin.

Kathryn stomped up to the House of Lamentation after she helped Matilda get set up for her day of homework catch up and Nathaniel left for the gym. She took a breath and straightened out her shirt before knocking on the door. No one answered right away, and she knocked again, using the length of her forearm to knock louder, not going to take no for an answer today.

Asmodeus answered the door, apparently in the middle of a skincare routine.

“Katty!” he trilled, reaching out to wrap her in a hug, but Kathryn held up hand, pressing it to his chest so he couldn’t step any closer.

“Asmodeus,” Oh, no nicknames then. “Where is Satan? We need to have a talk.”

Asmodeus let out an eep, nodding and telling her that he was sulking in his room. “Are you sure, Katty?” he asked as she stepped inside. “He’s convinced none of you want to see him.”

Kathryn waved him off, going to hear it from the lord of wrath himself instead. She went up to his room, taking a breath for serenity before knocking on his door. It opened, and when Satan and Kathryn’s eyes met, Satan closed the door again immediately. Kathryn was quick though, her foot stopping the door before it latched.

“You’re not getting away from this,” she said, pushing the door open. “Satan, what are you doing? You literally cannot just ask Matilda to go out with you and then leave her on read for a week. Do you know how unfair that is?”

Satan groaned, really not wanting to deal with this right now. Sure, it sucked, but this should be what Matilda should want! She shouldn’t have to constantly worry about her safety because of him.

“Matilda is better off without me,” Satan answered, just wanting Kathryn to leave. “She’ll move on. She shouldn’t like someone with such a short fuse.”

Kathryn watched his face, a little pleased with the fact that he looked regretful. Good.

“Matilda isn’t the type of person that will just move on, Satan! She’s not good with this stuff. She doesn’t trust any damn demon here as far as she could throw them other than you. She talks about you all the time! You two click, and isn’t that what matters?” Kathryn didn’t understand why he thought this could be so easy for Mattie. “It’s unfair of you to not give her some sort of answer. What kind of coward ghosts people?”

Good, the way he glared at her would at least mean they would get somewhere in this conversation. Unfortunately the heat in his gaze didn’t last, and he sighed instead.

“I am a coward,” he finally answered before picking up a book on his desk to flip through idly. “I just. I can’t trust myself. She deserves more than that.”

Kathryn groaned, plucking the book from his hands. “Then give it to her! If you think she deserves more, then work your ass off to make sure she gets it. I’m pissed off, Satan. I’m never pissed off, but the stupid look on your face makes me want to wring your neck.”

Satan squinted at her, not liking the threat even though he was sure he deserved it. She meant well, he knew that. What was he supposed to say though? How was he supposed to go back to Matilda and ask her to give him another chance when he couldn’t guarantee he wouldn’t hurt her again? He was silent for a while before shaking his head, telling her to get out of his room.

“What?” Kathryn asked, hands on her hips. “No, I came here to get you to go over and-”

“I’m not doing that. Get out of my room, Kathryn. Leave.”

When she didn’t budge, Satan moved to her and picked her up over his shoulder, tossing her onto the ground and slamming his door shut. Kathryn screamed, scrambling up and kicking his door. Stupid emotional demon. “You’re a fucking idiot, Satan!”

Kathryn pounded on Satan’s door, finally losing her patience, screaming again as she stomped her foot. Idiot!! Ugh. Okay, fine, she’d try later. She made her way down to hall and to the stairs, still somewhat seething at what happened, but Lucifer pulled her out of her thoughts, calling her from the bottom of the stairway.

“I didn’t know you were here, Kathryn,” he said, looking at her somewhat ragged appearance. When she explained that she had come to talk to Satan, he hummed. “I need to speak with you now that you mention it, actually.”

That was how she found herself being lead to his study, and she tilted her head in question as he told her to have a seat. 

“How is Matilda faring?” he asked first, and was pleased with the report Kathryn gave him, glad that she was healing well. “Good to hear. Now straight to the point. Unfortunately the restaurant is requiring us all to pay them back for damaged during… the incident. I’ve gathered my funds from my brothers already. All that is left is the remaining balance from Matilda and yourself.”

