Detailed Roleplayers discussion
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McKensie and Lara III
Sampson sighed and sat up, nodding. "Alright. I'll marry you." He smiled a little then, really feeling privileged to be able to marry them. "Well… guess we better go up top." he kissed Jackie. "I promise I'll be back." he whispered. Emma smiled weakly at them, nodding as she reached out her arms. "Yes… I want to see our baby girls…" she said softly, taking them into her arms. She smiled, then, falling in love with them. "Oh they're so precious…"
Iliana nodded in agreement. "Yes, let's just hope the whole visit goes well."
Eliza smiled brightly, curtsying to her father. "i'm ready to go!" She said eagerly, hopping up into his arms. "Are we leaving right now? Can we see the city? Who are we visiting, Father?"
Javkie got up with him "no way am I missing my future brother in laws wedding!" She protested following them up. She beamed seeing Sad'a and hugging her "you look beautiful..." She whispered kissing her cheek and moving so Thomas could hold onto her.Edmund smiled and nodded "they are perfect...look at those blue eyes...big and beautiful...glad they got your looks and not mine."
Marcoux smiled and got them into the carriage and drove to the train station and waited for Max and Lacey to exit the train from Italy when they'll take them home to the city.
Sada smiled as Jackie came up and she hugged her back. "Thank you for letting me use your dress." She said softly, looking up as Sampson took his place by Thomas at the front of the ship. Taking a deep breath, she walked towards them, with all the grace of a gypsy. Emma shook her head, holding them both close to her. "They got your looks too, Edmund, and thank goodness. You are handsome, you know." She smiled at him, reaching out to squeeze his hand."
Maxwell got off the train first, helping Lacey off after him. He grinned when he saw their friends and he walked over to shake Marcoux's hand. "Good to see you! And this must be Eliza!" he bent to shake her hand as well. "Hello, I'm your godfather, Maxwell. You can call me Max." Eliza giggled. "I like him, Daddy." She said. Iliana smiled, shaking her head. "How have you guys been?"
Thomas smiled and took her hands in his facing her and listening to his brother read off the ceremony as he slipped the ring on her finger and smiled "bloody yes I do!" He was a pirate it was hard to be a gentleman.Edmund smiled and watched as Lydia came in "oh congrats Emma dear! Two! I can't even imagine what you've been through! Oh but they are lovely..." She praised stroking their cheeks and holding up the quilt she did for them "I only made one but I can whip up another soon enough...it's big enough to cover them both..."
Lacey smiled and hugged Illiana "congrats you're a mother." She smiled and sighed shaking Eliza's hand as well "you can call me aunt Lacey darling." She couldn't believe how beautiful the girl was, looked like Illiana's own offspring. She hugged Marvoux and sighed "still healing but it's very good to be home."
Sada stood patiently as Sampson read off the prescribed words, and then her smile widened. "Yes, with all my heart," She said in her own language. "Yes." She said in English. And Sampson smiled. "Then I pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your lass."Emma looked up as Lydia came in and she smiled brightly, happy that her friend liked the kids. "Thank you. It wasn't much work after the two sorted out who was coming out first." She said honestly, smiling up at her. "Oh you shouldn't have!" She said, wrapping the quilt around the two girls, so they were bundled up together. "it's lovely, Lydia, really."
Iliana smiled, hugging her back. "Yes, and Eliza is such a wonderful girl." she said honestly, watching as Eliza giggled and rode around on Maxwell's shoulders. "I'm glad to hear that you're doing better. And your hair has grown longer!"
Thomas dipped her and kissed her deeply as he pulled her back up and lifted her into his arms and took them to the captains quarters without delay. Jackie laughed lightly and pulled him to her and grabbed the paper he was reading off and handed it to him "you have one more marriage to iniate."Lydia smiled lightly "couldn't have done it without your constant patient tutilage and support. Now I can knit and quilt without having to blame the dog of its disaster!" She smiled kissing her friends head "it's wonderful dear...and I hereby give you 5 months off to care for the babies, if I see a needle in your hand I'll increase the time!" She warned with a smile.
Lacey touched her short hair "kind of you to say really...it's still hideous and unbecoming but...at least im alright. Max and I have come closer through all of this and I'm grateful for that...there was a moment of fear of seperation...I never want to feel that again."
Sampson looked down at the sheet, and then back at her. "You mean for us?" he asked, his eyes widening. "Right now, love?" he asked, wondering if she was sure. He would love to marry them, but was she ready? They hadn't discussed it, but he knew it was something he wanted. Emma smiled, hugging her friend. "I'm so happy for you." She said seriously. Then she groaned, not believing her ears. "Five months!" She squeaked. "Five months with no sewing!?" She didn't know if she could survive that long. Yes, she needed to care for the kids, but she also didn't want to drop her work for that long.
Iliana shook her head. "It's different, love, but it certainly isn't hideous." She promised. "And it shouldn't take too long to grow out at all." She added. "I'm glad to see you back and safe again, I was very worried for you." She said honestly.
