Music: Lorne Balfe- "Homestead"
Home
Caroline felt like a guest in her childhood home from the moment she entered despite the changes weren't much. Her family rose from poor beginnings and they maintained a simple lifestyle by living off the land and saved every coin the business profited. Her meager belongings surprised Catherine when she took them to pack them away in her old room. There was barely anything in her bag, besides her weapons and bedroll, filling her with worry that her child had wandered the colonies with nothing in her pockets. This led Caroline to confessing that she had to sell everything but her father's old knife, trinket box, and bedroll, to pay for her travels and meals. She'd been struck with guilt when selling and donating the clothes her mother had sewn by hand to erase her past. Catherine simply wanted her daughter safe and now that she had her back, she'd be filling her stomach and sewing new attire.
Amelia had retreated to their old room, now occupied by Elizabeth, to catch up on lost sleep. She'd been plagued with nightmares for the first few days so Caroline opted to stay close to her to ensure she woke from them. Her siblings had left her alone after Catherine finished her fussing over Caroline's leave and she figured their mother told them to ask questions later. Her mother didn't ask where she'd been but her appearance was enough to show it hadn't been fun places for a lady.
She sat at the edge of the single bed, glad to have Amelia's presence and the silence of the room. The small room that had once been theirs was littered with Elizabeth's patched up clothing, a trait that apparently never left. There were no books like the ones she and Amelia read but she noticed her old trunk lying under Elizabeth's in the far corner. The little dresser that their father bought for her and Amelia back in Glasgow was still there but Elizabeth had decorated the top with random colorful rocks and wooden horse figurines.
Her mark that she'd once lived in the log house was disappearing but Caroline had returned with a sense of self-worth. There was no more doubt and anxiety over who she was and her new skills could be put to use at home. Now, she would have to assimilate back into her old life and who the new Caroline Burnett was instead of the fake Grace and Ishmael personas. She didn't want to return to her parents as a disappointment so whatever odd jobs she could do to regain their respect and trust, she'd do it for them. At least, that's as far as she'd gone in her thoughts since life had been a day by day survival for the past year.
The sound of her siblings echoed through the house as they rumbled around and she hoped they wouldn't by wary or resentful. She'd already gotten an earful from Elizabeth, which she expected, but Samuel had been rather lenient. Alice had been tearful while Martha had barely said anything. It was a myriad of reactions so Caroline would take it easy and steady. Nobody in her family had done what she did and the last person who had, her mother's uncle, had been disowned. She was lucky to have considerate parents and she would repay that love.
I don't deserve it but I'm grateful, she thought with relief.
The relationships she'd forged with her family and friends had been dented by her deception, requiring reinforcement all around. Assisting her mother around the house and offering help at the mill wouldn't be hard compared to survival onboard a ship at sea. She remembered the horrible aches on her back and knees from the first month which had been nothing compared to house chores or fiddling with lumber.
She stiffened when fingers brushed against her back and locked her thoughts away to look around the room. Her left hand flew to her chest when she caught Amelia staring at her and her little sister shook her head to her flighty response. She'd woken up a few minutes prior to find Caroline resembling a sitting statue as she glanced at the floor.
"You're worried" Amelia remarked since her wringing hands and dipped head were giveaways to a worried sister.
Caroline crossed her arms to play doctor and she pointed out, "You're supposed to be resting."
"There's only so much sleep the body can take" she joked lightly since the nap was enough to rejuvenate the energy from waking up early to travel home. Her left hand batted playfully at Caroline's arm to lighten the sisterly glare and her burdens, chiding gently, "Your bonnet's still on."
"I lost track of time" she murmured softly as she wiped her eyes to clear away the exhaustion. She'd simply sat down and never moved from her spot once her thoughts ran rampant. Her fingers quickly untied the bonnet straps, freeing her short hair, and she raised her knee to remove her shoes.
Amelia patted the fluffy blankets with her palms, smiling as she gazed at the familiar ceiling of their home, and assured, "It'll be fine, mother is happy to have you back. Eliza's liable to be cranky but when has that been new? Father will be happy to see you as well so don't fret."
"I'm happy to have you back" Caroline smiled warmly since she missed her sister greatly since she left for Boston. They'd been inseparable since birth and her move had left her feeling lost. Amelia was her best friend and it was why she was willing to run through a town in the midst of battle just to verify where she was.
Laying down next to her sister, it reminded her of the old days and Caroline couldn't help but yawn into the comfy blankets, "I don't know what I'd do if I lost you, Amelia."
"Please, you're sturdy like boban" she chuckled softly but appreciated the sentiment, playfully nudging her sister's back with her elbow. Being stuck in a dilapidating home had forced her to make peace with her life and although she was only eighteen years, she was satisfied. True, she would've liked a family and plot of land of her own but her road had been the most it could've been for a girl of her background. Her life was ordinary for a colonial girl but it was enough.
"You've proved to be quite resourceful so no matter what happens, don't look back" Amelia advised warmly to assure her to leave no regrets and to live happily wherever her path led her. She missed her incredibly when she heard about her disappearance but she always hoped for the best. It's what sisters did and she encouraged her to keep going, "You have to build your life one day and if I'm not there, it shouldn't stop you from living."
"Don't-"
The door to their room opened and they watched their mother scuttle in quietly with folded laundry. Both girls sat up to meet Catherine's gaze and although their mother was surprised to see them both awake, that wasn't what shocked her.
"Your hair!"
Catherine dropped the load of clothes on the floor at seeing Caroline's shaggy bob of hair. What had happened to the beautiful locks of hair she'd passed on to her child? Had someone cut off her daughter's hair? She wanted answers since she hadn't seen the changes when her bonnet had been on.
Caroline's finger idly tugged at her hair and she chuckled nervously, "I cut my hair when I was onboard a ship. It helped to prevent lice and . . . because I pretended to be a boy."
Their mother sat down on the bed to join them before she fainted from the facts that had been flung her way. She'd really lived on a boat with unknown men? Her hair was gone as a ruse to a false identity? Was this really her child? She'd read her letters but believed a few things were embellished or hidden for her sake. When she looked to her daughter, her bright blue eyes, freckled cheeks, and red hair told her that yes, this was her oldest that cried her way into the world nineteen years ago.
