In Deeper Waters

by F.T. Lukens

At least in Garrett’s stories Tal would be the hero, and not the villain he was so scared of becoming.

He was ethereal, and for a moment Tal thought he looked as if he didn’t belong on land at all and was a creature from the sea, more used to undulating in the waves and currents than slapping bare feet on the paving stones. Then Athlen smiled, his cheeks dimpling, his brown eyes shining, and Tal couldn’t conjure poetic metaphors anymore.

“I get what I need.” He spread out his hands. “I have plenty to share. I don’t understand why everyone is so greedy.”

Tal wrapped his arms around Athlen’s shaking body and held on. “I’ve got you.” “I know.” His breath was cool on Tal’s neck. “For how long?” “Until you tell me to let go.”

“I know we’re young,” he blurted. “I know that we met under stressful circumstances. I know that I’m a prince and you’re a merman. But I also know that I’ve never felt this way about anyone else. I know we’re both the last, and we’ve felt alone. But we could be alone together.”