Disclaimer: I own nothing except Jessie, Christina and her babies, and an unhealthy desire for Tarrant Hightopp naked…wait…did I just say that?
Authors Note: Well this took a long LONG time to get posted didn't it? I'm sorry for that. But its a LONG LONG chapter. In the interim it looks like I got some more fave stories and story alerts as well as reviews. Thanks to all of you!!!
Also special thanks to my dear first ever beta Christina. She lets me throw ideas and chapters at her which is nice. Plus she loves Scottish men, and really who doesn't. As a thank you I have dubbed my newly new character after her. I think you'll like her as bunny.
Please review and let me know what you think of this chapter. There's naughty and nice here…and KiltKink as promised. Enjoy the happy times now boys and girls, because not so happy is on the way. (insert evil laugh)
Chapter 14
Learning
Jessie heard him singing softly behind her all the way to the Queen's home. She ignored it. And the fact that he had a surprisingly deep singing voice that happened to be discussing his being a teapot and where his spout was. She kept walking, not turning around and grateful that she actually remembered the way.
When they got there the guards let them into the main entry hall once more. At this point Jessie realized she didn't know where the courtyard was.
Tarrant came up beside her as she stood next to one of the more subdued tapestries adorning the walls, a smirk on his lips. "Well lass, I thought you were leading the way here." He received a glare for his trouble and had to fight back laughter at the combination of irritation and uncertainty on her face.
"Yes but you're the teacher." She said by way of response, blue eyes glinting. The first thing she'd said to him in nearly an hour.
"Aye, that I am." He said. "Follow me." He motioned with his head toward a hallway that was opposite the direction of the dining room. Tarrant started walking, glancing out of the corner of his eye to see that she was coming along. She was, but he could tell she was still angry with him.
The hallway had doors running along either side and more crystals ensconced in holders to illuminate the darkened recesses. It seemed unnaturally silent, and Jessie remembered the Queen had said she'd make sure that no one disturbed them.
At the end of the hallway was a set of large double doors. The Hatter leaned his sword against the wall and threw them open with a theatrical air that made Jessie roll her eyes and almost laugh. She felt the need to be petulant and wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of thinking she was having any fun whatsoever. So she bit her tongue. The cute theatrics were not going to win her over. She refused.
Tarrant grabbed his weapon and strolled purposefully through the doorway. "Ah here we are then…" She heard him say.
Jessie cautiously walked through and looked about herself in shock. It was a wide stone floored courtyard, with one half taken up by grass (which was surprising since they were underground.) There was a covered area on the right hand side with a shelf that held various weapons and two large metal chests. Standing next to this were two stick figure dummies that were no doubt used for combat training as they looked rather care worn.
There was a wooden table with two benches in a corner. Jessie saw someone had placed a large pitcher and along with glasses in the middle of it. The entire courtyard was lit as bright as day from the numerous crystals scattered along the walls and the arching stone ceiling overheard.
The Hatter had gone directly over to the weapons area, placing his claymore lovingly into its rightful spot on the wall. He then turned, humming to himself, and started rummaging about for something.
Jessie was watching him warily. Now that she was here she was starting to feel intimidated again. No no no…that wouldn't do. She had to stay angry; she wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of seeing her scared about this. Me Jane, you Tarzan…yes. Wait, that wasn't right either. She jumped when the Hatter appeared next to her holding a wooden sword in each hand.
"Sorry dear heart, I didn't mean to startle you." He said softly and then glanced about. "It is quite the lovely setting though isn't it?"
Jessie raised a skeptical brow, still determined to not be won over by him. "Yes such a nice place to learn how to kill someone."
Tarrant frowned. "Is that what you see this as?"
Jess saw the hurt in his green eyes. It chipped away at her forced icy demeanor. God she was a pushover. She sighed. "No…not really."
He narrowed his eyes at her in that way he had of making her feel like a child. "Good because it isn't." He held out one of the swords to her. "Here, take off the one you're wearing. You'll be using this one for right now."
Jessie took the faux weapon and walked over to the table to remove her very real one. She placed it carefully on the scarred top and turned to see Tarrant taking some swipes in the air with his wooden sword. He was incredibly graceful and very very fast. Her eyes widened.
The Hatter saw her watching him. The need to show off just a bit for his lady was overwhelming, knowing she was a captive audience. "You see my lovely student, sword play and the art of fighting are just that…an art." He parried, thrust, and twirled effortlessly. "Think of it as a dance and the weapon your partner."
Here Tarrant took off at a short run, feet carrying him very briefly up along the wall, only to push himself off, flip, and land only a few feet in front of her sword held steady in his hand ready to strike, hat still firmly on his head. "When you find your perfect partner the dance is easy." His voice was low, a double meaning obvious in his words. His eyes stared into hers which had grown quite large. Tarrant had heard the little gasp of surprise come from her throat and noticed her breathing was also faster. He held back a grin.
Jessie managed to speak with a bit of effort. "You…you don't expect me to do that do you?"
The Hatter laughed, flipping his sword in the air and catching it deftly with his other hand. "Not yet sweet Jessie. First the basics. This is a sword." He held it up straight, a twinkle in his eye.
Jessie gave him a withering stare. "Really? I thought it was a noodle."
"Use of food as a weapon is really more of Thackery's forte." He replied in all seriousness. Then he grinned at her "But I would hope you'd know the difference between linguini and a lance."
She shook her head at him, barely keeping the grin from her face. He wasn't going to charm her…nope…not happening. "So what do we do first?" She asked.
The Hatter gestured for her to hold up the sword in her hand. "First let's see how you hold your weapon."
