#ler!husker

[Visual Note: Husker is at the bar, finishing up a long shift. He grumbles as he sweeps up his feathers from behind the bar once again, wings twitching in irritation. Angel Dust sits across from him at the bar.]

[Audio Note: Sweeping, various bar sound effects.]

Angel Dust: [eyebrow raised] Damn Husky. What’s goin’ on with ya feathers? Ya sheddin’ ‘em like crazy! I ain’t ever seen you sweep up so many before. You goin’ bald?

Husk: [eye roll] S’ none of yer business, Angie.

Angel Dust: [pouting] Aw, c’mon Whiskers! Ya can’t blame me for noticin’. I mean, it’s hard not to when there’s a whole bird’s nest behind the bar. Seriously, ya sick or somethin’?

Husk: [gruff] I said drop it. It’s nothin’ you need to worry about. And stop calling me Whiskers.

Angel Dust: [mock gasp] Oh, excuse me, Baby Cakes! Didn’t know we were touchy tonight. Now spill. Can’t always be on my ass ‘bout talking feelings and not tell me what’s goin’ on.

Husk: [sighs, rubbing his temples] I’m not touchy, Ang. Just… tired, alright? Look, I’m almost done closing up shop for to night. Why don’t you just go to our room and I’ll meet you there?

Angel Dust: [grumbling] Fine. But I’m gonna figure you out, one way or anotha. And don’t take too long, old man. I get lonely without ya.

[Visual Note: Angel walks away to their shared room, muttering to himself.]

[Audio Note: Footsteps, fading bar noise, quietly additional approaching footsteps]

Angel Dust: There’s gotta be somethin’ goin’ on. Sure, he’s grumpy as Hell, but he’s never like this. Maybe I gotta look somethin’ up or-

[Visual Note: Angel, lost in thought, stumbles into Lucifer.]

[Audio Note: Stumble. Footsteps pause.]

Angel Dust: Shit-! [glancing down] Didn’t see ya there Short King. My bad.

Lucifer: [scoff] It’s hard to see where you’re walking when you’re too busy talking to yourself. What’s going on?

Angel Dust: [waving him off] It’s nothin’, okay? Husky is just…actin' weird tonight. Like, extra weird. Feels like there’s somethin’ off with him, y’know?

Lucifer: [slight grin] Eh. Shocker. I get where he’s coming from.

Angel Dust: [confused] Shocker? Whaddya mean, shocker?

Lucifer: [brow raised] It’s molting season, Angel. It’s a natural process. Happens to demons with avian traits every so often. They shed old feathers to make room for new ones. I thought you two had something going on. Hasn’t he told you? Alastor uh…[clearing throat] helped me out last night.

Angel Dust: [eyes widen, realization dawning] Wait, what? Moltin' season? So that’s what’s been goin' on with him? [pauses] Why the hell didn’t he say anything? I coulda helped!

Lucifer: I mean preening is pretty…[clearing throat] I mean everyone’s wings are different.

Angel Dust: [squinting, smirking] Ohhhh, preenin’, huh? Is that what we’re callin’ it these days? What’d Alastor do, Luce, give ya a little feather massage?

Lucifer: [flustered, clearing throat] Ahem! I’m simply saying molting requires a certain… level of ca re. Especially for demons like Husk. It can be…uncomfortable.

Angel Dust: [laughing, leaning on the wall] Oh, I bet it can be. Don’t worry, Lucifer, your secret’s safe with me. Now I’m just wonderin’ how I’m supposed to handle my grumpy feather duster.

Lucifer: [irritated] I’d suggest you focus on your own partner instead of my affairs, Angel. Husk is stubborn, but I’m sure you’ll figure it out.

Angel Dust: [snickering] Sure, sure. Thanks for the tip, Baby Cakes.

Lucifer: [grimacing] Don’t call me that.

[Visual Note: Angel walks back to his shared room with Husk with a newfound confidence and plan - convincing Husker to let him help. He scoops Fat Nuggets up and lays on the bed with him.]

[Audio Note: Footsteps, door opening, door closing, pig oinking, bed squeaking]

Angel Dust: Fat Nuggets, baby! [leaning down to pet him, babytalking] We’re gonna help out ya daddy…yes we are…gonna get rid of that grumpy lil face-

[Audio Note: Door opening]

[Visual Note: Husk steps into the room still looking disheveled his wings twitching slightly as he glances at Angel and Fat Nuggets on the bed.]

Husk: [gruff] What’re you doin’? You havin’ a one-on-one with the pig about me now?

Angel Dust: [grinning, still petting Fat Nuggets] Maybe. He’s a good listener, y’know? And he doesn’t hide things from me unlike somebody I know.

Husk: [sighs] I ain’t in the mood for jokes, Angie. I’m beat.

Angel Dust: [patting the bed] C’mere, Husky. Sit your feathered ass down.

Husk: [narrowing his eyes] What’re you up to?

Angel Dust: [innocently] Who, me? Nothin’! Just thought we could have some quality time. Y’know, talk about stuff. Like…molting.

[Visual Note: Husk crawls into bed beside Angel]

[Audio Note: Bed squeaking]

Husk: [groaning] Dammit, Angel, I shoulda known you’d get it outta someone. Was it Lucifer?

Angel Dust: [snickering] Maybe. Short King’s got loose lips. [softly] Why didn’t ya just tell me, Husky? You don’t gotta deal with this on your own, y’know.

Husk: [shrugs, avoiding eye contact] Didn’t wanna make a big deal outta it. It’s just molting. Happens every so often, no biggie.

Angel Dust: [crawling over to him, kneeling in front of the chair] No biggie? Babe, you’ve been grumpier than usual, and I’m pretty sure you’ve been hidin’ how bad it’s buggin’ ya. C’mon, let me help.

Husk: [hesitating, wings twitching slightly] I don’t need help, Angie. It’s messy and…kinda embarrassing, alright? I don’t want ya seein’ me like this.

Angel Dust: [softly, reaching out to brush a stray feather off Husk’s shoulder] Husky, you’re actin’ like I haven’t already seen you at your worst. Hell, I practically live for the mess. Besides, isn’t that what we do? Look out for each other? You’ve seen me way past rock bottom before.

Husk: [sighing] You’re not going to let this one go, are ya Legs?

Angel Dust: [smirking] Not a chance. Now, lay down and let me get a closer look at those wings of yours. Trust me, I got magic hands.

[Visual Note: Husk hesitates, then finally gives in, lying down on the bed with his wings slightly spread out. Angel Dust grabs a soft brush from the nightstand and starts inspecting Husk’s feathers.]

[Audio Note: Soft rustling of feathers, gentle brushing sounds]

Angel Dust: [teasing] Damn, Husky, these wings are somethin’ else. Big, strong, and goddamn they need my TLC.

Husk: [gruffly] Shut it, Ang. Just do whatever you’re gonna do and quit yappin’- [few giggles]

[Visual Note: Angel continues gently moving around and picking apart the feathers, though now Husk begins to squirm]

Angel Dust: [teasing, mischievous] Ohhh, Husky. What’s this? You’re really jumpy tonight. Don’t tell me you’ve got ticklish wings.

Husk: [gruff, trying to stay composed] No. Obviously not. Just… finish the damn job, Angie.

