Disclaimer: This story is AU, since there is at least 100 years difference
between POTC and SH, so I played with the time line a bit. This chapter is
dedicated to Katana, who wrote me an email and immediately after I read it
I started writing more. Reviews and feedback really does inspire! Thank you
so much!
**** Jack Sparrow smiled a tight smile, as he watched the land grow closer. By tomorrow night, if the wind doesn't change drastically, they should be arriving at Sleepy Hollow. He wasn't quite sure how he felt about that and until now he managed to push that question to the back of his mind. Now the question came back with a vengeance and he could feel a pit in the bottom of his stomach. He quirked his head to the side, was he worried? No, of course not, Jack Sparrow was a brave and crazy pirate, he feared nothing, not even ghosts. Then what was it...?
Apprehension, perhaps? It WAS a dangerous mission- dealing with a possible dead, headless horseman and all- and it was only natural that he would be slightly nervous, though he would never show any of it to his younger counterparts. It had to be that, it just had to be, it couldn't be that he was afraid of SLEEPY HOLLOW, or a particular resident...
He froze at that thought, his eyes narrowing. He was definitely NOT even remotely concerned with Mrs. Katrina Brunt! The only thing about her that concerned him was how deep were her pockets... He snorted as he realized that was his concern as well almost twenty years ago. Some things never change...
"Jack!"
...Which is not always a positive thing. Jack rolled his eyes before turning around and plastering a grin on his face. "Will!"
"Are you busy? You seemed deep in thought," Will commented somewhat sheepishly, as he joined Jack at the helm. They seemed to be making this a habit, to Jack's chagrin. He knew Will had a right to know about his father, but he always feared those inevitable questions, that would be difficult to answer. Plus the boy could be quite the pest.
"Are you nervous?" Will asked quietly.
"No, of course not, why should I be?" Jack answered quickly, as though it were nothing. QUITE the pest.
"No reason," Will answered calmly, though inside he was smirking. Jack was nervous alright...
"Where's the lovely Elizabeth?" Jack said after a long pause. He hated silence, his thoughts seemed to catch up with him when it was too quiet. Will sighed a long sigh that spoke volumes.
"She's sleeping..." He said through gritted teeth. "In Anamaria's quarters."
"You two got into a fight?" Jack guessed, smirking. That woman was untamable, a feisty one, the kind of woman a boy like Will couldn't handle. Sure, he was rooting for them, but it was doomed from the get go.
"That's just it," Will said miserably. "We didn't! Everything was fine, we weren't arguing about anything and suddenly she needs some time alone to 'decide what she really wants'- those were her exact words." Will buried his face in his hands. "She wants to leave me, I know she does."
"Now why would you think that?" Jack asked seriously. But from the look on Will's face he gathered he must have sounded cynical.
"I knew it was only a matter of time before she realized she's too good for me," Will said morosely, his gazed fixed ahead at the approaching land. "I just never thought it would be this soon." Jack groaned, before setting the helm and taking a seat near Will.
"She is not going to leave you, she's-"
"Then why did she start sleeping in other quarters? And why say she needs to 'decide what she really wants'?" Will looked at Jack, searching for a sign, anything that might ease his troubled heart. He dropped his head and watched the waves crash against the ship. "This was her idea, this adventure. I was the one who had my reserves about it, she was the 'true pirate'. I must be such a disappointment as a pirate, seeing as how it is supposed to be in my blood and a part of me. It's no wonder she wants to leave me."
"Arrrr!" Jack said agitated. "You two need to stop annoying me with your petty problems and doubts and start talking to one another!" Will looked at him bewildered, before Jack took a few deep breaths, convinced himself that confused look did NOT warrant choking the life out of Will, and calmed himself down. "Listen here matey," Jack said slowly. "Elizabeth is NOT considering leaving you, God knows why not, she could certainly do better." Jack rambled.
"But-"
"No buts, scallywags or monkeys," Jack said tersely. "Just listen. Elizabeth is simply having the same doubts that you are having, in regards to being On the Account. She was also thinking she was a lousy pirate and even made me promise not to tell you, she was so embarrassed." Jack frowned. "I just broke a promise..." He shrugged. "Oh well, I didn't SWEAR not to tell."
"So..." Will said slowly, trying to process what he just heard. "Why did she move out of our quarters?"
"I don't know," Jack said, stroking his beard. Some of the braids fell apart and he'd have to redo them, or have Elizabeth do it. "Maybe she's ashamed of herself, maybe she needs to think alone. The best way to find out would be to go and ask her." There was a contemplative pause. "Now!"
"Thanks Jack," Will said quickly, as he dashed over to Anamaria's quarters.
"Oh thank God!" Jack said as soon as Will disappeared. "Any more of their sodding problems and I'd throw myself overboard."
Will stood in front of the door and hesitated. Should he knock? He rapped on the door hurriedly and fidgeted slightly until Elizabeth came and opened the door.
"Will," she said, smiling nervously.
"Can I come in?" Will asked, as nervous as she is.
"Of course," Elizabeth said slowly. She realized this conversation was unavoidable and the sooner it was over, the sooner she could start to heal her broken heart. She was like an anchor attached to his legs, she was only dragging him down until he drowned, so to speak. She moved aside and let him enter, closing the door after him. Will sat down on the chest in the middle of the room and Elizabeth sat on the bed, facing him. They were both silent for a while, no one daring to go first.
Will cleared his throat. He realized since he was the one to approach her, he should speak first, but he did not know how to start the conversation. He simply blurted the first thing that came to mind. "Jack told me." Oh well, he could kill him later.
"Oh," was all Elizabeth could say. Jack promised her he wouldn't say anything and she thought he was a man of his word.
"You thought you weren't enough of a pirate for me?" Will asked, half amused and half shocked.
"I just.... This experience has been so difficult and taxing for me and I was the one that pushed you to agree to this adventure. I guess... I felt that I..."
"Me too," Will assured her quickly, joining her on the bed. "You seemed so excited about this life, about going and investigating, I just assumed you thought I wasn't made to be a pirate after all, or the kind of husband you wanted."
"That's ridiculous," Elizabeth said sternly. "You are the ONLY husband I want. Pirate or no pirate, I will always love you."
"And YOU, Mrs. Elizabeth Turner, are the only wife I want." He draped his arm around her shoulder and she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Will?"
"Yes?" He asked, his eyes closed and he breathed in the scent that was his wife. His wife who hadn't really had a chance to shower properly for the past month, but his wife nonetheless.
