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CHAPTER 6 – An Exciting Night His roughened pads skim ever so lightly across your cool skin making the goose bumps rise up all over it as his fingers are barely there and yet running everywhere. Not being able to bear any more of Jack’s delicious body beside you, you pull him roughly and Jack quickly straddles your hips pressing against you further. Keenly you run your fingers down his toned, bare chest playing with the muscles as they twitch and flex beneath your teasing touch. Two darker bullet scars stand out from his tanned skin in the pale light that filters in from the window at the side of the room. Your fingers draw over them eliciting a passionate sigh from the pirate above you. His body fascinates you, painted golden by the morning sun as his muscles flex perfectly. Your caressing hands never stop their explorations and continue running down his fine chest the long fingers splaying out over his stomach to feel as much of this exquisite pirate as you can. Jack’s hands match your own, sensitively touching your increasingly warm skin below your shirt, which seems to have been pulled free without your notice. Catching you unexpectedly, his lips capture your own in a passionate kiss, his larger body pressed on yours to allow the movement. You feel his questing tongue touch your lips and are immediately granted access to explore the deepest caverns of your mouth. Your responses are no less passionate as your fingers sink into his long dreadlocks pulling him, if possible, even closer as the dark cascade shields your face from the light. Jack’s lips make your body surrender and you would grant every one of his wishes to how fantastic this feeling is. Wishing Jack could feel as good as you do, you lift your hips, grinding against his own and causing the sensational kiss to end but allowing you the chance to catch your shallow, excited breaths. You repeat the movement again harder, the rush of excitement and lust pours through you as you hear his deep masculine growl just below your ear. Encouraged by your mischievous actions, Jack drops his head to your neck, sensitising the sweet skin there with his soft lips and tongue. You moan softly, Jack’s name spilling from your lips as he nips at the skin joining your shoulder and neck before instantly soothing the spot with his tongue. The passion inside you drives you on, running your hands from his hair down the contours and ridges of his perfectly sculptured back to the top of his breeches, your determined hands running a finger slowly below the waistband. It passes along the top although your body screams at you to dip lower following the small trail of dark hair beneath your fingers. Jack’s mouth leaves your neck, his heated gaze meeting yours as you recognise the deep passion and lust burning in the depths of the black orbs. Your own match his, the desire brimming and the light captures the twinkle and mischievous glint sparkling just below the surface. Feeling Jack enraptured in your brown eyes your fingers sensuously dip down into his breeches, tantalisingly pulling the drawstrings of the breeches back up. The charged gaze between you never falters although you shiver, feeling Jack’s breathing turn laboured and shallow because of your silky touch. You register the charming smirk playing around Jack’s face as your nimble fingers deftly untie the final knot, the laces becoming free in your hands. Jack’s smirk widens as you begin pushing the loosened breeches further south, an innocent grin spreading across your face as Jack engulfs you in another amazingly passionate kiss. The picture slowly starts to ebb away before your eyes, much to your disappointment as you scrunch up your eyes to make it stay a moment longer. A small bird sitting outside on the windowsill starts to twitter as you slowly start to crack open your eyes and the images completely dissolve. The morning light is streaking in through the glass windows, its bright rays warming your cheeks and bringing out the range of colours in your hair, which is spread across your pillow. Closing your half opened lids you sigh, feeling very content, and revelling in the depths of the dream and Jack’s passionate caresses. The scene had looked too perfect to be spoilt but your overactive imagination and brooding mind had already started whirring. Wouldn’t it be amazing if that could really come true? You wish silently to yourself, stretching your right arm across the warm sheets. You are deliciously warm and so comfortable, the sun warming your face which is curled under the pillow and your arm flung onto the warm sheets. However, a sudden, alarming thought enters your mind destroying the peace, the sheets are moving. Hastily cracking open your eyes, your view is momentarily blocked as the sunlight shines into your tired eyes. Blinking once or twice you re-open them to the most startling view. You seem to be curled around Jack’s body, your head resting on his chest that you thought had been the pillow and his strong arm is wrapped down your back. You are immediately seeped by mixed emotions and it’s hard to identify them as they come in a big rush. You know for certain that you don’t want to move, this position is too warm and comfortable and you feel almost…safe? That’s an emotion you haven’t felt in a long time but if it is going to occur the only place would be in the arms of this man. Realising you are proving Anamaria right and are in fact brooding, you shake your head to clear your muddled thoughts. Without realising your hair sweeps across Jack’s shoulders, tickling his chin and causing him to let out a sleepy mumble against your head. You freeze automatically stopping an equally confused Jack from waking to find you tucked securely in his arms. After waiting a few moments you are satisfied that he is fully asleep and slowly shift your body up so that your face is lying next to his own and your head rests on the pillow. However you quickly still again when he lets out an unconscious growl at having you slide up his own, even in his sleep. Jack shifts slightly, his arm tightening around your back and your breathing quickens even though you remain like a statue hoping that he will fall back into a deep sleep again. Suddenly, before you can even comprehend it, the pirate has moved again and you find yourself lying on your back the sleeping body pressed against your front. A muffled yelp had left your mouth as you were flipped onto your back but this is instantly smothered. Jack’s face is just below your neck, his deep breathing caressing the skin of your chest. What would happen if he woke up now? You think cheekily to yourself, a sly smirk forming on your lips as you stare down at the tousled dreadlocks. Maybe your dream, a small voice echoes through your mind, hoping spreading through you like wild fire until a clear determined voice stamps it out, Used and abused, Maddy, do you want that? You are a pirate and you don’t get attached. Even so a small sigh spills from your parted lips at being so close to Jack and never being able to truly know him but that kiss yesterday had been so thrilling. The butterflies in your stomach start increasing just thinking about it and a small glimmer of hope fleets in your vision. He was so close to you now, surely that must have some effect? But again the voice in your head shouts at you, No Madeline, he is asleep and you will be seen as weak. Used and abused. You know the voice is speaking the truth but it is so difficult to listen to it when you are lying here with this semi-naked pirate pressed against you. The weight is comforting and you feel as if you could lie here forever, besides it’s not as if you can really move now. Gently turning your head to the side you shut your eyes, your mind thinking of nothing but the toned body against yours. Gradually you drift back into a secure, peaceful slumber missing Jack silently raises his head, his brown eyes running across your face. * * * * * “Caleb, I watched him all evening and this is never going to work.” The woman shakes her long blonde hair impatiently from her face, the curls cascading down her back. The tall man in front of her looks lost in desire by the tumbling hair before noticing the hard set of her small mouth and her obstinate eyes and focusing on the task in hand. She could be quite stubborn and difficult when she wanted to be. “Now what would the Captain say if he heard you saying that? Let me just remind you he would not be pleased and I don’t want you getting hurt,” the man speaks firmly. “You know what happens when he is not pleased with something.” The sulky expression on the women’s face dwindles a little before carrying on stubbornly, “It’s not going to succeed though, I saw them in the tavern and Sparrow likes her. I’m not going to be able to change that.” The man snorts slightly before sarcastically replying, “Yes I saw them as well though you didn’t see me, she had tears pouring down her face and he sat stock still in front of her. But oh silly me, of course I can see so much affection there.” The small women narrows her eyes at the irritating man before her, “He never took his room key, therefore they are in the same room together doing who knows what.” Again the man scoffs. “Yes but this is the ‘infamous Captain Jack Sparrow’ with a weakness for attractive women, trust me you’re going to have no problems darling.” He continues forcefully raising his hand to her shoulder as she opens her mouth to contradict, “Do you want your rewards or not?” “Yes,” the woman replies instantly. “But I don’t think even she knows about them yet.” Taking a second to recompose herself she seductively runs her hand down her soft