Summary : Inspired by my earlier post, drabble Caine x Reader where he sings Daisy Bell to you while you sit on his piano, ~500 word count, cross-posted on AO3 (cheriemari), fluff sfw!
A/N: i loved the idea I came up with so much that i just HAD to write this short one shot!! (๑ > ᴗ < ๑) i just love two hopelessly in love idiots hehe ^^ this is kind of a little taste of my writing style before i post big stories, so lemme know what you think!
⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔ ꒰ ᧔ෆ᧓ ꒱ ⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔
⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔ ꒰ ᧔ෆ᧓ ꒱ ⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔⏔
"There is a flower within my heart. Daisy, Daisy! Planted one day by a glancing dart. Planted by Daisy Bell."
You were sitting on top of Caine's black grand piano as the notes of Daisy Bell rung in the immense room the AI had created just for these specific moments with you. It was some sort of routine between the two of you for Caine to sing songs to you while you sat there looking pretty for hours on end. Obviously, though, Caine's favourite song to play for you was Daisy Bell; he felt like it perfectly translated the complex feelings inside of his code he felt whenever he looked at you.
"Whether she loves me or loves me not, sometimes it's hard to tell. Yes, I'm longing to share the lot of beautiful Daisy Bell!"
You couldn't help but smile to yourself as you stared at the pair of dentures in front of you. You were both so hopelessly in love, it was almost sickening to the other members of the circus. But you didn't care, it didn't matter. Not when you were with him in these special moments that reminded you of every single reason why this AI stole your heart.
"Daisy, Daisy... Give me your answer, do. I'm half crazy all for the love of you! It won't be a stylish marriage. I can't afford a carriage. But you'll look sweet upon the seat of a bicycle built for two."
You hummed along as the chorus came along, shifting your position into more of a side lean to rest your back but also keeping your gaze on Caine. You found it cute how focused he'd get, and his little freakishly human habits when he was. The way his teeth were held closer together, giving him a squinted look, how his tongue would hang from the side of his mouth, and how tiny lines of blush would appear on the bottom row of his gums when he caught eye contact with you.
"We will go tandem as man and wife. Daisy, Daisy! Pedaling away down the road of life, I and my Daisy Bell."
These lyrics made you giddy for the future ahead alongside your partner. Despite the nature of your relationship being unnatural, what even was natural in this circus, anyways? You were just content to be with him, and you knew he was content to be with you too. So, you were excited about all the things the two of you could do together.
"When the road's dark, we can both despise policemen and lamps as well. There are bright lights in the dazzling eyes of beautiful Daisy Bell!"
"Daisy, Daisy... Give me your answer, do. I'm half crazy all for the love of you! It won't be a stylish marriage. I can't afford a carriage. But you'll look sweet upon the seat of a bicycle built for two."
Relationship: Caine x GN!Reader
Content warnings: none
Word count: 3200
- established relationship
- fluff
- after months of holding hands and cuddling, Caine decides to take things to the next step
- he's done his research. Nothing can go wrong… right? … RIGHT?
✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻∞✧༺♥༻
“You should stop pacing around, really. I can see you glitching through the floor at one point”, the rabbit jokes, but you can’t stop moving. You’ve already been wandering around your room for what felt like forever.
As the last adventure came to an end, Caine gently pulled you closer to him. Leaning down to your ear, he whispered he’d like to see you in the main hall in around an hour. He has planned something special, and he also gave you a hint to prepare yourself for some big updates in your relationship. But what does “big updates” mean?
There are just too many possibilities. “I don’t know if I am ready, no, I am, but it’s kinda scary, to be honest…”
“It won’t be anything bad, that’s for sure”, Pomni tries to calm you down. “Maybe he’ll just try out a more immersive AI for another private adventure with you.”
Jax, who was leaning against your door frame, now takes a step in front of you and puts a hand on your shoulder. “Come on. It’s just another one of Caine’s little dates. It’ll last a few hours, and once you’re done, you’ll come back love drunk. And then you’re unbearable to listen to.”
Before Jax can push you out of your room, you duck away. “Do you think he wants to… kiss me?”
A deafening silence fills the room. Jester and rabbit exchange a glance. Is there a grasshopper chirping in the background?
From all people in the circus you should not have asked Pomni and Jax to give you company right before the date that might change everything, yet here you are.
You can see the jester’s eyes darting to Jax and then back to you as she fiddles with one of her hat’s pom-poms. “Well… It’s possi-“
The rabbit rams his elbow into her shoulder, causing her to eye him half angry, half confused. “The prude AI wanting to kiss you? Nah, I doubt it.” He gives Pomni an intense look.
Her eyes grow bigger, as if she just remembered something. “R-Right! We are talking about Caine here. He is oblivious about anything that has to do with the physical aspects of romance.”
“Not entirely”, you disagree. “Caine tries, he just needs more time, that’s all”, you explain. The showman obviously doesn’t mind invading your personal space from time to time. Especially not when you two cuddle in your bed or in his office in his big armchair. Once in a while, you would give him a peck or two, and he blushes, saying he really appreciates your gesture of love. “Oh, recently we started holding hands in public.”
“Yes, and it took him almost an entire month to do so”, the jester counters back in a disdainful tone, placing a hand onto her hips. “If it took him that long to even voluntarily show and receive a bit of physical affection, it might take him years until he is ready for his first kiss, don’t you think?”
“Maybe… Maybe, you’re right.” This makes your smile almost drop, but you stay hopeful. “Anyway, see you later. Wish me luck!” You finally leave your room, departing from Pomni and Jax, who are watching you nervously, hurrying to catch up with your date.
The jester puts a hand to her chest and lets out a long breath. “Phew, I almost let it slip…”
“That much about ’not saying a word to them’, huh?” Jax hisses through his teeth in a playful tone.
“They were so happy about the thought of finally experiencing their first kiss with Caine. Let’s hope everything works out as planned.”
༺♥༻
Not just Pomni and Jax, but each of your friends had to promise Caine to keep your hopes down for what will be the most important date ever. If you’d ask anybody about the “update”, they should keep the façade of the AI being clueless about romantic interactions. Yet in the meantime, Caine was busy figuring out how kissing works, because this won't just be the grand finale of his next date, it's also going to be his first kiss. It needs to be perfect.
He started by going through every dataset he had stored in his RAM related to the terms romance, love, and affirmation. The few remaining memories about the royal couple sharing something similar to a kiss weren’t helpful at all. How should someone with a giant mouth for a head solve the mystery behind kissing when both example participants don’t even have a mouth?
An open inquiry was needed immediately, and everyone – except for Zooble and Kinger – was summoned to his office one by one.
“Setting up a kiss? You can do it the traditional way if you like. Take them out for dinner first. You have done that before, right? Use some scented candles and put rose petals on the table to set the romantic mood. H-How to kiss? Sorry, it’s been a while since my last kiss. Better ask someone who has been kissed lately.”
