Triton's Destiny

Part Twenty-Two

Ika swerved around Maki, avoiding the triton's erratic movements as he darted from one side of his cavern to the other, rifling through alcoves and storage spaces. It has to be something special, Ika. He gave her a helpless look. What do I give him?

She swam over to his desk and nosed about, finally nudging a white shell with a shiny rainbow lining in his direction. With an adorable smile on her fishy lips, she gazed up at him, hope shining in her green eyes as her tail swayed back and forth.

Maki smiled fondly at her. That is special, Ika. Thank you. It wasn't what he wanted to give to Tristan, but he wasn't going to hurt Ika's feelings like that. So, he set the shell aside for later consideration and kept searching through his things. He was frustrated, though. Most of his stuff was suited to underwater life and none of it was unique enough to gift to a wonderful, thoughtful, amazing human. Perhaps he could make something? Or go into the reef and buy something from one of the artisans? Or...

Maki? There was a swish of water from the front door. Maki, are you home?

He turned to see Hana's pink hair emerging from between the kelp strands and he smiled. Hana was much better at this than he was. She could help him find something. Hi, Hana. How are you today?

Maki! She swam over to him and wrapped her arms around his midsection, giving him a fierce hug. You're never here anymore! I was just going to leave a message, but I always check to see if you're home first. Oh, it's wonderful to see you!

He stroked his fingers through her hair. It's good to see you too.

Pulling away, she pouted at him, crossing her arms over her chest. Anaru must be keeping you busy. Either that, or you're occupied with something else. What have you been up to lately, Maki?

Nothing much. He bit his lip and averted his gaze, knowing for certain he couldn't fool her for a second.

Oh yes. Very subtle. She rolled her eyes. The truth, Kirseren. Come on.

Bubbles streamed past his pointed ears as he heaved a sigh. You never fall for that, do you?

Nope! Because you're a terrible liar. Now tell me what's going on.

Fine... He sighed again. I've been seeing someone.

Her eyes went impossibly wide, her mouth dropped open, and a high-pitched squeak rippled through the water. Ika darted to her in alarm, petting Hana's cheek with her fin. Hana captured the fish in her arms and gave her a squeeze. Ika! Maki's got a crush! Oh my gods!

Blowing a stream of bubbles, Ika bumped their foreheads together and nuzzled into Hana's hair. Then she wriggled out of Hana's arms and swam circles around her.

Hana darted over to her best friend and grabbed his hands, spinning with him in the middle of the cavern. Maki, I'm so happy for you!

Thanks, Hana.

She stopped spinning but still kept his hands, smiling into his eyes with pure, radiant joy. Is it someone I know?

He shook his head. No, you've never met him.

But you like him. Like... 'Like him', like him?

You're not making any sense, Hana. But yes, I like him. A lot.

She squeaked again, clasped her hands to her heart, and spun herself in a circle. Oh my gods! I'm so happy!

Why are you so happy? He frowned at her.