I don't own him, only in my mind!
Thanks to Linnie, Hils and caffeine fairy for your reviews. More please folks..!
Chapter 27
Maddy sat shivering on the floor, watching the window carefully. 'W-what is it?' Elizabeth could barely get the words out through her chattering teeth.
'The storm's abating, the water isn't coming through the window any more.' The women looked at each other in relief, neither voicing the fear they'd had at the rising water level. Maddy tugged at her ropes with numb fingers, finally loosening the knot and pulling it free. She helped Elizabeth with hers, then they crossed the cabin and freed the children, each carrying a child in her arms as they left the cabin. Maddy led the way up the stairs to the deck, but stopped short of the top, too afraid to go any further. She put Little Jack down and clutched the rail, the strength ebbing from her body. Elizabeth pushed past her and went onto the deck, then turned and smiled at Maddy.
'He's safe.'
Maddy sat heavily on the step, gasping for breath, tears of relief flooding down her cheeks. She became aware of someone sitting by her on the step and put their arm around her shoulder. Maddy leaned into Jack's embrace, then turned and held him tightly, burying her face into his neck. 'I thought I'd lost you,' she croaked, her voice a barely audible whisper.
'Nah luv, take more than a bit of a blow to take me away from ya.' In truth, Jack couldn't remember a worse storm and deep down had feared they wouldn't make it. He brought Maddy's face level with his and kissed her tenderly. 'I luv ya Madalene.' Jack leaned against Maddy wearily, too exhausted to move.
'I love you Jack.' Maddy gently rocked to and fro, until she realised that Jack was almost falling asleep. 'Will, give me a hand, Jack needs to rest. Will climbed the stairs and pulled his protesting friend to his feet.
'Where shall I take him Maddy, he can't go back to your cabin?' Will propped Jack up, feeling him getting heavier as he succumbed to sleep.
'Follow me, there's a cabin by the mess that should be all right.' Maddy led the way to the cabin, helping Will support the sleeping Jack, and they laid him down carefully on the bare bunk. 'I'll see if there are any dry blankets.' She left her husband sleeping, while she made her way to the hold, which was slopping with water and crowded with men, bailing out. Maddy managed to find a couple of blankets that were dry and hurried back to the cabin, where Jack lay virtually unconscious. Her muscles protested as she pulled and pushed Jack's body around, stripping him of the sodden clothes, piling them in a heap as she removed them. Maddy stripped herself and climbed in next to Jack, curling her body around his in an effort to get some warmth back into his bones.
**************
Jack woke some hours later, to find Daniel sitting on a chair watching him. 'What'cha doin' lad?' Jack tried to get up, but his muscles wouldn't comply.
'Maddy says I have to make sure you stay where you are and if you don't, I have to fetch her or Eb.' Daniel folded his arms and had a stern look on his face, clearly taking his duty very seriously. Jack sighed, smiling to himself. 'How's The Pearl? She ain't damaged is she?' Jack hauled himself to a sitting position and took a swig of the rum that Maddy had left for him.
'No Cap'n, just some minor damage and a fair bit of water in the bowels. Oh and some windows in your cabin broke and it's very wet in there, that's why you are here.'
'That's good Daniel. Now look lad, you're needed elsewhere, there's much to be done, so off ya go.' Jack had hoped to be rid of the boy, so he could sneak out.
'Sorry Captain, but Maddy said you'd try something like that and if you did, that she would over-rule you.'
'She can't bloody over-rule me on me own ship!' Jack pulled the blankets back, then realised that he was naked. 'Where're me bloody clothes?'
'Wet Cap'n. Maddy said she'd bring some dry one's down later.'
'Sod that!' Jack wrapped a blanket around his middle and staggered to the door a fraction before Daniel reached it. 'You try it Daniel, an' it's down ter the brig wi' ya, savvy?' Daniel shrugged and backed away, allowing his captain to open the door, following Jack as he slowly made his way to the deck, clutching onto the blanket. 'Madalene! Madalene, where's me clothes, I wanna get dressed.' Maddy looked at Will and Eb, rolling her eyes. Peace was over. She climbed a way up the rigging and unpegged some clothes that had been hung out to dry, 'Thank goodness for the Caribbean sun,' she thought to herself as she climbed back down again.
'Here Jack, although you really should be resting, you look exhausted.' Maddy frowned at her husband as he dropped the blanket and dressed himself there and then, in front of everyone. 'Good job Elizabeth and the children aren't around Jack Sparrow.' Jack shrugged and smiled apologetically at his wife's stern tone, then went to Eb to get a progress report on repairs.
Maddy went below to sort the cabin out, she opened the door tentatively and groaned in despair. The contents of the cabin were strewn all over the floor, sopping wet. Maddy went to a cupboard where Jack kept his maps, relieved to find them all dry, then she gathered an armful of wet clothes and took them on deck, laying them out to dry, then went back below and gathered another armful of clothes. After four trips, all the clothes had been laid out on the deck, so Maddy turned her attention to the floor, which still had a foot or so of water slopping about. She fetched a mop and bucket and started soaking up the water, emptying the bucket out of one of the open windows. The steam was starting to rise in the cabin as the hot sun started to dry out the interior, and Maddy found herself sweating profusely. 'Who needs a bloody sauna?' She murmured out loud, spinning when she heard a knock on the door.
'I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. I was wondering if you needed a hand?' Elizabeth stood hesitantly in the doorway.
