Page 23 of Rescued By the Kraken

“That’s the magic of the island,” Zethe replies, his voice warm in my ear. “It’s full of surprises.”

A waitress comes over, a dragoon–a scaled humanoid with horns and wings–rainbow-colored scales and long, black hair. She smiles at us, her eyes twinkling. “Zethe, Rey,” she greets us warmly. “Zoe and Sage are at your usual spot.”

Zethe nods his thanks, leading me toward a cozy corner booth. It offers a view of both the pizza ovens and the impromptu dance floor where a few monsters are swaying to the music.

“Just wait until you try their food, Rey. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.”

Zoe is waiting for us, waving us over to a booth toward the back. She’s accompanied by the same emerald naga from earlier in the day, both of them looking at ease in this laid-back environment.

As we approach, Zoe’s eyes light up with genuine warmth. “Rey! You look absolutely stunning! I love what they did with your hair.”

I beam at her words, a flush of pleasure warming my cheeks. “Thanks, Zoe. The merfolk at the lagoon did it. They were incredible.”

As I slide into the booth, I feel a giddy sense of anticipation. I have no idea what to expect from this place, but if it’s anything like the rest of the resort, I’m in for a treat.

Zethe’s hand finds mine again on the table, his thumb brushing over my knuckles in a reassuring gesture. I look up to meet his eyes, a soft smile playing on his lips. It’s a look that says ‘you belong here,’ and I believe him.

“Zoe, could you tell me why you asked us to come here?” I cast a glance between her and the emerald naga next to her; they were sharing the same large booth cushion that took up the entire corner. “Did I do something wrong while I was here?”

Zoe shakes her head and raises her hands in a surrender gesture. “Not at all. I was only concerned about you and wanted to know how you were adjusting to resort life… especially after your first day was so terrifying. I was worried you’d be upset with me for not being your personal tour guide the entire trip and didn’t know how to approach you about it.”

“I’m sorry, Rey, and Zethe,” Sage, the emerald naga, apologizes. “I kept telling her that she was letting her imagination run wild and that you were having fun spending time together, but she insisted that we ask you.”

“Well, I’m glad we’re sitting here to clear up any miscommunication and misunderstandings, so neither of us can have it weighing down our day while I’m here,” I respond, grabbing her hand and smiling. “I have no reason to be angry with you… and I’m not avoiding you, either.I’ve just been spending time getting to know Zethe.”

Zoe raises an eyebrow at that, and her eyes dart to Zethe, who is sitting beside me. His arms are crossed over his chest, but he offers her a nod. He’s been quiet so far, just listening and observing.

“Zethe, huh?” Zoe’s lips curve into a smirk. “Never thought he’d be the one to play tour guide.”

I shrug, and struggle to hold back a smile. “He’s been very helpful. Showed me all the important places around the resort, introduced me to some of the other monsters… he’s been really nice.”

Zoe’s smirk softens into a genuine smile. “I’m glad to hear that. He’s one of our best lifeguards. Very responsible.”

My heart swells at her praise for Zethe. I feel a warm flush creep onto my cheeks, and I cast a glance at him. He’s staring at me, his gaze soft.

“But, what about you, Rey?” Zoe asks, bringing my attention back to her. “How are you feeling? Are you adjusting well?”

I take a moment to consider her question. Am I adjusting well? I look around at the lively restaurant, the fantastical creatures around me, the delicious pizza before me, and the charming kraken beside me. I think of the warmth and acceptance I’ve felt here, and the sense of belonging that’s slowly but surely seeping in.

And I know my answer.

“I’m adjusting,” I tell her. “It’s different, and it’s strange. But…I like it. I like it a lot.”

Her smile widens, and she claps her hands together. “That’s great to hear, Rey! You know, you can always talk to me if you need anything, okay? We’re here to make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible.”

I nod, appreciating her concern. “I will, Zoe. Thank you.”

“Has Zethe mentioned fated mates to you?” Sage inquires abruptly.

Zoe hisses and snaps her head at the emerald naga. “I told you to talk to Zethe privately about it while I spoke with Rey, not to have this conversation right here in the middle of lunch.”

“Yes,” I nod, watching Zoe and Sage interact and wondering what their relationship is. “He told me as soon as I woke up that I was his fated mate, and we’ve talked about what that means and our connection.”

Sage nods, his green gaze thoughtful. “I only ask because I know how difficult it can be to reconcile the human understanding of relationships with the deep, instinctual bond that fated mates share. It’s not something that’s easily explained, and it can be overwhelming.”

I look at Zethe, his dark eyes meeting mine. I feel a reassuring squeeze from his hand, his rough skin contrasting with my own. “Zethe has been very patient with me. He’s been understanding and has not rushed me into anything.”

Zoe speaks up then, her voice soft. “It’s a big decision, Rey. Nobody expects you to make it overnight. Just know that we’re here to support you, however this plays out.”

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