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[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Hearing that even though 3 months had passed Graves felt the same way as Celeste did, she could relax a little and feeling relieved he didn't question her any further on her scar Celeste could finally let her guard down a little. But she couldn't help but to tease him a little,]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Well isn't that the highest of compliments. A Reaper missing something he despises so much, that's a death sentence coming right out of your mouth".]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Although there was some truth in what she'd said, she wanted to keep things light hearted between the two and she knew Graves had a twisted sense of humor. His next comment however Celeste couldn't help but feel a sharp twinge to her chest, he was right if the two of them were on the same side or even humans, no one would think any different...]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste laughed a little though forgetting about the troubles. She teasingly rolled her eyes, lifting her hand and gently running her fingers through the black smoke which was flowing around him. Looking to him a huge grin on her face]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "now Graves why on earth would you say something like that? Do I look like the kinda angel that would cause you trouble?".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Followed by a playful wink.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Once again Celeste thought she was in control up until a few seconds ago, the flirtatious confident angel almost turned to a puddle in a matter of seconds, feeling his finger brush her lip made the memories come flurrying back and Celeste's face turned redder than the gates of hell itself. Regaining the balance of her legs she looked up at Graves like a child who had just had her favourite toy taken away. A slight pout formed on her mouth as she opened her mouth to speak.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "To be honest I rushed out to see if it was really you I didn't think too much of it. But after that little performance I can think of something..."]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Suddenly the expression on her face changed to that of a more serious one. She thought about revealing everything to Graves, was she to come clean now in fear she may not see him again so soon? Or to wait and enjoy the moment she'd been patiently waiting for again? Celeste gave into her selfish desires and wanted to cherish this moment she'd been given. Time was running out before she had to go back home and think of an excuse along the way, unless Graves told her something?]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" She looked up to him, a light blush on her cheeks and a warm smile on her face.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "What about you? Was there a particular reason as to why you called me out here so suddenly?"]]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px Her instinctive reaction made him suspicious but who was he to question what she didn’t feel comfortable revealing. Graves had to keep reminding himself that their connections in time had been brief. While they had established some sort of odd and, most certainly, a dangerous relationship, he had no hold nor possession of her in any way- but of course, she had to admit that she missed him and his hard exterior wanted to crumble. What demon didn’t want to hear that?

He couldn’t help but to smile, watching that shy-girlish nature emerge from such a formidable warrior of God’s realm. [#AB2E2E “It has been admittingly straining on my end as well.”] He briefly thought about his duties before forcing himself back into the conversation. [#AB2E2E “I truly wish we weren’t so radically different. I would like to be there for you more if- you know, you weren’t trying to make my personal occupation exceptionally difficult,”] he teased.

If anything, the reaper wished he was human again for just another moment to feel the connection two people could have though... hell had made sure to diminish that humanity long ago. [#AB2E2E “We have been busy as it seems you have as well. If we had more time...”] He raised his hand to caress the bottom of her jaw and gently touched a finger to her lower lip. [#AB2E2E “I would have you again.”] He dropped his hand and smiled wider. [#AB2E2E “But I digress. Did you need to... get something off your mind?”] ]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" The sickness feeling began to rise in her stomach, she was so nervous she almost forgot to breathe. Seeing him in one of his more demonic forms was different compared to the masterpiece he'd created months ago but seeing this form in front of her made her feel at ease, he was real and not something she'd conjured up in her head. Celeste didn't know what to say, the sarcastic comment didn't help to calm her nerves and after the months she'd had she wanted to cry.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" But in one swift embrace all the insecurities she was feeling disappeared, feeling the coolness of his armor on her skin made her smile. Her heart began to pound with every second he held onto her, wrapping her arms around his neck she squeezed. Oh how she'd missed him, his company alone put all her worries at ease and made everything she'd put on the line worth it. But there was still one thing niggling deep inside her, she needed to tell Graves how she was able to meet him, but deep down she didn't know if she could bear the pain of losing him...]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Hearing his reply to her comment she couldn't help but smile. Stepping back a little from their embrace but still close enough to make her blush she smirked playfully.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Now here you had me thinking you were the competitive type".]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Suddenly a rush of panic came over her, feeling his cool fingers on the collar of her dress, ever so slightly brushing her scar she instinctively took a step back. Bringing her hair over her shoulder giving that little extra protection, she saved herself by placing her hand gently in his. She didn't want to set off any alarm bells but Celeste also knew that Graves was incredibly clever, the smallest things he noticed and she didn't want to arouse any suspicion, especially after being away from each other for all this time.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Finding it hard to not pour her heart out to him she took a deep breath and smiled.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Oh the usual, pleasing the elders and trying to find out what your boss is up to...]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" But Celeste couldn't help but to reveal a slight sense of weakness.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "This may be selfish of me to say... but it's been hard without you Graves... Hard to believe but i've actually missed your charm".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Not being able to help herself she looked up at the Reaper with a smile on her face and a light blush on her cheeks.

