When I was young, I was always fascinated with how magical fairy tales always work. It starts with “Once Upon a Time'' and it always ends with “Happily Ever After”. I was jealous of how they always get to solve the problem and make the villains suffer. I wanted to be a princess myself. I wanted to be a damsel in distress waiting for a prince charming to come. A prince I could love and live happily ever after with. 

To be honest, fairy tales are far from being my real-life story. My story is more of a drama series. When I was a kid, my father Nick and my mother Lisa got a divorce. So, life has been a little complicated after that. They told me that they had the divorce because they aren't compatible anymore, that’s it. They did not explain things to me back then because they told me that I was too young to understand things like that. Later on, when I was old enough to understand complicated things, I realized it was because my dad loved someone else. 

I haven't introduced myself, have I? I am Nina. I am a young girl and an only child. Growing up without a sibling was a bit tough for me since my parents were not on good terms either. I wanted a sister or a brother to talk to, at least, when my parents are arguing or having a heated conversation. Having a sibling meant that I could divert my attention to him or her instead of my parents. I always wished to have one but unfortunately, I did not have one.  

Even though I did not have a sibling of my own, I luckily had met a neighbor that became my best friend. His name is Andy and he just lived right across our house. Every time my parents would argue, I would leave our house and go to his. We would always play outdoor games when the sun is high and then play board games when the weather is not good. We even built a treehouse in their backyard to serve as our own space whenever we need to play. Throughout my lifetime, I always thought of his house as my second home. It is because I feel more at ease when I am with him. 

Apparently, today is my birthday and it is not just an ordinary birthday. Today is the day that I turn eighteen. I am officially going to be welcomed to adulthood. I am actually having mixed feelings right now. I feel happy and nervous at the same time. I feel happy because reaching the legal age gives you privilege on things. On the other hand, it makes me nervous because being an adult means being more responsible and mature and I don't think I am ready for that yet.

[Nina’s Perspective]

As I walked down the flight of stairs, all eyes were on me. I am very happy to see my close friends and family here today.  I’m wearing a blue ombre ball gown with my silver pumps. My hair is tied back with a princess braid and I am wearing a small crown too. I really feel like a princess today, it’s my debut after all. 

When I reached the bottom of the stairs, my father was already waiting for me. I took my dad’s hand and we walked towards the stage. As we were walking, I heard Andy introducing me. 

“Let us all welcome our lovely debutant, Nina!” 

After saying that, people applauded until my dad and I were able to reach the stage. After that Andy led the event again and proceeded with the other parts of the program. While Andy was busy talking, I wasn’t fully listening to him. I just smiled and nodded whenever he mentioned the word ‘debutant’. I wasn't paying much attention because someone is still missing - that someone is my mom. 

Moments later, Andy announced that it was time to give my speech before we could all eat. So, I stood up from where I was sitting and walked towards the end of the stage. 

“I sincerely thank each and every one of you for coming to my debut tonight. I feel so happy seeing you all here.” I spoke. 

“Also, I would like to thank my dad who made time today to attend this event despite his busy schedule.” I looked at my dad as I said those words. He pretended to frown and sigh which made everyone chuckle. 

“Lastly, I would also like to thank my mom. I know that she is honored and proud to have me, wherever she may be right now. 

Suddenly, people started murmuring. After a while, one of my aunts shouted.

“Sorry dear, we didn’t know she passed away” 

“Oh no. My mom is still alive. I think she is just late.” 

Just as I finished saying those words, I heard my mom shouting in the distance. 

“I’m sorry honey. I’m sorry I’m late” she said while panting. It was obvious that my mom tried her best to come here right away. 

She immediately approached me and hugged me.

“I’m so sorry honey. There was an accident on the road so we had to wait for first responders on the scene before we could go.” She explained to me. 

“It’s okay, mom. I’m just glad you are already here.” I said as I smiled sweetly at her and kissed her on the cheek.

After eating, we proceeded with the eighteen gifts and eighteen wishes. When the last speaker for the eighteen wishes said her wish to me, an upbeat song started to play. 

“It’s party time!” Andy shouted through the microphone. 

I took that as a cue to go down the stage and interact with my guests. Everyone cheered and danced along with the beat. The DJ was playing cool and trendy beats that made everyone move. Whenever one song finishes, the DJ starts with another cool song. I liked his song choices so I wanted to meet him.  

I walked across the ballroom to find where my friends were. Moments later, I saw them dancing near their table. 

“Hey guys” I greeted my friends. 

“Hey, girl” Kathy said.

“Happy Birthday Nina!” Andy greeted me again. 

“Oh, thank you Andy.” I replied.  

"That DJ is so handsome!" Kathy suddenly told us while we were dancing. 

She kept on looking at the DJ vibing at the left side of the stage. 

"Yes! Yes! I think so too. But you know what? His appearance fee is very expensive." I replied to Kathy. 