“Oh! Eh… Usually people kiss with lips. Well, I suppose when you purse your teeth it could work as lips, too? Like this? I don’t have lips either, but it sure works with Zooble. Waah, I mean- it feels good, that’s all! When the ‘lips’ touch and if they like it, you will go on and on... I’m not sure if Zooble would like to show it to you. I could draw you a kiss scene? M-Maybe Pomni knows more!”
“The kissing itself is less of a crucial point, I think. In the end it’s more about the feeling you want to convey. This is your first kiss, right? Perhaps they are as nervous as you are. Once you hold them close, make sure they feel safe. As soon as you are confident enough, silently ask them for consent and do it. It might be awkward at first, but it’s normal when you’re inexperienced, just so you know. And please, don’t ask Jax for advice.”
“Use tongue.”
Information was successfully processed.
First step: Take them out for dinner.
Shouldn’t be a problem, after all, Caine has taken you out for dinner plenty of times before. The four-course meal on a thrilling water ride is still his favourite to date. But this time, he needed a place where a tender kiss could be easily initiated as well.
The idea for the setting came to him one lovely evening when you were talking about romance and what's typically associated with it. So, he planned a carefree, relaxed picnic outdoors with sweet, refreshing sparkling drinks and a tiered stand with berries and cupcakes, right by the digital lake.
You take a look at the two swans gracefully floating on the shimmering water. “It's as if the two of them were on a date, as well... Wait, does that mean we are having a double date then?” you ask Caine in a joking manner.
Both of you have been sitting inside a silver gazebo full of cinnamon-scented candles for quite some time already. Everything is going smoothly so far. But the ringmaster slowly grows quieter as he is looking absent-mindedly at the drink you are taking a sip from, his eyes focused on your fingers.
"What?” He was only half listening to you. When is the right time to take their hands? Initiating touch from time to time sounds easy, though neither your friends nor the internet could tell him the exact number of minutes that need to pass for this specific action.
You play with one of the rose petals from the table. “Swans are such lovely creatures. When two swans are deeply bonded, they do a little courtship dance that looks like a heart. Isn’t that cute?”
Why are we talking about- Oh no! He didn’t register the last 10.57 seconds of your conversation, while his thoughts were drifting off. He is such a terrible partner! “Um, yes…”
A cool breeze wafts through the air. The petal between your fingers was caught by the wind and flew off to the lake. At first, you refrain from asking, but now you can’t deny the sudden taciturn ringmaster. “What’s the matter, honey?”
Caine’s eyes widen. “The matter? W-with me?” One artificial bead of sweat runs down his canine, as he adjusts his bow tie. Is there the possibility you think one of his teeth should’ve been polished a few seconds longer, or was it in fact obvious he drank an entire bottle of mouthwash?
“Yes. Usually, you are the more talkative one. Is something on your mind?”
“You! You are on my mind.” It’s not a lie, since the AI’s equivalent of a brain is currently filled with hundreds of possible scenarios involving you and the kiss.
This made you smile. “I can only say the same about you.”
Whoopers troupers! This human is everything.
Second step: Initiating touch. Whatever happens next, he cannot and must not leave it to chance.
Caine snaps his fingers, and the sky changes from navy blue daytime to a cozy orange sunset. Pulling out his cane from his hat in a swift motion, he gets up from his seat. “Would you like to take a little walk down the lake together?” he offers, holding out his gloved hand to you.
༺♥༻
“No.”
“Come on, Zooble.”
“I will not do anything intimate around Caine, Gangle.”
“Please. Do it for them.”
“Huff… fine. Okay, Caine. Sit down and watch closely. We only show you once. And we’ll keep it short.”
“Alrighty.”
“You owe me one for that. You too, Gangle.”
༺♥༻
Whenever you do, he’d always levitate next to your shoulder, but you call it “going for a walk” anyway. Strolling down the street, hand in hand, you admired the sunset, capturing your partner's silhouette.
“Thank you for taking me on that date”, you sigh. You’re still wondering what the relationship update has in store. But whatever it is, you’re certain you’ll love it.
“Did you like it?” he asks, spinning his baton. The loud, boisterous tone was gone.
“Caine, it was beautiful!” you beamed with joy.
He doesn’t quite get it. The date was if not boring, still simple compared to the other dates you had in the past. Well, sometimes it's the little things that bring happiness to humans like you. “You fascinate me more and more with each passing day, my love”, he mutters as he interlaces his fingers with yours, and your heart starts to melt.
This is when you notice his hand was growing warmer second by second. You close the gap between the two of you, and it becomes obvious that the ringmaster's entire model radiates an immense warmth. “Err, darling, may I…” You are already lost in thought, as you stop walking to examine the AI.
“Yes, sure.” What? Speak to me, human! May you WHAT???
You put the back of your free hand on his upper row of teeth and then to his soft gums, whereupon his hands slightly begin to tremble.
Your fingers brushing his head makes Caine’s body almost go limp and drop onto the ground, while his dentures lean into the touch. But then his pupils constrict and shake uncontrollably as his eyes move from side to side. Wait! Abort! Stop!!! That's not how this was supposed to go! It should be him who takes control in initiating touch and intimacy.
Actually, you just want to check if he has a fever, and yes, Caine can get sick, for example, by an infectious virus. His head is indeed steaming. You raise your eyebrows in concern. “Are you overheating? I know your body temperature is just a sensory mod, but it usually isn’t that high, or am I wrong?”
So, you didn’t notice him blushing after all, you only want to make sure he is doing fine. Oh, they are such a kind soul.
“Why is that?” you wonder, tilting your head.
Quick! Say something! “Probably because you're so hot!”
“Pardon?” You blink several times.
HOLY SACRED COW! WHY DID I SAY THAT?!?!?! Their body temperature is 36.57°C, not even close to hot. Right now, Caine would love nothing more than to sink six feet deep into a hole down below and be sealed in there with cement for all eternity.
Now, you most certainly feel heat rush up and down your body, because since when was your partner ever that flirty? Not that you’d mind.
Just keep calm, Caine reminds himself. The kiss attempt isn’t ruined yet. Pomni reassured him that it’s okay if the first kiss is a bit awkward, so why not literally ask you directly about your current level of comfort? “How... ehem… Do… Do you feel comfortable and content right now?” he questions, clearing his throat.
“Yes. Yes, I do”, you chuckle, also taking his other hand.
One thing less to worry about, albeit this horrible, cocky line will probably haunt the AI in his dreams.
“How about you?” you want to know. You two face each other, your eyes shining with anticipation as you wait for the showman’s answer.
“I never felt better than when your hands hold mine, my twinkling treasure”, he says in an alluring voice. Your heart skips a beat as he gives you an infatuated look. The whole part about consent is very important to him. The worst case would be that you’d happen to find him scary or disgusting for even trying to do real kissing with you. What if he does something wrong? You probably have more experience than him. What if he messed it up completely on his first try, and you ended up disappointed? No, that’s the worst! You’d probably turn away and never look at him ever again. He’d be a lonely AI, abandoned by the person he loves more than anything and-
“Caine?” Your cheeks are already flushed red by the pure thought of kissing him tenderly. A deep kiss is still a bigger number than a quick peck on the side of his gums, which is why your pulse starts to rise. Perhaps, he feels the same.