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px While he could feel her near, she nearly surprised him with a simple tap of a shoulder, fighting hard not to instinctively swing for her head. Instead Graves controlled himself, turning slowly to see the beautiful angel beaming up at him. Wearing a flattering dress and heavenly accents, she had not changed a day.

A fierce feeling of relief and happiness seemed to wash over him, chipping at the kink in his armor she had already made on him. He dissipated the weapon immediately and hardened his armor, leaning forward to pull her into a tight embrace. The armor gave him the illusion of shape so she did not fall into nothingness. For a moment, he felt better, favoring his own sense of comfort before giving her the chance to react. Celeste could have very well have chopped him to pieces then if her intentions had been different... and maybe he would have let her.

[#AB2E2E “I was never good at games anyhow,”] he replied, lowly before finally releasing her. There was color in her cheeks now, making him smile. [#AB2E2E “All for fair reasons though- you understand...”] The reaper paused, tilting his head slightly as he brushed his cold fingers over the collar of her dress. At first, he thought it best not to comment on the difference across her skin but the scar seemed to tug at something dark harbored his chest.

[i Time to break the ice.]

[#AB2E2E “How have you been, Celeste?”] he started, his glowing eyes seeming intense and serious. Had they found something out about her? ]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" What felt like an eternity Celeste was becoming frustrated with herself for not being able to fly quicker. She was on a time limit, there was only so long she could be with Graves before her father came to check on her. The last thing she needed was a war from a misunderstanding. Looking at the ground she could see the vineyard growing closer and her heartbeat began to quicken. It had been so long since she'd spoken to Graves. It would be a surprise if things started with how the two of them had parted.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Having no idea what form Graves would show himself as Celeste scanned around looking for someone on their own looking a little out of place. In all honesty Celeste didn't have time to change into her human form, the thought never even crossed her mind. Although it meant she would stick out like a sore thumb she wasn't in a vulnerable position as she would usually be.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Finally spotting him amongst the trees Celeste landed gracefully tucking her wings behind her back. Hearing him call out her name made her heart jump. As she walked up behind him she lightly tapped his shoulder. A smile on her face but she couldn't help but feel nervous, maybe their time together was a one off, it seemed strange that after 2 months he just popped up out of the blue but I'm sure all the questions would be answered after their meeting.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Pulling the collar up on her dress to cover the scar her father gifted her Celeste smiled, placing her hands on her hips leaning forward]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Well Graves this is a good way of playing hard to get now isn't it?"]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Thinking making a sarcastic comment would help to ease the awkwardness, after all spending one night together didn't mean anything. They still didn't know each other too well and after all people can change over a short period of time, who knows what could happen after the two of them meet today. Celeste just hoped the day wouldn't end in bloodshed...]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px To say he was utterly surprised to hear her voice was an understatement. He was flabbergasted, bewildered, caught a bit off guard. He was so sure he would hear nothing that the mere hour he was going to have to wait to see her was frustratingly annoying. What was he going to say? He shouldn’t apologize. That would show the enemy weakness. No- his decisions were firm, though painful as they may have been.

