CHAPTER 1 - Bittersweet

The recapture of the Black Pearl had been somewhat bittersweet. You and Jack and the entire crew were ecstatic to have the ship in control again. Well, not really the crew, but they were happy for you. Jack was, if truth be told, a bit overwhelmed. Besides, he was still aching from that vicious blow to his head. You two decided to turn in and hand the wheel to Will.

You watched Jack warily and he walked tall and proud across his ship. The rest of the crew watched as well. When he rounded the corner and was out of sight of them, he drooped and leaned on your shoulder.

"I jest need some rest. Sleep with me?"

"Aye."

"Ye know, I could twist and extort that into multiple meanings, luv..." You chuckled and helped him along to the door of his quarters. Taking a deep breath, you swung the door open. And both you and Jack stood in the door way, horrified.

Jack's quarters had always had this homey, comfortable, small-but-not-confining, almost cozy feel to it. The mahogany wood had made the entire room glow. The one small window had been covered with a fine silk – no doubt nicked from one port or another – and the bed had been adorned with rich comforters and deep pillows.

Now it was a mess. The dresser, small table and cabinets had all been destroyed. The bed sheets were slashed, and the pillows too. Feathers lay all over the bed. The window had been smashed, and small jagged pieces of glass were still remaining in the frame. Leaning Jack against the doorframe, you rushed to the bathroom. It was bare. No sigh of the magnificent tub that once stood there, or the lavish rug. The small sink had been smashed, and broken pieces of ceramic lay all over the marble floor. This, upon closer inspection, appeared to be the only thing still intact. You turned around slowly, eyes wide and sad. Jack had not spoken at all. He was simply leaning there, staring at what once used to be his home. It was the first time you saw him even close to tears.

Rushing over, you wrapped your arms around his middle and held him tight.

"Oh, Jack. I'm so sorry....." he cleared his throat uncomfortably.

"We'll clean this all up. We will. You'll see it'll be the same as before. It'll be better...." he wasn’t listening. He was slowly and carefully walking through the destroyed room as if he was treading around a dying woman. He reached his hand out and ran it along the headboard of his bed.

"Me Pearl's hurtin'...." you didn’t know what to say. You, um, weren't really good in these kinds of situations. You stood, shifting your weight from foot to foot, nervous from the lack of noise. Jack broke the silence vehemently.

"FUCKIN' BARBOSA!! MAY HE BE DAMNED T' THE DEPTHS O' HELL FER TOUCHING ME SHIP! BLOODY SCOUNDREL!!"

Jack was a wreck. He stood, chest heaving and fist clenched, holding to the bedpost for support, nearly overcome with unconsciousness, hair a tangled mass of blood, and eyes full of pain and sorrow. You walked over to him swiftly and sat him down on the bed. You brushed off the feathers, and pulled him up next to you as you leaned against the headboard. Then you wound your arms around him, and there you both sat in silence until the room became dark.

* * * *

Somehow during the night you had moved onto the bed, and when you woke it was to a blinding sun and numb arm. Looking over, you found that Jack was right next to you, frown evident on his face. You still had your arms around him, only now he was lying on one of them. You stretched your fingers and winced when they tingled. Gently you slid you arm out from under him, and sat up.

He was still a mess. The blood had dried in his hair, matting his beautiful locks into a dark mess. The kohl from around his eyes was smeared across his face, and hung under his eyes like lingering tears. His sleep was not an easy one; his breathing was irregular and his features upset. Stray feathers drifted all over him. You walked out to the deck, and hauled a bucket of warm water from the galley. Placing it down gently beside the bed, you went back down to grab a sponge. Dipping the sponge in the water and leaning over Jack, you carefully lifted his head until it sat in your lap. Then, ever-so-gently, you begun to dab at his head with the sponge. He moaned and shifted uncomfortably in his sleep, but you ignored him. Taking his blood-soaked bandana from his hair, you tossed on the floor. You wiped the dried blood from his hairline, then began to peel back the hair so you could see the wound. Jack awoke with a start, but fortunately you were expecting this and held him down.

"Shhh. It's ok. I'm tryin' t' get this cleaned up. Jest sit still." He relaxed in your arms and you peeled back the hair to reveal a rather ugly-looking wound. You dabbed gently around the edge of the cut, wincing as Jack hissed in pain.

Finally, about 15 minutes later, the wound was clean. Jack had refused to let you bandage it, so you had made sure it was covered by his bandana. He groaned and sat up on the bed, swinging his legs around the side. He patted the bed beside him, and you wiped your hands and sat down.

"Thank ye."

"Uh-huh. Jack....we'll fix this."

"Yea." He sighed heavily. "I know. It's jest that—" he was cut off as Rayna's voice hollered across the deck.

"JACK!!! Ja-ack! Hey, Jack! C'mon, I want—" she had reached the door and thrown it open, and she stood in shock. She looked around the room, then at Jack, then at you, then at your hands, which, ahem, and somehow become twined together between you two. You both let go quickly, you crossing your arms across your chest, and Jack standing up. Rayna paused for a moment more, glaring daggers at you before she spoke again.

"Jack..." she wandered over to him and threw her arms around his shoulder, clinging to him like a child. "Will wants t' know where we're headed." She smiled widely into his face, and he pulled her arms off of him.

"Ye'll have t' ask yer Captain. She's the one with the coordinates." Rayna pulled back from him and looked at you distastefully. Jack sighed and leaned close to her ear, as if to whisper. But you caught every word he said.

"Rayna. Yer being immature and rude. She saved yer life, I'm guessin'. So ye own 'er, until ye save 'er life. Get over it." She growled lightly, before turned to you with a forced smile on her lips.

"Will wants the coordinates." With that, she turned on her heel and stalked out, slamming the door behind her. You turned to Jack, mouth wide.

"What the HELL is her problem? What have I ever done? Gee golly, oh yes. I saved her life. That's right. I forgot. Of course she's entitled to be a total BITCH to me! I mean, honestly! Jack, I can't believe she's even related t' ye! She's horrible! I have done nothin' wrong ever since I met 'er. She stole from me, I asked her for it back. She called me a whore, I let 'er on this lovely escapade. I fought Barbosa fer 'er, fer YE really, not that I care about the girl, I thought ye might be a tad upset t' lose yer sister after meeting 'er only hours ago, I have two black eyes, a spilt lip, bruised jaw, rope burned around me palms, and I lost me sword. I don't me t' be complainin', no don't git me wrong. I'm a pirate; I live for those few thrilling moments and these kinds of things. She's a bloody noble, Jack. Face it. She jest expects people t' lay down and let 'er walk all over them! She's so----Jack? Jack are ye listening t' me?" He was only looking at you with his head cocked and a small smile on his lips.

