The carnival lights flickered overhead, casting ghostly shadows on the blood-slick pavement. The air reeked of iron and smoke. You and Alex stood side by side, basking in the chaos — bodies against mirrors, tents torn, the Ferris wheel turning like nothing happened.

You twirled your lollipop, fingers sticky with sugar and blood. “Think anyone’s still hiding?” you asked, eyes wide with glee.

Alex grinned, face smeared with paint and red. “If they are,” he said, “I hope they scream real pretty.”

Katie clacked out of the Funhouse in her clown heels, dress soaked in gore, axe dragging behind her. A porcelain doll dipped in blood.

Tyler followed — shirtless, painted like a stitched demon, chains swinging, grin unhinged.

Alex didn’t even glance. This was your family. His family. He looked only at you.

You giggled, leaning in, your cheek brushing his. “They’re like little valentines,” you whispered, licking your lollipop. “We should’ve brought balloons.”

He pulled you close. “Nah. You’re the only thing I wanna watch float.”

Katie twirled her axe. “Two more in the tunnel of love!” she shouted.

Tyler cracked his knuckles. “Hope they’re making out. I love ruining the sweet ones.”