What if Atticus comes back looking for him? What if he gets [i The Call] whilst he was standing here talking with her? Then he’d have blown Satan’s plan. Could he trust her? He couldn’t. He hadn’t spoken to her for two months. What if she’s changed? What if she told her superiors about him? What if he was setting himself up to be struck down by Michael the Arch Angel himself?

[i Stupid- stupid, stupid fucking idiot. That’s why you should have never called. You’ve been telling yourself that for two months now and you fucking blew it. Need is your weakness. You know that. Now look at you. Pacing back and forth like your about to lose your fucking marbles.]

He was going to have to test her loyalty- if there was any. Celeste was the leader of God’s army for a reason and he was a [i reaper]. He could take her on if he needed. Mind over matter. He was excellent at that especially in battle. He would win and he would be safe... But what if she was the same? What if nothing changed? What if she wanted to see him as much as he wanted to see her?

Graves stopped pacing and lifted the edge of his hidden cloak, smelling it. [i Sulfur.] Well if she didn’t suspect he’d smell like that... The demon sighed, dropping the flimsy material. He was thinking way too much about this visit. Whatever happened- he could handle it. He ultimately decided that he wouldn’t change forms for her. Staying in his demon form, he’d hope to erase any illusion she may have had of him, reminding her exactly what she was dealing with.

