44. Chapter Forty-Four

Chapter Forty-Four

Meria

W e arrived at Marren Island the next morning as Dominick had promised. But Marren Isle did not look the same. At least, the waters around it had changed. Mermaids and mermen–my people–were there, playing openly in the waves during the daytime. None of them had ventured onto the island, but they had risen up within the bay. I wondered if the Marren Lights had gone out during my absence, or if my people finally believed what my Mother, Finn, and I had told them. I moved to the front of the ship where Dominick stood at the wheel.

“I can stay back and anchor here, but the men have already seen them.”

“Do you think they will hurt my people?” I asked, a little afraid.

“If they dare, they shall be ripped in two,” Dominick said with a smile. Although it was a dark comment, I could not help but laugh. The Cruel Hand was not Dominick. His threats were only that–threats.

“Thank you,” I said, touching his cheek. I knew what I had to do. I was going to talk with my father and make sure that my people knew what would save them, permanently. I also needed to say ‘goodbye’ to my family, and goodbye to my mermaid life. I wanted to save Dominick from his curse, and that would leave me, forever, as a human. As I looked at Dominick, I knew that it would be worth it. I did not want to be a mermaid if it meant Dominick would never have the chance to be free. I could live the rest of my life as a human and be just fine. I liked having legs, I liked being with Dominick, and that felt like where I truly belonged. I would still be able to swim in the sea, although in shallower waters and for shorter periods of time, but that was okay. The sacrifice was worth it. My greatest desire to have a family with Dominick was worth it.

Before I could say anything, I dove into the sea and over to my people, toward freedom for both Dominick and myself, and for my people.