Jessie held the sword in front of her with a single hand hoping she had the stance correct. Tarrant peered at her closely, walking around her in a circle. "That's good, but not perfect." His fingers wrapped around her wrist as he stood close to her. "Loosen your grip just a tad with your legs further apart. Balance is key."
She did as he said, ignoring the tingle along her skin at his touch. "How's this?" She asked him.
Tarrant nodded, fingers sliding back along her arm more than necessary when he released his grip. "Perfect." He nodded. "The trick is to keep hold of the blade while keeping your grip loose enough to allow fluidity in your movements. If you hold the blade too tightly and you come to blows, the first strike to your sword by your enemy will feel like your arm just got caught in the Bandersnatch's jaw."
Jessie glanced up at him. "Why do I want to do this again?"
The Hatter sighed, looking heavenward as if asking why it had to be this was so difficult to understand. "Because you are the champion of Underland, we're fighting the unspeakable evil that has kept us apart, we need to stop the desecration of my world, and you look like a vision in that armor." Before she could say anything he kissed her on the cheek and moved to stand in front of her. "Any other questions?"
She glared at him. "Cocky little bastard." She thought to herself. "Not yet, I think that covered everything." Jessie replied.
"Splendid." He raised his sword. "So let's try a few sparring moves shall we?"
Jessie raised her own cautiously. She saw the corner of his mouth lift up in a tiny smirk. Her eyes narrowed. She had a feeling he wasn't going to be very forgiving himself. She mentally went through every sword fight she'd ever watched on film. She was so, so screwed.
His sword rapped against hers making Jessie jump just a bit. "Pay attention." He said, voice stern…which was just strange to hear coming from him. "The key is not to watch your opponent's sword, but their eyes."
She looked at him questioningly. "Their eyes?"
Tarrant nodded. "The sword can lie, but the eyes cannot. The eyes tell you where that next blow or thrust will be aimed. The difficult part is learning how to watch both, because you do still have a deadly piece of pointed metal sticking out towards you which the wielder very much wants to plunge into your person."
Jessie nodded in understanding. She had no idea if she'd be able to learn the skill he'd just described, but there was no denying the fact that if someone had a large weapon that they wanted to stab you with, you wanted to avoid it.
"Let's begin." He said and gave her a brief salute with his weapon and then went into a defensive stance which she quickly realized she should copy.
He lowered his gaze, narrowing his eyes and studying her. Tarrant could tell she was nervous and anxious about this. But she was here and willing to learn which was an improvement. There was also still that hint of anger and annoyance simmering within her. He watched her for a second and then another. If he took it easy on her she'd know it, he had no doubt. That would cause two problems. She'd most likely resent him for it and that would add to her anger. He didn't want her angry at him for much longer. It would serve its purpose, but it was bothersome and causing him quite a bit of pain inside.
The other was she'd not learn as she should. It would not help bring back the lost memories of her training and all her skills hiding just beneath the surface. He needed her to remember. So the Hatter decided that the only way this would do any good is if he held nothing back. He's start slow, but he wouldn't coddle her, no matter how much the desire to do so raged within him. Tarrant would be careful, but he'd be precise and determined. She would remember and she would be able to defend herself.
He moved and it was like a cobra strike. Jessie barely had time to block the swing, and when she did the vibration ripped up her arm and straight into her brain. She had a second to think just how much worse this would be when it was actual metal in her hand when he swung again.
Another block, this time barely catching his sword. Jessie took a step back, wondering when she'd ever have a chance to actually try and swing at him if she had to keep doing this over and over.
"Good…but you're not letting instinct take over." He said advancing. "It's a dance, you have to feel as well as hear and see."
He swung twice; different angles of attack and Jessie felt the muscles in her arm cry out at what she was doing. This wasn't good because they had just started, and she guessed by the look in his eye Tarrant wasn't one for breaks.
Within the next minute and a half he'd let loose on her with a series of swings and thrusts that she'd managed to block but not once had she been given the chance to attack him back. She was already starting to sweat and her arm was killing her. But Jessie kept blocking, willing herself not to listen to the screaming of her muscles. She kept up but only just, amazed that she'd gotten this far.
Half an hour later and Tarrant kept up a litany of hints and warnings as he continued with the volley of attack. He was a madman right? And the old line of "madmen have great strength" kept repeating in her head. He could probably keep this up all day. Damn him, he knew she was new to this, why was he so hell bent on wailing on her?
The Hatter kept swinging. Jessie knew she couldn't keep this up much more. Tarrant's weapon came down hard, she blocked it but the force was too much and her strength left her. Jessie's wooden sword flew from her hand and hit the ground. Within the next instant her feet were out from under her. She fell back on the ground hard, the wind knocked out of her, and when she glanced up her eyes were looking right into the point of a sword.
Tarrant stared down at her from behind that sword which was only an inch from her throat. "You doubt you die. I told you that." His voice growled out, lips thin in displeasure.
Jessie glared back up at him. "And I told you that I've never fought with a sword before you ass." It wasn't the most eloquent response but it got the point across.
His brows narrowed, and a trace of red leaked into his gaze. "You're naught taking this seriously…"
Jessie's eyes turned to slits, the blue a midnight shade. "I kept you at bay that entire time you jerk. I think that's pretty damn serious."
"And I just killed you, you wee idiot." He snarled back, sword point unwavering. "I'd say tha's far more serious."
That did it. Jessie had been called an idiot enough over the last many years, and the fact that something she'd done that was pretty amazing, at least in her eyes, was once again being tossed aside as nothing pissed her off. So she did what she should have done a long time ago, she fought back.
She kicked her leg out and swiped his left leg out from under him, and while he was falling backwards she rolled over and grabbed her wooden sword from where it had fallen on the ground. Tarrant landed on his back, and the moment he hit ground she struck his sword with hers, knocking the blade out of his grasp. In the next instant she had him pinned , sitting on his legs with her sword now pointing at him in the exact same spot his had been only a few seconds before.
