Chapter Thirteen: Understanding

Cordelia woke the next morning wrapped in Will's arms. She smiled as she removed them and stood by the window, enjoying the sunrise over the ocean.

"What time is it?" Will asked, sitting up and stretching his gorgeous body.

"Good morning. It's just past sunrise. The city is so quiet in the morning, I'm surprised I'm awake."

"Quiet can do that to you. I wake up at sunrise everyday to light the forge. You don't look like you got much sleep."

"I had a lot to think about."

"Jack'll be coming by soon. You want some breakfast first?"

"Okay."

She didn't want to see Jack so soon.

Cordelia sat down at a table and Will went to the bar and got breakfast. While it looked like a tavern it was also an inn surprisingly enough. Will returned with two plates of fried salt pork and potatoes. They ate in silence; Cordelia checked the door every few minutes, waiting for Jack apprehensively. He arrived a little after they finished. He tipped his hat and smiled at Cordelia before sitting down opposite them.

"Good morning Jack," Will said.

"G'morning," he mumbled.

"You sound like you had a rough night. Did you go out drinking somewhere else?"

"No but a rough night 'bout sums it up," Jack said, glancing at Cordelia. She looked down at the table.

"Well, if you want to talk about it I'm sure you will. What're the plans for today?"

"Well we've preparations for a long voyage to make. Minor repairs, enough food and supplies to take us at least to the Gold Coast, and anything else anyone might need. You need anything Cordelia?"

"I...what?"

The use of her name and his resigned voice tugged at her heart. She stared at him a moment before responding.

"Yes. I'd like some lighter clothes and a few other items. Thank you Captain."

That was a mistake, she knew it before it left her mouth. There was hurt in his eyes, she saw it. He took her formal use of his name as insult, he liked her to call him Jack.

"Jack. Thank you Jack," she whispered.

He smiled.

"I have to oversee the crew. Will, can you accompany Cordelia with her shopping. Tortuga is no place for a lady."

"Of course, I'd be glad to. Is that alright with you Cordelia?"

"That sounds lovely."