Chapter 35

Two months later.

“She’s been under now for one hour and twenty five-minutes,” Marrick said, looking at his stopwatch.

Kai tried to stay calm as he stared out to sea. “Should I go and investigate, see if she’s alright?”

“I’ve still got a steady heartbeat reading. No signs of agitation or panic,” Waldo said calmly. Gods, did anything ruffle that mage?

A little group of Luna’s closest friends and allies had gathered on the sandy beach of Merinda while Luna practiced her longest swim to date with her gills. They’d been in place behind her ears for four weeks, and after they’d healed, her practice had started in earnest. To switch from human breathing to amphibian breathing while in the water was a challenge.

It had taken her a while to acclimatize, which was why Kai was nervous. He’d had to rescue her a couple of times.

Gods, she was stubborn though, telling him to keep his distance while she practiced.

When Kai had suggested he or Tom come with her, she’d refused. This was her first proper swim, she’d told him, and she was going to be do it alone. So there. She’d punctuated the statement with that characteristic scowl that told him to back off.

He guessed he could reach her fast if need be. Hell, he’d walk on fucking water to get to her if she showed any sign of distress.

His stubborn little warrior human.

But now, as time went on, his tentacles were twitching with anxiety.

“One hour, twenty-seven minutes,” Marrick said. Another three more nerve-racking minutes. Kai curled his tentacles in knots around himself.

The time ticked agonizingly by.

… and then…

Out popped her head. A little fist punched the air some twenty meters out. Thank the gods of the deep, his angel was okay.

Brooke gave a loud whoop. “I’ll go crack open some Avella Hills champagne. I’ve kept it for a special occasion—I reckon this is it.”

Hana hugged Harper. “Oh my goddess, to think that my body has helped Luna achieve this. I’m so excited. Would you like a pair of gills?” she laughingly suggested to Harper. “I want to keep donating.”

“Maybe later,” Harper replied. “I think I’ll stay on land for now—or just go out on a boat.”

She glanced at Noah, who winked at her.

Unable to take any more of the chit-chat, Kai said, “Right, that’s it, I’m going in to join her. Want to come, Tom?”

Together they swam out to meet Luna. Kai had to smile as Torqua’s head popped up a couple of feet away. “Didn’t think I’d leave her all on her own out here, did you?”

Luna mock-frowned at the dolphin as she trod water. “I said no-one was to follow me.”

“He follows everyone,” Kai laughed. “Can’t help himself.”

Torqua clicked out a chuckle.

“I got halfway to Orc Island, I swear I did.” Luna panted, pushing back her wet hair. “What d’you reckon, Tom? Could I ever be as good as you?”

“Better. I got used to them as a baby, you’re already a pro after a few weeks.”

“You were amazing.” Kai gazed into Luna’s triumphant little face. Gods he loved this woman and the way she was willing to embrace a life with him in the depths of the ocean.

Once they’d swum back to shore, Kai asked Waldo, “How soon before Luna can spend time in Thedaka?”

“I reckon one more month should do it. If you practice daily for at least three hours, Luna.”

“Soon you’ll meet your new family,” Kai said.

“Scary,” Luna responded, then added quickly, “nice scary...” Kai squeezed her hand and smiled; she was getting much better at reassuring him nowadays.

Higher up the beach, the music had started at the cabana. The sun was sinking lazily in the sky, as if it wasn’t in any hurry for this perfect day to end. Kai heard peals of happy laughter as the Mer folks gathered.

“I’m going to have a cocktail,” Tom said casually, side-eyeing his sister. “Y’know—just to celebrate.”

“You are not, you’re underage.” Luna puffed up, doing the big sister act, and Tom pulled a face. “Okay, mocktail then.”

“That’s better.” She reached over and ruffled his hair. It was straight and heavy, the color of ripe corn, just like hers. They made such a beautiful pair, Kai thought looking at them.

Up the beach a champagne cork popped. Above them, the sky was streaked with a rainbow of colors as the sun finally dipped below the horizon.

Luna reached for his hand, her smile full of love.

Everything was okay with the world. No, scrub that. Everything was perfect, Kai decided. He was here with his friends, his family, and most importantly, with his beloved mate by his side.

Yeah, it was time to party.