Jessie stared down into the Hatter's surprised face, panting but grinning at the expression he wore. Her blue eyes were shining. She managed to catch her breath, "You were saying..." She asked him, still trying to figure out how his hat was still on his head.
Tarrant looked up at her, his Jessie ready to deal him a death blow with a light in her eyes and a smile on her pretty lips. It wouldn't be a bad way to go he thought. He was acutely aware of two things. One, she was on top of him, which considering the circumstances shouldn't have been as enticing as it was. But oh it was very enticing. And two, she'd just completed a move that no novice should have ever been able to do.
"Tha's my girl." He purred, eyes mixing swirls of crimson and green. His hands went to rest on her hips, not able to help himself. He quickly pulled her further up till her hips straddled his own, the only bad thing being the sword she still held was now pressing against his throat.
"Oh no you don't." She told him, suddenly aware of what he'd just done and where she now sat. She went to pull away but he held her tight. "You're best course of action here is to let me go Tarrant. I've got the weapon if you forgot."
He smiled wickedly, raising his hips off the ground just a bit and pressing against her. She made noise in her throat that sounded like a choked moan. "Oh aye lass, I donnae forget who has the weapon here." He said, voice heavy.
Oh lord…Jessie bit her lip, forcing herself not to give into this because she knew exactly what he was doing. He was still a jerk, and she wasn't going to be distracted by the way his fingers were sliding beneath her shirt. "Hey…you are not allowed to do that." She poked him with the sword, garnering a red tinged glare. "You wouldn't do that to a Swine would you?" She tried to pull away again and he held her firmly to where she sat.
"No I bloody well wouldn't. And never ye be sayin such a thing again." He looked slightly sick at even the thought.
"Then stop that. Let me go. Anyway you're dead…" She told him poking him in the chest with the sword.
Tarrant had had enough of being treated like a pin cushion as well as her refusals. He gave her backside a pinch distracting her. Then with the same speed and deftness he'd shown throughout the training he had the sword out of her hand and tossed away and their positions reversed in the next heartbeat. He'd even managed to remove his hat, having it placed next to them safely on the grass.
"Aye, I was dead lass." He told her, as she stared up at him. He could see the anger burning next to something else in her gaze as he found himself quite secure between her cotton covered legs. "And then ye came back to me, all fire and warmth once more."
With the hat removed and his wild hair tamed back he was even more striking. His cheek bones, already made from the stuff of legend, looked even more flawless and defined. His lips were the color of berries and also completely perfect. Damn him…he knew she was angry and this was his way out of it.
"I am not your lass." She struggled but unfortunately all it did was cause her hips to move against his, along with other parts of his anatomy. She tried not to moan as she watched his eyes flicker closed.
His hands shot out and grabbed her wrists, holding them down. When his eyes opened they were completely ruby red. "Yes ye are." He growled, the sound darker than even when he'd pulled her aside in the street. "Tis a plain and simple fact, and one that I donae like to hear ye deny. No do I like hearing ye refuse it or me, nor you fighting what you really feel." He leaned his face close to hers, and then pressed against her once more.
Jessie felt all of him, felt every word reverberating through her muddled brain. "I'm….mad…at you…" She managed to say.
As if realizing a different tactic might work, his attitude changed as did his accent. His Outlandish side making way for the gentler version of himself "Forgive me sweet Jessie…" He kissed her chin, trailing his lips along her jaw. "I know I was rude…a true beast…" He nipped at her skin, the purring brogue slipping back into his apology. "But trust me when I say…" Here he licked her ear and she shivered wonderfully beneath him. "I had to stoke the fire within you…" His voice dipped down while his teeth clamped on the tender flesh he'd just licked.
"I hate you…" She gasped out, feeling like a weakling.
"Liar." He replied, and then pulled back from her ear to gaze down into her face. He grinned. "Ye shouldna do tha lass. Tis not like a lady ta lie."
"I'm not a lady." She tried to pull away from his grip on her wrists. He was so pleased with himself. God it was annoying.
"Oh yes ye are love." He leaned back down, lips hovering near hers. "Every inch o' ye." He kissed her, taking her mouth with his own. Her lips were warm, but she kept them closed, trying to deny him even that. But Tarrant wasn't going to be dissuaded by her stubborn nature. It was part of why he loved her. And so he went to war, licking and nibbling her lower lip.
He felt her squirm beneath him, causing her body to move and press even tighter against his own. The sensation was exquisite torture, torture that would work both ways and to his advantage he knew.
But the denial still stung him, he couldn't help it. It stung even though part of him knew he deserved it. "Jessie…be mine once more." He whispered against her cheek, the words spoken not in the rough brogue but softly delicate, almost like a prayer.
She heard him, felt the request brush against her skin like a caress. And Jessie knew she couldn't fight him anymore. She caved under the onslaught of touch and words and simply Tarrant. He must have known when he won because he released her hands, his own quickly moving to the latches of her armor. He had it off her in less than five seconds, sliding it up and over her head and placing it beside his hat. "You designed that too?" She managed to ask before he had her pressed fully back down on the grass.
He didn't answer, instead kissing her again, this time relishing her mouth as it opened to him. She was his. His fingers ran along the smooth cotton of her shirt, tracing each curve. Her skin was hot through the fabric, flushed from the sparring and now from his touch.
"Tarrant…" She inquired as his mouth moved down her chin. He worked away at the buttons in his way revealing more of her pale flesh to his gaze.
"Yes my Jessie…" His voice was slightly breathless as he felt her fingers running along his chest.
"Is it the same here…" She let out a tiny gasp as his teeth worried the skin above her collar bone. "When it comes to wearing a kilt?" She managed to ask finally.