'As many hands as possible, thank you.' Maddy smiled at Elizabeth, who had changed from her dress to a more practical shirt and breeches. The two women worked hard getting rid of the water and putting things to right in the cabin and between themselves, finally emerging a few hours later not quite friends, but not enemies either.
'Look's like peace has broken out young William.' Jack and Will stood watching their wives, as the women sat drinking ale with some of the crew.
'Aye, about time too.' Will smiled at his friend, then walked over to his wife, kissing her for long enough that the crew started whistling and cat- calling.
'Oi. If yer not careful, you'll be havin' another bairn before ya get t'The Bahamas!' Will grinned sheepishly at Tom, then led his wife below, leading to louder jeers.
Maddy went over to Jack and wrapped her arms around him, leaning against his bare back, Jack having discarded his shirt a while ago. 'Come and get some rest Jack you need it. You'll be no good to this ship or the crew if you're too tired to think straight, well, as straight as is possible for you to think. Jack grinned and thrust his backside into Maddy at the gentle jibe.
'Cheeky! But you're right luv, is the cabin fit ter sleep in?' Jack turned and winked mischievously at Maddy who wagged her finger at him, then moaned quietly as he took it in his mouth.
'It's a little damp, but sleepable in.' Maddy pressed her mouth against Jack's, her tongue joining her finger in playing with Jack's tongue.
'I don't intend gettin' much sleep Madalene. Eb, take over the ship an' sort the watches out for me. I need ter catch up on me beauty sleep according to me wife.' Maddy slapped his rump as he led the way to their cabin. Maddy undressed herself quickly, shivering in anticipation, but her ardour was soon cooled as she turned and saw Jack fast alseep on the bunk, snoring gently.
*******************
'Land ho!' All hands went to the side of the ship, eager to spot The Bahamas in the distance. Will put an arm around his wife, who had started to cry silently. 'This makes it seem more real Will, she is telling the truth isn't she?' Elizabeth wished it were all a dream, and that she'd wake up still in Port Royal.
'Yes Elizabeth, Maddy is telling the truth. She told me things about her world that you'd never believe, I'm glad I live now and not in the future.' Will kissed his wife, then went about his duties, his stomach churning with excitement at starting a new life away from the gossip and snide remarks that followed him around Port Royal.
Jack grinned, looking forward to implementing his plan to take Maddy away from the ship for a while. He'd realised they had never spent any time alone together and wanted to make their first anniversary special. Jack knew of a respectable inn where they could stay, a few miles up the coast from Freetown, where Will and Elizabeth decided to settle. He told Eb of his plans, warning his first mate not to breathe a word to anyone, lest Maddy should find out.
Maddy looked suspiciously at Jack. She knew he was up to something, but no amount of cajoling or tickling would make him reveal what it was. 'Ah well,' She thought to herself, 'I'll just have to be patient.' Maddy went and stood with the crew, watching as the island grew bigger, smiling as Jack put his arms around her middle, holding her tightly.
'We'll stay a while an' help Will an' Elizabeth settle, savvy?' Jack squeezed Maddy, causing her to squeal and try and wriggle out of his arms. 'Where'd ya think your going?' Jack grimaced as Maddy's hands grabbed his balls. 'What's that for? Can't I hold me wife any more?'
'There's a difference between holding and squeezing the very breath out of me Jack Sparrow.'
'That's *Captain* Jack Sparrow, if yer don't mind darlin.' Jack ducked as Maddy swung a fist at him.
'I'll give you *Captain* Jack Sparrow in a minute.' Maddy screamed as Jack picked her up and threatened to tip her overboard.
'Not teasing yer Captain now are ya luv?' Jack chuckled, as he put Maddy back on her feet.
'What's put you in such a fine mood Jack?' Maddy cast a sideways glance at her husband, who had a dirty grin on his face.
'Nothin' luv, nothin' at all.' Jack adopted a mock innocent expression as he walked over to the helm. Shake a leg, yer scabrous dogs. The ship ain't gonna sail 'erself.'
They arrived in Freetown later that day, flying the flag of truce, so as not to invoke any trouble, but there were still nervous glances cast in the direction of the crew, wherever they went, and more than one inn barred the crew from entering.
The Turners stayed on board The Black Pearl while they looked for a suitable house, feeling very fortunate when they found a large one about two miles out of town. It wasn't the nicest house Elizabeth had ever been in, but she decided it would do until something better came along.
Maddy entered the cabin, humming to herself. It was nice to stop somewhere for more than a couple of days. She stopped and looked at her husband, who was bending over a trunk, trying to shut it. 'What are you doing Jack?'
Jack spun, releasing the trunk lid which sprang open again, spilling some of its contents out. 'Erm, umm, nothing luv.' He tried to shield Maddy's eyes from the trunk using his body, darting this way and that as she tried to peer around him, his hands dancing a jig as he moved. 'Why don't yer run along now Madalene, I'm sure you must be busy.' Jack tried to shoo his wife away, with little success.
'Jack Sparrow, you have to a count of three to tell me what you're up to or I'll withdraw conjugal rights. One........, two........'
'All right, all right yer evil woman, ya win.' Jack pouted and folded his arms in a huff. 'I'm taking yer away fer a few days, savvy?'
'Away? Where, away?' A slow smiled spread across Maddy's lips.
'There's an inn, in a village up t'coast. I thought it'd be nice, y'know, fer our anniversary.' Jack was horrified to feel his face grow hot as he blushed.
