Disclaimer: The same old thing.

Don't Let Me Go

I woke before dawn. The candles had burned out leaving the cabin in an eerie predawn light. I was feeling refreshed and delightfully warm. The female body pressed against mine contributed to the heat slowly rising through my veins. How glorious to wake up with Jem in my arms. Her wild tangled auburn tresses spilled over the pillow. I picked up a lock of her hair, holding it, feeling the softness of it.

"Jem." I whispered against her ear. She burrowed against me but did not open her eyes.

"Jem, are you awake? Turn around, beauty." Her warm, body stirred in my arms as I nuzzled her neck.

"Shall we start our day off with a kiss? I am rested now, and since we are in bed, we should take advantage of our situation." I turned Jem onto her back. She struggled to escape as I placed my leg over hers to hold her in place. I kissed her with all the passion in my heart, until she relaxed beneath me. I had been watching over her and she had no idea how badly I wanted her. My hand stroked downward, sweeping over her shoulders. I gritted my teeth, knowing I should not divulge my true feelings to her. I drew away and searched her face.

"I must be mad to want you like this, but I cannot help myself my Pet."

Jem stroked my face and gave me a sly smile. "Are you still cold?"

I shook my head, feeling a little more confident now that she was asking me how I was. "My Luv, how can I be cold with heat rolling off of you?" I bent in to kiss her again but my lips never reached her.

Jem shoved me so hard, I fell out of the bed. My arms and legs sprawled as I hit the floor and I glared up at her. "Ouch! Why did you do that?"

"You had no right to do what you did to me." She frowned.

I picked myself up off the floor, not in the least embarrassed and gave her a golden grin.

"Perhaps not, but you cannot deny that you enjoyed it. Someday you will ask me, never to let you go."

Her chin rose. "That will be a cold day in Jamaica Luv, when I ask that. You forced me to keep you warm last night, Mr. Sparrow and as for the kiss, I could say I have had better. Remember you are my prisoner and you abide me."

I gave her a hurt look and then replied. "My Pet, you could say, you have had better, but have you?" I placed my hands on the bed and leaned down. "I thought I was your guest, I am not working for you, I am leading you to your doom. Please Luv, remember I have warned you and I have asked you to change your mind, but you are too bloody stubborn to listen."

"Jack, you can play what ever games you want but until I get the treasure and the ball of Inez Garibaldi Santiago, you are under my authority. We have an accord and you have told me over and over again you are a man of your word."

"Aye Lass, how can I forget?" I looked towards the floor and then back at her. "Now then, may I climb back under the covers, it is a might chilly out here especially without clothing." I smiled at her as I rolled my eyes.

"Jack Sparrow, I did not ask to be taken to your bed. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful you nursed me back to health but my servant, Maggie, could have done the job and I could be in my own cabin on The Vengeance. I can only believe I am here for two reasons. The first being, you felt bad, one of your men shot me. The second, let me see, oh to be your play toy, or should I say to keep you warm. That Sparrow, I will not do unless I want too. Last night I felt sorry for you. Your lips were blue and your teeth would not be silent, but don't you ever do that again. I have told you before, I will not let anyone control me! Do you understand?"

"Inescapably." I pressed my palms together and bowed my head."

Before I could say anything else there was a knock on the door.

"Jack." William entered the cabin without being invited and he was frowning. "We spotted a Royal Navy Ship, The Intrepid, and she is riding low in the water. A clear indication that her hold is full and we can only assume with gunpowder and cannon balls. She is heading this way, on our starboard side. What do you want us to do?"

"Well, Mr. Turner, good morning to you too." I gave him a sly smirk as I turned from the bed and started gathering my now dried clothes. "I guess I best be getting dressed and I will meet you on the top deck. Tell the crew to ready the guns. I have had just about enough of The Royal Navy. We both know what, or should I say who, they want."

"Yes Jack, they want Elizabeth and you can't let them have her. I won't permit you." Will stood his ground while I dressed and gathered my weapons.

"William, don't be so rash Lad. What would I gain if I gave Miss Swann to the humble crew of The Intrepid? Remember, if there is no profit in it for me you don't have to worry. Why boy, do you think I would give up said Lass?" I glanced at him and then Jem. "Now go and give the crew my orders."

William left the room and I turned to Jem. "I do believe the boy is taking on more then he can handle. He best not be telling me what I can and can't do, but this may be the chance I have been waiting for. I can finally rid myself of Elizabeth and save Mr. Turner from that wench. You know Luv; it was Elizabeth Swann who put the bullet in your back, not one of my men. I will not let her harm William, or you again."

I walked back over to the bed and looked upon Jem. "You my pet look delicious, like a rose opening its petals to the morning sun." I heaved a regretful sigh. "Unfortunately I will need your skill, so since I cannot join you in the bed, you must join me on the deck. I know I am your hostage." I gave her a wide smile. "And you do not take orders from me, but if I am dead I cannot help you." I ran my fingers through her silky hair and then made my way to the door.

