Aria's POV

The glow from my laptop flickered across my room as I scrolled through clips, trimming transitions, and adjusting the lighting. Editing usually helped me unwind, but tonight, the silence pressed in too close. My parents were out—again—and the house felt far too big without them. I needed something to fill the space, so I called Jack.

He picked up on the second ring, his voice warm and familiar. "Hey, babe. Couldn't sleep?"

"Not really," I admitted, shifting in my chair. "Parents are out again. It's too quiet."

His voice softened; a thread of concern woven into his words. "You want me to come over? Or... crash at my place? No one would care, and your parents wouldn't even notice."

The offer was so tempting it hurt. But the thought of leaning on Jack like that—of needing him too much—made me hesitate. I mean, I knew he told me to rely on him, but I didn't want to use him as a crutch. There was this content creator I followed on TikTok who talked about codependent attachment styles, and I guess while dating Jack, I'd been trying to follow some of that relationship advice. Not that I'd ever tell him that. "It's probably not a good idea," I whispered. "Just to be safe."

Jack let out a soft sigh, and the quiet disappointment in his voice made my heart clench. I knew it hurt him, and honestly, it hurt me too. But I couldn't let myself depend on him too much, no matter how much I wanted to. I didn't want to be the girl who needed saving all the time. And there was a part of me that still struggled with feeling invisible to my parents—it wasn't like they noticed when I wasn't around, but they'd hate for anyone else to think they weren't good parents. It was all about appearances with them.

"Okay. But if you change your mind, just say the word, yeah?" Jack's voice was soft, laced with the quiet understanding he always had for me, even when I kept my walls up.

"Yeah... Thanks, Jack," I murmured, the warmth in his voice settling over me like a blanket, soothing the tight knot in my chest.

The conversation drifted into a comfortable silence. Jack stayed on the line while I went back to editing, the rhythmic tap of his controller blending seamlessly with the quiet clicks of my mouse. It was the kind of silence that didn't need filling—the kind that felt easy, natural.

In the background, I could hear his siblings, Chloe and Noah, chattering loudly.

"Chloe, are you back in Mom's makeup again?!" Jack groaned, exasperation laced with affection. "You know Mom's going to come at me for this. And seriously, Chloe—your face is a mess."

I laughed softly, adjusting a transition. "Makeup, huh? Aww, she's just trying to be grown up, babe."

Jack sighed, though I could hear the fondness in his voice. "I told her she could get her hair braided—not this. But nope, now we've got an eight-year-old beauty guru on the loose." He let out a frustrated groan. "No makeup. She needs to stay a kid for as long as possible. All she wanted was for me to braid her hair, though."

I smiled, warmth blooming in my chest. "Apparently, fishtail braids are the only acceptable bedtime hairstyle," I teased, loving the image of him patiently braiding his little sister's hair.

"Exactly," Jack muttered, though the affection was undeniable. "Babe, when you come over next time, you're helping me with this. You're the vlogger—you've got makeup skills."

I blinked, grinning. "I've never done anyone else's makeup before, babe. I'm not confident enough for that yet. Wait... You know how to braid?"

There was a beat of silence, followed by a sheepish laugh. "Of course I do. And by the way, don't act so surprised—your Instagram's all aesthetic with those outfits and makeup you wear. I've been paying attention."

His playful compliment sent warmth rushing through me, my grin widening. "Jack Carter, quarterback extraordinaire... knows how to braid hair?"

"Don't sound so shocked," he teased, though I could hear the slight embarrassment in his voice. "I've got hidden talents."

"French braids? Fishtail?" I asked, thoroughly enjoying this discovery.

"Both," he admitted with a chuckle. "But keep it quiet. Only Brent knows, and he gives me endless shit for it."

I laughed so hard my sides ached. "You're full of surprises."

"Gotta keep you on your toes, peppermint girl," he said, his voice playful. "That nickname's permanent, by the way."

The easy flow between us settled again, but a mischievous thought crept into my mind. I shifted in my chair, trying to sound casual. "So... since you're such an expert at braiding, when are you gonna braid my hair?"

Jack chuckled, the sound low and warm. "Oh, so that's what this is about. You just want me for my braiding skills."

"Maybe," I teased, biting my lip. "Think you could handle it?"

Jack let out a mock-serious sigh. "I'm a professional, babe. But you're gonna owe me after this. No way I'm doing braids for free."

I rolled my eyes, though I couldn't stop the grin spreading across my face. "Okay, what's the price?"

Jack hummed thoughtfully, drawing it out just to mess with me. "A kiss for every braid," he said, his voice smooth and playful. "One full vlog with me in the spotlight—no cutting my good moments—and, next football season, you wear my jersey at least once. Non-negotiable."

My heart skipped a beat at the playful challenge, warmth spreading through my chest. "That's a lot, babe. You really know how to drive a hard bargain." I paused, my voice softening. "Since I like it when you play with my hair... and braids make me feel calm... fine, you've got a deal."

A low chuckle rumbled through the phone, and I could practically hear the grin in his voice. "So, when you were lying on my lap last night and I played with your hair—you liked that, huh?"

I bit my lip, heat creeping into my cheeks. "Maybe."

"Good to know." Jack's voice dipped lower, teasing but sincere. "I'll make sure you look really pretty with those braids. That way I can remind every guy out there how lucky I am."

I laughed, the sound bubbling up, lighter than I'd felt all day. "Too many ego boosts, babe. We seriously need to tone that down."

Jack chuckled again, the warmth in his voice wrapping around me like a blanket. "Not happening, peppermint girl. You better get used to it."

The way Jack talked about Chloe, like it was just part of life, made my heart squeeze. He wasn't just the cocky quarterback everyone thought he was—he was steady, patient, thoughtful. And every time I saw this side of him, it made me admire him even more.

"You're a wonderful big brother to them," I said softly, my heart fluttering at the way he showed love—not just to me, but to everyone close to him. Getting to know him on this deeper level felt like peeling back layers most people never got to see. I thought back to the past—the way he'd kept himself guarded, dating girls only to push them away when things got too serious. But here I was, seeing all the parts of him he used to hide from everyone else. Knowing that Jack could braid hair? That secret only made me smile wider.

"Someone's gotta help Chloe out," Jack said with a small grin. "She's still figuring out how to braid without tying her hair into a giant knot."

There was so much warmth in his voice, it made my chest ache in the best way. Jack wasn't doing this to impress anyone—he was just being himself. And with every little thing I discovered about him, I couldn't help but fall for him more and more.

"Why don't you ever talk about this?" I asked, curiosity bubbling up as my thoughts drifted back to everything I knew about him.

Jack let out a small laugh, the kind that made my heart flutter. "Doesn't exactly fit the quarterback persona. But not everything has to be for show."

I smiled softly, understanding exactly what he meant. In a place like our school, where people loved to put others in boxes, I could see why he kept this part of himself hidden. The way people treated me before we got together and after only confirmed it. Some things were better left just for us.

His words wrapped around me like a quiet promise, a piece of him he'd chosen to share with me and no one else.

The conversation drifted into a comfortable silence. I adjusted the final clip on my vlog, the steady rhythm of Jack's presence easing the weight of the day. In the background, I could hear the familiar sound of his game controller clicking, followed by a soft muttered curse.

A quiet giggle slipped from me, though Jack didn't seem to notice, too wrapped up in his game. From the way his voice fluctuated between frustration and focus, I could tell he was playing Call of Duty.

I leaned back in my chair, still smiling. Jack trying not to let his frustration show was its own kind of amusing—especially when he was trying to keep half an ear on me at the same time. It was endearing in a way I hadn't expected.

I wasn't much of a shooter game person, though. I was more into RPGs. Kingdom Hearts was my favorite, though I barely found time to play anymore—not with how chaotic my life had become lately. But knowing Jack played games like this made me feel like I understood him just a bit more. He wasn't just the quarterback. He was someone with layers, someone who could surprise me in the best ways.

With the last clip adjusted, I leaned back, feeling the tension of the day melt away little by little, replaced by the comfort of Jack's quiet presence on the other end of the line.

"You good over there?" Jack asked softly, his voice grounding me.

I exhaled slowly, my heart settling. "Yeah... I am now."

"Good," Jack murmured. "Because I'm not hanging up until you fall asleep."

The warmth in his voice lulled me closer to the edge of sleep, wrapping me in comfort I hadn't realized I needed. As my eyes drifted shut, Jack's steady breathing filled the quiet spaces, keeping the restless thoughts at bay.

