Shuyin's species, her people, were beautiful, seductive, powerful. But when it came to love, they were cold and practical. Mermaids didn't love the way humans did. They formed bonds of necessity, of political alliance, of mutual benefit. But romantic love? The kind that made humans destroy themselves for another person?
That was uniquely human stupidity.
"Please help me," the woman, begged now, desperation replacing anger. "I can give you anything. Absolutely anything. Just help me get my children back. Help me escape him. Please."
"What's your full name?" Shuyin asked, though she already knew from reading it in the woman's surface thoughts.
"Chen Wan," she replied quickly. "My maiden name was Zhao, but I gave that up when I married him. Another stupid decision."
"Ooh." Shuyin's jade eye focused on her with renewed interest. "If I help you, what's in it for me? I don't do charity work, you know. Everything has a price."
