I the merman thirst for your love as you thirst for air, thirst for the touch of your warm hand against my temple.

I the merman here in this bubble live for the thought of the sunlight on my back. My hair drifts. My flat eyes look upwards, there where I saw you.

Your hand is grazing the water, the white-painted boat rocks gently as a mother’s arms. Can I touch you? Can I take you? Will you scream and struggle for a while?

The touch of your warm fist against my temple. The thrash of the water around us. The bubbles from your silent mouth, the roundness of your eyes. I release you.

I the merman thirst for your love as you thirst for air, thirst for the touch of your warm hand against my temple.