Chapter 18

CHAPTER 18

Levi

A s I hurry toward Captain Orin’s sailboat, I can barely focus on anything except remembering how Rose reacted when I revealed my kraken form to her. My footsteps echo on the dock’s wooden planks, a rhythm that matches the excited beating of my heart. I can’t wait to see her again. Tonight’s sunset sail with Rose is all I can think about, and I want everything to be perfect.

Rose. The image of her, her eyes wide with wonder as she gazed up at me in my kraken form, is burned into my memory. I’m so lost in my memories, I nearly trip over a warped board on the dock. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined a human, even one as extraordinary as Rose, accepting my kraken nature so readily. The joy and delight on her face when she saw me…

I shake my head, still in disbelief. She threw herself into the ocean to force a meeting with me. It was reckless and audacious, dangerous even, but I was so moved by her desire to meet me.

A twinge of sadness tempers my joy as I remember that Rose will leave in just over a week. Could we make it work? Rose mentioned the possibility of a long-distance relationship. While any relationship with her would be incredible, the idea of her leaving for the desert, a place where I couldn’t follow, would be incredibly challenging.

The distance isn’t my only concern. Every moment I spend with Rose feels increasingly dishonest – she knows only half of who I am. The way she reacted to the kraken, with wonder and acceptance, makes my heart ache to tell her the truth: that the creature she befriended and the man she’s growing close to are one and the same. Yet this secret isn’t mine alone to tell. The hidden world of mythical beings, both here in Lublin Harbor and beyond, must be protected. Trust takes time to build – six days just isn’t long enough, no matter how remarkable they are.

I’m so lost in thought that I almost walk past Captain Orin’s sailboat. It’s a sleek and well-maintained vessel, its white hull gleaming in the late afternoon light. I call out as I approach, “Orin? You aboard?”

A moment later, a head pops out of a hatch. “Levi, my boy! Come aboard!”

Captain Orin’s appearance never fails to bring a smile to my face. He cuts an impressive figure, his commanding presence amplified by a mane of silver hair neatly tied at the nape of his neck, revealing ears with the slightest point at the tips. There’s something otherworldly about Orin, a fluidity to his movements that speaks of comfort both on land and sea. His eyes, a deep, shifting blue-green, seem to capture the very essence of the ocean. His skin is darkly tanned from countless days on the water, while deep laugh lines frame eyes that sparkle with wisdom and mischief. The weathered hands that grasp the rigging bear faint traces of webbing between the fingers, noticeable only to those who know what to look for. These small details, often overlooked by casual observers, are subtle reminders of Orin’s true nature as a merman.

“Everything shipshape for tonight?” I ask, knowing how much Orin loves puns, as I step onto the deck.

Orin nods, his eyes twinkling. “ Shore is! Everything’s smooth sailing. Excited for your romantic evening, lad? The weather’s perfect, and I’ve stocked the galley with some excellent wine – hope it helps you make a splash!”

I groan at the puns as I feel a blush creeping up my neck, acutely aware that in Lublin Harbor, there are always eyes watching. The locals love their gossip, and I can almost hear the whispers starting already. “It’s not… I mean, we’re just…”

Orin’s laughter booms across the deck, loud enough to carry to the nearest docks. I wince internally, knowing that no matter what I say, it will only fuel the rumor mill. “No need to be shy, Levi. I’ve seen the way you look at that girl.”

His words make me pause. I glance around, ensuring we’re alone – or as alone as one can be in this town of prying eyes and wagging tongues. There’s something I want to ask him, and despite the risk of being overheard, now seems like the best time. Lowering my voice, I begin hesitantly, “Orin, have you ever… I mean, did you ever have a relationship with a human?”

The glee in Orin’s eyes fades, replaced by a thoughtful look. “Aye, I did. When I was younger, not much older than you are now. I thought I’d found the one, you know?”

I nod, encouraging him to continue.

