Quick Author's Note: Reviewers rock, indeed! Well I've changed my
mind..........YOU ALL ROCK TIMES TWO! (gets jiggy with it)
Jack: (stares) What the hell is she doing?
PaL: Dancing with JOY! Join in, Jack, its fun!
Gallagher: That does look kind of fun......... (joins in)
Jack: (drools while watching Gallagher shake her tooshy) HELL YEAH!
Gallagher: (notices Jack's stares and smacks him over the head) Take that, you imbecile!
Jack: Don't think I deserved that!
PaL: (still dancing) No, that one you deserved. Okay everyone, I just wanted to inform you that I have put my other story on hold for now, "A Little Too Much Rum", but will continue it soon. I just want to bring Meeting His Match to a close first.
(everyone screams)
PaL: (sad sigh) I know, mates. Only a couple more chapters to go! But don't fret, poppets, for I need to wait and see how this ends first to see if I want to partake in writing a sequel or not. Your reactions count! Yesterday I went and saw PotC for the 12th time, so that filled me with lots o' joy as well. I could watch that scene of Jack Sparrow coming in all gallant-like on the sinking boat a million times. Well here you go, my wonderful readers: Enjoy Chapter 28!
~PineAppleLint~
Quote of the day:
Sticks and stones, luv. I saved your life, you saved mine, we're square.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"What do ye suppose this means, luv?" Jack asked quietly, examining the box with surprise and wonder written all over his face.
"I have no idea," I replied truthfully. I opened my mouth to ask him if he wanted to open it now but was interrupted by the loud banging on our door.
"Jack!" we heard Will exclaim from behind the wood, "The Nassau military has been informed of our whereabouts. They are right outside."
Jack lifted the heavy box and I ran to open the door.
Will looked frantic as he said, "We have to leave. Now."
"Who the hell informed them?" I asked with a frown, taking out my pistol and making sure it had enough shot and powder.
"They saw the Black Pearl at the dock and as of now they are onboard searching for the two of you."
"Those bastards 'ave set foot on me ship?" Jack said angrily, "I'll kill every last one of 'em, I will!"
Ana Maria ran in and said breathlessly, "They are downstairs."
We all froze. Elizabeth stared at me with wild eyes and bit her lip.
Will said quietly, "Is it possible that the two of you could climb out that window?" He pointed at the tiny window in the corner.
"What about the treasure?" Jack said with a scowl, "I'm not leavin' me loot behind."
I cleared my throat.
"I mean, OUR loot, savvy?" Jack added with irritation.
"There is no time," Elizabeth whispered.
"Shut yer holes, all of ye!" Ana Maria hissed.
Jack set down the box and got out his pistol, his eyes alert, his body tense and ready to strike.
"Ana Maria, how many were there?" I asked softly.
"Four of 'em, with weaponry and such," she replied and stared at the door in expectation. Sure enough, the locked doorknob began to turn and twist, someone desperately trying to get in.
"Open up!" a man shouted in a gravelly voice, "Nassau military!"
"Uh," Will said, desperately trying to think of something, "Me and a lass need some privacy!"
"Yes! Please leave us alone!" Elizabeth chimed in hoarsely.
"The lady downstairs told us a man and woman entered this room earlier tonight that fit the descriptions of Jack Sparrow and Terrence Gallagher."
"And what might they look like?" Will questioned loudly.
"Tall tan man with brown dreadlocks, kohl-rimmed eyes, and walks around like a stupid drunk."
Jack Sparrow opened his mouth to insult the officer but I clamped my hand over his lips, shushing him.
"The pirate lass has long curly black hair, grey eyes, and a pretty face."
I smiled in amusement.
"Nope, haven't seen them!" Will said in a calm manner, "Good day, gentlemen."
"Please sir, we insist that we check for security purposes........"
I couldn't take it any longer. Will was running out of ways to stall and we were trapped in this godforsaken whorehouse. I waltzed over and opened up the door to reveal one redcoat standing there with a look of shock written on his face.
"You're.......you're........" he sputtered from the surprise.
"Hello chum," I greeted, raised my pistol, and shot him in the forehead. The loud blast echoed throughout the house and I heard shouts coming from the remaining officers downstairs. The man slumped over, his hat and wig falling to the ground, his eyes glazed over.
Jack grabbed the box and ordered, "Make a run for it!"
We all ran out of the room and stepped over the body, making sure not to disturb it. Blood began to pool in the hallway, the candlelight reflecting dimly off of the deep crimson color. I took the lead, my pistol aimed in front of me.
Will and Jack were holding the box directly behind me, Elizabeth followed suit, and Ana Maria was at the back of the ensemble with her sword unsheathed.
Sure enough, two more officers began stomping up the stairs. I shot one in the leg, his agonizing yell reaching my ears told me that I didn't miss. The other dropped his weapon in fear and stared at me as I aimed my smoking pistol at him.
"Terrence Gallagher," he said with a whisper, "Please spare me."
I stared at the man with a frown. He looked like he was in his mid- thirties, an experienced man, and here he was groveling.
"Ye disgust me," I said, "But how about we make ourselves a little deal, aye?"
"And what do ye have in mind?" he asked in a shaky voice.
"I think we should shoot him," Jack said gleefully but I shot him a dirty look.
"Call off yer men and allow us to make ourselves a clean getaway. Do we have an accord?" I held out my hand.
The military officer stared at my hand for a moment, frightened and untrusting. Hesitantly, he took it, and we shook firmly.