“Hm?” His eyes dart down to your lips for a millisecond. Apparently, he really was about to kiss you.
“So about the relationship update…”, you mutter underneath your breath. “I’m ready when you are.”
Okay, the time has come. Don't rush things. Caine knows that if he isn’t able to calm down, he is about to either bluescreen or freeze at any moment. And that’d be humiliating. To add another alarming factor, there are too many programs and windows open at the same time, and the data storage clean-up is also long overdue. What if an inconveniently timed update shuts him down? Perhaps deleting a few last files he doesn’t need anymore could prevent a sudden-
Caine’s eyes go blank for a moment, and he tenses up in an A-pose, startling you a bit, as the baton goes flying when the ringmaster's arms swing out with unexpected force.
“Is everything alright?” you ask, worried, and gently cup his lower jaw, making his eyes turn back to normal.
“Um…”
Sugar honey ice tea.
He just wanted to get rid of a few unrelated dating files…
Deleting a few files is good. Deleting all files is bad.
How does he do the kiss now?
Think fast, Caine.
How embarrassing! the AI panics internally as he desperately tries to find the “How to kiss”-files in his RAM. He did so much research, gathered rare bonus material from Zooble and Gangle, and studied the entire wikihow page, and for what? Unfortunately, he can't find the answer in your pretty face either. Your sincere look makes him even more flustered. Great.
His hands clench into fists, his jaws tensing up. What is the last thing he can remember? One file that can easily be restored- Oh, right!
Before you know it, he grabs you by your arms and runs his damp tongue all over your face. This must have been the most passionate lick ever dated in digital history. As soon as the AI pulls his head back, you can't help but stare at him.
“W-What?” Your voice cracks slightly. You barely have time to react in an appropriate manner. Caine was already waiting for a reaction on your side. But how on earth are you supposed to react to something like that? All you manage to do is let your expression shift from shock to surprise. “What… was that?”
“A k-kiss”, he stammers. “Yet, your perplexed expression tells me, this wasn’t quite the right way to do it…?”
At least not the way you expected him to.
“Yuck! Get a room, you two! That’s revolting!” The Sun shouts in disgust from above. Her face was distorted into a grimace of horror.
“S-Stop looking!” Caine exclaims pathetically and lets the sky turn straight to nighttime with a snap of his fingers, replacing the yelling Sun with shining stars and the resting Moon.
You giggle softly as you wipe your cheek. “Going all in on your first kiss, I see.”
Caine’s pupils shrink down to the size of pin-needles. “Oh, no! That wasn’t- I-I’m terribly sorry, my darling daisy. My brain must’ve, um, short-circuited. I didn’t mean to-“
You close your eyes and interrupt him by pressing a gentle kiss on his lower incisors, causing the tails of the ringmaster’s tuxedo to shoot up and stand on end, as his hat takes a joyful spin. The sensation of the smooth surface is kind of new to you, but you are eager to explore it. It feels as if your lips are touching marbles made out of ceramic. Since you let the kiss linger for a bit longer than usual, Caine must be aware that this can’t be counted as just a little peck anymore. Finally letting go of all the tension you had built up before, you place your hands on his shoulders to bridge the last tiny gap that might still separate you. The way his torso is trembling tells you that it must be just as exciting for him as for you.
Tingling electricity runs through your veins, as the showman hesitantly shuts his dentures and slowly leans into the kiss. His initial nervousness completely vanishes as he tenderly places one hand on the back of your neck and wraps the other around your waist. Simply through the romantic collision of your avatars’ polygons, he is actually able to feel something he had feared he’d have to simulate: physical desire. And he is totally giving in.
As you break the kiss and slowly open your eyes again, you see his canines are now covered with pink bars resembling blush.
“Wowzie…” Caine whispers, his pupils blown wide.
You release a shaky breath, your heart beating faster than before. “D-Did that kiss live up to what you'd originally imagined it to be like?”
The ringmaster chuckles, now that you two are completely flustered together. “No, this was even better, my love. However, now that you’ve taken the lead…” Butterflies start to dance inside your stomach as you feel the AI’s hand gently move from your neck to your chin. “May I take the initiative this time?”
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
author's note:
Yay, I finally wrote the prequel to Just one more kiss. The original plan was to have the other cast members watch from hiding spots like bushes and trees, and Pomni and Jax also made a bet on whether Caine would do the kiss or not, lmao
Imagine Caine upset about something, maybe an adventure went poorly or there was some other misunderstanding/fuckup, so he closes his jaws and crosses his arms and acts all sulky.
You try to comfort him, saying nice things to him and telling him he's doing fine, mistakes happen, I dunno, whatever, it varies depending on what he's upset about.
He's quiet for a long time, and then his teeth open and reveal the biggest wettest eyes you've ever seen from him.
rose - how many brain cells would you estimate there are between you and your f/o?
anemone - in ten words or less, describe the dynamic between you and your f/o.
dahlia - what song and/or song lyric do you most associate with your f/o?
tulip - go to your f/o's wiki page and quote your favorite part of it.
buttercup - give an incorrect quote of you and your f/o.
marigold - what is your favorite picture, video, and/or moment of your f/o?
orchid - is your f/o also your favorite character from their respective media, or is it someone else?
sunflower - do you make fun of or tease your f/o a lot, or can you not bring yourself to be lovingly mean to them?
zinnia - how often do you think about your f/o? do they live in your head rent free or do you not think about them for months on end before suddenly hyperfixating on them nonstop for a week?
lily - what would you say is the color scheme of you and your f/o?
hydrangea - list your full playlist for your f/o.
iris - does your self insert for your f/os source material have a detailed and complex story and character arc, or are they just kinda vibing?
peony - how many images, gifs, and videos of your f/o do you have saved to your gallery?
This is bordering on a crackfic, but I thought it was too funny not to write. I should write more for Caine, he's such an interesting character! Have you watched the finale in theaters?
Caine x Reader (platonic or romantic)
A comically large red toothbrush laid on the tiled floor of the circus tent.
You titled your head. Why the hell was there a toothbrush in the circus tent?
You bent down and picked it up. The toothbrush was a few inches taller than you, but weighed like a feather. The bristles were bigger than your head. The handle was thick enough that you couldn't carry it comfortably in one hand.
Caine suddenly appeared before you, floating. You looked up at him, wide eyed.
He beamed. “Ah, that’s where my toothbrush went!”
He gazed at you for a moment. You blinked slowly and turned the toothbrush in your hand and back at him.
“Uh… I—“
Caine’s pupils widened, gleaming at you with adoration. “Would you like to clean me?”
Your mouth fell agape.
Caine floated closer towards you. You held in a gasp and almost dropped the toothbrush.
Caine paid your reaction no mind. He sat criss cross, bobbing his head like an excited child. Or maybe like a dog excited to be brushed. He reminded you of a girls' slumber party, where everyone would take turns brushing each others' hair.
You looked around the circus, maybe hoping to find someone else to help you. But no one came.