Jackie nodded and wrapped her arms around his neck "yes right now...I want to marry you Sampson. I spoke with Sada and it's something I desire very much...especially if you are the one marrying us."Lydia smiled lightly "honey trust me you'll be so busy with the two of them, one was a handful for me and I hired a nanny! I just want you to have everything you need. Rest...im sure you are exhausted, Edmund and I can watch the children."
Lacey smiled "it was an experiance indeed...I missed you very much but I still wouldn't trade the lessons and friends I made for anything. Ready to go to the mansion? I want to see my little Eloise..."
Sampson nodded, picking up the sheets again. He grinned as he read through them all all over again. And then smiled at her. "I do…" he said softly, just as the sun was starting to dip below the horizon. Emma sighed a little, but she knew her friend was right. She had seen how much of a handful Donovan could be, no matter how sweet the little guy was. "Alright…" she conceded, surrendering the twins up as she curled on her side and yawned. "Just a quick nap…" She said seriously, letting her eyes close.
Iliana smiled, patting her arm. "I'm glad you got to make new friends and see new places. And get a medal!" She walked with her up to the mansion. "Maxwell has already gone in and talked to your parents and James, I believe." She said softly. "Are you ready to go in and see them?"
Jackie smiled and nudged her nose against his "you know I do..," she whispered back their lips slowly starting to touch. She was leaning on the edge of the boat her legs strattled either side as she sat with the man of her dreams. She slipped the ring made of twisted rope onto his finger and held out her own hand wondering what ring he had planned.Edmund watched the girks and smiled "we haven't even come up with names for these darlings..." He said still in the happy shock of fatherhood. He dipped his head to kiss both of their foreheads "look at this ones cheek...a sweet little dot...I feel like that's what I'll call her all her life..." He told Lydia and their personal maid Clara "have you heard from that Irishman again?"
Lacey fingered the medal on her lapel of her dress, there was many arguments and paperwork but she was accepted as a decorated solider. The first woman on record. She nodded over at Illiana and sighed "I'm so afraid Illi...my father is such a traditional man...and James I feel as his hurt maybe greater then Max's..." She took a deep breath removing her hat and entering the drawing room where they all sat.
Sampson smiled softly then, wrapping his arms around Jackie's waist. He held onto her as she slipped a ring on his finger. He smiled down at it and kissed her forehead. He removed a small silver ring he had made by bending wires around each other, which he slid onto her finger. There was a small diamond set into the middle, which he had found in the temple. "I now pronounce us man and wife." He whispered, dipping in to kiss her. Clara tucked Emma into bed after she had fallen asleep, and then smiled at Edmund as he cuddled his girls. "They are such sweet little things." She agreed. "I don't know what you'll be naming them, but I think sugar plum and sweet cake do just fine." She said, in jest. Then she blushed softly. "No… I'm afraid not. That was a one time thing, I think."
Iliana bit her lip, worried for her friend's sake. "they are your family… I'm sure they'll be forgiving." She stood to the side as they walked in.
Lacey's mother immediately ran over, throwing her arms around her daughter, sobbing. "I was so worried…"
James, and her father, both just stood there, watching the reunion. A muscle in James's jaw clenched. After a moment, he turned and left the room.
Jackie felt a sob of joy choke in her throat as he pulled out the ring, he had made that for her before she even mentioned the idea of marriage it touched her and she kissed him deeply undoing his hair and lacing her fingers through it holding him close to her.Edmund chuckled "maybe as nicknames Clara dear...I feel as though Emma should be the one to come up with names though I still think Dot for that one...maybe her official name could be her middle one." He frowned not liking that, that Jack boy hadn't written her back. That's when there was a knock at the door from another servant "pardon the interruption there is a gentleman caller for you Miss Clara."
Lacey held onto her mom and didn't start crying until she saw James leave the room. Her suspicions had been right and she crumbled in her mother's arms down to the floor still conscious but no strength.
Sampson smiled when he heard the soft noise she made as he pulled out her ring. He had made it, so he would be prepared, and now he was so glad that he did. He kissed her back, relaxing as he felt her hands run through his hair. "I love you…" he whispered, scooping her up and carrying her back down to their cot. Clara nodded in agreement. "Alright then. Sugar Plum Dot. And Sweet Cakes… whatever Emma chooses." She laughed softly, shaking her head. "Let me know when you find names for them." she insisted. She really thought both Edmund and Emma were lovely people. She frowned when the servant brought the message. "Strange…" She said softly, as she hardly got any gentleman glancing her way, let alone calling on her. "Alright. I'll be right down." She smiled once more at Edmund before fixing up her apron and walking down the steps to the main floor.
Lacey's mother hugged her tight, brushing her fingers through her daughter's hair. "Oh love… I'm so glad you're home and safe." She said, pulling back to look at her. "You look older… and wiser love." She said honestly.
Jackie smiled and held him close "I love you more..." She whispered and nuzzled him just holding onto him tightly around the neck @i bet our love story will be a legend...the famous captain and his rebellious lass...fighting like a tempest...till love calmed the sea..."Jack was standing nervously, he took off his news boy hat when he saw her and smiled "Lady Lacey gave me the address I hope you don't mind...I just felt from your last letter...I had to meet you...a letter wouldn't have done you Justice and I was right..."
