Chapter 8

The next morning found James awake and dressed at sunrise and sitting on the private balcony attached to his room. Having given up on sleep he had hoped that watching the water might help sooth his mind. To say the previous day had been eventful was an understatement with its confessions and revelations. Katherine's confession had angered and saddened him, she had lost a love and her innocence in one night. Her caring nature, which he considered to be one of her biggest assets had been a curse that night.

When she told him he had to contain the anger that threatened to bubble over that someone might take advantage of her in such a way. He would never be able to grasp how a man could treat a woman, no matter her station, as if she was an animal. She had also proven she had a strength few would ever know she possessed to survive and continue with her enduring kindness.

After dinner the evening before he had been able to briefly speak to the Governor regarding Katherine. It seemed, inspite of his love for his daughter, the older man blamed Katherine for the entire event, which gave James some new insight on the family's interactions. However, he understood Katherine was also the Governor's only child and he was naturally protective of her, yet the Governor had made it clear he trusted James' sense of right and wrong when it came to Katherine.

The Governor had also finally been willing to discuss James' plans now that he was almost fully recovered. They had agreed that he would remain a guest in the Governor's house until after the dinner party that was to be held on Saturday. A few of the Governor's servants were to see that his house was ready to occupy and James would return to his home on Sunday, then he would resume his post on Monday morning slipping back into his role as Admiral. This time though, under Governor Conner and without the East India Trading Company, things would be different.

It was a bit of a whirlwind with Saturday just a day away, but a part of James sorely wished to return to the sea, inspite of everything he had found on dry land. The sea had been his life whole life since he was the naïve teenager who first joined the Royal Navy, stepping on a ship was like returning home. Despite the twists and turns his life had taken, the sea had remained a constant. It would mean however he would no longer have the luxury of talking to and spending endless time with Katherine.

For some time that morning he had sat, staring at the water, wondering if there was something he could do to help Katherine. She had saved his life, and to find some small way to, truly help her heal would be just one small way he could start to repay her kindness. He had remembered her fear at the barn and yet her love for horses that was made obvious by her riding habits. Her father had also let it be known during the conversation the previous evening that as a child she had spent nearly every free moment with her horse, and was often found in the stables.

An idea had struck him after a time, and leaving his balcony, he had made some arrangements for the day, praying Katherine would not be too terribly upset with him. In the back of his mind, he also worried that perhaps the Governor would not be pleased James was taking advantage of his trust should he and Katherine spend time alone together off the property. He hoped the older man's trust came without conditions and he could follow through on his plan for the day. He had returned a short time later to finish dressing for the day, saying a prayer to however might be listening that the day would go according to plan.

A knock on the door drew him from his thoughts, causing him to turn back towards the doorway. It was soft, and he had barely heard it above the waves, almost as if the person on the other side was afraid to wake a sleeping occupant.

James quickly finished slipping on his vest moved to the door. He surprised to see Katherine on the other side, dressed in pale blue and her hair was styled in the way it had been the night he had first awoke. The sides were pinned neatly on top of her head, allowing the rest to fall in curls around her shoulders. Giving her a small smile, he leaned slightly against the door frame wondering if she sensed she might be on his mind.

"Good morning," she said softly. "I thought perhaps you might be awake. I was on my way to the kitchen to see to breakfast."

Part of him wished to reach out and stroke her cheek and run his fingers through her long red curls. Her presence seemed to cause him to forget propriety and his thoughts certainly would lead him to do something he would have once referred to as brash. His uncharacteristic display on the deck of The Flying Dutchman had been an act of a man who knew he would not live to see dawn, but now he was is no danger and he could not explain his need to reach out to Katherine.

"Breakfast would be lovely," he told her, glad for his stroke of luck that she had appeared at his door. "Perhaps you would join me for a picnic along the water."

"Of course," she said, with a slight smile and James moved from the doorway into the hall, closing the door behind him.

James' mind wandered a bit as they moved through the halls together, unsure what he was attempting to accomplish by spending so much time with Katherine. In the past few days his mind had hardly been focused on wooing a woman, but that seemed to be the path he was taking. She seemed to be able to unconsciously bring out the man hidden beneath all the pomp and circumstance, and James was not sure he wanted to continue resist her influence. Hiding his heart away had not brought him happiness in the past.

