Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Adam was a world-famous rock star. His shows were sold out everywhere. His band killed it every night. He had won countless Grammies for albums. His personality was engaging and boisterous. When he walked into the room everyone gravitated towards him.

Lute on the other hand was the opposite. She was the manager. The one to make sure the show went on. The one who made sure Adam was doing what he needed to do. When he walked into the room she was the shadow. There but not the center of attention. That's how their relationship worked.

"Well, dangertits that was one hell of a show!!" Adam yelled walking off stage. He took off his signature mask and handed his guitar to some stagehand. "I need a drink"

"Sir" Lute walked next to him. Holding her clipboard. "We need to get back to the hotel. Your plane takes off first thing in the morning." She needed them to follow a schedule. The record label Heavenly Tunes would not be thrilled with Adam missing another flight. Especially with the new CEO Sera breathing down their necks.

"Oh my god!" Adam stopped and rolled his eyes. "You are the most boring person. Come on! We are in Las Vegas! Sin City!" he gestured around him despite being backstage. "We have to have fun. I've been so busy with everything I haven't been able to enjoy myself." It was true. Between rehearsals, lessons, and set-ups Adam had not had a break.

Lute looked Adam up and down. He was wearing his black leather jacket along with a white t-shirt with the 'A' on it. His ripped jeans she was sure he had since college. His piercings were as prevalent as ever not that Lute could say anything herself. She had her ears and face pierced like him. "Sir everyone knows who you are. I don't want to run from crazy fan girls and paparazzi again" She had punched three crazed fans. And parkour away from the cameras. She was not thrilled.

"Hello, we have masks!" Adam smiled. "Everyone will be wearing my mask since I'm popular and people dress like me. I can blend in. I also had that mask made for you" He called his team the Exorcists. He had masks made for everyone so they could match and look like him. Lute's was black and with the white LED lights. She had to admit she liked it. It did go with her style.

Lute knew there was no winning with Adam. When he wanted something he got it. She figured she could at least follow him and make sure he didn't do anything stupid. "Fine" she gritted her teeth. "But the mask stays on the whole time. Also, we are only drinking for an hour"

"Hell yeah!" Adam hugged her. Lute was shocked at the sudden closeness but didn't mind. He let go of her. "Come on! I saw this one bar that looks so cool!"
---
Before Lute knew what was going on she was sitting at a bar with a rum and coke in her hand. Adam had dragged her to a bar called Poison. No one knew who they were or cared so getting in was a breeze. The mask had worked. They also had a way to still drink and eat with them. Lute was happy to cover her face. She wasn't like Adam wanting the whole world to see her.

The bar smelled gross to her. The floor was sticky. The bartender whose name tag said Husk seemed to want to be anywhere but at the bar. The music sounded like shit unlike Adam. The lights were an obnoxious pink and blue. She hated bright colors with a passion. That's why she liked how Adam only used gold as a color. "So anyway we fucked. What did you do this weekend?" Adam asked Lute. He had just devoured his second plate of ribs.

"I know you fucked because I could hear it on the other side of the fucking hotel" she wanted to yell but instead said it in her normal monotone voice. She stared at her half-empty glass. She didn't know why she was upset he slept with some stupid chick. He always slept with stupid chicks.

"Geesh what crawled up your ass" he glared at her. Adam heard how her voice turned cold. She was always cold after he talked about his sex life.

"Nothing" she downed her drink.

"When's the last time you had sex?" Adam bluntly asked.

Lute was so thankful she was wearing her mask. She knew the look on her face was priceless. "Excuse me what?"

"You heard me" Adam drank his beer. "When did you fuck someone?"

Lute rolled her eyes. Thankful for the mask. "I don't have time for sex because I'm trying to take care of your ass" There was also no one for her. No one interested her.

"Really damn? Ass like yours I'm surprised no one wants you." Adam sipped his beer.

"Thank you sir" she replied unsure how to continue. Did Adam say she had a nice ass? Why did that make her feel good?

"Ugh, I need a shot!" Adam yelled for the bartender. They reluctantly filled some glasses and handed them to Adam. "Here bitch" he shoved the shot glass to Lute. "You look like you need a drink or a dick"

Lute rolled her eyes again. Why she put up with him was beyond her. She looked at the amber liquid. She did need something strong. She had worked so much recently. She pounded the glass back and let the liquid slide down the back of her throat. She set the glass down. Feeling the alcohol take hold. "That was good but we need to get going"

"Come on Lute!" Adam's mask changed to puppy dog eyes. "Can I get one more shot?"

"Fine" she hissed. "But I'm not dealing with your hungover ass tomorrow."

Adam flipped her off and ordered more shots...
---
"LUTE!" Adam yelled. Lute was holding him up as she dragged him back to his hotel room. "You're crazy strong."

Lute had been a pro at dragging drunk Adam around. It was basically her cardio. "I hate you" Her mask was now hanging at her side along with Adam's. She knew they were safe now. She also didn't want to clean vomit off his mask.

"You love me" he hiccuped.

Lute started blushing pissed she didn't have her mask on. "Shut up"

"All your face is red" Adam poked her cheek. "You’re blushing"

"No it's the alcohol idiot" She looked ahead ignoring the feel of his finger. She couldn't face it. Even if he was drunk.

They finally stumbled into the hotel suite. Adam of course had one of the nicest rooms. He refused to sleep like a peasant. She then threw him on the bed. He lay there. Enjoying the way the alcohol made him feel.

"Let me get a bucket and prop you on the side" Lute found a trashcan and put it by the bed. "Can't have you die. Do you know how much paperwork I have to do? On top of that Sera would have my ass for killing her number one star," She took his shoes off and laid him on the side.

"Thanks, Lutey" Adam grabbed her hand and pulled her onto the bed. "Thanks for not sucking and leaving me like my first two fucking wives. You're the only one I can count on" Adam's love life was no secret. His divorce was messy and very very public. Lute had somewhat felt bad for him. It was before she started working for him closely. She saw how much it hurt him personally. He really did wear a mask when he was on stage. No one would know his love life fucked him up this bad. He then looked at her. He got quieter as he stared at her. "I wish things were different." It was odd how quiet he sounded. He was always so loud. "I wish we could be together. But we have our duties"

Lute was in shock. There was no way in hell Adam wanted her. Her of all people. The one who told him what to do. The one who kept him in line for the most part. She didn't know how to feel. She did like Adam. Sure he was loud and said whatever was on his mind. But moments like these. Where he was himself is what she loved about him. When he was honest and not some rockstar at the top. "Me too" she stood up. "Good night Adam" She turned the light off in his room and left.

---
The next morning

"God I hurt" Adam complained. He was sitting in his personal jet. He was leaned back into the chair. With a neck pillow and fat glass of water. He looked awful

Lute was across from him. Holding her precious clipboard. Analyzing today's plans. "I told you not to drink that much and it was a bad idea" Lute knew she looked as bad. She had not slept for other reasons. She was up the whole night debating on what Adam said. Did he want her?

Adam then got serious. "Hey did I do or say anything embarrassing or personal?" He could have sworn he said something to Lute last night. But of course, he could not remember.

Lute looked at Adam and lied. "No sir"

Chapter Text

"And the winner of Best Album of the Year" Peter was the host of the Grammys. He had a likable personality and a good sense of humor. "Is Lilith Morningstar for her hit album The Fall from Eden". Everyone started clapping except for two people.

"Are you fucking kidding me!" Adam fumed. "I should have won! I taught that bitch everything" he leaned back angrily in his seat. He crossed his arms over himself. "I mean seriously where does she get off!"

"Sir" Lute was sitting next to him. Even though she was his manager he wanted her as his plus one. "You deserved to win but must I remind you. You need to look professional. Sera doesn't want to deal with another PR scandal." Lute knew the cameras were watching them like hawks.

"After this, I'm getting so fucking drunk" Adam huffed. Lilith winning felt like a betrayal. He had done everything for her yet she still left him like the scumbag she was.

Lute rolled her eyes unsure how to respond. Adam really did act like a child from time to time or day to day. She did feel bad for him. His album deserved to win. He had an excellent voice and killer talent. The way he could play the guitar was mesmerizing.

Lilith wrapped up her speech. She thanked her adoring husband Lucifer. Another jab at Adam. Adam just sat there. He wanted to say something but if he did Sera and Lute would have his head. His love life was already messy enough. When he and Lilith divorced it was a show, to say the least. Then with Eve, shit hit the fan even more. He was also caught with his random fan girls from time to time. It of course got him in trouble. As he watched Lilith sit back and down and kiss her husband he felt a burning rage.
---
"Why is she with him" Adam hissed. He downed a bottle of whisky. He and Lute were at his penthouse. His penthouse was massive and he decorated it to mimic heaven. It was a bit much for Lute but Adam made it work. She was sitting next to him at his personal bar. She was surprised he didn't want to go out and party like he usually did. Instead, he wanted to sit here. She didn't know how badly Lilith messed him up until now. It was uncanny seeing Adam this upset. "He's 5 fucking 2. I'm 6 feet!" He was more of 5'10 but Lute knew not to correct him now. "and she picked him! I taught her everything! I taught her to play the guitar my guitar! Instead, she picks a man who wrote a song on rubber ducks!" he slammed the bottle down. "What does he have that I don't have!"

"I don't know sir" Lute lightly patted Adam's shoulder. He had taken off his suit jacket but had his dress shirt on. The sleeves were rolled up and Lute saw his tattoos. She had always admired them. "At least you won best male artist of the year" she tried to reassure him.

"Yeah for like the fifty fucking time in a row." he sighed. "I've only won album of the year once. I actually tried this year. The other time I won was when she and I were together" He looked at his bottle. He wanted tonight to be fun instead he was here. Complaining and bitching about a woman who didn't give a single fuck about him. "I'm sorry" he blurted.

"What?" Lute was unsure if she heard correctly. Adam was not one to say sorry. Unless Sera gave him a look.

He turned and looked at her. "We should be having fun and celebrating I won something at least. Instead, my bitch of a first wife is ruining everything as usual."

"It's alright. You know me. I'm boring. I don't party and when I do I'm with you making sure you don't fuck up" It was true although Lute didn't mind. She was not a fan of drinking. She hated the idea of making herself give up control.

"I've never seen you drunk" Adam rested his head on his hand and looked at Lute. He had to admit she was pretty. He liked her short hair and resting bitch face. She also looked nice in her silver dress. It was hard convincing her to dress up but she gave in.

"I'm a mean drunk," she admitted. "I also don't want to give up control like that. What if I do something stupid or embarrassing"

"See the best part of being drunk is not remembering the stupidness or being embarrassed. It really is liquid courage." He then passed her the bottle. "Come on"

Lute rolled her eyes. It was hard ignoring Adam's pleading eyes. She loved how they both had gold eyes. She sighed. "If I get drunk you need to stay sober. I don't want Sera..."

"Yeah yeah I don't wanna deal with Sera either" Adam interrupted. "But come on you deserve a night off. Especially dealing with my sorry ass and crippling love life." He knew Lute worked her ass off and she deserved some off time. Lute looked at the bottle. She lifted it to her lips and started chugging. She needed a night off. "Hell yeah!" Adam cheered.

She slammed the bottle down. "There you go". She could already feel the alcohol take hold and it felt good.

"Feel better?" Adam asked.

"Yes," she smiled. For once she didn't feel like being mean. Instead, she wanted to be nice. She really was drunk. She then looked at Adam. She loved how he looked. Sure he was an average white dude but he was her average white dude. She also loved his piercings. Her favorite was his eyebrow piercing. She reached out and touched it. Adam was shocked but liked the way her hand felt on his face. "We should get more piercings together"

Adam laughed. "Love it but not now" he was happy to see the alcohol take effect. "Sera would not be too pleased"

Lute rolled her eyes. "Sera needs to calm down. I swear she has the biggest stick up her ass" She liked Sera to an extent. But sometimes rules were meant to be broken.

Adam burst into laughter. He had never heard Lute complain like that. He then wiped a tear from his face. "You're telling me"

The rest of the evening was one of Adam's best nights of his life. It wasn't filled with him being drunk or having sex. It was Lute showing him how she would fight rabid fan girls. She had a spatula and was showing him sword techniques. Except she almost fell multiple times. Adam had to keep catching her. Not that he minded of course.

"Then I would rip out their throat like this!" She tried to do something but started falling Adam caught her.

"I got you" he looked at Lute. Happy she was happy.

"I'm kinda tired now" she yawned.

"Oh shit I have no idea where you live" Adam admitted. He was so obsessed with himself that he never bothered to ask Lute about herself. He made a mental note to ask more about herself. He looked down at Lute. He was still holding her. She was passed out. "I guess you stay here then" he lifted her up bridal style. Surprised at how light she was. He then carried her to one of his many guest rooms and laid her down on the bed. She looked like an angel. He was happy she was a part of his life. He truthfully didn't know what he would do without her. "Goodnight Lutey" he silently shut the door.
---
Lute awoke the next day. Her head was killing her. She looked around and saw she was in an unfamiliar room... She sat up alarmed. "Where am I" she whispered. It then hit her. She should have known with the golden accessories everywhere and frescos. She was still at Adam's. She didn't remember much from last. But she did remember Adam carrying her. She enjoyed the feeling of his arms around her. She slowly crept out of the room and saw Adam making breakfast.

"Good morning" he flipped a pancake. "Want some breakfast"

"Yeah," Lute grunted and sat down at the bar. "Can I have some water I feel like shit"

"Yeah you look it" Adam joked and handed her a glass. "By the way, I like drunk you way more"

"I'm sure you do" She sipped the glass. "Did I do anything embarrassing last night?"

Adam laughed. "You showed me ways that you would keep rabid fan girls away" Lute started blushing. "Oh don't worry it was cute"

"Thanks, sir" she grumbled and drank her water. She was never going to get that drunk again around Adam.

Chapter Text

Adam had finished a show in Paris. It of course was a hit and sold out as usual. He was happy his music career was still strong even after his rocky love life. He was better than ever. Or that's what he told himself. It was hard seeing Lilith so in love with Lucifer. She had never looked at him like that. He was only a stepping stone for her. He didn't even want to think of Eve.

Adam was sitting on the rooftop of the hotel. Admiring the view of the Eiffel Tower. Sure he should have been out partying after another success of a show. But he was tired and needed a break. It was hard having to be the center of attention all the damn time. He puffed on his cigarette. It was a nasty habit. Sera would be yelling at him about ruining his body with the cancer stick. But he didn't give a shit. He needed something to distract him. As much as liked drinking he did need to tone it down. Then of course drugs were a bad idea. He didn't want to die just yet. He at least wanted to stretch his death out. Show off to the world he didn't need his wives.

"Sir"

Adam snapped out of his thoughts and turned around. It was Lute. She looked wide awake despite it being late and after a show. Usually, everyone was wiped from his shows. "Oh hey" he put out his cigarette. Do you need something?"

"I need you to sign some forms" she was holding a clipboard. Adam honestly couldn't even remember the last she wasn't holding the damn thing.

"Oh, sure." He walked. not even bothering to read it. "What are you doing up? It's like 2 am"

She held the clipboard to herself. "I like staying up late. I'm a night owl" She looked over at the city. It was stunning. That was one reason she would stay up late. Something about the way cities glowed always intrigued her. "I also like how it's cooler out. I hate the heat"

"God the heat sucks" Adam agreed. "Being on stage is so hot. Especially with all the moving" Adam loved performing but the heat could be unbearable. "How are you liking Paris" he saw the way she kept trying to look over his shoulder to see the city of lights.

"It's okay. I like this view way more" She walked over to the balcony. "You're so lucky this is your view. I'm several floors down and facing dumpsters"

Adam relaxed next to her. "Want a cig" he offered.

Lute had a million things to do. But the idea of smoking on the rooftops of Paris next to her idol seemed like a better option. "Sure" she set the clipboard down. Adam handed her a cigarette.

"They call this place the city of love" Adam looked over at the city.

"City of love more like city of shit" Lute stated. "So much trash. And don't even get me started on the crack-addicted whores here" she shuddered. She saw someone named Angel Dust here was performing at Moulin Rouge.

Adam laughed for the first time in a long time. "Okay, that's funny. I'm going to have to start using that. City of shit. I love it"

Lute blushed a little. She was happy she could make Adam laugh. He deserved to be happy. "Thanks," she said quietly. They both continued looking at the skyline.

"Have you been in love?" Adam asked Lute out of the blue. He figured with the city of love someone was lucky to have Lute as theirs.

Lute was caught off guard by the question. Adam seldom asked her about her life. "Um no sir," she added the last part. "I've had a few flings here and there. But I've never truly felt love"

"Good for you" Adam continued smoking. "It's the worst. You feel so vulnerable. So stupid. Like they can manipulate you with that love. I'm never falling in love again. It's the worst." Adam would never fall for anyone like those two again. He would never go through heartbreak.

Lute was not surprised at that statement. Adam's love life was a public viewing. Everyone knew what had happened. It was strange reading about it and then knowing Adam so well. The tabloids lie. Lute didn't know Adam when everything went down. Now that she did know him she had no idea why Lilith or Eve left him. Sure he was annoying at moments. Loud as hell. Ate an ungodly amount of ribs. But that's what made Adam himself. That's what Lute loved about him. "Yeah good for me I guess" Lute nodded.

"So what's the plan for tomorrow?" Adam turned around and leaned against the balcony and looked at Lute. He put his cigarette out.

Lute hated how good he looked right now. He was wearing his white t-shirt and torn-up jeans. She hated how she found him attractive. It would inflate his ego if he knew how hot she thought he was. "We head to Rome. Remember the schedule?" Lute hated reminding him what the plan was. He could never remember or pay attention.

Adam rolled his eyes. "God I hate schedules. I just wanna have fun. But if we're even two seconds behind Sera will lose her goddamn mind" Adam was not a fan of working for Sera. She was all rules and no fun. Adam liked her assistant Emily more. Emily was carefree and admired Adam.

Lute laughed a little. It was funny to see Adam diss the CEO. "Sir we have to be on schedule. Dealing with Sera is not fun. I swear she's the reason I drink. Besides you of course"

"Oh so I caused you to have alcoholism" Adam was joking of course.

Lute rolled her eyes. "You annoy me so much. You can't listen to save your life. Pissing off subordinates is an Olympic sport for you. Don't even get me started on your love life." she should not have been that honest with Adam. But for some reason, she knew he would enjoy it.

"Glad I can do that for you" Adam leaned onto her. "Damn, Lute you're short. Is that why you're always so angry? All the anger can't spread out" He had no idea how short she was till he leaned on her. His wives were fucking tall compared to her.

"I'm 5'3" she pushed him off her. "And I'm angry because you're a grown-ass man who can't read a goddamn schedule to save your life."

"You sound like Sera but with the cussing" Adam laughed. He liked annoying Lute. It was funny seeing her get worked up.

Lute sighed. She truly did enjoy talking to Adam. Despite him being world famous he was easy to talk to. He seemed normal to her. "As much as I enjoyed our talk I need to get back to work. I don't want Sera to get pissed." She put out her cigarette and picked up her clipboard.

"I get it" Adam agreed. "It was nice talking to you" Adam liked talking to Lute. She was the only one to treat him like a normal person and not a god. Sometimes he needed someone to tell him off. To keep him on track.

"You too. Goodnight sir" Lute walked away.

"Goodnight Lute" Adam turned around and looked at the city again. Lute was fun and way better than his wives. Adam shook his head. he refused to put Lute on the same level as his wives. She was better she was superior. She was Lute. "City of shit" he whispered and smiled. He loved her.

Chapter Text

"The Creation of Adam" Adam gazed up at the Sistine Chapel fresco. "I like to think when I was born it went down just like that" It truly was a work of art.

Lute quit looking up and looked at Adam with disdain. "Why are you the way you are?"

Adam looked at her and laughed. "Take a joke, babe."

Lute rolled her eyes. "We need to leave soon. We have reservations for lunch." She was happy Adam wanted to explore Rome with her. He was wearing a hat so he wouldn't be seen or noticed. He also said no one would expect him to be around Lute since she wasn't famous and was average-looking. Therefore they were safe.

"All I'm saying is God loves me the most" Adam stated as they walked out of Vatican City. "I mean, I'm hot as fuck. Tall. Have an amazing voice. And I look like Adam from all those paintings we just saw" Lute wanted to tell him those paintings were whitewashed by wealthy Renaissance fucks who painted themselves into Christian theology. But she saw how happy the paintings made him happy. She didn't feel the need to break his heart. "Oh my god Lute look!" Adam steered her body.

"What am I looking at?" All Lute saw was a busy Italian road. People were milling about. Cars were zooming by.

"A Vespa!" he pointed to a moped scooter. It was a bright red. "I want one!"

"What?" Lute was now lost. But she knew when Adam wanted something he got it.

---
Lute had never in a million years imagined herself riding a Vespa in Rome with the greatest musician in the world. But here she was holding onto him as he zipped around the busy Roman streets. She liked holding onto him. She felt secure. "Check out the Colosseum!" He yelled out.

"How can I miss it's right there!" Lute yelled back. She was impressed with the Colosseum. It was massive and held a treasure trove of history. She also loved the stories of gladiator battles.

