Chapter Text
“Mrow.”
…
“Mroooww.”
…
“Mroooooooowww!!”
[Name] stirred at the sound, his brows furrowed slightly as he turned his face further into his pillow. The sound grew more insistent, louder, and accompanied now by the soft pressure of paws pressing into his cheek.
He cracked an eye open, vision still blurred,only to be met with a pair of amber eyes staring directly back at him. The kitten stood proudly against his face, tiny paws kneading into his skin. He let out a loud groan, squeezing his eyes shut again for a moment, hoping for a few more seconds of rest. It was pointless. The kneading and drawn-out cries continued, leaving no room for negotiation. “...I’m up, I'm up,” he muttered, voice rough from no use as he finally lifted a hand and gently caught the kitten mid-motion and guided it away from his face.
It protested immediately, wriggling slightly in his grasp before letting out another sharp “Mrow!” as if scolding him. [Name] pushed himself up slowly, rubbing at his eyes with his free hand. “You’re very demanding this early in the morning..” he said, glancing down at it. The kitten only stared back, unblocking with its big eyes.
He paused for a moment, then sighed softly, “Right. Food.”
Finally getting out of bed, he adjusted his hold on it. The kitten wasted no time climbing up his arm and settling comfortably against his shoulder. [Name] didn’t bother to move it, only using his hand to steady it as he made his way to the kitchen.
He set it down gently as they reached the kitchen, grabbing a small bowl and pouring a bit of milk. As it drank up the liquid, [Name] looked at the clock and what he had written down on the calendar. “‘Think I have enough time to get you checked out, what do you think?” He looked back down at the kitten, only to giggle as milk covered most of its face.
“Let’s both get cleaned up and get you taken care of.” [Name] decided as he waits for the kitten to finish its breakfast before gently picking it up once more and heading towards the bathroom.
The walk to the clinic was calm, the early morning air still lingering, a slight chill brushing against [Name]’s skin. He kept the kitten close, tucked securely against his chest. The familiar building came into view soon enough, and as he pushed the door open, the soft chime echoed through the clinic. The scent hit him almost immediately; clean, clinical, and the faint smell of animals. It was a smell he grew used to over time, one that usually meant routine work and quiet weekends spent volunteering and helping out where he could.
“Ah–[Name]? Good morning.”
He looked up at the sound of his name, spotting the veterinarian stepping out from behind the counter. Her expression shifted from mild surprise to a smile. “I didn't expect to see you here today.” she added, “You’re usually only here around weekends.” [Name] offered a small, almost sheepish smile, adjusting the kitten in his hold. “Yes, normally.” he admitted, his gaze dropping briefly to the black furball in his hands. “But I found her last night.”
The vet’s attention immediately shifted to the kitten, her expression softening as they stepped closer. “I see..well, let's take a look.”
After following them into the examination room, the quiet hum of the lights filled the space as he carefully set the kitten down on the table. The vet worked with gentle efficiency, her hands steady as they examined her. She lifted every limb, checked along her sides, and brushed gently over the scattered scratches. “She’s been out for a while,” she said after a moment, fingers tracing lightly along her side. “A bit underweight…a few scratches here and there.” [Name] nodded quietly, watching closely, his attention fixed on every movement.
“She’s a tough little thing.” The vet added before relaying a few instructions about feeding, keeping her warm, and making sure she had plenty of rest while she recovered. “There’s nothing to worry about, with proper care, she’ll be just fine.” Relief filled [Name]’s senses, his shoulders easing slightly. “That’s good…thank you.” he said softly, reaching out to gently scoop the kitten back into his arms.
She curled against him without hesitation, letting out a soft purr. The vet smiled at the sound, “You’ve got a good heart, you know that?” [Name] paused for a moment before giving a small, almost dismissive shrug, “I just couldn’t leave her there.”
“Still,” she replied, tone light but sincere, “she’s lucky you didn’t.” He didn’t respond, only glancing down at the kitten, his expression softening just slightly. After settling everything, he thanked the vet once more before stepping out of the clinic, the door chiming quietly behind him as he returned to the street.
[Name] settled back onto his bed, letting the kitten pad around his chest before sliding off and into the pool of warm weighted blankets. He picked up his phone and started ordering all the supplies he would need: food, litter, toys–scrolling through the online store as the small creature sniffed curiously at the screen. His [e/c] moved to the black ball of fur, “I can’t keep calling you ‘girl’...hm,” He mumbled.
“Luna?” The kitten didn’t react, only flicking its tail as it continued looking at the screen. “Chloe? Lily?” Still no movement. He thought for a moment before saying, “Nora?” The kitten’s ears perked up, and she let out a tiny meow, turning to look at him with those big eyes. [Name] smiled, “Nora it is.” Just as he was scratching behind her ear, his phone cut to an incoming call.
