Leo POV

 Leo played with Markus’s hair as he slept. He looked so peaceful and cute. He kissed his forehead and quietly left his room. He let out a loud breath and started the long walk back to his room, his steps echoing throughout the hallway.

“ You should really teach how to fight.” A voice said. He smirked and turned toward the source.

“He’s too young sir.” Leo said. The voice scoffed and stepped out of the shadows, cigarette in hand.

“No need to be formal.” The ringmaster said, spewing smoke from his nose. “And he isn’t too young Leonardo.”

Leo cringed, he hated it when people used his full name, and he knew it. “He’s my son, It’s hard enough letting him play with snakes and now you want me to have play with swords?”

The ringmaster shrugged, “You could make it a family act. People these days do love families.” He took a long drag from his cigarette. “And If he keeps running off like he does he might need it.”

Leo frowned, “He won’t be running away like that anymore, I’m sure this is just a phase.”

“Was it just a phase for you?” Leo stormed closer, he ripped the cigarette from his hand threw it onto the ground,

“That was different! THIS is different!” He yelled.

“It’s only different because I saved you.” He replied calmly, lighting another cigarette. Leo ripped it out of his hand and threw it to the ground.

“That’s not the only difference and you didn’t save me.”

“I took you from an abusive situation and raised you as my own.” He lit another cigarette, “I believe the word ‘save’ is appropriate.”

Leo growled, “I don’t care, he’s my son, not yours.”

“In a weird way, that makes him my grandson.” Leo gritted his teeth and started to walk away.

“You know I’d never hurt him.” He called out. “He looks too much like you.”

Leo stopped and took a deep breath, he looked at his feet. “So you’d hurt him he didn’t?” The ringmaster sighed,”Why do you always twist my words? You act as if i’m the worst man in the world.”

Leo turned around,”You killed them, how can I forgive you for such a thing?” He didn’t reply. He just stared at him sadly.

“I do everything with a purpose Leo.” He started, “They had to die.”

“Why?!” He cried, he fought the tears. “Why did they have to die?!”

“Because if they weren’t dead then he wouldn’t be here.” He argued. Leo’s eyes widened, he was so confused.

“They were going to use him for his ability and sell him to the highest bidder once they were done with.” He walked a bit closer, “They were going to treat him like garbage.”

“And how do you know that?” He asked, “Why would they tell you any-”

“You know how I know.” He said. And he did know. He just didn’t want to admit it. “If hadn’t killed them then he wouldn’t be your son, he wouldn’t be here, and in bed, and happy.” Leo sighed. He was right in front of him now. He laid his head into his chest.

“I hate you so much.” He said softly. The ringmaster smiled and laid his head on top of his. Holding him tightly.

“You don’t hate me entirely.” HeHe joked. Leo chuckled and stood up, facing him .

“I pray that what you did was right. Because if not, I will kill you.” The ringmaster nodded.

“At least I’ll die by someone I tolerate.” Leo crossed his arms.

“I could send Sam to do it instead you know? Not get my hands dirty.” The ringmaster laughed.

“I would love to see you try and stay away from such a challenge.” He laughed and started to walk away.

“Goodnight.” He waved.

“Goodnight Leo.” He said, lighting another cigarette and taking a long drag from it.