Disclaimer: Jem and Kat are mine I'm still working on Jack and Will.
I Knew You Would Warm Up To Me
The wind whipped into the sails, sending The Pearl crashing through the waves at top speed. It didn't take long for The Pearl to overtake the slower clumsier Vengeance that was sailing just ahead of us. I wanted The Pearl to be the lead ship and I wasn't going to let the crew of The Vengeance stand in my way. I knew where I was heading and I intended to make good time.
I stood with my legs braced against the motion of the ship. I continued to stare at the endless blue sea stretched before me as Jem's right hand man and first mate Tom Vickers stood at my side. He was not going to let me out of his sight for he did not trust me at all so he had chosen to remain on The Pearl with me and his captain.
The weather was perfect and a brisk breeze filled the sails sending us closer to our destination but I told no one of where we were going. I would remain true to my word. I would deliver Jem to her treasures if that is what she truly wanted and I would keep it a secret. Yes, I was going to earn her trust one way or another.
"You know Sparrow, I think it would do you good to tell me and my crew where you are taking us." Tom spoke in a rough manor.
"Aye my boy." I smiled at him and pulled out my spyglass. "If your bonnie captain has not told ya then I can only assume she don't want ya to know. Savvy?"
"Sparrow, I will only take this cocky attitude from you because the captain has taken a fancy to you. But if she dies or she gives me the order, I will take you down. I will cut out your tongue. You talk too much and I really don't like you." He growled at me and took my spyglass from me hands.
"So the lass fancy's me does she?" I smirked at him. "Well then she has fair taste and as for you mate, I am not sweet on you either so you see we agree on something." I looked him over from head to toe. "Aye Lad, you are not my type."
Tom slammed the spyglass closed and gave me a look of pure hate. "Watch it, Sparrow. I don't believe the story you and your friend have concocted and when Jem wakes you will be doing the barnacle drag. I hope you can hold your breath." He tossed my glass back to me and moved several feet away in order to disengage in conversation. It didn't work.
"Have it your way, mate. Don't loose any sleep over my ability to hold me breath. I can take care of meself. I'm Captain Jack Sparrow."
I knew Tom was troubled for his captain so I decided to leave him alone and sauntered away from him. I felt, however, he was showing a little more then just concern towards Jem. He always seemed to be around her and his presence disturbed me. I was also worried over Jem's condition. It took me nine grueling hours to get her into a calmed and stable state. For such a small woman she bled profusely and the bullet was deep. I had left her in my cabin, unconscious, after I dug deep into her body to remove the bullet. I could only hope she was sleeping peacefully. The only thing I could do now was to wait and that was particularly hard for me. I am not a patient man, but I am told good things come to those who wait. I don't know, I usually get good things by just taking and running like hell. I looked over me shoulder and glanced at Tom and I saw him watching me. I did not like being observed, so I went up to the crow's nest to get away from him and everyone else. I had to be alone with me thoughts.
My back was aching and my hands were stained with Jem's blood. When she had fallen in my arms I really thought she was playing with me, but when I saw the gun in Elizabeth's hands and I heard the scream of my daughter, I knew my nightmare had just begun. The worst part was the look of betrayal in Jem's eyes. That cut and that cut deep.
Jem trusted me and I wanted to keep that trust. I had called her to me. She came to me without hesitation and then that bitch! If I were a volcano I would have erupted by now and my lava would be flowing red-hot over a certain Miss Swann. I was not just infuriated, I became a raging lunatic; some would say I went insane. My words were cruel and my actions even worse. If it were not for Mr. Turner, Kat most likely would have only one parent now. As I stared out into the ocean I relived those awful hours again.
XXXXXXXXXI saw the smoking gun.
"What the bloody hell are you doing Elizabeth!" I yelled as Jem went limp in my arms. "She trusted me. She was unarmed. You-you." My words stammered out of my mouth.
It is amazing how things can be going your way. Life is good and then somebody or something ruins it all. I couldn't believe Elizabeth just blew my Jem away. I could have killed Elizabeth with my bare hands. The anger in me was bubbling.
I looked into Jem's beautiful face. There was pain in her eyes. Her lips were stained red with blood. Her hair was draped over me arms. I lifted a shiny strand of her hair to my mouth to kiss it. It felt like the finest silk. I inhaled her scent of perfume she had drenched herself in earlier that day. I spoke to her. "You can trust me Luv, you can count on me." I then let the tresses slip through my fingers as her eyes closed ever so slowly. I felt at that moment she had lost her innocence and I had lost her trust. She had trusted me, she gave me command of her ship and she let me protect mine. I wanted that trust back.
Not being able to get immediate satisfaction, I settled for doing what I did next. Jem was no longer her angelic self, no longer floating free as a bird, and the body that had so much life in it was now motionless in my arms. I could feel the lump in my throat and weather it was grief, anger or insanity it did not matter. I placed the beauty down on the deck and I approached Elizabeth.