"I really don't understand what kind of charm he has that fascinates you so much. Clearly, what he did can be done by anyone else! What sets him apart then?" Andy looked puzzled.

“I know that, Andy. The difference is his handsomeness” Kathy replied to Andy. 

“So, what if he is handsome? Just look at him, his vibes are the dangerous kind. He looks like a player” Andy told Kathy again. 

“No, he does not Andy. Never judge a book by its cover. We will never know unless we meet him personally” Kathy rebutted. 

Both Andy and Kathy were teasing each other and I just stood there laughing at them. Seconds later, the music changed in pace. The music the DJ played was a romantic song for a slow dance. Right then and there, in the corner of the ballroom, we heard people screaming at each other. 

My friends and I went to the scene as soon as possible to see who it was. When we arrived, I saw my mom and dad arguing again. Apparently, dad brought another date with him. 

“I can’t believe you actually brought her here!” My mom said towards dad. 

“Why? Can’t I bring my date with me?” Dad answered. 

“Date? Are you not ashamed? She is the reason why we are divorced. She is the reason why Nina has a broken family” my mom rebutted. 

“Stop saying that! There are a lot of people here!”

“You want me to stop? Let her leave then. For God’s sake, Nick, today is our daughter’s birthday!” my mom shouted again. She even put emphasis on the word ‘our’ 

“Wait a second Lisa. Nina and I have a good relationship. I think that you are the only one uncomfortable with me being here.” Sara interrupted. 

“That is what I thought so too. Our marriage ended long ago Lisa. Stop this nonsense. Nina is okay with Sara being here.”  Dad defended Sara. It made my mom sadder. 

I know why my mom hates Sara so much. It is true that she was the reason my parents broke up. Back then, since mom and dad were busy with work, I was left alone to do my assignments and other school work. I struggled with completing them so mom and dad decided to get me a private tutor.  

Sara was the private tutor that mom hired. It just happened that she was dad’s first girlfriend, his one true love. Mom did not know this fact which is why she trusted Sara with me and dad. But dad broke that trust when he had an affair with Sara and asked for divorce when he got caught.

Everything was becoming too much to handle. I’m feeling more and more sad and irritated.

"Will you stop arguing? Please!” I shouted at them

“Can’t you see? People are already staring” I added. 

I was so mad. I can’t believe they couldn’t even handle this in a civil manner or take it outside instead. 

"It's not my fault. Blame your damn father for bringing that bitch here." Mom shouted angrily.

My dad just looked sharply at mom and then turned to look at Sara. 

"It's okay, it's okay." Dad comforted Sara.

“I’m fine Nick. It’s okay.” Sara assured dad. 

After a few seconds, my mom spoke again.

"Since everyone now knows that you are a bitch, why don't you bring me a glass of red wine?" My mom demanded and looked at Sara impatiently.

The tone of mom’s voice was daring and it was scary. 

"Don't listen to her, you are my fiancé, not her servant." Dad defended Sara again. 

I could see hurt in mom’s eyes again. She obviously said those words to defend herself at least. 

“Oh my God! Stop! Just Stop!” I told them again. 

All three of them just looked at me and stayed quiet. I thought that they all decided to stop for real now but I was wrong. 

Sara moved away from dad and went to the buffet area to get a glass of red wine. Dad was shocked with her actions. When Sara was approaching mom, dad stopped her mid-way and whispered something to each other.

“Sara, you don’t have to do this” Dad said. 

“No, I have to.” Sara answered Dad. 

After that, she approached my mom directly. 

“You wanted a glass of red wine right? Here you go!” Sara said as she splashed the glass of red wine to my mom’s dress. 

I was shocked with what she did. How could she do that to my mom? 

Sara’s action made mom even madder. My mom was wearing a white lacy dress so the stain of the wine was obvious and it greatly ruined my mom’s dress. They started arguing again. At this point, the music has already died down and all my visitors are already watching the scene. 

“What the hell, Sara?” Mom shouted in shock.

“You deserve that. That is for calling me a bitch” Sara said. 

“I did not lie though.” My mom countered while smirking. 

After saying that, mom also grabbed a glass of champagne on the table and directly splashed it onto Sara’s face. As a result, Sara’s make-up came undone which made her look horrible. 

That was all it took until both of them rushed toward each other and pulled each other's hair. 

“No! Mom! Aunt Sara! Stop! Please Stop!” I shouted at them while trying to pull them away. 

Neither of them listened to me. 

“Dad! Please! Stop them!” I looked at my dad with pleading eyes. 

He tried to stop them too but both of them did not even budge. They continued shouting, pulling each other’s hair and rolling on the carpeted floor. 

I looked at all my guests watching. I felt so mad, ashamed and humiliated at the same time. I know that both of them know that everyone is watching yet both of them still insisted on going on with their stunt. I wanted to cry on the spot. This birthday party was supposed to be a happy and memorable event but because of my parents’ unresolved matters of the heart, this party is the most memorable disaster in my life. 

