Title: New
Beginnings
Author: Nancy aka CaliScrapnMom
Pairing:
James/Katherine Swann (OFC)
Rating: G...all happy
fluff
Disclaimer: all the characters, save Katherine, belong to
the mouse.
Author's Notes: From "Siren's Song"... a
'deleted scene', as it were.
"New Beginnings"
Hearing a knock, I had expected to see the frazzled husband of one of my pregnant mothers. To my utter amazement, it was Commodore Norrington with the oddest expression on his face. At first, he looked as though he might bolt. I was used to seeing him controlled and purposeful, so his state worried me a bit.
"May I help you with something?" I looked at him curiously. There was no response, although it looked as though he wanted to say something.
Nervously, and perhaps a bit too quickly he handed me some flowers while avoiding looking directly at me. He fidgeted with the brim of his hat as I looked over the bouquet. The array of Marigolds, Lavender, and Gardenias spoke gentle volumes. I was slightly amused at the clumps of dirt clinging to the roots of these fragile treasures.
"For you, it's Valentine's Day," He said finally.
I smiled appreciatively, "They are beautiful, James. Oh, I hope you do not mind me calling you that."
"Not at all Ms. Swa…Katherine," he said with his composure returning slightly, clearing his throat.
"I had forgotten it was Valentine's today, won't you join me for some tea?"I stepped back to allow him inside the door.
He politely smiled and asked hopefully, "Perhaps tomorrow? I have matters that need attending at the fort today." Then with a tip of his hat, he turned and strode down the street, his step just a little lighter than it had been earlier.
"That sounds wonderful." I glanced down at the blooms in my hand again; they seemed to agree with me. I valued the effort on his part to come away from his usual composed style, all on a moment of whimsy.
Putting the flowers in a clay pitcher, I gently caressed them into place and I felt at ease. Perhaps the fresh start that had eluded me had finally shown up on my threshold.