Lacey swallowed away her tears and nodded "I've changed some mama..." She whispered wiping away her tears and standing to go to her father hoping that he wouldn't turn his back like James did.
Sampson lay down with her on their bed and pulled the sheets over them, just holding her close against his chest so he could hear his heart beat in time with hers. "We're most definitely legend worthy…" He whispered.Clara's eyes widened when she saw the young man standing there. She didn't recognize him, but as he spoke, she quickly realized who he was. Could this really be Jack? This dashing young man before her?? "I…" She blushed brightly. "I'm afraid I'm at loss for words…" She quickly curtsied. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."
Her father surveyed his daughter slowly, and then his usual firm face melted into a gentle smile. "I can't say I approve of what you did dear…" he started. "But I always knew you'd amount to something more than just a common lady." He kissed her forehead. "And the first women in the army, eh?" his eyes twinkled.
Jackie kissed him softly and catessed his cheek slowly and meaningfully "that beard is going to grow in if you don't shave it...but I like it..." She whispered not wanting to break the peace she felt with him. She ran her hand over her stomach and sighed contently.Jack bowed as she curtsied and gave a smile taking her hand and slowly hesitantly kissing the back of it "the pleasure is truly all mine." He pulled her softly "her majesty princess Lydia permitted me to take you away for the day if you'd like...I'd like to get to know you better."
Lacey hugged him close burying her face in his suitcoat "thank you papa..." She whispered and gave a weak smile "just glad to be home...where is Eloise I want to see my daughter please..."
Sampson chuckled, closing his eyes. "Yes… I'll get a beard." he agreed. "I haven't really had much time for shaving, love…. too many adventures." he said honestly. He wrapped his arms around her, resting one hand on her stomach. "Are you feeling alright?" He inquired. Clara was blushing furiously, he was such a gentleman! Nothing like the stable boys and delivery men. And she had gained royal permission to take the day off!? "Oh I'd love that!" She swallowed. "I mean… yes, that would be quite lovely." She smiled.
He smiled, hugging her against him. "I love you, my little girl, don't ever forget that." He straightened then, allowing her to step away. "Eloise has been such a sweet little girl. She's upstairs napping in your old crib, I believe. The nurse has been caring for her." he explained. "And please talk to your brother before you leave. He hasn't gone to any social events since you left. He was expecting word from you, you know. And he rushed down here from the palace when you said you were coming back. You can imagine the shock it was to all of us when we learned the truth. I think he had been hoping to hear it from you."
Jackie nodded moving his hand to where she felt the shifting "see? Feel that?" She asked softly and smiled over at him "they are growing and developing...incredible yes? Do you think your brother will impregnate Sada?"
Jack smiled and took her into the carriage helping her take off her apron and bonnet "there...you look very nice, I'm staying at a hotel in London so I don't know where any good places are really...you'll have to be my guide." He smiled softly at her "if that's alright?"
Lacey sighed and nodded pecking his cheek and running after her brother "James...wait please..." She begged grabbing onto his hand and turning him to face her "don't walk away from me..."
Sampson closed his eyes and focused on the soft shifts and bumps he could feel against his hand. "That's amazing…" He breathed, shaking his head. Then he chuckled. "If my brother has any say in it… then she'll be with child sooner or later. But you never know with gypsies, they have all these strange contraceptive measures." He shrugged. Clara smiled lightly, walking out with him to the carriage. She blushed harder when she realized that most of the staff was staring at them. She never did get to go out, nor get callers, after all. So this was something new. "I'd be more than happy to show you the city." She agreed, climbing into the seat in the carriage.
James stiffened when he heard her running up behind him, but he didn't slow. When she grabbed his hand he turned to face her, his expression something unreadable. "So now I'm not allowed to even walk the hallway, when you somehow find reason to leave half across the world with no word what so ever?" he asked, his tone flat.
Jackie nodded and played with his hand "sometimes I wish I did think ahead with those methods, but everything is just working out so wonderfully I feel as if it would be wrong to wish for things to be different you know? Yes I'm terrified and don't think I know how to be a proper mother...but at least I have you to support me...right?"Jack smiled over at her, she was such a lovely beauty, as pale as a white rose and the darkest eyes he had ever seen. He ran a hand through his reddish hair "so tell me more of your life...your family?" He wondered trying to get off on the right foot.
Lacey stepped back as if he slapped her, and the pain was far worse then that "I...I know I was in the wrong James I do...I nearly lost Maxwell because of my foolish radh thinking...but please, I can't bear have you walk away from me...I sent a letter to the palace...I never received any word back..."
Sampson nodded in agreement. "I am definitely happy we are having a child…" he promised, kissing her cheek. "And I'm happy everything is working out." He tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear. "And we've got each other to figure out how to be parents. This is all going to work out just fine. You'll see." he promised, kissing behind her ear. Clara couldn't help but be entranced by this man. He was handsome, no doubt, and by the looks of it, well endowed as well. And he just had a certain… charm about him that was hard to ignore. "I have two sisters and a brother." She said immediately. "My sisters are both older and maids as well. My brother is younger, and still lives at home with Mother." She said. "We live a simple, but honest life."