"You know, my two children have read all kinds of adventure stories about you and Jack Sparrow," he informed me with a small smile.
A grin tugged at my lips but I forced my face to keep its seriousness.
Jack proclaimed, "All the tots love me!" and I elbowed him in the gut.
"Well, Captain Jack Sparrow and I have been wantin' to get out o' this hellhole and here Nassau has to try and ruin our good time."
"I don't see why.........." The officer began to say chattily but I poked my pistol to his chest, threatening him.
"Enuff small talk. Go do yer job like a good lil' soldier and ye won't get hurt."
He gulped and held up his hands, saying quietly, "I won't let you down, Miss Gallagher."
"That's CAPTAIN Gallagher," I said in annoyance.
"All right, Captain," he corrected, nodding furiously. I pointed to the stairs and he walked away, well, sprinted was more like it.
Everyone was quiet and we strained to listen to the conversation being held downstairs, but we only heard the faintest of male voices.
Finally, a door slammed, and there was silence.
"I'll go first," I whispered, "Stay here."
I walked down the stairs cautiously, pistol aimed and ready. Sure enough, the soldiers were gone and only the rouged, plump woman was left. She was fanning herself with her hand and straightening her loose brown hair.
"You! The gentlemen said you left!" she gasped when she saw me reach the bottom of the stairwell.
"A peep from ye and I will not hesitate to blow yer bloody brains out," I growled. I turned and said, "All right, the coast is clear, mates."
The four others hastily got downstairs, Jack a little slower for he was straining to keep a hold of the heavy box. Sweat dripped from his temple and his knuckles were white. Will took it off his hands and Jack grumbled, "It's about time!"
I held up the brass key to the trembling woman and a few whores walked in, stopping at the sight of us. I turned my pistol in their direction and held a finger to my lips.
One blonde wearing a revealing lavender dress spotted Sparrow and glared at him. Jack coughed and said, "Genevieve! How are ye doing, luv?"
The woman walked up to him and was about to slap him across the face when I grabbed her wrist and said softly, "Touch him and I will hurt you."
Sparrow cast me a crooked grin and held his palms together in thanks, bowing slightly. Then 'Genevieve' sneered, "Are ye his new strumpet? I'd be careful of that man, girl. He moves fast, he does. He takes you and then leaves you in the streets."
I bent close and whispered into her ear, "One: I am no whore. Two: he has already taken me. Three: he's still here, isn't he?"
She scowled at me and went back to her redhead friend and whispered into her ear. The redhead's head snapped in my direction and stared at me with wide eyes.
"What did ye say to her, luv?" Sparrow asked curiously.
"Ah, nothing," I replied, "Just had a girl to girl chat, we did. Let's go. There's nothin' more for us here."
Jack grabbed a few coins from his pouch and said to the whore women, "For yer silence, luvs. I would greatly appreciate it."
They nodded, even his old flame Genevieve. He tipped his hat to them and led the way out of the whorehouse, everyone following suit like a bloody parade.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
About a half hour later we were all comfortably back on Black Pearl. The soldiers had left, and I was thankful that the military man had kept his word. I didn't feel like killing the father of two kids.
"Where's the crew?" I asked anxiously. I wanted to get out of Nassau as fast as I could.
"Havin' themselves a good ol' time I presume. I wager we will have to guard the ship until they come back."
"And when will that be?" I said with a frown.
"At dawn."
"Dammit!" I cursed, "We have to get out of this place now!"
"The crew deserves a break," Jack argued, "We can hold our own, luv. Ye and I will be the lookouts for tonight. Will and Elizabeth are downstairs going to sleep. Ana Maria is sufferin' from a hangover."
My lips twitched and formed a smile. "She did drink like a horse, she did. Must be pretty awful."
"Last time I checked she was heavin' overboard out the window in her quarters," Jack mused with a chuckle, "That wench deserves it."
"And what has Ana Maria ever done to you?" I questioned with distaste, "Ye are hard on her."
"Ana Maria puts me through hell just for kicks," Sparrow said and examined his fingernails, then his eyes met mine before adding, "Much like ye love to do."
"How did ye meet the lass?" I said and watched him stare up at the night sky. We were sitting on top of the crow's nest, our bare feet dangling off of the edge.
Jack sighed and studied me for a second before drifting off into his memories.
"I was walkin' down the streets of Nassau one night. I was a young lad and had just gotten me pirate brand. I heard some screamin' and there was a woman being jumped in the streets by some nasty buggers." Jack paused before continuing, "So I did what I could and fought them off. I ended up killing the blokes but got shot in the crossfire in my leg. The woman took me home and cared for me."
"Ana Maria?" I asked curiously.
"No," he informed me, "She did not tell me her name, but we would talk quite often. She was an older woman though, for I could remember the grey hairs peeking through the blond ones. I stayed at her house for a week, and while I was upstairs I could hear voices coming from below. Laughter, raised voices, rowdy talking............yet she would leave the festivities from downstairs to tend to me wound. That night she took me in I had a horrible fever and was ranting and raving. I told her I was Captain Jack Sparrow, and that I was going to be the most infamous pirate of the Caribbean. 'Funny,' she said, 'there's a young woman downstairs who wants the exact same thing.'"
He gazed at the stars for a second before saying, "That same night, I awoke and saw the blurry image of a young woman tending to me. She was extremely beautiful. I asked her who she was and if she would fancy a tumble, and she told me to sod off."
He smiled and said, "After that night, the same dark skinned pirate would bring me some food and water. We talked for a bit. I tried to seduce her but she punched me in the jaw."