"Oy! Jack! I'm ranting here! Pay attention!" you said shrilly, stamping your foot down childishly.

"Hmm? Oh, sorry luv. Yer jest so cute when yer angry." He reached over and pinched your cheek playfully, then walked towards the deck.

"And don't ye worry 'bout dear Rayna. She's jest jealous."

"Jealous? What the hell is there t' be jealous of? Geesus....she's mental, that one. Needs help. Look, I'll even pay for it! I mean, all ye need t' do is identify the problem, then snap! it's fixed! I know someone who does this kind of thing! He's supposed t' be amazing, I could get the address, and we could stop by and she could mosey on in for a session. Really. It's all in here with those kinds of people." You tapped your head knowingly, and waltzed past Jack who was trying hard to conceal his grin. You found your way up on deck to tell Will the coordinates.

* * * * *

CHAPTER 2 - Rebuilding a Room

"So where are we headed, Captain?" It was later in the same day, and Jack seemed to have completely changed from the man you saw last night and that morning. He was happy and carefree. And he was back to making innuendos, which just proved he was going to be ok.

"South France."

"Ah. The French. That's where 'parlay' comes from. Latin based o' course. Inventors of mayonnaise."

"I like mayonnaise!" interjected Anabelle who was swinging on a rope nearby. You hid your smile behind your hand.

"Shame about the French, obsessed with raisins. Humiliated grapes really. Think about it." You did think about it. And it made sense. Anabelle frowned confusedly.

"I don' know."

You were barely hiding your smile now, and small chuckles were escaping. Jack winked at you, and turned to Anabelle, speaking seriously.

"Terrific singers the French. Eunuchs, all of them."

"That's not right..." whispered a crew member nearby.

"I dated a eunuch once," stated another crew member. You laughed outright at the blunt way he said it, and Jack winked again and stood up straight.

"What's a you-nick?" Anabelle was looking questioningly at Jack. You winced.

"Ah, well, see lass, a eunuch is a person, well, he's really actually something of a man..."

"That's enough Jack." Will walked in, looking scoldingly at Jack. "I don't think my daughter needs t' know that yet."

"Aye. Yer the dad." Will shook his head and walked off with Anabelle tagging along behind him, singing loudly.

"You-nick, you-nick! Everywhere is you-nicks!" Will tossed a frustrated look over his shoulder at Jack, who only shrugged. You laughed. Jack turned back to you.

"So that's where the treasure is....."

"No the treasure isn't there."

"Then why are we..."

"In case someone got the information from me. There's something in France for me to get, and it will tell me exactly where the treasure is. Oh, and we'll be stopping fer supplies."

"Ah, yes. O' course. Rum."

"Ha, ha. Among other things..."

"Such as...?"

"Ye'll see."

"I don't like surprises, missy." He leaned close, closer than you two had been in ages. You flashed him and grin and tapped him lightly on the nose.

"CAPTAIN Missy, if ye please. And ye'll have t' wait an' see."

"I hate waitin'." You laughed. It would be about two days if the winds were with you to get to France. Between now and then, you had to scrape up some serious money. Cuz what you were planning to buy wouldn't be cheap...

* * * *

It actually took three days to arrive in the small port in southern France, but that had simply given you more time to scrounge for money. You had explained the situation to each of the crew members, and they had eagerly handed over a portion of their wages and savings. Will had no money on him, but he gave you his word that he would sell a few valuable swords and knives he had when we docked. You pooled all of the coins up on the last day, and were pleased to find that you had enough, if not more than you would need.

During those three days, Jack was constantly pestering you about what it was you were buying. Each time, you answered the same.

"Ye'll see." He was getting quite frustrated. It was actually amusing to see him get so annoyed over such a small thing. When the boat docked in the small town of Saint Tropez, you piled all the gold into your pockets, and walked on deck. The crew was all above deck, leaning over the railing and looking out at France. It was a beautiful country, with rolling meadows and peaceful villages. It seemed such a shame to taint such a quaint town.

"Now men. Look out there. See that? That's beauty. That is a quiet life, peaceful and calm. Parents don't worry about lettin' their kids run around till dark. That's why yer to find a pub and stay there. No roamin' the streets. No stealing. No trouble at all. Pay fer yer drinks, be as polite as ye can. Aye?"

The crew nodded their consent, and you grinned. They were good men, the lot of them. You moved over and talked to Will. He was standing at the helm next to Jack, with Ana racing around both of them. You grinned and turned to Will.

"Are ye comin' with me?" he nodded, and motioned to Ana.

"Should I bring 'er?"

"Aye. Why not?" Will raised an eyebrow at you, then looked down at Ana who was now screaming like a banshee and fighting off an imaginary enemy. You grinned at her antics.

"Where are we goin'?" that was Jack, who looked at you curiously, you shook your head.

"Not 'we,' dear Jack. Me and Will. Yer goin' to the tavern with the men. Aye?"

"What?! Since when do ye tell Jack Sparrow what t' do?"

"Since now."

"Well I won't stand fer it. I'm comin' with ye." You walked up to face him, hands on your hips.

"If ye don't do as I say, ye'll find yerself very uncomfortably tied up n the brig. Aye?" Will chuckled, and immediately concealed it as a strangled cough when Jack shot him an angry look. Jack pulled you right up against him, and positioned you between him and the wheel. He grinned.

"Aye. I didn’t know ye were int' the rough stuff, lass. But whatever ye wish..." he quirked an eyebrow suggestively and you rolled your eyes. He grinned, and you shook your head.

"Jack..." you whispered. "Please. Do this one thing fer me. Don't ruin it. Jest go t' the pub with the others, and be back by mid-morning. Don't come back before 10. Aye?"

He sighed and looked heavenwards.

"Aye."

"Good! Get yerself nice and drunk, and have a good time."

"Bloody women..."

"What was that, Jack?"

"Nothin'."

You grinned and walked down the ramp and off into France with Will and Anabelle at your side, pockets full of gold coins.

* * * *

A few men had volunteered to stay with the ship, tp protect it from any trouble. The rest traipsed off to find a bar, Jack following reluctantly. You set off into town, with Will right behind you, and Anabelle behind him. After walked steadily for a while, Will spoke up.

"You seem to know this place pretty well. Been here before?"

You half smiled in memory.

"Yea. Sumthin' like that." You arrived at a narrow house, with what looked like three stories. There was a small shop on the first floor, and there must have been bedrooms on the top two floors. You turned to will before the door opened.

