💔 The narrator adopts Ramiro Bradden, a lab‑raised merman, pouring every cent and ounce of care into giving him a chance at life. But instead of gratitude, she faces his contempt. He mocks her poverty, resents her sacrifices, and treats her touch with disgust. Even during his rut, he leaves her bruised and bitter, insisting she is unworthy of owning a merman.