In the Coral Sea so deep and blue, Lived Octavia, with arms of eight, it's true. She loved to explore the ocean floor, Changing colors as she'd swim from shore to shore.

One day while hiding in seaweed green, Octavia spotted a sight she'd never seen. A cuttlefish named Ollie, dancing with light, His colorful display was such a delight!

Ollie swam over with a friendly wave, "Would you like to explore a nearby cave?" Octavia's heart did a curious flip, As they set off together on their first trip.

Through coral mazes they darted with glee, Playing hide-and-seek as happy as can be. Ollie showed tricks with his glowing skin, While Octavia watched with a bashful grin.

When Ollie came near, her colors would change, To pinks and purples in patterns strange. "What's happening to me?" Octavia thought, These feelings inside couldn't be fought.

Octavia sought Nelly, turtle wise and old, "Why does my heart feel warm, not cold?" Nelly smiled knowingly, her eyes gleamed bright, "Dear child, it seems you've felt love's first light."

"I too once felt that special glow, When someone special made my heart grow. It's called a crush, a feeling so sweet, When thoughts of someone make your heart beat."

"Should I tell him?" asked Octavia with care. "Express yourself, if you dare!" Octavia thought of a plan so grand, A message of shells upon the sand.

She gathered shells of every hue, Pink and purple, white and blue. Each one perfect, smooth and bright, To spell her feelings in morning light.

With eight arms working through the night, She arranged the shells just right. "You're special to me" the message read, As sunrise colors painted overhead.

Ollie arrived and saw the display, His colors flashed in a joyful way. "Octavia, your friendship means so much to me, You're the most special friend there could be!"

Side by side they swam with delight, Their friendship glowing warm and bright. Octavia's first crush brought joy untold, As their underwater story of friendship unfolds.