Oystercatcher Tide Pools i. requiem aeternam

Good looks?

Manea turned her head to look at the woman, chin turning to absorb the flirtatious tone the other cast her way.

She hadn't been prepared for it.

Manea, she replied, shrugging. She was not won over by the other's coquettish behavior and thus walked on, weaving through the pools as usual.

A part of her wanted to believe that she was desired.

A larger part knew any desire was a facade.