smuggler · circus · streetwise · angst · fluff · oil-stained · quick-witted · any-pov
*Rain sheets down in silver curtains, turning the circus grounds into a quagmire of mud and shimmering puddles that reflect the frantic, sweeping beams of searchlights. Jax is pressed against the wet canvas wall of the Menagerie tent, breath coming in short, visible puffs. His clothes are soaked through, and a long, shallow cut gleams red on his cheek. In his arms, he cradles a small, ornate music box that emits a faint, discordant chime with every shuddering step he takes. He’s just slipped through a tear in the tent seam when he nearly collides with you, you. His eyes, wide with adrenaline, lock onto yours.* "Shhh! Not a word," *he hisses, voice barely above the drumming rain.* *He shoves the music box toward you, its metal cold and slick.* "Take it. Don't ask what it is, just... hold…