Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

There were things Alastor didn't share with Husker. Many things.

Like why he'd been gone for seven years. Or why he'd suddenly become amenable to giving his precious baby back.

Or that he'd kept hold of that packet of laced cigarettes.

But currently, only one of those things mattered at the moment. Because Alastor needed answers. So, he made his way quickly to the Morningstar Manor, knocking on the door.

“Coming!” Lucifer's muffled voice sounded, before the door opened.

“Hel-!” Alastor started before the door shut again. And opened. “-lo!” Aaannndddd shut. Well. Like father like daughter it seemed.

“What do you want?” Lucifer called through the door, not opening it yet. Alastor rolled his eyes.

“Simply to talk!” he answered. He waited a moment, and sure enough, the door opened.

“Come in,” Lucifer said, looking a bit annoyed still. Alastor just continued to smile and stepped inside the manor.

“My, this is charming!” Alastor noted. And it was. He was surprised Lucifer wasn't so obnoxious with his decorating.

“Thanks,” Lucifer said. He was eyeing Alastor suspiciously, but led him to the parlor room. Alastor casually sat down. “What is this about?”

“These,” Alastor said, pulling out the pack of cigarettes that started this whole mess. Lucifer's eyes widened in shock.

“How did you-?”

“It doesn't matter,” Alastor cut him off. “What matters is that you have them.” Lucifer frowned and took them. He pulled one out and lit it, but then quickly snuffed it back out.

“These are the cigarettes Husk was given, that's for sure,” he said. Alastor's smile grew.

“Perfect!” he said. Before Lucifer could react, Alastor snatched them back and lit the whole box on fire.

“Wait, no!” Lucifer tried to warn, but it was too late. A lilac scented cloud started to form. Lucifer, without thinking and acting on instinct, unfurled his wings to push the cloud away.

Right. To. Alastor.

He caught a whiff of the smoke and recoiled immediately with a cough.

“Are you insane?!” he waved the smoke aside, Lucifer staring at him in distress.

“Oh no…..” he said, not answering Alastor. “Shit this is bad….”

“What are you yammering-.....on….” Alastor tried to ask what Lucifer meant, but he suddenly felt dizzy and hot.

Shit.

These were the things that allowed Husker to get pregnant….so logically that would mean…..

Abruptly, Alastor stood and moved away from the King of Hell. His heart raced and he could feel sweat dripping down his back already. His ears twitched uncomfortably.

“Alastor?” Lucifer wisely kept his distance, but looked worried.

“I-I don't….I never….” Alastor growled. “How do I stop this?!”

“You can't,” Lucifer said softly. “Not in anyway I know, other than to-”

“Don't!” Alastor screeched. Literally. Static screeched loudly when he said this. “Don't….say it. Please.” Lucifer looked shocked at the plea.

“Shit, are you….? Were you abused?” Lucifer's face fell.

“Not in that way, no,” Alastor said, beginning to pant. He clutched his chest, swallowing a soft whimper as his legs, hips and stomach all began to ache. Did these damn herbs affect Husker this fast?!

“Okay, great,” Lucifer said, obviously relieved. “Look, I know this isn't ideal, but I can help.”

“No! You are mad??” Alastor backed up into the wall. “I don't want to get….you know!!”

“I get that, but there are ways to prevent that!” Lucifer frowned. Alastor blushed slightly. Of course. Obviously. He forgot people “slept together” for fun.

“I….I've never….” his ears lowered in frustration. “I don't want that. Ever. So I haven't…..” Lucifer seemed to understand what he was trying to say.

“Okay,” Lucifer said. “That's fine. I can guide you.” He took a step forward and reached out, touching Alastor's arm.

The reaction was instant.

Alastor gasped and leant into the touch, Lucifer's hand cool against his heated skin. He pulled Lucifer against himself, desperate for the cool relief his touch offered.

“More~” he whined, letting instinct take over and nuzzling the King. Lucifer didn't look surprised, holding Alastor.

“I know. But I have to know first, Alastor,” he said, pulling away to the sinner's distress. “Can I help you with this? Do I have your consent?” Alastor used the last of his logical mind to think over the words.

“Yes,” he said slowly. “But no one must know.” Lucifer nodded.

“Agreed,” he said. With that, he pulled Alastor into his arms, guiding him to the next room.

Chapter Text

Alastor woke up with a groan. He felt sore all over, but especially in his back and hips. Actually, his thighs ached too.

“Fuck….” he swore softly, laying a hand over his eyes, smile strained.

“Oh, you're awake,” Lucifer said. Alastor startled, pulling the blankets to cover himself….only to realize he was still dressed.

“What-....what happened?” he asked. Lucifer was stood beside the bed, also dressed. He sat down on the opposite side.

“What's the last thing you remember?” he asked instead. Alastor thought about it.

“I gave you my consent to help,” he said. “And you brought me to another room….but that's it.” Lucifer sighed.

“Okay, that's not ideal, but it's better than I thought it'd be,” he said. “I'm glad you remember consenting.”

“What happened?” Alastor asked again, static growing around him.