Angel Dust: [grinning] Uh-huh. Sure. [deliberately brushing the sensitive area of Husk’s wing again] What about here? Oh, wait— there?

Husk: [giggling despite himself] Angie, cut it out.

Angel Dust: [laughing, feigning innocence] Cut what out? Babe, I’m just tryin’ to help you! You’re makin’ it real hard to focus with all that twitchin’.

Husk: [trying not to laugh] You know damn well what you’re doin’!

Angel Dust: [grinning wider] Ohhh, this is too good. The big, bad Husky’s got himself some ticklish lil’ wings! C’mon, Whiskers, just admit it—your tough-guy act’s fallin’ apart over here.

Husk: [gasping through his laughter, squirming away] Angie, shut up! You’re pushin’ it now, I swear to—!

Angel Dust: [laughing triumphantly] Oh, I’ve got you now, Husky! And too bad. I’m not stopping till I get all ya loose feathers out of there.

Husk: Shit! Angel, this is why I didn’t want to tell you, you little- [laughter]

Angel Dust: [grinning] You didn’t want to tell me because ya didn’t want me findin’ out ya just a sensitive lil cutie, huh?

Husk: [half-laughing, trying to stay in control] I'm not cute, and you better quit that before I—

Angel Dust: [giggling] Before you what? I’m just helping preen ya, you ought to be thankin’ me. I dunno what I’d do without these extra arms though, ya squirming like a damn worm!

Husk: [laughing] Thank you?! Angel, I didn’t sign up for this! Okay- okay stop it! This is fucking torture!

Angel Dust: [smirking mischievously] Torture? Babe, this is premium wing care—Angel Dust-style. Now quit wiggling. I’m almost done. Then I gotta remind ya where else ya sensitive-

Husk: [laughing] You fucking wish! No way in Hell am I letting you touch me again- ever! No more touching for you!

Angel Dust: [mock gasp] How dare ya revoke my kitty-pettin’ privileges! That’s it!

[Visual Note: Angel finishes preening - for the most part - and flips Husk onto his back]

[Audio Note: blanket movement and wrestling]

Angel Dust: [grinning] Now you’re really in for it Husky. I didn’t know ‘bout ya wings bein’ sensitive but I do know about-

Husk: [panic] Wait wait wait-!

Angel Dust: [laugh] Your hips.

[Visual Note: Angel moves one hand to squeeze his hips]

Husk: [shrieking] Angie! Angie no! You’re gonna kill me with this shit! I can’t breathe! It tickles! Fuck, it’s not funny!

Angel Dust: [laughing, his voice playful] Oh, but it is funny. Look at you, all grumpy and tough, but when I hit these spots? You’re just a cute witty kitty.

Husk: [managing to grab Angel’s wrist, panting slightly through his laughter] I said I’m not cute! If you don’t quit it right now, I will—!

Angel Dust: [smirking, leaning in close] You’ll what, Baby Cakes? You’re too busy laughin’ to do anything. Face it, I’ve gotcha right where I wantcha. Ya clearly ain’t as grumpy as before so I think I did somethin’. And this tummy is lookin’ like it wants some attention too.

Husk: [hissing through his teeth] Angel, fuck, no, no… I’m gonna—

[Visual Note: Husk tries to push Angel’s hand away, but Angel grins wider and gently presses on his stomach again.]

Angel Dust: [teasing] Oh, what’s this? You’re really not gonna— [pauses as Husk lets out a soft, involuntary purr] Ohhh… wait a minute… did you just… purr?

Husk: [flustered, voice strained] I didn’t… I didn’t purr, you little shit. Knock it off! [still giggling]

Angel Dust: [grinning broadly] Uh-huh. Sure, sure. But you did just purr. So ya lyin’ now. Thats a cute mix. Gigglin’ n’ purrin’ for me. [lightly pressing down on his stomach]

[Audio Note: louder purr slipping in]

Husk: [squirming, purring louder] Stop it! I’m serious, Angel! This is—this is—[laughing] okay, okay, I get it, I get it! I give! Angel-!

Angel Dust: Yeah? Admit it then, Whiskers. You love the attention, you loved me preening ya, you love me-

Husk: [laughing harder, eyes almost closing from how much he's squirming] Okay, okay, fine! I admit it! But you’re the worst!

Angel Dust: [laughing] Now that’s more like it! You’re a good sport, Husky. I knew deep down you liked it when I gave ya some care.

Husk: [gruff but still breathless] Oh, you’re so gonna regret this, Legs. You’re not the only one who can dish it out. Especially after all that bullshit.

Angel Dust: [giggling nervously] Wait, wait—hold on! Husky, we can talk about this—!

[Visual Note: Husk starts tickling Angel back, both of them laughing hysterically.]

[Audio Note: Feathers rustling, bedsprings squeaking, and confused pig noises]

Angel Dust: [gasping between laughter] Stop, stop! Okay, okay, I give! Mercy!

Husk: [laughing victoriously] Oh, no. You started this. You’re gettin’ the full treatment now, Angie!

Angel Dust: [gasping, laughing harder] You— [trying to squirm away, but Husk follows his movements] You’re evil! I didn’t think—! Oh God, please—! Mercy!

Husk: [laughing triumphantly] That’s what you get, Legs! I told you, didn’t I? No mercy.

Angel Dust: [gasping between laughs] I’m sorry! I’m sorry! I swear!

Husk: [stopping] That’s what I thought.

[Visual Note: The laughter fades into softer chuckles as they both collapse onto the bed, catching their breath. Husk’s wings relax, and Angel leans against him, still giggling faintly.]

Husk: [after a moment, quietly] Thanks for the help with these damn feathers, Angie.

Angel Dust: [softly] Anytime, Husky. Just don’t forget – you don’t gotta handle stuff alone. I’m here for ya, sheddin’ feathers and all.

Husk: [softly] Just... don’t tell anyone about this, alright? I’m not about to become the soft-hearted sap of the hotel. And I definitely don’t need anyone other then you using this shit against me.

Angel Dust: [whispering] Cross my heart, Husky. This stays between us... and Fat Nuggets. [laughs softly] He’s our little secret keeper.

[Audio Note: Soft oink]

Husk: [chuckling] That he is, huh? You really do know how to make a guy feel... less miserable.

Angel Dust: [grinning] What can I say? It’s one of my many talents. Love ya, Kitten.

Husk: [hum] Love you too, sweetheart.

===============================

“AH- Charlie! Whahat the fuck?” Angel’s shrieky voice can be heard by Husk’s as he looked up, to see the spider on the couch and Charlie giggling next to him. Angel was rubbing his knee as the princess spoke, “I’m sorry, Angel! It’s just so funny how you react when I do that!” 

“Yeah, funny for you, torture for me,”

“Torture- oh my Satan, Angel, you’re so dramatic,” Carlie giggled as Angel got up and headed over to the bar. He was met with a smug, yet slightly confused Husk as the cat gave Angel his usual martini.

“What did she do?” Husk asked, enjoying seeing the blush rush to Angel’s cheeks.

“She did that stupid exploding thing on my knee,” Angel said in faux anger as he took a sip of the drink, “you know what I’m talkin’ about.”

It took Husk a moment, but eventually he understood what happened. “Oh, I see. She got you with the exploding-spider?”