As they entered the kitchen, he picked up a small saddle bag that was left draped across a chair. The servants continued their work, hardly glancing at the pair who had invaded the room. He had planned to set his plan into action later in the day, but the promise of a picnic breakfast had promise.

"Are we going for a ride?" Katherine asked, drawing James from his thoughts, a look of concern plainly written on her features.

"Perhaps," he said with a small, reassuring smile. "Do you trust me?"

"Yes, of course," she said softly. "But James…"

"Then trust that you will be completely safe," he told her, taking a step towards her, but not reaching out in front of the servants since they were prone to gossip. "No harm will come to you, you have my word."

He saw her nod slightly, seeming to accept his explanation for now, and then move towards a basket of fresh biscuits, wrapping them in a cloth. James picked a few pieces of fruit from the bowl on the table, placing them in the bag before Katherine added the biscuits. Then, Ruth surprised him when she handed him a canteen of fresh squeezed orange juice. She gave him a knowing smile, and then went back to her work.

Once they were outside on the path through the garden, James offered Katherine his arm, and couldn't help smiling when her hand came to rest on the inside of his elbow. They walked in silence until the barn came into view. It was then that Katherine froze as she had the day before, her hand dropping to her side. When she began to turn back towards the house, James quickly reached for her hand, trying to preventing her escape.

"Katherine," he said softly, "No one is waiting there to harm you. You will be safe; I told you that you have my word."

"I can not go in there," she said softly, staring straight ahead at the house. "Please, James, let me go..."

"I ask again, do you trust me?" he asked, noticing the slight shaking of her limbs as she stood rooted in place.

She merely nodded, slowly, almost cautiously allowing her eyes to find his. He silently begged her to allow him to help her and be there to offer protection. Slowly, she gave her consent by turning back to face the barn again and he once more led her down the path. As they walked, his hand came to rest on the small of her back, afraid if he broke the contact she would run back to the house. This woman needed to let go of some of her ghosts and he believed being able to spend time among the animals she had once loved a step towards healing.

The door was open and she allowed him to guide her inside out of the morning sun. She looked around for a moment, and James slowly dropped his hand back to his side, allowing her to have a little space. Katherine seemed to be slowly relaxing as she assured herself there was indeed no one there to bring her harm, she breath slowing once more.

Her horse was already saddled and standing off to one side of the stable. Katherine slowly walked over to the mare, gently stroking her nose and James couldn't help feeling a bit envious of the animal when Katherine leaned her forehead against the horse's neck. Katherine's eyes closed and her whole body seemed to relax as the horse nuzzled her in return.

Seeing the stable hand moving towards them, James waved him back, wanting to give Katherine the illusion that they were indeed alone. He was relieved when the young man complied, moving back to the other end of the barn and returning to whatever work he had previously been doing. Once he was out of sight, James turned his attention back to Katherine.

He moved towards her slowly, not wanting to frighten her. She smiled at him slightly as he moved into her eyesight, and he returned it with one of his own. The mare nuzzled his outstretched hand and he quickly understood Katherine's connection to the gentle natured animal. Moving to one side he attached the saddlebag, knowing the horse would carry them to wherever they decided to enjoy their breakfast.

"I believe I know the perfect spot for a picnic," James told her, moving back around the horse again so he could mount.

She moved back slightly, without comment and James slipped easily into the saddle. A small step stool had been placed to one side, and Katherine used it, along with James's help to pull herself up trying to maneuver her skirt. Settling behind him, her arms wrapped around his waist, and he felt her body pressed against his. James tried to ignore the warmth of her presence as he urged the horse forward towards the stable door, knowing it would do them no good if he allowed himself to become distracted.

They trotted down the path towards the beach, James urged the mare into a gentle canter. Katherine wrapped her arms a little tighter around him as the horse gained speed, and James couldn't help smiling, not wishing to slow their pace since she would surely pull back again.

He allowed the horse to move towards the water, splashing in the shallow end. Ahead was a large grouping of palms where no one had built homes or shops yet and there they would be able to enjoy the water and privacy. Today would be the last day that he would not be pulled in another direction, towards the life he had been ignoring the past few days. Today was the last chance he had to simply focus on the woman whom he owed his life.

As they reached the place they had been riding towards, he slowed the horse. He felt her loosen her hold on his waist slightly, but she did not pull away from him as the horse stopped. He told himself that she wasn't merely holding on to him to keep her balance.

