{//||--While this story is not 18+ material; my blog is not suited for minors. Thank you(:
Pairing: Harlequin x Reader
Prompt: Burying their face in the other's stomach while laying down
Overview: Gremlin mad notebook and exam more important than him. Huff-huff.
Note: I do not claim to write these characters 100% to all cannon information available about them in the world; I work 45-60 hours a week and just write for fun. No need to point out discrepancies; thank you~
Hope y'all enjoy!(:
The high-pitched squeaking of your highlighter was the only sound in the bedroom as you used it; quite the contrast to the dramatic heavy sighs coming from the edge of the bed. Diligent as ever, you kept your eyes glued to your notebook, muttering terms under your breath. Tomorrow was one of your big college exams and if you didn't commit the time to inscribe the material into your brain tonight: you were done for.
A sharp, playful pinch nipped at your ankle.
"Harlequin, stop," you gave a distracted chuckle, kicking your leg out without bothering to look up.
"Stop what, dear one~?" his voice purred at you with exaggerated innocence. Suddenly a clawed finger was tapping rhythmically against your shin, soon followed by the soft deliberate brush of a tentacle slithering up your calf. "I’m simply keeping you company~ And you look so lonely over there with all of your little papers..."
"I'm not lonely: I'm trying to pass," you shot back. A smile tugged at the corner of your lips to betray you. He was pacing himself, trying so hard to act like he was just casually killing time; you knew better. Your personal gremlin simply wanted your eyes on him.
He finally dropped the casual act with a dramatic little huff; a little flick of his forked green tongue at you. Harlequin now crawled fully onto the mattress, moving with a fluid, predatory grace as he slithered up your body. You scrambled to hold your notebook high and away from his possible reach, but he kept climbing until his chest was hovering just above your lap.
He leaned down with glowing eyes gleaming with chaotic mischief. You were offered a suggestive little wink. "You know~ if you're so hungry to devour all that study material... you could always just dine out on me instead—"
Whack!.
You playfully bopped the top of his head with the spiral spine of your notebook. Your ribs ached with laughter from how flabbergasted his expression became. "Behave yourself! I need twenty more minutes—promise."
Harlequin let out a sharp hiss of dissatisfaction, a faux-offended pout instantly overtaking his mask. Defeated, your monster collapsed forward, abandoning all previous pretenses of maintaining his smooth-operator disposition. His heavy head plopped melodramatically right above your lap, sliding upward until his face was buried entirely in your stomach.
You let out a soft oomph as he nuzzled his cheek into your shirt, grumbling something unintelligible against your skin. For all his dramatic flair, he was incredibly sweet (when he wanted to be), and the gesture made your chest swell. He hated feeling clingy, but nothing was worse than being ignored.
Before you could get even five minutes back into your study venture, the tentacles at his back whipped into motion.
One smooth appendage snatched the notebook clean out of your hands. Another slid up your neck, its tip gently weaving into your hair, while a third broad, shadowy limb draped itself completely over your eyes, plunging you into darkness. You gasped as the rest of his weight pinned your hips down to the mattress, keeping you trapped and thoroughly blinded.
"Harlequin!" you laughed, squirming from beneath him. "I can't see!"
"Good~ I think you've looked at those pages long enough," his voice chuckled from somewhere near your ribs. Above you, he held the notebook up in front of his own face, squinting at your frantic, little handwriting. Much less elegant compared to his own penmanship; how amusing. He was genuinely curious as to what could possibly be more thrilling or important than him.
A beat of silence passed.
"How atrocious," Harlequin's voice dripped with disgust. "It’s definitely not even interesting material... this is painfully dry. How can you read this nonsense when perfection is right here laying on top of your soft, warm body~?"
You swatted blindly in his direction. "Because perfection isn't going to pay my bills or pass my test. Give it back, you turd!"
"Hmmm~ I think I'll pass on that," he purred, a rustling sound suddenly catching your attention. The unmistakable crunch of a snack bag followed, followed by the pungent nose-clearing scent of wasabi. He popped a snack into his mouth, crunching loudly. "Still... I suppose we could spend some dedicated time together if I help you. Consider me your incredibly handsome tutor."
You sighed, relaxing into the mattress. "Fine. But no more distractions."
"I'm hurt, dear one: I never cheat. I just play by my own rules," he hummed. A tentacle affectionately tapped the tip your nose. "First question. Define the primary mechanism of action for the biochemical pathway... your note says on page three."
You racked your brain focusing through the pitch black as his monster-appendage kept you blinded. With great hesitance you gave what you thought to be an appropriate answer.
Harlequin's razor grin delighted in your absolute miss.
"Ooh~ so close, yet so completely incorrect," Harlequin cooed in his own sing-song, a crunching sound following his verdict. "Wrong. The answer is obviously magic. Or whatever boring scribble you wrote here about enzyme synthesis. Either way: you fail."
"Hey! That's not—"
"Time to face your punishment~!" he interrupted with glee.
Suddenly, his cold, clawed fingers dug right into your sides, finding your ultimate tickle spot with brutal accuracy. You shrieked, writhing and laughing hysterically against the mattress as he ruthlessly tickled you, his expression that of pure joy as his genuine laughter had its own duet with yours.
"H-Harlequin, s-stop—STOP! Mercy!" you gasped, breathless and crying from laughter. Your body still thrashing beneath him. “Idon'twannahurtyou!!”
What a hilarious thought.
"Only if you promise to get the next one right," he threatened. Gloved claws eased up their devilish pressure but keeping you pinned beneath his heavy, comforting warmth. He crunched on another wasabi snack, his tentacles turning the page of your notebook. "Next question, my hopeless little student..."
a/n: never beta read. hehe. sorry it is a lot shorter. it was obviously my birthday and i was spending time with family.
everything felt like it was closing down. everything around you was a blur. the ringing. the sound drowned the muttering and the excited gasps around. all you can hear was the drums of your heart beat. thump. thump. thump. it was all you can truly hear. your gaze was down upon your hand. it was sweaty. it was shaking. it was trembling. no. it wasn’t just your hands. it was your entire body. tremors that felt like you were being surrounded by a natural disaster. the lights in the tent. it felt too bright. bleary and fuzzy. it was dizzying. the realisation of everything came crashing down on you like a pile of bricks that was barely holding up the fragile foundation that was your fractured mental stability. your breath came out in huffs. everything was making sense. but at the same time, was also making things so much more complicated. everyone here. were they them? they were the ones you had searched for in a fog of uncertainty that you clawed through to obtain? they were still around. and that should have made you happy. it should make you excited. your hands fumbled to your pocket. running a thumb along a smooth surface that was a few rocks.
instead… it made you sick. they were still alive. they were… barely managing. going through the ever ending cycle of grief. the stories that you witnessed. the words. it all pointed to one thing. you were some catalyst. your death had resulted in pain in their lives. pain, longing… perhaps even anger. and you did not know how to handle the guilt that had overtaken your soul. like hands that gripped your heart. ❝ hey. let’s… let’s go… you have gotten paler ❞ your friend’s voice was like a shrill siren in your mental psyche. your friend wasn’t being loud. no. they were being soft spoken. but everything just felt louder now. every word. every laugh. every single noise. it was grating. loud. just absolutely painful. but you forced a smile. ❝ of… of course ❞ your voice held that shaky sensation that showed how much you were holding it barely together. just barely.
