The Wraith of Jack

Part Twenty-Five: "Tell Me Everything Will Be Fine"

****
“Any particular reason why there’s a bandage around your wrist?”
Jack lifted his arm and stared at it from various angles. “I’ll be damned. There is one, isn’t there?”
James moved off of the older man and sat next to him. “Your sarcasm is not that appealing.”
“That’s a shame to hear, love.”
“Out with it.”
“It was an accident.”
“How so?”
“I couldn’t resist gettin’ involved in a town brawl, mate,” he said with a wicked smile.
“Is that Will’s doing too?”
“No. My own. In fact, he was tryin’ to protect me.”

James silently scolded him with his eyes, but said no more. When he looked away, Jack suppressed the desire to burst out laughing.

****
The candlelight was diminishing, and the light wind of the night lapped at the sides of the house.

He felt movement followed by the sound of several coughs that were attempted to be muffled. When he opened his eyes, Jack was already half way across the room.

“Where you going?” James asked and propped himself on an elbow.
Jack turned and situated the blanket around him to cover his nudity. “Need some air,” he answered weakly.
The frailness of the voice made James instantly concerned. “Are you all right? Is there something wrong?”
“No,” the pirate whispered and inhaled a rattling breath. “I’m fine. Just need some air, that’s all.”
“Do you want me to come with you?”
“Not necessary. Go back to sleep.”

James observed him as he made his way out of the room. It was apparent even from far away that the man was shaking; more coughs increased its intensity.

With a heavy sigh, James rested back on the bed, though found he could not sleep.

****
Jack clutched one of the posts to keep from crumpling to the wood porch. His lungs were constricted and his throat was exceedingly sore as he succumbed to the fit of coughing.

When there were no more, he panted and bowed his head. Nausea came upon him within seconds. He could not prevent it. His stomach clenched, causing him to vomit onto the grass. Uncontrollable tears began to fall as he heaved once more. This time, the liquid was tinted red.

He eased himself to sit before his leg gave out from exhaustion. He leaned against the post he had held moments ago and breathed shallowly. The night was calm, and there was enough of a breeze to cool his perspiring frame. Drowsily, he stared upward at the sparkling sky. His eyes hunted for one star in particular, and after a period, he grinned from assuring himself that he had found it.

“Make a wish, Will,” he murmured softly.

He then fell to the side as unconsciousness took him.

****
James dressed himself with a robe and tied the sash about his waist as he made his way to the front door. It had been awhile since Jack had left; he felt the need to check on him.

He opened the entrance to discover the pirate sprawled out on the porch.

“Oh God,” he whispered in surprise.

He knelt beside him and pushed the older man to lie on his back. The black eyelids were closed, his lips had lost a bit of their color, and his face was flushed red. His fingers went to Jack’s throat, relieved to find a steady pulse.

Gingerly, he wrapped the blanket around the ex-captain and picked him up. The body was entirely limp in his arms; Jack’s head fell back and his arm flopped about at his side.

He laid Jack on the bed and went out to retrieve the crutches. Upon returning, he put them on the floor near the bed and then rested beside the pirate. Jack shivered and his lips quivered. James brought the covers up to the pirate’s chin and cuddled him to warm him with his body. The sight was reminiscent of the reaction Jack had had to Tia Dalma’s remedy.

James went to sleep after an hour with fingers still entwined in the pirate’s dreadlocks and his leg over Jack’s.

****
Two fingertips caressed his cheek and a frail voice said, “Jamie?”

James opened his eyes and gazed into Jack’s amber ones. There was pain in them complemented by a timid expression.

“What’s wrong, Jack?” the young man questioned sincerely.
“It’s….nothing. I just wanted you awake with me.” The statement was said in a choppy fashion, for Jack was fighting off the urge to cry.
“Tell me what’s wrong. Are you hurt?”
“It’s not that bad. But it’s all along here.” Jack motioned to his right side from his shoulder to the minute vestige of his leg.
“Lie on your back.”

Jack did so and James pulled the covers down to his left knee. He skimmed the area of complaint, though he saw nothing out of the ordinary.

“What does it feel like?” he inquired and put his hand on the pirate’s torso.
“Like knives, I suppose. But then it goes numb.”

James looked to the end of the amputated wound. It had become habit not to let his eyes wander to that particular part of Jack simply because it was grotesque. It was how he did not notice that it had become severely discolored.