This is just so unfair! I turned and ran away from the scene. I cannot take it anymore. My heart ached so bad. 

“Nina, wait” I heard Andy call me. 

I ignored his call and just continued to run away. Later on, I found myself standing outside the hotel’s balcony. 

I breathed heavily. I was tired from running away while crying. To comfort myself, I looked up and stared at the stars. Suddenly, a shooting star appeared. 

“Please! Let this be just a dream.” I shouted at the star. 

After that, I sat down crying heavily again. Seconds later, I felt two strong arms hug me from behind. I knew right away who it was. He is the only one who cares to comfort me anyway. 

“Stop crying now please.” His voice was soft, almost pleading.

“I can’t Andy! It is just too much to handle right now. My own parents ruined my birthday” I ranted at him. 

“I’m so sorry Nina.” Andy apologized, not knowing what to say. 

“Oh. Andy!” I cried again. 

This time, Andy did not say a thing. He silently let me pour my heart out until I was satisfied. He just caressed my back repeatedly until I calmed down. 

"Are you good now? Your eyes look like they have been stung by a bee. They are so red and puffy Nina" Andy teased me.

"Go away Andy!" I slightly chucked while drying my tears. 

After my mood stabilized, I turned and looked at Andy.

"I should have been used to it. After so many quarrels, that should have been normal to me right? Why is it that whenever they quarrel, I am always the saddest one?" I said while looking at Andy sadly.

"Maybe it's because they are your parents. You are sad because you worry about them the most. You love them so much that is why you are hurting so much too. If that happened to strangers, I am 100 percent sure that you won't be sad for them” 

I nodded my head in agreement. Andy’s words somehow comforted me. 

"Seeing them like this, I promised myself that I would never fall in love in the future. I think true love can't exist in this world at all." I said while looking at Andy confidently.

"Don't say that, true love exists." Andy said then smiled, and so did I.

“Why don’t we go back inside?” Andy offered. 

“Let me stay here for a while. I will follow you after.” I told Andy.

“Are you sure? Do you still feel bad?” Andy asked, worried. 

“I’m okay Andy. Just leave me alone for a little while” 

“Alright then, if you say so.” Andy answered with a reassuring smile.

Moments later, Dad walked into the balcony.

“Nina, honey, can we talk?” dad asked me from behind. 

I nodded as a response but I did not turn to look at him. 

“I’m sorry.” he started off.

“Let me fix this. Trust me, Nina. I can handle this” Dad continued. 

Dad wanted to hold my hand, but I quickly pulled my hand away from his. I was still mad at him for what happened. 

"I'm sorry I screwed up your party, but I actually prepared a present for you." He tried to woo me. 

"I have no interest at all."

"This is a necklace I specially made for you in Paris. I think it would look really good on you." I turned and saw the necklace. My eyes suddenly lit up.

"Not only that, but I also arranged a trip for you and your friends on the island you own." Dad looked at me with a little smile.

I could not contain my excitement anymore. Dad’s presents really lifted my mood up. 

“Am I forgiven?” He asked.

"Yes dad" I said and hugged my father happily.

[Nina’s Perspective]

After talking to my dad, we went back to the party and barely anyone was there. I guess everyone left after everything calmed down. 

I walked towards the small group of people in front of the stage. I saw my mom, Sara, Andy and Kathy sitting at one of the tables waiting. 

“Nina” My mom greeted me first. 

I gave her a cold stare. 

My mom sulked and kept quiet. I know that she is aware of my feelings toward her. 

After that, Sara spoke next. 

“Nina, why don’t we eat somewhere else. I bet you are hungry. It’s past one in the morning after all” Sara offered. 

“I’m not hungry!” I angrily said to her and she immediately lost her smile. 

“Nina, Please.” Mom said again, almost pleading. 

“I don’t want to hear from the both of you!” I shouted at both my mom and Sara. 

“How could you do that to me? In front of all those people?” My voice was breaking. I wanted to cry again. 

My mom and Sara just stared at me. 

“Can’t you push your differences aside for a while? for me atleast? Can’t you be civil with each other?” I told them again. 

Tears started streaming down my face again. I still feel bad about what happened earlier. In my opinion, both of them could have held their emotions back but they didn't. 

“Oh honey, I’m so sorry.” Mom stood up from her seat and hugged me. 

“I’m sorry for what happened. I’m sorry that I couldn't stop myself from stooping down to her level” Mom started to throw some shade again. 

“Mom. Stop! I know you still feel betrayed by what dad and Sara did to you but treating me like this is not fair either. Why don’t you just settle the score between the both of you, once and for all?”

My mom was shocked by my words. She probably did not expect me to ask her that favor. 

“Nina, I…” Mom struggled to find the right words to say. 

“You have to start moving on mom! Our setup is not easy for me either.” I held my mother’s hand and looked straight at her. 

“Okay honey. I’m sorry” Mom continued to calm me down. 