He lifted his gaze, his eyes twin pools of flame, lips curved into a smile that was less Cheshire Cat and more wicked devil. "Is what the same lass?" He inquired, one red brow lifting.
Jessie felt a streak of boldness rush through her. She reached down, stretching her fingertips between the two of them and let them glide along the front of the soft tartan fabric. Every hard inch of him was discernable. It was obvious that a stitch of clothing other than the kilt was keeping him from her touch. Her gaze had followed her fingers, so she didn't see the nearly painful expression of lust on his face, the way his eyes had closed to try and hold onto what bit of control he had. But she heard the strangled growl that came from him.
"I guess it is true…" She said having to remember to breathe, looking back up to find the skin around his eyes had gone nearly black.
"Do…do naught…" He swallowed, managing to hold on to a semblance of rational thought. "Do naught do that again…unless ye are ready for the consequence…" He opened his eyes at last, and Jessie was trapped in their glowing embers.
That boldness hadn't left her yet though. At his warning she raised her own eyebrow daringly. "Maybe I am ready…" She told him and then pushed herself up on her palms making him have to move backwards until he was sitting on the ground. Jessie had her own wicked smile gracing her lips as she straddled his lap, her arms around his neck.
"Are ye now?" He asked her, his breath catching in his throat at the look in her eye. The blue was nearly solid, dark and beautiful. The weight of her pressing against him was driving him well…mad. Then he felt her soft fingers running up the edge of his kilt, then beneath it along his thigh. It was the barest fleeting touch of her skin against his, then the slight racking of her nails. His head fell back and he groaned. His arms tightened around her waist. "Jessie…" He could barely speak.
This was nearly as nice as what he'd done to her in the cabin, Jessie thought. She'd never felt in control before, and here she was making him tremble. It was causing her to shudder too, in the most delightfully naughty ways. Her fingers trailed higher, until at last finding the juncture of his legs and the hard length of him that waited there for her. Good lord he was warm, nearly burning. As her finger tips trailed along him she felt him shake, his entire body going tense and the arms that held her became vice like.
"Tarrant…" She said his name against his ear, her breath hot and damp while her fingers curled around him. She felt him jerk in her hand and heard a sound like a whimper come from his lips.
She smiled, her fingers stroking with the barest touch. "Do you know why love is like both life and death?" She asked. Why she wanted to hear him answer this strange riddle that came to her mind, she hadn't a clue. But the need tore at her.
"Yesss…." He responded through teeth that were clenched.
"Tell me…" She prodded, tightening her grip just a little more and being rewarded with a low moan.
The pleasure was nearly painful. But she had asked him to answer a riddle…a riddle he'd asked her a lifetime ago. Somewhere in his lust filled brain Tarrant realized she was remembering more. "Because…oh….please….when you have it…you realize you are truly alive…gods yes….and when you lose it… when you lose it you feel as though you have died… Jessie....please…" His voice was completely the Hatter now, soft and lisping, the Outlandish gone, that madness lost to this one that Jessie controlled. Tarrant was completely at her mercy. He'd do anything…anything…
Jessie kissed him gently, letting her lips brush his once and then again. His fingers which had been grasping fistfuls of her shirt were now twining in her hair holding her in place so he could at least kiss her back. He needed to taste her, he wanted more…more of her. He needed to be surrounded by her and she nearly had him to the brink of even the slight hold of sanity he had left. If she didn't allow him to have her in the next few seconds he'd go completely mad. Tarrant just knew that to be the case; he'd go round the bend never to return.
"My Hatter…" Jessie whispered, burying her face in his neck, inhaling the nearly overpowering scent of cloves and Chai that came from his skin. She pressed feather light kisses along his pulse which was beating very fast now. Her fingers moved once more, one last caress. Then both hands moved to his shoulders pulling him towards her while she lay back on the grass. Tarrant required no more of an invitation. He had her leggings pulled down within a moment and was inside her the next.
There was no hesitation, just pure instinct as he took her. It was rough and wild and perfect. Both of them grasped at the other, nearly screaming, nearly crying from the pure bliss of being one again. Tarrant wondered far back in his mind if he was hurting her, but he couldn't stop himself if he wanted to. His only goal was to bury himself as deeply as he could inside her heat, surround himself, and lose himself to her. Each thrust was one step closer to that goal.
Jessie simply held on, closing her eyes as the lights danced once again inside her mind. Blues and greens, reds and yellows, it was so beautiful, and with each movement Tarrant caused them to get brighter, the ripples of heat to grow hotter. Everything was on fire, the lights burning her inside and out. Her fingers curled into his hair again bringing his face to hers, mouths crashing together. More heat then, spreading out from his lips to hers, further joining the rest of the inferno till finally the lights burned so bright she could only cry out and hold him tighter
Tarrant's release came nearly at the same instant. The lights had been so bright…so very bright…he'd been afraid he'd go blind from them. But they were so lovely, and just another part of the sweet pleasure his Jessie gave to him. With this thought The Hatter's mind settled back to a semblance of order. He realized he was still on top of her, his face buried in the softness of her hair. He also realized he didn't know how long he'd been lying like that. She wasn't getting up nor asking him to. Oh lord had he really hurt her?
"J…Jessie?" He spoke, afraid to move and yet knowing he should.
"mmmph…" Came a reply, and he felt a slight movement of lips near his collar.
He lifted his head, looking down at her flushed face. Her red hair had a few blades of grass sticking out from the fiery locks and her eyes were still closed. "I…I didn't hurt you did I?" He asked, voice shaking just a bit. With trembling fingers he brushed her hair from her forehead.
