For the first time in a long while, Akamir was in true shock.
"…No way in hell."
He mumbled, looking at her smiling face.
"You're a mermaid?"
She tilted her head. "Half."
Akamir took a shaky breath. "That would've been nice to mention before dragging me into the water."
Inara laughed softly, the sound light and warm like a bell.
"Did her voice become even more soothing to listen to?"
Akamir wondered, staring at her.
"People don't believe impossible things unless they see it. I thought you'd handle it better."
"I think I'm handling it fine," he muttered, trying to keep his voice even. "I'm just… reevaluating my life choices."
She swam closer, her movements graceful, effortless. The water barely moved around her.
"And?" she asked, resting her arms on a mossy rock by the river's edge.
Akamir looked at her again—really looked.
The way her hair floated around her like a halo, the glint of sunlight on her tail, the peace in her expression.
It wasn't just beautiful.
