Phantom's Performance

Chapter 25

Shadow's Pov

The morning light filtered into the hotel's kitchen, casting a golden hue across the bustling space. I lingered by the doorway, my form flitting and shifting as I watched Y/n at the stove. She was a vision of happiness, her smile bright as she cooked breakfast for everyone. The scent of bacon and freshly baked goods filled the air, and I could feel her joy radiating throughout the room.

She glanced around, sensing my presence. Her eyes landed on me, and she smiled knowingly. "Good morning, Shadow," she greeted warmly.

I moved closer, my form dancing along the kitchen floor. "Good morning, Y/n," I replied, my voice a low, melodic whisper. "You're in a good mood today."

Y/n chuckled softly. "How could I not be? Yesterday was... intense, but we made it through. And now, I'm cooking breakfast for my friends. Life is good."

I edged closer, feeling comforted by her presence. "You have a way of finding joy in the simplest things," I remarked. "Tell me, Y/n, about your circus dreams. Alastor's heard whispers, and I'm curious."

Her eyes lit up with excitement as she stirred a pot of scrambled eggs. "Oh, the circus... It's something I've always dreamed of. A place where everyone can come together, no matter who they are or where they come from. A place of wonder and magic, where I can bring joy to others. I've seen it in my visions—a grand circus tent, filled with laughter and awe."

I shimmered with interest, genuinely captivated by her passion. "And you, Y/n, would be the best ringleader. You have the charisma, the passion, and the strength. I can see it clearly."

Her smile grew even wider, and she reached out to softly scratch me behind what she imagined to be my ear. "Thank you, Shadow. That means a lot to me."

I purred in response, feeling a low, contented sound vibrate through me. "You know, Alastor has already taken steps to help you realize your dream," I confessed. "He has the tent, Y/n. He wants you to take your rightful spot as the ringleader."

Her smile faltered slightly as she looked at me. "I know he has the tent," she said softly. "He's told me that before. But sometimes it feels... daunting. Like such a big dream might be too much to handle."

I danced with gentle encouragement. "Y/n, you have the strength and the vision. Alastor believes in you, and so do I. This dream is within your grasp, and you have all the support you need to make it a reality."

Her smile returned, brighter and more determined. "You're right, Shadow. I just need to take that step and claim my place."

I hummed approvingly. "Indeed. And there's something else you should know, Y/n. Alastor believes in you deeply, more than you might realize."

Her eyes sparkled with a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Shadow. I won't let this opportunity slip away."

With a final, playful scratch to me, Y/n returned to her cooking, her smile never fading. The kitchen was filled with the comforting sounds of sizzling food and the promise of a new day—a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and perhaps a bit of playful mischief. I couldn't wait to share the news with Alastor and see her claim her rightful place as the ringleader of her circus.

As I lingered, I shifted closer, my voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Y/n, there's one more thing."

She glanced at me, intrigued. "What is it, Shadow?"

I flickered with a hint of amusement. "You know that Alastor and you are in a game, right?"

She nodded, a playful glint in her eyes. "Of course, I do. We both love the thrill of it."