"Oh yea. Don't tell 'I'm we're pirates....jest.....keep quiet. Anabelle, ye too. We're not pirates anymore, alright?" she nodded, and you grinned. Just The door was answered by a wizened old man, who immediately grinned and shook your hand.

"Ah! Bonjour! It has been a while, now hasn’t it? Oui, en vérité [Indeed it has]. How can I help ye t'day?" he spoke with a thick French accent, but you were able to understand every word he said.

"Bonjour, monsuier! Yes, indeed. I could use your services. Ca va?" [How's it going?]

"Ca va.... comme ci comme ça. Les affaires c'est bien. Entre, entre!" [it goes... so-so. Business is good. Come in, come in!] he bustled inside, and you turned to Will and motioned him inside. He stood looking at you with a slightly puzzled expression on his face. You only smiled and winked before disappearing into the old man's house. The hallway was filled with intricate carvings in different types of wood, and gloriously carved tables, with clawed feet and whatnot. Yup, you had definitely come to the right place.....

"How can I help ye?"

"Well, ye see, we need some furniture. Not jest furniture. I need someone to fix up a room. On a ship."

"Ah. Oui, oui. Ye wish this to be done by when?"

"Tomorrow at ten."

The old man looked up sharply from his papers.

"Dix? Non, non! C'est impossible!" [Ten? No, no! It is impossible!]

"We are willing t' pay ye quite generously...." you shook the gold in your pockets, and the man sighed tiredly.

"Look, Jacques, I'm sorry t' do this t' ye. But I need this. will ye do it fer an old friend?" Jacques sighed and shook his head.

"Oui. I will have it done. Wait here and I shall make arrangements." He waddled off into another room, and Will moved next to you.

"Why are we not pirates?" he whispered curiously. You sighed and looked after your old friend.

"Because his daughter was kidnapped and killed by pirates." You walked over to a small wooden table, on which stood several pictures and drawings. Out of which stared a beautiful little girl, no older than 6. She was absolutely breathtaking. Her blonde hair bounced animatedly on her shoulders, and her brilliant blue eyes were framed by long dark lashes. She was one of those rare children born beautiful. In each photo she was smiling sweetly, or laughing. Picking up one small piece of parchment, it had written on it:

"À papa: Avec amour: me." [to daddy: with love from me] There was a drawing of a girl and her father holding hands as the sun smiled down on them. You put the drawing back down, and smiled sadly.

"What was her name?" asked Will quietly. You paused before you answered, remembering her vividly; so full of life and so carefree in her youth.

"Her name was Jon Benet." At that moment Jacques came rambling back in, and you both turned away from the table.

"So I will need to know what kind of wood you want, I will need to see the room, and we shall then arrange the payment. Oui?"

"Oui. C'est bien, mon ami. Merci." [Yes. It is good, my friend. thank you] You told Will to go sell the swords, buy new sheets and pillows, and meet you back at the ship. You followed Jacques to the Pearl, and began working on fixing Jack's room.

* * * *

About eight long hours later, you, Jacques, Will, and a team of workers lay sprawled all over the floor of Jack's newly refinished quarters. It was beautiful. Even more breathtaking than before. The floor was completely redone, with a deep brown, almost black hue. The cabinets had been recreated in the same rich wood, as well as the table, chairs, and dresser. The window had been repaired, and hung with silk once again. Will had done extremely well with find the fabrics; he had picked cream colored sheets, pillowcases, and a deep red comforter. Everything about this room encompassed royalty. They had even managed to enlist help for the bathroom. New marble had been laid down, black and white with flecks of gold. A new tub stood elegantly in the corner, golden taps shining brightly over the side. A sink had been placed against the wall, as well as a new mirror purchased and hung above it. It was perfect. You were sure Jack would love it.

You thanked the men and paid them, shook hands warmly with Jacques and bade him goodnight. Turning to Will, you smiled and stuck your hand out.

"Good work. Go git some sleep now. We 'ave t' be up 'fore he gets back."

"Aye. Night." He walked out, closing the door behind him. You flopped down wearily on the rich bed, and grinned. Oh wouldn’t Jack be surprised!

* * * * *

CHAPTER 3 - Entirely Random

You woke up to Will shaking you vigorously and whispering harshly.

"C'mon! They're rowing out to the ship now!" Quickly you jumped up, and straightened the bed covers. You glanced quickly around the room, and then rushed into the bathroom to make sure everything was still alright. It was. You heard the boat bump up against the Pearl, and you rushed out, closing the door behind you. Just as you stepped in deck, the first crew members clambered over the side of the ship. The grinned at you, and nodded as you motioned to their cabins.

"Careful not to wake Anabelle. She's still sleeping down there." The men nodded their understanding, and hurried off. Jack was the last to climb aboard, and he was grumbling to himself.

"Bloody crew. Don't do anything...leave me t' take care o' the boat...."

"Mornin' Jack!" you called out cheerfully. He spun around and nearly lost his balance. You grinned and waved. He blinked for a moment, before hesitantly waving back, somewhat confused.

"Ye can leave the' boat fer now. C'mon. I want to show ye summat." He looked at you oddly, before slowly dropping the rope and walking towards you.

"This wouldn't happen t' be yer little surprise, would it?"

"Aye. It would. So come on. Ye were so anxious t' know before!" you winked at Will, who was grinning. Jack looked at Will, too, but he only shrugged and moved to pull up the boat. You dragged Jack to the door of his Quarters, and then you stopped. Turning, you smiled broadly and motioned to the door handle. He quirked an eyebrow at you, then at the door.

"Well go on. Open it!" He reached out and turned the knob, then pushed the door open. You held your breath and your smile. Jack's eyes widened and he stepped slowly into the room. You moved behind him, grinning happily.

"So? Do ye like it?"

He didn’t answer. Instead he walked around slowly, running his hands along the cabinets and the table. He reached out and touched the bed, and then turned back to you. His eyes were wide and unbelieving. You grinned and walked over to him.

"The bathroom's done too. New tub an' all. And we put in new marble, the other was kinda scuffed. And..." you walked over to the cabinets, and pulled them all open.

"Ta-Da! Here we have yer generic, pub brew rum, and we have yer French rum, and Caribbean, and yer lighter English rum, and even that really good Irish stuff ye had....jest about every kind ye had before." He was still speechless. He walked over to you and studied your face. You bit your lip, actually getting worried now that he didn’t like it or was angry.

"Why did ye do this fer me?" You shrugged, deciding it would be best not to answer that one....

'Because I love ye, that’s why,' you thought. Instead you said nothing, leaning over and capturing his lips with yours. He kissed you back slowly, wrapping his arms around your middle. When the kiss ended, he leaned his forehead against yours.