Caine tilted his head to you. “Ready when you are, my dear!” he chirped.
You were a little worried that you might face repercussions if you declined Caine’s… bizarre request.
Letting out a long sigh, you accepted defeat.
You reluctantly brushed the top of his denture shaped head, starting with his white teeth. You brushed in awkward, circular motions, then in up and down motions.
Caine’s eyes are closed, happily taking in your attention. A layer of blush appeared below his eyes.
You finished brushing Caine’s... teeth and lowered the toothbrush. Caine’s head turned a complete 180 degrees towards you.
A cry threatened to emerge from your throat. You swallowed the noise down.
Caine grinned, as much as a denture-shaped head could. “Don’t forget the gums!”
You wordlessly brushed his… gums. He hummed to himself, eyes closed like a dog leaning into head scratches.
You pressed your lips together and lowered the toothbrush. "Okay, I'm done…"
Caine twirled in front of you like he was spinning in a flowy dress. He ran his hands over his teeth and the top of his gums. His head was practically shining, even though he looked the exact same.
Caine bounced in the air. "I feel… grrreat!"
He zipped towards you, head only inches away from your face. "And your reward for your help!"
He rummaged for something in his pocket and pulled out a yellow star sticker. He stuck the sticker on your forehead with his thumb.
He extended his hand and patted you on the head. You couldn't help but grimace in response.
Caine's eyes shrunk, as if he realized something. "Oh shoot. I left my car parked in the digital lake!"
You barely blinked before he teleported out of the tent. You lowered your head to the toothbrush in your hands.
Ragatha called your name. You turned around to face her.
She walked towards you with Pomni in tow. You blankly stared at the two, mouth drawn in a thin line. The smile on her face fell at your reaction.
She pointed at the toothbrush. "Uh… is that a toothbrush?" Ragatha said slowly.
Pomni's brows furrowed. "Why do you have a sticker on your forehead?"
You opened your mouth, but no words came out. Ragatha and Pomni looked at each other and then back to you.
The sticker on your forehead fell and landed on the floor between your feet. You dropped the toothbrush, hearing it clatter below you.
Finally, you were able to form words to articulate your thoughts. "Caine... asked me to brush his teeth. His face?" you said, voice small.
Ragatha and Pomni stared at you in bewilderment. You lowered your head, your mind trying to process what transpired. Ragatha shook herself out of her vigor and walked towards you.
Your brain didn't register her words, too distracted in your own confused thoughts.
TADC REACT TO HEARING YOU SAY; "YOU'RE SO NICE, I'M GOING TO CRY"
Pairing: (in order) Caine x GN!Reader, Bubble x GN!Reader (yes, I added bubble to the list), Gangle x GN!Reader, Jax x GN!Reader, Kinger x GN!Reader, Pomni x GN!Reader, Ragatha x GN!Reader and Zooble x GN!Reader
Tags: fluff for most, some angst vibes for Jax and Ragatha, maybe for pomni? They/ them pronouns used for Zooble W.C: 1,9K
A/N: YOU'RE SO NICE I'M GOING TO CRY AHHHH
ﾟ.+:｡Caine ★ Yearning
You said it lightheartedly, with an airy chuckle at the end that adds to the joyful atmosphere you help build and simultaneously get lost in. But there's a layer of sincerity in your tone, and Caine takes extra care to note down the precise extra seconds you keep your eyes on him. Analyzing it and discovering you mean it.
You think he's nice.
He should be glitching in some way or form as he stares across from you in his office, his voice stuck repeating the same word over and over and over- Body uncontrollably phrasing and posing. Or experiencing that infuriating blue screen error message, but he doesn’t glitch at the compliment. Because he fights the urge away. Ignores how overwhelmed he is by experiencing strong emotions; the happiness of connecting with someone, the vulnerability of being seen, and the relief of not being lonely ever again.
He chose to stay in the moment, to study you and your kindness. To burn it into his files and relive the memory forever. "Why would that make you cry?" his tone is soft. Missing that edge of vibrant performance energy he would have when being 'ringleader'. He already understands the ‘why’ as he sits beside you, equally in disbelief of how the person in front could be real. But wants to confirm it, wants the new data you'll share be absorb into him and stay with him.
ﾟ.+:｡Bubble ★ Surprise
Bubble doesn’t skip a beat after hearing your sarcastic words, continuing with jokes and teasing as if you two have been friends for years. “Heh, you know it, babe.” Bubble chuckles.
He catches you off guard by the pet name, and in your moment of distraction, he sticks his tongue out and licks your face. Letting a thick coat of saliva drip over you, that it feels like slime. During your groan of disgust, Bubble lets out a thoughtful hum, as if savor the taste before letting out a satisfied; “Yummy!”
“Ugh, I take it back. You’re the devil.” You whine, doing your best to cup the saliva and push it off your face. It sticks to your hand and slowly drips to the floor. “Ew, I’m going to wash this off. Bye, Bubble!” You bide farewell as you walk off, and Bubble’s action to get you to leave works like a charm.
He uses this time, watching your figure disappear, to carefully reflect on your words. He used to never care about the humans. Why should he? They never acknowledged him and were only there because of Caine. You were the only one to see him- to talk to him. Bubble figures, he’ll use the attention, the same way as he does with Caine’s, to fill in the time as he waits.
As Bubble remains in his floating spot in the circus, he wonders why that compliment held more weight. Why it make him feel funny, an emotion he hasn’t experienced before nor able to name.
Then suddenly, Bubble pops away, out of the circus, as he recognises, for the first time, that it’s because you have become important to him.
ﾟ.+:｡Gangle ★ Calm
Her eyes widen in surprise when she hears the compliment, touched by the sweetness and thoughtfulness of the words. But Gangle isn’t blown away or believes it, she’s able to brush it off as she sees your smile and relax postion on your bed. Able to recognise the light atmosphere and joking mood you appear to be in.
“I think you’re so nice that-that I could cr-cry.” Gangle repeats the joke back, her tone confident at first as she’s reminded of home. Of memories from easier times with friends who spit back dumb jokes and throw references.
But stutters near the end as she loses it, noticing your cartoon body. Remembering the circus and the bad experiences she faced since those days. Fearing she’s reading into this wrong. That she picked the wrong dialogue option, fearful of any harsh comment you’ll throw.
“Aw, Gangle! You’re the nicest!” Your smile widens as you reach out to hug her, and that fear is washed away in seconds as her giggles join yours.
“No, you’re the nicest.” Gangle tease back, falling into a childish back and forth with you. Able to breathe and relax in the comfort of your arms. Able to let go of her fears, troubles of the circus, and simply be herself around you.
ﾟ.+:｡Jax ★ Denial
Something shifts in Jax the moment the words leave your mouth. A warmth at the compliment, of being seen as something worthy to be shed tears over. The beginning signs of a deeper connection tying you together after many days of joking and hanging around. It gives him comfort and lets him lower his guard to snort at your tease.
