A Total Drama Story, Hazbin Hotel Crossover Story

Demon's Daughter: Love Across the Divide

Chapter 21

Reflections of Yesterday: A Journey Through Forgotten Paths

~Gwen's POV~

Today seems to be a day where everyone is engaged in their personal activities. Charlie and Vaggie were collaborating to devise their next move for attracting more sinners to the hotel. Meanwhile, Angel was engaged in a card game with Husker, Nifty was hunting for bugs to exterminate, and Pentious was busy with his Egg Boiz on a project that was decidedly non-weaponry, lest they incur Vaggie's wrathful spear. Alastor was out on errands, which left me alone in my bedroom. It didn't bother me. I prefer being by myself most of the time. In fact, ever since I was a kid I was never comfortable around other people unless I felt comfortable approaching them. I wouldn't say I was shy, but rather, I was never amused being around other people I didn't like. Most people I met were friends of my fathers. The rich, powerful, and boring kind of people who were older than me. Usually ignoring my existent to discuss business with my father.

You might be wondering why I was stuck with such dull people. The reason is my parent's held parties on special occasions, or we were invited to a ball by another royal. Most of the time our parents kept Charlie and me close by since there were many people wandering around the ballroom. If we weren't careful, Charlie or I could get lost. So, we were stuck by our parents, listening to them have long discussions with their own kind that nearly put me to times, there were other children to play with, but it wasn't consistently enjoyable. Many affluent children behave as if they are superior and are often spoiled. The exception was Via, who never irritated me. The two of us shared common interests and dislikes, like being dragged to parties by your parents instead of staying home with a sitter because you're a royal.

Listen to me going down memory lane. I feel like an old maid reminiscing about the old days of her youth. How pathetic does that sound? (sigh) Okay, changing the subject. The more I think about memories like that, I'll grow bored and annoyed with myself. I take a moment to stretch out on the bed, pulling my pillow close. I let my mind drift to a more pleasant memory. Focusing, my mind opens like a flower in bloom to the memory of my latest visit to Earth.

~Flashback~

After accepting Alastor's offer for transportation back to Earth in exchange for a favor, Gwen found herself reunited with the group she was happy to consider friends, and Heather. How was Alastor able to fulfil his part of the bargain? That's for him to know and others to find out, if they dare. Essentially, he utilized his abilities to enable Gwen to travel to and from Earth at her discretion. How is this possible? Alastor provided her with an item that facilitates her travel, one that can seamlessly integrate with Gwen's everyday wardrobe. He made a new chocker necklace for her. One, with a special flame of power inside the center gem. All Gwen would have to do is touch the gem, focus on where she wants to go, and she'll arrive at the destination her heart desires.

Thanks to this gift, Gwen went ahead testing her new jewelry piece out. It was the day after attending the overlord meeting with Alastor. Gwen made an excuse to go to the park to do some sketching. Promising to be back later that day, Charlie agreed, and Gwen went off. She headed to the park, her small backpack snug on her shoulders, carrying her sketchbook, a water bottle, and some snacks—Charlie had insisted on them to sustain her energy. It would also keep hunger at bay since dinner was still hours off. Gwen didn't object; she simply complied. The quicker she reached her destination, the better. According to her recollection, she was supposed to meet her new friends at three in the park. At least, that's what one of those guys told her.

She hurried along to the park. Her plan was to find a secluded spot to teleport to Earth. A spot no one would suspect to look. Not that it mattered because she would vanish before anyone could do anything about it. If someone noticed, they might think it was just their mind playing tricks on them. It was the perfect plan for Gwen to execute without a hitch. While deep in thought, Gwen hadn't realized she had arrived in the park. It was only when she nearly lost her footing and caught herself had she noticed her surroundings had changed. Now that she was in the park, Gwen would need to locate a secluded spot for her surroundings, Gwen noticed an abundance of open space with demons conversing on benches, strolling along the paths, and enjoying picnics, yet there was a distinct lack of secluded areas. Where could she go without being spotted by one-to-many people? Looking around some more, Gwen finally spotted the spot she had been looking for. The public restrooms. No one would suspect her going into the bathroom only to disappear moments later. She'd hide in a stall then teleport once she locked herself inside.

