The Merman and the Prince

Chapter 21

We spent the rest of the day alone, reaffirming our love for each other. I had been devastated that I had forgotten about him for even one night and Akashi himself didn't want to move far away from me, worried that I would leave him.

"When we head back to the sea I will buy you a proper engagement gift."

He was pulling my long hair back into a pony tail and slipped a plain gold band on my finger. It was one of his rings I had seen him wearing.

"Until then take this and my promise to you."

He finished and knelt down in front of me, taking my hands into his and kissing them.

"I love you Tetsuya Kuroko and I want to marry you on this island before the year is up."

My heart swelled and I let him pull me to my feet and kissed him. Kept his arm around my waist as we walked out the door, I was still unsteady on my feet. It was like my body had forgotten how to move with legs instead of a tail. I could see the sun was setting and we made our way to the tavern for dinner. When we walked in the room everyone cheered and held up their drinks.

"Welcome back young sir!"

"Welcome!"

Akashi headed over to our table where the rest of his crew, Kasamatsu and Kagami were already seated.

"Look at that hair Kurokocchi!"

Kise jumped up as we approached and pulled out a chair for Akashi to lower me into. I smiled up at him as the blonde ran my long locks through his fingers.

"I was actually hoping you would chop it for me later."

"Are you sure? I mean you look different, but a good different."

He moved back to his seat beside the captain of the Kaijo who put his arm around him and pulled him close.

"I'm sure. We can use it to make healing tonics for the islanders, maybe even sell some to make more gold for trade. Of course we won't say what it's made of or where we get it."

Smiles greeted my words and Akashi handed me a glass with lemon water for me to drink.

"A born pirate and trader this one."

We had just finished dinner when the keen eyed Midorima noticed the ring.

"What's this now?"

He was seated two seats away and reached over Takao to grab my hand.

"This is Seujuro's."

He looked up at us both, an eye brow raised in question. I sat back and allowed Akashi to stand up, the room instantly quieting as they turned to look at their prince.

"I have an announcement. I had asked the wonderful Kuroko to marry me and he has agreed."

A huge cheer shook the rafters as everyone toasted to our engagement and the crew members at the table jumped up to clasp Akashi and hug me in congratulations.

"There is so much to do and plan for!"

Kise was jumping with excitement and Murasakibara lifted me up in one of his bear hugs.

"We will have to make some trips for supplies and decorations. Yuki can marry you too."

"And the menu will have to be decided. We will take care of that."

Himuro moved forward and I was shocked when he kissed my cheek.

"I will take care of the cake Kurochin."