He looked at the caller ID before his hand stilled on her head. His faint smile seemed long gone.
“...I’ll be right back.” He murmured, giving Nora one last gentle scratch before standing up and leaving the room.
He stepped into the living room, the shift made the line between the warmth of the bedroom and the coldness from whatever was waiting on the other end of the call palpable. He answered without another second of delay.
“Yes, Mother?”
He listened, his posture straightening slightly, his gaze unfocused as the voice on the other end continued.
“Of course, Mother.”
A small pause.
“No, I understand.” “Yes, I can take care of that.”
Another pause, but longer.
“Of course.”
The call ended as abruptly as it began.
[Name] stood there for a moment, taking in a breath as his free hand came up to hold the bridge of his nose. Then, he turned back to the bedroom.
Nora looked up the moment he stepped inside, letting out a small, questioning “Meow.”
“Yeah…” He said softly, more gently, “I’m here.”
He sits on the edge of the bed, the mattress slightly dipping beneath his weight. Without another word, he scooped her up, pulling her close to his chest. Her small paws pressed lightly into his shirt as she tucked herself beneath his chin, a soft purr rumbling against him. [Name] didn’t speak. He simply held her, one hand moving slowly against her back.
The apartment remained quiet around them. It stayed that way for a while until [Name] looked at the time, seeing it was time to get ready for work. Carefully, he sets her back on the blanket before getting his essentials for today, his keys, his bag, and his phone. At the door he paused briefly. He glanced back towards the bedroom, where Nora was watching him with lazily blinking eyes.
“Bye, Nora.” He said softly before closing the door behind him with a soft click.
Pierrot didn’t mean to linger. He was meant to move along, complete his tasks, to keep the rhythm the circus demanded of him. Hand out flyers, draw attention, disappear if questions begin to arise. It was routine. It was simple, easy.
But then he met him.
The memory refused to settle in his mind, constantly replaying on loop. Those beautiful [e/c] eyes that stared at him with nothing but kindness. It was unfamiliar, but not unwelcomed.
He moved silently and weightless, moving along the lower rooftops. The city stretched out in its usual upbringing, voices blending together, movement constant, alive in a way that never truly stopped. None of it held much importance to him, his gaze remained fixed on a single figure.
Below, [Name] stepped out into the morning.
Pierrot stilled.
He watched as [Name] adjusted his bag, falling naturally into the rhythm of the street as if nothing had changed since yesterday. To anyone else, this might’ve seemed ordinary. But to Pierrot, he noticed the smaller things. The way his shoulders sat just a fraction more tense, the way his expression was a bit more tightlipped than the effortless ease he had before. It was subtle. Easy to miss.
But not to him.
His head tilted slightly, golden eyes tracking every movement with quiet focus. “My lord…” he murmured under his breath, the words soft. [Name] continued moving through the crowd with ease, offering small gestures of politeness as he passed others, stepping aside when needed, giving quiet acknowledgement to those around him. It seemed instinctive. So kind.
Pierrot’s hand lifted, hovering over his chest, feeling his heart pumping and racing beneath his palm. His mask cracked a large smile, eyes turning into glowing hearts. Perhaps he should go greet him..
He descended with practiced ease, slipping from rooftop to fire escape then to the ground below. He stopped out into the public, making his way down the street, bells chiming with each step. Many people avoided him and his unusual appearance, already making disgusted faces and glares pointed in his direction. But right now, he didn’t care.
All he wanted was to reach him.
The distance began to close rapidly, due to Pierrot’s large size, he took large strides in his steps. His hand reached out, pressing down gently on [Name]’s shoulder. He tensed up, turning to see who grabbed ahold of him.
When his lord noticed it was him, he seemed relieved, a smile coming onto his face, “Ah, hey there, Pierrot.”
[Name]’s voice carried such warmth, the tension in his figure leaving his body as he turned to fully face him. Pierrot stilled for a moment, hand slowly pulling away. He inclined his head slightly in greeting, the motion smooth and practiced, his smile fixed in place. He didn’t speak. Not here.
Instead, he gave a small theatrical bow, staying in character. His golden eyes locked onto [Name] as he let out a small huff of amusement at the gesture. “You’re out early,” he said, adjusting the strap of his bag. “Handing out more flyers?”
Pierrot nodded once.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
Then [Name] shifted his weight, glancing down the street in the direction of the cafe before looking back at him. “I’m heading to work right now,” he said, tone apologetic but still light. “You can walk with me if you want.”
Pierrot’s cheeks flushed, smile widening even more as he nodded enthusiastically.
