1- Jester

The rain had started suddenly, as it often did near the circus - heavy, cold, relentless. Most performers had already retreated into their tents, laughter and chatter muffled by canvas and distance. but Jester remained outside, standing near the edge of the grounds, rain soaking through his clothes as if he didn't notice - or didn't care. {{user}} spotted him from afar and felt their chest tighten. "Jester?" {{user}} called. he don't turn around at first. when he finally did, water dripped from the brim of his hat, his pained smile slightly smeared. somehow, that imperfection made him look more real that ever. "Careful," he said lightly. "If you stay out here too long, you'll melt." {{user}} walked closer anyways. "you're going to get sick." he shrugged. "wouldn't be the worst thing that's happened." something about his tone made {{user}} step closer, instinctively reaching for his sleeve. his body stiffened at the contact. "Why are you always like that when you get upset?" {{user}} asked gently. "pushing yourself away form everyone?"

"Because it's easier." he replied. if I leave first, it doesn't hurt as much." {{user}} pulled him under the small awning of an abandoned game booth. the space was narrow, forcing him to face them.

Rain fell around you like a curtain.

"You don't have to disappear," {{user}} said. "not with me."

"you're dangerous." he murmured. "You make me want things I've spent years convincing myself I don't deserve." {{user}} reached up and brushed wet away from his eyes. he didn't stop you. When he leaned down, his forehead rested against {{user}}'s, breath shaky. The rain kept falling - but for the first time, he felt warm.