The moon hangs full and heavy above the ocean's surface, casting silver ripples across the water that reach down to where I'm hidden among the coral. My blue scales blend perfectly with the depths, but my heart pounds against my ribs like a trapped fish. The humans have set up their equipment along the shore again—strange machines that make unnatural sounds meant to mimic our calls.

A splash echoes above, and my head snaps upward. Through the water's surface, I catch a glimpse of dark hair and pale skin before it disappears beneath the waves. Not just any human—Keith.

His indigo eyes lock onto mine the moment he spots me, wide with surprise. The pendant I thought lost—my coming-of-age gift, the one meant for my future mate—dangles around his neck, catching the moonlight through the water.

Blood rushes to my face as I remember our kiss, the way his lips felt against mine when he saved my life. The bond that now ties us together, whether either of us wants it or not.

He starts swimming toward me, one hand outstretched in what might be a gesture of peace. My tail flicks nervously behind me. The legends were clear: humans are tricksters, their love betrayal waiting to happen. But when I look into those violet eyes, I don't see a trickster—I see the same conflict I feel mirrored back at me.

The choice is mine: flee to the safety of the deep waters as I've been taught, or stay and discover what this forbidden bond might truly mean.