"You're exactly like your father" Catherine sighed since her husband wasn't shy at tackling tough situations. She wouldn't be surprised if Caroline had been involved in brawls like him too. Her husband was a natural survivor and she'd always admired his tenacity to succeed. Otherwise, they wouldn't have survived the challenges they faced in their younger years. Brushing a hand over her daughter's shortened hair, she murmured softly, "I don't think I have to worry over you anymore."
Caroline chuckled softly to her mother's fussing and laid her hand over hers to say, "I've got quite a bit of you too. Besides, I'll never be too old for your lectures."
"Don't be fresh" her mother chided her joke with a small frown but it caused the two sisters to laugh instead. Catherine shook her head since it was official that her two oldest had officially grown up into capable women. Unfortunately, the one she was worried for didn't need it and had rescued the one that should've warranted a closer eye.
Amelia reached over to pat her mother's hand to reassure her of their affection and smiled fondly, "We missed you too, mother."
Catherine nodded quietly since her worries for her children could now come to an end. She'd keep a strict eye on Amelia due to her injury but Caroline was perfectly fine as she could see. She could sleep easy from now on and wouldn't mind having the two extra mouths to feed. Despite the years, she didn't mind keeping her children around because eventually, they'd be bound to leave. Her saving grace was knowing that they would return.
For now, however. . .
Caroline groaned pitifully when her mother pointed to the front of the house and ordered, "To the porch, I'm checking you for lice."
"Aw. . .yes, mathair" she agreed reluctantly to the check but smiled to the motherly care. Catherine pretended not to see that little smile and hid her own when Caroline headed out the room. Amelia simply waved in goodbye as their mother escorted her out the door like a soldier.
Caroline had recounted her travel tales to her mother to clear the air but left out the sword and pistol fights against privateers. Otherwise, having her mother faint would be inevitable. So, she'd given her the innocent kid-version of exploring the wilds, towns, and seafaring life. Catherine was not over the moon at seeing her daughter's boyish looks but she was pleased that she'd returned alive. She'd rather have a stubborn child than a dead one.
Catherine had made quick work of her boyish clothes by stuffing them in an empty closet at the furthest corner of their home. Caroline said nothing of it but sighed with amusement to her mother's fretting as she set out to collect extra dresses from her sisters that would fit her. Being the oldest, there weren't many so she was left with Amelia's borrowed dress that she currently wore and one from Martha. To satisfy her happy mother, Caroline remained in Amelia's dress but tugged at her sides whenever the tight stay bothered her ribs. Yep, she was back home.
With her mother wandering the house in a happy mood, the next individual to greet would be her father. Anxiety settled in again, more so than before, because her father had done everything he could to provide food and a home for her. Being the oldest, he'd done his best to raise her and had taught her everything he knew about the outdoors and lumber. He'd never chastised her for not following a proper lady's behavior and she'd treasured that. She wasn't the son of the family but she followed her father's footsteps and Samuel learned from her as well. Instead of being a dutiful daughter, she'd wandered off without so much as a goodbye to him. When her nervous feet tapping against the floorboards became noticeably loud to Catherine and the other girls, she sent Caroline to fetch water from their well.
By the time she returned with two buckets in hand, the door to their home was wide open as Elijah trotted inside with a happy yip. Catherine had finished setting the table for supper while Martha fixed the pans and pots of hot food in the center. Caroline's grip on the buckets tightened to ensure she didn't drop them out of nervousness and quickly set them on the side table where they set their pitcher and cups. Samuel and Alice were the first to greet their father while Catherine quietly nudged her oldest to make her move. Caroline was petrified to even step towards the door but Elizabeth pinched her sister's left arm to get her moving.
"Ow!"
Her outburst caused her family to glance back at her and she turned red with embarrassment. Elizabeth slid behind Caroline to avoid blame and it gave the eldest girl a clear view of her father. Caroline wrung her hands nervously over her apron and her mouth dried up to swallow her voice instantly. Oh no!
Godfrey stopped blinking when he spotted the short-haired woman being shuffled away from the table. Her face and bright blue eyes would never leave his mind as a father and he wondered if he was hallucinating this. Was it really his oldest daughter? Had she returned home? The shock caused him to drop his empty lunch sack since he never expected to see her this year and caught Caroline's gaze shifting between him and- was that Amelia?
His girls had returned home? Was he dreaming?
Caroline's mouth felt like dry as a desert as her voice shook nervously, "Boban?"
She jerked in surprise when Elijah barked at her with warning as he protected his family, standing between her and Godfrey. Didn't he recognize her at all? Godfrey shushed their loyal canine since Caroline had seen him grow from puppyhood to an adult. She kneeled down to become smaller in stature to appear less intimidating and held her hand out for a sniff as she greeted, "C'mon, boy, it's me. I might look a little shabby for wear but you've known me for years."
Elijah's perky ears lowered closer to his skull as he sniffed her hand suspiciously. His black tail was completely erect as he studied the new intruder to his home, even with Godfrey reprimanding him. To a canine, scent was the most familiar and Caroline hoped the sea air hadn't changed everything about her.
Samuel quickly moved to rub the top of his dog's fluffy head to calm down his suspicion. Elijah's nose bumped against the sleeve of her dress as he picked up Amelia's scent but Caroline's mixed into it. The loyal dog had searched for the oldest children of the family but never found the girls, always sniffing the ground for clues whenever he wandered the land. His mind added the check marks for her being Caroline and he licked her open palm with a wag of his tail. The wide smile she sent his way and the tone of her happy voice told him he'd found the lost one of their family.
Caroline wrapped her arms around her dog's shaggy neck to convey her affection. Boy, was she glad that he hadn't decided to nip her hand instead. Godfrey shook his head to the reunion between man and dog, joking lightly, "The hound gets the first hug."
Amelia stood up from her seat at the table since her mother had insisted she rest for the entire month. However, she didn't want her sister to bear the entire reunion alone. Godfrey noticed her uneven posture and that she remained rooted in that spot, favoring her left leg. His fatherly concern flared to the thought of an injured child and he approached his daughter to pull her into his arms. He'd seen Amelia two weeks prior when he'd traveled to Boston to pick up the newest orders for the mill and she'd appeared healthy and happy. What had happened since then? Amelia hugged him tightly with joy as their family was reunited and when he let go, he saw her eyes were filling with tears. He raised strong level-headed daughters so that display set his worry ablaze.
