Chapter Eleven:
The evening before Selena and her girls had taken both Hook's and Clara's measurements than hurried off talking in hurried voices about ideas. They returned the next morning whisking Clara to the privet bath for her second bath in two days, she was not about to complain. Nima and Lissa worked tirelessly all day make her hair and skin smooth and silky washing and scrubbing away all traces of life on a pirate ship.
They slipped a silk strapless shift over her head lacing up the back. They tired her hair up so that as it dried soft ringlets would form. They cleaned, trimmed, and shaped her nails before moving to her make up as gold colors were brushed over her eyelids she began to wonder what her dress would look like. After her makeup her hair was allowed to tumble free in soft curls. Half her hair was pulled back and pinned into place. Lastly Nima placed a delicate tiara made of soft gold and pearls into her hair.
"You look so lovely Miss Clara and you're not even in your dress yet!" Lissa clapped happily.
The door clicked open and Selena stepped inside and cascade of rich golden fabric hung over her arms. "This is my best dress so far." Selena beamed beckoning Clara to stand.
Nima and Lissa helped steady her as Clara stepped into the dress. Selena pulled the gown up helping Clara slip her arms into the sleeves. The sleeves were off the shoulder and only covered the top of her arm. Translucent simmering gold fabric hung gracefully from each sleeve. Selena's hands were moved quickly as they cinched the laces of the bodice.
"Alright let's have a look." Selena led Clara in front of the mirror. Clara found no words to describe how beautiful the gown was.
The bodice itself was a work of art. Pearls lined the top and bottom of the bodice. Pearls also split the front of the bodice into three sections, a front of solid gold, and two sides of filigree design in varying shades of light to dark gold. Upon closer inspection Clara noticed the filigree design was did not consist of the normal flowers, but starfish instead. The dramatic touch was the two stands of pearls that began at the top of the middle panel meeting just below her breast a beautiful diamond hanging from them.
"Is that a real diamond?"
"James would have nothing less for his princess." Selena beamed. Selena place a pearl chocker around her neck. The chocker was made up of three strands of pearls meeting in the back. The bottom third strand hung loose in the front with a diamond tear drop mirroring the bodice of Clara's dress. "Let's not forget the shoes." Selena gilded a pair of soft gold heels onto her feet. "Now you are ready. Shall we show James?"
Clara smoothed out her golden skirt. "Alright." Clara suddenly felt very shy.
Hook stood on the bedroom admiring Selena's stitching work on his coat. For this occasion his long coat was not leather but a softer velvet. Selena had chosen to go with a black coat adorned with gold buttons, trimming, and clasps. His vest was a rich gold over a black shirt. Hook had never been big on hats with feathers in them, but the one accent feather on his gold trimmed hat fit the occasion. Selena had even made his gloves for the outfit. She had truly out done herself this time.
"James." Hook turned his head. Selena had stepped out of the privet washroom into the main room. "I present to you the pirate princess, Princess Clara." Selena stepped aside.
"I really wish you would stop calling me that." Clara walked out to join them a vision in soft gold. She truly looked like a princess who had stepped out of the pages of the stories his mother had read to him as a child. "Do I look alright?"
"I would say you look more than alright. You have rendered the captain speechless. A first I believe."
As promise a personal escort arrived to bring them to the castle. A carriage complete with a drive and two footmen were waiting for them at the Inn's entrance. Hook helped Clara up into the carriage as one of the footmen held the door. Once Hook was inside and settled the carriage made for the road joining the long line of other carriages on their way to the castle.
No story or movie could have prepared Clara for the majesty and beauty that met their eyes. Clara sat in awe as they passed through the gates to the Rose Castle. Music could be heard drifting from the castle as lights twinkled from every bush and tree. Footmen dressed in white uniforms waited at the bottom on the entryway stairs to escort guests inside. Their carriage came to a stop in front of the stairs. A footman opened the door for them. Hook climbed out first than offered his hand to Clara.
"My lord. My lady. Please continue to the top of the stairs."