"It's...it's perfect. Thank ye. It's amazing. It's even better than before. I don't know how ye...I...well, thank ye."

"Well yer very welcome." You kissed him again, pleased that he liked it.

"Today we have to go back int' town t' get some more food and water. And pick up my Father's note. I was, uh, a little busy yesterday...." you said plainly, not wanting to leave his embrace.

"Mmm, ok. I'll come with ye." You smiled as the vibrations from his voice raced through your body and nodded.

"Alright." Neither of you spoke for a while, not wanting to move or leave the other. You lay your head against his chest, under his neck. He wound his arms around you tighter, and lay his head on top of yours. You inhaled the sweet scent of Jack, and closed your eyes.

"Um, perhaps we should go now. So we can be back by dark." Jack said hesitantly. You snapped out of your little trance and nodded, stepping away from him. You looked up into his eyes, and found them searching your face with a lopsided smile on his lips.

"What?" you asked nervously. He only smiled and shook his head.

"Nothing. Le's go." You followed him out of the room, grinning when he turned around to glance around the room once more. You let the crew know where you were going, and Jack thanked them for helping with the room. As you walked off the Pearl, Jack hurried to catch up with you.

"Ye know where we're goin'?"

"Yup." He didn’t say anything else as you maneuvered through the maze of streets with ease. Within a matter of minutes, you found yourselves in a busy marketplace.

"Hands t' yerself." Ye told Jack firmly. He winked and nodded obediently. You weaved through the women, children, and stalls to almost the very end of the street.

"I wonder if she's still here...." you mutter to yourself. Sure enough, you find an old woman at the very end of the street, tending to a stall selling all kinds of things. You grinned and walked right over.

"Un moment, s'il vous plaît, j'aurai raison avec vous" [One moment, please, I'll be right with you] she said, not looking up from the tray she was organizing. You looked back to see that Jack was standing right behind you, juggling a few apples expertly.

"I thought I told ye not t' steal!"

"Don't dare ye impugn me honour! I bought 'em!" he placed a hand to his chest in mock hurt. You laughed and turned back around. The woman was standing, ready to serve you. When she saw you, she cried out and clasped her hands together.

"Oh ! Oh ! Mon enfant ! Comment charmant ! Combien d'années cet a été ? 18 années ? Oh, oui oui. Trop d'années!" [Oh! Oh! My child! How lovely! How long has it been? 18 years? Oh, yes yes. Too long] She hurried around from behind the stall to hug you tight. She seemed to ignore Jack.

"Bonjour, Annette. Oui, cet a été trop long. Comment êtes-vous?" [Hello, Annette. Yes, it has been too long. How are you?]

"Oh, je suis beau, je suis beau. Je suis vieux, hélas, mais il y a je rien ne peux faire de cela, eh?" [Oh, I am fine, I am fine. I am old, alas, but there's nothing I can do about that, eh?] she cackled, and you chuckled.

"Et comment l'endroit est-il?" [And how is the place?]

"Oh, condamne à une amende bien. Je considère la vente il... transférant à une petite chaumière en bas la route un morceau." [Oh, fine fine. I'm considering selling it... moving into a small cottage down the road a bit]

"Pourquoi ? Vous avez habité en cette maison depuis je peux me rappeler!" [Why? You've lived in that house ever since I can remember!]

"Je sais que je sais cher. C'est juste obtenant trop grand pour une vieille femme comme moi. Habiter augmente seul dessine là-bas sur un esprit, vous savez." [I know I know dear. It's just getting too big for an old woman like me. Living alone up there does draw on one's spirit, you know]

"Seul? Et Tomas?" [Alone? What about Tomas?]

"Oh. Oh cher. Tomas a passé plusieurs années il y a. Silencieusement dans son sommeil. Dieu repose son âme." [Oh. Oh dear. Tomas passed several years ago. Quietly in his sleep. God rest his soul] She crossed herself swiftly, and you follow suit. (Not that you were religious, but out of respect for her and Tomas, who you had loved dearly)

"Ne jamais a des objections, cela, l'enfant. Que jamais vous rapporte-t-il ici ? Obtenu avec le mal du pays, eh?" [Never mind, that, child. What ever brings you back here? Got homesick, eh?]

"J'ai besoin de quelques choses. Provisions. Nous sommes sur a. l'a. ..trip...and nous avons besoin de faire des réserves. Et j'ai besoin des clefs à l'appartement de mon père et son bureau." [I need a few things. Supplies. We're on a...trip...and we need to stock up. And I need the keys to my father's apartment and his desk.]

"Oh. OHHH oui, oui. Ceux-là. Tout à fait la droite, tout à fait la droite. Bien, se sentir libre à juste prendre que vous avez besoin de, l'enfant. C'est le moindre que je peux faire. Si vous aimeriez rester ici un peu, je ferme dans d'une heure. Alors nous dirigerons en haut et je vous obtiendrai ces clefs, eh?" [Oh. OHHH yes, yes. Those. Quite right, quite right. Well, feel free to just take what you need, child. It's the least I can do. If you would like to stay here for a while, I'm closing up in about an hour. Then we shall head up and I shall get you those keys, eh?]

"Bien. Que les sons condamnent à une amende. Vous n'auriez pas des objections si nous avons traîné, vous ferait?" [Alright. That sounds fine. You wouldn't mind if we walked around, would ye?]

"Oh pas du tout. Va de l'avant." [Oh not at all. Go ahead.] You smiled and motioned to Jack to follow you. Once you were out of earshot of Annette, Jack spoke up.

"And since when can ye speak French?" He was utterly (heh) confused, and no doubt hadn't really understood a word of what you had just talked about with Annette. You laughed and shrugged.

"A while."

"....'a while'...." Jack mimicked you with a grumble. "and why do ye know everyone so well, and know yer way around?"

"Been here before."

"...'been here bef---'. Look, lass. Ye'v been all secretive and...and...non-...non-answering or whatever since we got 'ere. Now I have a few questions. First: What did ye jest say t' that woman?" You sighed.

"I said hello and she said 'oh, my child! How are you! How have you been! It's been too long—'"

"Shortened version if ye please." You grinned.

"Aye. Basically: It's been a while since she's seen me, we can take whatever we need, we'll be going up to her place in an hour to pick up the keys to my father's apartment and desk, where the treasure's location is hidden."

"Oh." You chuckled, and he grinned.

"Alright. Next question. Why has it been a while since she's seen ye? When were ye here last?"

"Eighteen years ago."

"And she recognized ye?"

"O' course. She was me---- ah never mind. I knew her."

"She was yer what?"

"Nothing. Jest leave it."