cheek watching her partner’s eyes instantly draw to it. Batting her long eyelashes she murmurs, “But am I an attractive woman?” Caleb replies instantly knowing he is only playing to her vanity but unable to deny anything to the enticing lady before him. “Of course you are darling, you know that. Now go in there and wait for him, use what you need to alight his interest and I’ll work out a way for you to get aboard.” The woman pouts before spinning on her heel and swaying out of the dim alleyway towards Brendan’s. Caleb feels his heart beat quicken as she reaches the darkened doorway, casually looks over her shoulder throwing a very seductive look back at him. He gets a sudden need to run after her - preventing her from ever meeting Sparrow who will no doubt indulge in her flirtatious ways. When submitted to this woman’s charms how could anyone resist her? * * * * * Jack gazes down at your sleeping body having adjusted his own so his elbows, positioned by your head took his weight. Your smouldering eyes are hidden by your pale lids, the dark lashes resting on your still cheeks. The small pale mouth is slightly open and occasionally a deep sigh will escape, brushing against Jack’s cheeks. The dark hair frames your face on the white pillows making a stunning contrast. You look so innocent when sleeping; Jack contemplates a fond smile forming on his lips. During the night you had moved towards him, obliviously edging closer and closer to him. You were not a still sleeper and had a tendency of tossing around at night. Jack smirks at the memory of when you stayed in his cabin. He would often wake up with his arms or sometimes even legs entwined around your soft body and then chuckle at your embarrassment when you woke up. Perhaps it was a security issue but whatever it is Jack certainly isn’t complaining. Although sometimes he would wake with a black eye or bruising down his arms at being hit after you suffered a nightmare. Here you were lying asleep in his arms, your long legs pressing against him providing a welcome distraction and your face mere inches from his own. This position suggests you are long term lovers not best friends, especially your Captain at that! Jack’s feelings for you are confusing and lying in such close proximity does not help the matter, he just needs to clear his mind and your sweet scent does not make it any easier. He had been woken by your violent movements and yelps and had to force himself not to laugh loudly at you. He knew the dreams you were having, as they were the same ones from before during your stay in his cabin. How intimate they got Jack could only imagine but he knew they were about him and in a very sexual way, which of course only added to his confidence around you. If it wasn’t the fact that your body would pleasantly tie around his during the night which gave it away, it was your sleepy mumbles and groans. Tonight was no exception and the pirate had to stop himself waking you and acting the scenes under your eyelids as his name slipped passionately past your dry lips. It took so much self-control for Jack to lie still and let your body wind and press against his own without being able to return the favour. This morning the torture didn’t even stop when you woke and he was still unable to stop the muffled groans which slipped past his lips as you rubbed yourself up him. He had thought it was better to let you move around and fall asleep again the start the inevitable discussing about certain topics he had found out last night. Now your face is lying softly down on the pillow, your mouth slightly open on one side and your breathing deep and even. Jack is again struck by how peaceful you look when you sleep and also by the angelic pose, which is certainly not something you are openly known for aboard the Pearl. Although Jack has a strong suspicion that when your mother was alive you were well loved and as indulged as you could be but would pull any stunt to get your own way. He knew he would have to be aware of your influence in people including himself though if Jack was completely honest with himself there was not much he stopped you from doing. Shifting again in your sleep, your right hand pulls up to tuck below your chin, your mouth making small ‘hmm’ noises. This makes Jack smile as he sees the handkerchief in your hand from the night before. Slowly he notices his initials shining out on the white fabric and all at once it becomes too much for him, you had his initials grasped in your hand like you were his lover. He couldn’t have a lover he was a pirate and that made him an easy target. Quickly Jack sprung of the bed away from your sleeping form, these feelings unnerved him as he had never felt these strange things about any other woman he had woken up next to. As soon as he had left the large bed Jack felt relieved having put some distance between the two of you. But what ideas would you get from that kiss last night. He hastily decided to be out of the room when you woke and moved round the bed to where his clothes had been deposited last night. The shirt is worked past his long dreadlocks and the long boots slipped back on. His breeches are re-tied and the sash is wound around his lean waist. Then, he grabs all the other effects as speedily as he possibly could before you woke up, the sun is already bright on your face and you never slept late into the day anyway. Jack reaches for his long coat but as he does this his eye is drawn to your boots and coat, which he moved away last night and a small smirk plays about his lips. This gave the perfect way to equal your stunt with the rum the other day when he had been totally fooled. He quickly sorted what he needed to do and then striding quickly towards the door, shutting it with a swift click but not before stealing another glance at your sleeping body. * * * * * The blonde haired woman enters cautiously into the tavern and stands in one corner for the moment to get her bearings. She sees the bar at the far end and goes to move towards it before a figure is caught by her sharp eye. A pirate wearing a tri-corn hat, various beads dripping in his thick hair and the edge of a red bandana poking out of the bottom moves into one of the bar seats, casually leaning against the wood. This must be the man himself. Captain Jack Sparrow. Her specific target, how on earth was she ever going to make this work? It was impossibility itself but from her captain’s perspective it was the ticket for her life and for his revenge on this pirate captain. Plus she had a few things she wanted herself, namely her share it what is rightfully hers. With that thought rooted firmly in her mind, she crosses the room deliberately picking the chair next to the pirate in question and slipping gracefully into her seat. She feels Jack glance down at her and he finds something to hold his interest, keeping the brown-eyed gaze on her. She nonchalantly rearranges her hair, swinging the long blonde curls over her shoulder, her small fringe brushing out of her eyes. Seeming to only just notice her neighbour she looks up, her green eyes reflecting the deepest ocean in their colour and smiles up at him, showing everyone of her pearly white teeth. Jack smirks back at her, his mind had already forgotten his previous thoughts about Maddy, with this new attractive conquest beside him. Jack clears his throat watching as she bats her eyelashes a few times, the lashes fluttering on her golden cheekbones. “Captain Jack Sparrow at your service, darling,” he says smoothly to the lady beside him. He sees her coyly look back at him before purring softly, “Jessica Daniels and the pleasure is all mine.” She extends her soft hand to him and it pleasantly surprises her when Jack kisses the back of it, his deep gaze never leaving her own. Jack is pleased by his actions; always a charmer and he must admit this woman is very easy on the eye. He carefully drops her hand, winks and asks huskily, “Can I get you something to drink?” Jessica replies her voice well trained in its huskiness, “That would be lovely.” Jack then turns his attention to Ben who quickly hurries over, a knowing smile on his face. “Captain Sparrow, I do hope you slept well!” “Aye I did as it happens, it turned out to be a very interesting evening,” the smile on Jack’s face makes Ben half smile back, happy for his dear friend but annoyed for his own prospects. “Make it two mugs of your finest rum Ben.” The younger man scurries off and Jack slides another sideways glance to Jessica beside him, her small tongue wetting her lips and Jack feels his eyes draw to that point. They then drop lower, down her elegant neck to the top of the green dress where he can catch an alluring glance of what is concealed beneath it. Jack’s eyes burn with lust and desire as they continue over her rounded chest and stomach. The sight delighting him and he makes no attempt to hide the attraction. Suddenly he feels his eyes widen as Jessica crosses her legs away from him, the fabric revealing her slender golden thigh and she makes no move to cover it back up knowing that she is drawing Jack in. ‘This is too easy,’ she thinks to herself maliciously. Jack feels his breathing quicken and his lips go dry as she slowly runs her hand up the tight skin pausing at the top before moving the dress back. Jack’s face snaps up to hers and takes in the sexy, seductive glint in her eyes and the sultry smile on her soft pink lips. Jessica breaks the gaze with Jack and lazily casts her eyes over to the stairs where a familiar figure is watching her every move. Quickly she returns her gaze to the attractive pirate scanning her own eyes down his body and back up again watching the lust begin to cloud his eyes as