Kat ran to Jem and threw her arms around her torso. I can still hear the heartrending cries. I knew Elizabeth was saying something for I could see her mouth moving and her hands flying in the air but I heard nothing but the crying. I took the gun from Lizzy's hands and gave her a dark look. Sweeping her up in my strong arms, I started yelling orders over the deck and at my men who were still down from the explosions. I was in my own world, totally oblivious to the fact that my crew was nowhere around.
"Release the grappling hooks from The Vengeance. Bring in the boarding planks and unfurl the sails. Gibbs, set our bearings to Madagascar." As I barked these orders I strode across the deck carrying the stressed Lass.
"In all my years, my Pet." I glared at Elizabeth. " I have never lacked self-control until today." I looked into Elizabeth's eyes and I could see confusion, but it did not stop my ranting. "My life has crossed with Jem Barbossa's and my wits are at their ends. Lust, or love, is a powerful emotion Miss Swann, you should know."
"Please Jack, I never intended for this to happen. Let me explain. Put me down!" Elizabeth squirmed as my arms tightened on her. "She is a pirate, a Barbossa, and she was coming to take The Pearl and harm our daughter! She has already corrupted Kat. I couldn't let her have her again and have her ruin Kat any more then she is."
I smacked her across the face. "Jem would never harm our daughter and as far as putting you down Luv. I will, you will be going several fathoms if I have my way."
"Jack please, listen to reason." Elizabeth was now whimpering, surprised I had hit her. "She has poisoned your mind. You're back with us, with me and Will and Kat. The Black Pearl is yours."
I glanced at her and growled. " Lizzy, for me, Captain Jack Sparrow, to fall for a woman is unheard of. Savvy? No woman poisons me. No, Captain Sparrow loves the sea, loves freedom and most of all The Black Pearl and now..." I looked over at the helm and at the beauty I left lying in a pool of blood with a sobbing child lying on her chest. I then glowered at Elizabeth. "Have I gone soft? No, she saved our daughter and our daughter loves her. Look at her. She is crying her eyes out over a mean vicious pirate who will, as you say corrupt her." I turned Elizabeth with a hard jerk forcing her to face in the direction of Jem and Kat.
"Remember Lizzy, I am not a gentleman and I am definitely not civilized. I am a pirate, just like her. We fight to survive, to obtain riches, and to protect our loved ones who would gladly die for us. You, my pet must realize Katheryn is a pirate too." My arms tightened around her. "And now, you must pay for your wrong doings and your highfalutin attitude, which I have become very bored with. You have crossed me once too often Miss Swann. You should not be here on me ship. You should be in Port Royal. I have killed men because of you. I have lost my friendship with AnaMaria due to you. I have lost many bottles of rum but this is the worst, I have lost my Jem."
Elizabeth was now screaming at the top of her lungs and I held her so tightly I knew I was hurting her. She continued to kick me, bite me and pull my hair but I would not let go, then I felt a heavy hand on my shoulder, I turned and saw my good mate William Turner.
"Jack. What are you doing?" Will asked, while squinting his eyes and shaking his head.
"What the bloody hell does it look like?" I answered, giving him a golden smile. "I am throwing her off me ship and you will thank me for it. If not now, I'm sure you will later."
"Isn't that a bit drastic?" Will was now pulling me back from the edge of the ship.
I pulled away and gave him a wary look. "Tis no more then she deserves, unless you would rather me sever the hand that held the gun?"
"Cut off her hand?" Will stopped grabbing at me and looked at me with disbelief and horror in his eyes.
"Aye." I grabbed her wrist. She squealed and I smacked her hard. "Death seems too cruel. So, for you Mr. Turner, I will have mercy on her and just take her hand."
"Don't Jack!" Will yelled.
As Will said those words, I had come to the conclusion I had seen enough blood shed for one day and I settled for throwing Elizabeth off the ship. Will ran to the edge and I grabbed him before he jumped in after her.
"Whelp, this incident proves that women do not belong on a pirate ship." I looked into Will's shocked brown eyes.
"No Jack, this proves that you are mad." Will tried to pull away so he could leap over the railing after Lizzy but I would not release him.
"William, I do not want to listen to why she shot Jem; I do not want to face the fact that Jem could be dead. I do not want to come to grips with reality. I, my friend am out of my mind, insane, crazy, or mad if you prefer. My surroundings are in a gray fog so if I were you, Mr. Turner, stand warned and don't get in my way. Mate, if you wish to help me, follow my orders and unfurl the sails. Leave that bloody woman in the sea and let's head to Madagascar."
I forgot all about my stricken crew, the missing mast, the bodies floating in the water. No, the only thing that had occupied my mind was to rid myself of Elizabeth and I had. My next order of business was to stop that gut-wrenching cry the child kept making. I turned to Kat to take care of that problem when William once again stood in my way. Before I could make my move on Katheryn and he could make his on me there was a thundering of footsteps and the clattering of weapons as Jem's crew attacked William and I. We were surrounded by at least twenty pirates all with their weapons out. If it wasn't for Will, I most likely would not be alive and neither would Elizabeth.