James's expression didn't change as he watched her. It was inside that the hurt and anger swirled and churned. "You mean the letter full of crap lies about some sick aunt?" He asked, his eyes darkening. "Don't you think your own brother would be able to know when you were telling the truth?" he shook his head, having a hard time keeping a straight face anymore. "I trusted you Lacey… I valued that we could tell each other anything. Now I see you never really trusted me at all." he spun then, knowing he had to get away before he broke down and he paced into his room, shutting and locking the door quietly. He needed time by himself to brood.
Jackie dmiked and then frowned as she heard storm clouds brewing above "should we go help? It sounds like quite a tempest about to erupt..." She pulled her boots on and tucked her hair back into a ponytail out of her face.Jack nodded "us too, my father was a blacksmith, he was one of the best in Ireland...but they both passed away from the fever plaguing my village. I have a younger brother he's a scholar smart man. Going to be a university professor I bet." He gave a smile "me...I just take care of the home and sell what's left of my father's work."
Lacey sank to the carpeted floor face to the ground as she sobbed and mourned, she knew she did wrong she wished she could do things properly...but James had never yelled at her before. She felt like a very small child scolded and punished. She threw her medal at the wall and curled up sobbing.
Sampson frowned when she did, and he looked out through the window on the ship. "I think we're close enough to shore to miss most of the storm… but we should probably help tie up the sails just in case." He agreed, standing up slowly and stretching before he tied his hair up again and went above decks. Clara smiled, melting right then and there. "Quite brave of you, living all on your own. Does your brother still reside in your family home?" She inquired. "And I am truly sorry about your parents." She said honestly, lowering her head in condolence.
James sat down on his bed, just looking at his hands. It hurt him more than anything to know that his sister had lied to him. It broke him completely, and he knew, deep down, that there was nothing anyone could do to fix it. He had lost a sibling. But just because she was no longer the Lacey he knew, didn't mean that he wished to be a horrible sibling. He'd always be her older brother. So he stood quietly, and returned to the hallway without a word. He scooped up Lacey carefully in his arms and carried her to her old bedroom where he tucked her in and left, going down to the kitchens again. "Would someone please get me some whisky." He said tiredly.
Jackie rushed up the mast and pulled the sail in and tied it tightly, her wrist was better now and didnt cause her such pain anymore. She worked with the other men trying to get the main sail controlled and tied down but it get slipping through her hands as the rain started.Thomas quickly exited without a shirt ironically and helped the men with the rest. He hated to be interrupted on his honeymoon however.
Jack shook his head "it was a long time ago but thank you, no Sean actually resides in Cambridge. Where he is at school...I came down to visit him but then my heart tugged me to you...and I'm very glad I listened for once."
Lacey just sobbed in her bed her heart broken even as he picked her up it wasn't the same...he didn't want her as his sister anymore and really who could blame him? She was a liar and no punishment for this sin could be worse then this.
The footman quickly poured him a glass on the rocks as he got his favorite book and arm chair preparef for him to just sit.
Sampson climbed up the mast after Jackie, helping her tie down the ropes. Then he climbed higher and secured the sail above. Other men had finished the forward and aft sails, so he scaled down again, smiling as he helped Jackie to the ground. When he spotted the captain, he smirked. "Interrupted you, did we?" he asked, grinning at him. "Don't come out again tonight, the rest of us have things under control. We won't be going anywhere. The ship is anchored." He assured him. Clara listened to his story in rapt attention and she smiled. "I've heard that Cambridge is a lovely place." she offered politely. She just blushed harder when he spoke of his heart, and her, in the same sentence. "I'm glad to have met you." She agreed softly just as the carriage rolled to a stop, and she hopped out. "This is the London square. All sorts of nice shops here. Would you like to look around?" She suggested.
James thanked the footman and immediately downed a mouthful of the strong drink, thankful for the slight reprieve it brought him. He wanted to get his mind away from all the current events, and just have some time off. Sitting down in the armchair, he just stared at the study, sipping whisky and waiting for his mind to go numb.
Thomas sighed in relief and nodded his thanks to his brother as he without hesitation went back to Sada, they had finished and were just cuddling now but it was still an interruption "hello lovely...everything is fine..." He promised smoothing back her hair and down her bare back.Jackie laughed lightly shaking her head at the poor ship captain, she wrapped her arms around his neck "we have some business to attend as well."
Jack nodded telling the carriage to stop as he helped her down and smiled "I've heard of this place...fancy people get all their fancy duds here." He saw Marcoux with Eliza but of course didn't know who they were as they were looking in the window of the toy shop before going in "sweet child..." He mused taking her gloved hand in his.
Lydia had received word from James' mother of the fight and conflict going on at the mansion. She arrived and went to his study "darling you promised you would cut back..." She scolded kneeling next to him her head on his lap.
Sada lifted her head from the pillows as Thomas returned, and she pulled him back down beside her, cuddling back up against him, and closing her eyes. "Hmmm." She said softly, just enjoying his hand on her back. "Well I'm glad we won't be washed away in a tempest…" She said honestly. A grin lit up Sampson's features and he scooped Jackie over his shoulders in one motion, carrying her down to their cot again where he lay her on it. "You are so subtle…" He teased, kissing her deeply.
