At the side, Roxanne heard Benny's screams, but by the time she turned, it was too late. He had already sought refuge behind Lucian. The sight of Lucian's smile left Roxanne with mixed feelings. Despite all she did for the children, certain forms of security only a father could provide. Oblivious to her sentiments, Benny excitedly tugged her, wanting her to admire the fish. Suddenly, a mermaid dove from above and waved at them through the glass.

Wide-eyed, the boys asked, "Is this real, Mommy?"

Amused by their innocence, Roxanne patted their heads. "Of course not, but she's pretty, though."

"Could you dress up like a mermaid too, Mommy?" Benny asked expectantly.

Surprised, Roxanne explained, smiling, "Well, I could, but I think that'd be a paid program."

Hearing she could, the children stared, as if that would make her agree. Meeting their eyes, Roxanne regretted her words. Alone with them, she wouldn't have hesitated. The problem was Lucian's presence. Though he hadn't spoken much, his presence, and the idea of masquerading as a mermaid before him, made her conflicted.

"Ms. Jarvis," Estella tugged her sleeve hopefully. Considering the mermaid's appearance, she was convinced Roxanne would look even more beautiful. Roxanne's dilemma was evident. Oblivious to her reservations, Archie and Benny looked expectantly at their mother.

As Roxanne hesitated, a crew member approached. "We're running an event where visitors can dress up as mermaids for free. Might you be interested? I think you'd look smashing." The children's eyes lit up.

Sensing their gaze, Roxanne found it hard to refuse. Lucian approached. "Go on ahead. I'll watch them." He spoke as if she'd already agreed.

Seeing her unresponsiveness, the crew member took her silence as consent and half-nudged her toward the changing room. Feeling committed, Roxanne went along, despite her hesitations. She changed and, with the crew's guidance, entered the water.

The children sat docilely beside Lucian, watching. Soon, Roxanne emerged in a silvery blue tail. Light glinted off her body as she swam towards them, appearing like a mysterious mermaid from the sea depths.

Her appearance thrilled the children, who rushed to the glass. There Roxanne was, smiling and waving. Lucian stood behind them, regarding her with an unfathomable gaze. Tourists marveled at the lovely mermaid, assuming she was staff.