Chapter 36

Natasha

We make it to an island by nightfall. The dark sky is filled with twinkling stars, and I climb out of the boat. It feels great having sand between my toes again, and I stretch my legs.

"We are finally here!" I smile with my eyes closed. "I can't wait to grab a proper meal!"

While still smiling like a fool, I scan the area.

It seems we have found a lovely little pirate town. Lanterns are swaying in the calm winds, lighting up something resembling New Tortuga, and parrots are croaking out into the night.

Palm trees are dancing, and the houses are tiny—some have roofs made of leaves, meaning the islanders are practical.

I wonder if their food is good?

I inhale deeply, smiling when I can smell the ale. It's a pirate town, alright—I can already imagine the burly men partying and celebrating on the street, talking about how they survived their latest raid.

My mouth waters, and I'm forced to lick my lips repeatedly as