Sofia's heart was racing as Ryker's eyes gleamed with excitement. He grabbed her hand, pulling her close. "Excellent choice, Princess," he whispered, his breath sending shivers down her spine.
The pirates cheered, their voices echoing across the beach. Arin and Leila stood frozen, their faces pale. Jafar looked like he'd been punched in the gut.
Ryker turned to his men. "Prepare the ship! We're setting sail immediately. We'll have the wedding at sea, with the ocean as our witness."
Sofia's mind was spinning. This was happening, wasn't it? She was really going to marry a pirate.
As they boarded the ship, Sofia caught Arin's eye.
His gaze was intense, a mix of anger and worry etched on his face. She looked away, her heart pounding. What could he do, anyway?
The ship set sail, the wind filling its sails. Sofia stood on deck, the sea spray hitting her face.
Ryker wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close. "Welcome to your new life, Princess," he whispered.
The pirates gathered around, a makeshift altar in front of them. Ryker's captain, a grizzled old man, began to speak. "Dye hear the words, matey..." the power o' the seal!"
Ryker spun her around, his lips crashing down on hers. The pirates cheered, their voices deafening.
Sofia's heart was pounding, her mind numb.
She was a pirate queen.