EL LOBO DEL MAR

[Welsh Wench]

Bonita gave a sly smile and turned to Philip.
"You be de son of Josiah Briggs."
The boy was startled.
"How did you know?"
"Bonita know many t'ings. You father, he a good man. Always try to do right by others even when surrounded by dose dat do not care."

Cade leaned back, enjoying Bonita plying her ways to the young man.
"Perhaps Bonita will toss the bones for you, young Briggs."
Phillip looked questioningly at Cade.
"Bones?"
Drusilla slopped ale on the counter as she was drawing up ale for Cade and Phillip. She gave it a shove with the intent of having it arrive at the destination of their hands.  But she overshot her aim and it landed on the floor with a resounding crash.
"Oops, too much slide! Be better next time around wit' practice. Bones no lie. Our Tia Elena, she showed us---"
Bonita exploded, "You shut your yapper! Always wit' de 'we' when you not learn bones from Tia Elena! She say, 'Drusilla not have de brains or touch. Well, Tia Elena be wrong at dat! You touched, alright, Drusilla. Touched in de head!"

Drusilla straightened her bow and adjusted her hoop earrings. One dropped and disappeared in a tankard of ale.  She fished it out with her fingers and sucked the ale off them.
"Ooops! Butterfingers!"
She looked over at Bonita as she put the earring back in her ear.
"Well, den, YOU toss de bones, Madame Snake-in-de-Grass! Just because you five years older not mean----"

Bonita put her finger to her eye and pulled her lower lid down. "If Drusilla not watch it, her get de evil eye. And you know what dat mean!"
Drusilla whispered to Cade, "I know dat body parts no work when she do de evil eye. But Drusilla not have de parts dat need to work."
She winked at Cade as he spewed his ale.

Bonita glared darkly at Drusilla. "Maybe I give you de parts dat won't work."
Drusilla clammed up and Bonita continued.
"I toss and read de bones for you, young Briggs."
Bonita reached under the table and withdrew three black candles. She lit them and then reached for her leather pouch. The shadows bounced off the walls casting malevolent fingers on the stucco.
"I toss de bones for you, now, young Briggs."
She tossed the bones on the tabletop, the large bone touching the small leg bone and bouncing off the knucklebone.
All four stared at the bones.
Drusilla exclaimed, "See? Dat bone dere---"
Bonita drew her finger across her throat.
"Shut you face, Dru, or else I put a curse on you and you have dat ribbon strangle you in you sleep."

Phillip asked, "So what do the bones mean?"
Bonita stared at him. "I be patient wit' you, and I make allowances because you young."
She looked intently at the bones.
"De bones tell Bonita you seek your father."
"But I told you that."
She ignored him.
"You father you will find. It not hard. I see a woman wit' hair de colour of fire. She will help you."
She gave him a sly smile.
"You want to see you future, young Briggs?"
He nodded.
"I see a female animal and she draw close to you. Very frisky,  very young. She cause you problems. But one day she save you life."
"I get a dog?"
Drusilla giggled, oblivious to the dagger looks Bonita was giving her.
"No, young Briggs, you no get a dog.  Dis female animal not really an animal but Bonita get no clear picture. Like so many times....."
She stopped suddenly and put the bones away.
She muttered, "Always de same surrounding dat man!"
Phillip asked, "But what does it all mean?"
She  shrugged. "You just have to find out for yourself, young Briggs. Someday. Someday you will know. When it happens."

[Welsh Wench]

The Gryphon cleared the harbour of Castara Bay. Phillip stood at the gunwale enjoying the sun and the Caribbean blue sea.
"It never fails, does it?" a voice behind him said.
"What?"
"The colour of the sea. The depth of the blue. Like nothing you had seen before."
Phillip breathed deep and nodded. "An azure blue."
Cade looked toward the horizon. "I knew a woman once with eyes that colour and hair the colour of the sun...."
Phillip grinned. "You are waxing poetic today, Captain. Is this the captain's wife you are alluding to?"
"Maybe. Maybe not. There are alot of women in this world, whelp. In all shapes, sizes and colours."
"But you never speak of them, Captain."
"Shut up, wise guy."
Phillip laughed. In the weeks they had been sailing together, there was a cameraderie between the two. Phillip had learned to read navigational charts and kept the captain's log up to date, to which Captain Jennings was eternally grateful.

Cade cleared his throat. "Yes, she is married to my former mentor. And before you ask--yes, I am still in love with her. And she is with me. You can't have what we had and not still be in love. I'll find her. I'm close to it. And when I do, she will realize it and leave Wolfe. I'm sure she is with him only as a means to catch up to me."

Phillip had his doubts but kept them to himself. He changed the subject.
"And we are headed to Barbados?"
"Aye. We need to unload the swag we picked up in Scotland and then on to Bridgetown."
"Bridgetown is nice?"
Cade smiled. "Josiah always told me how much he loved the cheesy biscuits there."
"Cheesy biscuits?"
"Well, among other things. It's legendary that he was partial to redheads, too."
Phillip looked out towards the sea. "Heard my mother was a redhead."
Cade clapped him gently on the shoulder.
"I'm sorry, Phillip, that you never had a chance to know your mum. But you are one day closer to finding your father. And you can stay with me until we find him."
"What if he doesn't want me to find him?"
"Josiah not want to see you? He will be over the moon!"
"How can you be so sure?"
Cade poured himself a cup of coffee and added a splash of brandy to it.
"Josiah, for all his apparent gruffness, is the soul of sweetness."
"Did he ever mention having a son?"
Cade shook his head. "Not to me. He and Duckie talked alot. The good doctor seems to be the keeper of everyone's secrets. But once Duckie and I were in a tavern in Grenada. We had quite a few and Josiah came up in the conversation.
Duckie told me how Briggs' son had disowned him and the boy was all he had left to remember his wife. That and a locket with her portrait. But he never showed it to anyone but Jack and Duckie. By all accounts, Duckie says she was a beautiful woman. You look like you don't resemble her at all. You look just like your father. Even your temperment. But Briggs is a mother hen."
"How so?"
"He frets and worries and ends up doing damage control. Especially where Captain Wolfe is concerned."
"Is Wolfe that bad?"
"Impetuous. Lord, you should have heard the story when Jack married his wife. I was in Castara getting the smuggling operation set up but I heard the story from Davis. Briggs wrung his hands like a washerwoman and almost stuck his head in Cook's oven."
"But you all liked her, didn't you?"
"Oh, for sure! But it changed the dynamics of the crew. Before, it was the 'boy's club'. Having a woman on board messed up the structure of the ship. Before that, Briggs had his captain's undivided attention. Now he had to share it.  Wolfe was attentive to his wife. Briggs lost that cameraderie to a degree and it struck a sour chord with him."
"It did?"
"It reminded Josiah of how much he missed with Anne dying. And the sea became his love as it were."
"Did my father ever remarry?"
"No. But he did seem fond of Madame Renee."
"Madame?"

Cade realized he should have omitted the 'madame' in his reference to Renee. Even though Phillip was young, he surely must know what a madame is. But Cade recovered quickly.
"Renee is a dear friend of Captain Wolfe. When he was taken captive by Count Mendoza, she helped nurse him back to health. To that we all owe her a debt of gratitude. And Dr Drake Gander--Duckie as we all call him--was a lost soul.  Seems they were friends from their days at Oxford. So yes, she is a friend."

