Page 37 of Magic Potions and the Merman's Lure

Gryn smooths a hand down his chest as he peers down at the blue material with a faint smile curling the corners of his mouth. He should like it—it is my favorite silk shirt. As reluctant as I am to part with it, I have to admit it looks good at him. He looks up at me expectantly, waiting for approval. I make a show of it as I regard him thoughtfully, curled finger resting against my chin.

“Do I look like a human?” he asks, too impatient to endure my silent scrutiny a moment longer.

I chuckle softly and shake my head. “No,” I admit. “While there are humans who are unusually pale which makes it easier for me to blend in, I have never seen a green human of any shade. But,” I hurry to say as his expression falls, “I would not worry about it too much. Humans are becoming more accustomed to the presence of other species within their communities and everyone in this town pretty much knows that there is an Aquana here since I’ve claimed my territory here and no one has attempted to harm me. I doubt there will be any such attempts against you either, so there is no reason to hide here. Your appearance is a fine one to be proud of. The clothing suits you.”

That is somewhat painful to admit. I would not have imagined that my favorite shirt would look even better on Gyr than it does me, but somehow, that perfect shade of aqua blue complements the buffed pale green hue of his scales.

He nods as he seems to digest that, his expression turning solemn. “So, you are saying that I look suitable for an Aquana on land.”

“Precisely. You can just use a little glamour to tone down the appearance of your scales and fins if you wish. It helps to escape the attention of curious females.... Sometimes.”

“It does not bother me if people notice them,” he shyly whispers. “I do not desire a mate at this time, but I will not mind if I am admired.”

“Very well,” I reply peacefully, careful to keep my tone and expression neutral. Let him enjoy it as much as he likes until he understands why I have often hidden from such attention.

He peers up at me through his dark lashes. “There is only one thing I want right now.”

“Oh?” I give him an inquisitive look and fold my arms, curious to know what sort of requests the male may now have since I have extended my hospitality.

His cheeks pinken faintly under his green scales. “There was a mention of food...”

“Ah, yes,” I reply with a quiet chuckle. I recall being young and the appetite that came with the juvenile years. For an Aquana it is considerable. I hope Keri is prepared. Especially since it is likely that he has not had much to eat in some time. “Of course. We will go catch up with Keri then.”

A shy smile once again pulls at his mouth, and he nods. “Your mate is very nice to offer me food.”

“Of course,” I scoff. “I would only pick the best mate. She holds my heart.”

“Just not your seed,” he points out with the blunt honesty of all young Aquana his age. I give him a hard look and his brows rise inquisitively. “Any Aquana can tell that you have not completed the mating, but I can see that she is worthy. And I can see the mark of your lure,” he admits. “Your reasons for a slow courtship are yours but your mating is guaranteed to be one of great magic to breed for your future generations.”

It is high praise, and I am admittedly flattered. He is not wrong that Aquana courtships tend to be fast, but it is also known that for a patient male, an extended courtship can cause an exchange between the magic of the female and the lure of the male to spawn great power for generations. Few have that patience. I just hope that I am capable.

Chapter 24

Keri

I pause, the morsel of salmon on my fork inches from my lips as I watch Gryn devour the food in front of him with a zeal that probably could only be matched by a teenager. Perhaps more so since I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone put away so much food. It must be perfectly normal because Ro only glances at him occasionally with an expression of indulgence as he steadily eats his own food. It’s really a good thing that Ro insisted on paying for the meal. Come to think of it—he knew that this was going to happen and was prepared for it.

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