it was already a struggle. walking. but you put your mind to it. one step at a time. left. right. left.. right… or right, left? walking was slowly feeling like a blur. a chore. even when you felt a minuscule load lightening your body… it was simply just not enough for you. as you walked alongside your friend. they were saying something. but you couldn’t hear what they were saying. none of it at all. you came to protect your friend, your coworker… only to uncover so much more than what you can emotionally handle. just as you walked. taking more steps. zoning out as your mind was going through reels of film of a life that was yours… yet at the same time, wasn’t. you lived through it. you experienced the laughter. the friendship. but at the end of the day… it was not your body. it was never your body. but they cared for you. they cared for you. in their own twisted way… but the stories. it felt terrifying. you were no saint. no angel. it was a pedestal that was so steeped. you felt fear clutch deep into your own insecurities. that you would not actually be what they had perceived of you. that you were entirely different… in appearance… hell… you have gone through hell and back.
it was when you had walked a little ahead. your friend called for you. for something. for what? ❝ oof- ❞ you bumped into a figure. stumbling backwards. until strong hands reached out and grasped your arm. saving you from falling over. ❝ i’m sorry— ❞ you paused. as you are met eye to eye. pink eyes. behind a veil. they were so familiar. that you felt like you wanted to completely sink in them. ❝ it is okay. are you okay? ❞ her voice. you couldn’t help but feel all choked up. it sounded slightly different. but at the same time, it was her. it was rose. you can see the concern in her eyes. even though watching her brutal performance. the dance in the air… the splat that had you wincing. it was too much. you did not know if to sink into her arms or to pull away and recalibrate. to actually sit down. to sleep. it seemed like a far journey to the comfort of your home.
❝ i… i am okay. thank you for… asking ❞ you choked out. you were unsure if you wanted to choke out a sob or it was a breath. you slowly pulled your arm from hers. before her hands… the clawed tips traced along your bare hand. and for a moment, you saw how her eyes dilated. like they were sensing. but at the same time, it was such a brief touch. columbina stood there, she felt the inner turmoil. it was as if this human in front of her wanted to escape. to run away. the pain was so severe and pain. yet, it was laced with something that had her wanting to grab your hand and pull you close. it was a pain that had her stop. she need to seek more. she needed to hold your hand. her hands twitched. wanting to inch closer to pull. but only stopped. slowly trying to keep herself calm. yet the way you looked at her, in between if she was someone who was a safe haven… but also someone who scared you. why was that? she needed to know. one brief touch was not enough. she needed more. she needed it so badly that her hands ached. but one breath at a time.
but you were already pulled away, ❝ you are welcome ❞ columbina spoke with a warm expression that watched your expression. keeping in mind what was going on behind those pretty eyes of yours. why were you so frantic? why was your heart racing so fast. why was it that you were looking around, trying to find a route of escape? ❝ what tents did you visit, dear visitor? ❞ she asked, she wanted to be in your presence. even when you were scared. even when you felt like some cornered animal. your presence alone, it felt like them. it felt like they were alive. which troubled her greatly. jester would not like that one bit. he held their memory on the highest regard. he had kept many of their belongings close before allowing ticket taker to guard these treasures. they may have travelled. they may have lost the circus many times. but somehow, each time… they managed to keep their memory in tact. no matter the troubles. though her eyes glanced over at your friend that remained close. the white ticket loosely tucked in their pocket. somehow she was guessing that you had a hunch of some sort.
you paused. looking at her. rose… looked so different from before. she already looked like a human. but somehow, the one standing in front of you, was almost someone wearing a mask. metaphorically. her appearance alone was humanoid. ❝ all… all of them ❞ you answered quietly. you had turned away, feeling like you were going to crumple before her. ❝ but the tents are quite intense… i am heading back home to sleep ❞ you stepped back. a smile that was wavering as you grasped your friends hand. tugging them away. ❝ it… it was such a treat ❞ you murmured and immediately slipping away from the circus. though even as you walked away. you can feel her gaze seared against your back. even as you walked away. you were feeling more eyes against your back. you were unsure if it were either from animosity or something else… but all you can truly think of doing currently was to grab their friend, walk them back to their home safe and sound. before returning back home.
however, back in the purple tent, one quick sweep around. jester let out a soft click of the tongue. the mess they leave behind. they leave nothing good behind with what they touched. his gaze sharpened as he stepped along the rows of seats. allowing the fools to clean up the trash. popcorn kernels to even random receipt stubs. ❝ disgusting ❞ he hissed. he walked until his shoe had stepped on something solid. a rock or possibly someone’s belongings. he lift his shoe up. only to meet with a familiar purple hue. with a quick grace, he had reached down. grasping the smooth surface. an amethyst. a common stone. he had seen many use it. something spiritual about the stone. though, his gaze only softened for a brief moment. his fingers slowly closed around the smooth surface. even when it was the belongings of some human being… the stone and its name… remained a cherished memory.
——————————————————————————
it took half an hour. you had finally gotten home. your legs felt like they were being dragged down by some deep dark abyss. your weary tired soul felt like it was weighing down with so many thoughts running through your mind. too much. that you wanted to just collapse on your bed and just sleep. and that was what you were going to do. you trudged through your apartment. it sounded like you were just dragging yourself across the room. or sounded like some was pulling you across the wooden floors. your eyes were growing heavy. tired. you did not even want to take off your clothes that was just making you feel disgusting and icky. the sweat. the scent of the looming danger of the circus… the fear and nausea that bubbled inside you. no. you were at your wits end. and you needed sleep. you needed some kind of peace. so once you had collapsed on the bed. the bed that was lulling you to a peaceful sense of false security. you tried to pull something off, a coat? possibly anything. weakly kicking it off the bed.
a shift here. a small movement there. you were out cold. so emotionally, mentally and physically drained from the day that had been nothing but stress inducing. trying to welcome the warm embrace that was a deep sleep… and hopefully a dreamless slumber. the sound of the door moved. he stood there. six and five inches tall. towering and casting multiple shadows in your home. his golden eyes gleamed. holding such a pained fractured need and desperation. the bells were silent. even with each movement. his gaze didn’t leave your figure. no. not one bit. ❝ meu tesouro ❞ he began. his voice was wavering. as his clawed hands reached. even as he spoke, he saw no signs of you stirring awake at all. ❝ you have seem so tired… your journey back… it must have been so difficult ❞ he murmured, his gloved hands moved. brushing a strand of hair from your face.
❝ harlequin… he said i was mad. but he does not understand. he would not understand ❞ he frowned. ❝ you had helped me… i felt it when you helped me. your eyes, the way it wavers… it is the same. but you do not remember it yet… ❞ he leaned closer. his towering figure, his shadow swallowed you completely. ❝ i have searched so many faces… so many breaths i have counted… they… now i know that everyone before was wrong. i was wrong for not realising that the ones before did not hold a candle to you, meu tesouro… ❞ his voice lowered to a whisper. it was so intimate and quiet. he had watched your sleeping face. his expression was a mixture of so many. pain. care. reverence. madness… possession. ❝ harlequin… says you do not look like them. not exactly. the hair colour… the way your lips look… your nose is different ❞ he paused. he was trembling with a shaking need. ❝ but the way you exist… it is just like them. i would know… no, i made mistakes before. but i am right, this time ❞ his hand cupped your cheek. his breath shook.
