A few days after Blitzo and Fizzarolli's show for Mammon and Asmodeous, the circus was buzzing with anticipation. Today was Fizzarolli's birthday, and it seemed like the entire circus was treating it as a grand celebration. Streamers adorned the tents, and the air was filled with laughter and excitement. It was clear that Fizz's birthday was a big deal in this close-knit community.

Blitzo couldn't help but notice the stark contrast to how his own birthdays had been largely ignored throughout his life. Envy tried to creep in, but he quickly pushed it aside. This day was all about his best friend, and he refused to let jealousy overshadow Fizz's special day.

In his room, Blitzo sat surrounded by a chaotic mess of crumpled-up papers. He had been trying to write a heartfelt letter for Fizzarolli, but there was one glaring problem. His struggle with reading and writing had always been a source of insecurity and embarrassment, and he hated that it held him back from expressing his feelings adequately.

He groaned in frustration, knowing how much Fizz meant to him and how he wanted to make this day unforgettable. Blitzo tossed another crumpled piece of paper aside, feeling the weight of his shortcomings. He didn't want to disappoint his friend.

Then, in a moment of inspiration, an idea sparked in Blitzo's mind. It was an idea he was initially hesitant to embrace due to his embarrassment.

Blitzo knew that he needed help with the letter for Fizz, and there was only one person he could think of who could assist him. With determination in his eyes, he made his way to the heart of the circus, where his mother Tilla usually resided.

He found Tilla in her cozy, dimly lit tent, working on some minor repairs to one of her dresses. Her eyes lit up when she saw her son entering. "Blitzo, what can I do for you?"

Blitzo hesitated for a moment, his voice quivering with vulnerability. "Mom, I... I need your help with something."

Tilla set aside her work and smiled warmly at her son, sensing that he was wrestling with something important. "Of course, darling. What's on your mind?"

Blitzo sighed, his inner turmoil evident. "It's Fizz's birthday, and I want to write him a letter, but... you know I'm not good with words."

Tilla's expression softened, and she patted the space next to her, inviting Blitzo to sit down. "Come here, Blitzo. I'll help you."

Blitzo took a seat, grateful for his mother's understanding. After looking around briefly to make sure no one was listening, he whispered what he wanted to say to Fizz.

Tilla listened intently, her eyes reflecting the love and affection she felt for her son. Once Blitzo finished sharing his thoughts, she smiled knowingly.

"Alright, Blitzo," Tilla said gently, "I've got it. I'll write this for you."

She took a piece of parchment and began to write down Blitzo's heartfelt words. Her hand moved gracefully across the page, her penmanship elegant and precise. Once she was done, she reached into a nearby box and took out a heart-shaped sticker. With a flourish, she sealed the letter with the sticker, making sure to write on top, "Fizz's eyes only," with the word "only" underlined for emphasis.

Tilla handed the letter back to Blitzo, who accepted it with a deep sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Mom. You're the best."

Blitzo looked down at the sealed letter, hoping that Fizz would appreciate the words within. Tilla could see the worry in her son's eyes and gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

"You did great, Blitzo. Fizz will love it," she assured him.

Tilla then reached up to the collar she wore, a striking red skull adorning it. She unclasped it and handed it to Blitzo. "Here, take this."

Blitzo looked at the collar, puzzled. "What's this for, Mom?"

Tilla smiled warmly. "It's a little reminder, Blitzo. This collar has always given me the strength to be brave and take risks. I want you to have it now, to remind you that you can do the same. Be brave, my dear. Take those risks and let your heart guide you."

Blitzo's eyes glistened with gratitude. He accepted the gift and, without hesitation, hugged his mother tightly. "Thank you, Mom. I love you."

Tilla returned the hug, her heart filled with maternal love. "I love you too, Blitzo. Remember, you're capable of wonderful things, and you've got a big heart. Don't be afraid to show it."

With his mother's words resonating in his mind, Blitzo felt a renewed sense of determination. He was ready to make Fizzarolli's birthday as special as he could, letting his actions speak louder than words ever could.

Meanwhile, Fizzarolli basked in the attention and affection that the circus crew showered upon him. He couldn't help but feel touched by all the well-wishes and heartfelt compliments. Everyone's kindness meant the world to him.

However, as the day went on and his best friend, Blitzo, remained conspicuously absent, a sense of unease began to gnaw at Fizzarolli. He had noticed Blitzo's absence since early that morning, and a growing sense of sadness took root in his heart.

Fizz couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. His birthday had been a day filled with joy and celebration, but it just didn't feel complete without Blitzo by his side. They had shared countless adventures and were inseparable, and Fizzarolli missed the reassuring presence of his best friend.

At one point, Fizzarolli quietly stepped away from the bustling crowd, looking around the circus tent in search of Blitzo. He couldn't help but wonder where his friend had disappeared to on this special day.

As he moved through the circus grounds, Fizzarolli's heart felt heavy with the absence of the one person who mattered most to him. Despite the joyous atmosphere surrounding him, his thoughts were consumed by the worry and sadness he felt for Blitzo.

As the evening sun began to dip below the horizon, Blitzo knew that it was time to unveil his surprise. He made his way to the heart of the circus, carrying the letter behind his back, as well as a flower to go with it. In his heart, he hoped that this letter would convey the message it was meant to for Fizz.

As he approached the gathering of circus performers, Blitzo felt a rush of anticipation mixed with nervousness. Fizzarolli had been at the center of attention all day, but now it was time for Blitzo to make his grand entrance, to show his best friend just how much he meant to him.

Blitzo approached the vibrant tent where Fizzarolli's birthday celebration was in full swing. Laughter, cheers, and the lively music of the circus filled the air. He peeked inside, his eyes scanning the jubilant scene.

