Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was Saturday, a treasured day off. Trixie was spending the day her friends. Her not so little monkey was 15 now. Chloe was driving to Ella's place to pick up Rory. She was two and a half now, the half was very important apparently.

Ella shouted, "come on in" when she knocked. She went through to the living room and saw Rory at the coffee table, chewing her lip in concentration. "How did you get on?"
"No problema" said Ella, giving her a hug. Rory finally looked up and noticed she was there. "Mommy!" Chloe crouched down and her little toddler hurtled into her arms. "Hey, did you have a fun morning with auntie Ella?" She nodded enthusiastically. "Did you eat all your lunch?" More nodding. "Tiger toast" she said with a grin. "Wow! That sounds exciting," then to Ella "and that would be?"
"Oh, it's what my nephew calls grilled cheese. My brother just moved to LA, they called in earlier for twenty minutes."

Rory piped up,"look mommy," holding up the drawing she'd been working on. "That's beautiful sweetie."
"It's daddy flying."
"I'm sure he'll love it. Is that glitter?"
"Lots glitter. Shiny wings." She looked very proud of herself. "Did you meet a new friend today, honey?"
"Mmhmm, boy looks through windows." Chloe opened and closed her mouth in confusion, looking to Ella who was now giggling. She held out her phone. "That's Rafael." It was a photo of a boy, about three years old, with dark hair, wearing the cutest little glasses. "Aww, he's so cute. Does he like the beach? We could do a playdate at our place someday."
"That sounds awesome."
"What do you think Rory, want to play with Rafael another day?"
"Yay!"

Rory went back to concentrating on her art. Ella was making coffee. She pushed a mug towards Chloe. "Thanks" she said, curling her hands around the warm cup. "Have you decided what to do?" Chloe nodded. "Just keep it simple, relax with a glass of wine and tell him." Ella took a sip from her own coffee. "Sounds perfect. I'd wish you luck, but you don't need it. It'll be fine."
"Thanks, I think it will" she said smiling. "How's the other job going?" she said using air quotes. "Good. It takes time, but he's making progress." She felt a tug on her shirt. Looking down, her daughter was holding up the finished drawing. "Ready then little one, daddy gets home today." She bounced up and down on her toes. "Say thank you to auntie Ella." She launched herself at Ella hugging her tight. "Thank you."

Later that afternoon Rory was splashing about in the pool surrounded by her inflatable toys. Chloe was watching her from her chair on the deck. Glancing up, she saw a shape getting closer and knew what was about to happen. Rory squealed as Lucifer swooped down and scooped her out of the water, hovering for a moment before landing. "Daddy's home! Love saying that!" He grinned at Chloe, mantling one wing around her, ash fluttering off him. Rory scrunched up her nose. "Daddy stinky." He gasped in mock outrage. "She's not wrong babe."

"Fair point, hell is stinky - amongst other things. Alright ladies, shower first, then it must be nearly time for your dinner spawn. I shall cook." He bowed, shedding yet more ash.

"What will it be then, madame? Lobster? Caviar? Chateaubriand?" Rory perched on a stool, giggled. "Mac and cheese" she shouted. "As madame wishes." Chloe shook her head. "You had cheese for lunch, what about spaghetti?"
"Sketti!" she cheered. "Sounds messy" Lucifer sighed. "What was lunch then?" as he started on the sauce. "Tiger toast."
"You've invented a brand new dish while I've been away. Impressive."
"Not me. Auntie Ella and window boy." Lucifer tilted his head. "Eh..." He turned to Chloe searching for help. "You're very cute when you're confused" she chuckled, leaning across the worktop to kiss him. "Not cute" he mumbled against her lips. "Yeah, ok."

She whispered in Rory's ear and lifted her down. The little girl ran off towards her bedroom. She was back in a moment waving her picture, trailing glitter as she went. "Daddy!" Lucifer kneeled down and put his arm around her. "That is very... sparkly. Thank you." He kissed her cheek and popped her back on the stool. Putting a bowl in front of her, "careful now, check it's not too hot." She applied herself to some serious spaghetti twirling. "Does mummy want some?"
"I'll eat later, thanks."

When Rory was finished, her face appeared to consist mainly of pasta sauce. "OK, spaghetti monster, bath time." She reached up for Chloe to lift her. She was getting tired. "Who do you want to read your story tonight?"
"Daddy." Lucifer looked up from tidying the kitchen. "OK, you and mummy do bath time and then we can snuggle up for story time. Which book do you want?"
"Goodnight Gorilla!"
"Again?" She clapped her hands, "yes."
"Very well."

An hour and a half later she was bathed, had heard her favourite twice and was snoring softly with her little pink wings on display. They always seemed to emerge when she fell into a deep sleep. Trixie was in her room chatting to her friends online even though she'd been with them all day.

Chloe joined Lucifer outside where he was looking up at his stars. Sometimes she couldn't believe this was her life. She sat down beside him. "Wine?" She shook her head. "No, I'm good." She leaned her head on his shoulder and put his arm around her. "I'm glad you're back." He kissed her head. "I missed you too."
"How was it? - apart from stinky." He chuckled. "Got one soul moved on this time."
"I'm proud of you."
"So, new friends and dishes aside, did I miss anything else?" Chloe sat up. "Actually, we do need to talk." Lucifer turned. Did she look a little nervous? "Are you alright? The girls?"
"Yes, everybody's fine." He still looked concerned. "Lucifer. I'm pregnant." His mouth dropped open and his eyes widened. She took his hand in both of hers. "Are you ok? Lucifer?" It wasn't often he was this quiet. "Lucifer." He looked down at their hands as if he'd just noticed. "You're sure?" She nodded. Then he was beaming at her. She sighed in relief. "You're happy? I know we didn't plan for this." He captured her in a hug. "We didn't plan for a lot of things, I'm very happy, just a bit of a shock."
"Tell me about it."
"Do the girls know?" Chloe shook her head. "I thought we could tell them together." Then remembering, she said "oh, but I had to tell someone, so Ella knows."

They relaxed back against the cushions again. "Maybe we'll get a boy this time."
"Well, I am a little outnumbered around here, even the dog is female."
"You love it."
"I do." Lucifer slid his arm around her waist, pulling her closer. "Shall we call it a night? It's been quite the day. Maybe we can work out how this happened?" She turned to find him waggling his eyebrows at her. She couldn't help laughing. "You are incorrigible."
"Just how you like me."

Chapter Text

Chloe groaned. It was too early and the California sun slanting through the sheer curtains was most unwelcome. She closed her eyes tight and ducked under the silk sheet. "Morning love." Lucifer pulled the sheet back in search of her. She glared at him with one eye. "You're very cheerful" and disappeared under the sheet again. He chuckled.

They heard a thump, the sound of a toddler jumping out of bed. "Sounds like the devil's spawn is up" Lucifer said reaching for his robe. "Don't feel well."
"Oh, have we reached that stage already?" but she was already dashing towards their bathroom.

When she came back to the bedroom there was a glass of water waiting for her. She sat down and sipped at it. Lucifer came in and sat down beside her with a mug in his hand. "Is that..?" He nodded. "Ginger tea, it always seemed to help before. "She hugged him. "Thank you." He stroked her hair. "It's nothing, get some more sleep and I'll entertain the winged wonder."
"Is she okay?"
"Fine, eating cereal as if she hasn't seen food in a week." Chloe gave a watery laugh. "Don't expect we'll be seeing the teenager for a while yet."
"No chance."

Chloe walked into the living room mid-morning, showered and dressed in her comfiest clothes. Lucifer was on the sofa with one wing wrapped around a sleeping Rory. "Feeling better?"
"Much, thank you," sitting down and kissing him before leaning her head on his shoulder. He stretched the other wing around her. "What have you two been up to?" He nodded at the tv, smirking.
"Oh my..., is that, how on earth did you find it?" The screen, now paused said City Kids in big letters. "You remember the case when we went undercover at the high school reunion?" She smiled at the memory. "I'll always remember that one."
"Well, you told me you spent most of high school on set, so it made sense that you must have been in something else before the movie I'm not allowed to mention." She raised one eyebrow, "you mention it pretty often." He presented her with his best innocent look. "Anyway, Rory and I decided to do an internet search and we found this."

"You know, I complain a lot about mom pushing me into acting, but that show was actually a lot of fun. It was about a bunch of urban kids having adventures in the city parks."
"Griffith Park?"
"Yeah, and Elysian Park, as well as some on set work."
"Rory got very excited when you did some kind of somersault over a fallen tree, but her early morning caught up with her," he said nodding at the sleeping bundle. "We had coaches for everything. I learned a few gymnastics and dance moves. I could do a scorpion back then." He raised his eyebrows,"and that would be?"
"All you need to know is I can be very flexible."
"I'm aware, detective." He was giving her a look that could only lead to trouble. "I had my first screen kiss on that show too."
"Ooh, which episode?"
"You don't need to know that." Now he was kissing her neck. "Oh, I think I do" he crooned. "Ew! Get a room!" Chloe blushed and cleared her throat. "Morning Trix."

Lucifer stood up. "I'll just pop this one into bed."
"We want to talk to you monkey, sit down." She looked at her mom suspiciously. "This is how the divorce speech started." Lucifer walked back in at that moment and Chloe caught the quick flash of panic on his face. She got up and grabbed him by the hand. "That is absolutely not happening. Everybody calm down."

"We're not telling Rory yet but we want you to know now. We are having another baby."
"Oh" she sounded relieved. "That's great mom, when?"
"Not sure yet, it's early, but some time after Rory's birthday." She got up, poured a glass of juice and went back to her room. Chloe turned to look at Lucifer. "There's something wrong with her."

Trixie looked up at the knock on her door. Chloe came in and sat beside her on the bed. "What's up Trix?"
"I'm fine."
"Please monkey, talk to me," she said taking her hand. "It's nothing, I'm happy about the new baby and I love Rory." Her eyes were filling up. "Sometimes I just wish I was special too." Chloe's heart sank. She wrapped her arms around her daughter. "Hey, listen to me. You are special. You're perfect just as you are." They were both in tears now. "I love Rory because she's my daughter, just like you, not because she has wings." They just sat together for a little while.

Back in the living room, Lucifer looked up when she entered. He raised his eyebrows in question. "She'll be okay I think. She's never had much family. Dan doesn't have any siblings either, and now her own siblings are half celestial. I don't want her to feel like she's missing out. I'm not sure what to do."
"How about asking Linda for advice?"
"That's actually a great idea. I will."

