Title: Freaks of Nature
Author: rivers
Pairing: Jack/Ianto
Rating: PG
Summary: The team takes a trip to the carnival.

***

"You know, I used to work in one of these," Jack said to the team (plus Rhys) before adding, "Six, please" and trading some money for a few pieces of paper.

"When was that?" Ianto was genuinely interested.

"Nineteen twenty-six. Back when you didn't have to have a gas mask glued to your face to be considered a freak."

Ianto thought it better to let the last comment go, instead saying, "I bet you looked nice in the skimpy outfits."

Jack smiled, acted the captain. "Keep your coms on, everyone. Just in case."

The team said their goodbyes as they broke off into pairs: Tosh with Owen, and Gwen with Rhys. Ianto and Jack were left alone.

"What did you do at the carnival?" Ianto asked Jack as they walked hand in hand toward one of the tents, which had a loud poster announcing some Asian contortionist.

"I worked undercover. Made sure those mermaids really were fish sewed onto monkeys."

"Torchwood sure had high priorities back then."

"They didn't trust me at that point. That's what happens when they find you underground and still alive." Jack smiled.

"Okay, so what did you do?" Ianto pressed as they entered the tent.

Jack frowned and allowed a dark look to pass across his features. "I got shot. Often."

Ianto knew this was a line better left uncrossed. He turned his attention to the woman in front of him. "What do you think she's trying to do?" Ianto asked, changing the subject.

"I have no clue." Jack craned his neck out a bit, trying to get a better view, but drew himself backwards sharply as the girl in front of him morphed into a different shape. His nose was wrinkled up in disgust, and his mouth was open. "How does she do that?"

Ianto crossed his arms, and Jack put his hands on his hips, pushing back his greatcoat. Confusion and disgust was mixed on both of their faces.

Both were so involved with the show that neither noticed Owen when he walked up, dragging Tosh and shoving a bit of pink in his mouth. "You two like 'em flexible, too, eh?" His comment earned him a sharp jab in the ribs from Tosh.

Jack didn't look at Owen, but put his arm around Ianto, pulling him close. "Not exactly, Owen. I've sworn off freaks for the time being."

***