Page 93 of Scornful

Even after all these years, he still goes into protective mode at the slightest sign of trouble.

"Ingrid needs to see Bjorn," I say simply. "She's falling apart."

Dad's expression hardens. "It's family only at the hospital. You know the rules."

"She is family to him," I argue. "Dad, please. They're—" I catch myself before revealing their secret. "They're close. She needs to see him."

Runes and Dad exchange a look I can't read.

"I'll talk to Kraken," Dad says finally. "See what we can do."

"Thank you," I say, relief flooding through me.

But as I turn to leave, I hear them continue their conversation.

"What about Marcus?" Dad asks, his voice dropping. "We know where he drinks."

My blood runs cold. Marcus—the man Everly saw at Bjorn's window.

I freeze just outside the door, knowing I shouldn't listen but I can’t bring myself to move.

"Tonight," I hear Geirolf's voice and realize he's entered the room through the other door. "During the party. Kids'll be distracted."

"I want answers," Dad growls. "That explosion nearly killed two club kids. My daughter's friend is missing a leg because of that bastard."

"He'll talk," Geirolf promises. "They always do when we have ‘em downstairs."

The casual way he says it makes me shiver.

I know what happens in the basement.

Have known since I was old enough to understand what the club really does.

But hearing them plan it so coldly while children's laughter echoes from the main room…

I back away before they notice me, mind racing.

They're going to grab Marcus tonight, while we're throwing a Halloween party for the kids.

Gods, what kind of world do we really live in?

I need to find Geirolf alone. Need to... I don't know what. Confirm what I heard? Beg him to be careful? Accept that this is who we are?

I wait near his room, and when he emerges from the office, I grab his hand and pull him inside without a word.

"Astrid, what?—"

"Shut up," I hiss, pushing him inside and closing the door.

His eyebrows raise, but I see heat flare in those ice-blue eyes. "What's wrong?"

"I heard you," I say, pressing him against the door. "Planning to grab Marcus tonight."

His expression doesn't change. "You shouldn't have been listenin’."

"I'm part of this now," I remind him. "Your woman, remember?"

Something dangerous flashes in his eyes. "Minn," he agrees, hands finding my hips, pulling me closer.

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