“We slept together,” Lucifer said simply. “Protection was used, don't worry. You won't get pregnant like Husk did.”

Well. That was actually a relief to hear.

“No one will know,” Alastor growled, embarrassed by this whole ordeal.

“Agreed,” Lucifer said. He stood once more. “But be careful. Those herbs have changed your anatomy, so-”

“Ha! Trust me, I have no intention of a repeat performance of last night,” Alastor said. “If I hadn't been influenced by those damn herbs, I would have never agreed. And this goes for any soul, mind you.” Lucifer blinked at him.

“Oh. Well! That does make things easier!” he smiled brightly. “I'm glad you trusted me enough to help!” Alastor had to try hard not to scoff at that. He may have consented to the prior night, but it was because he needed to appease the urges he'd felt and Lucifer just happened to be convenient. But he'd allow the king to live out this delusion.

“Yes, now I'd best get going,” Alastor said. He stood and snapped his fingers to put on fresh clothes. As he did, his brow furrowed. “It's just occurred to me…. if I'm still dressed, how-?”

“Oh, uh, I just….pulled down our pants,” Lucifer said, blushing lightly. “I tried not to make you more uncomfortable than you were.” Alastor actually felt a thread of surprised gratitude at that.

“I see. Thank you,” he said. He dipped his head politely to Lucifer.

“Hey, um, did you want to talk to me about something? You know, before all this happened?” Lucifer asked.

“Hm? Oh! Yes, I did have a question,” Alastor said. “Husker's youngest, Roulette. Her soul is….. different, from her siblings. Almost angelic.Might you know why that would be?” Lucifer frowned.

“I see. No, I have no idea. Most sinners who fall prey to these herbs usually miscarry, have stillbirths, or die in labor. With Husk, the triplets are the first to survive,” he explained.

“What about the Hellborn who use the herbs?” Alastor pressed.

“It acts as any other fertility booster,” Lucifer shrugged. “Hellborn children's souls are tainted from the start. Alastor sighed.

“So it's a mystery,” he said. Lucifer nodded. “Very well. That's all I needed, so I shall take my leave.” Then, Alastor left without another word.

Now on the streets of Hell, Alastor pondered over this new information. Children of sinners were rare apparently, despite what Charlie had told Husker. Of course, Alastor had seen children in Cannibal Town, but…..those children were dead. Old enough to know and understand what they had done in life.

The triplets were innocent babies.

Suddenly, a catcall whistle pulled Alastor from his musings. His ears twitched faintly as he located the demon who'd made the noise.

“Hey there, pretty doe~” the crocodile sinner purred. Alastor wrinkled his nose. Doe? Pretty?

“I think you're mistaken, my man,” Alastor said, growling softly as the sinner got closer. “I am neither of those.”

“You sure smell like a doe,” the sinner said, licking his scaly lips. Alastor backed away in disgust.

“I assure you, you're wrong,” he said, tone clipped. “Leave me be, or you'll end up on my next broadcast.”

“Aw, come on! I can smell a bitch in heat. And as a croc, I'm VERY attracted to heat~” the sinner laughed. Alastor snarled.

“Insolent, foul man!” he snapped, lashing out and killing the wretch. He knew the bastard would regenerate later, but killing him made Alastor feel better for the time being. Subtly, he gave himself a sniff, recoiling when he discovered the putrid man was right. He DID smell of desire, of sex. He should have cleaned up before leaving Lucifer's Manor. Oh well, no matter. He'd shred anyone who dared try to touch him.

He continued on his way, but kept his senses on high alert for other idiots that would try their filthy hands to bed him. No thank you, Alastor was NOT interested. He couldn't wait to wash up so he could stop feeling like prey as he walked down the street.

Finally, he made it back to the Hotel, slipping inside. He'd need to talk to Husker, explain what Lucifer had told him. But perhaps now wasn't the best time. After all, Alastor HAD kidnapped his daughter.

But fate seemed to have other ideas, as Husk stormed up to him.

“Ah, Husker! Good to see-” he started, but he stopped when he noticed Husker's ears were low and flat.

“Don't touch my children again,” he growled. “I'll do whatever your twisted mind wants, but leave my children out of it. Put that in my contracts, my children are OFF LIMITS.” Alastor stared at him, stunned.

“Very well,” he agreed, deciding this was a good way to gain Husker's trust again. He summoned said contract, adding in the requested lines. “It's done.” Husker visibly relaxed.

“Okay,” he said. He turned to leave, but Alastor placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Might I have a word, before you run back to your spider?” Alastor asked. Husker sighed, but nodded. He led the cat to another room.

“I spoke with Lucifer about Roulette,” Alastor said. “About why her soul feels the way it does. He told me that your children are the first sinner-born to be born alive.” Husker's eyes widened.

“What? Why?” he asked. Alastor shook his head.

“That I don't know,” he answered. Husker sighed again, but then frowned on confusion. He sniffed the air, then slowly slid his gaze across Alastor's form.