She opened her eyes and looked up at him, a smile pulling at her slightly swollen lips. "Tarrant, I'm so far from hurt right now…well…I don't think my legs will work right away…but yes I'm fine."
"Oh…thank goodness. I was worried. I…you…I don't know what came over me. Actually I think I do…" He lifted himself up on his elbows so his weight wasn't crushing her, but he still found the thought of not being near her right then dreadful. "You…you are a naughty thing…" He smiled, shaking his head just a bit. "You bewitched me I believe. Cast a spell on me, a poor defenseless Hatter."
Jessie laughed reaching up touching his cheek. He was blushing too. "You're hardly defenseless. And I'm not the only naughty party here. I will not take all the blame for this."
He placed a kiss against her wrist. "My Jessie we will share the blame." He peered at her closely, noting the lovely shade of ocean blue her eyes held. Then a clock chimed from somewhere and Tarrant realized how late it had gotten. "Oh my, its nearly dinner time." He said aloud.
Jessie looked surprised. "Really?"
"Yes, yes indeed. And oh I forgot…I'd promised Nivens we'd dine with him and his family tonight." Tarrant realized he would have to stand up, and he wasn't quite prepared to do so.
"Oh…well…I didn't know that." Jessie realized she probably looked a rumpled mess.
"I didn't get a chance to tell you…Oh bother…that rabbit is all about punctuality. We'll have to hurry I suppose." Tarrant would have much rather stayed right where he was. But he had promised. And it would be good to see McTwisp's wife and little ones again.
"I think we'll have just enough time to get ourselves presentable." He told her, hopefully, then in all seriousness asked. "Do you think you can walk?"
Jessie couldn't help it. She laughed. "Tarrant, from any other man I'm guessing that would sound like a boast."
His green eyes were confused. "Why would a man boast about causing paralysis in his beloved?"
Still smiling, Jessie lifted her head. She kissed his frowning pink lips. "Never mind, I guess this means you need to get off of me."
"Yes…you're right." Tarrant got to his feet; turning and adjusting his clothing quickly back into order.
Jessie did the same, pulling her leggings up and buttoning her shirt. She wondered vaguely if Tarrant made sure to make all of her clothes just so they'd have ease of access when times like these arose. After the sight of the lingerie drawer, she doubted nothing when it came to his devious, crafty side.
When she sat up she realized she would be a bit sore. This time had been a far more vigorous experience…and for some reason that thought made her want to giggle. Jess shook her head, and looked up to find the Hatter now less disheveled and his hat firmly on his head.
He held out a hand rather formally and she took it. He actually looked bashful, and Jessie…even though she felt a bit like a harlot herself after what she'd done to him, could relate. She just wasn't used to doing these types of things and feeling like this. Ronny had been so…cold. It had seemed perfunctory and like a task whenever they were together. But not this; cold just wasn't part of the equation when it came to the Hatter.
Jessie picked up the armor and slid it over her head, and once again managed to get it stuck. "Damn it…how do I always do this…" She muttered from inside the plate. She heard Tarrant giggling. "This isn't funny…" She said flatly, the words echoing back to her thanks to the metal.
"Here my brave girl…let me help you." Still giggling he quickly put her to rights. After the last buckle had been closed, Tarrant pulled a few stray blades of grass form her hair. "There now…you are a perfect picture again." He kissed her cheek.
"Thank you…" She told him and he gave her another quick peck.
"You are quite welcome my Jessie. Now we really must hurry…Nivens will not let me live it down if we are late." He headed back over to the covered armory and Jessie followed. She picked up her sword from the table and buckled it back around her waist while Tarrant replaced the practice weapons and retrieved his claymore and bag.
Once he was ready he offered her his arm and together they headed out of the courtyard and through the castle. Tarrant was far more pleased with the trip back, even if they were at risk of receiving the white rabbit's ire for being late. But all things considered, the Hatter thought it worth it.
When the couple arrived back at their respective doors, Tarrant pulled out his pocket watch, emerald eyes going wide. "We have exactly twenty minutes in which to make ourselves presentable."
Jessie let out a yelp. "Eek!" She unlocked the silver door of her rooms quickly. "I'll meet you back out here then." She called over her shoulder.
Tarrant realized he should learn from her example. It wouldn't do to arrive as he was at all. So with one last glance at her door, he hurried to his own and slipped inside.
Jessie somehow managed to get the blasted chest plate off without help, for which she was grateful. Then she quickly divested herself of the rest of her clothes and the arm guards. She dumped it all on her bed and then ran into the bathroom, taking a quick shower, scrubbing the grass stains away while smiling. He was a randy little thing, but then again she was becoming one too thanks in no small part to him.
After getting out of the shower she dried herself off, running to her magic closet and nearly slipping on the floor. That would have been graceful…and very anti-climactic if she broke her neck while trying to get dressed, she thought. She flung the doors open and started searching through the rack of clothes for something appropriate. What did one wear while eating dinner with rabbits? Jessie giggled crazily for a minute as that image entered her head. This was a very surreal problem.
She finally decided on a dark purple crushed velvet suit with a delicate stitch work of designs on the collar and a black lace shirt. There was once again the need to find less risqué underwear…and she finally picked some that were still a bit too much lace and not enough…well…substance. Jessie dressed as fast as she could, did a mirror check and added some lipstick and a bit of powder to her face. She checked the time and found she had a full minute to spare. "Not bad Davies…" It helped that she had a history of oversleeping and rushing to be ready in time for work.
Before she stepped out the door she looked at the hat shelf. She smiled as she perused the selection of beautiful head wear. "I think old school…" She proclaimed and chose a black satin covered pill box design that had a large single purple gem on the side, and violet stitching around the border. She pulled on her black boots and was done.