Soft light emitted through the stain glass windows illuminating the stairs with a pale pink light. Two doormen opened the door bowing them in. Inside was a long entry an elegant red carpet marked the path to the ballroom. Laughter and music could be heard. Hook urged Clara forward candelabras lighting their path.
"Welcome." The man who greeted them was dressed more elaborately than the footmen and was holding an ornate staff. "May I please have your names and titles so that I may announce your arrival to the court?"
"Prince of Pirates Captain James Hook and the Lady Clara Morgenson."
"Please continue inside." The Harold turned banging his staff three times on the floor he called out into the ballroom. "HIS HIGHNESS CAPTAIN JAMES HOOK PRINCE OF PIRATES AND THE LADY CLARA MORGENSON!"
Clara giggled softly as they made their way into the ballroom. "What is so funny my lady?" Hook asked continued to guide her forward.
"His highness is the last way I ever thought to hear you being introduced."
"I blame the fish king Triton. He's the one who made me a prince in this land. Guess that's what I get for saving a king's daughter." Hook chuckled.
"Now what do we do?"
"We introduce ourselves to the king and queen."
The long red carpet that had begun in the entrance hall came to an end where the thrones sat at the far end of the ballroom. King Adam and Queen Bell sat watching over the party. Queen Bell was laughing at something King Adam had said. Clara was surprised by how normal they looked. Hook came to a halt where the carpet ended and bowed. Clara taken off guard quickly followed his lead and curtsied.
"Captain James Hook, Prince of Pirates we welcome you to our kingdom and our home." King Adam greeted with a smile.
"We are honored by your invitation and thank you for your hospitality." Hook straightened.
"And who is this lovely young lady?" Queen Bell asked.
"Your majesties it is my honor to present to you Lady Clara Morgenson, daughter of the sea."
"I am honored to meet your majesties and thank you for you hospitality." Clara curtsied once more.
"Lovely to meet you Lady Morgenson. Please enjoy yourself tonight." Queen Bell's voice and smile were warm and welcoming.
"Thank you. We shall." Hook took Clara's hand leading her back in the direction they had come. "Breath Clara."
"I didn't realize I was holding my breath. Queen Bell was very….."
"HIS ROAYL MAJESTY KING TRITON RULE OF THE SEAS!" The Harold's call echoed through the ballroom.
Clara looked up towards the entry door. King Triton proceeded down the aisle dressed elaborately in dark blues and silver, his coral crown resting on his head. Spotting Hook and Clara he waved at them as he walked forward.
"I was hoping to see you here my friend." Triton and Hook clasped hands.
"I see you decided to venture out of the water this time."
"I could hardly resist such an invitation." Triton turned his attention to Clara. "You look ravishing tonight Clara. That dress becomes you." Triton did not bother to hide his lust filled gaze. "Though I believe I still prefer you with a tail." Triton took her hand placing a gentle kiss on the back.
"Tha…thank you." Clara stammered turning red. Though she did not look at Hook she was sure he was not pleased.
"I must not keep their majesties waiting. Save a dance for me." Triton waved as he made his way towards the King and Queen.
"Shall we?" Hook held his hand. His voice controlled.
"Yes."
Hook led Clara out on to the dance floor to join the other couples laughing and smile as they enjoyed a lively waltz. "Follow my lead." His hook rested against her waist while his hand held up hers.
Before Clara knew it they were twirling around the floor with the rest. She was sure she did not look as elegant as the other ladies, but she did not care. The music took ahold of her sense as the spun round and round. Clara felt like she was dancing on clouds. As the song came to an end Hook shifted his hook behind her back supporting her with his arm than bending her back at the exact moment the song ended.
"You are an intoxication dancer Love." Hook said near her ear. Nipping her ear lobe he brought Clara upright again.
The band started another piece and Clara found herself being spun around the dance floor once more. This dance was different the pace was quicker and they changed parents on occasion. Clara was unsure of what to do at first, but she watched the other women closely and slowly began to figure out the steps. Many of the men were helpful too giving her quick instructions during their brief encounters.