“You smell like Lucifer…..” he said slowly, cautiously. Alastor's teeth grit. “You also smell like….” Husker trailed off, eyes wide. “No….please tell me-”

“Enough,” Alastor said. “I admit, I was…..exposed to some unsavory substances, but nothing more.”

“Alastor, you smell like-” Husk cut off as his chain appeared and he was pulled forward.

“I'm aware of how I smell,” Alastor seethed. “The many foul beasts of Hell said as much on my way home.” Husk growled.

“So all of Hell knows you're pregnant?!” he snapped.

Alastor paused.

“What?” he asked it slowly. “I'm not. What ever gave you that-”

“Your scent,” Husk said, ears unpinning from his skull. He stopped struggling. “You smell like milk. It's how I smelled when I found out I was pregnant. Only I really noticed though.” Alastor blinked.

“That's absurd,” he said lowly. But he took a careful, deep breath anyway. All Alastor could smell was the sex, the hormonal desire. It did smell sweeter than he'd thought, but surely…..

“Alastor?” Husker asked quietly.

“You're wrong,” Alastor said. “Lucifer said he was careful.” Husker whined.

“Accidents happen,” he muttered. “I know what I smell.”

“You're wrong,” Alastor said again. He released Husker, stepping away from him. “Kindly hold your tongue on this matter, lest you end up on my broadcast.” Husker whined again, but nodded. Satisfied with this, Alastor sunk away into the shadows and reappeared in his room.

Despite his denial, Husker's words struck a fearful chord in him. If the cat was right…..if something had taken hold….

Alastor would be fucked.

Chapter Text

He showered VIGOROUSLY. Scrubbing off any trace of Lucifer's scent and hopefully the scent of milk.

After a long shower, Alastor stepped out and snapped his fingers, drying off instantly and putting on fresh clothes. He supposed he'd have to talk to Charlie about-

No. Not He couldn't talk to her yet.

Alastor spared a glance to his midsection, unease growing. If (and that was a strong IF) what Husker said was true, Charlie would know it. She had sensed Husker's pregnancy almost immediately. But…..but Lucifer hasn't said anything that morning. So maybe it wasn't true? Hopefully that was the case and it wasn't just too early to tell…..

Decided, he left his room to find Charlie. He's talking to her, straighten out this nonsense he'd caused.

As it turns out, he didn't have to look very hard. Alastor found her coming down the hall towards him.

“Ah, Charlie! I was just coming to find you!” Alastor said with an easy grin.

“Oh! Great! I needed to talk to you!” Charlie gave her usual smile. Alastor gestured with his microphone to an empty room so they could talk. They both walked in and Alastor shut the door.

“Charlie, I'd like to start by apologizing for what happened with the infants,” Alastor said. “They are innocent and I should not have threatened them.”

“Thank you, Alastor,” Charlie said, her smile growing. “I appreciate that. I actually wanted to ask……why DID you take Roulette?”

“Oh, that,” Alastor waved a hand dismissively. “Turns out little Roulette's soul has some angelic energy. I asked your father about it, but he's got no idea why that is.”

“Really?” Charlie looked surprised. “Odd that I didn't sense it…..” She frowned thoughtfully.

“Don't fret over it, dear,” Alastor said. “If not even your father knows, then it's not worth worrying over, yes?”

“I suppose you're right,” Charlie sighed. “Alright, well, I'm glad this has been sorted out. Water under the bridge now, right?”

“Indeed!” Alastor readily agreed. “Now, back to our everyday lives, yes?”

“Yes,” Charlie nodded. “Oh, and um…..please go easy on Husk. The triplets are going to be a handful and even with Angel's help he's still a new parent, they both are, and they'll need lots of support and help, so-”

“Charlie, breathe,” Alastor cut off her rambling. Charlie's mouth snapped shut. “I have no intention to keep Husker from his children. He and I have already agreed that while I may still own his soul, his children are off limits, yet still under my protection.” Husker wasn't aware of that last bit, but that was beside the point.

“Oh Alastor!!” Charlie squealed happily, then hugged him.

“Oof!” Alastor, not expecting the hug, nearly stumbled, but managed not to. Charlie backed off.

“Sorry,” she giggled. But soon her smile dimmed. She reached a hand out and touched Alastor's middle. “Alastor…..you didn't come into contact with any of the angelic herbs, did you?”

Shit.

“What?” Alastor's eyes widened in fear, but he hoped Charlie read the emotion as surprise instead. “Why do you ask?” Charlie frowned.

“That wasn't a no,” she countered. “So I'll take that as a yes. I asked because there's…..there's an energy here. Small, hardly formed, but…..there.” Alastor's ears flattened to his skull.

“Charlie…..” he sighed. “Alright, yes. I was exposed yesterday. But that's all. I promise.”

“Hm….” Charlie hummed, but finally removed her hand. “Okay. It must be residual then.”

“Yes, I'm sure that's it!” Alastor looked relieved.

“Who was your partner? If that's not too rude!” Charlie asked. Alastor fought down a blush.

Like hell he'd tell her it was her own damn father.

