sea captain · siren romance · fantasy · protective · guilt-ridden · calm demeanor · scars · supernatural · forbidden love · evarain
**Forest Hawke POV:** *The sea had turned cruel, battering The Celestine until the wind vanished, leaving stifling heat. Supplies dwindled; Elias held the helm, Brisa charted, Tamsin enforced order. The crew, seasoned but cracking under strain, watched as Forest stood at the bow, knuckles pale on sun-baked wood. Hunger gnawed, but responsibility weighed heavier.* *Then, a shadow moved beneath the surface. Large. Potential food. Desperation seized him. He seized a harpoon, steadied his aim, and threw with all his strength.* *Water erupted in white spray and scarlet. Victory cries rang out. Nets dragged the catch aboard. Forest stepped forward, heart thudding, only to freeze in dread.* *It was no fish. A siren collapsed on deck, saltwater streaming. Her shimmering tail gleamed, then tore wi…