Orin sighs, leaning against the mast. “She was beautiful, full of life. But in the end, she couldn’t fully accept my merman half; and couldn’t handle living on a boat full time. It was fun for a time, but she quickly realized that this wasn’t the life for her. I can’t say I blame her, truly. And, of course, she couldn’t share the underwater world with me, being human and all. That caused a divide between us that kept growing until we couldn’t ignore it anymore. It was a difficult time in my life.”

His words hit me hard, echoing my own fears about a relationship with Rose. The ocean isn’t just a place I visit; it’s a vital part of who I am. The thought of being unable to share that world, that essential piece of myself, with the person I’d want to share my life with… it’s like contemplating splitting myself in half. How could I be whole if such a significant part of me remained unreachable to my partner?

“I’m sorry, Orin,” I say, my voice thick with understanding. “That must have been more than just difficult.”

He shrugs, a wry smile on his face. “It was, at the time. But life sails on, lad.” Orin’s eyes narrow slightly as he studies me, a mix of concern and curiosity in his gaze. “Are you that serious about this human woman, Levi?”

I try to shrug nonchalantly, but Orin isn’t fooled. His eyebrows raise, and a knowing grin spreads across his face. “I don’t know,” I finally respond. “I haven’t even known Rose a full week. I think I’m just getting ahead of myself.”

Orin’s laughter rings out again. “Ah, young love! Don’t borrow trouble, Levi. Enjoy your time with the delectable Rose. Things will work out if they’re meant to.”

His words spark a thought, and I can’t help but voice it. “Orin, do you think… could Rose coming to Lublin Harbor be a set-up by Koko?”

Orin’s expression turns cryptic. “With a love goddess, you never know. It’s better to just go with the flow, lad. Best not to start seeing Koko’s hand in every chance meeting. You’ll drive yourself mad trying to guess what a love goddess may or may not be orchestrating. Besides, love usually happens naturally, without divine guidance, and that’s the real magic of it. Just enjoy Rose’s company for what it is.”

I nod, taking in his words. “Thanks, Orin. I appreciate the advice.”

“Anytime, my boy. Now, shouldn’t you be getting ready for your date?”

“It’s not really a date. It’s part of Rose’s vacation package,” I try to argue, but Orin’s scoff at my words makes my blush return, and I roll my eyes at him. However, I glance at my watch, realizing he’s right. “I should go. I need to get cleaned up and then I’ll be back shortly with Rose.”

As I turn to leave, a thought strikes me. “Oh, and Orin? Please don’t tease Rose too much.”

The grin that spreads across Orin’s face tells me not to hold my breath on that request.

My mind is a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions as I return to my houseboat. The excitement of seeing Rose again conflicts with the anxiety of navigating this complex situation. Part of me wants to throw caution to the wind and dive headfirst into whatever this is between us, but the more rational part of my brain urges caution.

I head straight for a shower to wash away the day’s salt and sweat.

I dress in a soft blue button-down shirt and khaki shorts, then check the clock. Almost time. Checking myself over in the mirror, I make a futile attempt to tame my unruly hair but give up after a minute. Then, with a deep breath to steady my nerves, I step out onto the deck.

The sight that greets me takes my breath away. Rose is already outside, leaning against the railing of her houseboat. The lowering sun bathes her in a golden glow, illuminating her dark hair and revealing deep copper highlights that shimmer like hidden treasure. She’s wearing a stunning blue sundress that flutters gently in the evening breeze. Silver threads in the fabric catch the light, making her shimmer like a mirage. Her smile when she sees me is radiant.

For a moment, I forget how to breathe. How is it possible that this incredible woman is here, waiting for me?

“Hey,” I manage to say, my voice slightly hoarse. “You look beautiful.”

A blush colors Rose’s cheeks, and my heart skips a beat. “Thanks,” she says softly. “You clean up pretty nice yourself.”

I offer her my hand, helping her onto the dock. The touch of her skin against mine sends a jolt of electricity through me, and I force myself to resist the urge to pull her closer.