He massaged his jaw thoughtfully, that crooked grin returning to his face. "Ana Maria could always throw a good punch."
"So what happened next?"
"The older woman let me leave. I never did meet the other occupants of the house. That was the last time I saw the old woman, but I came across Ana Maria many years later."
"In Nassau?"
He shook his head. "Tortuga. I bought her a drink and we caught up for a while. I was currently looking for a boat, for I lost me small one in a storm. She invited me to her place and........" he stopped short and my eyes met his.
I sighed, "Ye successfully seduced her?"
Jack smiled and shrugged innocently, saying, "What can I say, luv? I'm Captain Jack Sparrow! So we had ourselves a bit o' fun and that next mornin' I left and stole her boat."
"Bet she wasn't too happy about that."
"Well unfortunately she caught up with me a few years later, for she wanted to be a part of me crew when I was going after the Pearl and that devil Barbossa. Slapped me around good, she did."
"I would too if I was in her position," I pointed out.
"Ye slap me even if there isn't a good reason!" he argued.
"True," I said with a smirk, "Ye tempt me."
"In more ways than one?" he asked, wiggling his eyebrows, flashing me those gold teeth in that wicked smile of his.
I said, "Another snide remark and I'll push ye off of the crow's nest. Now where did ye put the box?"
"In me cabin. We will open it when Will comes to take watch, savvy?"
"I wonder what Snidely left behind," I said, practically twitching in excitement.
"Hey! Ye cads!" we heard Ana Maria yell. We looked down and saw Ana Maria yelling up at us from the base of the crow's nest.
"What?" Jack shouted back, glaring at her.
"I'll take watch now," she said, still looking a bit green around the edges.
Jack climbed down and I followed, my butt practically in his face.
"I'm lovin' the view," he said mischievously. When we had about ten more steps to go, I kicked him, causing him to fly off and land on his ass with a thud.
He massaged his tailbone with a fiery look on his face. I knew I was going to pay for that later.
"Ana Maria, are ye sure? Ye don't look very good."
"I can hold me own for a while," she commented and then hiccupped, "Jus' don't be walkin' underneath the crow's nest for a while."
I got the warning and laughed melodiously. "Let's hope not."
"I'm pretty sure I'm all emptied out," she said and wiped her sweaty forehead, "Not go on, ye two. Ye look like its Christmas or somethin'. Go open yer treasure box or chest, whatever the hell that thing is."
Jack waltzed into the cabin and I followed, shutting the door and locking it with a loud click.
Sparrow had the box at the foot of the bed. He was on his knees next to it, and I took off my boots and joined him on the mattress. He took off his weathered hat and motioned towards the box, saying, "Will ye do the honors, luv?"
"I most certainly will, captain," I answered and lifted each of the rusty latches. When they were all opened, I lifted the wooden top slowly and placed it next to me.
"Holy mother o' Pearl," Sparrow whispered and I peered inside, holding a candle over it to see the loot better.
It glittered in the candlelight, reflecting the flame and causing the room to dance with color. Inside the box lay thousands of tiny rubies, diamonds, and emeralds.
I hesitantly reached in and sifted some through my fingers, examining them.
"Where did Snidely get all this?" I wondered aloud.
"That shall remain a mystery, Gallagher," Jack said quietly, shaking his head, "He was a rich man."
"Wait," I said and felt through the jewels, "There's somethin' else too.............." My fingers wrapped around a tiny box and pulled it out. It was a woman's jewelry box. Roses were intricately carved into the maple wood and I held it in my palm.
"His wife's box," I said lovingly, touching it gently, "He loved her so much." I opened it and a small portrait fluttered out onto the bed. It was a portrait of her holding a rose in her youthful age, her hair cascading down her shoulders, a pleasant smile on her face. Jack held up the picture and he studied it silently.
"What is it, Jack?" I asked.
"This........" he said, nodding towards the picture, "Was the woman who tended to me the day I got shot."
"Ye saved Mrs. Snidely from getting murdered?" I said with wide eyes. I stared at the portrait. Yes, it all came together. Those many years ago, that day when I had been eating dinner at the Snidely household. Ana Maria had told me there was a sick visitor, describing a pale young man with the handsome face. It had been Jack Sparrow. We had been in the same household those many years ago and didn't even know it.
"I was there," I said quietly, "When Mrs. Snidely was caring for ye. She never told us yer name, but Ana Maria described ye to me."
"And ye were the lass downstairs who also wanted to be the most infamous pirate in the Caribbean?"
I grinned and said, "So Mrs. Snidely remembered me grumbling that, eh?"
Jack shook his head in disbelief. "After all these years........." he murmured.
"Who would 'ave thought of us runnin' into each other?" I finished for him.
"It's a small world, luv," he informed me.
I stared into the jewelry box and realized that there were two emerald rings in there as well. I held them for a moment, watching them glitter green in the light, the silver bands twinkling, and then handed them to Sparrow.
"Why are ye givin' them to me, luv?"
"Do what ye want with them. Obviously I have no use for 'em. Yer the one with the obsession for jewelry." I wiggled my fingers to make a point. He stared at his ring-clad fingers and grinned sheepishly. He stared at the rings for a moment, and then pocketed them.
