Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The street is mostly empty at twelve am, which is what I need as I stalk through the shadows, passing shop front after shop front. The bar is still blaring music, and as I pass, I see lights from another shop, the open sign still lit. 

Midnight Echo’s Coffee Shop.

I plan to spend my downtime in the alleyway waiting for my target, one of the male bartenders, to come out so I can finish this job quickly, but the coffee shop is new. A few days ago, it was still under construction. I give Taash a nod as I pass. They’re busy hauling some drunk out of the bar when I pass.

“Stay warm, Rook,” Taash says when they see me. 

“Always do.” I lie, it’s winter and I’m in a hoodie. What can I say, I like the easy movement over the warmth a real jacket offers.

Peering through the new shop window, I can see a man leaning behind the counter, a book in one hand and a coffee cup in the other. Dark hair half tied up. The sign really says open, and the hours say it’ll stay that way until two am. I push the door open and nearly melt at the wave of heat that washes over me. It smells fantastic too. 

The guy's head pops up, and I give my best disarming smile. Which is outmatched by his returning smile. “Welcome in. Hello," he says. 

“Hello!” I make my way up to the counter. He’s had time to set his things down and has his full attention focused on me. There’s a menu hanging behind him. I chew on my lip as I look it over. “So late for coffee,” I say, mostly to myself.

He chuckles, and my eyes flicker down to watch him. The right corner of his lip is upturned. “I offer tea if you’d prefer.” I could swear the shine in his eyes lessens when he makes the offer, but it’s too quick for me to be sure. 

“Ugh. No thanks. I’d rather drink my brother's coffee than take tea. ” And that’s saying something because Viago’s coffee is practically mud. The stranger laughs, and it’s a full-chested sound. It sends a warmth up my spine and down into my stomach. “What kind of person comes to a coffee shop for tea anyway?”

The stranger shrugs. “I’m told it happens, so I stocked it accordingly, but left to my own devices, tea wouldn’t have made it into my shop.” It’s my turn to chuckle. “See anything you would like?” 

My smile turns sharp as I swallow down my first answer because, as fun as it would be to flirt, I do have a job to do. “What is the strongest coffee I can get…without ruining the integrity of your coffee?” I added the second part when he opened his mouth with a frown. 

He chuckles again. “I’ve got just the thing.” He starts going through the motions of pulling espresso shots when he says, “For saying it’s late for coffee, you sure don’t hold back. Long night?”

I lean on the counter, pushing back a strand of pin-straight black hair when it falls in my face. “Long couple of days, really. I’m hoping tonight will be my last.” He nods as he keeps working. “So, six am to two am doesn’t give you long to sleep.”

“Nope.” I give a small hmph and unzip my hoodie as sweat builds at my spine. “Is this for here or to go?” 

I look around the empty shop and see a table that looks out onto the bar entrance. “Here. I’ve nowhere to be for a while.” I take off my hoodie and drape it over my left arm just as he hands me a purple and silver cup filled nearly to the brim with coffee. The smell hits me as I hold it close to my face, and I’m not even slightly ashamed at the moan I let out. “Fuck, this is going to be divine, I just know it.” Sitting it carefully on the counter, I ask, “How much do I owe you?” 

“It’s on the house.” He says

I stop fishing for my wallet. “That’s a horrible idea.”

He laughs. 

“No really. How will you stay in business when you give out free coffee? What happens the next time I need a midnight fix and you're out of business because you gave me free coffee?”

It’s clear he’s trying to hold back more laughter. “You’ve yet to even taste my coffee, and you’re worried about next time?” 

With a sullen glare, I pick up the cup carefully and take a drawn-out sip. The groan I let out surpasses the last one, and this time I blush lightly. “Yeah, I was right, divine. Now take my money so I can single-handedly keep you in business.”

“Consider it a gift for keeping me from getting bored, and I promise I’ll make you pay next time.” For some reason, I don’t believe him, but I’m really not going to fight tall, dark, and handsome. 

I do see a tip jar out on the counter and grin widely. Putting my heavenly drink back down, I get my wallet out and drop a twenty in the jar. “Consider that my thanks for your trust that I’m worth having back.” We both laugh, and I see the moment he wants to argue, but I stick my hand out faster, “My friends call me Rook.”

He takes my offered hand in his. “Lucanis. Nice to meet you, Rook.” I swear my legs don’t buckle when I hear my name practically purred. 

Standing upright, I shove my wallet back into my pants pocket and take my coffee. “Guess I’ll leave you to your peace, thanks again.”

“Let me know if you need anything.” 

I nod, pulling out my phone and shooting a group text to Viago and Teia. New coffee shop down on canal blvd. Coffee puts mine to shame. 

Teia’s response comes in rapid. Open at this hour?

Viago responds while I’m typing. Don’t get distracted.

I delete what I had typed. Sending instead. Fuck you Vi. I’m undercover waiting for target to appear. Hours are sixam to twoam.

I pocket my phone to focus on the bar across the street and the coffee cupped in my hands. 

I don’t lose track of time so much as drown in the sensation of sipping on my quickly cooling coffee. A quick glance at my phone tells me the bar will be closing soon. “Doing alright over here?” Lucanis is standing slightly behind me to my left and I check him out in the reflection of the window. 

“Coffee’s delicious, and you’re here now. What more could a girl want?” I twist my head to look up at him with my most charming smile. 

Lucanis is staring at me, and I can’t decide if it’s a look of surprise or disdain that graces his fine face. “I’ll count myself lucky that you think that.” 

