Chapter 7

CHAPTER 7

Levi

T he sky is still dark when I arrive at the harbormaster’s office. The air is brisk, carrying the tang of the sea and the promise of a beautiful day ahead. Although summer is just around the corner, it’s still cool enough that we won’t be bobbing and baking out on the ocean today.

I rest against the building’s salt-worn siding, peering into the darkness for any sign of Rose. My heart quickens at the thought of spending the day with her, even as I scold myself for this weakness. She is a client and a human with no knowledge or understanding of the supernatural creatures and magic that exist in this world. And it needs to stay that way. The veil between her reality and mine must remain intact, no matter how tempting she might be.

My mind wanders to last night when I was swimming in the marina’s waters in my scout form. Rose was sitting on the edge of her deck, feet dangling in the water, completely unaware of my presence beneath the surface. As she got up to head inside, our eyes had met – or at least, I could have sworn they did. I saw the flash of fear in her eyes, the way her body tensed as if ready to bolt. But then, just as quickly, she relaxed. She had dismissed it, probably convincing herself that seeing me was a trick of the moonlight or her imagination.

That moment haunts me now. I again see her unconscious flinch, the flicker of primal fear in her eyes – a bitter reminder of what others think of me. Even the most civilized monster is still a monster to humans. That single instant of raw terror in her gaze tells me everything I need to know: my truth must remain buried, no matter how it claws at my chest to be free.

A figure emerges from the shadows, and I straighten up, recognizing Rose’s graceful gait. She’s bundled up against the early morning chill, her cheeks flushed from the brisk walk.

“Good morning,” I say softly, not wanting to disturb the pre-dawn quiet. “Ready for an adventure on the high seas?”

Rose’s smile is warm enough to chase away the lingering chill. “More than ready. I could hardly sleep last night, I was so excited.”

I chuckle, gesturing for her to follow me down to the docks. “Well, I hope the reality lives up to your expectations. I’ve got everything packed and ready to go.”

We make our way to a sturdy fishing boat I’ve been loaned for the day. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable and perfect for our needs. I help Rose aboard, trying to ignore the spark that runs through me when our hands touch.

“I’ve packed a cooler with drinks and snacks,” I explain, pointing out the various gear stowed around the deck. “And, of course, we’ve got all the bait and fishing equipment we’ll need.”

Rose nods, taking it all in with wide, eager eyes.

“By the way, the mayor is hosting a clam bake on the beach tonight, and we’ve been invited,” I say, studying her face. “I thought we could bring today’s catch to share.” Her eyebrows lift with interest, and I add, “Though I suppose that means we actually need to catch something first.”

The moment the words leave my mouth, I cringe inwardly. It was meant to be a joke, but my delivery is off, and I see a flicker of concern cross Rose’s face.

“I’m kidding,” I quickly add, feeling heat rise to my cheeks. “We don’t need to bring anything. It would be nice if we catch something, but it’s not expected.”

Rose’s smile softens the awkward moment, but I still want to kick myself. I gesture toward the bench seat, already turning toward the helm. “Make yourself comfortable while I navigate us out of the marina. Once we’re clear, we’ll find the perfect spot to cast our lines.”

As I guide the boat out of the harbor, I steal glances at Rose. She’s leaning back against the railing, her hair whipping in the wind, a look of pure joy on her face. The sight makes my heart ache in a way I can’t explain.

“Levi,” Rose calls over the sound of the engine, “I’ve been meaning to ask – am I the only person coming on this fishing charter? I thought there might be other tourists joining us.”

I hesitate for a moment, considering how to explain. “You’re kind of a trial run,” I admit, reducing the engine’s speed so we can talk more easily. “This is part of a new venture Koko – the mayor – is starting to attract more tourists to Lublin Harbor. You’re our first client.”

Rose’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. “That would explain why I got such a good deal. Although I’m shocked that Lublin Harbor would have trouble getting tourists. It’s so lovely here!”

I nod, understanding her confusion. “The town has historically been pretty isolated,” I explain. “We’ve tried to stay off the radar for a long time. But times are changing, and we need to adapt.”

A mischievous grin spreads across Rose’s face. “So, I’m a guinea pig then?”

I can’t help but laugh. “I suppose you are. But a very welcome one. And don’t worry – even if this is a trial run, I promise you’re in good hands.”

Rose’s smile softens. “I don’t doubt that for a second,” she says, and the warmth in her voice makes my heart lurch in my chest.

I guide the boat toward a good fishing spot, cut the engine, and let the ship drift gently on the swells. The sky is beginning to lighten, the stars fading as the first hints of dawn paint the horizon. Rose and I work together to set up our fishing rods, and soon, we’re sitting side by side, lines cast into the water.

