Back Scratch Fever

June 12th 2025

The warm Bahamian sun was already asserting its dominance, even at this relatively early hour. Brandy stretched out on the bow of the *Chasing Destiny*, the gentle rocking of the vessel a soothing rhythm against her bare skin. Beside her, Katniss, her fluffy sidekick, was sprawled out, her own version of sun-worshipping. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the salty air, creating a perfect symphony for a tranquil morning. Brandy took a slow sip, enjoying the quiet serenity of the moment.

Suddenly, a strange, guttural sound broke the peace. It was a low, rhythmic gasp, uncannily like an old man struggling for a breath. Brandy sat bolt upright, Katniss’s ears perked, her head cocked in confusion. Her eyes scanned the shimmering water, trying to pinpoint the source of the unsettling noise. And then she saw it.

A dolphin. Not leaping or breaching, but slowly, almost methodically, rubbing its head and back against the hull of the *Chasing Destiny*. The gasping sound continued, a curious accompaniment to its affectionate display. Brandy watched, mesmerized, as the dolphin continued its peculiar massage, a look of profound satisfaction seeming to settle on its face. This went on for what felt like an eternity, perhaps ten minutes or so, the dolphin’s gentle scraping a soft counterpoint to the lapping waves.

Then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the rubbing stopped. The dolphin pulled back a few feet, its dark eyes fixed on Brandy. It seemed to be waiting, a mischievous glint in its gaze. Brandy, understanding the unspoken invitation, tentatively tapped the side of the boat. Immediately, the dolphin darted forward, its snout just out of reach, then quickly pulled back, almost as if teasing her. Brandy chuckled, tapping again, and the game continued. The dolphin would pop back, a playful challenge in its posture, then retreat, inviting her to try again.

The game continued for a few more minutes, a delightful interaction between human and dolphin. But eventually, the dolphin seemed to decide its visit was complete. With a flick of its powerful tail, it began to swim away, but not without a grand finale. It executed a series of elegant leaps and dives, a farewell performance just for Brandy, the sunlight catching the spray as it arced through the air. Brandy watched until the dolphin was a mere speck in the distance, a wide smile on her face. The *Chasing Destiny* felt even more aptly named after such a magical encounter