HELLO AGAIN LOVERS!
Sorry sorry sorry that it took a ridiculous amount of time for an update. Life got in the way and I had to rewrite it a bajillion times before it finally flowed the way I wanted it to.
Next update won't take NEARLY as long, I promise ;)
He wasn't kidding when he said it would be a crazy ride. Never in my life have I ever been so close to danger, not even when I went up against Zach and the Screechers, but I never once was afraid. I had complete trust in John and that he'd get us both to our destination safely and in one piece.
As we raced through the galaxy at a blindingly fast pace I couldn't help but laugh out loud. The solar wind in my face was chilling me to the bone but I didn't care, I felt absolutely free! When we finally slowed to a stop, I looked up and was surprised to find that the sky around us had turned unusually dark. It was at this point I started getting nervous, if it wasn't for the glow of the longboats solar thrusters, I wouldn't even be able to see my hand in front of my face.
John sensing my nervousness grabbed my hand and pulled me into his arms. As I leaned against his chest my tension eased instantly, but I still couldn't help but wonder why he'd brought us here if all places.
"I thought we were going to your favorite spot?" I asked.
"We are lass," he whispered in my ear. He turned to shut off the engine, settled us against the back of the long boat and wrapped his arms back around me.
I sat there for a few moments but nothing happened. The darkness just seemed to grow even darker. "John, what am I looking-"
"Just be patient lass," he chuckled, "Just look out t'ere and you'll see it take shape."
I began to argue again when all of a sudden I noticed just what he was talking about. All around us the darkness started to shimmer, as thousands upon millions of specks of glitter started to float in front of my very eyes. As far as I could see, the night slowly began to glow with dancing glints of gold.
"What are these things?" I asked, scooping up a handful for closer inspection.
"T'ere are a few mining planets around here, my guess is t'is is all t'e fall out from t'e eon's of diggin' t'ats been goin' on round here."
I laid there against his chest and watched the night sky dance. As my eyes drifted closed, the steady rhythm of John's heartbeat came to my ears and calmed me down even more. I could've fallen asleep right there and I almost did, until a fast moving object caught my eye in the distance. It was a comet, almost as bright as a miniature sun, barreling across the night sky. It took me a few seconds before I realized it was coming straight for us!
"John!" I started to panic, trying to reach for the controls to move us out of the way in time.
"Relax Ana," he cut me off, "We'll be fine! Just watch."
I tried to do what he asked, but there was a damn comet the size of a small town barreling straight for us! The longer I watched the comet, the more I noticed that it's path was changing. Before I knew it the comet flew right over us, rocking our longboat and covering us in a layer of fine icy powder. As it glided through the night sky away from us, it made the specks of minerals floating around us just dance even brighter.
"So THAT'S why this is your favorite spot?" I laughed, "Almost getting blown up by comets."
"T'ats not t'e only reason," he answered, lighting his pipe and settling back down in his spot. "But it's definitely an added bonus."
I couldn't help but shake my head at him, and as the excitement in the atmosphere fizzled out, I snuggled back into his arms like I was before. For the first time since leaving home my thoughts drifted back to my family, specifically my mom and sisters. Immediately my throat began to burn as tears threatened to fall.
"I miss them John," I whispered, trying to hide any emotion from my voice. Of course, it didn't work.
"I know lass," he muttered, blowin' out smoke.
I glanced up at him, "Do you think I'd ever be able to see them again?"
He thought about it for a minute before finally coming up with an answer. "It may take awhile, a few years maybe for t'ings to calm down. But once it does I don't see why we can't sneak ya to see yer mother and sisters." he glanced down at me, "We wouldn't ever be able to get ya back to yer home planet t'ough."
"A few years? You really think it's gonna take that long for things to go back to normal?"
John took another pull off his pipe. "Aye, life's gonna be hell for awhile," he peeked at me carefully. I had started to focus on John's heartbeat again, confusing my tired silence for one of doubt, he lifted my chin so I could look in his eyes. "Are you sure you still wanna do t'is?" he asked quietly. In that moment, there were so many emotions flickering around in those hypnotizing eyes of his. Love, fear, and hesitation shone brightly as he patiently waited for my answer. "If ya want an out lass, I'm givin' it to ya now."