But even as I slipped into sleep, I felt it again—that soft, insistent tug, like the ocean calling me deeper. And this time, I wasn't sure I could resist it.

I was drifting through the ocean, my tail gliding effortlessly through the water, but something felt wrong. A pull—slow at first—began tugging at me, wrapping around my limbs like invisible threads, dragging me deeper. The water thickened, turning darker the further I sank. It was endless, stretching in every direction, as if the surface no longer existed.

I kicked against the pull, panic swelling in my chest, but it was no use. The ocean swallowed me whole, and in its depths, shadows twisted and blurred. Then, through the darkness, I saw her—another mermaid. Or at least, I thought it was. I couldn't make out her face, only fleeting glimpses—long hair swirling in the current, a playful tilt of her head, and the sound of laughter. It echoed eerily, as if she were playing a game, taunting me with her joy while I spiraled deeper into confusion.

A ripple cut through the water. I stilled, watching the ripple spread outward, distorting the space around her. Then, for a brief moment, the image of the mermaid wavered—and split. Two versions of her rippled into being, reflections of the same figure but subtly different, as if the ocean itself was mirroring her. My heart clenched, a strange unease settling over me. What did it mean?

The currents shifted, dragging me through another vision. I saw Eli—his body twisting as the water pulled him under. His usual calm was gone, replaced by something I'd never seen before: fear. His arms flailed, and his face twisted in frustration, as though he was fighting more than just the water.

Then Brent appeared—his expression raw, vulnerable in a way I didn't think possible. His usual humor was stripped away, and I could feel the weight of his fear as if it were my own. The ocean coiled around him like a serpent, pulling him deeper, just as it had with Eli.

The water twisted again, and suddenly, Jack was in front of me—his face clear and painfully familiar, but his eyes were heavy with sadness. His voice drifted through the water, clear despite the muffling depths.

"If you want this relationship to work, Aria... you have to stop pushing me away." His voice wasn't angry, but there was a quiet weight to it, a weariness that cut deeper than any harsh words could.

I tried to speak, to tell him I wouldn't push him away, that I needed him, but the words lodged in my throat. Jack's expression shifted, a pained look flickering across his face.

"Maybe we need time apart," he said, his voice low and resigned. "Maybe we both need to grow on our own."

The ache in his words hit me like a wave, and I reached out for him, desperate, but the current pulled him away. I screamed, the sound ripping from my chest, but it was swallowed by the ocean.

"No! Jack—please!"

My voice echoed in the dark, frantic and helpless. I kicked against the water, but the pull was relentless, dragging me under, deeper and deeper. I could feel myself slipping, drowning—not just in water, but in the weight of everything unsaid. The laughter from the other mermaid echoed again, faint and haunting, as if she knew something I didn't.

And then, just before everything faded into blackness, I saw it—another ripple. The two mirrored versions of the girl flickered for the briefest second, indistinguishable yet somehow... separate. Like two parts of the same whole, dancing just out of reach.

What does it mean? The question burned in my mind as I fought to stay conscious, the weight of the ocean pressing down on me.

And then everything shattered—

I screamed, jolting awake, my heart pounding as if it was trying to escape my chest. Sweat clung to my skin, and the tangled sheets wrapped around me like chains. I gasped for air, the terror from the dream still gripping me tightly.

"Aria?! Babe, talk to me!" Jack's voice blasted through the phone, laced with panic. "What's going on? Are you okay?"

I clutched the phone, pressing it closer to my ear, tears already stinging my eyes. "I... I had the dream again," I whispered, my voice shaking. "It felt so real..."

"I'm here, babe," Jack murmured, his voice dipping into something soft and steady, like an anchor pulling me back to shore. "You're okay now. I've got you."

But the panic didn't let go—it twisted into something deeper, darker. The words from the dream echoed through my mind, each one sharper than the last: If you want this to work, we need time apart. Maybe we need to grow on our own.

A sob caught in my throat, and I couldn't hold it back. "Jack... you're going to leave me, aren't you? You said it in the dream. You—" I choked on the words, the fear spilling out before I could stop it. "You said we need time apart. You're going to break up with me."

Jack was quiet for a moment, his breath steady on the other end of the line, like he was giving me the space to unravel without judgment. Then, his voice came through, calm but sure. "Babe, that was just a dream. It's not real. I'm right here with you, okay?"

"But what if it's not just a dream?" I whispered, tears slipping down my cheeks. "What if I do push you away? What if—" My voice cracked, fear clawing its way to the surface. "What if you leave?"

Jack's sigh was soft, but I could feel the weight behind it. "Look, Aria," he began, his voice low but firm. "I can't promise what the future holds. I'm not going to sit here and tell you we won't hit rough patches or that everything will be smooth sailing. Relationships are messy. We're going to have big arguments, stupid little fights, disagreements about things that don't even matter." He paused, giving me a moment to absorb it. "Realistically, since this is still new for you, I need you to know something—relationships aren't just affection and kisses all the time. It's not all perfect. That's not real, babe."

The bluntness in his voice didn't sting—it steadied me. Jack wasn't trying to sugarcoat anything, and that made his words hit deeper.

I sniffled, trying to hold myself together, but Jack's voice stayed steady, grounding me. "What I can tell you," he continued, softer this time, "is that right now, I'm here. I'm with you, and that's what matters. Not what might happen tomorrow or six months from now. The present—this—is what we've got, and that's what I care about."

I closed my eyes, trying to let his words sink in, but the doubt still gnawed at the edges of my thoughts. "And if we do break up?" I whispered, the words barely audible. "What then?"

There was a pause—not awkward, but thoughtful, like Jack was weighing his response. "If we break up," he said slowly, carefully, "it won't be because I stopped caring about you. I need you to know that." His voice softened, carrying a weight that made my heart ache. "Sometimes people need space to grow. But if that ever happens... it won't be because I gave up on us. It might be out of love—for both of us."

His words felt like a salve on the raw edges of my fear—not promises he couldn't keep, but something real, something honest.

"So," Jack added, his voice shifting just enough to nudge me out of my spiral, "let's not get stuck on the 'what ifs,' okay? We'll figure things out—one wave at a time."

I exhaled a shaky breath, the tight knot in my chest loosening slightly. "One wave at a time," I whispered, holding onto the words like a lifeline.

"Exactly." His tone lightened, a familiar warmth creeping back in. "Now, try to get some sleep, peppermint girl. I'm staying on the line until you do."

A small, tearful laugh slipped out of me. "Babe, thanks. I'm really glad you're here. Also, how are you so good at this? You've been sneaking in TikTok relationship advice too, haven't you?"

"Wow." Jack chuckled, teasing laced through his voice. "Not confident in me, huh? How hurtful. And here I thought I was killing it as a boyfriend."

I grinned, sniffling as I wiped my eyes. "So... have you?"

"Actually," Jack said, shifting into that casual-but-serious tone he used when he was about to drop something unexpected, "fun fact—my mom's a therapist. She's a group therapist now, but she used to do couples counseling."

My eyebrows shot up. "Seriously?"

"Yep." Jack's voice carried that familiar mix of amusement and honesty. "Let's just say... I've heard a lot of stuff over the years. Whether I wanted to or not." He let out a soft laugh. "And yeah, with how I used to act—breaking up with girls or shutting down emotionally? My mom called me out more than once. It wasn't fun hearing it, but she didn't push me to change. My parents are supportive like that—they let me figure it out on my own. I think with my mom being a therapist, she knows when to back off. She's always been big on empathy, like she's always on the job, even at home. But yeah... she definitely saw right through my bullshit." He chuckled. "She gave me an earful, but never forced me to change. That part had to be up to me."

I blinked, feeling an unexpected wave of admiration wash over me. "That... actually makes a lot of sense." A soft realization hit me as the pieces came together. "So that's why you hated when girls tried to get to know you on a deeper level. It wasn't just football, was it? That was an excuse, wasn't it?"

Jack let out a small laugh, but it wasn't defensive—it was the sound of someone who knew he'd been caught. "See?" he teased, voice warm. "I've got layers, babe. And yeah... you're peeling them back." He paused just long enough for me to feel the weight of the next admission. "And yeah, football? It was an excuse. It was easier than letting people in."

His honesty hit me with a strange sense of comfort, as if I was seeing more of the real Jack—the part he didn't show anyone else. "So... no more excuses with me?" I asked, a hint of a smile tugging at my lips.

