Then the mermaid leaned closer.
“Do you want to know why your father pushed you into the river?”
Latty nodded quickly, again and again. Her curiosity was stronger than her fear.
“Yes,” she whispered. “Please tell me.”
The mermaid took a deep breath before speaking.
“Do you remember the wealthy gold seller in your village?” she asked.
Latty’s body stiffened.
“Yes,” Latty replied softly. “Eba.”
The mermaid nodded.
“He went to your father and told him he wanted to marry you.”
Latty’s mouth opened slightly in shock. Her hands trembled.
But the mermaid continued.
“Your father wanted him to marry your sister instead.”
The words hit Latty like a heavy stone. She covered her mouth with both hands as tears rushed down her face. Her shoulders shook as she cried silently.
“Because you refused to disappear quietly,” the mermaid said, “your father chose the river.”
Latty felt her heart break into pieces.
“I only wanted to live,” she whispered. “I only wanted to be loved.”
The mermaid placed a gentle hand on her back.
“I will not only restore your sight,” she said, “but I will also change your appearance for now.”
Latty raised her head slowly.