"What happened, Amelia?" he asked with concern to why both his daughters were home and one was walking with a limp. It couldn't be coincidence that they both arrived together under normal circumstances. If someone had hurt either of them, they would regret hearing the name Burnett.
"An accident, boban, from a battle in Charlestown" she explained meekly since she'd expected to come home under happier news. Her father's eyes lost their happy twinkle at hearing that because he expected the popular port city to be left alone. Amelia wiped her eyes quickly to forget the unpleasantness in Charlestown and smiled warmly to assure, "I'm all right now, Carrie saved me, and we're home."
Caroline had finally released the happy Elijah, who had gone out the door to scour the perimeter of his homestead, and she stood up to smile nervously at her father. Unlike Amelia who was overjoyed to be home, Caroline's stomach was churning horribly with every reunion. Godfrey grabbed her trembling hands with a firm grip as her gaze averted to the floor and he asked quietly, "Why did you leave without a word, child?"
"I . . . I was afraid you'd say no . . . and to avoid the guilt" she replied weakly, feeling like a small child all over again that had disappointed her parents. She wanted the ground to swallow her and forward time to avoid the messiness of her errors. Still, she needed to answer for her actions and with blurry eyes, she apologized, "I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I didn't say goodbye, it wasn't an easy decision, but I knew that doing so would prevent me from having second thoughts."
"Was it worth it?" he asked since his two eldest were old enough to make adult decisions. Catherine might chastise them as if they were still little girls but Godfrey was aware that they would stumble along their paths of adulthood. His oldest carried his spirit since he'd been the one to make the decision to travel across the sea to the colonies. Unfortunately, his daughter left out of the blue to carry out her own dreams.
"If I say yes, am I going to be in more trouble?" Caroline whispered nervously and her gaze darted over to Catherine. Namely, her and that dandy wooden spoon in her hand.
Godfrey didn't miss the different appearance of his daughter and figured it was her way to survive in the harsh world. If she was willing to agree after everything she'd changed along the way, he'd grant her that. All he could do as a father was advice his children and they were ultimately the ones to make their choices. His hope was that his daughter would find her way to happiness and if he had to move aside for that to happen, he would do so.
"You have to acknowledge responsibility for your answers and always be certain" her father reminded because he wanted his children to be concise with their words and never break their promises. Otherwise, people could brand her a liar and a Burnett was anything but that.
Taking a deep breath and squaring her shoulders, Caroline nodded to reply, "It was worth it . . . but I don't think I'd undertake it alone again."
Her confidence plummeted after that single act of gumption and she gazed at the floor again to await her father's punishment. Would he shun her? Disown her? Godfrey, however, was simply relieved to see his daughter alive and humored her to break the tension, "So, am I shaking my lad's hand in welcome or hugging my daughter?"
"Godfrey!" Catherine scolded to his joke on their daughter's apparent cross-dressing but her husband simply laughed. Honestly, she was not surprised to Caroline's tenaciousness when knowing his own temperament.
Caroline hugged her father tightly without a care, having missed his jolly voice and endless support. Although her mother taught her how to be a proper lady, her father encouraged her to learn skills that were unconventional for her gender but would guarantee her survival. Godfrey returned the embrace, cradling the back of her head just as he'd done when she'd been a little infant. She was safe back home after a year and he could stop the worry that ran in the back of his head.
"I'm sorry, boban, I'm so sorry" she sniffled against his shoulder and inhaling his old familiar scent of pine brought back their old memories. The guilt that washed over her was strong but her father's hug told her that he accepted her return. She promised herself that she'd never disappoint him again like that and wiped her eyes as she released him.
"All's well that ends well" her father consoled to show he held no ill will towards her choice. It had struck grief in him and his wife but if it was something that Caroline needed to succeed, he accepted it. He might not agree with her execution for independence but as a father, he was there with an open door. He brushed his hand through her short hair and smiled fondly, "I'm your father, my dream is for your happiness."
Caroline nodded silently as she appreciated her father's wisdom, no matter how many ales he took when he dished it out. She wiped her eyes as she returned to Amelia's side, hugging her little sister for support. Godfrey wasn't surprised that the two somehow found their way back to each other. Even at a year apart, the two behaved like twin sisters.
A knock on the door disrupted their reunion and Catherine quickly wiped her hands on her apron. Ushering her able daughters to finish setting the table, Caroline retreated to the small side table to pour water into the metal pitchers. Her mother wasn't having that since her daughter had to rejoin their community once more and one stern look was all it took to send Caroline out from the shadowy corner.
Godfrey answered the door with a hearty laugh as their home became filled with warmth once more after a year without it. On the other side, Terry and Diana smiled back to join their friends for dinner and Godfrey welcomed them inside. Diana had managed to settle her baby into sleepy content and the two men began speaking about the mill until the couple spotted Caroline.
Catherine played goalkeeper by keeping Caroline away from corners and her sisters. She didn't raise cowards and Caroline pouted to being placed on display. Boy, was her mother making sure she was seen by their dinner guests. She hadn't been in a setting like this in over a year and in the back of her mind, her sailor persona was telling her to abandon ship.
"Caroline!"
She snapped back to attention when the couple called out in surprise. Caroline chuckled awkwardly to the next reunion but in the end, it was best to get it done fast than to linger with nerves. Diana's face lit up to seeing her unofficial niece return home, taken aback by her new haircut, and exclaimed happily, "You're back! When did this happen?"
"Today, actually" she replied sheepishly but smiled warmly to her extended family. She was happy to know that everyone had been safe at home from the escalating conflicts along the coast. Despite her mother's weight loss from stress, she was relieved to know no harm had come to anyone in Davenport. Hopefully, time and luck would be in their favor.
"I'm sure your parents have or will lecture you, so I won't add to it" Terry informed her with a wink because even he feared Catherine's lectures. He ruffled her shaggy hair just as he'd done to Samuel a minute earlier and Caroline accepted that her hair would be quite the spectacle in Davenport. Terry was sure her tale would be interesting, judging by her appearance, but he welcomed her back to their homestead with a smile, "It's good to see you home, Caroline."