Wasting no time, Gwen ran towards the bathroom, got inside, went straight into the first empty stall she could find, locked herself in, and got ready. Standing tall, Gwen took a deep breath, touched the gem on her choker, closed her eyes, and focused on an image of the park on Earth. She focused until an image began to form in her mind as clear as a picture on a television screen. Now with the image in her head, the gem activated its power, creating a green glowing swirl around Gwen's whole body until it swallowed her up and she was gone. Reappearing moments later outside behind a large oak tree and some bushes. When she opened her eyes, she knew immediately that she wasn't in Hell anymore. Her surroundings had more color and life to them, and the sky above her was blue with white clouds floating 's face lit up with a smile at the sight of the blue sky. Her reverie was quickly interrupted by the sound of familiar laughter to her left. As she turned, she spotted her friends gathered by the park benches. Overcome with excitement, Gwen dashed towards the group, waving and calling out to them with a beaming smile. At once, every head turned in her direction. Trent was the first to spot Gwen dashing towards him and the group. He leapt from the bench and sprinted towards her. They met halfway, their hands clasping and smiles spreading across their faces. The warmth of Trent's touch matched the heat of her own palms. Her cheeks flushed a deep red color the moment their hands touched.

"Hey Gwen, it's great to see you again." Trent smiled. "I was hoping you'd show up again, haven't seen you in a while."

"Sorry about that, I've been busy helping my sister out with her hotel." Gwen replied giving an honest answer, or as honest of an answer without giving away too much information.

"Come on, everyone will be glad to see you." Trent escorted Gwen over to the others by the picnic tables.

The entire group was gathered, reminiscent of Gwen's initial visit to the park. She was pleased to see so many familiar faces. Even Heather's presence couldn't dampen her spirits. Trent and she walked up to the picnic tables, greeting everyone with broad smiles and warm hellos.

"Hey, hey, hey Gwen! Good to see you again!" Geoff greeted Gwen with a wave and a broad smile.

"Gwen, it's great to see you again." Bridgette smiled.

"Hi Gwen!" Zoey smiled and waved.

"Hey everyone, it's great to see you guys again." Gwen smiled. "I've been so busy lately helping my sister with her hotel that I didn't have time to come here sooner."

Once more, it was not a lie. She had indeed been occupied with assisting at the hotel. The real issue lay in returning to Earth without employing the grimoire, a detail she could not reveal to them. They wouldn't understand if they discovered her secret. Being labeled a nut case was the last thing she wanted, but that wasn't going to happen. Why, because her secret would never unfold for the others to learn. This was a secret Gwen intended to keep until her dying day on Earth, speaking metaphorically. Now she's starting to overthink negative thoughts about a situation that hasn't happened. Luckily, she was brought back to reality when she heard her name being called.

"So, Gwen how have you been? You mentioned helping your sister with her hotel. What's that like?" It was Bridgette who spoke.

Gwen took a moment to think about her answer. She was reluctant to reveal too much information without unveiling her sister's real motives. However, she could discuss Charlie's activities, provided that she kept the truth concealed.

"Well, Charlie has big hopes for her hotel. Her goal is to help those who step through the do..." Gwen stopped talking when she realized what she said.

Eyebrows raised; questionable looks formed on several faces. They didn't understand what Gwen meant when she said, 'help those'. Gwen had to come up with something to say. Perhaps if she twisted the truth the others wouldn't suspect a thing or question her.

"What the hell does that mean?" Heather crossed her arms giving Gwen a questionable look. "Does your sister have some kind of secret life where she harbors criminals?"

"Heather, that's a horrible thing to say. Not to mention it's a ridiculous theory." Courtney piped out. "Who's dumb enough to harbor criminals in a hotel?"

Okay, maybe twisting the truth around wasn't going to work.