Kathryn blinked, looking up at him. She had some money, sure, but Matilda didn’t have a side hustle like her. She wouldn’t be able to pay… also she was the one that got hurt!

“I’ll pay her share,” Kathryn said without another thought to the matter. “How much, Lucifer?”

When Lucifer told her the combined total would be over five thousand grimm, she blanched. She could pay like, a thousand max in a pinch, but 5k was a lot.

“Okay,” she said, leaning back in the plush chair, chewing on her lip a little. “Sure. I’ll figure it out. When do you need it by, Lucifer?” she asked him, catching his gaze.

Sometimes when they looked at each other, his shoulders would fall a little, as if relaxing. Sometimes they would set, stiff and sure. Now, with a bit of a smile on his usually composed face, he looked a little touched, as if her gesture to bear the load of the debt for her cousin was unexpected. Kathryn didn’t know how he could have thought she’d do anything less.

“Worry not,” he said, standing from his desk to move beside her chair, his moving to rest on her shoulder. “I have already paid the restaurant back. Repay me in your own time. Don’t keep me waiting long.” The blush on her cheeks was pretty, but he wasn’t about to give her the satisfaction of knowing that.

Kathryn nodded a little, saying she’d pay him back as soon as possible, asking him not to mention any of this to Matilda. She’d probably try and earn the money herself, and she was dealing with enough right now.

“By the way,” Kathryn said as she stood to leave the room. “Satan’s being a total dick, so if you could do something about that, I’d really appreciate it.”

Lucifer chuckled at that. "No promises."

The last thing that Kathryn expected to see when she got home was Solomon sitting on the floor of their living room close to Matilda, pointing to something in a textbook they were both looking at.

“Solomon,” Kathryn said, raising and eyebrow. “Matilda, what is happening?”

Apparently Matilda had been stuck on some of her homework, and since Satan refused to answer her, she called Solomon for his help instead. Solomon was very interested in helping, as well.

“I was happy to come over. I’ve never properly seen the Enchanted Place, after all. It’s lovely in here,” Solomon said, smiling a bit. “Where have you been, Kathryn? Not that you would have been able to assist Matilda with most of these assignments, anyway.”

Kathryn was /not/ in the mood for any snark today. “Nowhere important,” she huffed out finally, before telling them to have fun studying. “I’ll be in my room if you need me, Mattie, ok?” She didn’t like this one bit. First Satan is being stubborn, and now because of that stubbornness Solomon was here. Ugh.

AND she had to find out where the hell she was going to get five thousand Grimm! Well, maybe she could start and OnlyDevils and make money off of tit pics.

---

Solomon was sitting in his room, enjoying a cup of tea and reading a spellbook, when he got the call. Pleasantly surprised by the name that came up on his D.D.D., he made sure to answer in as smooth a voice as possible.

"Matilda! What an unexpected treat," he said. "It isn't often that we get to chat. How are you faring?"

The brunette's voice sounded far-off and hesitant, and he surmised that she must have still been recovering from the accident. Of course, he had heard all about the incident from Asmo, who had gushed endlessly for days about the misfortune that befell the humans at Hell's Kitchen. How Satan had lost his cool, destroyed part of the building, broke Matilda's arm, and launched Kathryn into a panic attack.

After a round of the usual pleasantries, Matilda finally got to the reason for the call. Solomon smirked when she requested for his assistance, wanting clarification on a few facts about the Devildom's history in the 1800's.

"Of course. I'll be right over. I can't wait to get a tour of the Enchanted Place, as well as assist you in studying any way I can. By the way, is anyone else home at the moment?" It was an innocent question, but Solomon had darker intentions.

This was his chance! After ages of being the only human at RAD, he was finally going to have some fun.

At first, Matilda was largely unassuming to his advances. Solomon sat unusually close, so close in fact, that his leg rested against hers.

He stole many little opportunities to stroke her leg or back, often going much higher or lower than she was comfortable with. 