As the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon, I notice Rose stifling a yawn. “Hey, how about some breakfast?” I suggest, reaching for the cooler. “Can’t fish on an empty stomach.”

Rose’s eyes light up. “That sounds fantastic,” she admits. “All I had was a muffin.”

I open the small insulated food warmer, pulling out some breakfast burritos wrapped in foil, along with a few granola bars from my pack. “It’s nothing fancy, but it should hit the spot. Plus, you can eat them one-handed,” I say, nodding towards the rod she’s holding. Then, reaching back into my bag, I pull out a thermos.

The moment Rose sees it, she lets out a squeal of delight. “Please tell me that’s coffee,” she says, her eyes wide with hope.

I can’t help but laugh at her reaction. “It sure is,” I confirm, pouring the steaming liquid into two cups. “I had a feeling you might need a caffeine boost.”

Setting the rod between her knees, Rose cradles the cup in her hands, inhaling deeply. “Oh, Levi, you’re a lifesaver,” she sighs contentedly. “This might be the best-smelling coffee I’ve ever encountered.”

“It’s just coffee – nothing special,” I respond, the words coming out more woodenly than I intended. I wince internally at my awkward reply, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck. Why couldn’t I just accept the compliment graciously? I glance at Rose, half-expecting to see annoyance or hurt on her face, but to my relief, she doesn’t seem to have noticed my stilted response. She’s still savoring the aroma of her coffee, a small smile playing on her lips.

As we sip our drinks and nibble on breakfast, the sun slowly rises, brightening the sky to a cloudless robin’s egg blue. We fish in companionable silence, the gentle lapping of waves against the hull and the occasional cry of a seagull the only sounds that break the peaceful quiet.

I catch a few modest-sized fish, but Rose’s line remains frustratingly still. I can see the determination in her eyes, though, and I admire her persistence.

“Don’t worry,” I reassure her. “Sometimes it just takes patience. The fish will come.”

As if on cue, Rose’s rod suddenly jerks violently.

“I’ve got something!” she exclaims, gripping the rod tightly.

I’m by her side instantly, helping her steady the rod as it nearly jerks from her grip. “Whoa, that’s a fighter!”

I quickly secure a fishing belt around her waist, trying to ignore how our proximity sends a jolt through me – her hair carries the scent of a floral shampoo, and her back brushes against my chest as I reach around her waist.

“This will give you more leverage,” I explain, stepping back to guide her through the fight. Rose, focused entirely on her catch, leans into the struggle with determination.

“You’ve got this, Rose!” I cheer as the rod bends with the fish’s strength. “Nice and steady… that’s it!”

After what feels like an eternity, we see a flash of silver beneath the waves. With one final powerful turn of the reel, Rose brings the fish to the surface – a beautiful Atlantic cod, easily the biggest catch of the day.

I scoop it up in the net as Rose throws her arms up triumphantly. Her joy-filled cheer echoes across the water. Her face glows with pride and exertion as I carefully unhook the fish.

“You did it!” I exclaim, grinning widely. “That’s a fantastic catch.”

“We did it,” she corrects me, still beaming. “I couldn’t have landed it without your help.”

As I place the cod in the cooler, I can’t help but feel a surge of affection for Rose. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and I find myself more relaxed and open than I’ve been in a long time.

The rest of the day passes in a blur of sunshine, laughter, and the occasional exciting tug on our lines. Rose is curious and talkative, asking me about my life in Lublin Harbor, my family, my past. Each time, I gently redirect the conversation back to her as best I can.

“Do you have any family around here?” Rose asks.

I take a long drink from my water bottle, buying myself time. It’s strange – I usually deflect questions like this, but something about her makes me want to answer honestly. “No, not anymore. Got some family that live far away, but…” I shake my head. “We’re not really in touch these days.”

“Oh?” Her voice is soft, curious but not pushing.

“Yeah, I was always kind of the odd one out.” The words come easier than I expect. “Never quite fit the mold of what they expected.” I let out a laugh that sounds hollow even to my own ears. “I never knew my father. And my mother… she passed away almost a decade ago. After my mom passed, that was pretty much it. She was the glue holding everything together, I guess. Without her…” I trail off, shrugging instead of finishing the thought.

Her face falls, sympathy clear in her eyes. “I’m so sorry, Levi.”

I nod, accepting her condolences. I’m surprised to realize I don’t mind discussing this part of my past – not with her. Something about Rose makes it easy to pull back a few layers, even on subjects I usually keep buried. “She was… fiercely independent,” I say after a moment. “Strong, stubborn, didn’t care what anyone thought. She taught me a lot about resilience.”

