Interlude 1 — Learning His Name.md

You're curled against him in the sleeping area, the late night darkness of the cave wrapped around you both. Water moves through its channels with that constant gentle sound. His body is cool against yours, his breathing slow and steady.

You've been lying here working up the courage for ten minutes.

Finally you just... say it.

*I don't know your name.*

He stills slightly, and you feel heat flood through you — embarrassment hitting all at once. Weeks together. Sixteen different intimate moments. He knows your body better than you do, knows exactly where your ridge is, has held you through multiple orgasms. And you don't know his name.

*I'm so sorry,* you continue quickly. *I should've asked before, I just... it never came up and then it felt too late to ask and—*

His muzzle presses against your neck, cutting off your spiral. You feel him huffing a quiet laugh against your frill.

*Relax,* he murmurs, warm with amusement. *It's fine.*

*It's not fine,* you protest. *I should know your name. You're my—* You stop, not quite sure what word to use.

*Your what?* he asks, gentle and teasing.

*My boyfriend,* you finish quietly. *My partner. The person who transformed me and found my ridge and taught me to hunt and— I should know your name.*

He pulls back enough to look at you properly, and there's nothing but warmth in his expression. No hurt. No annoyance. Just fond amusement at your distress.

*Kai,* he says simply. *My name is Kai.*

The name settles into place immediately, perfectly. Of course it is. Ocean. Strong but gentle. Exactly him.

*Kai,* you repeat, testing it. Feeling the shape of it in your mouth.

*That's me,* he confirms, and then adds with that same warm teasing: *Has been the whole time, actually.*

You swat at him and he catches your paw, holding it against his chest. Then he leans forward and presses his muzzle to yours — a proper kiss this time, deliberate and warm.

When he pulls back his eyes are soft.

*Thank you for asking,* he says quietly. *Even though you were embarrassed.*

*Kai,* you say again, and this time it's not testing. It's his. *I love you, Kai.*

*I love you too,* he answers, and pulls you closer, tail wrapping around yours.