"There's somethin' else in the jewels, Gallagher," he commented and pulled the object out. It was a leather bound journal. It was dusty and Sparrow brushed it off and turned instantly to the bookmarked page. I leaned over, instantly recognizing the beautiful cursive. It was Mrs. Lillian Snidely's journal. I leaned over Sparrow's shoulder and began to read the entry with him:
I was tending to the young Sparrow this evening and he told me of his hopes and dreams. Quite a witty young fellow, that lad is. He is incredibly pale still, but he is recovering from the gunshot nicely. Jack wants to sail the seas on his very own ship and become a captain. "A helm of my own so no other bastard can touch it," he said with a grin and I had laughed for his cockiness amuses me so. Reminds me of Gallagher. Every time they stop to visit I can hear her intimidating the other crew members. Got a sharp tongue, that lass does. She used to be so meek and quiet, and now I can hear her vivid laughter and harsh cursing from across the household. Sparrow remarked how he wanted to be the most infamous pirate in the Caribbean. The ironic thing is, is that I heard Terrence mumble the exact same thing a couple of days ago. It was as if the two of them were making an oath to the sea, to their piracy. The perfect match, if I do say so myself. Unfortunately Snidely and the crew had left about an hour ago to sail to Tortuga and I was unable to get Gallagher to meet Jack. Perhaps fate will run its course. Life is full of surprises.
Lillian
Some of the ink blurred and I realized it was from my tears.
"Shit," I muttered, wiping at the paper, trying not to smudge it any further, "I miss that woman so much."
Jack closed the book gently and staring at it in bewilderment.
"How bloody insane is all of this?" I cried, jumping up from the bed, "I meet you, and here we are with a past that intertwines, a box that holds both of our emblems, and a woman that said we would meet by fate."
Jack was still shocked and couldn't speak. He shook his head and walked calmly out of the cabin, feeling shaken.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Will!" Jack said urgently, pounding on the door, "I need to speak with ye! NOW!"
Will opened the door and yawned, "What is it, Jack?"
Jack grabbed him by the collar and pulled him outside, dragging him into the mess hall and slamming the door shut.
"What's the meaning of all this?" Will said with a glare, sitting down.
"I just found out somethin' odd," Jack said, massaging his temple.
"What is it, Jack?" Will asked with concern.
So Jack poured out everything about what Gallagher and him had found that evening. When he was done, he slouched in his chair, looking defeated. Will looked surprised.
Jack was confused. Hell, he was far beyond confused. What was all of this supposed to mean anyway? Fate demanded seeing him and Gallagher together? He couldn't see himself with one lass for the rest of his life! He couldn't describe what he felt, how he felt about her. He groaned and sank farther down his chair.
"So what now, Jack?"
"What?" Jack said in a tired tone.
"You and Gallagher have fought each other off for too long. Maybe this is a sign that you are the perfect........."
"Match! I bloody know!" Jack said and jumped out of his chair, causing it to crash to the floor, "Do ye really know what I was going to do? I was going to take me share of the loot, drop Gallagher off in Port Royal with ye and go spend me riches however damn way I wanted to."
"So it's as simple as that, then?" Will said with a look of discontent, "After all you've been through, you would just leave Gallagher?"
"Mate," Jack said with an annoyed sigh, "Don't make this any harder than it already is."
"But you love Terrence, Jack," Will argued softly, "And do not deny the fact. Everyone can see it clearly whenever you speak her name."
"Pirates don't love!" Sparrow growled and slammed his fist against the table. He threw his hands up into the air in exasperation and cried, "Plus, it would be too hard to give me heart to her. It would complicate things!"
Will suddenly had a wonderful idea. He knew a way to get the truth out of Sparrow once and for all.
"You are right, Jack," Will sighed, "She would be nothing but a meddlesome whore. She would always............."
His sentence was cut short when a sword was held to his throat. Jack was staring at him with flashing eyes. Will decided to push it even further:
"Gallagher is always acting like a bitch, don't you agree? A filthy, good for nothing............"
Will dodged Jack's fist just in time. Jack threw his sword down and decided instead of cutting him up, he was going to beat the pulp out of Turner.
"Why so mad, Jack? I bet she would love to sell herself to the Port Royal locals," Will said quietly.
Jack's fist flew out and connected with Will's jaw with such force it sent him flying against the table, making a loud rattling sound. Jack lunged at him, managing to get punch him in the eye before Will kicked him off of him, sending Jack against the mess hall floor.
The door flung open and Gallagher stood in the doorway.
"What the HELL is going on here?" she shouted, staring at the two of them.
Will got off the table and stared at Jack, who was lying on his back against the floor, his thumb wiping the blood off of his split lip.
"Tell me you don't love her," Will said quietly so that only Jack could hear him.
Sparrow's eyes widened in understanding, realizing that Will had said those things just to see Jack's reaction and therefore determine his true feelings.
Elizabeth rushed in and asked Gallagher what was going on. Gallagher shook her head in confusion.
Gallagher stepped forth and offered Sparrow her hand. Everyone was silent, awaiting his reaction. When Sparrow didn't take Gallagher's hand, she frowned, a hurt look flooding her eyes. She spun around and immediately walked out of the room.
Will went and took his wife by the arm, leading Elizabeth out of the mess hall and back into their quarters, knowing Captain Jack Sparrow needed some time alone.
"What just happened?" Elizabeth asked softly, touching Will's black eye gently.
"I think Sparrow is finally realizing the truth and is shocked by it."
"And what truth is that?"
"Jack Sparrow is in love with Terrence Gallagher."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Please review, for you guys are awesome! I was determined to update today, so here I am, close to midnight, roaming the seas of FanFiction.net, excited and ready to put this chapter up. Sleepy, sleepy me! Well sweet dreams to all of you and thanks a bundle, mates. : )
Jack: (stares) What the hell is she doing?
