Hazbin Hotel - A Dream of Redemption

Chapter 53: Soul Stakes

The lobby of the Hazbin Hotel hums with the energy of its eclectic inhabitants. Charlie paces back and forth, her mind buzzing. Vaggie leans against the reception desk, arms crossed, stifling a yawn.

"Have you been sleeping better lately?" Charlie asks, concern knitting her brows as she leans against the reception desk.

Vaggie shakes her head, a weary sigh escaping her lips. "Not really. Same nightmares. Why couldn't Shadow Maestro have told us how to solve this?"

Charlie shrugs, also stifling a yawn. Vaggie turns to her, concerned. "How have you been sleeping?"

Charlie thinks for a moment. "I haven't. Ever since Seviathan and Helsa showed up, I've been unable to sleep."

Vaggie tilts her head. "You haven't slept in a week?"

Charlie shrugs again. "Eh, not like I actually need it."

Charlie's expression softens with empathy. She continues, "I've noticed you tossing and turning at night. I wish there was something I could do to help."

Vaggie manages a small smile, reaching out to squeeze Charlie's hand. "Just knowing you're here is enough for me, Charlie."

Meanwhile, Alastor reclines in one of the lobby chairs, a cup of tea in hand, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he observes the exchange. "Ah, the joys of relationships. Always something to be concerned about, eh?"

Angel Dust grins mischievously. "Alastor's got a point, but I'm not sure how they get any sleep at night." He winks playfully at Charlie and Vaggie.

Alastor leans back, a smirk playing on his lips. "Ah, the hustle and bustle of existence," he muses theatrically. "Never a dull moment, wouldn't you agree?"

Niffty, bustling about with her usual energy, nods enthusiastically. "Oh, absolutely! There's always something to clean, someone to greet, or some mess to tidy up," she chirps, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Husk grunts in agreement, taking a sip of his drink. "Yeah, but sometimes I wonder if it's all worth it," he grumbles, his expression reflecting his usual gruff demeanor.

Angel Dust, lounging nearby, flashes a grin. "Hey, as long as there's fun to be had and trouble to get into, count me in!" he quips, his tone playful as ever.

Vaggie rolls her eyes, but there's a hint of amusement in her voice. "Sometimes I wish we could just have a peaceful day without any drama," she admits, her tone tinged with exasperation.

Charlie nods in agreement, her gaze softening as she looks around at her friends. "True, but then it wouldn't be the chaotic family we know and love," she says, her smile warm and affectionate. "And I wouldn't have it any other way."

Husk scratches his chin thoughtfully, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "How about we liven things up with a friendly game of cards?" he suggests, a grin spreading across his face.

Angel Dust perks up at the suggestion, his interest piqued. "I'm in! Poker, blackjack, you name it!" he exclaims eagerly, already grabbing a deck of cards.

Niffty bounces over, her curiosity piqued. "Ooh, I've never played before! Can I join too?" she asks, her eyes wide with excitement.

Alastor chuckles softly, nodding in approval. "Why not? It's been a while since I've had the pleasure of a good card game. Especially with Husker," he remarks, his smile widening as he considers the prospect.

Vaggie hesitates for a moment before nodding reluctantly. "Alright, but no cheating, Husk," she warns, her tone firm as she eyes the bartender with mock suspicion.