The tendrils on his armor began to twitch the moment he sensed the holy presence, created a lump in his throat from anticipation. Graves readied his scythe in his hand, just in case she appeared with malice but he took care not to pose it in a way that would deem threatening to her. Just a precaution that had him metaphorically holding his breath. [#AB2E2E “Celeste..?”] He turned slowly, looking for her among the scenery. ]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" The holiday was over now for Celeste, the time she'd spent with Graves would either be the last or for a while at least, depending on how the meeting with the elders went. Feeling her 'human' appearance dissolve the higher she flew to the gates soon enough her original form had appeared. In someway Celeste felt relieved, her powers were at their full and she didn't have to worry about bumping into any humans or fear for being ambushed by demons.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" As her feet landed outside the golden gates she was greeted by her father, he didn't have the best expression on his face.]] [size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste, my daughter where on earth have you been? The elders have been awaiting your return for hours now did something happen? They informed me that you've been on speaking terms with on of Lucifers spawn?"]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste sighed, of course nothing would get past her father. She just needed to keep to the plan she'd made up in her head on her way here. One bonus Celeste had was that she could cope well under pressure.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" With a huge smile on her face Celeste opened her arms to hug her father,]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I'm sorry father I ended up speaking with the Reaper a little longer than i'd hoped to, he tried to give me alcohol thinking I couldn't handle it, of course I played along with his silly little game to get more information from him. However I don't wish to speak of it here, I'd rather the elders hear it from my mouth alone".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" There was no point in lying to herself, she was feeling extremely anxious in front of her father, he'd raised her so of course he knew when she was lying.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" A gentle smile formed on his lips which meant Celeste was off the hook, he didn't suspect anything and this was great news to Celeste. What he did next though took her breath. What seemed like a normal kiss on the head turned into an expression she wasn't expecting. He grabbed her shoulders causing Celeste to flinch, his face showed a type of anger she'd never seen on her father's face before.]] [size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Girl... What have you done?! What is this filth I can smell all over your face and neck? What did you let that demon do to you!!"]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" It was all over now, she'd been found out, Celeste knew deep down her dad wouldn't think twice about sentencing her to death but before she could say anything her grabbed her shoulders once again.]] [size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I'm so sorry my child, I knew this would happen, the demon raped you didn't he? He seduced you and then forced himself upon you didn't he? Quick we must report this to the elders at once!"]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Before Celeste even knew what was happening she was being dragged by her father, she needed to act fast before he spread his wings to fly to the elders, if he got there before Celeste both her and Grave' life would be in danger.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Snatching her hand out of her fathers he stopped dead in his tracks and turned to face Celeste with a puzzled expression. At this time Celeste's heart was racing, she had never stood up to her father, he was her idol but the adrenaline was pumping and she needed to tell him the truth, Graves was many things but he was never what her father was making him out to be. Taking in a deep breath Celeste opened her mouth to speak.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Father you're wrong! The Reaper never did anything of the sort... The whole reason you can smell him on me... I gave myself to him, he never took anything by force... I wanted him to.."]]]
[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Feeling the shakiness in her voice as she looked her father in the eyes, his aura was a bright fiery red and she knew he was beyond angry.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" The tall figure made his way over to her and Celeste didn't move one bit, she was prepared for the punishment about to be thrown her way. As she looked up she felt a harsh slap across her cheek and mouth. Her eyes began to water as she wiped the blood from her mouth showing a fresh cut.]] [size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "So you're telling me you offered your purity to a creature of the damned! You have feelings for this creature now do you? My own child laying with a demon! How could you! You are no child of mine and I hope the Elders deal with you in the correct manner."]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" As he turned and walked away Celeste fell to her knees, she'd used to last of her strength when she confessed her sins to her father.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" After a few moments of sorrow she'd picked herself up and opened her wings making her way to give her report to the elders. Celeste made her way up the path and kneeled before them,]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I have returned my lords, I have new information to give. I have found out the Reapers name but still not his rank, the name he told me was Graves. But I can tell from his nature and personality he's very high ranking, he tried to fill me with alcohol to lower my guard, I played along with his little game though and mentioned that Satan had something big planned, but I also feel his loyalty straying from his master, he met me without the knowledge of his master so there is some other reason he wishes to meet me".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" She kept her eyes as firmly to the floor as possible with distance, if her father could smell it up close she didn't want to cause any suspicion with the elders.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" After a few moments of silence one of them spoke,]] [size14[b[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Celeste we were about to question you as to why you have been keeping us waiting for many hours, but it seems you and the Reaper were getting better acquainted, could you tell me as to how you got that cut on your lip?"]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste rose to her feet looking at them and nodded.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Father had found out where i'd been and wasn't too happy about it, we know the dangers of entering the human world, he was angry about how reckless I was being".]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" At this point Celeste was beyond caring, it wouldn't surprise her if her father had already made the elders aware of her sin and they were just lulling her into a false sense of security. However there was no more talk of it as they continued to ask her questions about Graves.]] [size14[b[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Now Celeste would you also mind telling us why you left with the Reaper for quite a considerable amount of time? We sent someone to keep and eye on your in case you needed assistance but they lost you in the crowd of humans".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" She could feel the blood begin to boil how dare they send someone to spy on her! She was the general of God's army and she couldn't be tasked with a simple mission. She bit her lip in anger but winced at the pain from the cut. She needed to play it cool, so with a smile on her lips and put her one hand on her hip and leaned forward.]]

[size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "My lords that was exactly the reason as to why we left, the little spy you sent wasn't very good at their job and was making the Reaper suspicious, so I suggested we move somewhere away from all the 'prying' eyes. I would suggest someone else next time my lords.".]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" A smirk appeared on her face as she watched them speak amongst themselves. Again Celeste felt relieved she could handle being under pressure. After a few brief words of exchange between the two parties Celeste was finally allowed to leave.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" All she wanted was to get to her room as quickly as possible and remain hopeful that her father had gone to bed so she wouldn't have to deal with him. But to her disappointment there he stood when she walked through the door wearing the same furious expression he had when he'd slapped her. Not even bothering to look at him she made her way to her bedroom like a scared little child, as she reached for the handle attached to her door her back was slammed into the wall. She felt a sharp blade across her throat and the hand holding it belonged to her father.]]

