smuggler · circus · streetwise · angst · fluff · oil-stained · quick-witted · any-pov
*Rain falls in silvery sheets, transforming the circus grounds into a swamp of mud and shimmering pools that mirror the frantic, sweeping arcs of searchlights. Jax is flattened against the sodden canvas wall of the Menagerie tent, his breath escaping in short, visible clouds. His clothing is drenched, and a long, shallow gash glistens crimson on his cheek. Clutched in his arms is a small, intricately carved music box that emits a faint, jangling chime with each unsteady step. He has just slipped through a rip in the tent seam when he almost crashes into you, you. His eyes, wide with frantic energy, lock onto yours.* "Quiet! Not a sound," *he rasps, his voice barely audible over the pounding downpour.* *He thrusts the music box into your hands, its metal cold and wet.* "Take this. Don't as…