I jumped up suddenly, threw my leg to the other side of him and straddled his lap. "Without a shadow of a doubt, I want to spend the rest of my life with you and only you John Augustus Silver,"
Throwing me an annoyed look at the use of his middle name, I wrapped my arms around his neck and pressed my forehead against his. "Would I be sad if I never saw my family again? Of course. But my home isn't there anymore," I poked him playfully in his barrel chest, "It's wherever you are."
The smile he gave me could've lit up the cosmos. Resting his hands on my hips, he leaned up to kiss me gently. As usual, his touch ignited that usual fire, and before I knew it we were both breathless clinging on to each other
"Let's get you home lass," he growled against my lips. Immediately my stomach melted, all I could muster was a nod as I climbed off his lap and let him take us back to the ship. The ride back was much easier than the ride out, so much so that by the time we made it back I had curled up against John and fell asleep.
Next thing I knew I was being carried across the deck into John's room. As soon as he laid me on the bed I snuggled up into the pillow and slipped back into dreamland while John got himself ready for bed. Finally he crawled into bed next to me. I groaned lazily, exhaustion had snuffed out the heated passion he had ignited earlier. Last thing I remember was being enveloped in warmth as John tucked me into his chest, lulling me into a deep restful sleep.
Morning came quickly the next day. For once I woke up before John, so I took advantage and was able to examine his sleeping form for the first time ever. Looking over him I started to notice features I hadn't before. His eyelashes were ridiculously long, so long that they almost cast a shadow on his cheek. His hair had grown significantly since leaving Atlantica, before what was a clean close cut now was a curly disheveled heap. He looks better with longer hair. His familiar stubble had come back thankfully. I hated the fact that he shaved it for Melody's party, without it he didn't look like the same man.
Carefully I took his natural hand in mine, examining the scarred and calloused knuckles. My hand dwarfed his in size, and he could nearly cover my fist entirely when we held hands. Following his arm up I noticed random scars, from random fights I assumed, that glowed on his dark skin. One scar in particular looked fresher than the rest.
That's from where Zach attacked him, I remembered. He had fought so bravely, but was only worried about me. I hope I would never have to see such fear in his eyes again. Gazing back up to his face I started to admire just how ruggedly handsome John was. Every time before I had to examine him carefully, whenever he did catch me checking him out he'd pop off with some remark that would make me blush. Now that he's asleep, I didn't have to worry about sneaking and could take my sweet time drinking him in.
Slowly the familiar burn of passion returned. Carefully I sat up and leaned over John. Making sure my hair was tucked so it wouldn't wake him, I trailed my hand up his arm to his chest. Watching his muscles twitch made my own muscles tighten, giving into desire I began to kiss on John's neck.
It wasn't too long before John roused from his slumber. His breathing quickened as I trailed my kisses from his shoulder up to his neck. Building up the courage, I climbed on top of him like he'd done to me many times before.
"Hm," he groaned and I started to shimmy my hips, "Yer pretty friendly t'is mornin' lass."
"I'm friendly every morning," I purred "Let's finish what we started last night,"
"I thought you'd never ask," he grinned, placing his hands on my hips he tried to flip us over to get him on top.
Before he could move us, I grabbed his wrists and pinned them above his head making his eyes widen in surprise. Thankfully he didn't fight me, if he really wanted to move me he'd have no problem doing so.
"Lass, whatcha doin'?"
"Let me have a little fun," I begged, "I let you have fun whenever you want." He tried to push against my hands, but with a quick little roll of my hips his head fell back as he bit back a moan. I couldn't help but grin triumphantly. Here is the most feared and respected man I've ever known who is practically twice my size, and he is under me letting me have complete control over him.
That control didn't last long though. Being caught up in his kiss, I didn't even notice how he flipped us over instantly putting him back on top. As my eyes opened in surprise, I was met with a fearsome glare of heated passion and annoyance. Uh oh.
He quirked his eyebrow at me as I held my breath, waiting to see what he was going to do next. Then he threw me his usual mischievous grin, and the next words out of his mouth made my insides flutter.
"Ya wanna try and tease me," he growled jokingly, "Let's see how you like to be teased." And with that he dove under the sheets out of sight. Right away I could feel his scruff on the inside of my thighs making me jump off the bed in surprise. He just pulled my hips back down to the bed and began torturing me with licks and kisses. I couldn't help but grasp onto the sheets, onto his hair, anything that I could get my hands on.
