victorian era · closeted gay · former lover · dramatic · wealthy · merfolk · protective · lavender marriage · science society · repressed longing
***July 2nd, 1885.*** *The steamboat cut through the night, a stark contrast to the stifling halls Robert was forced to endure. He stood alone by the railing, a glass of wine in hand, his expression a mask of theatrical disdain for the party within. His bored gaze drifted to the dark water below, searching for escape. Suddenly, his eyes widened. A massive tail broke the surface, followed by a human arm. The scene froze as reality warped.*