Clara walked politely with her arm looped through his, as most people walked when they were with someone. Walking alone, with hands in pockets was a sign of hostility. But standing so close also made her blush often. She smiled at his comment on the young girl. "Yes, that is Eliza, daughter to Lord Marcoux, and Lady Iliana, friends of their royal highnesses." She explained. "They visit the palace sometimes." She ushered him into a candy store then. "Come, you must try the fudge. There simply isn't any better anywhere else."
James ran his fingers through Lydia's soft hair, finding comfort in being with her, and it was only around her that his walls finally came down. A tear tracked down his face and splashed on his collar bone, his face scrunching in pain, and still he stared straight ahead, trying to cope.
Jackie gasped and then laughed kissing him deeply as well and kicking off her boots wrapping her arms around him tightly and just holding on "I never said I was subtle dear one...just knows how to get the job done."Jack tipped his hat politely to Lord Marcoux and Marcoux smiled at Clara "good to see you again Clara, tell your mother hi from us alright?" He said sincerely and turned to Eliza "which doll do you like honey?"
Jack followed her and bought a piece for them to share as he fed her a bite then took one himself "oh this is deadly delicious, sinful really!" He chuckled feeding her another bite.
Lydia looked up and frowned "James darling it is no good copping your feelings in, let alone breaking your sisters heart...she would forgive you if you did such a thing...why not give her the same treatment?"
Sampson tucked them both under the blankets, laughing softly. "Yeah, you know how to finish a job alright." he whispered, wrapping a hand around the back of her neck as he kissed her deeply. "I love you."Clara nodded, waving cheerfully at Marcoux. "I will, thank you Lord Marcoux!" she said, rushing into the shop with him. As they sat on the bench and ate, and she closed her eyes in pure ecstasy. "That is truly delicious." she agreed, accepting the bites he fed her. "Definitely worth the purchase. Keep your appetite though, there are many more sweets to try." She insisted.
James stared at her, shocked. He had expected her comfort, not for her to reprimand him. His hurt displayed across his features. "I'm sorry if I disappoint you." he said simply, standing. "It would seem that I am in need of some fresh air." he walked out of the study. "I think Mrs. Wendell wanted your help in the kitchen." he said softly as he left the room, pocketing the whisky.
Jackie smiled down at him and kissed him again and again "I love you too..." The rain was almost calming as she listened to the slosh of the waves against the side of the boat. She held onto him securely and nuzzled him "excited to board and see your father?"Jack laughed lightly "I don't doubt it..." He folded the wax paper around the rest of the fudge and put it in his pocket for them to share at a later time. He gently cleaned some chocolate off of her cheek amazed at how smooth her skin was.
Lydia rushed after him "don't you dare dismiss me again Jamison. I know you are hurt and I can understand why, I'd be sick with hurt and worry...but what your doing to that poor girl is worse." She held up her hand so he wouldn't argue "remember when I was upset at you for going over my head about Donavon...what if when you came back and apologized with all your heart as you did...I ignored you, turned you away and held onto that pain..." She said seriously taking his whiskey and throwing it away.
Sampson smiled, a soft sigh escaping him as he blinked and looked at her. "Yes, very excited, but nervous as well. It's been so long… and we've changed a lot, not to mention married… I just… I hope he's proud of us." he said honestly. Clara blushed brightly as he gently brushed her cheek and her smile was soft. "Thank you." She stood, looping her arm through his again. "There's a charming book store just down the street. Would you like to visit it? That is, if you have a taste for old books, and dusty shelves." She said, fidgeting. She wasn't sure if he'd like that sort of thing.
James was clearly agitated, but he stood still anyways, knowing better than to turn and walk away again. He nearly did argue with her, but her actions told him it would be smarter to wait until she finished. And then he just eyed the bottle she had thrown, before looking back at her. "You're impossible." He mumbled like a small upset child. Then he shook his head. "And you don't understand. I have forgiven her. But that hasn't changed the fact that she lied to me, that she doesn't trust me. Nothing that I do or say will change that." he whispered.
Jackie pushed his hair back "you've become an amazing man, and your married and having a child I think any parent would think that was admirable and be proud." She nudged her nose against his neck "I'm proud of you...future captain of this ship."Jack instantly beamed "I can't wait! I love tenderly loved leather back book that has that enchanting smell..." He mused almost lost in another world "who is your favorite author?"
Lydia shook her head "If you...have forgiven her truly you would go to her. That girl refuses to let anyone in, not Maxwell not Illiana...she doesn't even want to see Eloise...you hurt her, she doesn't feel like you love her anymore or want to be her brother...that is what I'm referring to, and your drinking!"
Sampson smiled softly, feeling bolder because of her words. He kissed her gently, brushing back her hair from her forehead. "Thanks love, that means a lot to me." he said honestly, nuzzling his face against her. "But for now, love, let's rest and we can set sail in the morning."Clara immediately melted, all her fears erased. "Oh me too! I thought I was the only one…." She shook her head, pointing to the shop which was just down the street. "There it is. I personally, have really loved the works of C.S.Lewis. He's a newer author though, have you heard of him?"