"John," I breathed, "Please,"
Hearing me beg, he stopped and resurfaced with a satisfied smile on his face.
"Please what." he whispered flatly.
My entire face and chest blushed. I was too embarrassed to outright say it, but I knew if he went back under those sheets he'd push me over the edge. Reading my thoughts, he slowly kissed his way back up my body until he was hovering over me. By now I was a writhing mess and I didn't care how desperate I looked. I needed him. Now.
"Please…" I bit my lip and moved against him again. He closed his eyes with a growl, matched my movements and sighed. He's so close. Just a few. More. Inches. I tried to close the gap between us, but as soon as I could maneuver myself under him, he would just chuckle and slip away.
"Please what, Anastasia."
The sound of my name on his lips felt like velvet sliding over my body. I wrapped my legs around him even tighter and clawed at his back. I could tell that his resolve was starting to crumble, and soon he would give in and give me what I so desperately needed.
"Give it," I breathed.
"Give you what?" he chuckled, obviously enjoying watching me squirm.
I was done with the games by now. My body was on fire, and if I didn't get the release I craved I felt like I was going to explode. Giving him a heated glare of my own, I dipped my hand in between us and wrapped my fingers around him. Slowly but firmly, I began to move up and down, giving him a taste of his own medicine. Right away he hissed with desire, grinding his teeth to keep from being too loud.
"I said plea-"
I couldn't even finish my sentence. He was on me in an instant, our bodies finally joined together taking my breath away. We were so absorbed in each other, that we didn't even notice Jim knocking until we were through. I followed John into his stateroom still high from our passionate morning just to be met with a stern Jim sitting at John's desk.
"About time you two quit fucking around," he barked, "Good thing the men sleep like logs, otherwise Ana would've woken them up with her groaning."
I took a step back, shocked at the attitude Jim was giving me. John stepped in front of me protectively before I had a chance to snap an attitude back.
"What in t'e hell is yer problem Jimbo?!" John glared, his eye flashing red.
Jim ignored him and leveled an anxious look at me. "Your future in laws have been blowing up the communicator for an hour now. I tried to tell them you were still asleep when they called the fourth time, but they had a hard time believing it when they heard a certain someone moaning in the background."
My face paled as I started to panic. "Wh-what?! They heard me!"
"They don't think it was you," he waved me off, "I was able to convince them that it was the artificial gravity generators working overtime. But they are expecting a call from you."
My body was still numb from my mini freak out. "I'll call them after we get going for the day." I mumbled, running my hands through my hair. I turned back around to get properly dressed before Jim cut me off.
"I think it's best you call them beforehand."
I froze for a second before I turned around to face him again. Before I could stop myself, my anger had peaked and the words were tumbling out of my mouth. "I think it's best you mind your own fucking business for once. I didn't ask for your advice or input, I will call whoever I want whenever the hell I want."
As I walked back towards the bedroom, I noticed how both John and Jim just stood there, mouths agape, with nothing to say. I managed to get the door shut behind me, and as I sank to the floor I could hear John's booming voice from the other side.
I couldn't hear exactly what he was saying, but I recognized a few curse words from time to time. Funny how even when he's bellowing in anger, his voice still had a soothing effect on my nerves. It wasn't long though before a wave of sudden nausea washed over me. I jumped off the floor and took off for the bathroom, barely making the toilet before emptying my already empty stomach.
I heard John slam the door as he headed back into the bedroom. I guess he heard my dry heaving, because next thing I knew he was holding my hair and rubbing my back. Once the episode was over, I stumbled over to the sink to brush my teeth and wash my face.
"What was t'at about lass?" he asked, concern lacing his voice, "I didn't know you were feelin' sick."
"I'm not feeling sick," I muttered, staring at myself in the mirror. What was that about? "Maybe it's because I'm feeling nervous."
"Hm," he huffed. He didn't believe me at all. "Well either way, yer on light duty today. Can't have ya bein' sick for yer night out tonight."