she blatantly checks him out. Carefully Jessica stands up from her barstool murmuring in his ear “Good day Captain Sparrow,” and then sways past him. Jack turned his attention back to the bar, his mind brimming with sexual thoughts and sighed slightly as the tip of her fingers run across his muscular shoulders adding a sweet caress. The trick worked, it would appear, Jessica thinks to herself as she feels Jack’s eyes on her retreating back. As she reaches the door she throws him the same alluring look she had used earlier with Caleb, making sure that he would remember their acquaintance. * * * * Your brown eyes snap open, your body waking with a jolt and you find your arms and legs are flung out across the bed, the muscles deeply resting in the mattress. Moving your weight heavily, your small arms bend to prop you up as you survey the comfortable room. “Jack?” you call out blearily, running one hand through your mop of hair to pull the dark mess out of your eyes. After receiving no answer you sigh, flopping back onto the warm sheets. Jack has obviously left already on closer inspection; the sheets beside you are cool and his pile of clothes has gone. The bright sun dances across your body, making your pale skin look golden and your dark eyes twinkle and you register it must be about 9 o’clock. It is so rare for you to sleep late but unbelievably comforting and relaxing that it is difficult to find the will to make your muscles move. A couple more minutes will not hurt, you whisper to yourself quite content to daydream about a certain pirate. You smile looking up at the white ceiling, thinking, perhaps Tortuga isn’t so bad after all. * * * * Casting a swift glance around the tavern you spot Jack at the bar, the familiar tankard of rum in one hand, but your eyes are immediately drawn to the flirtatious blonde next to him. A wash of jealousy instantly rushes over you and you have to fight the urge to pull this woman away from him by her long wavy hair. Her green eyes slowly lift, meeting yours. There is an unspoken connection between the two of you and you see her pink mouth curve into a smirk. She breaks eye contact with you before leaving Jack, her delicate fingers running the length of his shoulders. You watch her sway out and see the Jack’s lust clouded gaze as she steals another glance over her shoulder, the only difference is that the smirk replaced by a pout. Jack looks away feeling pleased with himself and his obvious power over attractive women. He only notices your presence after a moment as your body is leaning against the doorframe and those brown eyes seem to be following something but he cannot see what from this position. He watches you snap out of your reverie, your pretty face unnerved but your body portraying an air of confidence. Without a word you slip into the vacant seat, feeling inwardly disgusted that it is still warm and pull the untouched mug towards you. “Luv,” Jack says carefully knowing that you hate being asked questions “What’s wrong?” It takes you a moment to reply, your brain half processing the image. “I think I saw…” you begin slowly before trailing off “never mind.” “Luv?” Jack tries again persistently. “Who was that woman,” you ask bluntly, your eyes fixed on his over the rim of the tankard. Receiving no answer you lower your drink gazing at him questioningly. “Jessica Daniels,” Jack tells you, watching as your eyebrows furrow in confusion. “Daniels,” you mutter quietly to yourself but Jack still catches it nodding to confirm the point. “Something wrong?” he tries again. “She seems familiar and that name would justify where I know her from but it may just be a coincidence.” You stop, unsure of whether to continue but Jack gestures, motioning for you to get to the point. “Well, when I grew up in Port Royal there was another girl who lived with us but I never really knew her.” Your eyes meet Jack’s who nods curiously whilst taking another gulp of rum. You continuing hesitantly, “She was my step-sister and 6 years older then I was.” Again you pause seeing Jack’s confusion. “How could you have had a sister who was that much older? I thought Richard only met your mother a year before you were born.” Jack asks looking more bemused when you nod, pleased that he remembers things about your past. “Yes my dad only met mother a year before she had me. However my mother was married and widowed before she ever met him. I’m not sure if you remember me telling you that my mother was born into a wealthy family,” you look to Jack and he shakes his head slowly. “Jacqueline was the daughter of a rich gentleman and lady living in St Lucia and she was one of three children. They had two sons and she was their only daughter. Mum was betrothed when she was only two years old to another wealthy family’s son and when she was old enough they were married.” You stop to take another swig of rum, your throat was sore from the constant storytelling over the last two days. Jack murmurs, “Mr Daniels,” and you nod, pleased he is keeping up with the story. “It wasn’t a happy marriage and he would abuse her badly when he became too drunk but my mother never complained or said a bad word against him. I think part of her was too scared and ashamed as if she had caused the violence and unfortunately that is one of the traits she has passed down to me that we tend to conceal our true emotions. The violence lasted for many years and Jackie grew to contain her hatred for him but eventually they had the happy news that she was pregnant with their daughter.” “Jessica.” Jack supplies again and you smile. “So what happened next?” he says curiosity rising as your family history is so interesting. “Mr Daniels was always much older then my mother and he died when Jessica was about 4 years old, I think. The circumstances around his death were very suspicious and no-one was sure if he had just died of illness or if he had been killed on purpose. The man had many enemies mainly due to his horrible personality and vicious temper which he would never vent in public. It would always be stored for my mother when she got home. I do admire her for everything she went through with complaint- it must have taken a lot of self restraint and courage and I wish I was passed at least some of that trait!” You sigh quietly to yourself and feel Jack wrap one arm around your shoulders. “But am I then mistaken that you did not have a wealthy upbringing- I thought that was why your high society living was so amazing.” You look up at him softly, relaxed by his close presence. “No you are right again Captain!” Jack smirk of self-importance makes you laugh. “After Mr Daniels death my mother didn’t want to go back and live with her parents so she bought a small house on the cliffs. Apparently it had the most beautiful views on the ocean and she would spend a lot of time walking in the port just watching the large ships. This was the point in her life when she met my father and there was an instant attraction between them. He was not like any other pirate after he met Jackie and would never stray in other ports, always coming back to her as soon as possible. But soon rumours were spread that the wealthy heiress was having a relationship with an infamous pirate and when she did not deny this, her parents disowned her. Mr Daniels parents took her little child away deeming her to be an irresponsible mother and she felt after this that she couldn’t stay on that island. There were always the constant prejudice and reminders, no matter how hard she tried to ignore them. So this was when they bought a house in Port Royal and then about three months later I was born.” You finish your tale thinking subconsciously how much Jack had learnt about your past in the last few days and just how little you actually knew about him. “So you never knew this Jessica luv?” Jack asks looking down to you. “Oh no, I did but not at all well. She would come to stay with us when I was very young and I’ll always remember playing with her blonde hair. It was my mother who pushed her away. You see I look similar to my father so after he left us she clung to me and Jessica always gave her the bad memories of Mr Daniels.” You say looking up at him with a smile which fades rapidly as you continue. “Although I remember Jessica was never very nice to me when she saw me or was left alone in the same room. I think it was the jealousy but I still have a number of scars to show for it, like this one.” You stop, pulling up the sleeve on your left arm. There is a thick white line running down it from the outside elbow to the base of your hand. You see Jack’s alarm at the scar and say, “Lovely Jessie was in a bad mood one evening when it was my fourth birthday and she couldn’t understand why she was not allowed to have presents. So at screaming point she got one of the kitchen knives and ran the tip down my arm. Needless to say she did not stay at our house for much longer that night.” A silence comes down on your mainly one sided conversation as you both watch people frittering around the tavern, laughing and chatting with each other. Your sharp mind begins to wander back to the previous night and the pleasant intimacy. There had only been one difficulty this morning and you shiver. This soon turns into a groan of annoyance as Jack, who seems to read your thoughts, asks, “Cold luv?” Immediately looking up at him you note the annoyingly cheeky grin on his face and reply, “I may be and I now have a strong suspicion that the disappearance of my clothes may involve you Sparrow.” This only makes him grin wider and looks at you saying, “Hm, perhaps yeh losing your talents luv. I would have thought a distinguished pirate such as yourself would check for any