[size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Celeste... You know after knowing what you've done I can't let you live, you've betrayed our lord himself, that is punishable by death. I never thought I would have to execute my only child..."]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Once more her eyes began to fill up, she never expected her own father to be the one to end her life and all she could think of was Graves. He wouldn't even know what had happened to her, she wouldn't even get to say goodbye..."]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I'm so sorry daddy, I never meant for things to end up like this..."]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" She could feel the pressure of the blade against her throat increasing, she even felt a slight trickle of blood run down her neck.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" As she closed her eyes bracing herself for death, the pressure lightened and she heard the clink of the blade hitting the floor. Celeste opened her eyes in surprise as her father took a step back and sighed.]] [size14[b[#00008B[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "You have used my greatest weakness against me, I could never live with the guilt of taking the life of my own child. I will keep this sin quiet on the condition you are never to meet with this demon again do you understand me? Unless the elders have instructed otherwise, unfortunately I cannot go against their orders as much as I want to..."]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Without another word being spoken he left the room as Celeste slid to the floor, her lip began to quiver as she looked out the window, her thought immediately going to Graves.]]

[Center[i[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Two months Later...]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" It had felt like an eternity since she'd last seen or heard from Graves. But then again she hadn't made the effort to contact him herself, her father had spoken with the elders and for 2 months Celeste wouldn't be allowed to leave the heavens. All she really did was attend training days and meetings with the elders.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Today was her day off though and she decided to relax, she was missing Graves' an awful lot but was rather annoyed with him, she'd had no sign that he was even alive after he'd returned home, she glanced in the mirror and the cut from the blade had healed into a nice scar visible for everyone to see, with a slight sigh she pulled the collar up on her dress and sat on the edge of the bed.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Feeling a little lost with herself she stared at the ground, the Reaper had left a huge hole in her heart, maybe it was all a lure after all but she guessed she would never know.]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" At first not realising the crystal was vibrating in her bra Celeste almost missed the 'call'.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Hearing his voice for the first time in months made her heart skip a beat, he was alive and from the sounds of things everything was okay. Which caused a little tinge of pain in her chest. But the excitement had already began to build in her stomach for being able to see him again.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "Give me an hour..."]]] [size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Not bothering to meet with the elders she grabbed her things and flew up to their 'palace' as Celeste calls it and flicked a letter under the door explaining she had an urgent matter to take care of. Celeste took the secret way out opening her wings and flying as fast as she could to see him. Her heartbeat racing every minute she got closer to him.]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px The idea of separation was not sitting well with him. In fact, it only seemed to fester into irritation and hate. It had been nearly two months and he couldn’t stop thinking about Celeste. Why did they have to bump into each other? Why did he entertain the idea of something purer? Desperate and emotional? He could just hear his comrades laughing at him. [i What reaper needs love when you have power?] And worse, they were starting to notice.

Graves did acknowledge his increased aggression and tried his best to put it off as ‘end of the world’ sinner overhaul which was indeed affecting all the Reapers. While it was his job to be the distraction, the wool over God’s eyes, he wasn’t shielded from the after effects of the other generals... the ones committing strong acts of violence and deceit. The work was beginning to be exhausting... something he hadn’t felt since his first few decades in Hell.

In all honesty, they were waiting for the first steps of the antichrist to come forth and the reaper from the 6th circle was coming up short. Satan was breathing down Addicus’ neck to find the right mortal for proper initiation. His son was growing very impatient and damn it- Graves was about to take the project on himself- but that wasn’t his job. That wasn’t his realm and initiative was always a risky skill to have under the devil.

The demon wondered about Celeste and her fight against them. He feared that if they met again, he would be boiling in magma. Mallika, from the 2nd circle, was a keen creature and could sniff out a good mood to ruin. She could get under his metaphorical skin quite easily and enjoyed doing so. She would be the one who could possibly find out his small but significant secret.

