Page 95 of Scornful

He pulls back to look at me, expression serious. "Love you too, princess. More than you know."

We clean up quickly and slip back out separately.

The main room has transformed even more in our absence—streamers now joining the cobwebs, a "haunted house" corner set up with sheets and spooky sounds.

The rest of the day passes in a blur.

Kids try on costumes, running around like superheroes and princesses.

We set up carnival games—ring toss, bean bag throw, bobbing for apples.

The prospects help while still making sure the club is secure, looking slightly ridiculous in their costumes while armed.

Ulf makes a convincing Viking, though the gun on his hip ruins the historical accuracy.

By mid-afternoon, the transformation is complete.

The clubhouse looks like a proper Halloween party venue, complete with themed snacks and spooky music.

Aziza's made cookies shaped like bats and pumpkins, while Starla's created a "witches' brew" punch that bubbles the entire time thanks to dry ice.

As the evening approaches, the party kicks into high gear.

Music fills the clubhouse, kids shrieking with delight as they play games and show off costumes.

Even the brothers seem to relax, playing with the children, trying to have a good time even though things are so tense right now.

I watch Geirolf with the little ones, struck by how gentle he is.

He's got Florencia on his shoulders, Rio's daughter squealing as he pretends to be a monster.

Mom appears beside me with a tray of cupcakes."He's good with kids."

"Yeah," I agree softly, imagining a future where our own children ride on his shoulders.

"You two talked about having any?"

My cheeks heat. "Mom!"

She laughs. "Just wondering. You're not getting any younger."

"We're in the middle of a war, and I’m twenty-four, there’s plenty of time." I remind her.

"There's always a war." She laughs. "Can't put life on hold forever."

Before I can respond, Magnolia arrives from the hospital.

She looks exhausted but… determined to be here, still wearing the same clothes from a few days ago.

Her usually perfect makeup is gone, her eyes red from crying.

I walk up to her. "It’s good to see you. How’s Bjorn holding up?"

"Asking for Ingrid," she says, and my sister's head snaps up from across the room. "Doctor said she can visit tonight. Only for thirty minutes."

Ingrid practically flies across the room. "Really?"

Magnolia nods, managing a small smile. "He needs to see you."

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