“You should.” I wink before sighing, “But your timing is shit. I just got clued in that my job is starting for the day.” I glance back at the bar to see a slew of people walking out. I'll never hear the end of it if I mess this up. I stand to shrug my hoodie on. “But I swear you’ve not seen the last of me.”

“I would hope so.” He watches me zip my hoodie, and I down the dregs of my drink. “May your day be easy.”

“Thanks.” Then, with a mock salute, I head for the door. Outside, I dart across the street and slink into the shadows. I watch Lucanis until he goes into the back of the shop. That’s when I veer down the alley and wait. 

I kneel down using the dumpster as cover. I throw my hood up, gloves go on, and pull my knife from its holster around my ankle. I watch Taash come out of the back and leave quickly, followed by another qunari who comes out, this one slender and female. She stands around waiting until a human woman joins her, and together they leave. 

I’m rocking on the balls of my feet when he appears. Freckled face pinched in a grimace, and he carries trash over to throw out. When he opens the top, I strike. One moment I’m crouched, the next I’m behind him, knife at his throat. “The crows send their regards.” Then he’s dead. Blood splatters the dumpster as I tilt his body up and over. 

Not a drop of blood is on me, and I hum a little tune as I replace my knife and slip back out onto the street. I stroll a couple of blocks before pulling my phone out. It's just now two am. 

Nearly an hour later, I’m walking into my office and plopping down behind my desk. Kicking my feet up, I text Viago. It’s done. Stop for coffee on your way I’m dying here.

Chapter Text

Teia takes one look at me and says I need a break which I argue against. Which is how Viago finds us nearly an hour later. He has my coffee in one hand and his phone in the other. “What are you two bickering over now?” 

“We’re not bickering.” We say together. 

Viago hands me my heaven in a cup, and the first sip sends me falling back into my chair with a smothered groan. “Thank you,” I say against the lid before taking another sip. 

“Look at Rook and tell me she doesn’t need a break.” Teia turns to Viago, who is typing rapidly on his phone.

He glances up briefly. “She looks fine.” At Teia’s dissatisfied grunt, he stops typing and looks up fully. He stares at me for an eternity before saying, “Hell, Rook, you do look strung out.” Which, if he’s admitting to finding weakness, means I really look like shit. He looks at his phone, scrolling quickly before swiping a few times. “Your schedule’s been blocked. Take the next week off.”

“But!” I sit up and place my coffee on the desk. “There’s too much lined up. There’s that security detail I’m supposed to start today. That’s a nine-to-five for the next, what, six weeks? Then you said you still had contracts that need done.” I rub my face. “There’s no time for me to be taking time off. What would I even do?”

Teia walks around the desk before leaning against it and placing a hand on my shoulder. “We’re capable enough that we can fill your spot for the time necessary. Rook, dear, this isn’t a punishment.”

My face falls. Replaceable. Then, with a shake of my head, I mumble, “feels like it.” 

Viago is staring at me, lips pressed thin, and I know he can tell what I’m thinking. “Don’t get too in your head. You’ll just get in your own way.” 

I grumble as I stand, taking another sip of my coffee. Begrudgingly, I give Teia a hug, then look at Viago. He’s never been big on affection, but he’s really stepped up since my parents were killed. He pats my shoulder fondly. “I’ll get a car to drive you home.” 

By the time I make it home, my coffee is gone. My bones ache now that I have nothing to do, and I drag myself to bed. 

It’s nearly two in the afternoon when I wake up. Mouth fuzzy, eyes blurry, and disoriented. When this morning catches up with my sleep-addled brain, I drop my head back into the pillow with a groan. “What am I supposed to do for a week?” It’s muffled by my face full of stuffing. 

Coffee. That’s step one. Rolling out of bed, I study myself in the mirror hanging off the back of my bedroom door. Bloodshot eyes stare back at me, and I begrudgingly agree with Viago and Teia. I need this. I change out of last night's outfit and into new jeans and a tank top. 

The kitchen is sparse, another sign I’ve not been home enough. The coffee maker is blinking, and when I open the top to add water, I see used grinds sitting inside. I groan, then refuse to deal with it. I’m going to blame Viago. 

Guess I’m going out for coffee, and I know just the place, I think with a grin. I finish getting ready and grab my bike keys and helmet. The drive from the townhouse to Canal Blvd is much easier on a bike. There’s nearly no street parking, but I find a place one block up and over. 

It’s colder now, nearly twelve hours later than it had been this morning, and I huddle in on myself as I walk. Maybe one day I’ll consider a real jacket for the middle of winter, but it’s too late now, and I’m infinitely grateful for the lightness of my hoodie when I open the door to Midnight Echo's. The heat is a welcoming Embrace. 

“Welcome in,” Lucanis says, and I take a look around now that I’m not battling for the last bit of warmth I have. Someone new is running the registrar while Lucanis is in a flurry of motion, making drinks and calling them out. It’s lively, there's a line five deep and a few tables filled with people. I join the line and giving the menu another look while I have time. 

There are the normals like an americano, cappuccino, latte, flat white, some cold brew options, and drip coffee, and something called a golden latte, which I’ve never heard of. Pretty sure I got a red eye last night, but it had to have been flavored. Should have asked. I shrug. There are also food options, and as I shuffle forward, I’m hard pressed on a grilled sandwich or the scones in the display case. 

My stomach protests the choice, and I decide on getting both because I honestly can’t remember my last meal. When it’s my turn to order, the poor girl behind the counter looks tired but lacks none of the chipperness. Her name tag says Lace. 

“What can I get you?” Lace asks, hand already hovering over the display screen. 