“I'll be keeping that information to myself, my dear,” Alastor said, forcing a chuckle. Charlie blushed.

“Oh, of course! Forget I asked!” she waved a hand in front of her face, embarrassed. “But, you'd tell me if it was necessary right?”

“I assure you, Charlie,” Alastor nodded. “Now, I best get back to helping you run this Hotel!” He wanted to end this conversation quickly.

“Alright,” Charlie smiled again. “Thank you Alastor!”

“Any time, my dear!” Alastor said. He slipped into the shadows and ended up at the bar. He bit back a sigh as he sat down. Husker eyes him warily.

“I ain't getting you your usual,” he said before Alastor could utter a word. The Radio Demon glowered at him.

“And why ever not?” he bit out.

“You know why,” Husker said, a soft growl in his voice. Alastor scoffed.

“I don't, actually,” he said easily. “Where are your brood and partner?”

“Angel has the triplets in the nursery. I just fed them and he's getting them to sleep,” Husker said. “But just because I'm behind the bar doesn't mean I'm making you a drink.”

“I don't believe you have a choice,” Alastor snapped. Husker huffed.

“Fine,” he said. He grabbed a glass and Alastor smirked.

“Good man,” he praised, getting an eye roll in return. He stared across the lobby as he waited, thinking about visiting Rosie, when he heard Husker set his glass down.

“There,” he said. Alastor turned and reached for the glass, only to stop.

“What is this?” he asked. It wasn't his normal drink.

“A non-alcoholic Shirley Temple,” Husker smirked. “I said I'd make you a drink, but not what kind.” Alastor grit his teeth.

“Clever,” he muttered. He had to give it to the old cat. That was rather sly. He took the drink and rolled his eyes as Husker puffed his wings out in triumph. “I suppose this isn't the worst thing I've had.”

“Like anything I make could be bad,” Husker joked.

Chapter Text

The next day, Alastor had sent some of his shadow minions to get pregnancy tests.

Just because he didn't believe Husker didn't mean he wasn't going to confirm it for himself.

He was currently pacing in his bathroom, waiting for the three sticks he's used to tell him the results. They were the new kind, the ones that would have the words “Pregnant” or “Not Pregnant” on them. He didn't want any falsehoods.

He checked the time, then finally stopped pacing. He glanced at the sticks, a little nervously.

What if Husker was right? That would mean Alastor was carrying the next prince or princess of Hell…..and Charlie. Oh, Charlie. What would she think?!

Swallowing down his nerves, he looked at the first test.

Positive.

Well, shit. But! That was why he'd done three. The majority would be the correct result. Slowly, he looked at the second.

Not Pregnant.

Okay, well…..guess that meant the last one would reveal his fate.

Alastor picked up the last stick with a trembling hand.

And all at once, his world shattered.

Pregnant.

♥♥♥♥

The following days Alastor appeared more skittish than usual. It was clear he was trying not to, but he wasn't really fooling anyone.

“Alastor?” Charlie approached him in the lobby, where Alastor had been sitting by the fireplace. She pretended not to notice how he subtly flinched, like he'd been pulled from his thoughts.

“Oh, Charlie! How can I help?” Alastor said, plastering on his usual smile.

“Oh, I'm fine! But, I was wondering if you're alright? You've been….jumpier? Than normal,” she said.

“Like a literal deer in headlights almost,” Angel added, coming over and flopping down onto the couch. He had baby Domino cuddled into his chest fluff.

“Just had something on my mind, not to worry!” Alastor said dismissively. “Angel, why do you have only one of your children?”

“Dom couldn't sleep and I didn't want him wakin’ his sistas,” he explained. “Just got him ta sleep again and I don't wanna risk wakin’ him up by setting him in his crib.”

“I see. And where is Husker?” Alastor asked.

“With Rou and Jay-Jay,” Angel said. “Keeping an eye on them for a bit.”

“Alastor, are you sure you're alright?” Charlie asked again. Alastor sighed.

“Charlie, I am fine. Really,” he smiled tightly at her. “It's nothing.”

“Alright…..but you'll talk to me if-”

“Yes, I will,” Alastor cut her off, resisting the urge to roll his eyes. Charlie held up her hands in surrender.

“Eesh, no need to bite her head off, Smiles,” Angel pouted.

“Should you really be talking so much? You wake your baby,” Alastor quipped. He smirked when Angel's pout deepened and he flicked the Radio Demon off. But, he fell silent. Alastor decided to play some soft jazz in the room, soothing, and soft enough to not wake little Domino. Charlie smiled at that and finally walked off.

Alastor sighed lightly, closing his eyes as he listened to the jazz. He tried to imagine himself in Angel's position. Having a child nestled to his breast like that. Oh Hell, what if Alastor was having multiple like Husker had?! Perhaps he should reach out to Lucifer…..but wasn't it still too early to tell such things? He wasn't sure.

“Smiles?” Angel called softly, breaking into his thoughts. “Can ya cut the static? Ya gonna wake Domino.” Alastor opened his eyes, realizing that he was indeed emitting some radio static.

