Page 82 of Carnival Shadows

The carnival has changed since we all settled down. It’s still dangerous when necessary, but it’s smarter and cleaner. The underground operation runs smoother than ever, with Eden’s strategic mind complementing our brutality.

Jack runs past with a water gun, spraying Emma, who shrieks delightfully. Their laughter echoes across the riverbank, mixing with the wind rustling through the reeds, adding to the beautiful day. Even Cade has learned to lower his guard, teaching Emma to skip stones while Lily watches from her beach chair.

“Remember when we thought relationships would make us weak?” Lars chuckles, nodding toward where Alice is helping their son build a sandcastle.

“Turns out we just needed the right ones.” I pull Eden closer as she settles back against me, her fingers laced with mine over our daughter.

The sky blazes orange and pink, reflecting off the river. Phoenix finally puts his tech away completely, focusing on his family. Tilly rewards him with a kiss while Luna babbles happily between them.

Sofia’s singing Anthony Italian lullabies, her voice carrying softly on the breeze while Ty watches them with undisguised adoration. Even Gage and Aurora have found their rhythm, their darkness balanced by each other’s understanding.

“I never thought I’d have this,” Eden whispers, facing me. “Someone who sees all of me and wants every part.”

I brush my thumb across her cheek. “You’re still my beautiful stalker.”

She laughs, the sound pure joy. “And you’re still the monster I chose to love.”

Our family continues their easy conversations and playful moments around us. We’ve all found partners who understand our shadows and embrace them. The carnival might be our cover, but these people are our truth.

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