"Aren't you forgetting something?"
"Such as...?"
"Such as 'I love you too?'"
"Well that goes without saying," Will said hurriedly, trying to compensate.
"It's still nice to hear."
Will raised her head so she looked straight into his eyes. "I love you too." He kissed her on her pretty little nose, before tasting her soft lips.
"That's more like it," she smiled.
"Have you made a decision? I mean about being a pirate," Will asked gently.
"I have," Elizabeth said grinning. "And I want to share this life with you Will, the good times as well as the bad and no matter how difficult it will get."
"Good," Will said, stroking her long hair. "Because I would not live this life without you." They sat there in comfortable silence for a while, before Will chuckled.
"I think we should make a pact to tell each other everything from here on, and not go to Jack with our problems- they seem to upset him."
"Agreed," Elizabeth said, before frowning. "Now that you've mentioned it, I have noticed he's been a bit weird lately."
"I think he's nervous about the headless horseman," Will said smiling.
"Maybe he's lonely?" Elizabeth pondered. "Do you think there is anything going on between Jack and Anamaria?"
"I don't know," Will shook his head. "But from the way she slaps him, I'd say she probably hates him with a vengeance."
"Oh you know absolutely nothing about women," Elizabeth said thinking. Her eyes suddenly sparked up and she turned toward Will, grinning madly.
"Oh no," Will said worried.
"What?" She asked innocently.
"I've seen that look before, it's the same look you had when you thought it would be a good idea to go fix the roof. You just forgot you had no idea how, and fell through the roof, nearly killing yourself." Will said exasperated.
"Well, don't worry, I don't plan on fixing the ship."
"Good."
"How old do you think Jack is? He's not THAT old, I probably know some very nice ladies around his age..."
"You are NOT setting him up!" Will said sternly. "Jack would probably kill you, and me for knowing about it, and beside, your friends are all aristocrats, and pirates and them don't mix well." He noticed the look she gave him, and quickly added. "I wasn't talking about you, you're special, not the ordinary high society lady and I'm not your average pirate either."
"Alright, apology accepted," Elizabeth said yawning.
"Are you returning to our quarters?" Will asked hopefully.
Elizabeth looked around. "No, actually. This bed is so soft and it is our last night on board..." She grinned at him mischievously. "And I think it's big enough for two."
Will returned the grin. "Let's find out..." he said and started climbing on the bed, kissing her in the process.
*
"Alright!" Jack said, as he skipped toward the two. "It's settled. I paid the port authority to make sure no one comes NEAR the Pearl." He walked over to the side of the ship and ran his hand over her. "You should be safe, love, I promise you no one will ever touch you again."
"And we all know what your promises are worth," Elizabeth muttered in mock seriousness. Jack winced.
"About that-"
"No need to apologize, Jack," Elizabeth smiled warmly. "If you hadn't told Will, who knows what might have happened between us," she glanced at Will. "I should have never put you in that position and we both promise to not do that again."
Jack grinned toothily. "I'm glad you've worked things out." He walked up onto the ship and started taking random objects. "There's an Inn in Sleepy Hollow not too far from here. I'll go and get us rooms, do us a favor and gather only vital things, I'll come back with help to carry." He turned to leave, before pausing, wheeling around and whispering to Will: "Make sure she packs ONLY vital things." He warned, glanced suspiciously at Elizabeth and sauntered away.
"You don't suppose," Will said knitting his eyebrows, "that there is more than one person up there," he pointed to his head. "That he keeps saying 'us'?"
"I try not to wonder too much when it comes to Jack," Elizabeth smiled, as she headed back up. "He always finds ways to surprise me."
*
"Hello?" Jack called into the empty Inn. He scratched his head, it was dark and there were always tired travelers adorning the Inn's pub. He could have sworn he just heard a fly sighing.
"Can I help you?" A young boy said, suddenly popping up from behind the counter. Jack jumped and wondered if other little munchkins were going to "pop up" on him. Maybe people WERE here, but they were just hiding, waiting to jump up at him and scare the living daylight out of him. Or maybe it really was empty.
"Where is the owner of this Inn?" Jack asked pointedly, sparing a glance at the dusty and disheveled interior. "Business is blooming I imagine?"
"My father, Jonathan Masbath owns this Inn," the boy said hotly. "And we've hit a bit of a rough time, what with the-" He stopped suddenly, realizing what he was saying.
"What with the headless horseman terrorizing this town?" Jack offered.
"You've heard and yet you still came here?" Young Masbath said, shaking his head. "Pardon me for saying this sir, but are you mad?"
"I am, yes," Jack grinned. "But I do not have a death wish. I came here because I was told there's a handsome reward for whoever stops the murders."
Young Masbath leaned closer. "If you want my advice, sir, get out, while you still can! There's something unnatural at work here, and the headless horseman cannot be killed- many have tried."
"Scaring off costumers already, son?" Jonathan Masbath admonished, as he came from the back room.
"Just giving him fair warning, that's all," Young Masbath argued. "I recon he should know what he's getting himself into- he wants to go after the headless horseman!"
"Good luck with that!" Jonathan said snorting. "He's dead- you can't kill him, you can't stop him. If you get into his way he'll soon kill you as well."
"I've battled the undead before," Jack said smugly. "They always have a weakness." He took his hat off and bowed deeply. "Captain Jack Sparrow."
"Jack Sparrow...." Jonathan said, trying to remember. "Oh yeah, I've heard of you..." Jack's ego swelled like a balloon to hear that his reputation traveled the distance to America. "Are you that pirate that got thrown to jail for stealing women's dresses and jewelry?"
"No, I'm not," Jack muttered between gritted teeth, his ego suddenly deflated.
"Really? I could have sworn his name was "Jack Sparrow".... Or was it 'Jack Stonewall'?" Jonathan scratched his head. "There's something awfully familiar about you..." He shook the thought away. "Boy, go and fetch Widow Katrina Van Brunt." Before Jack could argue the boy was gone and he was left with Mr. Jonathan Masbath, whom he remembered as a young boy with a changing voice and an inability to stay awake during class.
"So," Jack said, clapping his hands. "Who's been axed so far?"
* Several minutes later, the door to the Inn creaked open and in came the distinguished figure of Katrina Van Brunt. Despite it being nearly twenty nears since he last saw her, Jack was forced to admit that she was as stunning as ever. There was no grey in her sunny yellow hair, no wrinkles on her face, and the only thing that gave her away were her eyes. They were tired and red, as though she hadn't slept well for some time.
