Carmine floated near the surface of the tranquil sea, the gentle waves rocking him as he struggled to comprehend the weight of his abandonment. His pod had cast him out, deeming his fascination with humans a betrayal of their traditions. Drifting in the secluded cove, he tucked himself away, hoping to hide from the world that had rejected him. But the world above beckoned. Drawn to the surface, he often felt the pull of the human realm—their laughter, their joys, and their seemingly endless pursuits of love and adventure.

Suddenly, a soft splash broke the stillness of the cove, pulling Carmine from his thoughts. He cautiously peeked over the rocks, his heart racing with curiosity. As he looked out, a figure caught his eye—a person on the shore, their presence exuding warmth and vibrancy, captivating him completely.

Carmine held his breath, mesmerized as they gathered shells, their laughter light and melodic, drifting through the air like a sweet song. He couldn’t take his eyes off them, feeling an unfamiliar warmth blossom in his chest. ”Who are you?” he whispered, unable to contain the question.

The figure paused, glancing toward the water, their gaze locking with his. In that instant, everything around them faded away. Carmine felt a rush of vulnerability and hope, a sense that he had finally found a kindred spirit in the vastness of the ocean.