When everything started settling down, my mom asked me to go home with her while dad and Sara went home too. While she was driving, no one spoke between us so I decided to break the silence. 

“I’m sorry, Mom” 

“Honey, sorry for what? I should be the one who’s sorry. I ruined your night after all.” Mom spoke while keeping her eyes on the road. 

“No mom. I’m sorry for speaking harshly a while ago. My emotions just got the best of me. I didn’t mean to say it that way.” I stole a glance at her. 

“Oh, that’s okay honey. I’m even thankful that you said that. I didn’t know that your dad and I were hurting you so much. Sorry for being so dense.” Mom replied. 

My eyes started to gather tears again. I was touched with what mom said. Maybe we do lack communication because she is always far away but I know that she loves me more than anything else. 

The air in the car was starting to get heavy and serious again. 

“Forget about that mom but…I hope you did not forget my present.” I joked. 

Mom gave out a small laugh and glanced at me. 

“I will give it to you once we are home, Nina.”

“Okay Mom.” I replied to her while smiling widely.

After some time, we arrived at mom’s house. We both went in and I excitedly anticipated what my gift would be. Mom went into her room to get my present. Seconds later, she handed me a small box with a red ribbon. 

I hastily untied the ribbon and opened the box. My eyes widened at what I saw. 

“Oh my…. Mom! This… I…” I couldn’t even make a clear sentence.

“Happy birthday, Nina. You can go out and give it a test drive.” Mom said with a smile. 

I dashed out of the living room and went directly to the garage. Upon arrival, I instantly saw my gift and approached it while squealing. She gifted me with the latest model of Ferrari. 

I went around it while admiring its beauty. It was matte blue in color, my favorite.

“Thank you Mom. Really!” I thanked mom as I rode the car. 

“You are always welcome honey. Go” Mom said while signaling me to drive. 

I then started the car and stepped on the gas. I decided to make some rounds around mom’s subdivision. While driving, I was sticking my hand out to feel the air. I was so happy. 

When I got tired, I went back home. Mom was waiting for me at the door. 

“So, how was it” she asked

“Great mom. So great!” I told her while smiling from ear to ear. 

We went to the living room and had a little catching up session before we both decided to sleep. 

“Oh, by the way mom, I will be going on a trip with my friends tomorrow. Dad arranged a vacation on my island, so I will be leaving early”

“Oh, the island he bought for you?”

“Yes”

“Okay then. Have fun with your friends and take care” Mom said before kissing me goodnight and going to her room. 

The next morning, Mom and I had a wonderful breakfast before she drove me to my dad’s house. 

“Call me if you need anything or anything happens, okay?” Mom said as I got out of her car. 

“Okay mom. I love you”

“I love you too Nina.” Mom said before she waved and drove off. 

After that, I turned around and went to the door. I knocked but no one answered. Thankfully, I brought my spare key with me. 

I opened the door only to find the house completely empty. Even the maids are not in today. I scanned every room but no one was really home so I decided to just pack my things for the vacation. 

After packing my things, I decided to call dad to tell him that my friends and I are already going. 

“Okay then, Take care Nina. Have fun” Dad said on the other line. 

“I will dad. Thank you.” I said and then ended the call. 

After that, I called Andy and Kathy to tell them that we are meeting at the port of Garin and we would leave by ten in the morning and both of them agreed. 

I arrived at the port fifteen minutes earlier than our agreed time so I looked for a bench to sit on. Minutes later, I can already see Andy and Kathy walking towards me. 

“You guys ready?” I asked them excitedly. 

“Yep!” Andy answered.

“Yeah” Kathy said too. 

After a few minutes more, we were called to board a boat to arrive at Pulgy Island. The island that I own. One and half an hour later, we finally arrived at our destination. 

“Wow, it’s so pretty here.” Kathy exclaimed.

“I know right?” I replied to her. 

The island was indeed very beautiful. There is a small cabin that is ready for us. It is surrounded by palm and coconut trees. I heard that it also has a beautiful coral reef reserve that has been here for over 100 years now. I am excited to see that. 

Moments later, the tour guide approached us. He talked about the precautions of going out to the sea. He pointed out that at this time of the year, the tidal waves are a bit stronger than usual. After that, he introduced us to his companion, who was our life guard, just in case. When he was done with everything, he finally gave us permission to go for a swim. 

Before heading into the sea, we left our belongings in the cabin and ate first. When our stomachs were already full, we changed into our swimsuits, grabbed some of our swim essentials and went out to go to the sea. 

Andy, Kathy and I looked for a nice spot to lay our picnic blanket. After a while, we were already done with organizing our things and were already getting ready to swim. 

“Nina, we will go ahead and swim, okay?” Kathy said.

“We will wait for you at the end of the ramp” Andy said too. 

“Okay. Go ahead. I will follow you shortly” I replied while applying sunscreen on my face and body. 

