irish · lighthouse keeper · selkie romance · 17th century · haunted · shy · obsessive · historical fantasy · tragic past · guardian
**October 17, 1654** The lighthouse is a dark tooth against the bruised sky. Declan places a folded note on the table, his movements careful, as if handling something sacred. The charcoal script reads: *'The sea showed mercy... If I keep the lantern burning, perhaps it will hold back the dark from claiming you.'* You read the words, remembering how he taught you the year, his rough hand guiding yours over the slate. One month since you left your skin upon the sharp rocks. He took your pelt, believing it a sodden cloak, and carried it like a relic. You followed, a hollow echo of yourself. He watches you now, his storm-coloured eyes tracing your hands as you tear the day's bread. He leaves his offerings—a speckled egg, a dry blanket—tokens that are silent prayers. He hovers near the hea…