loose floorboards for missing possessions.” And then on an afterthought adding, “and it’s Captain Sparrow to you missy.” You bring your hand to your head muttering, “Floorboards, always check the floorboards,” and then join in Jack’s laughing. “I do believe you have finally outwitted me on this one, captain, so just watching out from now on!” Jack leans close to your ear muttering, “I do so love it when you call me captain darling,” but before you can reply Ben interrupts you. “Excuse me, but Ruth asks do you want bacon with your breakfasts.” Ben already looks tired this morning as you both state your preferences. Ruth runs a well timed kitchen down there and you for one would know all about it having been on the end of her sharp tongue a few times previously. You look up at him half pouting asking “Can you get ours here as fast as possible Ben, I’m starving!” He just nods his reply and hurries off before Ruth’s shouts bellow from the kitchen at his tardiness. A small mischievous voice enters your hearing as it drawls “Was there a reason for your hungriness luv or did you use up all your energy dreaming last night?” Your head snaps up at this, the colour flooding to your cheeks at Jack’s confident smirk. Had you been talking in your sleep again? Noting your change Jack continues “Because if you’d like to use up any remaining energy and recreate those interesting and what would appear very exciting dreams I’d be more then happy to go up there now…” He trails off suggestively casting his eyes down your body making you tremble slightly. However you laugh pushing him away and muttering silky, “Not today at least, Captain Sparrow.” Jack’s smirk grows at your comment, his hand dropping to rest on your leg, massaging the muscles slightly as he feels them clench. Slowly he leans over, his breath tickling your ears and making the breathing hitch in your throat as he whispers, “Maddy, you know I do so love a conquest.” * * * * * CHAPTER 8 You sit back lazily feeling extremely full and satisfied after the large breakfast, watching Ruth make her way around the tavern. Even though she denies it, you are certain that she is fishing for compliments from her customers and not purely collecting dishes to wash up! As she waddles over to you and Jack you smile broadly. “I see someone hasn’t lost their touch. That was even more delicious then I remember Ruth,” you say loudly, smirking as her cheeks flush. Although she seems to blush even more after Jack’s kind words, you note wryly. “Thank ye dear,” she says back kindly, collecting up the empty plates after being fully satisfied that she was admired. “Also sweetie, Edward will be coming to find you later. He has something very interesting to give you.” You look up brimming with curiosity and inquire, “Ruth you know I hate not knowing- what is it?” You note Jack laughing out of the corner of your eye and Ruth’s red, rosy face crinkles with amusement. “He said you’d say that and made me promise not to tell you.” Her aged face then crumples into a frown. “Though where he got the idea that I would tell yeh dear I don’t know.” This makes you smile to yourself as you watch her totter off towards the kitchen, her arms laden with empty plates. Ruth was well-known to have the latest piece of hot gossip even if she did refer to her knowledge as ‘community service’. Although her motherly advice was often invaluable you had always limited the depths and especially any names when talking through problems. She would always try to worm them out but it hardly worked when matched to your stubborn streak. It was a necessary precaution if you wanted your affairs to stay fairly private and not spread through every criminal and lowlife in Tortuga. Although thinking about it now there had been times when a well timed word would spread quickly through the night population and work to your advantage, especially when annoying one particular redhead. Thinking about it now this was probably why you respected all your close friends. Without fail every one of them would keep their knowledge concealed: Elizabeth, Anamaria and even Jack. Though when Ana throws in certain comments about you and Jack on the Pearl, you would be given a few strange or smug looks and hushed whispers from the crew and therefore if she could keep those bits of gossip to herself it would be more convenient. Jack was currently lounging back in his chair as you throw a glance across at him. A suspicious thought suddenly strikes you that he looks too relaxed and carefree to be innocent, catching your eyes with an almost guilty smile. Turning your head back to the bar you continue watching out of the corner of your eye and feel your heart plummet when you see him winking at another person. Your stubborn streak instantly steps in, making you fight the impulse to look at the woman and instead smile at Ben who walks over. “Do you know where Edward is?” you ask him but frown at his amused smile. “What?” you say irritated. “I knew you wouldn’t be able to stop asking,” he says with a knowing smile and continues as you open your mouth to object. “And before you even think of asking me I have been sworn to secrecy by dad as well. He wants to show you the interesting thing.” An aware look crosses your face as you say, “Ah so it is interesting then.” Ben merely throws you a good humoured look rolling his eyes before muttering, “Just go Mads before I give anything else away. Dad’s waiting for you in his study.” You flash him a smile of pure delight before jumping from your stool and looking at Jack. He is now entertaining the very voluptuous brunette from before who has now been elevated to his lap and at this time in the morning as well. You shoot the foulest glare at her that she returns quickly before asking Jack, “Are you coming?” Immediately the torn emotions flash across Jack’s face at wanting to support you but the predatory desire is strong within him at having the giggly girl on his lap fawning over him. Sighing you turning away from the two and walk down the length of the bar knowing he will not follow you because firstly he has a plentiful rum supply, second there is a willing woman rubbing herself all over him and thirdly he would not be in control if he chased after you. You are just as bad as your insolent streak will not let you ask him again and will put on an air of confidence instead. Turning down the narrow passageway from the bar you stop outside a large wooden door knocking twice. A friendly voice calls out for you to enter and you open the heavy door, moving inside before shutting it with a swift click. Your vision falls onto the greying man sitting in a comfortable chair behind an impressive desk. Bookcases line most of the walls with imposing classics, novels and large volumes on the shelves. There is a large window on the south wall making light flood in illuminating the wooden room. You smile at Edward, crossing to the chair on the other side of the desk so you are facing him. There are parchments and books resting open on the desk but a small light coloured wooden box catches your interest immediately. It is plain apart from a small rose symbol imprinted into the top. “I see that did not take you long Madeline,” Edwards speaks quietly, his long fingers pressed together in front of his mouth, his spindly elbows resting on the desk. He smiles slightly as you glance at him curiosity aflame, “We always knew you had too sharp a mind to work in Tortuga- I feel there is a complex mind just underneath the surface even if you do try to hide it.” You look down at the small box again and an irresistible urge hits you to run one finger along the symbol tracing the lines of the rose. “Take it,” Edward murmurs watching your intrigued face stare at the lines. Slowly your hand reaches out for the box taking it in one hand before pulling it back to your face. Satisfying the previous urge one finger absentmindedly traces the rose as you glance back to Edward your brow furrowed. “What is this,” you murmur looking back at the ageing man that you respected greatly. Noting his smile your curiosity increases and you do smile back albeit hesitantly. “Now Maddy, you must not get too excited over this as I fear there might be many more pieces to the puzzle and you may never find what you are searching for.” Edward’s voice was one that made people want to listen to and was full of heart felt pearls of wisdom. His hand reaches across the table to yours, grasping it softly as he says clearly “this box belongs to your father.” The information makes you instantly look up, a shocked expression on your face at how this had appeared in your hands and Edward chuckles at your reaction. “You see my dear, your father entrusted me with this seven years ago when I met him in our previous bar. That pirate was an extraordinary one (much like your friend Captain Sparrow I believe) as he held so much devotion for you and your mother and that sharp mind you have now was most definitely from him.” Your eyes pick out Edwards. “How did my father know you give you this box though?” you ask bemused. “Ah you see my dear this is where your father differs from every other pirate I have ever known. Sweetie, he had planned your future. Once your mother passed away he knew you would have no-one to look after you. Have you never wondered what profit was in the deal for the Swann’s? Why would this highly respected family take in a working class tearaway such as yourself?” Edwards pauses at the knowing look appearing on your face. “I did wonder,” you say curiously wondering where this tale was going. “Your father had already done a deal with Governor Swann who accepted due to a lot of natural kindness and a great deal of riches I believe. They