Chapter 1

Chapter One

E velyn

I step out of my car, the oppressive weight of my past lifting ever so slightly as I breathe in the crisp, fresh air. This small town, nestled between rolling hills and dense forests, is a world away from the concrete jungle I left behind. I’m here to fill up on gasoline, but fate has other plans. My eyes catch a vibrant flyer fluttering on a nearby lamppost.

“The Misfit Cabaret: Where Dreams Take Flight.”

The words pull at something deep inside me, a longing I’ve tried to bury. I pay for my gas, then turn my car in the direction of the address of the circus that was listed on the poster.

The entrance to the circus is marked by a grand, ornately decorated archway. The sounds of music and laughter fill the air, a stark contrast to the silence of my past life. Performers in elaborate costumes bustle around, preparing for the evening’s show. The air hums with excitement and anticipation. I step through the archway, feeling a mix of trepidation and exhilaration. This is a world of mystery and allure, a place where anything seems possible.

I wander through the grounds, taking in the sights and sounds. Brightly colored tents line the pathways, each promising its own unique wonder. My steps are drawn towards the largest tent, the one where the aerialists practice. Inside, the space is filled with performers swinging from trapezes and silks, their movements a mesmerizing blend of strength and grace.

My attention is captured by a tall, muscular man standing on the sidelines, observing the practice with an intense, assessing gaze. His piercing blue eyes meet mine, and I feel an instant connection. He approaches, his movements fluid and confident.

“You must be new here,” he says, his voice deep and velvety. “I’m Leo, the lead aerialist.”

“Evelyn,” I reply, my voice steady despite the fluttering in my chest. This is it, the new beginning I’ve been looking for. I straighten my spine and announce, “I’m looking for a fresh start.”

Leo’s eyes narrow slightly as he studies me, a hint of curiosity and something else—something deeper—flickering in their depths. “Show me what you can do.”

I swallow my nerves and step forward, reaching for a silk. I’ve trained before mostly in yoga studios, long ago, before my life took a different turn. The familiarity of the silk in my hands brings a rush of memories and emotions. I begin to climb, my movements tentative at first but growing more confident with each pull. I perform a series of basic aerial moves, feeling the exhilaration of flight, the freedom of movement.

Leo watches intently, his gaze never leaving me. When I finally descend, my breath comes in quick, shallow bursts, and my heart pounds with a mix of fear and hope. I look to Leo, waiting for his verdict.

“You have natural talent,” he says, a hint of admiration in his voice. “And potential. With training, you could become a star performer here.”

I can’t help the smile that spreads across my face. “I’ve always loved the idea of the circus. The travel, the freedom. I’m looking for a new career, something that makes me feel alive.”

Leo nods, his expression thoughtful. “The circus is always looking for new talent. If you’re willing to dedicate yourself and trust in the process, I can mentor you. It won’t be easy, but I see something special in you, Evelyn.”

His words fill me with a sense of relief and excitement. For the first time in a long while, I feel a glimmer of hope, a possibility of a future where I can truly be myself. “Yes,” I say, my voice filled with determination. “I’m ready to embrace this new chapter of my life.”

Leo’s lips curve into a slow, seductive smile. “Good. We’ll start tomorrow. Be here at dawn.”

As I leave the tent, I can’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation. The circus is a place of wonder and possibility, and with Leo’s guidance, I’m ready to soar.