Phillip sighed. "I missed so much."
Cade took a drink of his ale. "Aye. So did Josiah. But it is time to put things right, yes? You can spend the rest of your lives getting to know each other."
Phillip bit his lip. There was so much to take in and the nagging doubt that maybe his father had washed his hands of him and didn't really want to see him.

Cade noticed the frown on the lad's face and clapped him on the shoulder.
"Don't fret, kid. Things have a way of working out. And even if they don't..."
Phillip lifted his head up. "Then what?"
Cade grinned and poured an ale for himself and one for Phillp.
"Then it looks like I have a junior navigator and cartographer, if you don't mind staying on!"

Phillp visibly relaxed.
"I appreciate that, Cade.  But let's hope he wants to see me."
Cade frowned. "You already have a problem, kid."
"What is that?"
"There are two 'z's in mizzenmast."
They both laughed and clinked their tankards together.
"Well, then, I shan't make that mistake again!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Herndon rapped crisply on the Governor's door.  The hurried clinking of a decanter stopper being returned to its bottle could be heard, followed by someone clearing their throat.
"Yes, what is it?" came a strained voice.
"There is a gentleman here to see you, sir."
"Send him away!"
"He is with me at the door, Governor."
"Damn you..." swore Culley.  "Give me a moment!"
Jack cocked an eyebrow at Herndon.  "The governor seems out of sorts," he said quietly.
"He often is these days, sir.  If I had announced your arrival with you waiting out front as is custom, no one would ever see the governor."
"Good to know," said Jack.  "This should be interesting."
Herndon nodded in agreement.  But before the manservant could say any more, the door opened abruptly.  They both turned to see Culley retreating to his desk.
"Good luck, sir, whatever you are here for," said Herndon.  Jack smiled politely and stepped inside.

He closed the door behind him and walked to the chair in front of Culley's desk.  The desk was cluttered with documents.  A mostly empty crystal decanter sat on one corner.  Beside it was a half-filled glass of brandy.  The governor himself looked nearly as dishevelled as his desk.  The normally well groomed man looked haggard, his usually crisp clothing becoming worn and threadbare.  Jack suddenly felt out of place as the best dressed man in the room.  He nodded respectfully to the governor before taking a seat.
"And how can the Commonwealth be of service to you today, Mister..." said Culley.
Jack gave him a bemused look.  "You don't recognise me, Governor?"
"You seem familiar, but I can't say from where.  Perhaps a social event?"
"No, Governor.  I'm Jack Wolfe."
Culley stared at the man sitting across from him.  "You?  What...  How...  This is a different look for you, Captain!"
"I have my wife to thank for that.  The love of a good woman can be transformational."
"So I see."  Culley took a sip of brandy.  "Married, eh?  Your wife is something of a miracle worker.  I daresay you look like a respectable citizen.  Expensive clothing, clean shaven, your hair a more modest length...  she's disguised you well."
"It's no disguise, Governor Culley."

Culley blinked, then began to laugh.  "Oh, that's good.  That's very good!  You've always had quite the sense of humour about you, Captain Wolfe.  But this... this is rich!  Pretending not to be a pirate, when I know full well what you are..."
"Were," interrupted Jack.  "That's what I'm here to see you about."
Culley's face clouded in confusion.  "What the devil are you getting at?" he snapped.
"I came by to let you know I've retired from my former trade."
"What, you think you can just snap your fingers and rejoin clean society?  You really are insane, Wolfe.  If it weren't for our business arrangement, I'd have you tarred and hanging at the entrance to the bay."
"The Lord Protector of the Commonwealth might have something different to say about the matter," said Jack.  He pulled a folded set of papers from his coat pocket and placed them on Culley's desk.

Culley hesitantly picked the papers up, as if they might explode at any moment.  He kept his eyes on Jack as he unfolded them.  But when he read the title of the document, he sat bolt upright in his chair.
"A pardon??  A forgery, is more like it!" he bellowed.  "How dare you try something so preposterous with me, Wolfe!  I'm no fool!"
Jack countered Culley's bluster with a slight smile.  "Look at the last page before you try insulting me again, dear Governor."
Culley flipped to the last page of the document, and shook his head angrily.  "You're a wealthy man.  You can afford convincing forgeries."
Jack sighed heavily.  "Governor, look at the seal.  I know what the penalty for forging the seal of the highest seat of the government carries.  This is no fraud.  I invite, no, I entreat you to verify this with your superiors in England!  By signing that pardon, I ended my days of piracy.  That means ending any and all 'business' relationships I established in the name of piracy.  You know that as well as I do, Governor."

Culley folded up the pardon and tossed it dismissively onto his desk.  "Nothing changes until I am satisfied this is not an elaborate – and incredibly stupid – ploy on your part, Wolfe.  I let you operate your enterprises far too long--"
"And to your great increase."
"Be that as it may, I'm not ready for that aspect of things to change.  You understand, of course."
Jack glared at the man sitting across from him.  "Oh, I know all too well, Governor.  That's why I'm doing all I can to ensure you understand the new order of things.  Trust me on that."
"Don't threaten me, Wolfe.  Just keep making the usual payments until I'm satisfied of the veracity of your pardon, and everything will be just fine."
Jack stood and straightened his coat.  "I don't threaten, Governor.  I simply intend to minimise any foot dragging in this matter.  That's a promise.  Now, good day."
As Jack turned to leave, Culley picked up the pardon and waved it tauntingly.  "I know you don't trust me, Wolfe.  Yet you leave this behind in my care?  What if something were to happen to it?  That would be most unfortunate, don't you think?"
Jack turned to him and smiled.  "That's why I gave you an official copy, Governor.  Mine is safely stored away.  From you, and from everyone else.  Now, good day, and no dallying."

He closed the door behind him loudly, just short of a slam.  Herndon was there, attentive as ever.  The manservant fell in step beside Jack as he walked briskly toward the entrance to the residence.
"I trust you overheard everything, Herdon?" said Jack.
"Perhaps a word here and there," Herdon replied.
Jack pulled several coins from his pocket and handed them to Herndon.  "Really?"
"I heard everything, sir.  Congratulations on you well-deserved pardon.  And your marriage."
"Good man," said Jack.  "I'm hoping you'll remember my generosity as well as what went on in there."
"Oh, I shall, sir.  Rest assured there is one person here you can count upon."
Jack smiled as he turned and walked to the front door.  "I knew I liked you!" he said as he stepped into the bright Barbados sunlight.

[Welsh Wench]

Honour hummed a tune as she arranged and rearranged flowers in a vase. Zara toddled around the room holding Evie her cat as Muir followed closely behind.
Jack came down the stairs.
"Something smells wonderful in here."
She gave him a smile and said, "Mrs. Avery has been bustling around. She has a chicken dish she is making for dinner. Mr. Avery has gone to the garden for some field greens and tomatoes. And there is a lemon cake that I don't want to see your fingers in."
"Not even the frosting?"
"Not even the frosting."
"You are no fun."
He put his arms around her waist and drew her back into him. "But you sure are fun after dark, Mrs. Wolfe!"