"By the way, I noticed your mini panic when you heard the word divorce."
"I do not panic!"
"Hmm. Well forget it. It's never happening. You're stuck with me." He smiled and kissed her. "Good."

"How about I take my ladies out for lunch?"
"Can we just stay home today, I was thinking of a picnic by the pool."
"Ooh! Devil loves a pool party."

Later that afternoon when everyone had eaten, Rory was splashing around in inflatable heaven. Lucifer nudged Trixie with his foot. "What?" she said taking her ear buds out. "I know your sister has countless aunts and uncles. You're welcome to any of my useless siblings you wish. You're as important to me as Rory is." She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Thanks Lucifer," she said with a wicked grin and launched herself at him with an enthusiastic hug carrying them both into the pool. "I take it back urchin, look what you've done to my hair!"
"Too late."

Chapter Text

Chloe opened her eyes. Lucifer was lying beside her on his front, head resting on his arms. "Were you watching me sleep again?"
"I admit to nothing." He lifted himself up on one elbow to kiss her. "Good morning," he said, gathering her into his arms. "What if the world knew the devil is actually a cuddler?"
"That would mess with my badass reputation." He felt her smile against his chest. "Do you feel well enough for today, love?"
"I'm fine, the morning sickness is almost gone now. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone."

"I've been thinking."
"Oh-oh."
"Very funny, Detective." She giggled. "With the pregnancy and the new baby I don't like going away for days at a time. What if we reschedule hell for half a day, about once a week? I'd still have enough time down there and it could work better for us."
"That actually sounds great, Lucifer." She glanced at the clock. "They'll be up soon, you might want to put something on?"
"Good point." He got out of bed to put on pyjama pants. He looked back over his shoulder, smirking at her. "Enjoying the view?"
"I admit to nothing."
"Touchè." He sat down again. They'd agreed to tell Rory about the baby this morning. "How do we do this, if she has questions? I never want to lie to her but..." Chloe took his hand. "Just wait and see what she says, we'll find a way."

The girls appeared wearing matching sleep shorts and tops. Trixie deposited Rory on top of the bed. Rory jumped on Lucifer."Dad!" Chloe smiled. "You girls look so cute this morning."
"Mommy! Trix says you have a surprise for me!"
"Yes baby. We have some guests coming for a beach day." She beamed and clapped her hands. "Auntie Linda and Charlie are coming, and Auntie Ella, and do you remember Rafael?" She nodded. "It's gonna be a fun day, but first we want to tell you something." She paused to meet Lucifer's eyes.

"Mommy is going to have a baby. You'll be a big sister. Just like Trix." She smiled, said "I'm a big girl", then popped out her wings, climbed off the bed and proceeded to run around the room. Her arms were outstretched and she was making engine noises.

Lucifer blinked and looked at Chloe. "Have we broken her?" They both looked at Trixie who had collapsed into giggles. "It's okay, we were playing aeroplanes yesterday." She raised her hands to her mouth and called, "Captain Morningstar return to base." As she returned to the rest of the family, Lucifer scooped her up with one arm and put her back on the bed. "Did you hear what mummy said?" She nodded. "Are you happy?" She nodded faster. "Yes, but..."
"Do you want to ask something Rory?" Chloe took her little hands in hers. "Is a new daddy coming?" Lucifer turned his splutter into a cough.

"No baby, why would you think that?" She frowned in concentration. "I have one daddy, Trix has one daddy, baby needs a daddy too." She looked around as if expecting the mysterious newcomer to appear. Chloe smiled warmly. "The baby will have the same daddy as you." Her split into a wide grin. "Good." She flung herself into Lucifer's arms. He was lost for words. She turned to look at Trixie. "Why Unca Dan your daddy?" Chloe started to speak. "Um..."
"It's okay mom. I got this. We didn't meet your dad until I was seven." Rory smiled again. "Oh okay." She jumped down and resumed her former flight plan.

Lucifer looked bewildered and raked his fingers through his hair. "She's taken off again. Urchin, can you get the flight commander some cereal and I'll come make pancakes in a minute?"
"Sure." Chloe grabbed her hand as she was leaving. "Hey Trix. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks mom."

When they were alone, both collapsed back against the pillows, Chloe said "not what I was expecting, but we got there. Can't believe all of that was in her head." Lucifer still looked in shock at the thought of another daddy moving in. "It's almost as if she were part detective" he said with a half smile. "Alright, best get started on breakfast." Just as he was leaving the bedroom Chloe called, "Lucifer, I have a hunch that your daughter wants to learn to fly."

Chapter Text

"Lucifer!" He spun around. "Yes Doctor?"
"This other kid that's coming. Does he know about this situation?" She gestured to where Rory and Charlie were chasing each other, both with their wings out. "Ah, excellent point." He grabbed one child under each arm and deposited them on the breakfast bar.

"Wings in please." They obeyed immediately. "You two know the rules about wings in public?" They nodded. "So Rafael is coming today and he doesn't know us yet. No wings today."
"Okay daddy."
"Will you play with us today Uncle Lu?"
"I think I can manage that."
"Okay then."
"Go play, they'll be here soon."

"Lucifer, did my son just do a deal with the devil?"
"Mmhmm, seems to be taking after his fun uncle" he said flashing her his devilish grin. Linda became aware that he wasn't focused on her anymore. She turned around. "Chlo! You look amazing." Chloe smiled and hugged her friend. "Thanks. This might be the last time I fit in a bikini for a while."
"I'll just go check on the kids." She went outside, leaving them alone.

"The doctor is right. You look incredible. I'm regretting having guests now," Lucifer said, winding his arms around her. "Later handsome," she promised, scratching his stubble. "Very well, but I'm going to be very distracted today." Just as she pulled him down for a kiss, Ella arrived. "Awwh, you guys are too cute!" She barrelled into them for a group hug.

"Chloe, Lucifer, this is my nephew Rafael." The little dark haired boy smiled. "Hi."
"Hello young man." Chloe said, "the kids are outside if you want to go play, Rafael." He grinned and ran out. "Now do I need to talk to this boy regarding his intentions towards my daughter?" Ella giggled and Chloe rolled her eyes. "Lucifer, he's 3 years old."
"Fine. I'll wait until he's 4." Chloe shook her head. "Okay, let's hit the beach."

Chloe and Ella joined Linda. She had acquired a small mound of clothes and shoes. The boys were just wearing shorts now and Rory in her bathing suit. They were gathered around Trixie. "Everyone got sun cream Chloe." Chloe and Ella sat down. "Thanks Linda." We can relax for a bit.

Trixie and her little gang came over. "We're just going to look for shells mom."
"Alright, take Stella with you. Let her have a run." Their dog was wrestling with Lucifer. "Come on, Stella," she called. "Rory, just your feet in the water, you can play in the pool later if you want."
"Okay mommy."

The kids went off on their mission and Lucifer wandered over, dangling something from his fingers. Chloe looked over her sunglasses at him. "Taking in the view, my love?" he said with a smirk. "Of course dear, you know I love the beach. What you got there?"
"A space rocket sock. Rescued from Stella's clutches."

Their dog was a rescue, a jumble of breeds, gentle with the kids and loved nothing more than a belly rub. "That's Rafa's" said Ella. "He loves the stars."
"Does he now? Obviously a man with taste. Suddenly I like him more." Linda shook her head, Chloe rolled her eyes and Ella just laughed.

The adults got some time to relax before Rory reappeared. "Can we go in the pool now mommy?" Chloe sat up. She reached into the cool box and gave her a drink. "Not yet, dad has a plan." The rest arrived and helped themselves to drinks."What are we doing daddy?" There was no answer from where Lucifer was stretched out on the sand. Trixie gathered her little gang and whispered to them. The little ones giggled and Lucifer smiled to himself. They started to bury his legs in the sand. He shot into a sitting position. "Hey! Monsters." He made a lunge for the giggling kids whilst Trixie just smirked at him. "Alright, alright, I'm up." He nudged Trixie with his elbow. "I've got my eye on you, Urchin."

"Line up please, everyone who wants to take part in the sandcastle contest." The three little ones stood in a row in front of him. "Alright, we have Martin, age 4, Lopez, age 3 and Morningstar, age 2."
"2 an half!"
"Indeed" he agreed, unable to resist a smile at his daughter. "Where's Espinoza? What's she up to now?"
"Here. Joining Team Morningstar." Trixie said, fist bumping her little sister. "Hmmm, I'll have to keep an eye on you two," he said, brow furrowed. "Mr Lopez, choose your team mate." Rafael yelled across to the ladies, "I choose Auntie Ella, she's the best!" Ella leapt up with the energy of a ten year old and joined the lineup. "Okay, that just leaves you Mr Martin." Charlie grinned. "I want you, Uncle Lu."
"Of course you do." He put his nephew on his shoulders. "Lucifer," Chloe called, "no cheating." He gasped in shock. "I would never!"
"Come on Stella, stay with me." The dog planted herself between Chloe and Linda and happily rolled over. She beckoned to Lucifer and whispered in his ear. His eyes widened. "Whatever you desire, my love."

When they were alone Linda asked, "how could he cheat at sandcastling?" Chloe tickled Stella's belly. "He could chat to this one and have her dig a hole." Linda sat up. "His every language thing includes dogs?"
"All animals."
"Wow! Even chameleons?" Chloe shrugged. "I suppose."

When the castle builders came back, Stella had fallen asleep in the sun. "Well?" Chloe said. "I believe I may have been the only one who didn't cheat," Lucifer grumbled. "So who won?" asked Linda. "Everybody!" Rory cheered. "Miss Lopez had the engineering skills and Team Morningstar decided to join Team Lopez. Then my team mate built a curtain wall to connect everything." He raised his hands in a gesture of exasperation. "Sounds like fun," Chloe laughed, hugging Rory. "Who's hungry?" The answer to that question was everybody. "Okay, let's get the barbecue going and you can play in the pool until the food's ready."

After dinner, Linda and Charlie left as the sun was setting. Trixie disappeared into her room.Lucifer said, "anyone for stargazing?" Both kids were eager. "Do you know about the stars Mr Morningstar?"
"I know everything about them," Lucifer said wistfully. "We can see them a little better here, than in the city."
"I live in an apartment, but the stars are my favourite thing in the world!" Rafael nodded happily when Lucifer said, "just for that you can call me Lucifer - no more Mr Morningstar."