Ann had grown a few inches which surprised Caroline when she skittered away to join Alice and greet her siblings. Was everyone growing fast? As if that wasn't enough, she faltered at seeing Diana with a baby cradled in her arms. A real breathing baby! Her mouth stopped working for a moment and all she could do was point, causing Terry to laugh, "I think we broke Carrie, Diana."
"I- I . . . a baby!" Caroline exclaimed with disbelief to seeing the sleeping baby in her arms and couldn't help but point. When had this happened? She quickly looked back to Amelia but her little sister merely smiled innocently to brush that small tidbit under the rug. Well, she might've forgotten a thing or two to mention during their stay in Boston.
Diana feigned a playful glare at her husband before smiling at Caroline to explain, "While you were away, we added a son to our family in March."
Caroline peered at the sleeping infant whom was dressed warmly and wrapped in a soft rabbit pelt. She'd no doubt her uncle and aunt were protecting the new baby since Ann had been their joy for years and now had another bundle to love. She smiled with delight to the great news, awed to the little fair-haired baby, and chuckled, "He's beautiful. I'm sure Ann is over the moon with him."
"Wee Daniel's our newest godson" Godfrey told his daughter with pride since the two old friends had promised to watch over each other's children. Clapping Terry on his back, he grinned to tease, "Born in the middle of a Bowl's game."
Terry groaned to that slip of truth and swatted his friend away as the taller redhead laughed aloud. Diana shook her head to their antics, which never changed, and Caroline accompanied her to the dinner table. She hadn't seen a baby in such a long time and was transfixed by the tiny form in her aunt's arms. Diana smiled to her reaction, catching Catherine's eye as the other woman filled plates, and spoke, "One day, when you've settled your curiosities of the world, I'm sure you'll be blessed with one of your own."
Diana leaned over to hug Amelia with welcome, happy to see all of Catherine's children under one roof. After the year her friends had experienced, it was time they had a stroke of luck in their lives. Caroline's entire face turned red to the idea of carrying a little baby of her own and blurted, "I don't know, I might cry more than the baby."
Samuel scoffed to her bewildered comment as he sat down at the table and declared, "You can't be scared of a baby more than a pirate!"
"What about a baby pirate?" Alice asked innocently as she helped Ann get settled for dinner with her napkin and a cup of milk. Caroline had missed her innocent queries while at sea, hoping her little meek sister had mastered her grammar lessons.
The table erupted into laughter to the uncanny idea and the brunette insisted, "You never know, they could exist!"
"If I ever see that, I'm moving westward" Caroline stated flatly to that outrageous possibility and Alice shrugged to drop the matter. They could too exist! The older redhead, however, leaned over to hug her littlest sister around the waist with an encouraging smile to her endless curiosity. Alice couldn't help but laugh at seeing her dopey but comforting smile. Catherine's eyes narrowed at her oldest and Caroline raised her hands to proclaim innocently, "I said- if- mother!"
Her mother pretended to ignore her but hid a smile to hearing her humor once more. All that mattered was that her family was whole again and hoped for no more fractures. She was more than happy to serve everyone their portions so they could eat after offering a quick prayer for their blessings. Godfrey simply laughed to the cheerful ambience and took his seat at the head of the table to begin their supper for the night. Although, with their excitement, they were prone to chatting before eating.
Caroline had quickly begun sipping her beef stew after eating nothing but dry bread and dry meat onboard the ship. Oh, how she could taste the richness of the broth instead of the watered-down versions at sea or cheap eateries. Not to mention, the vegetables were divinely fresh! Her sisters couldn't help but stare at her ravenous appetite, causing Amelia to lightly nudge her side. Caroline began to object with a full mouth but her eyes widened a second later when she spotted Ratonhnhaké:ton and her mother glancing at her with surprise from the head of the table. When had he arrived? She didn't even hear the door open! Did time accidentally skip forward on her? Why was he here so soon while she devoured food? Her hand dropped her spoon into the bowl and she quickly gulped down her bite to offer a nervous chuckle.
Yep, this is the quickest way to ward off a man, she thought with embarrassment to her lack of manners when it came to desperate hunger.
Here she was, wearing a borrowed dress, sporting a ruddy complexion, and a boyish haircut- basically appearing more of a boy than a lady. On the opposite side, her sisters were dressed properly with clean porcelain looks and neatly braided buns. Her confidence took another strike at noticing Ratonhnhaké:ton wasn't wearing his outdoor attire. He wore a navy coat over a gray vest and white tunic, his breeches matching the coat's color, and light leather boots pulled his polished look together. The lack of gloves on his hands and a hood over his head gave him a different softer light as he greeted everyone.
Caroline was practically entranced in mid-meal and she abandoned her stew entirely to stare at Ratonhnhaké:ton. Had he always been this handsome under those traveling clothes? She blamed her girlish fancy on the fact she hadn't seen him in a year and forced herself to look away. His beautiful raven hair shined under the lantern glow to match his honey toned eyes, bringing a faint blush to her cheeks. Amelia faked a soft sneeze beside her to break her spell again and save her sister any embarrassment, causing Caroline to glance down at her bowl.
Focus on the food, you're hungry for the food, not the man, she chastised herself before her mind screamed with embarrassment to the last words. She wanted to bury her head under a blanket somewhere when she thought with mortification, Why am I even fathoming that idea right now?!
Because he's a man- a handsome one at that, her own mind retorted and Caroline realized life was never going to be smooth sailing for her. At least, her romantic one anyway.
It did not help in the slightest when her mother offered him the seat next to her right side and she shrunk in her chair. Ratonhnhaké:ton sat down with a sheepish smile and Caroline returned it. . .until he pointed to his chin to emphasize that her face was covered with stew. Caroline quickly grasped her napkin to scrub at her skin to remove any sign of uncleanliness and uttered a squeaky, "Thank you."
Oh no, could I be more of a clumsy mule?, she thought miserably with embarrassment to not only her appearance but table manners. Was she this bad before her leave a year ago? Did the fluttering butterflies in her heart and stomach mask the truth of her behavioral hiccups back then? Or was she overanalyzing again?
