Chapter Text
Present Day
"Valentino is here, sir."
Angel and Husk exchange a look, hesitant to rise. Husk is at his sturdy oak desk and Angel is resting on said desk, half of the slinky gown off his body, baring his chest, as Husk's employee finds them. As Angel rises, he readjusts his clothes and jewelry. The glimmer of both bounces off the scant light in Husk's office.
When they exit the office, the lights of slot machines and chandeliers reflecting off of mirrors and polished floors are blinding. Husk's casino is the most colorful place in Hell and he has joked it's brighter than heaven. He rolls the cigar in his mouth, pensively, as they walk through the casino. The ricochet of slot machines and balls rolling on the roulette tables is music to his ears, and he listens to soothe his nerves as they near Valentino.
The pink smoke is the first thing they see, before meeting Valentino. Husk feels Angel squeeze his arm reflexively, and Husk realizes his partner is standing stiffly.
"Remember, he can't do anything to you. Not anymore." He knows it's easier said than done, but he hopes Angel takes comfort in the words. It's the last thing he says to him before Valentino spots them and meets them halfway down the hall.