Jack chuckled softly. "Nah, no more excuses. Not with you, peppermint girl." There was a warmth in his words, a kind of promise that felt deeper than any simple reassurance.

I couldn't help the grin spreading across my face. "Good," I whispered, the knot in my chest easing just a little more. "Because I really like knowing the real you."

"And I really like you knowing me," Jack said, his voice gentle but sure. There was a softness to the way he spoke, the kind of warmth that wrapped around me like a favorite blanket. "Now, go to sleep before I spill all my secrets." He paused, his tone shifting into something playful yet caring. "Actually... I'll buy you coffee in the morning. After a dream like that, I think you're going to need it."

A genuine laugh bubbled out of me, light and unguarded. "Okay, okay. I'm going."

"Good," Jack said with a grin I could hear through the phone. The soft click of his controller echoed in the background as he settled back into his game. "Now close your eyes, peppermint girl. I've got you." His voice dropped to a softer, more intimate note. "And hey... I love you, okay? Don't ever forget that."

His words settled deep in my chest, soothing the lingering tension that had held me captive.

"I love you too, Jack," I whispered, the weight of everything—my fears, the dream, the night—finally beginning to lift.

"Always," he murmured, as if sealing a quiet promise between us.

With his voice steady in my ear, the exhaustion that had clung to me all night finally began to release its grip. And for the first time in what felt like forever, I felt grounded, safe—like I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

I groaned, feeling like death as I squinted at my phone. 4:45 a.m. blinked back at me, and a sigh escaped my lips. Jack must have hung up sometime after I drifted off. He wanted to make sure I was fully asleep before ending the call—just like him. When I glanced in the mirror, dark circles under my eyes stared back at me. Great. That dream was still clinging to me, wrapping around my thoughts like a heavy fog.

Since I was already awake, I decided to run a bath. As I submerged myself in the warm water, my tail shimmered beneath the surface. My mermaid form always felt like a strange comfort, but even now, I couldn't shake the dream. The visions of Eli and Brent being pulled under, the other mermaid—her reflection splitting into two—what did it all mean? And Jack... Jack's voice from the dream still echoed in my mind, as if it had been more than just a nightmare.

When I finished getting ready, I slipped into a white stand-collar, long-sleeve mini dress, paired with long brown suede thigh-high boots. I pulled a beanie over my hair, grabbed my purse, and checked my phone.

Mahal 💜: Good morning, babe. I know last night was heavy, and I wish I could've been there to hold you through it. But I meant everything I said—no need to overthink what's ahead or carry all that weight by yourself. We've got this, one wave at a time, okay? I'm with you, right here, right now. That's what matters. Not the future, not the what-ifs. Just us, in the present. So... let me keep that promise and treat you to coffee this morning. I'll pick you up soon, and we'll hit The Cozy Corner before school. Take your time getting ready. I'll be waiting for you like always. And when you're ready, I better see that smile I love. Just remember—you don't have to shoulder it all by yourself, babe. I'm here, right beside you, and we'll navigate whatever comes our way, step by step. No pressure, no rush. See you soon, beautiful. I love you, and I'll always be by your side. 😘

Me: Okay. I love you too

Mahal 💜: 😘😘

The nickname made me smile. Even though I was still processing everything, Jack's simple texts had a way of grounding me.

By the time Jack pulled up to my house, I was already waiting on the porch, the crisp morning air brushing against my skin. The quiet hum of his car cut off as he stepped out, his eyes flicking over me with an appreciative glance. Then, his nose twitched slightly, and a playful grin curved his lips.

"I smell something new," Jack said, sniffing the air dramatically, as if he were a detective solving a mystery.

I rolled my eyes, though the blush creeping up my neck betrayed me. I reached into my purse, pulling out a small bottle, and waved it at him. "It's not new. This is my favorite scent. I like smelling like peppermint and vanilla—what's wrong with that?"

Jack closed the distance between us in two lazy steps, leaning in just enough for his breath to tickle my cheek. "Nothing wrong with it, babe," he murmured, his grin widening as mischief glimmered in his eyes. "Just means you smell like dessert... and now I want to keep you all to myself."

My heart skipped at the low warmth in his voice, spreading through me like a slow burn. I tried to play it cool, even though I could feel my pulse fluttering in my throat. "Oh, really?" I teased, tilting my chin up slightly. "Sounds like more of your problem than mine."

Jack chuckled, brushing his lips lightly against my temple. "Nah, peppermint girl—sounds like it's about to be our problem."

His words sent a delicious shiver down my spine, and before I could fully process the playful challenge, his arm tightened around my waist, pulling me flush against him. His lips met mine in a kiss so soft, so familiar, that it felt like slipping into a warm embrace. But then... everything shifted.

His mouth pressed deeper, slower, turning sweet into something more deliberate. The kiss simmered with a slow, smoldering intensity that made my knees go weak. His hand slid up my back, fingers grazing the sensitive skin of my neck, sending a wave of goosebumps across my body.

A soft sound escaped me before I could stop it—a small, involuntary sigh—and Jack responded immediately, his grip on me firming, his lips moving over mine with a languid ease that left me breathless. The world melted away until there was only Jack—the feel of him, the taste of him, the steady heat of his touch drawing me in deeper. My hands instinctively clung to the fabric of his jacket, desperate for something to hold on to, unaware of just how badly I wanted more.

And just when I thought I might completely unravel in his hands... Jack pulled back, leaving me gasping for air. His lips hovered just inches from mine, his breath warm and teasing.

A grin spread across his face, slow and satisfied, like he knew exactly what he was doing—and knew I had no idea how to handle it.

"What... What was that?" I whispered, still trying to catch my breath, my heart pounding so hard I was sure he could hear it.

Jack's grin deepened, his gaze sparkling with pure mischief. "What?" he said with mock innocence, though his eyes betrayed him. "Just a kiss, babe."

I swatted weakly at his arm, my cheeks flaming, but Jack only chuckled, looking far too pleased with himself. "You're impossible," I muttered, though there was no heat behind the words.

He leaned in again, his breath ghosting against my ear, low and teasing. "If that's what one kiss does to you... imagine what a second might do."

A tremor ran through me at the way his voice dipped, sending a rush of warmth through my veins. My pulse fluttered wildly, and before I could stammer out a response, Jack straightened, looking smug as ever, like he'd just won some unspoken game.

"Come on, peppermint girl," he teased, brushing a stray strand of hair from my face with a tenderness that made my heart ache. "We've got coffee to get."

I shook my head, trying—and failing—not to smile. I knew exactly what he was doing, and he knew I knew. But Jack Carter, with all his teasing charm and wicked grins, was impossible to resist. He was going to be the death of me—and I didn't even care.

When we arrived at The Cozy Corner, I couldn't help the slight pout that tugged at my lips when the barista told me they were out of peppermint mochas. A tiny huff escaped me. Damn. I was really getting into the Christmas spirit, too. Guess I wasn't the only one obsessed with festive flavors this time of year.

Jack caught my expression and leaned down, his breath warm against my ear. "You're adorable when you pout, you know that?" he whispered, amusement lacing his voice.

I rolled my eyes, though a small grin tugged at the corners of my mouth. "Oh well," I said with a shrug, brushing off the disappointment. "Iced gingerbread latte it is. It's my other favorite anyway." I gave him a playful glance. "Honestly, I just love all the seasonal flavors. I'm a little too obsessed."

Jack chuckled, shaking his head as he turned to place the order. "How do you even keep up with all these seasonal drinks, babe? I swear, it's like a full-time job." He shot me a teasing grin over his shoulder. "Now I've got to keep up with you and all your festive cravings? You're making me work."

I laughed, the earlier disappointment melting away. "You love it," I said, nudging him lightly with my elbow.

"Yeah, yeah," Jack said with a grin as he handed me my drink. "Peppermint girl and her seasonal drink collection. It's like dating a holiday catalog."

The warmth of his teasing made the latte taste even better, the gingerbread spices perfectly complementing the sweetness of the moment between us. And just like that, Jack had turned a small letdown into something that felt... kind of perfect.

I smiled, warmth spreading through me as we settled into our usual booth. The Cozy Corner was small and cozy, filled with the smell of fresh coffee and soft chatter. It felt like a little bubble away from the world, just the two of us.