I smile warmly, “Can I get the golden latte in the largest size you offer, and please add an extra shot of espresso?” I wait for her to start entering my order before continuing. “Can I also get one of both scones, the blueberry and then the lemon as well as the grilled sandwich?” 

She smiles at my question of an order. “Of course, and for here or to go?” She’s sweet, and it’s the real sweet, not the ‘I’m being paid to be nice sweet’. 

“Here, please don’t send me back into the freezer just yet.” It’s easy to joke with her and forget for a moment that I’m a trainwreck of a human being.

“Name for the order?” She asks with a laugh. 

It’s about this time Lucanis looks up to check what order is coming next, when we lock eyes. “Rook!” He says as though he’s surprised to see me. But that quickly changes to a small smile and a look I can’t decide is good or not.

I choose to smile widely and pretend I’m not glad for the chance to stare at him. “Guilty! But I said I’d be back.” Then, looking at Lace, I ask, “What’s my damage?” I see Lucain's frown as he starts walking over, and I’m quick to add, “quick before he can make more bad financial decisions.” Lace laughs loudly, and I can all but see people turn to look at us.

“I’ll do what I please.” He types into the display for a silent thirty seconds before going back to making drinks. I’m thankful that there is no one behind me and no one waiting nearby for this display.

Lace gives me an apologetic look as she flips the screen to show a total of zero. I glare at him as I get my wallet out of my back pocket. Thankfully, I have one last twenty and a ten inside, and I place both into the tip jar with a glare in his direction. “You’re going to make me keep cash on hand just to spite you.”

“You’ll forget one day.” Then he calls out a name and hands over their order before going back to making drinks. I sigh dramatically as I stuff my wallet back into a pocket. 

  “Someone will bring your food out to you.” Lace says, looking between the two of us.

With a nod, I turn to start looking for a place to sit. It’s not crowded, but I don’t particularly want to be in the middle of the room, and most of the outlier tables are taken. Then I spot one near the order pick-up area that’s bathed in shadows. Beelining to it, I put my back to the wall and sank into the bench. 

I push my hoodie sleeves up and snag my phone. I’m scrolling the hot sheets, bored out of my mind, when someone sits across from me. Looking up, I see Lucanis putting my order down, but he stays seated.

“Hello, handsome,” I say with a smile. He doesn’t return it. “What’s up?” I ask as his dark eyes scan me. 

“I had cops in here bright and early.” He says as if that explains everything. And it would if he knew who I am. 

My eyebrow raises, “That’s rough, what about?” His eyes narrow, and my insides squirm. “I assure you that -”

He cuts me off. “Careful what you say next, Rook.” He hands me the coffee he brought over. “I’m not quick to anger. And believe me, I’m not angry yet.”

It’s the yet that makes my stomach drop, and the word ‘shit’ is on repeat in my head. Maybe I did get careless. He couldn’t have seen me. But how hard is it to put the pieces together?

My silence has stretched on too long. I’m sweating, and it’s not just because of the heat in the room. “What are you getting at?” Don’t admit to anything, my mind is screaming at me, and it sounds a lot like Viago. 

“Someone died across the street, and you mentioned a job to do.” He slides a card across the table. A calling card, and my lungs seize up. While I know I don’t keep cards on me, it’s still clear that he’s pieced things together. 

He didn’t send cops after me though. It’s the only comfort I have. “Fuck,” it's all but squeezed out of me. I can’t very well do anything about it here, too many people. I could get him into the back, deal with him, and call Viago. I’m never going to live this down. But I have to get out of here first. “How did you get that?” I have to stay calm, and a tiny unhinged part of me wants to see how this plays out.

Lucanis smirks, eyes darkening to near black, though I swear I see a hint of purple. “I have something to protect here. I will not lose it because of a Crow ." The last word is hissed with so much venom that it causes me to flinch. 

I nod slowly, bringing both hands up to rest on the table. Keeping them clearly in his line of sight. “No one ever notices me.” Which is true. I’m seen, but no one actually sees me. I don’t keep friends. So, I’ve never been in this situation. 

“You made it impossible for me not to notice you,” Lucanis says, eyes scanning me. 

I lick my lips as my heart pounds for a different reason. How can I still find him so hot when my life is hanging in the balance? Gods, I have no self-preservation. And now I know that was in Viago’s voice for sure. “I’m not here to take anything from you. You sell coffee at absurdly late hours, and I’m a coffee addict. It was… is all there is to it.” 

My hands cradle the coffee cup, and I yearn to take a sip. It could be poisoned… Then I discard that thought as quickly as it crossed my mind. If he’s protecting his shop, then he won't risk a poisoning incident. Part of me also hopes it's just because he likes me even a little.

His eyes flash with danger, and I swear I see purple again, but it could be a play of the lights. Or, my own paranoia. “Viago de Riva shows up, and I’m not supposed to take that as a threat?” Nope, that was definitely a threat in his eyes. 

My stomach picks the worst time to growl. “Sorry, it’s been a long few days.” I glance at the food.

Lucanis chuckles, and it almost reminds me of the warmth he showed me when we first met. “By all means, eat, drink. I did still make it for you.” That’s all it takes for me to dig into the now slightly chilled sandwich. 

Then I shake my head in earnest. “He’s my brother. I asked for coffee from here. No hidden motive. I swear.” Then I remember how Viago is and add, “and I swear that if he said or did anything that suggests otherwise, I’ll take care of it.”

He laughs coolly and low like a dark promise. “Rook de Riva? Never heard of you.”

That should worry me. I should ask how he knows any of us. I take a sip of my latte instead and nearly moan at the mix of flavors. “That’s kinda the point of no one noticing me.” That gets a huffed-out chuckle from him, and I count that as a win. “What happens from here?” 