I pulled my sword and ordered Will to follow suit. "Mr. Turner we can't let these men kill us. We must defend The Pearl. You once promised me you would not pull your sword on me but you would fight beside me. Now is your chance to be true to your word Lad."
Will did draw his sword and stood with me for a moment before stepping between Tom and I. "Jack, if you loose your temper and you kill everyone around you it will not help the young lass that is now bleeding at the helm. The Pearl is in need of repairs. Your crew is weak and injured and, looking at these mates surrounding us with their cutlass out and guns drawn, we may need more repairs." He then looked at Tom. "Please, tell your men to put down their weapons. Captain Sparrow did not kill your captain. This has been one horrendous accident, and if we all remain calm we can work it out."
Will explained to Jem's crew what had happened and they reluctantly placed their weapons away.
"Mr. Turner." Tom questioned him. " I can only assume you are loyal to Jack Sparrow so why should I believe what you claim is the truth?" Tom approached Will with his hand still on the handle of his sword.
"Mate, you can believe what you want but my proof is in the water and if you don't mind I would like to go fish her out. I will let her tell you why she shot your captain." Will placed his hand on Tom's, which was going for his weapon once more. "You do not want to pull that on me or you will be visiting the fish at the bottom of the sea yourself." He looked at me and then at Tom. "Now will either of you gentleman help me retrieve Miss Swann out of the water?"
I rolled my eyes at William and went to the helm and picked up Jem. Tom just remained where he stood. "Bloody pirates! Bloody damn stubborn pirates." Will yelled at the both of us and then turned his back and went to get Elizabeth. I was hoping the water was frigid and she froze to death but no such luck.
Tom wanted me to take Jem back to The Vengeance but I would not let him. I did, however, offer him Elizabeth, but Will would not hear of it. Yes, it was a cruel thing to do but it made me feel better. I took Jem to me quarters and cared for her. I removed the bullet and tried my best to stop the bleeding. The wound was deep and serious. Elizabeth's aim was good but, of course, she was also very close. Why Jem was not dead was beyond me. I could not get the bleeding to stop and the sheets were heavy and soaked with her deep, rich blood. Why had she come over to The Pearl? Why couldn't she have stayed on her ship? I cursed Elizabeth as I continued to tend to Jem. Her body was weak, her blood scarlet and her breath shallow. I could tell she was fighting for air. She was fighting to live. I put my forehead to her head and started praying. I could feel my warm tears on my face. Then I heard a noise behind me. I wiped me face discreetly with my sleeve and gave Jem a tender kiss on her pale lips. I was hesitant to turn around.
"Jack, I have come to see if you need any help. The crew is asking for you and so are the members from The Vengeance." AnaMaria walked over to me and placed her hand ever so gently on my shoulder. "Are you alright?"
I shrugged at her touch. "Of course I am Lass, I'm Captain Jack Sparrow." I stood up and looked at her, wondering if she had come in to help me or if she were just curious.
"AnaMaria, I have told you I would not ask you to help me and I would never put you into harms way but Lass I cannot get the bleeding to stop and I will have to stitch her."
She looked at me and she could see the urgency in my eyes. "Yes, Jack I'll help. Can you sew her?"
"I have no other choice or she will surly die. Get me some fresh water several cloths a needle and thread. You will find the latter in me desk drawer. Perhaps you should get me a bottle of rum first. You'll find that in the cabinet."
AnaMaria gathered all the supplies and handed me the bottle first. I drank from the bottle and then dumped some of the alcohol over the needle. I removed the soaked bandages from Jem's blood drenched back. I cringed as I looked upon the deep wound and then I spoke to Jem. "Are you ready Luv? I shall endeavor to make the stitches as neat as possible."
I bent over and I proceeded to sew the edges of her wound together with precise stitches. AnaMaria just stood beside me not moving not saying a word, just staring at me with an unreadable gaze. By the time I'd finished, I was sweating profusely my hand was shaking with the release of tension and my bottom lip was bleeding for I was biting on it the whole time. I sat back to study my handiwork.
"Are you finished?" AnaMaria asked.
"Aye, apply some salve and bandaged her up please." With shaking hands I backed away, trying to avoid looking at either woman. "The rest is up to her." I took the bottle of rum and sat down in the closest chair I could find. I laid my head back and drained the bottle.
AnaMaria gathered up more wet cloths and wrapped the wound tightly in hopes to stem any blood flow. She then went and lit some candles and placed them around the room. She shook her head as she looked down upon Jem and then she looked over at me.
"Are you hurt?" She asked me.
"I have suffered worse, don't worry about me. Don't let the blood on me shirt concern you. Some is mine but most of it is not." I pulled my knife from its sheath and stared at the blade in the dim light.
"I will kill her." I got up and walked over to Jem and ran my fingers gently along her face. "If this woman dies, I will kill Elizabeth Swann, mark my words."
"Consider them marked." AnaMaria mumbled.