As I stirred my drink, the dream crept back into my thoughts, gnawing at the edges of my mind. I tried to push it away, but it lingered, heavy and unsettling. Jack gave me that familiar, knowing look, like he could read my thoughts without me saying a word. His eyes softened as he leaned forward slightly.

"You're still thinking about the dream, aren't you?" he asked quietly.

I nodded, my fingers absently tracing the rim of my cup. "It just felt... off. Like it was more than just a dream." I paused, gathering my thoughts. "Eli and Brent were there. And this mermaid—she... split, like a reflection rippling into two. It was so strange. I can't explain it, but it didn't feel normal." I exhaled slowly. "Maybe... maybe it means she's got two sides? Friendly on the surface, but dangerous underneath?"

Jack's brow furrowed as he listened, his silence giving me the space to keep going. His steady presence made it easier to voice the swirling confusion in my mind.

"And then..." I hesitated, biting my lip. "You were there too. You said things about... us." I looked up from my drink, searching his expression carefully. "Things I really didn't want to hear."

Jack reached across the table, his warm hand wrapping around mine. His thumb moved in slow, soothing circles over my knuckles, grounding me with every touch.

"Don't even say those words again, babe," he murmured, his voice low but steady. "We talked about this, remember? It's not about what-ifs or fears about the future. It's about the here and now." His gaze held mine, unwavering. "I'm with you. Right now, in this moment. That's what matters."

The sincerity in his voice eased some of the tension twisting inside me, though the lingering anxiety still nipped at the edges.

"And no," Jack continued gently, his lips quirking into a small, knowing smile. "I'm not going to sugarcoat things for us. This relationship? It's not always going to be perfect. We're going to fight, and it's probably going to get messy sometimes." His thumb traced another slow circle over my hand. "But I can promise you this: I'm not going anywhere. And I won't let you get spoiled all the time, either. We're in this together—mess and all."

The corners of my mouth twitched, a reluctant smile breaking through. "So... no being spoiled all the time?" I teased softly, the warmth of his hand seeping into mine.

Jack grinned, squeezing my hand lightly. "Nope. Not all the time. But maybe just enough to keep you around, peppermint girl."

That earned him a laugh, light and genuine, and the knot in my chest loosened just a little more. In that moment, with his hand in mine and the scent of gingerbread swirling between us, the weight of the dream didn't seem quite as heavy. I looked down at our hands, feeling the tight knot in my chest loosen ever so slightly. He wasn't brushing aside my fears—he was anchoring me, just like he did last night. "One wave at a time," I murmured, holding on to our promise.

Jack smiled, his eyes warm and steady. "Exactly. One wave at a time."

As we sat together, hands intertwined across the table, I realized something. Jack wasn't just my boyfriend—he was my anchor. And no matter what strange dreams or hidden truths lay ahead, I knew we'd face them together, one wave at a time.

The bell rang, and the hallway buzzed with students rushing to their next classes. I spotted Brent leaning against his locker, his arms crossed casually, throwing a tired grin my way. On the surface, he looked like himself—easygoing, making a sarcastic comment to the kid next to him. But it wasn't hard to see the cracks beneath his usual humor. His eyes carried a weight, the same exhaustion that hadn't quite left him since movie night.

I walked over to him, nudging his arm gently. "Hey, how are you holding up?"

Brent gave me a lopsided grin, the kind that would fool most people. "I'm still alive, so that's a win, right?"

I tilted my head, searching his expression. He looked better, a little more present, but the weight of whatever was going on at home hadn't disappeared. It was just... pushed further beneath the surface. "You look better than before," I said carefully, hoping I wasn't overstepping.

"Yeah, well," Brent shrugged, "last night wasn't the worst, for once."

I wanted to say more—ask about his dad, offer some kind of comfort—but Jack's voice echoed in my mind: Let Brent come to you when he's ready. So instead, I just gave him a small smile. "I'm glad."

As I was about to say more, movement from the corner of my eye caught my attention. Eli.

He walked down the hall, his head down, shoulders tense, avoiding everyone's gaze—including ours. It was strange, seeing him like this. Eli was usually the guy who made a joke at everyone's expense, always poking fun at Jack or Brent or pulling me into some ridiculous conversation. But today? He looked... off.

"Eli?" I called, catching up to him. "Where were you yesterday?"

He paused, glancing at me briefly before looking away, like even that small effort was too much. "Just had stuff to take care of," he muttered, his tone clipped and distant.

Jack joined us then, his eyes narrowing slightly as he observed Eli. "You good, man?" Jack asked, his voice steady but edged with concern.

Eli gave a noncommittal shrug, still not meeting our eyes. "Yeah. I'm fine."

Brent let out a short laugh, though there wasn't much humor in it. "You ghosted us, dude. Thought you fell off the planet."

Eli didn't bite at the joke like he normally would. Instead, he just shook his head. "Sorry. I've been... dealing with some things."

There was something in the way he said it—like the words carried more weight than he was willing to admit. I exchanged a glance with Jack, who gave me a subtle nod, like he was saying, Yeah, I see it too.

Eli's demeanor wasn't just about skipping school or being moody. There was something... off about him, like his mind was somewhere else entirely. It wasn't the usual distraction I'd seen in him before—this was different. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but it was like he was carrying something heavy, something he didn't want to share. Still, I couldn't help but notice that, somehow, he was managing to keep up with school. I wondered how long he could keep that up before whatever was eating at him broke through.

"You sure you're okay? Does this mean you're over your ex?" I asked gently, trying to keep my tone casual, even though the unease gnawed at me. I thought if I kept it light, he might let me in.

Eli's eyes finally locked with mine, but they were guarded, like a door slammed shut right in front of me. "Why would I be thinking about my ex? I broke up with her. She's not important." His voice was sharp, defensive, the kind of edge that cut deeper than intended. Then, out of nowhere, his tone twisted, cold and biting. "Aria, why are you all up in my business?"

The sudden snap in his voice caught me completely off guard. I blinked, my heart skipping a beat—not in the good way Jack's kisses did, but in the kind of way that made my stomach twist.

Before I could respond, Jack's body shifted beside me, the tension in his posture unmistakable. His arms folded across his chest, his jaw set tight, the calm patience he usually carried thinning by the second.

"Watch your tone, Eli," Jack said, his voice low, controlled, but threaded with warning. "Aria's your friend, and she's also my girlfriend. I don't care what's going on with you, but snapping at her? Not cool." He took a step forward, his gaze steady and unflinching. "Don't take your shit out on her. Not today."

Eli exhaled sharply, frustration flashing across his face, but he didn't push back. He rubbed the back of his neck, looking everywhere but at us, as if realizing he'd crossed a line. The tension between the three of us hung heavy, thick enough to cut through, but Jack held his ground, calm but unwavering.

There was a beat of silence, the weight of unspoken things hanging between us. Eli's jaw clenched, like he wanted to say something but thought better of it. Instead, he gave a short, reluctant nod, more of a concession than an apology.

"Whatever," Eli muttered under his breath, turning on his heel. "I've got to get to class."

As he walked away, I exhaled slowly, the knot in my chest loosening—but only slightly. Jack's hand brushed against mine briefly, grounding me.

"You okay?" Jack asked, glancing down at me, his expression softening.

"Yeah," I whispered, though my thoughts were still tangled. "I just... I don't know what's going on with him."

Jack gave a small shake of his head, his eyes following Eli's retreating figure down the hall. "Something's up with him," Jack muttered. "But he'll come around—eventually."

Brent let out a dry laugh, shoving his hands into the pockets of his hoodie. "Eventually?" he echoed, raising an eyebrow. "Dude, Eli is like a walking mood swing. And I thought I was bad. He's worse than me by a mile."

I glanced over at Brent, trying to suppress a smile. To be fair, he did have his moody moments, but at least Brent tried to keep it in check. With Eli, it was different—like whatever he was dealing with was simmering just beneath the surface, ready to spill over at the slightest nudge. Eli had snapped at me, and it still stung a little more than I wanted to admit.

Jack huffed a small laugh, running a hand through his hair. "No kidding, bro. You've got your moments, but at least you're predictable with your mood swings." He shot Brent a teasing grin. "Eli's a whole different ball game."

Brent smirked, though the humor didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah, well, at least I manage not to blow up on people trying to help. That's gotta count for something."

I shook my head, the weight of Eli's outburst still lingering in the back of my mind. "It's not like him. I don't know... something just feels... off."

