Rising Tides

The following days passed in a blur of recovery and strategy. Nereus remained at Victor's side as the mansion was repaired, the walls reinforced, and security tightened. Victor's men worked tirelessly, their loyalty to him unwavering despite the attack.

Luca had been injured in the fray but was recovering quickly. He was back to his sarcastic self within a few days, though his concern for Nereus and Victor remained beneath the surface.

For Nereus, the aftermath of the battle left him feeling conflicted. He had tapped into a power he barely understood, a connection to the ocean that was both exhilarating and terrifying.

The leader of the Trident had escaped, but they had sent a message—Nereus was not an easy target. He had fought back, and now the stakes were higher than ever.One afternoon, as the sun dipped low in the sky, Nereus found himself standing on the balcony of Victor's estate, gazing out at the distant horizon. The ocean was far away, but he could still feel its pull. It was calling to him, whispering promises of strength, of ancient secrets still buried deep beneath the waves.

Victor joined him after a while, silent but solid beside him. His presence was steadying, grounding in a way that made Nereus feel safe, despite the dangers that lurked just beyond their walls.

"They won't stop," Nereus said quietly, his voice carried by the wind. "The Trident… They'll come back."Victor nodded, his expression grim but resolute. "I know. But we'll be ready."Nereus turned to look at him, the weight of everything they had been through reflected in his eyes.

"Why are you doing this? Why are you risking so much for me?"Victor's gaze softened, and for a moment, Nereus saw past the cold, calculating exterior. "Because you're worth it."The words were simple, but they hit Nereus like a wave.

No one had ever told him that before. In his world, he had always been curious, an outsider, but never special. But here, with Victor, he felt seen in a way he never had before.Nereus smiled, a small, genuine smile that warmed his chest. "I'll do whatever it takes to stop them," he said, his voice steady.

"To protect the ocean—and you."Victor reached out, gently cupping Nereus's chin, his thumb brushing against his cheek.

"We'll stop them. Together."Nereus leaned into the touch, his heart swelling with determination

. The tides were rising, and with Victor by his side, he knew they could face whatever storm came their way.