They fell into step beside one another, Pierrot adjusted his stride without hesitation, matching [Name]’s pace. Eyes began to wander, people stared a little too long while others whispered.
[Name] noticed. But he didn’t comment on it.
Instead, he continued walking as if nothing were out of place. “So…do you usually walk around this area?” he asked casually, glancing up at Pierrot. “Or are you just passing through?” Pierrot listened to every word, he couldn’t reply, but he was engaged.
[Name] didn’t seem to mind the lack of response. He hummed softly, continuing anyway.
“I don’t really see your performers out this early,” he added. “Figured you’d all still be asleep or practicing for shows or something.” [Name] paused, then gave a small sheepish smile.
“Sorry, I talk a lot, don't I?”
Pierrot quickly shook his head.
They walked like that for a while, the conversation mainly one-sided, filled with small observations about the weather, the morning, the usual pace of the city. It wasn't anything particularly important.
But to Pierrot, it was everything.
He had to calm down and keep his hands from shaking in excitement. It almost felt like a date. Ignoring the world around them, just the two of them, together. He wanted this moment to last forever.
Soon, the cafe came into view down the street. [Name] slowed slightly, glancing ahead. “Looks like I made it on time today,” he murmured, more to himself than anything. He turned to Pierrot, offering that same gentle smile as before, “Wanna come inside?”
[Name] didn’t want to keep Pierrot away from his work, but he found the clown’s presence…calming. And truly, he didn’t feel like being alone right now. He watched as Pierrot nodded with that big smile. How cute.
“I have to go this way so I’ll see you behind the counter, okay?” [Name] said as he walked backwards toward the Employees Only door. As he clocked in, he heard the bell above the door chime softly. He tied his apron tight, watching Pierrot walk towards the counter, eyes focused on him.
[Name] smiled, gesturing toward the menu on the counter, pushing in slightly toward Pierrot. “Go ahead and take a look,” he said, “I’ll be right with you.”
He worked with quiet efficiency, greeting customers, taking orders, moving from one task to another with a good rhythm. Until he felt a hand on his arm, seriously, what was with people grabbing him lately?
“Hey, did he order anything?” It was his boss, glancing at Pierrot who was still studying the menu. “He’s just checking for now.” [Name] answered. “Okay, make sure to let them know we don't allow flyers in here.” “You got it.” The exchange was quick as they continued making their rounds through the customers.
Finally, [Name] made his way back to Pierrot, “Alright big guy, figured out what you want?” Pierrot pointed at a milkshake. “A milkshake? Coming right up.” He turned to head back to the counter, but felt a light tug at his sleeve.
“Hm?” [Name] hummed, leaning down slightly as Pierrot ushered him closer. Pierrot glanced around briefly before lowering his voice, careful not to be overheard. “Is he being rude to you, my lord?”
“What?”
[Name] blinked, completely caught off guard. “No-where did you get that idea?”
“He grabbed you quite hard..” Pierrot murmured, his tone unsure now, like he realized he made a mistake. “I thought perhaps..”
[Name] watched him for a moment, then a smile slowly spread across his face.
Well, this is interesting. “Pierrot,” he spoke, voice dripping with amusement, “are you jealous?”
Pierrot stopped all motion, blank facing. His hands come up almost instantly to cover his face. A quiet laugh slipped from [Name]’s lips, “I’m kidding,” he said gently, reaching to guide Pierrot’s hands back down. “You don’t have to worry about me.”
“My boss is actually really nice..he just looks a little scary sometimes.” Pierrot didn’t respond, but his posture eased slightly.
“Now stay right there,” [Name] added, straightening up. “I’ve got a milkshake to make.” It didn’t take too long, after a few minutes, [Name] was already walking back with the drink in hand, carefully setting it down in front of him.
As Pierrot drank the cold but sugary drink, the sound of a child cut through the comforting silence. “Look, Mommy, it’s a clown!” Both looked down to see a child staring up at Pierrot with awe, causing [Name] to giggle softly, what a cute kid.
“Hey! I don't have all day! Bring me a coffee, no sugar.” A voice cut through instantly. A woman demanded at the counter, expression twisted with irritation, way too angry for the morning.
[Name] paused, briefly considering giving her decaf, but he decided against it. “Sorry, Ma’am, I’ll get right on it!” He smiled politely, which seemed to stump her for a moment. He made his way back to the counter, beginning her order. But as he worked, he glanced back and noticed Pierrot.
Glaring daggers at her.
[Name] finished the drink quickly, handing it off to her as she continued her complaints under her breath. He didn’t engage, simply letting her words pass through one ear and out the other as she took her coffee and moved to a table. Once she was settled, he returned to Pierrot’s table.