Jack's gaze softened as he glanced down at me, squeezing my hand gently. "We'll figure it out," he said, his voice steady with that unwavering calm I'd come to rely on. "Eli's been through his stuff before. We just gotta give him time."

Brent let out a long sigh, rolling his neck as if to release some of the tension. "Time, huh?" He looked between us, his expression somewhere between skeptical and exhausted. "Well, if he doesn't snap out of it soon, we're gonna need a damn intervention. Or, I don't know, a tranquilizer dart."

Jack chuckled, nudging Brent with his shoulder. "You volunteering to deliver the dart?"

Brent grinned, some of his usual humor slipping back through the cracks. "Hell yeah, man. Someone's gotta do it, right?"

Jack laughed, and for a brief moment, the tension that had been hanging over us eased.

I shook my head with a small smile, grateful for the way these two could lighten the mood—even when things felt heavy. But in the back of my mind, the gnawing worry about Eli lingered, unresolved.

Jack leaned down, brushing a kiss against my temple. "One wave at a time, babe," he whispered, like a gentle reminder just for me.

"Yeah," I murmured, squeezing his hand in return. "One wave at a time."

But even as we stood there, sharing quiet moments of warmth and humor, I knew that whatever was going on with Eli... it wasn't over yet.

At lunch, I slid into my usual seat beside Jack, who intertwined his fingers with mine under the table. Across from us, Brent sat hunched over, absently stirring his drink. He tossed out a joke about the school food being more toxic than a science experiment gone wrong, and Jack chuckled, but the laugh didn't quite reach his eyes. The weight behind Brent's words was unmistakable—like the effort to keep things light was draining him.

I leaned in slightly, keeping my tone casual, not wanting to push too hard. "Never thought I'd see the day when Brent Calloway wasn't cracking jokes or giving us grief about being the 'golden couple.' No 'Hey lovebirds, stop making the cafeteria nauseating with your PDA' today?"

Brent gave me a tired, crooked grin, though the spark behind it was dim. "Nah, nah, don't get too comfortable. You two still love showing off. But today? Not feeling up to running commentary."

Jack reached over, plucking a strawberry from my plate without missing a beat. "What can I say? I do love my girlfriend," he said, popping the berry into his mouth with a smirk. "And hey, I know you love giving us shit for it, Brent. You'd be bored without it."

Brent's grin lingered just a second longer, but it didn't mask the exhaustion in his eyes. "True," he admitted with a small shrug. "But I think today I'm giving you two a pass. Lucky you."

Jack chuckled, nudging me gently under the table with his knee. "Guess we'll take it, huh, babe? Free day from Brent's shit-talking—doesn't happen often."

I squeezed Jack's hand in response, but my gaze drifted back to Brent. The joke was there, but so was the sadness. He was still trying to keep the act up, but the cracks in his facade were starting to show.

"So... how are you feeling overall, Brent?" I asked carefully, keeping my tone light. But I felt Jack's hand tighten around mine under the table—a silent reminder. I glanced his way, catching the warning look in his narrowed eyes. He knew me too well.

Brent shrugged, swirling his drink like it held all the answers to his chaotic life. "Oh, you know. Living the dream. Home sweet home." The sarcasm dripped from his words, heavy and biting.

There was a bitterness in his voice, the kind that didn't belong to the Brent I knew—the Brent who always had a joke on his tongue, ready to lighten the mood. But before I could respond, he shot me a grin—too quick, too forced, the kind of grin that said nothing to see here.

"Don't worry about me, Aria," Brent added, his tone slipping back into its usual bravado. "I know you're worried—about me, about Eli. But at least I can keep my tone in check, so I'm good."

The lie was easy to spot. I knew better. There was no real control in his life—only survival. His humor was a thin armor, barely holding together the cracks beneath.

Later, as we walked to our next class, I lingered beside Brent, falling into step with him. "You know... if you ever need to talk, I'm here. No jokes required," I offered quietly, hoping the sincerity in my voice would cut through his defenses.

He glanced down at me, something raw flickering behind his guarded gaze—a crack in the wall he kept so tightly built. It lasted only a second before the familiar smirk returned, quick as ever.

"Careful, Aria," he teased with a playful glint in his eye. "You're getting dangerously close to seeing behind the curtain."

I nudged his arm lightly, matching his grin. "I can handle it."

For a moment, something shifted in Brent's expression—a softness, a flicker of gratitude. It was subtle, but it was there, a glimpse into the person behind the jokes.

"Thanks," Brent said quietly, his voice lower than usual. "Look... I know you mean well. And I'm sorry if I'm not ready to talk about everything just yet. It's not personal—it's just... I'm not used to people knowing about me. Jack gets it. He's always known how to handle me."

His words hung in the air between us, unspoken emotions threading through the silence. It wasn't an apology—it was an admission. A small, reluctant step toward trust.

I smiled gently, resisting the urge to say more. "Whenever you're ready," I whispered. "No pressure."

Brent gave a small nod, and for just a heartbeat, the weight in his eyes seemed lighter.

Then, as quickly as it came, the moment passed. Brent slipped back into his usual role, tossing a playful jab at Jack as we reached the classroom door. "Better keep an eye on Aria, Jack. She's getting way too nosy."

Jack chuckled, the easy camaraderie slipping back between them, but I caught the glance he shot me—a subtle nod, the look of someone who knew. Knew that, in his own way, Brent had let me in, even if just for a moment.

The afternoon was dragging, and the dull hum of chatter in the hall wasn't helping. I leaned back in my seat during science class, trying to focus, but my mind kept drifting—back to Brent's guarded smiles, Eli's strange distance, and the lingering unease from my dream.

Jack sat next to me, tapping his pen against the desk in rhythm, as if sensing my unease. He gave me a small, knowing look, one that said, You good?

I forced a smile and nodded, even though everything inside me felt off. The weight of my thoughts churned like restless waves, and my skin prickled with an uncomfortable heat.

I tried to shake it off, scribbling notes on a half-hearted worksheet, but something in my chest tightened. Why do I feel so hot? My palms grew damp—too damp. I stared down at my hands, watching in horror as tiny droplets of water began to bead along my skin, forming small rivulets between my fingers.

What the hell is going on? It's like I just turned on my hydrothermokinesis except I'm hot and I'm feeling damp like I am sweating except not my forehead just my hands. 

I clenched my fists under the desk, willing the water to stop, but the pressure only grew stronger. The air around me felt heavy and humid, as if the atmosphere was feeding off my growing anxiety. Seriously, no full moon and this is what comes to? 

Jack nudged my arm gently. "Babe, you don't look so good," he whispered, his voice low and laced with concern, just for me.

I nodded quickly, placing my hands on the desk, but the dread curling in my stomach told me Jack wasn't fooled. My pulse quickened, and to my horror, water began to bead on my palms, pooling along my skin and dripping onto the desk. It wasn't just sweat—it was cool, almost icy, like the beginnings of my hydrocryokinesis were creeping in, mixing with the heat I felt under my skin.

My vision blurred at the edges, the world around me shimmering like it was submerged in water. My heart pounded against my ribs. Not here. Not now.

Jack's gaze sharpened, tracking the growing puddle spreading across my desk. His grip on my arm tightened, steady and reassuring. "Okay, babe, breathe. We need to get you out of here before you turn into a mermaid in the middle of class."

I swallowed hard, fighting the panic rising in my throat, but my body wasn't cooperating. I could feel it—the telltale tingling starting in my legs, signaling the start of the transformation. Water called to me, pulling like an invisible current beneath my skin.

"Jack... I—I can't stop it," I whispered, terror threading through my voice.

He leaned closer, his voice calm but urgent. "We've got this. Follow my lead, okay?" Without missing a beat, he raised his hand to get Ms. Bryant's attention. "Ms. Bryant, Aria isn't feeling well. I'll walk her to the nurse."

Ms. Bryant didn't even glance up. "Go ahead, just don't take too long."

Jack was out of his seat in an instant, offering me his hand. I clutched it like it was the only thing holding me together, his warm palm grounding me as we slipped into the hallway. My boots squelched against the linoleum floor, water pooling at my feet from the dampness spreading through my clothes. Cool air hit my face, but it did nothing to stop the tingling crawling up my legs.

"Jack, I—I can't hold it back," I whispered, panic tightening my chest.

He scanned the hallway quickly, his mind already working. "There." He pointed toward the janitor's closet. "Come on, before someone sees."

