Adam waved both of their concerns off. “I’ll sweeten the deal. You can use our pool whenever you want as one of my minions.”
“I don’t think Bel would approve of this,” Asmos told them.
Atlas hummed. “I could just make my own pool at my house using magic.”
Adam huffed. “Stupid magical plane. That is totally not fair!”
“Your minions use their magic for you,” Asmos pointed out.
Adam rolled his eyes. “Not the point. I really want to figure out why magic is so strong and different on Luci’s private plane.”
“Me too,” Atlas agreed.
“You could just ask him,” Asmos offered.
“It would be much more fun to figure it out on our own. Who knows what we can learn. And use to make lives around here even better.”
“I think life is pretty damn good already,” Seb said as he typed on his laptop.
Atlas had to agree with Seb. Life really was pretty damn good. This new life anyway. And the future that was apparently going to consist of him having a demon prince as his mate.
* * * * *
Bel
Sauntering down the street with Atlas by his side, Bel felt like the most powerful demon in the world. They were certainly gaining more attention as they headed for the outdoor café that Seb and Ash had recommended.
His mate, the sweetest boy in the world, had given Bel a mating gift and asked him out for dinner.
A date.
Bel was on a date. With his mate.
“Wait.” Atlas stopped walking before turning toward him. “Are we getting all this attention because of me or you?”
He stepped closer to his mate. “What do you mean?” he asked quietly. Bel wasn’t certain if Atlas knew that most every demon and paranormal in the area would be able to hear their conversation if they wished.
Reaching out, Atlas clasped Bel’s hand in his. “I just realized that you don’t spend a lot of time in this part of hell. This isn’t your private plane. Is there somewhere else you would prefer to go?”
This boy. Bel’s mate. He was concerned that Bel was uncomfortable. Not scared to be walking around hell. Bel was beginning to think that he might never understand the way that Atlas’s mind worked. “I quite enjoy the café that we’re going to although it’s been decades since I’ve been. It was a good recommendation from Ash and Seb.”
“You’re sure?” Atlas stressed.
Bel moved even closer. One hand in Atlas’s and lifted his other to cup Atlas’s face. “Thank you for worrying about me. I want to continue our date, please.”
Atlas pressed his cheek hard against Bel’s palm. “You’ll tell me if you’re uncomfortable or want to leave?”
“I will,” Bel promised. “If you will do the same.”
“Sure.” Atlas shrugged. “Although I’m still so curious about everything.”
“As long as you don’t mind the demons staring. They are more used to seeing mates and other paranormal creatures around than they used to be. But as a demon prince who doesn’t come around here often and with a new mate, we will be the talk of the community.”
“According to Asmos, we already are,” Atlas teased.
“That is because Asmos likes to start the gossip.” Someone really needed to take Asmos under their thumb and get that boy in line. Not that Bel was sure who would be able to handle the feisty demon without suppressing what made Asmos special.
Atlas laughed then popped onto his tiptoes and kissed Bel’s cheek. “I like my new friends. Thank you.”
