Chapter 8

Relief floods through me as we leave Eaen's office. Rey is on the mend, and there are no immediate concerns about her health. The Head Medic didn't find anything wrong with her, and I couldn't be more relieved.

Just saying her name in my mind brings a rush of warmth.

Guiding Rey gently, I lead her toward the beachfront. It's a short walk to our destination—Sora's Seaside Shack, my favorite dining spot on the resort. Nestled between the lively volleyball courts and the picturesque lagoon where Merfolk love to congregate, Sora's is a hub of lively chatter, hearty laughter and irresistible smells.

The restaurant is an outdoor setup, tables under a canopy with the open sky above and a panoramic view of the beach. The cooking station is a raft anchored in the water between the breakwater walls, protected from the waves yet close enough for easy access by both aquatic and terrestrial clientele. It's a unique experience, one that guests always love.

"I hope you're hungry, Rey," I say as we find a comfortable table sitting beside the lagoon. The tables are made from reclaimed driftwood, polished to a mirror sheen and decorated with vibrant coral and shells. "Sora is a dear friend of mine, and she's always delighted when guests try out her dishes."

Curiosity sparkles in Rey's eyes as she surveys the place. "What does Sora serve?" she asks me, her eyes meeting mine.

A playful smirk tugs at my lips, as I lean in closer. "You'll just have to wait and see," I tease her, my tentacles drumming a playful rhythm on the tabletop.

Sora's Seaside Shack is abuzz with customers. Aquatic monsters, predominantly, their scales and fins shimmering in the tropical sun. Some Birdmen, with their vibrant plumage, are scattered about as well, all of them deep into their meals, animatedly chatting and laughing with their companions.

The atmosphere is vibrant and full of life, as diverse as the creatures who have gathered here. I always marvel at the interplay between all the different kinds of species, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the resort's community.

To the side at the cooking raft, Sora's twin Kraken chefs are at work. They chop and dice with a fluidity and precision that's almost mesmerizing to watch, their tentacles moving in perfect harmony. Fish, seaweed, vegetables, and other unfamiliar but tantalizing ingredients are skillfully prepared and transformed into mouth-watering fusion dishes.

Our attention is drawn away from the kitchen by the approach of a figure from the lagoon.

Sora herself glides over to our table, her majestic tail sweeping through the water with practiced ease. Her long, white hair is held back by a decorative hairpiece fashioned from a net and shells. It makes her aqua eyes stand out brilliantly, a contrast to her dark brown skin, which is adorned with sparkling water droplets that make her jade and silver scales glisten in the sunlight.

"Welcome, friends!" Sora greets us warmly, a wide, friendly smile gracing her lips. She reaches out and grasps Rey's hands, her tail flicking happily behind her. "What's your name, dear?"

I know Sora is well aware of Rey's name. The whole resort's staff is. But this is Sora's way of making Rey feel welcomed, special. It's why I brought Rey here. Sora has a knack for making everyone feel at home.

"Rey," Rey introduces herself, her eyes shining with interest as she takes in Sora.

"Rey," Sora repeats, nodding approvingly. "I'm Sora. What brings you two here today?"

Rey's eyes flit to me briefly before returning to Sora. "Zethe brought me here. We're both hungry, and he suggested this place."

I decide to add to that, smiling at Sora. "I wanted Rey to try something truly unique at our resort. I thought your fusion cuisine would be a perfect start."

Sora's eyes twinkle with delight as she asks Rey, "So, are you willing to try anything?"

Rey doesn't hesitate. She nods her head confidently. "I believe in trying everything at least once before making a decision."

Sora claps her hands together, her laughter ringing out like a chorus of holiday bells. "Perfect. I'm going to make you something special then!" She flips around and swims away with a wide grin, leaving a trail of bubbles in her wake.

Rey turns to me, her eyes wide. "Should I be scared?" she asks, a hint of nervousness creeping into her voice.