❝ it is the way you stood. the way you walk… everything. ❞ he leaned. ❝ he said that i am seeing what i want to see… after over a hundred years. any significant resemblance would click… but he does not understand… or maybe he does… ❞ his voice wavered and weakened. as a tears started to well up in his eyes. ❝ everyone is so stupid… they do not see how you matter. how much you are just them ❞ he had let out a shaky breath. he finally pulled away. instead, he knelt beside your bed. his head laying against the soft plush bed. ❝ i will make them see… i will make sure everyone understand you are them. and they are you… i just need to see… that you even have a small hint of recognition ❞ he closed his eyes. ❝ … please… please just remember me… everyone… before i go completely mad ❞ his hands now placed upon your own hand.
it was complete sheer silence. he was breathing. he was settled onto the floor. his eyes fixed on the way you breathed. in and out. ❝ sleep a little longer, meu tesouro… the remembering… it will be painful… but i will watch over you. like how i should have back then. but now i will watch over you forever now ❞ as he sat there. he wanted to remain by your side. be the guardian. the protector. the sentinel… the monster that had his heart beating for you. and as you had slept on. sleeping so soundly. he would keep you close to him. he did not want to let you go… he just simply cannot. you were too important. he could not let you go again.
in your dreamless slumber, no… the scent of something sweet wafted in the air. as if your mind had conjured a scent so warm. you remained in the darken consciousness of your mind. walking across the empty land of your mind. the sound of distorted voices echoed throughout the chambers. your steps were light on what was the ground. it was solid… somewhat. but you continued to walk. trying to find some kind of exit. the retelling of the stories that were twisting. either the voices were in muffled distortion or booming at some points. a frown adorned your features as you continued to walk. one step at a time. not pausing. not stopping. the sound of someone familiar did caress your nerves. topaz? it sounded like him… except a lot more lower, a little raspy from disuse. his words struck a cord deep within you as you quietly questioned.
it was a matter on if you want to keep a distance from the circus for a while. or approach the circus once more. to figure out more. it was a desperate need. and just as you continued to walk. you heard the voice once more. ❝ meu tesouro… i must go soon… but i have waited for so long to say this… i love you. i love you so much… ❞
What if MC needs comfort but knows Harle doesn't do affection so instead of asking for a hug, MC asks to wear his cape like a blanket? As sort of a way to mimic him hugging them without forcing affection on him?
Would he be all non-chalant and just hand the cape to them or would he have a different reaction?
He would love that~ especially maybe reading it as you wanting to smell like him <3
But honestly? If you're already WITH Harlequin, he'll give you a hug or two if you need it. Though likely most of the hugging will have to be initiated by MC.
However, Harlequin would be more than happy to give his cape to MC especially after they explain why. He might even stare at them for a bit, wrapped in his cape, looking fondly before finding something snarky to say.
Hiii is me again, I'd really want something with Harlequin's Monster form so can I kindly ask for Reader x Harlequin on a date deep in the woods nearby the circus, playing a predatory game of hide and seek?
Thank youu!
The Freak Show of Horrors Oneshots
Artist Credit to: @naibuding, 谢谢!
Divider Credit to: @cursed-carmine, I only recolored it. Thank you for creating the divider!
Summary: It's the one-year anniversary being with Harlequin, and you prepared something special just for him.
Warning: Mildly Suggestive.
I'm Your Prize, Today and Forever More (Harlequin/Reader)
The cold air filled your lungs as you pumped your legs as fast as you could. Excitement, fear, and a little bit of regret on your face as you ran through the woods. You wanted to do something sweet for your first anniversary for him. Getting Jester’s approval wasn’t as easy as you promised; it’ll be close to the circus in case anything happens. With Jester reluctantly approving the idea, you got to work. Having a week to prepare and hiding it all from him to prepare your first anniversary date with him.
“Where are we going?” Harlequin asked, blindfolded. “You’ll see,” you answered. Leading him by the hand as you took him to the spot. “Dear one, if you wanted to have fun outside, you’ve just asked.”
“Well, it’s much better than sex. Matter of fact, you’re going to like what I planned for us.”
“Oh? Now you’ve gotten me interested, kitten. Not even a little hint?” You could tell how excited he was by how wide he was smiling as you led him deeper into the woods. Letting go of his hand and walking behind him to untie the blindfold, you smiled as he rubbed his eyes a little before becoming shocked at the scenery in front of him.
“Happy one-year anniversary, Harly,” you spoke softly, pressing a kiss on his cheek. Snapping him out of his daze as he looked at you. “... You made this?”
“Of course I did, silly. Now, come over and sit with me.” You grabbed his hand and took him to the small picnic area you made. Small, fake candles around with a large pizza with spicy green peppers and pepperoni, meat skewers, and a small cake with a gold happy anniversary candle. Harlequin was speechless when he sat down across from you and he slowly let a small, genuine smile spread. The night was filled with the two of you recalling memories, laughter, and jokes as Harlequin made another memory with you. His hat and mask put off to the side, the moonlight reflecting his smooth, scaly parts of his face.
As the night dragged on and the food was gone, an idea popped into your head. One final way to end the night. A mischievous smile was on your face as you turned to him, “Want to have one last fun before we go back to the circus?”
“Oh? What kind of fun are you thinking in your head?”
“You told me that you’re faster than Pierrot? Right? So why not use that in the form of hide and seek? It may surprise you, but I used to be on the track team back in high school.” You bragged. “I’ve always wanted to see if I still hold up to my skills back then. I had quite the competitive streak back then.”
“... Dear one, are you aware of what you’re asking me?” A dangerous chuckle escapes him as he licks his lips. “Wanting to play a game with me as I chase you? You love to play with fire, don’t you?” He purred.
“I do, after all; why wouldn’t I be with you in the first place if I didn’t? Hmm, let's see. If I win and manage to outrun you in 10 minutes, then you have to do whatever I wish. Vice versa if you win.”
“Very well, dear one. But out of my generosity, I’ll give you, hmm… how about a five-minute head start? But be warned, kitten. If I catch you, do be aware I won’t be gentle afterwards, my prize.” He chuckled darkly as you laughed nervously. Well, too late to back out now. On the count of three, you booked it. A roar of laughter from Harlequin echoed in the woods as you ran like hell.
Five minutes have already passed, and you’re sure you managed to get quite a good distance from him. Slowing down a bit, your hand leaning against the tree as you catch your breath from running. But you can’t stop, not when victory is in sight. The clock is ticking, and you can’t help but feel eyes on you as you run through the woods. You have to last for at least 10 minutes, an extra five for the head start. Was it a little dumb to challenge him? Maybe. But you’ve been wanting to do something like this for a while.
Branches nicking your skin as you stomp hard against the dirt, your heart pounding from excitement. When was the last time you felt this alive again? Harlequin then jumped down from above, ready to catch you with a wide, toothy grin. Making a sharp turn, you bumped a little hard against the tree as you ran faster. “Sorry, Harly! But I’m winning this one!”
Before you can get another step forward, you feel his tentacle wrapped around you as he pulls your body back with a shocked yelp. “Seems like I’ve won this game, kitten. Why not end this game right now? I promise I’ll be gentle if you surrender.”
Pushing your body against his chest, his nose pressed against your neck as he inhaled your scent. “You smell dangerously delightful, dear one.” He purred. “I can feel your heart racing underneath my touch. Was it because I caught you or… something else?”
“Who knows? Maybe both?” You teased. “Why not figure it out back at your trailer?”
“Careful, querida. You might tempt me.” He whispers hotly against your ear, sending shivers down your spine. “Then do it,” you said. Giggling as you felt him picking you up and racing back to the circus. Worth it.
