Chapter Seven

Captain Jack Sparrow wondered what excuse he could use to tell the crew why they would be leaving Antigua early. He also wondered what he would say if they ever wanted to come back. Of course, he didn't really want to leave at all. But if he ever saw Serena again, he didn't know what it might do to him. It was all over now, anyway. For good this time.

Things could get back to normal again and he'll forget all about her, just like before. The Black Pearl, a crew and a horizon on the open seas was all he needed to be happy. He didn't need anyone except himself.

But this was only what Jack's head told him, not his heart. As soon as his heart began its side of the inner argument he was having with himself, he started to walk more quickly.

He had to get to the Black Pearl. Once he was back on his ship, he could leave it all behind. Everything would be fine when he was back at the helm of his ship.

He tried to battle against his thoughts and emotions but it was no use.

Jack's Heart: But you love her!

Jack's Head: No, I don't. We don't belong together.

Jack's Heart: Why not? And no lies! They're dreadful! Roping together two sea turtles with hair from your back? No wonder Serena didn't believe that!

Jack's Head: She's a respectable woman and I'm an infamous pirate!

Jack's Heart: Why does that matter if you make each other happy?

"Jack!"

He turned at the sound of Serena's voice. There she was, tears falling from her face, her hair coming down out of her usual pinned up style.

"Serena?"

"Edward's dead."

Jack's eyes widened in shock.

"Whilst we were...he was...being slaughtered by pirates. Jack, I feel terrible!"

Before either of them knew what was happening, they found themselves in each other's arms again. Jack held her close, wishing that he could make the pain leave her.

Serena felt her body relax as Jack held her, her sobs subsiding. He made her feel safe in a way she couldn't ever imagine from anyone else. Standing there and feeling his arms protectively around her, she felt suddenly happy. She wanted to be the only girl he held close, she wanted to stay like this in his arms forever.

There was no more fighting feelings or denial. It had crept over her and filled her from head to toe. She loved him. She never wanted him to leave her ever again.

"I'm sorry, love." Jack said softly. He really was. He wanted Serena to be happy, not depressed. She suddenly lifted her face, leaned back slightly and looked him straight in the eye.

"Don't be."

"What?" Jack was alarmed.

"Jack, Edward was a good man. He was generous, loving and he wanted the best for me. He made me very happy. But I didn't love him."

She looked nervously up at Jack, whose strong but gentle arms were still around her. His dark eyes were studying her emerald ones. She carried on, her heart thumping. What if he didn't want her? After all, she was the one who had said that it was a mistake. She took a deep breath and continued.

"I was on my way out to find you when the Commodore came to our door. And then he told me about Edward. But I still came out after you because I wanted to tell you that...that..."

Jack might be a proud person who didn't often wish to reveal his feelings, but Serena wasn't far behind him. It was hard for her to do too. Partly, she was afraid of rejection.

"I came to tell you that I love you Jack. I really do. I love you and I don't want you to go. Please don't go. Don't leave me again."

She lowered her head, avoiding looking at Jack. His hand came under her chin, gently raising her head so that she had to look at him.

"I'm not going anywhere."

Raindrops began to fall heavily from the night sky, soaking the entwined couple. But neither of them ran for shelter. They were lost in each other. All that mattered was that the window, the barrier that held them apart had finally been broken and they were together.

Jack wasn't alone in the rain anymore. It was Serena who smashed the window and came out to join him in the end.

Rain trickling over their faces, Jack and Serena kissed one another, their hands in each other's hair. The power of their love was now stronger than ever.

"There's only one problem." Jack said as they broke the kiss. "The only way we can be together is if you come with me on the Black Pearl. You know I can't stay here."

"I know. I'll find a way, Jack. But you'll have to help me."

They found some shelter in the empty street and huddled together in the tight spot. Eventually, they decided on their plan.