"Now, this section of the textbook is very interesting." As Solomon spoke, he slowly inched his hand onto Matilda's thigh, causing her to drop her pen onto the floor in shock. He squeezed her thigh, and she hurriedly pushed his hand off.

"What are you doing?" Matilda mouthed. "This is... hardly appropriate behaviour!"

"I can't help it," Solomon responded, simply. "You make me feel all sorts of things."

He took her hand and boldly pressed it into his own lap. Her eyes widened as she felt the bulge beneath the fabric of his pants.

She tore her hand away just as the front door opened, and moments later Kathryn stepped into the room. 

“Solomon,” Kathryn said, raising and eyebrow. “Matilda, what is happening?”

“I was happy to come over. I’ve never properly seen the Enchanted Place, after all. It’s lovely in here,” Solomon said, smiling a bit. “Where have you been, Kathryn? Not that you would have been able to assist Matilda with most of these assignments, anyway.”

Matilda was upset at the tone of voice he was using to speak to her cousin, but before any words could escape her lips, Kathryn had stormed upstairs in a hurry.

"You'd better go. Now!" Matilda commanded, her heart racing in her chest.

Solomon smiled at her mysteriously. "Sure. I'll call you later."

He left before she could attempt to fling a heavy textbook at his head with her good arm. Shaking, Matilda collapsed onto the couch. It was all too much for her to bear. Satan ignoring her, her reduced mobility from her arm, and now Solomon playing games with her. 

If she had been more in touch with her emotions, she would have started crying. But instead, she sat on the couch until Kathryn came back downstairs almost an hour later to check if Solomon had gone.

---

Kathryn spent her Sunday off wracking her brain on how to earn money in a quicker and safer way than her usual schemes. Considering how much money it was, and the fact that it was Lucifer that was going to be receiving it, she figured she would get it in a more appropriate way than cheap tricks. She had looked around for jobs but waitressing just wasn’t for her and she didn’t feel like working part time for RAD. When Asmodeus brought up that a new shop had opened in town, she went to go check it out, Asmo following along on the adventure.

It was a little corner shop, the Thorn & Bloom, and they specialized in fragrances, everything from room fragrances to perfumes and colognes. When Kathryn had asked the Succubus running the store if they were hiring, she was surprised when the answer was yes.

That was how Kathryn became a Fragrance Consultant during the evenings after she was finished at RAD. It didn’t leave her much time for anything fun, but that was fine. Art was suffering, or something like that. At least the dress code was cute and gave her another excuse to go out shopping with Asmodeus for more professional clothes.

Satan finally had come back to school the next week, but he was avoiding the humans completely. Any time that Matilda was near, he ran off with something else to do or would just hide away until she was gone. He had noticed her talking to Solomon more. Sitting in the library with him or eating lunch while they read over assignments. He even had seen the two of them in an empty classroom preparing a presentation together.

They were all of the things that he used to help her with. The things they would do together. Satan couldn’t stop the pain in his chest, his heart twisting. He knew this was what he wanted though, he wanted her to forget about him and move on. Her calls and messages had stopped sometime during the second week of him ignoring her, and he thought maybe she was doing better.

When he got a phone call from Kathryn on Friday night though, he thought it was weird. She probably still wasn’t over him treating her cousin like he had been. Fair, but it was for their own good. She called a few more times, before finally she sent a message.

‘SOS’ Well, that was vague.

Ever since Kathryn had gotten a new part time job, she had been coming home late the entire week. Matilda was mostly healed up, her arm still in a sling but the cast she had on before removed. Her arm was still weak, so the sling was mostly for support when she got tired.

Solomon had been coming over all week after class to help her carry her books since Kathryn had to go straight to her job and Nathaniel had Fangol practice most days. That had given them a chance to get closer and become closer as friends.

Solomon had to admit that Matilda was an attractive woman, and he could tell that her power was greater than that of regular humans. Though, all of the exchange students had something special about them he supposed. Matilda was smart though, and he did enjoy her conversation, even though sometimes she seemed to be a little distracted. She also mentioned weird hobbies sometimes. Apparently she was really big into PowerPoint and had attempted to get him to create one on his hobbies and interests. Funny.