As I looked upon Jem in the flickering light I remembered how she danced with the jewels and the affection she showed to her dog and my child. I then looked at AnaMaria. Her eyes were dark; her mouth was flat and unsmiling.
I picked up a lone candle and held it back so I could observe AnaMaria more closely. "And you Luv, how are you fairing?"
AnaMaria's checks became flushed as she stepped out of the candlelight. "I will be well Captain. Mr. Gibbs and the rest of the crew are mending also. The ship has taken a beating but William Turner has proved himself a worthy pirate and seamen. As we speak, the damages are being repaired."
"Thank you, AnaMaria. I will stay here with Jem. Go check on the crew and please send Mr. Turner to me." I placed the candle back on the table and looked at Jem. "We have to discuss Miss Swann and I fear he is her only help or hope."
AnaMaria embraced me and slowly let go. "Captain, if you want Miss. Swann taken care of, you CAN ask me."
"No Luv, that won't be necessary. As I said earlier, if this young Lass dies, I will kill Miss Swann." I looked over my shoulder at AnaMaria and gave her a devilish smile.
"Aye Captain. I guess you would kill for the one you love. I never thought I would see this day." She turned and walked for the door. "I will tend to my duties and send Mr. Turner to you." As she left, I heard her say. "Why couldn't I be the one to fill your heart?"
As she closed the door I looked at Jem. "Aye, why couldn't she be? What have you done to me?"
I sat back down in the chair and watched over her. The rest of the crew was recovering from their blows. Gibbs came in to see me. Tom, and most of Jem's crew would not leave me alone. I finally had to tell them to go to their own ship and I would inform them of any changes. Kat even came in with Amber. She just sat on the bed watching Jem and stroking Amber's head. I almost yelled when Amber jumped up on the bed but I knew no matter how much I objected, the dog would never listen to me and I did not want to frighten Katheryn. Amber curled up against Jem and placed her large head on her chest. Kat placed her raven locks on the dogs back and they both fell asleep.
I knew at that moment that if Jem were to pass away, she would be happy. She had the two most precious things in her life lying there beside her. I may have taken her father and brother from her, but she has taken my dog and, in some respects, my child. I felt no remorse for I would gladly give her both. Alas, she had also taken my heart, but this I am sure she did not know or want. I too wanted to lie beside her. I wanted to feel her breath on my skin. I wanted to hear her heart beating in my ear. I wanted our hearts to beat as one for us to become one with each other. I laid my head back on the chair and started to drift off when I heard a slight cough. I opened my eyes to find William standing over me.
"Jack." Will had a serious look on his face. "You asked to see me? I can leave and come back at a better time."
"No, Will." I tossed my fantasy's aside and rubbed me eyes with my blood stained hands, feeling the warmth of the blood on my face. "You must tell me what happened while I was gone. Please, pull up a chair and grab a bottle. I have been told you are a fine sailor and an even better pirate. Of course, Lad, I had no doubts for as you know, you are every bit like your father."
William made himself comfortable and spent several hours talking to me while we watched over Jem, the dog, and the child as they slept. I never once asked about Elizabeth's well-being or where she was.
"Jack, as you know we were all concerned about Katheryn. When we arrived at The Black Pearl, Cotton and Elizabeth immediately took charge of Katheryn. The wound was not as bad as it appeared. The bullet had grazed her and the force of the blow knocked her down and took the wind out of her. She did loose a good amount of blood but she is strong. Just like her…." He looked at me and smiled. "Just like her father."
"As you know, you gave us orders to leave you and we did, but you never said we could not come back. Jem was true to her word. Her men and ship did not attack us, so I felt if I were to follow the code and I wanted to see you again I best not harm her ship. She told me to leave The Vengeance in one piece and she would not harm you. By looking at you Jack, you seem to be better than I remember. I can only assume she treated you better this last time around?
"Aye Lad, I can't complain. The Lass does know how to treat a man right when he behaves himself." I smiled at Will and twirled my mustache with my hand and gave him a sly smile.
Will closed his eyes and shook his head. "Jack that is more than I needed to know. As you are aware, we too were pelted by the hurricane and we did take on damage. While we were making repairs, The Royal Navy decided to pay us a visit. If you had not come along, I fear The Pearl would be at the bottom of the sea. But Jack, you have taken care of them. I am sure there will be more ships coming to look for you and Norrington will not rest until he has you, Elizabeth and myself, but that is not your biggest problem. Your troubles, Jack, lie in front of you."
I looked over at Jem and smiled. "Aye Lad don't worry about her, she and I have an accord and if Norrington wants Elizabeth he can have her."
"Jack, Elizabeth is mine and don't you be getting any ideas about throwing her off the ship again." Will glared at me with brooding eyes.
I looked at him and sloughed off his last comment. "Lad, I am on a journey and I intend to finish it or die trying. I am a man of me word and I have Jem's trust, I think. If I do not, I will get it back for I am Captain Jack Sparrow."
Will rolled his eyes at me. "Jack, will you please stop talking to yourself and listen to me? Jem is not your problem. She is."