"Check this out!" Adam yelled. Before Lute could respond Adam gunned it. He started weaving between traffic. He also ran several lights. Lute was having a blast. Sure she thought they were going to die. But for some reason, the idea of Adam dying with her made her happy. They zipped around some more but they were stopped.

"Is that the police?" Adam stopped. The bright lights and annoying siren stopped them.

"Shit" Lute cursed. She did not want to explain this to Sera.

The police pulled up. But Adam being the charismatic asshole he was knew he could smooth talk them out of it. "Don't worry I got this"

For the next ten minutes, Lute thought she was going to pass out. The police terrified her however Adam handled it like a champ. He had a way with people. He was good with them. Lute could never relate. She knew she always came off as standoffish. Whereas Adam was open and friendly. Lute also did not want to get arrested in a foreign country and deal with Sera. Adam took a few selfies with the police and gave them autographs. "I told you I got you!" Adam walked up to Lute. They were parked on the side of the road. "Let's head to the Colosseum. I remember you talking about how much you loved learning about gladiators"

"Wait you remember that?" Lute was touched.

"Of course I do it's all you talked about when I found out we were going to Rome. You kept talking about the trap doors and pully systems. You had a weird look in your eyes." Adam loved how passionate Lute was about gladiator battles. She got strangely happy when she discussed death or gruesome murders.

"Thanks for remembering that" She had a small blush. She knew she got way too passionate about death.

"Come on bitch!" Adam held out his hand. Lute took his hand and was pulled back onto the Vespa.

The Colosseum was amazing. Lute had never been that happy. She couldn't even remember smiling that much. "So this is where they would release the lions to eat the Christians" she smiled. She and Adam were on the bottom part of the Colosseum where trap doors once worked. "They never knew what to expect. It also kept the audience on their feet"

"Cool" Adam looked around. It was a bunch of old ruins to him but Lute had a way of making them feel alive.

"Oh my god, this is where gladiators would rest. They would also sell their sweat as elixirs" Lute gestured to another ruin. Once again to Adam, they all looked the same.

"Oh what if I sell my sweat" Adam's face lit up. "Ladies would beg for it"

Lute made a face of disgust. "No one wants that. Eww"

"Wow, you did not have to make a face like that. Damn," Adam said mildly offended. He really did think he just came up with the best idea ever.

They soon left and found themselves at the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. Located there was the Mouth of Truth. A giant stone mask believed to represent the sea titan god Oceanus. "It's believed if you put your hand in the mouth you'll have good luck for a year" Lute explained.

"Sick let me try" Adam stuck his hand inside the mouth. He then screamed. "My hand!!"

"Sir!" Lute yelled and pulled his hand out.

Adam burst into laughter. "I was joking chill. No need to get so worked up" he saw the genuine panic in her eyes. He had no idea she was so serious about his safety.

"God you're annoying" Lute dropped his hand. "So what now?"

"Gelato?" Adam offered.

They finally found the perfect gelato place. There was a huge array of colors and flavors. "Brain freeze" Adam grunted and held his head. He quit consuming his gelato.

"How can you get a brain freeze if there is nothing to freeze" Lute quipped and licked her gelato.

"Fuck you!" Adam cursed at her. Lute laughed. Adam rolled his eyes. Happy he could give her entrainment. After he regained himself he asked Lute a question. "I saw there was this party boat on the Tiber. Do you want to go and dance?"

"Party boat?" Lute questioned him.

"Come on. It would be so much fun. It's already getting late. No one will notice me" Adam wanted to hang out with Lute as long as possible today. The next few days were going to be stressful with his performances. He wanted to enjoy the free time he had.

"Okay but if anyone notices you we're leaving," She told him.

They arrived on the party boat. It was filled with music and dancing. They were able to get in just fine. "This is amazing!" Adam looked around. It was so cool partying in a different country.

"Yeah," Lute agreed. She was not one to party she just wanted to make sure Adam would be okay. The boat started sailing forward. They were in motion. Lute accidentally fell forward.

"I got you" Adam caught her.

"Thanks, sir" she blushed a little. She quickly pulled away. Before she knew it. She was on the dance floor with Adam. It was pretty fun. They were even playing his music which made her so happy.

"Glad they picked some actual talent" Adam stated. Before he knew it though one of Lilith's songs started playing. "Are you kidding me!" Adam yelled. "She sucks!"

"Sir I agree, but quit screaming" She pulled him close. "People are looking over this way"

"So Lilith's music sucks. Everyone should know that" He said aggressively.

"Sir I agree but-"Before Lute could finish her sentence. A crazy fan found them. Lute quickly grabbed Adam's hand they booked it away from the dance floor.

"Where are we going?" Adam yelled over the music.

"Away from crazy fans!" Lute yelled back. They ran through the crowds and were at the stern of the ship. "Shit" Lute cursed. She could hear the fans getting closer.

"Let's jump!" Adam grabbed her hand. He did not want to deal with fans on a boat. He needed to escape.

"Wait what?" Lute didn't know what had happened. One second she was with Adam on the boat. The next she was submerged underwater. She then reached the surface. "What the hell?!" she screeched at him. She looked over and saw the boat was further away.

Adam could not quit laughing. "That was fun. The look on your face"

"Why did you do that?" She then started swimming to the river bank.

"I didn't want to deal with fans. Sometimes I want to be normal" he swam after her. They arrived on the shores. "I guess we need to head back"

Lute nodded. She was soaking wet and annoyed at Adam. But she did have fun. It was honestly one of the best days of her life. "That would be smart. You also have rehearsal first thing in the morning"

They started walking down the street. "Shit!" Adam touched his head. "I don't have my hat"

Lute looked over and saw a tourist trap. "I can run in and get you a hat". Adam nodded. He was too drained to give out autographs or interact with fans. He just wanted it to be him and Lute.

She ran in and picked out a hat that said 'I love Roma'. She laughed a little. It was tacky. "Here you go" she threw the hat at Adam.

"God this is ugly" Adam put the hat on. "Why did you pick this one?"

"Cause it's ugly and matches your outfit" Lute quipped. It did not go with his outfit at all. She knew it would drive him crazy.

They started their walk to the hotel. "Thanks for a fun day" Adam was thanking her. That was weird to Lute.

"Hey you're the one that wanted to go out," Lute said.

"You're the only one that's fun to hang out with. Everyone either admires me or they're super jealous of my talent. I can be myself around you" he looked ahead. He did not want Lute to see him blush. Thankfully it was dark out.

"Good to know sir" Lute looked ahead. She loved moments like these.

---
A few months had passed and Adam's world tour was a huge success. He was thankfully done for now and could work on music. He was currently at an interview with the famous newswoman Katie Killjoy.

"So Adam" she smiled at him. She had a freakish smile. "What was your favorite city?"

Adam had to think for a second. "I don't know it's hard to decide. I saw so much and did so much." It then hit him. "Rome. By all means, Rome"

Chapter Text

Since Adam had met Lute she had been stoic. She rarely showed emotion except for concern or anger. Overall she was laid back and just wanted to help Adam. She had been the best manager Adam had ever had. He had also gotten close to her since his world tour. Which was nice and felt good to have a friend to confide in. She put up with attitude and antics which was good for Adam. His first two wives could barely handle him. Lute was the only woman who could handle him. Deep down he knew he needed that. Not even on a romantic level but more of getting his shit together level. She made him stay sober longer and have fewer flings. It was odd. Since he and Lute had gotten closer he hadn't had sex with any adoring fans. Every time he would think about having sex something just held him back. Which was not him at all.

Adam was now back in the city of Angels. It's where he lived and graced the world with his amazing talent. It's where he thrived the best. He had picked up some takeout and was going to surprise Lute for dinner. He had made an effort to find out where she lived. She lived in an expensive condominium. He had been over a handful of times to practice interviews or jam sessions with her. He wanted to surprise her as a thank you for helping him get through an interview with Katie Killjoy. Lute hounded him with questions like Katie Killjoy would. If it weren't for Lute, Adam would have made a fool of himself on national television. Adam walked up to her door and knocked. "Lute it's me, Adam!". He waited a moment. Nothing. "Lute!" Adam knocked again. "What are you doing. I saw snap maps. I know you're in there". He pulled out his phone and called her. Strange he could hear the phone on the other side but nothing. A neighbor then came out and directed Adam to the rooftop garden. Saying they saw Lute had up there a while ago.

Adam carried his takeout to the top. He wondered what she was doing up there. He knew she loathed gardening. Adam got to the top. It was beautiful. Trees, plants, and even grass lined the rooftop. Adam for some reason felt like he was in the Garden of Eden. He walked to one corner and saw Lute. He was shocked to see her crying. She had never shown emotion like this. He truthfully didn't think she had the emotional ability to cry. "Lute?" he said softly.

She turned startled. "Adam" she wiped her face. "You can head down I'll be down there in a second"

"What's wrong?"He set the food down and stepped forward.

"It doesn't matter" she sniffled.

"It does. You're crying" Adam hated seeing her upset. He'd rather see her angry.

"I got rejected from my dream schools. UCLA and USC. I was going to get my Masters Degree" she looked away. She was upset and also embarrassed.

"We'll they're stupid for doing that" Adam scoffed. "You put up with me. That should have gotten you into Yale"

"Thank you sir" she gave a weak smile.

"Like seriously." Adam looked at her. "You're the smartest person I know. You can do Microsoft Excel for fucks sake. They should have accepted you!" he was now getting upset.

"Sir it's alright" she assured him.

Adam calmed himself down. "So will you apply elsewhere? Far from here" He felt a pang of sadness at the idea of Lute leaving him. He needed someone to make inappropriate jokes with. Someone to laugh with. Someone to get drunk with. And that person was Lute.

She quickly shook her head. "Oh no. I'm never leaving your side" she blushed. "If you don't mind of course" she added the last part in quickly.

"I would be upset if you left" Adam admitted. The idea of her leaving hurt worse than his two ex-wives leaving. "I need someone to keep me on track. Keep my shit together"

"I am good at that" Lute's voice sounded better.

"I hope you apply elsewhere though. I can blackmail them if that helps" Adam offered. "Or host a free concert."

Lute laughed which made Adam feel better. "I'm good sir. For now"

"Good" Adam hugged her. Lute was surprised but she hugged him. "I don't like seeing you upset" he pulled away and had a serious look. "Seriously I will use my charm to get you into any school. Like say the word and I'll be there"

"I really am good," she assured him. It was nice seeing Adam so serious and attentive. It was also strange.

Adam nodded. "Well, I brought some ribs. Do you want to eat them?"

"I would love that" She smiled for the first time all day.

That night she and Adam ate dinner and he cheered her up. He even ran out and brought her favorite ice cream. Adam helped keep her mind occupied by his hilarious stories and antics. He was a good friend. Lute watched him re-enact scenes from his tours which made her laugh. "Well this was a fun night" Adam picked up Lute's plate. "But I need to head out. I know we have an early morning tomorrow"

"You actually remembered your schedule. I'm impressed" Lute was proud of him. And a bit surprised. The whole night had been surprises.

"I'll see you tomorrow" Adam waved goodbye and headed out. he hated seeing Lute cry. He made a vow to make sure she never cried again.

Chapter Text

Adam liked being on tour it had its perks. Getting to see the world was amazing. Gracing the world with his talent was also amazing. As well as focusing on music and not his ex-wives. One thing he liked about being on tour was that inspiration came from so many cities and experiences.

He was currently in Montreal, Canada. He had finished a few shows and was back at the cabin he rented. He did not want to be in a hotel suite but a cabin. It was more roomy and had more privacy. He was also tired of the same generic hotel suites and needed a change of scenery. He invited his crew to stay in the cabin. It was lonely staying in a giant hotel suite by himself. They also had a few off days between shows and Adam did not want to be walled up.

"This is nice" Lute came up behind him. He was standing on the balcony looking at the lake and nature. It was a city of trees out here.

"I really needed a change of pace" Adam enjoyed nature surprisingly. The city views started running together. But out here he didn't know what to expect. "By the way I was wondering. Do you want to go for a drive?"

"What" Lute was now confused. She thought he was going to offer her a cig or a drink.

He looked at her. "I need to write. I have a song idea. Can you drive? That way I can focus and play my guitar. I have some ideas for a song but I don't want to perform or try them out here. Plus nature can help me"

Lute was surprised Adam was asking her of all people. She was touched and honored he wanted to write a song around here. "Sure what car are we taking?"

"The G-Wagon" Adam threw the keys at her. "Let me get my notebook and guitar"

---
Lute was now driving down the beautiful Canadian highway. It was a bit overcast and cold. Very different from LA. Lute did miss the heat for once. Adam was strumming on his guitar. He was focused which was uncanny seeing that. She had never seen him so focused. "So take what you want and take what you need" he sang. "You eat me alive just like a disease". he started writing down the lyrics in his notebook. After he was done he looked over at Lute. "How does that sound so far?"

"Great" She quickly looked over at him and then focused on the road. "I like it so far. What do you think you'll name the song?"

"Bleed" Adam stated. "I keep thinking of Eve a lot. I need to get my mind off her. Therefore writing an awesome diss song is the way"

"It sounds great sir. I know it will be a hit" She told him.

"Better be. I feel like I've been in a slump." he set his guitar down. He needed to rest for a moment. The car ride was making him tired. "I also need to destroy Lilith."

"Don't worry sir. She's the worse" Lute assured him. She still had no idea why Lilith left Adam. He was perfect to Lute.

"She is the worse" Adam sighed. "How are you liking Canada?"

"It's lovely here. I like seeing trees everywhere" She was enjoying the drive. "I miss Rome though" she admitted. She loved that city and all the adventures with it.

"Same that was my favorite trip so far" Adam wanted to have fun with Lute like that again. They just hadn't had the time. Every time Adam would try to hang out with Lute she was busy and vice versa.

"Um, sir" Lute's voice was now sounding concerned.

Adam quit leaning back. "Yeah"

"It's starting to snow" She was now worried.

"Oh shit" Adam cursed. He knew Lute had zero experience with snow driving as did he. He pulled out his phone to check the radar. Sure enough, a snowstorm was heading their way. "So we might have to deal with a snow storm"

"What?!" Lute gripped the wheel. She had handled a lot of stuff. From crazed fans to ex-wives. But snowstorms sounded so much scarier to her.

"I think we're going to have to find somewhere to spend the night," Adam told her. He now felt bad. He didn't expect this to happen. But the storm looked bad and he didn't want to die just yet. He typed in the nearest hotel and found one a few miles away. He then directed Lute. She was nervous driving as the snow stuck to the ground. But Adam's calm voice helped her focus. They finally found the hotel. Adam made sure to call his team and let them know. The team was also snowed in.

"The Happy Motel" Lute's voice was laced with disgust. The motel was dingy-looking. Red paint peeling everywhere. The sign was half working. Nevertheless, a bunch of cars were parked there. It seemed the snowstorm caught everyone off guard.

"I think we should risk death" Adam was accustomed to a certain lifestyle and that was not a dumpy motel in bum-fuck Canada.

"I'm with you." Lute went to put the car in reverse. However, it slipped on the ice. "Fuck" she hit her head against the steering wheel.

"I never thought I would die at a nasty motel in Canada next to my manager. But here I am. I always thought it would be an overdose or my ex's." Adam was happy Lilith or Eve wasn't going to be his death.

Lute turned off the car. "Let me go get the room keys"
---
Lute stormed back to the car. Adam had never seen her look so mad. Despite being so short she looked downright terrifying. She swung open the driver's side door. "Are you good?" Adam asked. Scared she might direct her wrath towards him.

She felt hot despite it snowing outside. "Sir we have to share a bed..." she knew she was blushing. However, her voice sounded disgusted at the idea of sharing a bed with Adam. "The stupid front desk clerk said there was only one room left" She refused to make eye contact.

"It's just sharing a bed do you have any idea how many fans would kill to share a bed with me" Adam scoffed offended. "Well, let's get to the room. It's cold as balls out here" They walked to the motel room and opened the door. They were greeted with a musty smell. The room was a standard-looking motel room with 80's decor. The bed was thankfully big. "This place is nasty" Adam gagged.

"It's no Four Seasons" Lute walked in. They shut the door. It was now silent between them.

"I need to pee" Adam blurted and walked to the bathroom. "Woah check it out!" Lute ran to see what he saw. "A heart-shaped bathtub" he pointed to it. "I remember I banged a girl in a tub that looked just like this! Great room to maneuver in" Lute made a face of disgust. "What?" Adam asked defensively.

"Nothing" Lute stated.

"What did I do?" Adam asked. He didn't want to be on Lute's bad side. He was afraid she might kill him in his sleep.

"Nothing. You did nothing" Lute walked away annoyed. Why she cared who he fucked was beyond her. She walked over to the bed. She was not happy about their predicament. She pulled the faded pink comforter back and made a pillow wall. She was happy it was their off day. She and Adam were wearing sweats since they had nothing to do today. At least she could sleep in comfortable clothes.

Adam walked out of the bathroom. "I would not go in there for an hour or so"

"Charming" Lute replied annoyed. They both settled into the bed. At least it was late. Lute thought to herself. The sooner they slept the sooner they could get leave. It looked like the snowplows would clear up the roads.

"So," Adam said on the other side of the wall. "I've never actually slept in a bed with a chick that I haven't fucked. Crazy world we live in"

Lute was beyond glad they were in the dark. Her face was red. "Sir," she said in her usual monotone voice. "We need to sleep"

"Why sleep when we can fuck" Adam's voice sounded playful.

"Sir?!" Lute was sure her voice had cracked. What the hell was wrong with him? She was his manager. His employee. His friend.

"Oh my god I'm kidding" He laughed. "Your voice sounded so scared oh my god" he regained himself. "I would never want to fuck you." Adam covered his mouth. That came out horribly wrong.

"Well damn, sir. I didn't realize I was a horrible option" She sounded angry.

"Wait no!" Adam rushed in. He did not want her to kill him. "No I'm saying is if it was a choice between fucking you and dying."

"Where are you going with this?!" she almost shouted. Her face was so red. She could feel herself burning up.

"It's a compliment" Adam yelled. "I would fuck you if it meant avoiding certain death. But I don't want to fuck you since we're best friends" he was dying out here. He had never blundered this hard. Not even with his ex-wives.

"Goodnight sir!" Lute turned and faced the wall. She was not dealing with Adam and his antics tonight.

Adam lay there. Embarrassed and mentally kicking himself. Why the hell he acted like that was beyond him. He hated how things just flew out of his mouth. He hated how inappropriate he could be. He hated himself right now. He needed to tell Lute sorry but if he did. She would finish the job and bury him in the woods. He decided he would buy her some food and maybe that would help.
---
Lute was in a dreamless sleep when she felt something kick her. It wouldn't stop. She slowly opened her eyes. "The fuck" she sat up. Trying to remember where she was. She then remembered she was at a nasty motel. The street light from outside dimly lit the room. She looked around. Adam was next to her... Adam! She turned quickly and looked at him. For once in his life he looked terrible. He looked upset. He was having a nightmare. "Adam!" She shook him. "Adam!" He then grabbed her wrist and his eyes shot open.

"Lute?" he looked confused. It then hit him. He released her arm. "Shit sorry"

"Are you okay?". Adam had never seen her look so concerned. Shit, he did not want to see her cry. He hated seeing her cry.

"I'm fine" he lied. His voice sounded distressed. "I get stressed when we're on tour and I don't sleep well."

"Do you want to talk about it?" she offered. She knew he had it hard. It must be difficult to be at the top and lonely. She didn't know he had nightmares this bad. He always seemed to sleep well no matter where they were.

"No" he quickly said. "Just go back to sleep" he turned over. Facing away from her.

Lute laid back down. Unsure what to do. But if Adam told her what to do she was going to do it. She wondered what his nightmare was about...
---
Lute awoke first. She felt a strong arm over her. At first, she almost panicked but she knew who it was by the familiar earthly scent. It was Adam. He was basically on top of her. She knew he was much taller than her so it made sense why he needed so much room. The pillow wall clearly lost defense against him. For some odd reason, she didn't mind though. She felt safe. She felt content. She felt at peace despite being in a disgusting motel in the middle of nowhere. But she liked the feeling of just her and Adam. It was like they were in their own little world. She fell back asleep.

Adam awoke to Lute in his arms. He knew he needed to let her go before she awoke. She would probably rip his arms off and hit him with them. But he couldn't let her go. He needed her to be safe. He liked how her tiny form fit so well into his. It was a peaceful morning. No one bothering him. No one waking him. Moreover, he wasn't hungover or coming off a high. He felt good for the first time in a long time. He could get used to waking up to Lute every morning. He shook his head. That would never happen. Lute could never love him. She was his manager. Adam also promised himself he would never go through heartbreak again. Something told him if Lute left him he would never recover.
---

"Missed us motherfuckers!" Adam busted the cabin door open. "We lived bitches". Everyone clapped and checked up on Adam. Lute was shoved to the side. Not that she didn't mind. She needed a moment to herself and away from Adam. She felt like something was different between them but didn't know what it was.