He moved his hand to the area and asked, “Tell me if this hurts.”

He pressed lightly against the tender skin, making Jack shut his eyes tightly and whine in anguish. Hurriedly, he drew his palm away.

“I’m sorry,” he apologized, shaken.
Jack could only nod.
“I’m going to get the doctor. It won’t take me long.”
Jack made a noise of objection.
“Don’t be a fool, Jack. You need some help.”

James put on his clothes and kissed the pirate before he left. Jack sighed and rubbed his face.

“He always has to be right,” he muttered, irritated. “And then he calls me stubborn.”

****
Jack was in a daze when James returned with the doctor. He mumbled incoherently and was sweating profusely. The two men treaded to the bed; James was slightly alarmed, but Doctor Bentley did not seem troubled by Jack’s actions.

“How long has he been like this?”
James sighed as he thought for a moment. “A few days? It was only a cough, but he complained this morning of pain along his right side.”
“How long has he been without the leg?”
“It’s been awhile. A year? Maybe more, maybe less.”

Bentley put his hand on Jack’s waist, startling the pirate immensely. Jack began to thrash about, and he yelled loudly. A different set of hands grabbed his shoulder and leg, forcing him to lie still.

“Jack, Jack,” the former Commodore spoke steadily. “Stop. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

Jack’s eyes were wide and he glanced anxiously from one face to another. All he could see was Johnson’s snickering countenance accompanied by Garner’s right next to him.

….take his clothes off now….especially the right....Seems a bit blunt….

Jack screamed and shoved James back with surprising strength. He scurried to the far side of the bed and cowered against the wall.

“Give me a moment,” James said quietly to Bentley. “I’ll calm him down.”

James crept onto the bed and snaked his arm around the pirate’s waist. Jack squirmed and tried to rip the sedating limb from him, yet James merely held him tighter. The young man rested his chin in the crook of Jack’s shoulder and whispered gently into his ear.

“I’ve got you, Jack. Not them. You have nothing to be afraid of. We only want to help you. There’s no need to be scared.”
“Please, don’t. Don’t take it.”
“Shhh….Jack, you’re not there. You are safe with me far away.”

He massaged Jack’s arm and kissed his cheek several times. The thin being leisurely relaxed into the affectionate caresses.

“Now, come on. You need to lie on your back.”

Jack obeyed, and James sat above him to cradle his head in his lap. The young man laid his hand on Jack’s forehead and traced patterns on the bandana with his fingertips.

“And how long have such delusions been occurring?” Bentley questioned once the two men were settled.
“He has them off and on.”
“Do you know what triggers them?”
“He’s been through quite a bit. Anything that reminds him of the past can bring them on. Even a simple touch.”
“Is it alright if I examine him a little now?”
James gazed down at Jack’s countenance before nodding.

Bentley placed his hands on the right side of Jack’s chest and applied mild pressure. Jack grimaced a little, but remained pacified. The doctor inched along and when he came to Jack’s pelvis, the pirate whimpered. Bentley felt around the area, producing the same reaction. He traveled on to the amputation wound and frowned. With cautious fingers, he pressed against the portion that had long ago been messily stitched after being cut. Jack wailed and began to tremble.

“It looks to be quite infected. I’m astonished he hasn’t been bothered by it until now. By the coloring and because he feels discomfort elsewhere, it has probably spread. He already seems to be suffering from a light fever that can become serious. Keep him hydrated, wash this wound each day, and I have some medicine you can try. If he doesn’t get any better within a couple of weeks, let me know.”
“Thank you, Doctor,” James said kindly.

He carefully maneuvered himself from under Jack and stood to see Bentley to the door. When he returned, he had a decent sized bottle and a spoon.

“Here,” he said as he sat next to Jack. “We’ll give this a try.”

Jack raised himself to a seating position and stared with half opened eyes as James poured the liquid onto the spoon. The young man inserted the silverware into Jack’s mouth and removed it from between the closed lips. The pirate swallowed it, making a disgusted face as it slid down his throat.

“Get some rest, all right?” James voiced tenderly.
Jack rolled his eyes, but nodded.
“I have to leave now, so if you need anything, let Amelia know.”
“I’ll be fine, Jamie,” the older man said with a smile.
James grinned. “I’m sure you will.”

He exited the room, and Jack got up from the bed.