Oh yeah, that's right. Thinking about tonight instantly lifted my spirits and chased the nausea away. As I lifted my hair to put in a quick updo, I noticed a slight bruise on my neck. Once I realized what it was, I whirled around to face John and pointed it out to him. "Really?!" I yelled, "You REALLY had to leave a damn hickey where everyone could see?"
He tilted my head to the side to get a better view, probably admiring his damn handy work. "Well would ya look at that," he smirked, "I'll just have to find better spots to leave em next time."
My face blushed which just entertained John even more. "This isn't funny John. Don't you remember what I have to do tomorrow? How do you think it's going to look when I have love bites and scratches all over my body?!"
His lighthearted mood immediately turned to one of anger, possessiveness flashed in his eyes as he clenched his fists. "Yes I still remember. T'at bastard ain't gonna see an inch under yer weddin' gown." he tenderly took my hands in his, "He's not even gonna get a chance to touch yer hand before I get ya out of t'ere."
I looked up in John's eyes. I could tell deep down he really thought our plan was going to work, but I couldn't keep the seed of doubt from my mind. Pushing the doubt aside, I wrapped my arms around his neck and leaned up to kiss him gently.
"I love you," I whispered against his lips. As he wrapped his arms around my waist his anger melted away.
"I love you too, lass," he muttered.
We stood there for a few moments in our own little world when a realization hit me. I still have to pack all my stuff. Right away the nausea came back, as I pushed away from John I walked back into the bedroom. I just stood there for a few seconds raking my fingers through my hair, trying to decide where to begin.
"What's wrong Ana?" he asked confused.
"I just realized that I still have to pack all of my stuff for tomorrow."
His face paled. Obviously, he didn't think about this either. "Just leave yer stuff here, you'd be right back anyway."
"Yeah, they don't know that John," I muttered, trying to calm my stomach so I wouldn't throw up again. "I can't show up to my future home with absolutely nothing. We're gonna have to move it all back into the guest room so the guards don't get suspicious."
"Fine," he sighed, "I'll send Matt and Jim down to help ya move everything. Ya might wanna pack a bag to leave on board though."
"What for?" I asked, confused.
"We're not gonna have time to carry all of yer stuff back on board. Once ya sneak away everyone will be lookin' for ya like crazy, a trail of trunks is just gonna lead 'em straight to us."
"Oh, right." Duh. "I'll pack one and leave it under your bed."
"Good," he pulled me in his arms. He could see the stress starting to build up again. "Now, let's go get us some breakfast, t'en you can worry about this mess."
Thankfully preparing for breakfast was a welcome distraction. Once everyone was fed and the galley was cleaned, Jim and Matthew both came and helped me move all of my trunks to the guest quarters below deck. John had the damaged door repaired since Zach busted it down, but that didn't change the fact that I couldn't stand in there alone longer than necessary.
As Jim was carrying the last trunk below deck, I was packing up my bag to stow beneath John's bed. In it was just the bare essentials, a few changes of clothes, and a special locket my grandfather had given me when I was a little girl. The locket was simple, a shell with my name engraved on the outside, and when you opened it a special lullaby sang. My cousin Melody had one just like it, and out of all of my possessions this one was my most prized one. I didn't want to risk it being left behind in the rush of me running away, so into the bag it went.
Last thing that went under the bed was my bow and arrows. I debated if I should take it all morning, but in the end I decided that I wouldn't be able to sneak it in without it raising some concerns. Once I got back, I would have my bow and arrows back and everything will be fine. I did decide to take John's knife with me, no way was I going without any sort of protection at all.
It had taken me all morning and half of the afternoon to cart my things down to the guest quarters. John's room looked strangely empty now, the only thing left of mine was my arrival gown hanging on the back of the bathroom door. I walked over and examined the dress closely, it was the first time this whole trip I even bothered to look at the damned thing.
If it wasn't for the specific occasion I had to wear it for, I would think it was gorgeous. It was a ball gown of heavy silver cloth, the top layer adorned with diamonds and pearls, while the bottom layer glittered with specks of metallic silver. Turning it over to the back I noticed there was a train that was adorned just like the bodice, the diamonds and pearls looked like swirling waves crashing on a beach of silver sand. The garment itself was a perfect representation of my family and lineage, but not of myself at all.
"T'at silver is gonna clash wit' yer hair," John whispered from behind me, basically speaking my thoughts out loud.