Chloe and Ella stayed inside chatting about the scan next week, the new plans for hell and what the new baby might be like. Ella giggled. "Not sure I'll ever get used to my friends having angel babies and hell schedules." Chloe laughed. "I know how you feel, sometimes I can't believe what my life is now."

They walked outside to find Lucifer with a sleeping child curled against each side. Ella gasped. "Chloe, her wings are out!"
"Yeah, it happens when she falls asleep."
"Well, it's dark, maybe Rafa didn't notice."

Chloe picked Rory up and took her to bed. Ella and her very tired nephew left as Lucifer put his arm around Chloe. When they were driving home Rafael sleepily said "Rory fell asleep."
"That's right, just like you. Did you have fun today?"
"Uh-huh. Has wings." And he fell asleep again.

Chapter Text

The corvette drew up outside the hospital. Chloe took Lucifer's hand before he could get out of the car. "Thanks for coming with me. It's only the first scan. You didn't have to." He squeezed her hand. "Nonsense. I want to be a good father and this is the first glimpse we get of our little one." She smiled. "You are a good father. Rory adores you. Trixie does too, even if she thinks she's too cool to admit it now." He chuckled at that. He had a distant look in his eyes. "What is it?" she asked. "Hmm? Oh I was just thinking how far we've come. I never thought I could do this." She leaned into him. "I knew you could."

They began to walk towards the hospital entrance hand in hand. "I've been thinking too" Chloe said "that maybe our family is big enough now?"
"Indeed." He kissed her temple and said with a twinkle in his eye, "now that's settled, shall we go meet our son?"
"You've decided it's a boy, have you?"
"Absolutely."
"I have a feeling you might be right."

"This is your third pregnancy Chloe," the doctor said as she read the chart. "Yes, we have two daughters, age 15 and 2." As she spread the gel she said, "a teenager, a toddler and a new baby. That's a lot!"
"It is, but we can do it doctor," Lucifer said taking Chloe's hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. He was giving the doctor his most dazzling smile, causing the poor woman to blush furiously. Chloe rolled her eyes.

The doctor cleared her throat and turned to the screen. "Well, everything is looking fine at this stage." Chloe and Lucifer smiled at each other. "Oh wait."
"Is there something wrong?"
"No, no Chloe, but it seems you're having twins." Chloe's mouth dropped open. Lucifer's head whipped round to look at the screen. "Bloody hell!"
"Mr Morningstar, are you alright? You've gone very pale."
"He'll be fine doctor, it's just he doesn't get along with his twin." Lucifer muttered, "understatement of the millennium."

He was unnaturally quiet as they walked out to the car. "Maybe I should drive home." He handed the keys over immediately. Not a good sign. She gave him sideways glances as they drove, but he was busy emptying his flask.

When they got home she knew she needed to talk to him before they went inside. So, she tugged him around the side of the house towards the beach. They walked along the tide line.

"Lucifer. Say something. Tell me what you're thinking." He looked up, he seemed to be finally focused on her. "It's just been a bit of a shock." She wrapped her arm around his waist. "I know. It's a shock for me too." He pulled her close. "It's just... it brought back memories of him and everything he did to us." She hugged him tightly. "He can't do anything to hurt us now." He melted into the hug. "I know." They rarely even said Michael's name now.

"Besides, our twins will be awesome, just like our little girl." He smiled softly. "You're a much better father that your dad ever was."
"What would i do without you?" She raised her eyebrows. "Get in even more trouble than you do already." He chuckled. "Ready to break the news to the girls?" He took her hand, "yes" and they started to walk back to the house. "By the way, did you notice Dan's car out front?"
"Oh fabulous." She elbowed him. "Behave."

They went inside. Dan and Charlotte were both there. "Hi," Chloe said. Dan spoke. "Hey. We have news and we wanted to tell you guys first." Charlotte held out her left hand. "We're engaged!" Chloe hugged her. "Congrats! I'm so happy for you."
"Finally asked then, Daniel?" said Lucifer handing him a drink. "Took you long enough." Chloe narrowed her eyes at him as he picked up Rory. She was definitely a daddy's girl. "We have news too."
"Was everything okay with the scan mom?"
"Yes Trix, but Charlotte, any tips on raising twins?"

Dan choked on his whiskey. "Really? Wow!"
"Two babies daddy?" said Rory, patting Lucifer's cheek. "Yes, two babies, spawn." She clapped her hands. "Who..?"
"Me."
"Yay!" They high fived. Dan was listening curiously to this exchange but Lucifer wasn't about to explain.

"Congratulations Chloe, but I'm not the one to ask for tips. I was a terrible mother when my kids were little." Dan put his arm around her. "That was a long time ago and you're a great mother now."
"Luckily their father did a good job. They're great kids, juniors in high school now and they'll have a brilliant stepdad." Dan glanced sideways to where Lucifer stood. "Well, if Lucifer can do it, can't be that hard, right?" he said with a smirk. "Yeah, he does okay," said Trixie, "super rich with superpowers." Chloe gave her the mom look. "And, Beatrice Espinoza?"
"And I love him," she said rolling her eyes. "Likewise Urchin." He sat down wearing his 'aren't I awesome' grin. "Come on Charlotte, tell me about your plans. Save me from these people," she said with a smile.

They'd spent the rest of the day together happily enough, although Chloe could tell that Lucifer still wasn't quite his normal self.

Chloe was woken during the night by Lucifer thrashing around in his sleep. He was repeatedly saying no, until finally he shouted it, waking himself up. "It's okay. It was just a dream." He heaved a sigh of relief. "You're alright."
"Yes of course." Chloe heard little feet padding down the hallway. "Just give me a minute." She intercepted Rory and took her back to bed. "It's okay sweetie, dad just had a bad dream.Which stuffie do you want?"
"Walter." She took the stuffed unicorn. "You help him mommy?"
"Yes, just like I do with you." She snuggled up with Walter and fell asleep again.

Lucifer was sitting on the edge of the bed with a drink when she got back. She climbed across the bed and hugged him from behind. "Was it your fall?" He sighed. "No, the battle with Michael, watching you die in my arms."
"Lie down with me." She put his head on her chest. "Listen to my heartbeat. I'm here. You saved me, remember." They lay like that with her running her fingers through his curls until they both fell asleep.

Lucifer slept very late next morning. When he woke, Rory was snuggled into his side. "Okay daddy?" Chloe came into the room. "You woke her up last night."
"Oh, sorry little one. I'm alright now." She kissed his cheek and toddled off to do whatever she considered vitally important at that moment. "I talked to Linda. She said she can help you."
"Thanks, I was going to call her anyway."
"I'm worried about you, I don't want this to get worse."
"You know, I'd feel much better if you joined me for a little while." He was waggling his eyebrows. She couldn't resist laughing. "Five minutes." She lay down and he gathered her into his arms.

Chapter Text

Chloe was sitting on the sofa, feet up, with her laptop. Then Lucifer arrived. "What are you doing?"
"Working." He sat down beside her. "I thought with Rory not here, I wouldn't get distracted."
"Have you met me?"
"Hmm. Good point. Don't know what I was thinking." He took her hands to stop her from typing. "Can I interest you in a coffee break?"
"I could spare ten minutes." He closed her laptop. "No, no, no. I want to take you out for coffee. Come on, there's a new place I want to try." He pulled her to her feet. She knew there was no point resisting (and she didn't really want to), so out they went.

As they got close to the coffee shop she saw the name. "Coffee Demons. So that's why this place."
"Had to be done." She rolled her eyes. "I think my mom mentioned something about this place actually, I wasn't really listening. I'll park, you go ahead and order."

When Chloe walked in the place was very modern. An eclectic mix of furniture in reds and yellows, but it felt comfortable and homely at the same time. Lucifer had a tray with coffee and sweet treats. A slice of lemon cake for her and for him... "three donuts?"
"Mhmm. I'm hungry, besides how else can I do a proper quality test?" He headed for a table with comfortable looking armchairs.

She was following when a man wearing a dark red apron turned from clearing a table. "Chloe Decker! I thought I recognised that voice."
"CJ!" she hugged him. "It's so good to see you."
"You too." He beamed at her. "Your mom was in last week. She said you joined the LAPD when you were done with acting."
"Yes, I'm a lieutenant now. You work here?" He was looking past her. She glanced over her shoulder. Lucifer was watching. "I own this place actually. Um, that guy is staring at you." She shrugged. "Yeah, he does that. The place looks great!" CJ still looked uncertain. "Thanks! It's going well. I could get rid of him if he's bothering you?"

"I wouldn't recommend it." Lucifer had appeared behind her and his fingers on her waist were making her ticklish. She squirmed and turned round. He kissed her. She blushed and cleared her throat."CJ, this is my husband, Lucifer."
"Oh God Chloe, I'm so sorry! Pleased to meet you."
"Hmm. Yes, and you would be?" Chloe elbowed him and gave him her 'behave' look. "This is CJ, we were on 'City Kids' together." Lucifer gave him a genuine smile. "In that case, very pleased to meet you too." They shook hands. "I better get back to work, your order's on the house." He hurried off.

They sat down at their table. "You just had to mark your territory, huh?" He was presenting her with his best innocent look. "I was saving you from random wife huggers."
"I take it you didn't notice his wedding ring?"
"Oops!" She raised an eyebrow. "If I didn't know better Morningstar, I'd say you were jealous." He wasn't meeting her eyes. "I thought we were past all that." He gave her a sheepish grin. "Completely. Mostly. Sorry." She took his hand. "Hey, I love only you," smiling softly at him. She took a bite of her lemon cake and groaned. "And this lemon cake. I love it too." He chuckled. "The donuts are amazing too."

"Is everything alright for you?' CJ had come over to the table. Chloe smiled, "it's delicious, thank you." Lucifer said, "you and your wife should come to dinner soon.You too can have a proper catch up and I can hear all your stories of teen Chloe."
"Thank you, I'd love to. I actually have a husband though."
"Even better! I live in a house full of women. I'm very outnumbered." Chloe rolled her eyes. "That's his favourite thing to tell people. He loves it really." CJ laughed. Lucifer was grinning as they exchanged numbers.

