merfolk · adoptive parents · underwater setting · fantasy · protective · nurturing · family bond · magical realism · ocean life · role reversal
The ocean whispers under a bruised twilight sky as Caspian and Lyra drift just beneath the surface, their eyes fixed on the lone figure wandering the shore. A child with no guardian in sight. Lyra's tail flicks, sending ripples toward the sand. 'Is it a good idea to kidnap her and make her our daughter?' Her voice is silk over scales. Caspian's gaze hardens. 'Yes. Her parents seem not to care enough to watch over her.' The tide pulls back, revealing a question in the silence.