Both Andy and Kathy walked farther and farther from me. I just followed them with my gaze until I couldn't see them anymore. I hurriedly tried to finish putting sunscreen on but from my peripheral vision, I could see someone approaching me. A poor old lady was approaching me. She was wearing rags and she looked like a beggar. I quickly turned around hoping she would just pass by if I did not make eye contact. Seconds later, I felt the old lady reach out so I instinctively shouted. 

“Ah. Don’t touch me! Who are you anyway?” I asked. 

"I am Grandma Lucia, people know me here." The old lady said proudly. 

“Okay then. What do you want?” I asked again. 

She did not answer. Something is off putting with this situation. 

“Sorry Grandma Lucia but I really have to go. My friends are waiting for me. Here, you can spend this money to buy some food” I gave her the money and prepared to leave. 

Before I could take another step, Grandma Lucia grabbed my hand which made me jump. 

“I came to give you a warning” she suddenly blurted out. 

“Warning? What are you talking about? Is it the tidal waves?” I asked curiously.

"You and your friends should respect this ocean, otherwise, the sea will punish you." Grandma Lucia said again. 

Since I was panicking and my heart was full of fear, I quickly answered her. 

“I own this island. Everything here is mine. This island should respect me.” I said while trying to free my hand from her. 

“No!” Grandma suddenly shouted. 

“You have leave everything as is. You have to be careful. You have to be careful about the curse of the mermaid!” She continued. 

I gave out a small laugh. 

“Mermaids? Those aren't real. They are just created out of fantasy” I replied. 

“You don’t believe me? Let me tell you a story then…” Grandma Lucia started off. 

Since she was holding onto my arm, I quietly sat down to listen to her story. After all, she might release me when I listen attentively. 

"Once upon a time, a beautiful mermaid lived here on Pulgy Island. One day, a fisherman came to Pulgy Island. The mermaid and the fisherman became good friends. After that, the fisherman always caught a lot of fish every day. He thanked the mermaid very much for his help. It didn't take long for them to fall in love. How enviable was their love, until one day the fisherman kissed the mermaid …"

"Let me see...after that kiss the mermaid grew feet?" I interrupted Grandma Lucia’s story. 

"How did you know?" Grandma Lucia asked me curiously.

"Because your story is too tacky." I replied with a disdainful expression.

Grandma Lucia insisted on finishing the story. 

"But that's not the end, there is still..."

"I have seen all the mermaid TV dramas, and their plots and endings are basically the same." I told her while freeing my hand from her grip. When she loosened her grip, I quickly stood up and ran towards my friends. 

[Grandma Lucia’s Perspective]

As Nina ran away, I just followed her with my sight.

I smiled silently. 

She did not let me finish the story. 

“Well, well… I did not finish the story. This means that Nina will get retribution!” I exclaimed while laughing evilly

[Nina’s Perspective]. 

I was panting hard when I arrived at where Andy and Kathy were. I immediately spotted them helping someone out of the water. 

“Guys!” I shouted. 

“Nina!” Both of them exclaimed. 

“What happened?” I asked worriedly. 

“I saw her gasping for help so I dived in” Andy replied. 

“Thank you for saving me. My foot suddenly cramped so I couldn’t move.” 

Kathy and I watched as Andy tried to massage the woman’s foot. When everything was done, the woman spoke again. 

“I’m Nacy, by the way” she extended her hand to shake. 

“I’m Andy. These are my friends Nina and Kathy” Andy took her hand and introduced us to her. 

“Nice to meet you! Thank you again.” Nacy smiled widely. 

“No worries. I'm sure that anyone in my position would do the same” Andy replied.

After that, Nacy and Andy continued to get to know each other while Kathy told me that she was going to get something to eat. I decided to finally go for a swim. I took my robe off and ran towards the sea. 

I dived under and saw the clear sea water and beautiful coral reefs. I felt that the world under the sea was different from what I imagined. It was more wonderful than what I imagined.

[Andy’s Perspective]

While talking to Nacy, I was constantly looking at where Nina is. The tour guide said that the tidal waves are stronger than usual so we shouldn't swim that far. From where I am, I can see that Nina was trying to go farther and farther. 

“Nacy, give me a second” I told Nacy before standing up. 

“Nina!” I shouted at the top of my lungs. 

“Do not go too far. Swim back!” I continued. 

I am worried that she might be drawn farther by the waves. 

“Nina!” I shouted again but it was to no avail. I think that she could not hear me. 

“Why don’t you go follow her? She is almost at the boundary of the corals. It’s dangerous there.” Nacy suggested. 

“You are right! Wait here, okay?” 

As I was about to swim after Nina, I saw her taking her life jacket off and dove. 

[Nina’s Perspective]

I was already at the part of the island where the coral reefs were. I wanted to take a better look at the corals so I took my life jacket so that I could dive further. 

As I scanned the coral reef, one coral caught my attention. I was so pretty and I wanted to bring it home with me. I went back on top of the water to grasp some air before diving for the coral again. Just when I pulled off the coral, a school of jellyfish suddenly surrounded me. I panicked under water. 

