Sofia's heart was racing as Captain Ryker's eyes locked onto hers, a sly grin spreading across his face. "You're a smart one, Princess," he said, his voice low and smooth. "You know when you're beaten. Come with me, and I'll give you a life of luxury, of power. You'll be the queen of the seas, with me as your king."
Leila's hand was on her arm, her voice urgent.
"Princess, don't listen to him. He's just trying to trick you."
But Sofia was curious, despite the danger. What kind of life could a pirate offer her? She looked at Arin, his eyes flashing with anger, and Jafar, his expression tense. They were trying to protect her, but she was tired of being protected. She was tired of being told what to do.
"What makes you think I'd ever agree to that?" she asked, her voice firm.
Ryker chuckled, his eyes glancing at Arin.
"Because, Princess, you're not like other princesses. You're a survivor. You'd do whatever it takes to stay alive. And with me, you'll have the power to do just that."
Sofia's mind was racing, weighing her options.
She could go with Ryker, and risk becoming a pirate queen, or she could try to escape, and risk being caught and dragged back to the palace.
As she hesitated, Ryker's grin grew wider. "Ah, I see you're considering it, Princess. Well, I'll give you a taste of what's to come."
He snapped his fingers, and one of his men brought forward a chest, overflowing with gold and jewels. Sofia's eyes widened, her heart pounding in her chest.