“Lauri?” he pressured desperately, looking worried and disconsolate.

“Matt…I guess I have something to say too, then,” she said, looking bewildered and confused. “I’m a mermyd. So I guess the real question is, I know you thought I’m human, but…can we make it work?”

She saw it, every second cutting a gouge into her heart. First he looked hopeful, then baffled, then crushed, then…cold.

“How could you keep a secret like that from me? If I’d known…I’m sorry, Lauri, but I’m afraid I can’ t do that…actually, let me see, what’s your name then? Laurelle? Laurelelle? Or even, Loreleielle-lelle-lelle?”

His sudden sarcasm hit her like an icy blast.

“Matt…”

“I’m Mohrak. But you can just call me gone,” he said, diving back into the water.

“No! Matt! But…the water…the blood…”

“Men are such hypocrites,” said Glayelle satisfactorily.