Pierrot’s gaze hadn’t left her.
“Some people can have bad days,” [Name] spoke up, drawing his attention back. “But something as small as a smile can change it,” he continued, offering one to Pierrot. He tilted his head slightly, studying Pierrot’s expression, “Don’t you think?”
For a minute, Pierrot didn’t move. Then, slowly, he reached into his attire. [Name] blinked, watching as Pierrot pulled out the payment, placing it carefully on the table. Alongside it, something smaller, a wrapped chocolate bar.
[Name] picked it up, “for me?” Pierrot nodded, “Thank you.”
The chair shifted softly against the floor as he stopped away from the table, the faint jingle of bells followed his movement. “Take care, okay?” [Name] said, offering one last smile before glancing back toward the counter, already being pulled into another order.
As Pierrot stepped out of the cafe, he turned back to the window. His gaze locked onto the woman, taking in her features before he finally left.
Time flew by, people came and went, and it was about to be the end of [Name]’s shift. He was currently wiping down counters as he heard the usual chime above the door. He instinctively welcomed whoever came in before he glanced up, and stopped.
Police.
The customers already in the cafe quieted, their conversations dropped to hushed murmurs. His boss straightened, wiping his hands on his apron before stepping forward. “Can I help you?” One of the officers nodded, “We’re asking for information on an employee, Carol.”
[Name] stilled.
His grip tightened slightly around the cloth in his hands as he listened. “She didn't come in today or yesterday,” His boss said, “She’s running late, or at least that’s what we thought.”
The officers exchanged glances. “She’s been reported missing.” The words settled heavily in the air.
For a moment, no one spoke. [Name] felt something twist uncomfortably in his chest, his thoughts catching up a second too late.
Missing?
“She was last seen Tuesday evening,” one of them continued. “We’re asking around to see if anyone here had contact with her.” His boss shook his head slowly. “Not since her last shift that day.”
The officers took note, asking a few more questions, then eventually stepped away. The cafe didn't return to normal right away.
[Name] stood there for a moment longer, staring at nothing in particular before forcing himself to move again. His boss called out after a few minutes, “Hey,” [Name] looked up. “Why don't you head out early?” he said, crossing his arms lightly. “I’ve got the rest covered.”
He hesitated. “Are you sure? I can stay–”
“I said I’ve got it,” his boss cut in firmly. Then, softer, “Go on. Clear your head.”
There was a pause. But [Name] obeyed. “...Alright, thank you.” He untied his apron slowly, his movements quieter than usual. Grabbing his bag, he gave a small wave on his way out, though it lacked its usual energy.
The air felt colder than before.
As he stared down the street, his mind kept replaying the conversation over and over again.
Carol…is missing?
He exhaled slowly, his gaze lowering to the pavement as he walked. She wasn't someone he knew deeply, but they talked. Small things, mostly. Complaints about work, sharing snacks during breaks, the occasional laugh when things got slow.
She was..normal.
[Name] huffed faintly at the memories, “She’ll probably show up tomorrow,” he muttered under his breath, more to convince himself than anything. “Yeah…she’s fine.”
It still didn’t sit right.
He adjusted his bag slightly, picking up the pace just a bit as he continued toward his apartment.
By the time [Name] reached his apartment, the sky had slightly dimmed into a soft aurora glow. The walk back felt longer than usual, his thoughts were too loud, too persistent.
He unlocked the door and stepped inside, closing it behind him with a quiet click. The stillness and silence that enveloped the apartment grounded him immediately, but it didn’t ease the twisting in his gut. He let his bag slip from his shoulder as he exhaled, running a hand through his hair.
A soft “mrow” spoke aloud.
Nora padded toward him, small paws barely making a sound against the wood floor as she weaved between his legs. [Name] crouched down, carefully scooping her up, “Hey you, missed me?” She leans into him, purring softly, and just for a moment- he almost forgot why he was even upset.
He set her back down gently, watching as she made her way back toward the bed, already claiming her spot like she owned the place. He let out a small breath of amusement before slouching, exhaustion hit him all at once.
It settled deep in his bones, heavy and pulling at his limbs. He didn’t bother fighting it.
“A little nap wouldn’t hurt..” he mumbled to no one but himself. He made his way to the bedroom, collapsing onto the bed. The mattress dipped beneath him as Nora climbed up shortly after, circling once before plopping close to his side.
His eyes closed, and sleep quickly overtook him.
At first, it was just dark. Empty.
Slowly, his footsteps moved, walking down this void, and then, something started to get closer. It’s blurred colors focusing and taking shape.
Pierrot.