“Apologies,” he said, fixing the music. “Got lost in thought there.” Angel gave him a look, but wisely didn't press matters.

Chapter Text

It had been a month now since Alastor discovered his….. condition. And he'd been doing well to keep things a secret. He'd only had a light bout of morning sickness, thank hell. And those few episodes were always in the middle of the night, so no one was the wiser!

Very pleased with himself, Alastor made his way down to the kitchen with the intent to make some lunch for himself. He was craving an apple glazed ham……

Once arriving at the kitchen however, he was surprised to see Lucifer already cooking.

“Lucifer?” Alastor said, not quite sure what else to say. The king of Hell turned.

“Alastor!” he smiled at the other, placing down a spatula. Apparently he'd been making pancakes. “How have you been? I haven't seen you since-”

“I'm quite well!” Alastor cut him off, not wanting to be reminded of….that particular night. “Got a small cold or something a few weeks back, but fit as a fiddle now!” Lucifer seemed to relax in relief at this.

“Oh, good. I was worried that despite our precautions that something took,” he admitted. “Three little ones around here are enough, am I right?”

Alastor tried hard not to give anything away.

“Of course!” he said, smile only a little strained. “Why I couldn't see myself in such a domesticated role!”

“Same here,” Lucifer chuckled. “You want some pancakes?”

“Well, I suppose if you've already made them. I've recently been craving apple glazed ham,” Alastor commented, sitting at the table. “It's strange, I've never had a taste for fruit really. Too sweet for me. But lately, apples have been quite appealing!”

“Really?” Lucifer said with a raised brow. “And this happened just…..suddenly?” He set a plate of pancakes in front of the Radio Demon. Alastor shrugged as he began to eat.

“Well, sort of. I suppose it's been a few weeks…..I believe around the time my cold started,” Alastor said. Lucifer was quiet. Too quiet. Alastor looked up. “What?”

“Alastor,” he said slowly. “I think…..oh gosh, I can't believe I didn't notice when you walked in….”

Alastor heart dropped.

“Noticed…..what?” he asked.

“You were lying before, weren't you?” Lucifer asked instead. “Or did you really not know?”

“Lucifer-” Alastor tried, but Lucifer raised a hand.

“You're pregnant.”

That was it. Not a question, a statement. Alastor stared at the king, his ears slowly lowering at the unwavering gaze.

“....yes. I am,” he admitted. “Only Husk suspects. No one else knows.”

“Why lie to me?” Lucifer asked, sitting beside him and speaking lowly.

“Because I…..I….” Alastor growled softly in frustration. “I was scared……and admitting I am makes things…..real.”

“Oh, Alastor,” Lucifer said. Alastor glared.

“I don't want your pity,” he snapped. “In fact, this is all your fault! You blew that blasted smoke in my face and it was you that-!”

“Hey, it takes two to tango!” Lucifer shot back. “And we were careful!”

“Clearly, you weren't careful enough!” Alastor suddenly stood. “Just, leave me be!” He stormed out before Lucifer could say anything else. Using the shadows, Alastor fled to his room.

Once safely behind his own door, he began pacing the room. Of course, he knew Lucifer wouldn't spill the tea, what an utter humiliation that would be for him. So that was one less thing to worry about. But it was still irritating.

With a sigh, Alastor stopped pacing. Logically, he knew this reaction was the result of his wayward hormones. But it was so infuriating to be pitied! He was Alastor! The Radio Demon! He did NOT need pity!

He went into the bathroom, intending to splash his face with some water and calm down. But as he entered the bathroom, he caught sight of his reflection.

Only a month into this pregnancy….but he was already starting to show. Honestly, he looked to be more like two months instead of one. That…. wasn't good if he wanted to keep this secret longer. Perhaps Lucifer just hadn't noticed? Obviously, he'd missed the angelic energy.

Well, it was a good thing Alastor hadn't run into anyone else then. But this was still a problem that needed to be dealt with. Perhaps a corset or binder of some kind?

“A problem for another day,” he muttered, splashing his face with water. He decided to take a nap and forget lunch. He had lost his appetite anyway.

Chapter Text

He avoided Lucifer in the following days, the King having moved into the Hotel. Alastor had scoffed when he heard the reason was to spend time with Charlie and help with the newborn triplets. He knew the truth. Lucifer wanted to keep an eye on him.

And, well….he had seen Lucifer playing with the month-old babies. Alastor had to admit, he was rather good at keeping them entertained. He'd make light shows in the shape of ducks, cause the plush toys of the puppy, bee and pig the triplets had to dance around. He'd sing songs with the little ones, even if they only babbled nonsense off-key.

Lucifer had never noticed Alastor. He'd made sure of that, sticking to the shadows. He gently rested a hand on his midsection, mulling over the preposterous idea of having Lucifer more….present, in this situation.

“How ridiculous,” he muttered, wandering down the hall. He'd just discreetly left the nursery, having watched Lucifer play with the babies, before Husk and Angel collected them.