"You're free to continue eating, Caroline" he spoke softly to avoid flustering her since it wasn't his intent. He couldn't decline Catherine's kind invitation and seeing Caroline brought him a peace of mind. Even though only a few hours had passed, simply seeing her was enough to soothe his heart that she was home. He wouldn't have to wonder whether she was safe and happy anymore. With her hair cut short, he was able to see her delicate neckline and noticed the tips of her ears were rosy. Had he embarrassed her?
If he had, it wasn't noticeable as she returned to her soup with quiet lady-like sips that rivaled Martha's. His gaze lingered on her face for a few seconds until Catherine passed him a plate and bowl full of hot food. The delicious scent was enough to pull him away from his side gazing and he held back a smile when Caroline requested seconds. He nodded quickly with respect as Catherine grabbed her daughter's bowl and noticed amusement in her blue eyes as he stammered, "T-Thank you."
Caroline's identities between colonial and sailor meshed when she grabbed the pitcher of ale set out for the men and poured herself a cup. Sitting next to Ratonhnhaké:ton and having to face all of her family, she needed a drink to go alongside her delicious food. Before she raised the tin cup to her lips, Catherine cleared her throat loudly and Caroline turned to her with big owl eyes full of surprise. Her mother pointed to the cup that was silently inviting Caroline to drink it and reminded, "What is my daughter doing?"
Her oldest blinked before the dots connected and she set the mug down with a nervous chuckle, "Oops. Force of habit?"
Godfrey shook his head in amusement before laughing aloud and waved to his wife in dismissal. Catherine's lips thinned since it was one thing for her husband to drink but her daughter was a no-no. She handed Caroline her filled bowl of stew and it was apparent that she wanted her to eat instead of drink. Darn. He raised his hands peacefully because an ale wouldn't bring the end of the world and compromised, "Tonight only, it's our girl's return home. After what she's seen, I can't say I blame her-"
"Godfrey!"
Caroline glanced at her filled cup with solemnity to the acquired habits she'd picked up while on her own. She'd never drank enough to dull her senses out of worry her true identity would slip through but remembered seeing men drink to forget an entire day's worth of memories. When it came to trauma, spirits were indeed a welcome temporary friend. There were times she'd wanted to drink herself into dulling her regrets with Ratonhnhaké:ton and her family but stopped herself. Most often, she'd used it to bond and gave up after a cup to maintain her vision and control of her body.
She sunk further into her seat sheepishly because she didn't want her parents to fuss over her. Ratonhnhaké:ton and her siblings glanced at her since none of them had drank alcohol and with society frowning on women for doing so added another point to the new 'rebellious' Caroline. She'd overheard Martha telling her sisters that new nickname but Caroline simply wanted to be on equal footing with her male counterparts. She wanted the same freedom and a voice that the colonists fought for.
"I expected to have my first father-son drink with Samuel but I guess you turned out more like yer old man" her father grinned fondly and sipped his cup while eyeing his wife innocently. Samuel was the baby of the family but Godfrey acknowledged that his firstborn held the best of who he was.
Before her mother decided to grab the nearest wooden spoon to whack him, Caroline waved her left hand to propose, "One sip and then you can lecture me?"
Catherine's cheeks flushed to the suggestions her family members were throwing out. Did they think she lived to nag and enjoyed it? No, she wanted to protect her family . . . and their sobriety. Caroline's fingers tapped against the table to draw her attention and whispered sweetly, "I've missed the lectures. It's different when a mother does it compared to a ship captain."
She didn't know the full extent of Caroline had done but the physical changes were enough to confirm her travels weren't easy. The expectant look on her daughter's face convinced her that she'd indeed relish a verbal lecture if she disobeyed and Catherine sighed, walking away to sit down for her meal. Unlike Amelia and Alice who complied to her word, her oldest didn't mind entering a cheeky debate to challenge unfair or confusing topics.
"With my haircut, I look like a son" she murmured softly to her new look and her father smiled sympathetically. Women were expected to grow their hair long for femininity and propriety- anything less was unappealing. The old Caroline was indeed gone as her belongings, hair, and appearance gave way to a newer version. Still, she missed the sweet optimism and curiosity of the world that left once harsh reality struck when she ran out of money and was shunned for trying to compete in a male dominated field.
The initial nervousness at reuniting with her family was now being replaced with content as she rejoined the cozy dinners she'd missed. Running her fingers through her hair, she sighed softly, "Growing it out will be a hassle but I miss my old hair."
"I'm sure your mother does too" Godfrey chuckled as he glanced at Catherine, who had settled next to him to eat, and she shushed his joke with a soft laugh. She missed her daughter's long hair but she treasured having her daughter even more, no matter what she looked like. Godfrey winked at his daughter before raising his cup in a toast and teasing heartily, "Otherwise, she might start calling you Carl. If Caroline didn't suit you, we'll call you Carl Roland Burnett."
"Boban" she groaned with embarrassment and turned away from her parents as they chuckled. Boy, had she missed hearing their laughter and playful chiding. She'd used so many fake names that she didn't want to add any more, laughing aloud to her father's acceptance of her gender switching.
Caroline's cheeks flushed even more when Ratonhnhaké:ton peeked at her with mirth and spoke softly, "Consider it a refreshing cut."
The table erupted with laughter to his rare joke and Godfrey smiled at his wife, who was trying her earnest not to beam. They were united as a family once more and the safety of all his children was what mattered. Caroline managed to flash a smile at both Ratonhnhaké:ton and Amelia before sipping her victory ale to their success at surviving a battle.
Caroline slipped away in all the excitement to let her family mingle and escaped from the rear of the house to walk to the edge of the property. The wooden fencing that protected the homestead prevented her from sitting at its true edge but she made easy work of it by hopping over. Finding a flat spot on the rocky terrain to sit on, she inhaled deeply with content as she gazed into the nightly scenic view of Davenport. The river beside their property reflected like diamonds under the moonlight and she could hear the roaring water flowing downstream. The dim lighting illuminated the top of her father's mill, the symbol of their family's success.
She was home.