PaL: Dancing with JOY! Join in, Jack, its fun!
Gallagher: That does look kind of fun......... (joins in)
Jack: (drools while watching Gallagher shake her tooshy) HELL YEAH!
Gallagher: (notices Jack's stares and smacks him over the head) Take that, you imbecile!
Jack: Don't think I deserved that!
PaL: (still dancing) No, that one you deserved. Okay everyone, I just wanted to inform you that I have put my other story on hold for now, "A Little Too Much Rum", but will continue it soon. I just want to bring Meeting His Match to a close first.
(everyone screams)
PaL: (sad sigh) I know, mates. Only a couple more chapters to go! But don't fret, poppets, for I need to wait and see how this ends first to see if I want to partake in writing a sequel or not. Your reactions count! Yesterday I went and saw PotC for the 12th time, so that filled me with lots o' joy as well. I could watch that scene of Jack Sparrow coming in all gallant-like on the sinking boat a million times. Well here you go, my wonderful readers: Enjoy Chapter 28!
~PineAppleLint~
Quote of the day:
Sticks and stones, luv. I saved your life, you saved mine, we're square.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"What do ye suppose this means, luv?" Jack asked quietly, examining the box with surprise and wonder written all over his face.
"I have no idea," I replied truthfully. I opened my mouth to ask him if he wanted to open it now but was interrupted by the loud banging on our door.
"Jack!" we heard Will exclaim from behind the wood, "The Nassau military has been informed of our whereabouts. They are right outside."
Jack lifted the heavy box and I ran to open the door.
Will looked frantic as he said, "We have to leave. Now."
"Who the hell informed them?" I asked with a frown, taking out my pistol and making sure it had enough shot and powder.
"They saw the Black Pearl at the dock and as of now they are onboard searching for the two of you."
"Those bastards 'ave set foot on me ship?" Jack said angrily, "I'll kill every last one of 'em, I will!"
Ana Maria ran in and said breathlessly, "They are downstairs."
We all froze. Elizabeth stared at me with wild eyes and bit her lip.
Will said quietly, "Is it possible that the two of you could climb out that window?" He pointed at the tiny window in the corner.
"What about the treasure?" Jack said with a scowl, "I'm not leavin' me loot behind."
I cleared my throat.
"I mean, OUR loot, savvy?" Jack added with irritation.
"There is no time," Elizabeth whispered.
"Shut yer holes, all of ye!" Ana Maria hissed.
Jack set down the box and got out his pistol, his eyes alert, his body tense and ready to strike.
"Ana Maria, how many were there?" I asked softly.
"Four of 'em, with weaponry and such," she replied and stared at the door in expectation. Sure enough, the locked doorknob began to turn and twist, someone desperately trying to get in.
"Open up!" a man shouted in a gravelly voice, "Nassau military!"
"Uh," Will said, desperately trying to think of something, "Me and a lass need some privacy!"
"Yes! Please leave us alone!" Elizabeth chimed in hoarsely.
"The lady downstairs told us a man and woman entered this room earlier tonight that fit the descriptions of Jack Sparrow and Terrence Gallagher."
"And what might they look like?" Will questioned loudly.
"Tall tan man with brown dreadlocks, kohl-rimmed eyes, and walks around like a stupid drunk."
Jack Sparrow opened his mouth to insult the officer but I clamped my hand over his lips, shushing him.
"The pirate lass has long curly black hair, grey eyes, and a pretty face."
I smiled in amusement.
"Nope, haven't seen them!" Will said in a calm manner, "Good day, gentlemen."
"Please sir, we insist that we check for security purposes........"
I couldn't take it any longer. Will was running out of ways to stall and we were trapped in this godforsaken whorehouse. I waltzed over and opened up the door to reveal one redcoat standing there with a look of shock written on his face.
"You're.......you're........" he sputtered from the surprise.
"Hello chum," I greeted, raised my pistol, and shot him in the forehead. The loud blast echoed throughout the house and I heard shouts coming from the remaining officers downstairs. The man slumped over, his hat and wig falling to the ground, his eyes glazed over.
Jack grabbed the box and ordered, "Make a run for it!"
We all ran out of the room and stepped over the body, making sure not to disturb it. Blood began to pool in the hallway, the candlelight reflecting dimly off of the deep crimson color. I took the lead, my pistol aimed in front of me.
Will and Jack were holding the box directly behind me, Elizabeth followed suit, and Ana Maria was at the back of the ensemble with her sword unsheathed.
Sure enough, two more officers began stomping up the stairs. I shot one in the leg, his agonizing yell reaching my ears told me that I didn't miss. The other dropped his weapon in fear and stared at me as I aimed my smoking pistol at him.
"Terrence Gallagher," he said with a whisper, "Please spare me."
I stared at the man with a frown. He looked like he was in his mid- thirties, an experienced man, and here he was groveling.
"Ye disgust me," I said, "But how about we make ourselves a little deal, aye?"
"And what do ye have in mind?" he asked in a shaky voice.
"I think we should shoot him," Jack said gleefully but I shot him a dirty look.
"Call off yer men and allow us to make ourselves a clean getaway. Do we have an accord?" I held out my hand.
The military officer stared at my hand for a moment, frightened and untrusting. Hesitantly, he took it, and we shook firmly.
"You know, my two children have read all kinds of adventure stories about you and Jack Sparrow," he informed me with a small smile.