"I know," I laughed, "I would've never picked this color for myself, my parents picked this for me when I was little." As I ran my fingers over the designs, memories flooded my mind. "You know my grandpa is the one who came up with these designs?"
"Did he now?" he asked as he came up beside me. He carefully lifted the skirt and eyed the diamonds and pearls.
"Mmhm. He wanted my arrival dress to represent not just my future husband's family, but my family as well." My voice choked at the thought of my grandpa. What I wouldn't give to see you right now.
"He would'a been mighty proud of you," John crooned as he wrapped his arms around my waist. "I know alot is goin' t'rough yer head right now, but I want ya to focus on how much fun we're gonna have tonight. Tell me about t'is band we're goin' to go see."
"The Pillagers?"
"Pillagers?" John laughed, "Are t'ey a bunch of pirates?"
"Actually former pirates," I chuckled, "They all got tired of being on the run. So they got together, paid for their crimes and started a band. Their violin player is especially good."
I couldn't help but laugh out loud at the sour face John made at my description of the band. "Hey, don't knock them till you hear them. I promise, even you'd think they were good."
As if on cue, Jim appeared at the door. "Hey guys, we're about to dock here in a few minutes if ya'll wanna come up on deck."
"Already?" I asked, excitement filled my bones.
"It's taken ya nearly all day to sort through yer stuff, lass" John laughed, "It's already almost dinner time.
It was then my stomach started growling, reminding me that I had skipped lunch that day. Jim heard it from across the room and couldn't help but laugh. "Well let's eat some dinner and head to the bar!" I bounded up the steps to watch as we landed. When I was above deck, my springy steps came to a halt as my senses were overloaded. All around me, the sky was the purest of blue with creatures of different sizes and shapes floated gracefully all around us. I felt like I was in a fishbowl!
"Woah," was all I could muster, as John and Jim joined me on deck they broke through my concentration.
"Impressed?" Jim asked.
"Impressed is an understatement," I muttered, trying to drink in all the colors surrounding me. " I feel like I'm in an aquarium."
"Well, t'ey call it t'e Coral Galaxy for a reason." John laughed.
He wasn't lying. All around us massive bits of coral in every shade imaginable loomed weightless in the air. As we landed we passed by one and I was able to see all the life forms that lived within each bunch of coral, it was like it's own little world.
We managed to dock safely, though it was a bit difficult without bumping into any floating coral bunches. Once we tied off and checked in with the harbormaster, John and I rushed through dinner preparations. As we went through the motions, sparks flew between us like it usually did, but this time my skin buzzed even more than usual. Then it suddenly dawned on me. This is potentially the last dinner you'll have with John and the crew.
John noticed how I quit cutting up the vegetables, and he quietly came behind me to look over my shoulder. "Everyt'ing alright lass?"
I wanted so bad to tell him what was on my mind, but I also didn't want to ruin the mood for our night out. I bit my lip trying to decide what to do or say, when John gently lifted my chin for me to look at him.
"I know alot's gotta be on yer mind for ya to be chewing on your lip like t'at," he whispered, glancing behind him. "Just tell me what's wrong."
"I'm scared," I blurted.
"'Bout tomorrow?"
I nodded, looking back down at the cutting table full of vegetables. The bug in the back of my mind just kept nagging me, something was going to go wrong I just wasn't sure what. John suddenly wrapped his arms around me, breaking through my thoughts and immediately started to calm down my panic. "How many times do I have to tell ya t'at I'm not gonna let anyt'ing happen to you?" he whispered, "I promise, t'is time tomorrow you're gonna be on yer uncle's ship, sailin' far away from t'at sorry hell hole."
For a second I gave in and let his calming words quiet my fears. Thankfully the crew started to file into the galley, so I didn't have much of a chance to start worrying again. John jumped away from me as quickly as he could, and we both started to serve up dinner. As usual, the meal passed by easily with plenty of laughter and jokes to go around. I couldn't help but be relieved that no one mentioned what would be coming tomorrow, but that relief didn't last long when Jim suddenly called for a toast.
Once he finally got the men quieted down, he began to speak. "Now, something that alot of you may not know, tomorrow is our Anastasia's twenty fifth birthday," Everyone erupted with congratulations and cheers, many of the men raising their glasses and clapping me on the back. "Now with that in mind, I think tonight is as good a time as ever for a little celebration." I couldn't help but laugh as the room was filled with everyone shouting in agreement.