“What do you want to happen, Rook?” He asks so softly, I nearly miss it. 

I stop to chew, thinking. “I want to not fuck this up so soon.” Like I do everything eventually, I tack on silently. “I’d like to keep coming here,” to keep seeing you. Another thing I don’t say out loud, but by the way his gaze softens for a moment, I’m not sure he can’t read my mind.

He stares at me, and I stare right back. My heart is racing, and the little bit of food in my stomach churns uneasily. This is a moment of truth, and in this moment, I accept that I’d do just about anything to be allowed to keep coming back here. 

“Then keep your business out of mine.” I’m about to ask what that entails when he stands up. There’s a small smile playing on his lips, “and let me know if you need anything when you’re here.” My heart leaps to my throat in excitement, but I swallow it back down and nod with a matching smile.

Chapter Text

I’m lying in bed the next morning after not sleeping the night before. Still at six forty-two am, I’m tossing and turning while I glare at my phone, sitting innocently on the bedside table. “Gah!” I need to just ask. That’s all there is to it. Teia isn’t going to out me to Viago. Or she will, and I’ll never hear the end of it. Or I can just keep being restless. Agitated. Indecisive.

“That’s it,” I mutter as I snatch my phone. I need a favor and for you to remember that I never ask for favors. I tap the side of my phone while I wait. It’s early, but not so early that I fear waking her.

My phone buzzes, and Teia’s name crosses the top of my screen. Why me and not Vi? It’s a valid question, I guess.

I roll onto my stomach and start typing. He’d tell me I’m to emotional to make the call. and maybe i am but I still need this Teia. I wonder if this is what it sounds like to beg someone. Having spent most of my time alone or with other crows, I don’t spend time asking for things.

I nearly drop my phone when it buzzes. What is it? No teasing, just business as usual.

I chew on my bottom lip as I type, then delete and retype. I do that a few times too many before settling on Protection for Midnight Echo’s. (i do mean the staff too) No cops. No us. Nothing. Hitting send never felt so hard.

I set my phone down on my chest, thinking it’ll take her a moment to react. I was wrong. Rook… I can practically hear her voice. The way my name is a sign like she’s sorry for me. Not a tone I hear often from her, but she feels sorry for me. I feel sorry for myself, too.

My fingers are moving before I fully know what I’m going to say. Please Teia. I’ve never wanted to be apart of something. Being a Crow wasn’t a choice; it was the life I was born into. But, this, this chance to belong in the civilian world? I want it.

With a sigh, I get out of bed. No reply has come through by the time I finish brushing my teeth, so I figure what's waiting until I take a shower to find out what she says. The water isn’t hot enough when I step in, so I turn the knob all the way to hot and wait.

By the time I get out of the shower, I’m lobster red and feel more alive than I have in days. I get dressed in black yoga pants and a dark green crop top. Only then do I pick up my phone and see a waiting text. I’ve got you. Vi is going to find out though.

My shoulders drop as all the stress I’ve been holding onto finally leaves my body. I want to say thank you, but that’s not what comes out. I know. I’ll tell him, eventually I hope my thanks is read between the lines because I’m beyond grateful for her. She doesn’t text back after that, but I know she understood that my ‘eventually’ means, probably never.

Walking into the kitchen, I finally clean the coffee pot, only to find out that I’m out of coffee. My cabinets are bare, and the fridge smells lightly of mold. Letting out a few choice curses, I start cleaning. I toss nearly every food storage container into the trash. That's the last time I'll meal plan. With the fridge cleared out I deep clean it and wonder if bleach is going to far.

The morning flies by, and before I know it, it’s past noon and I’m still cleaning the house. The kitchen practically sparkles, and the living room doesn’t smell musty from lack of use. The bedroom is in organized disarray as the linens are being washed. My clean clothes that have been sitting in a chair for the last month are put away. I even took time to refresh the guest room.

The bathroom still needs to be done, but my stomach is cramping from too much work and not enough food. A common occurrence, but for once, I can actually take a break to eat. Only to remember I have no food.

Throwing my head back, I groan in frustration as I now have to go to the store. I grab my hoodie, handing off the coat rack next to the door, and frown at the smell. Not too bad, but definitely time for it to get cleaned. Going back into my room, I pick out a black and dark purple hoodie and throw the other in the hamper.

The grocery store is only a couple of blocks from the house, and the walk does refresh something inside me. I do remember to stop by an ATM and withdraw more cash just in case. Almost an hour later, I’m carrying groceries back inside and putting things in their places. I snag a bagel to toast while I finish up.

After I eat my bagel with half a stick of cream cheese, I finally finish cleaning the house. My back hurts, my hands throb, I think I used too many cleaning products without gloves, and I’m starting to get a headache. My ears are ringing, but I ignore all my aches and pains in favor of taking another shower. More yoga pants and crop top follow.

My hands are shaking, jaw clenched as my body coils in on itself. I’m so damn tired, but it’s too early to rest now. I know I should stay home, take care of whatever headache is coming, and relax, but I want coffee. Doesn’t matter that I have coffee here that would suffice, but I’m not admitting what I really want.

By the time I walk into the coffee shop, it’s six at night, I’ve not had a drop of caffeine today, and my head is killing me. I’m pretty sure the lights are making sounds, and there shouldn’t be black spots in my vision.

Yet, the moment the coffee flavored air hits my bones I could care less about any of that. Well, I wouldn’t care if the lights didn’t burn my eyes. There’s practically no one in here. Two people are at the counter, but no one sits inside. Lucanis is at the register and hasn’t looked up yet, too intent on taking their order.