[MINORS DO NOT INTERACT FURTHER– SENSIBLE CONTENT UNDER THE CUT] –for any questions my inbox is open–
Chapter 28: I don't want to be alone
-Don't forget to comment your opinion-
{~♤♡◇♧~}
Spaventa doesn’t remember the last time he had so much fun in his life. He doesn’t remember the last time he was surrounded by people his age, matching his energy, playing around– without the looming presence of having to immediately go home if the place got too crowded. His monster species is one of those where the offspring stays with the parents for quite some time and tend to form small packs to hunt, defend and protect each other. They don’t last long.
A winter.
A year.
Maybe two if the situation is really bad for the families.
But at the end, they always break up and go on different paths during the spring, till they reach a new place to settle and form another pack with the monsters around. Not necessarily of the same species either– as long as they were willing to collaborate, everyone would be accepted. It’s a matter of survival. The place hopping is a matter of survival. Not getting too attached to the new allies is a matter of survival. Growing up surrounded by almost only adults. . .is a matter of survival.
The rare times that Spaventa ended up in a group with other kids close to his age always prompted the best feeling in his heart as he doesn’t have to be babied all the time. Yet, it also bloomed the saddest sensation when he inevitably had to let them go. . .re-start the cycle. . .it’s all a matter of survival.
Sometimes he wished he didn't have to survive so much and instead spent his time running through the forest with other kids– playing around till the sun went down.
“Having siblings is like having a friend that never goes away”
It was winter, Spaventa and his family tried to move toward the south but were forced to join a pack that mercily welcomed them as a sudden snow-storm picked up and made it impossible to see past your nose. Everything outside of the cave was completely white, the once immense forest wiped away with an eraser together with any smell and sound.
Spaventa doesn’t like the snow. It’s the number one enemy for a monster. Doing its best to hide any track of their next potential meal. It goes against everything that is needed to survive. With snow. . .it’s always a matter of survival. . .
The pack of monsters that they met had three children inside, without counting Spaventa himself. Two boys and a girl, the latter of a completely different species from the boys. . .she was older, maybe just a couple of years older than the tallest goat-like monster while the shorter was younger than Spaventa, not by much.
“Do you have siblings?” the black goat asked Spaventa, the both of them sitting by the entrance of the cave and admiring (in Spaventa’s case loathing) the snow-storm still going strong right outside. Breathing out a small, sad flame from his mouth, the white haired monster frowned and shook his head “Don’t have those. It’s just me, mom and dad”
It hasn’t always been him, mom and dad.
Once it was him, mom, dad and aunt.
Now it’s only him, mom and dad.
“Ahhhh? Is that so? You must feel so lonely all by yourself” a clicking sound escaped from the goat monster, his hoofs tapping the rock he was sitting on “‘Kiki’ told me that you guys travel a lot and don’t always stay with a pack” ‘Kiki’ wasn’t the real name of the older black goat but it was the closest human word for better understanding. Instead Koko could be used for the younger goat.
“My species instead is the opposite of yours. We always stay in huge packs from birth until we die and preferably always where grass grows” Koko chuckled, salivating at the thought of fresh grass to much on “Unfortunately this snow-storm cut us out of our pack while we were trying to evade it and now we’re are stuck here. . .I. . .” the goat eyes lowered to the ground “I hate being alone. . .I’m so grateful for my older brother Kiki being always by my side. Older siblings are the best!”
Spaventa watched him talk and talk, goat monsters were known to be really chatty– yet there wasn’t something alluring in their voice that never seemed to annoy anyone. . .especially when he started to share his experience with an older brother. Now THAT was what truly captivated the white haired monster– having a sibling. . .having an older sibling.
They way Koko told him all these cool stories about Kiki, how he loves this old guitar thing he stole from the humans, how he always knew the best and secret spots with the most beautiful view, how he was so funny and the best and amazing and–
Spaventa always wanted an older sibling.
He wanted someone to spend his days with– someone that wasn’t a guardian yet still could get him out of trouble lifting just one finger.
He hates being alone.
“So! What are you supposed to be, Spaventa?” one of the kids approached him after being eliminated in dodgeball, completely mesmerized by his rather weird outfit and, before he could open his mouth, another girl quickly made her way closer with a huge smile “Oh! If you are a fairy– we have our fairy house where all the fairies get together to make potions and mud cakes and learn how to fly! Of course I’m the president because it’s my house tree and I have the prettiest wings!” she twirled around to show the plastic fairy wings coated in paint and glitter.
“As if he is a fairy! Are you blind? It’s obvious he is a vampire!” another kid chimed in, prompting the fairy girl to lightly whack his head with her fake wand “Obviously he is a fairy in disguise? Why else would he be covered from head to toe?” she argued with her cheek puffed, which made the whacked child grit his teeth in anger “Because he is a vampire! He needs to protect himself from the sun. That’s like. . .vampire 101!”
Behind his bangs, Spaventa’s eyes widened in surprise– not expecting these kids to suddenly get into an heated argument about what he was (in this case not pretending to be but they don’t know this). However, the thing that made his brain short circuit the most was the fact that they. . .these kids. . .they wanted to be monsters?!
Some of them pretended to be fairies, mermaids, vampires– there were some kids that even had wolf ears and acted like them.
He knew that this was all fake. . .that this was just a game for human children. . .but goddamn. . .it made his heart warm so nicely and a feeling of acceptance and inclusion blooming inside his lungs. . .he almost wanted to spit out fire from happiness!
“I’m. . .” he slowly started, cutting off the bickering between the fairy and vampire who turned their heads toward him with confusion “I’m. . .” Spaventa repeated, looking at his hand hidden under the hunter jacket you gave him before his eyes shone with something akin to determination “I’m actually a dragon who is trying to get my treasure back!”
. . . .
. . .
. .
.
“Waaaaah! That’s so cool!” the fairy girl gushed. her plastic wings bouncing with each of her jumps. By her side the vampire kid grinned smugly, rubbing a finger under his nose “A dragon uh? Dragons have always been allies of vampires. . .you know what that means?” he turned on his heels and snatched the plastic wand out of the fairy girl’s hands “We should conquer the fairies hideout!” and ran away, closely followed by the girl, who looked ready to kill him any second now.
“You liar! Dragons are fairies allies! They both have wings!”
“Vampires also have wings. . .when they turn into bats!”
A small chuckle slipped past the child's lips as he saw the fairy girl take off her wings and whack the vampire right on the head, prompting him to cower and let go of the wand.
This feels. . .this feels really nice. . .mom and dad will surely be surprised when he will tell them about all the adventures he is having with humans.
“Hey champ” a new voice echoed from behind him, it prompted the monster child to turn around in time to see an older teenager make his way inside the playground with a smug smirk. He walked past him and instead made his way toward the fairy little girl before eyeing the kill she did and whistling “You got beaten by a girl again, Ant?” the vampire kid abruptly lifted his head and glared at the older teen “It’s Anthony! Not ant! And she is insane”
The older teen loudly cackled and picked the little girl in his arms, who stuck out her tongue “That’s my lil sis! Good job! Did you use the ‘whack-a-mole’ technique I taught you?”
Spaventa quietly let out a small ‘Ohh. . .’ at the interaction happening before his eyes, taking hold of his arm and awkwardly swaying from side to side. He was her older brother. . .he was. . .so cool. Just like Koko always used to describe Kiki.
The red eyes of the monster lowered to the ground, teeth biting the inside of his cheek. . .the words echoing in his mind.
“Having siblings is like having a friend that never goes away”
. . . .
He is so envious right now. . .