Inside the tent, Fizzarolli was surrounded by adoring circus performers. The whole circus had come together to celebrate his special day, and the atmosphere was brimming with joy. Blitzo couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness, realizing that he had never been the focus of such an elaborate celebration.

His hesitation grew as he wondered if he should even enter. Blitzo wasn't used to being the one in the spotlight, and the idea of crashing Fizz's birthday party made him feel like an intruder. Doubts swirled in his mind, but then his gaze settled on the red collar around his neck.

Tilla's words echoed in his mind, encouraging him to face his fears, to step out of his comfort zone. With a deep breath, Blitzo clenched the collar for a moment, finding strength in the connection to his mother's love.

The decision was made. He knew he couldn't let his insecurities hold him back from celebrating with his best friend. Summoning his courage, Blitzo stepped into the tent, a sense of determination replacing his earlier hesitation.

Fizzarolli's face lit up even more when he saw Blitzo walk into the tent, the joy in his eyes unmistakable. With a cheerful laugh, he rushed over to embrace his best friend, a wide smile on his face. "Blitzo! You made it! I was wondering where you'd been all day."

Blitzo, slightly overwhelmed by the genuine happiness in Fizz's eyes, felt a warmth spread through him. He returned Fizzarolli's hug and then stepped back, a bashful smile on his face. "Yeah, Fizz, I wouldn't miss your birthday."

With a hint of hesitation, Blitzo shyly asked, "Can we, uh, talk outside for a moment? I've got something for you."

Fizzarolli, still wearing a grin that could light up the night, nodded eagerly. "Of course, Blitzo! Lead the way."

Outside the colorful tent, with the vibrant celebration still in full swing, Blitzo and Fizzarolli found a quiet spot where they could talk without being overheard. The soft glow of the circus lights created a magical ambiance around them.

Blitzo's voice was tender as he spoke, and he wore a faint blush. "You remember, right, Fizz? The moments when we were more... affectionate."

Fizzarolli's cheeks turned a shade of pink as he nodded. "Of course, Blitzo. Those were some of the most beautiful moments we've shared."

Blitzo's expression became more earnest as he continued, "So, how long are we going to keep telling ourselves and everyone else that we're just friends?"

His heart pounding, Blitzo held out a letter and a flower he had been hiding behind his back. Fizzarolli's eyes widened at the sight of the items, his curiosity piqued. Blitzo's voice trembled as he said, "I wanted to tell you something, Fizz."

Fizzarolli took the letter and flower, his face showing a mix of surprise and anticipation. He examined the front of the letter, reading the words "Fizz's eyes only," with 'only' underlined. His heart skipped a beat, his mind racing with questions about what Blitzo had to say.

With Blitzo's urging, Fizzarolli carefully opened the letter. His hands trembled slightly as he unfolded the paper and began to read. As he read Blitzo's heartfelt words, his smile grew wider, and tears welled up in his eyes.

Blitzo's Letter:

--

Dear Fizz,

I've been a demon who's danced on the edge of life for as long as I can remember, but with you, it's like I found my footing. You've been my partner in crime, my confidant, and my best friend. You've brought laughter into my life when all I knew was chaos, and you've made me want to be better, for myself and for you.

There's so much I want to say, Fizz, but every time I try to put my thoughts into words, it gets all jumbled up in my head. So, I asked my mom for help – she's way better with this kind of stuff than I am.

Here's what she wrote for you:

Tilla's Words:

--

Dear Fizzarolli,

Blitzo has always been a special demon, but I've watched him transform into someone extraordinary, and it's all because of you. The connection you share is unique, and I believe it's time you both acknowledge it.

Life is too short to deny your feelings, to keep telling yourselves that you're just friends. Embrace the love you have for each other, for it's a rare and beautiful thing.

This collar I'm giving to Blitzo was once mine, with a red skull as a symbol of bravery and taking risks. Now, I want it to remind him that love requires courage. You both have that courage within you, and it's time to be brave.

Fizzarolli, thank you for loving my son the way he deserves to be loved.

With love,

Tilla

Back to Blitzo's Letter:

--

I know it's not much, but it's our starting point, Fizz. I don't want to lose you, not as my friend, but as something more. I hope this letter is the beginning of us sharing everything together.

Your best friend,

Blitzo

Blitzo couldn't help but feel embarrassed as he admitted, "Fizz, my mom helped me write that letter. I'm pathetic, right?"

Before he could say more, Fizzarolli's response was not what Blitzo had expected. Fizzarolli leaned in and kissed Blitzo passionately. It was a kiss filled with emotion, with longing, and with the undeniable truth that there was something special between them.

This time, Blitzo felt it too. As their lips met, the world seemed to fade away, and the two friends turned lovers embraced their feelings for each other. Their hearts had finally found the connection they had been longing for, and the love between them blossomed in that unforgettable kiss.

Breaking the kiss, Fizzarolli smirked, teasing Blitzo, "It's about time, you know? We should have done this a long time ago."

Blitzo chuckled, his heart pounding with newfound emotions. "Yeah, maybe we should have," he admitted.

Fizzarolli led Blitzo back inside, anticipating the arrival of the cake. But their joyful moment was short-lived as they spotted Cash Buckzo, much to their chagrin. Blitzo's cheerful mood quickly soured, and he felt a knot of anger building inside him. His father rarely showed up to his parties, so this intrusion was unwelcome.

Fizzarolli decided to break the tension and asked Cash with some skepticism, "Cash, what are you doing here? What do you want?"

Cash shifted uncomfortably but kept his gaze on Fizzarolli. "I know I've been a lousy father, Fizz, and I've made a lot of mistakes. But today, on your birthday, I wanted to make amends." He handed Fizzarolli a card with the words, "Wish you were my son," written on it.