Hellbound (Hazbin Hotel x Reader)

Chapter 58: Opening Up

In the weeks that have passed, I've found myself immersed in Valentino's world, navigating the highs and lows of the entertainment industry with a weariness that seems to seep into my bones. From photo shoots with other stars to private sessions with clients, each day brings new demands and challenges, leaving me feeling drained and depleted. Through it all, Valentino's temperament remains as mercurial as ever, his mood shifting with the capriciousness of the wind. Yet, surprisingly, he's been relatively amiable, at least by his standards, as long as I adhere to his every whim and command.

It's a delicate dance of obedience and defiance, knowing when to toe the line and when to push back, lest I risk invoking his wrath. Despite the exhaustion and the constant uncertainty, there are moments of respite, small pockets of solace that offer a brief reprieve from the chaos that surrounds me. Whether it's a fleeting smile from a fellow star or a quiet moment stolen away in the dressing room, these glimpses of normalcy serve as a reminder that amidst the glamour and the glitz, there are still moments of humanity to be found. As I navigate this precarious existence, I cling to the hope that perhaps, just perhaps, there's a light at the end of the tunnel, a chance for freedom and redemption amidst the darkness that threatens to consume me. But for now, I must continue to play my part, treading carefully in Valentino's world, lest I lose myself entirely in the shadows.

Despite the lingering resentment I hold towards Vox for his betrayal, I've found myself begrudgingly starting to tolerate his presence. Perhaps it's a coping mechanism, a way to make the days a little more bearable amidst the turmoil of Valentino's domain. We may never fully reconcile, and the wounds he inflicted upon me still fester beneath the surface, but I've come to realize that harboring endless animosity will only serve to prolong my suffering. So, I've chosen to set aside my disdain, if only temporarily, in favor of a tentative truce. Our interactions are laced with a cautious civility, an uneasy détente born out of necessity rather than genuine affection. Yet, in those rare moments of camaraderie, I catch glimpses of the Vox I once thought I knew, buried beneath layers of deception and manipulation. As I navigate this delicate dance of forgiveness and resentment, I can't help but wonder if there's a chance for healing the rift between us that stretches deeper than I ever imagined. But for now, I'll settle for a fragile peace, a fleeting respite from the storm that rages within.

As the day begins, my mind buzzes with anticipation. Today's shoot with Angel Dust promises a mix of excitement and trepidation. It's the first time I'll be encountering him since the tumultuous events of my pact with Vox. Val's warnings about this particular shoot linger in my thoughts as I make my way to the dressing room, where Angel awaits. As I step into the dressing room, Angel's warm embrace envelops me, momentarily easing my nerves. "Hey, Toots, it's been ages! Everyone at the hotel misses you" Angel exclaims, his vibrant energy filling the room. "How have you been? And how's lover boy, Vox?" he asks, his voice laced with genuine curiosity. I stumble over my words, unsure of how much to reveal about what happened. "Um, hey Angel. Yeah, it's been a while. Vox and I... well, it's been... complicated" I reply, hoping my vague response will suffice.

With a sly grin, I shoot a defiant glance at the camera in the corner, defiantly flipping it off, fully aware that Vox will be watching our every move. Angel's expression shifts to one of curiosity as he notices my gesture. "What's that all about?" he inquires, gesturing towards the camera. I pause for a moment, contemplating how much I should divulge. "Well, let's just say Vox and I have had our differences lately" I respond, choosing my words carefully. "Things haven't exactly been smooth sailing between us".

Angel gives me a warm smile as he leans in slightly, his eyes reflecting genuine concern. "Hey, you know you can tell me anything, right?" he says softly, his tone reassuring. I sigh, feeling the weight of my predicament pressing down on me. "Yeah, I know" I reply, mustering up the courage to confide in him. "It's just... everything's been so complicated lately". He nods understandingly, his expression sympathetic. "I get it. Life can be pretty unpredictable" he says, his tone empathetic. "But I have to admit, I was surprised when I heard you'd decided to become a porn star. It's not exactly what I expected from you". I look down, feeling a pang of guilt wash over me as I recount the events that led me to this point. "Yeah, well, things didn't exactly go according to plan" I admit, my voice tinged with regret.