Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The scent of Ivy's body wash lingered faintly after her shower. Frank hadn't been close to a woman in a long time, and this woman was someone he cared deeply for.

From the moment Frank pulled her onto the deck, drenched in seawater, her hair dripping, Ivy's fragile and pitiful appearance struck a chord deep inside him. Men were naturally protective of women who seemed vulnerable, and that protective instinct often transformed into affection.

Frank had been looking out for Ivy these past days precisely because he liked her. Now, with her soft body leaning against his, his muscles tightened involuntarily.

"Ivy, are you sure? Think carefully. If you're not willing, I won't take advantage of you," he said, his voice low and restrained.

"Frank, I... I'm willing," she whispered.

Before her words faded, Frank sealed her lips with his own.

That night was destined to be restless. Yet, as Ivy surrendered to the moment, her mind was filled with thoughts of Mio Walsh. She called out his name again and again.

Frank froze, realizing she already had someone in her heart.

Later, as Ivy curled up in his arms and fell into a deep sleep, their bodies damp with sweat, Frank clasped her fingers tightly. "Ivy, I'll protect you," he murmured.

He had already made up his mind-no matter what kind of past Ivy had, he would treat her well for the rest of their lives.

But when Ivy woke, her first words shattered his dream completely.

don't want to stay on this

would you marry me? I've always liked

involved. But once he became physically involved with someone, he felt a

boyfriend. I'm sorry. Last night... it was because of the drug. You're a good man. Let's

edge of the wooden bed tightly. His first

"Ivy, I..."

you want to take responsibility for me, are you? I have a boyfriend. He's a good man, and I love him. I know what happened last

a moment of silence. That was all he could say. She already had someone in her heart. How could she ever feel the same way about him? He wasn't the kind of man who would take by force what didn't belong to

wolves. You can't protect me forever. Please, Frank, I'm begging you, let me leave," Ivy

had set him alight the night before. How could he

Join us for the complete

finally, his voice heavy with resignation. He had to summon all his resolve

Frank was

with someone like Frank was to make him feel guilty.

was her only hope of leaving

stepped out. She had heard they would dock at a port that night for supplies and stay there until morning. Most of the men on board would disembark

that was the best time to help her escape. Once the pirates had mostly

land. She breathed in the air of solid ground and felt an overwhelming sense of relief.

land-grateful and deeply moved. There was nothing like

face with a heavy heart. "Ivy, I'm sorry. I can't take

have had the chance to leave the ship. Frank, you're my savior. I'll never