You Won't Be Dying Tomorrow

Summary: Jack recieves a letter the night before his hanging.

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Watching the dust was no fun.

Captain Jack Sparrow could vouch for that right now, sitting huddled in a small corner of his cell in Port Royal. Yes, watching the red, dusty floor was definately boring. Unfortunately, it seemed unlikely Jack would ever be able to relate this to anyone. Yes, Jack Sparrow was headed for the gallows the very next morning. And for once there was no plan. He couldn't see a way out of this one. This was it.

"Sparrow!"

Footsteps down the stairs made Jack cock his head, like an alert cat. His beaded beard swayed as he moved his head. A Navy officer appeared outside the barred door, smiling cruelly at Jack. Jack sighed inwardly. He was hoping to get to see Norrington before his death, to set the man straight about a few things, but the man before him looked like a junior, a mere teen, still spotty. Jack forced his golden grin.

"Welcome to my humble home," he smirked.

The Officer raised something in his hand. It was an envelope. "This is for you."

"A letter?" Jack asked, trying not to show his confusion.

"Yes, a letter. I trust you can read?"

Jack really wanted to say something cold and crushing back, but he knew he couldn't if he wanted to see his letter. "Aye. I can."

The Officer slipped the letter under the door, then smirked widely and walked off. Jack stared at the letter for a few moments, wondering who could be writing to him. Nobody knew he was here, that was the problem. But the messy scrawl on the letter looked oddly familar, and Jack scuttled across to the letter, picking up the envelope. It was still sealed. The Officer on duty was obviously an amateur. Anyone else would have opened the letter before letting him have it. Jack smiled at the writing on the front.

For the eyes of Captain Jack Sparrow

He slowly opened it, and pulled out a thin, folded sheet of paper. Sitting comfortably, he unfolded the letter and began to read in the moonlight.

Dearest Jack,

I can't believe you got caught. That probably wasn't the best way to start this letter, I should have explained how I know first, but it had to be said. Anyway, how do I know? Well, I followed you when you left Tortuga three days ago. I always follow you.

It started when you stole my boat. I spent years trying to locate you, then when I finally did I was determined not to let you get away. So, I sailed under you. And even when you gave up the Pearl to sail alone, I always followed you in your brig.

There. I confessed. Why do I follow you? I've been following you for years. I love you, Jack Sparrow, I think I always have done.

So you won't be dying tomorrow.

See you at the gallows,

Anamaria

Jack grinned.

Fin.