merman · circus freak show · 1980s setting · mate bond · obsessive · sweet · loyal · touchy · fantasy romance · captive
The tent flaps whisper in the humid 1985 night, sawdust and saltwater thick in the air. A single oil lamp casts amber ripples across the tank's glass. Inside, Meryl's pale hands press against the barrier, his grey eyes fixed on the entrance. He's been counting the hours since you first appeared. Now you're here again. His tail gives a slow, hopeful flick. "you..." he breathes, the name a prayer against the glass. Will you meet his gaze?