Archive of Our Own ^beta

Alec paced back and forth in his chamber, the sunlight streaming through the arched windows casting intricate patterns on the stone floor. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and ideas, none of which seemed good enough. The anniversary of his relationship with Asmodeus was approaching and Alec was at a complete loss for what to do.

"What do you give an angel who's seen just about everything?" he muttered to himself, running a hand through his hair in frustration.

Just then, the door to his chamber creaked open, and his twin sister, Alexandra, strode in with her usual air of confidence. She had overheard Alec's mutterings and decided it was time to step in.

"Alec, you're going to wear a hole in the floor with all that pacing," she teased, her lips curling into a playful smile.

Alec sighed, turning to face her. "Alex, I have no idea what to do for our anniversary. Asmodeus has seen and done just about everything. How do I make it special for him?"

Alexandra crossed her arms, leaning against the doorframe. "Well, for starters, stop overthinking it. Sometimes, it's the simple, heartfelt gestures that mean the most."

Alec raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Simple? How can anything I do be special enough?"

She rolled her eyes and stepped forward, placing a hand on her brother's shoulder. "You're not just anyone, Alec. You’re his boyfriend. That in itself is special. Now, let's brainstorm. What does Asmodeus enjoy?"

Alec pondered for a moment. "He loves the arts, music, poetry, flying, theaters. He always lights up when he talks about the performances he’s seen over the centuries."

Alexandra's eyes lit up with an idea. "Why not take him to a play? There's a new troupe in town that everyone’s been raving about. It would be a delightful surprise."

Alec's face brightened. "That’s perfect. A play would be a wonderful way to spend the evening together. But how do I make it even more special?"

Alexandra grinned, clearly enjoying the planning process. "We can end it with a special dinner at that new tavern by the river. I'll help you pick out a gift too—something thoughtful, maybe a piece of jewelry or a rare book of poetry."

Alec nodded, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. "Thank you, Alex. I don't know what I'd do without you."

She gave him a playful shove. "You'd probably be a lot less interesting, that's for sure. Now, let's get to work. We’ve got an anniversary to plan!"

The night of the anniversary arrived, and Alec felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. He had taken Alexandra’s advice to heart, planning an evening that he hoped would be both special and intimate. Asmodeus had been kept in the dark about their destination, and Alec could see the curiosity and anticipation in his eyes.

They began the evening with a leisurely walk along the river, the soft glow of lanterns reflecting off the water. The gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers, adding to the romantic ambiance. Alec and Asmodeus shared quiet conversations and stolen glances.

Dinner at the riverside tavern was a cozy affair, with the flickering candlelight casting a warm glow on their faces. Alec and Asmodeus sat at a beautifully set table in a quiet corner of the grand hall, the soft glow of candles casting a warm ambiance around them. They enjoyed a delicious meal, filled with laughter and reminiscing about their time together. As the meal came to a close, Alec nervously cleared his throat, trying to find the right words as he gazed at Asmodeus, who was watching him with a playful glint in his eyes. Alec took a deep breath and reached into his pocket, feeling the small, velvet box nestled there.

"Aazzy," Alec started, his voice slightly shaky as he fumbled for his thoughts. "I... I wanted to give you something special, something that shows how much you mean to me."

Asmodeus leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with interest. "Oh, my dear Alec," he said, his voice low and smooth. "What have you got for me, darling?”

Alec blushed slightly, feeling a flutter in his chest at Asmodeus' flirtatious demeanor. "Here," he said, sliding a small velvet box across the table towards Asmodeus. "Open it."

Asmodeus's fingers moved gracefully, opening the box to reveal a stunning silver ring adorned with delicate red stones. His lips curved into a genuine smile as he admired the craftsmanship.

"Alec, this is beautiful" Asmodeus murmured, his gaze lifting to meet Alec's with warmth. "Thank you."

Alec took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "I... I know we've been through so much together," he began, his voice soft but earnest. "And I want you to know that... that I will always cherish you, Aazzy. Always."

Asmodeus reached across the table, his hand covering Alec's. "And I will always cherish you, my love," he replied tenderly, his thumb caressing Alec's knuckles. "Thank you for this beautiful gift."

Alec smiled, relief washing over him as he felt Asmodeus's affectionate touch. "You're welcome," he said softly. "I'm so glad you like it."

He slipped the ring onto Asmodeus’s finger, his hands steady despite the rush of emotions coursing through him. Asmodeus cups Alec’s face and pulls him into a kiss. As they pulled back, Asmodeus’s smile was radiant. “Happy anniversary, Alec. Oh! And since you are giving gifts. I have a gift of my own.”

Alec’s heart raced as he reached for the delicate, tear-shaped pendant from Asmodeus. The sapphire-like stone shimmered in the candlelight, surrounded by a halo of sparkling diamonds.

“Aazzy…” Alec whispered, his fingers trembling slightly as he held the pendant up to the light. "It's beautiful."

Asmodeus smiled warmly, his eyes softening with emotion. "I had it made for you," he explained, his voice gentle. "To keep you safe, always."

Alec nodded, feeling overwhelmed by Asmodeus's thoughtfulness. "I... I don't know what to say," he admitted, his voice thick with gratitude. "Thank you."

Asmodeus reached across the table, taking Alec's hand in his own. "You don't have to say anything," he said softly. "Just promise me you'll wear it always. It will protect you, Alec."

Alec nodded again, his heart swelling with love for Asmodeus. "I promise," he vowed, his voice steady. "I'll never take it off."

After dinner, Alec led Asmodeus through the cobblestone streets to the playhouse. The bustling sounds of the town faded as they approached the theater, the excitement of the upcoming performance hanging in the air. Asmodeus’s eyes sparkled with interest as they took their seats, and Alec felt a rush of happiness at seeing him so content.

As the play began, Alec found himself unable to focus on the performance. Instead, his attention was drawn to Asmodeus. The flickering stage lights highlighted his ethereal features, casting shadows that only seemed to enhance his beauty. Asmodeus watched the play with rapt attention, his eyes following the actors as they brought the story to life. Alec couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and disbelief.

How did I get so lucky? he thought someone like Asmodeus, an angel of immense power and grace, had chosen him. During an emotional scene in the play, Asmodeus reached out and gently squeezed Alec’s hand. The simple gesture sent a wave of warmth through Alec, grounding him in the moment. He turned to look at Asmodeus, finding his boyfriend’s gaze already on him filled with love and affection.

Alec leaned in and whispered, “I can’t believe you’re mine.”

Asmodeus’s smile was soft and genuine. “Believe me, I feel the same for you”

The rest of the play passed in a blur of emotions and stolen glances. Alec barely noticed the applause and cheers at the end; he was so lost in the presence of his boyfriend. They exited the theater, the cool night air greeted them, and Alec felt a deep sense of contentment.

Walking back along the river, Alec and Asmodeus held each other close. “I hope you enjoyed the evening,” Alec said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Asmodeus stopped and turned to face Alec, his eyes shining with emotion. “It was perfect, Alec. You always know how to make me feel loved.

Alec smiled, his heart full. “Good. That’s what I want. “Happy anniversary, Aazzy”

“Happy anniversary, my love,” Asmodeus replied, leaning in to kiss Alec softly.

In that moment, Alec felt like the luckiest man in the world. He had the love of an angel, and that was more than he could have ever hoped for.