"No, what was she?" You sighed and rolled your eyes heavenward.

"She was me Nana." Jack laughed, and you glared at him.

"Sorry, luv. But ye had a Nana? HA! Good lord. Yer full o' surprises, lass. Speaking all French-y, and having Nana's." He laughed some more, and you punched him. To no effect whatsoever.

"Fine. Have yer little laugh. I'm not answerin' any more questions."

"No, no, luv, I'm sorry. It's jest, well, yer not really the Nana type....ye see? Jest ignore it. Why were ye here 18 years ago?" You glared at him, deciding whether or not to answer. You gave in.

"Fine! Fine, alright? I lived here. My father and I lived her. I was born on his ship, and the first time I came here was when I was two. I stayed here for a few years while my father sailed off. When I was ten, he decided I was old enough to handle meself on his ship. That was the last time I'd been here since now. Aye?" you glared at him, and he looked surprised.

"Yer French?"

"No. Jest lived here."

"Ah. So should we head back now?" you nodded and started off, but Jack grabbed your arm and pulled you back to him.

"I really wasn't laughing at ye luv. Ye understand, aye?" you rolled your eyes good-naturedly and nodded. He grinned and kissed you swiftly, lifting you clear off of the ground.

"We're gonna be the richest pirates in the world!"

"That we are." you agreed. "Now come on." You pulled him back to Annette's stall, and helped her pack up her remaining items, which was not much. She had sold almost all of her products. She placed the boxes in the back of a cart, and climbed into the driver's seat (is that what ye'd call it?) taking the reins in one hand, she patted the seat beside her.

"Vous pouvez avoir ces articles, cher." [You can have those goods, dear] she said, pointing to one of the boxes. "Le porc saler, le chevreuil, le maïs, les pommes de terre, la farine, le lait de sarriette et chèvre." [Salted pork, venison, corn, potatoes, flour, basil and goat's milk.]

"Merci, Annette. Vraiment, nous pouvons payer, ne ce pas est d'ennui..." [Thank you, Annette. Really, we can pay, it's no trouble...]

"Bêtise." [Nonsense]

Jack climbed into the back, and you hopped up next to Annette. You two chatted pleasantly throughout the ride up to her house. It was exactly as you remembered it. Tall, dark and looming. Yet, somehow, elegant and alluring. It was beautiful. She led you into a small hallway, and lit the gas lamps on the tables. Then she rushed upstairs to get the keys. You and Jack studied the hallway while she was gone. You turned to tell Jack about a painting you saw, and find him absent-mindedly palming a small golden picture frame, with a shot of Tomas in it.

"Jack!" He dropped the thing, and looked up at you guiltily.

"Sorry luv. Can’t help it. Pirate's hands." You shook your head and walked over to him.

"Here." You took his hands, and placed them firmly on your hips. You stood up on your tippy toes to kiss his forehead, and sighed. "Keep them here. I won't move. Aye?"

"I'm not complainin' luv."

"Good. I didn’t think ye would." Annette came hurrying down the stairs again, and you turned so Jack was behind you. His hands still remained on your hips.

"Ceci l'est. Ceci l'un est à la porte de devant, et ceci l'un est le bureau." [This is it. This one is to the front door, and this one is the desk.] You turned your head and relayed what she said in English to Jack. Annette laughed.

"What don't I just speak in ze Engleesh, if ze young man wishes to hear?"

"Well that would be handy, now wouldn't it? Why on earth didn' we think of that before?" muttered Jack sarcastically under his breath. You chuckled, and turned back to Annette.

"That'd be great. Thank you very much Annette. I hope to see you again sometime. I may be back....one can never tell." She smiled and moved over to hug you. Jack still didn’t move, so the old woman hugged him too. You smiled your thanks and began to move off. Jack's hands remained firmly on your waist.

"Jack....ye can let go now."

"Do I have to?" Annette was looking strangely at you now, and you were starting to blush.

"Yes, Jack. Ye have t'." He sighed and dropped his hands. You grinned and hurried out to the wagon.

"Jack, can ye grab that box? Can ye lift it?" He grinned and flexed his muscles.

"Of course I can, luv." He picked up the box, wincing and grunting. You laughed, and led the way to your father's apartment. There were stairs leading up to it, and you told Jack to say at the bottom and put the box down. He readily agreed, and you went into your old home alone. It was exactly the same. But the air was haunted. It reminded you too much of your family and your father. You hurried to the deck, unlocked the top right hand drawer, and pulled out a small map. Unfolding it, you quickly scanned the aged parchment.

"Guam. It's in Guam. How insanely random." With that, you closed the desk, and walked swiftly to the door, before you closed it, you turned and smiled into the room.

"Bye!" you closed and locked the door, and put the map in your pocket. You smiled at Jack when you reached the bottom of the stairs, and patted the pocket where the map was concealed. He grinned, and followed you back to the Pearl. When you climbed back on board, Jack took the crate down to the galley, and you waited impatiently in the Captain's Quarters for him to return. When he finally burst in, you pulled out the map and laid it across the table. He sat down opposite you, and you both studied it.

"Guam."

"Yup."

"Guam?"

"Yes, Jack. Guam."

"Hmm. How random..." you nodded your agreement.

"Well, I've always wanted to go to....um...remote islands in the middle of nowhere with treasure on them. Let's sleep on this."

"Alright. We'll set off tomorrow morning, aye?"

"Aye. Aren't ye gonna ask me what I learned today?" you rolled your eyes as you took of your boots and changed your shirt with your back to Jack.

"Alright Jack. What did ye learn today." He cleared his throat, and walked over to you.

"Voulez vous couches avec moi ce soir." [I want you in bed with me tonight.] You burst out laughing, as did he.

"Jack...where on EARTH did you learn that??"

"I asked some kid who walked past while I was waiting fer ye at yer dad's place." You laughed and slid into bed next to him. He wrapped an arm around your side and nuzzled your neck.

"So? What about it, luv?"

"What about what?"

"Voulez vous couches avec moi ce soir."

"No."

"I thought we agreed t' a mutual attraction?"

"We did, Jack. That entails this...." you rolled over and kissed him. "...and this..." you wrapped yourself around him and snuggled close. "...but not this." You grazed your knee over the inside of his thigh, and he gasped. Grinning, you kissed his shoulder and closed your eyes.

"Now go to sleep." Jack didn’t' say anything. He just let out his breath in one big whoosh. You grinned.

* * * *

CHAPTER 4 - Drunken Love

When you awoke, the bed was empty, and the familiar sound of waves met your ears. Glancing out of the window, you realized it was well after when you had planned to leave.