She turned around to face him and playfully smacked his chest.
"Writing letters of termination to that windbag Culley always puts me in a beneveolent mood. And when I am in a benevolent mood..."
"You are generous?"
She kissed him. "I tend to be, yes. Now would you be a good husband and help get that crystal down off the cupboard? It's up too high for me."
"Three, right?"
"Hmmm? Um...no. Four."
"Four? You plan on Zara joining us for dinner? She's too young to hold a crystal goblet."
"As I surely don't want her drinking wine anytime soon."
Jack's eyes narrowed suspiciously.
"And just who is the fourth mystery person, Mrs. Wolfe?"
"Maybe I just wanted an extra goblet down in case one gets broken. Have you ever thought of that?"
Jack shrugged. "I guess I didn't."

Honour smiled to herself. 'This may be a very memorable dinner party...'

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"What was that?" asked Jack as he carefully retrieved the wine glass.
"I said it's exciting to be having our first dinner party."
"Renee can be a lot of fun, but I'd hardly call one dinner guest a party."
"Says he about an old flame," Honour teased.
Jack's face flushed a little.  "She's not an 'old flame'.  Just an old friend and business partner."
"Mmm hmm.  A business partner with certain benefits..."
"I'm beginning to get an idea of how this evening is going to go."
"Oh, hush.  It will be a lovely evening.  I know she can't be as horrid as Bonita."
Jack handed Honour the wine glass.  "I've never known her to carry chicken bones, if that's what you mean.  And her disposition is much sunnier."
"As long as she doesn't hate me on sight," said Honour.
"No chance.  She'll adore you."
"I hope so.  You know, most wives wouldn't even consider meeting someone their husband was previously involved with."
"In our case, I'd say it's only right."
"How so?"
"Well," said Jack, "I've known two of your romantic involvements.  Quite well, in fact.  So we'll call it even."

It was Honour's turn to blush.  All that seemed like a lifetime ago.  Like it happened to another person.  And in many ways, that was true. 
"I suppose I deserved that," she answered, sounding a little more hurt than she'd intended.
Jack took her gently by the shoulders.  "I'm sorry, Honour.  I was only teasing."  He looked into her eyes.  "You know I love you.  More than ever before.  The only thing that matters to me is what lies before us.  Nothing will ever change that."
"I know," she smiled.  "As I love you.  Just as long as you remember one thing."
"And what is that?"
"Just how very lucky you are."
"How could I ever forget that?  There are emperors that don't have it as good as I do."
"An emperor?" she laughed.  "And I liked you when you were just a captain."
"Which makes you an empress."
"Careful, I could get used to being an empress."
"Then I am a lucky emperor!"  He pulled her close.  "Just how lucky, though?"
"Oh, you're still a pirate!" she said with a playful laugh.  "Now behave.  Our guest will be here any time."
"Are you sure?  I lose track of time when I'm with you..."
A loud jangle of tuned bells rang out from the entry foyer.
"Saved by the bell!" Honour giggled.  "Go, Emperor Romeo.  See to our guest!  I'll finish up here and meet you in the parlour."

Renee jumped when Jack answered the door.
"Dear God!" she exclaimed.  "I still can't get used to the sight of you all cleaned up.  I thought I'd wound up on the parson's doorstep by mistake!"
"Now how on earth would you know what the parson looks like?  I thought you were allergic to church."
"You get to know the regulars," she said with a wink.  "Well?  Invite me in already!"
Jack laughed loudly.  "Where are my manners?  Please, do come in!"
He stepped aside to allow his friend enter the house.  Renee's dress was unusually understated for her.  Instead of the bold colours she preferred, she had chosen an intricately brocaded dress of pearly grey and a muted rose, paired with a delicately laced cream-coloured blouse.  Her hair was in soft ringlets, partially tied back with a ribbon that matched the rose colour of her dress.  It was an unusually coquettish look for her.
"I must say, you're looking especially fetching this evening, Renee.  What's the occasion?"
"Oh, this old thing?" she lied, adjusting the folds on the front of the skirt.  "Just something I dug out of the closet.  I never upstage the hostess, me.  It's not polite."
"Boolocks.  Something is up.  What have you done with Renee?"
She gave him a playful shove.  "Oh, shut your stupid face, would you?" she said with mock indignation.   "You're not half as clever as people think you are, especially you."
"There she is!" he laughed.  "Come on, let me show you to the parlour.  Honour and I will give you the grand tour a little later."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Renee looked around the grand foyer as they walked to the main parlour.
"I already like what Honour's done with the place.  Very classy."
"What makes you think it was all Honour's doing?" asked Jack.
"No tar, ropes, and rum crates laying about, for starters," she quipped.  "I've been aboard your ship.  Your style is decidedly nautical.  This... this is lovely."
"I could have her come round and spiff up your place, if you'd like."
"Oi!  There's nothing wrong with the way I've decorated!  Not like the clientèle notice the furnishings, just what's available."
"You know I'm having you on, dear," he smiled.  "Renee Bertrand is known for her class and style."
"Well, Pip Woolston's done all right for herself, too."
"Of that I have no doubt," he said, not thinking anything of her reply.  "Here we are.  Have a seat and I'll get you something to drink.  Brandy, with a splash of spiced rum?"
"You know me well, sweetie," she said as she sat down.
"All these years, I'd better," he chuckled.  "How does it feel, not having a business partner any more?"
"Good," she answered.  "And a little odd.  But I like it.  It's not often a girl gets to have a business all to herself."
He offered her a crystal glass of amber liquid.  "It was always yours to run as you see fit."
"Yes, but it was never fully mine.  Makes a difference.  How would you feel if   you'd had only part ownership in the Lobo all this time?"
"I see your point.  Business partners can make things feel restricted."
"I'm not saying that about you, dove.  You were never around enough to be a pain in the arse.  But you see what I'm saying?"

Jack finished pouring his own drink.  "Yes, I do.  Don't forget, I had a business partner I had to keep happy.  Or at least quiet."
Renee's face clouded.  "Oh, that bastard Culley.  You know his money's run out, didn't you?  And his political support in England, too.  It's making him cruel, I think.  He's been... rough with the last couple of girls."
"Rough, you say?" asked Jack, his eyes narrowing.
"Nothing we haven't dealt with before, really.  Enough to throw a good scare into them.  He fancies Ruby, but I'll not let him have a favourite."
"Not that I have any say in matters any more, but..."
"Now, this I have to hear.  Go on!"
"The arrangement with Culley and the girls was part of the agreement to keep him in my pocket.  I ended that agreement with him formally, today."
Renee's eyes went wide.  "How did he take it?"
Jack took a sip of his drink.  "Very poorly."
"You haven't told Honour yet."
"Who knows whom well?  I don't want her upset.  This is old business that's some to an end."
"And you honestly expect him to be reasonable?"
"No, I don't.  This is insult to injury in his eyes."
"But?"
"But, what?"
"There's always a 'but' with you, sweetie."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"You do know me well."  He took a deep breath.  "So Culley is of little means now.  In his world, wealth is everything.  Most importantly, it's influence.  With no money to buy favours, his power is virtually gone.  Serves him right for being a poor statesman and a poorer businessman."
"That's all fine and well, for you.  Everyone knows you're richer than Solomon.  I'm surprised that worm isn't here every day kissing your arse to get a handout.  But what about me?  The side of the street I work on, he can still make my life hell.  Even a failure like Culley has loyalists."
"Briggs told me not long ago that some of my old crew are looking for steady work.  With your permission, of course, I could hire a few trustworthy ones to provide protection for you and the girls."