"Who is?"
"She is!" William pointed to Katheryn. "Katheryn does not abide Elizabeth at all. She will have nothing to do with her. When it comes to taking a bath the child is an animal. When it comes to eating, it's like feeding a dog. When Elizabeth puts her down for a nap she runs off and you can't find her. We have found her in the brig covered with bilge water. We have found her in the galley playing in the trash. I have told Elizabeth I know she knows better, she just won't do what is asked of her. The child needs discipline and Elizabeth is loosing her patients. Kat runs around the ship half dressed and she bites, kicks and yells at the top of her lungs. The only two she will listen to are AnaMaria and myself. Occasionally she will hang around with Gibbs, but only because she thinks he is amusing. She does have a charming laugh and a beautiful smile. I am sure I don't have to tell you this, but Elizabeth is not fond of AnaMaria yet AnaMaria is getting a charge out of this. The first intelligible word I have heard come out of your daughter's mouth was when Jem fell into your arms and she yelled. 'No, Not Jem.'"
Jem was lying so still and quiet on the bed while William was talking I was startled when I heard her moan. I jumped up only to find she was still unconscious but Amber and Kat were awake. I reached down to pick Kat up off the bed and I motioned for Amber to get down. Amber did as I requested and Kat stretched her small arms up into the air and let me take her into my arms. I pulled her close and hugged her. She pressed her face into the crook of my neck and hid in my long locks. Just as I had seen her do with Jem. She looked even more beautiful then she had the first time I saw her. My thoughts were scattered as I held her close. She is so angelic yet such a spitfire. Her expressive eyes were shinning with love yet also defiance. Yes, I could see why Jem saw so much of me in this child. She truly was my daughter. I turned and looked at Will.
"Apparently, my daughter is not afraid of me." I gave her a golden smile and she giggled back as she was now pulling my hair. "I want my daughter to be happy. I want her to laugh and have all the finest things in life. I know she will suffer in my care and, though as of now I despise her mother, I can depend on her or should I say, YOU to raise her right?"
Will came over took Kat's little hand. To my relief she let go of my hair and I gave the warm, squirming child over to Will. I could tell she was getting a little wary in my arms and she did know Will. He smiled as he held her and then cringed as she pulled on his hair. "Jack, she is your child and it is up to you to raise her."
"No William. My mission, our mission, was to save her and take her to her mother. Note, take her." I rolled my eyes at Will. "If she cannot handle her then I will. I love my daughter. She gives me a reason to live. I will love her, cherish her and protect her for the rest of her live. I want the best for her. The best is not I. The best is not Elizabeth. The best, my friend, is you, or dare I say." I looked over at the bed at the sleeping beauty covered with a red velvet blanket laced with golden dog hair. "Jem."
I glanced back at Will. "Not being any of me business and you can tell me so but, where do you intend to live and do you intend to marry Miss Swann, if I do not kill her first?"
"Jack." Will looked at Jem and then me and then half-heartedly laughed. "I have no problems answering your questions but first you must answer mine. What is going on between you and her?" A wide smile came over his face. "Oh no! Can it be Captain Sparrow is falling in love?"
I glared at him. "No Lad, not falling. I would say I already have. She is a jewel among women, brighter than the moon and stars. See how her hair shines like newly minted gold, and her skin is as smooth and iridescent as an exquisite pearl. Her lips are lush and red, designed expressly for kissing and more erotic purposes. Her body is perfection, her skin as smooth as silk and-and she is indeed a treasure I can enjoy. Remember lad not all treasure is silver and gold. I have been told I do not enjoy my treasures." I rubbed my beard and pulled on the beads. "Will, I want her. I want her to be mine. I want her to trust me. I want her to---" I turned away and looked out the window.
"You want her to love you. Yes, I believe that is what you want Jack. You want her love." Will came over to me and placed his arm on my shoulder. "Jack, I think you should go get some rest. Take Kat to AnaMaria. As I told you, they get along and she will not harm her. You can take her to Elizabeth if you want but I feel it is best for you to stay away from her. She truly is sorry. Life has not been easy for her and Katheryn has been hard on her. I am not asking you to forgive Elizabeth, but remember you chose a pirate's life so did Jem. Elizabeth did not." Will handed Kat back to me as the child smiled up into my face. You could not help but to smile back. "Jack you have done everything you can for Jem. Please go get some fresh air, get some rest. Spend some time with Kat. I will watch over your princess and I will call you if she awakes."
"Will, you are a good friend and I don't have many true friends." I was feeling stiff and I did need some air. "I will do as you say, but the minute she wakes up you must come get me. Jem trusts no one and if she is cornered she will hurt you. Right now she is an injured animal and she will be unpredictable." I sauntered from the cabin reluctantly. I did take Katheryn with me but I left Amber with Will and Jem.
"Will, call me the minutes she wakes and please keep the dog off the bed."