"I take it this is your first ball Lady Morgenson?" One of Clara's partners asked her taking her by surprise.
"Your majesty." Her partner was King Adam. "Yes…yes it is."
"Well you are a splendid dancer for this being your first ball."
"I had an excellent teacher." Clara smiled and King Adam twirled her around.
"I can tell. May I request another dance later?"
"As your majesty wishes." Clara smiled before being whisked away as the dance continued. Finally she found herself back in Hook's arms. Clara was uncertain how many dances they participated in before she told Hook she needed some air.
Hook obliged. Leading the way to the gardens he grabbed two glasses from a waiter. Handing one to Clara they walked out into the lite gardens. They walked silently side by side nodding at other couples as they passed by. The further they walked into the gardens the few people were around until they were the only ones. Clara remembered during her high school dancing how couples would sneak away for a privet moment. Smiling to herself Clara took Hook's hand quickly pulling him into some large bushed nearby.
Hook was caught off-guard and lost his balance. Falling forward he stumbled into Clara his weight pinning her between him and a tree. Clara erupted in a fit of giggles as Hook righted himself. "What were you…" Clara cut Hook off by pulling him into a rough kiss.
Clara wrapped her arms around Hooks neck pulling him closer. Hook took one more step closer pressing her back up against the tree. His tongue slipped in between as Clara allowed him access. Clara may have caught Hook off guard, but he did not stay that way for long. As his kisses became fiercer his hand roamed to her chest. Both their breaths began to quicken. Clara's hands slipped under his vest and shirt. She began toying with his belt buckle.
Hook could hardly believe what she was doing. Did she really want him right there in the garden? They could so easily be discovered. Hook did not care he was more than willing to comply with her needs and he got his answer as she undid the buckle of his belt. Smiling into her kiss his hand left her breast to grab hold of her skirt. He felt her hand against his chest apply slight pressure. Her lips left his and went to his ear. "Catch me if you can." With one last giggle Clara slipped from his grasp and back onto the path.
"The little vixen." Hook smiled. If that was the game she wanted to play he would play, but she would be his before the night was over. Refastening his belt buckle and straightening his clothing. Hook steadied his breath preparing himself for a game of cat and mouse.
Hook re-entered the ballroom looking around for Clara. In her golden dress she was easy to spot. Hook found her back on the dance floor being led around the floor by King Triton. Clara caught his eyes a wicked come get me smile played on her lips. Falling in with the other dancer Hook danced with one partner after the other until Clara was in his grasp once more.
"Did you think you could slip away so easily?" Hook whispered into her ear his hand traveling higher than required for the dance, but not enough to be noticed.
"Possibly." Clara smiled playfully as they changed partners once more. Clara going back to Triton's embrace. Hook glared as the music ended. Clara curtsied and Triton bowed. The musicians announced they were taking a break. Clara quickly left Triton making her way into the crowd. Hook quickly followed.
Clara found herself walking along the walls. She wondered if Hook would find her, no doubt he would, but how long would it take. Clara got her answer as she passed by a darkened hallway. As she passed a hand shot out pulling her into the hallway pinning her gently to the wall. "Now you are my captive." Hook said playfully against her neck. Hook had half a mind to ripe her necklace off as it covered the sensitive spot on her neck but her refrained. In the dark of the hall just barely out of the sight of the rest of the guest Hook assaulted Clara's lips and skin with fiery kisses.
The music began again. Clara gathered her thoughts. She was not going to let him win this game just yet. "I believe I promised his majesty a dance." Clara made sure her outfit was all in place and hurried from the hallway.
The night continued on with Clara allowing him to catch her for just a few moments either during a dance or in some hidden corner, but always she would slip from his grasp. Hook would find her again dancing with Triton or another man. Triton seemed to have caught on to their game, the man was annoyingly observant. When Triton would catch Hook glaring at him Triton would lean down and place a kiss on Clara's cheek or whisper in her ear.