A grin tugged at my lips but I forced my face to keep its seriousness.
Jack proclaimed, "All the tots love me!" and I elbowed him in the gut.
"Well, Captain Jack Sparrow and I have been wantin' to get out o' this hellhole and here Nassau has to try and ruin our good time."
"I don't see why.........." The officer began to say chattily but I poked my pistol to his chest, threatening him.
"Enuff small talk. Go do yer job like a good lil' soldier and ye won't get hurt."
He gulped and held up his hands, saying quietly, "I won't let you down, Miss Gallagher."
"That's CAPTAIN Gallagher," I said in annoyance.
"All right, Captain," he corrected, nodding furiously. I pointed to the stairs and he walked away, well, sprinted was more like it.
Everyone was quiet and we strained to listen to the conversation being held downstairs, but we only heard the faintest of male voices.
Finally, a door slammed, and there was silence.
"I'll go first," I whispered, "Stay here."
I walked down the stairs cautiously, pistol aimed and ready. Sure enough, the soldiers were gone and only the rouged, plump woman was left. She was fanning herself with her hand and straightening her loose brown hair.
"You! The gentlemen said you left!" she gasped when she saw me reach the bottom of the stairwell.
"A peep from ye and I will not hesitate to blow yer bloody brains out," I growled. I turned and said, "All right, the coast is clear, mates."
The four others hastily got downstairs, Jack a little slower for he was straining to keep a hold of the heavy box. Sweat dripped from his temple and his knuckles were white. Will took it off his hands and Jack grumbled, "It's about time!"
I held up the brass key to the trembling woman and a few whores walked in, stopping at the sight of us. I turned my pistol in their direction and held a finger to my lips.
One blonde wearing a revealing lavender dress spotted Sparrow and glared at him. Jack coughed and said, "Genevieve! How are ye doing, luv?"
The woman walked up to him and was about to slap him across the face when I grabbed her wrist and said softly, "Touch him and I will hurt you."
Sparrow cast me a crooked grin and held his palms together in thanks, bowing slightly. Then 'Genevieve' sneered, "Are ye his new strumpet? I'd be careful of that man, girl. He moves fast, he does. He takes you and then leaves you in the streets."
I bent close and whispered into her ear, "One: I am no whore. Two: he has already taken me. Three: he's still here, isn't he?"
She scowled at me and went back to her redhead friend and whispered into her ear. The redhead's head snapped in my direction and stared at me with wide eyes.
"What did ye say to her, luv?" Sparrow asked curiously.
"Ah, nothing," I replied, "Just had a girl to girl chat, we did. Let's go. There's nothin' more for us here."
Jack grabbed a few coins from his pouch and said to the whore women, "For yer silence, luvs. I would greatly appreciate it."
They nodded, even his old flame Genevieve. He tipped his hat to them and led the way out of the whorehouse, everyone following suit like a bloody parade.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
About a half hour later we were all comfortably back on Black Pearl. The soldiers had left, and I was thankful that the military man had kept his word. I didn't feel like killing the father of two kids.
"Where's the crew?" I asked anxiously. I wanted to get out of Nassau as fast as I could.
"Havin' themselves a good ol' time I presume. I wager we will have to guard the ship until they come back."
"And when will that be?" I said with a frown.
"At dawn."
"Dammit!" I cursed, "We have to get out of this place now!"
"The crew deserves a break," Jack argued, "We can hold our own, luv. Ye and I will be the lookouts for tonight. Will and Elizabeth are downstairs going to sleep. Ana Maria is sufferin' from a hangover."
My lips twitched and formed a smile. "She did drink like a horse, she did. Must be pretty awful."
"Last time I checked she was heavin' overboard out the window in her quarters," Jack mused with a chuckle, "That wench deserves it."
"And what has Ana Maria ever done to you?" I questioned with distaste, "Ye are hard on her."
"Ana Maria puts me through hell just for kicks," Sparrow said and examined his fingernails, then his eyes met mine before adding, "Much like ye love to do."
"How did ye meet the lass?" I said and watched him stare up at the night sky. We were sitting on top of the crow's nest, our bare feet dangling off of the edge.
Jack sighed and studied me for a second before drifting off into his memories.
"I was walkin' down the streets of Nassau one night. I was a young lad and had just gotten me pirate brand. I heard some screamin' and there was a woman being jumped in the streets by some nasty buggers." Jack paused before continuing, "So I did what I could and fought them off. I ended up killing the blokes but got shot in the crossfire in my leg. The woman took me home and cared for me."
"Ana Maria?" I asked curiously.
"No," he informed me, "She did not tell me her name, but we would talk quite often. She was an older woman though, for I could remember the grey hairs peeking through the blond ones. I stayed at her house for a week, and while I was upstairs I could hear voices coming from below. Laughter, raised voices, rowdy talking............yet she would leave the festivities from downstairs to tend to me wound. That night she took me in I had a horrible fever and was ranting and raving. I told her I was Captain Jack Sparrow, and that I was going to be the most infamous pirate of the Caribbean. 'Funny,' she said, 'there's a young woman downstairs who wants the exact same thing.'"
He gazed at the stars for a second before saying, "That same night, I awoke and saw the blurry image of a young woman tending to me. She was extremely beautiful. I asked her who she was and if she would fancy a tumble, and she told me to sod off."
He smiled and said, "After that night, the same dark skinned pirate would bring me some food and water. We talked for a bit. I tried to seduce her but she punched me in the jaw."
