This circus is a tight ship. Simple rules are in place, but severe punishments are enforced if not followed. These include no horseplay, yelling, LGBTQ+ people, or throwing food or drinks at the robot performers. Additionally, shirt and shoes are required for permission. The one I enforce most is ‘No LGBTQ+ people.’ weird, delusional freaks in my opinion. But that all changed when Milo came along. She walked into the circus one day when it was closed.

“Hey, the circus is closed. Next show is tomorrow.” I said, confused because it was late at night.

“No, i’m here to join. The circus.” She said.

I chuckled. “Hilarious… You think you can just join? It’s robots only. You’re welcome to come see the show anytime though.”

“I know it’s robots only, but I was wondering if there’s any chance I could?”

And that was moment that tore me apart forever. She tucked her bangs behind her ear, and I saw her eyes. The eyes that sparkle in the moonlight every night, That I adore so dearly.

“Ah… well, I guess you can stay in my room for a while…”

“Great!! Oh, thank you!!” She ran up towards me and gave me a hug.

BA-DUMP!!

“Here, let me show you my room…”

So, Milo stayed with me for a while… And we just grew closer and closer. I loved her so dearly. And I knew I swore to myself I would never love another after breaking up with Jaxxie, but this… this was unresistable. But then one day, She did something that I’ll never forget.

“Hey Ness, can I tell you something?” She whispered one night while we were in my room.

“Yeah, yeah of course.”

“I- I’m a boy. I’m trans and I know you hate LGBTQ+ people but I really can’t have you throw me out… But before you say anything, I also… I love you.”

I was silent. I don’t know how long I stood there, thinking. This was wild… The same thing that happened with Jaxxie. ‘i’m a they/them and a girl!!’ She had said to him over text. What even is a they/them?? But he loved Milo so much more than he loved Jaxxie, and he could change the rules… after all, he was the one who made the rules. “I-uh… I can’t- I love you too, but I simply can’t… date a man. At least not yet. I’m not ready.”

“But I know you love me. and I love you too, And if you only let go of your stupid rules, we could run this circus together…” He whispered, a tear falling down his cheek.