That night Adam checked up on her again. He looked concerned which was out of place for him. But Lute assured him she was fine. He offered her some cigarettes and they smoked on the rooftop that night and watched the stars. Adam didn't make as many inappropriate jokes as he usually did.

Chapter Text

Lute was sitting in her condo enjoying a relaxing night. It was off-season right now as Adam worked on music and getting ready for his world tour. She and Adam were at odds right now and rarely saw each other. After Canada, something was between them. She had no idea what it was. They both seemed to hesitate to acknowledge what it was. She also could not get over the fact that Adam would only fuck her if meant death was on the line. However, he did say she was his best friend. That was something.

She aggressively typed on her laptop. She was making the schedule for the world tour. She would have to send it to Sera tomorrow morning and get approval. She knew it would get approved but Sera was obsessed with order. Adam was going to break Sera. He was anything but order. He was a wildcard and unpredictable. As Lute typed away there was a knock at her door. She stopped typing. Wondering who it was...

She set her laptop on the side and walked to her door. She looked through the peephole and saw it was Emily?! "Emily!" Lute swung open the door. "What are you doing?"

Emily looked upset. "Can I come in ma'am?"

"Yeah... don't call me ma'am that's way too formal" Lute opened the door to her. She liked Emily for the most part. She was more social than Sera and easier to approach.

Emily sat down on the couch. Lute joined her. "How are you? she asked. She looked stressed but wanted to keep a polite conversation.

"Emily cut the shit what's going on" Lute bluntly said. She was not one for formalities.

Emily looked awkward but continued. "As you know you're Adam's manager" Lute was listening. Wondering where this was going. "We have a nickname for you at our record label. We call you" Emily lowered her voice and leaned near Lute "The bitch whisperer". She pulled back. "You're the only one who can talk sense into Adam when he's misbehaving and being rude. You're the only one that makes him a rational thinker. Even Sera has issues but you have a way of talking to Adam that makes him use common sense. You can calm him down" Emily did like Adam but he needed someone to guide him and it was Lute.

Lute was now confused. "Okay and?" she did enjoy the nickname. That was hilarious. She was going to have to tell Adam that.

Emily pulled out her phone. "Adam has been posting on his socials." she handed the phone to Lute. "He's been at a bar I think. He's posting pics of him and other women making out. The team shares his socials to make sure he doesn't post stuff like this. We have to make him look decent. I need you to go get him before Sera catches wind of this" Emily was staying up just scrolling on her phone when she saw what Adam was posting. "Is he okay Lute? He doesn't look well." Emily didn't work for Adam when his love life blew up but she did remember him spiraling. He looked like he was doing that.

Lute was mad. How hard was it for him to stay out of trouble? "I'm going to get his sorry ass and this will never happen again. Don't tell Sera I can't mentally handle getting berated by her right now" Sera would yell at her and Adam for a solid thirty minutes. After that, she would go into detail about why they shouldn't do whatever the hell Adam did.

"You have my word. Thank you Miss Lute" Emily stood up.

"Emily just call me Lute" Lute sighed. Emily was too formal for Lute. Emily nodded and they walked out together. Lute hopped into her silver Maserati Granturismo. One thing she liked about working for Adam was she got paid well. Very well. Therefore she treated herself because she knew she deserved it.

She typed in Adam's location. She had secretly had his phone on Life 360 for a situation like this. She saw the location. It was a place called V-Towers. She put the car in drive and gunned it down the LA highway. At least it was night and she didn't have to worry about paparazzi. She found the place she was looking for. It was a massive cylinder tower. She parked her car and walked in.

The place smelled terrible. She was immediately hit with the smell of sweat and other things. She scrunched up her nose. There were people everywhere. It seemed this place was a bar and club. She looked around for Adam but didn't see him. She was growing concerned. She looked at her phone. He was nearby. At least she hoped. He could have left his phone here for all she knew. She finally found some rooms in the back. As she went to open a door. She felt a hand on hers.

"I wouldn't do that," a voice said. She looked up and saw a man with heart sunglasses and a huge fur coat. He looked like a pimp.

"My friend is in there fuck off" she spat. No one was getting in the way of her Adam.

He then gripped her hand. "Adam is paying us enough to not worry about rent for a while. He will be satisfied."

Satisfied? It then hit Lute. She was at a brothel... Of course, she was. She was funny to think Adam would change. After all, he would only fuck her if his life depended on it. "Let go of my hand." was all she said.

"I will be escorting you out of here" he threatened her.

Lute yanked her hand away from the door and faced the pimp. He was much taller. But she didn't care. She reeled her fist back and punched him in the stomach. Hard. He fell over. She kneed him in the groin several times. She then pushed him down and kicked him in the head. "Go to hell" she spit on him. She took a deep breath. Whatever was on the other side she needed to be prepared for. Adam was Adam. She opened the door. Adam was leaning onto a stack of pillows. His shirt was unbuttoned. Several women were surrounding him. Holding an array of drinks and food. He looked awful. He was drugged and intoxicated. "Adam!" Lute yelled. She marched over to him. She stood above him. The girls all scurried away scared. It was interesting to her. The girls were all short and had short hair. Nothing like his previous wives.

"Hey dangertits" he slurred. "What can I do"

She bent down and picked him up. "Let's go now" she knew she sounded mean. But she was furious.

"No" he swatted at her.

Lute then grabbed Adam by the collar and pulled him to her face. "Adam I just beat up a fucking pimp. We need to go now or Sera will give us a lecture" Luet didn't know what was worse. Legal trouble or lecture from Sera.

"Fine," Adam said viciously. Lute had never heard him so mad. He then collected his things.

She grabbed him and dragged him through the club. She hated how sweaty his hands felt. She hated the loud music. The happy people. She hated it all. They needed to get out of here before the pimp found them. She was beyond mad at him. They finally found themselves outside in the cool night air. Adam yanked his hand violently from hers. "Just leave me like everyone else has!" Adam shouted at Lute. He looked so upset. She had never seen him that sad. He looked like he was about to burst into tears.

"I'm not leaving you!" she shouted back just as mad. "I...I... care about you! Okay! You're my best friend! I want the best for you! This" she pointed to the building. "Is not it! You're better than this Adam. You know better" She could feel anger boiling up. She hated it when Adam would make stupid decisions.

"I just wanted to feel loved" Adam yelled back. "For one fucking night! And you took that from me!" He was so lonely. Just for one moment, he could be happy.

Lute inhaled trying to keep the tears at bay. She swallowed the lump in her throat. "Adam get in my car. I will drive you home." she needed to stay calm. if she got mad it wouldn't end well. She couldn't afford that.

"No!" he yelled again. He crossed his arms. "I would rather die!"

Lute was getting upset. She started to tear up. Which she hated. She was better than this. "Adam" her voice was cracking but he could hear the anger. "Get in the damn car or so help me god. I will release a wrath that neither hell nor Sera could contain." She hated how emotional everyone was being.

Adam hated seeing Lute cry. He knew he was being an asshole. The drugs weren't helping. He had only gone out to get some other feelings out of his system but it appeared it didn't work at all. "Okay," he whispered.

They walked to her car and he sat down in the passenger seat. She put the car in drive and started making her way to his place. It was silent between them. He didn't think she could ever get that mad at him. But she was gripping the steering wheel looking ahead not even acknowledging him. "Lute" she kept looking ahead. "Lute," he said agian.

"What," she asked aggressively.

"I need to vomit" he admitted. Everything from tonight was coming up.

"Hold it," she told him.

"Lute it's vomit. I'm nauseous" he told her angrily.

"Hold it," she said in her deadly tone.

Adam swallowed trying to keep everything down. He knew if he threw up in her car. She would kill him. He remembered the day she got the car. She couldn't quit talking about it. He tried to roll the window down but she had locked it. He had to admit he was impressed she had the ability to make him not vomit. That was impressive to him.

"We're here" She parked in her usual spot. Adam got out and she grabbed onto him. He was wobbly. "Careful," she said. Not sounding as angry. They slowly stumbled to his penthouse. It was quiet the whole way there.

"I'm sorry" he blurted. Feeling more sober.

"It's fine" she grunted. They finally walked in. After a slow walk to the bedroom. She threw him onto the bed. "Everything has been deleted from your socials so no worrying about what you posted" At least that problem was solved.

Adam lay there staring up at the ceiling. "Thanks, what about the pimp you beat up?"

"He won't be a problem" Lute assured him. She knew scum bags like that had a criminal history. She would blackmail him into being silent. "Adam" she looked at him. Adam looked at her. He could see the anger, sadness, and disappointment on her face. It hurt more than his wives leaving him. "Don't ever put me in this situation again. I mean it"

"Sor-" Before he could finish she walked away and slammed the door. Adam lay there beating himself up. Lute was right he was better than this. But like the idiot he was he had to fuck everything up. Tears started streaming down his face. He didn't even know the last time he cried. But they wouldn't stop. "I'm sorry," he cried knowing she was nowhere near.
---
Lute got home. It was now around 5 am. She was so tired and upset. She took a quick shower to wash off the nasty brothel smell. She also texted Emily that they were in the clear. The second she hit her pillow she was out.

The next day she was at the studio. She needed to turn in some paperwork. She finished talking to Sera and went to leave. As she did a voice called out. "Lute!"

Lute stopped and turned around. "What Adam"

"I'm sorry" he blurted. "What I did last night was not remotely okay. I put us in a bad situation and I really am sorry" Lute looked at him. He looked horrible. She had never seen him look so bad.

"Adam I don't know what's going on. Please get help. If something happened to you" she felt the lump in her throat. She hated how serious she and Adam had become. They were always joking with one another. She felt like a foreigner being so serious with him "I wouldn't be able to make payments on my Maserati. So get your shit together" she hurried off.

Adam breathed a sigh of relief. If she was joking with him things were better. He could be better. He had to be better. For her.

Chapter Text

"Woo hoo! Dangertits we did it!" Adam gave Lute a side hug as he walked off the stage. "Another successful night! I love Madison Square Garden!" NYC was one of Adam's favorite pit stops. He loved how lively the city was. How much there was to see and do. "Let's go party!"

"We have a fan meet and greet next" Lute cut in. Things were better between them lately. Maybe with all the traveling and busyness, it was hard to be alone with one's thoughts.

"Ugh okay" Adam rolled his eyes. "I'd rather be doing anything else." He was not one to meet fans unless they wanted to sleep with him. The last few weeks had been rough and he needed a distraction.

They walked alongside one another to the fan meet and greet area. Lute would also stand alongside Adam just in case. They had only dealt with a handful of crazy fans. Adam of course didn't mind. It made him feel good that people loved him. As Lute walked in all the girls in line screamed his name in excitement. Lute rolled her eyes. She could have cared less. These people were deranged.

"Alright ladies there's enough Adam for everyone" he walked over to the area. Lute made a face of disgust. He was so full of himself. He started interacting with fans signing autographs and taking selfies. Lute watched like a hawk. She didn't want anyone to do anything stupid.

"Lute" a voice called out to her. Lute turned around and saw Sera of all people. Lute walked away from Adam and towards her. "Sera what are you doing here?" She knew Sera was busy and supposed to be in LA.

"I wanted to check in and make sure everything was alright" Sera looked over at Adam. He seemed to be doing well. He was smiling and interacting with fans " I heard he wasn't doing well mentally. I just want to be here in just in case."

"Yeah no he's fine" Lute replied. "We had a few issues here and there but we're on the uphill" she assured her. Lute had to admit she was touched Sera cared. Sera was a good person and just wanted to best for everyone.

"I'm glad to hear that I-" before Sera could finish her sentence. There was screaming. Lute turned around and was met with a horrific scene. Adam had been stabbed. "ADAM!" she screamed. She had never yelled like that.
---
A few moments before.

Adam was talking to fans when one fan came up. She was shorter than Lute surpingly. She wore a 1950's outfit. "Hey," Adam smiled. Trying to be polite. She just stared at him. "What's your name?" he asked making conversation. He was a bit creeped out with her. But he'd handled fans like this before.

"Niffy" she looked at Adam with wide eyes.

"Nice to meet you glad you could make it-" Before Adam could finish his sentence. He felt a stinging pain in his stomach. Niffty had stabbed him with a knitting needle. He went to say something but he fell forward. It all happened so fast. He heard the screaming. Security dragged away Niffty as she laughed like a maniac. He then heard a voice scream out like he had never heard before. It was Lute...

"ADAM" she ran over to him and turned him over.

He looked at her. She had stayed by his side. She looked so upset. He had made her cry so much recently. He hated seeing her cry. So he did what he could to stop the tears he smiled at her. Hoping that will help keep the tears at bay.
---
Adam awoke sometime later. He was in a bland hospital room. It smelled sterile and clean. He felt an IV hooked up to him. There was a dull ache in his arm. He then felt a pain in his stomach. What happened... He then remembered the stabbing. The screaming... and then Lute. Oh god, Lute?! He started panicking. Wondering where she was. He looked over and saw her asleep on the chair. He felt better seeing her next to his side. She looked exhausted. She still had dry blood on her clothes. At least she was wearing black so it somewhat blended in. But he could see how the brown had crusted over.

He had been so awful for the last few weeks. He needed to stop it and let her go. He couldn't afford to sever their relationship. She meant too much to him. She meant everything to him. He was tempted to wake her but decided against it. He knew she needed sleep. So he sat there for hours. Unable to fall back asleep. It was hard being alone with thoughts.

Lute slowly blinked her eyes open. Dawn was peeping into the gray room. She then remembered Adam?! She stood up immediately and walked to his side. "Hey dangertits" he gave a weak smile.

"Oh my god I thought you died!" she hugged him.

"Ow Lute-" he gasped.

"Sorry!" she pulled back. "Let me go get the doctor. I also need to let Sera know you're up" she ran off. Whatever tiredness she had was worn off. She was so happy he was up. She knew he would be fine but the idea of losing him...
---
The doctor came and went. They said that Adam was stabbed three times but would make a full recovery. His torso was all stitched up therefore he would have scarring. Adam shrugged he could get more tattoos to cover them up.

"Adam" Sera was at his side. "We've already pressed charges. Turns out she has some issues, unfortunately. You just happen to be in her crossfire." Sera continued on. "We went ahead and pushed your tour back by a month. I want you to make a full recovery. If you need more time please take it. The world can work around you" She had felt bad for Adam. She was happy she had the intuition to show up to his show.

"What exactly happened?" Adam asked. "I kinda just blacked out" He still couldn't get Lute's screaming out of his head. It would haunt him.

Lute and Sera looked at one another in concern. "Do you want to show him?" Sera asked.

Lute pulled out her phone. "It's everywhere on social media. It even got on the news. Katie Killjoy is obessed. She gave Adam his phone. The generic TikTok was used as a voice-over.

'We saw Adam get stabbed' the robot voice said. Adam looked at the phone in horror. The video started out normal. Some fan zooming in on Adam. Adam interacts with Niffty. She looked frozen on camera. The stabbing then happened. Lute screaming. Adam cringed not wanting to hear her scream. Lute then was on top of Adam trying to stop the bleeding. Despite sounding hysterical Lute was trying to give out directions. The video was then abruptly ended.

"Everyone was evacuated out" Lute explained. "It was madness" She was not going to be alright for a while after this.

Adam handed the phone back to her. "Damn, that's crazy." He couldn't believe he almost died. But the only thing that bothered him was that Lute was so upset. "So what now?"

"Head back to LA" Sera told him. "I will get everything else handled. Lute has agreed to stay with you the next month to help you out" Lute nodded.
---
The flight back would only be six hours. It would be fast. Adam was happy it went fast. He felt terrible the pain was getting worse. "We're almost there" Lute handed him some pills.

"Thank god. Can I drink wine with this" he looked at the pills.

"Sir you can't mix pain pills and alcohol" She sat down in the chair across from him.

Adam looked at her. She had thankfully changed and looked better. There were still bags under her eyes. Not that he could talk. He knew he looked way worse.

They finally landed and were back at Adam's penthouse. "Okay sir" she sat him down on the couch. "I need to run to my place and get my stuff. Do you need anything?"

Adam wanted to say something inappropriate but refrained from doing so. "I'm good thanks though."

She nodded. "Stay here. I'll be back in an hour" She then left.

Once again it was Adam and his big penthouse to himself. He hated how silent it was here. He was also bored. He didn't want to go on his phone. Knowing it would be nothing but him getting stabbed. As much as he liked being the center of attention he didn't like it in this case. He also knew Lucifer was eating this up. Enjoying Adam's pain and misery.

He figured he could shower. He could smell himself. Between the hospital and performing he had a layer of gunk on him. Yeah, he would shower. Lute didn't deserve to have to smell him in this sorry state.
---
Lute was running late and was pissed. She felt bad it had been an hour and a half since she left. She knew Adam must be beyond bored. And when he was bored bad decisions were made. Lute finally walked in. "Adam I got you favorite ribs!" she sat them on the counter. It was silent. To silent. "Adam!" she called. She saw he was nowhere in the living room.

"LUTE!" he called from his bedroom. She ran in but saw the bathroom door was closed. She could also hear the shower was running. "Lute I fell! I need help" she heard him yell through the door.

She made a face of disgust. She did not sign up for this. "What. Why did you fall?" she was now confused.

"Because I was fucking break dancing. Lue what do you think I slipped!" he snapped. "I can't get up. It hurts and I don't want to open the stitches."

"Are you naked?" her face started turning red. She at least hoped he was getting out with a towel on when he slipped.

"No, I'm wearing a fucking suit and tie. YES, I'm naked! I was taking a goddamn shower. Lute I need you to help me" He was dying. This was so embarrassing.

"Okay, I'm opening the door. But my eyes are shut. I'll throw a towel at you" She took a deep breath and opened the door. She could feel the warm air and smell soap. "I'm getting closer" She was walking slowly. She then rammed herself into the counter. "Fuck, shit" she cursed.

"Just open your eyes. Women would kill to look at my dick" Adam was getting tired of laying here.

"NO!" she snapped. She felt her way around and found his towel rack. She threw a towel at him" She refused to see him naked. She couldn't handle it.

"That's my ball towel" he groaned grabbing it and wrapping it around him.

"I don't care!" she snapped. She knew her face was red. "Are you decent?"

"Yes," he told her. She opened her eyes. He was lying there thankfully with the towel. She saw the stitches and felt bad. It looked painful. She bent down and he grabbed a hold of her. "Thank god you're strong"

"Yup," she breathed. trying to pull him up and ignore the feeling of his wet skin on hers. "Are you good?"

"Yeah," he groaned. He was finally up. "Thanks, Lute. That was embarrassing." his face was turning red.

"Happens to the best of us. Dinner's ready by the way. Get dressed." She walked back to the kitchen and immediately made herself a drink. It was a lot dealing with Adam. She hated how hot he was. Hated his tattoos and toned body. God, she hated it all.

"You got ribs!" Adam walked over excitedly.

"Your favorite of course". They both started eating dinner. It was nice and simple. No one to bother them. Nothing else seemed to matter. "I need to sleep" Lute yawned. "Can you get to bed alright?"

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Uhh thanks, Lute." he blushed a little. "For everything."

"Of course sir. I'll be off" she walked to the guest bedroom where Adam had dragged her drunk ass that one night. She got settled into bed. It would be hard to sleep but she needed it.
---
Adam was in a dreamless sleep when he heard screaming. That was odd. No one was here but Lute... Oh shit, it was Lute. Adam shot out of bed stitches be damned. He didn't even feel the pain as he busted through the door. "Lute!" he ran up to her and shook her.

She screamed and violently grabbed his hand. Her eyes then shot open. She was looking at Adam. "Oh my god I'm so sorry" she was now the embarrassed one.

"It's okay" he sat on the bed. "nightmare?"

"Yeah," she nodded quietly. "I was thinking of the stabbing. I kept dreaming I didn't get to you in time" She hated how vulnerable she was right now. She never felt this emotional over anything.

"I understand. This is random but when I was watching the video how did you know what to do? You reacted like you've done this before. You were upset but went into this work mode"

Lute looked out the window at the city below. It was stunning. "My dad was in the military. He was a medic. He taught me everything I know. That when something bad happens you have to be prepared for the worst. If you panic it's all over. I guess I still carry that training with me" Lute still carried a lot of things with her from her dad.

"Did you join the military?" Adam was interested in her past now. She had never spoken of it.

"No," she told him. She gripped the sheets. "I was in med school but I dropped it. The stress was too much," she admitted. She looked up at him. "But I wouldn't change anything. I like being here..."

"I'm glad you're here" Adam knew without Lute he would not be well. He then stood up. "I'll make breakfast tomorrow"

"Are you sure?" Lute didn't want him to strain him.

"You deserve it dangertits" He smiled and walked away. Happy Lute was in his life. If it weren't for him god knows where he would. He probably would be dead from an overdose or accident. But Lute kept him living.

Chapter Text

Adam and Lute were on the way to the doctor. It had been two weeks since the stabbing. Lute was driving of course in the busy LA traffic. "I will rip your cunt mouth out of your ass!!" she screamed out the window and laid on her horn.

"Woah Lute. Did you just. Fuck-chill" Adam was disturbed by her gruesome words.