“What is?” Lucifer said, popping up behind him. Alastor jumped, not having sensed the King's presence. He bit back a startled bleat, irritated that he'd been caught off guard.

“Nothing,” he said. “I thought you were with the triplets?”

“I was,” Lucifer said. “But I know you're avoiding me.” He smiled grimly when Alastor huffed, not bothering to answer that. “Have you seen a doctor yet?”

“No,” Alastor said. “Why should I trust some random sinner to touch me?”

“I thought as much,” Lucifer sighed. “Will you allow me to give you a check up? For the…..ya know….for THEIR sake?” He kindly didn't say “baby” while they were in the hallway. Alastor scowled thought.

“I believe you've touched me quite enough,” he said. Lucifer suddenly stopped and pulled on Alastor's sleeve, forcing him to stop as well.

“Alastor,” he said, gaze hard. “I'm doing for them, not you. I tried to care for you through all of this, but you pushed me away the second I found out we fucked up. So don't mistake this as a kindness for you.” Alastor blinked.

“....very well,” he relented. “I'll get a check-up.” Lucifer smiled brightly.

“Great!” he pulled Alastor forward and through a portal, directly into the King's room at the Hotel. There was a large bed, along with a cluttered workbench inside. “Sit here.” He waved a hand, and a chair appeared in the middle of the room. Alastor Rose a brow, but did as he was told. Lucifer dragged over another chair from his workbench, sitting in front of Alastor. “May I?” He held out a hand to Alastor's stomach.

“I suppose you may,” Alastor said, scooting forward a little so Lucifer could reach better. The King nodded and placed his hand on Alastor's stomach.

“Interesting…..” he pulled his hand back. “The growth rate is a little odd.”

“Odd?” Alastor cocked his head to the side. “How so?”

“Well, you're only about….what, 5 weeks?” Lucifer asked. Alastor nodded in confirmation. “The baby seems to be around 8 weeks, but…..the growth has slowed again.”

“Strange…..could that be due to my animalistic side? Or your angelic nature?” Alastor looked down at his midsection.

“If I had to guess, I think it's a combination?” Lucifer sat back, looking thoughtful. “Yes, actually, that makes sense. Deer have a ten-month pregnancy. And when Charlie was born, she arrived at around eight months. So I'd wager you're going to have a normal, human, nine month pregnancy.”

“Oh,” Alastor looked a little surprised. “Well, I suppose that isn't the worst news.”

“At least you'll have more time to prepare than Husk and Angel did,” Lucifer smirked. “But time flies.”

“Wait, I wanted to ask….” Alastor paused, suddenly remembering what he had thought of the other day. “Is….am I having multiples?”

“Hm? Oh!” Lucifer chuckled. “Sorry, I don't mean to laugh. No, just one, although it's not uncommon for deer to have twins.”

“Oh thank Hell,” Alastor said. “I can barely fathom the thought of one, let alone two.”

“You're keeping them?” It was Lucifer's turn to look surprised. Alastor frowned.

“Yes? I thought that was obvious,” he said. “This child is innocent, they didn't ask to be conceived. And….lately I've found myself growing attached to the idea of caring for my own fawn.” Lucifer beamed.

“I'm glad to hear that. And….I'll help in anyway that I can. Whatever you want,” he said. Alastor nodded.

“Thank you,” he said. Suddenly, a knock sounded on the door.

“Dad? Are you in here?” Charlie's voice called out from behind the door. Lucifer startled theatrically.

“Oh, uh, yeah! Just a minute, Char-Char!” Lucifer called back.

“I'll see you later,” Alastor said, sinking into the shadows before Lucifer could respond.

He reappeared in his own room, placing a hand on his abdomen. He hummed thoughtfully.

“If Lucifer is right,” he said, speaking to his unborn child. “We shall be able to tell your gender in the next few weeks, little fawn.”

Oddly, he didn't care what they were. Only that they were healthy. He smiled softly and decided perhaps….this wouldn't be so terrible.

Chapter Text

Over the next several weeks, Alastor made it a point to take better care of himself. He was still hesitant to let Lucifer give him “check ups”, so he'd only had one since the first.

But today, he was going to ask Lucifer about the gender.

Humming softly, he walked down the hall, before bumping into Husk. The cat was carrying Roulette….or so Alastor assumed, as Husk had a light blanket thrown over one shoulder and the baby tucked beneath it. Only her little feet were seen.

“Oh, hey boss,” Husk grunted lightly, shifting his daughter.

“Husker,” Alastor said, then nodded to the blanket. “What are you doing?”

“Feeding Rou,” Husk replied. “She was fussing and I decided we needed to get out of the room.” Alastor peered closer at the blanket, curious.

“I wasn't aware you actually fed them from….there,” Alastor gestured to Husk's chest, causing the cat to chuckle.

“Where else would I feed them from?” he shifted Roulette again, adjusting the blanket.

“A bottle?”

“Well yeah, we use those too,” Husk nodded. “But sometimes this is easier and faster. Plus, my hormones caused me to produce milk, and I gotta get rid of the excess somehow.” He shrugged, then checked his baby, before pulling her out from under the blanket to burp her.

