Harlequin slipped into his tent with a dramatic spin of the canvas flap, the distant sound of the crowd still echoing outside as his laughter carried in with him. The bells and ribbons on his costume swayed as he stretched his arms over his head, clearly riding the high of the performance. “What a show… what a show… they never get tired of me, do they?”

He turned toward his table, reaching for a cloth to wipe the paint from his gloves, but paused the moment he noticed something new sitting right in the center of his things.

A heart-shaped box, wrapped in bright ribbon, far too neat to have been there before he went on stage. His grin spread instantly. “Well now… What has my dear one brought me?”

He stepped closer with exaggerated curiosity, picking the box up with both hands like it was some kind of prop meant just for him. He turned it slowly, admiring the wrapping before letting out a soft laugh.

“A Valentine’s gift left in my tent while I was busy… how very bold of you.” He tapped the lid lightly, then held the box close to his chest with a pleased hum.