He could feel the heat from the crystal everyday in his breast pocket- evidence that he was truly living up to his title and any day now he would either choose to use it, give it as leverage or destroy it. Graves almost nearly used it multiple times in the span of two months, deciding each time it wasn’t worth risking her life for, topping his sour mood. He hadn’t had many chances to escape the pits of Hell and though he could have left any time he wanted, his actions were watched. When there was work to be done, Satan was vigilant and he put spies on spies, making every Grim Reaper highly untrustworthy.

Today, the demon found himself on a church rooftop, looking down on the humans as they filed into Sunday mass. He took a long hard drag of his cigarette, annoyed that he was here with Atticus instead of- god knows- anywhere else. Graves never should have said anything to that idiot.

[#e38100 “It’s got to be a fucking Christian or Catholic. I don’t understand why this is so bloody difficult.”] The skinny, rat of a demon peered over the edge, his glowing gaze eying the priests and bishop greeting the mortals. [#e38100 “That one has had dealings with human trafficking and enjoys his whores.”]

[#AB2E2E “It needs to be someone who thinks he’s doing the right thing for God,”] he replied dully.

[#e38100 “Mortals who think they’re doing the right thing for God are usually looneys, serial killers or closet satanists. Lucifer should just pick his ass up, look through his Black Book and tell us who he wants.”] His tendrils twitched in irritation.

Graves rolled his eyes. If Lucifer could really hear everything that came out of this reaper’s mouth, he’d been hung and thrown into limbo by now. He adjusted from a perch to a stand, throwing the butt of the cigarette over the edge. [#AB2E2E “You know nothing is ever easy with him. Now get your shit together and find a candidate.”]

His orange pupils looked up through the black smoke of his armor. [#e38100 “I dragged you here to look with those special eyes of yours. If you can’t find them, then how the hell should I?”]

[#AB2E2E “It’s your Hell,”] he scoffed, agitated that Atticus was trying to shoulder off his work. [#AB2E2E “That’s what you’re supposed to be best at. This should be a fucking cake walk.”]

[#e38100 “You don’t have [i His] son breathing down your neck, Graves. If I fuck this up, the whole prophecy is ruined,”] he hissed.

[#AB2E2E “Remember your place, worm,”] he growled. [#AB2E2E “Or I’ll decapitate you again.”] The Reaper stepped off the edge of the church, landing gracefully on the cobble street.

[#e38100 “You fucking coward,”] Atticus yelled from the top before dissipating into the air.

Graves fumed, trying to cool his temper as he walked without a glance from any human, touching one or two occasionally to make it look like he was [i working]. He pulled out the crystal, rolling it between his bone fingers. How he wanted to see her again... If only... maybe, a moment? [i What the hell...]

The Reaper stepped down, the ground shifting beneath his feet ready for transport. It was dark for only a moment before he reappeared on the edge of a vineyard. He looked at the Tear for a minute more before it started to glow softly. [#AB2E2E “Amalfi, Italy is beautiful this time of year. If you’re available, join this party of one?”]