Stubborn tears built in the corner of his eyes before he would wipe them away so fast he must have looked completely insane. No! He is a big monster kid! He. . .He needs to find his parents and get back to them!
“Did ya little idiots know that a circus is passing through the main road of the town?” the older teen teasingly informed, gracefully evading a flurry of angry weak punches when instead he pushed the focus on something that no kid could resist. A traveling circus full of wonder and magic. It was like he managed to flip a switch and the frown turned into huge excited smiles “Are you sure big bro? Where are they!? I wanna see the dancers!” the little girl pushed her brother’s head back and forth in pure happiness.
“Hey, hey. Slow down champ, I’m gonna take you to see the carts passing by. . .but you need to keep your mouth shut with mom and dad. You too Ant” he sternly scolded both children, who swore up and down to remain as quiet as a rock, before his eyes travelled where Spaventa was awkwardly standing and lifted an eyebrow in amusement “And you?” he asked.
The white haired monster flinched “M-Me?” which prompted the older brother to laugh “No, the tooth fairy.”
Ugh. . .he was acting just like you. . .
“My lil sis and Ant got a liking to you, so automatically I have a liking to you too. Welcome to the gang. Wanna join us and see the circus, Curly boy?” the brunette smiled smugly at the sight of the white haired child’s annoyed expression (or at least what he could manage to see) “I-It’s Spaventa!” the monster argued which did nothing but fuel the teen amusement “Whatever you say Curly boy. Whatever you say” and started making his way toward the main road with his little sister in his arms as she kept pointing forward “Quick! I wanna see the dancers”
Before he could blink, the corner of Spaventa’s jack got abruptly tugged as Anthony was urging him to follow the other two “Come on! Circuses are always so fun and they never stop in this tiny town! You can’t miss them!”
Spaventa never went to a circus. . .he will never be able to go into one. . .so. . . how could he miss such an occasion?
Making their way out of the playground, the four of them popped right beside the main road where a lot of curious eyes already gathered outside of their homes to look at the different carts passing by. First were the plain white trucks leading a red one far in the back, which was the one gathering most of the attention as on top of it, peeking out of a window placed on the ceiling, two performers were halfway out– waving at the citizens with wide smiles, throwing colorful confetti and doing small playful acts. And the people loved it!
They weren’t meant to stop, just simply passing by and amusing the people on the way. It wasn’t like they were driving fast either. . .almost more at a walking pace.
“Look Spaventa!” Anthony pointed toward the main red truck, pushing his way through the crowd and dragging the red eyed monster at the same time “Those are clowns! I think they are clowns. . .they look like clowns!” gathering his balance back, Spaventa was finally able to lift his head and gaze at this infamous ‘circus’. His eyes immediately landed on a silver haired performer, juggling knives with his hands only to shift to his pink partner by his side, a girl who was spreading confetti around. Beside the trucks and carts were more performers, walking with the vehicle, waving at people, making sure that no one would try to hurt them or the trucks.
They were creepy, they were full of details, they were so mesmerizing.
Everything was so colorful and overwhelming. . .how could it not captivate the monster child?
He watched as the circus slowly went down the main road before turning down a secondary street– which would lead toward the border of the country. “Come on” Anthony tugged Spaventa’s jacket once again, not leaving him a second to process his words as the young vampire quickly tried to follow the Circus down the road, wanting to watch it as much as possible before it definitely left the town. The young monster stood still for a second before snapping out of his stupor as his legs moved before his brain could.
“W-Wait” he called out the new human friend, trying his best to follow him in the crowd of people slowly dispersing after the spectacle. He turned left, where he believed Anthony or the circus went down only to accidentally bumping against something hard. It knocked him back, falling on his ass with a pained whine– the abrupt movement making the hood over his head slip down around his shoulders, showing to the world two curled horns between pure snowy hair.
A shadow covered that little light that filtered through the clouds, strands of long white hair parting in the middle of his face which allowed two red eyes to look at man hovering over him.
A man in elegant clothes.
■__—チケット—__■
Running through the crowd, you paid little mind to the people giving you dirty looks whenever you bumped or pushed through them– this was one of your last concerns if you could be honest. An angry Karen is ten times better than an inhuman obsessive clown. You followed the main road, down toward the park you last saw Spaventa playing with other kids, and cursed yourself for allowing even a second for your muscles to relax and lower your guard.
You don’t know if this circus is really them or a completely different one. You don’t know how they managed to locate you already, despite all your efforts. You don’t know if it’s pure coincidence. You don’t even know what exactly is your plan to evade them. You are kinda just. . .making up as the seconds go by.
At the moment all you want is to find Spaventa and maybe hide in a hole to wait for them to go away. . .you don’t know when you started worrying so much for a kid that wasn’t related to you or your species. . .maybe you didn’t want to be alone once again. . .maybe it’s a moral obligation– thing is. You need to find him.
Which is why you were freaking out when you turned down into the park and your eyes saw every single child except for the only one you needed. Leaning against the trunk of a tree, you punched the wood out of frustration– looking around from time to time and expecting those freaks to pop out anytime now. . .did they have already passed the town? Were they on their way? Are they hidden somewhere waiting for you to close your eyes so that they could sink their sharp teeth in you?
Your chest heaving up and down so fast it hurt your chest, a tingling feeling hunting the tips of your fingers and cheeks. Were you having a panic attack?
No no no no–Not now! You can’t lose your cool now– you can’t!
Slapping your hands over your cheeks to get the feeling back, you bit your tongue and forced your legs to move and continue your searching. This is not a big town. . .and Spaventa it’s rather peculiar–you can’t miss him. There is no way in hell that you will. Maybe he got spooked with all these humans reversing into the main road?
With that knowledge, you quickly made your way far away from it, choosing to turn down one of the smaller roads lacking all the civilians gathered for whatever reason in the same place. All around you was desert, which you weren’t sure if it calmed you down or further made you anxious, and hopefully your little monster ally just hid under the shade of a tree.
Your steps faltered when you reached the outskirt of the town, from which field upon field welcomed your view. Eyes looking around with nervousness, your elaborated breath was the only sound that your ears could pick out. . .
“No! Let me go! I told you I don’t wanna!”
Until it wasn’t.
Your blood literally froze as your brain immediately matched the voice to Spaventa’s face. Thousands of horrible scenarios just flashed before your eyes like lightning– what if some kids are bullying him? What if they found out that he is a monster? What if some creepy guy is harassing him?
Before you knew it, your legs broke into a run and you rushed toward the origin of the voice– down a road, so narrow only one car at time could go through it, until you turned the corner. . .and went still like a statue as your eyes landed on Spaventa struggling to break free from. . .Ticket Taker grip firm on his arm. The gentleman didn’t look angry at the young monster pulling back– more like a frustrated parent trying to convince his child to listen.
His gloved hand was wrapped around Spaventa's lower arm and with the other he tried to keep him quiet “Please, I ask of you to lower your voice–” he was cut off by another tug from the child “No! Go away! Let me go!” his leg lifted to kick Bil’s shin, which didn’t earn the desired effect as the ebony haired monster didn’t even flinch “Listen child. Stop struggling, I’m just trying– I’m trying to not get you killed okay? I’m on your side, we can help you”
From the safety of your position, you barely managed to breathe out through your dry throat and inhale enough oxygen to reason on what your next step should be. . .in this. . .precarious situation. . .Ticket Taker was here– just a few feet away from you– one of them was just before your eyes, fighting with Spaventa to probably hide him from other humans. And the others? Where could they be? Just behind your back? How can you get Spaventa and–
Wait a second. . .