"How about we let Gwen tell us what exactly goes on at her sister's hotel. I'm sure there's a logical explanation to what she was saying." Said Camren.

All eyes turned to Gwen, who remained unfazed. She had conceived a brilliant remark to address the crowd.

"Allow me to explain, you see, Charlie's got a big heart when it comes to seeing the good in people. She believes in redemption, hope, and second chances. Her hotel is like a safe haven for people who are looking for a second chance in life. So yes, in a way my sister is helping criminals as Heather said, but with the exception that they're looking to change." Gwen explained being honest but stretching the truth just a little.

At first no one spoke. They stared at Gwen with different expressions on their faces. Some with curiosity and some with questionable looks. Which was normal considering what Gwen told them. It's not often one hears about criminals being redeemed for a second chance in life at a hotel. This was probably the first time anyone ever heard of such a thing. Gwen started to think she should have rethought what she said. Then, Zoey asked a question.

"What motivated your sister to pursue the goal of rehabilitating criminals at a hotel?"

Gwen took a moment before responding. "Let's say Charlie has witnessed the fate of those who lose hope and are left possesses a generous heart and cannot bear the suffering of others. For her, saving even a single individual would represent a significant achievement."

Upon hearing those words, the expressions of everyone in the room began to shift, all except for Heather. It's Heather, what does anyone expect from her. More to the point, listening to Gwen speak so highly of her sister Charlie brought smiles of understanding to everyone's faces.

"Wow, your sister sounds pretty amazing." Mike chimed. "Creating a hotel haven for criminals seeking redemption to reenter society is genius. It's got to be the first hotel for redemption ever made in history."

Gwen smiled, "It is, and it's the only one of its kind on the whole planet."

This garnered high praise and sparked whispers and conversations around the picnic tables. Everyone except Heather, with a look on her face that didn't look amused.

"Hold on, if this is a one-of-a-kind hotel, why haven't I heard of it?"

"Well, the hotel is a secret project that Charlie's been developing. It's not public yet," Gwen fibbed to Heather. "Charlie's hotel is quite new and has only just opened its doors. A handful of people have come to experience her redemption program, and she's looking to conduct a trial run before its official launch."

"Sounds pretty good to me." Said Duncan. "Being a delinquent myself, I can understand how much getting a second chance would mean. Upon release back into society, criminals often struggle to find anyone willing to give them a second chance."

It was nice to know someone understood the importance of second chances.

"Appreciate your words, Duncan." Said Gwen, giving a small smile.

"He does say nice things once in a while." Courtney mentioned, giving Duncan a smug look. To which he gave her one in return.

"Anyway, enough about me, how have you guys been?" Gwen asked wanting to change the subject.

"Mm, honey my schedule is so packed I'm about to hire a personal assistant just to take a load off my shoulders." Leshawna stated.

"Oh please, like you really have that much on your shoulders." Heather remarked.

"No one asked you." Spoke Leshawna.

"Between school, homework, chores, and the scant free time we have, it's fair to say that each of us is busy in our own unique way." Spoke Cody.

"That makes sense." Said Gwen. "Feeling suffocated when overwhelmed with unrequested work is common. The desire to escape is strong, yet it can seem as if you're stuck in place."

"Wow, that's actually a great way to describe it." Said Cody.

""I understand your perspective; I have experience too," Gwen shared. "My dad made me take countless lessons I never requested. He claimed it was for my personal growth, but I suspect he was just trying to keep me occupied intentionally."

"Why would he do that?" Asked Geoff.

"I think he wanted to groom me as his successor since Charlie had her own agenda that he doesn't approve." Said Gwen.

"You mean he doesn't approve of your sister's hotel for redemption?" Spoke Harold from the back.

"Unfortunately, that's correct." Sighed Gwen. "I've attempted to persuade him that Charlie's actions will lead to positive changes, but he remains arrogant, obstinate, and unpleasant. He refuses to listen to either of us."

"That's harsh, tough break." Said Owen munching on an apple.

