"The Gift"

Chapter 9

James Norrington wasn't exactly sure what he was going to say when he saw Lucy, but he wasn't concerned. Still intoxicated from last night's conversation, he felt she'd be happy to see him today, whatever the reason. But….that being said, he realized Lucy's lack of a mother would make his attempt to court her more complicated.

From his own experience courting young women (and there had been a few Port Royal females that he had called upon after his commission to Admiral) chaperoning and dates were usually decided upon by an overbearing mother…..and perhaps this was one of the reasons he disliked courting the young, doe-eyed types. Of course, Elizabeth Swann hadn't a mother, but it was simpler with her due to his long relationship with Weatherby and the family.

Then was Mrs. Peterson -- a young widow whom he called upon several times during his Captain years, thinking she might make a pleasant wife. She had a lovely smile and offered pleasing conversation…and it didn't take him long to find out that Mrs. Peterson was quite pleasing physically, as well-- which didn't stop his visits, but it did halt his ideas for marriage. Anyway, the young widow soon found someone wealthier than a simple captain. James suddenly realized that was the last time that he had been intimate with a woman.

Has it been five years? James suddenly felt an uncomfortable strain against his breeches. He had tried to avoid sins of the flesh, even self-inflicted sin, and he usually controlled such thoughts by throwing himself into work, music, or vigorous horseback exercise. Yet recently, with Lucy Gagliano warming his heart and his feeling that perhaps this was a good woman within his grasp, he now allowed his mind to wander more than it should.

James arrived at the shop door and adjusted his waistcoat to cover the bulge in his pants. Perhaps if things go well today, she will not object to a quick courtship.

Suddenly, his keen eye realized that something was off; the door of the shop hung slightly ajar, and he pushed it open.

"Miss Gagliano?"

It was silent and then he heard the faintest of sobs -- Lucy, to be sure. Striding into the shop with a tight grip on his sword, he pushed aside the trailing velvet curtains without hesitation.

Lucy's face was tear-streaked and a wailed, "Oh James! She's dead!" and collapsed into his arms. He grasped her small body, rested her head on his chest, and stroked her dark hair.

"Who is it that you mourn so for?"

"The Viscountess of Tweeksbury, Anne Margrave," Lucy sniffed, still crying. "A pox took her suddenly, and I never told her..."

She sobbed a bit more, leaving off words that were too late to be spoken. Still, James held her tightly.

"She was like a mother to me!"

"There, there," he stroked her long hair and quivering back like a loving brother. But suddenly, she pushed back, wiping at her face with the back of her hand.

"I am so sorry that you…you found me this way."

All her defenses were down, and he knew in that instant that he loved her.

"Lucy," he said, touching her cheek. "It is good to mourn those we love. I, too, have lost my mother."

She began to sob hard again, and he caught her as she nearly collapsed, all her weight resting in his strong arms.

"If only I had told her how much...how much she meant to me!" She cried, burying her head in the blue wool and golden brocade of his jacket.

"I'm sure she knew," he whispered and chastely placed a kiss on her forehead as she snuggled deeper into his arms. the crown of her head and she snuggled deeper into his arms. Never had it felt so right and so innocent to hold a woman in his arms. He adored her….her scent, her beauty, her tears.

"What is going on here!"

Suddenly, the angry voice of Nicolas Gagliano filled the small room.

"Papa!"

Lucy pulled back immediately and rushed to her father's arms.

"The Viscountess has died!"

Norrington stepped back, knowing that the situation occurring in the music shop's back room made their moment seem less than honorable.

"Admiral." The dark Italian's eyes were sharp. "I think you should leave."

James didn't speak but only nodded and quickly strode past the father and daughter, careful to keep his face stoic and his eyes distant.

Monday morning, James felt complete rung out and he could not even bring himself to work Monday morning. He couldn't help but think that his hopes for making a good impression were ruined.

"Dash it!" he cursed, pushing all his paperwork to the floor…..He needed to take action. Sharpening his quill, he decided to write Lucy an apology….or perhaps, a note of endearment.

Dear Miss Gagliano,

I was most upset to see you lost in melancholy for your dear friend, the Viscountess. It's not in my nature to easily witness the pain of such a gracious young lady, but if I indeed out-stepped the bounds of proper friendship with my need to comfort you, then I offer you and your father my most humble and sincere apologies.

I came to your home yesterday morn on the hopes of conveying to you how much your recent friendship has impressed upon me a great feeling of joy, and I wish to know (if you feel of like mind) if I might ask for the privilege of your company during the holidays.

What I am trying to say, Miss Gagliano, is that I wish to court you. If this idea is a repulsion to you, then throw out this letter; and I shall no more press my company upon you. But, if there is some chance that you feel of like mind towards me, then I beg of you to answer this letter and let me know how best a man who holds you in the highest, honorable esteem might better acquaint himself with you.

Your humble servant,

Admiral James Norrington, R.N.

Forty minutes later, her answer arrived.

My dearest Admiral Norrington,

There is no need for you to send apologies! I was in a bitter state, and only the bosom of friendship coupled with strong arms lent me the support needed to quiet my sorrow and lighten my heart.

As for your offer of courtship, I accept with great pleasure! I, too, have enjoyed our brief conversations and wish to further develop our mutual friendship and shared musical curiosity.

My father would like to invite you to our family dinner this Thursday evening at seven o'clock. It is a modest affair, but your presence would be greatly honor us. Please send indication if you find this acceptable.

Sincere Regards,

Miss Lucy Gagliano

One Huzzah! to himself and ten minutes later:

My dearest Miss G,

I would be honored to dine at your home this Thursday evening.


Yours,
J.