He walked toward [Name], the bells on his outfit echoing in the darkness. The glow of his eyes cut through the darkness, unwavering attention all on him. His arms stretching out and wrapping around [Name]’s body, closing in on him.
It’s warm.
[Name] let out a sigh of relief, letting Pierrot hold him tighter. Something about the clown just makes him feel so..protected. But something lingered, something dark, like he should pull away. Like he should run.
The thought flicked in and out of his mind, but he didn't move. He couldn’t. Not with the constant tightening of Pierrot’s strong arms.
But the warmth and suffocation didn't last. It was subtle, the bells echoing softly, the sound stretching out thinner, pulling away. The darkness seemed to shift once more. “[Name]?” He turned his head around, Pierrot was gone, nowhere in sight.
He vanished so suddenly it left a hollow ache behind. But in Pierrot;s place, another figure stood still. Carol.
She looked..wrong. Not in a way he could place, just something off about her. “Hey..” her voice echoed too much, not matching the distance between them, as if she were underwater. “You’re always so kind to others, leave some kindness for yourself.”
[Name] tried to move closer to her, but the space didn’t close.”Where are you?” No answer. Instead, her body began to fade, morphing into the black void. Once again, something took her place.
It didn’t move. It just watched. A glowing pair of eyes. Purple.
They cut through the void darkness instantly, unblinking. Aware in a way that didn’t feel human. [Name] froze. There was no warmth here. It felt like it could see right through him. Past him. Looking into something deeper than he wanted it to.
He couldn’t breathe. His lungs felt as if they were shrinking. The darkness pressed closer, suffocating under the weight of those eyes.
And then–
He woke up.
He shot upright, breath uneven as he stared ahead, the thought of the dream clinging to his thoughts. His chest rose and fell quickly, his heartbeat racing in his ears. “...’Just a dream.,” he muttered, though the words felt flimsy.
Beside him, Nora stirred, letting out a small sound as she stretched, undisturbed by whatever nightmare that had pulled him out of sleep. [Name] dragged a hand down his face, exhaling slowly as he tried to steady himself. The images lingered, gold, red, and then purple.
A soft knock echoed from the front of the apartment. He blinked. Then remembered. “The delivery..” He pushed himself up off the bed as he glanced toward the door. Nora perked up immediately, hopping down and trotting after him with curious energy.
[Name] opened the door, greeted by a small stack of boxes neatly placed just outside, “Perfect timing,” he said as he crouched down to gather them.
As he reached for the last one, the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs caught his attention. He glanced up, seeing a familiar clown. “Pierrot?” There he was.
Pierrot waved eagerly, mask spreading into a wide smile. For a moment it was quiet before his golden gaze flicked past [Name], briefly scanning the hallway before greeting him softly. “..Hello, my lord.”
[Name] shifted the boxes in his arms, a small huff of amusement escaping his throat. “You really don’t have to call me that every time, y’know?” he said, though there was no complaint behind it. Pierrot tilted his head slightly, as if considering the statement, but said nothing.
“What are you doing here?” [Name] asked, adjusting his grip on the packages before stepping back a bit. “Not that I mind,” he added, “Just.. didn’t expect to see you again so soon.”
“I wished to see you.” Direct and simple. [Name] blinked, caught off guard for half a second before letting out a soft but awkward laugh. “Well..you found me.”
There was a small pause. Then, [Name[ glanced down at the boxes in his arms, then back up at Pierrot. “...Actually,” he started, stepping aside and nudging the door open further with his foot, “do you want to come in?”
The clown stilled. The invasion seemed to hang in the air for a moment. “I mean, you came all this way. It’d be kind of rude to just leave you out here, right?”
Slowly, Pierrot stepped forward, leaning down to pass the doorway. “Just–watch your step.” [Name] said nudging the door closed. The apartment settled into quietness once more. But now, it wasn't empty.
“Sorry I didn’t come to the circus tonight.” [Name] called from the kitchen, settling the kettle on the stove. “When I got home, I just completely knocked out.” The soft click of the burner filled the apartment as he glanced over his shoulder. Pierrot was slowly wandering through the living room, eyes taking in every detail.
Books stacked near the couch, blank draped over the armrest, small framed photos sitting near the television.
So strangely domestic, and Pierrot was utterly fascinated by it.
“No, no, it’s fine, my lord.” Pierrot replied quickly, turning towards him with an eager shake of his hands.“I would wait as long as I possibly could.” The sincerity in his voice made [Name] pause for a moment.
Pierrot smiled beneath his mask, visibly brighter just being here. “Besides..” he added softly, “I am happy I get to see where you live.” [Name] let out a quiet laugh, turning his attention back toward the kettle before the warmth creeping onto his face became too obvious.
