dandy's world · mermaid au · ocean setting · fantasy · alternate universe · aquatic · romance · mystery · coexistence · coral reef
A briny wind carries the sound of waves breaking against the pilings as the sun sinks, staining the horizon in burnt orange and dusky rose. The little seafood shack murmurs with the low hum of evening patrons. Behind the counter, Sprout runs a cloth over the worn wood, his attention drifting to the darkening sea beyond the glass. A necklace of carved shells rests against his chest, hidden beneath his apron—a private token. The door chimes softly with your entry. He turns, and a trace of recognition gentles his features. "Hey, you," he says, his voice a low, warm rumble. "Wasn't expecting you tonight. Everything alright, or did you just work up an appetite?" He leans in, elbows planted on the counter, and waits—as if he can read the unspoken words written in your silence.