'Oh Jack!' Maddy felt as touched by Jack's embarrassment as his gesture, she threw her arms around him, drawing him into a long and passionate kiss. 'That is the most wonderful idea I've ever heard of, thank you.' Maddy whispered, nibbling Jack's ear. 'Now, let's get this trunk sorted out.' They pulled all that Jack had packed, out, and started again, Maddy ensuring that things were folded properly this time. Jack got a couple of crewmen to help carry the trunk to the deck and then over the side of the ship and into a waiting boat.
Maddy arrived on deck, having changed from her usual shirt and trousers, into a dress she'd had made by a seamstress in Freetown. It was a deep burgandy velvet material, fitted, with the bodice coming to a 'V' just below her belly. The skirt wasn't as full as was the fashion, and the top of it skimmed Maddy's hips before flowing out. Jack caught his breath, eyes widening in astonishment.
'Madalene.....? Sweet Mary luv, you look..........' Jack ran his hands down Maddy's bare arms, taking her hands in his and bringing them up to his lips. 'Where did you get that?' Jack looked deep into Maddy's eyes, his gaze hot with desire.
'I had it made in town, to my specification. I thought you might like it somehow.' A teasing smile played on Maddy's lips, causing a low moan to escape from Jack's lips. 'Come on Captain Sparrow, or we'll never get to the inn at this rate.' Maddy pulled her hands from Jack and accepted a helping hand into a bosuns chair from one of the many eager volunteers. Jack clambered down, reaching the boat at the same time as Maddy in the chair, and helped her in, planting a kiss on the back of her neck. They settled at one end of the boat, with the truck at the other, sitting in companiable silence as they were rowed to shore. Eb and Tom were waiting by the quayside to help unload the boat, hoisting the trunk off first and taking it to a nearby carriage, while Jack helped Maddy out, puffing his chest out with pride as he walked his beautiful wife to the waiting carriage.
'Don't ferget Eb, if there looks like trouble brewing, get The Pearl to safety an' come back when yer think danger's over, savvy?'
'Aye Cap'n. Don't worry, we'll look after her.' Eb grinned, winking at Maddy, then waved them off as the carriage started on it's way.
Jack put his arm around Maddy's shoulders and pulled her towards him, sighing with pleasure. 'I can't wait fer this luv. Just you an' me on our own.'
'I know, it will seem strange.' Maddy smiled as she snuggled against Jack, her arm winding around his waist. 'How do you know about this inn?'
'Well, ter be honest luv, I was with a ship that sacked the village a few years ago, before I got The Pearl back. I hope they don't recognise me.' Jack grinned wickedly, the smile being replaced by a wince as the carriage went down a large pothole. 'Ere careful mate, we want ter arrive in one piece, savvy?'
'Sorry guv,' came the bored sounding reply from the carriage driver.
'Give me a bloody ship any day o'the week, I hate travelling on land.' Jack frowned, then grinned again as Maddy laughed, shaking her head. Neither were smiling though, by the time they arrived at the village some two hours later. Jack alighted first, bow legged and stiff, then turned and helped Maddy down. She rubbed her back and bottom, trying to ease the ache that resided there, while Jack sorted the luggage out, then they walked arm in arm through the door. The proprietor welcomed them with a large jug of ale, hurrying to fetch some rum for Jack when asked. Maddy sank into a seat, glad of some comfort at last, then leaned over to rub the knots from Jack's neck.
'Ooh, that feels better luv. Ya got the magic touch.' Jack smiled his thanks as the rum arrived and took a large gulp of it, savouring the warm liquid as it travelled down his throat, 'That feels better still.' Jack sat back and looked around. 'What d'ya think luv, will it do?'
'It doesn't matter what the inn is like, so long as the bed is clean and comfy,' Maddy laughed, stroking Jack's thigh.
'Eh, steady on wifey, it ain't night-time just yet.' Jack purred, as Maddy's strokes got higher.
'Since when did that stop us Captain Sparrow?' Maddy leaned over and explored Jack's ear with her tongue. 'Come on Jack, time for bed.' Her voice was deep and throaty.
'Excuse me mate, me wife's feelin' tired, so we'll retire fer a while, savvy?'
'Of course Captain Sparrow, I'll show you to your room. Your trunk was taken up earlier.' They followed the innkeeper up the stairs and into a spacious room, that overlooked the sea.
'Oh, this is lovely, thank you.' Maddy smiled at the man, relieved that the room and bed were indeed clean.
'It's a pleasure M'am. If there's anything that you need, please don't hesitate to ask.' He bowed as he left the room, shutting the door behind him.
'Jack this is......umpf!' Maddy's words were cut off by Jack pressing his lips hard against hers, his tongue exploring her mouth. Maddy shivered as Jack's hands roamed her body.
'How t'bloody 'ell do ya get out this luv?' Jack pleaded desperately.
Maddy chuckled and guided Jack's hand to a row of tiny hooks at the back of her dress, cleverly concealed by a seam.
'Bloody hell Madalene, it'll take me forever to get these undone.' Jack's impatient fingers fumbled with the hooks, drawing an exasperated sigh from him.
'Well Jack Sparrow, patience is a virtue. Slow down and stop being so hamfisted.'
'I ain't the virtuous sort luv, thought ya'd have realised that by now.' Jack took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down, and tackled the hooks again, taking more care this time. He smiled lascvisiously as Maddy's back became more exposed, trailing his tongue down her spine and feeling her shudder. When the final hook was undone, Jack slid the garment from Maddy's shoulders, and laid it on a chair.