XXXXXXXXXX
Several days had past and there had been no change in Jem's condition. I had been doing everything to keep my mind occupied. All the repairs were taken care of on both ships. The decks were full of activity. Men rushed about their duties, sewing ripped sails, working on the mainmast and clearing debris from the deck. I had ordered the men to take some of the supplies from The Vengeance. They had an abundance of extra rope, food, wood and tools that we had plundered from The Princess, The Providence and The Invictus. Tom was not pleased with my actions, but I had told him the treasures were mine also and I needed The Pearl to be ready for action. I had no fears sailing my ship to Madagascar. I wasn't sure The Vengeance could make the trip.
As I finished reliving my nightmare and taking pleasure in my solitude up in the crow's nest I noticed good old Tom had left the deck and the coast was clear. I swung myself down from the riggings and took the helm from AnaMaria.
I stood at the helm. Looking over the exceptionally blue and cloudless afternoon I was glad to be alone and not having Tom Vickers breathing down my neck. Below, I had left Will to watch over Jem once more. I had been enjoying time with my daughter, the dog and my crew. I had not seen hide nor hair of Elizabeth. Will had made sure to keep her out of my reach until Jem could, or would, speak to me. While I was enjoying the balmy breezes I heard yelling and running footsteps and then a scream of pain.
"You will do as I say, young lady. I am your mother and you will not bite me. You must take your bath and a nap." Elizabeth's voice rang over the deck but she came to an abrupt stop when she saw me. She was wrestling with Kat and holding her arm where the child had bit her.
Katheryn struggled from her arms and came running at me. She was dressed like a little lady but she looked like a wild animal. Her hair was in disarray and she had food all over her face and clothes. She was wearing in a fine long green velvet dress and even wore a petticoat. She wore small black boots that I am sure should have been laced but the strings were loose.
"What the devil is going on here?" I glared at Elizabeth as Kat ran behind me and grabbed my leg almost knocking me down. "Can't you control her?"
Elizabeth now standing in front of me holding her arm and glaring at the child pushed her now grown locks back from her face. "No more than you could, Mr. Sparrow. Our daughter is once again showing her true nature. I will not have her act like a beast and I will not have AnaMaria taking care of her. Now Jack, if you wish to help me just join right in." I could tell she was furious and I did remember what Will had told me.
I had never seen this side of Katheryn. I looked down at her and then back at Elizabeth. "Very well, I will speak with her." I gave Lizzy a sly grin.
I turned my gaze to Kat. "So my little Lass, you don't like to bathe hey? Well, ya know, if the water is warm and smells real nice it can be a treat." I smiled at her and rubbed my callused hand over her curly locks.
She looked up at me with her big chocolate eyes. "No! No Bath. Mean lady. I want Jem."
"Gibbs." I yelled. "Come take over the helm. There seems to be a little problem which it seems only the Captain can take care of."
Gibbs immediately came over and he too stroked Kat's hair and looked at Elizabeth. "You know, Miss Swann, if you would let the child be a child and not dress her like this she may take a better liking to you. Also, the food you feed her is quite disgusting and no man on this ship would touch it. Not even a dog." He pulled out his flask took a long drink and then took the helm from me as I took the flask from him and drained it.
I knelt down and my face was right next to Kat's. She gave me a wonderful smile and hugged me neck. "I want Jem. I want Jem. I want Jem." She started chanting in my ear.
"I know Lass, don't we all?" I whispered in her ear. "Do you want me to get rid of this mean woman for ya and you want to remain covered with food for the rest of ya life?"
She laughed at that idea and while she was giggling Elizabeth spoke up.
"Jack Sparrow, don't encourage the child like that. If you will not help me then just step aside and let me take her. Maggie is already preparing a bath and I intend to see she gets it."
I pulled me gun on Elizabeth. "Touché Lass, how does it feel to be at the other end of the gun? You will not touch her. It seems everything you touch goes bad. I will not let you take her while you are so angered and I will not let you ruin young William's life."
She looked at me and stepped closer. "Jack, this is not about Will. This is about Jem and our daughter. You will not listen to me so I won't even try. As for Will, he can live his own life and you should let him." She took another step forward. " I will not hurt Katheryn I love her. She has been terribly misguided, and for all I know mistreated. Now, hand her over to me. I am not afraid of you and I know you will not shoot me since you care for Will so."
"Lizzy, my dear don't put it past me. This child has not been mistreated and I don't ever want to hear you say that again. Savvy? You say you won't hurt her. HA! I've seen the way you hurt the ones you love. I do truly think you love Mr. Turner. That I have no doubt and he, I know, would die for you. I cannot understand that, but my dear, I don't want him to die for YOU. AnaMaria was right. You are cursed and Gibbs, my good friend," I looked over at him. "Was also correct in saying having women on board is terrible bad luck. In your case Luv, the bad luck is yours. Now, you step aside and I will take young miss Katheryn down to see Maggie and get her bathed. I, Captain Jack Sparrow, will bathe my own child."
As I stood up and put the gun away I looked down at Kat and gave her a wide golden smile. "Come, my Pet, you come with old Jack and I'll show you how much fun a bath can be."