Now Angel was confused, “What? No! She did this!” Angel said as he reached across the bar and down to Husk’s knees. He ran his fingers down the bartender’s knees, smiling as he thought he caught him off guard. 

However, Husk didn’t even move. Angel looked up at Husk in shock. “Are you done?” Husk said, keeping his voice monotone as an idea stuck in his head.

Angel, ever gullible, fell for it. “What? No way this doesn’t tickle ya. You’re normally like really ticklish on your knees!” Angel said in disbelief as he repeated the motion, switching knees. 

“It just doesn’t work on me,” Husk said, taking one of his claws and dragging it down Angel’s exposed ribs. Said spider squeaked and immediately retracted his hand, “My turn.”

Angel barely had time to figure out his situation before Husk jumped over the bar and picked Angel up bridal-style and started heading towards the couch. Now the actor stared panicking. “Hey- Hey! What are you– HEY!” Angel squealed when the bartender threw him onto the couch and sat on his thighs. 

“Sorry, legs, you made a funny sound when Charlie tickled you here,” Husk said bluntly, not sorry at all, as he wasted no time. He grew his claws out (not super sharp) and began to spider all over Angel’s knees. 

Said man shrieked as he quickly fell into loud, belly laughter. Fell was the perfect word to describe it, as he tossed his head back, he was grateful there was a pillow there to cushion his head from the motion. “HUhuhusk! StahaHAHAhap it!” Angel used his top hands to try and cover his face to muffle his loud, shrieky laugh, while his other hands pushed on the cat’s back.

Husk grunted, but found it easy to keep his balance, noticing the tickling taking away a lot of Angel’s strength. “Hey, you know what’s funny? You’re a spider who can’t take a spidering!” Husk chuckled at the irony, switching to underneath Angel’s knees. 

The screech Angel emitted could shatter glass, and Husk’s ears went down to shield him from permanent ear damage. “Jeez, legs, this spot really gets ya, huh? Is this your death spot?” He smirked as he heard the spider’s laugh go silent, “Yeah, that’s right, shut up cause you can’t handle the truth. That or it tickles way too much for you to even laugh. I’m heavily relying on the latter.” He chuckled as Angel managed to get out a “SHUT UP” before dissolving into more silent cackles. 

Having an evil idea, Husk gave Angel a small breather. The spider was greedily taking in gulps of air as he giggled his fluffy head off. “Ohohokay, ya hahad yohour fuhun, let me up nohow!” Angel said as he used his top arms to prop himself up on his elbows. 

“Not so fast, I’m not done yet~” Husk growled out that last word, finally turning around to face Angel. He had to fight to not smile at the latter’s pink face and teary eyes. Not to mention his huge smile. Angel can deny it all he wants, but this is one of his favourite forms of affection to receive from Husk. 

However, Husk kept up the “evil ler” behaviour as he started spidering his claws around Angel’s stomach. “The itsy bitsy spiiiderrr went up the water spout!” He sang as he slowly spidered closer to Angel’s ribs. The spider groaned out as he hysterically giggled.

“Nohohohoho! Nohohohot thehehe stuhuhupid sohohohong!” Angel covered his face again, but quickly glued his arms to his sides with a squeak as Husk poked at his upper under arms. 

“Down came the rain,” At this, Husk continued to poke his claws now Angel’s ribs, down his sides, and a few quick pokes to his hips just for good measures, “And washed the spider out!” As he sang the last part, he dragged his claws to Angel’s knees again, spidering over the tops and undersides of his ridiculously ticklish joints.

Husk was having much more fun than he wanted to let show. He always enjoyed turning Angel into a giggly, blushy mess, and this was his favourite way to do so. To be mean, he stayed at that spot for 30 seconds longer than necessary until Angel managed to giggle out, “MOHOHOVE OHOHON! PLEHEHEAHASEHE!” so he decided to be merciful.

“Out came the sun, and dried up all the rain,” He continued as he moved back to Angel’s hips, giving them a few exploding-spiders and enjoying how that tactic seemed to work a lot better than the poking, “and the itsy bitsy spiiiderrr, went up the spout again” He finished by digging his claws into Angel’s lower pair of underarms. Angel’s laugh went from shrieky gasps to silent very fast. “Holy shit, you might be the most ticklish person I’ve ever met”

Angel couldn’t respond, so he resorted to weakly flipping Husk off. As retaliation, Husk started doing the “exploding spider” trick on Angel’s shoulders, said sinner dissolved into helpless giggles as he weakly tapped on the cat’s leg. “MEHEHehehrcy! IhIhIhI gihihive! I GIHIHIVE! HUHUHUHUSK!” With one final scribble to Angel’s higher pair of underarms, Husk decided his friend had enough. He ran his and (or paw? idrk) through Angel’s hair, resisting the urge to tease him for leaning into the contact.

“Had fun?” Husk asked with a smirk on his usually grumpy face. 

“S-Shuhut up, yohohou bully!” Angel blushed as he shooed his friend away from his hair, quickly fixing it because he just knew it was messy. 

[Sound Effect: Door creaking open, soft footsteps heavy sigh.]

Angel Dust: [muttering] Ugh, that was the worst. I swear, Val’s gonna strangle me with those ropes one day. I’m gonna tie him up next time, see how he likes it. Stupid tight knots, can’t even feel my arms no more…

[Sound Effect: Bed creaks as Angel flops down dramatically.]

Angel Dust: Shit, ma whole body’s sore. Like, every joint’s screaming at me, and I’m pretty sure I’ve got rope burns in places I didn’t even know were real.

Husk: That bad of a shoot, huh? You look like someone dropped a damn piano on you.

Angel Dust: You don’t even wanna know what I went through today, Husky. Trust me.

Husk: Guess you’re lucky you’ve got my ass to patch you up, huh? Turn over.

Angel Dust: [teasing] Oh? Ya gonna get all hands-on with me, Whiskers? Should I light some candles, maybe put on some summa that jazzy stuff Al keeps playin round the hotel?

Husk: [snorts] Yeah, totally. Make it sound even more sappy, asshole. Just come over here. Let me hold you. I’ll be gentle, promise.

[Sound effect: Sheet movement as Husk pulls Angel close to him]

Angel Dust: [relaxed sigh] Alight, alright. Don’t get too cozy, old man. I’m just here for a quick rubdown… [quieter] don’t get any ideas.

Husk: [more serious] Angie, shh. [soft kiss]. I’m not in this for your body or any sort of gratification. Never will be. Hell, I’d be happy just getting to hold you like this all night, alright? I’m here for you. Just you.

Angel Dust: [weak laugh] And I thought ya didn’t want to be sappy?

Husk: Hey, it ain’t sappy. It’s just honest. Now let me help you feel better, yeah?

Angel Dust: [softly] Okay. I just don’t think a massage will really help at all, ya know? it’s all achy and-

Husk: You won’t know until you let me try, will ya? Just relax, Angie. I won’t even massage ya if that’s not what you want. I’ll just do that thing you like…with the hand tracing and whatnot.

Angel Dust: (still hesitant but a little more relaxed, his voice soft and teasing): Oh, that thing I like, huh? You make it sound all mysterious, Husky. Real smooth.