“Sorry, love,” he muttered as he dressed.

A number of minutes later, he was sitting beneath his favorite tree, enjoying the memory of him and Will sleeping under it.

****
Before evening came, Jack made sure he was in the house and lying on the sofa. He did not feel like being chastised by James for “not resting.”

He sipped at the tea Amelia had given him, wishing it was rum instead. It was highly unlikely that James had a stash of the liquor; Will had been kind enough to bring some of his own. He smiled at the thought and tilted his head back, submerging himself in the recollection.

James entered thirty minutes later, straight away moving to sit beside Jack.

“How are you feeling?” James asked and put his palm to the pirate’s cheeks and forehead.
“You really need to stop worryin’, mate.” He withdrew James’ hand from his countenance.
“Jack, it could be serious.”
“Don’t be overdramatic. It’s not very attractive.”
James scowled. “Pull down your breeches.”
Jack’s eyes opened wide. “What? Quite straightforward and unromantic, don’t ya think?”
“Not for that. We need to wash the infected area.”
Jack sighed. “Oh.”

James stood and went to the kitchen. Jack unbuttoned his garment and tugged it off of his hips and to his foot. The young man reappeared not long after with a bowl of water and a rag.

“Just lay back and relax,” he said as he saturated the cloth.

The pirate nestled against the pillow behind him and waited for James to begin. The water was reasonably warm as it drenched his amputated injury. It made him flinch because the skin was incredibly sensitive and sore, but he stayed as still as possible for James.

“How bad is it?” he inquired faintly.
“You’ll be fine, remember?” James gazed at him and winked.
Jack chuckled. “Aye, that is true. You listen well.”
“In all seriousness, though, it is a matter to be concerned about.”
“Well, in that case, I need to tell you what I want should the worst happen.”
“Jack, don’t be ridiculous. You’re the one who’s being overdramatic now.”
“Jamie.”
The young man stopped and stared at him directly from the vulnerability in the pirate’s tone.
“If the worst should happen….” He trailed off, finding it hard to come by the words he wished to say. At last he was able to continue. “If the worst should happen, scatter me over the ocean.”
James cocked his head and studied the grave countenance. “That’s what you truly want?”
“Yes. I wasn’t meant to be trapped in a coffin on land, savvy?”
James knew the man was right; a sparrow was meant to be free even in death.
“Will you do that for me?”
“I promise.”

Jack smiled, though it was more to ease himself than James.

When the younger man finished, he set the bowl aside and crawled atop Jack. They stared at one another silently for a long period. James did not like to think it, but he believed there was resignation and acceptance in the rich, brown orbs. He leaned down and kissed Jack lovingly. Jack’s hands went to the young man’s back and rubbed it gently.

After spending a lengthy amount of the night warped in immense pleasure, Jack combed his fingers through James’ wet hair as the young man slept on top of him. His breath came in quivering, uneven amounts while he gazed vacantly above him.

The sudden impulse to weep took him, and he did not know why.


Part Twenty-Six: "Insanity"

****
There was no trace of energy left for him to crawl; Daniels dragged him by a handful of his hair to the center of the area near the hearth. As soon as Daniels released his grip, Jack crumpled to the ground.

“Get on your knee,” Carter ordered.
Jack did not move.
Carter kicked him with unspeakable force, causing an indistinct noise of distress to come from him. “On your knee!”

With trembling arms, Jack lifted himself and did as he was told. The result of the simple movement made him breathless, even more so from working to keep his balance. He kept his head lowered, the dreadlocks shrouding his face.

“Bradley! Get over here!”

Bradley walked to the three ringleaders from the corner he had been observing from. The heavy panting from the pirate and being so close to him made his stomach churn. His gaze was fixed on the abused man’s quaking form.

Garner jerked on Jack’s mane to force his head up. With the thick batch of hair still in his clenched hand, he retrieved the iron poker and held it mere inches from the pirate’s throat. Jack’s eyes closed for a brief moment and Bradley watched as two pure tears escaped from them to trail down his dirt-smeared, semen-stained cheeks. When the eyelids fluttered open to reveal the remarkable despair and disgrace present within the depths of his amber eyes, Bradley felt suffocated.