He massaged his jaw thoughtfully, that crooked grin returning to his face. "Ana Maria could always throw a good punch."
"So what happened next?"
"The older woman let me leave. I never did meet the other occupants of the house. That was the last time I saw the old woman, but I came across Ana Maria many years later."
"In Nassau?"
He shook his head. "Tortuga. I bought her a drink and we caught up for a while. I was currently looking for a boat, for I lost me small one in a storm. She invited me to her place and........" he stopped short and my eyes met his.
I sighed, "Ye successfully seduced her?"
Jack smiled and shrugged innocently, saying, "What can I say, luv? I'm Captain Jack Sparrow! So we had ourselves a bit o' fun and that next mornin' I left and stole her boat."
"Bet she wasn't too happy about that."
"Well unfortunately she caught up with me a few years later, for she wanted to be a part of me crew when I was going after the Pearl and that devil Barbossa. Slapped me around good, she did."
"I would too if I was in her position," I pointed out.
"Ye slap me even if there isn't a good reason!" he argued.
"True," I said with a smirk, "Ye tempt me."
"In more ways than one?" he asked, wiggling his eyebrows, flashing me those gold teeth in that wicked smile of his.
I said, "Another snide remark and I'll push ye off of the crow's nest. Now where did ye put the box?"
"In me cabin. We will open it when Will comes to take watch, savvy?"
"I wonder what Snidely left behind," I said, practically twitching in excitement.
"Hey! Ye cads!" we heard Ana Maria yell. We looked down and saw Ana Maria yelling up at us from the base of the crow's nest.
"What?" Jack shouted back, glaring at her.
"I'll take watch now," she said, still looking a bit green around the edges.
Jack climbed down and I followed, my butt practically in his face.
"I'm lovin' the view," he said mischievously. When we had about ten more steps to go, I kicked him, causing him to fly off and land on his ass with a thud.
He massaged his tailbone with a fiery look on his face. I knew I was going to pay for that later.
"Ana Maria, are ye sure? Ye don't look very good."
"I can hold me own for a while," she commented and then hiccupped, "Jus' don't be walkin' underneath the crow's nest for a while."
I got the warning and laughed melodiously. "Let's hope not."
"I'm pretty sure I'm all emptied out," she said and wiped her sweaty forehead, "Not go on, ye two. Ye look like its Christmas or somethin'. Go open yer treasure box or chest, whatever the hell that thing is."
Jack waltzed into the cabin and I followed, shutting the door and locking it with a loud click.
Sparrow had the box at the foot of the bed. He was on his knees next to it, and I took off my boots and joined him on the mattress. He took off his weathered hat and motioned towards the box, saying, "Will ye do the honors, luv?"
"I most certainly will, captain," I answered and lifted each of the rusty latches. When they were all opened, I lifted the wooden top slowly and placed it next to me.
"Holy mother o' Pearl," Sparrow whispered and I peered inside, holding a candle over it to see the loot better.
It glittered in the candlelight, reflecting the flame and causing the room to dance with color. Inside the box lay thousands of tiny rubies, diamonds, and emeralds.
I hesitantly reached in and sifted some through my fingers, examining them.
"Where did Snidely get all this?" I wondered aloud.
"That shall remain a mystery, Gallagher," Jack said quietly, shaking his head, "He was a rich man."
"Wait," I said and felt through the jewels, "There's somethin' else too.............." My fingers wrapped around a tiny box and pulled it out. It was a woman's jewelry box. Roses were intricately carved into the maple wood and I held it in my palm.
"His wife's box," I said lovingly, touching it gently, "He loved her so much." I opened it and a small portrait fluttered out onto the bed. It was a portrait of her holding a rose in her youthful age, her hair cascading down her shoulders, a pleasant smile on her face. Jack held up the picture and he studied it silently.
"What is it, Jack?" I asked.
"This........" he said, nodding towards the picture, "Was the woman who tended to me the day I got shot."
"Ye saved Mrs. Snidely from getting murdered?" I said with wide eyes. I stared at the portrait. Yes, it all came together. Those many years ago, that day when I had been eating dinner at the Snidely household. Ana Maria had told me there was a sick visitor, describing a pale young man with the handsome face. It had been Jack Sparrow. We had been in the same household those many years ago and didn't even know it.
"I was there," I said quietly, "When Mrs. Snidely was caring for ye. She never told us yer name, but Ana Maria described ye to me."
"And ye were the lass downstairs who also wanted to be the most infamous pirate in the Caribbean?"
I grinned and said, "So Mrs. Snidely remembered me grumbling that, eh?"
Jack shook his head in disbelief. "After all these years........." he murmured.
"Who would 'ave thought of us runnin' into each other?" I finished for him.
"It's a small world, luv," he informed me.
I stared into the jewelry box and realized that there were two emerald rings in there as well. I held them for a moment, watching them glitter green in the light, the silver bands twinkling, and then handed them to Sparrow.
"Why are ye givin' them to me, luv?"
"Do what ye want with them. Obviously I have no use for 'em. Yer the one with the obsession for jewelry." I wiggled my fingers to make a point. He stared at his ring-clad fingers and grinned sheepishly. He stared at the rings for a moment, and then pocketed them.
