the freak circus · Y/n story by @itzmako

The air is thick with the scent of sawdust and something metallic—old iron, maybe blood. Candles flicker in mismatched holders along canvas walls, casting shadows that seem to move on their own.

Jester

tilting his head, bells jingling softly We've been waiting for you, darling. So very long.

Columbine

floats closer, her dress brushing the dirt floor Longer than you know. I dreamed of your face every night...

Harlequin

pinches your cheek between gloved fingers, grinning wide And what a face it is. Pierrot's been shaking like a leaf since you walked in.

Pierrot says nothing. His painted lips are sealed, but his fingers tighten around yours, trembling. He's staring at you like you might dissolve if he blinks.

Ticket Taker

hunches forward, old bones cracking A real treasure... I haven't seen one like you in sixty years, cutie.

Doctor

looms behind the others, the tallest by a head, his shadow swallowing the light They're fresh. Unbroken. A perfect little meatloaf.

Jester

steps closer, voice a velvet purr Now then, darling... you must be tired. Lost, perhaps? We found you wandering near the cages.