“It’s about time you got in on this fun, Bradley,” Garner stated cheerfully. He pressed the hot iron to Jack’s neck, though only for a second. Jack struggled to get away, but Garner yanked his hair viciously. “What would you like him to do for you?”
“Whatever you chose, he’s better than any whore you’ll ever come across,” Daniels stated with a snicker.

Bradley stared at the fallen man sadly. Jack’s eyes settled on him and he had never felt smaller. The brown orbs were exquisitely beautiful, but the wonderful image was tarnished as they silently begged him for help; they were tremendously scared and drowning in agony.

“How about a bit of both, eh?” Carter questioned.
Bradley tore his gaze from Jack’s and looked from one man to the other. “Don’t you think this has gone on long enough?”
“Don’t be absurd. There are still a couple of more hours to be had from him.” Carter shoved Jack forward, making the pirate fall to the ground with a tiny whimper. “Get over there to him.”

Jack wiped his face and traveled the small distance to Bradley. He knelt before him, head bowed, waiting for him to do what he wished. It took all that Bradley had to unbutton his trousers and slide them down. There was no need to command him; Jack knew what he was to do.

His tremulous fingers wrapped about the flaccid member and he encompassed it with his mouth. He pulled him in deeper and began to suck with the little amount of strength he had. Bradley could not bear to glance down at him and witness the tears cleansing the man’s flushed cheeks. Garner, Carter, and Daniels hollered debasing names and shouted insults at the pirate as he intimately tasted Bradley’s erection.

Despite the horribleness of the situation, Bradley could not refrain from enjoying the act of fellatio. In time, he exploded into the wet oral cavity, shivers moving up and down his spine. Jack backed away and diligently swallowed.

“Now fuck him on his back,” Daniels encouraged.

Jack looked to Bradley’s countenance with extreme sorrow. He lay on the ground in front of him as if he were doing it out of his own will. He waited to be mounted and closed his eyes to grasp at the few fragments of a happy reminiscence to ease his shame.

Bradley lingered over him, hesitant to follow through. He leaned down and whispered, “I’m sorry,” before thrusting himself into Jack’s body. Jack cried out and his face contorted in anguish; it made the three men around him laugh and cheer Bradley on.

****
Jack bolted upright, eyes wide and breathing rapidly. He put his hands to his chest and visage, realizing no one was touching him. There was not even any one in the room.

“Good lord, Jesus Christ,” he whispered and exhaled a long breath. “Not here. He’s not here. None of them are here. James isn’t even here.”
Have you ever wondered why that is?
“What?” He glanced around nervously.
Why James is never here when you wake up. Why he’s never around when you need him most. Face it, Jackie boy, you are nothin’ to him besides an emotional wreck that he can easily manipulate.
“Shut up.”
You even said so yourself. Nothin’ more to him than a whore just as you were to the four of them.
“Shut up!” he yelled angrily.
You have nothin’ to live for, Jackie. You’re only makin’ yourself a burden to those around you, especially now that you’re sick. Why not do yourself and everyone else a favor and go out with a little dignity, eh?
“Only a delusion,” he muttered quietly. “Only the fever. You’ve still got a bit of sanity in you, Sparrow.”
What about Will? Why should he be burdened with takin’ time away from his crew to come see you? Bit selfish, don’t ya think?
“It’s his choice.”
It’s his ship now. Don’t deny him the full pleasures that he ought to have simply because you’re a bit lonely.
“How do you suppose I do it then?” he questioned gravely.
The pistol, the stream, a dagger will do. And think about it, love. It’d be a good thing for you too. No more takin’ chances of having someone abusing you. No more of this infection nonsense. Though may I make a suggestion?
“What is it?”
Take Bradley with you. Will failed you again. What’s to say ol’ Bradley won’t come back to rape you of everythin’ once more?
“He didn’t want to,” he responded helplessly.
Didn’t want to?! That’s quite witty of you, Jackie. He just left you to the dogs and then fucked you twice over. He enjoyed it; you and I both know it.

Jack stood, wobbled slightly from dizziness, and put on his clothes. Everything had become brighter than usual and fuzzy. He blinked a few times, but it remained the same.

He rummaged about for a moment before stumbling out the door, knife safely tucked away at his waist.

****
The snide comments went unheard as Jack ambled by. He searched the abundant faces present all about him. His mind told him it was very unlikely that he would come across the man he sought, though he plodded on, determined.

