My heart gained speed like a cannonball emerging from its cannon, and I laughed. After years and years of watching the same movie, I still reacted to each moment like a newbie, and the soundtrack caused my heart to swell. I knew no other movie would ever surpass Pirates in my mind.
As the credits closed, so did my eyes. I was off to my pre-established Pirates of the Caribbean dream world. It had been far too long.
My eyes flickered, allowing shreds of sunbaked light to interrupt my slumber.
"Idun wanna goto workma!onemorehour," I slurred as I rolled onto my stomach. I covered my eyes with the sleeve of my gallatic footsie pajamas.
Unlike a normal day, my mother did not meet my complaining with a suggestion that I "just get the hell out of bed" or that I "should let the puppy out". No, on this day, I was met with a muffled laughter and a strong scent of booze.
"Wha' the hell are you talkin' about, Am?" came the thick, familiar voice.
I flipped over immediately- stunned. I could not move my lips. I could not form words. His kohl-lined eyes met mine.
I could feel him analyzing my maturity. I was much older since our last meeting. My hair was braided back in a way inspired by his. Two pieces were taken from the front and twisted into complex knots, and the rest was free. I felt as though I were being judged.
I blinked twice. There was no way that I had returned. It wasn't possible. I hadn't so much as spoken to Jo in three years! I didn't even know how I would go about contacting Jo. The internet had become the home of my Potter friends… not of my writing friends.
I finally mustered up one single syllable, "… Jack?"
He exploded into a bout of laughter, shaking the bed with his intensity. I had missed his personality, yes… but, what was going on? How did I get back on the Pearl… in Jack's bed? Why was I here?
Jack reached out and awkwardly patted me on the shoulder. His sheets were rough. Obviously, they had yet to discover my beloved fleece fabric… and, thus, had no snuggies! Only I would think to notice this, but- it is pivotal to note such things.
"…this is weird, Jack. How… did I get here?" I whispered almost inaudibly.
He didn't respond. Pirates never learn how to comfort others.
I began to sob. I wasn't sad; I wasn't angry. I was confused.
I had grown familiar with my real world. In the real world, better things had evolved. My life had improved, and I had forgotten my fantasies. I had the best of friends, the best of music, and the best of life. The ship was always my dream's setting, but now it wasn't as appealing. I didn't know why.
The Captain wrapped his arm around my shoulder in a way similar to that of my real-life best friend, David.
"You see, Ams… I 'ave no idea."
I inhaled once. I laughed two short giggles. Then, I continued sobbing. If Jack hugs were similar to David hugs… things had changed.