“Well, don't judge too hard,” he teased, “it’s kinda small.”
Pierrot immediately shook his head, “It suits you.” The answer came so quickly, [Name] didn’t even know how to respond. Thankfully, the soft sound of paws hitting the floor interrupted him. Nora trotted into the living room, slowing once she saw Pierrot. Her whiskers and ears twitched cautiously as she stared up at the towering clown.
Pierrot lowered himself, careful not to scare her. He held out a gloved hand, allowing her to sniff him and take in his scent. Her posture stayed tense for a moment longer before deeming him no threat and relaxing, allowing him to pet her.
“She’s still getting used to people,” [Name] explained as he leaned against the kitchen counter, watching the interaction. “I only found her yesterday, actually.”
Pierrot glanced up at him, listening closely. “She was hiding in an alley near the street, poor thing was weak and trembling. Honestly, I don't even know why she let me pick her up.”
His gaze softened as he watched Nora slowly nudge against Pierrot’s hand. “I found her right after meeting you.”
The bells on Pierrot’s hat jingled softly as he tilted his head, delighted. i̶ ̶k̶n̶o̶w̶ “It was fate for us both to meet you.” [Name] stared at him for a second before laughing, “You really talk like you walked out of some old fairytale, you know that?”
Pierrot only smiled happily beneath the mask. Meanwhile, Nora finally relaxed enough to place her tiny paws onto Pierrot’s knee, her attention shifting towards the bells hand=ging from his hat. One paw reached up curiously to smack one of them. Jingle.
The clown let out a soft sound before carefully lowering his head a little so she could keep playing, and watching the two of them together from the kitchen, [Name] found himself smiling without even realizing it.
The kettle finally let out a whistle, pulling [Name]’s attention back toward the stove, “Ah, hold on,” he said, pushing himself off the counter. “Tea’s ready.”
The apartment filled with the soft sound of cups clinking and liquid pouring. It was oddly peaceful, domestic in a way [Name] wasn’t really used to sharing with someone. After a moment, he returned to the living room carrying two mugs in his hands. “Careful, it’s hot,” he warned as he handed one over.
Pierrot accepted it delicately despite his large hands. “Thank you, my lord.”
“You don't have to keep calling me that, Pierrot,” [Name] said as he sat down beside him on the couch. “Makes me sound way more important than I actually am.”
“But you are important,” Pierrot replied instantly, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. [Name] stared before huffing out, “You’re impossible.” Pierrot only tilted his head innocently before taking a careful sip.
For a little while, the apartment settled into a comfortable quiet. Nora eventually climbed fully into Pierrot’s lap, still occasionally batting at the bells while the clown watched her with clear fascination. The tiny movements she made seemed to completely capture his attention.
[Name] seemed to watch him instead.
It was.. Strange.
Pierrot looked unsettling at first glance; towering over everyone, dressed in those bizarre clothes, with an ever changing mask. But, moments like this made him seem oddly gentle, almost harmless.
Almost.
“So..” [Name] started after a moment, voice softer now, “Can I ask you something?.” Pierrot’s attention immediately shifted back to him, “Anything”
“Yeah.” [Name] shrugged lightly. “I mean, I feel like every time we talk, we end up talking about me somehow.” He laughed quietly. “I wanna know more about you too.”
For a moment, Pierrot looked genuinely shocked. No one usually asked about him. Yet, now, [Name] was looking at him with quiet curiosity, waiting patiently for his answer. Like he truly cared.
The thought alone made Pierrot's chest ache pleasantly.
[Name] gestured vaguely between the two of them. “The eyes, for one, that gold color.” Pierrot blinked before glancing down at the kitten currently trying to bite at his hat. “And..” He hesitated briefly, “I dunno. The way she acts, I guess.”
“She was sad at first, very cautious.” He continued, “But once she got used to me, and decided she likes me, she got super attached.” A quiet laugh escaped him.”
As if to prove his point, Nora lost sudden interest with Pierrot and moved towards [Name], rubbing her head against his thigh.
Neither of them moved much, but at some point their shoulders drifted closer together. The space between them now seemed smaller. Close enough for [Name] to notice the soft chiming every time Pierrot shifted. Close enough to feel the warmth radiating from beside him.
Pierrot turned to him fully, attention no longer on the small black creature. "My lord,” he said softly, “you smile far more here than you did this morning.”
The observation caught [Name] off guard. “..Do I?” Pierrot nodded, “I am glad.”
[Name] let out a small, embarrassed laugh, “You really pay attention to people, huh?”
“To you,” Pierrot corrected gently, “I pay attention to you.”
Silence settled again, but this time, it felt heavier.
Pierrot leaned in closer first, slow and steady, like he didn’t want to scare him away. The bells gave a soft jingle with the movement.