Why are you so adamant on getting the monster child back?
Why would you get yourself in danger for him. . .in GLARING, horrifying danger. Risking everything. . .the damn hell you just went through to escape them. . .why should you?
You took a step back.
Spaventa obviously is uncomfortable traveling with you, a human. . .and even if he was being difficult now, once Ticket Taker and the other explain that they are all monsters. . .he will definitely be better off. After all. . .they have food that can fill his stomach. They can protect him from evil humans. They can teach him how to stay undercover. They can help him find his parents.
You. . .this totally dumb–are you standing still? You need to run, now!
Turning on your heels, your legs started walking away.
“Listen child you–” Ticket Taker hissed the more Spaventa trashed in his hold “No! No! No! Let me go! I don’t wanna! I don’t like you!” he cried out, kicking and punching.
Just ignore him. Just ignore him. He is gonna be better off with them.
Your shoes scraped the cement beneath them, the walk slightly picking up pace.
“I said to let me go! I need to reach the border! Find my parents! I-I- You are scaring me!”
Your eyebrows furrowed, eyes squeezed shut, fingers wrapping around metal.
Your pace accelerated.
“Big sib! Please help me!”
You started running-
.
.
.
.
*SMACK!*
–Straight toward Ticket Taker before slamming down on his head the heavy shovel you picked up from the side of the street.
You heard him grunt, probably from surprise rather than pain, but that managed to surprise him long enough that his grip on Spaventa loosened and you sprung in action– letting the shovel clatter to the ground before scooping up the monster child and BOOKING it out of that damn street.
You didn’t look back, you didn't dare to. You just ran.
You ran as fast as you could.
You ran as you felt Spaventa's arms squeezing you tightly and his head hiding in your shoulder.
A little continuation of my... TFC Theory and Prediction (Harlequin’s Idea of Love)
Okay, after reading AMA 2 – Parts 8 and 9 on the official blog, I can add this:
''Hides everything''
" Won't say it outright''
''Diminish his own significance''
…It confirms that he has difficulty showing his true self, that he doesn’t feel secure in himself, and that he may either fear doing so or simply not know how.
He likes the Doctor because he doesn’t judge, doesn’t push and is a good listener.
Besides that, it’s cute to see Harlequin keeping himself busy with little outings like looking for things he finds interesting, or just being in someone’s company—like when he helps hand out flyers with Pierrot or Ticket Taker (= scene where he calls us to his tent), and now we know he sometimes spends time with the Doctor too. I find myself wondering if it’s because he feels lonely, even if it’s just to have someone there… I think so.
And there it is:
“I never knew Harlequin’s parents, he was alone when we first crossed paths.”
...
He was alone… young and by himself...
...
....That brings me back to what I asked in my previous post:
- Did Harlequin ever truly receive enough love from his parents?
Harlequin fucking you, one of his cocks deep inside of you while he holds the other against your clit to rub against you each rough thrust. Then he suddenly he pulls almost all the way out and uses his thumb to slowly push his second cock inside too. The stretch is excruciating, but he's rubbing soothing circles into your cheek and wiping away your tears as he holds your face, forehead pressed against yours. And he praises you so sweetly as he slowly forces both of his lengths inside of you, talking you through the pain.
"Such a good girl for me, hmm?"
"You can take it my sweet bunny, I know you can"
"Shhh, I'll take such good care of you, pet, just relax for me~"
You're so perfect for him, he could sit there with you for hours, however long it takes you to adjust to the feel of all of him, it's worth it. Why you decided to choose him? He's not sure. But he has you right where he wants you and he's never gonna let you go now.
Maybe you planed on talking about this in the post you said you were writing but what proof would make each of them believe that you are in fact the same kind human from so long ago?
So sorry for the late answer! I didn’t wanna answer this question quite yet until I posted my larger outline of my AU but the gist of it goes as described:
In general, they’re all hesitant to believe that the MC is a reincarnation of the human they cared for long ago. But in some sense, they always had a little feeling that you are more than what you seem. It really boils down to each of them having varying degrees of denial and willful ignorance until they’re faced with irrefutable proof:
Pierrot is frozen when you tell him that you knew he held you as you slowly died, and his was the last voice you heard before everything faded to black. He told you to sleep. He believes you, not only because you’re the one telling him, but also because the words you say are undeniably true.
Harlequin cannot deny the fact that you have a set of tiny birthmarks on your neck, right where he used his claws to poison a certain human so long ago. You tell him that he didn’t want it to hurt and his heart skips one too many beats out of dread.
The Ticket Taker is not easily swayed by words. But that is exactly why his heart stops when he sees you take out a few matches from your pocket and start speaking about things that should have died along with that old circus. He doesn’t deny it any longer after that.
The Doctor is the one who is hardest to convince. Not because he doesn’t believe that you know things you shouldn’t, but because he initially assumes you inherited memories that aren’t yours. It’s not until you make observations about him (like you once did in the old circus) that he recognizes the evidence of reincarnation.
Jester is probably the one who needs the least amount of proof. He’s actually rather intuitive. Not enough to know who you are immediately after seeing you for the first time, but enough to recognize the signs fairly quickly and accept them. (That does not mean his reaction towards you being a reincarnation is accepting.)
Overall, it doesn’t take a ton of proof and effort to make them realize that you are, in fact, the same human from countless years ago born again, but it’s what happens after they make the connections that you’d want to worry about.
How would you think Pierrot could react if Y/N just suddenly got to a bitty size?
btw love your art man
Hmm-! I would imagine he'd be concerned at first, but I also feel like he'd think Y/N is super cute. And, of course, would somehow have an exact replica miniature version of Y/N's room for them to stay in... >v>
Good news, everyone! The plush from Gimme Swag has released and is now available for purchase!
Just go to the link above to order your favorite yandere boy! Please be aware the current estimated shipping date is between December 30th and January 30th!
This campaign is in partnership with Gimme Swag, and it's only available for a limited time!
We know many of you were worried about missing the first pre-order, so this is your chance to finally bring Pierrot home and have him in your arms!
The campaign will only be available for 30 days. Once it ends, the plush will no longer be available for purchase, and there won't be any extra stock available.
So be sure to keep an eye on the campaign dates so you don't miss your chance!
※•●🌙●•※
{//||--Fluff Writing Prompt #4: Festival
Harlequin x Reader
Some suggestive remarks; kept it... tame.
LOL I rewrote some things, because I feel like I wrote him too softly. There was an ask I saw answered earlier today about Harlequin and how he is when faced with genuine affections and kindness. I really wanted to explore that dynamic.
Hopefully, this doesn't take away from his character too much? >.>;;
The sunset bled bruised hues of purple and gold over the lake, casting long shadows across the small festival grounds. The colors played hard across the sky, turning the clouds into a reluctant, retreating fire making way for the night. Overhead, string lights hummed softly as a warm summer breeze carried the scent of roasted corn, spun sugar, and fried dough through the air.
Harlequin leaned waiting against a wooden support beam of a random stall, his arms crossed over his chest. He looked entirely out of place, yet behaved completely at home while people-watching. He had the night off from the circus—a rare luxury. When you extended an invitation to this quiet local gathering, curiosity won him over. When you caught his eye in the crowd: he watched with a tilted smirk, sharp emerald eyes tracking your scrumptious silhouette.
