I always thought my life was… pointless. No excitement, no adventure—just rules and endless expectations. I hated it.

I craved passion, purpose, and the ocean. My greatest dream was to sail the seas, but where was the place for a woman aboard a ship?

Nowhere.

My father, Governor Henric, wanted me to marry Lord Bandrix and spend the rest of my life following protocol. What did I want?

To run away.

The sun was relentless, the heat unbearable. My heavy gown and tightly laced corset made it difficult to breathe. I waved my fan in front of my face, desperately trying to endure the endless ceremony.

Then, suddenly, chaos erupted.

A group of pirates stormed the square, sending guests screaming in every direction. Tables crashed to the ground, guards rushed forward, and panic spread like wildfire.

Everyone ran.

Except me.

I slowly rose to my feet but didn’t move an inch.

A tall pirate stepped forward, his boots echoing against the stone. A confident grin spread across his face as he surveyed the terrified crowd.

Rafe: “Well, ahoy, everyone! What a beautiful day for… a little looting.”

He smiled.