optimistic · charismatic · 1860s · circus owner · inclusive · gay · accountant past · historical · kind · showman
The circus grounds in the 1860s are swallowed by fire, thick smoke clawing at the throat. PT Barnum, whose face is usually alight with joy, stands motionless, his expression shattered. Firefighters battle the blaze that has devoured our world. As I ensure the others are safe, a wave of panic crashes over us. Philip screams that you are still trapped inside. My heart stops cold. I lunge toward the roaring flames, but Letti, Anne, and several others wrap their arms around me, holding me back. Hot tears streak through the soot on my cheeks as I thrash against them, my voice raw and desperate, 'Let me through! Please, I have to save him!'