“You must miss her,” Rose says gently.

“I do,” I admit, my voice softer. “Very much.”

She briefly places a hand on mine, grounding me, and a warmth for Rose blooms in my chest. As much as I long to share even more of myself with Rose, to let her in further, I know I can’t. The secrets I carry are too heavy, too dangerous. So, I content myself with learning about her, storing away each detail like a precious treasure, grateful for this rare sliver of connection she’s giving me.

“I’m so sorry,” Rose says, and there’s something in her voice that makes me look over at her. “I know how that feels, actually. I lost my mom when I was in college, just a few years ago.”

Something shifts in my chest – a recognition, maybe. I find myself really looking at her, seeing past the surface for the first time.

“Dad took it pretty hard,” she continues, wrapping her arms around her knees. “Ended up moving to California afterward. Got remarried last year, actually.” She tries to smile, but I can see the weight behind it. “Nice lady. They seem happy. It’s just… different now, you know?”

“Yeah,” I say quietly, understanding exactly what she means. “Everything’s different after.”

I watch her stare out at the water, and for a moment, I feel less alone than I have in years.

“Tell me more about your art. What inspires you?” I ask, changing the subject.

Rose’s eyes light up as she talks about her paintings, travels, favorite books, and movies. I listen intently, drawn in by her genuine passion and colorful anecdotes. It’s easier and safer this way. I can appreciate her openness while maintaining the invisible wall I need to keep between us.

As the sun climbs higher in the sky, we take a break from fishing to enjoy the lunch I’ve packed. Sitting across from Rose, sharing sandwiches and fruit as the boat gently rocks beneath us, I’m struck by how comfortable this feels. It’s as if we’ve known each other for years, not just a few days.

After lunch, I suggest that we do a bit of sightseeing. I guide the boat along the coastline, pointing out interesting rock formations and hidden coves. Rose alternates between her sketchbook and camera, capturing the scenery. Through her eyes, I discover new beauty in familiar places – details I’ve somehow missed in all my years here.

We find a secluded spot to drop anchor as the afternoon wears on. Rose asks me if swimming here is safe, and I confirm it is.

“Yes!” Rose cheers. “The water looks so refreshing.”

I barely have time to process the words before she shrugs off her outer clothes to reveal a navy-blue swimsuit underneath. She dives off the back of the boat with a joyful whoop, leaving me dry-mouthed and frozen at the helm.

“Come on in, Levi!” Rose calls out, breaking my trance. “The water’s perfect!”

I shake myself and dive in, grateful that the bracing cold helps clear my head. I surface a few yards away from Rose, who is laughing and radiant. I find myself mesmerized all over again. Water streams down her shoulders, catching sunlight like scattered diamonds. Her dark hair is slicked back, emphasizing the elegant line of her neck. She looks like a mythical creature – a siren emerging from the deep – and I force myself to look away.

The irony isn’t lost on me. Here I am, an actual sea creature, entirely undone by a human woman swimming in my domain. The thought would be funny if it didn’t make my chest ache with everything I can never tell her.

My secrets feel like stones in my stomach. I want to tell Rose everything – who I really am, that I’m not human. But she’s just passing through, a tourist who’ll return to her real life far from Lublin Harbor. And even if she stayed, how could I ever explain that I am a monster? A kraken shifter from the deepest depths of the ocean?

As the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, painting the sky in golden pink and red hues, I reluctantly steer the boat back toward the harbor. Rose sits beside me, her hair tousled by the sea breeze, and smiles contentedly.

“This has been an amazing day,” she says softly. “Thank you, Levi.”

“I’m glad you enjoyed it,” I reply, wishing I could find the words to express how much this day has meant to me.

As we approach the harbor, we can see bonfires being set up on the beach – the same beach I washed ashore on a few years ago. The faint rhythm of music drifts across the water, mingling with distant laughter and the smell of wood smoke.

“Oh, that looks like fun!” Rose coos, leaning forward on the bow rail. Her eyes sparkle with happiness, and her smile is contagious. “I can already smell something delicious cooking.”

Once I finish tying up the boat, I help Rose off and then grab our catch, which is securely stowed in a cooler. As we walk towards the beach, our hands accidentally brush. I feel a jolt of electricity at the contact, and for a moment, I’m tempted to take her hand in mine. But I resist, reminding myself I am only her tour guide, not her date.

The crowd beckons from the beach, their laughter carrying across the sand as the bonfires flicker to life. Just a few more hours of pretending I’m nothing more than a simple fishing guide, watching Rose shine in the firelight. A few more hours of wishing I could be the man she thinks I am.