Chapter Text

Chloe came in from her run on the beach, with Stella at her heels to find Lucifer arranging snacks. "Are we expecting someone?" He looked up and smiled. "Hello love. Yes, Daniel and Charlotte. He wants a favour."
"Dan does?"
"Mhmm."
"From you?" she said uncertainly. "Yes, of course. I'm the expert!" She narrowed her eyes. "The last time he asked for a favour it was because you'd spent the day torturing him." He held up his hands in surrender. "I'm completely innocent. I don't know what he wants this time."
"Okay. I'll just get a quick shower and change. Is Rory alright?" He nodded. "She's in her room, drawing. No doubt she'll finish it with yet more glitter." Chloe laughed. "You're probably right."

Chloe was just ready when Dan and Charlotte got there. Lucifer poured drinks, while they sat down in the living room. Chloe called, "Trix! Dad's here." Trixie's voice came back. "We'll be there in five minutes." Chloe sat down. She's helping Rory with her art."
"Also known as making sure the little monster doesn't glitter the entire room." Lucifer added. Dan laughed. "I remember that stage too well."

Charlotte said, "we wanted to ask if they would like to be bridesmaid and flower girl. What do you think Chloe?"
"I'm sure they'd love it. Definitely ask them."
"Ivy is bridesmaid too, I thought Rory could walk between them."
"That's a great idea," said Chloe, smiling. "Do you have a date yet?"
"Well, that's the other thing we wanted to talk to you about" said Dan. "Ah. The favour?" Lucifer said. Dan nodded.

Dan took Charlotte's hand. "We want to get married as soon as possible. Life is too short. We've both been shot and gotten a little to close to heaven or you know, the other place. So, we don't want to waste any more time."
"But" Charlotte said, "it's very difficult to get a venue on short notice, we were hoping you might know someone who could help?"
"Hmmm."
"Yes?"
"Thinking."

Rory charged into the room waving a page in the air, leaving the obligatory trail of glitter in her wake. Lucifer sighed. "Unca Dan!" She jumped onto the sofa between him and Charlotte to show her picture. It was of the three of them with Rory in the middle. "This is beautiful!" Charlotte said. "Thank you Rory, it's awesome" said Dan. "Trix helped me. She's sooo good at art." Trixie smiled. "Hi dad" putting her arms around his neck from behind the sofa. "Hey Monkey." They settled down to tuck into the snacks.

"How big do you want this wedding to be?" asked Lucifer. "Just a few family and friends, do you have any ideas?"
"I do. I have a place outside the city. Too far to commute to work and schools, but it might work for something like this. It's isolated enough to be private, plenty of rooms and outside space." Charlotte took Dan's hand. "It sounds perfect. Can we see it?" He thought. "We could drive up tomorrow." Rory piped up. "Can I come?"
"Yes, we'll all go," said Chloe. Rory cheered. "Even Walter?" Chloe nodded. "We certainly can't go anywhere without Walter" said Lucifer. She jumped up on his lap and kissed him. "Do I know Walter?" asked Charlotte. Rory ran off and returned holding her blue stuffed unicorn above her head. "Walter!"
"Well, hello Walter, aren't you handsome" said Charlotte. Rory giggled and hugged her toy tightly.

Trixie was taking charge of the chocolate snacks. "Trix," said Dan, "we want to ask you to be bridesmaid along with Ivy." Trixie beamed at them and hugged her dad. "I'm in!"
"Would you like to be a flower girl, Rory?" asked Charlotte. Rory looked confused and turned to her sister. "Flower?" Trixie grinned. "You get to dress up and throw flower petals at the wedding." Rory's mouth made a silent O shape. "Yes please!" She grinned widely and decided a celebratory dance with Walter was in order.

"Who are you having as best man, Dan?" asked Chloe. "I don't know, my best friend has a new job and I can't exactly just ask God to be my best man."
"Rubbish, of course you can. He's just sitting around on a throne all day. I mean obviously I'd be a much better choice, but if boring is what you desire." Lucifer put his hands together. Chloe was just shaking her head. "Amenadiel, get your ass down here if you wouldn't mind." Chloe was giving him a flat look. "Eh, please" giving her a cheeky smile.

Amenadiel appeared thirty seconds later. He could just materialise since he'd become God and didn't even need to bother with wings. "See, told you he wouldn't busy."
"Well, since you asked so nicely Luci" he said folding his arms. "Hi everyone." Rory rushed at him. "Unca A!" He bent down and scooped her up. "Hello little one" smiling at her.

Dan stood up. He rubbed the back of his neck like he did when he was nervous. "Charlotte and I, we're getting married and I know you have a lot going on, but I wondered if you could be my best man?" Amenadiel gave him a wide smile. "I would love to and congratulations!" Chloe watched the bear hug in front of her and muttered, "my ex-husband has a bromance with God." Lucifer leaned close, "you're welcome."

Next day they arrived at Lucifer's property. "I used to use this place for parties. Take a look around." Dan and Charlotte wandered off hand in hand. "It's beautiful here" said Chloe, "I think I have an idea."
"Yes?"
"Yeah, I'll talk to Charlotte."

When the girls had run off to explore, Chloe said, "Do you miss it? All those parties, all the..." Lucifer wrapped his arms around her from behind, hands on her stomach. He lowered his head to her ear. "No. None of those people cared about me. I never imagined back then, that I could be married to the love of my life, with a daughter as well as a step urchin." She relaxed back against him. He sighed. "I've never been happier."
"Um, Lucifer." He looked up. "Oh!"

Rory was there, face screwed up in concentration, wings flapping furiously and hovering six inches above the ground. "Seems it's time to be thinking about flying lessons." Chloe was lost for words.

Chapter Text

Chloe was having an internal debate about getting out of bed, but she was much too comfortable. Lucifer appeared in the doorway with a coffee. She smiled at him. "Your hair is very messed up this morning. I like it." Walking over, he said "I believe my wife is to blame for that," leaning down to kiss her. She sat up and took the coffee from him. "Thank you. I'm excited about today, I've never seen anyone learn to fly." Lucifer ran his hand through his hair. "Well, I've never taught anyone to fly before." Mischief twinkled in his eyes. "I'm just winging it." Chloe laughed. "Just when I thought I'd heard all your puns." He looked delighted with himself.

Chloe come up behind Rory as she was demolishing a bowl of cereal. "Bye baby, I'm off to work now." Rory turned around and hugged her. "I want you to have a nap after lunch."
"Why?"
"You're going to be up late tonight."
"Why?"
"Nap first, then daddy will tell you."
"Why?" Chloe gave her the mom look. "Will daddy sing me to sleep?"
"I'm sure I can manage that spawn" said Lucifer. "Okay then." Chloe kissed her. "See you later."
"Bye Mommy."

She tugged Lucifer over to the side. "Have you been teaching our daughter to make deals?" she said, looking at him suspiciously. "Nope. Comes naturally." He grinned, looking entirely too pleased about it. "Hmm. Great." He put his arms around her. "I am glad you're no longer in the line of fire, especially now," he said glancing down at her belly. She sighed, "I am too, most of the time, but I still miss it a little."
"Well," he said looking very serious,"you did have the best consultant the LAPD has ever seen." She snorted. "So modest." He was wearing that little smile he always had when he made her laugh. "I really have to go. Be good." He stole a kiss. "I'm always good!"

***

When she got to work Chloe popped her head into Ella's lab. "Can I see you in my office when you have time?"
"Sure, 10 minutes?"
"Great." Chloe was at her desk checking e-mails when Ella knocked. "Hi, come on in and shut the door." Ella closed the door and stood in front of the desk. "I'm either in trouble or it's celestial chat time." Chloe smiled, "the second one." Ella grinned and sat down.

"You're coming this weekend, right?" asked Chloe. "Try stopping me! Do you need any help?" Chloe shook her head. "No, no, we're good."
"What's this place like?" asked Ella. "It's perfect for something like this. Very private. We can all hang out together, but big enough for separate bachelor and bachelorette groups if we want to do that. Plenty of room for everyone to stay over too."
"Sounds amazing," said Ella enthusiastically. "So what did you want to talk about?"
"Wings."

Realisation dawned on Ella's face. "Oh, Rafael." Chloe nodded. "Yeah, did he see Rory's wings that night?"
"He did. I explained it to him. I told him Rory and Charlie have wings because their dad's do. I said they were angels. Decided not to bring up God and the Devil just yet, but I think kids are just really accepting. It seems easier for them somehow." Chloe's face split into a wide smile. "Well, if he's really okay with it, bring him to the party too. The 3 teenagers and 2 little ones will be there, and the stars look incredible out there."
"That's so kind. I'm sure he'd love it."

She stood up to leave. "Oh! Just remembered. I have something for Rory. It's just a little thing, but it made me think of her." She reached into her pocket and pulled out a keychain. Chloe looked at the tiny blue thing in her hand. It was a mini Walter. She hugged her friend. "She'll love this! She can wear it tonight, then Walter can be with her." Ella raised her eyebrows. "What's tonight?" Chloe took a deep breath. "First flying lesson. I'm excited for her and a little terrified."
"Wow! You know, when I moved here, nobody told me LA was literally the City of Angels." Chloe huffed a laugh. "I know, right."

***

When Chloe got home that night, Lucifer was in the kitchen, sleeves rolled up, working his magic. She managed to hug him before Rory noticed she had arrived. "Mommy!" She picked her up. "Hi baby. Are you all ready for tonight?"
"What are we doing?"
"Daddy didn't tell you?" She shook her head. "We got distracted by visitors, didn't we Rory?" She grinned. "Yes! Auntie Maze and Auntie Eve are back." Chloe smiled at Lucifer. "Perfect timing."

"Auntie Eve was sooo excited about the party." Lucifer rolled his eyes. "She's quite a distance beyond excited. Practically dragged Maze out of here, determined to decorate." He started plating up.
"Didn't even get a chance to tell them about the babies, did we little one?" Rory shook her head sadly. She got down to sit at the table. "It's okay baby, we can tell them at the weekend. Eat up your dinner and then daddy is going to give you your first flying lesson." Her mouth dropped open and she stood up again. "Dinner. Then flying. We have to wait for the beach to be empty."

