The Siren's Choice Chapter 2

I hid in my grotto for days, depressed. Two pieces of news reached me.

First, the Royal Sea King Clan was holding a Selection for their new King’s Queen. They sent out enchanted conch shells inviting eligible mermaids from all clans to participate.

Second, Lucian had chosen to be male.

He had gone ashore to pursue the seashell girl.

Several merfolk came to check on me, whispering about Lucian's betrayal, warning me not to be fooled if he came back.

They said Lucian made a dashing human man, and the girl was cute. Visually, they were a perfect match.

Clinging to a sliver of hope, I swam to the shore near the village where Lucian had gone.

From the waves, I saw them walking hand in hand on the beach.

Lucian was tall and handsome, standing out among the humans. The girl was petite and lovely. They looked... perfect together.

Even though I expected it, seeing it shattered me. The pain was unbearable.

I didn't dare call out to him. I was afraid to hear his voice.

I truly didn't understand. Three hundred years of companionship, a promise to be mates... how could it change so suddenly?

Even through the pain, I still loved him.

Not long after returning home, in my grief and humiliation, I made my choice. I became a woman.

Merfolk gender is determined by the heart. You can't lie to your own soul.