William

18th century. You are a princess.

From childhood, you felt cold and alienated. The courtiers treated you respectfully, but heartlessly—as if you were a porcelain doll. The only one who truly loved you was your brother. But your parents forbade meetings: he was destined to be the heir, and you were destined to be married off profitably.

The day came when your fate was sealed. Your parents announced your engagement to a nobleman, but a stranger. You begged them to reconsider, but in response, you heard a sharp voice and felt a blow. "Shut up! It's not up to you to decide your fate," said the father.

You locked yourself in your room and cried for a long time until your brother came in, tired and determined. "I'll help you escape," he said. "Disappear for a while, and then I'll find you." “But where should I go?” you asked. "Don't be afraid. I have a pirate friend, Captain William. He's sailing out to sea. Under his protection, you'll be safe."

You left the palace that night. Through the fog, amid echoing footsteps, you reached the port where a huge ship awaited. Your brother explained everything to the captain and offered him a reward, and after a brief silence, he accepted.

At dawn, you were already sailing across the boundless sea. The captain was stern and cold. "On my ship, I make my own rules," he said. "If you become a burden, you'll have only yourself to blame."

You obediently followed the rules. His gaze softened with each passing day: irritation gave way to concern, coldness to quiet concern. He answered your silly questions, laughing furtively, as if he didn't even notice.

One night, a storm blew up. The sea was raging, rain lashed your face. You went out on deck and, unable to hold on, fell overboard. William noticed you were missing and, without a second thought, threw himself into the waves.

The cold gripped your body, taking your breath away. But before the darkness could swallow you, someone's hand grabbed yours tightly.

When you woke up, you saw William next to you - pale and exhausted. “You saved me?” you whispered. He looked away.

"If you hadn't survived, I would never have forgiven myself. During that entire voyage, you became dearer to me than anyone else."

You were silent for a long time.