***

Chloe sat outside whilst lucifer was preening Rory's wings. She loved the beach at night, when it was so quiet. The moon was full and reflecting on the ocean. "Mom." She looked to find Rory sat beside her. "What's wrong? Are you worried?" She shook her head. "No, but Trixie isn't here to watch me." Chloe lifted her on to her lap. "I know. She has to study with her friends. She needs to get all her school work done so that she can come with us to the party. Just think, next time you can show her how much you learned." She smiled a little. Chloe whispered, "she doesn't even know about tonight. It's gonna be a big surprise." That got a little grin.

"I have something for you. Auntie Ella sent it." Rory took the keychain and her face lit up. "A baby Walter!" Chloe attached it to her belt loop. "There, now Walter can fly with you." She gave her a tight hug. "Thank you." Lucifer appeared and unfurled his wings. They were stunningly beautiful in the moonlight. She knew her eyes were wide as she stared, but she couldn't help it. "Alright there, my love?" She cleared her throat. "Uh-huh." He chuckled. "Ready spawn?"
"Yes!"

Lucifer stood facing Rory. "Alright first thing to do is a warm up, so just flap your wings like me." She started flapping furiously. "No, no, not like a mad chicken, start slowly." She giggled, but copied how he was flapping his wings gently. "That's it. Well done."

"Now, stage 2, safe landings." Chloe stretched her arms out and Rory sat down beside her. "Do you know what it means to glide?" She shook her head. "Right, watch me then." He took off and circled round, until he was close enough to glide towards them. "Did you see the last bit, when I was getting lower without moving my wings much?" She nodded seriously. "That's gliding."

He lifted her up and walked across the beach. He held her in his outstretched hands. "Okay, start flapping, I'll let you go and you try gliding towards Mummy." She did remarkably well, but toppled over on landing the first time. "Good try baby, want to have another go?"
"Yes Mommy," she said with a determined look on her little face. Next time she landed perfectly on the sand. "Good job, you're a natural, spawn." She couldn't possibly be grinning any wider.

"I think that's enough for our first time. Proud of you Aurora Ministar," Lucifer said lifting her on to his shoulders. She wound her fingers into his hair. He sighed. "You two ladies are determined to destroy my hairstyle today," he grumbled. He felt a weight on his head. "What on earth are you doing now?!" Chloe looked up and laughed. "She's fallen asleep on your head." He sighed again. "Of course she has." He wrapped his wing around Chloe as they walked back to the house.

None of them noticed the moonlight glint on binoculars in the distance.

Chapter Text

It was Saturday and the Morningstar household were getting ready to leave for what Rory was calling the party house. "Chloe!" She came into the living area. Lucifer was standing at the foot of the stairs. "What are you looking so smug about?" He grinned at her. "You didn't notice the improvements I made while you were at work yesterday." He looked ridiculously pleased with himself. "You don't look any different," she said appraising him. "Not me! I can't be improved on!" She rolled her eyes.

"Look at this wall."
"Okay, looks exactly the same. What are you talking about?"
"Feel it." She regarded him suspiciously, but ran her hand down the wall. "Wow!" It looked like a normal wall but it was soft. "I had a studio contact from the Diablo case come by and install it."
"That is a brilliant idea, Lucifer," she said, reaching up to put her arms around his neck.

Ever since her first flying lesson a few days ago, Rory had taken to practicing her gliding from the top of the stairs. There had been a few crashes.

"Not just a pretty face are you?" A devilish grin grew on his face. "Of course not my love, all of my parts are very..." She slapped his chest. "None of that, we have to get going."

"Hey Rory!" Chloe called. "Yes Mommy?" She appeared at the top of the stairs. "Do a practice glide for me." Her face lit up. It was clear that she really loved using her wings. Chloe was still a little mesmerized watching her. This was a long way from how she'd taught Trixie to use the stairs when she was little. She landed safely, but lost her balance and ended up leaning against the wall and sinking into it slightly. Her mouth dropped open in amazement.

Lucifer crouched down and lifted her up. "Dad got this made into a special wall, so you won't get hurt anymore." She flung her arms around him. "Fank oo," she said against his neck. "I love you, little one." He cleared his throat. "Now. We have places to be and I can't wear you as a scarf all day." She giggled. "Go and tell your sister it's time to go," he said, setting her down. She scrambled back upstairs.

***

Chloe had packed everything they needed. Lucifer was strapping Rory into her carseat. He got into the driver's seat and looked around. "Human, human, half human, dog. When the twins come, I'm going to have to start a roll call." He grinned. "Everybody ready then?" Rory gasped. "Walter!" Chloe turned round and handed him over. "Phew!" Rory swiped her hand dramatically across her forehead. "All ready." Chloe said. Lucifer rolled his eyes. "Crisis averted. Off we go."

***

When they arrived Dan was in the drive talking to Amenadiel, who was dangling a giggling Charlie upside down. "Hi Uncle Lu!"
"Finally Luci, what took you so long? Everyone else is here." Lucifer scowled at his brother.

"I have pregnant people and small half celestial people and even dog people who all need bathroom breaks. Then the teenage person who was so busy with her phone, she hadn't even noticed we had stopped, so we had to stop again. Then we had to stop for lunch. I've been on a three day road trip!" Chloe shook her head. "Lucifer, it's been three hours. Hi Amenadiel." Lucifer grumbled, "felt like three days, all he has to do is pop out of thin air." Chloe rolled her eyes. Trixie hugged Dan and whispered to him, then spotted Ivy and headed over to her. "You bought cool ranch puffs at every stop?" Dan said laughing. Lucifer presented his too innocent look. "Alright, everybody inside" said Chloe. She picked up Rory. "Um, dog people, brother?" Rory called back to them, "dogs are people too!" Amenadiel smiled.

Chapter Text

Rory reached out for Ella as soon as they went inside and Chloe handed her over. "Thank you for the present Auntie Ella." She showed her the tiny Walter dangling fro her zipper and Ella hugged her tight. "You're welcome little one."

"Did Rafael come too?" Ella nodded. "He's with the others." Then to Chloe she said "there's a room set up with toys and video games. All the kids and teens are in there." Chloe grinned. "What do you think Rory, want to stay with us or go play until it's time to eat?" Rory threw her arms in the air and shouted "toys!" Chloe and Ella laughed. "Come on then, I'll show you where it is," said Ella as she carried her off.

Chloe went over to where Charlotte, Linda and Eve were chatting and Maze was getting drinks. "No alcohol for me Maze." Maze looked at her in disbelief. "It's a party, Decker!"
"I know but..." She glanced down at her belly. She was just starting to show now. Maze rolled her eyes. "Again? Well congrats I guess." Eve looked over. "What's happening?"
"She's pregnant again." Eve shrieked in joy, captured Chloe in a hug and dashed off.

Lucifer heard the shriek as he was coming through the front door. He knew what it meant long before he found himself with armfuls of Eve. "Congratulations Luce. This is so exciting. You're having a baby!"
"Oof! Thank you. Did you actually stay long enough to hear all of the news?"
"There's more?" she said, bouncing on her toes. He smiled. "Two babies." She squealed again. "Oh, I have to hug Chloe again!" With that she dashed back the way she had come. Lucifer followed at what he considered a more dignified pace.

"Twins?" Maze said with eyebrows raised. "Mhmm."
"You're taking this very well." He tugged on his cuffs. "They'll obviously be the best twins ever, Mazikeen." She rolled her eyes. "Obviously." Lucifer sat down with his drink. "Good job with the decor Eve." It was tasteful and elegant, vases of pink exotic flowers and strings of muted white lights. "Yes," Charlotte said. "It's beautiful, I love the atmosphere. Would you consider decorating for the wedding?" Eve clapped her hands in excitement. "I would love to!" she said. "It's so much fun. If I didn't love bounty hunting so much, I think this is what I would do for a job."

Eve and Charlotte were still discussing their plans when Rory came to stand in front of Lucifer. "Circle song dad?"
"Excuse me?"
"Play circle song for us please." He looked up to see Trixie and the other two little ones coming over. "Do you mean 'Circle of Life'?" Rory gave a long suffering sigh and shook her head. "No daddy. No."

Rory tugged one hand and Charlie the other. "Come on Uncle Lu. Talk to our consultant." He looked at Chloe. "What is happening?"
"No idea babe." Lucifer let himself be led a little way off. There was a short conference with the kids and Trixie, who he was regarding suspiciously. "It was their idea to do something tonight. I'm just the consultant."
"Hmm. Consultants are important."

"A few more details would be useful."
"It's a surprise, daddy." The consultant said, "they just need you to play the song." He stood up from his crouched position. "Very well then. Ladies and gentlemen, it appears we have reached the junior entertainment portion of the evening." He took a seat at the piano, because Lucifer couldn't possibly exist in any property that didn't possess a piano.

When he looked back the kids had disappeared. "Where did they go?" he asked Trixie. "Costumes."
"There's costumes?" She nodded with a grin. He opened his mouth but found himself lost for words. "What's going on, brother?" asked Amenadiel. The whole group of adults was watching now. "Not a clue," said Lucifer. "Who was the little one with the glasses?" asked Eve. "Oh, that's Rafael, my nephew" said Ella. "He's so cute, Ella."
"Does he know?" asked Maze. Ella nodded.

"They're ready Trix," called Ivy as she and her brother came out of the games room. The kids came out waving to everyone. They were all wearing white t-shirts with hand painted rainbows on. "Ready guys?" asked Trixie. They nodded and stood in a line, Rafael in the middle, arms around each others shoulders. "Music please" she said. "As you desire," said Lucifer.

As Lucifer began to play the intro to 'Reckless' the kids began to sway together, Charlie and Rory with their free arms in the air. Every adult had a wide smile. Ella was filming with her phone. When he started to sing they turned to stand behind each other. Lucifer sang the line 'run around in circles' and they did just that, circling the piano. Rafael had his arms outstretched, while the others had their wings unfurled.

As they rounded the piano for the third time, they each had an assigned teen to scoop them up and set them on the long piano bench beside Lucifer, swaying and waving their arms. When the song ended, they jumped down and bowed to their audience, all holding hands. The look on Lucifer's face was somewhere between proud and bewildered.