Kat looked at me in horror. She turned and ran from me. I reached for her but it was too late, she flung herself overboard, hitting the icy water with a splash. Hampered by her heavy skirt and petticoat she sank beneath the water. I'm sure the last thing she heard was Elizabeth screaming. My heart nearly stopped as I watched this bundle of furry go overboard.
Elizabeth and I both got to the rail at the same time and a chill of apprehension slid down my spine as I watched the little girl slowly sink beneath the water.
"Dear God!" Elizabeth cried. "Save her Jack you must save her."
"Do you see her?" I asked Elizabeth anxiously.
"Aye there she is floating portside Captain." Gibbs yelled out. "She is sinking!"
"You cannot let her die!" Elizabeth cried.
"Trim the sails!" I yelled at the crew. "I'm going in." I pulled off my jacket and shirt and dove into the water. I swam with sure steady strokes toward the place I last saw her. I saw her head bob to the surface and then disappear. The fear that she might drown sent adrenalin surging through my body. Sucking in a lungful of air, I plunged beneath the choppy surface. Down…down…down, all I could see was fish and murky water. I swam around until my breath was gone, then spiraled upward sucked in another deep breath and dove down again. Giving up wasn't an option. Then, I saw her. She was drifting toward me her raven hair floating eerily about her face and shoulders. Grasping a long lock of hair and wrapping it around my hand I dragged her up…up…up. We broke the surface together. Gasping for air, I swam to The Pearl. Gibbs and Charlie pulled us up.
"Is she breathing?" I asked between chattering teeth.
"No, Captain." Charlie replied.
I knelt over her, more frightened than I had ever been in my life. I looked at Elizabeth. "I will not let her die. She does not deserve to die. She is an innocent pawn in our wicked game." I first turned her onto her stomach and gently pressed my palms to her back several times until water spewed from her mouth. I then turned her over, lifted her head and breathed into her mouth. A tiny gasp and a subtle breath came and then another and yet another. Her chest rose and fell in regular intervals as she began taking shallow breathes on her own.
She looked so pale and she was so still. I ripped the skirt off of Elizabeth and wrapped Kat in the dry material. I pulled her into my arms in order to share what little body warmth I had left after my frigid dip into the sea. Her little body was shivering so hard it made my body shake. I immediately ran her to Elizabeth's cabin. I stripped off her wet clothing and pulled the covers back from her bed and tucked her in. Moments later, Elizabeth rushed into the chamber, her expression grim when she saw how white Katheryn's face was.
"Jack, is this my punishment?" Elizabeth asked me as tears streaked her face.
Fury drained from me and was replaced with compassion. "No Elizabeth, please you must lay with her. Keep her warm with your body and she will be fine I will go get some furs to throw on the both of you and send in some hot tea. I imagine the worse is over. Give me credit Luv, I promised you I would not let her die."
A shiver passed through me as I looked at mother and child lying on the bed. Kat looked so small and pale but I knew she would be fine. After all she is a Sparrow. I turned and walked out of the room.
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
While I was busy taking a swim, Jem had woken up. The candlelight bathed the chamber in varying shades of gold. At first glance she thought she was alone then she saw a figure, lounging upon a pile of cushions scattered on the floor with her dog. Ever so slowly she climbed out of the bed and moved as quiet and smooth as a cat. She went over to the desk looking for a weapon she could use to defend herself. The washbowl and pitcher offered possibilities, as did a heavy globe sitting on the table. She also spied a letter opener in which she picked up and slipped into her pocket. She hoped there would be no need for violence but she did not trust anybody.
While she was at the far side of the cabin Will, lifted his hand and with a lazy motion stroked Amber on her head. Amber looked towards the desk alerting him that he was no longer the only person awake.
Somewhat wary, Will stood up but did not approach Jem. He ducked just in time to avoid a missile that sailed past his head and crashed to the floor. Jem had thrown the pitcher and it had just missed Will's head.
With shock and a great deal of dismay he saw the beauty standing at the desk getting ready to throw the basin.
"So, Jack, I come aboard your ship, grant it unannounced. I get myself shot in the back, I can only assume by your crew. You wrap me like a mummy, which I have to admit, is rather tight and painful. You give me the honor of your beautiful cabin and you dress me in this fine though rather thin silk robe I can only assume you got from the orient? What is your game? Did you order your men to shoot me so you can back out of our accord or am I to believe this is just a true misfortune?"
"Begging your pardon Miss. I am not Jack Sparrow." Will approached and came out of the shadow. "I am William Turner, at your service. Please don't throw anything else in my direction. I am not going to hurt you in any way and neither will Jack, or should I say Captain Sparrow."
Jem glared at Will hard, she did not trust him. She did not trust anybody. She was ready to defend herself should the need arise. Their eyes locked on each other's. Will said nothing, merely just fixed his intense gaze on her.
Jem realized that this man was quite handsome. Impossibly so, which made it harder for her to relax or trust anything he said.