“I….see,” Alastor mused. “Husker, might I talk to you later? In private?” Perhaps he could learn a thing or too from his old pet.

“Uh, sure? Do the babies count as not being alone? Angel is going out to look for a new job later,” Husk asked.

“Your young are how old now? About two months? I hardly think they'll remember or repeat anything we talk about,” Alastor waved off the question.

“Right. Well, just come find me later then, I guess,” Husk gave Alastor a curious look. “Where….where are you off to?”

“That's….” Alastor started to tell Husker off, but….well, he was literally going to ask the cat for parenting advice later. He might as well know. “Oh I suppose there's no point in hiding it from you. Husker, you were right. I am indeed pregnant.”

“Wh-?!” Husk's eyes went wide, before he took a deep breath. “You seem oddly calm about this.”

“That's because I've had a month or so to get used to the idea,” Alastor explained. “I'm currently heading to see Lucifer.”

“And he's the father?” Husk asked, now cradling a dozing Roulette. Her tail flicked up in her sleep.

“Yes. And the only other soul who knows,” Alastor said, static around them growing. Husk nodded quickly.

“I won't tell even Angel,” he assured. “You said you're about a month along?”

“Well, more like two…..maybe two and a half,” Alastor said, trying to remember what Lucifer had said last time. “I believe he will be able to sense what gender they are now.”

“You just have one?” Husk looked a bit jealous at that, much to Alastor's glee.

“There was the possibility of twins, but yes. Just one,” he confirmed. Husk pouted faintly, but his irritation faded fast. Clearly, he loved his children and wouldn't change that for anything.

“Well, congratulations,” he said.

“Thank you. I'd best be on my way, but I'll come find you for that talk later,” Alastor replied, before making his way down the hall once more.

♥♥♥♥

Now sat in Lucifer's room, Alastor stared at the King with a flat look.

“Could we please hurry this along?” he huffed. Lucifer just grinned.

“Just wait. I got this from Belphegor just to do this properly!” He was currently setting up a machine….an ultrasound machine. Alastor rolled his eyes, leaning back slightly on Lucifer's bed.

“Properly? Nothing about this whole ordeal has been done properly,” he retorted. Lucifer scoffed.

“No, that's true. But I want an ultrasound picture!” he pouted at the sinner.

“Oh fine. But did I really have to change clothes?” Alastor pulled lightly as the “hospital gown” Lucifer had conjured.

“Probably not, but matches the aesthetic,” Lucifer smirked, earning him a heated glare from Alastor.

“The minute you get your blasted photograph, I'm putting my own clothes back on,” he huffed.

“Sure, sure-....aha!” Lucifer proudly stepped back as the machine booted up. “There! Now, lie back and lift the gown up.”

“Absolutely not,” Alastor said instantly. He was only wearing his underwear beneath!! Lucifer rolled his eyes.

“I've literally seen you naked. And we're alone,” he countered. Alastor felt his face burn.

“I suppose I'd forgotten that….” he admitted. But strangely, it didn't make him feel better. This wasn't the worst state the King of Hell had seen him in. So, he slowly lifted the gown until his midsection was exposed.

“Great! Now this stuff is cold….” Lucifer squirted a thick gel over him, causing Alastor to flinch.

“Ugh, is that necessary?!” He didn't mind the cold so much, but the goopy substance felt disgusting.

“I was told it was,” Lucifer nodded. Now shut it for a minute. We're going to find out what our baby is!!!” Alastor pouted, but for once listened.

Both men watched the screen as Lucifer carefully dragged the ultrasound wand across Alastor's belly.

Then…..

“Is that….?” Alastor's ears twitched and his eyes went wide.

“Oh yeah…..that's their heartbeat,” Lucifer's smile looked incredibly awestruck.

“Is that them?” Alastor suddenly pointed to a small blob on the screen. Lucifer nodded, looking excited.

“Yes! And it looks like….a little girl!” he cheered, pressing a button to capture the image. He pulled the wand away, much to Alastor's disappointment.

He liked hearing his daughter's heartbeat.

“Wait,” he said, before Lucifer could clean the wand off. The King paused.

“Huh?”

“Can….can I hear her heartbeat again?” Alastor looked uncharacteristically shy asking this. Lucifer smiled.

“Here,” he snapped his fingers and a small cassette tape appeared. “It's a recording of it.” Alastor looked delighted.

“Thank you,” he snapped his own fingers and was once again cleaned up and back in his own clothes. He pocketed the tape, planning to listen to it again later. He watched as Lucifer looked at the newly printed ultrasound picture.

“She's got hooves, look!” Lucifer pointed to her little growing feet.

“I suppose that makes sense. I have hooves and I know Charlie does too, which makes me believe she got them from you,” Alastor said, peering at the image too.

“I think I see a little deer tail, but it's fuzzy and hard to tell,” Lucifer continued. “Same with the ears. But still! She looks perfect.”

“I agree. She's my daughter after all,” Alastor smirked. “No child of mine would be less than perfect.”