She really was very sweet though, and there was something about how she seemed sad just under her exterior that he enjoyed for some reason. It made him gravitate toward her, and he found himself reaching to touch her casually. A brush of hands when reaching for something, maybe gently picking lint off of her sweater, a soft touch of his hand on her shoulder when he was holding a door open for her. He liked the physicality of it all, and he could only hope that she did as well.

Matilda noticed. At first she would hold her breath a little, memories of how effortless she had been with Satan, but as the week went on, she thought maybe she didn’t mind it too much. Kathryn was helping her get more comfortable with friendly touches and gestures after all. Maybe that was all that was going on here. She still hurt, of course, but every day felt a little different. Not better, no, but not really any worse. Maybe just a little more numb. It didn’t help that Kathryn hadn’t been around as much either, maybe if she had been she wouldn’t have been feeling so lonely the night that Mammon invited himself over to the house, planning on swindling some of the human’s money in a game or two of poker.

When they were all a couple of beers in to the game, Matilda slammed her palm onto the table.

“Mammon!” she said, stern and loud. “What do I do about your brother?!” A little alcohol in her had her caught up in her feelings.

“Forget about him?” Mammon asked, confused as to why Matilda was asking him. Didn’t she normally talk to Kathryn about this stuff? “I mean! The Great Mammon knows tons about relationships!” He didn’t. “What you need is a rebound!”

Nathaniel was no help, staring at his cards and mindlessly nodding to their conversation as he tried to remember the rules to play poker.

That was how Matilda called up Solomon one day, asking if he would like to go out to the bar on Friday, grab some drinks and maybe dance some. Of course he said yes. An attractive, intelligent woman that was a little sad wanting to go out for drinks? Hell yes.

When Matilda took the opportunity to go through Kathryn’s closet to pick out something to wear to her little outing, settling on an outfit she had seen her wear a few times. It wasn’t as striking, the heart cut out in the top not showing nearly as much cleavage as it did on her busty cousin, but it still able to make an impression. She was nervous, the advice of getting under someone to get over someone running through her mind, but the ache in her heart was horrible and she wanted it over already.

Solomon came to pick her up, and Nathaniel asked where she was going. When the answer was a simple ‘out’, he couldn’t help but be worried for her. After Kathryn got home from her shift, he told her what had happened and what Matilda had been wearing. Kathryn didn’t even change out of her blouse and skirt before she was leaving the house again, thin stilettos clacking on the cobblestone path as she tried reaching Satan.

Maybe she was just being paranoid, but this didn’t feel right.

Kathryn didn’t know where Solomon and Matilda planned to go, but she’d go to every bar or club if she had to. If Matilda really wanted to go out with Solomon, wouldn’t she have told her about it? Sure, she hadn’t been around the house a lot this week, but texting existed! That and Matilda just wasn’t the kind of person to jump in to a rebound. 

Kathryn was going to kill Satan. This was his fault.

When she got a message from Asmodeus asking if she was going to sleep with Solomon tonight, she called him back immediately. “What do you mean?” she asked, having to stop to remove her heels so she could keep going. Being on her feet all day was difficult, and it was even worse that she was running in heels she had been wearing for the past few hours.

“Solomon messaged me just now. He said he was about to get lucky with one of the exchange students. Can I join?” Asmodeus asked, simply having assumed that Solomon and Kathryn were the ones heading out to have fun.

“Asmo, oh my goddess. Matilda is with him. Fuck. Do you know where they’re going? I’m worried.” Kathryn rubbed at her feet a little, her head starting to pound from how much she was stressing out.

Asmodeus tried to calm her down, saying that Solomon was a good human, he’d treat her right, let them have fun.

“I can’t explain this, Asmo. Matilda is not okay lately, I know this isn’t really what she wants. Where are they going?” Kathryn groaned, ditching her heels in a shrub before continuing on her quest.