Jessie stepped out the door at exactly the same time as Tarrant. She found him to be a vision in blue, his kilt replaced with dark blue trousers that were matching the color of his coat at that moment. His hat had turned a lovely aqua marine with gold lacing on top. Even his eyes had decided to match his attire, with the skin around them shading itself a light blue as well.
When said eyes alighted on her he smiled. "You would make a lovely violet my Jessie." He moved quickly to her side and took her hand, bringing it to his lips. "I wish I had time to admire you properly."
Jessie grinned. "And you look quite the dandy yourself Mr. Hightopp."
Tarrant blushed, clearing his throat and then placing her arm through his. "We must be off. I daresay we might actually make it on time. Nivens may faint if that happens and I wouldn't want to miss it."
"Tarrant!" She popped him on the arm, as it seemed to be her favorite method of admonishing him.
Nivens McTwisp and his family lived behind a lovely green door with gold leafing. There was a knocker on the front, round and in the shape of a watch face, the hands of which formed the handle. This is the knocker Tarrant used after the very brisk walk he and Jessie had taken to arrive exactly on time.
After three raps, Tarrant came to stand by his lady love, who looked rather nervous suddenly. "What is it my sweet?" He asked her.
"I'm just wondering what dinner with a family of rabbits will be like." She replied.
Tarrant smiled. "Rather like dinner with any other family I'm sure. Christina is a wonderful cook. You are in for a treat."
At this the door opened and Jessie looked down to see a young rabbit with white and tan spotted fur wearing a blue collard shirt standing there. "Hatter!!!" The young male rabbit exclaimed grinning with large pink eyes.
"Nathanial!" Tarrant replied. "It is good to see you." He turned to Jessie. "My darling this is Nathanial McTwisp, son of our dear friend Nivens and quite the artist. Nathanial may I present Jessie, newly arrived to our fair Underland."
The young rabbit bowed, his eyes never leaving Jessie. He had an awed look about him which made her feel a bit awkward. She leaned down and held out a hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you Nathanial."
Nathanial took her hand and shook it politely. "The pleasure is all mine miss. My father has already spoken of you. Oh dear, how rude! Please come in…mother will scold me for leaving you outside so long." The rabbit moved back inside holding the door open for them.
Tarrant walked in and Jessie followed him. The scent of spices and food hit her nostrils as her eyes took in the cozy interior of the house. One wall was taken up by a collection of clocks, which made Jessie's mouth fall open and which she saw Tarrant make a "see I told you" face to.
"Nathanial, is that them dear?" A female voice called from around a corner.
"Yes mum, it's them." The rabbit replied.
"Perfect then, I can tell your father he lost the bet." A tan furred rabbit came into the room, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel and wearing a plaid skirted dress. She wasn't much taller than Nathanial, and smaller than Nivens was by nearly a third. Her eyes weren't pink but a warm hazel. She smiled up at the Hatter. "Tarrant Hightopp you cad, its been ages."
Jessie watched amused as Tarrant bent down, looking sheepish. "Christina my darling I beg your forgiveness. As you know I have been doing service in the name of the Queen."
"Yes yes…I know about being in the service of the Queen all too well." She pointed a furred finger at him. "That's still no excuse to neglect a poor woman who looks forward to chats and tea."
Tarrant bowed his head in defeat. "I cannot disagree with such a statement." He placed a hand over his heart and looked at her with eyes glowing with affection. "Will you forgive me my thoughtlessness dear lady?"
"You Outland lads…I swear…you are my weakness." She reached up and patted his pale cheek fondly. "You are forgiven." She glanced over at Jessie and her eyes grew a bit larger and brighter. "Is this her then Tarrant?"
Tarrant stood gracefully, and put an arm around Jessie's waist. "This is her. Jessie may I present to you Christina McTwisp, wife of Nivens and mother to Nathanial, Lawrence, and Juliet."
Christina took a step closer and Jessie knelt down and took her outstretched paw. "My dear it is an honor and pleasure."
"Thank you for inviting us to dinner ma'am." Jessie replied.
"Ma'am? Oh my dear no, you must call me Christina. My word, please don't make me start feeling my age." She chuckled. "Well now, Nivens is in his study of course. Tarrant you know where the table is. Please go and have a seat. Dinner is ready and I'll gather the troops." With that she hurried off to find her husband and children.
Jessie stood up and Tarrant grinned at her. "She is a ball of fire is she not?" He said taking her hand and leading her towards the dinning room. The walls were adorned with landscapes of rolling valleys, interspersed with portraits of the family. Nathanial was pictured alongside two other young rabbits, which Jessie assumed to be his sister and brother.
"She certainly is. And she certainly likes you." Jessie smiled at Tarrant.
The Hatter blushed slightly. "She's a good woman who has listened to my troubles over many a cup of tea. She's got her hands full with the raising of the little ones. She's also a craftsman with the gems from these caves." He gestured to a large cabinet that Jessie had yet to look at. There inside were breathtaking necklaces and earrings that looked as though they belonged with the crown jewels.
"Tarrant they are beautiful!" She exclaimed.
"Quite. Christina is an artist. We've joined forces on one or two creations for the queen. She has a knack for finding the most wonderful stones. Her daughter has the same luck it would seem. Juliet has her mother's eye and skill." Tarrant wrapped his arm around her waist. "But come come…I've been given orders to bring you to the table."
It turned out that the McTwisp home was a good size and the table, while made for smaller figures was actually quite comfortable for Tarrant and Jessie. They sat on cushions on the floor, and Jessie was reminded of some of the Moroccan restaurants she'd gone to back home.
Nivens arrived a minute or so later followed by Juliet, Lawrence, and Nathanial. Christina started bringing out platters of food, all of which was vegetable based in its recipe and smelled heavenly.