I chuckle, shaking my head. "Sora and her Kraken mates know what they're doing. You're in safe hands," I reassure her.

Her eyes widen even more as she looks back at the cooking raft, her gaze flicking between Sora and the Kraken twins. She leans closer, her voice dropping to a whisper as she asks, "Is she in a polyamorous relationship with the Kraken twins?"

I nod, confirming her suspicions. "Yes, Seb and Flo are her fated mates. It's not unusual for twins to share a fated mate… it's the interspecies aspect of their relationship that's less common."

Her eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "My monster studies class in college never went into the finer details about twins or interspecies relationships. And none of my online monster coworkers are in one, nor have I had any reason to inquire about them.

"I believe in love and witnessed many different relationships in college, including those between humans and monsters, as well as between different monster species. But, since I graduated, I've been working from home and getting whatever I need delivered, so I'm not used to seeing relationships open in public."

I shrug. "Many of us have given up on the idea of finding our fated mates. Our society has become so focused on technology that it's replaced personal interactions," I confess. "It's hard to find time to venture outside the resort when everyone is so distant and introverted, wanting to remain alone inside on their gadgets when they're not working."

The truth is, while I had held on to hope longer than most, even I had almost given up on ever finding my fated mate. But then Rey came into my life, and everything changed.

Now, I'm just grateful to have found her. I'm determined to make the most of the time we have together, and that includes giving her the best experiences the resort has to offer, starting with Sora's unique cuisine.

"So, what's the plan after lunch?" Rey asks, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

I lean back in my chair, the wood creaking softly under my weight. "I figured we could go shell searching," I tell her. "The storm yesterday churned up the ocean, so there'll be all sorts of interesting things washed up on the shore."

Her face lights up, and she nods enthusiastically. "That sounds fun! Do you do that often?"

"I do," I admit. "Not just for fun, though. It's also to ensure the beaches are safe for the guests. But yeah, I find some pretty neat stuff sometimes. Once I even found a rubber duckie. It now sits in my bathroom window."

She laughs at that, her eyes sparkling. "I trust you to know something fun and unique for us to do, together."

Before I can respond, Sora swims over, a large tray balanced in her hands. She sets it down on the table between us, revealing an array of beautifully arranged sushi rolls. "I've been studying popular human foods," Sora says, her voice filled with excitement. "MerSushi is a big hit, and since we use most of the ingredients already, I thought we'd give it a shot. I hope you like it, Rey."

Rey looks at the sushi, her eyes wide. "Do you have chopsticks or any utensils?" she asks.

Sora and I exchange glances. "Actually, we don't use utensils here," Sora explains. "Everyone just uses their hands."

Rey shrugs, a small smile playing on her lips. "That's okay, I've never been good with chopsticks anyway," she admits. "Eating with my hands works perfectly fine for me."

She picks up one of the sushi rolls, studying it for a moment before popping it into her mouth. "Mmm, this is delicious!"

She grins at Sora, her eyes sparkling with delight, and I warmly share her enthusiasm.

"Rey," Sora says, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she holds her tray to her chest with both arms. "I'm hoping to be able to offer dishes that humans will enjoy, especially since we're trying to attract more visitors to this resort. Do you have any suggestions for improving my Fusion MerSushi rolls?"

"Sora, these rolls are absolutely perfect just the way they are. I love how the unique flavors come together," Rey says after she swallows. "Maybe just change the fillings depending on what's fresh or in season, but otherwise, I'd keep them the same. Customers, regardless of the dish, enjoy limited-time flavors, so changing the menu every two months or so could be a fun way to generate buzz."

Sora's face lights up, and a sense of relief washes over her. She has poured her heart and soul into creating these culinary delights, and it warms my heart to see her confidence restored. Her passion for food is contagious, and it's evident in every dish she prepares.

"You really think so?" she asks, a mix of excitement and gratitude evident in her voice.