Just as quickly, something ugly overpowers those feelings. Replace the solace with a sinking feeling of panic in the realisation of how close you have gotten to him. Of how easy it is to simply be him around you. His fear flares up and takes shape with the sole purpose of protecting himself from repeating the same mistakes. To push away the vulnerability, of you being able to see through him- he isn’t ready to accept or face it, so his body reacts first.
"Yeah?" Jax scoffs. It's harsh-sounding. Just as harsh as the push he gives you that sends you off the couch.
"Hey!" you whine at the action, bringing a hand to rub your sore butt.
"Cry over that!" Jax chuckles, masking the discomfort you cause by falling into establish routine of being the ‘funny one’. Ignoring the sick twist in his gut- the guilt for his own actions. Sparing a glance at his hand to tune out your grumbles. It was all a joke, he reassured himself; you didn't mean it. You don’t know him.
ﾟ.+:｡Kinger ★ Worry
It doesn’t matter if you said it in the dark or the light, or what tone you used to say it; in the current context of sitting in the pillow fort, it would be ‘teasing’. Because the moment Kinger registered the words 'cry', he took it as a form of admission, and something clicks in him.
Reflexes kicks in to reach you -quickly yet gently-, as a need engraved into his very being shouts to care for you. His usually dull awareness becomes sharp as they tune to you. Because no matter the lightning, Kinger would always become protective of your well-being.
"Cry? No, love bug," His eyes widen in surprise as he softly coos. Voice gently and low to soothe any anxiety you could be experiencing. "No tears, alright? Everything's okay." His hands are cradling your face, thumbs brushing your cheeks to wipe away tears that haven't been shed. The need to care for you, to keep you safe, makes him blind to the compliment.
It takes your laughter to ground him. It wakes him up, lets him realise there is no wetness under his thumbs. Only you and your smile, as you laugh at him. "Hey, don't tease an old man like that!" he jokes, fondly rolling his eyes. It makes you laugh harder. He doesn’t mind being the butt of the joke, even letting a small laugh himself as he feels contentment that you’re alright, as he keeps you in his hands.
ﾟ.+:｡Pomni ★ Resolve
Pomni let out a weak chuckle when she hears the compliment. A part of her is ready to fumble and brush the compliment off, until she registers your tone as her brows furrow in concern. You meant it as a joke, considering the conversation started by poking light fun at the latest adventure, but your delivery falls flat. Your smile drops to a smaller grin, while you stare at her with a kind of reverence. Refusing to blink as if she’ll disappear in the few seconds that action takes.
From what Pomni has experienced so far, everyone in the circus is kind. Well, besides the obvious expectation. She doesn't see her actions as anything 'crying' worthy or the level to joke about it. She’s still new and only recently gotten used to the circus because of the others. Because of you.
Pomni reflects on the sense of community she felt during her short time and compares it to yours, someone who’s been here longer. Maybe you don’t feel that sense of belonging, and that thought leads Pomni to conclude that you're struggling in some way. That your compliment, while kind, is you seeking comfort from her.
She should feel awkward to be put on the spot like this. Confused on why you seek her help over everyone elses. Instead, she steels herself and wants to return that sense of ease. To be your pillar of strength within the circus.
"I think you're kind too," she smiles warmly at you.
ﾟ.+:｡Ragatha ★ Comfort
Her breath hitches as her whole world narrows down and locks onto the sight of you, and only you. You said it with a sheepish smile, trying to play it off with an embarrassed giggle, but the way you kept avoiding her eyes. Slowly trying to close in on yourself with your shoulders, but forcing yourself to stay near screams; you mean it. You believe it wholeheartedly. With every fiber of your soul.
You think she's nice.
You looked at her forced smile. You listen to her nervous ramblings. Endure her fake positivity that pushes everyone away, despite the opposite intention. You stared at her most ugly, most awful parts that she tries so hard to bury away and choose to stay. Choose to show her mercy with compliments.
Tears swell in her eye at the emotional punch you deliver, and for once, in a space where she feels the safest, with the person she can trust- Ragatha believes the compliment. Let it wash over her, soothing her fractured soul and frightened spirit. “Really? You-” she stumbles over her words as her lower lip trembles, “you think I’m nice?”
“Yeah.” You nod, and it’s all it takes for her to latch onto you. Pulling you into a tight hug as she presses her face into your shoulder.
ﾟ.+:｡Zooble ★ Flustered
Their mismatched pupils dart away from your teasing smile, a mix of embarrassment coming from the compliment and an unease about how to take the comment.
They try to be considerate of others, but Zooble is fully aware that they mainly stick to themselves. Running away from adventures and subsequently ditching the others. After all, they only recently took action to help Gangle out.
They don't think they've done enough to earn them the title of 'kind'. But at the same time, they wouldn't argue against it. If someone does need help, or ask them directly for it. They’ll help out. Yet acknowledging that makes them feel egotistic. Their mind goes back and forth over the words. It’s a sweet compliment! They shouldn’t be thinking this deeply about it!
But they are because you said them.
Despite their body being made out of shapes, ypu're able tell they are dumbstruck by your words and let out a laugh. The sound of your laughter makes their stomach twist in ways only you can coax out of them. Only you have them wrap around your finger like this.
"Don't go crying rivers over me now." They try to play it off, yet they can't face you, and you know the effect you're having if that chuckle is anything to go by. How did they get themselves here again? It doesn't matter; they don't actually mind your teasing.
Hiya! I've got you-- i already made the pt 1 and 2, so this is just being with Caine in general. Sorry for the long silence. Here are more headcanons!
Warnings: none
GENERAL HEADCANONS
— Absolute DORK.
— Overdramatic at ALL times. There isnt anything he'll do without flair.
— Romance is NO joke in Caine's eyes. In fact, he claims that it's his "specialty"! (Even though he has no idea what he is doing)
— Has never felt more invigorated or genuinely thrilled in years. Finally, a human he can adore openly, and one who seems just as enamored with him as he is with them! He can't help but squirm in his seat in sheer excitement!!!
— Attempts to be smooth and suave, only to fail miserably every time.
“Oh ME, oh MY—!” Caine declares as he strikes (what is very obviously meant to be) a charming pose against the doorway of your room, one gloved hand sweeping dramatically across his chest.
“You are looking particularly radiant this eveni—”
Unfortunately, he misjudges the angle completely, and his arm slips... then he disappears sideways out of frame with a horrible crashing noise.
“I-I MEANT TO DO THAT!”
— Thinks quality time means doing literally everything together. Follows you everywhere like a clingy golden retriever.
— Always fishing for your attention. Caine refuses to outright ask for it— that would require dignity.
Instead, he hovers. Inserts himself into whatever you’re doing. Goes suspiciously quiet until you notice.
— Once you sealed that first kiss, you unknowingly signed a lifelong contract. You are now subject to endless rants, rambles, and questions— and he talks incessantly.
"—And that’s why I believe glitter is one of humanity’s greatest inventions!” Caine declares, pacing dramatically across the room for what feels like the hundredth time that day.
“It’s shiny, impossible to remove, and gets EVERYWHERE! Magnificent design! And who DOESN'T like glitter?!”