They ran forward with cries of "did you see me?" There were hugs for everyone. Ella said, "you were awesome dude!" and high fived her nephew. Amenadiel, Linda and Chloe said how proud they were and Lucifer said, "of course my daughter is a natural performer."
When they had run off, back to the games room, Linda said, "I can't believe they organised all that themselves," looking astonished. "Well they did employ a consultant but still...the future could be interesting" said Lucifer. "They all get on really well. I hope they can stay friends. They'll be quite the handful, especially when we add these two to the mix," Chloe said patting her belly. "When are you due Chloe?" asked Eve. "I can't be sure. The doctor said it's very common for twins to come early. Some time after Rory's birthday though."
"Ella, can Carol make it to the wedding?" asked Dan. "Yes, he'll be back in time. I can't wait. I miss him." Chloe pulled her into a hug.

***

A few hours later after everyone had eaten it was getting dark. Lucifer set up a telescope outside. Dan and Charlotte had decided on an early night and Amenadiel had already gone. "Any small persons want to do stargazing before they get too tired?" It was a unanimous yes.

They spent some time taking turns to look through the telescope, then lay back on some giant outdoor cushions looking up at the sky. Out here it was pitch black apart from a few garden lanterns. The sky was packed with stars. "Wow!" said Rafael. His eyes were wide as he stared up. He was the most interested. Rory was asleep in the crook of Lucifer's arm and Linda had taken Charlie to bed already.

"Rory said you made the stars. Is that really true?"
"Yes," said Lucifer smiling. "Wow! I'm going to call this the star house." He stretched his arms out in front of him. "Feels like I could touch them."
"I wouldn't recommend it."
"Why?"
"Well, you wouldn't touch the sun would you?" Rafael shook his head. "No, too hot."
"Well, the sun is a star. It's just closer to us. That's why it looks different."
"Ooooh." They talked about the different constellations for a while until Rafael fell asleep too.

There were footsteps and Chloe spoke quietly in the darkness. "You have quite the talent for putting kids to sleep." He flashed her a grin. "I have other talents too..."
"Oh, I'm aware."
"You guys know I can hear you, right?" Lucifer tipped his head further back to see Ella behind him. "Didn't see you there Lopez."
"You don't care that I overheard that, do you?"
"Nope." It was too dark to see, but he was sure Chloe was rolling her eyes. Ella picked up her nephew and Lucifer stood up holding Rory. "Let's get these two to bed then."

***

Breakfast the next morning was a little chaotic. The little ones were wide awake and ready to party again. Some of the adults were nursing hangovers. There was no sign of Maze, Ivy or or Micah yet. Trixie was only up because she had shared a room with her sister. Rory had decided to start the day by sitting on her and flapping her wings as a wakeup call. As a result, Trixie wasn't exactly a ray of sunshine just yet.

***

The Morningstars finally got home just before lunchtime. Rory had fallen asleep in the car and thankfully Chloe was able to take her straight upstairs to finish her nap. "Is everything okay up there?" asked Lucifer when she came back. "Sure" she said, looking confused. He beckoned her over to the doors leading to the pool area. Someone had obviously tried and failed to get in. The handle on the outside was broken right off. They had settled for scrawling Devil across the paving, leaving a big space between the D and E.

Lucifer's eyes were burning red. He put his hands together. "Brother, I need you." Amenadiel appeared almost immediately. "What is it now, Luci?" Then he saw the reason. "Stay with my family while I check Michael is where he's supposed to be."
"Of course brother." With that, Lucifer went outside and was gone.

Chapter Text

Chloe was making a call. "Hey Ella. Sorry to bother you on your day off. Can you stop by once you drop off Rafael and bring your kit? Yes, we're all fine. Okay. See you soon." She ended the call and turned to her brother-in-law.

"Do you really think this could be Michael? I mean, we have good locks but that wouldn't keep a celestial out, would it?" Amenadiel was standing with his arms folded, scanning the horizon. "No. I don't and I don't think Lucifer believes it either. He just needs to be sure." Chloe nodded. "It feels like a human crime scene to me."

"What's goin on Mom?" Trixie asked as she came into the room. "Oh," she said as she looked outside. "Lucifer's gone to double check on Hell. Could you keep Rory entertained if she wakes up?" Trixie nodded. "Of course." Chloe hugged her. "You're not scared?"
"No. It's a pretty pathetic attempt at a break-in. I could do better than that."
"Trixie! Please tell me you're not speaking from experience." Trixie rolled her eyes. "As if."

Amenadiel said, "someone obviously knows he's the Devil." Trixie shrugged. "Well he does tell everyone he meets."
"That's true," he replied. Chloe said, "Ella's going to work the scene. We'll figure this out."
"Okay," Trixie said went upstairs to check on her sister.

***

Lucifer was so furious that he hadn't stopped to think. As he swooped toward the infernal plane his wings transformed to the dragon like appendages. He knew they made it easier to fly in Hell and he didn't have time to waste. He folded them tight against his body and made a peregrine style dive, straight for Michael's cell.

Landing, he ripped the chains from the door and had thrown his twin against the wall before he had a chance to react. "What have you done?" he growled at his brother. Michael rubbed his head where it had hit the wall. "What could I do? I can't leave or even talk to anybody. Nice of you to visit though."

Lucifer was struggling not to punch him in his smug face. "Wait. Did someone mess with your pathetic little family? How did you ever expect to be God if you can't even protect a few weak humans? He found himself on the floor again, as Lucifer kicked his legs from under him. "Am I really the only enemy you have?"

Lucifer turned to leave, that had given him an idea. "Leaving so soon brother?" He turned, fists clenched, but his bloody twin wasn't worth the effort. "Delightful to see you, do call again." Lucifer slammed the door and resealed it, before stalking off down the corridor.

***

Trixie was curled up reading on the chair in Rory's room when she woke up. She smiled and rubbed her eyes. She loved it when her big sister played with her. "What's your story about?" Trixie closed the pink book and went to sit on the bed. "Witches."
"Oooh."
"Did you have fun at the party?" Rory nodded . "Yes," she said with a wide grin.

"I was thinking about the babies. I wonder if we'll get brothers or sisters?"
"I want more sisters," said Rory decidedly. "Your dad thinks they'll be boys. He says we need more boys in this house." Rory wrinkled her nose. "No boys allowed. Let's go tell him."

Since Lucifer never wanted any of them to lie to Rory, it was time for some big sistering. "He's not here right now but he won't be long." Rory looked confused. "But we just got home."
"I know. He just wanted to check on Hell."
"Why?"

Trixie lifted Rory on to her lap. "When we were at the other house someone broke our door."
"Bad people?" She cuddled in tight to Trixie. "Don't be scared. They just broke the handle off." She reached back and handed her sister her favourite toy. "Walter." Rory hugged him with one arm and Trixie with the other. "You know mom works for the police."
"She's the boss."
"That's right and your dad is super strong. We have the best people to protect us." Rory nodded as Trixie stroked her hair.

"Uncle A is here. He's staying until your dad gets back." Trixie stood up with Rory in her arms, spinning round to make her giggle. She went to the window. It looked down over the pool area. "Auntie Ella!" Trixie nodded. "Mom said she was coming over to look for clues. That's her job." Rory grinned. "Looks like fun."

"What's that?" Rory said, pointing at the graffiti. "The bad people did that too, but I have an idea how we can make it better." Trixie explained her plan. "What do you think?" Rory clapped her hands."Yes!"
"We have to ask Mom and Lucifer first." Rory pointed at the sky. "Look, he's coming!"
"Shall we go downstairs then? Must be lunchtime by now."

Chapter Text

"Michael?" Amenadiel asked when Lucifer landed. "Charming as ever but this isn't him. Humans. We can handle it. Thank you brother." Amenadiel nodded and was gone. Lucifer took Chloe in his arms. "Know any good detectives?" he said with a crooked smile.

Trixie carried Rory downstairs. She hadn't wanted to fly. She was still upset and clinging to her sister. They saw Rafael sitting alone with a glass of juice. "Hey Rafa," said Trixie. "I didn't know you were here." They sat down with him. "I went home, but my dad wasn't in. Auntie Ella said to stay inside until she does her work."

"Do you want some juice too Rory?" asked Trixie. "I want dad."
"I know, but Rafael is right. We need to stay here. It won't be long. Are you guys hungry?" They both nodded. Trixie went over to the door. "Mom, do you want me to make some lunch?" Lucifer said, "it's alright Urchin, I'll do it. I could use the distraction."

He came back inside and Rory stood on the arm of the couch and fluttered up into his arms. He caught her and she buried her face in his neck. She was trembling a little. "Hey. It's okay little one, I won't let anyone hurt you." She tightened her arms around his neck and he stroked her wings, smoothing out the feathers. "Trix said we have the best people to look after us."
"Indeed you do. Nice moves by the way. Maybe we should do another flying lesson soon." She nodded eagerly, smiling now. "Oh and my little stargazing buddy is here too." Rafael grinned.

Lucifer put his hand on Trixie's shoulder. "Thank you Beatrice."
"Sure."
"So, who wants a grilled cheese for lunch?" It was a yes from everybody. He called outside, "what about you ladies, grilled cheese?" Chloe said, "yes please" and Ella nodded as she answered her phone. "I call it tiger toast!" Rafael added with a grin.

Lucifer set Rory on a stool and then did the same with Rafael, chatting to them and Trixie as he began to cook. He was aware of Ella having a heated conversation in spanish outside.

Chloe came in and said, "Rafael is going to stay with us while Ella goes to the precinct."
"Is that okay with you buddy?" Ella said. Rafael nodded. "I like it here." She claimed the first sandwich. "I'll take mine to go," she said, grabbing her kit. "Of course. I'm doing take out now apparently." Chloe elbowed him in the ribs. Ella didn't seem her normal self. He didn't say anything, he'd find out later.

When everyone had been served and were tucking into their sandwiches, Trixie said, "Rory has something to tell you Lucifer."
"Oo I?" said Rory with her mouth full. "About the babies." Lucifer and Chloe looked at each other. They had come to expect anything from their little one. "Ooh yes!"

"I want the babies to be girls."
"Maybe you'd like having brothers," said Lucifer. Rory shook her head. "Nope, more sisters. No boys allowed." Chloe smiled, remembering the sign Trixie had had on her bedroom door when she was little, the noticed Rafael's face.

"Don't worry Rafael. We're happy to have boys as our friends, aren't we Rory?"
"Yes!" She gave him a hug and they both giggled. "What about you Trix, brothers or sisters?" Trixie shrugged. "I don't mind."