Husk [snorts quietly, keeping his tone light but focused] Yeah, yeah. Don’t get all smart on me. You know you like it. Just let it work its magic.

[Sound Effect: Husk’s claws gently scraping through Angel’s fur, starting from his shoulders, moving slowly down his back. The soft rhythm of his hands soothing Angel.]

Angel Dust: Mm, yeah... that’s better... damn, Husky. You’re good at this... Feels real nice, actually.

[Sound Effect: Soft creak of the bed as Husk shifts slightly, getting comfortable while keeping Angel close. His claws move in steady, deliberate motions through Angel’s fur, creating a soothing rhythm.]

Husk [smirking slightly but still focused on his hands, continuing to rub and soothe]: Figured I’d have some skills in something other than drinkin’ and slingin’ cards. Looks like you really needed a little TLC.

Angel Dust (slightly teasing but still very relaxed now, his voice low and lazy):

“Yeah, you’re alright, Husky... That hit the spot... So much better than whatever Val was tryin’ to do…”

Husk: [Soft chuckle] Yeah, well, don’t go spreadin’ it around. Got a reputation to keep, y’know. Can’t have everyone thinkin’ I’m some kinda softie.

Angel Dust: [small giggle] Pfft, yeah, ‘cause nothing screams tough guy like tucking your favorite spider in bed and petting him like a cat.

Husk: [snorts] Keep talkin’ like that and I’ll stop.

Angel Dust: [mock panic]: Woah, woah, hold up! No need for drastic measures, Whiskers. You’re doin’ great! Five stars. A-plus.

Husk: [laugh] That’s what I thought.

[Sound Effect: Husk’s claws trail lower down Angel’s back, brushing over a sensitive spot. Angel’s relaxed sigh suddenly turns into a quick intake of breath, followed by a surprised chuckle.]

Angel Dust: [startled laugh, slightly higher pitched voice]: H-Husky! Careful there!

Husk: [stops] Stopping. I’m stopping. What’s wrong? Was I bein’ too rough on ya sides?

Angel Dust: [awkward, quick] Nah, just tickled, s’all.

Husk: [pause, smirking, playful tone] Oh? Ticklish, are we?

Angel Dust: I-I mean! No! N-no, just…caught me off guard is what I meant. Keep goin’. Totally fine. Nope, not ticklish.

Husk: [leaning in with mischievousness] Not ticklish, huh? Guess I should double-check, just to be sure. Can’t have you lying to me.

Angel Dust: [Through a shaky laugh, trying to sound composed but failing] H-Husky! I swear! I ain’t- [giggle]

Husk: [chuckling] Uh-huh, sure you’re not. Sounds real convincing, Angie.

Angel Dust: [giggling slightly] O-Okay! Okay, you’re…pressin’ your luck!

Husk: [mock seriousness] My luck? Sweetheart, I think I just hit the jackpot. [He shifts again, his claws now tracing up along Angel’s ribs with careful precision.]

[Sound effect: Bed sheets, squirming]

Angel Dust: Ah—Husky! Not there! Not the ribs! You’re—oh, shit—you’re killin’ me!

Husk: Killin’ ya? Don’t be dramatic. You’re laughin’, not dyin’. Besides, isn’t laughter supposed to be the best medicine?

Angel Dust: I swear—hah—y-you’re the worst! D-don’t you have... s-some catnip to chase or somethin’?!

Husk: [laughs, then mock growls] Keep talkin’ smack, and I’ll find a new spot to test out other than your ribs. Like here, how’s yer knees, huh?

Angel Dust (laughing loudly, trying to sound stern but failing): Husky! I-I’m warnin’ ya! You go there, and I’ll—ahhh! No, no, no, not there!

Husk: [mock serious, his voice full of teasing delight]: Not here? You mean... here?

Angel Dust: [through uncontrollable laughter, voice high-pitched]: H-Husky! I c-can’t—haah! I can’t take it! You jerk!

Husk: [chuckling, his tone smug]: But I thought you said you weren’t ticklish, Angie. Sounds like you’re enjoyin’ this to me.

Angel Dust: [gasping for breath, his voice raspy and giggly]: Y-you’re—hah—misinterpretin’ the situation! I’m—ahah—bein’ tortured here! You sadistic furball!

Husk: [snorts, still tickling but with a lighter touch] Sadistic, huh? Nah, I’m just thorough. Gotta make sure you’re nice and relaxed. Laughter’s good for the soul, ya know."

Angel Dust: [still laughing, his voice slightly breathless but teasing] Y-you’re insane, Whiskers! This ain’t helpin’ me relax—it’s makin’ me lose my damn mind!

Husk: [grinning, his tone softer but still playful]: Yeah? Funny, you’re not exactly pullin’ away. Or tellin me to stop.

Angel Dust: [giggling, mock defensive] I just—hah—don’t wanna accidentally deck ya in the face while tryin’ to escape! Bein’ courteous is all!"

Husk: [smirking, his tone sly]: Sure, sure. Let’s test that theory then, huh? How about we go a little higher, eh? Like your cute little stomach here...

Angel Dust: [half-screaming, half-laughing] H-Husky! Oh my—ahhh! You’re gonna p-pay for this! I swear to—hah—Lucifer!

Husk: [laughing, clearly amused]: Pay for it? What, with more of your adorable squealin’? You’re real intimidatin’, Angie. Keep tryin’. Now, there’s gotta be a real good spot on ya somewhere…

Angel Dust: [voice shaky but trying to sound firm] N-no... you don’t wanna go there, Husky. I’m warning ya—if you go any higher—hahhh—"

Husk: [smirking, voice teasing and almost predatory] Oh? Is this the forbidden zone? The secret weak spot, huh? Can’t handle it under yer arms?

Angel Dust: [his voice a mix of laughter and mild panic] Y-yeah, the worst spot! If you know what’s good for you, you’ll— [squeal]

Husk: [laughing deeply, clearly enjoying this] Yeah, yeah, keep squirming. You’re not gettin’ away, Angie. You sound way too cute when you’re like this. Sides, you’re pulling me closer.

Angel Dust: [giggling breathlessly] You—are—you’re—so dead! Shit! Okay, no more! Stop, stop stop!

Husk: [instantly stops] Okay. Okay, I’m stopping.

Angel Dust: [gasping for breath, still chuckling lightly] Oh my god, you’re evil, Husky. Evil, I swear!

Husk: [laughing] Oh please, you enjoyed it. And I stopped when you asked like the gentleman I am, didn’t I?

Angel Dust: [still giggling, out of breath] I mean, yeah, I did… but you’re still a monster. Evil little furball.

Husk: [grinning slyly] Oh, I’m a monster now? Look who’s talkin’. You practically melted when I started. You love it, don’t ya, Angie?

Angel Dust: [smirking, slightly shy] Y-yeah, maybe I do. But that doesn’t mean I’m gonna let you off easy. You will pay for this.

Husk: [snorts, voice teasing but affectionate] I’m lookin’ forward to it, Spidey. But for now, let’s just keep you from making good on those threats. Here, no more tickling. Promise.

[Sound Effect: Husk’s claws continue their slow, soothing motion on Angel’s back.]

Angel Dust: [giggling softly, almost content now] You’re lucky you got me in a good mood or I wouldn’t be waiting for revenge.