Maddy turned and faced Jack, feeling glad he hadn't got his usual garb on. She wasn't in the mood to be fiddling with his belt and sash, despite what she had just lectured about patience. Maddy slid her hand in Jack's shirt, making him shiver as she caressed him. The shirt soon joined her dress on the chair, as did the rest of his clothes and they tumbled down onto the bed, their moans and murmurs being heard well into the night.
***********
The sea edged closer to Maddy's feet with each wave, until they were finally submerged in white froth. She squealed as Jack ran up to her, scooping her up in his arms and spinning round, until the world became a blur. 'Stop! Put me down, you idiot.' The laughter gurgled in Maddy's throat.
'Oh. I'm an idiot now am I, Madalene Sparrow?' Jack held her out, threatening to drop her into the water.
'No, no, no, of course you're not. You married me didn't you?' Maddy clung to Jack like a limpet, nuzzling his neck.
'Aye luv, I did marry ya, best decision I ever made.' Jack put her down, his face serious. He ferreted around in his pocket, smiling when he found what he sought. 'Close yer eyes.'
Maddy looked at him questioningly, but did as she was told. She felt Jack pick her hand up and place a ring on her finger, above her wedding band.
'No looking just yet Madalene.' Jack went round the back of his wife and fastened a necklace around her, positioning it to drop into her cleavage. Then he pulled off her ear-rings and replaced them with others. 'Ya can open them now luv.' He whispered tenderly.
Maddy opened her eyes and looked tentatively at her finger, gasping when she saw the beautiful turquoise stone set into a gold band. She looked at the necklace, finding an identical stone hanging from a delicate chain. Her fingers flew to her ears, feeling the hard studs of turquoise stones on her lobes.
'Jack..... oh Jack they're.....' Tears sprang to Maddy's eyes as she held Jack close. 'Thank you my darling, they're perfect, like you.' Maddy lost herself to Jack's kiss, emerging, breathless a few minutes later. 'Your present was too big to bring out with me, I'll give it to you when we get back to the inn.' Maddy fingered the ring, gulping back the tears. 'I love you Jack.'
'Aye luv, me too. How'd ya bring a large present with us and I didn't notice?' Jack looked dubiously at his wife.
'I snuck it into the trunk when you left the cabin for a few minutes, it's right at the bottom.' Maddy grinned mischievously at Jack, who was looking at her with narrow eyes.
'No wonder ya won't let me anywhere near the trunk then Missy.' Jack slapped her rump, then chased her as she ran off down the beach, laughing.
**********
'I hope the food is to your liking, it's my special recipe.' The inn- keepers wife smiled nervously at her guests.
'I'm sure we will, it looks lovely.' The food had been plain fare, but delicious. Jack had threatened to kidnap the woman and have her installed in the galley aboard The Black Pearl. They tucked into the fish stew, enjoying the tastes and textures of the different fish in it, sitting back, full to bust when they had finished.
'I tell ya, she's comin' wi'us Madalene.' He glanced admiringly at his wife, wearing a dark blue dress, which set off the paler blue stones of his gifts beautifully.
Maddy giggled, then took something out of her purse. 'Now it's your turn Jack, close your eyes. It's only a little gift to start with, you can have the other one later.' She shoved Jack's shoulder as his eyebrows shot up. 'You have *that* later too.' Maddy took Jack's hand and placed something small and light in it. Jack frowned and opened his eyes, peering at his gift.
'Madalene, it's beautiful. Where on earth did you find this?' Jack turned the amber bead around in his fingers, looking in amazement at the tiny insect caught in it.
'In Freetown. It was whole when I brought it, I got Will to make a hole in it, so you can wear it in your hair. You see, he managed to avoid the insect.' Maddy brought her head close to Jack's as they studied the bead. Jack pressed it into Maddy's hand and undid one of his braids, smiling as she threaded it on and secured the braid once more.
'There, that looks wonderful Jack.' It seemed to bring out an almost caramel hue in Jack's eyes. 'Come on, I want to give you your other present.' Maddy stood and pulled Jack up, leading the way back to their room. 'No, Jack,' Maddy batted his hand away from her hips, your proper present first, then that. Now, close your eyes and don't you dare peek.' Maddy ignored the mock hurt expression on Jack's face and went to the trunk, making sure he did have his eyes closed. Jack could hear her rummaging around in the trunk and peered through the lashes of an eye. 'Close your eyes Jack Sparrow.' Jack looked astonished as he closed his eyes tightly.
'Open.'
For the first time since Maddy had known him, Jack was speechless. His eyes roved the length of the cutless, taking in the golden blade, the black pearls set into the hand guard and hilt. He ran his fingers along the fine quality black leather that bound the grip, taking it in his hand, testing the weight and feel. 'Madalene......?' Jack looked at his wife in amazement, 'It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.' Jack lay the sword on the bed and took Maddy in his arms, holding tightly, kissing her neck, face and lips. 'Where did you get it luv?'
Maddy smiled with quivering lips, 'I'm glad you like it Jack,' she replied, running her fingers along his jaw. 'Mr Gibbs knew a man, who knew a man in... Tortuga.' Maddy gulped back a sob. 'He smuggled in on board before......'
'Good man, good man,' Jack murmured, picking the cutless up once more, a grin slowly spreading across his face. 'Black pearls luv? Musta cost a bit?' Jack thrust and parried at the air, marvelling the perfect weight and length. Jack put it down once more and pushed Maddy onto the bed. 'Thank you luv, let me show ya just how grateful I am,' he whispered huskily, thanking whatever Gods might be listening for his good fortune.
