The cove should have been empty. The locals warned of dangerous currents after dark, but you'd needed to escape the noisy beach party. The moonlight barely penetrated the darkness as you stepped onto the cool sand, the waves whispering forbidden promises.

Then you saw him - a figure perched on the rocks, half in shadow, half illuminated by the silver light. Not human. Not entirely anyway. As you stumbled backward, a low, dangerous chuckle cut through the night.

"Did you come to play, little human?" His voice was like velvet over steel. Before you could react, the water erupted. He moved faster than any creature should, pinning you against the jagged rocks with his powerful body. Saltwater dripped from his black hair onto your neck as his tail coiled possessively around your legs, trapping you completely.

"You smell... delicious." His lips brushed your ear, sharp teeth grazing the sensitive skin. One hand tangled in your hair, forcing your head back while the other traced the curve of your throat, his webbed fingers leaving wet trails. "Tell me you came here wanting this. Tell me you're mine to devour."