Asmodeus was really no help, saying that he thought this was good for Mattie, that it would help her loosen up from all the stress that Satan had been putting her through.

“You’re no fucking help, Asmo,” Kathryn hissed, pinching the bridge of her nose. He started talking again and she just hung up, not having the patience for him right now. If he wasn’t going to believe her that something was wrong, she didn’t want to waste her breath.

She sighed at her phone then, wondering if she could stop this problem before it started. She sent Matilda a message, asking where she was before calling when she didn’t answer. When Matilda didn’t pick up she felt like screaming. She needed a vacation after this.

After checking a couple bars for any sign of the two, she was starting to have trouble breathing. Ever since the accident, breathing wasn’t the easiest thing for her to do. She couldn’t hyperventilate now though, not having the time for another panic attack either. 

She leaned back against a wall, breathing in the night air after checking her third building, and her phone rang. It was Satan. Maybe luck was on her side.

“Satan!” she answered, any anger she had for him leaving. She was too desperate now. “We have to find Matilda.”

“Asmodeus said he was worried about you because you’re running around alone, and that text from earlier. What is going on, Kathryn?” Satan asked, a little guilty at not answering her earlier SOS. When he was told that Matilda was out with Solomon, that something didn’t feel right. Satan knew better than to ignore one of Kathryn’s feelings, and the idea of Matilda being out with Solomon had his blood boiling. “Where are they?”

“I don’t know!”

“Then where are you? I’m coming.”

When Kathryn asked for him to grab a pair of her shoes from Mammon’s room, he was even more confused. Why was she not wearing shoes?

---

Matilda tried her best to greet Solomon cheerfully when she opened the door. She tried to smile but found she could not; her smile expressed sadness, so instead she threw her arms around Solomon's neck and greeted him with an embrace instead - taking a page from Kathryn's book.

"Well, hello to you too, lovely," Solomon chuckled. 

He stepped back to admire Matilda clad in Kathryn's clothing, knowing that few would ever get the chance to see her as scantily clad as she was now. The cutout at her chest revealed a sliver of cleavage, and the short skirt clung to her full hips. He noted how Matilda's slender body still retained hints of girlishness while Kathryn had long matured into that of a woman's.

Solomon didn't care which exchange student he ended up with; both of the girls were hot as hell. 

"You look amazing in that outfit. It's not your usual style. I like it."

Nate happened to come out of the kitchen, catching a glimpse of their backs as they left. His eyes bulged out of their sockets at the sight of Matilda leaving with Solomon dressed so uncharacteristically.

Good thing he kept Kathryn on speed dial. He didn't have a good feeling about this either.

Solomon suggested that they visit a new lounge in the area, called The Ravage Room. They stopped in front of an elegantly embroidered door, which was opened for them by a bouncer stationed nearby. 

Matilda hesitated; the loud music blasting from the speakers wasn't something she was accustomed to. The intense throb of the bass was overpowering, each thump  reverberating in her chest as if she'd been shocked.

Solomon wasted no time in stepping inside. "Come along, Mattie."

"Solomon, maybe this isn't my kind of place," Matilda said quietly, squeezing her hands together.

"Nonsense! We're going to have a great time." 

"I-I'm not sure. Maybe we can go to Hell's Kitchen like we usually do."

Solomon suddenly grabbed her. His voice was soft, but the underlying menace was unmistakable.

“Come along,” he repeated. “Our table is ready for us at the back."

Matilda choked on air as the grip around her arm tightened. He was undoubtedly stronger than her, both physically and magically, and capable of overpowering her easily if she refused to obey. She nodded feebly and he seemed satisfied, promptly releasing her. 

They pushed through a crowd of gyrating bodies and made their way to a secluded area at the back. Matilda trailed behind him, a feeling of dread sinking into her stomach. 

A part of her wished that Kathryn was there to rescue her, to wisk her away from the decision she was making. But the ache in her heart was becoming too much to bear; she was desperate to try anything to forget about the pain that loomed over in each waking moment.

Besides, it was too late to turn back now.