Thanks to Linnie, Hils and caffeine fairy for your reviews. More please folks..!
Chapter 27
Maddy sat shivering on the floor, watching the window carefully. 'W-what is it?' Elizabeth could barely get the words out through her chattering teeth.
'The storm's abating, the water isn't coming through the window any more.' The women looked at each other in relief, neither voicing the fear they'd had at the rising water level. Maddy tugged at her ropes with numb fingers, finally loosening the knot and pulling it free. She helped Elizabeth with hers, then they crossed the cabin and freed the children, each carrying a child in her arms as they left the cabin. Maddy led the way up the stairs to the deck, but stopped short of the top, too afraid to go any further. She put Little Jack down and clutched the rail, the strength ebbing from her body. Elizabeth pushed past her and went onto the deck, then turned and smiled at Maddy.
'He's safe.'
Maddy sat heavily on the step, gasping for breath, tears of relief flooding down her cheeks. She became aware of someone sitting by her on the step and put their arm around her shoulder. Maddy leaned into Jack's embrace, then turned and held him tightly, burying her face into his neck. 'I thought I'd lost you,' she croaked, her voice a barely audible whisper.
'Nah luv, take more than a bit of a blow to take me away from ya.' In truth, Jack couldn't remember a worse storm and deep down had feared they wouldn't make it. He brought Maddy's face level with his and kissed her tenderly. 'I luv ya Madalene.' Jack leaned against Maddy wearily, too exhausted to move.
'I love you Jack.' Maddy gently rocked to and fro, until she realised that Jack was almost falling asleep. 'Will, give me a hand, Jack needs to rest. Will climbed the stairs and pulled his protesting friend to his feet.
'Where shall I take him Maddy, he can't go back to your cabin?' Will propped Jack up, feeling him getting heavier as he succumbed to sleep.
'Follow me, there's a cabin by the mess that should be all right.' Maddy led the way to the cabin, helping Will support the sleeping Jack, and they laid him down carefully on the bare bunk. 'I'll see if there are any dry blankets.' She left her husband sleeping, while she made her way to the hold, which was slopping with water and crowded with men, bailing out. Maddy managed to find a couple of blankets that were dry and hurried back to the cabin, where Jack lay virtually unconscious. Her muscles protested as she pulled and pushed Jack's body around, stripping him of the sodden clothes, piling them in a heap as she removed them. Maddy stripped herself and climbed in next to Jack, curling her body around his in an effort to get some warmth back into his bones.
**************
Jack woke some hours later, to find Daniel sitting on a chair watching him. 'What'cha doin' lad?' Jack tried to get up, but his muscles wouldn't comply.
'Maddy says I have to make sure you stay where you are and if you don't, I have to fetch her or Eb.' Daniel folded his arms and had a stern look on his face, clearly taking his duty very seriously. Jack sighed, smiling to himself. 'How's The Pearl? She ain't damaged is she?' Jack hauled himself to a sitting position and took a swig of the rum that Maddy had left for him.
'No Cap'n, just some minor damage and a fair bit of water in the bowels. Oh and some windows in your cabin broke and it's very wet in there, that's why you are here.'
'That's good Daniel. Now look lad, you're needed elsewhere, there's much to be done, so off ya go.' Jack had hoped to be rid of the boy, so he could sneak out.
'Sorry Captain, but Maddy said you'd try something like that and if you did, that she would over-rule you.'
'She can't bloody over-rule me on me own ship!' Jack pulled the blankets back, then realised that he was naked. 'Where're me bloody clothes?'
'Wet Cap'n. Maddy said she'd bring some dry one's down later.'
'Sod that!' Jack wrapped a blanket around his middle and staggered to the door a fraction before Daniel reached it. 'You try it Daniel, an' it's down ter the brig wi' ya, savvy?' Daniel shrugged and backed away, allowing his captain to open the door, following Jack as he slowly made his way to the deck, clutching onto the blanket. 'Madalene! Madalene, where's me clothes, I wanna get dressed.' Maddy looked at Will and Eb, rolling her eyes. Peace was over. She climbed a way up the rigging and unpegged some clothes that had been hung out to dry, 'Thank goodness for the Caribbean sun,' she thought to herself as she climbed back down again.
'Here Jack, although you really should be resting, you look exhausted.' Maddy frowned at her husband as he dropped the blanket and dressed himself there and then, in front of everyone. 'Good job Elizabeth and the children aren't around Jack Sparrow.' Jack shrugged and smiled apologetically at his wife's stern tone, then went to Eb to get a progress report on repairs.
Maddy went below to sort the cabin out, she opened the door tentatively and groaned in despair. The contents of the cabin were strewn all over the floor, sopping wet. Maddy went to a cupboard where Jack kept his maps, relieved to find them all dry, then she gathered an armful of wet clothes and took them on deck, laying them out to dry, then went back below and gathered another armful of clothes. After four trips, all the clothes had been laid out on the deck, so Maddy turned her attention to the floor, which still had a foot or so of water slopping about. She fetched a mop and bucket and started soaking up the water, emptying the bucket out of one of the open windows. The steam was starting to rise in the cabin as the hot sun started to dry out the interior, and Maddy found herself sweating profusely. 'Who needs a bloody sauna?' She murmured out loud, spinning when she heard a knock on the door.
'I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. I was wondering if you needed a hand?' Elizabeth stood hesitantly in the doorway.