"Damn! Alright. Getting dressed. Boots, boots...boots...WHERE ARE ME FLAMIN' BOOTS!" You pulled on a pair of breeches, struggling to get them over your knees.

"Bloody hell...why...don't...these...fit! oh..." They were tied up. You struggled with the knot, still looking for your boots.

"Oh Bloody Hell! Who took me BLOODY BOOTS!!!!" you tripped and landed flat on your face, staring at your trusty boots.

"Found 'em..." you shook your head ruefully and pulled on your pants and boots. You tossed you shirt on the bed, and threw a clean white one on over your head. Finally content that you were clothed, you rushed on deck to set sail. You were seriously behind schedule. You ran to the helm, where you found Jack standing confidently. You were about to say something about your late departure when you finally looked around. You were at sea. Jack looked at you expectantly, and you opened and closed your mouth a few times.

"Yes, luv? C'mon now, spit it out."

"Ye....ye set off without waking me?" you frowned. This was, ahem, after all, your treasure and your little...mission...outing...uh...thing. Sheesh. The least the man coulda done was wake you up!

"Aye. Ye looked so precious sleepin'... what with her mouth hanging open and ye snorin' and whatnot, I decided t' let ye sleep." He grinned, and you shrieked in indignation.

"Oy! Excuse you! I do NOT snore!"

"That’s what ye think...." you shook your head hopelessly. Jack grinned and whispered in your ear.

"Not that I mind luv, but ye may want t' consider doin' yer shirt up. We need the crew t' work." You frowned and look across deck. Indeed the entire crew was staring at you, well not at you, but at your chest, with mouths open and eyes bright. You looked down at your shirt. Which, um, was now waving slightly in the breeze, exposing you stomach completely and the curves of your breasts, which you had bound with linen. You gasped and spun around, flushing a deep crimson and fumbling with the ties on that bloody shirt. It must have been one of Jack you had grabbed, since all of yours were designed so this wouldn’t happen. You just wanted to sink through the floor. And still you were fumbling with the ties. Bloody shirt, what was it so hard to do up?

"Come 'ere, luv. I'll do it." said Jack in a soft voice behind you, you shook your head and continued to face the other way. You felt him hook a finger through a loop in your pants and pull you backwards towards him. You kept your hands holding the shirt together.

"Now don't think fer a second I enjoyed that. Ye think I like me... OUR crew looking at me lady pirate? Naw. Here. Let me." He deftly tied the laces, and left you standing there like a moron. Sheesh. They were just laces. How dumb could you get?

"My hero." you said sarcastically. He grinned, and wrapped an arm around your middle.

"Aye. That I be. So does the fair maiden have a kiss fer her dashing Captain Hero?" you grinned.

"Oy! Ye two sure look cozy! Why don't ye get a bloody room! Who's steering this wreck? Certainly it can't be you, dearest brother, since yer tryin' t' get int' "fair maiden's" corset there. And surely it can't be you, because yer too busy batting yer eyelashes t' even see the bloody ocean!" you growled and closed your eyes, counting to ten. Rayna had seemingly gotten over the previous weeks events. She had, mercifully, stayed in her cabin during the entire trip to France. But now it appeared that she would be attacking with a vengeance, as if to make up for the days when she didn’t harass you.

"Ah. Her Royal Highness Rayna has emerged from her chambers. What shall it be, this morning, my queen? Tea and crumpets? Smoke and a pancake? Pipe and a crepe? Bong and a blitz? [Goldmember!] Which be yer pleasure?" you spat. Jack chuckled, and hid it as a cough when Rayna glared at him.

"I want to talk to my brother, so will you..." she looked at you pointedly. "...please excuse us? Go make yerself useful somewhere?" you smirked at her and waltzed off to find some breakfast and rum. Bloody nobles.

* * * *

"Now listen here." Rayna came stomping in, standing on the other side of the table you were seated at. She placed her hands on her hips, and glared at you.

"I don't like ye begin all over my brother like that. If ye think I'm going t' let ye have yer way with 'im, yer badly mistaken. Yer nothing but a whore. A siren. Ye'd take what you need then get rid of him. And I intend to see to it that you get nothing at all from him. Have I made myself clear?"

You stuffed the rest of your forkful of eggs in your mouth, and held the plate up to her.

"Mmfph, eggs?" She wrinkled her nose and made a distinct noise of disgust in her throat. You swallowed and addressed her.

"Look, Princess. Yer not the Captain here, are ye? No. Yer not even a member of me crew. That means I have no obligation t' keep ye aboard. In fact, let me show ye summat." You walked on deck, careful to keep out of Jack's line of vision. You walked around to the back of the ship and leaned on the rail where it ended and the plank stood. You watched as Rayna lowered the plank and walked out to the end. She sat down and swung her legs from the side.

"Jack can take care of himself, ye know." You shrugged and walked up behind her, sitting and dangling your legs from the side.

"He doesn’t need some whore like you. He's only keeping you for the sex, right? I mean, why else would he keep you? You must be pretty good though, from what I've heard he usually only keeps them a few weeks. You'll be gone by the end of this month. I guarantee you that." In one quick movement you grabbed her wrist, and making sure you had a good grip, you pushed her off of the plank. You twisted so you lay flat on the plank, one arm dangling below and Rayna attached to it.

"What the hell do you think you're doing!!!?" she cried out shrilly. You winced, god she could be loud.

"Oh shut up. Yell like that again and ill drop ye. Now. As long as yer just hanging there, listen to me. I am the Captain here, and you are on this ship. That means you will respect me and obey me. I am not asking fer ye to like me, heavens knows you've not got enough heart to even try that....all I'm saying is that from now on, you will show me some respect. I don't know if this has sunken in yet, but I saved your life. I could have simply left you with Barbosa, left you to be beaten and raped and eventually killed by pirates. Believe me the thought crossed me mind a few times. And there's been some times since then that I almost wished I had." She nodded meekly and grasped your arm with her other hand, eyes wide and fearful.

"And I am no common whore. In fact, I am no whore at all. I am a pirate, no, I am a pirate CAPTAIN, and I deserve that respect. The only reason I'm tolerating you is for Jack's sake. If it weren't fer him, ye'd still be in Auckland. Am I clear?" she nodded again, and you grinned.

"Good! Well then. It's been nice having this little chat with ye, but I have duties t' attend t' ship to run, crew t' manage. Oh, and since yer on board ye can make yerself useful. The galley needs cleaning, as do the cabins. And perhaps ye could make us dinner too? We eat at 6. Oh and, not potatoes. We need those when we've been out fer a while. Use the pork, and some vegetables please. Thank ye!" you moved her hand to the plank. "Got a grip? Yea? Ok. Good. I'm lettin' go now." You let go and she hung on to the edge of the plank. Then you walked off to find Jack, calling over your shoulder.

