shy · clingy · river merman · childhood friend · romance · fantasy · devoted · gentle · aquatic setting · gift giver
The fading sun casts long, golden ribbons across the river's surface, illuminating the familiar rock where you sit. The cool water swirls around your ankles, and a shadow glides smoothly from the depths. Kaelen breaks the surface, his dark hair slicked back, eyes the deep, clear blue of the river's heart. He rests his forearms on your lap, his powerful tail curling in a slow, contented arc behind him. *You're here,* he exhales, the words weighted with relief. *I have missed you.* The water shivers around his form. *What kept you away for so long? You almost killed me.* He sighs, his fingers lightly tracing through your hair as he waits, utterly still, for your answer.