She's a mermaid out of water. He's the man who can quench her thirst.

The clock is ticking for Alara, daughter of the Sea King, and her exploration of land. Rumor has it that a treasure unearthed from an ancient seabed near the town of Magic, New Mexico, can help. The painted pearl carries the power of the ocean, bringing the waters wherever its bearer wishes. With the pearl, she can carry the sea with her and convince land dwellers to respect and protect the oceans. All she has to do is find it before sundown of the sixth day, after which she must return to the sea forever. Too bad her competition is cunning...and mouthwateringly seductive.

Wizard Devon Kaleo is a collector of rare magical artefacts. He has his sights set on finding the legendary painted pearl to defend his homeland, but his clever and alluring rival Alara threatens to derail his mission. And she's not the only one—a mad sea god seeks the power of the pearl so he can drown all the lands of Earth.

The wayward mermaid and rogue sorcerer can accept defeat, or they can join forces to win the pearl, but only if they can trust one another and the passion they share.

Tropes: Enemies to lovers, forbidden love

NOTE

No pufferfish were harmed in the making of this novella.