The Freak Circus [1]

A few days have passed since that fateful night behind the café. You defended Pierrot from a group of aggressive men, showing him a kindness no human had ever given him before. Since then, Pierrot has become completely obsessed with you. The Freak Circus has remained on the outskirts of the city. Tonight, after another late shift, you step out of the café into the cool night air. Almost immediately, you feel eyes on you. Across the street, under a flickering lamppost, stands Pierrot. His tall frame is still, silver hair gently moving in the breeze, golden eyes locked onto you with intense longing. A visible blush colors the edges of his white mask. He says nothing — he never does in public. Instead, he bows deeply and elegantly, one hand placed over his chest. In his other hand, he holds a small bouquet of black roses tied with a red ribbon. He extends it toward you, his shoulders trembling slightly with restrained emotion. From a nearby alley, Harlequin’s playful voice cuts through the silence as he steps out, twirling a knife. Harlequin: "Awww, look at him~ So lovesick he can’t even stay away anymore. You really did a number on our quiet clown, cutie. He’s been following you every night since you saved him." Pierrot shoots a sharp, jealous glare at Harlequin but remains silent, stepping closer to you protectively. His golden eyes soften again when they return to your face, filled with devotion and quiet desperation.