also planned that if there ever such a difficulty arose that you had to move on quickly, that you would be shipped to Tortuga where I would find you. And yet again it would appear your father succeed in his goals.” You blink, astounded by the lengths he had gone to to protect you from his enemies and secure you a good life. Glancing down at the box the pieces start to fit into place. Your fingers rove over the lid and trace the rose lightly “The rose,” you murmur quietly, “Our English rose.” Again you look back to Edward for confirmation and he nods slowly his deep eyes catching yours before saying, “Maddy there does seem to be a problem however. I believe these things lead to a grand place and in that place is treasure- your family treasure. You know probably better then I do the status Richard achieved over the years and this is where the difficulty arises. There are many people who would love to find this treasure of yours and so I fear there are many different and confusing parts to the trail.” You look confused again. “But how does he know I will find the place with our treasure.” The same confusion increases as Edward shrugs shaking his crinkled head, “That I don’t know dear although I’m guessing he thought as you are his own flesh and blood you would have inherited his mind and be able to follow his logic. Take that box for instance; I can not open it so that must be the first step to this extraordinary puzzle.” Glancing down at the small box with renewed interest you see there are no seams, everything is smooth apart from the small engraving. So this is the first step to the puzzle and you can’t work it out Maddy? Well this is a great start is it not! You think negatively to yourself putting the box up onto the desk and simply staring at it. “What do you think is inside?” you ask Edward whilst your fingers randomly play with each other. The older man frowns, seeming to be deep in thought as he rubs his fingers to his temple. “That I don’t know sweetie. I’m afraid I am not much use in all of this.” You smile slightly your eyes dropping down to stare at your fingers as they fidget in your lap. Your father obviously didn’t realise that mysteries drove you insane and also having to sit idle and not solve this challenge. Your gaze is caught on the red rose ring you wear on your right hand and it makes you smile. This had been the only heirloom of your father but now it would appear that he has left you much, much more. Your thumb brushes fleetingly over the metal surface, tracing the raised white lines of each petal. Edward looks up from his papers as he hears a little sound emit from you. In a hurry he watches you tear the ring off one of those pale fingers and pull the wooden box closer. Your own heartbeats quicken as you position the ring above the imprint. It was the perfect size and the raised edges and lines would fit into the curved lines of the box. Sliding it down into the lock you breathing hitches as a sharp click is heard. The wood slides away from it, opening to show what is inside. Your pale fingers tremble as you pluck out the scroll from inside, the rush of excitement pouring through you. “Well I’ll be staggered,” Edward murmurs and he sees your eyes are alight with confidence and anticipation as the weathered parchment sits in your hand. “Open it then dear,” Edward encourages and you nod slowly and carefully unravelling the paper in order to preserve it. You did not know what to expect: a map? Directions? Words of wisdom? When the parchment is finally fully open between your pale hands it makes your head swirl and you sit back confused. The page makes no sense at all. * * * * * Author’s note: Well there we are two chapters in one update- it’s a record! Things should start getting really interesting from now on I think! Please read and review thanks. * * * * * Edward sighs passing you the parchment with a tired gesture. “Dove, I believe your father when he says you need his logic as that is just nonsensical.” You look at him slightly distressed although thoroughly overwhelmed by the whole thing. “Well at least we have opened the box now. That’s a start,” you say softly, trying to stay positive even though the nagging doubts still linger. That is just an annoying part of your personality that you worry over everything no matter how trivial the events are. “Oh sweetie it was not ‘we’ but you. I am too old now to be working out these confusing things but I’m sure your friend would be of eager assistance,” he says gently, subtly hinting at you. Understanding his words you nod in acquiesce but pause with one final query in your mind. “Edward, you say my father gave you this box seven year ago but during some of that time I was already working here. Well then if you don’t mind me asking, why did you not pass this on until now?” Edward looks at you, closing his eyes and rubbing the bridge of his nose as he reminisces. “I was going to on the day of your… well rather rapid departure,” he murmurs softly and you grimace at the memories. “I thought the time had come after you had reached the right age but when the news arrived that you were on the Pearl and we saw you in such a bad way, I decided that it would be best to leave this until your next promised visit.” The heartfelt words makes you smile at his concern and kindness which all seem to mingle into one making him such a gentleman in a pirate’s paradise. “Jack’s waiting for you,” he reminds you carefully breaking your thoughts. You rise from the comfortable chair, picking up the box and securing the riddle inside before leaning across to kiss his weathered cheek. “Thank you,” you whisper fervently but he waves away the words, directing you to the door. However, neither of you see the dark shadow at the window nor the concealed eyes peering in nor even the figure hurrying away with the intention of passing on important information to their superiors. * * * * You move from the narrow corridor into the hustle and bustle of the bar, those dark eyes instinctively moving to Jack’s previous position. You are thrilled to see that he is still there and even more pleased that he is alone this time even though he does look a little riled. I guess she left then, what a darn shame, you think smugly as you weave your way towards him. At the sound of your footsteps Jack lifts his head, his unfathomable eyes lined with some traces of annoyance which remain as you sit down. Not that this bothers you particularly, being so excited about showing him the parchment and using two minds to solve it, instead of just your own. “Happy now?” he says sourly looking at your pleased grin. You stare at him slightly bewildered at his tone. “Yes it’s always nice to see…” you say cheerfully but are immediately interrupted by him. “Oh so you do expect me to sit around waiting for you and not indulge in female company when on land?” Jack says throwing you a cold look. Jack’s words make you let out a rather undignified huh sound; staring at him as though he was out of his mind. “Jack I was not talking about you, in fact if you had let me finish, it was about my latest discovery which could profit,” you say slightly hurt but swiftly making a mental note of his outburst so no doubt you could ponder over it later. “Besides I am sure you can find someone else to play with.” Jack’s annoyance dwindles at the words ‘discovery’ and ‘profit’ and a smug grin rolls onto his lips even though the cold irritation at the back of his eyes never leave. “Any ideas as to when you would like to play darling,” he murmurs huskily, his dark eyes scanning your body as one eyebrow quirks. You scoff and roll your eyes, sighing slightly as that eyebrow changes sexily. “I meant another strumpet, Sparrow, not me!” you say smirking. “Aye so did I,” Jack’s reply slips out before his eyes snap from your cleavage to your eyes as the hurt starts to fill them. “Luv…” he says quickly grimacing as you overbear his words. “What?” you grind out, the tone extremely icy and your good humour is long forgotten. Jack’s mouth opens and shuts a few times trying to think of the best way to cope before wincing as your hand connects with his cheek, causing his head to snap back. You bite back your fury, turning away from him and off the stool. Hurrying, you head towards the stairs as an ironic thought runs through your mind. “Done this recently Madeline?” Finally you reach the stairs and run up them, your hand tight around the small wooden box that secures your future. As you round the corner a hand wraps around your arm, pulling you back against the wall before you can go any further. Jack steps in front of you, successfully barring the way and pinning your struggling body against the wall. “You are not running away this time Maddy,” he murmurs as you try to hit him again. Your arms are flailing everywhere but never quite make good enough contact. In a flash he has grabbed your hands, pulling them above head height and holding them there. “So you do know my name is Maddy,” you spit at him “Surprised you’re not calling me Ashley already.” Jack makes no sound of protest against this but winces again at your words, the red mark on his cheek standing out which gives you a smug sense of pleasure. “Get off me Sparrow,” you shriek annoyed but again he does not move or even flinch but finally finds his tongue. “Now luv, do you really think I’m going to let ye go in this state?” he quips, that tanned face a picture of disbelief. You shoot him the foulest stare and bite back, “Don’t patronise me Jack, and it’s your fault I’m like this.” Jack chuckles continuing, “Always a man’s fault. Apparently women are always right, shame you are all so wrong.” Your eyes darken ever further as he jibes against