Bill walked into the cabin after Jack and closed the door.

"You didn't have to do that in front of my crew." Was the first thing out of his mouth.

"I had to get your attention."

"Maybe I don't want to give it to you."

"That's why. I want to know how you could think that you killed me. You had everything to do with it and yet nothing at all."

"We made a promise to each other once. I protect your son, you don't risk yourself for me. Please William, follow that now."

"I can't"

"Please?' Jack was begging. Jack was actually begging. This was new.

"I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I could help you and didn't. I would gladly die for you."

"You have a son, probably even grandchildren on the way. Don't you want to know them? I'm not your family Bill. I never was." Jack finished quietly.

"You are family. You're like my little brother. I would do anything for you. I will make this work."

"But he's your son you never knew. The son you would always tell me about. He needs you, I don't. William I cant live again thinking I killed you. Don't make me think I did."

"Jack…" Bill was at a loss of words.

"We'll be at Port Royal tomorrow. There you can go to your son." Jack said looking at Bill

"You just spoke the words about seeing my son, but you actually said you were going to run."

"I'll be on the Pearl."

"I want you to come with."

"Why?"

"Because you know my son, it would be easier."

"We have to stick to alleys. I don't know where he would be. He may be at the govna's house, the blacksmith, or his own house by now. I'm a wanted man so we have to be careful."

"I know. Thank you Jack."

Jack gave a nod. "I'm gonna be at the helm."

For the rest of the day Jack avoided Bill.

"You've been up here all day Captain. Why don't you go get some sleep?"

"I'm fine Ana."

Ana came up next to him. "You can trust us. We would never mutiny against you."

"Funny, you sound like Barbossa."

"Jack…"

"How much did you hear?"

"Bits and pieces. What do we have to do for you to trust us?"

Jack stood for a moment. "I honestly don't know." He then walked off to his cabin.

Bill was in there already dosing by the window seat. Jack stopped and looked at Bill before going to his bed.

Jack took off his hat, coat, weapons, shirt, and got into bed without a single word. Bill thought it best to leave it at that.

TBC...