Jem pulled the covers up around her and leaped off of the bed. She whipped around me and pressed herself against the door preventing me from opening it.

"Jack, why must you attack the ship? Can you not just put up the flag of truce and give them what they want? There are bound to be deaths in this attack and what if you lose?" Jem questioned me and I could see the spark back in her eyes.

I gave her an incredulous look. "I am Captain Jack Sparrow. I will not lose. My men and I have never lost a battle yet, when it concerns the Royal Navy. Jem, do you really think that young Mr. Turner would allow me to just hand over his fair lass? You heard him. He informed me that I am not 'ALLOWED TO DO THAT'. Alas my Luv, the fair Miss Swann is not all they want. They want to take yours truly and hang me in the gallows. I have eluded them once too often and they are waiting for the day they can say, 'This is the day we hung Captain Jack Sparrow.' Savvy?"

I placed my hands on her shoulders and almost pulled her towards me into a passionate embrace. Thinking better of it, I pushed her aside. I could actually see a look of concern in her eyes or was it concern she would not get her treasure?

"I will be engaging in the battle. Come as soon as you can." I ran my hand down her check and headed for the deck. "All right you scabrous dogs!" I yelled as I left the room. "Let us prepare for a battle that we will profit from." Yes, thinking to myself. I will profit from this in more ways then one.

The uproar on deck intensified and the sound of the cannons and the rounds of gunfire roared over the ocean. I was so delighted when I saw the captain of The Intrepid was none other than my buddy, Gillette, Commodore Norrington's right hand man. As the ships got close everything fell silent. Why they stopped firing on us, I had no idea, but I told the men to hold their fire.

"Jim, Charlie, AnaMaria, Gibbs, throw out the grappling hooks and haul the two ships together. I'm going aboard and I expect every able man and woman." I glanced at Jem who had now joined me on deck. "To fight with everything they have."

The Royal Navy was preparing to meet us pirates as we poured across the boarding planks and swung between the ships on ropes. I was one of the first to board The Intrepid. I had my sword out and immediately engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the soldiers. The battle was brutal but my crew was doing quite well.

While I was making my way towards Gillette, I saw a vicious attack on Will, who was fighting right along beside me. He suffered a slash high on his thigh and another man came up behind him. The navy officer would have sent William to see old Hobbs, but Jem took him down with one swift stroke of her sword. Will barley had time to smile his thanks before two burly men attacked the both of them. Elsewhere the battle raged as men struggled for their lives, the deck was running red with blood. I fought on and continued to slay men left and right. As always, Will was behind me, protecting my back, thanks to Jem. We fought with easy grace, wielding both sword and knifes. When I reached the quarterdeck, I lunged at Gillette. "Surrender your ship!" I shouted above the din of the battle.

"Never Captain Sparrow. " Gillette yelled at me as we clashed our swords together.

"What you are doing is not wise, my friend. Listen to me and abort this foolishness. There are two pirate ships to your one ship, mate. If you have not noticed, The Vengeance is sailing behind The Pearl. Surrender before you are left with no men to sail your ship back to Jamaica."

He gave me a blank look. "You intend to let me keep my ship? Why? I know how you work Sparrow. Not only do you steal cargo but you blow our ships out of the water."

I laughed, remembering the last two fights I had with the Royal Navy and he was quite right. "Not this time, Gillette, I promise. If you surrender now, your cargo will be confiscated, but your ship will be left intact to return to Jamaica. You must deliver a message for me."

"If I surrender my ship, do you promise not to slaughter my men?"

"I thought I made myself clear. You will need crewmen to sail your ship home so that you can deliver a message from me to Norrington. So, what is your answer?" I smiled as I gripped my sword in a threatening manner.

Gillette wiped blood-tinged sweat from his forehead and glared at me. He lowered his head and let his sword fall to the deck. "You win, Captain Sparrow. I surrender my ship to you. I hope your black soul burns in eternal hell."

"I won't argue that point with you mate, for hell is likely where I will end up. Now, tell your men you have surrendered the ship."

Gillette ordered his men to lay down their weapons, shouting that he had surrender to the pirates. The sound of weapons falling to the deck sounded like thunder and the battle was disengaged. A triumphant roar filled the air as my men claimed victory.

"Now Gillette, while my men are transferring the cargo I will tell you what I wish you to say to Norrington. We will speak privately in your cabin."

I grasped Gillette's arm and started to make my way to his cabin. William and Jem began to follow. I stopped and looked at them both.

"If you don't mind this will be a private conversation between me and this fine representative of Her Majesty Royal Navy." I smiled at the both of them as I hurried Gillette along.