We ducked inside the cramped space just as my legs gave out. A shimmer of light enveloped me, and in an instant, my legs disappeared, replaced by a sleek, shimmering tail. My clothes vanished, leaving only my mermaid form glistening in the dim light of the closet.

I pressed my back against the wall, my breathing shallow. "This has never happened before. What is going on with me?"

Jack crouched beside me, his gaze flicking from my tail to my face, unwavering. "Stress, maybe? Or it could be that dream messing with you. Either way, babe, you need to stop taking the world on your shoulders. This isn't just powers—this is you burning out."

I shot him a frustrated glare, water swirling in the air around me, a reflection of the chaos inside. "Are you planning on becoming a therapist or something?"

Jack's grin was infuriatingly calm. "Nope. Just some free advice, courtesy of my mom. She's rubbing off on me."

Despite the panic coursing through me, a laugh bubbled out. "Great. My boyfriend, the mermaid therapist."

"Hey, I'd make a good one," Jack teased, brushing a wet strand of hair from my forehead. "Specializing in crisis transformations."

I rolled my eyes, though the warmth spreading through my chest was undeniable.

Jack peeked out the door, checking the hallway. "Let's get you dried off before anyone catches a glimpse of the girl with a tail."

With a sigh, I raised my hand, focusing on the lingering water pooling around me. I clenched my fist, activating my hydrokinetic power, and warmth surged through me. In moments, my tail shimmered and receded, legs and clothes reappearing seamlessly, as if nothing had happened.

Jack leaned against the doorframe, grinning. "See? Easy."

I gave him a playful glare. "Technically, I'm the one with the powers. I just saved us both."

He extended his hand, pulling me to my feet. "Come on, peppermint girl. Let's get back before Ms. Bryant sends a search party."

I slid my hand into his, feeling steadier with every step we took out of the cramped closet. The cool linoleum floor squeaked under my boots as we made our way back to class, and though the tension in my chest hadn't fully eased, Jack's steady presence made it easier to breathe.

As we approached the door, Jack glanced over at me, squeezing my hand gently. "One wave at a time, remember?"

I nodded, giving him a small smile despite the nagging worry gnawing at the edges of my thoughts. "One wave at a time."

Because deep down, I knew this wasn't the last time my powers would betray me.

The last bell signaled a flood of students pouring into the hallway, voices blending into a buzzing crescendo as everyone filed toward the exits. I spotted Brent leaning against a row of lockers, looking more tired than usual, his eyes distant until he noticed me approaching.

"Hey, Aria," he greeted, his usual humor barely flickering. "Just a heads up—I've got to run. Picked up a part-time job," he added, like it was something he'd been doing forever.

I blinked, caught off guard. "You? A job?"

"Yep," he said, managing a shrug, though the corners of his mouth tugged downward. "Gotta help out at home, you know?" He shot a quick glance past my shoulder, noticing Jack as he approached. Jack's brow lifted slightly, clearly as surprised as I was.

"Since when do you work?" Jack asked, curiosity and concern mingling in his tone.

Brent stuffed his hands in his pockets, his face unreadable. "Since now. I'll fill you in later," he added, his voice low as if to stave off any more questions. "Catch you guys later." With that, he slipped into the crowd and disappeared down the hall.

Jack and I exchanged a look, and I could see the same questions I had flicker in his gaze. Before either of us could say anything, Eli brushed past us without so much as a nod, his shoulders hunched and face set in a hard line. It was like he didn't even see us.

The group dynamic felt off—frayed somehow. Like invisible threads were pulling each of us in different directions. Jack's hand found mine instinctively, grounding me as we watched Eli's retreating form, our concerns about him hanging thick in the air.

As we made our way toward the exit, Jack's hand found mine as we walked to his car, his thumb tracing gentle circles over my knuckles—a small gesture, yet somehow, it was all I needed. Even though we'd just left the buzz of school, the weight of everything settled heavily in my chest. Every new layer of mystery, every warning from Elara, every strange dream seemed to build, leaving me feeling like I was barely keeping my head above water.

I glanced over, catching Jack's eye. He noticed, of course, his gaze softening as he studied me. He gave my hand a gentle squeeze, guiding me to a stop just before we reached the car. "Babe," he said softly, his voice steadying me, "how about we take a break from... everything?"

I blinked, taken off guard. "What do you mean?"

He shifted closer, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "A real break. No powers, no mysteries, no worrying about anyone else. Just us." His voice was low, thoughtful, the kind that made my heart ache in the best way.

My shoulders sagged as I let out a long, tired sigh. "Jack, I know you're trying to help. But every time I think I can manage it all, something else piles on. There's Brent, Eli, my powers going haywire out of nowhere—Elara's cryptic warnings. Not to mention that mermaid hunter showing up out of the blue." I swallowed hard, the words tumbling out as the weight in my chest grew. "It's... it's a lot. I don't even remember what normal feels like anymore."

Jack's hands settled on my shoulders, grounding me, his touch gentle but firm. "Babe," he said, searching my gaze, "when was the last time you let yourself feel like... just a regular girl? Like Aria—not a mermaid, not someone dealing with ten things at once—but just you?"

The question hung in the air between us, unfamiliar and unsettling, but his eyes held me steady. Just me? When was the last time I'd felt that way? I used to blend in, watch Jack from a distance, feel invisible but safe. Now, being seen felt... heavy. And Jack was offering me a chance to let that go.

"A date..." I murmured, the simplicity of it almost laughable. "It's been... a while."

Jack's eyes lit up with a teasing glint. "So, you're saying you'll let me ask you out, then?"

A blush crept up my cheeks. "Guess so. But, since you're asking, don't you think you should do it properly?"

"Wow," he said, a mock gasp escaping his lips. "Didn't realize I was dating a hopeless romantic."

I nudged him, the weight on my chest easing a little. "What can I say? You're the one who set the bar."

He let out a soft laugh, and I felt it settle over me, warm and steadying. "All right then," he said, dropping into an exaggeratedly formal stance. "Aria, will you do me the honor of going on a date with me? We can grab popcorn at the movies, or..." He paused, flashing me that signature grin. "Or take a walk on the beach, if that's more your style."

"The beach," I said, the answer coming out instinctively. "Not the moon pool, though." I hesitated, searching his face. "I just... I think I need some time before I go back there."

Jack's smile faded into something more serious, his gaze warm. "Got it. Just the beach. Tonight's about us, no one else."

A new warmth spread through my chest. He didn't just care about the drama or the mysteries or the mermaid parts of me—he cared about all of it. And somehow, just knowing that made the weight in my chest lift, little by little.

"Then let's get you some fresh air, peppermint girl," he said, tugging me gently toward the car. His words wrapped around me, a soft promise, as we drove off together. For now, it was just us.

The beach was quiet as the sun began its slow descent, painting the sky in breathtaking shades of orange, pink, and soft lavender that melted into the horizon. The waves rolled in a gentle rhythm, whispering against the shore with each crest and fall, and the salty tang of the ocean filled my lungs, cool and refreshing. Jack parked the car, and as we strolled down to the sand, the grains shifted beneath our feet, soft and cool from the day's fading warmth. The scent of the sea mingled with the faint, earthy aroma of driftwood, and Jack's arm wrapped firmly around my shoulders, grounding me with a warmth that felt as steady as the waves themselves. Here, with him, everything felt real, like I could finally breathe.

As we reached the shore, Jack tugged on my hand, guiding me down to sit beside him in the sand. "Alright, yep—this is exactly what you needed," he murmured, glancing at the open sea. "Even though we've had plenty of time at the moon pool, there's nothing quite like a beach for a mermaid, right?"

I grinned, leaning into his shoulder. "You're right—look at you, impressing a mermaid. I'd say this date definitely gets a ten."

Jack chuckled, pleased. "Well, a ten? I'll take it."

For a moment, the waves filled the silence around us, softening the edges of the day's worries. Jack tilted his head, catching my gaze, his eyes serious but warm. "Look, the reason I wanted this date... it's not just about you taking a break. I see how much you carry on your own. How much you let yourself get weighed down by everyone and everything. Your mind's always in overdrive, and I see how it eats at you." His hand brushed gently over mine, grounding me in that steady way he had. "Right now, it's just us, the beach, and the ocean. You deserve to be here, Aria. Just to be."

The quiet in his voice tugged at something deep inside me, loosening the constant knot in my chest. I hadn't realized how much I missed just... being still. Letting go. The only sound was the waves and Jack's steady breathing beside me, like it was the only rhythm I needed.

