I don’t, but this doesn’t feel like the right time to mention it when Sean looks like they actually understand what I’m saying about gender.

“So, what pronouns do you use?” they ask. The question completely blindsides me. In a good way.

“They/them works great.” Mer can also be used as a pronoun in Pacifica, but I don’t think merfolk terminology is exactly what Sean is looking for.

“Got it.” Sean smiles, and they pick up their burrito. “He/him for me.” Then he takes a big bite, completely sure of himself. “And gay, if that wasn’t clear after all this boyfriend talk.”

Labels everywhere, and it all seems to be wrapped around genitals. Even down to the clothes they wear, like these jeans and T-shirt magicked with my transformation that feel way more masculine than I’d like.

It’s so different from what mer do. We live as a community and focus on energies and love who we want; we share our bodies with whoever it feels right to without obsessing over gender and body parts. Well, there is one body part I’m exceptionally ready to explore in my mer form.

And for the second time since we got to this restaurant, I’m thinking about scaling.

I sound just like a dolphin. Really horny.

But scaling will have to wait until I can figure out how to help Sean. He’s got this masculine, observant energy, which could cause problems with him observing my every move. Seeing me repeatedly stumble over human words and customs, noticing my complete aversion to water in public spaces so that my fin doesn’t make an appearance. But I’ve got to help somebody, and it’s better to stick with the shark you know than the one you don’t. And Sean clearly needs help. While he may be sure about who he is gender-wise, he seems totally lost.

And if helping him get Dominic back will let Sean find himself, then that’s exactly what I’m going to do.

     Sean     

“So let’s make a plan,” Ross says, suddenly all business. “If you want things to go back to how they were, let’s make that happen. How can you get Dominic back?”

“Wait, you’re serious?”

Ross nods. “Duh. Why would I joke about this?”

“Well, we just met, for one. There’s no reason for you to be invested in my relationship. You don’t know me at all.”

Ross blows a raspberry. “I know you’re a lifeguard. I know you were just dumped. I know you’re heartbroken. What else do I need to know? Besides, it’s not like I’ve got anything better to do. So let’s get you and Dominic back together.”