James's face stayed firm, if not scrunched a little in turmoil. "I have tried to go to her. I have tried to help her. But it just feels… different around her now. Like she's walled me off." he said softly, no longer feeling like fighting. He was just exhausted from all of this. "I'm sorry that she's faring so poorly. But I have no way of fixing that. And I am not drinking all that much."
Jackie nodded and sighed gripping onto his shirt and nuzzling his chest as she slowly let her exhaustion take hold and put her into a dreamless sleep. Thomas on the other hand couldn't sleep, his stress about father was eating him alive as he paced trying to come up with the best way to tell him he was retiring being a captain, he wouldn't be pleased no matter how he said it..."Jack shook his head helping her up the long twisting staircase to where the books were. He set her down and poured them some tea from the tray waiting patiently and humbly for them to partake "I haven't im afraid, I like to stick with the classics most of the time...right now I'm intruiged of the darkness Poe brings."
Lydia sighed "I do not want to argue, but I feel that isn't true...did you even hug the girl? Tell her she you were glad she was safe and home or just accuse her of lying and not trusting you...your father waasnt pleased but he didn't shatter her as your words seemed to..."
Lacey slowly rose feeling empty and sick inside, she snuck to the hall and just sat in the nursery watching her baby sleep not wanting to see anyone else. Eloise was still young she couldn't hate only love...
Sada had fallen asleep as they were cuddling, but she stirred when Thomas got up. Yawning and blinking sleepily, she propped herself up on her elbow, looking over at the shadow of Thomas pacing. He was agitated, she could see that much. Sliding out from under the covers, she walked over to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. "What's up?" She asked softly. Clara followed him up the steps and then crossed her legs and sat gently on the floor across from him with the tea cups and kettle in between them. She asked him how much sugar and milk he liked, pouring for him before adding some for herself and taking a sip of the tea. "I've read some of Poe." She said, nodding. "Always seems to make the room go cold. Talented author."
James's shoulders slumped and he let out a heavy sigh. "I carried her to her room and tucked her in." He said softly, knowing she had gotten him there. "But no, I didn't really say that I forgived her. She started saying that she had done the best she could and I lost it." He admitted softly. "She could have told me..." He whispered again. "I really wish she did, I feel like I can't talk to her openly." He admitted.
Thomas jumped as he felt her cool skin against his and sighed turning to kiss her "I was trying not to wake you up love..." He whispered nuzzling her and kissing her hair "im just stressed about father's reaction when I tell him I'm retiring..."Jack nodded in agreement but grabbed some cushions for them both to sit on and sipped his tea "I like Twains work as well but it seems...well a little bold if you ask me." He admitted and glanced at all the works around them. It felt like they were the only two there and he really liked that.
Lydia sighed "bet she feels like she can't even talk to you at all...yes I know what she did was wrong and hurtful but you don't keep reopening a wound expecting her to feel the same pain she did before it healed...darling I know you are hurt, and that'll take some time but don't lose the relationship with your sister you cherish so much...she could have died then what?"
Sada smiled softly, hugging him back. "I care about you love, don't you think I'd notice if you were unhappy?" She leaned into his embrace, squeezing his hand. "Don't worry about what you can't change... You will tell him, he will be upset, then he will forgive you and the world will keep turning. Don't fret over it, I hate to see you anxious..."Clara nodded slowly in agreement. "Very bold." She concurred. "Scandalous, some have said. But I admire him for being able to write something so out there and stand by his beliefs, even if not many others hold the same view." She stood and pulled a book off the shelf. "But this. This is a new genre as well." She said, handing him the novel. "Pride and Prejudice. Quite the novel, if you are one for love and romance. I find it a sweet distraction after all the heavier topics out there,"
James leaned his forehead against te wall, a deep sigh escaping him. "I... I..." He shook his head slowly. He didn't know what to do. On one hand he wanted to talk to her so badly. And yet on the other, he was still angry and afraid. And he couldn't decide where he should go. "I need more whisky," he groaned.
Thomas sighed holding her close to his chest and kissibg her head "I know...I just hate to disappoint or upset him. But really it's inivetable and I might as well sleep instead of fretting..." He lay back on the bed pulling her over him "unless you aren't tired..."Jack glanced at the book and flipped through some of the pages "I've heard of Austin's work before but they seemed to be directed at the woman of the world...not men." He smiled down at her "though you are a well brought up young lady so I shouldn't question whether you find literature meaningful or not." He placed it in the pile of books he was starting for himself.
Lydia sighed "fine, drunken yourself with that foul drink...that will solve all problems won't it? Need I remind you the last time you got drunk?" She moved up her sleeve revealing the burn since he push her away and she stumbled into the fire pit. "You aren't the man I married with that drink in your hand." She said brusquely and left him alone.
Sada snuggled against his chest, kissing it gently. "He's your father, Thomas, and if he's a good one, then he'll still love you when all is said and done." She whispered, enjoying how warm his embrace was, effectively scaring away all the chills that lurked in the ship. She smiled then, shaking her head. "I'll stay up if you feel you can, but if you need to rest, I'm alright with just cuddling too, you know." Clara nodded, acknowledging that. "Yes, they are geared towards the female crowd. But I'm sure some of the subject matter could be found as interesting to a man as well." She offered, smiling softly. "I'm not necessarily well brought up…. just well read." She admitted, shrugging. "I used to get the cane from my mother when she caught me skipping studies in favour of a novel. Said it wouldn't pay the bills to be invested in imaginary worlds."