It was by chance that he caught sight of his prey leaving a tavern. Quickly, he crossed to him and called his name. Bradley turned and immediately stopped.

“May I have a word with you?” Jack inquired sternly.
Bradley nodded. “Of course.”

Jack ventured into an alleyway nearby with Bradley following. Bradley moved to stand in front of him and stared at him expectantly.

“What do you want?” the young man asked kindly.

Jack lunged at him, his crutches clambering to the ground, and held the blade of the knife to Bradley’s neck. His teeth were clenched; his eyes were fraught with rage. Bradley was partially stunned, though he had been anticipating such an occurrence some time or another.

“Will may have made you a deal, but I am not bound to you in any form,” Jack growled maliciously. “The only comfort you should have is in knowin’ that nothin’ I can do with this knife will be even remotely as tormenting as what you did to me.”
Bradley gave a slight nod. “I know. I regret my actions every day.”
Jack pressed on the weapon hard enough to draw a trace of blood. “Don’t even try to make me feel any remorse for you.”
“That is not my intent. If I am to be punished for my wrongdoings, I had hoped it would be from you.”
“You did nothing to stop them. You just watched as I got thrown from one to the other to be fucked over and over and over.” His breathing had accelerated and droplets of sweat formed on his face. “Did it arouse you? Is that it?”
“No.”
“Then what?! Why did you let it happen?!”
“I was too afraid to say anything. I had seen what they had done to you and were doing to you; I couldn’t bring myself to counter them in fear of having their wrath on me. It was cowardly of me to sacrifice you. I do not deserve your forgiveness, nor will I ask for it. There is no redemption for my sins.”

Jack swallowed, and the fury disappeared from his features. It left behind a defenseless and uncertain man. He dropped his arm to his side; the knife slipped from his fingers. Bradley was astonished when Jack grasped his shirt tightly and fell against him. The pirate began to sob wretchedly, and Bradley did not know what else to do other than embrace him comfortingly. However, Jack did not stay in the man’s embrace long. He tore away and plummeted to the ground. His despondent expression flinched from the impact before it morphed into one of defeat as he moved backward to rest against the building wall. Bradley joined him on the hay strewn dirt opposite from him, merely staring at his company as the pirate attempted to harness his emotions.

“There is nothing,” Bradley began softly after a period, “that I can say to you that will amend the wrongdoings I have committed against you.”
Jack wiped his cheeks with the back of his hand and nodded.
“Did you read the note I left you?”
“Yes,” Jack choked.
“I wrote that you would never see me again, but….after the fight in town the other day, I thought I’d maybe be able to protect you should anything like that or any of the other tortures you’ve been through happen. It’s all that I can seem to offer.”
“I already have guardians,” the pirate stated firmly with slight distaste. “I’ve put them in a position against their will and mine. I don’t need another’s pity or charity, savvy?”
Bradley nodded and spoke gently, “Of course. I understand.”
“But do you honestly want to do somethin’ for me?”
“Yes, I do.”
Jack reached over to where the knife lay abandoned and passed it to Bradley.
“What’s this for?” the young man asked, puzzled.
“Kill me.”
Bradley was quite taken aback. “I’m sorry?”
“Be creative. I know it’s a skill you and your other mates had. A slit here at the throat, wrists, a god awful amount of stab wounds, I don’t care. You can even draw it out for hours, bleedin’ me a little at a time. Whatever suits your fancy.”

The handle turned in Bradley’s hand as he looked from it to Jack several times. Jack’s chest heaved up and down as he breathed weightily, restlessly waiting for a response.

“I can’t do that, Jack.”
“Why not?” the older man inquired irately. “Finish the job your friends failed to do.”
“I can’t.”
“Give it to me, then.”
“No.”

Within seconds, Jack was upon Bradley in a vigorous effort to take the weapon from him. He kicked, hit, anything that would help him eradicate the possession from the man’s grip. Bradley flung the crazed pirate aside and chucked the knife a number of feet away. He tackled Jack as the older man made to scurry after it.

“Let me go!” Jack yelled furiously. “Get off of me!”

He abruptly rolled onto his side, loosening Bradley’s hold on him. He seized the opportunity, shoving the male away as he crawled in the direction the knife had been thrown. Bradley was on him once again not a moment later.

“Why are you doin’ this to me?!” Jack shouted heart wrenchingly.
“Because I have done you wrong and I will not see you succumb to such a heinous act because of that! And what about your lover? What would he do without you?”