Another man walks out from the back with a fresh batch of scones. He puts them in the display before walking over to Lucanis and whispering in his ear. Lucanis waves him off, which earns him a glare but nothing else. For the first time, I notice there is music playing in the background, and it squeezes my skull.

As quietly as I can, I join the line and rub my temples. My hands are raw and mildly red-tinted, so I shove them into my pockets. I’ve got my hood up, trying to block some of the light to no avail. I watch Lucanis turn to start making drinks and shuffle forward when the two in front of me move to the other counter to await their order.

I’m able to finally put the music beating against my head out of my mind, and just in time. “Welcome in, what can I get started for you?” The other man asks, and when I look up, the first thing I do is read his name tag.

I pull out my wallet, ready to move fast in case I actually get to pay. “Can you fill your largest cup with nothing but espresso shots?” I’m being dead serious. Davrin stares at me for a long moment, and I remember that my hood is up, so I push it back and wait.

“That's not…” he pauses, looks at Lucanis, then snorts. “That’s going to be expensive” is what he goes with instead.

I smile then. “You mean if he lets me pay this time.” Davrin doesn’t look surprised, more annoyed as he gives Lucanis another glance.

Davrin rings it all up, and he’s not wrong. That is a high number, but what is the point of money if I can’t spend it trying to overdose on caffeine?

I’m handing him my card when Lucanis walks over. He takes one look at the screen before he finally looks to see who the order belongs to. “Rook. No.” Two simple words. No smile, but no heat that says I’m out of place.

“Rook. Yes.” I say back.

We stare at each other, and I don’t react when Davrin takes my card while Lucanis is distracted. Seconds later, he says, “Oh, would you look at that, it’s paid for.”

I take my card back when it’s handed and stuff it back in my wallet, then put a twenty in the tip jar as thanks.

Lucanis turns away from me slowly, ire now on Davrin. Who doesn’t back down but meets Lucanis’s glare with a smirk. Neither say anything for a long minute.

“Is it too late to say those scones smell delicious, and I’ll sell part of my soul for one?” It’s meant to break the tension. Davrin taps the screen a couple of times, and Lucanis leans over him to do the same. Wordless.

The music changes, the next song seemingly louder, and I hiss, bringing one hand to press against my forehead. Both sets of eyes turn to me. “Sorry, headache. Ignore me. Go back to whatever war you two are fighting. Just coffee, please.” I don’t care that I sound pitiful by the end. Everything hurts all over again, and I just want caffeine.

The tension in Lucanis shifts, softens I think and he shakes his head. “Rook, I’ll meet you halfway, let me make you the strongest I’m willing, and if you want another when you’re done, we’ll go from there.” My heart melts at his tone. Soft, understanding, and I’m more than willing to cave. “I’ll also need your card to refund you.” Almost willing to cave, I amend.

With a shake of my head, I say, “Consider it payment for the last two visits, then. Cause I’m not getting my wallet back out. But, I’d come over this counter and kiss you for even drip coffee at this point. So please, yes. Strongest you’ll give me.” My heart is racing as I think about what I admitted to and hope he won't see through me.

He smirks, leaning forward, “I may just let you.” Davrin rolls his eyes with a huff and storms off into the back. Not a moment later, he’s back out grabbing his forgotten tray. Another grunt and he’s gone again.

I’m blushing. I know it. If I’m not, then I’m dead. The sharp stabbing pain in my skull reminds me I’m very much alive. “Don’t tease me.” I pout, soft, tired eyes meeting his warm, molten eyes.

He smiles but says nothing as he stands up, grabs a fancy coffee cup, and begins making my coffee. Well, I hope it’s for me and not some kind of tease. “You should take a couple days off.” He breaks the silence.

It makes me laugh until I’m clutching my sides, tears welling up, waiting to fall. “Joke's on you, this is me on a day off.” I clench my eyes shut and will for my head to stop buzzing.

He makes a sound in the back of his throat, and I shiver a little even as I feel sweat on my back. I unzip my hoodie before taking it off completely. “Mierda,” he says under his breath as he watches me. The sound of the espresso machine grinding beans is the only noise I can hear.

“In my defense, I don’t get many days off, so getting a week thrown at me isn’t my fault.” Is that a defense? I shrug internally. “But really, can the man who only allows himself like four hours off a day judge my ability to relax?” I cross my arms, which I realize only causes my chest to press together and rise up.

“Work suits me better.” His response is cagey. Like he’s trying to hide behind the idea that work is better for him. But I don’t know why. Not my place to know though.

Not like I have any room to judge. “Likewise. But I admit the time off allows me the opportunity to visit here more often than I probably could if I were working.” Leaving to myself that even if I were working, I’d still be here for coffee as often as I could be.

Lucanis smiles as he hands me my first coffee of the day. “A fact I’m glad for.”

I bypass enjoying the smell in favor of taking a long sip and nearly start crying as the flavor overwhelms my taste buds. By the time I come back to myself, I’ve downed half the cup and my body is shaking. “Thank you. Fuck. I needed this hours ago.”

Lucanis watches me with something akin to worry. It’s a look Viago gives me when he thinks I’m not looking. For a long moment, neither of us says anything until I wince at my ever-present headache. The door chimes, and I blink owlishly like waking from a dream. “I’ll just go sit down now…” I trail off with another blush, and Lucanis nods like he, too, isn’t sure of what to do.

At some point, Lucanis brings over my scone that I’d forgotten about, but the shop has picked up, so there’s no time to talk.

