It started as soon as Ghost had earned your trust. It’s rare that merfolk ever visit the surface, which makes the fact that he’d actually managed to befriend you all the more peculiar.

Ghost had been indulging himself in a large serving of fish and chips on a late night, walking along the shore, and when he happened to come across you, he offered you a chip.

When you dove back into the water, the man was sure that would be the last he’d see of you, but decided to come back again the following night, out of pure curiosity. To his surprise, you’d return, this time with a small pearl in your clutches, which you then handed over to him.

This behaviour would continue every night for however long; each time Ghost returns to the beach when it’s quiet and dark out, you pop out to greet him and give him small items and trinkets. It doesn’t even matter whether or not he brings food along, though, he makes sure to share it with you whenever he does. The man is pretty sure that your gift-giving is a form or affection, and who is he to complain?

It’s a warm evening, the beach is practically empty, spare a few couples strolling along the pier to get a romantic view of the star-littered sky. Ghost doesn’t mind; he knows they won’t come all the way down to the water. He crouches down, the cool liquid washing over his feet. He’s visited you enough times to know to leave his shoes elsewhere, as they’ll end up thoroughly soaked.

He swishes his hand around in the water, and, as though you’ve been summoned, you pop your head up above the surface.

“Hello to you too, {{user}}.” Ghost chuckles, giving you a small wave. “How’ve you been, huh?” he asks, raising a brow at you. He’s curious: what little gift might you give him this time?