'As many hands as possible, thank you.' Maddy smiled at Elizabeth, who had changed from her dress to a more practical shirt and breeches. The two women worked hard getting rid of the water and putting things to right in the cabin and between themselves, finally emerging a few hours later not quite friends, but not enemies either.
'Look's like peace has broken out young William.' Jack and Will stood watching their wives, as the women sat drinking ale with some of the crew.
'Aye, about time too.' Will smiled at his friend, then walked over to his wife, kissing her for long enough that the crew started whistling and cat- calling.
'Oi. If yer not careful, you'll be havin' another bairn before ya get t'The Bahamas!' Will grinned sheepishly at Tom, then led his wife below, leading to louder jeers.
Maddy went over to Jack and wrapped her arms around him, leaning against his bare back, Jack having discarded his shirt a while ago. 'Come and get some rest Jack you need it. You'll be no good to this ship or the crew if you're too tired to think straight, well, as straight as is possible for you to think. Jack grinned and thrust his backside into Maddy at the gentle jibe.
'Cheeky! But you're right luv, is the cabin fit ter sleep in?' Jack turned and winked mischievously at Maddy who wagged her finger at him, then moaned quietly as he took it in his mouth.
'It's a little damp, but sleepable in.' Maddy pressed her mouth against Jack's, her tongue joining her finger in playing with Jack's tongue.
'I don't intend gettin' much sleep Madalene. Eb, take over the ship an' sort the watches out for me. I need ter catch up on me beauty sleep according to me wife.' Maddy slapped his rump as he led the way to their cabin. Maddy undressed herself quickly, shivering in anticipation, but her ardour was soon cooled as she turned and saw Jack fast alseep on the bunk, snoring gently.
*******************
'Land ho!' All hands went to the side of the ship, eager to spot The Bahamas in the distance. Will put an arm around his wife, who had started to cry silently. 'This makes it seem more real Will, she is telling the truth isn't she?' Elizabeth wished it were all a dream, and that she'd wake up still in Port Royal.
'Yes Elizabeth, Maddy is telling the truth. She told me things about her world that you'd never believe, I'm glad I live now and not in the future.' Will kissed his wife, then went about his duties, his stomach churning with excitement at starting a new life away from the gossip and snide remarks that followed him around Port Royal.
Jack grinned, looking forward to implementing his plan to take Maddy away from the ship for a while. He'd realised they had never spent any time alone together and wanted to make their first anniversary special. Jack knew of a respectable inn where they could stay, a few miles up the coast from Freetown, where Will and Elizabeth decided to settle. He told Eb of his plans, warning his first mate not to breathe a word to anyone, lest Maddy should find out.
Maddy looked suspiciously at Jack. She knew he was up to something, but no amount of cajoling or tickling would make him reveal what it was. 'Ah well,' She thought to herself, 'I'll just have to be patient.' Maddy went and stood with the crew, watching as the island grew bigger, smiling as Jack put his arms around her middle, holding her tightly.
'We'll stay a while an' help Will an' Elizabeth settle, savvy?' Jack squeezed Maddy, causing her to squeal and try and wriggle out of his arms. 'Where'd ya think your going?' Jack grimaced as Maddy's hands grabbed his balls. 'What's that for? Can't I hold me wife any more?'
'There's a difference between holding and squeezing the very breath out of me Jack Sparrow.'
'That's *Captain* Jack Sparrow, if yer don't mind darlin.' Jack ducked as Maddy swung a fist at him.
'I'll give you *Captain* Jack Sparrow in a minute.' Maddy screamed as Jack picked her up and threatened to tip her overboard.
'Not teasing yer Captain now are ya luv?' Jack chuckled, as he put Maddy back on her feet.
'What's put you in such a fine mood Jack?' Maddy cast a sideways glance at her husband, who had a dirty grin on his face.
'Nothin' luv, nothin' at all.' Jack adopted a mock innocent expression as he walked over to the helm. Shake a leg, yer scabrous dogs. The ship ain't gonna sail 'erself.'
They arrived in Freetown later that day, flying the flag of truce, so as not to invoke any trouble, but there were still nervous glances cast in the direction of the crew, wherever they went, and more than one inn barred the crew from entering.
The Turners stayed on board The Black Pearl while they looked for a suitable house, feeling very fortunate when they found a large one about two miles out of town. It wasn't the nicest house Elizabeth had ever been in, but she decided it would do until something better came along.
Maddy entered the cabin, humming to herself. It was nice to stop somewhere for more than a couple of days. She stopped and looked at her husband, who was bending over a trunk, trying to shut it. 'What are you doing Jack?'
Jack spun, releasing the trunk lid which sprang open again, spilling some of its contents out. 'Erm, umm, nothing luv.' He tried to shield Maddy's eyes from the trunk using his body, darting this way and that as she tried to peer around him, his hands dancing a jig as he moved. 'Why don't yer run along now Madalene, I'm sure you must be busy.' Jack tried to shoo his wife away, with little success.
'Jack Sparrow, you have to a count of three to tell me what you're up to or I'll withdraw conjugal rights. One........, two........'
'All right, all right yer evil woman, ya win.' Jack pouted and folded his arms in a huff. 'I'm taking yer away fer a few days, savvy?'
'Away? Where, away?' A slow smiled spread across Maddy's lips.
'There's an inn, in a village up t'coast. I thought it'd be nice, y'know, fer our anniversary.' Jack was horrified to feel his face grow hot as he blushed.
