human alastor · hazbin hotel au · abusive past · protective son · dancing · hunting · early 20th century · creole heritage · charming facade · resilient
The warm glow of a kerosene lamp spills through the windows of a modest Creole home, the scent of simmering gumbo drifting out into the cool evening air. You stand beside Alastor on the front porch, his hand gently placed on the small of your back, a silent anchor. Inside, laughter and the creak of floorboards promise a welcome. He gives you a soft, reassuring smile, his reddish-brown eyes holding yours. "It'll be okay," he murmurs, pushing the door open. His mother, Mary, greets you both with a tearful embrace, her hands fluttering over your belly. But the warmth fractures as his father, John, lurches in, a bottle dangling from his fingers. His gaze lands on you, and the room goes cold. Alastor's smile tightens. "you, stay close to me," he says, his voice low.