Jack reached down, sifting a handful of sand through his fingers, his gaze fixed somewhere past the horizon. "I get it, you know," he began softly. "With everything you're juggling—Brent, Eli, the mermaid stuff." He paused, his expression tender. "Sometimes, it feels like being your boyfriend is just trying to keep you grounded. But I think you and I... we need more of this. It's not easy for you, and I'm still trying to understand it all. But I want you to have these moments—to just be you."

His words settled in me, easing something I hadn't realized I'd been carrying. "It's just... it's like every time I think I've finally got a grip, something else gets thrown my way. And I feel like I'm letting everyone down. You, too."

Jack turned toward me, his hand brushing my cheek, the touch warm and steady. "Babe, I'm here. And you don't have to figure it all out at once. If you try, it's only going to pull you down, and you deserve better." He leaned closer, his forehead resting gently against mine. "One wave at a time, remember?"

I smiled, his words grounding me. "One wave at a time."

Jack's eyes glinted with a mischievous spark as he leaned back, his voice playful. "There it is—our motto. Purely ours. And tonight? Tonight is just about us." He reclined, looking up at the darkening sky, a small smile tugging at his lips. "So, tell me something random. Something I don't know about you yet."

I paused, frowning in mock thought. "Honestly? I don't have anything. I'm the predictable girl with mermaid powers, a mild book obsession, and a side hobby as a vlogger. Hardly groundbreaking."

He laughed, a warm, easy sound that made my heart skip. "Come on, I know there's something in there."

I hesitated, looking down at my hands. "Alright, but it's nothing exciting." I hugged my knees, the waves a steady rhythm around us. "I'm just... the quiet girl with parents who don't notice her. The girl who's always waiting to be let down. The girl who wants to believe in love but... doesn't always expect much from it."

The weight of my words lingered between us, and Jack was quiet, his gaze softening as he took it in.

Jack exhaled, his gaze drifting out to the ocean, the waves crashing rhythmically against the shore. He turned back to me, his eyes steady. "Aria, I won't lie to you—things aren't always going to be easy between us. But that doesn't mean we're doomed to fail or that you're just waiting for things to fall apart."

He paused, a small smile tugging at his lips. "The truth is, I'd rather face the messy parts with you than have something simple with anyone else. We'll figure it out, one wave at a time."

He gave my hand a gentle squeeze. "I can't speak for what your parents see or don't see in you—that's their loss. But I can tell you that I see you. I see how you've been handling everything, and I know it's not easy. You're juggling so much, and the way you keep going? That's strength."

Jack's voice softened, but there was a firmness underneath, a promise he wasn't trying to gloss over. "I'm here with you because I want to be, Aria, for the good stuff and the tough stuff. And maybe we don't have all the answers, but that's part of it too, right? I don't expect this to be perfect or easy—I just want it to be real. And that's exactly what you are to me."

Jack's lips brushed softly against mine, each touch lingering, delicate, like he was savoring the moment. But soon, the kiss deepened, shifting from gentle to something more intense, his hands sliding around my waist and pulling me closer until I could feel the steady beat of his heart against mine. My breath hitched, and I felt myself melting into him, letting the warmth between us grow, each shared heartbeat grounding me in the moment.

He paused for a second, his forehead resting against mine as he looked into my eyes, his gaze searching, serious. There was a question there, unspoken, but I felt it as if he'd whispered it out loud. My hand moved to rest on his chest, giving him my answer without words, my fingers curling into his shirt to pull him closer.

With that, Jack's kiss grew deeper, his hands exploring softly, reverently, like he was memorizing every detail. A shiver ran down my spine as he pressed closer, his arms wrapping around me with a quiet possessiveness that made me feel safe, cherished, and seen all at once. For the first time, I let myself surrender completely, feeling the strength of his presence, the care in every touch.

His hand brushed along my jaw, tilting my face up to him, and as he looked down at me, his eyes softened. "You know I'll never rush you, right?" he murmured, his voice low, sincere.

I nodded, meeting his gaze. "I trust you, Jack," I whispered, and the words seemed to settle between us, grounding us even more in this moment.

We stayed there, close and quiet, the waves our only witness. In his arms, I felt the weight of the world slip away, if only for a little while.

Jack lay beside me, a contented grin spreading across his face as he glanced over, still catching his breath. The soft, distant sound of waves and the setting sun over the horizon made everything feel surreal, like we were the only two people left in the world. Our clothes, scattered beside us on the sand, served as a quiet reminder of just how much this moment mattered—a step we'd taken together, one I didn't take lightly.

Jack chuckled softly, reaching out to brush a stray hair away from my face. "Guess we lucked out with having the place to ourselves," he murmured, his tone filled with that teasing warmth he always carried. "Could've been a bit awkward explaining this."

I laughed, the sound light and carefree, feeling an overwhelming sense of calm. "Yeah, I think that would've been a first."

He rolled onto his side, propping his head up with his hand as he watched me, a serious look edging past his smile. "How do you feel?" he asked, his eyes searching mine. "About... us, about all of this?"

I took a breath, letting my fingers trace gentle patterns in the sand. "I feel... like this was exactly what I needed. Just us, away from everything else. No drama, no powers... just real. I think that's what I've been craving."

Jack's grin softened, his hand reaching for mine. "Glad we're on the same page then," he murmured, his thumb brushing gently over my knuckles. "You know, I'm not sure if I've ever had this. Something that feels... I don't know, solid."

The vulnerability in his words made my heart ache, but in the best way. "Me neither," I replied, squeezing his hand. "Feels like we're in our own little world."

After a moment, he sighed, glancing around. "Think we should get our clothes back on before we end up with sand in places it definitely doesn't belong?"

I laughed, pushing myself up and reaching for my dress, still tangled in the sand. "Yeah, good call."

As we pulled our clothes back on, Jack's playful smile returned, his voice low but filled with mischief. "Gonna take some real willpower not to think about this every time we're alone," he teased, his eyes glinting as he watched me straighten my dress.

I felt my cheeks warm, but I couldn't help but smile, feeling a deeper sense of connection to him than ever before. "Maybe next time, I'll surprise you," I replied, surprising myself with my own boldness.

Jack's grin turned mischievous, and he leaned closer, his voice low and teasing. "Whoa, there, for a second, I thought I was with full moon Aria again," he said with a smirk, his eyes gleaming as I felt my cheeks flush even warmer.

I rolled my eyes, trying to keep my cool. "I still can't believe you brought that up. I don't even remember most of that night."

"Oh, I remember," he shot back, his smirk widening. "I'm just saying, babe. My girl a bit naughty. She's got a wild side. Who knew?"

"Oh my gosh, Jack, stop," I said, my face heating up as I shoved his shoulder, but he just laughed, clearly enjoying every second of my embarrassment.

"Why? I think you enjoyed it," he teased, leaning in even closer. "And let's not pretend here—I was the one needing a breather after all that. For someone so quiet, you definitely kept me on my toes."

"Jack!" I protested, feeling my face go even redder, but he only grinned wider, absolutely reveling in his effect on me.

Jack's voice dropped even softer, his lips brushing close to mine. "It's too easy to make you blush, peppermint girl. I'm definitely going to have fun with this," he said, his thumb lightly tracing my cheek as my face grew warmer, my flustered grin only making him chuckle.

I rolled my eyes, half-heartedly muttering, "I hate you," but couldn't hide the smile tugging at my lips.

"Liar," he murmured, pressing a warm kiss to my forehead, his tone turning thoughtful. "You know, I should probably bring you to the beach more often. Not just as a spot for dates, but a place to come back to... our place, where you can let go of all the stress. And, of course," he smirked, his hand tilting my chin, "to remember what happened here."

I bit my lip, laughing despite myself. "Oh, you'd really enjoy that, wouldn't you?"

"Absolutely," he teased, his eyes sparkling. "So, it's a deal. The beach is officially our spot.

As Jack pulled up to my house, he leaned over, brushing a soft kiss across my lips, lingering just a moment longer before pulling back. "I'll see you tomorrow?" he asked, his voice low and warm, the hint of a smile playing on his lips.

I nodded, feeling a surge of happiness and calm settle over me. "Tomorrow," I echoed, my voice filled with a quiet promise.

Jack held my gaze, his thumb grazing over my hand. "Love you, Aria."

A warmth blossomed in my chest as I returned his look. "I love you too, Jack."