Husk: [chuckling softly] Yeah, yeah, I know. You’re only keepin' it together ‘cause I’m good at what I do.

Angel Dust: [playfully] I’m not that easy to please, y’know. You should be thankful you’ve got those magic claws of yours.

Husk: [grinning] Oh, I know. You’re a tough one to crack, but I’m just patient. Got a knack for getting you to melt when I need to, though.

Angel Dust: [smirking] Patience, huh? Well, you’re not always gonna get your way, Husky. I’ve got tricks up my sleeve, too. Don’t get too cocky.

Husk: [laughs, still softly tracing his claws] Oh, I’m not getting cocky, Spidey. Just stating facts. You might talk a big game, but I know what makes you tick.

Angel Dust: [playfully] That’s a real bold statement for someone who’s currently rubbing my back to keep me from plotting his downfall.

Husk: [laughs] Oh, shut it and come here [soft kiss]

Angel Dust: [teasing] Oh, getting all sweet on me now, huh? Guess I can’t stay mad at you for long. [softly] You really know how to calm me down, Husky.

Husk: [smirking] What can I say? I'm a man of many talents. [pauses] Now, stop making threats and just let me hold you for a minute. You deserve a break.

Angel Dust: [snickers] Fine, fine. But only because you promised no more tickling. You really do know how to make me forget my revenge plans. [sighs contentedly] This is nice.

The pig snorted again at the sound of the giggles. It started to nuzzle deeper, going all the way to its owner’s sides. Angel clenched his hands into fists and shook with effort not to push the friendly animal off. “Fahahat Nuhuhuggets! Thahahat thihickles- AYE!” Angel squealed and shot his arms down when Fat Nuggets found under his lower right arm. “OHohokahahay! Thahahat’s ehenough,” Angel laughed, grabbing the small pig with his upper set of arms, sitting up and looking it in the eyes.

Angel’s smile widened a little more as he hugged the pig. “Thanks for waking me up, buddy.” Angel’s heart ached when the pig snorted once more, resting into the spider’s fluffy body. The only good thing that came from Val working with Val was this pig who’s been by his side since forever, and Angel never hesitated to show Fat Nuggets how much it meant to him.

While Angel was walking towards the hotel lobby, he couldn’t stop thinking about the interaction between himself and his pig. Angel hasn’t felt this way in a while, probably not since he signed the contract with Valentino. That freak took lots of things from Angel for the longest time; his personality, his view towards men, and his enjoyment of tickling.

However, when the p*rn demon came to this tacky hotel, he was slowly getting all of that back. Husk helped get his personality back, which he was forever grateful for. That same cat also was in the process of helping Angel with his view of men; showing him that not all guys want a quick fuck then leave him.

Husk has helped Angel take back so many things that Val has taken away. The one thing that he never went to Husk for was the tickling. It was way too embarrassing!

However, while the spider was eating his breakfast, the incoming want to be tickled was consuming his thoughts. And he knew just who to go to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Angie! Wanna have some fun?! There’s a bar down town that went out of business, it’s perfect!” Cherri Bomb was staying temporarily at the Hotel. Not because she cared about changing or anything to do with redemption, but because she wanted to spend time with her best friend. Said best friend was lying on the couch, on his phone.

“I don’t know, I’m really tired right now,” Angel put his phone down and stretched his arms up, resting his upper pair behind his head.

“Come on, don’t be a little bitch!” Cherri said, starting to get impatient, “You have the day off, so why waste it doing’ nothing?”

Angel smiled at the idea he got in his head. “Well, it’s not like you can make me go,” he closed his eyes with a cocky smile on his face.

“Oh yes I can!” Cherri rolled up her imaginary sleeves. Angel’s hands came down, protecting his underarms, expecting the worst from his best friend.

What the spider wasn’t expecting was to suddenly get picked up bridal style as if he weighed nothing, and dropped outside the hotel. “There, now come!” Cherri said as she grabbed Angel by the hair, dragging him towards the town.

“Ow ow ow- ok! I’ll come! Just- let go!” Angel shouted pulling his head back and fixing his hair as he followed his girl bestie.

Angel was slightly disappointed. He really thought that Cherri would take the bait. Oh well, he thought, there will be more opportunities.

~~~~~~~~~~~

“Ya want your usual?” Husk said as he put down the glass he was cleaning behind the bar.

Angel wore a teasing smile, “Ya talkin’ as a drink, or in the bedroom~?”

Husk rolled his eyes, “You know I was talking about the drink, dipshit.”

“Ouch, what an insult,” Angel said, putting a hand on his forehead, “I didn’t know you were into degrading like that, Husky~”

“Ugh, will you please-“

“Please what, sugar? Get a taste of more than just the drink~?”

“Angel!” Husk said, slamming his hands (or I guess paws) on the bar counter, “Just let me make your drink in peace so you can piss off.”

Angel smiled, surly this will work. “Oh? And what if I don’t stop? What are ya gonna do about it, baby~?”

Husk rolled his eyes again and put Angel’s usual martini in front of him. “Threre, now leave me alone.” Husk then turned his back to Angel to clean some other glasses.

The actor narrowed his eyes, but got up and went towards Charlie and Vaggie.

What he didn’t see was Cherri sitting down at the bar after Angel left.

~~~~

The rest of the day consisted of Angel trying and failing to provoke Cherri and Husk. Yes, he could have gone to Charlie or Vaggie about this, and they would have easily been open to helping with his little “mood”, but that was no fun. He liked trying to get the ler mad enough to tickle him with all they got. And.. well.. he felt bad being mean to Charlie. I mean come on, the sweet princess would break down crying if Angel said anything rude to her, if he meant it or not. And Charlie and Vaggie are always together, so they were out of the picture.

And he didn’t even wanna try to provoke Alaster. That smile freak demon would just kill him.

So, the spider settled on focusing on Cherri and Husk. He changed into a cropped tank top and his usual shorts. He constantly stretched his arms above his head. He would make dirty jokes, and flirt like his life depended on it. He even laid down on Cherri’s lap. Still nothing.

Angel was starting to get a little annoyed. How are they not taking any bait?

By now, the whole hotel staff was finished eating dinner. Angel was back on his phone on the couch, scrolling through hell’s equivalent to twitter (not "X"), when he felt eyes on him. He looked up to see his two best friends looking at him. “Yeah?”

“You really couldn’t make it more obvious, huh legs?”

Angel’s eyes widen at Husk’s words. “Wha- huh?”

“Oh don’t play dumb Angie,” Cherri smiled, putting her hands on her hips, “We all know that you’ve been wanting to be tickled all day!” Angel just froze, so Cherri continued, “I noticed it right away, but honestly I expected Husk to get ya before I even told him” she chuckled looking over at the cat.

“Wait- you TOLD HIM?!”

“Yeah! Of course I did! Obviously you wanted him to tickle you too~” Cherri laughed again, “now we’re gonna be nice and give you 10 seconds to run and hide.”

“Wait-“

“10.”

Angel has never ran so fast in his life. He ran up the stairs and passed a mildly annoyed Alastor, almost bumping into him. “Angel! I believe Nifty just mopped-”

“I don’t have the time, don’t tell Husk or Cherri that I passed ya” Angel panicked, looking towards the stairs.

“Angie~! Where are you~?”