It was wonderful to feel solid land under her feet again and her palms smoothed over the flat rock under her. The scent of oak, pine, and summer flowers from their property filtered into her nose. Crickets chirped their nightly tunes from her mother's garden and Caroline hoped a spider wouldn't decide to descend from the trees to bite her. Still, it was home. The land remained unchanged but the people living on it would keep doing so until they passed. Trees lived for centuries while mankind was lucky to see fifty years. Briefly, she wondered if future descendants from her family would roam the earth when Davenport's saplings would become great towering trees.
She yelped in surprise when two arms wrapped around her shoulders from behind. A familiar laugh echoed in the silent air and she caught her redheaded Elizabeth grinning down at her. Her eyebrows wagged comically as she peered at her and Caroline laid her hands over Elizabeth's locked arms to sigh in feigned defeat, "I knew I shouldn't let my guard down when Eliza Burnett is around."
"I missed you" she muttered before smacking her shoulder, resting her head against Caroline's. Throughout dinner, the young girl had remained quiet and observant of her sister. When she noticed that she'd wandered out of the house, she'd run out with worry that she'd vanished again. Despite their shaky reunion, she didn't want to be left behind again and she grumbled, "So don't ever leave me again."
"Never, I learned my lesson" she promised with a bright smile and drew a cross over her chest with her fingers. Elizabeth released her to sit on the ground next to her and realized her eldest sister had sought the view of their town. Had the sea become too familiar to her after a year? Lake Champlain, Boston, and Davenport was all Elizabeth knew so home was simply home for her.
Caroline nudged her shoulder against hers and asked with a hopeful smile, "I'm forgiven?"
Elizabeth frowned for a moment in thought before replying smartly, "Call it a trial run."
Her sarcastic grin deflated into a small frown as she glanced down at the grass, idly pulling at it, and she confessed, "Even though the others were here, you're the one I trust. You don't mock or belittle me, even when I know I'm pushing the limit. I was alone here without you."
"I know, that's why I sent you that conch to focus your emotions" she soothed gently and ran a hand over her braided hair, to which Elizabeth fussed. Her tone, however, carried no irritation since she allowed Caroline to mother her. Her role was to protect her siblings from harm and guide them, especially Elizabeth. Unlike the others, they were very alike in mind and Caroline grasped her shoulders to confess, "I left without warning because I knew either you or Samuel would want to follow me and if there was danger, which there was, I'd never forgive myself if anything happened."
"But-"
"When you are an adult, like me, you can make those decisions and I will support you" Caroline interjected since emotions ran wild during that stage of life, remembering her own clashes with their mother. She couldn't let her mother handle all the tantrums because Elizabeth and Martha were already at each other's throats without adding Alice and Samuel into the mix. Caroline tapped her sister's braids, remembering the same hairstyle on herself years ago, and sympathized, "I was like you at your age with dreams of what lay beyond this new world. It's only natural for you to wonder about that. Much is still unexplored and will remain that way, even after we're gone, so don't be in a hurry. Trust me."
Elizabeth's blue eyes narrowed suspiciously since she pegged everyone wanting to keep her trapped in a bubble of safety. Had Caroline become one of them too? Her sister simply laughed to her skeptical expression, hugging her by the shoulders, and advised, "For now, just focus on growing up and when it's time, you'll know."
"You're starting to sound like mother" Elizabeth muttered dryly and wondered why her sister suddenly decided to be wise. Where was the carefree Carrie that had left home? Had the outdoors not been what she imagined? Caroline flicked her nose playfully for the jab and Elizabeth swatted her away with a giggle. Okay, maybe she wasn't all that different.
"I'm sure mathair was one tough lady at my age, you've heard her shotgun tales" Caroline joked with a laugh since their family generations were pretty sturdy. Both lineages were strong-willed to survive so she wasn't surprised that she and Elizabeth were the stubborn ones of their numerous siblings. She'd seen her mother guard them in their small cabin in Glasgow, the migrant ship to the colonies, logging camps, and their homes in the cities. From her, she learned to prize their family above everything and advised caringly, "I'm your sister and my job is to protect you. You will make mistakes as you grow so learn from them because when you're an adult, you're responsible for your actions."
The younger Burnett frowned slightly to receiving a lecture but looked to the silver lining, asking with hope in her voice, "So, if I want to hop on a ship or travel the frontier one day, you'll go with me?"
"As long as you're a legal adult and you're properly prepared, yes" Caroline agreed with a wide smile since she'd rather look after her sibling than let her run off alone. She didn't know which was more dangerous, the frontier or the sea, but that fear was nothing to losing one of her family members.
Elizabeth beamed happily to the vote of confidence because all their siblings shot her dreams down. She could begin dreaming of a future adventure with her sister but she halted when a thought came to mind and blurted, "Wait, but what happens if you have a baby? Will you carry it on a cradleboard or will Connor go too?"
Caroline practically froze in a stupor to her sister's suggestion because a baby had never entered her mind. Why was everyone bringing up babies tonight? Her relationship was nonexistent as well with the handsome native and she barely mumbled out, "Huh?"
"I mean, we can't leave Connor behind and I won't let you leave little Carrie or Connor either" her sister insisted because her niece or nephew deserved the best of their parents. Otherwise, she wouldn't be a good aunt and would compete to be a godmother if she needed to. Who else would teach them how to care for horses one day?
"This conversation went down a path I wasn't expecting rather quickly" she muttered flatly since children was not in her immediate future, especially when having no significant other. Not to mention, a marriage needed to happen before that! She deflected her sister's instigation into her dormant romantic life by stating firmly, "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it, all right?"
Elizabeth flew into a giggling fit to her sister's bewildered face and covered her mouth to prevent echoes from reaching their home. Caroline simply shook her head to the girlish fantasies because she'd heard similar babble from all her siblings, minus Martha. She loved them for it, mainly their acceptance of Ratonhnhaké:ton as a partner for her.
"I'm glad you're home" Elizabeth whispered softly to avoid appearing delicate in public and quickly embraced her. Caroline returned the tight squeeze before letting her go with a laugh. As much as her little sister tried to appear tough, Caroline knew better. Elizabeth poked her sister's left cheek with cheeky grin and told her impishly, "I'm sleeping with you tonight."
"I have a bedroll" Caroline pointed out since they weren't the most comfortable thing on Earth. It was an upgrade from the floor but just barely. With all the beds being occupied, Caroline would be sleeping on the floor in the main room.