Rey nods enthusiastically, setting her drink down. "Absolutely. Your Fusion MerSushi rolls are unlike anything I've ever tasted before. The way you blend different flavors and textures together is certainly something I can't find outside the resort."

Sora's smile widens, and she places her hands on the table, leaning in closer. "Rey, your words mean the world to me. I've worked tirelessly to create dishes that will create memorable experiences for my customers. My fear is that I wouldn't have enough dishes for our human guests to enjoy, but to hear that you love my Fusion MerSushi rolls brings me immeasurable joy."

I give her a reassuring smile, filled with genuine admiration. "Your Fusion MerSushi rolls are a testament to your talent and creativity. I can't wait to try what else you have on your menu that I may enjoy."

Sora's eyes glisten with tears, and she nods to both of us. "Thank you, Rey! And thank you, Zethe. Now my fears have been calmed. It's been my greatest worry ever since Svea announced that she was opening up the resort to humans. I wanted to make sure their needs were met."

Then, she reaches out and lightly touches Rey's hair. "Your hair is so pretty. Have you ever had it styled in a Merfolk design? We could do it while you're here at the resort."

I glance at Rey to gauge her reaction before speaking up. "We had plans for the day, Sora," I remind her, not wanting to impose on Rey. "But if Rey is interested, we could arrange a hair session tomorrow."

Rey's eyes brighten at the idea. "I would love that, if it wouldn't be too much trouble."

"Trouble? Not at all!" Sora exclaims as she flips her hair back over her shoulder. "Come to the lagoon after breakfast, and I would be delighted to style your hair with the help of my friends and sisters."

Rey turns to me, wide eyed. "Should I be worried?"

I can only chuckle at her question. "Not at all. Merfolk takes their hair very seriously. Sora won't let anyone mess it up."

Sora nods, clearly appreciative of my support. "That's true. We love styling hair, no matter the species. I want to do it as a thank you for your help."

Rey's face softens, and she takes another bite of her sushi, her eyes closing in delight as she savors the flavors. "I'd be happy to help out as much as you need, Sora," she says once she swallows. "And I definitely want more of this."

Sora beams at her, her tail twitching in excitement. "How about I arrange for some of our MerSushi Rolls to be delivered to your villa whenever you want?"

With a smile, I explain to Rey how the resort operates. "You can place orders on the vidtablet to any of the resort's restaurants and have the food and refreshments delivered, if you'd like."

Rey mulls over my words as she takes a bite of her sushi. "That would be nice on a rainy day," she admits, swallowing and nodding. "But I think I'd prefer to see the restaurants in person. I want to experience everything I can at this resort."

My heart swells at her words, a warmth spreading through me. "Of course," I tell her, a fond smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "I'd be more than happy to guide you anywhere you'd like to go."

Sora gazes at Rey with a fond smile. "Being mated to a Kraken," she begins, her voice light with laughter. "You are going to have a fun time."

My gaze is drawn to Rey. Her eyes are wide and her cheeks are painted a lovely shade of rose. Unable to resist, I extend my tentacle and gently touch her hand, seeking comfort from her touch. She turns her hand palm-up, allowing my tendril to wrap around her fingers. Her acceptance sends warmth flooding through me.

"Why do you say that?" Rey asks, biting her lip as she glances my way. "Are they known for having special mating practices or something?"

"They love fiercely, Rey," Sora replies, grasping her hands together wistfully. "My boys… they never let a day go by without reminding me of their love. They're protective, but they understand the importance of personal space and freedom. They respect me, cherish me. And they would move oceans for me."

As she speaks, Rey's cheeks redden, but she maintains eye contact with Sora, hanging onto every word. "And that's different from other monsters?"

Sora nods. "Kraken females are fierce hunters. They often hunt in tangles with other local Kraken, gone sometimes for days at a time, whenever they aren't in mating heat. It's up to the males to protect and care for the young, and manage the upkeep on the home, making sure everything is flowing well."