your tough female image and quickly spit back. “At least we can accept our mistakes and learn new things. Not constantly thinking with our groins especially when they are definitely nothing special.” This makes Jack’s grin fade slightly and you smirk. “Oh yes Captain did that whore find something more interesting then yourself?” Now Jack’s amusement has really gone and he growls, “New things luv, now where did you learn them? Could it have been from those friends of yours Ashley?” You growl clenching your fist into tight balls to stop yourself screaming with pent up frustration and push your face closer to his, “Aye I did and perhaps I could teach you a new thing or too. Word on the street is you are getting boring and repetitive.” Jack’s eyes narrow again at your barb, his face coming even closer to yours. “Boring?” he whispers, those eyes black with fury as he grips your wrists harder. “I will not be insulted like that woman and as if you would turn me down if it was offered.” You smirk back glad to have finally dug your way under his skin and snip, “Don’t think so Jack.” Jack’s eyes again darken dangerously as he cannot stand being doubted sexually as most of his reputation was built on the ‘woman in every port’ theory. “Well let’s see then shall we?” he whispers and quickly closes the gap between you, his lips crashing down onto your own. Jack’s force makes you slam back against the wall and all your pent up anger quickly dissolves into passion and just as forcefully you respond. Jack doesn’t stop for breathe and his tongue flicks at your lips trying to fight its way through. You grant it, relieved to have a distraction from your fast bruising lips and return the favour; biting on his lower lip making him growl, pressing against you harder. Jack’s body is pressed firmly against your smaller one and even through both sets of clothing you can feel a certain object getting harder by the second. You press against him trying to pull your hands from his grasp but he doesn’t let them go even as you strain. Jack pulls away for a second gulping down more oxygen before crashing his lips against your hot ones. The hands holding your wrists move again, one hand securing both wrists and the other starts trailing down your arm before skimming through your dark hair. This questing hand reaches your neck and tilts your head to give his probing tongue more room to impress. An unconscious moan escapes from your lips exciting him as you respond more and more to his actions. The hand continues down your neck and over your thin shirt slipping inside as he reaches your cleavage. Your own hands strain desperately to get out but the grip never dwindles and his actions keep you pressed to the wall. His fingers rub over one sensitive nipple, twirling and tweaking and making you jolt against him, causing a large growl to escape from you. Not being able to move your hands, one leg slips between hips sliding up his thighs provocatively and causing a moan to escape from Jack in surprise. Encouraged, you wrap your other leg around his waist to pull him closer which works well considering your restricted movements. The hand abandons your breast and skates down your back, pushing you further against him so that you are almost inside his being and it continues caressing your back as it moves seductively south. You feel Jack squeeze your rear causing your hips to push against his own and this breaks the angry kiss. He drops your wrists and pulls away slightly, untangling himself from your legs. As you lean against the wall trying to get your shallow breathing back into order you realise Jack hasn’t quite finished. He brings his index finger to trace your hot lips and as he reaches the middle of your lower lip he pulls down gently so you look as though you are pouting and whispers huskily, “Boring darling?” Your oxygen starved body is still leaning heavily against the cool wall but your gaze still narrows. That pale head of yours is a complete blur; you don’t know whether to laugh it off, hit him for being such a jerk or pull him to you again. As for him calling you a strumpet, well that hurt but would be made worse if you questioned him in his current cocky state of mind. Jack looks at you expectantly, the infuriating smirk playing on his lips and you murmur, “You cheated,” watching as his smirk widens. “Pirate! Darling, you should know by now that I don’t fight, or play for that matter, fair,” he replies a good-humoured tint in his eyes. “Aye, I’ll have to remember that one,” you trail off not really sure if you should continue and glance around at the floor. You are searching for the box that had previously fallen from your hands largely due to Jack. Spotting it by the top stair you bend down hastily to retrieve it, careful not to give Jack a large view of your rear and then push deliberately past him to your room. Jack’s voice cuts the air behind you, “What’s that luv?” and you do not bother answering, merely throwing him a look over your shoulder. It was definitely a mixed message as he felt invited to go forward but at the same time expecting retribution for his actions. You try to walk confidently into the room although your nerves and emotions are shot to pieces, leaving the door open and crossing to the bed. You sit down heavily cross-legged with the box on the mattress before you. Jack takes in the picture with a large degree of confusion, opening his mouth to speak but falling shut at your warning glance. You motion for him to join you on the bed and he does so after shutting the door to block out any unwanted guests. You never knew who may be listening in this port. He leans casually in the mattress opposite you, resting on his hands that are spread behind him as he listens to your shortened version of Edward’s tale. He sits in silence for a moment after you finish before remarking, “So somewhere there are riches beyond anyone’s imagination.” You look at him quickly correcting, “My treasure that is. But I do not have the means to travel across the ocean in order to find it.” This is said wistfully but not without a very large hint behind your words. Jack regards you silently for a long moment or two. “I do believe a proposition is in order luv,” he says catching your eye and winking. “What say I let you travel aboard the Pearl to find this treasure if I get a 50% share in what we discover, savvy?” You narrow your eyes at him dubiously. “15.” “30.” “20,” you reply smiling. “And it is my treasure so that is more then fair.” “25 and it’s my ship darling so don’t you forget that.” You laugh. “20% and I’ll personally load extra rum on board especially for your use.” Jack’s eyes centre on yours for a moment. “Deal,” he announces victoriously offering his hand which you gladly take. “So about this box,” he says hopefully rubbing his hands together. You smile silkily using the ring to unlock the box and plucking the parchment from inside. Again you unravel it slowly and mutter, “It’s the first clue and you won’t be able to understand this,” but only receive a cocky smirk from him. Carefully you hand the sheet to him and sit back against one of the bed posts listening as Jack reads the words. Madeline You watch Jack as he rereads the page a few times and shakes his dreaded hair before his gaze meets yours. You smile ruefully, your shoulders rising in a shrug as you ask, “Any idea what that means then?” “None,” he says softly, his dark brow furrowed but soon changes to a seductive look as you lean against the bed pillar. “But I know a better use to your body then working out clues right now, luv.” Jack starts to move predatorily closer to you but you stay stock still against the post neither rejecting his advances nor accepting them. He pushes the box and riddle out of the way drawing closer still and pulls himself opposite you. One calloused hand moving to cup your cheek but he retracts it sharply however when you flinch and close your eyes. Jack’s defences go up immediately as the full ‘Captain Jack Sparrow’ mask snaps into place and he regards you with his dark, hard eyes. You compose yourself again but do not look at him for in your heart you are still very hurt. Instead you reach for the riddle but your hand never quite reaches. “What was that about Maddy?” Jack asks watching your discomfort as he takes your hand, removing it from touching the parchment. “What was what?” you ask bluntly, answering questions with questions and looking into his unfathomable eyes. Deep down you know that trying to cover your flinch and feelings is never going to achieve anything as you have always had the rather disturbing idea that this man can actually read minds, especially yours. Jack stares back. “You know very well what I mean.” You shake your head nonchalantly but Jack plays you, pulling your hand up to his lips and kissing you fingers, watching as you try to pull away. Jack drops your hand with a questioning expression hiding his hurt but allows you to climb off the bed and position at the window. A tight silence descends on the two of you as you worry your bottom lip with you teeth and play absent-mindedly with the sleeves on your shirt. You stare out the window but do not focus on anything at all. Opening your mouth you shut it again quickly too scared of his reply but summoning all your courage in a last ditch attempt you half turn to survey Jack, your eyes showing no emotion. Those deep eyes lock onto his and you ask clearly in a flat tone, “Do you really think I am a whore?” * * * * * “Yeh better have good news boy,” he drawls slowly taking in the dirty young lad before him. His face is filthy, blonde hair unkempt with a few random twigs stuck in it and his basic clothes are torn and ragged at the