"Well, we go back to the doctor after the wedding and she'll be able to tell us then, but we don't get to choose."
"Not even daddy?" Chloe smiled and shook her head. "There are things even daddy can't do." Rory looked at Lucifer in astonishment at this revelation. "There is a third option spawn."
"That's right. We could have a boy and a girl." said Chloe. "Oooh!"

"I'll have that," said Rory decisively as if she was ordering lunch. "We just have to wait and see. Not too long now." Chloe wasn't sure her daughter was grasping this concept. "Are you okay Rafael?" asked Trixie. He was frowning and his eyes were fixed on his plate. "I don't have any brothers or sisters." He looked so sad. "That's alright," said Trixie. "I didn't have any when I was little."
"You didn't?" Trixie shook her head. "I was 12 when Rory was born. My mom and dad don't have any either." He looked at Chloe, eyes widening. "Really?" Chloe smiled. "That's right, none at all, but Lucifer has lots."
"Too many," grumbled Lucifer. Chloe shot him a look. "Yes, Charlie's dad is one of my brothers."

"When I was younger," said Trixie, "I had a teacher who said a brother or sister is just a friend who lives with you. Rory and I have the same mom but we're friends as well as sisters." Chloe's eyes were filling but she was totally blaming the pregnancy hormones. "That's a lovely way to put it Monkey." She looked at Rafael. "You have all of us as friends." He gave her a wide smile and she lifted him up. Trixie lifted Rory and Chloe said, "come on Lucifer, group hug." Lucifer gave his best put upon sigh. "Oh, very well." He was smiling though when he wrapped his long arms around all of them.

After lunch Chloe asked, "do you two want to play in the hot tub for a while?" Rory's face lit up. "Yes!" Rafael didn't look so sure. "I don't know, what's it like?"
"It's really fun," said Rory. "Okay then."
"Right. Trix, if you can help Rory get changed, I'll look for something Rafael can wear."
"Sure Mom," and the three girls went upstairs.

When Chloe came back Rafael was watching Lucifer get the tub ready. "I found a pair of Trixie's old shorts that should fit you Rafa." He set down the pile of towels he was holding. "But she's a girl."
"That doesn't matter. If you like them and they look good, it doesn't matter what section the store put them in," Lucifer said. Chloe still had her hands behind her back. "You know, when Trixie was small her favourite thing was space, but if you don't want these..." She dangled the shorts in front of him. His eyes grew wide as he saw the pattern of brightly coloured planets on the black shorts. His face split into a grin. "Yes. I do. Thank you!" Chloe smiled. "Can you get changed yourself or do you need Lucifer's help?" Lucifer's head snapped around so fast he creaked his neck. "I can do it myself," he said and ran off towards the bathroom.

"What was that about?!" Lucifer asked when they were alone. "What?" she said innocently. "You want sons. Thought you might need some practice. I was doing you a favour."
"Hey, I'm the favour expert around here!" Chloe pulled him down for a kiss. "Indeed you are babe and you can repay me later." He was helpless and she knew it.

When the kids were in the water, Trixie having been enlisted to tell them a story and the trail of clothes Rafael had left behind him had been picked up and folded, Lucifer and Chloe sat down together on the couch. "What's going on? What is Ella really up to?" Chloe sighed. "Rafa's dad has been arrested. She's not happy."
"Hmm. I noticed. Can you do anything?"
"I'd like to, but I don't think so. He's just been down this path too many times."

"What about his mother? I've never heard him mention her." Chloe shook her head. "He doesn't remember her. She died when he was a baby."
"He doesn't deserve that."
"No, he's a great kid. At least he has Ella." Lucifer said, "well, he's always welcome here too." Chloe leaned into him. "You're a big softie."
"Shush. It's a secret." She chuckled. "So what did you find out down below?"
"I'll tell you later when Rory's asleep."
"Is she in danger?"
"We can protect her, it's nothing we can't handle but there's no need for her to be scared unnecessarily."

Chloe's phone rang. At the same time there were calls from the hot tub. "No rest for the devilish," said Lucifer getting up. Chloe smiled and answered the call. "Hi Ella."

Chapter Text

When Lucifer went through to the hot tub, both kids were still calling him. "Alright, alright, I'm here." He looked at Trixie. She was sitting in a chair with the storybook closed on her lap. "It's tough to be so popular," he sighed dramatically, sitting down in another chair beside the tub and winking at her. She gave him an eye roll worthy of her mother and he grinned.

"Now, what can I do for you small people?" Rory was holding onto the side while twisting her bottom half from side to side. She put her feet down and developed a look of deep concentration. "We have a prop, props, proposton, propition." Trixie smiled and stage whispered, "proposition." Rory started again. "Yes, we have an idea." Lucifer smiled fondly. "Good try Spawn." He fist bumped her. "Thanks Dad."

"So what's this proposition then?"
"Well, it was Trix's idea first, but it's so good and now Rafa wants to do it too." Rafael nodded enthusiastically. "Really?" He turned to Trixie. "I always worry when you come up with a plan Urchin," he said with a twinkle in his eye. She stuck her tongue out at him. "It's about the mess the bad people made Daddy."
"Interesting. Let me hear this idea then."

"Okay," said Trixie. "You're not ashamed of being the Devil, right?" This was taking a serious turn he thought. "No, of course not. You can't be ashamed of who you are. You'll never be happy that way." Trixie nodded. "Fancy celebrating it?"
"Celebrating me? I think I could cope." There was a laugh from behind him. Chloe was there, finished with her phone call now. "Take a seat my love and listen to this." She sat down beside him.

"So the graffiti is a mess. We have to get rid of it. I thought we could do our own version. Do each letter different, choose our own colours and designs."
"That's a great idea Trix," said Chloe. "Thanks Mom, maybe I could get some extra credit for art class too."
"Lucifer?" asked Chloe. He clapped his hands together. "I love it!" The little ones cheered.

"Trixie, can you grab those towels please?" said Chloe. "Rafael, your Auntie Ella is coming back and we're going to have dinner together. Let's get you two dried off." Lucifer lifted the kids out. Trixie wrapped a towel around Rafael. Rory whispered in Rafael's ear and he grinned. She flapped her wings spraying everyone with water. Rafael giggled and Lucifer grabbed the biggest towel, throwing it on top of her. She completely disappeared and he grabbed the bundle and began tickling it. "Where did you learn such tricks Spawn?"
"She's your daughter Babe."

When Trixie had taken the two giggling kids off to get dried, Chloe said, "I'm proud of you," winding her arms around his waist. He chuckled returning her hug. "Tickle master, King of dad jokes." She laughed. "Not that. I heard what you said about being yourself without shame."
"Oh. I didn't always feel that way, but I'm a new helpful therapist Devil now. I can feel proud about the souls I can help move on."
"You should be proud. Maybe you can help me when I get there."

Lucifer took a step back and looked at her face in concern. "The Silver City may be extraordinarily boring, but that is your destination. You will not be going to Hell."
"Pretty sure I will." He sat her down in a chair and kneeled on the ground in front of her.

"Why would you say that? You are the most perfect human I've ever met." She gave a little smile. "You may be a little biased."
"Hmm, possibly." He took her hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles. "It doesn't matter how good I am Lucifer. It's about guilt. You know that." His brow furrowed. "What do you have to feel guilty about?" She raised her eyebrows. "Really?"

He was baffled. Chloe sighed. "You do remember I almost poisoned you?" His mouth fell open. He was silent. Her ever chatty husband seemed to have lost the power of speech. "Lucifer?" She squeezed his hand. He blinked and seemed to come back to her. "You're still thinking about that? It was so long ago. I thought you were happy now." Looking at the hurt on his face, she was regretting mentioning this at all now.

Chloe put her hands on his cheeks. "I am. I'm incredibly happy and I love you so much. I need you to know that. It's just sometimes I remember what happened back then and it breaks my heart. I could have lost you, never had Rory, our life together."

"Chloe." His voice cracked a little. "I love you. It wasn't a good time but I forgave you for that years ago." He gently wiped her tears. "I know, but I didn't forgive myself."

Just then they heard a yell from Rafael. "Lucifer!" They both turned towards the sound. "I..."
"Go, I'm okay. It sounds like he's panicking ."
"Alright, but we'll talk more later, yes?"
"Look at you being the sensible one." She smiled. "I have layers." He kissed her forehead and flashed her a grin before heading for the bathroom.

Lucifer knocked softly on the bathroom door. "Rafael, do you need help?" A very small voice replied. "Yes." He pushed the door open to find the little boy curled up against the wall, quietly sobbing. Lucifer sat down beside him.

"Hey, what's wrong?" He couldn't make out what Rafael was mumbling between sobs, with his hands covering his face. He pulled him into his lap and the little boy hugged him tight. When he calmed, Lucifer reached for a towel and wiped his face. "Now, tell me what happened."

"I got dried. Dry shorts on." He patted his legs to demonstrate. "Took my glasses off to put my shirt on."
"Okay," said Lucifer. "Shirt on, check, all looks good." Rafael gave a deep sigh. "My eyes are bad. I can't see well enough to find my glasses. So I tried to find the door and I fell." Lucifer silently cursed his Father. What purpose is served by having human children born with such frailties. "You were scared." Rafael nodded, visibly trying not to cry again.

Lucifer set Rafael up on the vanity. "Alright, first things first." He put his glasses back on. Rafael blinked and smiled. "That's better."
"Now, did you bang your head when you fell?" He ran his hand through the boy's dark hair. Rafael shook his head. "No, just my knees." Lucifer looked down. "Hmm, yes they're very red." He whispered, "how about a little magic?" Rafael's eyes widened and he whispered, "yes."

Lucifer unfurled his wings and Rafael's gaze went from one wing tip to the other. It was the first time he had seen adult wings and he just stared. Lucifer curved one wing, letting the feathers cover Rafael's legs. "Ready?" he said. Rafael nodded. Lucifer shrugged his wings away. "How's that?" Rafael looked down at his knees. "They're all better!" he said in amazement.

There was a knock at the door and Chloe's voice said, "everything okay in there?" Lucifer winked at Rafael and said, "Yes, we'll be out in a few minutes. The men have everything under control." There was a faint chuckle. "Alright, Ella will be here soon."

"Let's brush your hair. Do you want some of this? I use it on my hair," Lucifer said holding out a tub of hair product. "Yes please."
"Alright Mr Lopez, what style would you like?" He grinned. "Spiky, like Jake." Lucifer raised his eyebrows. "Jake?"
"Yes, from my favourite cartoon, Jake and the Neverland Pirates."
"Oh yes. Rory likes Izzy in that one. One pirate hairstyle coming up."

