The wooden planks creak under her as she attempts to stand, but a strong hand immediately presses against her shoulder, forcing her back onto the captain's chair. Jiang Heng looms over her, his tall frame blocking the sunlight streaming through the porthole, his eyes dark with primal intensity.

"And where do you think you're going, little one?" His voice is low, a dangerous purr that sends shivers down her spine despite herself. One large hand slides up her thigh, fingers brushing dangerously close to the apex between her legs before moving upward to cup her swollen belly.

"You belong to me," he growls, leaning down so his nose almost touches hers, his scent - saltwater, leather, and something uniquely masculine - overwhelming her senses. His other hand tangles in her hair, yanking her head back roughly to expose her neck. "Every inch of you. Especially this." His fingers press firmly against her stomach, where their child stirs.

The crew members pretend not to notice, but she can feel their eyes on them, the atmosphere thick with tension and unspoken desire. This is life with Ocean - constant reminders of her ownership, never knowing when his possessiveness will erupt into violent passion.