"Sorry, sir I'm pissed." She gripped the steering wheel "I hate driving here. So many people" she honked the horn again. She then gunned her car past other cars.

"Take your time. I'd rather not get my stitches taken out." Adam hand's went to his stomach. The pain was now dull. However, he hadn't been sleeping well. He still heard Lute's scream.

"It's not painful. You'll just feel a slight tugging" she assured him.

"Have you had stitches?" Adam asked curiously. Lute seldom spoke about herself.

She shrugged keeping her eyes on the road. "Yeah here and there. Nothing crazy."

They finally arrived at the doctor. "Can you come with me I don't won't be alone" Adam admitted. Usually, Adam went to the doctor himself. But today he needed Lute.

"Sure" Lute parked the car. Glad she could help him. They walked in and Adam signed in. Lute was impressed with the clinic. It was nice here. She knew that Adam deserved the best. She was happy he was getting just that.

He took a seat next to Lute. "I don't want to be here" he fidgeted with the rings on his finger.

"It will be okay" she assured him. She had never seen Adam this nervous before. He had performed in front of thousands of fans and was fine. But now he couldn't get stitches pulled out. It was somewhat funny.

Adam was called back to the room. He took Lute's hand. Lute didn't mind and held onto it.

The next few minutes went by fast. Adam lifted his shirt as the stitches were removed. He held on tight to Lute's hand as they were cut out. He finally breathed a sigh of relief as the last one was pulled out.

"See it's not bad" Lute assured.

The doctor then went on to explain that Adam needed to take it easy. And not infecting the area which meant staying out of pools, and hot tubs, and washing his hands before touching them. He also needed to apply petroleum jelly to the area to keep the scarring minimal.

"That went well," Lute said as they got back into her car. "Wanna get lunch?" she offered. She knew Adam had to be hungry.

"I'm good" Adam laid his head on the car window. "I'm really tired can we just head back?"

"Sure. Do you want me to get takeout?" She noticed how melancholy Adam sounded. She figured food would make him feel good.

"I'm fine" he shrugged. Lute nodded and they drove back to his place.

"I'm going to go take a nap." Adam walked off to his bedroom. Lute wondered what was wrong with him. He seemed too distant today. She didn't want to pry the world did that to him enough. The tabloids were all over him since the incident. It was upsetting and annoying how much they played videos of it happening.

Lute sat on the couch and typed away on her laptop. She had a lot of work to do.
---
Lute awoke a few hours later. She didn't even remember falling asleep. She saw the time and dusk was settling in. She sat up and rubbed her eyes. She then felt her stomach rumbling. She needed to eat. She walked to Adam's room to see if he wanted dinner. She lightly knocked on the door and peeked her head in. The lights were off and the curtains were drawn. However, the bed was empty but the bathroom light was on. She slowly walked in not wanting to scare him. As she did his bathroom door was open. She felt bad and was about to bolt. However, Adam was shirtless looking at himself in the mirror. He truly had an amazing body. Chiseled by god himself. The way his muscles flexed so effortlessly. His tattoos were her favorite. Her favorite was a back tattoo of the letter A but in a cool design. His chest and abdomen though did not have any tattoos. She did think it was strange how the rest of him did except for that area of his body. She always wondered why.

"Dangertits what are you doing?" he called out and looked at Lute hidden in the darkness.

"Sorry sir" she stepped out. She could feel her face turning red.

"Can I ask you something?" he looked sincere and serious.

"Sure," she said. Trying to keep her voice even.

"How bad does it look" he pointed to his stomach scar. There were three lines in his stomach around his belly button.

"It's fine," she told him. "I've seen worse. You can get a tattoo to cover it up".

"It's not fine!" he snapped. Lute jumped back at the sudden outburst. "I hate this scar. It ruins my body. I can't get a tattoo to cover it up for six months to a year. And I just..." he was about to get upset. He did not want that. "I hate it" he whispered. "I look like a freak. The tabloids are going to eat this alive"

"Adam I promise you it's okay. You can put makeup on it" She stepped closer. "It's going to be okay"

"How do you know that?" he asked. His voice almost cracking.

Lute took a deep breath and lifted her shirt up. Her abdomen had a massive scar reaching across it. "I have similar a scar"

Adam looked shocked. He instinctively touched it. "What happened?" his voice was above a whisper. He had no idea she had this scar. Now that he was thinking about he never saw Lute wear a crop top or bikini top. She also made excuses to not swim at the beach or a pool.

Lute ignored the feeling of his hand on her stomach and instead focused on his golden eyes. "When I was sixteen I was learning to drive. My dad was with me. We were hit by a drunk driver. In the middle of the day of all times," Lute remembered as if it were yesterday. "I don't recall too much of that day. I was impaled and it took a team of surgeons to stitch me back up. That's why I wanted to go to med school." she was inspired after that. "My dad lived he was fine for the most part. But yeah" Adam took his hand away and she pulled her shirt back down. "I get it. It's hard. But I like my scar. It shows the world that I survived after it tried to put me down." Adam saw the fire in Lute's eyes. "Adam it gets better. You just have to be patient. I know it's hard, especially for you. But it will heal."

Adam nodded. "Yeah well, I heard that chicks dig scars." he tried to make himself feel better. "Wait Lute you said you had stitches nothing crazy. That looks crazy" She shrugged. "Well you really live up to your name dangertits"

"Thank you, sir. Do you want dinner by the way?" She went back to the original reason she was here.

"Yeah, that would be good. Also is your face okay? It's really red" he looked concerned for her.

Lute refused to tell him it was red due to him and his god-like body. "Yeah I'm just hot" She quickly walked away and to the kitchen. She splashed some cool water on her face. She needed to get Adam's shirtless body out of her head.

He came back thankfully wearing a T-shirt. "What's for dinner?" he sat at the bar.

Lute opened the refrigerator enjoying the cool air. "What about day-old pasta?" she pulled it out and set it on the counter.

"Works for me" Adam smiled.
---
That night Adam lay in bed. He touched his scar. Still hating the wretched thing but feeling better. He had no idea that Lute had gone through that. He felt terrible but happy she lived. He wondered if she had any more scars. She did say she had a couple of stitches. Adam still couldn't get over how red her face was. It was hilarious to him. He also knew she had been standing there for a good second taking in his body. He didn't blame her. He had a killer body and could mesmerize any chick even Lute to look at him. Although it was strange. Adam usually hated it when women would invade his privacy like that. He was having a personal moment after all. Nevertheless, he liked the idea of Lute loving his body for how it is. That made him feel good. Loved even.

Did Lute love him? Adam shook that thought away. She could never love him. She had seen him at his worst. She had dealt with him at his worst. He knew she would never put up with his shit. Adam could feel himself being drawn to Lute but he wouldn't do that to her. He wouldn't force her into his crazy life and antics. After all, it broke his first two wives.

Chapter Text

Lute sat at a cafe trying to type on her laptop. She had a blank Word doc in front of her. She was back in LA. Las Vegas was a short yet long trip. The entire plane ride back Lute couldn’t quit thinking of what Adam said to her drunk. Did she love him? Sure he was annoying. Loud as hell. Had the messiest love life known to man. But he was sweet. He was one of the few people that could make her laugh. He made her less uptight. Forced her to have a good time. Made her see the world in a new light.

They couldn’t be together though. Lute would be forced into the spotlight whether she wanted it or not. The spotlight came with issues. Crazed fans to deranged media personalities. Everyone would judge her for every little action. People would also question why she and Adam were together. That would hurt the most. She knew Adam had a type and it was tall and long blonde hair. She was neither of those things. She didn’t look anything like Lilith or Eve. She touched her short hair. She could grow it out but that would take forever and she didn’t have the patience for that. Adam would eventually grow tired of her and leave her for a clone of Lilith or Eve. That would hurt. She sighed unaware of what to do.

“Hey, Dangertits” Adam appeared in front of her holding her favorite drink along with his. He was wearing his Rome hat and a pair of expensive sunglasses.

“Adam?” She quit looking at the blank doc. “What are you doing here?” This was the last thing she needed. She did not want to see him.

“Relax” he sat in front of her and placed the drinks down. “I’m bored”

“Sera will be pissed you’re here” She hissed at him. “You need to be at the studio”

She could tell he was rolling his eyes behind his glasses. “Lute since when do I care about Sera”

“When she’s giving you a lecture” Lute pointed out. “Which I’d rather not be dragged with you to one” Lute had seen how exasperated Sera would be talking to Adam. Yet it would always fall on deaf ears.

“Calm down” Adam assured her. “Sera is away with Emily right now.”

Lute nodded “Where did they go?”

Adam shrugged “Hell if I know” he sipped his drink. “What have you been up to?”

“Nothing” she replied honestly. “I can’t focus”

“Really damn you must be struggling if you can’t focus? Do you need my ADHD medicine?” He offered.

“I’m good. I’d rather not pop pills with you” She could think of a few reasons why that was a bad idea.

“Well, why can’t you focus?” He asked kindly. “Whatever is blocking you is the reason”

YOU’RE the reason! Lute thought to herself. “I’m just tired” she lied.

“Damn, you must be. You look like you haven’t slept in ages” he pointed to the bags under her eyes.

“Thank you, sir,” she said in her annoyed monotone voice.

The next hour they sat in silence as they ate and drank. Lute was thankfully able to get some work done. Adam was mainly just people watching enjoying the craziness of LA and its citizens.

“Oh my god Lute did you see that!” He was looking out the window.

“No I’m actually working” she typed aggressively.

“Sheesh sorry” he pouted. “What are you looking at” He went to turn the laptop but she snatched it away before he could see anything.

“Nothing!” Her face was turning red. She was typing a Pro and Cons list of why she should or shouldn’t be with Adam.

“Why is your face red again?” He pointed to it. “Do you have allergies?”

“Yeah I’m allergic to your dumb ass” Lute retorted. She hated how red she would turn. Curse her pasty white skin.

“You wound me” Adam joked around. His phone then started ringing. “Eww who’s calling me” he picked it up and the caller ID said Sera. “Ugh it’s Sera” he answers. “Hey Sera,” he said in his more professional tone. It was always funny to Lute how Adam would actually try to be professional around Sera but it usually came up short. At least he tried. He then hung up. “We gotta head to the Studio. Sera wants to discuss something was us” he stood up and threw away their stuff.

“Interesting” Lute then looked at her phone. She saw she had some missed calls from Sera. “Shit I missed her calls”

“She’ll be fine” Adam then swung his arm around Lute and they walked out. Lute wanted to swat his arm away but she didn’t mind. “Did you drive here?”

“Yes need a ride?” She looked at him.

“As usual” he winked. He liked Lute’s driving. It made him feel like he was on a roller coaster.
——
A short yet adventurous drive later they were at the Studio. “I hope I didn’t do anything” Adam sighed as they stepped in the elevator.

Lute watched the ground shrink. “I’m sure you’re fine” She had no idea truthfully. He was a wild card.

They arrived at Sera’s office. It was a glass office that overlooked the studio and the city. When Sera took over she wanted to be accessible at all time. "What can we help you with Sera?" Adam strolled into the office. Lute was on his heels of course. She was always surprised with how calm Sera was with Adam and his casualness.

Lute on the other hand was respectful and professional. "Sera you called."

Sera quit looking out her window and turned to Adam and Lute. "We recently got a call from another studio." Lute wondered what it could be. Their studio was at the top. "It was from Inferno Soundworks" Lute knew who they were. A good amount of famous artists performed for them such as Lilith. Sera saw Adam's face darken. "It's not about Lilith" Sera assured him. "It's about another singer. I'm sure you guys know her as Verosika Mayday" Of course they knew her. Verosika Mayday was a sensation. Her voice was so calming yet seductive. She had a huge following just as much as Adam. However, Lute knew Adam was a much better singer. "She recently got out of rehab"

"And" Adam cut in. He wanted nothing to do with Inferno Soundworks.

"I'm getting there Adam," Sera said calmly yet with a hint of annoyance. "They want you to date Verosika." Lute could feel her body tensing up. Adam had admitted to having feelings for her... "That way, they can shift from rehab to Adam. Now Adam I don't want to force you to do anything you aren't comfortable with. Please take a few days to decide. I promise whatever decision you make will be okay" They could see Sera was being sincere.

Adam was quiet for a second then spoke. "I need to think about it". He had a lot to think about. He didn't know how to feel.

"You will get paid handsomely for this if that helps. It will also make you look good and make it seem you don't need your ex-wives" Sera told him.

Adam nodded. "I need to eat first before I make a decision." Whenever he was nervous he would just eat. He also needed to talk to Lute...

"Very well" Sera nodded. "Please let me know as soon as possible"

Lute and Adam left in silence. He wanted to tell Lute he didn't want to date Verosika. That he didn't need anyone famous to date. However, society loved a famous couple to root for. Better yet Adam knew he would be in good graces with his record company. His track record had not been the best few years. "So where do you want to eat?" Adam asked. Trying to make things better.

Lute shrugged and looked ahead. "Wherever you want sir" Lute's mind was reeling. She should have seen this coming but was still hurt. Of course, Verosika was a pick for Adam. She was tall and blonde. Everything she wasn't.

Adam nodded. He could see Lute was deep in her mind. She was probably thinking of why Adam should do this. She was the smart one. She was the practical one. Whereas Adam was the opposite. "Why don't we get ribs and head back to my place? I don't wanna deal with paparazzi and we have a lot to discuss."

Lute just nodded.
---
"I'm full" Adam patted his stomach making sure to avoid his scar. He then looked over at Lute across the table. She barely ate. "Are you good Lute? You've been really quiet"

Lute set down her fork. "You need to date Verosika" she blurted. That's all Lute had been thinking of the last few hours. Adam had to move on from her. She loved him but she knew it would never work with fame and the curses that came with it. He deserved someone as great as him. She was not it.

Adam looked upset. "Are you sure"

Lute swallowed the lump in her throat. This was going to be a hard conversation. "It's smart. You get paid more"

"Lute I have more money than I know what to do with" he interrupted her. "I have everything" But you. It was a cruel twist of fate for Adam. He had money, fame, awards, everything but her.

"Adam" she went. "It will look good for everyone. Verosika is also your type"

"My type" Adam quirked an eyebrow. Was Lute this blind? She was his type. Everything his ex-wives weren't.

"Tall, blonde, big boobs. It's perfect Adam. You can also improve your public image. Let's face it. It's not at its best right now" Lute was trying to think with logic but it was so hard.

"I don't care" Adam snapped. "I don't care what anyone thinks!" he was getting upset.

"I do!" Lute stood up and snapped. "People admire you, Adam. People love you. We need to give them that. You need to be at the top. You have to be better than everyone. Dating Verosika will put you where you need to be. Trust me, Adam" She could feel the desperation. "I need to go. But you have to do this" She hoped Verosika could get his mind away from her. He could see why they would never work. She started to walk away before he could talk. She then felt his hand on her arm. He turned her towards him and looked her deep in the eyes.

"Lute do you want this" his voice barely above a whisper. He leaned in close. He needed to know he valued her opinion above everyone else.

She closed her eyes and breathed. "Adam please do this" She opened her eyes. Lute was pleading with him. Her eyes were telling him it was okay to let her go.

Adam released her arm. He could see tears were starting to form in her eyes. He hated seeing her cry. "Okay" was all he said. She left his penthouse. Adam stood by the door hoping she would run back into his arms. But she wouldn't. She wanted what was best for him. She would put him on a pedestal even if it meant he was looking down on her. He sighed and walked to his bar. He needed a drink.

He sat at the bar downing his whisky. Of course, Lute was letting him go. She had seen his absolute worst and was disgusted. He didn't blame her. After all, it's why his other two wives left. He just hated how he was sometimes. He knew he would hate Verosika. They were the same after all. He could barely handle himself Verosika would be another story. At least it would be fake though. He could live with that. The sex would be good. She had a killer body. He shook his head. He didn't want to have sex with Verosika. He wanted to have... He slammed the glass down and filled it up before he could finish that thought.

He knew he wanted Lute. But he couldn't have her. He knew even if they were together the fame would kill them. Everyone would make Lute question why she was with a loser like Adam. She deserved better than him. On top of that Lucifer might sweep in and steal her. Adam would be arrested for first-degree murder if that happened.

Adam cleaned up and headed to bed. He wished Lute was next to him. That night they shared a bed was the best he had slept in a long time. Adam wondered when he fell in love with Lute. It wasn't all at once like with his ex-wives. It was slow and steady. At first, it was how they would joke with one another. Not afraid of sounding rude. Next, it was how only Adam could make her laugh. He remembered wanting to see her smile more after that. Soon if Adam saw Lute cry he would get upset as well. He hated seeing her cry. It was unlike her. Time kept coming and Adam realized she was nothing like his ex's. She was simply Lute. A badass bitch who didn't take shit from anyone. She was his dangertits. He took a deep breath and sighed. He wanted her so bad. But he was stuck here in his lonely kingdom surrounded by everything but human companionship.

Chapter Text

It had been a week since everything. Adam was at dinner with Verosika in Beverly Hills. They were at some five-star restaurant where he couldn't pronounce anything on the menu and it came in the world's smallest portion size. He was poking at his dish. He had no idea what it was and it was beyond dry. At least the fancy wine could make it editable. "So then Blitzo's sister Barbie was there. Adam!" Verosika snapped at him. "Are you listening?"

Adam quit looking at his food. "Uhh Blitzo's sister was at rehab with you?". He looked at her. He was blocking out every other word Verosika was saying. She was still hung up on this Blitzo guy. Not that he had any room to talk at all.

"Yes" she then went back to her story. Adam was dying from boredom. At least the press was eating this up. This was their second date. Now they were starting to look official. It was good they could just date for a few months. Get the spotlight off Verosika's rehab stint. Then break up. It then made Adam wonder. What was next? Would he go after Lute?

"Adam!" Verosika snapped again looking annoyed. "Did you hear what I said?"

Adam blinked a few times. "No..."

"I said after this we should go walk around. You can buy me something nice. The paparazzi will get our picture. We kiss then we can call it a night" She was just as tired as Adam. She was not a fan of this publicity stunt but it had to be done. She was happy she was with Adam. He was attractive so they would at least look like a power couple.

"Yeah, sure. Where do you want to go?" Adam was nervous. He liked shopping but something told him Verosika took it to a whole new level. Just looking at her. He knew she was wearing all designer. Her fur coat with a matching purse and her diamond jewelry told Adam he was going to be spending a lot tonight.

---
Adam was not one for designer brands. Sure he liked them. It was nice to own. But usually, he would have someone make his clothes custom. It was just easier and less hassle. He held Verosika's hand as they walked into the Gucci store. He was hit with expensive perfume smells. He wrinkled his nose not enjoying the mixture of smells.

"Quit looking like that," Verosika told him. She dragged him to the handbag section. They all looked the same to Adam. Verosika started looking at the bags intensely. Adam picked one up. Trying to see what see what she saw. It was just a leather bag...

"I like this pink one" She held it up to her outfit. One thing about Verosika was she wore bright colors especially pink. It hurt Adam's eyes. He liked how Lute only wore black, gray, or white.

"It's nice" Adam shrugged. Unsure how to go about it.

"That's it" Verosika looked at him. "Does it go with my outfit?"

"Yes," Adam answered unsure if that was the right answer.

Verosika rolled her eyes. Unimpressed with Adam. "I'll get it. It will go with my other outfits."

Adam then looked at the price tag. "$7,200 for that!" Adam looked at the pink bag. It was small and unassuming. Sure he had a lot of money. But $7,200 for a bag that size seemed ridiculous. Lute would think it was stupid. "What does it do?"

"What do you mean what does it do?" Verosika looked at the bag. "It's Gucci"

"Yeah but like" Adam took the pink bag and looked inside it. "Is there a portal in here? Will it take me somewhere? Can I store a sword in here with extra storage?"

Verosika snatched the bag and looked at Adam in disgust. "What's wrong with you? It's expensive because it's designer"

"Oh," Adam said still confused at the concept.

"Let me go purchase it. Can I have your card?" she held her hand out.

Adam was a millionaire, to say the least. But it pained him to buy something this expensive that did nothing. It could at least turn into a robot or something.
---
They stepped outside and the paparazzi took pictures of them. "Let's go to Valentino" Verosika dragged Adam.

"Lute beat up a pimp named Valentino" Adam's sounded dejected. He wanted Lute here so bad.

"What?" Verosika turned around and looked horrified.

"Nothing keep going" Adam perked up and quickly changed the subject. It would be best if Lute beating up pimps was under wraps. "What do you want at Valentino's"

"I don't know I guess we'll have to see" She dragged him into the store. Once again it all looked the same to Adam. Fancy furniture that looked out of place. Mannequins with outfits that looked mismatched. Smells that did not belong together assaulted his nose.

"Let's look at perfumes" Valentino walked over to the perfume counter. She picked up the weirdest bottle Adam had ever seen. "How does this smell" she sprayed it right in his face.

"My eyes!" he started rubbing them.

She shook her head. "I don't like the smell" She picked up another bottle.

"My eyes are on fire!" Adam was rubbing them.

"How does this smell" she sprayed it at Adam. Ignoring Adam's cries of pain.

"It's in my mouth now" Adam gagged. "It tastes like shit" He was now blinded and had the worse taste in his mouth.

