Lovers Once More - Radiostatic

Goodnight

That night, after tucking Niffty into bed, Alastor made his way back to his bedroom, feeling a warmth in his chest. Vox was already waiting for him, engrossed in the new smart TV. His head tilted slightly as he scrolled through the channels, finally landing on *Bob's Burgers*. "Hey, check this out! It's kind of the same deal as *Family Guy*, same genre anyway," Vox said, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Ah, the charming chaos of animated families," Alastor replied, setting down a steaming cup of Vox's favourite, spearmint tea, in front of Vox while he took a sip of his own chamomile. "A delightful choice, my dear."

Vox took a moment to savor the warmth of the tea, then flashed a smile. "You know, You never forgot about the little things," he said, taking a sip.

They settled into the cozy atmosphere, laughter and warmth enveloping them as they watched a couple of episodes. Each joke and quirk of the characters felt like an echo of their shared past, bringing them closer together.

After a while, Vox turned to Alastor, curiosity dancing in his eyes. "So, which Bob's Burgers character do you like most?"

Alastor pondered for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly in thought. "I'd have to say Bob himself. His unwavering dedication to his family and his craft resonates with me. He's always juggling chaos, yet he manages to hold it all together with humor and resilience."

Vox chuckled, appreciating Alastor's choice. "Solid pick! I love Louise. She's so chaotic yet smart, always a step ahead of everyone. I can relate."

They finished their teas, the cups now empty, and leaned in closer, sharing a soft kiss goodnight. Alastor felt the familiar flutter in his chest as their lips met, a reminder of the connection they were rekindling.

But then, without a word, as if guided by instinct, Vox rubbed Alastor's back gently, soothing him in a way only he could. Alastor's eyelids grew heavy, the tension of the day slowly melting away under Vox's tender touch. The room faded into a tranquil silence, and soon, Alastor drifted into a peaceful sleep, comforted by the presence of the one who knew him best.

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Alastor was jolted awake in the early morning hours by the sound of Niffty screaming for him. Adrenaline surged through him, and he sprang from his bed, Vox hot on his heels. As they rushed into her room, Alastor was met with a familiar yet unwelcome sight—Niffty's eye was wide with panic, her breath coming in quick gasps.

"Niffty, hey, it's okay," Alastor said gently, cupping her cheek with his hand and brushing back a stray lock of hair. He spoke softly, whispering reassuring words. "You're safe here. Just breathe for me, darling."

Vox, concerned, stepped closer, worry etched on his face. "What's wrong? She looks terrified!"

"She's stuck in a panic attack," Alastor explained, trying to keep his voice calm. "It's like she's trapped in a flashback, if that makes sense." He continued to coax her back to the present, but her breathing grew more frantic, and before he could react, she fainted.

"Alastor, what do we do?" Vox asked, anxiety creeping into his tone.

"It's happened before; she'll be okay," Alastor reassured him, shaking Niffty gently. "Niffty, wake up. Come on, sweetheart."

With a startled gasp, Niffty's eye shot open, but it was still clouded with fear. Alastor's heart ached at the sight. "There you are," he said softly, relieved to see her awake. However, it didn't take long for her terror to resurface, and she broke down, sobbing into Alastor's chest.

"It's alright, dear. I've got you," Alastor murmured, wrapping his arms around her protectively, his own heart heavy with empathy. He whispered soothing phrases, grateful that she was alright and in his arms.

After a moment, Niffty looked up at him, her eye red and puffy. "Can you take me back to bed with you?"

"Of course," Alastor replied, glancing at Vox for support. "But are you okay with sharing the bed with Vox as well?"

Niffty nodded, the fear still lingering in her eye but slowly dissipating in the warmth of Alastor's presence.

With a gentle scoop, Alastor lifted her into his arms, cradling her carefully. Vox followed closely behind as Alastor carried her to his bedroom.

Alastor settled into bed, and Niffty snuggled up to him, her small frame seeking comfort in his warmth. She tried to drift off, but sleep eluded her. Suddenly, a realization hit her like a bolt of lightning. "Bunny!" she yelled, her voice echoing in the quiet room.

Alastor stirred, ready to get up, but Vox quickly stopped him. "Who's Bunny?" he asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.

"It's a stuffed bunny I got her a few weeks after we made our deal," Alastor explained, a hint of fondness in his voice. "She can't sleep without it."

"I'll get it," Vox said, already moving toward the door. As he entered the room, he was met with a veritable mountain of stuffed toys. The vague description of "bunny" didn't do much to help him. "What does it look like?"

"It's a small grey stuffed bunny. If it's not on the floor near the bed, it's probably down the back of the mattress," Alastor replied, a mix of exasperation and tenderness in his tone.

Vox marched off on his bunny quest, determined to find the elusive plush. As he searched, Charlie happened to notice him. "What are you looking for?" she asked.

"Bunny," he replied, his focus unwavering.

"Have you tried the back of the mattress?" she suggested with a knowing smile.

"I'm going to," Vox said, pulling back the mattress with vigor. He pulled out about six toys, declaring, "Not a grey bunny!" after each one, growing increasingly frustrated.

Finally, at the very bottom, he uncovered Bunny. "Aha!" he exclaimed triumphantly, clutching the small grey stuffed animal. He hurried back to Alastor and Niffty, excitement lighting up his face. "I think someone missed you!" he said, gently placing Bunny on Alastor's chest, where Niffty was nestled.

"Bunny!" Niffty squealed, her single eye sparkling with delight as she clutched the stuffed animal tightly to her chest. "He must've run away again!" Alastor chuckled, ruffling her hair affectionately.

"Now get some sleep, sweetheart," he said softly, pressing a tender kiss atop her head. Niffty snuggled deeper into Alastor's side, clutching Bunny, her breathing slowly evening out as she finally drifted off into a peaceful slumber, comforted by the warmth and love surrounding her.