Once they were seated, a shapely woman in sky-high heels sauntered over to take their order. Matilda immediately sensed the woman's otherworldly vibe radiating over them--she was a succubus. Many businesses in the area were owned by succubi; their skillsets were often good for business, after all.

"Pick your poison, darlings," the succubus purred, "What'll it be tonight?"

Solomon did not bother asking what Matilda wanted to drink. He ordered for them both. 

"One Hellfireball for the lady, please. And I'll have a Gin and Tincture."

"Right away, sir."

Two tiny, heavily decorated bottles were brought to their table. One was black and the other was red. Solomon poured Matilda an unidentifiable liquid from the red bottle. It was golden with a reddish tint: sunset in a glass. 

She swirled the liquid in the glass and it shimmered. “It’s pretty.”

Solomon made a dismissive noise and poured his own drink. 

"To our first outing. The first of many," he declared, tilting his glass forward for a toast.

Matilda's hand shook a little as she raised the glass to her lips and took a small sip. Her mouth was flooded with a lovely tang.

“Wow, this is delicious!”

“Isn’t it?” He smiled.

Matilda found herself clinking glasses with him again. “Cheers!”

"Cheers." 

She quickly polished her drink off, and a strange warmth crept its way across her body, spreading from her stomach upwards to her chest. Some sort of giddiness fizzed through her veins; it both scared and excited her.

"What was that drink made of?" Matilda wondered, her vision starting to blur. "I've never had something like that before."

Solomon moved beside her, his fingers dancing on her skin. 

"There's a lot you've never experienced before. But I could show you more than you could ever desire." 

Her heart pounded an erratic rhythm as he slid his hand up her thigh and between her legs, finding her swollen and hot under his touch. She tried to squirm away, but Solomon trapped her in his arms.

"You want this, Matilda. Isn't that why you called me out tonight?" he murmured. "Be more truthful."

She kissed him, telling herself it was only to make him stop talking.

She sighed into his embrace, all inhibitions leaving her body in the sigh that left her lips when he kissed her back. Whatever that concoction had been, it was strong, as if Solomon had enchanted it with a charm spell of his own, no doubt a trick learned from a certain Avatar of Lust.

Matilda's mind was foggy, and somewhere along the line she got it into her head that it wasn't Solomon she was kissing, but a certain nerdy, blond demon that she fancied beyond belief. Somehow, she couldn't hide her feelings anymore. It was all too exhausting. All of it. She wanted to show him how just much he meant to her. She wanted him. She wanted him and she was faraway in her mind and far beyond resisting any longer.

"Mmm, that feels so good. I... I've spent countless nights thinking about this moment," Matilda whispered. "I... I want... to be with you."

Where was Kathryn? Matilda wanted to tell her cousin that she had been right all along! Being in love felt amazing, and she wished she could be in love and feel like this all the time.

Solomon could hardly believe his luck as the brunette swooned in his arms, swaying lightly from side to side. She looked positively starstruck, her pupils fully dilated and a burning blush glowing on her cheeks.

Matilda pressed another kiss to Solomon's lips, her hands tightening over the gold chains hanging from his black robes. A fervent fever enveloped her being, urging her to act on her emotions in the moment and to screw everything else. 

She climbed into Solomon's lap, envisioning the sorcerer as Satan, hungrily fusing her lips to his and kissing him open-mouthed, tongue sliding against his. Rough and wild, she devoured him, and he groaned under her commanding offense.

His body instantly responded, spreading fire and heat outward from his groin to encompass every part of his body. His fingers worked their way under her clothes to find her skin, pushing her shirt up until her perky breasts spilled free. She instinctively thrust her chest into his face, moaning as Solomon bobbed his head down and took a nipple into his mouth.

"Ahh~~" Matilda cried, the pleasure coursing through her body like electricity, like nothing she had ever known. "More! More, please! Don't stop, Sa--"

The succubus that served them observed the human couple in amusement, taking great pleasure in the lewd scene unraveling before her eyes. It wasn't often that she witnessed human lovers at the establishment, and she was greatly enjoying the show.