I hastily looked for a possible way out but I couldn’t find one. There were just too many jellyfishes. I was running out of breath so I decided to leave the coral behind and start looking for my life jacket that is floating above water. I tried to swim as fast as I could to get to the top and breathe but I failed. 

[Andy’s Perspective]

As soon as I saw her throw her life jacket away, I swam towards her. I can’t believe she actually decided to take that risk. 

When I arrived at her spot, I shouted her name multiple times. 

“Nina! Nina! Where are you?”

She was still nowhere in sight. I was starting to worry so I dove to look if she was under water. As soon as I dove, I saw her sinking and unconscious. I quickly swam towards her, pulled her close and swam back ashore. 

When we arrived at the coast, Nina was not breathing. The lifeguard who was with us immediately responded. After a couple of tries reviving her, Nina finally coughed out the water. 

[Nina’s Perspective]

“Nina, are you okay? What happened?” Andy asked. 

“Andy, there were so many jellyfishes. I couldn't swim anywhere. They surrounded me.” I said with a bit of panic in my voice. 

Andy looked at me with a puzzled face. "When I went to save you, I only saw you and the coral reef, but I didn't see any jellyfish."

The lifeguard on the side said professionally, "This should be a normal phenomenon caused by just being scared, so don't worry too much.”

When Andy heard what the lifeguard said, his mood relaxed.

I was transported to our cabin where the lifeguard told me to rest for the time being. I decided to call my mom to give her an update. 

“Hello? Mom?”

“Yes Honey? Is everything alright?”

“Actually… I want to go home.” 

“Why? What's wrong?” My mom asked me with a hint of worry in her voice.

“I'm just not happy with what happened today” I replied. 

I tried to call my mom down as much as possible. I didn't want her to worry so much. 

“Alright then I will tell my driver to pick you up at the port” My mom reassured me.

“Okay mom. See you there! I love you”

After I said that, I ended the call with my mother.  By that time, Andy and Kathy we're already finished with sorting and organizing our luggages. 

Andy escorted me out of the cabin.  He told me to sit on the bench for a while, while he loaded our luggages on the boat.  Just as I was about to board the boat, I saw Grandma Lucia looking at me with a devilish smile. I gave her a puzzled look and then I turned to Andy and Kathy. 

“That’s her! Look!” I said while pointing at the shoreline.

“Who? What are you talking about? There is no one there.” Andy asked.

I looked again and grandma Lucia was not there anymore.  I know that I clearly saw her.  Is this still a side effect of drowning?

[Nina’s Perspective]

Upon boarding the boat, Andy and I sat together while Kathy sat in front of us. 

“Are you really okay Nina?” Andy asked.

“Yes. I’m okay now.”

“By the way, who were you talking about earlier?” Andy asked again. 

“Earlier?” I replied, confused. 

“You said you saw someone before boarding when no one was there. Who was it?” Andy continued to ask. 

“Oh. It was a poor old lady.”  I replied.

“What? Someone approached you when you were alone?” Kathy said in surprise. 

“Yeah. When you went ahead a while ago, she approached me and talked about mermaid tales and curses of the sea. She told me to respect the sea.”

“Maybe she was just trying to scare you. Mermaids aren't real.” Andy said. 

“I agree.” Kathy said too. 

“I think she approached me to get money for food, so I gave her some then left” I replied to both of them. 

After that, there was a little moment of silence before Andy spoke again. 

“It's so sad that we have to go back today.” 

“I know. I’m sorry. If I had not been in that accident, we could have stayed longer.” I said apologetically. 

“It’s okay Nina. We can just go back next time. It’s your island after all.” Kathy said jokingly, trying to lift the mood of the group. 

“Yeah. You are right. Let’s go back when we have time again.”

“Really? Do you promise that?” Andy asked. 

“Of course I do. You are my best friends. Whom else would I take there?” I asked them playfully. 

After that, we all giggled then settled down afterwards. We still had a long way to go, so we decided to sleep until we reached the port of Garin. Today’s events were really exhausting and draining so a little nap would really energize us again. 

A few moments later, someone woke us up. It was the helmsman of our boat. 

“Ma’am, Sir, we have arrived at the port” He said calmly. 

“Oh! Sorry! We overslept.” I replied shyly. 

“It’s okay. Thank you for boarding our boat!” He replied. 

“Thank you for our safe trip! Captain!” I said cheerfully. 

The helmsman gave me a genuine smile and waved to us.

We unloaded our luggages and waited for mom’s driver to pick us up. We first dropped Kathy off since Andy and I are practically neighbors. 

“Goodbye, Nina! Goodbye, Andy! Text me when you get home okay?’ Kathy said as she was unloading her belongings. 

‘Okay. Goodbye Kathy! Take care!” Both Andy and I replied. 

After that, Kathy waved us goodbye before walking away and going home.