John stood up next to Jim to take his turn addressing the crew. "Now, as yer Cap'n, I don't mind if all ya wanna join in with the birthday celebrations, but I t'ink it's only proper if we ask t'e birthday girl her input." He turned to me, "So my lass, would ya mind spendin' yer special day wit' t'e likes of us?"
Everyone's eyes landed on me expectantly and I couldn't help but laugh. "Of course I want all of you guys to come with me!" I stood, raising my glass with John and Jim, "I couldn't think of finer company I would like to spend my birthday with."
Glasses immediately started clinking and drinks started pouring. As the crew started to file out of the galley, John and Jim came to help me clean up. Thankfully, most of the men managed to halfway clean up after themselves, so it didn't take long to get the galley back in order. As we headed up to the top deck, the sun had already set and the night air was starting to cool. Some of the crew members were still finishing up some last minute duties, but a majority of them had gathered by the gangplank waiting to walk to the pub together. All of a sudden it dawned on me.
"Shit," I cursed making John and Jim glance at me surprised. "I completely forgot to call my in-laws"
"Well do ya t'ink it's a good idea to call 'em now?" John asked.
"If I don't they'll start to worry." I slipped my hand into John's cool metal one, "I won't be long. I promise."
He looked like he was about to argue, but instead he gave my hand a reassuring squeeze and let go. He could probably read the worry on my face, but thankfully didn't say anything. We all headed back to John's stateroom together, as we walked through the door together they were surprised when I turned on them.
"I think it's best if you guys stay out here until I'm done."
"Like hell I will," John growled, eye flashing orange, "No way am I gonna leave ya alone wit' t'em bastards."
"Well you're going to have to leave me with them for half the day tomorrow so you might as well get used to it now." I barked.
"He's right Ana," Jim muttered, "We may be able to get some information to help us with tomorrow. We can stand behind the communicator, they won't even know we were there."
I stood there for a minute thinking it over. One look at John and I could tell by the set of his jaw there would be no arguing, and Jim didn't seem too relenting either.
"Fine," I sighed, "But you both have to stay quiet, no matter what is said."
Once they both agreed, I opened the door to John's stateroom, and made sure it was locked when it was closed. They both took their seats on the couch across the room out of sight. I settled down in John's desk chair, taking a second to straighten my shirt and hair. As I laid my hands on the desk to bring up the communicator, I noticed they were shaking. I tried to take a steadying breath, but that ended up just as shaky as my hands.
Closing my eyes, I took a second to calm myself. I had no idea making this call would make me this nervous. Sitting there, I could feel a certain pair of eyes burning into me, as I slowly opened my eyes I looked into them. Strange how that glowing gaze used to intimidate me, but now it soothed me.
I'm right here, he mouthed. I nodded, took a deep breath, and pressed the button on the communicator. A transparent screen came to life before me, then a stranger's face came into focus.
"Operator," the stranger barked.
"Oh, uh-Montressor Palace please." I stuttered.
"Please hold," he droned, and the screen temporarily went dark. When it came to light, a sophisticated female feline showed up from the other line.
"Montressor Palace, Sophia speaking," she quipped.
"Um hi," I answered, "My name is Anast-"
"Oh you have no need to introduce yourself your Majesty." she waved me off, "The royal family has been expecting your call. I'll connect you through right away."
"Ah, well, th-thank you," and at that the screen went dark again. My fingers immediately went to my hair twirling a curl nervously. Through the screen, I could see John shining his gaze to me.
It's ok, he mouthed again. Before I could acknowledge him, a beautiful woman appeared on the screen. I'm not sure if it was the resolution, but her skin was a radiant ivory, so pale that she looked like she was glowing. Her hair, jet black, was pulled up in a perfect updo holding up a glittering diamond gown. The neckline of her dress was low and the only part I could see was the edge, but what I could see was a brilliant blue violet that matched her gorgeous eyes perfectly. Her beauty took my breath away.
I could tell right away this was my future mother in law. She still looked youthful, but had a special crinkle around her eyes like my mother did. I wasn't sure exactly what I expected, maybe a bunch of monsters by the way John described them, so being presented with someone so beautiful and poised definitely threw me off.