For a small while he simply followed you through the crowd—a playful predator biding his time. Swept up in the magic of the booths full of charms, games, and food, you hadn’t even registered his presence at first. But when you turned, your eyes finally meeting his through the distance, all hesitation vanished. A warm smile brightened your features as you eagerly waved and made your way over to your favorite green monster.
Harlequin diminished the space between you, already leaning close. It'd been so tempting... watching your hips sway as you walked in pure ignorance of him just moments ago.
"Hello, little bird," he purred, his voice a low, teasing vibration against your skin. "You keep staring at that ring toss like it owes you money. Are you going to play, or are you intimidated by cheap plastic?"
"No. I just got here. I’m... pacing myself," you shot back, rolling your eyes but smiling anyway. You stepped up to the counter, tossing a crumpled bill to the bored looking teenager who worked the booth, and took three plastic rings.
You took aim, channeled your focus, and tossed the first one. It clipped the rim of a glass bottle and bounced abruptly into the dirt.
Harlequin let out a genuine laugh at your failure, stepping in until you could feel the warmth of his chest against your back. Instantly heat shot to your face. "Oof. Tragically short. Perhaps the wind?" he mocked gently, leaning down so his lips brushed the shell of your ear. When he realized nobody was looking, his forked green tongue dipped out to lick the shell of your ear. "Or... perhaps you're distracted by my devastatingly handsome presence?"
"Shut up," you laughed, your heart doing a predictable, quickened little flutter. He caught the spike in your pulse—as he always did—and his smirk widened, a dangerous, playful glint in his eyes as he relished in the feeling. He loved having the upper hand, loved making you gasp with just a mere shift in his weight.
With shaky hands from his proximity to you, you threw the second and third rings. One sailed completely over the grid of glass bottles; the other hit the wooden divider and rolled into a corner of the stall.
Your face fell into a blank stare, the heat in your cheeks increasing from embarrassment now.
"Miserable," Harlequin tutted, shaking his head with theatrical pity. "Absolutely devastating. Step aside, darling. Let a professional show you how it's done."
He threw a handful of bills onto the counter. The stall worker didn’t even look up, merely sliding a heavy wooden crate of rings forward. Harlequin plucked one out, balancing it on the tip of his gloved, clawed finger. He didn't take a calculated stance or even seem to aim. With a casual, fluid flick of his wrist, the ring landed with a perfect, resounding clink right over the neck of the center bottle.
Of fucking course it did.
The worker blinked, suddenly awake. "Beginner's luck," the teenager muttered.
Harlequin smirked, his eyes flashing with a wicked, competitive spark. "Oh, is it, now?"
Clink. Clink. Clink.
He tossed them backward. He tossed them without looking. He tossed three at once, and just about every single one of them found its mark, settling neatly over the glass necks of the bottles. The worker’s face drained of color, his jaw dropping as he stared at the rigged game being utterly dismantled by a man who looked like he belonged in a dark, feverish daydream. The game was supposed to be impossible—the bottles were spaced too tightly, the rings made too light. But Harlequin didn't care about the rules of a small-town carnival.
Actually, he didn't really much care for most rules at all.
"I—I think you've had enough turns, man," the worker stammered, pulling the emptied crate back defensively.
"Oh, but we were just getting warmed up," Harlequin chuckled with a feigned pout, leaning over the counter, his razored smile sharp enough to cut glass. "But fine. I'll take my spoils. The biggest ones you have. No, not that one—the obnoxious, oversized bear... And that frog—yes, all of them."
Minutes later, you were walking down the dirt path, completely buried under a mountain of cheap, brightly colored stuffed animals. You could barely see over the top of a giant plush panda. Harlequin walked beside you in grinning victory, hands lazily tucked into his pockets, looking immensely proud of himself.
"You're a menace," you mumbled from behind an oversized pink flamingo. "I can't carry all of these."
"Consider it a lesson in humility," he replied, giving the flamingo a playful tug. "Next time, don't question my—"
He paused realizing you stopped walking.
Ahead of you, a little girl and her younger brother stood near a fence, watching the flashing lights of the ferris wheel empty-handed. Without a second thought, you sidestepped Harlequin and walked over to them.
"Hey, guys," you said softly, dropping to one knee to meet their gazes. "My friend here won way too many of these—honestly...he's already pretty spoiled and doesn't need any of them. Think you could do me a huge favor and take a couple off my hands?"
The children’s faces lit up like fireworks. The little girl eagerly took the giant panda, hugging it tightly, while the boy grabbed the bright green frog with a wide, gap-toothed grin. They thanked you profusely before running off to show their parents, playfully fighting over who would get to show-and-tell first.
Harlequin stood in a silent stillness, his hands went rigid inside of his pockets.
He watched you stand up, brushing the dirt and grass from your knee with a soft, untroubled smile on your lips as you looked over the remaining plushies in your arms. There was no theatricality in your gesture. No hidden motive. Just pure, simple kindness; the kind that asked for nothing in return. Ridiculous.
Deep within his chest, something shifted—something heavy, dark, and long-buried. A strange, terrifying warmth blossomed behind his ribs, spreading through his veins like wildfire.
It was uncomfortable.
He looked at you, really looked at you, and felt the crushing weight of his own dark existence. He was a creature of the circus, a monster built on smoke, shenanigans, and manipulation. He belonged in the shadows, playing dirty games with unsuspecting souls.
And here you were. Living, breathing light.
So painfully gentle. So completely genuine.
You turned back to him, catching him in his stillness. You saw the way his sharp gaze had softened, the way the tight, mocking line of his shoulders had dropped. You let out a chuckle, stepping closer, your eyes crinkling with affection.
He looked so confused.
"What's with that face?" you asked playfully, hoping to make him feel a bit more comfortable with a light teasing. "Mad I gave away all your hard-earned treasure?"
Harlequin blinked, violently yanked back into reality. The warmth in his chest flared into a sudden, defensive panic. His control slammed back into place, though it sat just a fraction of an inch crooked. He looked away quickly, crossing his arms and scoffing, though his cheeks were distinctly pinkened.
"Mad? Putz grila...," he sneered playfully, his voice dripping with carefully constructed sarcasm. "I'm simply mourning the loss of my flawless victory trophies. You ruined my aesthetic that I was going for, little bird. I was establishing dominance over the locals with my prizes, and you've gone and turned them into a charity act. Truly, a devastating blow to my reputation."
"Right. Your reputation," you teased, nudging his shoulder with your own.
“I suppose you'll just have to owe me something in return. I'm quite hurt,” he trailed off, his claw lightly tracing designs at the small of your back. Green eyes watched the action, imagining how the curve of your ass would look so delicious when bared... beneath him—
He looked at you, his smirk returning, but his eyes lingered on yours just a moment too long. The steady, calm rhythm of your heart beat a quiet cadence in the space between you.
You weren't afraid of him.
You'd learned exactly what he was, and yet, you looked at him as if he belonged here, under the soft festival lights, right beside you. He hated how much he liked it. He hated that he was beginning to fall for you, entirely helpless against the gravity of your kind heart.
"Come on," he grumbled, grabbing your wrist with a gentle but firm grip, pulling you toward the food stalls. "Before you give away the rest of my dignity, let’s get something to eat."
The smell of smoky, spiced barbecue and fresh lemonade drew the both of you to a small wooden stall closest to the lake. You reached into your bag for your wallet, but before your fingers could even brush the fabric, Harlequin shoved past you with a dramatic sigh.