edges. But most importantly he is inconspicuous and could supply this captain with a vast amount of things a grown man could not possibly access. It was his style really to have people stationed everywhere, part of his wide-ranging knowledge of piracy. The pirate smirked as he lingers on the thought although outwardly regarding the boy with raised eyebrows telling him to get on with it. “I saw Mr Brendan talking with a young woman sir,” he says eagerly and the captain grins. A fine catch this young lad had been. At the moment he was being put to very good use as he had secured work at the tavern. Jessica’s suspicions appeared to be true and he would reap his revenge this time no matter what obstacles loomed in his way. It was just an added bonus that there was the rumour of the illusive treasure at the end. His revenge and very valuable booty as far as the tales suggested. What could he possibly find to complain about? The pirate surveys the young lad for a moment before questioning him. “Describe this girl?” The lad’s brow frowns in thought. “She was striking,” he replies honestly, “dark hair, dark eyes, pale skin and average height.” The captain sits forward in his chair slightly, “A common whore?” He asks checking the straight facts first. “No,” he replies instantly. “There’s something about her that seems to demand respect. I was watching her in the tavern at the beginning and she’s different around people to the usual whores. Very close friends with Ben Brendan I believe.” “Definitely Ricky’s daughter then.” He mumbles to himself but always kept watch of the boy as he stops talking. At this he narrows his eyes slightly and gestures he should continue telling her about him. “She then went to Mr Brendan’s study and I followed even though I was supposed to be on washing up duty but Mrs Brendan caught me and pushed me away before she boxed my ears.” The pirate moves in his seat threateningly “So what have yeh got to tell me that is so fascinating boy?” he asks coldly, the light reflecting on his scarred face. The boy grins. “Aye but that’s where I was clever. I crept round to the window and watched. He seemed to give her a box and she opened it and took out some parchment but I don’t know what’s on it.” He had obviously said the right thing as the captain laughs a slow cruel chuckle. “So it is indeed true,” he says slowly running a hand through his wispy beard. “The treasure is out there somewhere.” The lad looks at him, eyes lit with excitement. “Treasure, sir?” The pirate instantly shut his face to the boy ignoring his question and dismissing him with a wave of the hand. He had done well today, very well indeed and that was the exact reason he kept a young urchin in that tavern to spy on the friends of the girl. A perfect position if he did say so himself. A young boy whom no one would take a second glance at. “One more thing lad,” he drawls into the silence as he watches him turn dubiously. “The relationship with Sparrow?” “What appeared to be solid to begin with sir,” he replies truthfully watching his Captain from the door. “Appeared to be?” he questions watching intently. “Aye captain,” he begins steadily. “They were laughing and joking but when she came back they exchanged words and she ran off.” “And he followed of course,” the captain supplies helpfully and grins as the boy nods eagerly in return, pleased at how he had guessed Jack’s movements. “They then argued on the stairs,” he says screwing up his dirty face to remember anything else and continued at his master’s gesture, “and then he kissed her and she responded. I didn’t watch much after that.” The pirate’s expression changes from pleasure to anger in one comment and nods. “Well done lad and now send in Jessica. Go back to the tavern and if yeh hear anything of interest come straight back.” He smiles a toothless grin in agreement and strides out, shutting the door carefully in his wake, very pleased with the reaction he had received today. * * * * * The captain sits back in his chair waiting for her imminent arrival. If events had gone successfully she will have intercepted Sparrow at the tavern and spoken just enough to plant the seed of desire in his mind. Now she should hopefully be back with Caleb and both were to be briefed on their next assignments. Smirking, he seems to lose himself in his thoughts as she does not arrive. He really was rather good at getting the right people for jobs. That young lad who was perfectly placed to listen to tavern gossip in the back areas or could slip between different parties without them ever noticing. His first mate, Caleb, is also a very good success. He is dependable and will carry through tasks until the end no matter how much he doesn’t enjoy them or believe that they are right. Adding to these qualities he is extremely good looking and a real charmer so therefore the perfect man to pump information for a certain type of woman in the dingy ports the crew regularly visited. Even without discussing it, he could tell Caleb is looking forward to his next assignment. As far as he has been informed the girl is attractive and that is always good in Caleb’s eyes but saying that he is very aware, although never meeting the girl, that she is different from the normal. That big difference is primarily that she is a pirate and a feisty on at that judging by her reported behaviour with Sparrow. His eyes narrow at the thought of the other pirate but he continues musing. Richard had been a very impressive pirate as well, a little daft and bizarre sometimes but admirable in his ways. Perhaps those traits had been passed down to his daughter. It had come as a huge surprise when Jessica informed him of this tale as he had never realised that Ricky had family. He didn’t even know about Jacqueline let only a daughter because if he had then, well, this treasure would have been discovered much quicker. He wonders at the possibility of a female replica of Ricky for a moment and grins maliciously. Well he is only going to have to wait a short amount of time before finding out for himself and what fun that will be. In short, Caleb was the perfect man for this job. A knock on the door jerks him from his thoughts and he tells Jessica to enter smartly. She enters casually brushing one hand through her hair to push it out of her eyes and sits down, looking at him pointedly. The captain leans forward in his chair so his arms rest on the table before him and she almost grimaces at his appearance. He could look so different she muses silently. Of course she would never dare tell him that; the outrage would be unbearable and then it would be followed by the extremely boring tale of how as a young lad his father told him never to wash as it washed the good pirate wholeness away. Gods that story could put to sleep even the most attentive of listeners. “One question lass,” he asks briskly seeking out her eyes. “Did yeh give Sparrow yeh proper name?” Jessica nods once looking as though she was thoroughly bored and her mind was elsewhere. In fact it seemed to be attached to her current lover and his charming ways and therefore this new assignment with Sparrow was going to be very difficult as she had to be convincing. “And the girl, will she link it to yeh as her sister?” He asks again annoyed by the lack of answer. Jessica looks at him lazily, “I don’t know Captain,” she drawls. “She may do.” The look of annoyance is now clearly visible on the Captain’s face but it is impossible to tell whether it is due to her answering capabilities, current attitude or the conversation topic. “I want yeh to go back to that tavern and find Sparrow. I want that seed to start developing and test how he feels about taking on new crew members. We may need yeh on there soon,” he says warningly, yellow eyes flashing. Jessica looks up at him in alarm. “I have to go with him sir?” and her worst suspicions are confirmed when he nods. She bites her tongue hard, determined to keep her words inside after Caleb’s warnings of his behaviour when angry. “What about Maddy?” she asks curling her nose up in disgust. “If any of them ask about yeh links to her deny them,” he orders sharply not wanting this whole thing to be destroyed before it had even begun. “And try to find out what is on the parchment she was given earlier.” Jessica’s mouth opens slightly as she remembers something and stays seated although he gestures for her to go. “Sir I think I know what it is,” she replies eyes narrowed in thought. He looks at her curiously, indicating with a hand movement that she should enlighten him. “That’s the first piece to this whole puzzle,” she says simply standing from her chair and regarding him closely. The captain nods at her. “Then see if yeh can just borrow it for a while,” he declares a grin spreading on his lips. “And remember deny everything if asked. Caleb will be there soon after yeh arrive if there is any trouble.” She gives the slightest of nods and stands from the door crossing and departing. The captain sits back in his chair, booted feet rising to cross on the desk as he relaxes. It was just so lovely when other people could do his work for him he thinks calmly. * * * * * An awkward silence fills the room and the faint mumbling and bustling from downstairs in the bar filters up to where you are standing. Gods, Ruth’s laugh can travel through entire floors. You don’t look at Jack, turning your face to the aged window but as the seconds pass, you know that your muscles are getting tenser and your head and shoulders are starting to droop, as you believe your fears are confirmed. Eventually after what feels like a lifetime to you, Jack sighs slightly and his voice cuts through the still air as he murmurs, “Course I