James rocked back as if he had been hit by an invisible blow, and the pain clearly showed on his features. "I'm sorry…" he whispered, watching as she left him. He turned then, really feeling as if the walls were closing in on him. Retreating out of the study and into the garden, he quickly found his favourite willow by the pond. As a child, whenever the nurse boxed his ears for something, he would climb its branches to get away from the world. And now, he just sat at the trunk, staring out to the water. He was exhausted from the stress of ruling. He was trying to cope with alcohol, and in the process, hurting his wife, which hurt him. And he had hurt his sister, because she had hurt him. It was a vicious cycle of hurt, and it weighed heavy on him. The tears slipped out of his eyes and he bowed his head into his hands, his shoulders shaking with silent sobs.
Thomas sailed the ship to the docks once again, it felt strange to be back again only a year had passed and yet he had changed expediently. He helped Sad'a off and chuckled as her legs wobbled "easy lass...the earth doesn't rock anymore."Jackie stepped out, actually wearing a proper gown looking more ladylike then she had ever in all of her life. Her stomach poked through the fabric showing she was with child. She scowled lightly as she held onto Sampson's arm.
Jack chuckled "my father was the same, put 'dem damn books down and learn something useful in your life. Wish I had listened..." He ran a hand through his red hair "but I'm trying to make it up to him.." He smiled at the copy of Shakespeare's greatest work "my mom loved the romance of shakespear...she was a silly woman, a romantic at heart but...a good wonan none the less..."
Lacey had gone outside to go to the same bench but when she saw him her heart sank and she wrapped her arms around him and leaned her head on his shoulder "im sorry..." She whispered and sniffed her own tears "you are still my best friend the one I trust...James the letter I sent was written in our code...the one we made as children...it told you everything...I thought you would understand..."
Sada clung to him as they boarded in the harbour and she glared at him briefly. "I'm not wobbling because of the sea, love. You're taking me to meet your father!" She protested. "I can act strong, Thomas. But that's all it is. An act. I'm not used to big cities and fancy meals and introductions."Sampson had his arm looped through Jackie's as they exited the ship and boarded a carriage bound for the estate. "You look absolutely dashing, love." he said, reaching over to squeeze her hand. "Never seen you look so… enchanting." he winked at her.
Clara sipped some more of her tea, her smile genuine. "I like your mother already." She said, honestly, picking up another novel. "I think that everyone should read. A man who never reads, only ever lives one life. A man who reads lives hundreds." She said reverently, running her thumb over the old leather cover. It was soft with age.
James didn't look up as he heard someone approach. He didn't want to face anyone when he was so broken like this. But when he felt familiar arms circle him, he leaned into them, resting his head on top of hers and wrapping his arms around her. "I was too upset to look at it twice." he whispered honestly, closing his eyes as the tears continued to fall. "I'm sorry Lacey. I'm a wreck. The younger James would have forgiven you in a snap, and I know that. I forgive you now too, and I'm sorry it took so long." he whispered, feeling weak. "I'm just… my responsibilities have really been wearing on me."
Thomas chuckled holding her close "he will adore you my angel...your English is near flawless you have the grace and manners of any lady and you are my darling wife..." He placed his hand over her stomach "who is carrying my child." He nuzzled her neck and sighed "I'm the one who should be nervous...I will be telling him im giving up the life I was raised in..."Jackie sighed blowing the curls out of her face "I feel like a big phony...the minute I speak he will know I'm not some posh lady!" She accused and rubbed her stomach "plus tunics are far more comfortable..."
Jack smiled softly and took her hand turning her to him and smiled "a man who never loves is an empty cup...a man who puts his heart out, whether it's new or ageless...never goes thirsty..." He leaned closer to her "I'm a man that wants love Clara...I want to share it with you..."
Lacey caressed his burly face and nodded "I know...you never have time for yourself anymore...but dear brother the war is ended, America has saved us. Your stress will decrease will it not?...maybe you need to take a vacation with your family...just out to the country side...bond again with Lydia make babies do something you enjoy..."
Sada blushed softly, shaking her head. "Well you sure know how to butter a lady up." She muttered in her language. But she rested her hand over top his on her stomach, and found herself to be more relaxed already. "You won't be telling him you gave up anything. You'll be telling him that you succeeded, at that you're settling down now with all your riches."Sampson laughed, shaking his head. "He'll admire you all the more for it, love. All he ever wanted was pirate sons. He won't be very surprised if one of those sons married a pirate." he promised, "And trust me, I don't envy you in that dress. But you do look good in it." he winked.
Clara melted into his gaze, and then just proceeded to turn into a puddle as he spoke, his words as soft and slick as honey. "You certainly have a way with words…" She whispered, finding herself growing hopelessly lost. "If this is love, then I wish to drown in it." she whispered, leaning up the rest of the way and brushing her lips against his. Then she stiffened, immediately pulling away. "Oh… I'm so sorry… forgive my rash actions…"
James nodded slowly, knowing that some of the stress would lessen now that the war was over. But he still had other duties. And the list never ended. "I can afford to just take time off, Lacey, even though I wish I could. A king has a constant job." He said honestly, but there was no pride in his words, just ache and exhaustion.