"Captain, I do mind." Will spoke up, and it made me stop short and cringe. I really did not want William in the room with me while I was negotiating with Gillette.

"Do you not trust me lad? Do you question my authority?" I looked sternly at Will, hoping I was not going to have any troubles.

"No Jack, you know I trust you. Should I question you? I feel it would be best if I go with you, for your own protection."

Jem smiled and put her arm around Will. "Now Mister Turner, I think the captain can handle one man and if anything occurs we will be close. Come, let's go gather up the spare food and ammunition." She leaned in close to me and whispered. "You owe me one Sparrow. I know what you are planning, and you know William would not go for it."

I winked at her. "Aye Jem, I'll owe you one. Remember, I look after those I care for and Mr. Turner is one of me crew."

"He is more then one of your crew. He is your friend and I would say your best friend." Jem then took hold of Will's arm and they went into the hold.

Gillette and I stole off into his cabin.

"Gillette, your ship has suffered minimal damage, so you should have no difficulty continuing your journey to Jamaica. Sit down and listen closely while I give you the message you are to convey to Norrington. You are to say that I have his treasure and I will be more then happy to return her to him, in exchange for Mr. Turner's and my freedom. Savvy?"

Gillette frowned "Is that all?"

"Yes, tell him his treasure is safe with me and when I get word he will stop attacking me she will be in his port." I walked around the cabin and picked up several silver candleholders and lose coins lying on the desk. "And Gillete, if I do not get the words I want from Commodore Norrington, you can tell him he will find Miss Swann in his port and she will be, how should I say. DEAD!"

Gillette looked at me in horror. "You wouldn't do that. I know you are ruthless but you are not a killer. I know you would not hurt a woman let alone Miss Swann."

"Gillette, don't presume you know me and what I am capable of doing." I gave him a half salute. "I wish you fair winds and a safe journey mate."

I walked out of his cabin and did not turn back. I swung back over to The Pearl.

I looked over at Charlie and Gibbs. "When all the supplies are loaded onto our ship cut us free from The Intrepid. We have no more use for her and her crew."

I looked around for Jem and I spied her talking to her crew. She was deep in conversation and I could see Tom Vickers taking in every word she spoke. I could only figure she was planning something and I probably would not like it. I already knew I did not like Tom, let alone the rest of her crew.

I turned my attention to Will. "Mr. Turner come with me. It appears you are wounded and you will need some mending. This day has been long. We should retire and find something to eat. A bottle of rum would also be welcomed. What do ya say?"

Thank you for the concern Jack, but I will be fine. I best go check on Elizabeth and Katheryn and we will go to the galley for supper. Elizabeth is thankful that Kat is doing well and is sorry for all the troubles she has caused you. I also owe you an apology. I truly did believe you had harmed Elizabeth. I should not have jumped to such a conclusion. I was shocked when I heard about Katheryn and how you saved her from the sea and you breathed life back into her."

"William, there are no heroes among pirates. I did what I had to do. You can tell Miss Swann to take care of that young lass or I will take full responsibility of her and Miss Swann will be alone." I turned to go pull Jem away from Tom, only to find she was standing behind me and she had heard the whole conversation between Will and myself.

"Jack, I owe you an apology too. I did not realize that you almost lost Kat last night. I can see why you would be upset but I cannot see you, Captain Jack Sparrow, raising a kid like Katheryn."

I shook my head and pushed her aside. "Why does everybody question me? I can and I will raise my daughter; she will know all the parts of me ship, and she will know what is just and what is amiss. She will be just like her father."

"Great." Will interjected while I was ranting. "Jack, you need not worry over Katheryn. Elizabeth and I will raise her and she will learn appropriately. Learning from you Jack, might scare your daughter away and your ideas of right and wrong are different from other's views. Elizabeth and Katheryn will never be alone as long as I am around.

"Mr. Turner, the future is hard to predict. Please don't insult me. I care not how others view my daughter, or me. My daughter will never fear me. As far as Elizabeth being alone I am sure she won't be, and neither will you, but, you can do better. Now, I must go and tend to the helm.

Will grabbed my arm. "What do you mean I can do better? What are you up to Jack Sparrow?"

"Will, I really must go. I brushed his hand off my arm and walked towards the helm, realizing I was being followed. I turned back to face Will. "Lad, you apologized for not trusting me and---sorry Jem, I thought you were Will, but Lass, you will be glad to know we are getting close to our destination. We should see land in a few days if the winds are fair. Are you ready? I mean are you really ready?"

I grasped her shoulders and looked into her eyes. "Your life Luv, will change and it will not be for the better. Since you select not to listen to me, please just leave me alone. It has been a long day and the sun is low. I am tired and hungry and I am not in the mood for small talk. Savvy?"