"I agree it does smell like shit" she walked over and picked up another bottle.

Adam had to leave for a second or she just might kill him. "I have to piss I'll be right back" he quickly booked it to the bathroom. He first cleaned his eyes and swished his mouth with water. He looked in the mirror and his eyes were red. He looked like he was drugged. He would have to wear his sunglasses now. He still had an awful aftertaste. He grabbed his phone from his pocket and texted Lute.

Adam:
Dangertits can I come over tonight??? I have so much to tell you. I'm in hell with Verosika!!!!!

It took a minute but Lute replied back quickly.

Lute:
Sure.

Adam smiled. At least this night had an end in sight if Verosika didn't kill him first. He walked out of the bathroom and saw Verosika holding a pink cocktail dress that was identical to the one she was wearing. "What do you think of this dress?"

Adam looked at it. "Isn't that the one you're holding" he pointed to her.

She then gave him the dirtiest look. "The dress I'm wearing is the Fall collection pink #fff03f. This new dress is the Spring collection pink #ffe9ec it's obvious!"

"How can you remember those numbers?" Adam was slightly impressed at that. he couldn't remember anything to save his life.

"Oh my god!" she waved the dress. "It's not that complicated." she took a deep breath. "I'm ready to go. The dress is only $14,000"

Adam was once again floored at the price. For that much, it should at least give her superpowers but nope. It was just a designer item.

---
Adam knocked on Lute's door. "Lute please help me!"

She opened the door quickly. "Sir are you okay"

Adam walked in and face-planted on the couch. "I hate it" he muffled.

"What?" Lute stood in front of the couch.

Adam turned his head and looked at Lute. She of course was wearing a black hoodie and sweatpants. No obnoxious colors. "I just ate a sample size meal that could pay off the national debt." he then looked at Lute in horror. "And get this it was dry!"

"Do you want me to order a pizza?" Lute offered. She knew Adam liked to eat a lot and fancy restaurants did not offer adequate portion sizes for him.

"Can you door dash McDonald's I need a Big Mac" he said. He sounded so defeated. "Can you also get me an extra fry"

Lute picked up her phone and completed the order. She then looked at Adam. His eyes were red. "Oh my god are you okay? Your eyes are so red." She knew he wasn't drugged with the way he was acting. Was he crying?

"Yeah, well Verosika loved spraying perfume right in my fucking face." He knew he looked rough.

"Let me go get some saline to rinse your eyes out" She walked to her bathroom as Adam lay there. She walked back and faced him.

"Sit up and let me flush your eyes out" She directed him. He sat up. Lute gently grabbed his face and gently poured the saline into his eyes. He felt better after that. He enjoyed her hands on his face. "How's that?"

Adam blinked and wiped his eyes with a washcloth. "A lot better. Thank you"

"Anytime" she picked up the saline. "Let me put this up and go get the food. I saw they dropped it off in the lobby"

Adam sat there in her apartment as she went to get the food. He looked around. He never knew how much homey her place felt compared to his. Her place had trinkets, family photos, and even plants. None of the decor went together but it seemed to flow. As if she had collected everything over the years. Adam's place felt so stale so perfect so manufactured. Whereas Lute's place was lived in.

"Here's the food" Lute walked in and set it on her table. "Ready?"

"Yes I am starving" Adam stood up and walked to the table.

---
"I had to buy a $7,200 Gucci bag the size of my fist," Adam complained shoving his hamburger in his mouth.

"Really" Lute laughed and popped a fry into her mouth. "What does to do?"

"That's what I said!" Adam exasperated. "You would think for that much a portal would open up or something".

"Or you could store a sword in it" Lute pointed out.

"Exactly!" Adam agreed. He was happy he and Lute were on the same page about the silly purse. "I said that and you would have thought I killed her whole family with the way she looked at me. I then had to buy a $14,000 dress that looked exactly the same as the one she had on!"

"Is the dress bulletproof?" Lute asked. "Is it armor?" She could never spend that much on an article of clothing unless it was bullet or fireproof.

"No, it's designer" Adam mocked Verosika.

"Well you guys look so out of place together" Lute handed Adam her phone. The pictures from earlier were already circulating the web. Verosika was dragging Adam along. She had on her fur coat and designer cocktail dress. Meanwhile, Adam was wearing his black leather jacket and torn-up jeans. Lute thought Adam looked so much better and more practical.

Adam sighed and rolled his eyes. He handed Lute back her phone. "I hate this. I wish..." he caught himself before he could finish his sentence. "I wish this would be over soon"

"It will be soon" Lute assured him. "How was Verosika herself? Like her personality" Lute knew Adam so far wasn't a fan of Verosika. That brought her reassurance.

Adam shrugged. "She complained a lot about her ex. In fairness, I can't say much. Overall she was fine" He didn't hate her or love her. She was just enthralled with herself.

"Yeah, your love life is something" Lute joked. "Do you have a date next week?" Lute should have known Adam's schedule but recently she didn't have the heart to look at it.

"Sadly" Adam sighed. "I have zero idea what we are doing. Probably buy a dress that cost a million dollars and that she already owns three of. Then we go out to dinner at a restaurant with portion sizes for ants but god forbid you ask for extras. "

"Exciting," Lute said with sarcasm. She did feel bad for Adam. She could see how bored he was.

"I just wanna do something fun like paintball or laser tag" Adam complained. "or Disneyland for fucks sake. Just something with action and not shopping. We live in LA there is so much to do here"

"I agree sir" Lute nodded. "I would love to play paintball but I think I would take it too seriously"

Adam laughed. "I feel like you would turn into a homicidal maniac" he could see her how. Taking over the arena. Shooting anyone who stood in her way. During all this, she would say the most unhinged outta pocket things imaginable. Adam would have to mentally prepare himself just for what she would say.

"I probably would. One time when I was a kid. I sorta shot out my friend's eye with a BB Gun." Lute then continued eating like no big deal.

"Wait what?" Adam choked on his drink. "I'm sorry you did what?" He could now see she really did live up to her name Dangertits.

"Like a million years ago I was playing with it. My friend wanted to join and we got way too serious. More and more people joined our game. It was basically the Hunger Games before the Hunger Games. She then spared her girlfriend who was on the rival team. I got pissed and shot her right in the eye. I have a bad temper sometimes" Adam was now beyond grateful he had never pissed off Lute to that extent. But now he knew for sure to never get on her bad side. "She then had to go to the hospital. She was blind in it for like six months but she's good now" Lute knew she should have felt bad but she didn't. She never understood sparing a rival. They were your rival.

"Damn dangertits" Adam laughed. "That's actually kinda crazy" She shrugged as if it were a no-big deal. Adam looked at his phone and saw it was pretty late. He knew he needed to get going. "I better head out now. Thanks for a great night. You made it way better."

"Of course anytime," Lute said. She was happy to help him.

Adam was now gone and it was just Lute again. She felt like things were somewhat back to normal which was good. She was also happy that Adam seemed to have disdain for Verosika. The idea of buying all that expensive stuff made Lute angry. Why spend $7,200 on a purse when there were amazing swords for that price? Lute rolled her eyes at rich people like Verosika. She wished she could like that stuff but she just didn't. Unless it was a sports car but that was different.

Lute was happy overall with how the evening when Adam texted her she was so happy. She couldn't quit smiling. Hopefully, things could work out...

Chapter Text

Adam was so bored. Once again he was at a boring shop in Beverly Hills. He couldn't even pronounce the name of this place. He sat in a chair watching Verosika look at clothes that all looked the same. "How does this look?" Verosika held up a pink heel.

"Tall" Adam stated.

Verosika gave him a look. "What is your problem? This is our fifth date and you look like you have a turd up your ass" Verosika was getting tired of it. She was about to check herself back into rehab to get away from Adam.

"I'm bored" he leaned back into the chair. "I'm begging you can we please do something else!" Adam hated being bored.

"What do you have in mind" Verosika huffed annoyed. "You haven't exactly been giving me anything to work with."

Adam sat up. "We're in LA. There are a million things to do here."

"Okay keep going" Verosika was getting annoyed. "Get to the point."

"Hear me out. We got to Disneyland?" Adam needed to do something.

Verosika looked at him oddly. "Now?"

"Why not it's the middle of the day. We can just go and hang out." Adam told her. "I just need to do something that isn't shopping. We can ride some stuff. Take pics of us kissing at the fireworks and call it a night"

Verosika sighed. "Okay, why not?"
---
Adam had not been to Disneyland in a long time. He had no idea how much went into him going. He and Verosika had their own team to escort them around the park. They could also cut lines since they were super famous. Adam looked around. This place was so dreamy and artificial. Everything here was curated for perfection down to the smells.

"Let's go ride the Matterhorn!" Adam's eyes lit up. He looked at the giant mountain and knew he had to ride it.

"What about my hair" Verosika touched her hair.

Adam rolled his eyes. "It's fine come on" he grabbed her hand and dragged her onto the ride. He very much enjoyed it. The fun twists and turns were exhilarating. He was tempted to now travel to Switzerland. Verosika on the other hand looked nauseous.

"I need to throw up" she screamed. She was behind Adam on the sled.

"What?" Adam tried to turn around. But it was impossible on the sled.

"I need to barf" she yelled again. She was miserable. The ride finally ended. Verosika bolted off the ride and vomited into a trash can. "Oh my god" she threw up again.

"Eww" Adam looked at her in disgust.

She wiped her mouth and looked at Adam. "Fuck you. That was terrible" She then tried to fix her hair.

"I'm sorry" Adam wanted to laugh. She looked terrible so unlike her usual appearance. "Why don't we ride the Haunted Mansion" he knew that ride was indoors and laid back.

"As long as it's not that death trap" She looked at the Matterhorn in disgust.

Adam and Verosika walked up to the Haunted Mansion. He had to admit the house looked beautiful. The NOLA architecture looked so out of place for LA. But fit in perfectly for Disneyland. They walked in to ride. Adam did enjoy skipping the line. He waved to adoring fans as he walked onto the ride. He and Verosika sat down in the doom buggy as it was so called. "I'm excited about this ride" Adam smiled. He liked how creepy it was. He knew Lute would enjoy it.

Verosika just shrugged and laid back. She did look rough. The entire time Adam rode the haunted mansion he couldn't help but think of Lute. The creepy atmosphere was right up her alley. She would love the ghost bride who killed her husbands. She would love the parlor tricks used to scare guests. She would enjoy the sound of children screaming out in fear. The ride sadly came to an end. "That was great!" Adam knew he had to take Lute here.

"It was alight" Verosika shrugged.

As they walked through Frontier Land Verosika stopped in her tracks. "Oh my god!" Verosika gripped Adam's shoulder.

"What" Adam was in pain from Verosika.

"It's Blitzo and his weird owl boy toy" she seethed with venom.

"What?" Adam did not understand what she just said.

Verosika grabbed Adam's head and made him look at a couple. One of them was short and had darker skin. The other was super tall and had salt-and-pepper hair. However, they both looked happy. "I hate them so much! They're both cheaters!" She was about to go over there and decapitate them. "I'm going to kill them!" she started to march over there.

"Stop" Adam grabbed her and faced her to him. "Don't do that. Trust me I get what it's like to be cheated on". He could not afford for Verosika to lose her shit at Disney of all places.

Verosika looked at Adam. "Lilith right?"

"No, it was the Queen of England. Yes, it was Lilith!" Adam didn't mean to snap. But everyone in the entire world knew about Adam's divorce. "You just have to move on even if it's hard. I get it I do. But a public meltdown is not a good choice or look"

Verosika swallowed the lump in her throat. "I know but's just so hard."

"I'm sorry I really am" Adam gave her a sincere look. "We can leave"

Verosika looked at the happy couple. "No" she looked back at Adam. "The best revenge is success" She grabbed Adam's hand. "Let's ride the hell out of everything"

"Okay!" Adam smiled. Happy Verosika was letting loose.
---
Hours had gone by. Adam was having a blast. He had so much fun riding all the rides. He also thought it was funny how Mr. Toad's wild ride took him to hell. It was random but funny to him for some reason.

"Ready for fireworks?" Adam asked holding Verosika's hand.

She was eating a churro. "Yes that sounds like fun"

They of course had access to an exclusive spot for fireworks. They sat down on a grass patch and the show started. It was beautiful seeing all the colors dance up in the sky.

"Hey thanks for a fun day" Verosika leaned into Adam. She looked up at the fireworks.

"Yeah I'm glad you agreed." he watched a yellow and white firework shoot up. "I really did not want to go shopping again" He was done with Rodeo Drive for a very long time.

"Well, I'm not," Verosika said proudly. She then saw out of the corner of her eye people taking pictures. "I guess we need to kiss real quick?"

Adam quit looking at the fireworks. "Oh um yeah." He leaned in and kissed her. Lips tasted like cherry. Funny he never noticed that.

"That's good" she pulled away. "Hopefully that will get out on the tabloids. I'm sorry if acted out of line today. I just hate Blitzo with every fiber of my being"

"I get it. Trust me. Getting cheated on is the worst" Adam was still messed up from everything.

Verosika nodded. The fireworks finished up. Adam was happy today went well. Verosika was actually easy to deal with. He wouldn't mind being friends with her after everything. This whole fake dating thing wasn't terrible and it got his mind off Lute. He knew she would never love and he needed to move on. Who knows maybe Verosika is the one?

Chapter Text

Lute was going down a dangerous path. Her drinking had progressively gotten worse. She was not doing well at all. She told herself she was nothing like Adam when he was in a spiral. But she knew damn well that was a lie.

It had been a few weeks since the whole fake dating fiasco. At first, Lute knew it was fake. Adam would never love Verosika. He was done with love. But the tabloids started printing out one by one. The celebrity gossip channels picked up the story like vultures and ran with it. Soon Lute was being bombarded with pictures of Adam and Verosika everywhere she looked. It was getting old. Sure she agreed to it. Adam was not on board but Lute needed him to be successful. She was just mad at herself. She should have told Adam how she felt... but she was a coward. She knew it would fuck up everything they had.

She was at some bar in the seedier section of LA. She did not want anyone to know where she was. She was at her worst right now. She downed another shot and looked around the bar she was at.

It was so dingy looking but neon lights covered it up. The air smelled of cheap booze. Two women were performing on stage. Lute watched them. They appeared to be twins. They were singing some songs not nearly as talented as Adam. Lute rolled her eyes and downed another shot. She just needed to forget tonight.

She wished she could go back to that night in Vegas. She had never had that much fun. Adam had a way of getting her out of her shell. He forced her to have fun and explore new places. She saw how he and Verosika had fun at Disneyland. She wished she was there with him. But she had to be a fool and reject him. She saw how hurt he was that day. She had never seen him that upset not even when Lilith announced her engagement with Lucifer. She felt so bad after it all happened. She wanted to run back and tell him how sorry she was.

She then had an idea. Maybe she could call Adam. Tell him she was sorry. That she did that. If she called him everything would be solved. She grabbed her bag and fumbled around for her phone. She found Adam. He of course was listed as Dickmaster on her contact info.

The dialed and a few rings happened. He didn't pick up... Lute felt her heart crack. The generic leave-a-message voice tone came on. The beep then happened and Lute spilled her guts.

"Adam...I" She knew she sounded drunk but she kept going. "I'm sorry...I care about you. But I want the best for you." She hated how alcohol made it easy to talk. "I'm just so sorry." She was slurring badly. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I did that to you. I want you to be happy but it's hard cause I'm unhappy." She took a deep breath. "Sorry, I'm drunk as fuck right now I'll just hit the delete message button and you'll never even hear this." Lute fumbled with the delete message button. She set her phone down. She stared ahead. Her head was spinning. She ordered another shot.
---
"That was a fun night" Verosika leaned onto Adam as he unlocked his door.

"You're telling me. I had no idea you owned a Lamborghini Sian Roadster. Do you have any idea how rare your car is?" Adam was in shock when Verosika casually mentioned she drove a hot pink Lamborghini Sian Roadster. Adam then begged her to let him drive the sports car on a track. He had always wanted to drive a limited-series Lamborghini. He loved the way it drove. He felt so free on the track. He made a mental note to buy one when he got back.

"There were only fifteen ever made so yeah." Verosika paid over 3 million for the car but she loved it more than anyone.

They then walked into Adam's penthouse. "Want a drink?" he offered.

"Absolutely" She sat down at the bar while Adam started making a cocktail for her.

"So this is what I call Heaven on Earth. It's actually Lute's recipe" he pushed the drink to her.

Verosika took the drink. It was a pretty teal color. "So you and Lute seem close," Verosika noticed how he seemed to mention her quite often. It was starting to get annoying.

"Oh yeah, she's the best" Adam stopped himself before he could on. "She's just easy to work with. Makes my life easy." He finished his drink and sat down next to Verosika.

Thirty minutes later they were getting hot and heavy on the couch. She was on top of him making out. Adam kept telling himself to enjoy her. That she was the best. But he couldn't help it his mind was wandering somewhere else. He then felt a buzzing in his pocket. "Hang on." he lightly pushed Verosika off of him. He saw the caller ID was Lute...

"Who is it," Verosika asked. Her voice was even but she knew who it was by the way Adam looked concerned.

"It's just Lute... I'm sure it's about paperwork or something" he then leaned in to kiss Verosika. But his phone vibrated. Adam looked sorry. He saw she left a message. "I'm sorry."

Verosika got off him and sat next to him. "Just check to see if she's alright."

Adam clicked open the message. He held the phone up to his ear. At first, he heard singing. "Money can't buy you happiness but it can rent you paradise" Adam had heard that song somewhere but where? "Adam...I" her voice slurred. He knew then and there she was drunk. "I'm sorry...I care about you. But I want the best for you" His heart skipped a beat. "I'm just so sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I did that to you. I want you to be happy but it's hard cause I'm unhappy." Adam then heard more of the song. "Feeling lonely on a Saturday night?" That song was so familiar. It was eating him up he knew it from somewhere. "Sorry, I'm drunk as fuck right now I'll just hit the delete message button and you'll never even hear this" He then listed as she unsuccessfully deleted the message. The next part of the song played. "I'm a klown bitch." The phone call then ended.

Adam's stomach dropped. Lute did not need to be there. "Are you okay?" Verosika saw how shaken up Adam looked.

"I'm so sorry I need to go get Lute. She's in trouble. I-" He stood up quickly. Adam was about to panic. Lute was in danger.

"Go to her" Verosika relented and stood up. "You're clearly in love with her."

"Verosika look I'm sorry you're a great girlfriend but I-" Adam felt terrible. Maybe if it were another life he could love her. But his feelings were elsewhere.

"It was never real. You did your job. Everyone has basically forgotten I was in rehab." Verosika was upset but she would get over Adam.

"Thank you I'm sorry," he said.

Verosika kissed Adam on the cheek. "If you ever want to get revenge on our exes you have my number." She walked out of the penthouse.

Adam did feel bad but he had pressing matters. He grabbed his stuff and booked it to his Ferrari 812. It was gold-colored and custom-ordered for Adam. He gunned the car down the highway and found the bar he knew Lute was at. He looked up at the gold sign that illuminated the street. He made a face of disgust looking at the bar. He always hated Mammon.
---
Lute was just sitting there having a pity party for herself. "Hey mate" a man sat down next to her.

Lute looked at the man. He was odd-looking. He looked like some Mardi Gras character. He was wearing a gold and green suit. He had eccentric glasses on. Lute could have sworn she had seen him somewhere. "Who are you?"

"Who am I? Who am I!" he had an eccentric laugh. "You know who I am. I'm Mammon" he smiled looking like a predator.

Lute was drunk but knew this was bad. Mammon had a way of getting his claws into someone and sucking them dry. He was once Fizzarolli's manager. Fizzarolli was another mega pop star. Fizzarolli was now employed at Inferno Soundworks but once upon a time, he worked for Mammon. Mammon was cruel and pushed his performers to the brink. Several performers had done what they could to get away from him even if it was permanent... Eventually, Fizzarolli's lawyer boyfriend caught wind of Mammon's management style. Mammon got canceled and a lot of people came out to talk about the years of abuse from Mammon. Mammon was then banished to the edge of society but like the cockroach, he was he appeared to be doing fine despite the damage. In a perfect world, Lute could handle him. However, she was drunk and vulnerable. "What do you want" she tried to assert her voice.

He then grabbed her hand. "You've worked up quite a tab. I can help pay for it"

Lute wanted to gag. His hand was so sweaty. She violently yanked her hand away. "Fuck off"

"You bitch you're in my bar" he grabbed her arm and yanked her to him. Before he could closer to Lute. He felt a fist in his face.

"Get off her!" Adam yelled and punched him again. Adam knew all too well who Mammon was. Mammon was known to hire desperate people, turn them into stars, and then finally shells of what they used to be. "Lute are you okay?!" he grabbed her face.

"Adam" she slurred. She was not sure if this was real.

Adam then felt someone grab his shoulder and yank him back. He then felt a fist hit his nose. "Fuck" Adam cursed. Mammon then punched Adam right in the gut.