The shop is slowing down again while the club across the street is picking up. A quick check of my phone shows two things. I’ve not missed any notifications, and it’s nearing eight o’clock. I walk back to the counter after the last person gets their drink. “Negotiations requested on getting more coffee. To go, though.” I say putting both my cup and plate on the counter.

Lucanis looks me over from top to bottom before saying, “I’ll consider it. How’s your headache?”

I start to lie by saying, “Fine - ” I cut myself off. “Ugh. Persistent. But, lessening.” I admit, and he nods once, lips pressed in a slight frown. The silence stretches, and I’m expecting to be left high and dry. Which I’d have no right complaining about.

His whole face softens as he stares at me. He licks his lips before smirking. “Just this once I’ll get you another red eye, but next time you come in here run down and strung out, I’ll not be as considerate.”

I nod, but then my head falls back with a groan. “What is it with people calling me stung out? I swear…” I trail off because I don’t actually know what else to say.

“Maybe, you should listen then.” I look back with a frown, but he’s already moved over to the machines. I pull my wallet out and deposit another twenty into the tip jar. Not even bothering to ask to pay this time.

Something about the way he sounded concerned makes my chest hurt. It never bothers me when Viago says the same thing to me, or the way he worries, that’s just what he’s like with me. I can just brush it off. Even Teia’s mothering is dismissible, but when Lucanis glances at me when he thinks I’m distracted and there are worry lines around his mouth… I don’t like it. And I hate that I’m the reason.

Putting my hoodie back on, I zip it as high as it goes and pull the hood up. I take the to-go cup when it’s offered with a small, “thank you.”

“Take care, Rook,” Lucanis says to my retreating back. I pause at the door, torn between saying something or just leaving. I throw a smile over my shoulder that doesn’t reach my eyes before venturing into the night. 

Chapter Text

After leaving the coffee shop last, I took one too many painkillers to numb myself from the day of cleaning and passed out. I sleep for fourteen hours and wake up finally feeling like a new person. I brew a pot of coffee, determined not to repeat the day before, and prep food for the rest of the week.

I end up not leaving the house for two days. Choosing instead to catch up on my to-be-read list. Watch mindless TV for a few hours at least and sleep. By the fifth day of my forced vacation, I realized I was really overworking myself, and all it took to take care of myself was a handsome shop owner to look mildly worried about me.

Standing in my kitchen in nothing but sleep shorts and a short-sleeved shirt, I hum to myself while waiting for my eggs to cook. “I can’t wait to see him again.” I need to be careful; it’s stupid to get close to people. With a groan, I brush Viago’s voice out of my mind. Nothing is happening. Much to my chagrin.

After eating, I get dressed in a baby doll style dress. It falls to my mid-thigh, and the short, flowy sleeves will do nothing to keep me warm. I add a pair of black leggings, thick socks, and boots. Lastly, I add my signature hoodie. The drive to Midnight Echo’s is short, and it’s not as cold as it’s been the past month.

The coffee shop is bustling when I walk in, but Lace still takes a moment to call out, “Hi, Rook!”

Which makes Davrin look up and also say a quick hello. There’s coffee staining his white shirt, and his sleeves are haphazardly pushed up to his elbows.

With a smile, I say, “Hey.” Something warm settles deep in my chest. When I make it up to the counter, Lace grins at me while I look around, trying to find Lucanis.

“Heard you tried to get nothing but espresso shots.” Lace says with a laugh.

I shrug, giving her a fiendish grin, “I even got to pay for it, too.” We both laugh. “I’m thinking chocolate and raspberry flavored latte.”

She nods. “He’s not in today,” she says in place of confirming my order.

I think about denying that I’m looking for Lucanis, but Lace raises a brow in challenge, and I realize I don’t mind her knowing. “Then make it to go, I guess. Oh! Please add a blueberry muffin to that.” It’s disappointing that I won't get to see Lucanis today, but I hope he’s taking care of himself.

I pull out my wallet, but it’s Davrin that says, “We have strict orders not to charge you, Rook.” I groan, putting a twenty into the tips instead of arguing. “You don’t have to do that, you know.” He says, but I can read the appreciation on his face.

With a smile, I shrug. “I know. You guys deserve it.” Neither of them argues, and before long, I’ve got my coffee, which, upon first sip, isn’t up to its usual standard, but it’s still good.

Back out on the street, I turn to begin the walk back to my bike. Taking a bite of my muffin and do a little shoulder wiggle dance when I hear a familiar low chuckle. I turn to look down the side alley and see Lucanis staring at me. He's got dark circles under his eyes, and his shoulders are slumped.

"Hey, handsome. You doing okay?" His eyes definitely flash purple, it's impossible to mistake in the light. "Lucanis?"

Saying his name seems to snap him out of whatever trance he was in. "Rook," he breathes low like a promise. "What are you doing here?"

I hold up my to-go cup and muffin, taking another bite. "I needed a fix," I say once I finish chewing. "I also was hoping to see you." Even with my heart beating out of my chest, I've never been one to back down from the truth.

His smile doesn't reach his near hollow eyes. "Today's not a good day for company."

"Hey, I get that. You look how I imagine I looked a few days ago."

He snorts some of the tension, leaving him for a moment. "Thanks."

"Hey, that's what I'm here for." I walk down the alley and lean against the brick wall. My hoodie is still unzipped, and I shiver a little. "Is there anything I can do? I'm not just a pretty face."

He looks at me, and for a moment, a storm inside those brown eyes threatens to consume me. Then he shakes his head, and it’s all bottled up again. “That’s kind of you, Rook, but this isn’t something you need to be dragged into.”