"Thank you to everyone for attending tonight!" King Adam stood as the last song of the night came to an end. "The Queen and I thank you for celebrating our ten year anniversary with us!" The crowd clapped and cheered as a toast was raised, slowly the guests began to disperse.
"Captain Hook sir." A royal servant approached Hook as he and Clara were heading for their carriage.
"Yes?"
"I am here to see you and the Lady to your room."
"Our room?" Hook was confused.
"You shall be staying in the palace as their majesties guests. You things have already been moved to your room. Please follow me."
The servant led Hook and Clara through the castle up to one of the towers. According to the servant the towers were kept as privet suits for honored guests. The tower room was large complete with a sitting area, large privet bath, the castle had running water Clara was impressed, and a bed that was the definition of king size. Clara's favorite part was the balcony as the tower was high enough up that she could see the ocean. After instructing them on how to summon anyone if they needed anything the servant bid them goodnight and left.
Hook closed the door thankful the man had finally left. Removing his hat, jacket, vest, boots, and glove he made his way to the balcony where Clara was enjoying the view and the night's cool breeze. Leaning against the door for a moment admiring how the moonlight illuminated her skin and the soft wind made small stands of her hair dance.
Walking up behind her he slipped his hand around her waist pulling her close to him. Clara gasped with surprise. Using his hook he tilted her chin up he kissed her softly at first his kisses growing more urgent with each passing minute. Slowly they made their way back into the room. Clara turned in his arms so that she was facing him. Now that they no longer had to look presentable Clara removed the small tie from Hook's hair burying her fingers in his soft locks.
Hook removed her necklace unceremoniously discarding the pearls on the floor. His lips left her for the sensitive place of her neck he knew would make her passion began to stir. He was rewarded with a soft moan from her lips as her hands began to work on the buttons of this shirt. Pushing the shirt off his should Hook pulled his arms out tossing the shirt aside.
Hook loved the sight of Clara in the dress Selena had made for her but he was tired of the bodices restriction. Looping his hook underneath the ties of the bodice he slowly brought his hook up tearing the laces. Clara felt the dress loosen before slowly beginning to slip from her form, she pushed the dress off. Hook quickly gave the same treatment to her silk shift. Hook stepped back Clara stood before him in only her stockings and heels she was mesmerizing.
Drawing her into his embrace once more his good hand cupped one breast massaging it in his hands. Clara moaned against his lips even more so when he took the hardened nipple between his fingers rolling and plucking. Hook's lips left hers traveling down her neck to her other breast taking it into this mouth he nipped and suck drawing loader moans and gasps from her. Clara's hands found his belt buckle and undid the belt. She removed the belt than made to untie his pants.
After a few moments he found her lips again. Walking Clara backwards she bumped into the bed. Gently she feel back on to the soft mattress. Hook removed his pants. Once more he was naked before her, but this time she did not advert her eyes or become embarrassed. Hook crawled onto the bed with her removing one heel and then the other. Next he removed her stockings his fingers very slowly tracing their way down each of her legs. Now all she wore was the ring he gave her and the tiara.
Their lips met once more, but only briefly. Hook again made his familiar path down her neck to each of her breasts, but he only lingered for a moment. He continued downward his lips and tongue dancing on her skin setting her whole body afire. When he settled between her legs Clara could not hold back from crying out in pure pleasure.
"James…please….please…" Clara called out as his lips and tongue continued their glorious assault.
Hook placed himself between her legs. "Yes?" He asked with a roguish smile.
"Please." Clara could manage no other words.
"As my princess wishes."
There would be no sleeping that night.
A/N: Wow two chapters in three days! I guess this is what happens when I get sick and need a distraction. Again I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! As always thank you to those of you who have continued to read my story and leave reviews! Thank you to those of you who have just joined the story and have left reviews as well! Thank you to those who have added my story to their favorites and are following my story! Also thank you to those who have read this story, but may not have review! As always please let me know what you thought and questions are always welcome!