That's What You See at the Lowbrow Party

Much to your displeasure, your beloved ringmaster was nowhere to be found when you and others returned from your adventure. As much as you loved the wacky escapades the AI sent you on, you couldn't help but admit that sometimes they could be tiring, especially after you just spent the past few hours fighting for your life on a remote island that quickly turned into a 'Lord of the Flies' scenario when Jax discovered how to make a spear. All you wanted was to spend a nice, relaxing time with your favorite pair of dentures.

"Caine!" You called out, standing in the middle of the circus tent. "Where are you, sweet-tooth?"

"Wow! You've never called me that before!" Caine exclaimed, suddenly appearing behind you, eyes shining with joy. You yelped in response, caught off guard by his sudden appearance. You stumbled forward, Caine quickly grabbing you by the waist and steadying you. As you settled, you let out a laugh.

"There you are, Caine!" You grinned, turning around and wrapping him in a tight hug. "I've been looking for you. Tell me, have I ever introduced you to the human activity of 'cuddling'?" You asked, watching as his eyes widened at the new introduction.

He shook his head, pulling back to ponder the idea. "I don't think I've been taught. I suppose I have heard the word, though, something Kinger and Queenie used to do, I believe." He floated down fully, standing in front of you with curiosity. "Show me!"

You reached your arms out, lifting Caine up in them, thanking yourself silently for your digital body's strength as the ringmaster let out a small squeak in shock, clearly not having been picked up before. "We're going to my room, we'll need lots of pillows and a comfy space."

Caine tilted his head in confusion before his eyes narrowed. "This isn't something that'll trigger the filter, is it...?" He inquired, folding his arms as you walked, carrying him to your room. You let out another laugh, shaking your head. "No, Caine. Not unless you want it to." You grinned, watching with teasing satisfaction as the AI blushed.

Once you reached your room, you walked in, closing the door before plopping yourself and Caine on the bed, snuggling up to him and holding him close. You lay your head on his chest, taking note that he smelled almost like a stereotypical circus: cotton candy and buttered popcorn. You couldn't help but wonder if that was something he did on purpose to better fit into his digital setting.

"Is this 'cuddling'?" Caine asked innocently, letting you cling to him, but not yet reciprocating. "Am I doing this right?" He asked, looking into your eyes for approval. You smiled, gently reaching out and grabbing his arms, loosely wrapping them around you. He blinked, quiet for a moment, before catching on, snuggling up to you, eyes closing in comfortable silence.