I walked over to the helm and took it from AnaMaria. While I stood there beside her, Jem approached. "Jack, I just wanted to tell you I will be going back over to The Vengeance and take care of my crew. They are getting restless and they did not understand the attack on the Naval ship, and why you let them go. I must do some damage control. I trust you will be true to your word. If you need help with Kat all you have to do is ask."

AnaMaria put her arm around my shoulder and then looked at Jem. "Now Captain Barbossa, I can take care of my captain and his daughter. You just go and tend to your crew."

I shrugged AnaMaria's arm off of me and rolled my eyes. "Please will you both leave? I can take care of myself, my daughter, and my ship!"

AnaMaria sneered at Jem and pushed her aside as she walked past. Jem looked at her and then at me. "As I said, I will be on my ship, but if you need me come and get me. It would appear that she has feelings for you Captain." Jem glanced at AnaMaria. "So I won't get in the way. However, I will be leaving Tom on your ship."

"Please, don't do me any favors. Do you truly not trust me that you must leave your monkey to watch over me? You know Luv, if I need to be observed you are my first choice. The Pearl is my ship and I request you take Tom with you."

With the eagerness of a child, Jem spun herself on the deck and raised her hands up into the air. You know Jack, you are just too serious and you need to laugh. She walked to the rail. The moonlight illuminated her features as she lifted her face to the warm breeze and she inhaled deeply the fresh, salt-scented air.

"Look Jack, look at the stars. See how bright they are. I can almost reach out and touch them, and look at the moon! It's magnificent."

"Aye magnificent." I replied, my gaze riveted on her face. " I too am admiring the beauty of the night, just as you are." My voice was soft and sullen. "If you must go back to The Vengeance then go. I do ask of you to leave Amber with me. Katheryn loves her so and the animal is a great comfort to her. I also know Kat would love to see you. She continues to ask for you. You are the one person in her life that is a constant. My daughter will not be happy with her mother. She runs away from me and jumps into the ocean. She adores you Luv." I pulled my hat down over me face to prevent me from gazing at her. "Aye, but don't we all love you?"

"Excuse me captain? What did you just say?" Jem questioned.

I still did not look at her. "I said take Tom with you!"

XXXXXXXXX

Several days had past and I had not talked to Jem. I had sent Kat over to The Vengeance per Jem's request. She felt it wise to stay away from Elizabeth and I knew Miss. Swann would not be happy to know I was letting our daughter spend time with her. As Elizabeth would say I was permitting Kat to converse with 'The Enemy'. I had also sent an invitation to Jem to join me for supper in my cabin. We had been distant since the evening she told me she was returning to her ship.

We were approximately thirty-six hours away from Madagascar, and I wanted Jem to come to me. We had to finalize our arrangements. What she had told her crew was none of my business and I didn't care. I told my crew I was fulfilling an obligation I had promised to Jem. I told them I was helping her since she showed so much love and affection to my daughter and took care of Kat, in her hours of need.

I was eager to see Jem, and I was delighted she accepted my invitation. The more time I spent with her the more intrigued I became. I was determined not to get her mad at me. Could I get her to fall in love with me? Probably not, but I could have fun trying.

A knock on the door distracted me from my thoughts. "Enter please."

Jem stepped into the room and paused. She looked radiant in the soft candlelight. I could see the astonishment in her eyes when she saw the table was already set with fine porcelain dishes, linen napkins, silver utensils and wine goblets. I could also sense her surprise when she heard the romantic music filtering in from the open window. The aroma of roasted duck and squash made my stomach rumble, and I could only assume it made hers too.

"So, you are right on time." I approached her and took her hand and lead her to the table. I held the chair out for her and she dutifully sat down. She looked into my face and smiled devilishly.

"Why Captain Sparrow, I thought you invited me here to dine. Do you have other plans?"

"Lass, I am a pirate. I will first wine and dine you and the rest will be left to fate. I do believe you still owe me a dance."

I poured wine into our goblets and then sat down across from her. "Would you like some rum sauce on your duck Luv?"

"Aye sauce would be nice." She took the ladle from my hand and helped herself. "Jack why did your daughter ask me today what my favorite color is?"

She took me by surprise and I chocked on my wine. "Did she do that? And prey tell, did you give her an answer?"

I leaned forward slightly and looked into her dark eyes: My mind said. "Jem, I find you fascinating and I want to know all about you. Knowledge is power, and the more I know about you the easier it will be for me to---"

But my actions were different. "Luv eat and enjoy your meal. The evening is young and good surprises may come your way. I guarantee it will not be a brand with a burning knife blade." I put my hand to me arm and rubbed my scar.

After we had our fill of the rich food, I stood up and went to my trunk and pulled out a luxurious silk purple robe and placed it in her hands.

"Jem please stay the night with me, we can steal away in our own private world together."