Renee smiled a little at mention of Josiah's name.  She took a sip of her drink as she considered Jack's offer.  "I surely would sleep better if you did.  But will you be able to find enough men to guard both our properties?"
Jack shot her a mildly exasperated look.  "How did you know I had that in mind?"
"Easy," she chuckled.  "You're always three steps ahead of everyone else, so I had to learn to be a step ahead of you.  It's served me well.  Especially when..."
"When you wanted more money for the business?"
"That, and with my diverse clientèle.  Pennyfloggers, the lot of them!  It's not like they aren't getting the cream of the crop--"
Jack held up his hand.  "Hold on there!  Before you get going on this pet peeve again, dear, let's finish talking about protection."  He looked out the doorway to make sure Honour wasn't close by.  "Yes, I'll be hiring men for your place and here."
"I knew you would.  I just wanted to hear you say the words."
"I've got too much to lose now to dream of taking chances," he said quietly.  "A wife, a daughter..."
Renee nodded.  "And God help Culley if he's stupid enough to try anything against them or you.  I know that look.  Last time you wore that face, you were talking about Mendoza."
"I think Diego learned his last time.  I'd rather not have to teach it to anyone else."
Renee held up her glass, and Jack clinked his against it.  "What's that for?" he asked.
"To us keeping at least three steps ahead of the bastards," she smiled.

"Which bastards are we talking about?" asked Honour from the doorway.

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

She was standing there in a pale blue dress adorned with buttercream-coloured lace.  Her hair was tied back in a matching blue ribbon.  In her arms rode Zara.  The little girl wore a dress almost matching the colour of her mother's.  She was holding her raggedy toy rabbit by the ear.
"There you are!  And looking beautiful as always!," Jack replied smoothly.  "We weren't speaking of anyone in particular, my love.  It's a favourite toast.  Sort of an old tradition."  He put his glass down and went to Honour's side.  "Honour, let me properly introduce you to Madame Renee de Bertrand, one of the luminaries of the Barbados social scene.  And Madame Renee, this is my lovely and wonderful wife, Honour Wolfe."
"If it isn't the woman who broke the heart of every warm-blooded doxy in the Caribbean," said Renee to Honour.  Her smile widened as she looked to Zara, who was playing with a curl of her mother's blond hair.  "And this is the one who'll be breaking hearts in her own time!  She's beautiful!"

Honour couldn't help but smile at the compliments.  She also couldn't help but notice how stunning Renee was.  A little flame of jealousy flickered inside her at meeting yet another of Jack's former dalliances.  This one can't be nearly as horrid as Bonita, she thought as the twinge of jealously faded.
"Why, thank you, Madame Renee!" she said proudly.  "And it's a pleasure to finally meet you!  Jack's told me so much about you."
"Only good things, I hope!" smiled Renee.  "And let's drop the 'Madame', shall we?  Get Jackie here to tell you the whole story, and you'll see I'm no more noble born than himself.    'Renee' will do just fine."
"Really!" said Honour.  "You'll have to tell me more about this, 'Jackie'!  The last time I heard him called that, it was from his brother, Thomas."
Renee's eyes went wide.  "Thomas?  You finally met up with him again?" she asked happily.
"He delivered Jack's pardon personally!" said Honour.
Renee gave Jack and exasperated look.  "You bloody prawn!  You didn't tell me you patched things up with your brother!"
"They positively celebrated!" laughed Honour.  "He drank Thomas under the table.  THEN introduced me to him!  Can you imagine?"
"Out of this bloke?  Love, the stories I could tell!"
Honour smiled mischievously at her husband.  "I'd love to hear it, Renee!  Every last word!"
"Well, this is gonna be a long night," sighed Jack.
"Oh, stop grousing," said Renee.  "You like the attention.  Two women, both focused on you?  Most men live for that fantasy.  And you, my pet, lived it more than---"
"Hasn't the weather been splendid lately?" he interrupted.
Honour's eyes went as wide as dinner plates as she looked at Jack.  Abruptly she looked back to Renee.  "Oh, you have to tell me EVERYTHING.  I need the dirt for when I'm losing arguments."
"Oh, I do like her!" Renee said laughingly to Jack.  She reached out for Zara.  "May I?"
Jack's mouth dropped open in mock surprise.  "You, hold a baby?  I thought you said you were allergic to 'nappies and snot'"?
"I am, if I can't give the little bairns back!  And besides, I only said that to Josie.  How is that lovely hunk of a man?"
"Happier than I've ever seen him, as the new captain of El Lobo," said Jack.  "If anyone's earned it, he has.  He loves that ship almost as much as I... did."
Honour eased Zara into Renee's arms. 
"Look at you!" Renee said softly.  "Apple of your da's eye, you are.  And just the most beautiful little girl I've ever seen!"  She laughed as Zara tentatively took hold of a tendril of her scarlet hair.  "Never seen anything like that, have you, little one?"
"Bwiggs!" said Zara.
Renee laughed loudly.  "Well, our little lady has been paying attention to what the men in her life like!  And what's that you have in your hands, little one?  A bunny?  Can Auntie Renee – dear God, I thought I'd never say that – can Auntie Renee see it?"

Zara lifted the little stuffed rabbit up for Renee to see...  and promptly dropped it.
"Bolx!" the little girl exclaimed.
"Oh, really?" Renee said to Jack, scarcely able to contain her laughter.
"You never stopped saying that, did you," asked Honour as she stooped to pick up the toy.
"Well, I, um..." stammered Jack.  "All right, fine, you caught me!  Ratted out by my own daughter."
Zara's face began to cloud, but brightened again when her mother returned her favourite toy.  "Bun-bun!" she said triumphantly.
"Yes, what a sweet little bunny!" said Renee.  "And what a potty mouth he's passed on to you, too!"
"Yes," agreed Honour, "What a potty mouth!"
"I'm beginning to feel more than a little picked on, being the only male present," said Jack.

Serendipitously, the doorbell rang loudly.
"No, it's fine!   I'll get it!" said Jack, and he ducked out of the room and walked toward the foyer.
"Bloody hell, it's not like I pulled a string and made Zara cuss," he grumbled to himself.  "I can't be held accountable for every foolish word that falls out of my head.  It's like having a dozen Briggses watching my every move!"
He pulled open the door to find his friend and former quartermaster, Josiah Briggs, on the doorstep.
"Josiah!  I was just thinking of you!  What brings you here today?  Is everything good with the ship?"
"Oh, everything be fine with El Lobo," he nodded.  "But it were yer wife, Honour, who invited me here for dinner.  She didn't tell ye?"
Jack grinned knowingly.  "No, she didn't.  What a pleasant surprise!  Do come in, my friend.  And speaking of surprises, have I got one for you!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"Eh?" asked Briggs.
"You'll see. What's that you have there? Flowers?"
Josiah looked down self-consciously at the bundle of tropical wild flowers in his hand. "Um, aye, that they be. I thought I oughta bring some little thank-you for Honour for the hospitality."
"No, she has enough flowers," said Jack as Briggs stepped inside. Briggs looked around the foyer at the two vases full of flowers that flanked the foot of the staircase.
"I suppose I ought to leave 'em outside, then..."
"Oh, no," said Jack quickly. "You'll need them."
Josiah gave him a puzzled look. "You been in the rum again? I hate it when ye get all cryptic. Makes the hair on the back of me neck stand up, it does. Usually means trouble ain't far behind."
"Oh, pish!" said Jack as they walked toward the parlour. "We aren't anywhere near the ship. What trouble could I possible think of getting into?"
Briggs stopped dead and gave his friend a dubious look.
"All right, fine," shrugged Jack. But I assure you, there's no trouble to be had here. Just a pleasant evening with friends."
"Even though ye weren't expectin' me?"
"What, are you going to stand there all night asking questions? Come on. You mentioned rum, now I'm thirsty. How is the ship?"
"Just as ye left it, Jack. I wouldn't think of changin' a thing."
"You're not still living out of your old quarters, are you? You're the captain now, Josiah. You've earned the great cabin."
"Well," said Briggs sheepishly, "I guess ye'd say I've finally made a change or two then."
Jack grinned happily at his friend. "Excellent! You had me worried."
"Nothin' to worry about. Truth be told, I though ye'd change that daft head of yours again and want the ship back. There's somethin' that just ain't right, the sea without Jack Wolfe."
"The sea without Jack Wolfe." The words echoed in Jack's head. He quickly shoved the thought aside. That part of his life was over, and that's how it would stay. His responsibilities, his life, were on dry land.

