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

mind... would you marry me? I've always liked you. And after last night..." His voice trailed

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 the

have a boyfriend. I'm sorry. Last night... it was because of the

edge of the wooden bed tightly. His first confession of love had been

"Ivy, I..."

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

could say. She already had someone in her heart. How could she

are all eyeing me like wolves. You can't protect me forever. Please, Frank,

her touch had set him alight the night before. How

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something out," he said finally, his voice heavy with resignation. He had

night before, she had made a calculated choice. Frank was a kind man, but he was also obedient to Justin. If she simply begged

Frank was to make him feel guilty. After taking her body, he wouldn't

was her

much as stepped out. She had heard they would dock at a port that night for supplies and stay there until morning. Most of

time to help her escape. Once the pirates had mostly left the ship, he escorted

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.

deeply moved. There was nothing like

He watched her excited face with

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

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