I stepped out of the car, waving as he drove away, and the glow of the evening seemed to wrap around me. I turned to head inside, but then a faint glimmer caught my eye—a soft, silvery-blue light coming from my hand.

My moon ring.

The gentle glow pulsed, subtle yet unmistakable, like a heartbeat. The warmth and comfort I'd felt with Jack flickered as I stared at it, a silent reminder of something bigger, something beyond tonight. I turned my hand, the glow of the ring illuminating my skin. It was beautiful, but haunting in its own way, a sign that there were currents yet to face, mysteries yet to uncover.

I took a steadying breath, slipping my hand behind me to shield it from view as I glanced back at the empty street, as if Jack could somehow still see me. I wanted him to see me as I was tonight—happy, at peace, in love.

One last look at the glowing ring, and I whispered to myself, "One wave at a time." With that, I headed inside, the glimmer fading as the door closed behind me, but the feeling that something was coming lingered, as steady as the moon itself.

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Brent's POV

The mall was almost dead, the faint hum of fluorescent lights overhead the only real noise apart from the occasional shopper. I stifled a yawn, leaning against the counter at my part-time gig at the sports store, aimlessly reorganizing a shelf of water bottles. I didn't want to be here, but it was better than dealing with home.

Just as I grabbed another bottle, someone cleared their throat behind me. I turned around, surprised to see her—the girl I'd run into before, though something about her felt... different. She leaned on the counter like she owned it, arms crossed, eyes filled with the same challenging look I'd seen last time. But the edges were softer this time, almost playful.

"You again?" I asked, raising an eyebrow, trying to sound indifferent. "What are you doing here?"

She shrugged, her expression unreadable yet oddly relaxed. "Maybe I was bored." Her eyes flitted over the store before settling back on me with a smirk. "Or maybe I just enjoy running into people who seem like they're brooding over their life choices."

There it was—that same sharpness. But the way she said it was different this time, like she was poking fun, not reading me like a chess piece.

I snorted. "Maybe I just have better things to do than chat with strangers." I capped the water bottle, watching her carefully. "And for someone who talks about people's 'life choices,' you sure seem to have a lot of free time."

"Oh, I'm plenty busy," she replied easily, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear, her fingers moving quickly like she was impatient. "Just... differently." Her gaze flicked down to her hands, a faint crease appearing between her brows, almost as if she was... uncertain?

I shook my head, brushing it off. "So...you just hang out in stores, bugging strangers all day?"

"Only the interesting ones, muscles." She leaned closer, a playful grin creeping onto her face. "Or should I say... moody muscles?"

I rolled my eyes, shifting my stance as she raised her eyebrows, clearly daring me to react. But there was a flicker of something else in her eyes, a lightness, like she was letting herself relax instead of calculating every move.

"Real funny," I replied, fighting the grin tugging at my own mouth. "What, am I your new hobby?"

She shrugged, her smirk fading slightly, replaced by an unreadable expression. "Not everything's a game, you know." Her voice softened, almost as if she were talking to herself. But then she blinked, and that spark returned. "But, sure. Let's call it that if it makes you feel better."

I paused, caught off guard by the shift in her tone, then tried to recover. "Alright, then. So, what's your game plan? Get me to spill my life story?"

She laughed, and for a moment, it felt genuine—almost... amused. "Now, why would I want that? No offense, muscles, but I'm not that invested." She straightened up, her playful mask slipping back into place. "Just figured I'd see if you'd lighten up. You seemed... different last time."

"Different?" I echoed, eyeing her carefully, a strange feeling tugging at the back of my mind. "I thought you were different last time."

She tilted her head, looking intrigued, like I'd just given her a clue in a puzzle she was trying to solve. "Maybe I'm both. Maybe I just like keeping people on their toes."

There was a glint in her eye, an edge of challenge, but also something else—something softer that threw me off. I couldn't put my finger on it, but it was like she was playing two parts, each one slipping in and out seamlessly.

"Well, congrats," I muttered, crossing my arms. "You've officially made me wonder who the hell you are."

She shot me a teasing grin, her voice light and almost mischievous. "Guess you'll just have to figure that out for yourself, muscles. See you around."

And just like that, she turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving me with a strange sense of déjà vu and an even stranger sense that I still had no idea who she really was.

Brooke's POV: Scene where Jack asked out Aria before their date

I leaned against the brick wall, arms crossed as I watched Jack ask her out. It felt like someone had just slapped me across the face, over and over. Her. Jack Carter, my Jack, bending over backward, smiling that perfect smile as he looked at Aria like she was the damn sun.

Aria was standing there, doe-eyed and clueless, probably swooning at every word he said. I scoffed, feeling my nails dig into my arms, but I didn't care. Aria had taken everything. It should've been me with Jack, not some shy girl who had nothing going for her except those "aesthetic vibes" outfits she'd started wearing. Seriously? Just because she ditched the glasses and made herself look passably cute? She didn't even have to try, and she'd taken him from me—just like that.

Oh, but I wasn't done with her. Not by a long shot. I mean, I'm a cheerleader, for goodness' sake—the quarterback and cheerleader? That's how it's supposed to be. That's the story everyone loves, the story I'm supposed to have. We're supposed to live happily ever after. And it makes sense—I'm popular, people actually like me, I have friends who respect me. What does Aria have? A shy little nobody, barely making a ripple before she threw herself in Jack's way.

"You look like you're ready to commit a felony," a voice drawled beside me, startling me out of my thoughts.

I turned to see a girl I'd never seen before, her eyes gleaming with a spark that matched my mood. She was standing a little too close, watching me with a look that was both curious and amused, like she was waiting to see what I'd do next. She had this confident, almost lazy way about her—like she knew everyone else was beneath her notice. Yet here she was, watching me.

"Who the hell are you?" I snapped, not in the mood for company. Especially not from someone with that smug expression.

She raised an eyebrow, clearly unbothered by my attitude. "Someone who appreciates a good show," she said casually, her gaze shifting toward Jack and Aria, who were still in their little bubble of bliss. "And it seems like you've got one brewing."

I scoffed, glancing back toward them. "Show? Please. More like a pathetic display." My jaw tightened. "She thinks she's so perfect, taking Jack away from me like she even deserves him." I huffed, rolling my eyes. "I had him first. Aria's just... some distraction. He'll realize it soon enough."

The girl let out a small, amused laugh, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Doesn't look like he's catching on too quickly, does it?" She leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Maybe he just needs a little... nudge."

I glanced at her, feeling an unexpected rush of curiosity. "And what would you know about nudging, exactly?"

She gave me a slow, almost predatory smile. "Let's just say I have a talent for... pushing people in the right direction." Her eyes flicked to Jack and Aria before coming back to me, a glint of mischief in her gaze. "It seems like you've got a score to settle. I can't say I blame you."

She didn't know the half of it. She didn't know what it felt like to be second choice, to have everything you thought was yours taken from you. And yet, there was something in her eyes that made me think... maybe she did know. Maybe she'd been in my shoes, maybe she'd even enjoyed stirring up a little trouble now and then.

"You know," I said, feeling my mood shift, "I could use someone like you. Someone who understands how things really work around here."

She chuckled, shrugging nonchalantly. "Could be fun. Besides," she added, casting another amused glance toward Aria, "I'm always looking for ways to keep myself entertained."

It was a strange feeling, having someone on my side—someone who wasn't faking sympathy or offering empty advice. She seemed genuinely interested in helping me. Or maybe she was just bored. Either way, she was willing to stir the pot, and right now, that's exactly what I needed.

"Then let's make things a little... uncomfortable for Aria," I said, a smile forming on my lips as I turned back to watch them. "After all, I don't give up that easily. And neither, it seems, do you."

The girl's smile widened, her gaze gleaming with barely concealed amusement. "Not at all."

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A/N: Well, that was long, right? Holy shit! I wrote a lot and this took me all day to make sure this is right. I hope! If not criticism and feedback is appreciated, but don't disrespect me this is still my first draft story. Please comment and vote. I'm just writing here and still improving. All right relationship progression cheesy moments, but of course, we can't let that go through, right? Readers need something to keep them on their toes. Got to make my story interesting, otherwise, this will be boring. Goodness, it is so hard to balance high school and fantasy moments with the mermaid stuff. I'm still trying to do all that. It's hard to find a balance with this. Also, I had to dedicate this story to a good reader who has been giving some good feedback. 😊😊