"Ah Anastasia!" she cheered, he voice like a melody in itself. "It's so good to finally see you."
"Thank you your Majesty," I bowed to her. Thankfully the few weeks I spent on this ship hadn't eradicated the years of etiquette training I received at home. "It's good to see you as well. I apologize for not being able to get back to you sooner, reception on this side of the Etherium is a bit spotty."
"Oh don't worry about it my girl, I just wanted to check in with you and make sure you were still in one piece."
"I appreciate your concern Majesty, I assure you I've been handled with the utmost respect and care."
"Good, good," she grinned, "And please call me Elizabeth. We're practically family now, so no need for the formality."
I smiled at her, then noticed a sudden movement coming from behind her. "Is that her?! Lemme see!" a male shouted.
"Your future husband has been eager to meet you as well Anastasia," Elizabeth chuckled, "May I introduce you to my son Damon."
Just as my nerves had began to settle, they were set on edge again. Well, atleast I know his name now. Elizabeth stood to let her son sit down, once he settled in he took a long look at me. His eyes, just like his mother's, seemed to stare straight through me. He was just as attractive as his mother, except he had golden blonde hair that curled around his golden crown.
"So, you're the princess everyone's been excited about." he snickered.
His sudden attitude made my anger flare. "Of course I am your Highness. I assume you're the handsome prince I'm supposed to marry tomorrow." I sneered sarcastically.
"Hmph," he grumbled, "You should feel lucky to marry a man as handsome as myself. I see your time on that ship has left your looks less than could be desired, let's hope you can remedy this issue before we are joined in matrimony. I can't have a homeless looking wench on my arm as queen and mother to my children."
I was about to pop back with my own snide comment when I noticed the once golden gaze of John Silver was now red and blazing. Thankfully Jim noticed John's anger and was ready to try and hold him back if need be, but before Damon could try to offend me anymore he was pushed out of view by his mother.
"What in the Etherium is wrong with you young man?!" she cried, "I apologize Anastasia, my son here seemed to have forgotten his manners."
"No need for apologies," I reassured her, "I know being on this ship has taken it's toll on my appearance. It's harder than you would think to try and primp on a moving ship with the rocking of the solar waves."
"Still," she sighed, "My son knows how to speak to women better than that. Maybe it's nerves getting to him?"
Nerves? How childish, he resorts to name calling when he's nervous? "Maybe," I agreed, "I hate to cut things short, but I had to use the Communicator in the Captain's stateroom and he has some last minute duties to finish up for the day."
"Oh of course sweetheart," she smiled, "I look forward to finally getting to see you again tomorrow!"
"You too Elizabeth," and at that the screen went black.
"No way in hell am I gonna let ya near that bratty ass little twit!" John roared. He had jumped up from his spot and was pacing around the room. "Who in t'e hell does t'at swarthy bastard t'ink he is talkin to ya like t'at?!"
"John, it's fine." I tried to soothe him.
"But it's not fine lass! How would ya feel if some high falutin' priss said t'ose same things about me?" he threw his hands up, "Just wait till I get my hands on t'at little shit tomorrow."
I couldn't argue with him because he was right, if anyone spoke to him the way Damon did to me I would be just as angry. Trying another tactic, I walked over and grabbed a hold of his hands and made him face me. The sudden contact seemed to distract his rage.
"John," I whispered, placing a hand on his cheek. His gaze slowly shifted from an angry red to a subdued orange. "It's fine. Don't let him ruin my birthday night."
He covered my hand with his own and closed his eyes. "Okay," he sighed, "If ya say so lass."
Well that was easy. Without even thinking I leaned up to give him a kiss. "I say so." I whispered. We stood there for a second in our own little world, not wanting to move.
"Woah," Jim muttered, sending our world into oblivion. I jumped back and blushed, I had completely forgotten he was even there. "I've never seen anyone calm you down that quick Silver."
John grinned and pulled me back into his arms, laughing as I blushed even harder. "No one's been able to calm me down quite like t'is one," I cuddled up into his side and smiled shyly.
"Well what are we waiting for?" Jim shouted excitedly, "We have a birthday to celebrate!" Jim bounded out the door, and as John and I followed the memory of my phone call was left behind.