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.

stay on

always liked you. And after

core, a traditional man. While he had been with women before, it was always transactional, with no emotions involved. But once he became physically involved with someone, he felt a responsibility to take care of them. To him, Ivy was

shifted slightly. "Frank, I already have a boyfriend. I'm sorry. Last night... it was because of the drug. You're a good man. Let's just pretend nothing

bed tightly. His first confession of love had

"Ivy, I..."

not going to say you want to take responsibility for me, are you? I have a boyfriend. He's a good man, and I

after a moment of silence. That was all he could say. She already had someone in her heart. How could she ever

Now that Justin isn't on the ship, the pirates are all eyeing me like wolves. You can't protect me forever. Please, Frank, I'm begging you, let me leave," Ivy pleaded,

alight the night before. How could he

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said finally, his voice heavy with resignation. He had

Though the drug had played a role the night before, she had made a calculated choice. Frank was a kind man, but he was also obedient

make him feel guilty. After taking her body, he wouldn't be as decisive

paid off. Frank was her only hope of leaving

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

to help her escape. Once the

the first time in a month, Ivy set foot on land. She breathed in the air of solid ground and felt an overwhelming sense of relief. "I've finally left that

moved.

couldn't share her joy. He watched her excited face with a heavy heart. "Ivy, I'm sorry. I can't

sea. I wouldn't have had the chance to leave the ship. Frank, you're my savior. I'll never forget you,"

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