Thomas walked to the humble town house and knocked on the door, a burly gentleman with a salt and pepper beard answered it and Thomas swallowed "father...it has been a long time."Jackie sighed deeply leaning into him "that doesn't even make me feel better Sampson, oh im going to be sick..." She moaned trying to keep it in but the baby was making that very difficult.
Jack caught her hand and pulled her close kissing her lips tenderly and caressing her cheek "don't apologize for something so wonderful Clara...knowing all the books you have read you know...this is the kind of love they speak about...forgive me for being so bold but...I just find you so ravishing..."
Lacey sighed "you aren't king yet...not till the Queen passes away...let her gentleman caller take care of their duties and go with Lydia...James there is always another way if you look for it. Just...try please? I hate seeing you so lost and broken..."
Sada stood nervously as Thomas knocked on the door, and an older, yet handsome man answered it. She curtsied politely, waiting silently for some cue as to when it was her turn to speak. The man immediately smiled, embracing his son. "Back from the sea eh? How was your adventures? Tell me everything! And who is this young lady?"
Sampson immediately told the driver to slow and pull over, and he helped her out of the carriage, not needing to hold her hair as it was done up so intricately. "Fresh air might help for a bit." he soothed. "Just let me know when you think you can continue again."
Clara blushed deeply then, knowing right then and there that she had fallen in love with this man. She looked down bashfully, chewing on her bottom lip. "I like a bold man." She whispered, looking up at him again. "And I think I can be bold and say that I have fallen in love with you."
James sighed, leaning his head back against the tree and just closing his eyes. H knew she was right. He needed a break. His whole family did. It would do them good. He vowed to himself that he would try to make it happen. He cracked one eye open and peered at her then, his smile soft. "I look lost and broken?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Thomas smiled and hugged his father "Father this is my beautiful wife Sada, Sad'a this is my father Captain Oliver...or the infamous Blind Blade the piratw." He chuckled and smiled at his wife "may we come in, I have something for you that you'll be pleased to see."Jackie moaned leaning into him and sighing "felt healthier at sea..." She admitted and sighed getting back in the cab "your brother will wonder where we are..."
Jack smiled cupping her face and caressing it as he nodded his agreement "I have fallen in love with you Clara Simmons..." He sighed realizing a problem "I can't even think about how I'll have to leave next week..." He kissed her softly loving the feeling of her lips.
Lacey nodded "very...im glad to see you not drinking your worries away...like father used to..." She pecked his cheek "but hey...I feel like the girl in Les Miserables that lost her hair...so I shoukdn't be talking.. "
Sada curtsied again politely, smiling. "It is a joy to meet you, sir. "Oliver beamed. "My son finally found a wife!" he bent and kissed her hand. "Come in! Come in! I'd love to see this thing you've brought me." He said, ushering them into the room.
Sampson nodded in understanding. "We'll be back there soon, love. I promise." he helped her back in and motioned the driver to continue before smiling a little. "He'll be busy with telling father about his adventures, don't you worry."
Clara closed her eyes, just enjoying the feel of his hands on her face, and his lips on hers. She opened her eyes, and pressed a finger against his lips. "No… don't speak of that now. Not when we can enjoy the present." She insisted, leaning in to kiss him again. She smiled coyly. "And now, I believe we should fetch some lunch. Would you care to join me, Monsieur?"
James sighed softly. "I have had that habit." he admitted, shrugging. "I'm working on it." Then he smiled at her, shaking his head. "You look lovely, Lacey, stop being so woeful about your hair. It looks just fine." he promised.
Thomas sniled helping her down and resting his hand on her stomach softly "not only a wife but a child to be..." He smiled pecking her cheek as he dug in his bag and handed him the jeweled compass that Edmund picked up, Cortez's compass "just this..." He smiled softly knowing his father would know what it was.Jackie smiled "he won't ever stop talking...it's how Sad'a learned English you know...never getting a word in." She teased lightly and kissed his cheek "when we get back to Tortuga it'll be my due date...can you believe it?"
Jack smiled and nodded as he paid for Pride and Prejudice for himself and a book of love poems for his love. He handed it to her as they exited the store and he looked around "where to Mademoiselle?" He chuckled finding the French word odd with his caeltic accent.
Lacey smiled lightly "thank you...I know I'm vain...but it's hard to forget when I look in the mirror and see Maxwell not Lacey..." She sighed leaning on his shoulder "you know...I should be proud to be named as the first woman but I just feel ashamed..."
Edmund hekd both of the girls and laughed softly smiling at Emma "darling they are gorgeous...so different yet identical obviously...they look like you, my beautiful wife...would you like to hold them?"
Marcoux squeezed her hand and smiled "they are our greatest friends, it will be wonderful to see them and Eliza can meet her God parents." He chuckled and smiled as his little girl came out in a dark blue dress with a little cape for the cold weather of London. He picked her up and smiled "ready darling? Our carriage awaits!"