'Oh Jack!' Maddy felt as touched by Jack's embarrassment as his gesture, she threw her arms around him, drawing him into a long and passionate kiss. 'That is the most wonderful idea I've ever heard of, thank you.' Maddy whispered, nibbling Jack's ear. 'Now, let's get this trunk sorted out.' They pulled all that Jack had packed, out, and started again, Maddy ensuring that things were folded properly this time. Jack got a couple of crewmen to help carry the trunk to the deck and then over the side of the ship and into a waiting boat.
Maddy arrived on deck, having changed from her usual shirt and trousers, into a dress she'd had made by a seamstress in Freetown. It was a deep burgandy velvet material, fitted, with the bodice coming to a 'V' just below her belly. The skirt wasn't as full as was the fashion, and the top of it skimmed Maddy's hips before flowing out. Jack caught his breath, eyes widening in astonishment.
'Madalene.....? Sweet Mary luv, you look..........' Jack ran his hands down Maddy's bare arms, taking her hands in his and bringing them up to his lips. 'Where did you get that?' Jack looked deep into Maddy's eyes, his gaze hot with desire.
'I had it made in town, to my specification. I thought you might like it somehow.' A teasing smile played on Maddy's lips, causing a low moan to escape from Jack's lips. 'Come on Captain Sparrow, or we'll never get to the inn at this rate.' Maddy pulled her hands from Jack and accepted a helping hand into a bosuns chair from one of the many eager volunteers. Jack clambered down, reaching the boat at the same time as Maddy in the chair, and helped her in, planting a kiss on the back of her neck. They settled at one end of the boat, with the truck at the other, sitting in companiable silence as they were rowed to shore. Eb and Tom were waiting by the quayside to help unload the boat, hoisting the trunk off first and taking it to a nearby carriage, while Jack helped Maddy out, puffing his chest out with pride as he walked his beautiful wife to the waiting carriage.
'Don't ferget Eb, if there looks like trouble brewing, get The Pearl to safety an' come back when yer think danger's over, savvy?'
'Aye Cap'n. Don't worry, we'll look after her.' Eb grinned, winking at Maddy, then waved them off as the carriage started on it's way.
Jack put his arm around Maddy's shoulders and pulled her towards him, sighing with pleasure. 'I can't wait fer this luv. Just you an' me on our own.'
'I know, it will seem strange.' Maddy smiled as she snuggled against Jack, her arm winding around his waist. 'How do you know about this inn?'
'Well, ter be honest luv, I was with a ship that sacked the village a few years ago, before I got The Pearl back. I hope they don't recognise me.' Jack grinned wickedly, the smile being replaced by a wince as the carriage went down a large pothole. 'Ere careful mate, we want ter arrive in one piece, savvy?'
'Sorry guv,' came the bored sounding reply from the carriage driver.
'Give me a bloody ship any day o'the week, I hate travelling on land.' Jack frowned, then grinned again as Maddy laughed, shaking her head. Neither were smiling though, by the time they arrived at the village some two hours later. Jack alighted first, bow legged and stiff, then turned and helped Maddy down. She rubbed her back and bottom, trying to ease the ache that resided there, while Jack sorted the luggage out, then they walked arm in arm through the door. The proprietor welcomed them with a large jug of ale, hurrying to fetch some rum for Jack when asked. Maddy sank into a seat, glad of some comfort at last, then leaned over to rub the knots from Jack's neck.
'Ooh, that feels better luv. Ya got the magic touch.' Jack smiled his thanks as the rum arrived and took a large gulp of it, savouring the warm liquid as it travelled down his throat, 'That feels better still.' Jack sat back and looked around. 'What d'ya think luv, will it do?'
'It doesn't matter what the inn is like, so long as the bed is clean and comfy,' Maddy laughed, stroking Jack's thigh.
'Eh, steady on wifey, it ain't night-time just yet.' Jack purred, as Maddy's strokes got higher.
'Since when did that stop us Captain Sparrow?' Maddy leaned over and explored Jack's ear with her tongue. 'Come on Jack, time for bed.' Her voice was deep and throaty.
'Excuse me mate, me wife's feelin' tired, so we'll retire fer a while, savvy?'
'Of course Captain Sparrow, I'll show you to your room. Your trunk was taken up earlier.' They followed the innkeeper up the stairs and into a spacious room, that overlooked the sea.
'Oh, this is lovely, thank you.' Maddy smiled at the man, relieved that the room and bed were indeed clean.
'It's a pleasure M'am. If there's anything that you need, please don't hesitate to ask.' He bowed as he left the room, shutting the door behind him.
'Jack this is......umpf!' Maddy's words were cut off by Jack pressing his lips hard against hers, his tongue exploring her mouth. Maddy shivered as Jack's hands roamed her body.
'How t'bloody 'ell do ya get out this luv?' Jack pleaded desperately.
Maddy chuckled and guided Jack's hand to a row of tiny hooks at the back of her dress, cleverly concealed by a seam.
'Bloody hell Madalene, it'll take me forever to get these undone.' Jack's impatient fingers fumbled with the hooks, drawing an exasperated sigh from him.
'Well Jack Sparrow, patience is a virtue. Slow down and stop being so hamfisted.'
'I ain't the virtuous sort luv, thought ya'd have realised that by now.' Jack took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down, and tackled the hooks again, taking more care this time. He smiled lascvisiously as Maddy's back became more exposed, trailing his tongue down her spine and feeling her shudder. When the final hook was undone, Jack slid the garment from Maddy's shoulders, and laid it on a chair.