"Do you think he'll have a change of heart and accept your sister's idea?" Bridgette asked.

Heather scoffed, "Oh please, the idea of Gwen's sister to redeem those deemed lost causes, the criminals, is hopeless. I'm with their father on this; it's never going to happen."

Every gaze that fell upon Heather was icy; she had no right to disparage Charlie's idea. Even those who hadn't met Charlie were ready to offer their support. If Charlie were here in person, she'd be touched to have so much support for her hotel. Her heart would skip a beat with glee.

"Ignore Heather Gwen's words; she's not informed on the matter. I'm confident you can convince your dad that changing someone's life for the better is a greater achievement than anything else." Trent's reassurance caused Gwen to conceal the blush spreading across her cheeks, accompanied by a gentle smile.

"If only he knew the truth." Gwen thought to herself.

If she revealed her true identity and the secrets of Charlie's hotel to Trent, what would his reaction be? What would the other's reactions be? Would they still consider Gwen a friend, or see her as a monster? There she goes again, overthinking the situation when nothing's been revealed or told. Why was she worrying so much about this? She shouldn't worry about it. Just push the negative thoughts to the side and focus on the now. She's with some great people. She should enjoy her time with them while she has it.

"Okay, enough about me, what's there to do that's fun around here?" Asked Gwen hoping to change the subject.

"Hey if it's fun you're after then I know a great place to go." Mike said, jumping down from the picnic table. "Come on gang, follow me!"

Guided by Mike, the group made their way to a nearby park where a festival was underway. Nothing huge or fancy, it was one of those craft fairs with food trucks and various vendors selling their homemade goods. Gwen had never seen something like this in, Hell had its assortment of minor events and celebrations during the holidays, yet this occasion stood out. Gwen couldn't quite identify it, but there was something unique about this modest Earth festival. Whatever it was, it made everyone excited to be here. Mike suggested they split up and enjoy themselves, but seeing as how it was Gwen's first time, she would need a guide. Trent immediately volunteered for the job. Making Gwen's heart skip a beat.

She happily accepted Trent's company, and the pair set off to explore the fairgrounds. Being close to Trent gave Gwen butterflies in her stomach. She couldn't explain her feelings. Being near Trent, she felt her heart flutter, her stomach twist into knots, and inexplicably, her hands would begin to sweat. It was a good thing she didn't try to hold hands with Trent. She could feel her hands sweating that very moment. Which was a first for her because she had never experienced sweaty hands around a guy before. How could this guy, this human, cause her body and mind to react in strange ways? Is this how Charlie got when she was around Vaggie? Obviously, this was true love Gwen was a feeling she couldn't ignore, especially not after the delightful time she had with Trent at the festival. They enjoyed games, browsed and shopped at the vendor stalls, and indulged in delicious treats from the food trucks.

Gwen was having so much fun she completely lost track of time. Oblivious to the passage of time, they all eventually reconvened near a spacious tent bustling with vendors offering an assortment of merchandise. Owen inquired whether they could visit one more food truck before ending their day, to which DJ pointed out that it was already past four o'clock. Now Gwen didn't give an exact time for her return, but she knew if she stayed out too late, Charlie would start to worry. Calling over and over on the phone until she went out in search of Gwen herself. Gwen didn't want to leave, but she didn't want to worry Charlie. She had to depart for home.

"Hey guys, I hate to spoil the mood, but I have to get going before my sister has a panic attack." Spoke Gwen.

"She's protective of you huh? I get it, my mom's the same way." Spoke Trent.

"Yeah, I have four brothers, and if any of them are late for curfew, my mom calls the neighborhood watch." Spoke Geoff. "And if that doesn't work, she calls the cops."

"Really? How many times has she had to do that?" Asked Gwen.

"Call the cops? I think she's done that at least seven times in the past three years." Replied Geoff.

"Two of those times were my fault." Said Duncan.

"What did you do?" Courtney gave Duncan a look. Duncan responded with a nervous chuckle.