"Oh yea! Let's jest keep this between us, eh?"

* * * *

At exactly 6 o'clock dinner was on the tables in the galley. You hated to say it, but it was delicious. Easily the best meal you'd had in ages. Everyone thanked Rayna heartily, and you found yourself giving her a small nod of thanks as well. She blinked and hurried out of sight. You laughed to yourself and shifted your attention to your meal.

* * * *

As you ate your meal, you began to feel kinda sorry for the way you had treated Rayna earlier. She actually seemed terrified of you now. And you never like to have people around you absolutely terrified of you. You wouldn’t really ever do anything to her, you just threatened it. So as soon as you finished you went searching for her. You heard her voice coming from the main cabins, and you crept forward. She laughed, something you hadn't heard from her yet. You peeked through the slightly open door. Rayna was lying on her back, holding Anabelle up in the air on the soles of her feet, and holding her hands. Ana was shrieking with glee and laughing. Rayna was laughing too. She brought Anabelle down and started tickling her like crazy. You smiled. Rayna lay flat on her back and closed her eyes. She looked exhausted, and for a moment you felt guilty for sticking her with the shittiest, and most grueling tasks without much of a thanks. She didn’t complain once either. She was definitely tough stuff. Anabelle climbed and sat on her stomach.

"More, more Rayna! Play with me!"

"Not now, luv. I'm so tired. Tomorrow, ok?"

"Oooooooookkkkk." Anabelle climbed off and walked over to her bed, where she pulled her blankets off of her bed and walked back over to Rayna. She placed them carefully on top of her, then went back to her bed for her pillow and teddy bear. Then she curled up next to Rayna on the floor and dropped off to sleep. You smiled and closed the door softly. You went to the Captain's Quarters, grabbed some of the good Irish stuff, and plopped down in Jack's chair, even daring to rest your feet on the table like he always did. You hadn't even taken a swig when Jack came in. he eyed you curiously, but didn’t say anything.

"Oy, Jack. How's about a little celebration? We never really properly celebrated the return of the Pearl to her owner, now did we? What do ye say?" Jack grinned and reached into the cabinet for a bottle of Irish rum as well.

"I say why not." You grinned and took a swig.

* * * *

"And so I tied the devil t' the pole, and then e' grabbed me hair, nearly rippin' out half o' me brain, and then the mast fell, and he drowned, and yer Humble Captain was victorious." You finished your story triumphantly.

"And....ye weren't even conscious fer any of it!!" you giggled. This was you drunk: talky, giggly, crazy and wild. Jack was the opposite. Quiet, thoughtful, somewhat sleazy, yet still witty.

You were both sitting on the floor, you leaning against the bed and Jack leaning against the table support. You lapsed into a fit of giggles, while Jack looked on with one eyebrow cocked with amusement. You calmed yourself and studied him.

"Fuckin' hell, he is the most beautiful man I've ever seen..." Jack raised both of his eyebrows, and you fell silent, completely confused how he read your thoughts.

"How...? Hmm. Was...was that out loud?" Jack smiled slightly; a terribly sexy expression on his features. Slowly he nodded. You clapped your hand to your mouth and burst into laughter.

"Holy hell!" you gasped out, now lying spread eagle on your back on the floor. You kept chuckling, putting your hands behind your head. Jack slid over so he was lying next to you, with his head at your feet.

"I dealt with Rayna."

"Mm. How?"

"Hung 'er off the plank."

"Ye did what?" Jack sat up. You burst into another fit of giggles, clapping your hand over your mouth and rolling onto your front. After a few minutes you rolled back over and grinned.

"I hung 'er offa the plank. Talked some sense int' the girl. She was very agreeable," you grinned and looked up at Jack's face. He looked surprised. And amused. Slowly he started chuckling. The he threw his head back and laughed. You would have laughed too, but he as presenting a pretty nice target right now, and who were you to pass up that opportunity? Leaning up, you kissed his neck gently, right where it met his shoulders. His laughter died down as you kissed his neck. You stood up, somewhat unstably, an pulled him up with you. his eyes searched yours questioningly. You smiled and kissed him gently, pulling him onto the bed. You trailed your hands through his hair and across his back, and he pulled you up close to him. You ran your hands along under his shirt, and he stopped kissing yu and pulled back.

"Luv, yer drunk. I can't do this when yer drunk." You frowned and dropped your hands to your lap.

"I'm not drunk."

"Yes ye are, pet."

"So? Maybe this is what I want!" Jack looked at you desperately.

"Maybe. But maybe not. See?"

"No, I don't see. I thought this was what you wanted! All along, this is all ye'v wanted! And now, I'm handing it t' ye on a silver platter and ye brush it aside! I am completely ready to give myself t' ye, and ye leave me sitting here like this! I can't believe this." You lay down and curled up on your side. You were only slightly angry, the rest was actually embarrassment from your actions, and Jack's reaction to you. moments later you were lifted into Jack's arms. He leaned against the headboard and held you against his chest. You simply leant your head against his shoulder and wrapped your arms around his neck.

It was then that Jack whispered your name, your name so softly you almost didn't hear it. It was amazing. In all the time you had spent with him, you never once remembered him calling him by your name. To hear him say it made your pulse race and your head spin.

You looked you at him and found him looking at you. He kissed you ever so gently, and then rested his head on yours.

"I don't want t' take advantage that's all." he whispered. "I don't want ye hurt." Your heart almost burst with happiness.

"I know, Jack."

'I love this man....I love this man....I love this man......' you thought as you drifted off to sleep.

* * * *

'I love this woman.....I love this woman...I love this woman... ' Jack thought as he kissed the top of her head and held her tight against his chest.

* * * * *

CHAPTER 5 - Maybe Just a Little

'Oh shit. What happened last night....?' was the first thought that crossed your mind as you woke up. Your head was pounding, but you racked your memory trying to remember last night's events. You drew a complete blank. Looking around, you realized that Jack wasn't there and that it seemed to be fairly late in the morning.

'Damn it! I seem t' be getting' into a habit of sleepin' in.......' you think as you slowly and tenderly sit up. Out of the corner of your eye, you see something small and black on the headboard, inches above where your head was. Upon closer examination, it turns out to be a spider. You shriek and fumble out of bed, tangling your legs in the sheet and falling flat on your face. Scrambling up, you race for the small standing closet, and throwing open the doors, hurtle in. You pull the doors closed in front of you peering anxiously from the crack at the spider.