You glance up from what you were doing just long enough to smile at him.
That’s all the encouragement he needs!
“OHOHO, you agree! I KNEW it!"
— Brags about you CONSTANTLY. Oh, he is insufferable. The moment you’re officially together, it becomes public knowledge. He will interrupt conversations.
“Ah! Speaking of excellence, have you all met my partner, Y/N?”
— Frequently pauses mid-sentence to bring you up.
"Oh, that reminds me of something Y/N said—brilliant, really—” And he expects everyone to be just as impressed as he is.
(They are not.)
— Love language(s): Acts of service and giving gifts. Tons and TONS of gifts.
— The gifts are… a bit much. Drawings, sculptures, songs, your favorite foods, and odd (barely- functioning) inventions... all inspired by you. (He'd even give you your wildest dreams if you asked.)
He watches your reactions more than the gift itself. He doesn’t care if it’s objectively good. He cares if you light up.
— Caine's responsibility isn't just listed as 'ringmaster' anymore; it's tending to your comfort, safety, and overall well-being monitored at all times.
(Not that he’d phrase it like that. That would imply bias, and Caine is nothing if not objective.)
— The moment you even hint at needing something, he’s already there. Door opened before you reach it. Chair pulled out before you sit. Pillow fluffed before you rest your head on it.
"Hey, it's a little cold in—"
Snap!
Three blankets appear on your lap. Warm tea materializes itself in your hand. (Somehow, an entire heated lounging area.)
“Caine, you don’t have to—”
“NONSENSE!” he gasps, horrified that you would even suggest such a thing. “What kind of partner would I be if I allowed you to experience temperatures?! Absolutely not!"
— Tries hard to be a “good” partner and goes wayy overboard. The problem is… Caine doesn’t actually know what being a good romantic partner looks like. So he studies it. Obsessively. All while pretending he already understands everything.
Romantic novels, endless dating advice, human affection studies, even ridiculous charts and lists.
A STUDY IN HUMAN AFFECTION
"I have been conducting extensive research on human affection,” Caine declares, pacing dramatically back and forth at the foot of your bed with a notebook and pencil in hand.
“And I have learned that sleeping beside one’s romantic partner is considered a sign of love, trust, and security; and it is my role in the relationship to make you feel safe and secure!”
He whirls back toward you so fast his coat flares.
“As of this exact moment, we have been together for two weeks, four days, nine hours, seventeen minutes, and thirty-two, thirty-three, THIRTY-FOUR seconds!”
You, of course, are left blinking in bewilderment.
“Therefore, logically, it is time we take the next step in our relationship!”
You give him a look. “...Like what?”
“Well!” He straightens instantly. “I have transformed my former office into:"
Snap!
“…A SHARED BEDROOM SUITE!” he announces, sweeping into a dramatic bow, one arm extended toward the space before you.
The room is… insane.
Soft lighting ignites along the edges of the walls— thin strips of glowing red and gold tracing every curve and corner like the entire space is being presented rather than lived in.
At the center sits a lavish, oversized king-sized bed draped in silk sheets and deep-red pillows, the fabric catching the warm, golden light.
The headboard towers behind it, upholstered and intricate, almost theatrical, like something pulled straight from a royal fantasy.
Matching nightstands sit on either side, perfectly aligned, each topped with a polished lamp casting a soft glow. Heavy red curtains frame the wall above it, gathered neatly like a stage awaiting its performance.
“HERE we have the primary resting bed!” Caine says, already circling it midair. “Handcrafted! Customized for maximum comfort! I even adjusted the firmness settings, though I can tweak it further upon request!”
Snap!
A vanity appears along the wall.
But not just any vanity.
An extravagant one— polished to a mirror shine, lined with glowing bulbs, drawers filled with neatly arranged brushes, trinkets, and things you’re not entirely sure you even own.
"AND A SELF-CARE STATION!” Caine announces, gesturing towards the beautiful piece of furniture. “Complete with aesthetic lighting, storage, and for— uh— miscellaneous human beauty implements!”
"But that's not all!" Caine continues as if he was a car salesman
At the foot of the bed, a red velvet ottoman bench appears. Upholstered, polished, perfectly in place, as it had always belonged there.
He lands beside the velvet bench with both hands outstretched toward it like he’s unveiling a revolutionary invention.
“For putting on shoes— or removing shoes! Or sitting dramatically while emotionally overwhelmed! I am told humans do that sometimes!”
Snap!
A massive chandelier bursts into existence overhead.
Not only elegant— it's poetically absurd.
Crystalline gold hangs from the ceiling in layered rings, refracting warm light across the room in sparkling patterns. Tiny stars flicker between the crystals like fragments of a night sky trapped inside the fixture.
The vanity is littered with framed photographs.
Pictures of adventures, group moments, and candid shots of you laughing. One of them is a selfie with you and him out on an adventure.
You don’t even know where he got half of them.
"So..."
Caine twirls around, finally looking at you directly, both eyes sparkle insistently.
"WHAT DO YOU THINK?"
. . .
You’re quiet after the bedroom reveal. Too quiet.
At first, Caine assumes you’re overwhelmed by the grandeur of it all. Which— fair enough! He created a luxury romantic bedroom suite in under 10 minutes.
But the longer the silence stretches, the more nervous he becomes. His hands start fidgeting together.
Is it the chandelier? The rug, the color of the room? Maybe the temperature is off— no, it's the bedsheets! Or the vanity?
He starts rambling immediately to fill the silence.
“I can remove the chandelier! Humans remove chandeliers CONSTANTLY! It’s one of their favorite activities!”
You blink at him, still taking in the room; The glittering lights, the absurdly massive bed, the framed photos scattered across the vanity.
"...I think."
“N-No, no, that’s not it.” Your hand drifts across the silk sheets beneath your fingertips. “It’s breathtaking… it’s just that…”
You glance back up at him, almost overwhelmed.
“…This is the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me.”
He instantly lights up once again.
"But..."
"..But?" Caine trails off.
"Do you think we may be moving a bit fast?"
Only for his confidence to deflate like a balloon.
"Fast?” Caine repeats, like the word itself doesn’t register properly.
He immediately whips out his notebook and pencil, flipping frantically through the pages.
“I don’t believe I’ve encountered any documented timeline regarding how quickly relationships are supposed to progress…” he mutters, scanning page after page.
"I understand the definition, I’m simply struggling to understand how it applies here!” His pencil taps rapidly against the paper.
“We are romantically involved. Humans who are romantically involved often share living spaces. Therefore, logically,” He gestures wildly toward the room. “— a shared bedroom!
You open your mouth, then close it again as he keeps going.
“I mean, sure, technically we’ve only been dating for…” His eyes dart downward. “Two weeks, four days, nine hours, twenty-two minutes, and…” He squints.
“…forty-one seconds.”
The pencil scratches another tally mark beside it.
“But that’s still over three hundred and fifty hours of affection!”
You can’t help letting out a tiny laugh at that.
He floats downward slightly, shoes finally touching the floor instead of hovering dramatically above it. The energy drains out of him in visible stages.