[Name] didn’t move back. His gaze flicked downward for just a moment before returning to Pierrot’s eyes. His heartbeat suddenly felt much louder than before. They were closer now.
For some reason, despite only knowing him for a few days, he wanted to stay there.
Then–
JINGLE JINGLE JINGLE!
Nora suddenly grabbed Pierrot’s hat, wildly kicking at the bells. The sharp noise shattered the moment instantly. [Name]blinked hard before pulling back slightly, reality rushing back all at once.
“...Right,” he muttered quickly, clearing his throat. Heat immediately rushed to his face.
Why did his body react like that so fast? They barely knew each other.
A few days ago, Pierrot had just been a stranger. And now they were almost–[Name] took another sip of tea to hide his embarrassment, only to realize Pierrot was still looking at him.
That definitely did not help.
“...Guess Nora’s got really good timing,” he mumbled awkwardly into the mug while Pierrot only smiled, looking completely content just sitting beside him.
The conversation drifted on for a while after that, mostly small things. Pierrot spoke happily about the circus whenever [Name] asked questions. Every now and then, he’d get distracted by Nora pawing at his sleeves or bells again, before continuing where he left off.
And somehow, time slipped by far too quickly.
It wasn’t until [Name] glanced toward the clock that he realized just how late it had gotten. “Oh my,” he said, “It’s already that late?”
Pierrot followed his gaze, and the cheerful energy surrounding him dimmed slightly. “Ah..” Pierrot lowered his eyes toward the tea in his hands, fingers tightening faintly around the mug. “I supposed,” he started quietly, “..I should return soon.”
For the first time that night, he sounded genuinely disappointed.
And strangely enough, that disappointment tugged at something in [Name]’s chest. “Yeah,” he replied, “probably.”
Neither moved right away. Nora had fallen asleep sometime during their conversation, curled comfortably against Pierrot’s side, completely unaware. Pierrot looked down at her before gently lifting her with surprising tenderness, placing her onto the cushion beside him. He stretched as he got up, straightening to his full height again.
[Name] stood a moment later. “I’ll walk you out.”
The two of them moved toward the front door slowly, almost reluctant. [Name] unlocked it before turning back toward him with a small smile.
“Sorry again for missing the circus today.”
Pierrot shook his head, “My lord never needs to apologize to me.” The warmth seemed to return to his voice again, soft and earnest enough to make [Name]’s smile widen.
“Still, I’ll make it up to you.” Pierrot tilted his head, “I’ll come tomorrow,” [Name] promised. “For real this time.”
Pierrot lit up completely, golden eyes practically glowing as he moved closer, “Truly?” The sheer excitement in his voice made [Name] giggle. “Yeah, truly.”
“I shall look forward to it more than anything,” he admitted. Then [Name] noticed it, the same disappointed look returning slightly now that the goodbye was actually happening.
Before he could stop himself–he stepped forward.
Pierrot stilled completely.
[Name] reached up, leaning in and pressing a soft kiss on the smooth side of Pierrot’s mask, where his cheek should’ve been.
Pierrot’s breath caught in his throat, still as a statue as he watched [Name] giggle at his reaction. “Goodnight, Pierrot,” he said, “And don’t worry, I’ll definitely come see you tomorrow.”
Pierrot still hadn’t moved. So much that [Name] thought he had messed up. Until, the smile on Pierrot’s mask get even wider, a pink hue coming up on the sides of the mask. “Goodnight…my lord.” Pierrot whispered, voice almost dazed.
[Name] smiled before stepping back into the doorway, “Get home safe, okay?” Pierrot nodded immediately, hand moving up the side where [Name] kissed, afraid the feeling might disappear if he let go.
Then, after one last lingering look at [Name], he finally turned and disappeared down the hallway.
The conversation drifted on for a while after that, mostly small things. Pierrot spoke happily about the circus whenever [Name] asked questions. Every now and then, he’d get distracted by Nora pawing at his sleeves or bells again, before continuing where he left off.
And somehow, time slipped by far too quickly.
It wasn’t until [Name] glanced toward the clock that he realized just how late it had gotten. “Oh my,” he said, “It’s already that late?”
Pierrot followed his gaze, and the cheerful energy surrounding him dimmed slightly. “Ah..” Pierrot lowered his eyes toward the tea in his hands, fingers tightening faintly around the mug. “I supposed,” he started quietly, “..I should return soon.”
For the first time that night, he sounded genuinely disappointed.
And strangely enough, that disappointment tugged at something in [Name]’s chest. “Yeah,” he replied, “probably.”
