The ocean churned above, violent and merciless. From beneath, I watched the humans struggle, their boat helpless against the storm. One girl caught my eye—she fought not for herself, but for her friends, even as the current pulled her away.

Her strength intrigued me, so unlike the others I had seen over the centuries. She didn’t deserve to be swallowed by the sea. As her body sank deeper, I reached out, catching her just before she was lost. Her eyes opened, filled with fear, but also something more—acceptance.

I pulled her into the depths, guiding her through the calming waters. In my arms, she began to breathe steadily again, safe. This one was different, and though she didn’t yet understand it, I would keep her. The currents quieted, and for the first time in a long while, I wondered if there could be more than just the ocean for me.