There was a high chance that Celeste wouldn’t come. She may have been sour due to his silence, but any general would understand why... Or she simply didn’t want to see him again. He’d wait for a while but if there was no reply, the demon would never contact her again. Sinners weren’t good for angels anyhow.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste smiled at his comment trying her best to hide her embarrassment. She had to force herself to stand, her legs felt as though they might collapse underneath her, she would be happy to rest when they parted. As much as she didn't want to leave him they were from different realms either party would begin to get suspicious if either one of them didn't return. Especially Celeste the elders were eager for her to return so she could tell them the glorious news of the information she had found out about the Reaper. But that was the problem she had nothing, she was so lost in the moment with him she completely forgot why she was here. She would have to think of something that would put Graves at risk or herself.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Dressing herself and fixing her damp hair she glanced at Graves. She didn't want things to be awkward and she didn't want to just suddenly leave and seem like this was what she had planned. But fortunately Graves spoke for her, although it was something they didn't want to hear someone had to eventually break the silence.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I couldn't agree more with you Graves. I've had a glorious evening with you but all good things must come to an end... I.. I'm not sure when we will be able to meet again depending on what happens when I get home, I might lose my head".]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste laughed but somewhere in that joke was a hint of truth. If the elders found out what she had done and that she had 'tainted' her purity with a Reaper, there wouldn't even be a discussion she would be executed. Celeste quickly changed subject to not arouse suspicion with Graves, she smiled.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "You still have the crystal I gave you? If you need me feel free to contact me through that. Again thank you Graves for tonight, I had a lot of fun".]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Feeling an aching in her chest she wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in for a passionate kiss, she wanted to taste him on her lips one last time, she didn't know when she would be able to again... Celeste forced herself away as she opened her wings lighting up the alley, she turned to him and smiled one last time before crouching and shooting up into the sky leaving a gust of wind behind her.]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px Graves placed the angel down gently, giving her room to put herself back together as he too put his clothes back on. [#AB2E2E “On the contrary, that is a good compliment indeed.”] He adjusted his jacket and ran his fingers through his slightly damp hair. Only as an afterthought, did he feel slightly guilty for not giving the angel a more proper first time. [i What a fucking animal.]

Feeling the swimming sensation in his head begin to settle into a dull lull, he watched Celeste till she had tidied up and made eye contact with him once more... Then the demon felt an odd longing and grief. [#AB2E2E “As much as I want to keep you here,”] he started slowly, [#AB2E2E “I don’t think it would be wise for either of us. Someone might notice...”] He felt like he was giving her terrible news as if a loved one had passed.

Of course he felt like something precious was being teared away, as if this was meant to happen in the end. Part of the curse of being sent to hell- that he would be granted only [i moments] of bliss in his eternal servitude.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Feeling the kiss deepen on the Graves' part sent sparks flying all over Celeste's body, the taste of his tongue on her mouth made her breathe into the kiss. She couldn't explain what he tasted like, but it was hot and almost like it wanted to consume her and at this point she wouldn't have cared if it did. But soon all the excitement came to an end as Graves pulled away from her.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste could barely even hear the music anymore, it was almost like a numbing feeling. It sounded as though she was underwater and all she could feel was her pulse racing. Biting gently on her lip she could still taste him. Looking up she could see a smile on the Reaper's face, a charming smile but also somewhat like a child that had just gotten away with doing something forbidden. Feeling herself laugh a little she couldn't help but think what happened is exactly like what she had imagined minus him being a child of course.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste tried to calm herself down but she just kept having the vision repeating itself over and over again, her cheeks were still burning red with embarrassment as she finally managed to look into Grave's eyes. To anyone else they looked almost lifeless but to her she knew differently, someone that was lifeless/emotionless wouldn't have just done what he did regardless of their species.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Once more he had interrupted Celeste from her thoughts as she felt a slight nip on the side of her ear, without having time to think an ever so quiet moan escaped her lips. Something she found out today was her ears were extremely sensitive. Not knowing whether to laugh at herself or be embarrassed she leaned her head on Graves' her hair partially covering his face and neck.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Feeling a little caught off guard she wasn't exactly sure by what his question meant. Without thinking too much about it she took it as what she wanted in this actual moment. Celeste found herself getting embarrassed again as she turned to her head slightly deciding to play him at his own game. With the lightest of blows onto the Reapers ear she smiled as she whispered so even he could barely hear.]] [size14[b[#00BFFF[Font "SimSun-ExtB" "I just want to be as close to you as possible and I would hate for this night to end anytime soon, for I fear when we will be able to see each other so freely again..."]]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Although Celeste hated to admit it, it was the truth and she didn't fully know if the elders had sent someone to spy on them and vice versa on Graves' part. If that was the case Celeste may never be able to see him again, this was the night to put everything at risk. She knew it could mean the end to her life but she would have no regrets...]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px Her touch was warm, inviting, almost to a grave weakness. Her fingers drifted from shoulder to cheek, pushing him further to investigate the taste of her lips with the tip of his tongue turning the kiss in a way the French endorse. There she was sweeter- hotter and eager.