"I'll leave you two be," Jonathan said, as he made to leave the room.
"I require two rooms," Jack said, realizing he forgot all about it. "And my friends are waiting near the dock with our belongings."
"I'll get right on it," Jonathan nodded, as he and his son left the room. The stillness in the room was enough to drive an already mad pirate up the walls and down. Jack took a deep breath, steadied himself and when he was sure he was under control he put on his characteristic smirk and said: "Katrina Van Brunt I presume?"
She tilted her head to the side, the voice was so familiar. She tried to pinpoint it when she gazed into the man's eyes, such mesmerizing eyes, she knew someone who had the exact same eyes...
"Icha-"
"Captain Jack Sparrow," he said quickly in a shrug.
"Alright," she consented. "Captain Jack Sparrow, what are you doing here?"
"I'm here to rid this town of a local ghost," he grinned. "And to collect the ten bags promised to whoever stops the murders."
"Oh, I see," Katrina said, her anger rising. "Of course the only reason you would come would be for booty."
"I'm sorry, but aren't you the one who OFFERED the money?" Jack asked in mock confusion. "I'm a Pirate Ms., that's what I do. Why else would I have come here?"
"I honestly don't know," Katrina said dejectedly. "I'm so stupid to think- never mind."
"To think what? That I came here after all this time to win your heart?" Jack laughed at the thought. "I'm not that crazy."
"Forget I said anything," Katrina said bitingly. "And you might as well turn on your heels and leave, the headless horseman hasn't struck for over three weeks."
"If it's all the same to you, I think I'll stay for a while," Jack smiled in a cat-like fashion.
"Do as you please," Katrina said briskly, about to leave. She took a deep breath and calmed herself down. "I... Apologize, I've been quite rude. It's been a difficult time for me."
Jack nodded his head for her to continue, completely caught off guard with this apology. Katrina NEVER apologized for ANYTHING.
"I've heard stories of you, you know," she said quietly. "Stories of you defeating an army of skeletons. If... If you think you can stop this horseman from striking again, I'd appreciate it and reward you generously." She took another deep breath and winced at her next words. "And I'm sorry for how we parted last time. If we can, Jack, I would like to turn over a new leaf."
"Why the sudden change of heart?" Jack asked curiously, leaning forward in his seat, not committing himself to anything.
"I have a daughter," she said, her voice barely a whisper. "And I fear she may be next. I would do ANYTHING and sacrifice anything, if it would assure her safety." She looked him straight in the eye. "Including swallowing my own pride and admitting past mistakes."
Jack nodded, though not entirely convinced. "Apology accepted." He jumped up from his stool and swaggered over to her. "And I WILL solve this case, you have my word on that."
Katrina smiled tightly and nodded, swiping a tear from her eyes. "I just hope it will not be too late."
~
"I just hope I won't be too late," Ichabod muttered to himself, as he tried to make his appearance more presentable. He tied his hair back in a ponytail and felt his face- he could use a shave right about now. He saw the shores looming up ahead and grinned to himself. He was finally home. He was only gone for about a week a week and a half, there was no way Katrina married Brom by now. That meant he still had a chance. He jumped from the boat, not even bothering to secure it, and started wadding through the water, running and tripping unto the sand. He was filthy and smelled, but he did not care.
He ran into town and did not stop until he reached Katrina's house. He was panting and out of breath as he knocked vigorously on the door. The door swung open to show him an image that made his heart beat faster. Katrina was laughing at something said, her beauty breathtaking and her voice like the singing of angels. She turned to him and immediately the smile was wiped from her face. "Ichabod," she whispered.
"Katrina," he breathed, his smile nearly splitting his face in two. She made sure no one was watching, before pulling him by the arm outside, into a deserted alley.
"Ichabod, what are you doing here?" She asked tersely. "Farmer Killian said you went away to study law."
"That's absurd," Ichabod laughed. "I've been kidnapped by Pirates! Well not exactly kidnapped per say, but that's where I've been since that night-" The smiled faltered for a moment before it returned with full force. "But I've come back!"
"Why have you come back?" Katrina nearly whined, her eyes darting constantly up and down the alley.
"Why, to win your heart back, of course!" Ichabod said determinedly.
"Ichabod-"
"No, Katrina, just listen!" He said hastily. "I know you said you wanted to marry Brom, that you thought long and hard about your decision and knew in your heart it was best. But I want you to think it over once again, I'm not the same man I was! I have fought pirates, I can wield a sword- sort of," he added sheepishly. "I'm just as valiant as Brom is, and I can prove it!"
"There's no need," she laughed nervously. "I believe you. But it does not change my decision- Brom and I are getting married... In two days time."
"Two... Days.. Time?" Ichabod stuttered. "Well you sure don't waste any time..."
"How am I going to say this," Katrina sighed, rubbing her eyes. "I don't want to hurt you..."
"What do you mean?" Ichabod asked confused.
"The fact that you are valiant, the fact that you have returned, they will not change my mind, because... Because it was never a difficult decision- or any decision at all." She glanced up into his eyes and turned away, ashamed. "Brom was the only man I had eyes for, Ichabod. You were never an option."
"I don't understand," he said, feeling a lump in his throat. "What about our walks, our dances..?"
"Brom, he's the kind of man that likes a good conquest." Katrina explained, biting her lip. "I knew that I would be nothing special to him by myself, but if he had competition..."
"You used me," Ichabod said outraged. "You used me to get Brom!"
"Well it's not like your motivations were pure!" She spat back.
"What's THAT supposed to mean?"
"It means your mouth watered up at the very thought of the Van Tassel property and wealth!" She accused. "Admit it, you were after me simply because you wanted my money!"
"I.. That's not... It's a lie!" Ichabod stammered shocked.
"At least I'm honest with myself," Katrina huffed. "You're nothing but a treasure hunter, Ichabod. It's who you are."
He was silent as the words sunk in. He was bewildered and indignant, but deep down he knew she was right. He was a Pirate in the disguise of a school master!
"I'm..." Katrina said swallowing. "I should get back." She walked past him, before turning around.
"Ichabod-"
"No," he said harshly. "Ichabod Crane is off studying law in the country," he said tersely. "I'm Jack-" He racked his brains. "-Something, I'll figure out the last name bit later." He stumped past her and out of the alley. "I was never here and I will never return. Ichabod Crane is dead."