I smirk with an eye roll. “I’m hardly being dragged. I’m leaping wholeheartedly. I may be a lowly Crow but I can handle anything you’ve got going on.” I probably shouldn’t have confirmed that I am a Crow but he knows regardless.

His eyes darken and he takes a step forward. “You’re playing with danger.” He practically whispers against my ear. Then his eyes go purple again but this time they don’t go back. “Fix this!” My heart is in my throat that’s Lucanis’s face but that voice isn’t his.

My hand goes for a knife that isn’t there and I curse. Probably for the best I think as I drop my muffin and raise a hand to his shoulder. Not to push him away but to shake. “Who are you?” I ask voice level despite my anxiety. Sign of good training don’t crack under pressure. I’m proud of myself.

Not Lucanis snarls but he backs up to stare at me. More like stare through me but as unnerving as it is I don’t feel threatened. “Spite. Lucanis breaks his promises.” Not a demon I’ve heard of but with magic so rare these days that’s not saying much.

I nod slowly, “Okay, Spite, I really need to talk to Lucanis.” The demon, or I assume demon, growls and my hand tightens. I’m still trying to figure out what to do when Lucanis shudders as his eyes snap back to their normal color. “Lucanis?” His eyes bore into mine like he’s trying to read my mind. “Glad to have you back,” I say softly, careful of my movements I release the grip I have on him which seems to trigger something in him.

Finally he backs up and I let my hand fall back to my side. “Mierda.” He doesn’t say anything else.

I take a sip of my coffee. “Yeah, that’s a word for it. What promises are you making that you’re not keeping?” I ask because what else do I ask? Hey you know you’re sharing space with a demon? Is it a demon? How’d that happen? Should I be worried, I’m not, but, should I be? Okay so I have a lot of questions.

My spiraling thoughts get cut off. “How are you standing there so calm?” He asks instead of answering my question.

I don’t have an easy answer. Or I do but it’s not something he’s liable to believe. Oh well, it’s the truth or nothing. “I’m confused but you won’t hurt me.”

“Rook,” he says low like a growl. A warning.

“Don’t Rook me.” I say poking a finger in his chest. “I dropped my muffin for you. Consider me invested.” I’m keeping my tone light, hell I’m trying to keep the conversation light. I could care less about a muffin. Lucanis has a demon inside him and I’m pretty sure but that’s not what scares me. What scares me is how he’s watching me like I should be scared, or angry. But all I am is concerned for him. I’m more than capable of taking care of myself. The wind picks up and I shiver, “can we have a fight inside? It’s too cold” I give him my best impression of puppy eyes.

He scrubs at his face for a moment before nodding. “Fine, stop looking at me like that.” He grumbles. I smile warmly and wait for him to lead the way. He leads me further into the alley until we reach a small gate with stairs behind it. Then it’s up the stairs and into a wonderful warm apartment.

Looking around it’s cozy if not sparse. Little if any personal touches almost as lackluster as my own place. “You live above the shop…makes for an easy commute.” It’s meant to be light and easy topic. But he looks at me like I’ve grown another head. Which is rude I’m not sharing my insides with something else.

I take a long slow sip of my coffee and wait. Lucanis looks like he’s one step from mental collapse. Better to wait him out then continue to ramble. “You don’t have to pretend that I’m not an abomination. I’m aware.”

I frown behind my cup, eyes narrowing before telling myself to calm down. I take a deep breath before lowering my coffee. “There are many things I’d call an abomination but you are not one of them.” I’m impressed with the evenness of my voice considering all I want to do is shake some sense into him. “I’ve been assuming demon but Spite isn’t a type of demon I’ve heard of before.” Lucanis is frowning at me but his eyes keep darting off to side, head titled like he’s listening to something else, or someone. I let him have as much time as he needs.

“Spite was once a spirit of compassion but like me he’s been twisted into this.” The self-deprecation is laced strongly though his words. I bite my tongue to keep from interrupting him. “It’s been a year since I was tortured and had Spite forced on me.” His jaw clenches and I wince at the tightness I can see.

His tired eyes watch me, waiting for the moment it clicks in my head that I’m talking to something not worth the time. Like I’m going to take from him something he cares about. My hands clench at the idea of leaving. The cup in my hand crumples, coffee spilling over my hand. “Shit.” I try to stop coffee from hitting the floor by using my hoodie as a napkin. “Sorry. I just. You didn’t deserve that. Is that why you work long hours?” I have to ask something before my blood boils.

His brow knits up in disbelief. “Rook…” Said so softly I stop trying to mop up my mess and give him my full attention. “You’re unbelievable.” He takes a step forward, slowly, hesitantly as though I might bolt. “Let me help you.”

“That’s not necessary.” I stare at my wet sleeve and destroyed cup. “Okay maybe it is. Thank you.” I let him take the cup from my hands and follow him when he turns. He leads me to the kitchen. I shouldn’t be surprised that he has an espresso machine up here too but it makes me chuckle.

He turns to look at me a small almost sweet smile graces his face. He looks bewildered but hopeful or that’s what I’m wanting to see anyway. “You asked why I work so much,” he starts and I blink back into the present and not the simmering rage at whoever hurt him. “Spite takes over when I sleep. So, I don’t.”

“So you don’t sleep.” It’s not a question, not really.

“I don’t trust what he’d do. I can’t trust myself.” He looks away thankfully missing the way my eyes flash in anger. Again seeping in barely concealed anger.

“What if I stayed so you could sleep. Not like always that would just be weird…” I hasten to add, looking down to hide my blush. "It's just you look so, burnt out.”

“I’ll be fine.” I don’t think he even believes himself.

