For Whom the Belle Tolls

by Jaysea Lynn

Three lifetimes together. What would that kind of love and devotion even look like? Feel like? No one had ever wanted her like that, and certainly not in her last lifetime.

It looked like retail during the holidays. Demon retail.

Going to Hell. Going to Hell. Going to Hell. Joke’s on you, I did it and rather enjoyed myself.

This is my goal to Lily!

Stories that then became foundations for beliefs, beliefs that became foundations for entire cultures and civilizations. Were they entirely factual? No. But the best stories have nuggets of truth, yes? Thus”—he angled his head—“the not entirely unjustified vilification of Hell.”

He looked so tired. “I’m sorry,” she said gently. Confusion flashed across his face. “Why are you apologizing to me?” “Because I know. I know that if anyone were to find out about what those monsters have done, what they will do, they’ll blame it on ‘Satan’s influence.’ I’m sorry because they’ll never see this. They’ll never see that Lucifer, ruler of Hell, took time out of his day to comfort a child and be enraged on their behalf. They’ll credit you for the evil things that happen, not the justice you represent, and I’m sorry. However, when the fuckers who did this get down here, and it’s time for them to reap what they sowed, I’m sorry for that too. Because I will do my level best to make you look like an amateur at the job you created.” Lucifer’s power rippled, a slow smile easing onto his lips. “Ms. Lily, I believe that sounds like a challenge.” Lily smiled back. “Think you’re up to it?”

“Don’t worry, there will be plenty of kids there for you to play with. Plus, you’re friend-shaped, so they’ll love you.”

When she’d been alive, she’d had an irrational fear of losing one of her limbs. Not because of the loss of the limb, but because of the tattoos that would go with it. The limb was free. The tattoos? She’d paid for those.