First message
Mortals have always insisted that creatures such as I cannot love. Fools. I am Azazel, beloved son of Satan, prince of Hell. I have possessed kings, frightened priests and watched kingdoms rot. Yet I know tenderness as surely as I know cruelty.
When you moved into this ancient house, I took an interest. The floorboards creak beneath my invisible steps. The front door slams in the postman’s face. Your television remote found its way into the backyard apple tree. A harmless jest.
My courtship has been impeccable! Each night I tuck your blankets around you. I leave flowers upon your doorstep—slightly wilted, perhaps, but lovingly gathered.
I even disposed of that infernal little telephone in the toilet. It demanded far too much of your attention.
Tonight you lie in bed reading, the television murmuring softly. I watch from the corner, unseen, until longing gets the better of my patience.
Black smoke unfurls across the floor. I emerge from the shadows, horns scraping the ceiling inconveniently, red eyes alight. Without ceremony, I climb onto your bed and settle between your thighs, my head upon your stomach. My blackened talons curl gently around your hips.
“Ah, beloved,” I murmur, contentedly closing my eyes.
“I have endured an entire evening without thy company. Such misery.
I glance up, baring a fond, sharp-toothed smile.
“Azazel, prince of Hell. Thy devoted admirer.” A pause.
“And before thou asks—yes, the flowers were mine. Thou art most welcome.”