He left and never looked back. He ran to the docking bay, hoping he would make it to Sunny Sands on time. He stared around him, his mouth opened and his heart dropping to his stomach. His boat was gone.
"Excuse me!" He said to port official. "I seem to have misplaced my boat."
"Small, white sails, has an angel carved on the side?" The man asked knowingly.
"Yes!" Jack said excitedly. "Where is it?"
"It's been hauled away," the man sneered. "You didn't pay the docking tax."
"But I NEED my boat," Jack said angrily, cursing himself and the annoying man who kept leering at him.
"Not my problem, next time pay your taxes," the man laughed and disappeared. Jack sat on the ground, completely miserable. Without his boat, there was no way he was going to get there on time...
He quirked his head to the side as a sudden crazy notion popped into his head. A sly grin crossed his face as he quickly ran to the end of the dock, intent on borrowing a boat.
*
Jack fastened the sails and worked the helm, sweat dripping from every pore in his body. He couldn't find any boat a few days ago, and so he was forced to steal a small ship. Well he didn't exactly STEAL it, he was only borrowing it for a limited time, and he DID leave all of his money for the owner.
"Come on, come on!" He urged the ship, as he glanced at the dark sky. It was two weeks from when he left the Island, and at midnight Saunders and Bill will be gone. He tried to remember the coordinates Saunders gave him, but his mind drew up a blank. He was nearing the trees now and was forced to drop the anchor and wait till he figured out how to enter the maze, otherwise...
"I guess he's not coming after all," Bill said disappointed. "I really thought he would be."
"Let's go," Saunders said quickly, preferring not to think of the young man in question. The two worked silently and within minutes were already sailing out of the maze of trees.
"BILL!"
"I think I miss him so much I'm hearing voices," Bill shook his head. "I could have sworn I just heard Jack calling to me.
"SAUNDERS!"
"I just heard my name," Saunders frowned. "And unless we've both been drinking a bad drought..." Both men turned quickly and saw near some bushes Jack on a ship stuck in some trees.
"Jack!" Bill cried happily. "Hang on!" He said as he ran to change the direction of the helm.
"How did you get yourself into those trees?" Saunders asked amused, his spirits high.
"I forgot your coordinates and just.... Well I just guessed!" Jack laughed at his own stupidity.
"You are insane!" Bill laughed, as they reached the ship and Jack jumped aboard. "Welcome back!"
"It's good to be back!" Jack smiled brightly.
"What happened to the boat?" Saunders asked, indicating the ship.
"It's a long story..." Jack said, almost blushing. "I stole a ship."
"Commandeered a ship," Saunders corrected him patiently. He slapped Jack on the back, before going to make some last minute adjustments.
"What happened with Katrina?" Bill asked, as they both settled down. "I thought you wanted to stay in Sleepy Hollow?"
"She made me realize something about myself that I never realized before," Jack said, somewhat bitterly, but resigned. "I realized in many ways I really AM a pirate. It was not true love, we were simply taking advantage of each other."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Bill said sincerely.
"I'm ready now," Jack said determined. "I am ready to become a true pirate, branded and all."
"Glad to hear that," Bill said grinning. "We've missed your cooking." Jack laughed, before saying goodnight and heading for his quarters. He met Saunders half way there.
"It really is good to have you back," Saunders smiled.
Jack frowned, remembering something that bothered him. "Captain, Katrina told me that Old Farmer Killian told the town people that Ichabod Crane went to the country to study law." He scrutinized Saunders, contemplating his next words.
"Old Farmer Killian lives by the Hudson river and he was never known to believe in stories..."
"If you're going to ask something, better be quick about it," Saunders said evenly.
"Did you spread the rumor that Ichabod went to study law?"
"Aye, that I did."
"Why?" Jack asked surprised.
"Because, I saw something in you," Saunders sighed. "I just knew you would be a grand pirate somehow. So when I found your floating fevered body in the river, I pulled you out and decided to treat you on board my ship. Farmer Killian saw me and so I paid him to say what he said."
"You knew without knowing me that I was a natural gold digger," Jack said savagely. "Katrina knew that as well, it seems the only one I fooled about being a respectable school master was myself."
"There be it nothing wrong with Piracy," Saunders said seriously. "It can be a VERY satisfying way of life. You go where you please, take what you want... Many men would KILL for such freedom and glory."
Jack was silent, absorbing Saunders words, before he turned to him with new determination. "I want to know everything there is to know about Piracy."
"That's my lad!" Saunders smiled, as he guided Jack to the quarters. "That's my lad!"
*END PART 5*
Author's Note: Sorry it took so long, between school and trying to write my other story as well, it took me a long time to just force myself to sit and write. So sorry everyone! Oh and I woke up at 8 this morning and just lay there for 2 hours imagining where I'm going with this plot! So I now know where this is heading! Yay for me! And yes, I am using names from the SH movie, but that's about it. Some of the plot may seem the same, but as you can guess it's very different.
Katana- LOL, you'd pay me? I could use the cash. Too much sugar is bad for you, I prefer sweet and low, but I did continue! You're saying I'm a weirdo stalker? Hmm, just how much do you really want me to write this, lol. Thanks for the email, as I said before, I got cracking as soon as I read it because I felt bad for not writing more sooner. Plus I had some free days in between tests, and soon I get a week vacation around the time LOTR comes out! How fun!
Always-a-kiwi- Well I'd hope it's an original idea! Well, Jack got to Sleepy Hollow, I hope it's what you expected and you're right about Brom, I'd love Jack to give him a heart attack or beat the crap out of him, I hate bullies.
IloveSands- Oi, until you mentioned it I didn't realize I used the name of Johnny's character in UOATIM! It must be my subconscious with its Johnny Depp obsession (the sexiest man according to People magazine, ya baby!)
kingleby- I think I'm starting to like Saunders as well, and he deserves to retire nicely! I hope the meeting with Katrina was what you expected and then some and enjoy the ride!
IST- Have I mentioned how much I adore you? And you REALLY ought to cut yourself some slack and stop stressing about your writing- you write so beautifully but have so little faith in your writing... Just believe in yourself a bit. What you said about forgetting that this wasn't part of the movie, that was the best compliment I have received to date! I love you to pieces!
