Fallen

15 - all hell

I found Atticus in the kitchen making coffee. I had been planning on tea, but was willing to trade one hot beverage for another. Taking a seat on a barstool, I placed my hands on the countertop, fidgeting with my nails. "I can work with what you've given me," I stated bluntly.

"And what do you plan to do exactly?" he asked, not yet turning to face me.

"There are ways for entities, such as myself, to force souls in a direction-"

Grim features were finally revealed as the demon spoke in a critical tone, "Oh, you mean like how they got there? I'm fully aware you could remove them. Do you have any idea what that would feel like?"

I shook my head. "Do you really think I wouldn't endure that to help those souls find peace? To help you?"

Blue eyes stared at me in disbelief. I didn't want to feel all that pain and I didn't want to make him watch but that wasn't going to stop me from trying. Even if his soul wasn't on the line, I would be attempting to do the cat's work- the hard way.

The coffee pot clicked, indicating it was ready. Needing a break from his judging stare, I moved off the seat to prepare myself a mug.

"Have you ever done this before?"

The question was hesitant, like he was afraid of the answer. "No," I said honestly. Even though I knew it could be done, it was exceedingly rare for a demon or other creature to allow a captured soul to be released. It's not like they needed it after the energy was consumed, but not only was it incredibly inconvenient to remove, certain creatures found enjoyment in the continued torment of the soul or they viewed it as a collection, wanting to tally up their kills for status.

I took in a deep breath and met his searching gaze. "I'm experienced in taking pain from humans. It's not going to be pleasant- I know that, but I believe I can do it. Do you believe in me too?" I asked, feeling the tiniest bit guilty for using an angle. But more importantly, I needed him on board. This was going to be messy and I couldn't do it without his absolute cooperation.

Atticus ran his hands through his hair in exasperation. "You know that's not the problem. I believe in you- too much actually. That's why I don't think, even if I wanted to, I could let you do this." He looked at me apologetically.

Stepping towards him, I saw the demon tense. "We can take it a soul at a time. We'll go slow," I reached for him, taking his hand in mine. "One day at a time."

Gaze drifting to our joined hands and back, he squeezed. "That'll take forever," he said, voice barely a whisper.

"Well, good thing our stay here doesn't have an expiration date." I tried to add amusement to my tone but found it difficult.

Moving into each other, we kissed. Arms wrapped tightly in a hug before he disengaged, heading into the living room. "I was just going to spike my coffee, but I think this conversation calls for straight liquor."

I followed, bringing my steaming mug and settled into the loveseat. There was a weight on my chest I was eager to lift. "Does this mean you are going to let me try?" I asked, watching for his reaction.

After taking a deep drink, Atticus regarded me. "Now that you understand the position I'm in, you're never going to let this go, are you?"

Sitting up straighter, I held his gaze. "Not a chance in hell or anywhere else," I said, hope rising within me.

"If I say we stop, we stop," he demanded.

I nodded vehemently. "Okay," I agreed, setting my coffee down and readying my undivided attention.