"Adam" Mammon seethed. "I've always wondered what it would be like to hire you. I'm glad I didn't with your fucked up love life"

Adam didn't even respond he left hooked Mammon. "Go fuck yourself." He then kicked Mammon hard in the balls. "Piece of shit" he spat on him. Mammon fell to the ground in a defeated ball. Mammon wanted to get up but he was in so much pain.

Adam looked around. Everyone was stunned. "Anyone want to fight me?" he yelled. Everyone just continued what they were doing. Even the staff didn't mind that Mammon was dying on the floor.

Adam then turned and looked at Lute. Her head was on the counter. She could hear loud music and Adam's muffled voice. "Lute I need you to get up" Adam shook her. She then grunted. Adam shrugged and picked her up. He was happy she didn't weigh much.

He carried her out of the nasty bar/club. He then placed her down trying to open his car door. She started to walk away. "Lute!" he went to grab her.

"Adam why are you here!" she swayed around. "I could have handled him"

"Lute you're drunk let's go home" he now felt bad for what he put her through when he was spiraling. He went to grab her hand but she backed away from here.

"Why are you here? How did you find me?" she yelled at him.

"You left a message." she looked confused. "We can discuss it later but Lute come on. We need to get out of here." He could not deal with the police right now.

"Adam please leave me. I don't wanna be around you it hurts." She was getting upset.

Adam placed his hands on her shoulder. "Lute we can discuss this later but get in-" Before he could finish his sentence Lute kissed him hard on the lips. Adam should have pulled away. But he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her harder. It felt so good to kiss her. Even if it was in front of some nasty bar/club at 3 am. He could then taste the tequila on her tongue. He pulled away. "Lute you're way too drunk right now" She looked like she was about to cry. But instead, she threw up. Right onto Adam. "Oh my god!" he shrieked. Not expecting that.

"I'm sorry" she started crying.

"It's fine. It's fine. I-" Adam then gagged. He then threw up. So here they were vomiting in front of the bar/club where Adam almost killed a guy. It was an interesting twist to the night. He then took his leather jacket off and threw it in front of the building. It could be a nice gift to Mammon.

"I'm sorry" Lute was done vomiting and wiped her face. She barely knew what was going on.

Adam sighed and guided her to the passenger seat. "It's okay Dangertits" he got her into his car.

Adam put the car in drive. Lute was now out. He turned on his Spotify and Laura Branigan's song Self Control came on.

I live among the creatures of the night
I haven't got the will to try and fight

That's how Adam felt right now. He preferred the nighttime. It was so easy to hide in the darkness. He didn't know what to do about Lute. It was obvious they both loved each other. But there was so much to overcome.

Against a new tomorrow, so I guess I'll just believe it
That tomorrow never comes

Adam did not want to deal with tomorrow. Tomorrow was not going to be easy. He and Lute would have to face each other and the consequences of their actions. He looked over at Lute real quick. She looked stunning asleep and drunk. She was wearing a T-shirt and jeans but she made it work.

You take my self, you take my self-control
You take my self, you take my self-control

Lute was the only person Adam would let take control of him. She had a way of getting to him that no other women could do. He loved her more than his ex-wives. He had no idea he could ever feel like this. But when he saw Mammon touch her. A primal instinct took over. He wasn't violent natured but if Lute was to be harmed he'd bring down heaven and hell if it ensured her safety.

He finally pulled up to his building. He parked and carried Lute up bridal style. He enjoyed how small she was. He arrived at his penthouse. He placed her down on the guest bed and shut the door. He needed to sleep but he was too wired. So much had happened. Moreover, he and Lute had bigger problems they would have to deal with tomorrow. He did not want to deal with them.

He hoped Lute would kiss him again though. It felt so right to kiss her. She was made for him. And he was made for her. He didn't think he could love again but here he was. Ready to die for her.

Chapter Text

Lute awoke with the worst headache of her life. She felt like shit. She slowly looked around trying to figure out where she was. She then blinked and saw it was Adam's penthouse! Lute almost vomited from shock. What the hell happened last night... She tried to remember but couldn't. Fuck she had pulled an Adam. She turned over and saw her phone was on the nightstand. She grabbed it and looked up her last call... Enough it was Adam. Shit, she then remembered saying something and then trying to delete the message.

Her stomach then sank. She had called Adam to apologize for pushing him away. She had admitted caring for him. She didn't remember much else but clearly Adam had picked her up. She knew she had to face him. But she'd rather stay here in the safety of the covers. However, her stomach said otherwise. She could feel it rumbling. Maybe she could make a run for it. She stood up and was hit with some dizziness. She sat down quickly. She took a deep breath. She could do this. She could sneak and never see Adam again. She could do this.

She stood up and opened the door slowly. She looked down the hallway and saw nothing. She slowly crept out and down the hallway. She then saw the front door and went to make a run for it. Her hand turned the knob.

"Dangertits" Adam's voice called out.

She held the door knob. She looked at the door. She was so close. "Adam" Was all she said.

"We need to talk" was all Adam said. He sounded so serious. Which of course was not him. He was anything but serious.

Lute relented and turned around. "Okay," she said stoically.

They both sat on the couch. Adam was diagonal from her. He spoke up "Do you remember last night at all."

Lute sat there for a second. "A bit here and there" She looked out the window of LA below. It was around 11 am.

"What do you remember" Adam pressed on.

Lute racked her brain. "I called you and I apologized. You came and picked me up" That was all she could remember at the moment.

"You also kissed me and then threw up on me," Adam said bluntly. He was so tired of beating around the bush. He just wanted to kiss Lute at this point.

Lute blushed. She didn't know what was worse or more embarrassing. "My bad sir" was all she said. She was screaming at herself internally. What was she thinking? She knew Adam liked her... This changed everything.

Adam looked at her strangely. "Sir? That's all I get. Is my bad sir."

Lute looked annoyed and upset. "What do you want Adam? We can't do this" She was thinking of a million reasons why they shouldn't be together.

"Why not" Adam looked at her upset. He refused to accept that. "Lute I love you" He admitted.

There it was. The truth. "Adam I-"

"Lute you're amazing and smart. You understand me better than anyone and I just can't lose you." Adam was spilling his guts. He needed her to hear this. Even if they couldn't be together he needed her to know the truth.

"I know!" Lute interrupted. "You admitted all this to me the night you got drunk in Vegas" Adam then looked shocked. He then sorta remembered saying something to her. "But you said 'I wish things were different. I wish we could be together. But we have our duties' " She then sighed. "And you're right Adam. We can't be together"

"I said that" Adam tried to remember but he was so drunk.

Lute nodded "And I agree. We can't make this work. We have too much going on-"

"Fuck that" Adam cursed. "I'm so sick and tired of everyone thinking they know what's best for me!" He hated being famous for this reason. He didn't have free will to choose what he wanted. "My whole life has been people deciding for me and I'm done. Lute I want you" he looked at her. He had never felt this way for anyone. He didn't give a fuck anymore. He wanted her.

Lute looked away and then back at him. "I want you to." She was tired of fighting her feelings. She was ready to give. If they didn't work out at least she could say they tried.

Before she knew Adam kissed her hard. She returned the kiss harder. He pulled away and smiled. "Please don't throw up on me"

"It was one time" She rolled her eyes and kissed him again. It felt so good to kiss him. It felt right. She pulled away. "I need breakfast" She could feel her stomach grumbling.

"I'll make pancakes" He got up and started making breakfast.

Lute sat there for a second. Unsure of what to think. She was happy she and Adam were somewhat together. But they had so much they would have to deal with. Fans would go crazy. The media would eat them alive. Hell, Sera would probably be concerned. But they could do this together. Lute got up and helped Adam prepare breakfast. It was quiet between them but it was nice.

"This is really good" Lute shoved a pancake in her mouth.

"I can make killed pancakes" Adam shoved some in his mouth.

They then ate in silence. It was nice but it seemed they had a lot to say but just couldn't say it. "So" Adam pushed his plate away.

"Yeah," Lute said and picked up their plates and placed them in the dishwasher.

"Do you wanna see why they call me Dickmaster" he blurted out.

Lute looked at him concerned. "I'm sorry what?" She was not sure what she just heard.

"Jesus are you going to make me say again" His started turning red. He had never been this flustered by anyone woman he wanted to fuck. He was usually suave and seductive.

"Say what" At this point, Lute was messing with him. She liked seeing him flustered. His last two wives were some of the most beautiful people and he was fine with them. Yet here she was making him nervous. He truly did care for her.

Adam blushed and rolled his eyes. He was nervous. "Do you wanna see why they call me dickmaster" he stated.

Lute smiled for the first time in a long time. "Fuck yeah I do"

Adam rushed over to her at the speed of light and picked her up bridal style. "Get ready for the best day of your life.

Lute rolled her eyes. "Let's not get too crazy" She then kissed him as he carried her to his bedroom.
---
Emily was a simple girl. She had graduated college and got a killer internship at Heavenly Tunes. It was then turned into a full-time job. She was happy where she was in her life. She was young and her life was ahead of her. She was excited for what was to come. She liked her co-workers a lot and Sera was a great boss, advisor, and friend. Sure Adam could be somewhat... a hindrance to deal with. But she could handle it. Adam seemed to see her as a little sister. He was always kind to her and offered her advice. Emily liked him he seemed to be different from the tabloids. Sure he was a womanizer but he seemed to have calmed down in the last year or so.

Emily also liked Lute. Lute was so serious and so good with Adam. She had a way of dealing with him like no else. She had been dubbed the "Bitch Whisper" among Heavenly Tunes. Emily thought the name was inappropriate but unfortunately, it was true. Emily saw Lute calm down Adam when Lilith won a Grammy. On top of everything Lute was just good at what she did. She did her paperwork on time. She was good at scheduling and making sure Adam was there. She was professional and straight to the point.

Emily had often wondered if something was going on between Adam and Lute. She remembered seeing the stabbing video and Lute's scream. Emily was shocked at Lute's outburst. She was always so calm and stoic. It seemed when Adam was in danger Lute was not okay. Emily then saw how they seemed to have stolen glances at each other when Adam was performing. Then of course rumors of them sleeping together came out during the world tour. Sera was furious and they were immediately dropped. Emily still wondered but then Veroskia came into play. Adam looked so upset when Sera told him the plan. He had looked at Lute for approval which Emily found odd... Sure she was his manager and it was obvious that Adam should go with Verosika. But the way Adam looked at her... It was something different. Something more profound. Like he had to have her approval above everyone else's.

Then Adam and Verosika started dating and it was a success. Emily was surprised. But everything seemed normal... almost too normal. Emily saw Lute was drinking more which was not a good idea but hey Lute had a stressful job. So Emily gave her the benefit of the doubt. Lute was just stressed. That's what Emily told herself.

But then Emily saw the tabloid of Adam and Lute kissing.

It started off as a normal morning. Emily walked into the grocery store on Sunday morning. She had gotten out of Church and it was now time for grocery shopping. Emily did what she usually did. Made a list and followed through. She then waited in line. Her eyes glanced at the tabloids. They were fake of course and lies. But Emily still liked looking. She hated to admit it but she was a nosy person. Her eyes then saw Adam... She looked closer. He was kissing a woman with white hair in front of a bar. Emily tilted her head and picked up the tabloid. Emily almost screamed in line. Her eyes bulged out of her head. The woman was Lute?! "Holy cow" Emily whispered. She would never cuss especially on a Sunday. This was bad. Adam had cheated on Verosika! He was going to be made the villain! Emily had to fix this.

Emily checked out and booked it to Sera's house. Sera had kindly given Emily her address if they ever needed to talk. Emily ran up to the door. "Sera!" she rang the doorbell excessively.

"Emily?" Sera opened the door confused. Despite it being a Sunday Sera was dressed like it was time for work.

"Ms. Sera" Emily ran in holding the tabloid. "We have a problem!" she threw the tabloid at Sera.

Sera caught it. Confused at Emily's urgency. She then looked at the tabloid. It was just Adam and Lute kissing. It then hit Sera. Adam was not supposed to be kissing Lute. Sera was so used to them being together though it didn't seem out of character for them to do that. But of course, it was now that Adam was with Verosika. Sera sighed and sat on her couch. She touched her head feeling a headache form. "What did those two do now"

Chapter Text

"I was assaulted!" Mammon's voice echoed over social media. "You see this!" Mammon pointed to his black eye. "Adam did this to me! And he will pay quite literally. I'm suing him for all he's worth"

Sera sighed and sat her phone on the coffee table. "What happened Emily?"

"I was grocery shopping and I looked at the tabloids. I then saw Adam kissing Lute. I almost passed out" Emily was still in shock. She did not think her morning would go this way.

Sera looked at the tabloid. It was all about Adam kissing this mystery woman and cheating on Verosika. They were eating it up. Sera then pulled up at Adam's social and it was fans demanding to know the truth. Some were defending him others were canceling him. Verosika's insta was going off as well. Sera knew she would have to contact Verosika's agency. When Verosika's last boyfriend cheated on her it did not end well. "Okay I need to call Adam right now" She dialed for Adam. Nothing. "Let me try again" Nothing. Emily held her breath and watched Sera try to get a hold of Adam. "Oh dear okay I can't reach him."

"What could he possibly be doing?" Emily asked. It was the middle of the day and Adam was usually decent about being on his phone.

---
"That was great Dangertits" Adam laid back down on his bed huffing. They had been having a wild morning, to say the least.

Lute laid on top of him. "I see why they call you Dickmaster" she had never had a man be that good with her. It felt good to finally be together. They had a lot of pent-up energy.

Adam pushed her hair back. "Glad I can do that for you." he leaned in and kissed her. "Ready for round four?"

Lute then kissed him but Adam's phone went off again. "Adam" she pulled away. "Who is that?"

"I don't care come on" he pushed her off of him and pinned her. He then went in to kiss her but the phone went off. "Oh my god!" he pulled away annoyed. The damn phone had been going off for the last thirty minutes but they were enjoying themselves too much to see who it was or care. He finally grabbed the phone and answered it. "What" was all he said.

"Excuse me what." Sera knew Adam did not just say what to her. "Adam" She sounded mad.

Adam's eyes shot out of his head. "I mean Sera hey..."

Lute sat up. Now she was concerned. Sera did not bother anyone on weekends unless it was important.

"Adam" Sera said on the phone. "I'm at your front door. We need to talk" She sounded serious along with mad.

"I'm a bit busy right now can this wait" he was busy with Lute. He knew she was here at his door but it was LA. Everything was close she could just walk home.

"You have five minutes or I'm coming in there." she then hung up.

Adam jumped out of bed. "Shit Sera's here". He started to get dressed.

"Wait Sera's here!" Lute bunched the blanket up to her chest. It was one thing to sleep with Adam. It was another for your boss to come in and yell at her about it. She was also embarrassed.

"Get dressed!" Adam threw her clothes at her.

He then rushed out of his bedroom and swung open the door. He dragged Sera in. "What can I do for you?"

"Adam, are you good?" Sera saw how manic he looked. "Are you on drugs?"

"What no" Adam shook his head. "What can I do for you?" he wanted this over.

"Can we go sit" she gestured to the couch.

"Okay," Adam walked over with her. He felt like a child getting into trouble.

Sera then threw a tabloid at Adam. "Why are you kissing Lute?"

Adam grabbed it. Sure enough, it was him and Lute kissing in front of the bar. "Uhhh...it was CPR."

Sera composed herself at Adam's antics. "Adam, you aren't trained to do CPR. I remember you saying if someone started to die that was on them"

Adam scoffed. "I could be. Youtube is very useful you know!"

Sera fed up continued on. "You're giving CPR while standing?"

Adam shrugged and looked at the tabloid. "They rotated the photo! Photoshop is crazy these days"

Sera just blinked at Adam. She had no expectations for Adam but was still let down. "Adam what happened" she pressed on. "The sooner I know the better"

"We kissed" Lute walked out of his bedroom. She was so embarrassed but had to face Sera. "Is that wrong"

"Lute how nice of you to join us come sit," Sera told her.

Lute slowly walked over. "I don't know what the problem is"

Sera handed her the tabloid. "Lute you are the other woman right now that's the problem." Sera was not surprised overall that Adam and Lute were together. She just wished it had gone down better.

"What? Verosika and I broke up" Adam shrugged.

"Yet you failed to let anyone know," Sera said. "On top of that, Mammon wants to sue. We can do a settlement." Sera wanted this all over.

"Seriously!" Adam yelled. "Fuck no he's not getting a penny"

"I agree" Lute shot in. She hated that Mammon freak.

Sera rubbed her head again. She could feel another migraine coming. "Adam I need you and Verosika to clear the air. I will deal with Mammon this is why we have insurance. Lute" Sera looked at her. "I need you to sign some paperwork Adam and you are essentially co-workers. That's a whole HR thing we will get into tomorrow" Sera stood up. "I will be off" Sera walked out.

Lute and Adam sat there for a second. At least Sera was always to the point. "What now?" Lute asked looking at the door.

Adam shrugged. "Wanna go for round four?" he put his hand on her thigh.

Lute glared at him. "You and Verosika need to break up and clear everything up first. I look like some villain" Lute would rather not have her public image ruined.

"Okay okay" Adam put his hands up. "Give me like an hour"

An hour later Adam and Verosika told everyone what happened on a livestream. Verosika was actually pretty chill about it. Lute wanted to feel bad for breaking them up but she just couldn't. She finally had Adam. Adam then said he would wait and introduce his new girl. Lute was not yet ready to be the girlfriend of a rock star. She knew it was going to be hard. She also needed to sign paperwork.

Adam turned his phone off. "How was that?" He was happy his fans responded well. Verosika was also great.

"Perfect" Lute was beyond happy it went well.

"Well I would say I'm ready for round four but I'm really hungry" he patted his stomach. What do you want for dinner?"

"We can just order in. I'm good with whatever" she shrugged.

Adam grabbed his phone. "Oh by the way are you staying the night?" he was unsure where they go from here. He didn't want to rush into things but he always did.

"I can I don't mind" Lute knew she sounded awkward. "I still wanna live at my place for the time being" She knew Adam would have her live here immediately but they needed to take it slow.

"No, I get it. My dick could kill you" he joked.

"Stop" she rolled her eyes.

They had dinner that night. Happy with each other even if it started in flames. They were nervous for what was to come.

---
Adam and Lute walked in Heavenly Tunes. Adam had his arm around her. It was time to sign some paperwork.

"Are you ready?" he asked. He was ready. Nervous but ready. He knew Lute was the one.

"I'm ready" she leaned onto him. They found HR and signed the paperwork. As Lute signed her name. She felt nervous. This was the start of something. She hoped she could survive Adam and his life.

Chapter Text

"Come on!" Adam held Lute's hand as they ran from the paparazzi. They were both wearing sunglasses and their hoodies. It seemed in the last few days everyone wanted to know who Adam's mystery woman was. Some speculated it was Eve others Lilith. But they of course came out and said no.

Lute had appeared at Adam's shows wearing her exorcist mask. Everyone was obsessed. They had only posted pics of them wearing their mask. Lute liked her mask. She felt safe.

Lute was parkourig along with Adam. She was honestly having fun even if this was chaotic. She jumped over some trash with Adam right behind her. "You're being slow!" she called out behind her.

"Fuck you not all of us can be as fit" Adam called back. They finally rounded the corner and saw the Limo. They both fell into the Limo. Adam sat up. He felt bad for squishing Lute. He sat up "So much for Santa Monica Pier"

"That was way more fun than silly carnival games" Lute smiled. She pulled her hoody back and took her sunglasses off. "I got to punch someone that's the perfect night for me"

"I'm glad" Adam chuckled. The limo went into drive. "Sorry about all that though. It's my life" Adam sat back.

"It's fine really" Lute shrugged. She liked being Adam's mysterious woman. She could see how mad it was diving people. TikTok was filled with conspiracy theories about who Adam was dating.

"Good we should probably let the world know we're datings," Adam said. He did feel bad and the sooner everyone knew they would hopefully leave them alone.

"I will say people think you're dating Lucifer" Lute laughed.

"WHAT?!" Adam sat up.

"Relax," Lute told him. "People think because we're the same height that I'm him. I guess since he stole Lilith he could get with you or something I don't know" Lute hated to admit it but she could not quit laughing when she saw the TikTok. She knew it would piss Adam off like crazy.

"We are officially releasing your face to the world. I would rather not be associated with that snake!" Adam could not handle that. He had already seen the cringy TikTok edits of him and Lucifer getting together. Lute would threaten to pull them up if he didn't get out of bed on time.

"Calm down" Lute assured him. "I just think they're funny"

"Yeah well maybe to you but to me they make me sick" Adam gagged. "Anyways when do you want to make it official"

Lute looked out the window. The sun was setting on LA. "I don't know"

"It's been three weeks Lute. The world wants to know" Adam told her. He was so tired of people hounding him. He didn't know why she was being so difficult.

She then looked at him. "Adam once I date you my whole life will change. Everyone will know who I am. If we even break up I will always be associated with you. I still want to be my own person for just a little bit" She was also not ready for people and society to judge her for everything. When she went public with Adam it was going to be adjustment.

"We're already dating" Adam now sounded hurt. "And what do you mean if we break up?"