Emma- You love the way I write? Thank you so much! *Blushes* Oi, you have tests too? I hate them, writing helps me keep sane during these times, but somehow it distracts me from actually studying for them, lol. Oh well. Take it easy!
Ivy
**** Jack Sparrow smiled a tight smile, as he watched the land grow closer. By tomorrow night, if the wind doesn't change drastically, they should be arriving at Sleepy Hollow. He wasn't quite sure how he felt about that and until now he managed to push that question to the back of his mind. Now the question came back with a vengeance and he could feel a pit in the bottom of his stomach. He quirked his head to the side, was he worried? No, of course not, Jack Sparrow was a brave and crazy pirate, he feared nothing, not even ghosts. Then what was it...?
Apprehension, perhaps? It WAS a dangerous mission- dealing with a possible dead, headless horseman and all- and it was only natural that he would be slightly nervous, though he would never show any of it to his younger counterparts. It had to be that, it just had to be, it couldn't be that he was afraid of SLEEPY HOLLOW, or a particular resident...
He froze at that thought, his eyes narrowing. He was definitely NOT even remotely concerned with Mrs. Katrina Brunt! The only thing about her that concerned him was how deep were her pockets... He snorted as he realized that was his concern as well almost twenty years ago. Some things never change...
"Jack!"
...Which is not always a positive thing. Jack rolled his eyes before turning around and plastering a grin on his face. "Will!"
"Are you busy? You seemed deep in thought," Will commented somewhat sheepishly, as he joined Jack at the helm. They seemed to be making this a habit, to Jack's chagrin. He knew Will had a right to know about his father, but he always feared those inevitable questions, that would be difficult to answer. Plus the boy could be quite the pest.
"Are you nervous?" Will asked quietly.
"No, of course not, why should I be?" Jack answered quickly, as though it were nothing. QUITE the pest.
"No reason," Will answered calmly, though inside he was smirking. Jack was nervous alright...
"Where's the lovely Elizabeth?" Jack said after a long pause. He hated silence, his thoughts seemed to catch up with him when it was too quiet. Will sighed a long sigh that spoke volumes.
"She's sleeping..." He said through gritted teeth. "In Anamaria's quarters."
"You two got into a fight?" Jack guessed, smirking. That woman was untamable, a feisty one, the kind of woman a boy like Will couldn't handle. Sure, he was rooting for them, but it was doomed from the get go.
"That's just it," Will said miserably. "We didn't! Everything was fine, we weren't arguing about anything and suddenly she needs some time alone to 'decide what she really wants'- those were her exact words." Will buried his face in his hands. "She wants to leave me, I know she does."
"Now why would you think that?" Jack asked seriously. But from the look on Will's face he gathered he must have sounded cynical.
"I knew it was only a matter of time before she realized she's too good for me," Will said morosely, his gazed fixed ahead at the approaching land. "I just never thought it would be this soon." Jack groaned, before setting the helm and taking a seat near Will.
"She is not going to leave you, she's-"
"Then why did she start sleeping in other quarters? And why say she needs to 'decide what she really wants'?" Will looked at Jack, searching for a sign, anything that might ease his troubled heart. He dropped his head and watched the waves crash against the ship. "This was her idea, this adventure. I was the one who had my reserves about it, she was the 'true pirate'. I must be such a disappointment as a pirate, seeing as how it is supposed to be in my blood and a part of me. It's no wonder she wants to leave me."
"Arrrr!" Jack said agitated. "You two need to stop annoying me with your petty problems and doubts and start talking to one another!" Will looked at him bewildered, before Jack took a few deep breaths, convinced himself that confused look did NOT warrant choking the life out of Will, and calmed himself down. "Listen here matey," Jack said slowly. "Elizabeth is NOT considering leaving you, God knows why not, she could certainly do better." Jack rambled.
"But-"
"No buts, scallywags or monkeys," Jack said tersely. "Just listen. Elizabeth is simply having the same doubts that you are having, in regards to being On the Account. She was also thinking she was a lousy pirate and even made me promise not to tell you, she was so embarrassed." Jack frowned. "I just broke a promise..." He shrugged. "Oh well, I didn't SWEAR not to tell."
"So..." Will said slowly, trying to process what he just heard. "Why did she move out of our quarters?"
"I don't know," Jack said, stroking his beard. Some of the braids fell apart and he'd have to redo them, or have Elizabeth do it. "Maybe she's ashamed of herself, maybe she needs to think alone. The best way to find out would be to go and ask her." There was a contemplative pause. "Now!"
"Thanks Jack," Will said quickly, as he dashed over to Anamaria's quarters.
"Oh thank God!" Jack said as soon as Will disappeared. "Any more of their sodding problems and I'd throw myself overboard."
Will stood in front of the door and hesitated. Should he knock? He rapped on the door hurriedly and fidgeted slightly until Elizabeth came and opened the door.
"Will," she said, smiling nervously.
"Can I come in?" Will asked, as nervous as she is.
"Of course," Elizabeth said slowly. She realized this conversation was unavoidable and the sooner it was over, the sooner she could start to heal her broken heart. She was like an anchor attached to his legs, she was only dragging him down until he drowned, so to speak. She moved aside and let him enter, closing the door after him. Will sat down on the chest in the middle of the room and Elizabeth sat on the bed, facing him. They were both silent for a while, no one daring to go first.
Will cleared his throat. He realized since he was the one to approach her, he should speak first, but he did not know how to start the conversation. He simply blurted the first thing that came to mind. "Jack told me." Oh well, he could kill him later.
"Oh," was all Elizabeth could say. Jack promised her he wouldn't say anything and she thought he was a man of his word.
"You thought you weren't enough of a pirate for me?" Will asked, half amused and half shocked.
"I just.... This experience has been so difficult and taxing for me and I was the one that pushed you to agree to this adventure. I guess... I felt that I..."
"Me too," Will assured her quickly, joining her on the bed. "You seemed so excited about this life, about going and investigating, I just assumed you thought I wasn't made to be a pirate after all, or the kind of husband you wanted."
"That's ridiculous," Elizabeth said sternly. "You are the ONLY husband I want. Pirate or no pirate, I will always love you."
"And YOU, Mrs. Elizabeth Turner, are the only wife I want." He draped his arm around her shoulder and she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Will?"
"Yes?" He asked, his eyes closed and he breathed in the scent that was his wife. His wife who hadn't really had a chance to shower properly for the past month, but his wife nonetheless.
"Aren't you forgetting something?"
"Such as...?"
