APH: Circus

Eduard felt a little out of place working here.

It wasn’t what he had hoped for in terms of employment. But it paid him a decent amount and the boss was friendly enough. It was a family business run by three siblings and he was the accountant, making sure all the books were balanced and everyone got their paychecks on time. His boss, the lovely Katyusha, was the owner and made sure the show ran smoothly as possible. Though she didn’t appear to be that kind who liked to be in front of large crowds, she was full of charm and enthusiasm that the crowds could not get enough of her when she spoke. Her younger siblings played a large role in the shows performed. The middle sibling, Ivan, was a massive crowd-filler as he was dubbed as “The Man With Abs of Steel” for his ability to practically lift anything. The youngest, Natalia, worked as an acrobat. Her beauty and skill was known the world over and was also a major crowd-filler. He on the other hand, was not as special. He did have a beautiful singing voice that he worked hard to train for years but people don’t go flocking to a circus to see that. No, instead he chooses to keep to himself. He doesn’t think he’ll stay long but it really all depends once he finds himself his big break. If that day ever comes, he’s tipping his hat to the crew and hopping on the next train that will take him to his dream job.

Eduard frequently came to watch the performers practice during his breaks. Since he started working there, he’s 99.9% sure that when Ivan practices, it’s to get his attention. When he stopped in yesterday with his usual soup, black bread, and an apple on the side, he caught the larger man wink at him before lifting weights. Today, he did it again but a slip up took place midway through and pulled a muscle in his arm. Out of courtesy, Eduard chose to visit him in his tent on his next available break. He peeked inside and made his presence known. Ivan looked up and his face lit up with a big grin.

“Eduard, you came to see me!”

Eduard chuckled. He had to admit, Ivan was a bit like a child in a grown man’s body.

“It’s the least I could do. How long do you think you’ll be out?”

Ivan looked down somberly at the bandaged arm. “He said it will be several weeks before I can perform again.”

“I see,” Eduard said as he looked down at Ivan’s arm. “I hope you can make a speedy recovery.”

“Thank you.”

Things went quiet between them for a few moments until Ivan returned to his cheerful demeanor.

“Since I can’t perform for crowds anymore, Katyusha said I can work with you and all the paperwork!” He giggled. “Isn’t that exciting?”

Eduard was nearly screaming internally. Why did she not tell him about this earlier?! He’s already swamped with work as it is; he doesn’t need an intimidating six foot six tall man looming over him and messing around with his documents.

“Great…” Eduard attempted to say with eagerness but it sounded more sarcastic than anything else. Ivan though wasn’t missing a beat.

“Do you think we can also go around the carnival together? I want to try my hand at some of the games!” Ivan sang his final words as if he were singing a tune. “And I hope you’ll pay for me!”

Katyusha, you owe me big time for this.