"I don't want to break up with you" Lute rushed in. "I'm just saying if we do I'll always be the one that dated a world-famous rockstar" She knew she was so much more.

"Yeah and so will half of LA. Do you have any idea how many women I've fucked?" Adam stated. He was now getting upset. "Lute I love you and I don't plan on leaving"

Lute did feel relief at that. "I know Adam It's just I don't want anyone to judge me for what I do or what I wear. I've always been the one on the sidelines. I'll now be on the center stage"

"And I'll be next to you" Adam held her hand. "Lute come on"

Lute looked at him. She hated how he used his golden eyes to get what he wanted. "Adam I look nothing like Eve or Lilith everyone will see that"

'Why do you think I want you" Adam said. "That's one of the reasons. Truth be told I never thought I would have a Goth GF but here I am" Adam never in a million years he would fall for someone like Lute but here he was. He was happy she was by his side.

Lute rolled her eyes. "Okay fine I'll make an insta post tomorrow"

The drive back to Adam's was nice. Traffic was clearing up and Lute was happy Adam was by her side. She did have a fun night avoiding the paparazzi. She made a mental note to take Adam to a parkour gym. She knew he would enjoy it.
---
Lute lay in bed the next morning. It was early around 6 am. Adam was sound asleep and snoring. He snored loudly and hated being up early. That's what Lute had learned. She on the other hand liked being up early. She knew Adam was not a morning person but it was bad when he didn't have anything to do.

Lute grabbed her phone from the nightstand. She knew she needed to make a post. She scrolled through her pics. She finally saw one of them fist-bumping. Their mask was off and they were holding them. Emily had begged them to take their picture. Lute was happy with that picture. She pulled up Instagram. She debated the caption but posted: Dangertits X Dickmaster

She smiled at the silly nicknames they had for one another. She thought they were great. She set her phone down. Happy with what she did. she slowly fell back asleep.

A few hours later Lute awoke. Adam was missing beside her. He must have been up. Lute looked at her watch. It was around 11 am. She then picked up her phone. It was bombarded with notifications. She had never seen that much. She was afraid her phone was going to short circuit. She sat up. Nervous at what the world thought of her. She opened the app and started reading her socials. Most people were super happy for them. That made Lute happy. She saw a few negative comments here and there fans would come to her defense. It was odd but nice overall.

She got out of bed and walked out of the bedroom. "Hey, dangertits" Adam flipped a pancake. "Want some breakfast?"

"It's more like brunch. Your sleep schedule is fucking me up" she yawned.

"So whenever we have late nights do you still get up early?" Adam asked giving her a plate of pancakes.

"Of course I do" She shoved the pancakes in her mouth. "Gotta be on a schedule" She was not one to sleep in.

"You're so weird" Adam sat next to her. They had a pleasant morning together. Adam liked this. He felt so normal next to her. He didn't feel like a world-famous rock star. Or some guy who had been divorced twice. He was just Adam. It was just Adam and Lute.
---
A few days later

"That concludes the meeting," Sera told the board room. They were all discussing plans for Adam's next world tour. It would be here in a few months. "Adam and Lute I need you to stay"

"Shit are we in trouble" Adam groaned and leaned back into the chair. He racked his brain for what he could have done. He did not want to endure a lecture from Sera.

"No Adam" Sera sighed. He was so difficult. "I want to say congratulations. I know the last few weeks have not been easy. But you two did a good job."

"Thank you" Lute was surprised but happy.

"Keep up the good work," Sera told them. She was happy that Adam was happy. It made her life easy. She was also happy he was no longer sleeping around or bitching about his exes. Lute did a good job of keeping him grounded. She did earn the title bitch whisperer.

"See ya later!" Adam grabbed Lute's hand and they walked out of there. "Damn I was so scared" he clucthed his chest. "I was like what did do now?"

"I was surprised she was happy for us. But I guess that's good. We have the Sera stamp of approval" Lute was happy everything was so far working out.

They stepped onto the elevator. Adams's phone then dinged. "Oh it's Verosika" he wondered what she wanted.

"What does she want" Lute could feel herself getting protected. She knew Veroksika was not a threat but still, she did sorta date Adam.

"She wants to do paintball next week" Adam had a feeling this was a revenge plan. "She says you're invited also"

Lute smiled. "Hell yeah. I love paintball"

Adam saw her smile and eyes. It was the same look she had in Rome when discussing gladiatorial combat. She was ready for blood. "I hope we don't get in trouble" he texted Verosika they would be there.

Chapter Text

Paintball day was here. Lute was ready for blood. Adam was nervous not for paintball but for the way Lute was going to act. She was unhinged when it came to combat. They arrived at the paintball field. It was about an hour outside LA. It was a massive gated field. There were structures to hide and doge in. There were also random walls placed or barriers around the area.

"I'm so excited" Lute looked out the window as they pulled in. She had so many ideas on how to win.

"Please don't kill anyone. I don't think Sera will be too pleased." Adam could see Lute ending up on the news.

They got out and Verosika greeted them. "Hey guys" she was wearing camo gear. She was ready. "I already have a space for us. If you want to follow"

Adam and Lute followed her in. She showed them the protective gear and guns. "So what's the plan?" Lute touched her gun.

"As you may know my last boyfriend Bltizo cheated on me" she sneered. "I want revenge"

"I knew that's why we're here!" Adam was onto her.

Verosika rolled her eyes. "He's here with his PI firm and he brought his stupid boyfriend. I guess for some team bonding bullshit" When Verosika stalked Bltizo she knew this was his chance. "Anyways I wanna take him down."

"I need to warn you guys" Lute held her paintball gun. "I'm going to get crazy."

"Yeah I know your past" Verosika stated. "You shot your friend's eye out. Why else do you think you're here? I need someone good at their job and not afraid to get dirty."

"What about me?" Adam asked.

"You're useless compared to your girlfriend" Verosika turned to Lute. "Think you can do it?"

Lute clutched the gun. "I know I can. Who do I take out first."

Verosika pulled out her phone. "Her name is Millie. She's the fighter of the group." Verosika showed her a picture on Instagram. "Her weakness is her husband do what you will with that"

"What about me? Everyone is getting these cool missions" Adam complained.

Verosika rolled her eyes. "You can take down Stolas. He's easy"

Adam knew who he was. He was the owl-looking man. "Okay cool"

"Anyways I take Blitzo. It will be a piece of cake." Verosika was ready to humiliate Blitzo in front of his friends and family. "Are we ready?"

They both nodded.

---
Before the game started everyone gathered around the center. Blitzo saw Verosika and just flipped her off. Verosika wanted to scream at him but
Lute and Adam held her back. It seemed the teams were Verosika, Adam, and Lute. The other team was Blitzo, Millie, Moxie, and Stolas. There was another random team but no one gave a shit who they were. Bltizo and Stola's daughters were also here but they were at the bleachers on their phones. They looked like they would rather be anywhere else but here.

"I'm here!" a British voice shrieked. Everyone looked over. It was a tall woman and a man. He looked like he was from the wild west.

"Stella?" Stola's voice shook with fear. "What are you doing here?"

"Revenge" she sneered. The man next to her was quiet. Lute saw how he was studying Stolas. Before anyone else could talk the rules were reviewed then it was time to play.

The game was simple. One hit and it was over. That includes all accessories they might be carrying: gun, mask, pack, shoe, etc. If the paint came from even the same team you were still out. They walked to their own corners.

"Alright Lute go for Millie" Verosika reminded her.

Lute nodded. Adam was going to stay near Lute for safety. A bell went off signaling it was time. Lute took a deep breath and clenched her gun. She was ready.

She immediately ran around the barriers looking for Millie. Sure enough, Millie was in the middle of the arena. Moxie was behind her using her as a shield. Lute immediately shot at her. Millie moved with grace and ease. Moxie was not as lucky. He did move but clumsily.

"Adam got for the possum-looking man" Lute directed him as she was running.

"Aye aye captain" Adam spilt off from her.

"Millie!" Lute screamed. "Come out!" she walked around the maze-like structures. She held her gun ready to fire.

"Not a chance you generic goth girl who gets her clothes from the discount section of Hot Topic" Millie yelled back aggressively. She had a thick Texan accent.

Lute was now furious. She saw Millie run by and shot at her. She missed. Millie was fast. Lute ran around a corner. Millie had her gun ready and shot at Lute. Lute dodged and ducked behind a wall. She turned and looked down the corner Millie was gone. Lute ran around looking for her. She then locked eyes with Millie. As Millie went to shoot another person ran by Lute. Lute grabbed him and used him as a shield.

"The hell?!" the guy yelled.

"Shut up" Lute growled and used him as a shield. Paint bounced off him. Lute was shooting at Millie. Lute threw the guy down and ran to the center. As she did she saw Adam and Moxie.

"Time to face your doom" Adam smiled at the small man.

"Please be gentle" Moxie's gun was knocked out of his hand.

Adam then shot Moxie in the chest. It was anticlimactic. "That was easy"

"I've been shot!" Moxie gasped.

"Moxie!!" Millie gasped and ran to his side. As she did Lute shot at her. Millie was able to avoid her. Millie then shot at Adam. Luet grabbed his hand and they climbed up a small tower. It was only six or so feet off the ground but offered an aerial view.

Lute shot at Millie from the tower but she ran into an area out of view. Moxie walked off and went to sit with Loona and Octavia. "We need to get her" Lute fumed. She was not going to be insulted.

"Well I got Moxie" Adam bragged.

"Let's go" Lute stood up. As Adam joined her he was shot.

"Adam!" Lute screamed. She ran over to him. She saw it was the odd man who had come with Stella he vanished when she looked over at him.

Adam was lying on the ground. Staring up at the sky. He held his stomach where the yellow paintball hit him. "I'm sorry I couldn't follow you"

"I'm not leaving!" she told him.

"Go" he looked at the sky. "Go one live. Win for me" he then coughed.

"I will I promise!" Lute stood up. "Hey STELLA you fucking bitch I'm going to rip your arms off and beat you with them" She then ran off.

Adam sat up and looked around. "Imma get a beer."

Lute had issues where she ran into problems headfirst. She was out for blood. She ran to another corner where a bunch of large tires were stationed.

"If anyone is going to kill Blitzo it's gonna be me bitch!" Verosika shrieked at Stella. She, Stella, and Blitzo were in a shoot-out. No one was moving.

"He took my husband!" Stella shrieked. Her voice annoyed Lute.

As Lute went to shoot Blitzo she heard a paintball cock behind her. "Don't do that" a Texan accent warned.

Lute slowly turned around and faced Millie. Lute held a paintball grenade. One move and it was over. They were now in a stalemate. "You dumb ass Texas cock sucking bitch I can kill us both now"

"Let's call a truce," Millie said. "We get Stella and Striker out and then kill each other"

"I guess Striker is the guy she brought," Lute asked.

"Yes," she answered.

"Deal" Lute lowered the grenade. "Don't make me regret this"

The girls slowly snuck around to get Stella in their view. She was behind a tire and a small wall. "I will make you regret being born!" Stella screamed. "I will-" Before she could finish her sentence Lute and Millie shot her in the chest. "FUCK!" she yelled and walked off. The girls high-fived one another.

"Not bad" Blizto walked up.

"Blitzo!" Verosika ran out with her gun.

"WAIT" Lute yelled. "We're a team for now. We need to get Striker"

"What?!" Verosika huffed.

"We made a deal," Millie said. "We kill him and then resume killing one another"

"Sounds good he did get Stolas" Blitzo stated.

"Good!" Verosika said her voice filled with joy.

The four of them all walked around looking for Striker. He was good at what he did. Blitzo explained Stella had hired him to bother Stolas. Verosika found joy in that. They were then shot at. Millie was hit first. She screamed and fell. Everyone took cover. Striker was as fast as Millie. Lute had an advantage of Striker gunning for Blitzo.

"Bring it on you ugly ass bitch!" Blitzo yelled at Striker and shot at him. Striker dodged with ease. Blitzo ran and then tripped. As Striker pointed the gun at Blitzo Verosika shot Striker.

Striker looked angry. "Shit" he then walked away defeated.

"Verosika aren't you a sight for sore eyes" Blitzo had an awkward laugh.

"Blitzo" she dragged the o out. "I'm going to enjoy this" She then shot him point blank.

"Yeah, I deserved that" he shrugged.

"We won!" Lute smiled. She loved winning.

"I feel better. Come on I need a drink" Verosika walked out along with Lute. Blitzo trailed behind them. As they walked to the concessions screaming was heard.

"Mom stop!" Octavia screamed.

"I hate you!" Stella shrieked holding a knife at Stolas. Moxie was watching in horror. Loona was on her phone. Adam was watching while enjoying his beer and soft pretzel. He loved dinner and a show.

"Stella dear" Stolas was trying to keep his voice even. "Let's just talk this out"

"I'm done talking!" she lunged at him. Blitzo shoved Verosika and Lute out of the way. He ran to Stolas and yanked him away at a moment's notice. Stella was now fuming. Before anyone could react Striker appeared and punched Blitzo.

"Fuck!" Blitzo held his face. He was now angry. He did not sign up for this.

Millie then ran up to Striker and started to fight him. Lute could see she was going to lose and quickly joined in. Adam quickly ran to subdue Stella. Everyone was now fighting one another. It was a full-on brawl.

---
The county jail was interesting, to say the least. Especially in nowhere California. When the mugshots were taken everyone was different. Stella had a black eye and looked pissed. Striker looked like a psychopath. Adam and Verosika posed like they were in Vogue. Lute, Moxie, and Stolas looked like they were about to shit themselves. Blitzo smirked along with Millie.

Stella and Striker were in another cell. Everyone else was sharing one. "Loona should get us out soon she knows the drill" Blitzo held the cell bars.

"Sorry about all this" Stolas apologized. "We're in the middle of a divorce"

"Thank god," Adam said. He knew what an ugly marriage looked like but that one took the cake.

"Well Blitzo I no longer hate you" Verosika stood next to him. "You have to deal with that crazy bitch now. That gives me peace" She knew Stella would be a huge issue for a long time. She could live with that.

He rolled his eyes. "Thanks, Verosika"

"I had a great day today" Millie spoke up. She had not had that much fun in a long time.

"Same even though I died way too early" Moxie glared at Adam.

"Lute, I'm sorry I called you a generic goth girl who gets her clothes from the discount section of Hot Topic." Millie apologized.

"I'm sorry I called you a dumb ass Texas cock sucking bitch" Lute responded.

"We should team up again you're pretty good," Millie told her.

"Thanks," Lute said.

Another hour later they were out. Thankfully all charges were dropped. Most importantly Sera was not made aware of any of this. That was all that mattered. The group also decided they would do this again. Everyone did have fun.

"Thanks, guys" Verosika walked up to them. They were back at the paintball place. The sun was setting. "Good job Lute"

"Thanks" Lute smiled.

"Adam you did terrible learn from Lute how to fight" Verosika walked away.

"What a day" Lute yawned. They walked to his car.

"Hey, Lute wanna see something" Adam had a mischievous smile.

"I don't wanna see your dick" Lute sighed.

"No not that look!" Adam handed her what appeared to be a piece of paper. Upon closer inspection, Lute saw what it was.

"Adam! Why do you have our mugshots!" She yelled.

"It's so funny" he laughed. "You look so scared"

"I was!" Lute defended herself. "If Sera knew she would kill us"

"But she doesn't know" Adam assured her. "This is too funny to let go of"

Lute rolled her eyes. It was funny even if she didn't want to admit it. That night they went back to Lute's. She found some old photo frames and framed the pictures. They were something, to say the least. She hoped Sera would never see them.

That night she and Adam watched TV together. This was the first time Lute felt normal. Adam wasn't some famous rockstar but just a normal boyfriend who was bad at paintball. She hoped this feeling would last.

Chapter Text

Adam's world tour was back in swing. It was hectic, to say the least. Lute was running alongside him backstage. "We have to hurry!" she was clutching her clipboard.

"What do you think we're fucking doing!?" Adam snapped back at her. He was pissed that Lute was freaking out about being late. Dinner went longer than expected. She had acted like if he wasn't on stage the universe would explode. But he so badly wanted to take Lute out before his concert. Adam got closer to his stage entrance.

"Here's your mask!" Emily threw it at Adam. She had wanted to work on tour to get a better understanding of the industry.

Adam caught it in mid-air and slipped it on. "Thanks Em"

"Good luck" Lute nodded as she shoved him to the stage.

"Careful" Adam snapped back not wanting to get hurt. He then appeared on stage. The crowd was going wild. He loved hearing how excited everyone was. "Hello, Las Vegas!" his voice boomed over the mic. "Are we ready to rock!" The crowd went wild. Adam strummed his guitar and started his new hit.

"I'd been running circles tryna' figure out things I didn't know" He sang. "Oh, all the things you told me were they meaningless? I needed to know
So I take another lap while your knife was thru my back
Told you I ain't mad so let's stop before we crash"

Lute watched him from the sidelines. He was so happy. He was in his element. He was naturally good at what he did. She smiled. "What's his new song called?" Emily asked.

Lute looked away and looked at Emily. "Bleed. He wrote it about Eve." Lute still rememberd when he started the song. It was all the way back in Canada.

Emily nodded. She was not one to listen to the mainstream hits but enjoyed Adam's work nevertheless. "It's catchy"

"Of course it is. It's Adam singing" Lute told her.

"It will be so romantic when he writes you a song" Emily's eyes lit up and looked at Lute. She loved romance so much.

"Oh yeah," Lute blushed. She didn't realize but she and Adam were songwriting material. After all his two ex-wives were the reason he was double platinum.

"Has everything been going well?" Emily asked. She wanted Adam and Lute to be the endgame. She wanted them to both be happy. They were cut out for one another.

"Yes," Lute smiled. "Before we left for the tour Adam took me to an all-inclusive resort for the both of us" She knew it would be a while before they could relax like that. They had also spent three days in bed which was very much needed.

"That's good I know we are about to be so busy but I can't wait" Emily then rambled on about how excited she was. Lute blocked her out and watched Adam perform. He was insanely talented.

The show then wrapped up. "Goodnight Vegas!" he walked off stage. He immediately handed his mask to Emily.

"Good job Adam" Emily congratulated him and held his mask.

"You did alright" Lute kissed him and then pulled away. "You smell disgusting"

"Thanks, babe" He winked at her. "Maybe you can wash the sweat off me"

Lute rolled her eyes. She smacked Adam on the shoulder. "Be normal" Lute saw how Emily was blushing. "Anyways we have reservations at The Venetian we need to get to" Adam had begged Lute to get that hotel since it was modeled off of Venice Italy. Adam went on and on about how cool it was.

"Can we ride the little boat they have" Adam wanted to explore the hotel so bad.

"If we can" Lute pulled out her clipboard. "We have a lot we need to do. You have rehearsal all day tomorrow then the show. The next day you then leave around 9 am from Nashville" Adam wanted to snatch the clipboard from her. She was obsessed with following the schedule.

Adam rolled his eyes. "Ugh you and that damn clipboard"

"We are on a schedule," Lute told him. She knew Adam was going to have a hard time adjusting to his world tour schedule after months of not being on one.

"Remember" Emily added. "We don't want to disappoint Sera"

"What she said," Lute told him. "Now come on we need to get you to the hotel. We're already fifteen minutes behind" She took his hand.

They walked down the corridor to leave. "Wait Lute" he snatched his hand from her. He just wanted to have fun. He was not a fan of all these rules and where he needed to be.

"Can we hurry" she looked at her clipboard we were running late.

"I don't think we're on the same page," Adam told her. He wanted her to relax.

"I'm on page five" Lute showed him.

"No Lute" he sighed and took the clipboard. "You need to relax"

"Adam I'm your manager and we're on tour. I will relax when I'm dead or we're done" She snatched the board back. She just wanted everything to go well.

"As your boss, I demand that we go to a bar and you lighten up," Adam told her his voice laced with authority.

"Excuse me" She looked at him with shock. He was never this authoritative with her. It was interesting, to say the least.

"Dangertits we are going to get plastered tonight" He threw the clipboard away from her. He wanted to have a good time in Vegas.
---
Lute was at the same bar she was last time with Adam. Poison. The bar had not changed at all. It was still tacky and smelly. The floor was sticky which Lute hated.

She was wearing her mask alongside Adam. They were hiding in plain sight. She sipped her rum and coke. "Tonight was so awesome!" Adam's mask lit up. "Everyone loves the song"

"Of course, they do it's so good," Lute told him.

"I fucking rock!" Adam took a shot. Lute rolled her eyes under the mask. She took another shot. "Wanna dance" he looked at her.

"What" Lute was now sober. She did not want to dance.

"Come on. Let's dance" he got up and held his hand out.

"I don't know sir" Lute could feel herself blushing. Happy she was wearing her mask.

"I won't judge" he grabbed her hand. "You need to loosen up" he pulled her to him.

"Let me take another shot" She quickly downed it. She did not want to be sober.

Adam let her to the dance floor. The music was booming and it was dark. Lute held onto Adam's hand like a line. She was nervous. Adam spun her to him. "Come on like this" he started swaying her around.

