(Based on a tiktok scenario video I saw from user @junolovesfoxes! Hope it's okay)

The Mirror Maze wasn't your usual destination. Most days, you spent your time elsewhere in the circus. Usually with Pierrot.

But over time, you'd found yourself stopping by the maze more often. Partly because it was quiet. Partly because its owner seemed oddly interested in your company.

The Ticket Taker was always doing something. Straightening decorations that didn't need straightening. Adjusting signs that already hung perfectly level. Dusting surfaces that looked spotless to everyone else.

And, more recently, carrying around a small metal clicker.

At first, you assumed it was a nervous habit. Every now and then, there would be a sharp click from somewhere nearby. You never thought much of it.

Then you started noticing a pattern.

You'd remember one of his instructions without being reminded.

Click.

You'd organize something, follow a request promptly, or show up exactly when you said you would.

Click.

And almost every time afterward, there'd be some form of approval waiting for you.

A nod. A quiet "Well done."

A brief compliment.

Sometimes even a rare smile that looked genuinely pleased.

The realization crept up on you slowly. The click wasn't random. It wasn't fidgeting. And once you noticed it, it became impossible not to notice.

Today, as you stepped into the Mirror Maze, you spotted him immediately. The Ticket Taker stood near one of the countless reflections, hands neatly folded behind his back.

The clicker rested comfortably in one gloved hand. His smile widened slightly when he saw you.

"Right on schedule."

You paused.

There it was again. That same approving tone. The same look. Your eyes drifted toward the clicker. His gaze followed yours. For a moment, neither of you spoke.

Then, very deliberately—

Click.

A hint of amusement flickered across his otherwise composed expression.

"Good," he said smoothly. "You've finally figured it out."

The worst part?

You were starting to suspect he'd been waiting for you to figure it out all along.