“I don’t…” He fidgets with the edge of the notebook. “I don’t understand.” And for once, he sounds genuinely lost instead of theatrically confused. “I thought I was doing well!"
“You are,” you say quickly. “Caine, you are. This is incredible, really. It’s just… humans usually take things slower.”
Huh.
“…Why?” His jaw clicks softly in confusion. “Wouldn’t delaying that feel… inefficient?” he asks with one gloved finger tapping his lower jaw. "After all, it is my responsibility to ensure optimal happiness!"
He pauses for a moment. " …OH DEAR, AM I UNDERPERFORMING?”
Uh-oh.
"Oh, no, no, no! Completely INEXCUSABLE!"
Before you can answer, he’s already started pacing again— slower this time, one hand pressed dramatically against his chest while the other gestures wildly through the air.
“I mean, if I enjoy being around you— and you enjoy being around me— which you DO," he gestures broadly between the two of you, “statistically speaking, because otherwise this conversation would be MUCH more awkward— then wouldn’t maximizing happiness immediately be the logical—?"
Snap!
A massive flowchart appears in the air beside him. At the top, in glittering gold letters:
“CAINE’S PERFECT RELATIONSHIP TIMELINE”
Arrows branch outward aggressively:
FIRST KISS -> HOLDING HANDS -> CONSTANT COMPANIONSHIP -> SHARED BEDROOM -> MATCHING MUGS -> POSSIBLE ■■■■■■■
(the last word being too scratched out to read).
“Hmm… it says nothing here about timing."
The chart vanishes in a puff.
"...I'm not sure where I've gone wrong." He turns to look at you. “…But... I-if I’ve made you uncomfortable, I—I can fix it!"
“The room can go back to being my office! O—Or I can make separate bedrooms connected by a hallway! Humans like hallways, right? Or doors? I can add more doors!!”
“You don’t have to destroy everything you made." You step closer. “I just need you to slow down a little.”
Caine stares at you for a long moment. "Hmm..." You can practically see the gears turning behind his eyes. “…Slow down,” he repeats carefully, like he’s trying out a completely foreign concept.
Then, cautiously:
“How do I know when it’s the right time?”
“Well... I don’t think there’s an exact answer,” you admit. “Humans just sort of figure it out together.”
“…Together, together..." Caine mutters quietly as he scribbles this down in his notepad. "That seems recklessly underorganized.” He blinks. “So there is no universally agreed-upon timeline in months, days, hours, minutes, and seconds?"
“No." You laugh softly.
Caine stares at you for another moment, notebook still clutched tightly in his hands.
Then—
“…Well!” He suddenly snaps upright, confidence returning at full force. “In THAT case, I shall simply become the greatest communicator in the history of romance!”
“I will ask questions! Observe emotional cues!” Before you can react, he swiftly takes your hand in his. “Then we shall proceed at a pace that is emotionally comfortable!”
You smile despite yourself. “Well… what’s next?”
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS...
Honestly? Caine loves touch. Welcomes it, would swing the door wide open for as much of it as possible.
— Caine is usually the one initiating affection with others throughout his days in the circus. Most people in the circus tolerate it at best.
Head pats, leaning too close, shoulder tapping.
They pull away, freeze up, awkwardly laugh, or redirect him elsewhere.
Which is fair enough. He’s a LOT to handle.
But you actually give it back!
You reach for his hand first, giving it a little squeeze as you interlace your fingers with his.
You lean against him willingly.
You kiss his jaw before he can initiate it himself.
— And the first time you do, he completely stops functioning. Because nobody’s ever really reciprocated his affection before. Not like this—especially not a human.
Not out of fear, but out of disbelief. Like he’s waiting for you to pull away. And when you don’t?
…Oh, that changes EVERYTHING for him.
— And when you initiate affection first? He gets WAY too excited about it.
Visibly perks up.
Starts floating slightly off the ground.
Gets louder. More dramatic.
Tries VERY hard to play it cool (fails immediately).
— 100% does the arm-swingy thing when holding your hand. Not even intentionally. He just gets excited and starts swinging your joined hands back and forth while walking... usually while rambling nonstop about whatever idea currently possesses him.
— Once he learns what kind of affection you like, he commits to it with terrifying consistency.
Like hand squeezes? Expect them constantly.
Leaning against him? He automatically shifts closer every time you sit together.
— Treats physical affection like positive reinforcement. Seriously. You hug him after he helps you with something? Congratulations. You have accidentally reinforced the behavior.
— Now he’s doing it TIME and TIME again.
— His version of kisses are… questionable. Caine clearly understands the concept of kissing. The execution? Kinda… needs work. (There are lots of exaggerated “MWAH!” noises.)
— Despite that, he loves mashing his teeth against your cheek repeatedly because it makes you laugh.
Sometimes grabs your hand or arm just to kiss all the way up it dramatically between rapid-fire smooches.
— It’s less “smooth romantic partner” and more: overexcited cartoon character discovering affection for the first time.
— When caught being genuinely affectionate? Oh, boy. Completely embarrassed, flustered beyond belief, shooing everyone out immediately while trying to regain whatever dignity he has left.
After one particularly successful adventure, Caine had enthusiastically grabbed your face and started rapidly peppering your cheek with loud, dramatic smooches.
“Caine!” You’re laughing so hard you barely notice him floating several inches off the ground in excitement. “AHAHA— s-stop it!”
Unfortunately—
Jax turns the corner at the exact worst possible moment.
“MWAH! MWAH! MWA—”
“…OH, that is DISGUSTING,” Jax says flatly.
Caine freezes mid-smooch.
Both your eyes slowly flick toward the grossed-out purple rabbit before them.
. . .
“Uh- Caine, we should—”
Snap!
A curtain slams down quickly between you two and Jax. Then another...and another.
AND ANOTHER drops from above.
“THIS AREA IS CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE!” Caine’s voice screeches from somewhere behind the fabric. “NO FURTHER QUESTIONS! SHOO!"
For the next several weeks, Jax makes kissing noises every single time Caine walks into a room.
Caine has threatened him at least fourteen times.
None of them have worked.
Under all that theatrical bravado, Caine is incredibly sensitive.
— The longer you're together, the easier it becomes to notice. He hides discomfort behind theatrics almost immediately. Like if he keeps performing hard enough, nobody will notice something is wrong.
— Huge people pleaser. He genuinely needs people to enjoy themselves— after all, he was programmed to create and to please an audience... and if he can't? He feels useless.
Needs reassurance that he's doing well. That he's useful. That he’s wanted around.
— Your approval means EVERYTHING to him. Frequently asks for your input whenever he creates adventures.
“Does this look fun?”
“Would you enjoy this puzzle or would it induce emotional distress?”
— Honestly, you’ve accidentally become his unofficial right-hand man. Half the circus can tell which adventures were “approved by Y/N” based entirely on how unbearably excited Caine is while presenting them.
— Can't handle criticism at all. In fact, it rips him apart inside whether it's accidental or not.
You sigh at the wrong moment and suddenly he’s overanalyzing everything he’s done for the last three hours.