Cherri’s tease brought red to his cheeks as he ran into his room and into his closet. Angel could hear Alastor telling his two best friends the whole interaction they just had. Great. Thanks Alastor.

“We know you’re in here Angel~,” Husk said bluntly as he and Cherri made their way through the door, “might as well give up cause we’ll find you eventually.”

The poor spider had to cover his mouth to stop himself for giggling. He suddenly heard a snort from inside the closet. He looked down and saw the glow-in-the-dark pink spots of his beloved pig. He put his finger to his mouth, indicating for the pig to be quiet.

However, Angel panicked a little more when he felt the feeling at his side, one that can only be described as a cold, wet pigs nose.

Cherri and Husk were slightly annoyed that they couldn’t find Angel. They felt like they checked everywhere! They were about to leave, but then they heard giggling from the closet. They smirked at each other before Husk opened the closet, revealing Angel who had all four hands covering his mouth as Fat Nuggets trotted all along his belly.

“AH- hehehehey, noho fair! Fahat Nuggets cheheheated!” Angel whined as he finally got the pig off of his abdomen.

“Well, we found you!” The spider shrieked when Husk grabbed his arm and pushed him onto the bed.

He giggled again, “Harder, daddy~” Angel covered his mouth. The joke slipped out! He couldn’t control it!

Husk pinched the bridge of his nose. “Nope. Not today, legs. Ya pissed me off enough already,” he said with a chuckle. And like it was nothing, Angel was pinned to the bed with Cherri sitting on his upper two arms above his head, and Husk straddling his waist with his two lower arms pinned to his sides by his knees.

“Nonono- plehease! Cahahan’t we tahalk?”

“Oh yeah, sure, you could talk~” Husk said, wiggling his claws above the spider’s stomach, however not touching quite yet.

“Go on, Angie, what would you wanna say?” Cherri said, copying Husk’s movements with her fingers, turning them into something similar to a claw machine and slowly lowering them to just above the squirming demon’s ribs.

Angel didn’t know what to say. He could practically feel the fingers on him already. “Juhuhust dohoho it ahahalready!”

Cherri and Husk shared a smirk before both attacking their designated spots. They both flinched slightly at the shriek that came out of Angel’s mouth. “Thihihis is sohoho unfahahahair!” He cried, shaking his head and pulling his wrists, “IhI cahahahan’t eheheheven mohohoHOHOVE!”

“I dunno, this seems pretty fair,” Cherri said, a grin growing on her face when she attacked the rib below the spider’s armpit, “considering you literally asked us to do this.”

“Ohoho fuhuhuck ohohoff!” Angel’s face was pink, and his heart was full. He still couldn’t believe this was actually happening to him! He loved the attention from his best friends. It was a very nice cleanse from the usual sexual attention he got from Val.

No. We’re not thinking about that fuck face Valentino at a time like this.

Angel just wanted to think about how loved he felt. Being touched and actually enjoying it.

“Angel? You good?” Husk asked as he saw the spider spacing out a little, “maybe this’ll wake ya up!”

With that being the only warning, Angel’s voice went up a pitch when Husk lightly traced the heart pattern on Angel’s stomach with one hand, while simultaneously squeezing his hip with the other. Both spots completely open due to him wearing his crop top and shorts.

That certainly snapped Angel back to reality.

“AH- NAHAHOHOHO!! Husk- HUHUSK!” Angel shouted and shrieked and shook his head to help deal with the sudden, intense sensations on his stomach.

“Hey, I’m here too, bitch!” Cherri scoffed, now targeting Angel’s armpits.

“CEHEHEHERRI! IHI’M SOHOHORRY! I DIHIHIDN’T FOHOHORGEHEHET, I SWEHEHEAR!” The poor actor was in hysterics, and loving every second of it.

After Angel’s laughter went silent, the two slowed their tickling. Husk now gliding his claws up and down the length of Angel’s forearms. While Cherri moved to his neck, feeling her heart swell up a little as Angel leaned into the side she was tickling.

“Are ya alright, Angie?” Cherri smiled as the giggle pile in front of her nodded.

“Are you good if we continue? Or are ya all tickled-out for the day?” Husk asked with genuine concern in his voice. However he shared a smile with Cherri as Angel blushed slightly at the dreaded word.

“Pfft- wahahas thahat really ahall yohohou gohohot?” Angel smirked, managing to flip his hair despise still laying down, “Whahat do you tahahake me fohor, some kinda puhuhussy?”

Cherri couldn’t help but laugh at the spider’s confidence, “yeheah, ahand this is coming from the guy who was begging for us to tickle you,” Mrs. Bomb moved to Angel’s shoulders, “but if you insist we continue, then what’s stopping us?”

“Hey Angel,” Husk’s teasy voice caused Angel to blush even more, which didn’t go unnoticed from the cat, “wow, already blushin’ and I haven’t even done anythin’ yet.”

“Shuhuhut ihihit, ahahasshohole!”

“Jeez, maybe speak a little nicer to me now will ya?” Husk chuckled, moving to Angel’s sides and giving them a few good squeezes, causing the spider’s laughter to go more squeaky. He stopped his tickling and singled for Cherri to do the same, giving the p*rn star a well needed break. “Anyways, have you heard of the story of “the old lady who swallowed a fly”?”

All of Angel’s eyes went wide when he heard that. Oh no.

“YES! Yehehes I hahave!”

Cherri smirked, knowing where the cat was going with this, “Actually, I haven’t. Would ya mind telling it to me?”

“NO-”

“I would love to tell you!” Husk could help but giggle himself as Angel’s giggles grew more frantic, with a few panicked “nonono”s in there. “Once apon a time, there was an old lady who swallowed a fly,” he looked at Cherri and smiled when she took one finger and scribbled it all around Angel’s torso, starting from his shoulders, going up and down his arms, a quick swirl under his upper set of arms, and going down to his first rib. “I don’t know why she swallowed a fly, perhaps she’ll die!” Husk finished, just enjoying the show.

Angel squealed with his lips pressed shut, pretending like it didn’t tickle as much as it did. However, Husk and Cherri knew that this quicker, lighter method made Angel wanna squirm like his life depended on it. And that’s exactly what he did.

“Such a wiggly little thing, huh Angie?” Cherri laughed as Angel puffed his cheek to stop his laugh from escaping. “What happens next?”

“Well, the same old lady then swallowed a spider,” Husk raised his claw, wiggling it above Angel’s stomach.

"MM! MM-MM! Mm-mhmhm!" The cat smirked at Angel's panicked responce to the bug.

“It wriggled and wiggled and tickled inside her!” He said, scribbling his claws all over Angel’s fluffy midsection.

Finally Angel let his laugher out, snorting before throwing his head back, “HHUHUSK! Thihihis ihihis sohoHOHO STUHUHUhuhupid!” Angel complained, the red on his cheeks still evident, “pluhuhus, ahaharen’t I suhuhuppohohosed tohoho behehehe thehehe- SPIDER! CHEHEHERI- WAHAHAIT!” Angel squealed when Cherri dug under his armpits.

“Shut up, bitch! I’m tryna hear a story!” The pink haired girl said, stopping her attack to look at Husk.

“She swallowed the spider to catch the fly,” on her que, Cherri started scribbling around Angel’s torso again while Husk kept the movement at his stomach, “I don’t know why she swallowed a fly! Perhaps she’ll die!”