"When I said El Lobo was yours to command, my friend, that's exact what I meant. Former captain's orders," he added with a wink.
"Aye, sah!" barked Briggs, snapping to attention and putting his knuckles to his right temple in mock military salute.
"Oh, stop it, before I really do change my mind!" Jack laughed. They reached the parlour, and Jack waved Briggs inside. "Active duty personnel first!"
Josiah stepped into the room, and his eyes beheld a sight he never imagined he would ever see. Renee, holding a baby.
"Hello, Josie," she smiled happily.
Briggs stood there, mouth agape. The bouquet of flowers slipped from his hand and tumbled to the floor. Honour tried to stifle a giggle.
Jack leaned close to Briggs and said quietly, "Very smooth, Josie..."
"What? Oh!" Briggs stammered. He quickly tried to gather up the flowers from the floor and put them back into something resembling a bouquet.
Renee's smile never faded as she watched Josiah nervously struggle to regain his composure. "Josie," she said with a melodic lilt to her voice, "Are those beautiful flowers for me?"
"No, they was for--"
"Yes!" blurted Jack.
"Uh, yes!" said Briggs quickly. "Yes, I brought 'em for you, Miss Renee."
"That's so sweet of you, love," Renee cooed. "Especially since you didn't know I'd be here, did you?"
Briggs' face was quickly becoming crimson. "Well, I, uh, y'see..."
"You're such a darling man, Josie," Renee continued. She tickled Zara's chin, making the little girl giggle and squirm. "What do you think, me with a tot in my arms?"
"I think ye look beautiful," he said, seemingly half in a daze.
Her eyebrows went up. "Really? Most men don't see me as mum material."

"I... wait, what?
"I think our good Mister Briggs could use a bit of fortifying," said Honour as she stepped in to retrieve Zara from Renee's arms. "Jack, quit smirking and pour him a drink."
"She's just adorable, Honour," said Renee. "She almost makes me think I'm missing out on something."
Zara looked up from her rabbit to her mother, then over to Renee and gave her a huge smile.
"I think she likes her Auntie Renee!" chuckled Honour.
"It's a night for me and flowers," said Renee as she took the bouquet from Briggs and smelled their gentle fragrances. "First I'm holding a rose, then tropical flowers. Where might things lead, I wonder?" she said to Briggs with a demure look.
"I- I'll be gettin' that drink, if ye'll excuse me, ladies," stammered Briggs, and he quickly retreated to where Jack was waiting with a large glass of rum.
Honour gave Renee a look, and the two women burst into giggles.
"Men!" whispered Renee, halfway between mirth and exasperation.
"I'd say he's smitten with you," said Honour quietly.
"Only for years now, the darling oaf. Brave as David himself in a fight, but he can barely string two words together around me. And thank you for arranging this, you little matchmaker!" Renee winked. "I'll tell you one thing, dear heart, and this is God's honest truth."
"What's that?"
A broad smile spread across Renee's face. "It's time for things to change. The chase is on!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Jack and Honour stood on the front porch of their palatial home with their friends, Renee and Josiah.  Together they watched the evening Barbados sky turn to shades of pink and orange, salmon and red.
"It's sure is a beautiful place ye've got for yourself here," said Briggs as he looked out over the grounds.  "A spread like this could make nearly any man forget the sea."
Jack nodded silently.  He was happy with his new life, but forget the sea?  He couldn't begin to imagine such a thing.
Renee moved to Briggs' side.  "Thinking of putting down roots, Josie?" she asked playfully.
"What?  Oh, no!  Not me, not this sailor.  I can see the attraction, sure enough.  But givin' up the sea...  it's just not in me."
"Oh, I don't know," said Renee.  "The way Zara fell asleep in your arms, I'd say you'd manage just fine with a life on dry land."
Briggs' cheeks began to take on the same hues as the evening sky.  "Well, I, um..."
"It was awfully sweet to see," added Honour.  "She trusts her Uncle Briggs, that's evident."
"The wee thing was tired out from the rumpus and attention is all," said Briggs, the blush showing no sign of retreating from his face.
"Oh, you gruff old bear," teased Renee.  "You're not fooling anyone, you know.  Not that little babe, and especially not me.  I'm an expert on hearts of gold, remember?"

Before Briggs could reply, Jack pointed out to the lane that lead onto the property.  
"Renee, isn't that your carriage?" he asked.
"That it is," she said with a little bit of a sigh.  "Bless Kimble, he's as punctual as he is dependable.  Is your man coming for you soon, Josie?"
Briggs scowled a little.  "That'd be a good question.  He weren't supposed to leave!  Serves me right for payin' him a bit extra to hang about, the blighter.  Bet he's down the pub knockin' 'em back."
"Renee, would you have room for him to ride alone with you?" asked Honour.  "Otherwise, we can put you up for the night, Josiah.  It would be no trouble..."
"What a wonderful idea, Honour!" Renee said quickly.  "As a matter of fact, Josie, I insist.  Lord knows you've done me favours aplenty over the years, it's time I take the opportunity to repay."
"That's mighty kind of ye, Renee--"
"Not taking no for an answer, dove.  You're riding with me.  End of discussion, no debate."
"Well, I..."
"Shush, you!" she said, and put her finger to Briggs' lips.  "Jack and Honour, it's been a pleasure and privilege to enjoy your wonderful hospitality tonight.  Your home is so lovely.  And that adorable little tyke!  Enough to make me wonder what I've missed out on, she is!  Well, a little, anyway."
"It was a pleasure to finally meet you, Renee," smiled Honour.  "We'll have you over again quite soon, and it's my turn to not accept an answer of no."
Renee gave Honour a hug.  "I just knew we'd get along famously!  Just do us a favour and keep an eye on this one, eh?" she said with a nod in Jack's direction.  "He can be a handful at times."
"Really??" laughed Honour.  "I hadn't noticed!"
"All right, you two," said Jack as he collected a hug from Renee.  "You've had enough sport at my expense for one evening!"
He reached out and shook Briggs' hand as the carriage stopped in front of the house.  "And you, my friend, it's always good to see you."
"Ye know where to find me, Jack.  I'm never far from the ship for long."
"I'm counting on it, old friend!  Take good care of her!  And El Lobo, too," he added with a wink.

