Page 50 of Cowboy Needed

Michael just said, “Eh.”

“Can I have all your candy, if you don’t want to?—”

“Da-a-ad! No!”

He didn’t think so.

“Nope. If Michael goes around with a bag, he gets candy. If he doesn’t, he doesn’t, but no one gets extra.”

“Harsh. How do I get some?” Ellis murmured.

“I have spare in the pantry. For scary movie night.”

“Oh cool. I love chocolate with my popcorn.”

Ichabod grinned, because he’d learned that while Ellis didn’t have much of a sweet tooth, he did like sweet and salty together. M&Ms and popcorn. Salted caramel on his vanilla ice cream. Sea salt and almond dark chocolate.

It was a lovely thing.

“Exactly.”

“I like popcorn,” Michael put in, his voice hopeful.

“Me too!” squealed Allie.

“Well, good thing there’s enough for everyone, isn’t it?” Ichabod didn’t have a problem with the kids noshing popcorn. It was crunchy and good for them.

“Yep. I might gobble it up when I get scared watching Allie’s movie choice.” Ellis did love to tease the kids, and they all laughed for him when he did, even Zane.

“I’ll make more.” He pulled in at the trunk or treat a few minutes later, surprised at the crowd already there.

“Wow, I’m glad we brought enough candy to pass out. This is full.”

Allie was bouncing, but little Chrissy’s face crumpled as she saw all the costumes.

“Daddy?”

“It’s fine, baby girl. I’ll be with you both the entire time.”

“Just remember, sissy, it’s not real. It’s like me and Michael aren’t Glenda and a pirate.” Allie took her little sister’s hand, so kind. She could be mean like all sibs, but right now she was a hero.

“I’s a cornicorn!”

God, he loved them all, so goddamn much.

“You are. Wanna hold my hand?” Michael asked.

“Uh-huh. And Ewis.” She was still a little unsure, because she was mispronouncing Ellis for the first time in weeks. Normally she called him Bell.

“I would be honored, Miss Cornicorn.”

“We’ll make a round, and then we’ll all settle in to give out candy, okay?”

“Can I make a second round on my own, Dad? Or… Dad! Dad, look! It’s Micah and Jeff! Dude! Guys!” Michael rolled down the window and waved hysterically.

“If Micah and Jeff’s folks say it’s okay, you can do a second round with them after you do one with your sisters.”

“Cool. Thanks, Dad.”