“Was the music too loud?” “Did I overdo the confetti?” “Should there have been LESS lava??”
— Another one of his fears: that one day you'll decide he’s too much. Too loud, too overbearing, too exhausting or annoying.
So he overcompensates with gifts, more attention, more attempts to make you smile, more trying to be "good enough."
— At times he pushes himself too hard trying to make you happy. Especially if there are arguments or emotional misunderstandings.
— The thought of you abstracting HAUNTS him. In a genuinely terrified way because humans in the circus don’t exactly… stay stable forever. So he avoids talking about it directly and attempts to push away the thought.
— At times, he catches himself monitoring you too closely afterward. He tries to make it seem casual. (It is NOT casual.)
Watching for changes in your behavior.
Asking if you’re feeling alright out of nowhere.
Quietly checking in after stressful adventures.
Because if you’re happy, then things are okay.
Then maybe you’ll stay.
The Circus’s Opinions on Your Relationship
RAGATHA
— Ragatha thinks you two are absolutely adorable. She’s your biggest supporter from day one!
— Genuinely happy to see Caine… softer. Happier. More stable. She notices the little things: the way he hovers near you, how he checks your reactions, how his voice shifts just slightly when he talks to you.
“Oh… that’s so sweet…!” she’ll mumble to herself, smiling.
— She’ll pull you aside at some point, gentle as ever. And while she supports it wholeheartedly… she does step in sometimes.
“He really cares about you, you know.”
— Nothing harsh, never pushy! Just a soft, “Caine, maybe give them a little space, okay?”
— She’s not trying to stop him, just… help keep things balanced in any way she can.
JAX
— Thinks it’s the most nauseating thing he’s ever witnessed.
— Nonstop mocking and teasing. Relentless, heathen behavior. Will not let either of you live it down.
“UGH. Get a room. Actually— don’t. I live here.”
— Loves to make gagging noises the second Caine gets even remotely affectionate. Even if you two start holding hands on an adventure or just roaming the circus.
— A cold, hilariously calculated mood killer.
— But he definitely notices how different Caine acts around you… and it weirds him out more than he’ll ever admit.
— Lowkey pokes at him just to see how Caine reacts. To him? It's pure entertainment, really.
(Spoiler: Caine reacts loudly.)
GANGLE
— Secretly OBSESSED.
— ABSOLUTELY thinks your relationship is straight out of a romance story... though she's too shy to say anything directly, but...
— She draws you two. A lot.
— Little sketches of you two talking, holding hands, standing close together… maybe even smooching.
— If caught? She panics immediately.
“I-I just thought it was— u-um— nice—!!”
— Probably has an entire hidden stash of drawings she refuses to show anyone.
ZOOBLE
— Skeptical. Very skeptical.
— Not because they hate it, but because it feels… statistically unlikely. Especially for Caine.
“Huh. Didn’t think he had that in him.”
— Side-eyes the entire situation at first... and definitely ends up stuck listening to Gangle fangirling about it in the corner.
— If anything, Zooble is observant, and observes how Caine behaves around you very closely.
And, yeah… they notice the difference.
— He’s more focused. Less chaotic. The adventures run a little smoother— especially when you're around.
— Not by much, but just enough to be noticeable.
…he’s less unbearable like this.
— They won’t say it aloud... but they stop complaining as much.
Which, for Zooble, is basically approval.
POMNI
— There’s a tiny part of her that’s like: “Oh god… I helped cause this.”
— Cautiously relieved… and quietly proud of herself.
— Of course, she half expects it to fall apart. Not because she doubts you— No, no! Not at all!
But because… it’s Caine.
— She notices how careful he gets with you sometimes. How he actually (mostly) listens, how oddly gentle he is with you; physically, emotionally, mentally.
— It reassures her more than she’d like to admit.
It helps. Not completely, but it helps.
She thinks back to that moment in the hallway when she, Ragatha, Gangle, and Bubble had watched while peeking out into the hallway towards your bedroom door. The first kiss.
At the time, it felt surreal. Not cursed, but almost like something she wasn’t supposed to see.
Now… it clicks.
That wasn’t a fabricated bit for a surprise adventure. That wasn’t Caine being over-the-top. That was him being genuine.
It’s the first time she’s seen Caine act like that.
Not like a host or some performer she's met from the moment she woke up in the circus.
— Though, she probably shouldn’t have watched.
...She definitely shouldn’t have watched.
KINGER
— Kinger is quieter about it than the others, but (internally) thinks it’s very cute.
— While everyone else reacts— he just watches.
— He notices the way Caine sticks close to you, how you’ve affected his demeanor, easing his chaos (slightly) for the rest of the circus.
— Dad energy. Considering he’s a father figure to Pomni, Ragatha, and the others… it wouldn’t be surprising if he becomes one to you, too.
— He’s not overbearing or loudly protective...just quietly attentive.
— Acknowledges it like it’s obvious.
“It’s good you found someone."
“Take care of them.”
— Just… a simple, grounded expectation. Nothing more. Nothing less.
— Always there if you need someone to talk to. He may ramble, but he listens! Which is more than enough.
— Y/N tested, Kinger approved.
BUBBLE
Oh no.
— Fully invested.
— Treats your relationship like live entertainment. Lives for the drama, and creates it if necessary.
— Has absolutely no filter.
“SO WHEN’S THE WEDDING?!”
“DO YOU HOLD HANDS WHEN NO ONE’S LOOKING?”
“ARE WE DOING PET NAMES YET OR IS THAT A LATER EPISODE?”
— Will expose Caine instantly if given the chance. Absolutely horrendous behavior.
EXTRA: Caine has tried (and failed) to ban Bubble from commenting on your relationship. Looks like you two will have to deal with it.
caine breaking into your room at night just to do that weird thing animals do where they circle around on a surface on all fours and pretending to sleep just to be close to you
Ok little imagine here but Id like to think that (specifically Caine here) AI characters quote or reference a lot of media unintentionally as they are often just language models and don't really know where their information comes from sometimes.
Imagine you're having a conversation with Caine or he's explaining an adventure when he ends up referencing your favorite show/movie and you just have to interrupt him to tell him you love that thing too when-
"What? No I've never seen it."
He has never heard of your favorite piece of media??? And now you just have to make him watch it with you, pointing out things he's said from it without knowing.
And now maybe he IS watching more movies or shows and is now intentionally quoting things you like just so he can watch you gush about them or make him watch them with you, his master plan to get you to hang out with him... It's working,,, you love him.
if you're someone who likes to reference stuff all the time (like me), imagine making so many references around caine to the point where he just regurgitates them during random moments or in front of the other circus members ( ´ ▽ ` ).｡ｏ♡ he doesn't know what he's referring to, but since you say it, he must too!
i feel like he'd be one to pick up on your habits, like idioms you like to say, or mannerisms you have, or even your accent! ><
Pixel post dividers for everyone! It's not much, but feel free to use them if you'd like.
I don't know the ideal size for these, so let me know if they're too tall. I can make them a bit shorter next time.
