Master and Commander Drabble Words: 100 according to my word processor Title: Addiction Rating: PG Disclaimer: All characters belong to POB and his estate. -------------------------- Jack has never seen Stephen drunk before. He's seen him morose with drink or slow on laudanum; but, before now, he's never had to help his drunken friend to his cot. Stephen sobs into Jack's shoulder, all inhibitions regarding weeping gone now that there's a bottle of Jack's best brandy in him. Jack is bothered beyond what he thought was possible at this vulnerability in his friend. He must ask him: why? Against belief, Stephen answers, in a hitching, gasping moan, that all he wanted to do was to forget -- just for one night -- the forbidden desire for Jack's embrace.