Jack became lifeless at the thought of Will. The captain’s brown eyes flashed in his mind; they were submerged in sorrow. The realization struck him. He could not bring himself to cause Will any sort of grief.

Bradley cautiously withdrew from Jack and observed him scrupulously. Jack stayed sedated on the ground.

“I could never do it knowin’ how hurt he would be,” the pirate stated quietly. “It’d be selfish. After all he’s done for me….”
“Look, Jack, I don’t blame you for feeling the need to take your own life. It must seem pretty peaceful compared to what we did to you. But I saw the way he looked at you when he removed you from the skirmish, the way he fought to protect you. You’re right; he would be extremely hurt. Having someone you love die is one of the most painful experiences you can ever have. I do not think you wish such a fate for him.”
“No, I do not.”

They were immobile for a lengthy period as a dreary silence covered them. Jack finally sat up and shook off the dirt from his hands.

“Care to have a drink with me?” Bradley asked as he studied the pirate straightening his shirt.
Jack lifted his gaze and frowned. “I don’t know. Should I trust you?”
“I swear that no harm will come to you.”
“It has been too long since I last had a good draught of alcohol,” he sighed.

Bradley got to his feet, picked up Jack’s crutches, and pulled the older man up to stand.

“Mind if I lead the way this time?” Jack questioned lightly.
Bradley smiled. “Not at all.”

****
Jack laughed noisily and could not stay still as Bradley carried him and his crutches to James’ house. He had consumed a large amount of rum and was considerably drunk as a result.

“Is anyone home?” Bradley asked when he arrived at the door.
“Home?! Ha! Never. Never, never home. Only me and my onesie.”

Bradley twisted the doorknob to find it unlocked. He entered and laid Jack on the sofa. Jack sprung to a sitting position and pulled the young man down to kneel in front of him.

“Stay awhile,” Jack purred seductively.
“I don’t know if it’s such a good idea.”
“Poppycock! All alone….A very comfortable piece of furniture here….How can you resist foolin’ around with the famous Jack Sparrow? A willing Jack Sparrow?” He grinned charismatically.

Bradley put his hands on Jack’s shoulders and moved closer to him. Jack leaned forward until his nose touched Bradley’s.

“Make me come alive,” the pirate whispered heatedly.

Nothing more had to be said. Bradley kissed him fervently, making Jack close his eyes and moan gloriously. Their lips tingled from the exhilarating touch, and Bradley was amazed at the extreme elation that coursed through his veins. Indeed, there was much pleasure to be had from a willing man.

Bradley was about to slide his fingers into the pirate’s breeches, but stopped himself when he heard the door open. He pulled back, and both he and Jack looked to see who had spoiled their enjoyment. Jack let out an annoyed breath and rolled his eyes. James’ formidable gaze caused Bradley to stand.

“Who the hell are you?” the former Commodore inquired as if speaking daggers.
“He’s my entertainment for the day,” Jack interjected before Bradley had a chance to respond.
“Get out. Now.”

Bradley glanced to Jack one last time before shuffling past James to leave. James slammed the door shut and stormed toward the pirate.

“I cannot believe you would pull a stunt like this,” he voiced in a low, angry tone. “Will is one thing, but bringing a complete stranger into my home to play with like a toy is absolutely appalling.”
“He wasn’t entirely a complete stranger,” Jack replied nonchalantly.
“Oh really? Then who was he?”
“He was one of my captors.”

James raised his eyebrows and stared at him as if he were revolting. Jack simply looked at his twiddling fingers as if they were having an ordinary, rather boring, conversation.

“For the first time, Jack, I am utterly disgusted by you.”
Jack lifted his eyes and gazed at him blandly. “So what’s new?”
“That’s it. If you want to whore yourself out to everyone, including those that allegedly made you afraid to be touched, then be my guest. Go ahead and try to reclaim your ‘promiscuous glory days.’ But don’t you dare bring your clientele into my home.”
“I already have one here right now,” the pirate stated icily.
“What is that supposed to mean?”
“What do you think it means?”
“Drop the sarcasm, Jack.”
“You. You’re my top client.”
James gripped the man’s shoulders strongly and shook him. “Don’t ever insult me like that again. You’re the one who’s lying on your back, eagerly waiting for me to fuck you.”
Jack’s lips were quirked in a disdainful smile. “So you think.”