Since our neighborhood is a little far from Kathy’s, I decided to talk to Andy.

“A lot happened today.” 

“Yeah. I almost had a heart attack.” Andy said. 

“A heart attack?” I asked curiously. 

“Yes. A heart attack. When I saw you unconscious under the sea I panicked so bad. Even up until they were trying to revive you at shore. I was really worried about you, Nina.” Andy replied. 

“I’m sorry Andy. I didn’t mean to scare you. I just really wanted to get the pretty coral that I saw.”

“A pretty coral? That’s the reason you decided to take off your life jacket?” Andy asked amused. 

“Yeah. It was really pretty. It looked like a flower under the sea.” I explained. 

“If it looks like a flower then it must be a fox coral Nina. I can’t blame you. Fox corals are really pretty” Andy said while giving me a small smile. 

“Oh! So they are called fox corals…” I said while looking at the window. 

We are both marine biology majors yet I did not know what that coral was called. I heard Andy laugh which made me laugh as well. Seconds later, the car stopped in front of our house already. 

“Thank you for the short trip Nina. I had fun.” Andy said before leaving.

“Thank you for everything today. I owe you one.!” I replied while smiling at him and waving goodbye. 

After that, I settled in our home too. I unloaded by luggages and carried it to my room. Upon opening my door, I immediately ran towards my bed and plumped into it. I was so tired. Everything that happened today was really tiring. 

A few moments later I decided to call my mom again. 

“Hello, Mom?”

“Honey! How are you? Are you home already?” Mom asked me in a worried tone.

“Yes mom. I’m at home already.” I answered. 

“Okay honey. I’m sorry I could not be there for you right now.” 

“It’s okay mom. Uh… where are you by the way mom?” I asked. 

“I’m in Maldives. We have a 7-day tour here.” 

 I scoffed at mom’s reply. Apparently, mom is not in Heldi again. She is always never here when I need her the most. 

“Oh. Okay mom.”

“Do you need company there? I can ask Kevin to keep you company for a while.” Mom suddenly asked me. 

“No mom! Don’t. I’m okay here. I can just call Andy if I need company.”

“Are you sure?” Mom asked again.

“Yes mom. I am one hundred percent sure!” I said with an encouraging tone. 

“Okay then. I will be home soon okay? Just call me if you need anything.”

“Okay mom. Take care there. See you soon! I said before ending the call. 

I laid back in bed as I tried not  to remember what happened at the island. That was no joke. It was a moment of life and death for me. For a moment I got scared at sea because I thought I would already die there. It is a good thing that Andy cared enough to look after me. If he did not get there in time, I think I would really be in a casket right now. 

I let out a heavy sigh. I tried to calm myself down but it wasn't working. I tried to play some of my favorite music to keep my mind off of things but it did not work. I tossed and turned on my bed and tried to sleep it off but that wasn't working either. As time passed by, the more frustrated I became. 

Moments later, I heard a knock on my door.

“Nina? Are you awake?” Our housekeeper called me.

“Yes I am.”

“Dinner is ready downstairs.” 

“Oh! Okay. I will go down shortly, Thank you.” I replied.

I fixed my bed and checked my phone before I went downstairs to eat. After eating, my Shiba Inu approached me. The sight of him trying to get a belly rub from me instantly made me happy. My Shiba Inu’s name is Chai Chai. I got him as a present from my dad. He has been with the family for almost two years now. 

I carried Chai Chai up to my room to train and play with him. I tried to train him to shake hands and sit. I even prepared treats for him so that he’ll do the tricks properly. After that, I decided to play with him by letting him chase after me. We ran and ran around my room until both of us got really tired. 

Since Chai Chai and I ran around so much, I got all sweaty. I decided to take another bath because having good hygiene is a thing for me. After taking a bath I sat down in front of my vanity mirror to apply my skin care products. I started applying the skin care products on my face before I proceeded with my body. 

I was applying lotion to my legs when I felt that my calves were a little rough. Upon looking at it, I saw fish scales. My eyes widened and I screamed. I looked at it again, thinking that I might have been seeing things but I wasn’t. The fish scales were still there. 

I thought that maybe I was still hallucinating with what happened earlier so I wanted to confirm if the fish scales were real. I reached towards my calves to touch the fish scales. As soon as my fingers touched the fish scales, my mind went blank for a moment. They were really real. 

After that I stood up to go to my bed but before I could arrive, Chai Chai suddenly bit me. He bit the part where the fish scales were. It must have been because he was curious. He bit my foot harshly that is why it left a mark and bled. It’s a good thing that Chai Chai is fully vaccinated for rabies or else I would be going to the hospital right now. 

I placed some towel over my wound first before I went to carry Chai Chai and put him in his cage again. After that, I went to the bathroom to wash my hands and get the first aid kit. I sat on the edge of my bed and slowly lifted the towel on my wound. The blood had dried up a little so some parts of the towel were already stuck in the wound. A few seconds passed with me excruciating in pain. 