"So they are the caretakers?" Rey stares at my tentacle in her hand and gives it a light squeeze.

"Yes, and they do it well." Sora nods. "And Zethe? He's one of the best. He's dedicated, reliable, caring… and so damn charming. I've seen how he treats everyone here—with kindness, respect, and fairness. If he says he's your fated mate, believe me, he won't stop at anything to ensure your happiness and safety."

A warm smile graces Sora's lips as she gestures to her cooking raft. "He even helped us build this restaurant, volunteering his time off to aid in setting it up. We are forever indebted to him."

Rey's voice is soft, and she looks at me with a new light in her eyes. "Thank you, Sora, for the information. I've seen the same qualities in Zethe too."

It's as if a massive weight has been lifted off my chest, but it's quickly replaced by another as Sora turns her gaze onto Rey, her tone suddenly serious.

"And Rey," she says, her voice earnest. "Please, do not break his heart. He is a good male, one who deserves a chance at love."

There's a certain pleading in Sora's eyes, as if she's been in this position before. Or perhaps she's seen a lot of hearts broken at her restaurant and doesn't want the same for me.

But still, even as touching as it is for her to come into my defense and speak of my worth, it is also embarrassing. I should be able to prove myself to Rey, without anyone's interference and aid.

Rey's response comes soft and steady, her gaze never leaving mine as she answers Sora. "I think… I think we both deserve a chance at love."

I feel a warmth spread through me, the joy of her words filling every corner of my being. She believes we both deserve love, a chance to make our relationship blossom into something beautiful. It's a thought that both soothes my nerves and emboldens my resolve.

I reach out, taking Rey's hand in mine. I hold it gently, my thumb brushing over the smooth skin. "I am glad you think so," I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper, our shared connection humming between us. "Because I can't imagine my life without you in it."

"Well, I'll take this as a sign that I've done my part and will leave you both to enjoy the rest of the meal in private." She casts a glance at her mates,who are hard at work in their floating raft kitchen. "It's about time I go back to work and assist my mates with the rest of the lunch rush."

"Thanks for the meal, Sora," I say, relieved that Rey and Sora were able to meet and appear to get along. "And tell the chefs it was fantastic, as usual."

Rey flashes me a radiant smile, turning her attention to Sora. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."

Sora's face lights up, her eyes gleaming. "I'm looking forward to it, Rey," she tells her. "Thank you again for your help." With a final wave of her tail, she swims off, leaving us to enjoy the rest of our meal.

As we dig into our food, a sense of satisfaction washes over me.

As I watch Rey devour her Fusion MerSushi rolls with an unabashed enthusiasm, I am struck by her stunning appearance. There's a radiance to her, a light that seems to brighten our surroundings. But I can't shake the nagging worry that nips at my thoughts.

Is it true that she doesn't mind that I'm a Kraken instead of a human?

I'm constrained by the water's embrace, unlike her. There are activities, simple things that humans can do that I simply cannot. But there are also things I can do that they cannot, my tentacles providing me with a strength and versatility that few species can match.

Rey catches me staring, her eyes wide and curious. "Zethe, is everything okay?" she asks, the sushi momentarily forgotten.

I shake my head gently. "No, nothing's wrong," I assure her, my voice as soothing as I can manage. "I was just watching you… wondering what was going on in your mind."

Her eyebrows draw together in confusion. "About what? The food, the resort… us?"

I take a moment before responding, my eyes seeking hers, trying to decipher the emotions swirling within her deep brown irises. "Us," I finally admit, my voice barely more than a whisper. "How do you feel about being fated to a Kraken?"

"I'm not frightened of monsters," Rey begins, her gaze roaming over my aquatic form, "but I've never been involved with one." As her teeth gently nip at her lower lip, my aquatic heart thumps a little harder. "However, I am… attracted to you, Zethe. And I'm eager to know you better."

"What would you like to know?"