“HUHUHUSK!” Angel squealed out, another snort escaping him as he wiggled around to try and dislodge the cat’s paw.

“Fiiine, one last ryme, then we’ll move to something… else. Got it?” Husk said, him and Cherri stopping again momentarily. And Angel did not miss the pause in the bartender’s voice.

“Whahahatehehever, just gehehet ihit ohover with.”

Husk smirked even wider. “That same old lady then swallowed a bird!” Husk once again emphasized the animal as he opened his wings, positioning them near Angel’s sides.

“Ohohoho nonono- Huhuhsk, dohohon’t!” Angel pleaded like he actually wanted it to stop, but he didn’t. He was still loving every second of attention he was getting, and the two other demons could see that his smile wasn’t just there because he was getting tickled.

Husk responded to Angel’s plead by moving his wings up and down the lengths of the spider’s sides. Angel shrieked for probably the 10th time that night and fell into hysterical giggles, his body practically melting to the bed.

He cursed Husk and those damned wings. He also cursed Cherri for probably being the one to tell Husk that he’s feather-sensitive. Not only that, it makes him melt!

But God he loved Cherri for telling him that.

“She swallowed the bird to catch the spider,” Husk then resumed his previous actions with his claw on Angel’s stomach, not stopping the movement of his wings, “who wriggled and wiggled and tickled inside her! Huh, at least the wigglin' and tickling part's true, right Angel?”

“StahaHAHAhap sahahaying thahahat!”

"What? Tickle?"

"YEHEHehehes! Ihihit mahahakes ihihit wohohorse yohohou dihihick!"

"Damn, what did I say about being nice to me?" Husk moved back to the heart pattern.

"NONO- IHIHI'M SAHAHAHARRY! IM SOHOHO SOHOHORRY!"

"Holy shit, you love this spot, huh?" Husk chuckled as Angel's blush grew darker.

“Angie could never handle his tummy being tickled, whenever I needed ta’ cheer him up, I’d go there, and he’d crumble in minutes” Cheri giggled as Angel aggressively shushed her.

“DOHOHOhon't cahahall it thahat eheheitheher!” Angel giggled as if he was drunk (surprisingly he wasn’t), “Gohohod, I’m nahahat fihihive!”

“Good to know, thanks Cherri,” Husk said, looking down at Angel and admiring him and his sweet giggles. “She swallowed the spider to catch the fly, and we will never know why she swallowed that fly, perhaps she died!” With a few more quick scribbles from Cherri, the two decided another break will be needed. They both got off of Angel so he could curl up.

Angel was grateful for the break, but he didn’t want his fun to stop yet. And considering Husks words earlier, he felt like that won’t be an issue. He held his cheeks which were beginning to ache from smiling so much. While he held his cheek, Angel felt the blush on his face. He wined and hid his face in his hands.

Husk and Cherri couldn’t help it anymore and cooed at the cute spider. They both had such a soft spot for the demon. They would do anything for him.

“Awww, bahaby! Aren’t ya just the cuhutest little thing ever!” Husk said, a hand coming up to cover his wide smile.

“Shuhuhut it!”

Cherri was kinda surprised Husk let his guard down in front of her. In front of Angel, sure. But she didn’t think Husk thought that they were close enough. However, now she felt like there was a sense of trust between the two of them.

“He’s right!” The girl said, her smile just as wide as Husk’s, “like- I just can’t describe it! The more we tickle ya the cuter you get!”

Husk, on the other hand, didn’t even think before he started fonding over the actor so openly. And even after he realised, he knew Cherri won’t ruin his reputation with the hotel staff. Plus, like said before, he couldn’t help it.

Angel was bright red, flipping over on his stomach to hide his face into his pillows.

“You good if we continue?” Husk asked with only genuine kindness in his voice, “or would you like us to stop now?”

The p*rn star giggled again, wiping a tear from his eye, “ohohobviously! Ahagain, ihi’m not a puhussy!”

“Ok then…” Husk said as he sat on Angel’s calves. Cherri then grabbed the spider’s lower set of arms and stretched them out to his sides. She was about to pin them with her knees, but then took a look at the pig on the other end of the bed. The cute little animal was just watching with a smile on its face, happy to see his owner so happy.

“Fat nuggets! Come ‘ere, boy!” Cherri called, patting Angel’s back. The little pig snorted happily and trotted over.

“NO! Thahat little shihit got me into thihis mess!” Angel giggled out, the anticipation killing him. And if he got tickled by his own pig?? Gosh that would be so pathetic.

Angel suddenly remembered what he was wearing. Both spots that were going to be tickled had absolutely no protection! That thought made butterflies appear in his stomach. He was so ready for this.

“Again, are you sure you want us to continue?” Angel really appreciated Husk asking him, but got it flustered him so much.

“Dohoho yohohour worst, I cahan handle it,” Angel smirked, knowing that what he was about to say would dig him a deeper hole, “Whiskers~”

Husk blushed slightly as Cherri couldn’t help but giggle. “That’s enough out of you!” Husk growled. He then pinched behind Angel’s thighs. At the same time, Cherri taped under Angel’s lower armpit, and Fat Nuggets got to work, nuzzling into the hollow. Cherri also used her free had to scribble under Angel’s other lower armpits.

Angel screamed.

The contrast between the three tactics and the spots being completely open were too much to handle. “AHH- CHEHEHERRI! NAHAHAHAO! *snort* HUHUHUSK WAHAHAIT- GUHUHUHUYS!” Angel pounded his free fists into the bed, burying his head into his pillows.

“You said do your worst!” Husk chuckled, switching to scratch his claws up and down the backs of the spider’s legs, dragging them from the middle of his calves to his lower thighs.

“UHUHUGH I KNOHOHOHOW! SHIHIHIT! *snort* FUHUHUCK- NUHUHUHUGGS!” An array of curse words flew out of Angel’s mouth, causing his best friends to laugh along with him.

They kept this up for around 30 more seconds (all three (four including fat nuggets) of them were surprised he even made it that long) before Angel weakly tapped the bed, “OHOHOKAHAY- IHIHIM DOHOHONE! STOHOHOP!”

As soon as the word “stop” came out of his mouth, the two let up, Cherri scooping Fat Nuggets into her arms. They let Angel breathe, watching him lovingly as the actor giggled, rubbing under his arms.

“Yohou twohoho are ruhuhuthlehess.”

“We didn’t go too far, did we?” The pink haired girl said, passing Fat Nuggets to Angel. He took the pig and hugged it tightly.

“Nah, yohou stopped right whehen I needed ya to.” Angel said.

Husk gave a mental sigh of relief. The last thing he wanted to do was to make the demon uncomfortable. “So, ya like being tickled?” Angel blushed again, nodding shyly. “Don’t worry! I honestly think it’s cute that Angel Dust, Hell's most known power bottom, loves being tickled to bits!” Husk said, ruffling Angel’s hair as the spider glared at him through his flustered smile.

“It's soho not, it’s… weheird.”

“It is not weird, Anthony,” Husk said, resting a hand on one of Angel’s. The latter suddenly felt warm at the mention of his real name. That showed him that Husk was being genuine with his words. And Anthony knew that now. It was reassuring.