"Jack, this is beautiful." She ran her fingers up and down the fine material. "I see you do know my favorite color. Katheryn is a snitch. However, we will both need our wits about us. I require rest and you, obviously require other things. I am sure AnaMaria can take care of you and I will take care of myself."

She stood up and placed the robe on the chair. "I am sorry I cannot accept your gift, especially if there are strings attached. Thank you for a fine meal and I will see you tomorrow. We will tell our crews we are heading to the island to get supplies. I will take my leave now."

I watched her as she headed for the door. "Wait."

She turned around and arched her brow. "No Jack, I must go."

I stood up and approached her. "Close your eyes." I whispered.

"Are you going to kiss me?"

"Shhh." I whispered again. "Trust me?" I saw doubt in her eyes and then to my surprise, she complied. I traced the petal softness of her lips with my thumb. Aye, she was a rare beauty with fire and intelligence, the likes of which I'd never before seen.

"Think of me in your dreams tonight." I said leaning closer to her ear.

She opened her eyes and laughed. "Aye Jack, I'll think of you." Her eyes narrowed and before I could blink, she went over to the bed and grabbed a pillow; she then proceeded to whack me on the head with it. I began to laugh as she continued to pummel me with it. Seizing a pillow of my own I counter-attacked. She paused for only an instant before she renewed her attack filling my ears with her laughter. She then pulled out a knife and ripped her pillow open, showering us with goose feathers.

"Now Luv." I laughed, and hit her with my pillow. "You have no weapon. I win, do you concede?" Before I could let her answer I dropped the cushion and I pulled her against my chest and gave her the kiss I'd wanted to give her since she first came into the room. "Ah, I got you now and I will never let you go!" I yelled.

Her arms closed around me and she swung me around and tossed me on the bed. "Jack, I do not concede. I will be leaving now."

"Well, then Miss Barbossa, I mean Captain, let me escort you to your ship and to your room." I pushed myself off the bed and headed for the door.

"Jack that will not be necessary. I am a big girl and I don't need anyone to take me to my room. Please Luv, don't torture yourself. You stay here and I will see you in the morning." She met me at the door and removed my hand from the latch.

"Aye Luv, but the morning would look better with you in me arms." I gave her one of my charming smiles.

"Captain Sparrow, you best stop talking like that or I will have to throw you in the brig for insubordination." She gave me a slight kiss on the check and took her leave.

I don't know why but I felt uneasy as she left my room, so I followed her.

A half moon hung in a star-studded sky, beaming down on her as she made her way down the deck. She stopped and stared up at the heavens, and I was thinking she had never seen such a beautify sky equal to tonight's glittering display. Jem was so engrossed in gazing at the stars that she failed to hear approaching footsteps. I did, however, hear the footsteps and then I saw Tom approach her. Why was he on my ship?

Whirling her about and knocking her off balance, she went straight into the arms of Tom Vickers. He said something to her that I could not hear. She shook her head and opened her mouth to speak. He grasped her with his left hand and pushed her against the rail, stroking her hair with his free hand. I could see she was struggling against Tom's advances. The pirate was huge and muscular, easily overwhelming her. His hand left her hair and he stroked her face and neck.

He spoke again, his voice was as rough as the seas, and I could hear him now.

"Jem I have been with you since the beginning of this voyage. You said you would share the treasures with me. I am sure you have found out everything you need from Captain Sparrow. Can we not get rid of him now? You once told me it was you and I and now it is time to prove it."

Like a wild animal about to pounce on its prey, I attacked and flung Tom away from Jem. I then leaped on him and punched him until his nose bled and I knocked a tooth out. I stood up and I smiled triumphantly. I had been wanting to do that for a long time.

I then turned to Jem and saw she was gazing at me, but she was not smiling. She was furious. She was standing before me with her knife unsheathed and moving slowly towards me.

"Jack, I know how to use this. I do not need anybody to fight my battles. Tom is a member of my crew and I can take care of him. You had no right to intervene. I am his captain."

"Aye Lass, but he is on my ship." I was now totally confused. I thought Jem would have graciously accepted my help. I backed away from her and her knife. "You know Luv, you are his captain and he should not be attacking you. The question is, my dear, are you more then a captain to him?" I squinted me eyes and gave her a smirk.

She immediately slapped me across the face. "Mr. Sparrow, what I am to him is none of you concern or business. I will thank you to leave us alone and I will take care of Mr. Vickers. He accosted me not you. You have no right to strike him. Would you expect me to get involved in a fight between you and one of your crew?"

I grimaced. "You say accost Luv. I would call it an out-and-out attack. It is my right to defend you, for you are on my ship. As far as someone fighting for me, let them. The more the merrier."

"Jack, please I can take care of myself. I have told you and many other men, I do not need a man to take care of me. I can take care of myself."

