Part 3The Fisherman's Wife

Fortunately, growing up in the countryside, I learned to swim early, so my life wasn't in danger.

But amidst the chaos, I saw a particularly wretched-looking servant jump into the water and swim toward me.

"Miss Clara, I'm coming to save you!"

He wore a lewd grin, looking like he was about to succeed in some dirty scheme.

My heart sank. This must be Bianca's arrangement.

If I were "saved" by him, I would be forced to marry him due to the compromise of my reputation.

I turned and swam desperately in the opposite direction.

The servant didn't expect me to swim and paused.

"Miss Clara, don't run! I'm here to save you!"

He shouted as he swam.

I ignored him, intent on getting as far away as possible.

Suddenly, a fishing net covered my head, and a voice said:

"Miss, grab the net! I'll pull you up!"

I wiped the water from my face and looked up. A young fisherman stood at the bow of a small fishing boat.

His trousers were rolled up high, revealing strong calves. His bronze skin gleamed healthily in the sun.

"Brother, are you married?" I shouted from the water.

He wasn't prepared for such a question in a life-or-death situation and stammered:

"N-no."

"Do you have someone in your heart?"

"No, no one. Miss, you..."

I glanced back at the servant swimming closer and said:

"Alright, you'll do!"

Then, I grabbed the net tight. The moment the fisherman pulled me up, I threw myself into his arms.