Maddy turned and faced Jack, feeling glad he hadn't got his usual garb on. She wasn't in the mood to be fiddling with his belt and sash, despite what she had just lectured about patience. Maddy slid her hand in Jack's shirt, making him shiver as she caressed him. The shirt soon joined her dress on the chair, as did the rest of his clothes and they tumbled down onto the bed, their moans and murmurs being heard well into the night.
***********
The sea edged closer to Maddy's feet with each wave, until they were finally submerged in white froth. She squealed as Jack ran up to her, scooping her up in his arms and spinning round, until the world became a blur. 'Stop! Put me down, you idiot.' The laughter gurgled in Maddy's throat.
'Oh. I'm an idiot now am I, Madalene Sparrow?' Jack held her out, threatening to drop her into the water.
'No, no, no, of course you're not. You married me didn't you?' Maddy clung to Jack like a limpet, nuzzling his neck.
'Aye luv, I did marry ya, best decision I ever made.' Jack put her down, his face serious. He ferreted around in his pocket, smiling when he found what he sought. 'Close yer eyes.'
Maddy looked at him questioningly, but did as she was told. She felt Jack pick her hand up and place a ring on her finger, above her wedding band.
'No looking just yet Madalene.' Jack went round the back of his wife and fastened a necklace around her, positioning it to drop into her cleavage. Then he pulled off her ear-rings and replaced them with others. 'Ya can open them now luv.' He whispered tenderly.
Maddy opened her eyes and looked tentatively at her finger, gasping when she saw the beautiful turquoise stone set into a gold band. She looked at the necklace, finding an identical stone hanging from a delicate chain. Her fingers flew to her ears, feeling the hard studs of turquoise stones on her lobes.
'Jack..... oh Jack they're.....' Tears sprang to Maddy's eyes as she held Jack close. 'Thank you my darling, they're perfect, like you.' Maddy lost herself to Jack's kiss, emerging, breathless a few minutes later. 'Your present was too big to bring out with me, I'll give it to you when we get back to the inn.' Maddy fingered the ring, gulping back the tears. 'I love you Jack.'
'Aye luv, me too. How'd ya bring a large present with us and I didn't notice?' Jack looked dubiously at his wife.
'I snuck it into the trunk when you left the cabin for a few minutes, it's right at the bottom.' Maddy grinned mischievously at Jack, who was looking at her with narrow eyes.
'No wonder ya won't let me anywhere near the trunk then Missy.' Jack slapped her rump, then chased her as she ran off down the beach, laughing.
**********
'I hope the food is to your liking, it's my special recipe.' The inn- keepers wife smiled nervously at her guests.
'I'm sure we will, it looks lovely.' The food had been plain fare, but delicious. Jack had threatened to kidnap the woman and have her installed in the galley aboard The Black Pearl. They tucked into the fish stew, enjoying the tastes and textures of the different fish in it, sitting back, full to bust when they had finished.
'I tell ya, she's comin' wi'us Madalene.' He glanced admiringly at his wife, wearing a dark blue dress, which set off the paler blue stones of his gifts beautifully.
Maddy giggled, then took something out of her purse. 'Now it's your turn Jack, close your eyes. It's only a little gift to start with, you can have the other one later.' She shoved Jack's shoulder as his eyebrows shot up. 'You have *that* later too.' Maddy took Jack's hand and placed something small and light in it. Jack frowned and opened his eyes, peering at his gift.
'Madalene, it's beautiful. Where on earth did you find this?' Jack turned the amber bead around in his fingers, looking in amazement at the tiny insect caught in it.
'In Freetown. It was whole when I brought it, I got Will to make a hole in it, so you can wear it in your hair. You see, he managed to avoid the insect.' Maddy brought her head close to Jack's as they studied the bead. Jack pressed it into Maddy's hand and undid one of his braids, smiling as she threaded it on and secured the braid once more.
'There, that looks wonderful Jack.' It seemed to bring out an almost caramel hue in Jack's eyes. 'Come on, I want to give you your other present.' Maddy stood and pulled Jack up, leading the way back to their room. 'No, Jack,' Maddy batted his hand away from her hips, your proper present first, then that. Now, close your eyes and don't you dare peek.' Maddy ignored the mock hurt expression on Jack's face and went to the trunk, making sure he did have his eyes closed. Jack could hear her rummaging around in the trunk and peered through the lashes of an eye. 'Close your eyes Jack Sparrow.' Jack looked astonished as he closed his eyes tightly.
'Open.'
For the first time since Maddy had known him, Jack was speechless. His eyes roved the length of the cutless, taking in the golden blade, the black pearls set into the hand guard and hilt. He ran his fingers along the fine quality black leather that bound the grip, taking it in his hand, testing the weight and feel. 'Madalene......?' Jack looked at his wife in amazement, 'It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.' Jack lay the sword on the bed and took Maddy in his arms, holding tightly, kissing her neck, face and lips. 'Where did you get it luv?'
Maddy smiled with quivering lips, 'I'm glad you like it Jack,' she replied, running her fingers along his jaw. 'Mr Gibbs knew a man, who knew a man in... Tortuga.' Maddy gulped back a sob. 'He smuggled in on board before......'
'Good man, good man,' Jack murmured, picking the cutless up once more, a grin slowly spreading across his face. 'Black pearls luv? Musta cost a bit?' Jack thrust and parried at the air, marvelling the perfect weight and length. Jack put it down once more and pushed Maddy onto the bed. 'Thank you luv, let me show ya just how grateful I am,' he whispered huskily, thanking whatever Gods might be listening for his good fortune.