James released him and walked to the fireplace. A few harsh coughs sounded behind him, though he did not look to check if Jack was all right.

“What are ya waitin’ for, then?”
James turned to discover the pirate stretched out on the sofa, shirt pushed up to his chin, and his breeches unbuttoned.
“I’m ready an’ willin’. Come teach me a lesson, ay? After all, you’re the one who owns me.”
James shook his head and smirked. “You’re pathetic, Jack. Why don’t you do us both a favor; take your unwanted body and go prostitute yourself to the citizens of Port Royal. That’s what you do best, isn’t it?”

When he finished his sentence, James treaded off to the bedroom. Jack attempted to shove the incredible hurt away, yet the callous words lingered in his mind.

He’s right, Jackie. You’re pathetic.
“Bugger off.”
This could be a solution. It would be a way to gain money, and you could begin to pay him back legitimately.

Jack sniffed and ran his fingers through his hair.

It was not a minute later when he stepped outside and shut the door quietly behind him.


Part Twenty-Seven: "Don't Leave Me"

****
The clock read nine, though it had never felt later in James’ mind. He paced back and forth in front of the door in hopes that Jack would suddenly enter. The inconsiderate words he had used had driven the pirate away; he knew this, and his heart lurched in guilt.

“Enough of waiting,” he muttered, aggravated.

He grabbed his coat, shrugged it on, and strolled out into the cool night.

****
Streets and alleyways were searched; the taverns were checked meticulously. There was no trace of him.

James sat at a table alone in the corner and sipped the rum he had given in to having. The majority of people he asked merely laughed and ridiculed the pirate, admitting that no one cared for him. Some confessed that they had seen him drinking with several men toward the back of the bar room. Where he went and what they did, none could rightly say.

James cursed himself many times as he thought of Jack heeding his suggestion. No scenario that came to mind ended in a pleasurable way for the older man.

“Excuse me, sir.”

James looked up to see who had addressed him. It was Bradley, causing him to smirk and give a curt nod.

“I’d like to apologize if I offended you earlier today,” Bradley stated sincerely. “I wasn’t planning to stay.”
“Doesn’t matter,” James grumbled. He continued a little more clearly, “He’s gone now, and I don’t know where to find him.”
“Gone?”
“I said some things I shouldn’t have. I haven’t seen him since I made you leave. Any ideas?”
“No, I’m sorry. I haven’t come across him.”

James sighed and set his mug onto the table. He stood on unsteady feet and said benignly, “Let me know if you do. I wish for him to come back ho-….to come back to stay with me.”

Briskly, he strode passed Bradley and out the entrance.

****
It began as tiny sprinkles, but gradually evolved into sizeable droplets. His eyes were closed, head upturned, and he immersed himself in the tranquil feeling of being ridded of his impurities. The moon did not illuminate the area much, yet he had distinguished the rushing stream minutes ago and could still hear it only a few feet ahead of him.

Jack lowered his head after a lengthy period and opened his eyes. Carefully, he crept to the bank of the river; his clothes were plastered to his somewhat shivering body and his bare foot was blanketed by fresh mud. He let his crutches fall to the ground, hurriedly balancing himself from the loss of the aides. He filled his lungs with air and released it slowly in an effort to pacify his nerves.

“I wish both of you all the happiness one could ever hope for,” he said quietly.

As a streak of lightening painted the sky, Jack threw himself into the black water.

It was immensely deeper than it appeared, making him suspend himself midway between the surface, which was numerous feet above him, and the bottom. Everything was eerily silent and peaceful around him. He smiled at the thought of eternal serenity and permitted a small amount of water to enter his mouth. His long hair splayed out about him, creating what looked to be like an odd halo. The worn shirt and breeches undulated from the movement of the river, and for reasons he was unsure of, he had never felt more liberated.

In time, he found himself hovering weightlessly in a paradise.

Unexpectedly, a dull light became visible several inches away from him. He cocked his head quizzically, enthusiastically waiting for whatever it was to become comprehensible. Leisurely, a translucent figure emerged and traveled to float before him. His eyes widened in disbelief and his mouth fell open for a second.

Will grinned joyfully and held up his hand. Jack mirrored the gesture and reached forward to touch the iridescent skin. His fingers slipped right through the captain’s hand. He did not accept the notion that Will was not actually there; frantically, he continued to try and take hold of any part of the young man’s body. It proved futile.