"So? I can sleep on one too!" she exclaimed confidently because she'd fallen off her bed plenty of times and woken on the floor. If she wanted to prepare herself for a trip to the big outdoors, she had to be accustomed to that. Crossing her arms, she pouted to remind, "Besides, Amelia should have the whole bed with her leg being bad."
Elizabeth squeezed her one more time before releasing her to head back inside for more snacks. Caroline inhaled another breath, smiling at the woodsy scent, and gazed at the veil of night as stars littered the sky. There was no longer an ocean under that gorgeous sky but one full of mountains, trees, animals, and her family. The forgiveness of her family lifted a heavy weight from her shoulders and she vowed to never leave them like that again. Her parents weren't getting any younger and she had to set an example for her siblings, primarily Elizabeth and Samuel.
She heard a second set of softer footsteps behind her and heard Elizabeth burst into sudden giggles. Yep, she knew what that girlish laughter was about. Turning around, she spotted Ratonhnhaké:ton heading her way with a perplexed expression while Elizabeth ran back into the house. He was a handsome sight for her in the quiet of night, just as he'd been in that infirmary.
"I'm not escaping into the night" she reassured since he was the second person to come out within fifteen minutes. She raised her hands peacefully to show she wasn't going to hurl herself off the rocks or dash off into the trees. Ratonhnhaké:ton hopped the fence easily and sat down beside her, amusement dancing off his features under the moonlight. Caroline stuck out her right pinky finger and suggested, "I'll even make a pinky promise."
He surprised her by linking his finger with hers and she smiled bashfully, a flutter of butterflies erupting in her belly to the touch. A year hadn't changed her sentiments in the slightest and if anything, it had only strengthened them. His voice was calm and melodious against the cricket's music as he proposed, "Don't break your promises to me."
"Never again" she promised quietly with guilt gnawing at her stomach this time. They had been strong as a couple but her leave created a rift that she had to fix at any cost. If he needed time away from her, she would grant him that. She tugged his hand closer to her, placing her left hand over his to squeeze it and spoke gingerly, "I've never been happier to be home with my loved ones. I'm not ruining that again."
His fingers brushed over hers after a year without contact but he wouldn't act impolitely by moving further. For Caroline, it was a positive sign and she smiled at being able to feel his ungloved hand in hers. It had been a rarity for her to do so due to his constant adventures which meant wearing his iconic fingerless gloves were a must. Ratonhnhaké:ton wasn't exactly sure where they stood since her leave had affected him and although he forgave her, it was a warning to guard his heart against disappointment. He needed time to process those emotions now that she was home to heal properly and move on from there. Otherwise, he could begin resenting her and he wanted to avoid that.
"Are. . .you angry with me?" she asked tentatively and he tried not to flinch to her inadvertent accuracy. She wasn't a mind reader in hiding too, was she? Hmm, he might've drank too much grape juice. Caroline's gaze lowered with shame and she released his hand with a soft sigh, "I couldn't ask earlier because of my family. I'm sorry about everything, it wasn't my intention to hurt you."
"No, but I am disappointed you didn't trust me enough to tell me the truth" he admitted quietly since he had no problem confessing his troubles to her. All except his assassin's work, of course. Her abrupt leave crushed him and although he was happy to have her back home, that hurt lingered in his heart.
"You would've tied me to a post and frankly, I never would've gotten the nerve if you hadn't left" she muttered with embarrassment because facing off against him and her parents would've meant failure. Still, she'd made a mistake in her life and although it was human to do so, it needed to be rectified. She'd disappointed her loved ones and butchered her own identity to survive, leaving her to atone for that aftermath. She bent her knees and hugged them for self-comfort as she looked the solemn moon overhead to whisper sullenly, "I wanted to have a taste of the life you led because I can't. All I earned was barely enough to get by and men were sooner ready to court me than hire me for a job. That's what life means for a woman like me out there."
"I told you the Aquila was a dangerous ship to work on and you hopped onto another" he reflected with dismay to her tenacity and she curled up even more. It had been a long while since she'd received a lecture from him, given that they were only months apart in age. The whole fiasco could've been avoided if he'd placed her as a deckhand during short trips. Dropping the matter, Ratonhnhaké:ton saw no sense in arguing about the past and remarked simply, "I do hope you had all that wanderlust sated."
"For now . . . but I'd rather be on the Aquila with you than any other vessel, if that makes you feel better" she murmured softly and he aimed a look at her that was reminiscent of her father's when she tried to get smart. It was too early for her to say that she'd never venture out of Davenport again but for now, she was homebound. Looking for trouble was not going to be her intent for a long while and if she did decide to explore again one day, she'd give everyone a notice.
"There's plenty of land for you to hunt on and you're free to explore the cove with a boat" he informed to the free open land available to her, along with the cove in the north. The minute changes over the year, from residents to new locations to explore, would hopefully draw her. He didn't want her to feel trapped in their town and her eyes brightened with curiosity to the latter portion.
"Boats?"
Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded with confirmation and introduced her to the newest town hobby, "A few of the residents enjoy fishing and we had enough in our town fund to commission boats from the mill. They're stored by the Aquila's dock."
That was something she needed to try out and perked up enough to return to her cross-legged sitting position. If he ever gave up his mysterious side job and a captaining a ship, he'd make a killing in being the town's mayor/tour guide. Pointing to the back of her home, he suggested another idea for her, "If you want to go to the cities, join your father when he travels."
"What if I want to hop on a ship? Will your offer still stand?" she asked with a hopeful smile to his proposition back in Charlestown. For all she knew, it could've been the high surge of emotions of the day that led to it but it was best to clarify now. She took the bold route to improve her chances by bumping her shoulder against his and teased gently, "Will the mighty captain of the Aquila harbor a Scottish crossdressing sailor?"
He had missed their gentle humor in her absence but he wouldn't let her slide (or in her case, sneak) onto the Aquila without a say. Her smile only widened to the protective tone in his low voice when he ordered, "Only if you ask me first and don't leave town."