He was able to dismount easily and then turned to help her from the back of the horse. She slid into his arms, allowing him to slowly lower her to the ground. Smiling down at her, her arms around his neck and his hands on her waist, his eyes wandered over her face. Taking in all of her features in the morning light his fingers ached to run through her long, red hair that shined with golden highlights in the morning sun. Momentarily his eyes focused on her lips and he nearly gave in to the desire to to cover them with his own.

"Thank you," she said softly, breaking the spell that had captured him.

A small smile formed on his lips as he pulled away from her slowly. He took the horse's reins, leading it towards a fallen tree and tying the mare up so she could not wander on her own. He then took the saddlebag from where he had secured it and turned back to Katherine.

She had settled herself underneath a large palm tree, looking out over the water and when she patted the spot on the sand next to her and James gladly took a seat. Opening the saddlebag, he placed a few pieces of fruit and the fresh rolls on top. The small canteen filled with orange juice was set to the side completing their breakfast spread.

"When I was a girl, I used to always dream of doing this," she confided softly. "Of course there were picnics, but those were always planned months in advance with a detailed menu. I was always so envious when I would see someone just enjoying a simple meal that was not a social event. They seemed so relaxed and at peace."

A slight smile escaped James's lips at the thought. He had not been on a picnic in years; he had certainly been a part of his share of impromptu meals as a youth to understand the simple pleasures. It wasn't hard to imagine that the vast majority of her life had been planned, he could at least give her this one morning.

He picked up an apple and took a bite as Katherine chose a roll from within the napkin of baked goods. Knowing exactly what it was like to have never known a simpler life, to always be expected to behave just so, were not completely unfamiliar concepts to James. Perhaps one of the only bright spots in his short career in piracy was that he no longer had to put on the airs of a high-ranking Naval Officer.

"My father occupied quite a bit of your time last night," she said suddenly. "Might I inquire as to the topic of conversation or will you be as vague as he?"

"We talked about many things," he told her. "The dinner party tomorrow night, my home, my post…and you."

She raised an eyebrow at him slightly and asked, "Do you care to elaborate on any of those topics or shall I let my mind fill in the blanks?"

He gave her a smirk as he took a bit of his apple. He had nothing to hide from her, but he was enjoying seeing the range of emotions and expressions on her face as she contemplated the various topics. When she nibbled her lower lip, once more felt the urge to kiss her until they were both breathless.

"Well, for the first topic, it was decided I should attend the dinner party tomorrow night," he told her. "Many of Port Royal's other Officers will be there and your father felt it the perfect opportunity for me to make a return to society.

"Also, tomorrow evening will be my last evening in your home. Your father is sending some of your servants to my home today so it will be ready for my return on Sunday. He felt it best I return home before Monday when I intended to return to my post."

He took note of the slight disappointment in her eyes when he told her he would no longer be able to wake just a few rooms away from her. In a few short days he had become so fond of her company and it was quickly becoming clear she was fond of his. The space, however, would be good. Perhaps he might truly be able to clearly determine his feelings for Katherine.

"That's very soon," she said softly.

"I have to start living and make the most of this chance I've been given," he told her, and she nodded slightly.

"And what of the last topic?" she asked, her eyes meeting his.

"The last topic?" he asked, feigning forgetfulness in a playful manner.

"You said you spoke of...me," she replied, blushing a bit under his gaze.

"We spoke of you for quite awhile," he told her. "Briefly about what happened in Dover, but mostly about the time we've spent together."

She smirked a bit and said, "I suppose he wouldn't approve of our picnic."

"I'm not entirely sure that's the case," he answered. "He told me he trusted me, that he knew I would not allow any harm to come to you. You are his only child, so I understand he is protective."

"He blames me, did you know that?" she asked softly, and James had to look away for a moment.

When talking to the Governor he had more then seemed to blame Katherine. Yet, it was obvious he cared for his daughter the James wondered if perhaps he was misdirecting his anger at the situation. Governor Conner would never be able to change the past, and he imagine that would weigh heavily on the other man's mind.

"It was not your fault," he said. "You were so young and you couldn't have known. Regardless of what anyone says, you are not to blame for a crime that was committed against you."

"Thank you," she replied, her voice just above a whisper.

Reaching out he could not resist brushing a stray piece of hair from her face and was pleased when she leaned into his touch. His fingers trailed down her cheek and jaw, and reluctantly he dropped his hand back to her side. Noting the blush on Katherine's cheeks he couldn't help feeling a small bit of pride at having drawn forth such a reaction.