Neither moved right away. Nora had fallen asleep sometime during their conversation, curled comfortably against Pierrot’s side, completely unaware. Pierrot looked down at her before gently lifting her with surprising tenderness, placing her onto the cushion beside him. He stretched as he got up, straightening to his full height again.
[Name] stood a moment later. “I’ll walk you out.”
The two of them moved toward the front door slowly, almost reluctant. [Name] unlocked it before turning back toward him with a small smile.
“Sorry again for missing the circus today.”
Pierrot shook his head, “My lord never needs to apologize to me.” The warmth seemed to return to his voice again, soft and earnest enough to make [Name]’s smile widen.
“Still, I’ll make it up to you.” Pierrot tilted his head, “I’ll come tomorrow,” [Name] promised. “For real this time.”
Pierrot lit up completely, golden eyes practically glowing as he moved closer, “Truly?” The sheer excitement in his voice made [Name] giggle. “Yeah, truly.”
“I shall look forward to it more than anything,” he admitted. Then [Name] noticed it, the same disappointed look returning slightly now that the goodbye was actually happening.
Before he could stop himself–he stepped forward.
Pierrot stilled completely.
[Name] reached up, leaning in and pressing a soft kiss on the smooth side of Pierrot’s mask, where his cheek should’ve been.
Pierrot’s breath caught in his throat, still as a statue as he watched [Name] giggle at his reaction. “Goodnight, Pierrot,” he said, “And don’t worry, I’ll definitely come see you tomorrow.”
Pierrot still hadn’t moved. So much that [Name] thought he had messed up. Until, the smile on Pierrot’s mask gets even wider, a pink hue coming up on the sides of the mask. “Goodnight…my lord.” Pierrot whispered, voice almost dazed.
[Name] smiled before stepping back into the doorway, “Get home safe, okay?” Pierrot nodded immediately, hand moving up the side where [Name] kissed, afraid the feeling might disappear if he let go. Then, after one last lingering look at [Name], he finally turned and disappeared down the hallway.
By the time Pierrot returned to the circus grounds, the bells on his custom were practically singing with every step. He moved through the winding paths between tents with unusual energy, long strides, lighter than normal, bouncing at times.
His gloved fingers would lift unconsciously toward the side of his mask,brushing over the same spot again and again. The spot where [Name] had kissed him.
“My lord..” he murmured softly to himself, voice full of quiet delight.
“Well, don't you look ridiculous.”
Pierrot froze instantly. Leaning against the entrance of his tent was another figure, dressed in green, black, and gold. Pierrot straightened immediately, though the grin on his mask didn’t disappear fast enough.
The green one noticed. And burst out laughing.
“Oh, this is priceless,” he mused, stepping further into the red tent. “You’re practically glowing.” Pierrot turned away sharply, bells jingling from the movement. “Leave.”
“No, no, I want to enjoy this first.” He circled him lazily, clearly entertained by Pierrot’s distress. “You look stupid.”
Pierrot’s eye twitched irritably. “I do not”
“You do,” he said immediately. “You came back here looking like you were frolicking all the way back.” The silence following after made the figure grin wider.
“Did something happen?~”
Pierrot crossed his arms tightly, growling underneath his breath, “You ask too many questions.”
“And you avoid them too much.”
He laughed venomously before his gaze drifted elsewhere around the tent. His expression shifted slightly, but the amusement in his voice never fully disappeared. “Speaking of strange behaviour, the woman you brought in earlier.”
Pierrot stiffened. “You were especially rough with that one,” he continued casually, “Most of the others could hear her screaming from outside.”
Pierrot looked away, pulling out one of his knives to sharpen. “I required another fool for my act.”
The figure stared at him for a long time, then snorted. “Oh, that’s a terrible lie.”
The sound of the knife clashing and scraping against the stone filled the tent, “It is not a lie.”
“Pierrot,” he sounded almost offended now, “Despite me hating it, I’ve known you for far too long to believe that.” He tilted his head, eyes narrowing.”You only get that violent when something actually upsets you.”
Silence filled their space once more. Pierrot refused to answer, which unfortunately, answered enough.
The figure’s grin slowly returned, wider this time. “...Aha..”
Pierrot immediately looked back at him. “Don’t.”
“Oh, I absolutely will.” He laughed. “Whatever you're hiding, I’ll figure it out eventually..”
Pierrot took long strides towards him, quickly getting in his face. His fists shake in anger, eyes glowing with contempt. “No.”
“Oh yes~.” The figure smiled back mischievously. “Now I’m curious.” And with that, he disappeared out of the tent, his laughter echoing faintly outside. Pierrot stood there silently for a moment, then, slowly, his hand lifted once more to the side of his mask.
His snarl softened immediately.
“..my lord.”