Briggs shook his head and laughed, and he and Renee waved as they walked to her carriage.
"Good evening, Kimble," said Renee cheerily.
"Evenin', ma'am.  The gent comin' with you?"
"Aye," said Josaih.  "I'd appreciate it mightily if ye'd drop me at the docks."
"Consider it done, mate," nodded Kimble.
Josiah opened the carriage door and climbed in, then held out his hand to assist Renee.
Renee looked up at Kimble, her face a stern mask.  "Go anywhere near the docks," she whispered, "and I'll have you pulling this carriage yourself!"
She took Josiah's hand and stepped up into the carriage, and the door banged shut behind her.
Kimble laughed as he cued the horse into a gentle trot.  "Aye, ma'am!  Straight to home it is!"

[Welsh Wench]

"Do you think Josiah was sufficiently surprised,  Jack?"
"I'd say so. He looked like a man who had taken on a ship and kept the prize for himself."
Honour threw her dress over the screen. From behind it, she asked, "Was it obvious what I was up to?"
"No...well.."
"Be honest, Jack."
"Yes, as soon as Josiah walked in...the look of glee on your face was the giveaway."
She emerged from the dressing screen, brushing her hair. "I just want everyone to be as happy as we are. Josiah has been alone for too long. And the way he took Zara to see the stars...well, I just wonder...."
"If his life would be different if Phillip hadn't rejected him?"
She nodded. "Josiah puts on a brave front but I could see him look far away...like he was wondering what his son looked like and if he was happy."
She inexplicably felt her eyes well up with tears for her dear friend.
Jack put his arms around her and touched her forehead with his.
"Josiah never hardly speaks of his son. But the pain is there. When we were in port in England, he would go off for a bit. I don't know..to think, maybe. Visit his wife's grave. He never talked about it but he always came back drunk."
"And you never asked?"
"We leave a man to his thoughts and his pride, darling. It's just the way we are."

Honour opened the French doors and breathed deeply of the tropical flowers. From their balcony they could hear the soft rush of the ocean waves ebbing from the sand.
Jack came behind her, putting his arms around her and holding her close to him.
"What?" she smiled slyly.
"You know."
She held her hand up. "This is a new nightgown. From Paris. I'll not have it mauled," she laughed.

"That was a clumsy bit of foreplay on my part, I'll admit."  
He loosened the ribbon that held the neckline of her gown closed, and gently pulled the fabric from her shoulder.  Honour thrilled as he kissed that one spot on her neck that made her body feel electrified.
"Jack Wolfe, " she whispered, "Are you up to what I think you are?"
"But of course, my love," he replied.  "You know how I am about laces."
She smiled and said, "I hope you aren't weaponed. I don't have a bodice on so you don't have to worry about knots."
"No, no weapons," he chuckled. "Just lots and lots of passion for you..."  Jack kissed her deeply as he helped her nightgown slip from her body.
She put her arms around him and drew him to her. 'Why can I never get enough of you?" She gently dropped his silk shirt off his shoulders.
He began to kiss his way down her neck, drinking deeply the intoxicating scent of her jasmine perfume.  "I don't know, love, but I pray you never do!"

Honour let out a squeal of delight as Jack swept her into his arms.  "You always know just how to make me burn for you," he said as he laid her down on the bed.
She drew him down to her. "Maybe we should close the French doors..."
The scent of tropical flowers wafted in and the mosquito netting blew in the breeze.
He shook his head.  "Later.  In an hour or two."
She giggled. "My, my Captain Wolfe. Confident you can last that long?"
His hand caressed her body, delighting in the silky softness of her skin.  "I'm feeling inspired tonight."
"You mean you are just.....passionate?"
He kissed her lips, then her neck, then began to kiss his way further down her body.  "Darling, with you, there is no "just passionate"!"
"Where DID you learn such talent?"
"Do you really want me to stop to tell you?"
She looked in his eyes. "Yes, I do."

He laughed a little, then sighed.  "Oh, all right.  Call it the spoils of a misspent youth."
He let his lips barely brush her skin, the heat of his breath feeling almost like a low flame against her.
"That, I learned in Spain."
Then he let the tip of his tongue graze her flesh, making goosebumps rise almost immediately.
"That was, I believe, France..."
She grabbed his face gently and said, "Nothing from merry old England?"
"I'm saving that for the main course, love!  Just enjoy yourself..."
"Im not a pot pie, Jack."
"No, my dear.  You're definitely a delicacy.  One I love to indulge in."
She rolled over him. "I wish I had a few countries to share with you...."
"Then make something up!" he teased.  

Just then a noise came from the nursery, "Mama! Mama...."
Jack sighed and caressed her hair.  "That trip round the world will be waiting for you, my love."
She got out of bed and put her nightgown on.
"Mummy's coming, sweetheart..."
She turned to Jack. "I'm sorry, darling,"
He shook his head and smiled.  "No, no.  We've got a lifetime together.  And I'm always ready to show how much I appreciate you."
She crawled across him and planted a kiss on him. Her dressing gown fell away slightly.
"Have I told you how much I enjoy makiing love to you?"
"You have, but I enjoy being reminded!"
He slipped his hand beneath the fabric of her gown and gently touched her, and kissed her deeply once more.  "Go, before I do something rash like ravage you!"
She giggled "I love it when you touch me like that..."
"The sooner you get back, the more time we'll have for me to touch you all the ways you enjoy..."
" MAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

[Welsh Wench]

"Let's sit over here."
Renee opened the gate to her private garden in the back of the house. A brick terrace with lots of plants and flowers surrounded them.
"I had no idea this was back here, Renee."
"I wanted a typical English garden. " She plucked a lilac and twirled it around in her hands and breathed deeply. The heady fragrance filled the air.

Briggs started to carefully seat himself, trying not to impose himself on Renee's personal space. She grabbed him and pulled him down next to her.
"Josiah, don't be so shy. Just park it here!"
He sat down with an unceremonious plomp.
"What would you like to drink?"
"Um....lemonade?"
Renee rang a bell and her butler showed up within seconds.
"Two clarets, Charles."
Within five minutes, the butler arrived with two wineglasses and a decanter of claret. Cheese and breads accompanied it.
Briggs cautiously reached over and Renee said, "Briggs, don't be so stilted. Go for it!"
He laughed and said, "You don't mince words, Renee!"
"Pip."
"Excuse me?"
"Right now I am Pip. Renee belongs in there." She jerked her thumb towards the house. "Pip has the English garden."

She pulled off her shoes and stockings and then unfastened her skirt and let it drop.
"That's better. Oh, the trappings of being a madame!"
Renee took her hair down and it cascaded over her shoulders. She sat there in a light gown and tucked her legs under her. She raised her eyebrow at Briggs and said, "Your turn. Take your boots off, untuck your shirt and stay awhile."

He laughed and did as she commanded.
"Now, isn't that better? Let's chat."
"What did you want to chat about?"
"You, Josiah. You never talk about yourself. It's always 'Jack this' and 'Jack that'.
Well, I want to know about Josiah Briggs. Where he is from, what he is about."
"It's been so long since I have talked about myself, I don't even know where to start."
"At the beginning."