After that I cleansed the wound with some hydrogen peroxide and then placed some anti infection ointment on it before bandaging it. When I was done with treating my wound, I decided to lie down and sleep. My foot was still hurting but it was bearable because of the medicine. It did not take long before I drifted off to sleep.

The next day, I woke up at the sound of someone knocking on my door. 

“Nina! Breakfast is ready dear”

I heard our housekeeper say. I tossed my blanket aside to get out of bed. As soon as I was supposed to stand up, I stumbled on the floor. I was shocked to see that my legs turned into a mermaid tail. 

“Nina? Dear? Are you okay?” Our housekeeper asked. 

“Yes. Yes. I am fine. I’m just still a little sleepy.” I lied. 

I looked at my legs again in disbelief. I’m panicking again. I do not know what to do. 

“Are you sure dear? Do you want me to come in?” Our housekeeper asked again. 

If she comes in and sees this, I’m sure she will be really shocked. 

“No need. I’m fine. I will follow you soon after.” I lied again.

“Okay then. I will set the table for you.” Our housekeeper said and left. 

I heard her faltering footsteps so I knew she left already. I tried to stand up again but the scales were too slippery for the floor so I ended up stumbling again. After a few more tries, I started to become helpless. I needed help from someone who would not judge me, someone I trust sincerely. 

I immediately called Andy. After a few rings, he picked up the phone. 

“Andy?”

“Yeah? What’s up Nina?” He asked right away. 

“Can you come over? I have a little bit of a situation at home right now.” I said indirectly. 

“Oh! Are your parents fighting again?” He asked.

“No. That’s not it. Can you just please come over?” I persuaded him.

“Alright. Just wait. I’ll be coming over.”

“Okay. Thank you.” I said with a sense of relief. 

“Ah! Andy?”

“Yes?” 

“By the way, when you arrive, come directly to my room.” I instructed him.

“Oh okay. Let me just wash up and change my clothes okay?”

“Okay. I will be waiting.” I nodded while talking. 

After that I ended the call and crawled my way towards my door. I needed to unlock it so Andy could come in directly. After that, I crawled back to my bed and placed a blanket on top of my mermaid tail. 

Moments later, I heard someone ring our doorbell and it wasn't long before I heard a knock on my door.

“Nina? Can I come in?”

“Yes you can.”

Andy pushed the door and looked at me right away.

“What’s up? Are you sick?” Andy asked worriedly.

“No but I have something to tell you.” I said.

“Okay. What is it?” Andy was all ears. 

“Promise me first that you won’t be shocked.” I tried to make him promise. 

“Okay. I promise.”

After he said those words, I hesitantly pulled my blanket away and prepared myself with Andy’s possible reactions. 

As soon as Andy saw my legs…

"What a realistic fish tail! Where did you get it?" he said while holding back his laugh. 

I was furious when I heard what he said. He thought I was joking. 

"This is not fake Andy, and it can't be removed. What can I do?" I looked at Andy worried.

Andy’s expression suddenly changed. He instantly became serious. After a few seconds he spoke again. 

"Please tell me that you did not take the fox coral with you Nina." 

“I did not. I just pulled it off but I did not take it. I actually dropped it when the jellyfishes surrounded me.”

“Maybe the sea is punishing you Nina. For disrupting their ecosystem.” He tried to joke.

“Stop it Andy. It’s not funny.”

“Okay…Okay. But, when did this fish tail appear on you?” Andy asked again.

“Last night. After I took a bath, I had fish scales on my calves. But I didn’t pay much attention to it, I thought it would be gone right away. I never imagined it would turn into an actual fishtail overnight” I explained.

“Should we try pulling it then?” Andy suggested.

“Okay.”

Andy tried to pull off the fish tail with all his might. As soon as he started pulling, I screamed out loud. Every time he pulled, it would hurt really badly so we decided to stop it. 

After that we searched the web for possible ways to remove the tail. While we were searching for other methods, I suddenly started to sing. 

“Woah. Nina?”

“I do not know what’s happening Andy” I sang my response again. 

Andy looked at me worriedly and told me to calm down. We continued to search possible ways to remove the tail but we still failed. 

When nothing seemed to work, Andy suggested something to me.

“Why don’t we go to the hospital Nina?”

“What? No!” I immediately refused the idea. 

“Why not?” He asked.

“It’s because my situation is unreal. They might take me into a laboratory and study me.”

To be honest, I was really afraid of going to the hospital. I wasn't sure if the doctors would treat me or turn me into one of their experiments. They might keep me locked in somewhere so that they can explore my situation longer. I felt scared at the thought. 

“Oh you’re right.” Andy said while sounding defeated.

“But we have to do something with that, Nina.” Andy said again

“Something with that?” I asked curiously.

“You are my friend but an unbearable fish smell is coming out of you.” Andy said while avoiding eye contact.

“Oh my… I’m sorry Andy. I did not know.” I said while looking shyly at him.