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Wound up tight like a Jack-In-The-Box

Summary:

Pomni's stressed. Really, really stressed.

Caine might have an idea on how to help.

Notes:

(See the end of the work for notes.)

Chapter Text

Pomni turned and turned in bed. Sweat beaded her skin, brows furrowed. She felt hot, far too hot, even with her blanket kicked off, it still felt like she was burning alive. Unfortunately she couldn't even take her clothes off, her bodysuit sticking to her skin like glue. Great.

 

She’s been incredibly stressed lately, every little small thing making her snap and bark at everyone, ultimately retreating to her room like an upset child. What was wrong with her? She wasn't on her period or anything, heck– they can’t even get periods in the circus (Thankfully).

 

With a loud huff, she threw herself off her bed, deciding it was best to take a walk around the circus. It was night in the circus, everyone fast asleep in the comfort of their own rooms.

The pads of her fingers rubbed against her temple in small circles, attempting to will away the ache that decided to rest in her head.

 

“Pomni!” Caine said, appearing out of nowhere. A scream was ripped from her throat, stumbling backwards before landing roughly onto her tailbone. She winced, rubbing at her rear.

“What the hell, Caine?!” She barked, gritting her teeth angrily.

 

Caine blinked, staring at Pomni. From what he could see, she was mad. Very mad. “What are you doing up so late? You should be in bed, resting for tomorrow's adventure!” He exclaimed, raising his arms, a weak attempt to shift her focus.

 

Pomni scoffed, rising from the ground. “I– I just need to clear my head. Please. Leave me alone.” She grumbled, brushing past him.

 

“Now, wait a moment!” He quickly swooped to float in front of her, stopping the jester in her tracks. She groaned. “I cannot help but notice you’ve been acting frustrated lately. What’s wrong, my starlet?” He asked, tilting his head (or more so teeth?) to the side.

 

She blinked, before letting out a slow breath. She couldn’t answer his question, because she didn't know how to. “I don’t know.” She mumbled, hand rising to rub at the nape of her thin neck.

 

Caine went silent for a moment, a gloved hand moving to rub at his lower maw. “Are you perhaps pent up?”

 

Pomni went stiff, eyes widening. “Huh?”

 

“Pent up! Are you?” He repeated himself, his tone weirdly cheerful in this situation.

 

“Wh– what do you mean?” She blinked, suddenly feeling nervous.

 

“I overheard the others talking yesterday,” He began, his eyes trained on hers. “they said something about you perhaps being pent up? Winded like a jack-in-the-box?” Caine landed to stand on his feet, still towering over Pomni, his shadow dwarfing her. “I could help, if needed? After all, my purpose is to make you all happy.”

 

Pomni couldn’t answer, instead a furious blush overcame her. Maybe he was right, god. It wouldn't be so surprising, honestly. She hasn't had sex in months. “Caine, why are you even.. Bringing this up? W-what about the stuff about.. being family friendly– You know what, no, it’s fine, I don’t.. Need your help.” She talked with her hands, gestures moving rapidly to convey the sudden overwhelming emotions bubbling up within her. This was so weird.

 

“I know that, but this seems like a case that cannot be ignored. You’ve been snapping at the others and getting so mad, it isn't right! I’ve scoured the world wide web to further understand your case, and helping you unwind may be the best solution.” Caine said, hands moving to rest on his hips.

 

Pomni went silent, eyes owlishly staring up at him. This was so fucking weird. Weird. So weird.

“Caine– do you even hear yourself right now?!” She hissed through her teeth, eye twitching. Her voice was still low, careful not to wake up the others. “You’re– you’re basically asking to f[BOINK!]ck me!”

 

Caine pressed a finger to her lips, hushing her. “Now now, no swearing. Can’t have any foul language like that, hm?” He tilted his head, dual-colored eyes staring into her wide ones.

 

“You’re so messed up,” She huffed, pushing him away. “I already said I didn’t need your.. help.”

 

Caine blinked, taking a step back. “I understand if you don’t want to, Pomni. But do know, my door is always open if I’m needed.” A strange silence washed over them for a moment, before he clapped his hands. “Now! I must tend to my other duties. Till we meet again, my jester.” He said, before vanishing into thin air.

 

Pomni was left utterly confused, flustered, embarrassed, and annoyed. Annoyed he was right. Annoyed that she might take up his offer.