[Welsh Wench]

Josiah cleared his throat. "I was born forty years ago in Bristol, England. Mom was named Sally, father was Benjamin. I have a sister Bethia and a brother Matthew. My childhood was nothing spectacular. Father was a millwright and I was following in his steps. We were not rich but we never starved."
"Are they alive?"
He shook his head. "They both passed away twenty years ago. Two years between. Father went first. That was when I met-----"
He hesitated.
Renee said softly, "You need to talk about her, Josiah, to someone other than Jack or Duckie."
He took a deep breath.
"You are right. Anne was--she was something special. I met her at a church social. She was the vicar's daughter."

He could feel Renee's hand on his arm, giving him an encouraging squeeze.
"I'll bet she was the jewel of the shire."
Briggs nodded. "She was. Anne Stafford was her name."
"Red hair?"
"How did you know?"
"Wild guess."
"Beautiful green eyes, the prettiest you ever saw. Kind of like...yours."
He cleared his throat.
"Yes, well, I courted her and asked for her hand and miracle of miracles, she accepted! It was hard to believe she loved me, but she did. She really did."
"I don't doubt it."
"We had a small cottage. Lots of lilac. Like this garden. Well, I was apprenticed as millwright and about two months later, we found out we were going to have a child. We were both so excited. We had the names picked out. Phillip for a boy, Jenna for a girl. And then-----"

His eyes took on a faraway look. Renee waited patiently.
He gathered his voice but there was a catch to it.
"A healthy, brawny boy. Phillip was perfect and beautiful in every way despite the fact he looked like me."
Renee put her hand on Josiah's shoulder. "If he looked like his da, then he was very beautiful."
"But something went wrong. Anne didn't heal right. And within a month, she was gone."

The crickets chirped softly as Renee waited for Josiah to continue.  Within a few minutes, he sighed.
"I had no idea what to do with a newborn baby. That is when  Lydia stepped in.:
"Lydia? She became your new wife?"
"No. She was Anne's older sister. She took charge. Lydia arranged for a wetnurse. I moved into the house. And--within six months I moved out."
"Leaving the baby."
Briggs nodded. In a strained voice, he said, "Lydia came to me one night and it was clear she wanted to take Anne's place in my life. I---I turned her down."
He hastily added, 'Not that she wasn't attractive. On the contrary. It was just that---"
"She wasn't Anne."
He nodded and took another deep breath.
"I arranged to go away for a bit. Just to clear my head. A change of scenery where everytime I turned a corner I didn't think of Anne."
He reached over and took a deep drink of claret.

"I came back to see Phillip. He was starting to pull himself up--such a happy baby! Lydia was cordial but cool. I stayed a week. Then I finally got the nerve to visit Anne's grave. There it was. Her tombstone. It read, 'Anne Stafford. Beloved daughter of Samuel and Margaret.' Not one word of Briggs or beloved wife. It became clear to me that Lydia didn't forgive me. When I came back, I confronted her on it. It all came out. She blamed me for Anne's death. And it also came back to me that I still wasn't over Anne's death. I needed more time."
"You left Phillip again?"
"Yes. I told her I would be back in six months for him. I fully intended to settle down and face my loss. But I still needed time."
"Then what happened?"
"Lydia filed papers with the magistrate accusing me of abandoning Phillip with no support. She retained custody. To fight it would be a losing battle. A man of the sea with a baby against an established wealthy spinster aunt?  So I arranged for her to have him and I would have visitations when I was in port."
I figured I would eventually get married and regain custody of my son. When I went to visit Phillip, he had a cold. Or he was off with playmates. Or he was at school."
"And then what happened? As if I didn't know..."
He nodded.
"Jack Wolfe happened. You know how hard it is to escape his orbit. We struck up a friendship when we were aboard the Laura Anne. And after that--well, Harkness. Then Jack took possession  of El Lobo. Eventually Lydia told Phillip I was a pirate."
He took another drink, his voice getting stronger as if this were a catharsis for him.
"After Jack took El Lobo, we ported in Bristol a few times.  I tried to see Phillip. I think he was about ten then. Lydia came to the door and told me that Phillp wanted nothing to do with me.  He wanted nothing to do with a father who turned to the account."
"And you had no more contact?"

"No. I sent him a letter telling him I loved him. He would always be my son and that I understood how he felt.  And that I loved his mother."

Briggs took a deep breath to get his emotions under control. Clearly there was more to Briggs than met the eye. He was lost in Jack Wolfe's world but now he was allowed to shine on his own.
"Did Phillp read the letter?"
He shook his head.
"Not a word. The last contact I made was when Jack went to Wales to pick up Zara. I was on the way to Amsterdam and stopped in Bristol.  Lydia answered the door. She didn't look well. She said Phillip was away at school but wouldn't tell me where."
His eyes took on a dreamy quality. "Wherever he is, I hope he is healthy and happy. It almost gives meaning to Anne and me."

Renee stood up and held her hand out to Josiah.
"Come on, Josiah."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean it is time we kicked this relationship up a notch."
She looked up at him, linking her arm with his.
"One final question."
"What is it?"
"How do you like your eggs?"

[Welsh Wench]

"Are you sure this is the right place?" Phillip asked Cade.
"Sure. Everyone comes here."
"But what is with the red door? And why did you knock funny?"
Cade sighed and looked at Phillip.
"Renee likes the colour red and the knock was just an accident. I hurt my knuckles, alright?"
Phillp frowned. "I don't recall you hurting your------"
Just then the door swung open. A woman who looked around twenty smiled broadly.
"Well, well! If it isn't Cade Jennings!" She put her arms around his neck and kissed him in a way that was all but neighborly.
Phillip could not help but stare.
Cade gently disengaged her from his neck. "Ah, Angelique....I am here on business."
Angelique laughed, "More like monkey business, oui? As always with you, Cade!"
He motioned with his head to Phillip and frowned at her.
"I need to see Renee. It really is a matter of business."
Angelique ran her finger down Cade's chest and touched his lips with her fingers gently.
"Ah bien! I shall get Madame. Wait in the parlour, oui? Then when you conclude your business with Madame, then you shall see me for some....monkey business?"
Phllip looked at her retreating form.
"Is that the woman who---"
"No. Just a placeholder."

Angelique returned within five minutes.
"Madame said for you to go to the kitchen and get some breakfast. With her compliments, Mr. Cade Jennings. You and the young man. She will be down in about twenty minutes."
"Well, that works. We are both famished ."
Angelique said over her shoulder, "The kitchen does make the best crepes."
Phillip looked at Cade. "Crepes?"
He whispered, "Pancakes."

Within thirty minutes, Renee waltzed into the kitchen.
"It always does smell heavenly here."
Cade broke out in a big smile.
"Renee, darling!'
She offered her cheek to him and he gave her a kiss. Renee was dressed in a simple dress of honey yellow that set off her creamy skin to perfection.
"You look as beautiful as ever."
"What, this old thing? I didn't expect to be up so soon but Angelique told me you were here so I managed to get myself semi-presentable. And....who do we have here?"
She looked at Phillip with an arched eyebrow and a smile on her face as she poured herself a cup of tea.
Before Phillip could introduce himself, Cade answered for him.
"This young gentleman is seeking his father. I figured you would be the best place to find him. Since he makes port here every so often."
Renee buttered a biscuit. "Well, I am assuming this young man has a name."
Cade grinned. "He surely does. His name is Phillip Briggs."