"In my defense, time got away from us, and I probably shouldn't have put pudding in that fire extinguisher."

Gwen arched an eyebrow while Courtney gave Duncan an intense stare.

"Real mature Duncan, real mature." Said Courtney.

"Okay, well, thanks for sharing that. I have to get going, but thanks for a great day out you guys." Spoke Gwen.

As everyone bid farewell, Trent took Gwen aside for a private word.

"Hey Gwen, I hope you don't mind. I just wanted to have a private word with you before you go." Spoke Trent.

"Sure, that's fine with me." Spoke Gwen, secretly wondering what Trent wanted to say.

At first Trent didn't speak. He appeared to be taking his time to think before speaking. He looked nervous, blushing a little as if embarrassed by what he had to say. Gwen couldn't understand why he would be embarrassed, but she would soon find out.

"Okay... Gwen... uh, look... uh..." Trent seemed unable to voice his thoughts. It was evident he had something to say, yet he struggled to articulate what was on his mind. "I just... I just want to... uh, that is I... I..." The struggle was real.

Gwen waited patiently for Trent to speak. She wouldn't rush him, but she did have to depart for Hell soon. In fact, she could feel her phone vibrate in her back pocket. Clearly that was Charlie texting her. Trent hoped to find his voice and express his thoughts before Charlie began to call Gwen. As the phone started buzzing, Trent realized it was now or never to speak up and share his feelings.

"Before you go, I guess what I'm trying to say is... I... I had a good time with you today." He spoke.

"Oh, yeah, I had a good time with you too." Gwen spoke.

She was uncertain if Trent was speaking the whole truth, but she didn't push him to speak. She would if not for Charlie texting for her whereabouts.

"Yeah, it was a good day." Said Trent giving a nervous smile. "Maybe we could do this again sometime? When you're free. I'm sure you're busy helping your sister, but when you get the chance, you know?"

"Yeah, I know, and I will try to come and hangout with you aga-uh, you and the others. Hangout with you and the others." Gwen blushed, embarrassed for almost giving herself away.

"Yeah, everyone would love to hang with you again." Spoke Trent blushing.

It was obvious he wanted to say something else, but he would wait another day. He didn't want Gwen getting in trouble with her sister for making her worry.

"So, I guess I'll see you around?"

"Yeah, you'll see me around."

Before she left, without explanation, Gwen placed a small kiss on Trent's right cheek. She didn't know why she did it, but she did. Leaving the two of them blushing at one another for a mere five seconds before Gwen took off. Her head was buzzing with various thoughts, her heart racing like a train, and her breathing heavy as she ran with all her might. She was uncertain of her destination, but she was sure it needed to be out of the public's gaze. Away from him. She didn't slow down for an instant, until her mind urged her to, lest her heart burst, in a figurative sense.

~End of Flashback/ Gwen's POV~

As soon as I regained my composure, I found a secluded spot and teleported back to the park, where I promptly resumed my run to the hotel. All the while, I was responding to Charlie's texts to prevent her from worrying. I casually mentioned that I had lost track of time, absorbed in the natural beauty and the musicians' performance, not noticing my phone's persistent buzzing until I was on my way to the bathroom. Then when I returned to the hotel out of breath, I told Charlie I wanted to rush home so she wouldn't worry anyone about my safety. Which resulted in a big bear hug that nearly took my remaining breath away. Now, back in my bedroom, I'm left to ponder the reason behind the kiss on the cheek I gave Trent.

Who can say why I did it? It was the heat of the moment. I just felt compelled. I'm not sure, but if I'm honest with myself, I have no regrets. The kiss felt nice, even right, but then I left Trent speechless. I'm uncertain about how he felt about the kiss. All I can do is hope that he doesn't resent me for it when we meet again. Overthinking again, he wouldn't hate me for one kiss, and besides, I saw the way he was blushing before I kissed him. He clearly has to be feeling the same way as I do for him.

I'll wait and see.

Until next time.

End of Chapter

Took a while, but I'd say the wait would have been worth it.

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