Pardon The Way That I Stare

Something special for Rosie

The dining room at the Hazbin Hotel was set for an intimate dinner, the dim lighting casting a warm glow over the rustic table. Alastor had gone all out, preparing an impressive spread that mixed both gourmet and more... personal dishes. The centerpiece of the meal was his latest culinary masterpiece—something that included a special ingredient: Finny.

Rosie arrived first, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the lavish display. "Well, well, well, if it isn't my favorite Radio Demon going all chef-mode again," she teased, taking in the scent of the food. "I can smell the artistry already."

Alastor, clad in his usual red pinstriped suit but with an apron tied over it, gave a small, satisfied smirk. "Only the best for our dear guests, of course. And I've made something *extra special* for you tonight, Rosie."

Rosie raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? Something from our... earlier endeavors, perhaps?"

Alastor gave a small nod, his eyes glinting mischievously. "You'll find out soon enough."

As they talked, Lucifer entered the room, freshly showered and dressed in his usual sharp attire, though his eyes were on Alastor rather than the food. He slipped up beside him, giving a quick squeeze to Alastor's arm. "Smells amazing. But I'm guessing I'll be sticking to the non-cannibal section tonight?"

Alastor chuckled softly, planting a brief kiss on Lucifer's cheek. "I wouldn't want to offend your more... delicate tastes. But yes, I've made sure there's something for everyone."

Rosie leaned back in her chair, watching the two with a smirk. "You two are absolutely adorable. Can't believe it took *this* long for you to finally join us at one of these dinners, Lucifer."

Lucifer rolled his eyes, but there was no malice in it. "Yeah, well, it's hard to pass up Alastor's cooking, even if I'm avoiding certain... courses."

At that moment, the double doors swung open again, and in strolled Angel Dust and Husk, bickering as usual. Angel dusted off his fur and took a seat without waiting for an invitation. "Damn, Al, this spread looks almost as good as me. What's for dinner?"

Husk grunted, already making his way to the liquor cabinet. "And what booze are we pairing this with? Got any good stuff, or am I bringing my own?"

Alastor didn't skip a beat. "Wine's already set out on the side table, Husk. Feel free to help yourself. Though, if you're looking for something stronger, you may want to check the top shelf."

As the rest of the group took their places, the atmosphere shifted into something more intimate. Plates were passed, drinks were poured, and soon enough, everyone had something to eat.

Rosie, clearly eager, eyed the special dish in front of her—seared meat, glistening with sauce and arranged artfully. "So," she began, leaning forward, "Is this... what I think it is?"

Alastor gave a small nod, leaning in conspiratorially. "Finny. Freshly grilled just for you. And, might I say, a particularly tender cut."

Rosie's grin widened. "Oh, you know me too well, darling." She cut into the meat, taking a delicate bite and practically moaning at the taste. "Oh, Alastor, you've outdone yourself."

Lucifer, who had purposefully avoided looking at the more "special" plates, instead focused on his own more traditional dish. Still, he couldn't help but glance over at Rosie. "Enjoying that, are you?"

Rosie chuckled, wiping her mouth with a napkin. "You know, Lucifer, you really should give it a try sometime. You might be surprised at what you're missing."

Lucifer shook his head, amused but firm. "I think I'll stick to my current diet, thanks."

Alastor glanced between the two, before refilling Lucifer's wine glass. "No need to worry, dear. Your tastes are *perfect* just the way they are."

As the meal progressed, the conversation shifted to lighter topics. Rosie and Alastor gossiped about the latest happenings in Cannibal Town, exchanging twisted stories of their recent exploits. Angel Dust interjected every now and then with lewd jokes, while Husk remained focused on his ever-refilling glass of whiskey.

At one point, Rosie leaned back in her chair, a sly grin on her face as she addressed Alastor. "So, Finny... you didn't just cook him. How did it go? Did you—"

Alastor paused, glancing at Lucifer, who raised an eyebrow but gave a small, understanding nod. "Go on, tell her. It's fine."

With permission granted, Alastor smiled darkly. "He was delightful, Rosie. A fine subject for... experimentation. I saved a little bit for tonight, as you can see, but most of him was... put to good use."

Rosie laughed, delighted. "Well, I can't wait to see what else you've got planned. I'll have to come for dinner more often."

The night wore on, and soon everyone was too full or too tipsy to continue eating. Rosie, clearly satisfied, stretched her arms over her head. "Alright, boys, I'm done for the night. Think I'll lounge around the hotel until later. You two have your little couple time or whatever."

Lucifer smirked as Rosie got up, ready to head off to one of the guest rooms. "You're staying here tonight, Rosie?"

She winked at him. "Might as well. No sense in going back to Cannibal Town just to come back for more food later. Plus, I like the company."

Lucifer smiled, watching as she sauntered out of the room. Alastor stood from the table, offering his hand to Lucifer. "Shall we?"

Lucifer took it, rising to his feet. "Lead the way."

As the two walked hand-in-hand out of the dining room, the remnants of dinner behind them, Lucifer couldn't help but glance back at the table. "You know," he mused, "As much as I don't like the whole... cannibal thing, you really do cook well."

Alastor gave a soft laugh, pulling Lucifer close. "I aim to please. Just remember, next time, I'll make something special for *you*."

Lucifer smiled, leaning into Alastor's touch. "I'll hold you to that."