"Such as 'I love you too?'"
"Well that goes without saying," Will said hurriedly, trying to compensate.
"It's still nice to hear."
Will raised her head so she looked straight into his eyes. "I love you too." He kissed her on her pretty little nose, before tasting her soft lips.
"That's more like it," she smiled.
"Have you made a decision? I mean about being a pirate," Will asked gently.
"I have," Elizabeth said grinning. "And I want to share this life with you Will, the good times as well as the bad and no matter how difficult it will get."
"Good," Will said, stroking her long hair. "Because I would not live this life without you." They sat there in comfortable silence for a while, before Will chuckled.
"I think we should make a pact to tell each other everything from here on, and not go to Jack with our problems- they seem to upset him."
"Agreed," Elizabeth said, before frowning. "Now that you've mentioned it, I have noticed he's been a bit weird lately."
"I think he's nervous about the headless horseman," Will said smiling.
"Maybe he's lonely?" Elizabeth pondered. "Do you think there is anything going on between Jack and Anamaria?"
"I don't know," Will shook his head. "But from the way she slaps him, I'd say she probably hates him with a vengeance."
"Oh you know absolutely nothing about women," Elizabeth said thinking. Her eyes suddenly sparked up and she turned toward Will, grinning madly.
"Oh no," Will said worried.
"What?" She asked innocently.
"I've seen that look before, it's the same look you had when you thought it would be a good idea to go fix the roof. You just forgot you had no idea how, and fell through the roof, nearly killing yourself." Will said exasperated.
"Well, don't worry, I don't plan on fixing the ship."
"Good."
"How old do you think Jack is? He's not THAT old, I probably know some very nice ladies around his age..."
"You are NOT setting him up!" Will said sternly. "Jack would probably kill you, and me for knowing about it, and beside, your friends are all aristocrats, and pirates and them don't mix well." He noticed the look she gave him, and quickly added. "I wasn't talking about you, you're special, not the ordinary high society lady and I'm not your average pirate either."
"Alright, apology accepted," Elizabeth said yawning.
"Are you returning to our quarters?" Will asked hopefully.
Elizabeth looked around. "No, actually. This bed is so soft and it is our last night on board..." She grinned at him mischievously. "And I think it's big enough for two."
Will returned the grin. "Let's find out..." he said and started climbing on the bed, kissing her in the process.
*
"Alright!" Jack said, as he skipped toward the two. "It's settled. I paid the port authority to make sure no one comes NEAR the Pearl." He walked over to the side of the ship and ran his hand over her. "You should be safe, love, I promise you no one will ever touch you again."
"And we all know what your promises are worth," Elizabeth muttered in mock seriousness. Jack winced.
"About that-"
"No need to apologize, Jack," Elizabeth smiled warmly. "If you hadn't told Will, who knows what might have happened between us," she glanced at Will. "I should have never put you in that position and we both promise to not do that again."
Jack grinned toothily. "I'm glad you've worked things out." He walked up onto the ship and started taking random objects. "There's an Inn in Sleepy Hollow not too far from here. I'll go and get us rooms, do us a favor and gather only vital things, I'll come back with help to carry." He turned to leave, before pausing, wheeling around and whispering to Will: "Make sure she packs ONLY vital things." He warned, glanced suspiciously at Elizabeth and sauntered away.
"You don't suppose," Will said knitting his eyebrows, "that there is more than one person up there," he pointed to his head. "That he keeps saying 'us'?"
"I try not to wonder too much when it comes to Jack," Elizabeth smiled, as she headed back up. "He always finds ways to surprise me."
*
"Hello?" Jack called into the empty Inn. He scratched his head, it was dark and there were always tired travelers adorning the Inn's pub. He could have sworn he just heard a fly sighing.
"Can I help you?" A young boy said, suddenly popping up from behind the counter. Jack jumped and wondered if other little munchkins were going to "pop up" on him. Maybe people WERE here, but they were just hiding, waiting to jump up at him and scare the living daylight out of him. Or maybe it really was empty.
"Where is the owner of this Inn?" Jack asked pointedly, sparing a glance at the dusty and disheveled interior. "Business is blooming I imagine?"
"My father, Jonathan Masbath owns this Inn," the boy said hotly. "And we've hit a bit of a rough time, what with the-" He stopped suddenly, realizing what he was saying.
"What with the headless horseman terrorizing this town?" Jack offered.
"You've heard and yet you still came here?" Young Masbath said, shaking his head. "Pardon me for saying this sir, but are you mad?"
"I am, yes," Jack grinned. "But I do not have a death wish. I came here because I was told there's a handsome reward for whoever stops the murders."
Young Masbath leaned closer. "If you want my advice, sir, get out, while you still can! There's something unnatural at work here, and the headless horseman cannot be killed- many have tried."
"Scaring off costumers already, son?" Jonathan Masbath admonished, as he came from the back room.
"Just giving him fair warning, that's all," Young Masbath argued. "I recon he should know what he's getting himself into- he wants to go after the headless horseman!"
"Good luck with that!" Jonathan said snorting. "He's dead- you can't kill him, you can't stop him. If you get into his way he'll soon kill you as well."
"I've battled the undead before," Jack said smugly. "They always have a weakness." He took his hat off and bowed deeply. "Captain Jack Sparrow."
"Jack Sparrow...." Jonathan said, trying to remember. "Oh yeah, I've heard of you..." Jack's ego swelled like a balloon to hear that his reputation traveled the distance to America. "Are you that pirate that got thrown to jail for stealing women's dresses and jewelry?"
"No, I'm not," Jack muttered between gritted teeth, his ego suddenly deflated.
"Really? I could have sworn his name was "Jack Sparrow".... Or was it 'Jack Stonewall'?" Jonathan scratched his head. "There's something awfully familiar about you..." He shook the thought away. "Boy, go and fetch Widow Katrina Van Brunt." Before Jack could argue the boy was gone and he was left with Mr. Jonathan Masbath, whom he remembered as a young boy with a changing voice and an inability to stay awake during class.
"So," Jack said, clapping his hands. "Who's been axed so far?"
* Several minutes later, the door to the Inn creaked open and in came the distinguished figure of Katrina Van Brunt. Despite it being nearly twenty nears since he last saw her, Jack was forced to admit that she was as stunning as ever. There was no grey in her sunny yellow hair, no wrinkles on her face, and the only thing that gave her away were her eyes. They were tired and red, as though she hadn't slept well for some time.