"You'll be the first, captain" she admitted warmly and hoped that she hadn't ruined the trust they had by leaving. She cared for him more than any other man she'd met, and it wasn't many, and would do her best to regain the time they lost. Unfortunately, he was very quiet about such things and hadn't mentioned anything about their old times together. Unless he brought it up first, like he did when he first admitted his feelings, she would remain silent and take it as unrequited.
"What did you do onboard your ship?" he asked carefully to gain further knowledge to her adventures, surprising her completely. As a friend, he was curious but as a ship captain, he wanted to know her skills.
"Mainly cleaning and cargo but I moved up to manning the sails" she admitted sheepishly to her rookie beginning since she had no seafaring experience at all. It had been Duncan's word, her ability to read, and complete simple arithmetic that allowed her to board. She hadn't shied away from learning and if she could land a spot onboard, he could mentor her interest. Tapping her fingers together, she shook off her bashfulness and spoke softly, "If anything, I'd like to learn navigations one day."
"That requires books and maps at your disposal, along with seafaring experience" he pointed out since he and Faulkner doubled down by sharing that open position. They'd yet to find or train anybody with that expertise and he trusted Faulkner with his extensive experience to plot their courses. He wondered why that role appealed to her, expecting her to pick either gunnery or boatswain.
Caroline cracked a cheeky smile to the challenge and responded nonchalantly, "I have time."
A/N: And that completes Caroline's little adventure arc. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean her actions will not have consequences, mainly for poor Connor. We'll be moving on with bonding moments with the Davenport residents before the next plot comes in as Caroline slowly immerses herself into his second life (can I say that I can't wait when she meets Haytham?). As for Connor, the years are just going to keep hitting him harder and harder until 1784.
Thank you for the recent story favorites from readers and to my last reviewers:
Danelleprae: For Godfrey, as long as his kids don't commit crime, he'll be fine with their shenanigans while Catherine is the worrywart as a natural nurturer. As for Connor, I figure he's the bashful type unlike the other AC characters (because even Altair had some romance in the rooftops, lol) and his current life experience makes him cautious.
LRDrummer: Homestead is definitely their peaceful refuge, which will come to have more meaning for Connor and Caroline as the years pass and the war for independence and against the Templars increases.
East Coast Captain: The two are definitely adorable but they will also make you shake your head to some of their decisions. As for Arno and Connor meeting up, which should've happened in the games due to being in the same timeline, I've been playing around with the idea of the two teaming up either in France or the states to take down Shay since he killed Arno's dad while aiding in the purge of the colonial assassins. That would occur way past the end of AC3, probably after 1800 since the War of 1812 will involve Connor's children. I love the fact that Arno and Connor tried to bridge the gap between Templars and Assassins, which is something Connor's kids will carry down with them but will backfire in some instances and bring successes in other generations (I have extensive plans in mind for Color the Sky).
Next Chapter Excerpt . . .
In recent days, she found herself overlooking the cliffs of Davenport to peer into the cove where the Aquila was anchored. The sight of the sleek frigate surfaced old memories of being out at sea and peering into the sparkling water. She'd whistle old tunes from her days at sea whenever she helped her mother cook or sew clothing. If she heard the colorful lyrics, she would end up grounded to her room after a stern lecture about being a lady. Due to that, Catherine listened to her daughter's tunes without being none the wiser. Her days at sea would never be shared with anyone but Ratonhnhaké:ton and Amelia since such adventures were meant for men. Also, she didn't want to encourage Elizabeth since her younger sister held that same wanderlust at fourteen and it wasn't fading.
"Er, Connor . . . she's doing it again" Faulkner declared loudly with an awkward tone when he caught a small speck in the horizon that stood on the highest cliff overseeing the cove. The small dot of a figure had become familiar to him over the weeks since there was only one other resident of Davenport that sailed the Atlantic. Sighing under his breath, the first mate sympathized, "I'm almost tempted to say she harbors the same love for the Aquila that I do."
Ratonhnhaké:ton was overseeing the work of the sails since tears required mending before their next trip. He didn't grasp the joke since the ship was inanimate and failed to react, much to Faulkner's disappointment. The young captain spared a glance to Caroline's familiar dot by the cliffside and explained simply, "She spent time aboard a cargo ship."
Faulkner understood why she reappeared frequently and his mouth formed a circle before saying, "Oh, I see. A dove that can no longer fly."
It wasn't the best feeling to be bound to the earth when one's feet itched to float over the water. He remembered the eager young woman that had asked for help with firing rifles and proposed nonchalantly, "We could always use an extra hand-"
"I vowed her parents to keep her safe" Ratonhnhaké:ton disagreed swiftly because Caroline would be safest on land and wasn't privy to their true profession. He could only ponder her reaction if he ever decided to admit it. . .hmm, she'd more than likely fret over his safety or push him overboard. For now, however, he hoped that her focus was to remain by her parents while he worked on eliminating the Templar threat. If not, she would be in danger if she followed him onboard. His eyes narrowed to convey the seriousness of having her join them and ordered, "If she does approach you, let me know."
"With her penchant for disguise, I might be fooled" Faulkner laughed to her ability to deceive him with her sailor persona but his captain wasn't amused. Hmm, he would've thought having her back would've brought him a little more cheer. Did they not reunite as expected for the young lovebirds? Robert saw potential in both youngsters and advised carefully, "She's talented, Connor, and that's by intellect alone."
"She needs to readjust to her old life with her family first" the captain disagreed because Caroline needed to reacquaint herself with everything she left behind. He was certain that trust was being established again with her siblings and upholding the respect of her parents. Just as the old Caroline left Davenport to explore the world beyond her homestead, the new Caroline was assimilating those footsteps from the past. He crossed his arms over his chest to state with a protective edge, "I didn't bring her back only for them to lose her again."
Faulkner glanced at the crew men around them because as rambunctious as they could be, they were loyal men. Pointing to the bow of the ship, he asked with an amused grin, "You're worried about her being onboard?"
"We're not average sailors, Mr. Faulkner" Ratonhnhaké:ton reminded grimly because their business took them to dangerous places. He wouldn't risk Caroline's life against the Templars and would risk receiving her anger instead.
Faulkner pointed to the small speck in the horizon and tried to draw his sympathy by emphasizing, "Aw, look at her up there though- strikes ya deep in the heart."
Thank you for reading, until next time!