He was dressed in a white flowing shirt open nearly to his navel and his baggy trousers were thrust into black leather boots. His soft brown hair was loose and rather long, just brushing his shoulders. Yet, there was a soft gleam in his brown eyes that did not look like a predator, it looked sincere.
"Who are you?" She asked, refusing to back away from him and still holding the basin. "I mean I know you are William Turner but are you a pirate? Do you sail under the command of Captain Jack Sparrow?"
Will stood staring at her, not realizing that he had been admiring her thinly clad body from her glorious head to her bare feet. His gaze swept over her. Her dark eyes had such a vibrating flicker. Her hair rippled down her shoulders like a flowing river and hung as if it were made of silk with dark rich tones in it. Her skin was tanned due to the sun yet her checks were pale, most likely due to the enormous amount of blood she had lost. Yes, the woman standing before him could definitely satisfy Captain Jack Sparrow and with good reason. Will's gaze slid over the young woman, assessing her loveliness. Finally, realizing his intent stare at this beauty before him who was only wearing a sheer robe that concealed little of her charms he turned his head.
"Yes, Jem. I am a pirate, and I do sail under the command of Captain Sparrow. He is my captain and a good friend. I have also spoken the truth, and he nor I will harm you."
Seeing Will blush, Jem began to laugh. "So, William Turner. Have you never seen a woman before?" As she placed the basin down and began to relax, she felt faint and almost hit the floor. Will grasped her before she fell and led her back over to the bed and eased her down. Then he sat down beside her and gave her a wary expression.
"Where is Jack Sparrow?" Jem asked while she was gasping for breath and trembling. The pain from the wound was great. "I would like to see him."
"Aye, and I am sure and he would like to see you." Will said as he pulled the red silk sheets up around her neck and laid some fine furs on top of her to prevent her from shaking.
"Aye, Lad, I would." I closed the door behind me and looked at Will and Jem. "Quite a beauty, is she not?"
I went over to the bed and traced my hand down her check. She pulled away from me and looked at me with animosity. "Relax, beauty, I merely wish to check on your well-being and to get out of me wet clothes.
She immediately pulled away and stabbed my hand with the letter opener she had found on the desk. "How dare you take such liberties, Mr. Sparrow, after you tried to kill me!"
"You think I tried to kill you Luv?" I yelped as I pulled my hand back from the vixen. "There are many things I wish to do to you, but killing is not one of them." I pulled the wet bandana from me head and wrapped my hand.
"Whoa! Ouch!" Will commented jumping off the bed and glaring at Jem. He himself did not wish to be assaulted next.
"Jem, you don't want to be attacking me. I am not your enemy, my pet. You are obstinate and very willful and you can believe what you want. For your own good missy, I would believe what I say to you. I am Captain Jack Sparrow and I would not lie to you. I am on your side, at the moment, Luv." I then turned my attention to Will.
"William, my lad. Thank you. Your services are not longer needed. You should go tend to Miss Swann, she needs you." I smiled at him and preceded to take my wet cold clothes off I was soaked clear through to my skin and I was freezing.
Will looked at me sternly. "What have you done?"
I smirked at him knowing I had his interest. "William, why are you looking at me like that? Have you never seen a wet man before?"
Will shook his head. "No. I mean yes! Jack you know what I mean. What have you done to her? Why are you wet? What is going on?"
"Nothing Lad, just go to her. Your Elizabeth is waiting for you and no harm has come to her. She needs you to keep her warm just as I need you." I said to Jem. "I am thinking I will join you under that fur blanket and warm myself with your body."
Will looked at her then at me. "Jack, be careful. I don't think she wants to play." He patted me on the shoulder and left the room.
My fingers fumbled with my buttons and ties as I peeled away my wet clothes. I could tell Jem tried not to stare but her fascination prevented her. She was not timid.
"My goodness Jack, you are beautiful."
I threw back my head and laughed. "Men are not beautiful Luv."
"Maybe you are right, I stand corrected this once Jack Sparrow. I meant to say magnificent."
I went over to the bed and flopped down on it and crawled beneath the covers.
"Jem, will you do me the favor of discarding the letter opener and wrap your arms around me? I need your warmth Luv." I said through chattering teeth. I pulled her warm body against mine. "Do not worry my beauty I am too cold and too tired to do you any harm tonight."
Before Jem could voice a protest I feigned I was asleep. My body was frigid against here and all I could hope was that she would forgive me for seeking her warmth. She had been warm and cozy while I had been swimming in the cold waters. She did try to get out of my grasp and the moment she moved my arm tighten around her holding her captive against my body. It took all my willpower to ignore the pleasant pressure of my chest again her back and my lower body pressed against her. Unable to move she gave in and went to sleep. I was now warm and content.
A/N As you can see Jack is still mad at Lizzy but he has Kat to think about. Jack also has plans for young Will and really does not want him to die due to Elizabeth's whims. Who is best for Kat? Is it Jem, Will, Elizabeth or Jack himself? Time will tell.