Page 21 of Pirate's Intent
He wondered at the quickly masked flash of pain in her eyes. But then it fed into his growing suspicion about what actually happened to her. Something he would address once they were on higher ground and prepared to fight.
“I think it is probably best you keep your nose to the ground.” He tucked a pistol, cutlass, and several daggers on his person before he wedged a small blade into her belt. “And keep your hand on the hilt of your blade at all times.”
She smirked, her eyes twinkling. “I shall not be a boisterous pirate, then?”
Though tempted to pull her into his arms and not let her do this, they had no choice.
“I think the less attention you draw to yourself, the better.” He gestured that she follow him on deck. “As a rule, female pirates tend to keep to themselves. The rowdy ones are usually looking for a fight.”
“Goodness,” she replied. “I will not be doing that.” When he perked a brow at her, she dutifully fell into her role. She narrowed her eyes, put a hand on the hilt of her blade, and spoke through clenched teeth, “Unless they ask fer it, aye, Cap’n?”
He nodded with approval, confident she would be able to pull this off. She had to because the alternative was not worth giving thought to.
“We will not be dealing with many men between here and the woodland,” he divulged. “Just keep your head down and avoid eye contact.”
She nodded. “Aye, sir.”
“Aye, Cap’n,” he corrected.
“Aye, Cap’n,” she repeated, then even threw in a wink.
He smiled, then focused on the shore. They sailed into the northwest part of the island, where barrier islands protected them against rough ocean waves. As he suspected would be the case, there were few pirates about, most drinking and whoring inland. Though the sun was several hours from setting, a full moon was rising, which was favorable. It would allow them a clear view of the harbor later.
They had nearly made the tree line when someone called out. “Now what’ve we here?” He whistled. “’Tis a bloody fine arse, that.”
“Hell,” Thomas muttered. He spoke out of the corner of his mouth, “Just keep walking, Rose.”
“You there,” the pirate called again. He and his fellowmen swaggered their way. “Don’t ye hear me, my petite?”
Thomas and Charles cast each other grim looks, ready to confront the men, when Rose notched her chin, spun on her heel and strutted back their way.
“Bloodyhell,” he said under his breath, following her.
She stopped in front of them, planted her fists on her hips, and narrowed her eyes. “Have ye a problem then?”
“No problem.” One leered, displaying his blackened teeth. “As we said, ye’ve a fine arse.” His lecherous gaze raked over her. “One me and my men would like to enjoy.” He grabbed his crotch. “If ye take my meaning.”
“Aye, I take it all right.” Considering their offer, Rose adjusted her hips awkwardly before she shrugged and stunned Thomas. “Itcoulduse a good plowin’ and might relieve me some.” She flinched in what appeared discomfort. “If ye ain’t opposed to the itchin’ afterward.” Rose scratched one perfectly rounded buttock. “Ye know, yer cock’s likely to catch the buggers and all.” Perplexed, she frowned. “Thought they only went for the front side, but I guess not.” She shook her head. “All I know is it itches somethin’fierceI tell ye.”
He bit back a grin when their faces fell, and they backed away.
“Ye’re up for it then, aye?” she persisted, eyeing their groins with hope.
All three hightailed it in the opposite direction, cursing all the while about wenches inland giving them less trouble.
Charles chuckled and winked at her. “Ye’re a right pirate ye are, missus!”
“Why, thank you, kind sir.” She tapped her arse, winked at Thomas in passing, and sauntered in the direction they had been heading. “Are ye comin’ then, Cap’n?”
Thomas grinned and shook his head, in swift pursuit. He would have to keep in mind how good she was at this in case she pulled one over on him someday.
If therewerea someday.
Luckily, they came across no others on the way to his holding. Like the one in Nassau, it was not overly large but suited his brother and him while in port. The wooden floor was creaky and old, and the roof in need of repair, but it was in a good location for its vantage point. As expected, having been in waiting, more crewmembers greeted them when they arrived.
“Welcome, Cap’n.” His second mate clapped him on the shoulder, his eyes lingering on Rose with appreciation. “All’s ready to go if need be.”
“Very good.” He introduced Phillip to Rose then gestured at her outfit. “You can thank my lad here for your clothing.”