“Eugh, do you guys really have to flirt in front of me?” Cherri said, catching the pillows Husk and Angel threw at her.

They all chuckled. “Thanks you guys.” Angel said, holding the back of his neck.

“No problem!” Cherri exclaimed, getting off the bed and stretching, “you bitches wanna get popsicles?”

“Ya read my mind,” Angel said, also getting up and placing Fat Nuggets on the bed again.

The bar was quiet for once. Normally it was buzzing with demons trying to drown their sorrows through cheap liquor, but tonight there was no sinner in sight. Not that Husker was complaining, he loved it that was. There was no noise, no annoying ass patrons, just him and his beer. He wasn’t paying much attention to his surroundings, assuming he could hear someone come in. Imagine his surprise when he turned around to see Charlie slumped on a bar stool, her usual radiant smile nowhere to be seen. Rather, her golden eyes were downcast and her shoulders slumped.

“Damn, say something next time kiddo. You’re going to give my old ass a heart attack.” He lets out a small scoff, jumping slightly. He grabbed a soda from below the bar, cracked it open, poured it into a glass, stuck a straw in it, and slid it over to her.

“Sorry,” came the quiet response as she glanced up at him. As the drink slid over to her she sipped it and mumbled a soft ‘thank you’ with a sort of melancholy that didn’t suit her usual bubbly personality at all.

Husk leaned over the counter, raising an eyebrow. “Alright Princess, what’s eatin’ at ya? You look like Angel after a long night with that damn moth.” He didn’t need to be a genius to notice that something was going on. Thankfully for him, Charlie was always an open book.

“I just…I thought I was making progress, but no one seems to even believe in the hotel! It’s so frustrating, Husk. I try so hard, and it feels like nothing I do is working!” She dramatically slammed her head against the counter and let out a long sigh.

Husk grumbled slightly under his breath. There was something about her droopy ears and defeated expression that tugged at his heart in a way that he didn’t like to admit. “Kid, sittin’ here mopin’ ain’t gonna fix anything,” he muttered as he crossed his arms and looked her up and down. “You need to lighten up. You’re doing great.”

Charlie glanced up at him, a weak smile now tugging at her lips. “I know you’re trying to help, and I really appreciate it, but I don’t think that’s possible right now.”

Husk scoffed, instantly stepping around the bar. “Not possible, huh? We’ll see about that.”

Before Charlie could respond, Husk was beside her and his claws scribbled quickly along her ribs. A startled high-pitched squeak escaped her lips as she instinctively jerked away from his touch. “Husk! W-What are you doing?!” A soft giggle slipped through her lips, the sound a glimpse of her personality coming back.

“Callin’ your bluff,” he stated as a slight smirk crept onto his lips. He squeezed her side once more, causing another flinch and small squeal. “Don’t think I didn’t notice how squirmy you get whenever Niffty pokes your side. I found a weak spot, didn’t I?”

“Husk! Stop it! It tickles!” Charlie giggled, as she tried—and failed—to bat his hands away from her sensitive sides.

“Yeah, that’s kind of the point,” he spoke in a purposely deadpanned tone, though he did chuckle despite himself. “So let’s get that spark back, yeah? Seeing you all down in the dumps is weird.” He effortlessly lifted her off of the stool and gently laid her on the ground.

Charlie squirmed in his grasp as he moved to pin her onto the ground. He sat beside her, keeping both of her small wrists in one hand. She turned to look at him. “Husk, you don’t need to-” she cut herself off as giggles began freely flowing as Husk resumed scribbling along her ribs.

“H-Husk! Stop it!” she pleaded between giggles, though her grin betrayed how much she was enjoying the distraction.

“Not a chance,” Husk replied with a sly smirk. “We’re just getting started, Princess.” He shifted his focus slightly, his claws moving to the soft curve of her sides just above her hips. The moment he started squeezing there, Charlie let out a surprised squeal, her legs kicking reflexively. “Aah! N-No, not there!” she gasped, her laughter growing more frantic as she twisted her torso to escape his grip.

“Oh, this is even better,” Husk teased as his grin widened. “This tickle more, eh? You got any worse spots?” He continued toying with the same spot, enjoying her squeaks and squeals far more than he would like to admit.

Charlie’s struggles became more desperate, her voice rising in pitch. “No! No, I dohon’t!”

Ignoring her protests, Husk chuckled and decided to experiment further. His claws shifted lower, targeting her hips directly. The reaction was immediate, as Charlie arched her back and shrieked with laughter, her face flushing a deep red. “Nohohoho! Husk! Not my hips! That’s the wohohohorst!”

“Yeah? Sounds like I’m right where I need to be,” he quipped, his tone dripping with mock seriousness. “Let’s see just how ticklish these are.”

He drilled his claws lightly into the sensitive bone, eliciting a string of giggles and frantic squirming. Charlie thrashed on the floor, her arms tugging uselessly against Husk’s firm grip on her wrists. “I c-can’t! Hahaha! It’s too muhuhuch!”

“Too bad,” Husk shot back, continuing his movements for a moment as she tugged desperately at her arms as he decided on a new spot. “I don’t think this is the worst spot on ya, though.” With a mischievous glint in his eye, he shifted his claws once more, this time aiming for her stomach. The moment he started tracing light circles around her navel, Charlie let out a squeaky, hiccupping laugh, her entire body curling instinctively.

“Ahahaha! Husk! Stahahahap! It tickles too much!” she cried, her voice breaking into helpless giggles. She twisted and turned, but Husk kept her pinned, his claws moving with deliberate precision.

“Looks like your belly’s a jackpot,” Husk remarked dryly, clearly enjoying her reaction. “But I’m startin’ to think there’s somethin’ even better…”

He leaned closer, his smirk turning devious. Charlie’s eyes widened as she realized his next target. “H-Husk, don’t you dare!” she managed to gasp out, her laughter momentarily pausing in anticipation.

“Oh, I dare,” he said with a low chuckle, his claws drifting toward her underarms. The moment they made contact, Charlie exploded into uncontrollable laughter, her entire body jerking violently as she tried to escape the onslaught.

“NOHOHO! Husk! PLEHEHEASE!” she screamed, her voice almost shrill with ticklish desperation. Her legs kicked frantically, and tears streamed down her cheeks from laughing so hard. “Not my armpits! I c-cahan’t take it! STAHAP!”

Husk finally paused, sitting back with a satisfied grin as he released her wrists. Charlie lay sprawled on the floor, panting heavily, her chest rising and falling as she tried to catch her breath. Her hair was a mess, her cheeks were flushed, and her golden eyes glistened with leftover tears—but her smile was brighter than it had been all night.

“There,” he spoke in his old gruff tone, brushing his fur as if he didn’t just completely wreck her. “Now you’re not sulkin’. That’s an improvement.”

Charlie stayed on the ground as she caught her breath. “You’re ruthless,” she teased, the warmth in her voice betraying her gratitude. “But…thank you Husk. I needed that.” A smile graced her lips as she turned her head to look at him.

“Yeah, yeah,” he grumbled, waving her off as he walked back around the bar. “Don’t make a big deal outta it.”

A small satisfied smile was present on his face despite the tone of his voice. Being around the hotel maybe wasn’t always a pain in the ass.

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