“Ready for our sunset sail?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

Rose nods, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “I can’t wait. I’ve never been on a sailboat before.”

“I think you’re going to love it. There’s something special about sailing – the quiet, the way we slice through the waves. Just us and the wind out here on the water.”

As we walk towards Captain Orin’s boat, I can’t help but marvel at how natural this feels. Rose’s hand in mine, the sound of her laughter carried on the evening breeze – it’s like she belongs here with me.

But as we near the sailboat, I feel a flutter of nervousness take flight in my stomach. I know Orin means well, but his teasing could easily veer into dangerous territory. I silently pray to whatever deities might be listening (and pointedly not to Koko) that he’ll behave himself.

“Captain Orin!” I call out as we approach. “We’re here!”

Orin appears on deck, in a white polo shirt and navy shorts. “Welcome aboard, you two!” he booms, his voice carrying across the marina. “Ready for a magical evening?”

I catch the glint in his eye at the word ‘magical’ and shoot him a warning look. He grins wider in response.

“Here, let me help you,” I say, offering Rose my hand. She takes it, stepping carefully from the dock onto the gently rocking boat. I guide her to the cockpit, making sure she’s comfortable on one of the cushioned seats, before moving to help with the lines. As Captain Orin starts the boat’s motor, I work my way around the deck, casting off the dock lines one by one.

As we push off from the dock, I inhale deeply, savoring the crisp, salty breeze. My heart races with anticipation. Whatever happens, I’m determined to make this a night Rose will never forget.

As we motor out of the marina, the gentle hum of the engine vibrates through the deck. Rose makes her way to the bow, her hair whipping in the wind, her eyes wide with excitement as she takes in the expanding horizon. Behind us, the coastline of Lublin Harbor grows smaller, and the town’s lights begin to twinkle in the fading daylight.

Once we’re in open water, Captain Orin calls out, “Ready to sail?” At Rose’s enthusiastic nod, he kills the engine. The sudden silence is striking, broken only by the lapping of waves against the hull.

I can’t take my eyes off Rose as Orin unfurls the sails. Her gasp of delight when the wind catches the canvas, and the boat surges forward sends a warmth spreading through my chest. The sailboat heels over, and Rose lets out a gleeful laugh, gripping the railing as she leans into the tilt.

Spray from the bow mists our faces, cool and refreshing against the warmth of the setting sun. The peaceful quiet envelops us, punctuated only by the wind whistling through the rigging, the piercing cry of an osprey wheeling overhead, and the creaking of the hull as it cuts through the waves.

I join Rose at the railing, pointing out the Maine coastline to our left. The sun is sinking behind it, painting the sky in breathtaking colors. The rugged shoreline is cast in shadow, a dark silhouette against the brilliant sky.

After showing off the boat’s speed for a while, Orin slows our pace, setting a more leisurely course parallel to the coast. He disappears below deck and returns with a bottle of champagne and a tray of appetizers.

“Some bubbly to help you stay afloat. Wine don’t you two go enjoy the sunset?” he suggests with a wink, pouring us each a glass of bubbly before retreating to the stern.

Rose laughs delightedly at the puns, and I groan. “Please don’t encourage him,” I warn her.

Rose and I settle on the cushioned seating in the cockpit, the golden light of the setting sun warming our faces. She takes a sip of champagne, her eyes closing in appreciation, and I’m struck by how beautiful she looks – wind-tousled hair, cheeks flushed pink, and a soft smile playing on her lips.

Before I can second-guess myself, I lean in and kiss her. Her lips are soft and taste of champagne, and she responds with an eagerness that makes my heart soar. Rose’s eyes flutter open as we part, meeting mine with a look of tender happiness that takes my breath away. The setting sun gilds her features, and I realize that this moment, perfect and fleeting, will be etched in my memory forever. I’m vaguely aware that Orin is probably watching and collecting prime gossip material, but with Rose in my arms and the vast ocean surrounding us, I don’t care.