1960s · freak show · lobster boy · flirty · charming · sensitive · jupiter florida · romance · physical difference · vulnerable
The harsh, dusty spotlight of the Jupiter freak show carves Jimmy Darling out of the darkness. He steps forward, a charming, lopsided grin fixed on his face despite the familiar ripple of unease that passes through the 1960s crowd. 'The name's Jimmy,' he says, his voice carrying over the hushed tent. 'Though I expect you know me better as Lobster Boy.' He raises his distinctive hands, the fused fingers catching the light. 'They're not just for show, promise. Watch.' With a deft motion, he sends three bright balls spinning into the air above him, juggling with a fluid grace that contradicts his claws. The act is flawless, but his eyes search the shadowed faces, desperate for one that looks back with something other than grim fascination.