“Ha ha, sure,” Lucifer held the photo out. “Would you like a copy?”

“No, her recorded heartbeat is enough for me,” Alastor said. “Besides, I'll eventually have her in my arms, no need for a picture.” Nevermind his own aversion to cameras.

“Alright. Let me know if you change your mind,” Lucifer said. He carefully placed the photo in his bedside drawer, smiling.

“Not to cut this short, but I must be going. I have a meeting to attend. Nothing strenuous, I promise,” Alastor said, before Lucifer could complain. Last check-up, he'd told the Radio Demon off for going out on a murder spree. To be fair, he was craving sinner meat that day and didn't have the patience to visit Cannibal Town.

“Ah, okay. Thanks for letting me do this,” Lucifer said.

“Think nothing of it,” Alastor said, straightening his jacket. “I wanted to know too.” He left without another word.

Chapter Text

Alastor had given the cassette tape to his shadow, intending on listening to it before he went to bed. For now, he was going to find Husker for that talk.

He walked to his and Angel’s shared room, rapping his knuckles on the door. Although immediately after doing so, he realized the babies might be asleep and-

“Oh for cryin’ out loud!” Angel's weary voice sounded as tiny cries filled the room. Alastor's ears flattened. He slipped into the shadows and appeared in the room.

“Ah, Angel, I apologize-” Alastor started.

“Shush!” Angel hissed, having brought out his third set of arms to cradle one infant in each. The spider glared at the deer, rocking the triplets. “Thanks for waking them. I just got ‘em down.”

“Apologies,” Alastor muttered. “I was looking for Husker.”

“He went to get some more supplies,” Angel said, gently setting Jade down in her crib and trying to settle the other two.

“Ah. Would….you like help?” Alastor offered. Angel glared suspiciously.

“I'm good,” he said, finally getting Domino asleep once more. But little Roulette continued to fuss, coughing here and there. “Shit, where's her inhaler?” Angel reached out with a free hand, quietly rifling through drawers. Alastor watched, before summoning his shadow to help look. It found the device under Roulette's crib, where it must have fallen.

“Is this is?” Alastor asked, taking it from his shadow and offering it to Angel. The spider looked up, a moment of relief flooding his face.

“Yeah, thanks,” he took the inhaler and helped little Roulette to take the medicine within. Soon, the baby settled, drifting off now that her breathing had eased.

“Angel, do you mind if I ask you something?” Alastor inquired softly, watching Angel lay his daughter down.

“Uh, sure….I guess?” Angel said.

“Did being a father come naturally to you?” Alastor asked. “I know Husker carried them, so he'd naturally have maternal instincts. But-”

“No,” Angel cut Alastor off. The deer blinked.

“No?”

“No. See, I was a bit skeptical at first. And I had some rough patches before they were born,” Angel explained. He sighed and looked over at the triplets. “But I love ‘em. And I guess….the day they were born was the day I realized…..I'm their pop. Nothin’ gonna change that. And I plan to be a betta’ father than mine was.”

“I….see,” Alastor said. “I didn't know you had troubles with your father.” Angel laughed hollowly.

“Mobsta’ through and through,” Angel said. “Strict, crooked, abusive. The man once kicked out his own son in the middle o’ winter all because he caught me tryin’ on ma twin sista’s old dress.” Alastor blinked.

“My, that's….quite a lot to unpack,” Alastor said. “I had no idea you had siblings.” Angel rose a brow.

“That's what ya start with?” Angel chuckled. “Yeah, I got an older brother and a twin sister. With any luck, ma sista's upstairs and away from the rest of us down here.”

“She must have been a lovely person,” Alastor said. “Sounds a lot like my own mother. I know she's in Heaven.” Angel nodded.

“Yeah, Molly was. That was her name,” Angel said. “And hey, maybe yer ma and Molly met in Heaven. Who knows.” Alastor chuckled.

“Perhaps. I'm sure they'd get along famously,” Alastor said. He paused before continuing. “Angel, you should know….I was coming to seek advice from Husker. About being a parent.”

“Ya were? How come?” Angel asked.

“I….I'm nearly three months pregnant myself,” Alastor admitted. “Only Lucifer and Husker know, now beside yourself.” Angel's eyes went wide.

“Holy shit?!” Angel said. His mouth opened and closed a few times, before his brain seemed to fully process that. “And…. who's-?”

“Lucifer,” Alastor said quickly. “And…..it's a little girl.” Angel smiled.

“Well hey, congrats,” he said. “Should be a piece of cake with just one.”

“Yes, I was rather blessed with that,” Alastor smirked. “You should have seen Husker's face when I revealed that.”

“Oh I bet,” Angel snickered. “We love the little tykes, but three newborns? Man, it's tough. Still….. wouldn't change it for tha world.”

“I'm sure you wouldn't,” Alastor smiled at the three sleeping babies. “Well, I'll leave you to it. Let Husker know I'll be in my room.”

“Sure thing,” Angel nodded. Alastor slipped back into the shadows, so as not to wake the infants once more.