"I'll leave you two be," Jonathan said, as he made to leave the room.
"I require two rooms," Jack said, realizing he forgot all about it. "And my friends are waiting near the dock with our belongings."
"I'll get right on it," Jonathan nodded, as he and his son left the room. The stillness in the room was enough to drive an already mad pirate up the walls and down. Jack took a deep breath, steadied himself and when he was sure he was under control he put on his characteristic smirk and said: "Katrina Van Brunt I presume?"
She tilted her head to the side, the voice was so familiar. She tried to pinpoint it when she gazed into the man's eyes, such mesmerizing eyes, she knew someone who had the exact same eyes...
"Icha-"
"Captain Jack Sparrow," he said quickly in a shrug.
"Alright," she consented. "Captain Jack Sparrow, what are you doing here?"
"I'm here to rid this town of a local ghost," he grinned. "And to collect the ten bags promised to whoever stops the murders."
"Oh, I see," Katrina said, her anger rising. "Of course the only reason you would come would be for booty."
"I'm sorry, but aren't you the one who OFFERED the money?" Jack asked in mock confusion. "I'm a Pirate Ms., that's what I do. Why else would I have come here?"
"I honestly don't know," Katrina said dejectedly. "I'm so stupid to think- never mind."
"To think what? That I came here after all this time to win your heart?" Jack laughed at the thought. "I'm not that crazy."
"Forget I said anything," Katrina said bitingly. "And you might as well turn on your heels and leave, the headless horseman hasn't struck for over three weeks."
"If it's all the same to you, I think I'll stay for a while," Jack smiled in a cat-like fashion.
"Do as you please," Katrina said briskly, about to leave. She took a deep breath and calmed herself down. "I... Apologize, I've been quite rude. It's been a difficult time for me."
Jack nodded his head for her to continue, completely caught off guard with this apology. Katrina NEVER apologized for ANYTHING.
"I've heard stories of you, you know," she said quietly. "Stories of you defeating an army of skeletons. If... If you think you can stop this horseman from striking again, I'd appreciate it and reward you generously." She took another deep breath and winced at her next words. "And I'm sorry for how we parted last time. If we can, Jack, I would like to turn over a new leaf."
"Why the sudden change of heart?" Jack asked curiously, leaning forward in his seat, not committing himself to anything.
"I have a daughter," she said, her voice barely a whisper. "And I fear she may be next. I would do ANYTHING and sacrifice anything, if it would assure her safety." She looked him straight in the eye. "Including swallowing my own pride and admitting past mistakes."
Jack nodded, though not entirely convinced. "Apology accepted." He jumped up from his stool and swaggered over to her. "And I WILL solve this case, you have my word on that."
Katrina smiled tightly and nodded, swiping a tear from her eyes. "I just hope it will not be too late."
~
"I just hope I won't be too late," Ichabod muttered to himself, as he tried to make his appearance more presentable. He tied his hair back in a ponytail and felt his face- he could use a shave right about now. He saw the shores looming up ahead and grinned to himself. He was finally home. He was only gone for about a week a week and a half, there was no way Katrina married Brom by now. That meant he still had a chance. He jumped from the boat, not even bothering to secure it, and started wadding through the water, running and tripping unto the sand. He was filthy and smelled, but he did not care.
He ran into town and did not stop until he reached Katrina's house. He was panting and out of breath as he knocked vigorously on the door. The door swung open to show him an image that made his heart beat faster. Katrina was laughing at something said, her beauty breathtaking and her voice like the singing of angels. She turned to him and immediately the smile was wiped from her face. "Ichabod," she whispered.
"Katrina," he breathed, his smile nearly splitting his face in two. She made sure no one was watching, before pulling him by the arm outside, into a deserted alley.
"Ichabod, what are you doing here?" She asked tersely. "Farmer Killian said you went away to study law."
"That's absurd," Ichabod laughed. "I've been kidnapped by Pirates! Well not exactly kidnapped per say, but that's where I've been since that night-" The smiled faltered for a moment before it returned with full force. "But I've come back!"
"Why have you come back?" Katrina nearly whined, her eyes darting constantly up and down the alley.
"Why, to win your heart back, of course!" Ichabod said determinedly.
"Ichabod-"
"No, Katrina, just listen!" He said hastily. "I know you said you wanted to marry Brom, that you thought long and hard about your decision and knew in your heart it was best. But I want you to think it over once again, I'm not the same man I was! I have fought pirates, I can wield a sword- sort of," he added sheepishly. "I'm just as valiant as Brom is, and I can prove it!"
"There's no need," she laughed nervously. "I believe you. But it does not change my decision- Brom and I are getting married... In two days time."
"Two... Days.. Time?" Ichabod stuttered. "Well you sure don't waste any time..."
"How am I going to say this," Katrina sighed, rubbing her eyes. "I don't want to hurt you..."
"What do you mean?" Ichabod asked confused.
"The fact that you are valiant, the fact that you have returned, they will not change my mind, because... Because it was never a difficult decision- or any decision at all." She glanced up into his eyes and turned away, ashamed. "Brom was the only man I had eyes for, Ichabod. You were never an option."
"I don't understand," he said, feeling a lump in his throat. "What about our walks, our dances..?"
"Brom, he's the kind of man that likes a good conquest." Katrina explained, biting her lip. "I knew that I would be nothing special to him by myself, but if he had competition..."
"You used me," Ichabod said outraged. "You used me to get Brom!"
"Well it's not like your motivations were pure!" She spat back.
"What's THAT supposed to mean?"
"It means your mouth watered up at the very thought of the Van Tassel property and wealth!" She accused. "Admit it, you were after me simply because you wanted my money!"
"I.. That's not... It's a lie!" Ichabod stammered shocked.
"At least I'm honest with myself," Katrina huffed. "You're nothing but a treasure hunter, Ichabod. It's who you are."
He was silent as the words sunk in. He was bewildered and indignant, but deep down he knew she was right. He was a Pirate in the disguise of a school master!
"I'm..." Katrina said swallowing. "I should get back." She walked past him, before turning around.
"Ichabod-"
"No," he said harshly. "Ichabod Crane is off studying law in the country," he said tersely. "I'm Jack-" He racked his brains. "-Something, I'll figure out the last name bit later." He stumped past her and out of the alley. "I was never here and I will never return. Ichabod Crane is dead."