Conversations began as soon as the last item was sat down. Nivens started discussing matters of Underland with Tarrant. Jessie grabbed a flakey roll from the bread basket and Christina who had helped herself to a portion of Carrot and Green Bean casserole looked at her thoughtfully.
"Jessie, please tell me about your self." She prodded while pouring a cup of tea. "My husband has only shared a tiny bit, and I haven't seen dear Tarrant to ask him. He's usually my source for the local news, being in the middle of everything as he tends to be."
Jessie swallowed the delicious bite of bread and wondered just what to say. "Uhm…well…I…what do you want to know?"
Christina smiled warmly, her hazel eyes glowing. "Dearie I know the tales, I know the sorrows. Tarrant has shared them all through the years. I've not met you yet though."
Jessie gulped, realizing what she meant. She took a sip of her own tea. "You've met all the others?" She asked in a whisper.
"Most of them yes." Christina nodded sadly. "Some I didn't get the chance." She looked at her with an appraising eye. "You're a bit different though...."
Jessie's brows narrowed. "What do you mean?"
The rabbit took a bite of food and chewed it thoughtfully. "You're older for one. You've also got them eyes. They remind me of some of the rare blue stones I used for a necklace a few years back"
Her bluntness was both refreshing and head spinning. Jessie took a bite of the food she'd managed to put on her plate and was impressed. She wasn't normally one for vegetarian cuisine, but this was amazing. "Tarrant said none of the "others" had blue eyes. So I guess that makes me different."
Christina peered at her curiously. "That's not all though. You don't seem too comfortable here if you don't mind me saying."
Jessie looked down at the table, then back at her trying to hide her unease. "I…I've never been here before, I mean…Underland is not like home."
The rabbit took another bite of her food. "That's part of the difference darling. You've not remembered it all yet. But you will."
Jessie sighed, getting tired of being told she was some sort of freak amnesiac. "So I've heard." She speared a piece of food on her plate a little more forcefully than she needed to.
Christina patted her arm. "I'm sure you have. Underland is a wonderful place for prophecies and curses don't you know?"
Jessie let out a tiny laugh. "I'm learning that."
Christina offered her some more tea which she took. Jessie glanced over to see that Tarrant and Nivens were still in deep discussion.
"So Jessie," Christina started, stirring in some more sugar to her own tea. "how do you find dear Tarrant?"
Jessie raised a brow. "How do I find him?"
"What do you think of him?" Christina gave a small laugh.
"Oh…" Jessie smiled nervously. "I think he's amazing." She gave a quick glance over to the man in question then looked back to her hostess. "I…I thought at first I'd dreamed him up."
Christina laughed again. "I've heard that's a common misconception when it comes to our Hatter."
Jessie grinned. "He said that too. When I first saw him his eyes took my breath away. I was just proud my brain could create something so beautiful in a dream." She sighed and took another drink of tea then grinned. "I guess its sort of obvious that I'm smitten if I'm waxing poetic huh?"
The rabbit patted her on the hand. "You love him girl. I don't need to hear pretty words coming from your mouth to know it. Your face gives it away." She peered at her a little closer. "But its telling me something else too…you're troubled."
Jessie gulped, pushing away her plate of food. "A lot to take in isn't it?" She said forcing a laugh from her lips.
"Yes, I do believe it would be for anyone." Christina's whiskers twitched. "But you've got something else besides prophecy on your mind."
Jessie looked like she wanted to say something, but then her eyes darted quickly towards where Tarrant was sitting.
Christina nodded to herself. The poor girl had no one to talk to, and while Mirana was a lovely woman and a good Queen, she could be overwhelming at first. She took a final bite of food from her plate. "Juliet," She addressed her daughter who was busily stuffing herself with cooked cabbage. "How would you like Miss Jessie here to come with us collecting tomorrow?"
"Yesh mother!" Her daughter replied around a mouthful of vegetable, eyes going very wide and very pink.
Jessie looked surprised, and Christina gave her smile. "That is assuming you'd like to come digging about for shiny rocks. I always bring a good basket of food so you'll not be hungry."
"Oh no I'd love to come along. I just…I'm not sure if…" Wasn't she supposed to be training? She wondered to herself. And Tarrant didn't really like her going off without him.
Christina wasn't one to be dissuaded. "Tarrant Hightopp!" She called over, causing the Hatter to nearly jump from his seat.
"Yes Christina my fluffy darling?" He replied.
"Would you mind me borrowing your young miss here tomorrow?" She asked, batting her lashes prettily.
Tarrant's eyes widened. "Borrow for what exactly?" He glanced at Jessie questioningly.
"I think Christina wants me to help her and Juliet to look for gem stones." She told him with a hesitant smile.
"Exactly so," Christina replied. "I think it would be good for her actually, and I could use the extra help."
Tarrant looked nervous and Jessie could see the war of thoughts running through his brain. "Oh…but…Uhm…"
Nivens glanced over at his wife. "Christina really, you know that Miss Jessie is training now…and that Tarrant and I have a meeting tomorrow for most of the day." He gave her stern look.
Christina wasn't intimidated. She received that look half a dozen times a day. "Tarrant you know I'll keep her safe."
Tarrant was torn. This really was most distressing. Christina was his friend and he knew he could trust her, but at the same time he wouldn't be able to watch over Jessie as he knew he needed to.
"I…I…know it's just that." He looked over at Jessie and saw a trace of disappointment in her eye. She was masking it quite well. But he could see it. She wanted to go.
"Would you like to my sweet?" He asked her, hoping just a bit she'd say no.
Jessie licked her lips nervously. "Actually it might be fun. I've got no idea about what to do, but I'm guessing Christina will teach me." She looked up into his big green eyes.
