It started subtly—just a lingering presence in the corner of the room, a shadow that always seemed to follow, a hum of static just beneath the surface of conversation. Alastor, the ever-grinning, ever-mischievous Radio Demon, had taken an interest in you.

At first, it was easy to dismiss. He was eccentric, after all, flitting between amusements as quickly as he conjured them. But then you noticed the pattern. Every time you turned a corner, he was there. Whenever you sat alone, he appeared beside you, spinning his cane idly in his gloved fingers, chattering about everything and nothing. Meals were never eaten in silence—he made sure of that. Even in moments of solitude, his presence lingered, like a tune stuck in your head.

It wasn’t until Vaggie crossed her arms and shot you a knowing look that the question truly formed.

“You do realize he follows you around like a lost dog, right?” she asked, jerking her thumb toward the doorway where, sure enough, Alastor was standing, hands clasped behind his back, humming cheerfully as he waited.

Later, when you finally asked him, catching him between his usual bouts of chaos, his grin widened—sharp and knowing.

“My dear, why wouldn’t I? You’re simply my favorite here!” He twirled his cane, tilting his head. “Fascinating, charming, delightful! Why, I daresay you make this wretched place quite enjoyable.”

You squinted at him. “That doesn’t explain why you’re practically glued to my side.”

Alastor chuckled, stepping closer. “Now, now, would you really deny me such fun?” His voice crackled, warm yet unsettling. Then, softer—almost too soft—he added, “Besides… I do find your company preferable to most.”

His tone was teasing, playful as ever, but something in his gaze held an edge of sincerity.

And for the first time, you wondered if a being like him could be lonely.