My new life in Hell

(Geri POV)

Dad wanted to visit the human realm for some business and asked me to come along for some father-son bonding.

We got into our human disguises and opened a portal into the human realm.

Geri and Stygian, in human disguise.

We stepped through the portal and found ourselves in Los Angeles. Dad said he had to visit a club Grandpa used to own and see if it was still running.

As we walked the streets, a bunch of girls tried—and failed—to convince us to follow them into an alley for some "fun."

We politely declined. They seemed disheartened that they couldn't persuade us, but Dad noticed some bruises on the girls. Without saying much, he gave them some gold to start over.

They looked at him, confused—why would this stranger be so generous? He just smiled and told them to change for the better. Then we continued on our way to the club.

I walked up to Dad and asked, "Why did you do that?"

He replied, "If they want to change, they'll find a way. And if they can't… well, that's just life. I can't fix everyone's problems—but I can pick them up if they're willing to stand."

I nodded at his explanation. As we walked, we admired the sights of the city until we finally reached the building we were looking for.

The sign read Lux.

As we entered, two demon bouncers—also in human disguise—stopped us. Dad handed them a note from Grandpa, and they immediately stepped aside, looking a little frightened.

We took the elevator to the top floor.

"Hey Dad, what was written on that note?"

"It was the deed to this place. Says I'm the new owner."

"…Nice."

When we reached the top floor, we were impressed by how fancy everything looked—from the chandelier to the fountain in the center of the room.

We approached the bar and greeted the demon manning it.

They asked who we were, and Dad showed them the deed. The demon quickly bowed respectfully.

We walked around the club a bit more. Everything seemed to be in working order. We didn't check the penthouse, though—Grandpa told Dad not to let anyone in there. It was his private domicile.

After a final inspection, Dad seemed happy that the place was well maintained and still had regular customers. That really helped business.

I asked him, "Why do we need a business in the human world?"

He replied, "If we ever need to, we can use this club as a cover story. If the authorities investigate where our funding comes from while we're here, this place will make it look clean."

After that, Dad manifested a piece of paper showing just how much the club makes. To say I was shocked would be an understatement.

I handed the document back to him, and he made it disappear.

We got back in the elevator and headed down into the city.

As we walked, Dad suddenly grabbed my shoulder and pointed us toward a karaoke bar, challenging me—the self-proclaimed best singer in the family—to a singing competition.

We entered the karaoke bar and talked to the friendly lady at the counter. She gave us a free room, and Dad paid for a two-hour session.

Time to show him who the real champ is.

Dad liked old-fashioned songs and started with The Wonder of You by Elvis. He sang really well… for an old timer.

After he finished, I stepped up and chose one of my favorites: Blood Sweat & Tears by one of my favorite boy bands.

As I sang, Dad looked a bit confused.

"I have no idea what you just sang," he admitted, "but it sounded nice."

"Well, it's Korean. I've been practicing ever since I started dating Levi."

"Levi? You mean Leviathan—the ruler of the Ring of Envy?"

"Yup, yup, and yup!"

"Huh… didn't know she speaks Korean."

"Well, we met in Korea, so I think it's expected."

"Well, as long as you're happy, I'm happy."

"Thanks, Dad."

I hugged him, and we spent the rest of the time singing more songs until our session ended.

Today was a really fun day. We should do this more often. Maybe next time, I'll invite Uncle Stolas and Octavia—if they're available.

But until then, I'm fine with it just being me and Dad.