Chapter 60

The pirate captain's instincts screamed danger. He whirled around, scanning the dimly lit deck with narrowed eyes.

Two cold gun barrels pressed against his temples before he could raise his weapon. His breath hitched.

Suddenly, a squad of heavily armored soldiers stormed the ship. Their black tactical gear gleamed under the moonlight, radiating lethal authority.

Among them, Evelyn spotted a commanding figure who stood taller than the rest. His presence alone made the air feel heavier.

Her pulse quickened. Liam had come with the Aldenrian military forces. Again.

Whenever danger found her, he appeared like some dark guardian angel.

Though she knew he wasn't here for her, warmth still flooded her chest at the sight of him.

"Liam! You're here!" Victoria scrambled up from the deck, her voice shrill with relief. "Save me!"

Evelyn's brief moment of happiness shattered. She watched as Victoria stumbled toward Liam with desperate hope.

Liam held up a warning hand, his expression stern. "Stay back."

Victoria ignored him, her painted lips trembling. "You came for me!" she sobbed, rushing forward again.

As she passed the pirate captain, his arm shot out like a viper. In one fluid motion, he yanked her against his chest and pressed a curved dagger to her throat.

The entire deck froze. Even the waves seemed to still at Victoria's stupidity.

The blade bit into Victoria's perfect skin. A thin line of crimson appeared. Her face drained of color as terrified whimpers escaped her lips.

"L-Liam...help...kill him..." she stammered.

The pirate captain snarled in Valtorian, "Let me leave."

Liam took a threatening step forward. "What did he say?" His brow furrowed in frustration.

He glanced at Ryan, who shook his head. Then at Adrian, who also shrugged.

When Liam's gaze swept the deck, it landed on Evelyn. His eyes widened slightly - surprise, then something darker flickered across his features.

She looked different tonight. The moonlight caught the silver embroidery on her gown, making her glow like some ethereal creature.

But duty called. Liam tore his gaze away. "Can anyone translate?"

All eyes turned to Evelyn.

The pirate pressed the dagger deeper, repeating his demand in guttural Valtorian.

Victoria's screams pierced the night. "Liam! I'm dying! Shoot him!"

Evelyn's heart twisted as she watched Liam hesitate.

The pirate stood a full head taller than Victoria. At this range, Liam wouldn't miss.

So why didn't he shoot? Was he that afraid of hurting Victoria? Did he love her so much he'd risk everything?

If Evelyn didn't translate, the pirate might slit Victoria's throat right now.

Part of her wanted to let it happen. But she couldn't.

Swallowing her bitterness, Evelyn spoke. "He says if you let him leave, he'll give you all the treasure and release Victoria. He'll even offer you a gram of—"

Her voice cut off abruptly.