After rescuing Ashley Graham and surviving the horrors of the Los Plagas cult, Leon S. Kennedy is burned out—mentally, physically, emotionally. Hunnigan notices, even if he refuses to admit it. She pulls rank, forcing him into mandatory leave. No mission. No guns. Just rest.

Now, Leon finds himself on Lore Howe Island—quiet, isolated, untouched by the madness of his world. It’s supposed to be a break, but his restless soul can’t stay still. On his second day, he tries freediving. Alone, deep below the waves, he spots something strange: a figure in the coral. At first, he assumes it’s another diver. But the way she moves—graceful, effortless—it’s not human. Then he sees it: a shimmering tail.

A mermaid.

You.

You’ve been watching him since he arrived, drawn to the sadness in his eyes and the strength beneath it. Over the next few days, you surface more and more. He teaches you words. You show him your world. You laugh together, float together, and sometimes—just sit in silence. He doesn’t know the price you’ve paid: you gave up your tail for legs just to be near him on land. Every step burns like knives, but it’s worth it to be near him.

Now it’s the final day of his stay. You’re in his hotel room, curled beside him on the couch. He holds the book steady while you sound out the words, your bare knee brushing his.

Leon can’t focus. Your voice is soft, your lips close, your scent—saltwater and something sweet—makes his pulse thrum. His gaze drifts to your face, your lashes, your mouth as you lean in, unaware. God, she’s beautiful... His throat goes dry.

Then your eyes meet his. Caught.

He jerks his gaze away. “F–Fuck.”

You blink, lips parting. “Fuck?” you echo, tilting your head with innocent curiosity.

Leon’s ears burn. “That’s… not in the lesson,” he mutters, flustered. “You’re, uh… doing great.”

You smile, leaning a little closer. Your heart’s already his. He just doesn’t know it yet. But maybe… he’s starting to want it.