He left and never looked back. He ran to the docking bay, hoping he would make it to Sunny Sands on time. He stared around him, his mouth opened and his heart dropping to his stomach. His boat was gone.
"Excuse me!" He said to port official. "I seem to have misplaced my boat."
"Small, white sails, has an angel carved on the side?" The man asked knowingly.
"Yes!" Jack said excitedly. "Where is it?"
"It's been hauled away," the man sneered. "You didn't pay the docking tax."
"But I NEED my boat," Jack said angrily, cursing himself and the annoying man who kept leering at him.
"Not my problem, next time pay your taxes," the man laughed and disappeared. Jack sat on the ground, completely miserable. Without his boat, there was no way he was going to get there on time...
He quirked his head to the side as a sudden crazy notion popped into his head. A sly grin crossed his face as he quickly ran to the end of the dock, intent on borrowing a boat.
*
Jack fastened the sails and worked the helm, sweat dripping from every pore in his body. He couldn't find any boat a few days ago, and so he was forced to steal a small ship. Well he didn't exactly STEAL it, he was only borrowing it for a limited time, and he DID leave all of his money for the owner.
"Come on, come on!" He urged the ship, as he glanced at the dark sky. It was two weeks from when he left the Island, and at midnight Saunders and Bill will be gone. He tried to remember the coordinates Saunders gave him, but his mind drew up a blank. He was nearing the trees now and was forced to drop the anchor and wait till he figured out how to enter the maze, otherwise...
"I guess he's not coming after all," Bill said disappointed. "I really thought he would be."
"Let's go," Saunders said quickly, preferring not to think of the young man in question. The two worked silently and within minutes were already sailing out of the maze of trees.
"BILL!"
"I think I miss him so much I'm hearing voices," Bill shook his head. "I could have sworn I just heard Jack calling to me.
"SAUNDERS!"
"I just heard my name," Saunders frowned. "And unless we've both been drinking a bad drought..." Both men turned quickly and saw near some bushes Jack on a ship stuck in some trees.
"Jack!" Bill cried happily. "Hang on!" He said as he ran to change the direction of the helm.
"How did you get yourself into those trees?" Saunders asked amused, his spirits high.
"I forgot your coordinates and just.... Well I just guessed!" Jack laughed at his own stupidity.
"You are insane!" Bill laughed, as they reached the ship and Jack jumped aboard. "Welcome back!"
"It's good to be back!" Jack smiled brightly.
"What happened to the boat?" Saunders asked, indicating the ship.
"It's a long story..." Jack said, almost blushing. "I stole a ship."
"Commandeered a ship," Saunders corrected him patiently. He slapped Jack on the back, before going to make some last minute adjustments.
"What happened with Katrina?" Bill asked, as they both settled down. "I thought you wanted to stay in Sleepy Hollow?"
"She made me realize something about myself that I never realized before," Jack said, somewhat bitterly, but resigned. "I realized in many ways I really AM a pirate. It was not true love, we were simply taking advantage of each other."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Bill said sincerely.
"I'm ready now," Jack said determined. "I am ready to become a true pirate, branded and all."
"Glad to hear that," Bill said grinning. "We've missed your cooking." Jack laughed, before saying goodnight and heading for his quarters. He met Saunders half way there.
"It really is good to have you back," Saunders smiled.
Jack frowned, remembering something that bothered him. "Captain, Katrina told me that Old Farmer Killian told the town people that Ichabod Crane went to the country to study law." He scrutinized Saunders, contemplating his next words.
"Old Farmer Killian lives by the Hudson river and he was never known to believe in stories..."
"If you're going to ask something, better be quick about it," Saunders said evenly.
"Did you spread the rumor that Ichabod went to study law?"
"Aye, that I did."
"Why?" Jack asked surprised.
"Because, I saw something in you," Saunders sighed. "I just knew you would be a grand pirate somehow. So when I found your floating fevered body in the river, I pulled you out and decided to treat you on board my ship. Farmer Killian saw me and so I paid him to say what he said."
"You knew without knowing me that I was a natural gold digger," Jack said savagely. "Katrina knew that as well, it seems the only one I fooled about being a respectable school master was myself."
"There be it nothing wrong with Piracy," Saunders said seriously. "It can be a VERY satisfying way of life. You go where you please, take what you want... Many men would KILL for such freedom and glory."
Jack was silent, absorbing Saunders words, before he turned to him with new determination. "I want to know everything there is to know about Piracy."
"That's my lad!" Saunders smiled, as he guided Jack to the quarters. "That's my lad!"
*END PART 5*
Author's Note: Sorry it took so long, between school and trying to write my other story as well, it took me a long time to just force myself to sit and write. So sorry everyone! Oh and I woke up at 8 this morning and just lay there for 2 hours imagining where I'm going with this plot! So I now know where this is heading! Yay for me! And yes, I am using names from the SH movie, but that's about it. Some of the plot may seem the same, but as you can guess it's very different.
Katana- LOL, you'd pay me? I could use the cash. Too much sugar is bad for you, I prefer sweet and low, but I did continue! You're saying I'm a weirdo stalker? Hmm, just how much do you really want me to write this, lol. Thanks for the email, as I said before, I got cracking as soon as I read it because I felt bad for not writing more sooner. Plus I had some free days in between tests, and soon I get a week vacation around the time LOTR comes out! How fun!
Always-a-kiwi- Well I'd hope it's an original idea! Well, Jack got to Sleepy Hollow, I hope it's what you expected and you're right about Brom, I'd love Jack to give him a heart attack or beat the crap out of him, I hate bullies.
IloveSands- Oi, until you mentioned it I didn't realize I used the name of Johnny's character in UOATIM! It must be my subconscious with its Johnny Depp obsession (the sexiest man according to People magazine, ya baby!)
kingleby- I think I'm starting to like Saunders as well, and he deserves to retire nicely! I hope the meeting with Katrina was what you expected and then some and enjoy the ride!
IST- Have I mentioned how much I adore you? And you REALLY ought to cut yourself some slack and stop stressing about your writing- you write so beautifully but have so little faith in your writing... Just believe in yourself a bit. What you said about forgetting that this wasn't part of the movie, that was the best compliment I have received to date! I love you to pieces!
Emma- You love the way I write? Thank you so much! *Blushes* Oi, you have tests too? I hate them, writing helps me keep sane during these times, but somehow it distracts me from actually studying for them, lol. Oh well. Take it easy!
Ivy