"If you'll step aside," he smirked, holding up crisp bills between his index and middle fingers, sliding them suavely across the counter before you could even object. He leaned in close, his breath tickling your ear as you watched the vendor gather your meals. "A gentleman...or rather, a monster with excellent taste, never lets his captive pay for her own dinner. It ruins the illusion of my control over this little date. Besides, I can think of many ways you could repay me later..."
"So... this is a date?" you asked, focusing on the word (much to his dismay) as you accepted a large mason jars of fresh, ice-cold lemonade and a basket of food to share.
"Think of it as an... interrogation," he corrected smoothly with a mischievous wink, taking the basket of spicy bbq from you. "I'm observing human rituals in the wild. And seeing you in that outfit? I'd be happy to bribe you a bit more... physically to answer any questions I might have."
You shook your head, grinning at his bold nature. You walked together away from the bustling center of the festival, guiding your steps toward the quiet, grassy banks of the lake. The water was smooth as glass, reflecting the starry night sky and the distant, colorful glow of the festival. The crowd thinned out until the music was just a faint, rhythmic thumping in the distance.
As you both walked along the grassy shore, a tiny, blinking greenish-gold light drifted past your face. Then another. And another.
"Oh! Look," you breathed, stopping near the water's edge. The tall reeds at the lake's border were alive with hundreds of tiny, pulsating lights. Fireflies drifted through the air like fallen stars rising back into the atmosphere.
Harlequin watched a firefly land on a nearby leaf, its abdomen glowing rhythmically. "Insects with nightlight bottoms? Fascinating, but... lacking in much of a purpose." He raised a brow at them, lightly swatting one away as it drifted too close to the meal you were both about to share.
"They're beautiful," you countered softly, a nostalgic warmth washing over your face. "I haven't seen them in so long... When I was younger, my family used to vacation once a year in a tiny cabin out in the countryside. There were fields of them—millions, it felt like. I used to spend hours just running through the grass, trying to catch them in my hands and letting them go."
You took a sip of your lemonade, your eyes locked on the blinking lights with a quiet, childlike reverence. "It felt like magic back then. I guess I forgot how nice it feels to just... stand still and watch them."
Harlequin didn't look at the fireflies. He looked at you.
He listened to the soft lilt of your voice, his emerald eyes tracing the gentle slope of your jaw, the way your chest rose and fell with a steady, peaceful breath. You were so easily fascinated by nature, so profoundly pure in a world that he knew to be incredibly cruel. The feelings he had felt earlier came rushing back, stronger this time, threatening to drown his cynical disposition entirely. He wanted to be near this. He wanted to wrap himself in your warmth, to keep you close against him, to tether himself to the only thing in his darkened world that felt real—
BOOM.
A sudden, thunderous roar shattered the quiet air as the first firework exploded over the lake. A brilliant cascade of crimson and silver rained down, illuminating the water in a blinding flash of color.
You gasped, your eyes widening in complete wonder. You immediately looked up, entirely captivated, watching the sky split open with brilliant streaks of blue, green, and gold. Your meal went forgotten as the show began. The heavy, rhythmic thuds of the explosions vibrated in your chest, but your face was lit with nothing but pure, unadulterated awe. You looked exactly like a child discovering magic for the first time.
Harlequin took a step back, going completely ignored by your absolute fixation on the sky. His eyes darted from your face to the mason jar of lemonade you'd handed him at some point.
Moving with the silent, lightning-fast precision of a performer who spent his life mastering sleight of hand, Harlequin quickly downed the rest of his lemonade, tossing the ice into the grass. He unscrewed the metal lid, keeping his eyes locked on you to ensure your attention remained firmly fixated on the heavens.
The fireworks show reached a crescendo, the bright flashes drawing dozens of curious fireflies out from the reeds and into the open air around you.
Harlequin moved like a shadow. With swift, delicate sweeps of his arm, he began to scoop the blinking insects out of the air. His long fingers swirled around them, guiding them gently into the mouth of the glass jar before sealing the lid. One, two, four, seven... he moved with a strange, focused intensity, his usual mocking smirk completely absent as he concentrated on his silent task. By the time the sky dissolved into a heavy haze of golden smoke and glittering embers, he had captured a small galaxy of eleven glowing fireflies inside the glass.
He stepped back to your side just as the final echoes of the grand finale rumbled across the water.
You let out a breath you felt like you’d been holding the entire time, a laugh escaping your lips. "Wow. That was absolutely—"
"You know, little bird," Harlequin interrupted, his voice dropping into that familiar, low, velvety purr as he stepped directly into your personal space. "You look utterly ridiculous when you stare at the sky like that with your mouth wide open. I half-expected a moth to fly in."
You turned to look at him, a sharp retort on the tip of your tongue, but you were completely cut off.
Harlequin leaned down, his hand sliding behind your neck, his fingers tangling into your hair with a sudden, intoxicating pressure. He pulled you in, crashing his lips against yours in a kiss that was surprisingly soft, yet possessive enough to steal the remaining air right from your lungs. Your heart went wild, hammering furiously against your ribs as the sudden, dizzying warmth of him consumed you.
Before you could fully process the heat of his mouth against yours, he took your right hand, guiding it down. He pressed the smooth, cool glass of the mason jar into your palm.
"Don't let go, unless you'd prefer me to put something else in your hand," he sung playfully against your lips, his breath warm, his thumb rubbing firmly over your fingers.
He pulled back just an inch, his dark eyes glittering with a fierce, unspoken emotion as he kept his own hand firmly over yours, trapping your fingers against the side of the jar.
You blinked, breathless and flushed, and looked down.
Inside the jar eleven tiny fireflies pulsed with a brilliant, concentrated light. It was a miniature lantern of living stardust, glowing brightly against the darkness of the lake bank. He had caught your childhood memories and held them right there, in the palm of your hand.
A sudden, overwhelming wave of emotion hit you. Your eyes welled with tears, the bright lights of the fireflies blurring into beautiful, watery streaks. You looked up at him, your lips trembling slightly as a tear slipped down your cheek.
"Harlequin..." you whispered, your voice thick as fond memories slammed with an ache inside your heart. Now they danced with the new beautiful memory being made this very moment. "Thank you. This is—" you shook your head at a complete loss for words, "—just... thank you."
Harlequin froze. Seeing the tears in your eyes—not from fear, but from pure gratitude—completely shattered his remaining defenses. The steady, warm cadence of your love for his gesture knocked him entirely off his game.
Then again, he wasn't entirely sure what he'd expected.
He looked at you, trapped in the headlights of your sincerity, his throat tightening. For a terrifying, beautiful second, the monster was completely disarmed by the human with the kind heart.
He swallowed hard, scrambling to piece himself back together. He quickly tore his eyes away, clearing his throat as a genuine, faint blush crept up his neck.
"Don't start crying," he grumbled, though there was absolutely no bite in his tone. He slid his hand away to remove the metal lid from the jar, allowing the fireflies to slowly begin drifting out into the night air, escaping back toward the lake. "I didn't do it to turn you into a leaky faucet."
You laughed and reached out for him, sliding your fingers into his large, cool hand. You squeezed it tightly. Harlequin didn't pull away. He looked down at your intertwined fingers, his smirk returning, a bit softer this time, a bit more real.
"Besides," he added, leaning down to whisper in your ear as the last firefly drifted away into the dark. "If you're going to hold my hand like this, everyone is going to think you've tamed the beast. And we simply can't have you ruining my bad reputation twice in one night."
Headquarters for Simps @multishippers-trash-blog - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag
jacobvanloon
andulkaphoto
theartofmadeline
2087
snowghoul
tangentwithtanner
kianamaiart
romaincrisis