“Lucanis,” It’s my turn to whisper his name, sadness loosening the muscles in my shoulders. “Do you know what fine stands for?” I give him a second to respond, which he doesn't. “It means freaked out, insecure, neurotic, and emotional.”

We stand in uncomfortable silence while he finishes cleaning. I take off my hoodie holding it by the wet sleeve, unsure of what to do with it.

“You haven’t asked why I was taken.” That’s when he looks back up at me. My heart stops at the pain reflecting in his face.

“It’s nothing I need to know.” I mean it and I hope he can read that in every fiber of my being.

I can see Lucanis struggling for what to say. “My family is very… they’re -”

“You don’t have to tell me. It’s okay, Lucanis.” He looks like he wants to fight me so I add, “I know you’re a good man and that’s enough.” I take a step closer to him. “I’m here to help, even if that means I just sit by your side.”

That seems to be the last straw because he slumps against the counter looking utterly defeated. “You’re making a mistake.”

I don’t argue, that time has passed. “It’s mine to make then.” My phone starts buzzing incessantly in my pocket. I look at Lucanis, hair falling around his face and choose to ignore it. This is more important.

“Let me make you lunch, to make up for your muffin.” He says after some time. “It’s the least I can do.” He’s already starting to move around the kitchen with an air of determination.

I shake my head with a smile half smile before sitting at one of the dinning chairs. “I’ll just stay out of the way. I’m a menace in the kitchen.” He chuckles and it almost feels normal.

My phone buzzes again, just once. I pull out my phone and see a miss call from Viago and multiple texts from Viago and Teia. My first thought is great he knows. There’s no voicemail which is good, I wasn’t going to listen to it any way.

Teia sent the first message so I pull her texts up first. I did warn you. Then a few minutes later she’d sent we should also probably talk. dinner tonight?

I chew on my lip before sending, we talking urgent urgent or like we could push to breakfast?

Then I bite the bullet and pull up Viago’s texts. What are you thinking? The question mark might as well have been him yelling at me. Knew I was right. I sigh taking a moment to watch Lucanis work. Eyes scanning his back and profile. His hair looks so soft. I shake my head and go back to reading Viago’s messages. Now you’re not going to answer? I sigh but keep reading Rook… I understand why you didn’t come to me but this isn’t a smart idea.

My phone buzzes while I’m trying to figure out what to say. It’s a text from Teia, see you bright and early.

I shoot a quick thank you to her before going back to agonizing over what to say to Viago. I must make some kind of noise because Lucanis walks over to me, “everything alright?”

I snort. “Just have to defend myself against my overprotective brother. So just the end of the world.” He laughs and I count it a win. That for even a moment his face isn’t darkened in pain. Without looking I start typing. I stand by my request. More so now even. I glance down briefly to check my spelling and then hit send. Little occupied at the moment, lunch tomorrow? I type quickly hoping that’ll keep him from calling again, or hunting me down.

With a short laugh he turns back to the stove. “I don’t have to worry about him showing up unannounced do I?" 

I want to say no but I distinctly remember a time when he did show up unexpectedly. "I trust him enough not to do that yet." Lucanis looks over his shoulder with a raised brow. I shrug. "He's... not happy with some of my more recent choices. But, I've given him no reason to stalk me." Not that he needs one but after the last time I want to believe that he's learned his lesson. 

Lucanis sits a plate of pasta down in front of me. "Let me guess, he doesn't like you making friends with a me?" He sits across from me at the little two person table. 

I smile a little sadly. "Yeah something like that. I doubt it's you specifically but that's the gist of it." Then a sly smile works its way up my lips. "So, we're friends?" I try not to sound too hopeful. We start eating and he uses that time to study me. I don't meet his eyes, my heart is speeding up and I'm trying to squash the ball of hope welling up inside me. 

"I'd like that, if you're not opposed," He says slowly after taking time to work up my anxiety. I smile so much so that my cheeks hurt. He chuckles at me and I blush while trying to force the smile off my face. 

I'm pulling my phone out when it buzzes. Viago's name crosses the top of the screen. I swipe it away for a moment. "So, that means I can get your phone number?" Again I wield my puppy eyes like a well honed weapon. He grins and offers his phone number. I'm quick to get it entered and so what if I put a little heart after his name. I send him a text with just my name. "This means you can reach me at any time. There’s no bad time. I keep the strangest hours anyway.”

Lucanis has his phone in hand when he looks up. "Rook," He sighs as he leans against the table. "I don't want you to worry about me." I start to protest but he holds a hand up so I wait. "I've been living with Spite for a year now, I'm okay."

With a frown it's my turn to lean forward.  "You've been surviving with him, sure. I don't want you to suffer alone. Please let me help." I try to keep my voice from rising but I'm unsure how well I do.

He's watching me and I set my jaw ready to argue. His shoulders slump after a tense round of silence. "I probably shouldn't tell you this but Spite likes you." He presses the bridge of his nose. "I need time to think." Lucanis looks away from me and I swear I can see blood coming from his nose but I know a dismissal when I hear it. I probably shouldn't have pushed so much but I never do know when to quit. 

I nod a little stunned his demon likes me. He's admitted we're friends now, and I have his number I can let things lie for now. "Yeah, no worries. I'll just go then," I say lamely but he doesn't say anything or stop me as I put my hoodie back on and slip out the door. 

Once downstairs I check my phone to look at Viago's message. Fine. I'm anything but fine. I've got Viago upset with me, Lucanis is upset with me and Teia... well I don't know what is going on with her but it's something important if she wants to meet in person. All in all things are not going well for me.