"Very well Luv, accept my apologizes. Have it your way, cause I'm sure you will."

I stormed off infuriated at the girl for being mad at me instead of grateful. I started imitating Jem. "I don't need anybody to help me Jack, I don't need anybody!" I threw my hands up in the air and continued my tirade. "Well I bloody do! Women! What good are they? I don't need a woman to make me happy. No, they have been put on this earth to drive men nuts. It is probably best just to merely have one to satisfy your needs and then toss them aside. Raiding, pillaging and drinking, that makes me happy." I stopped and looked over my shoulder to see Jem pick Tom up off the deck and they both headed towards The Vengeance.

"Jem." I yelled at her. "You best make sure you punish him or I will. Oh, and a word of advice Luv, perhaps you should try to trust a man. But you better make him a good one." I glared at her and thought to myself, I do much prefer to fight with pillows.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

The next morning had all the markings for being just as bad as the previous night. I was awoken by the sound of rain tapping against the windows and I could feel the swells of the sea. I pushed myself out of bed, quickly dressed and headed for the helm to relieve the night watch. As I came upon the deck all was silent as the dead of night, the only sounds were the snapping of the rigging and cries of birds, which broke the sudden stillness. The hair on the back of my neck rose. This is not go. Not good at all!

While I was staring at the dark storm clouds gathering in the west, Will came on deck and came over to me. He had a wide smile on his face and he looked well rested.

"Will, this is a bad omen." I looked up at the sky. "Would you please fetch Jem for me, she is on The Vengeance? I must have words with her."

"Jack, I will be glad to go fetch her, but wouldn't you rather me take the helm and you go? I think she would prefer to see you."

I rolled my eyes. "Will, I can assure you, I am the last person she wants to see. Please, go get her, and do not take NO, for an answer."

Will looked at me and shook his head from side to side. "Jack, I must say you sure know how to pick them." He left and never returned.

The clouds were growing darker and the waves were now tossing The Pearl. "AnaMaria." I called to her over the deck. "Take the helm. I will be back before the storm hits us with its full force."

She immediately took the wheel from me and I headed below. I was looking for Will but instead I found Elizabeth and Katheryn in his quarters.

"Aye Elizabeth, why am I not surprised to find you here? Now I know why Mister Turner wore a smile on his face. Do you know where I can find him?"

Elizabeth now blushing looked at me. "No Jack, he told me he was going to fetch Jem, and that was hours ago."

I then turned to Kat and knelt down so I was on her level. "Come here my dear and give me a kiss." Katheryn ran over to me and threw herself into my arms, almost knocking me over. I stood up, holding her and squeezing her lovingly, I turned to Elizabeth.

"Very well, I will go find him. There is a storm approaching and even as we speak the crew is lashing down the cargo in the hold so it won't shift. I will warn you now while I have time. Use these ropes." I pointed to ropes hanging on the wall. "Bind yourself to something solid like the bedpost, if the storm becomes violent. Make sure you tie this beauty up too." I looked at Kat and made sure we had eye communication. "My little Lass, your mother will tie you to the bed. It is not a punishment; it is for your own good. I expect you to behave her and act accordingly. Savvy?"

She did not break eye contact and she nodded her head up and down. "That's my girl, I know I can count on you." I gave her another kiss and handed her over to Elizabeth.

"What makes you think the storm will become violent?" Elizabeth asked with worry in her voice.

"Instinct. I have seen that kind of sky often enough to know to prepare for the worst. Don't worry, The Pearl will ride it out and take us safely to our destination."

I went back up to on the deck and there was still no sign of Will or Jem. By midday the winds had begun to howl, though the weather could not yet be described as a storm. I took the helm from AnaMaria.

"AnaMaria, go make sure all is secure. This is going to be a bad one." I glanced up at the ominous clouds.

"I would call it a freshening breeze." Jem commented as she sauntered up with Will, arm in arm.

"Well, look what the cat dragged in. I'm glad to see you both decided to surface." I smirked.

"Jack, I was enjoying a bath and Mister Turner, I mean Will, was kind enough to scrub my back. Then we decided to partake in a little breakfast. If you have a problem with that, take it up with The Captain." She then pulled an apple out of her pocket and proceeded to eat it.

I looked at Will and nodded my head for him to come closer to me.

He approached and looked me straight in the eye. "Jack, before you say anything. She does speak the truth. I could not pull her out of the tub. Could I? She did offer, mind you, but I convinced her to finish and she said if I assisted it would take less time. She then claimed baths make her hungry. What was I suppose to do? You told me I could not take NO, for an answer, so I had to wait for her."

I frowned at Will and then I just rolled my eyes. "Will, thank you, I can just imagine the fun she put you through." I looked at Jem and wondered if she truly just loves to torture men because she does it so well.

