Monday Flash Fics: Caught

Caught

Lars enjoyed the feeling of the cooling sand between his toes as he slowly walked towards the entrance of the party area. He stared at it while trying to work out whether the gate constructed out of crates and paddles combined with the flashy lights and bright colours made the place look garish or delightful. He’d never seen it from this side before tonight.

A loud burst of laughter, coming from inside the area almost made him stop walking. Would he get away with it, or would someone take one look at him and realise he didn’t belong?

He’d noticed this activity on what used to be a deserted beach for the first time a month ago. He’d kept an eye on the people who’d taken over the island. One person in particular he’d been studying very closely.

He took a few more steps towards the entrance, realising that standing still and staring at the place was far more conspicuous than just walking in would be. It was almost disappointing when nobody gave him a second glance when he entered. Nobody that is, except for a tall, blond, broad-shouldered, and very handsome young man.

Three hours later Lars knew he had to leave. The longer he stayed, the bigger the chance he’d be found out. He could feel the moment drawing nearer, and he wanted to be back where he belonged when it happened.

“Do you really have to go?” Stephen looked at Lars imploringly. “Surely you can stay?”

Lars shook his head. “No, I’m sorry but I can’t. Not tonight.”

“I’ll see you around tomorrow then?”

He wanted to say yes. Stephen was the reason he’d come here in the first place. He’d spotted him on the beach, and swimming in the sea and he hadn’t been able to keep his eyes off him.

“No,” he said, the regret in his voice genuine. “You won’t see me tomorrow. I may be back next week though.” He took a step back, the knowledge that he’d almost run out of time battling with his reluctance to say goodbye.

“I’ll be counting the days.” Stephen bent forward and surprised Lars by pressing his lips against Lars’s.

He didn’t look back as he walked away from the party and didn’t relax until he got to the end of the short beach, rounded the rocky outcrop, and found himself alone again.  The water was warm and welcoming as he walked into the sea. The change started as soon as the sea level reached his hips. Within seconds his legs had merged together again. One powerful flick of his tail had him below the waves, back in his element…but alone again.

Yes, he would be back. And if the myths were right, every subsequent time he left the water it would be easier to stay in the human form.

Unable to resist taking one last look he emerged from the water, a safe distance away from the still crowded party area.

“Hey!” A blond head appeared from the water in front of him, a wide grin brightening Stephen’s face as his legs kicked below him to keep him from sinking. 

“You didn’t really think I’d let you get away, did you?”

****

536 words

When Theo Fenraven suggested this picture I commented that ‘even I should be able to stay away from the dark with this one…I think.’ Whether or not I succeeded, I leave entirely up to you. J

Don’t forget to check out the Monday Flash Fics group for other stories inspired by this image.