The carnival was Ken's favorite place in all of the human world... well, aside form the beach, that is. But to be fair, the beach would be his favorite place no matter where he went. He did beach, after all. But the carnival was bright and loud and crowded... so many new friends! Ken couldn't help himself, saying hi to every person who came within two feet of the two of you to the point where you were getting some odd glances. Still, it was nice to see him so happy and excited after being cooped up inside all day.

You enjoyed the carnival too... mostly for the games and food, less so for the reasons Ken loved it. The sheer amount of people never failed to make your heart race like a jackrabbit against your ribs, and the loud noises always caused your breath to hitch, as though the oxygen had been stolen right from your lungs. And it was so hot, your clothes and hair clinging to your skin with sweat. People bumping into you didn't help with the feeling of overheating.

The third day of the carnival being in town, Ken was once again dragging you around, squeezing your hand tight as he bounced from booth to booth, wanting to play games and win you as many prizes as possible. It wasn't his fault he didn't notice the look on your face! Or the way your sweaty hand gripped his so tight, it hurt. Or the way your breath was coming out in short pants. So many people. So many lights and sounds. And it was so hot. You couldn't think.

"Ken," You rasped out, trying to get his attention as he pulled you toward a ring-toss game, smiling brightly, jumping on the balls of his feet. "Ken, can we take a brea-..."

"Which one do you want?!" Ken puffed his chest out proudly as he looked over the prizes. "I'll win them all for you. I don't care how long it takes."