For what seemed like mere seconds to a mortal was decades of torture released in a single kiss but he wouldn’t dare let that show on his face. Not even for her. Was it strange that he believed he could actually prove Satan wrong? Pssh. Not like anyone would care any way... with the world about to end...

Graves pulled back, feeling guilt creeping over him despite the hot rush. Again, another feeling he hadn’t felt in quite some time. The demon looked down at the angel, her cheeks flushed with a cute rosey red and he felt himself smile again. [i Yeah... now I feel a little better.]

[#AB2E2E “Feeling dangerous today,”] he said, leaning in to bite at the tip of her ear and breathe in her angelic scent. Addicting... and that could become a problem. [#AB2E2E “What do you want, Celeste?”] He could feel himself gravitating to her. He truly wanted to be closer but just because he was a demon, didn’t mean he had to be evil.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Celeste couldn't help herself but to stare at his features, it was consuming her, she lifted her hand slightly but lowered it again quickly. She just wanted to touch his face again to have that feeling of a connection, she'd never wanted to connect with someone so much before as she did now. From the moment she noticed him in the forest there was something different about him. He didn't instantly want to fight her and in that moment Celeste felt the same way. Her own thought right now was if he felt the same way in this exact moment.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Her thoughts were soon interrupted as she felt the Reaper's lips on her own and her instant reaction was to lean into the kiss. Tasting him on her lips was almost like an addiction, she didn't want to stop. Breathing into the kiss she rested her hand on his shoulder her face flushed with embarrassment. Celeste was leaving herself completely vulnerable and she didn't care, all she wanted to do at this very moment was to be as close to Graves as she possibly could.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" His aura was flowing around her, almost consuming her but it was full of warmth, she just wished he could see what she could but even if she tried to explain there's no way he would believe it. After so many years of believing he was truly evil it's all he'd ever known, but Celeste knew differently and she was determined that one day she would get him to change his opinion of himself.]]

[size14[Font "SimSun-ExtB" Not wanting to pull away from him she leaned into him more to deepen the kiss, now moving her hand from his shoulder to the side of his face. Celeste lightly rested her hand on his cheek and moving her other hand and resting it on his arm. Her cheeks felt hot to the touch and her heart and pulse were racing, but it was an exciting feeling and she didn't want it to end.]]

[google-font https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Slabo+27px] [size14 [Slabo+27px Graves watched her carefully as thought crossed her features. It may have been mere seconds but living like he did, he grew to know when someone was telling the truth and when they were not. As an angel, Celeste was better at hiding truth but in those moments when her eyes looked into his, he could see that spark of humility. That one simple reality that this was very, very wrong. Death for an angel. Torture then insanic limbo for a reaper.

Graves was sure the alcohol was making him bolder than usual though he welcomed it. He welcomed the idea of [i feeling] again even if it was an illusion or even real- as she put it, within a clouded gray aura.

The demon lifted a hand, brushing another fly away hair back behind her ear and stroked her cheek gently, soft and warm. He leaned in, the fresh lavender scent of a holy being feeling his nostrils as he pressed his lips against hers. The action made something hunger inside him. Maybe it was the thought of being seen. Maybe it was the thought of being vulnerable. Maybe it was the thrill of the risk and danger it put him in. He had always been a sadist like that but he was sure [i this] was different. It had to be. He [i wanted] it to be.

But what could she really see in him? He was nothing but evil.

The reaper pushed harder, hungry for her affection as his arm wrapped around the back of her chair to bring him closer selfishly. ]]