The lights were off, the quiet sounds of waves were in the back, the only sound that could comfort me. I swam around my tank, it feels smaller every day.

I played with the bubbles coming up from the clams, smiling happily, before looking out at the aquarium. In the tank across from mine was a man, with a tail similar to mine. I know him very well.

I waved to get his attention, and he looked up to see me, before smiling happily. I smiled back, before swimming in a small circle, as a greeting. To show him I was happy to see him, to show him I missed him.

He did the same, and it made me laugh. I always felt brighter seeing him, even for a moment.

He then beckoned me closer. I got surprised, and got as close as our tanks would allow. He held up a pearl, smooth and sparkling. Amazed by the sight, I gasped before clapping, as if to tell him 'It's beautiful!'

He then gestured for me to move back. Confused, I complied, swimming back into the furthest part of my tank. With almost practiced effort, he moved his hand out the small crack of the top of his tank, and threw the pearl into mine.

I was startled by the splash, before immediately swimming over and holding the pearl close. I ran my hands over it, before I could feel something etched into it.

A simple heart was carved into the back, signaling his love for me, our love for each other.

[Song Inspo: die for someone (w/ adore) by 9 lives]