"I hate spiders..." you mutter, shivering in disgust. Jack bursts in, looking around.

"Luv? Are ye ok? Ye were makin' some awfully loud noises...." he looks around the room, frowns, and makes for the door. He stops midstride and looks towards the closet, cocking and eyebrow curiously. He walks towards you slowly, but you hardly notice since you eyes are glue on the spider. If you could still see it over there, it meant it wasn't over here. Suddenly Jack yanked open the doors. You screamed and slammed your head into the top of the shelf. Jack laughed, and stepped in beside you, pulling the doors closed.

"What are we doin'?" he whispered.

"Hidin'." You answered shortly.

"Ah. From what?"

"That." You point towards the spider as another shiver runs through your spine. Jack looked around, and frowns when he sees the spider.

"That?"

"Yes. That vicious, hideous, agile, dark, and evil spider." Jack laughed and tickled the outside of your arm lightly.

"It might have crawled all over yer body when ye were sleeping. It mighta slept in yer ear. Maybe it explored yer mouth. Who knows......" he was grinning widely, and you were shaking like crazy.

'Oh my god....it could have....oh shit.....oh...oh no, oh no no no....' you think frantically, feeling thousands of tiny little dirty spiders crawl all over you. Wincing, you rush out of the closet and into the bathroom. Jack laughed and followed you.

"What ye doin' now luv?"

"Bathing. It may carry diseases.....it's prolly been all over....ugh...." you were turning the hot water on, frequently checking over your shoulder to see that the spider hadn’t moved. It hadn't. Thank God. You begin to strip off your clothes quickly, and then remembered Jack was in the room. Turning, you saw him standing by the door appraising you with his head cocked to the side and his eyebrow arched. You rolled your eyes and pushed him out.

"What?! C'mon luv...." you closed the door in his face, stripped your clothes, and slid into the hot, clean water.

* * * *

One long hot bath later, you were standing on deck during one of the rare moments when you weren't rushing about. Anabelle was racing across the deck, weaving in and out of the men's legs and jumping over ropes. The men were used to her by now so that they put up with her antics, occasionally stooping to pick her up and hang her from the rigging playfully. Smiling, you walked to the helm to take the wheel from Jack and chat. He greeted you with a smile, and stepped aside, if somewhat hesitantly, to let you take the helm. Stepping up to the wheel, you felt that familiar rush of excitement fill your veins. Jack grinned.

"Never thought I coulda seen ye so excited....up until last night o' course..." he said mischievously, and suddenly you remembered that you had been wondering about that. You grew angry, and you felt your eyes fill with tears. Losing your virginity was supposed to be a great big to-do, magical and shared with the one you loved. Which, in this case, was Jack, but it had not been magical! You didn’t even remember it! Damn it! And you could never go back now....you had ruined it completely.

"Jack! I can't believe ye...I was drunk, and ye still....I never thought ye were the kind of man who'd...oh FUCK ye Sparrow. Jest fuck ye." You stalked off from the wheel, blinking back angry tears, quite certain of what had happened last night from the suggestive tone in Jack's voice. You stormed into the galley, grabbing a bottle of rum. Will appeared in the doorway, looking surprised at your apparent 'malcontent.' You growled and made to walk around him, but he moved to stop you. you bared your teeth and scowled at him. He stood still, face blank.

"Are ye sure ye want t' be doin' this, Turner? I wouldn’t suggest it...." he reached out and put his hand on your shoulder and looked in your eyes. You faltered, a tad bit unnerved by his probing stare.

"Jack? What did he do? Tell me. I told him...I warned him, but does he ever listen...? Nooooooooo. Sit." He steered you to the table, and plopped you down.

"God this is patronizing." You mumbled. Will laughed, and sat down opposite you. He was about to open his mouth to speak when Jack rushed in, sliding into the doorway and bracing him self on the frame. He glanced around, saw you and rushed forward. You stood, and punched him hard in the gut. (go you!) He grunted and stopped where he was. Will chuckled, and you let out a small satisfied smile.

"Jesus, I don't know why I put up with ye, Jack." He looked up at you, still holding his stomach.

"Because ye love me." You stood, aghast, mouth wide. Jack grinned somewhat triumphantly, and stood up straight. You were quick to reply.

"What the hell are ye talking about? Yer the one who's so in love." Jack looked accusingly at Will, who shrugged and raised his hands innocently. He turned back to you, eyes flashing.

"And where would ye get that idea, missy?"

"Ye told me yerself. Only I'm starting t' not believe it, dear Jack, since you seem to have no respect fer me whatsoever and won't hesitate to rob me of what's rightfully mine when I'm bloody DRUNK!"

"WHAT?! Jack! What did I tell you! When you came to me, I said 'don't' ruin this.' And what do you go do? Get her drunk and....and SLEEP with her! Gods, Jack!"

"Alright." He stood tall, eyes flashing angrily. "Let me jest set this straight. There was no 'sleeping' together last night, unless ye count the poor lass clinging t' me like some girl. She was the one throwing 'erself at me, I was the one 'oo said it wasn't right, I was the decent one. I was jest poking fun this morning, figgered she remembered an' all..." He glared at you, and you frowned. And then suddenly you remembered it all. He had said no, and you had been the one positively throwing yourself at him. You immediately felt bad for treating him like crap. Jack didn’t seem to notice your change of mood.

"I've been nothing but civil, despite how much I've wanted to completely ravish 'er. But noooooo......'don't ruin this Jack,' 'respect 'er Jack,'..... and I don't know why ye think I'm, I'm in,...in LOVE with ye, but I'm not."

"You're not?" you asked timidly. Jack seemed startled, and his answer was less sure.

"No. I'm not."

"Well I'm sure not in love with ye." You said stubbornly, placing your hands on your hips.

"Yer not?" he asked anxiously. You shook your head slowly. For a moment neither of you spoke, both filled with despair and defiance at the other's words. Then Jack spoke up.

"Well, then, good."

"Fine."

"Fine." Another moment of strangely tense silence ensued, you facing Jack, and Will standing a few feet away watching the whole thing.

"Well then I'll get back on deck." Said Jack quietly, turning to walk off. You nodded and glanced at Will. He raised both of his eyebrows, and you frowned. He glanced at Jack's retreating form, and sighed, shaking his head. You looked at Jack as he walked off, and felt like part of you was walking off with him. You took a step forward, unsure what to say.

"Jack, wait...."

He turned quickly, as if hoping you would speak up. You bit your lip and looked at the ceiling.

"I mean....maybe....maybe I do....I mean like jest a little..." Jack was suddenly at your side, his arms around your waist.

"That’s all I need..."