Requital

CHAPTER 8

LEITH

I watch her peeking my head through the top of the water, my mate. I didn't think the gods would give me such a blessing. Me a failure to my people, to my family. I've lived in this cave for many years. The outcast, forced to be alone for my crimes and decisions. I felt it in my chest. The moment she was close to these waters. The string in my chest pulled tight as I saw her roll down the hill into the water. I dove back into the water and swam with all my might to get to her. When I reach her she's losing consciousness. I drag her in my arms and cradle her to my chest as I race back to my cave. I set her on the edge and prop up with her. No time to dry and get my legs back I must save her.She'ss swallowed to much water. I bend down and press my lips to hers to breathe into her. Just this innocent touch to save her sends exploding colors through my vision. I keep giving her my breath until she starts to cough up the water. When she tries to go to her side I slip back into the water and watch. I watch her when she sits up and goes to the fire I have enhanced to stay lit. I watch her explore my home, and I watch her dress in my clothes. Finally, I watch her cry herself to sleep. What has happened to her? Why was she out here in the middle of the woods? Alone? So many questions I have for her, but Ican'tt show myself just yet. When her breath evens out andshe'ss deep in sleep I get out of the water and let myself dry. Slowly I watch my tail turn to two legs, my mer side slowly slip back into me. I stand and walk over to her. I would dress but she has my clothes on so I walk over to her bare and just stare. Ican'tt stop. My mother and father were fated. My mother used to try to describe to me what it felt like to be around your mate, but nothing could compare to what I feel now being so close to her. I dont know what I did to deserve this but I will cherish her. I will love her, protect her until my dying breath. Suddenly she stirs and her eyes slam open. She looks right at me and then she screams.