"There's somethin' else in the jewels, Gallagher," he commented and pulled the object out. It was a leather bound journal. It was dusty and Sparrow brushed it off and turned instantly to the bookmarked page. I leaned over, instantly recognizing the beautiful cursive. It was Mrs. Lillian Snidely's journal. I leaned over Sparrow's shoulder and began to read the entry with him:
I was tending to the young Sparrow this evening and he told me of his hopes and dreams. Quite a witty young fellow, that lad is. He is incredibly pale still, but he is recovering from the gunshot nicely. Jack wants to sail the seas on his very own ship and become a captain. "A helm of my own so no other bastard can touch it," he said with a grin and I had laughed for his cockiness amuses me so. Reminds me of Gallagher. Every time they stop to visit I can hear her intimidating the other crew members. Got a sharp tongue, that lass does. She used to be so meek and quiet, and now I can hear her vivid laughter and harsh cursing from across the household. Sparrow remarked how he wanted to be the most infamous pirate in the Caribbean. The ironic thing is, is that I heard Terrence mumble the exact same thing a couple of days ago. It was as if the two of them were making an oath to the sea, to their piracy. The perfect match, if I do say so myself. Unfortunately Snidely and the crew had left about an hour ago to sail to Tortuga and I was unable to get Gallagher to meet Jack. Perhaps fate will run its course. Life is full of surprises.
Lillian
Some of the ink blurred and I realized it was from my tears.
"Shit," I muttered, wiping at the paper, trying not to smudge it any further, "I miss that woman so much."
Jack closed the book gently and staring at it in bewilderment.
"How bloody insane is all of this?" I cried, jumping up from the bed, "I meet you, and here we are with a past that intertwines, a box that holds both of our emblems, and a woman that said we would meet by fate."
Jack was still shocked and couldn't speak. He shook his head and walked calmly out of the cabin, feeling shaken.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Will!" Jack said urgently, pounding on the door, "I need to speak with ye! NOW!"
Will opened the door and yawned, "What is it, Jack?"
Jack grabbed him by the collar and pulled him outside, dragging him into the mess hall and slamming the door shut.
"What's the meaning of all this?" Will said with a glare, sitting down.
"I just found out somethin' odd," Jack said, massaging his temple.
"What is it, Jack?" Will asked with concern.
So Jack poured out everything about what Gallagher and him had found that evening. When he was done, he slouched in his chair, looking defeated. Will looked surprised.
Jack was confused. Hell, he was far beyond confused. What was all of this supposed to mean anyway? Fate demanded seeing him and Gallagher together? He couldn't see himself with one lass for the rest of his life! He couldn't describe what he felt, how he felt about her. He groaned and sank farther down his chair.
"So what now, Jack?"
"What?" Jack said in a tired tone.
"You and Gallagher have fought each other off for too long. Maybe this is a sign that you are the perfect........."
"Match! I bloody know!" Jack said and jumped out of his chair, causing it to crash to the floor, "Do ye really know what I was going to do? I was going to take me share of the loot, drop Gallagher off in Port Royal with ye and go spend me riches however damn way I wanted to."
"So it's as simple as that, then?" Will said with a look of discontent, "After all you've been through, you would just leave Gallagher?"
"Mate," Jack said with an annoyed sigh, "Don't make this any harder than it already is."
"But you love Terrence, Jack," Will argued softly, "And do not deny the fact. Everyone can see it clearly whenever you speak her name."
"Pirates don't love!" Sparrow growled and slammed his fist against the table. He threw his hands up into the air in exasperation and cried, "Plus, it would be too hard to give me heart to her. It would complicate things!"
Will suddenly had a wonderful idea. He knew a way to get the truth out of Sparrow once and for all.
"You are right, Jack," Will sighed, "She would be nothing but a meddlesome whore. She would always............."
His sentence was cut short when a sword was held to his throat. Jack was staring at him with flashing eyes. Will decided to push it even further:
"Gallagher is always acting like a bitch, don't you agree? A filthy, good for nothing............"
Will dodged Jack's fist just in time. Jack threw his sword down and decided instead of cutting him up, he was going to beat the pulp out of Turner.
"Why so mad, Jack? I bet she would love to sell herself to the Port Royal locals," Will said quietly.
Jack's fist flew out and connected with Will's jaw with such force it sent him flying against the table, making a loud rattling sound. Jack lunged at him, managing to get punch him in the eye before Will kicked him off of him, sending Jack against the mess hall floor.
The door flung open and Gallagher stood in the doorway.
"What the HELL is going on here?" she shouted, staring at the two of them.
Will got off the table and stared at Jack, who was lying on his back against the floor, his thumb wiping the blood off of his split lip.
"Tell me you don't love her," Will said quietly so that only Jack could hear him.
Sparrow's eyes widened in understanding, realizing that Will had said those things just to see Jack's reaction and therefore determine his true feelings.
Elizabeth rushed in and asked Gallagher what was going on. Gallagher shook her head in confusion.
Gallagher stepped forth and offered Sparrow her hand. Everyone was silent, awaiting his reaction. When Sparrow didn't take Gallagher's hand, she frowned, a hurt look flooding her eyes. She spun around and immediately walked out of the room.
Will went and took his wife by the arm, leading Elizabeth out of the mess hall and back into their quarters, knowing Captain Jack Sparrow needed some time alone.
"What just happened?" Elizabeth asked softly, touching Will's black eye gently.
"I think Sparrow is finally realizing the truth and is shocked by it."
"And what truth is that?"
"Jack Sparrow is in love with Terrence Gallagher."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Please review, for you guys are awesome! I was determined to update today, so here I am, close to midnight, roaming the seas of FanFiction.net, excited and ready to put this chapter up. Sleepy, sleepy me! Well sweet dreams to all of you and thanks a bundle, mates. : )