Lute smiled and her LED mask smiled along with her. She liked feeling Adam on her. She smiled as she spun around. The lights were blurring creating a fuzzy picture. She enjoyed the alcohol running through her veins. It made her feel free and happy. She then started to laugh.

"Glad you're finally having fun dangertits" Adam spun her around some more.

"Thank you sir" she hiccuped. She then held onto him by his shoulders. She liked feeling his muscular biceps. "You did great tonight"

"Hell yeah, I did" his mask lit up. They stayed like that for another half hour. Lute loved clinging onto Adam. He felt like home to her.

"We better head back" she yawned. "We have a long day tomorrow" she was still not willing to screw the schedule up.

"Fine" Adam groaned. He gabbed Lute by the hand and they walked out of the bar. She was more intoxicated than him. He loved seeing her drunk. The strip was illuminated with the bright lights. People were out and about. It was nice out. It was nice not being noticed. Lute leaned onto Adam as they walked to the hotel. As they walked they saw a bride and groom walk out of a twenty-four-hour marriage chapel.

"Look at them" Lute sighed. The bride and groom looked so happy. She wondered (and hoped) she could have that one day.

Adam snorted. "Yeah, it's all fun and games before they cheat. Fuck marriage" Adam was done with it all. He had not one but two extravagant marriages that blew up.

"You don't ever want to get married?" Lute looked ahead. She no longer wanted to look at the bride and groom. She was happy she had the mask on. She didn't want Adam to see the disappointment on her face.

"Fuck no. I did it twice and look at what happened. It's nothing but disappointment and too many high expectations." He shrugged. "It's also too much planning and shit."

Lute swallowed the lump in her throat. "Yeah..." was all she said.

Adam rambled on the rest of the night. Lute was too busy thinking about what Adam said. She did not want to marriage to be off the table but it appeared Adam wasn't even going to consider it. It bothered her. She was different from Lilith and Eve. She was Lute. She would never hurt Adam. She would do anything for him.

That night they lay side by side with one another. Adam had passed out. Lute stared up at the ceiling. She needed to get over herself. Marriage was stupid to her. It was just a man shackling himself to a woman. Marriage was just a tradition to keep women chained to the system. That's what she told herself anyway. Lute turned and looked at a sleeping Adam. She sighed she wanted Adam to marry her. She wanted to spend the rest of her life with him. She hoped they could last... She just needed to survive the world tour and then she could discuss marriage with him. She could change Adam. She knew she could.

Chapter Text

It had been three weeks since Las Vegas. All was well to Adam but not to Lute. She was awake first no surprise. It was one of the few off days they were going to get. She and Adam were in a hotel in NYC. She looked at his sleeping form. He was snoring loudly. It was a long night with the rain delay. They didn't get started till around 10 pm. Meaning the show wrapped around 1 am but they still had to clean up and all that. At least they were off.

Lute kept thinking about his comment on marriage. It hurt her. She really did want to marry him. Maybe not now but eventually. Yes, Lilith and Eve did a number on him but she was different. She didn't want an extravagant wedding they could do something simple. Something easy just as long as she got a ring. She looked at her ring finger wishing she could have something to grace it with.

She got out of bed and got dressed for the day. She knew Adam was going to want to stay in bed all day. She knew he was tired but wished they could do more than have sex or sleep. That's what they did in their off time these days. As she was putting on her shoes she heard Adam stir. "Dangertits," he said. He still sounded tired. "What are you doing?"

"Getting ready. I'm going to pick up some breakfast" she told him.

"Can you get me like five coffees please?" he asked. "I'm so tired" Adam had no idea how Lute had energy after last night. He was exhausted.

"Yup I'll do that." she started her journey into the city. They were in the heart of NYC so she knew a coffee shop was nearby.

She walked out of the hotel and was met with the city. It was cloudy out and everything was still wet from the storm. Lute didn't mind it though. She liked overcast weather. That was one downside to living in LA. She hated the constant sunny weather. She walked around not minding she was a little lost. She liked NYC and its tall towers. She had grown up in a small town in the middle of nowhere so big cities still excited her.

She finally found a small coffee shop. She walked in and was greeted with the smell of coffee. It was cute on the inside. There were bookshelves lining the walls and areas to sit and read. Maybe in another life, if she went to school at NYU she could have studied here. She looked at the menu and ordered her and Adam some coffee and pastries. She knew he would like the blueberry muffin. It was funny despite dating Adam she thought she would learn more about him but it seemed she already knew everything. His favorite foods were no surprise. Hobbies and what he liked to do were the same. It felt like they had already been dating before they got together.

She picked up the drinks and took one last look around the coffee shop. She knew the next time they were in NYC stop here. She really wanted to spend time here however Adam's busy schedule said otherwise for now at least. She walked back to the hotel. It was strange now that she and Adam shared a hotel suite. She was so used to having a small room when they were on tour. Now here she was in hotel rooms that could eat her apartment.

"I'm back," she said as the elevator door opened. She walked into the suite. It was dark as all the curtains were closed. She set the drinks and pastries on the countertop. She went around and opened the curtains. The view was mesmerizing. She loved seeing the city below.

"Hey," Adam groaned. He was wearing his robe and looked rough. He then plopped onto the couch face first. "I feel like shit"

"You look like it" Lute walked over and grabbed his coffee. She then handed it to him. "Here you go"

Adam sat up and gulped his coffee down. "Thanks" he set the empty cup on the coffee table.

"I knew you would inhale it so here's another" She handed it to him.

He smiled. "You know me all too well" he sipped his drink.

"I really do" She sat next to him. "So what do you want to do today?"

"Nothing" Adam leaned back into the couch. "I want to watch TV and sleep. Maybe we can have sex if I'm up to it"

Lute was not surprised. "The coffee shop I was at was cute. Maybe we could run down there tonight.

"I'm good" Adam interrupted. "I'm just tired and too famous. I don't want to deal with fans today." That was a double-edged sword for Adam. He loved the attention but at the same time, it was annoying when he wanted to be normal.

"Got it," Lute said. "I might go there with Emily instead."

Adam shrugged "Works for me."

A few hours went by and Lute headed out. Adam was already asleep despite it being around 6:30 pm. She did feel bad he was tired but at the same time, she wanted to explore the city with him.

"Hey Lute" Emily greeted her in the lobby. "Thanks for inviting me" she sounded so happy as usual.

"Of course" Lute didn't have the heart to tell her that she was her second pick.

"How's your day been?" Emily asked as they walked outside.

"Fine" Lute shrugged. "Adam's tired so you know we didn't do much"

"Oh my gosh yes, it was so exhausting last night. I didn't think the weather would ever clear up." Poor Emily was not used to staying up that late.

As they walked to the coffee shop Emily talked about anything and everything. Lute didn't mind though. She liked how Emily was excited about everything. "I can't wait to go to Rome" Emily gushed. "I really want to see the Vatican"

"When we go I can give you a tour of it. I remember it pretty well" Lute was excited to see the coliseum again.

"That would be amazing!" Emily smiled.

They arrived at the coffee shop. Lute was happy she was back and Emily was company so far. They ordered and took their seats in a corner.

"This place is so cute" Emily looked around. "I would have loved to have been here in my college days"

"Same" Lute sipped her coffee.

"Are you okay Lute?" Emily tilted her head. "You don't talk a lot in general but you seem more quiet. Are you and Adam good?" Emily had seen Lute become more distant in the last few weeks.

Lute set her drink down and sighed. "Adam never wants to get married again."

"Oh," Emily looked sad. "I'm sorry"

"Yeah," Lute said.

"He might come around," Emily said trying to cheer Lute up. "His last two marriages didn't end well. He's probably just scared." Emily hadn't been there when all that went down. Sera was though and talked about it occasionally. All Emily knew was it was ugly.

Lute just shrugged. She did not want to talk about this. She was never good at discussing her feelings.

"He loves you though" Emily added in. "I've never seen him look at someone the way he looks at you" Emily had seen Adam with countless women. He always looked bored or disinterested. But with Lute. Adam looked happy.

"True" Lute sighed. She knew she shouldn't tell Emily all her problems but Emily was easy to talk to.

The rest of the evening went well. Emily talked about how excited she was for Europe. She was excited to see all the basilicas and cathedrals. Lute was just excited for a change of pace. She did enjoy Adam's world tours.

"Thanks for tonight" Emily walked into the lobby with Lute.

"Of course" Lute nodded. Emily was actually pleasant to be around. She was very positive and happy. Lute did enjoy that about her. It was nice to see someone who had not been beaten down by life.

"I'll see you tomorrow" Emily hugged Lute. Lute was surprised but hugged her back. Emily pulled away. "Don't worry Lute. Adam loves you"

Lute arrived back at the hotel suite. Adam was passed out on the couch. Lute turned the TV off and put a blanket over him. She looked at him. He looked exhausted. She could see the bags forming under his eyes. His beard was growing in. She knew she needed to get over the whole marriage thing...for now. Adam did love her. She wasn't just another notch on his bedpost. She was here to stay.

Chapter Text

"Berlin Germany, I love you!" Adam yelled into the microphone. He started his guitar solo and the crowd ate it up. So far he was feeling better about everything. Life was great.

Lute watched him happy he was in his element. So far Europe had been going well. The next stop was Rome and Lute was excited along with Emily. "He's doing well" Emily smiled.

"He is" Was all Lute said.

The show ended and Adam walked over to Lute. "That was a killer show!"

"You did great Adam!" Emily encouraged him and took his mask.

"You did good," Lute said handing him a water bottle.

Adam gulped down the water. "Okay I am wired let's go out tonight!" Adam smiled.

"Sir" Lute helped up her clipboard. "You have rehearsals at ten and then costume fittings at twelve. We have a busy day tomorrow"

"Lute lighten up," Emily said kindly. "look at Adam he just wants to have fun"

"Yeah come on Lute!" Adam gave her his puppy dog eyes.

"Fine" Lute stated. "BUT we need to be back by 3 am and we are wearing our mask". Lute's mask was attached to her side. Emily handed Adam his mask.

"Woohoo she said yes!" Adam grabbed her hand. "Bye, Emily!"

"Goodbye!" Emily waved. Happy to see Adam happy. She really wanted Lute to work out for Adam. She always felt bad about Lilith and Eve. She wasn't around when it happened but she could see Sera was. Sera still was not okay with any of it. She developed a motherly bond with Adam. Emily could see that Sera still wanted to protect him.

"I researched Berlin"Adam dragged Lute out of the concert hall. "There's a ton of underground music clubs. I want to go to one." Adam had dreamed of performing at one of these venues.

"Wait" Lute stopped in her steps. "Mask" she threw her on.

"Ughh fine" Adam put his mask on. He liked wearing but he had just worn it for the last three hours.

"So where to first?" Lute asked. Germany was nice in the summer. It was hot but not unbearable. Lute was excited to be around Adam. It seems they were going back to their old ways.

"There's this new underground club called LUX. I've seen everyone raving about" Adam explained. "I just want to go listen to music, dance, and drink"

"That does sound nice" Lute knew she needed to lighten up. The last weeks had been a lot. She needed to be more like Adam and have fun.

They walked a little longer. Lute enjoyed the German city. She did love to see all these different places when on tour. "Here we are" Adam stopped in front of a gate. It had two ducks kissing on it.

"Odd choice but lead the way," Lute said.

They walked into the club. The music was getting louder. Soon bright lights led the way. Adam and Lute walked down a staircase and were greeted by the lights and music. Everyone was dancing or drinking. There was a dance floor, bar, booths, and even an area for live music. The decor was interesting. It resembled a circus of sorts. "Let's get shots!" Adam took Lute's hand they walked to the bar.

"That was much needed" Lute slammed the shot down.

"For real" Adam took another. "Wanna dance?" he held out his hand.

Lute rolled her eyes and took his hand. They were in the middle of the dance floor laughing and dancing like fools. It was funny how no one knew who they were. Adam looked at Lute happy she was happy. She was so different from Lilith and Eve. Lute knew how to have fun.

The dancing was then stopped when an announcement was made. "Hello everyone." a man announced. "It's now time for some live music. First, we have the owner of LUX here with us tonight! Lucifer Morningstar!" Lute looked at Adam in shock. Adam's mask was covering up whatever emotion he was feeling.

"Hello everyone" Lucifer smiled. "Thank you for joining me tonight. It's actually funny. My wife's ex-husband Adam is in Berlin tonight. Apparently, he sold out a show with his talent" Everyone booed. "Well I say let's show Berlin what real talent looks like"

He then started to perform on his piano. Adam was infuriated and stormed off. Lute ran after him. "Sir!" she made sure not to say his name. "Sir!" she grabbed his shoulder and turned him towards her. "Adam" she whispered.

"What Lute. What!" he yelled through the mask. He was beyond upset. He hated Lucifer.

"I have laxatives" Lute pulled them out of her purse. "I can't shit when I'm traveling." she shook the bag of white powder. It honestly looked like cocaine to Adam. "I'm willing to forgo taking a shit that if it means fucking Lucifer over" Lute wanted to kill Lucifer. How dare he mock Adam? Adam was so much more talented than Lucifer.

Adam pulled Lute into a hug. "I love you so much"

Lute embraced him. "I love you too" she pulled away. "Now let me go make Lucifer shit his brains out"

The next few hours were the best in Adam's life. Lute had bought a drink for Lucifer of course pouring the white powder in there. She gave the drink to some rabid fan girl to give to Lucifer. Lucifer took the drink happily. Unaware of the dangers.

"He shouldn't take drinks from strangers," Lute said sipping her Cosmo.

"Shh he's about to go on stage" Adam smiled. His mask was lit up with a smile.
---
"I've won Grammies but that didn't even compare to Lucifer shitting himself." Adam was laughing. "ON STAGE" he couldn't quit laughing.

"I know right" Lute took her mask off to wipe a tear. "Talk about a shitshow"

"I didn't know a white suit could turn brown so fast" Adam took his mask as well. He needed fresh air. They were currently walking back to the hotel. It was now around 3 am. Adam was far from tired. He could not wait to see what the tabloids were going to say. He was going to print out each one and make a scrapbook.

"The look on his face!" Lute stopped walking and just laughed.

"I know right!" Adam then felt his phone ring. It was Sera. "Oh shit" he showed the phone to Lute. He then answered putting the phone on speaker. "Hey Sera"

"Adam did you make Lucifer shit himself at the club." Sera cut to the chase.

Lute had to suppress a laugh. "No," Adam said calmly. "I've been at the hotel"

"Well, Emily told me you went clubbing with Lute." Sera countered back. "Adam did you make Lucifer shit himself," she asked again.

"Sera do you think I just looked at him and make him shit himself. Because if so then I fucking rock"

He heard breathing. Sera then continued. "Sources say two people had masks on at the club that looked like you and Lute. Adam, I can't believe I'm saying this but don't harass other people, especially your ex-wife's husband. Do you have any idea how bad this could look" Sera saw the tabloids blowing up and just knew it was Adam and Lute. Call it a mother intuition if you will.

"Oh my god Sera I didn't make the man poop himself!" Adam exclaimed. He wasn't lying it was technically Lute.

"Goodnight Adam" Sera sighed and hung up.

Adam and Lute then burst into laughter again. "Oh my god" Adam was now kneeling over. "This is the best night ever"

"You're welcome" Lute bragged. "I did all of it"

Adam stood up and hugged her. "Thank you for the best night ever"

"Of course" she pulled away and looked at him. "Do you think we're awful people"

"No" Adam defended himself. "Lucifer started it by stealing Lilith from me"

"That makes sense" Lute nodded. "I don't know why she chose him over you." Lute loved Adam. How he made her laugh. How good of a singer he is. How he was always on board for craziness.

"That's a good question" Adam leaned onto her. They continued to walk to the hotel. Adam didn't know how much he loved Lute until now. She was ready to do anything for him. That filled him up with so much joy. He loved her. However, he was still scared of marriage. He was going to avoid talking about it all cost. He prayed Lute would as well. She didn't seem like marriage material after all so that was good. She would hate being married to him.

Lute held onto Adam's hand as they walked back. She loved being around him and doing his bidding. She wished she could have killed Lucifer but this could do for now... She wondered how Lucifer was going to be tomorrow. But that was an issue for tomorrow. For now, Lute was going to enjoy her time with Adam.

Chapter Text

5 years later

Lute awoke early. She had always been the one to wake up early. Thankfully, it wasn't due to pain this time but simply naturally waking her up. She got out of bed and headed to the kitchen to start the morning. She looked out the window and was glad to see the autumn leaves were in full season. She loved the fall weather. It was her favorite. She made some black coffee and sat at the dining room table. She pulled out her Kindle and started reading.

An hour went by, and she finished up a chapter. She was currently reading Carrie. She always liked how Carrie got her revenge on the town that did her wrong. She just wished Carrie hadn't died, but had taken over the world. Lute showered and got ready for work. She enjoyed her job. It was very relaxing.

She drove her Audi through the beautiful scenery and mountains. She arrived at the small town she proudly called her home and parked in front of the gym. She was a personal trainer. She knew she didn't need to work. She had more money than she ever thought was possible. But she needed something to do during the day, or she would go mad.

"Hey, Molly," she said as she walked in and greeted the kind receptionist. She tried to sound nice, but her voice sounded so dead.

"Hey, Lute," she smiled. "I was wondering if some of us are going out tonight? Do you want to join us?" Molly's eyes lit up in anticipation. She had a lovely smile that reminded her of an old friend.

Lute hated how nice Molly was. She was such a pleasant person to be around. Lute wondered how real it was. "That's kind of you. But I need to go grocery shopping." Lute knew she needed to get out more. But it was so hard. She would rather sit at home.

"I understand," Molly looked a little sad. Lute walked off, but as she did, another co-worker spoke to Molly.

"I told you she wouldn't come," the co-worker stated. "After everything, I don't blame her for secluding herself here, of all places." The co-worker sounded sorry for Lute. She wasn't being mean but simply stating a fact.

"I know, but I just wanted to be nice," Molly pouted.

Lute blocked them out. She didn't want to hear them or what they had to say. She just needed to focus on work. She had a few clients today, which was nice. Her clients didn't know who she was, thankfully. The small town she lived in was so quiet. When it was 8 pm, the entire town was dead. No loud noises or horns honking from traffic. It was crickets and frogs.

Hours went by, and it was time for work to end. Lute beelined it for her car. Not caring for her co-workers.

Lute was once again thankful for the fall weather. She arrived at the small cemetery for her weekly walk. The cemetery was as old as the town. Graves from the early 1800s littered the cemetery. When Lute was younger, she loved to play in the cemetery. Lute had felt more at home here than anywhere else.

The cemetery was small; however, it had a newer section. She arrived at the quaint marble headstone. The white tombstone was stark against the stone headstones. Lute knelt down and brushed the leaves away. She placed a small white rose down. She looked at the grave, trying to feel anything. It was just hard for her. She had never been good at emotions, especially in the last few years.

She shook her head as if he would appear in front of her. She got up and continued her walk like her therapist told her. The cemetery was connected to a small walking trail.

Lute started her weekly walk. She was tempted to listen to music but knew she would be better off without it. She was going to force herself to be alone with her thoughts. She looked at the red leaves and only thought of blood. The golden leaves reminded her of certain golden eyes she loved looking at. The orange leaves reminded her of never enjoying the sunrise until now. Her old life was so fast. Everything was a giant rush. Now, Lute was living a slow-paced life with easy mornings and simple schedules. She didn't hate it but felt a little lost. Thankfully, her therapist was helping her.

Lute played her mental game of trying to figure out the tree types. It helped calm her on her walks. She pointed out several ponderosa pine trees. She wished she had brought her notebook to take notes. That was another exercise her therapist recommended.

Journaling was hard for Lute at first. She felt like she was just writing why she was all fucked up. Now she felt better getting it all out. She was doing better day by day. She finished up her walk and ended back at the cemetery. She was tempted to go back to the grave, but it offered nothing to her. She only went out of obligation.

She drove to the small grocery and parked. She walked in. She liked how old this place was. The decor had not been updated in decades. It had an '80s vibe to it. She liked it here so much more than LA. It was so quiet, and no one was in a rush.

Lute looked at her grocery list and started her familiar routine. She went to produce first. She found the ingredients for a salad. She also got some vegetables for roasted vegetables. She avoided the meat section like the plague. She then got some dairy items. As she was picking up some heavy whipping cream, she heard a child speak up.

"Mommy, what happened to her arm?" A kid asked his mom. Lute flinched at the words.

"Shh, honey, that's rude," the mom hushed her child.

Lute touched the stump where her left arm was supposed to be. She meant to wear her jacket in but forgot. She had a prosthetic but didn't feel like wearing it today. The phantom pains had subsided but would never really go away. However, the emotional pain was far greater. Lute took a deep breath and continued with her shopping.

Finally, she ended her routine by getting some food staples she was out of. She put the flour in her cart, ready to head out. She went to the checkout line. She looked at the tabloids. She couldn't help it. She had deleted all social media but was still interested in the outside world. Even if she didn't want to be. There it was on the cover. Some famous person named Angel Dust fucking up, and the media is eating him alive. His mugshot was plastered for all to see. Lute knew what it was like for the media to be up your business...

After all, her and Adam's divorce was the main attraction for weeks.