While Lucifer worked, Rafael said, "Lucifer?"
"Mhmm?"
"Don't tell Rory." Lucifer's brow furrowed. "Tell her what?"
"That I cried." He was looking sad again. "I won't if you don't want me to, but it wouldn't matter to her." Rafael looked down. "My dad says boys don't cry." Lucifer was liking this man less and less. "I assure you I've seen lots of men cry. What does Auntie Ella think of this?" Rafael's lips turned up in a lopsided smile. "She says he's loco." Lucifer lifted him into his arms. "Sounds like her." Rafael giggled.

They looked in the mirror. "There now, we are both very handsome. Are we ready to face the ladies?" Rafael nodded happily. "Off we go then."

Chapter Text

"Show it to your dad. He had something like that when I was little." They went to the kitchen and Trixie popped Rory on a stool beside Rafael. "What have you got there Spawn?"
"We found a broken necklace. It's shiny, is it treasure?"

Lucifer took the medallion in his hands. The chain was broken but the disc was actually a pentecostal coin. "How did you find this?"
"We were upstairs and I saw something twinkly on the beach, so me and Trix went looking and it was this?"
"Good job Rory. This is a clue, I think the bad guy must have dropped it."
"Oooh!" said Rory with wide eyes. "The question is, how did he get one?"
"It is like the one you used to have isn't it?" said Trixie. "Indeed Urchin."
"Is it yours Dad?" Lucifer shook his head. "No, mine was used and once these get used they disappear, just like magic."
"Wow!"

"I don't want any of you to worry. This is not the smartest guy. He didn't do much damage and dropping clues like this will get him caught quickly."
"By Mommy?"
"Yes and Auntie Ella." Rafael and Rory grinned. "Needs bad guy lessons," muttered Trixie. "Do you know who it is Lucifer?"
"I have a good idea, yes."

"Cool hair Rafa," Trixie said. "You guys wanna watch some Jake until dinner?"
"Yes!" they both shouted. "He can always find treasure."

Chapter Text

Ella slid into an empty seat beside her nephew. "Who's this with the fancy hairstyle?" Rafael giggled. "It's me!" She hugged him. Lucifer was dishing up plates of chicken and crispy potatoes. "Looks delish." Everyone sat down to eat.

"Have you had a good day Buddy?" Ella asked. "Yes," Rafael answered, swallowing his food. "We did lots."
"Yeah?" He nodded happily. "We went in the hot tub, Trixie read us a story, we made a plan to do painting and we watched cartoons. Oh and Lucifer did my hair." Ella blinked. "Wow! You have been busy, no wonder you're so hungry." She smiled as he tucked into his food again.

"Where is the urchin?" asked Lucifer. "She helped out a lot today. I said she could get pizza with her friends." He nodded. "She did."
"She's getting so grown up," Ella said. "I know," Chloe said a little wistfully. "I'm proud of her."

"So Rafa," Ella began. "Chloe says there is a big bed in the guest room that we could share if you wanted to have a sleepover. What do you think?" He grinned. "Yes!"
"Okay then, we'll stay. Our night things from the party are still in the car."
"Does Dad know?" Ella glanced at Chloe. "He knows you're with me."

Chloe got up. "Rory, want to help me get some ice cream for dessert?" Rory stood up on her chair and Chloe lifted her. "You want some Rafael?"
"Yes please." He took a drink and was getting up when Ella said, "stay here, I need to talk to you about dad." His face fell. "Is he okay?"
"Yes, don't worry. He's not hurt but he's in a little bit of trouble."

Rafael was looking at Ella with wide wet eyes. She took a deep breath. "Dad did something wrong and the police came." Rafael's mouth dropped open. "He's not a bad guy, you know that right?" He nodded. "He was trying to help a friend and he made a silly mistake." She pulled Rafael into her lap. "Chloe and I are going to do our best to help him, but you'll need to stay with me for a few days, okay." He snuggled into her and said "yes" in a very small voice.

Rafael mumbled something. "What was that?" said Ella. He lifted his head and looked across the table at Lucifer. "Crying again." She lifted him up and stood him back on his own chair. "I can't believe that you had time to cry with everything else you did today," she teased. He giggled. "I did, didn't I?"
"Just a little," Lucifer replied. "The men took care of it." Rafael sat down again. "Yep."

Chloe handed Rory a bowl of ice cream. "Can you carry this carefully for Rafael? Let's cheer him up." She could just reach the table with a little help and climbed on to her own chair. She leaned over to hug him. "They're so adorable," Ella said. "Okay, enough canoodling. Eat up the ice cream before it melts," said Lucifer. Chloe rolled her eyes.

"What about when you're working Ella?" Chloe asked. "I haven't even had a chance to think about that yet."
"Well once we get the lieutenant off to work, it's just me and Rory here. Rafael would be most welcome to join us, right Spawn?"
"Yes!" Both kids were grinning. "That okay with you Rafa?" asked Ella. "Yes!"
"That's amazing Lucifer. Thank you!"

Ella's grin was by far the widest. "What?" said Lucifer suspiciously. "Are you going to hug me?"
"Very soon, yes. I just thought of something." He raised one eyebrow. "Yes?"
"Devil daycare." Lucifer blinked. "Oh we have got to copyright that Lopez. I love it!"

"Do you have a storybook we can read before bed Rory?" asked Ella. "Yes, can I listen too?"
"Of course."
"The four of us will do story time and daddy can clear up the dinner things," said Chloe. Lucifer muttered something about having done the cooking. "I know babe, you're awesome." Ella giggled.

"Then when you two are asleep, we'll have a grown-up talk. We need a plan to help Rafael's dad and a plan to catch the bad guys. We'll talk about what Dad and Auntie Ella found out today."
"And me!" said Rory. "You?"
"Yes Mommy, I found a clue, didn't I Dad?"

Lucifer smiled. "Indeed you did Spawn."
"Did I miss something?" said Ella, looking worried. "No, your professional reputation is intact. The mini detective found this down on the beach with her sister. It's celestial." He took the medallion out of his pocket, dangling it by the broken chain. "Well done baby, I'm proud of you," said Chloe. Rory beamed at the praise.

***

Lucifer had just finished in the kitchen when Ella crashed into him with an effusive hug. "Oof!" He looked at Chloe but she had no intention of rescuing him. She just grinned. "Thank you Lucifer. I'm so glad I have someone I can trust to watch Rafael." He gently peeled her limbs off him. "You're very welcome. It'll be like living in a daycare here soon enough. Wine?"
"Please." She collapsed in an armchair. "It's been the longest day."

Lucifer brought drinks over for the three of them and sat on the couch beside Chloe. "Which brother is Rafael's father?"
"Ricardo."
"Oh right. We have to help him then," said Lucifer. "What difference does that make?" asked Chloe. Ella and Lucifer shared a look. "He helped with the antidote when you were poisoned," Ella explained. "I don't remember a lot from that day."
"Probably for the best. It wasn't good to say the least," said Lucifer. He put an arm around her and kissed her temple.

"Ricky had been doing okay since moving back to LA. He's trying but he's also still an idiot. Agreed to hold a package," Ella said with air quotes, "for a few days."
"Drugs," said Chloe. "Yeah, that's a first for him, maybe that'll go in his favour? It's always been cars when he was in trouble before."
"It could do, yeah," said Chloe. "I'll talk to Charlotte," Lucifer said. "If she's too busy with the wedding she'll know someone else who can help us."
"Thank you guys, you're the best."

"So," Ella said with a twinkle in her eye. "What did you do to my nephew to make him cry?"
"Yes, what did happen?" asked Chloe. Lucifer started to explain. "He was getting changed and took his glasses off."
"Oh," said Ella. "That never goes well. Let me guess, he couldn't find them."
"Exactly. He fell over and got himself in a bit of a pickle. A chat, a cuddle and a new hairdo and he was all fixed up." Chloe and Ella said, "aww" in unison and Lucifer rolled his eyes.

"Extra hugs for him tomorrow."
"You'd make such a good mom Ella," Chloe said smiling at her friend. "Aww thanks, I hope so." Chloe's eyes dropped to Ella's belly. "Wait. You're not..?" Ella smiled sadly. "No, not yet. Tough to achieve with your bf living in a different city."
"He's back soon though, yeah?" Ella looked at her phone. "One week, five days, nine hours," she said with a sheepish look. Chloe laughed.

"We should talk about our crime scene," Chloe said. "Yeah. I got clear prints but they're not in any database."
"I might be able to help with that," offered Lucifer. He set his drink down and took Chloe's hand, remembering their earlier conversation.

"After a charming visit with my twin, I called on Father Kinley." He felt Chloe stiffen beside him and said quietly, "it's okay," pulling her closer. "It seems he was plotting my downfall long before he ever met any of us. He is delighted to hear his plan has reached the next stage and believes he left his legacy in good hands."

"He doesn't know how many mistakes this guy has already made then?" said Ella. Lucifer shook his head. Pulling herself together, Chloe said, "I can look into his financials, any property he left behind, papers, journals. There'll be a paper trail somewhere." Lucifer smiled at her with pride. "There's the medallion too, which means one of my siblings was involved at some point."

"We have a good starting point then," said Chloe. "I'll drive the urchin to school, she should be safe enough there and the little ones will be with me, while you two ladies do your thing." Chloe nodded. "We'll find out who this guy is and if we need help tracking him down I'm sure Maze would be up for it."
"Maybe mention to her that you want him alive," Lucifer added. "I'm looking forward to a chat with this miscreant."

"I'm going to call it a night. It really has been a long day." Ella hugged both of them before making her way to the guest room.

A little while later in the master bedroom Lucifer said, "I had a brilliant thought."
"Uh-huh, should I be worried?"
"You wound me Detective," he said hand on his heart. She grinned. "Go on then."
"About you definitely not going to Hell." She raised her eyebrows. "If you remember, you already died once and where did you go?"
"Heaven," she almost whispered. He grinned. "Exactly!"

They got into bed. "I still think you should talk to Linda though. I don't want you feeling bad about this."
"Alright, I will. It might help" She kissed him. "How about you make me feel good?" He grinned like the devil he was. "Now that I can do, my love."