DARK PARADISE

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟗

Eren guided me into his cabin, it was surprisingly spacious and comfortable for a ship's captain. The cabin was elegantly appointed, with a large velvety bed draped in deep blue sheets that looked invitingly soft. A wooden bookshelf lined one wall that was filled with a variety of books from classic literature to navigation guides. A small desk, cluttered with maps, quills, and parchment stood by the window, which offered a view of the horizon.

He gestured for me to sit at the desk while he took a seat on the edge of the bed, his jaw clenching slightly. "I understand that you want your freedom," he began, his tone steady but firm, "but you're running from something serious, if you don't want them to find you, you have to stay low."

As I listened, my thoughts drifted, and guilt settled heavily on my shoulders. I was tired of being hidden away and feeling like I had missed out on so many years of my life. The castle had been full of people telling me what I could and couldn't do, keeping me from the life I wanted. Realizing that my irresponsibility had risked not only my safety but the crew's as well deepened my remorse.

Eren's voice broke through my thoughts, carrying a note of resolve. "You acted recklessly today. From now on you're going to stay with me. You'll help out with tasks on the ship—reading maps, assisting with navigation, and whatever else I need."

I raised an eyebrow, "And what about the rest of the crew?"

"We're setting sail for Marley tomorrow to restock and take a break. There's a chance that Lord Caspian had sent some men there to look for you, so it's safer if you stay with me there too," Eren explained, his hands resting on his knees as he spoke.

He was offering me a role and a purpose, but it came with the cost of my personal freedom. It wasn't an ideal situation, but it was better than hiding away in fear.

I nodded slowly, considering the new arrangement. "Alright, I'll do it, but I need to make sure I'm not a prisoner."

Eren's expression softened slightly, though his irritation was still evident in the slight furrow of his brow. "You're not a prisoner. You'll have your own tasks and responsibilities. Just remember it's for your safety and the crew's."

After we finished discussing the new arrangements, Eren walked me to my own cabin. The moonlight cast a silvery sheen over the deck, it gleamed on Eren's face, highlighting the sharp angles of his features. The soft light made his eyes glimmer with an intensity that was both captivating and enigmatic. The cool night air was crisp, carrying with it the distant murmur of the ocean.

As we walked, I found myself momentarily mesmerised by how the moonlight illuminated his profile. I was lost in the unexpected beauty of the moment, my gaze fixed on him without even realizing it.

"What are you looking at?" Eren's voice broke through my reverie, laced with a touch of amusement. I blinked, startled from my daze, and quickly looked away. "Nothing," I mumbled, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks.

Eren's lips quirked slightly, but he said nothing more as we reached my cabin. He paused at my door, his expression a blend of resolution and concern. "Get some rest. Tomorrow will be a busy day."

I nodded, feeling a combination of relief and regret. "Thank you, Eren."

He gave me a curt nod, before turning and walking back down the corridor, his movements deliberate but not harsh. I watched him go, my thoughts a whirlwind of guilt and self-reflection. As I settled into my own bed, I absently reached for the necklace around my neck, its pendent cool against my fingers. The necklace had once belonged to my mother, and since her death, it had become a cherished comfort and a reminder of her presence. I gently traced the delicate design, finding solace in its familiar weight. I tried to focus on the possibilities ahead, rather than the constraints that had brought me here. I knew I had to be more mindful of my actions moving forward, both for my own sake and for the safety of those around me.