They fell into a comfortable silence, choosing to eat some of the treats they had brought. There were birds running along the shore, taking advantage of the small animals that washed up with the tide and in the distance a school of dolphins were playing in the morning sun. Occasionally one of them would comment on their surroundings, and the time passed without care or worry.

As they finished their breakfast, Katherine said, "Tell me about your childhood."

It had been quite some time since anyone had asked him about his past and his life before Port Royal. While he had never forgotten his life in England, he also had not thought of it in years. The Caribbean had become his whole life, and he doubted he would ever truly know anything different.

"I grew up in London," he began. "My father was a Naval Officer, so my mother and I were often alone. She was a painter and used to paint the most beautiful portraits. I managed to bring one with me on the crossing; I suppose the rest were destroyed over the years. She also taught me to read and write, and made sure that I learned all I would need to know to survive among society.

"We had a peaceful life until I was ten. My father was killed at sea by pirates sailing off the coast of the African continent. Without my father to support us, my mother began to work as a seamstress and stopped painting. She fell ill three years later and after she died I followed in my father's footsteps and joined the Royal Navy."

"I'm sorry you lost both your parents at such a young age," she said.

"Thank you," he said softly. "While I still miss them to this day, I do believe that every event in our lives happens for some reason. If they had still been alive I mostly likely would not have accepted a post here and I would never have the opportunity to share a picnic with you."

He noticed her blush and hoped his statement had not sounded too sentimental and foolish. Yet he was somewhat surprised when she stood and moved towards the water a bit. He could not see her face, but her tenseness of her shoulders and the way she held her hands told him there was something she was longing to say even if she could not find the words.

"Katherine?" he asked softly, watching her.

"We are friends, aren't we?" she asked, not facing him.

"Of course we are," he replied, standing and taking a step towards her. "What is it that's one your mind?"

"I…I've grown closer to you in a few short days than almost any friend I've ever had," she told him, finally turning back to him. "Yet in just a few more days you will return to your post and I doubt you will find much use for my company once you return to society. I mean someone with such an important position can hardly be expected to have time for anything else and there will certainly be many more people seeking your time."

"Katherine," James said, giving her a small smile as his hands came to rest on her arms, "I will always make time for you, should you wish my company."

Reaching up with one hand he cupped her cheek and she leaned her head into his touch, her eyes never leaving his. He felt himself leaning towards her, almost as if he was not consciously doing so, until his lips gently brushed over hers. When she did not pull away he deepened the kiss, slowly, savoring each moment. He pulled away after a moment, knowing that as a man there would only be so much he could stand, and brushed one final kiss across her forehead. He wished he could have stayed all day with her on the beach, but the sun was beginning to grow strong and he knew they would soon be expected back at the house.

"I should bring you home," he said, and was rewarded with a small smile as she nodded.

Together they packed what was left of their picnic back in the saddlebag and set off back towards the mansion. This time James could feel Katherine's head against his shoulder as she held onto him. The ride back seemed to incredibly short, making him wish it wouldn't have to come to an end just yet.

They entered the barn and dismounted, James leading the mare over to the stable hand who was awaiting their arrival. Outside he took Katherine's hand and began to lead her back to the mansion when she stopped him. Turning to look at her, he was surprised when she closed the distance between them and gave him another kiss, this one lingering for a moment.

"Thank you for the picnic," she said, when she had finally pulled away, and James found himself unable to stop the large grin from spreading across his face.

He led her towards the mansion again, his fingers still intertwined with hers, not ready to break the contact. He wondered what was so different about his relationship with Katherine that he was so willing to throw propriety to the wind. This second chance would not be one filled with regrets, and he seemed off to a good start at making sure that did not happen.

As they drew near to the mansion, he could see two figures standing at the top of the steps. One was clearly that of the Governor, and the other was that of a woman. From her height and posture he could tell it was not Maria. They grew closer and the mystery turned. James felt his pulse quicken and his mouth went dry at the sight of her face. This was a face he had thought he would never see again.

A smile spread across the woman's beautiful features and beside him he felt Katherine gasp slightly and her hand fell from his as the woman made her way down the steps to meet them. This ghost from his past was not completely unwelcome, just a reminder of all the regrets he was trying to never repeat.

One word escaped his lips as she moved closer, "Elizabeth."