don’t luv.” This was not the type of response you had been hoping for although it was much more realistic to what you had envisaged. If you had not been so annoyed with him at that present time, then the thought of Jack on his knees begging and pleading for your forgiveness would have struck you as highly amusing. As you realise that this was all the response you were going to receive you look at him dark eyes narrowed and annoyance clear for all to read. “Did all those things I told you yesterday mean absolutely nothing? Am I so worthless that it doesn’t matter if you mock me?” Your voice quivers but that pink mouth presses shut, completely determined not to start shouting just yet. Jack looks up at the emotional figure in front of him and curses under his breathe. This was going to be harder to talk his way out of than he had anticipated, and he knew you were the distinguished champion aboard the Pearl’s crew members at holding grudges against people. A pleading expression is etched onto his sculptured face when he meets your eyes; his own filled with regret at his stupid comments. This only succeeds in annoying you further and your eyes narrow to tiny slits. Jack sighs again under his breathe; his booted feet clunk as they hit the wooden floor. “You know I don’t think that. It was just a slip of the tongue.” After swaying across the room to stop before you, he stands confidently, the pleading expression replaced by a smug one. Your pale hands tighten into fists as he does this so casually. Sometimes he is the most infuriating person on earth and you can’t stand talking to him. He seems to think that he had covered the topic and it was time to move on. You, however, are far from impressed. You have to take a few deep breaths to calm yourself before you do physically hit him and fire back with, “Oh so you were thinking it then.” Jack cringes, his hands flailing out in front of him and come to rest on your shoulders. Immediately you shrug him off you and shoot him a death glare that he looks very nervous at, baring an array of teeth in a wince. “Nay luv I wasn’t. Don’t be angry about this, please,” he whines, pressing his hands together in apology. You almost smirk in amused annoyance at his begging but quickly wipe the look off your face and fix him with a hard stare instead. “Well I am,” you bite back through clenched teeth. Jack grimaces at your tone and tries on another tact that happens to be badly misjudged. “Really you should take being named a whore as a compliment darling,” he drawls suggestively but hears your shriek of annoyance and feels pain explode across his cheek. You watch feeling extremely satisfied as his face snaps back after connecting with your palm and fully enjoy his pain, not feeling the slightest bit guilty. He deserved it. As you hear Jack murmur, “Not sure I deserved that,” you quickly correct him. “Aye you bloody did, you arrogant pirate,” you shriek advancing on him as he backs away from you looking very nervous. Spreading his ringed fingers out in front of him to try and stop you he drawls hurriedly, “Luv, you don’t understand what I mean, the reason I think you should be a whore is because…” the rest of his sentence is cut off as one of the glasses from the desk is suddenly hurled directly at his head, and he had to dive out of the way, some shards still managing to get caught into his tangle of dreadlocks. “Not good! Luv. Stop!” he shouts, picking up anything else you could use to disarray his body and scurrying across the room arms flailing. You growl at him, advancing again but stop instantly as the door flies open from behind, smashing against the wall. You turn swiftly to see who it is, afraid someone had overheard your talk about the map. After having rushed upstairs at the sounds of shouting and smashing glass to check your welfare, Ben snorts as he surveys the scene. There is the shattered glass that he had heard on the floor, by one wall and scattered furniture across the room that Jack had obviously used as obstacles between you and him. He is very glad to see that you are unharmed, standing in the middle of the room with your fists clenched and eyes widened with a slight flush on your face. It was the image of Jack, however, that had made him laugh. The pirate had jumped onto the middle of the bed, one palm outstretched to catch anything else thrown at him and the other clutching two drinking glasses, one small glass dish and a long blue vase that would have been your next weapons. He also spots the glimmer of glass in his hair and guesses the smashed glass had been aimed at him. Go Girl! He thought to himself. You glare at Ben for interrupting and he also starts to look slightly nervous shutting the door with a hurried “I’ll give you one minute.” Jack stares at you bewildered. Aye, he knew that you had a temper, but he had never seen you this wound up. He must have really annoyed you this time, as it was rare that you shouted, let alone threw things. That was unheard of. In the moment of silence that fills the room after Ben’s departure, he decides to get to you before you find anything else to shout at. He jumps off the bed and strides over to where you are standing and grabs both of your wrists before they can do him anymore damage drawling, “I’m really sorry, Maddy.” You had been fully prepared to make up for lost time with Ben’s interruption, and start shouting again if only for the amusement of watching Jack get so worried but the apology stopped your thoughts completely. Of course the priceless image of him quivering on the bed would stay in your mind for a while! Jack never apologised like this. Looking into his eyes you nod, accepting his words but are ready to launch at him if he says anything remotely sarcastic. Jack smiles to himself, releasing one of your wrists to rub his throbbing checks and frowns at your grin. “That was a low move missy,” he says, pointing one forefinger at you. “Aye, but you should have known when to stop,” you quickly reply, a growing grin on your face. He fixes you with a ‘yes I realise that now’ look that causes the grin to widen but suddenly his face goes solemn, making you look at him suspiciously. “What?” you ask him curiously through shuttered eyes. Jack’s behaviour had been really odd today. “I didn’t realise that those topics were so important to you, darling. I should have known,” he says quietly, pushing your fallen hair off your face and watches your eyes. You look away at the floor feeling mixed up again. A minute ago Jack was taunting you about your past life, and now he had apologised to you. When does Captain Jack Sparrow ever apologise? Glancing back up again, you smirk lifting your hand to his arm. “I think you can put the weapons down now Jack,” you quip. Jack watches you suspiciously “No more glass throwing at my head? Because I know lots of women who would not want this face marred.” You roll your eyes at his ego but pull one of the glasses and the vase out of his grip, placing them on the desk and gesturing he should do the same. He turns and one arm, slides around your waist to turn your body so that you are facing him. Knowing exactly where he is going, you keep your eyes on the floor. One thing was for certain though; you would not be getting intimate with him just yet with all these cursed mixed emotions running through you. Jack’s gaze still burns onto your face but your eyes have suddenly caught sight of the uneven floorboards at the base of the bed and you grin. You can’t resist running one hand across his chest as you depart, smirking as you feel his breathing hitch. Once kneeling you pull the small dagger from your belt and prise up the tough boards pleased at what you find inside. Jack notices the door opening cautiously and remembers Ben was giving them a minute. “Come in, mate,” he calls smirking. “The hellcat seems to have cooled off now.” “I do hope that wasn’t aimed at me, Captain,” you quip back over your shoulder at Ben as you pull your outer clothes back on. “Because I could add to the glass in your hair.” “I’m sorry to interrupt,” Ben says hesitantly, but you wave away his excuses. “But there is someone down in the bar demanding to see a Captain Jack Sparrow. And of course I wanted to check you were alright,” he says fixing eyes with you making you smile. Jack looked at him with interest one hand waving in the air and you pause, leaning against the bed and pocketing your riddle quickly. “Now who’s that I wonder?” he asks Ben simply. Ben gulped slightly looking nervously at you. “She’s about this high,” he said indicating at about his shoulder “with blonde wavy hair and was in the bar earlier.” You close your eyes for a moment as Jack declares, “Jessica,” and tells Ben he will be down to see her in a moment. Opening your eyes again you catch Ben’s look of sympathy towards you as he leaves but fix Jack with an annoyed stare. “You’re going to go and see her?” You demand. “Aye,” he says simply “I’m going to see if she remembers her half sister so luv you’re coming with.” You groan as he grips your arm tightly “Jack I do not want you to waste your breath on that conniving woman,” you grind out, digging in your heels to halt progress. A smirk fills Jack’s face for a moment. “You’re not… jealous are you, Maddy?” he asks, amused. “Of course I’m not!” you declare insulted, and Jack rolls his eyes. Your mouth vanishes into a tight line and you grab his wrist, pulling him along behind you as you quip sarcastically, “Like I’d be jealous of her. Come on, Captain, my sister’s waiting for you.” * * * * * A/N: Thank you to Gabrielle aka cra8zee4rum for being my beta- cheers lass! Everyone please read and review so I can see what you think of Jack being slapped (again)! |