How would you define true love?
Is it swirling down a whirlpool to unknown depths?
Is it relinquishing a life with my father, my sisters, my grandmother?
Is it cutting out my tongue as sacrifice to see your face?
Is it a two-edged sword carving legs from my tail, each step like walking on glass?
Is it saving a man’s life to watch him marry another?
Is it choosing death instead of taking his life, sea foam returning to the sea?

A mermaid has no tears, but if I had, they would fill the deepest ocean
with the saltiest brine that ignites with each imagined kiss.
Yet I would do it all again, for the sake of true love.

McKenzie Richardson lives in Milwaukee, WI. Most recently, her flash fiction is featured in Black Hare Press’ anthologies, Oceans and Hate. She has published a middle-grade novel, Heartstrings, available on Amazon, as well as a poetry collaboration, 433 Lighted Way. McKenzie also runs a crafting blog: http://www.craft-cycle.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mckenzielrichardson/ | Wattpad