Infernal Rivalry - The Clash Of Vox And Alastor

Chapter 29: Sure You're Okay

(Alastor's POV)

As I descended the stairs, the familiar scent of freshly brewed coffee greeted me, offering a semblance of comfort amidst the lingering uncertainty. Glancing around the living room, I noticed Vox's shoes neatly placed by the door, a reassuring sight that eased the apprehension gnawing at my mind. Settling onto the sofa with my steaming cup of coffee, I allowed myself a moment of respite, the warm liquid soothing my frayed nerves. But as I took a sip, the events of the previous night flooded back with unwelcome clarity, casting a shadow over the tranquility of the morning. The decision to formalize our partnership had been a momentous one, a testament to our shared ambitions and mutual trust.

Yet, beneath the surface, I couldn't shake the lingering doubt that Vox's demeanor had betrayed a deeper reluctance, a hesitance that had left me questioning the solidity of our newfound alliance. Lost in thought, I mulled over the events of the evening, searching for clues amidst the fog of uncertainty. Had I misread his intentions? Was there something he hadn't voiced, a reservation hidden behind his guarded facade? As the minutes ticked by, the weight of unanswered questions pressed upon me, urging me to seek resolution. With a determined resolve, I set aside my cup of coffee and rose from the sofa, ready to confront Vox and confront the uncertainties that lingered between us.

I knocked lightly on Vox's door, waiting for his response before cautiously pushing it open. "Are you decent in there?" I called out, a hint of amusement tinging my voice. A grumbled affirmation met my ears, and I stepped into the room, greeted by the sight of Vox reclining in bed, his tousled appearance a testament to the revelries of the previous night. Suppressing a chuckle, I surveyed his disheveled state, unable to resist a teasing remark. "You look like you've been through the wringer, old friend". Vox shot me a baleful glare, his irritation palpable even in his disheveled state, before launching a pillow in my direction with surprising accuracy. "Oh, spare me your jests, Alastor" he retorted, his tone laced with mock indignation. "I'll have you know that I am merely recovering from a rather strenuous evening". I caught the pillow deftly, unable to contain a grin at his exaggerated protests. "Strenuous, you say? More like downright incapacitating" I quipped, tossing the pillow back in his direction with a playful smirk. "But fear not, dear, for I come bearing a remedy far more potent than any concoction of yours. Coffee awaits downstairs, should you care to join me".

I nodded in understanding as Vox grumbled his agreement, promising to join me downstairs after a moment to collect himself. Descending the stairs, I settled onto the sofa, idly drumming my fingers against the armrest as I waited. Soon enough, Vox made his way downstairs, his steps sluggish as he slumped onto the sofa beside me, I pass him a mug of coffee. With a sidelong glance, I couldn't help but notice his less-than-stellar condition, and I couldn't resist probing further into his mysterious behavior from the night before. "So, care to shed some light on what had you so out of sorts last night?" I inquired, my tone laced with gentle curiosity. He let out another grumble, clearly still feeling the effects of his hangover. "Oh, stop it, Alastor" he muttered, rubbing a hand wearily over his screen. "I'm in no state for interrogations this morning".

I arched an eyebrow, unyielding in my persistence. "Oh, come now, Vox" I countered with a chuckle. "No need to be so sensitive. It's just a question. Besides, we're in this together now, aren't we? Partners". He let out an exasperated sigh, clearly not in the mood for my teasing. "Stop calling it that" he grumbled, his tone terse as he avoided my gaze. I couldn't help but press on, genuine concern tugging at the edges of my curiosity. "Alright, alright" I relented, softening my tone slightly. "But seriously, what's on your mind? You've been acting a bit... off lately" Vox shifted uncomfortably beside me, his expression clouded with uncertainty. "It's nothing, Al" he insisted, though his words lacked conviction. "Just... a lot on my plate lately, that's all". I regarded him with a knowing look, silently acknowledging his reluctance to open up.