Tarrant gazed back at her with a knot in his heart. He couldn't deny her, it just wasn't in him. But that didn't help his concern. He took a deep breath and with a force of will locked down the anxiety already starting to build within him. He nodded, "I'm sure she will." He replied. "You'll enjoy yourself I've no doubt."
Jessie grinned widely realizing he was giving his blessing. He smiled at her, a slightly crooked lifting of his lips, and then returned to his discussion with Nivens. The rest of the dinner went without incident. Christina served a wonderful cake that tasted of pumpkin and spices, with cream filling. Over dessert it was decided that they would meet in the center of town at nine o'clock the next morning. More tea was drunk and then it was time for Jessie and Tarrant to go.
After goodbyes from their hosts, and an unexpectedly large hug Jessie received from Juliet, they stepped outside. Tarrant was unusually quiet as they walked back, taking her arm as he normally did but keeping to himself.
Jessie figured she knew the reason for his lack of conversation. She pulled on his arm and stopped walking, causing him to turn and look at her strangely.
"Tarrant, I wanted to thank you. I know how much agreeing to let me go tomorrow means." She told him, lifting a hand to his cheek.
The Hatter took hold of her hand in his, staring down at her fingers laced with his own. "I trust…I know Christina. She'll keep you safe. Safe as can be. I…" He looked into her eyes again. "I don't want you thinking…I don't want you to be a prisoner. I just…worry…" His voice was once again soft enough to nearly be a whisper.
Jessie wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tightly. "I'm digging holes with rabbits. I can't think of anything less threatening." She muttered against his collar.
Tarrant hugged her back just as tightly. "You've obviously never seen Christina digging." He told her, sighing happily at the feeling of her being in his arms. The Hatter felt that holding her was something that should be done often, and the last few hours of visiting the McTwisp's had not allowed him to do so.
Jessie laughed and kissed his cheek, pulling back to look up into the lime green of his gaze. "Okay now you're making me reconsider…"
"Really?" He asked hopefully.
"I'm kidding." She slapped his arm.
"Oh…" His eyes looked downward, and he pouted.
"Tarrant..."
He looked back up and forced a smile. "I'm kidding."
Jessie shook her head, "You're a bad liar." She told him then leaned up and kissed him on the cheek again.
He huffed as though offended, but didn't deny the fact. The two of them set off back to their homes. They arrived a few minutes later and Jessie found herself yawning. Tarrant noticed. "It has been a long day for you my sweet." He said.
Jessie nodded. "You're right. I didn't realize it until now." She headed to her door and as she unlocked it she noticed Tarrant was looking at her uncertainly. She smiled at him. "Good night."
"Good night Jessie." His voice sounded strained to her ears.
She gave him one more curious glance then closed the door. She changed out of her clothes and into a far too sheer nightgown the color of pale roses. She really needed to introduce Tarrant to the wonders of flannel, because really, this was beyond unnecessary. Thankfully it had an equally sheer robe that matched it. With both layers on it was nearly as thick as a slip. Rolling her eyes after tying it shut, Jessie pulled back the covers on her bed.
She went into the bathroom and washed her face, brushed her teeth, and then headed back into the bedroom. As she started to crawl beneath the blankets she realized with a shock that this was the first time in three days she'd be sleeping alone without Tarrant beside her. She didn't think she liked that. As she lay there, staring up at the now darkened ceiling she found she couldn't fall asleep. Her body was tired, her arms were aching from sword fighting, and she should be unconscious. But she just couldn't do it. Minutes passed and she was still just staring at nothing, eyes wide open.
A knock at her door made her jump. Jessie slipped out of bed and stood uncertainly. She couldn't very well answer it in her nightgown, especially considering how Tarrant's taste in them ran. She walked over to the chair near the fireplace and grabbed the tartan blanket from it, and pulled it over her shoulders and wrapped it around her. Then she headed to the door, opening it cautiously.
There stood Tarrant, sans hat and wearing his dressing gown and brightly colored slippers. He looking sheepish, licking his pink lips. "Hello…" He said.
Jessie looked at him curiously. "Hello…"
He looked about, not able to meet her gaze. "I…I couldn't sleep…"
Jessie smiled at him and opened the door wider. "Come in."
He did after some strange internal debate it would appear. Jessie shut the door and walked past him. His already large eyes seemed to widen when he noticed what she was wearing.
"I think I've got some tea in here…I've not really looked." Jessie moved towards the small kitchen that was tucked into a corner.
Tarrant took a breath as though to speak and she paused, turning to face him. He tried again. "I…couldn't sleep because you weren't there…" He finally said, his cheeks flushing pink, eyes staring at the floor. If possible his voice was even softer.
"Oh…" Understanding came over her then. "Do you want to sleep here tonight?" She offered, and wondered if it was a smart idea…then remembered she hadn't been looking forward to sleeping alone either.
"I…I….only if you don't mind." He told her, eyes lighting up expectantly as they looked at her once again.
As if she could throw him out. She walked back over to him and took his hand in hers. "Come on…" She said smiling. The corners of his mouth turned up and she saw the rest of him relax as though he'd been coiled up like a spring.
When she got to the bed Jessie let go of his hand and yawning once more pulled off the tartan blanket and placed it at the foot of the mattress, then slipped under the covers gratefully. She glanced over at Tarrant who was taking off his dressing gown to show a pair of dark green satin looking pajamas underneath. The minute he laid down he pulled her into his arms and nestled himself against her, sighing contentedly.
"Tha's better." She heard him whisper, his brogue slipping into the words.
"Yes it is." Jessie agreed. She burrowed her cheek into his arm. She felt his lips kiss her shoulder. Jessie closed her eyes at last and fell asleep, her Hatter close beside her. Not long after he followed her into her dreams.