Renee dropped her biscuit in mid-buttering.
"Phillip? As in the son of Josiah Briggs?"
Phillip looked up from his pancakes and asked, "You know my father?"
Renee smiled broadly. "I surely do. A fine man. And it looks like his son inherited his good looks, too."
Phillip started to blush.
Cade asked, "Have you seen Josiah lately?"
She put her teacup down. "I have. And I can find him but he is not in port right now. He and Jack are off on some madcap adventure but I expect him any day now. Where are you staying?"
Cade spoke up, "I am staying with the Gryphon but I think Phillip needs a little land under his feet. I have too much to do in port for a few days. Do you know of any room that would be safe for the boy to stay for a bit? Until his father is in port?"

Renee leaned back and said, "I do know of a safe place. Here. Sophie saved her money and is opening a haberdashery in Kingston. Her room is vacant."
Cade said, "Aw...Sophie is gone?"
Renee smiled, "Sorry, Cade."
"Well, she is just a substitute for----"
"Now you get that out of your head. Honour is gone. And you had best get that through your thick skull if you want to live to see thirty."
Cade's mouth drew in a tight line.
She gently touched his hand. "Cade, I am sorry. But things didn't work out for you. Move on."
She cleared her throat. "Now to the business at hand."
Phillip spoke up. "I have money to pay for the room and your offer is very generous, Madame."
She smiled at him. "Just call me Renee.'
"Do you think my father will be in port soon?"
"I would stake my life on it.  Cade? I have a few things to do to get the room ready. Why don't you take young Mr. Briggs and show him the port? Maybe do a bit of shopping. The lad can use a few new clothes if he has been to sea with you."
"Good idea. I know a tailor that usually has a few things 'off the rack' as it were. What time would you like me to have him back?"
She looked thoughtful.
"What?"
"What time?"
"Oh! Around 8:30 would be ideal. The room will be ready then."
Cade stood up and Phillip followed.
"Then 8:30 it shall be."
She stood up and walked them to the door.
Cade kissed her on the cheek and said, "Are you sure you don't work, Renee?"
Renee laughed and pushed him out the door.
"Get on with you, Cade Jennings! You have been taught well but you have a charm that is all your own!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Renee opened the door to her suite upstairs.  She crawled across the bed.
"I'd like you to come to dinner tonight."
Josiah was putting on his socks.
"What?"
"Dinner. Tonight. Here. Just the two of us in the garden."
"Well, I have some things to do and---"
She put her arms around his neck.
"Please, Josie? For me? I will have a nice picnic set out for us. Wine, chicken croquettes and raspberry tarts for dessert."
He kissed her.
"Now how can I turn down an offer like that?"
She hugged him. "You won't be sorry, I can guarantee!"
"What time?"
"Let's say 8:00."
He kissed her and stood up. "Eight o'clock it is then."

He walked out the door. Renee flopped back on the bed and smiled broadly.
"Oh, Josie.....I can't wait to see the look on your face!"

[Welsh Wench]

"So why did Madame Renee want me to get new clothes?"
Phillip shifted a bundle from one arm to the other. Cade helped him before it dropped to the ground.
"I guess she, being a woman, wanted a presentable boarder."
"But what is wrong with these clothes?"
Cade looked at Phillip. "Nothing really. They are just a bit...crusty, that's all."
"These clothes aren't too much of dandy clothes, are they?"
Cade laughed. "No...trust me, lad. You can't go wrong with silk shirts for dress. On board the ship, muslin will do. Dries faster."

The captain looked at him and ruffled his hair.
"A haircut may not be a bad idea. In fact, you seem to be sprouting a bit of hair on your chin. Let's go see a barber and tidy you up some. Renee will be pleased."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Madame, what ARE you up to?"
Renee hummed as she gathered the sheets off the bed.
"Just changing the linens...why?"
"Well, you usually have the housekeeper do that."
Angelique leaned against the doorframe.
"Are you planning on moving Mr. Briggs in?"
Renee looked up sharply.
"Where would you get a notion like that?"
Angelique ran her finger down the doorjamb absentmindedly.
"Oh.....just a thought."
Renee tried to stifle her smile.
"Well, get that thought out of your head, Angelique. I'm taking in a young lad for a bit. He's going through a rough time."
"Really! And who is he? How old is he? Is he handsome?"
Renee laid the coverlet on the bed.
"He's a lad who needs a helping hand. Cade Jennings--get that moony look off your face!--took him on and I have agreed to let him stay for a few days. And yes, he is handsome. But he is only about fifteen."
Angelique shrugged. "A little youth might be nice for a change, oui?"
"Non! You are to keep your little French mitts off this one, understand?"
Angelique pouted. "Mais oui. Je comprends."
Renee squeezed Angelique's hand. "Thank you! You will understand, that I can promise you! Now...to see about a picnic supper!"

Renee went down to the kitchen.
"Hermione, I would like you to fix a special supper for me and Monsieur Briggs. Can you make the chicken croquettes you are famous for?"
Hermione looked down over her spectacles.
"I have not seen you this enthused about a man since Captain Wolfe was here in October."
Renee popped a strawberry in her mouth. "Well, Captain Wolfe has reconciled with his wife."
"Non! Tres bien!"
"What do you mean?"
Hermione turned to take biscuits out of the oven. "Oh...he was down here one morning. We were talking over coffee. Just before he set sail the last time. Gaston and I were wondering why he didn't show up again until the other day when he was waiting for you in the study. He told me back then how he was going to tear the Caribbean apart till he found her."
"Well, he did."
"And we are pleased he did not exact revenge on her like he swore he would."
Renee laughed. "Far from it."
The cook nodded. "Gaston said, 'A man with that much hatred for a woman surely loves her.' And I agree."
"I am pleased to report he is as happy as can be. The current Mrs Wolfe is young and charming and the little one is definitely his child."
"And Monsieur Briggs is coming to call?"
"You could say that. I have a favor to ask. When Cade Jennings comes by with a young man, please feed them supper and keep them here until I come for them. It's for a good reason."
Hermione shrugged. "Eh bien! I shall double my chicken croquette recipe then."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Hello, Gaston! Madame Renee is expecting me."
"Eight o'clock right on the dot, Monsieur Briggs! Madame Renee is in the garden. You know the way?"
Josiah nodded. "Yes, I do." In his hands was a small box. "I do hope she likes light chocolates. Jack said...."
He cut himself off in mid-sentence. Time to stop standing in Mad Jack's shadow and come into his own.

Josiah entered the garden. Renee was sitting at a table that had a wonderful dinner laid out.
"I hope you brought your appetite, Josiah."
Renee sat there with her hair tied back in a white ribbon and cascading down to her shoulders. She wore a light green voile dress and she was barefoot.
He handed her the box.
"I--I hope this is what you like."
She opened it and a broad smile graced her face. "Oh..I love chocolates!"
"They are from Switzerland, Renee, and----"
She held up her finger. "Where are we, Josie?"
"In your garden and---"
She arched her eyebrow and he said, "Pip!"
Renee laughed and motioned for Josiah to sit down.  She took the silver cover off the serving bowl and closed her eyes, taking a deep whiff.
"Mmm...Hermione makes the best croquettes! And we have a special surprise later."
"Strawberry parfait?"
Renee grinned. "But of course. Claret, Josiah?"
"Don't mind if I do....Pip!"