The Tides Between Us

On Silverlock, the sea is close enough to smell in your sleep.
Melody was found on the sand and raised to stay. Serena was raised to run. They promised the horizon they would take it together.
They were children when they said it.

Then the traders came for Selene, and the island learned how fast a promise can break. Years later a ship sails into Barnacle Bay with the sea goddess carved on her prow - and Serena is offered the only life that has ever fit her.

Melody is what she leaves behind.

One girl learns that stillness can drown you. One learns that freedom is paid for in other people's names. The tide does not choose sides. It only pulls.

Some people wait.

Some people love to leave.

This one has to survive both.