She hesitates for a moment, then meets my gaze with a vulnerability that takes my breath away. "Are you… all right with me being your fated mate? I mean, I can't breathe underwater or swim like you do. I don't have tentacles…"

Her words hang in the air, each one a testament to our differences, a reminder of the vast gap between our species. But to me, they don't seem like barriers, but challenges to overcome, opportunities to grow together.

A smile pulls at my lips and I move a hand to my chest, over the beating pulse of my heart. "Rey"—I shake my head, dismissing her worries—"none of that matters. Female Krakens are fierce, territorial… often hostile. Your gentleness, your warmth, it's a welcome change. And you don't need to live beneath the waves or match my speed in the water. Just your love for the ocean, for life near the water, that's enough for me."

She seems to relax a bit at my words, a smile tugging at her lips. "I don't require much, Zethe. I detest the cold, the snow… I'm a creature of warmth and sunlight. I've always missed being outdoors, back when I was cooped up in the city, hunched over a computer for hours."

I let out a low chuckle at her words, the sound rumbling from deep within me. "Well, you won't have to worry about that here," I tease her. "There's plenty of sun and relaxation to be had."

Her laughter is a soothing melody to my ears, her joy contagious. "This place is like paradise," she admits. Her gaze sweeps over the other patrons of the restaurant, taking in the diverse crowd of monsters. She bites into her sushi again, then turns her attention back to me. "So, are there female Kraken on the resort? Zoe mentioned that there are many Kraken lifeguards… is it hard working with them?"

I consider her question, acknowledging the curiosity behind her words. "Everything you've read in your human textbooks about female Kraken is true," I begin. "They are indeed more aggressive and highly territorial compared to us males. But they become calmer outside of the mating season, and especially once they've found a mate."

I make a sweeping gesture to encompass the entire resort. "At present, we have two mated Kraken pairs working here at the resort, along with the twin chefs," I explain. "However, there are no single female Kraken around. They tend to remain in deeper waters, away from the crowd, until they are ready to seek a mate."

The tension visibly drains from Rey's form as my words sink in. Her shoulders slump down from their guarded position, and she breathes out a sigh of relief. "I'm glad," she admits, a soft smile playing on her lips. "I had this silly worry about having to fend off some aggressive female Kraken for you."

I chuckle softly at the image, reassuring her immediately. "There will be no need for that, Rey. We are fated mates. No one else could ever compare to you, and for me, there is no one else but you."

Her expression morphs into a frown, and she reaches for her drink, taking a long, slow sip. "Unfortunately, I've heard that before, and yet they all end up doing the same thing," she mutters, her tone tinged with hurt. "They never understood how many hours of work projects require, especially when there is a deadline. So they all… just leave."

A pang of concern pierces through me at her sudden shift in mood. I lean closer, extending a gentle tentacle to tilt her face toward me. "I am not them, Rey," I assert with a firmness that leaves no room for doubt. "Whoever caused you pain, I am not them."

I know what it means to be lost in one's work, to be so consumed by responsibility that sleep becomes a luxury. I know the exhaustion, the drain it has on the spirit. "I've been there, too. Working long hours, sleep becoming more of a dream than a reality."

"But you," I say, my voice dropping to a whisper, a solemn vow shared in the intimacy of our shared space. "You have nothing to fear from me. You're mine, Rey. The moon in my sky, the tide in my seas. I am here to stay."

My gaze holds hers, unyielding, allowing her to see the depth of my sincerity. "And if it takes the rest of my life proving it to you, so be it, because there will be no one else to take your place as my fated mate. The Moon Goddess didn't bind our souls together on a whim. There's a reason for our connection, and I intend to explore it, to cherish it."

The sight of her brushing away a teardrop hits me like a tidal wave, as a surge of protectiveness I've never felt before crashes into me.

Her voice is no more than a whisper, a soft breeze against the roaring storm inside me. "I believe you."