"Jem, call me superstitious or a coward, but this weather is not an accident. It is an omen. We should not be here and we should turn around. I can take you to another treasure. A better treasure. Yes a bigger and better treasure. What do ya say Luv?"

"I say it is best you eat before the storm hits, for no one will be thinking about food then. This will blow over and everything will be fine. Jack dear, will you please lighten up?" She reached into her pocket and tossed an apple at me. "Captain Sparrow, do you need me to hold your hand?"

I smiled at her. "Luv, that' s the best offer I have had all day."

Will left the two of us on the deck as we continued to watch the sky. We could see the sun, but it appeared to be sliding behind some peculiar looking clouds. I went below and toyed with some unappetizing food for lunch while I left her at the helm. I wasn't gone long and I rejoined her. "The storm should arrive before nightfall, mark my words."

Suppertime came and the sun had disappeared and the sky had turned an ugly shade of purple, an ominous portent of what was to come. The wind howled around us and the ship began to dip and sway front to back and side to side.

The eerie purple clouds snuffed out the light of day. A distant rumble of thunder could be heard over the wailing wind, accompanied by streaks of lightning. The temperature began to drop. I felt the chill in the air and I pulled my jacket up around my neck. Jem felt safe standing beside me even though I asked her to go below. I had asked, not order and of course she remained on deck.

The storm struck with savage fury. Thunder boomed, lightning slashed across a sky that had changed from purple to black, and the seas rose up as if trying to swallow the ship.

Elizabeth sat on her bed and clung to the bedpost, trying to ignore the waves of nausea that threaten to over whelm her. Normally she didn't suffer seasickness, but this tossing was beyond anything she had experienced in the past. She held Kat close to her and would not let her go.

The Pearl continued to pitch violently when Elizabeth realized it was time to use the ropes. Crawling from the bed, she wrapped a blanket around herself and Kat and then found the ropes. She bound herself to Kat and to the bedpost. Knotting the rope in front to her so she could release it quickly, if she needed to make a quick escape.

She had no idea how long the storm outside would be raging. Time seemed to stand still as she fought nausea and vertigo, due to the violent pitching of the ship. During those desperate hours she saw no one. It was as if she had been forgotten and the sea had swallowed the world.

I'm sure it was at her lowest point when she heard me shouting above the howling wind.

"Man overboard!"

Her first thought was that she wasn't alone on the ship for she heard my voice, but her second thought was what if Will had been swept overboard? Without Will, she had no protection. She knew she couldn't rely on anyone else. She did not want Will to die. She loved him. So, disregarding her own safety she worked free of her bonds. She retied Kat and then she inched her way toward the door. The ship made a sudden violent roll to one side. She fell, hard. Recovering quickly, she ignored her aching body and crawled to the door. Clinging to the panel, she slowly lifted herself to her feet. Gathering her strength, she pulled open the door. It was immediately taken from her by a fierce gust of wind and flung wide. The wind literally stole the breath from her and the pounding rain slashed against her skin like stinging needles. Peering through the solid curtain of water, Elizabeth saw a group of men standing near the rail. Yes, that was where the man had gone overboard.

Her heart sank when she realized that the wind would sweep her away if she stepped out from her shelter beneath the quarterdeck, but her hopes soared when she saw a line strung across the deck. If she hung on to the line, she should be able to make her way to the railing. She had to find out who had gone overboard.

Dragging in a steadying breath, she lurched toward the line, which was but a few feet from where she stood. Grasping it firmly, she inched her way across the open deck. She stumbled twice and would have been swept away if not for her deathlike grip on the slippery line. She knew she should turn back to the safety of the cabin, but she had to find William. Suddenly the ship heaved up and then down. Her feet slipped out from under her, and the worst thing that could happen did. The line snapped. Elizabeth screamed as she slid across the wet deck. The only one who saw her was Jem.

Jem knew the real fear was when a wave higher than the ship surged over the side, lifting Elizabeth and carrying her toward a watery grave. Jem said a short prayer closed her eyes and left my side to go after her. She cheated death by scat seconds before, why should this time be any different. Jem held tight to her unbroken line and grabbed Elizabeth's legs, dragging her backward against the pull of the water, inch by painful inch.

Another wave came and Jem felt the power of the water overtake her. Jem lost her grip on the line and on Elizabeth. I grasped the both of them before they went over the rail. After what seemed an eternity, I hauled Jem and Elizabeth to their feet.

I shoved Elizabeth into her cabin and then grabbed onto Jem. "I got you. I won't let go. If you go, I go." I held her trembling body close to mine and I could feel her heart racing. "You'll be alright now. Jack has you."

I pushed her wet hair back from her face. "Do you trust me?"

I looked into my eyes and she nodded her head.

"Jem, I almost lost you once, I will not loose you again. Not like this. Savvy? Life is a gamble and you must be careful. I do love the sea, but I am not ready to let her have you. You may not need a man, but you will come to realize, I am the best thing that has come into your life."

Jem was gasping for air and still trembling. "Thank you Jack, you are right, I do need you and yes, I do trust you." She buried her head into my wet tangled hair and began to weep.

"Jem, Don't---Don't you do that. No, not here, not now. You must remain strong for me, for yourself. You are an amazing woman. For all the jewels in the world, I will never understand why you would risk your life for Miss Swann, but you did. You—you." I pulled her in close to me once again.

"Jack, if I had not saved her you would have. You would not let Katheryn's mother die. I could not let her die." Her grip around my waist got even tighter.

"Jem, you must do me an honor. Promise me you will go to the helm and tie yourself to it. Don't leave it and hold The Pearl steady. Promise me Jem. Do you understand me?"

"Jack, don't let me go. Don't let me go." She stood cradled in my arms while the rain and the waves washed over us.

"Jem." I wanted to tell her I would never let her go but I needed her to go to the helm. "You're going to be alright, now please promise me you will go to the helm, I need you to do this for me. Savvy?"

"I promise Jack. I promise." She pulled away slowly. I could tell she did not want to go. She grasped the rope to find her way back. I ran my hand down her wet hair and held it all the way to the end as she turned and disappeared into the rain.

"I love you Jem. I will never let you go." The rain drowned out my words and I knew she didn't hear me.

Breathing heavy and struggling to control my temper, I went into Elizabeth's cabin. I wiped the water from my eyes and stared at her. Her trembling increased when she saw the look in my eyes. All the fury of hell was raging in them.

"Are you mad?" I shouted. "Whatever possessed you to leave the cabin?"

She swallowed hard "I feared William had gone over board."

My rage had gained momentum. "Have you lost your senses lady? There was nothing you could have done if he had gone overboard. If Jem hadn't seen you hurtling to your death, you would be food for the fish by now."

She shuddered and lowered her head. She looked at me through a fringe of lush eyelashes "Thank you for saving my life, Jack. I know I acted rashly. I do not know what I would have done if you had not saved me. It's just, I love Will so much, and I cannot loose him. I don't want to live without him."

The ship lurched up and came down hard. I was able to remain upright but Elizabeth went flying, straight into my arms. My feet were braced against the violent roll of the waves and I held Elizabeth's shivering body until the ship righted itself.

"We are going to sink!" Elizabeth whimpered. "The ship is going to be swamped."

"Nay, The Pearl is sturdily built, she won't sink." I backed away from her. "It is not me you should be thanking. You should be thanking Jem. This will be the second time that Lass, has put her fate in your hands. Now hurry, I must return to the helm, to Jem. Take off your wet clothes and climb into the bed. I'll lash you down so you can't and won't fall out."

Elizabeth hesitated. She wore nothing beneath her clothes and she couldn't bring herself to undress with me watching. Sensing her dilemma, I grasped her wet dress and ripped it off her. A few swift motions her dress was on the floor and I had her in the bed. Working against the roll of the ship I managed to bind the rope around her blanketed form and tie the loose ends to the bedpost. "Now that should hold you. I'll release you when the danger is over." Needless to say at that very moment young Mr. Turner entered the cabin.

He looked intently at the both of us for a moment. He was soaked and looked like a drowned rat.

"Jack, the men are looking for you. Jem still has the helm, the storm shows no visible sign of stopping and we need your skill to bring the ship safely through the storm." Will stood there talking to me but I could tell every nerve ending in his body was twitching, wondering what I was doing with his woman.

"Aye Lad, I know this storm still has it's teeth and I have no idea how far off course we have been blown, until I can see the stars to take a reading. I will leave you here with Miss. Swann and Katheryn. Elizabeth did something foolish, as usually." I looked at her and Kat now tied onto the bed. "She left the cabin and had it not been for Jem she would have been swept overboard."

I walked over to Will. "Fortunately, I caught them and hauled them to safety. Foolish woman." I growled. "See that she causes no more trouble."

I then pulled William closer.

"See that you also take care of her and love her. She may be foolish but she truly does adore you Lad. I feel you have someone who loves you for yourself and who will never let you go."

I patted him on the shoulder and realized I was expressing my own feelings for Jem.

"Aye Lad, never let her go."

A/N Yes, Jack has done it now. He knows how Elizabeth feels for William. Of course she has made this quite evident before this. Jack's plan with Gillette, will most likely backfire, but just keep reading to find out.

Free Bird: Thanks for your review, Yes Katrina is Kat and yes she has problems. No, she is actually a very sweet and intelligent girl, she just gets a little carried away.

Thanks to all my other readers. Keep all the reviews coming but most of all just enjoy reading.