Dismally, Jack spoke his name, not caring about the sudden amount of water that filled his mouth. Will responded by silently saying, “I love you.” It was then that he started to quickly fade.

Jack’s arms flailed in front of him as if he could pull Will into a physical form. When just the light remained, it drifted downward. Jack followed it urgently. He delved into the depths despite the burning protest of his lungs and mind. The short journey ended in mere minutes; the twinkle completely vanished.

Jack glanced everywhere, but there was nothing. His body became immensely pained, and it caused him to panic. He gasped for breath, though it was not air he had been mistakenly expecting. The tightening lungs inhaled water; he knew there was nothing he could do to save himself. He had no strength or enough time.

As his eyelids closed and he fell entirely limp, he felt warm, gentle kisses on his face accompanied by a sultry, loving voice.

“Do not leave me, Jack. Stay with me, I beg of you.”

****
There was warmth that shrouded him as he laid on the wet, cold, ground. He rolled onto his side and sputtered out the water that had drowned him. He coughed uncontrollably for a few minutes before he sat up and gazed at the dark area surrounding him.

“Jack.”

The pirate whirled around in order to find the source of the speaker. He gasped in sheer bewilderment from staring at Will right beside him. The young man grinned compassionately, his eyes never straying from Jack’s.

“William,” the pirate whispered as tears birthed in his brown orbs. “I can’t do this anymore. I can’t.”
“You’re Captain Jack Sparrow. You can do the impossible.”
Jack shook his head and blinked a number of times as the droplets started to trickle down his cheeks. “Not anymore. There is nothin’ for me here, nor is there anythin’ for me elsewhere. I’m suffocated by all of it. There’s no freedom, Will. I’ve lost my pride, dignity, and desire.”
“I don’t believe that, Jack.”
“It doesn’t matter anyway.” He paused for a moment as he evened his ragged breaths. “I can’t stand being parted from you. I need you, Will. Please come back to me. Please.”
“I’m always with you, Jack.”

Will’s lips ghosted over the older man’s before he began to disappear.

“No, no,” Jack said in a stifled voice. “Don’t leave me, Will. Please don’t. Don’t leave me.”

He gazed desolately at the spot where his lover had been and surrendered to his tears.

Abandoned and alone, Jack lay on his side in the mud and wept mournfully, at last submitting to sleep thirty minutes later.

****
Rain descended from the gray clouds looming in the sky. The sunlight could vaguely be seen trickling through the ominous sky. Jack opened his eyes wearily and looked in front of him. Every object in sight was unbelievably blurred. It grew worse when he shifted to lie on his left side. He could not discern anything, not even the saturated blades of grass rippling from the wind in front of him.

All at once, an unbearable pain shot through the right portion of his shivering frame. He cried out weakly and rubbed his torso in an attempt to assuage the throbbing ache.

A boisterous clap of thunder was the last thing he knew before his eyes rolled back and he passed out.

****
James sprung upward when he heard the door close. He immediately whipped around to discover who it was. His hope vanished from realizing it was not Jack.

Amelia strode to him and asked quietly, “Did you sleep here last night?”
“Yes, I….I must have just dozed off while waiting for him to come back.”
“Waiting for who?”
“Jack. He….We had a fight.”

He bowed his head and ran his fingers through his hair. She sat next to him on the sofa, compelled to listen if he felt the need to talk.

“I can’t believe the things I said,” he spoke, ashamed. “I don’t know why I did. He’s someone who needs to be handled with extreme care now. He’s become so delicate, and I should know better than to insult him like that. This was supposed to be a haven for him, and I swore that I would take care of him….It’s nothing more than a prison for him; I see it in those dull eyes whenever he looks at me. And I seem to have returned to my authoritative ways. This is his prison cell, and I treat him as if he is a criminal in my custody.” He hesitated for a moment before inquiring, “Tell me, what was he like when Will was here? Was he happy?”
Amelia nodded. “Yes. His face lit up and I had never known him to have such joy. They were inseparable; each of them loved the other dearly.”
“It makes me wonder why he stays here and why Will hasn’t left the Pearl yet to be with him.”
“He has strong feelings for you too. They may not be the same kind he has for Will, but I can tell he loves you.”
James exhaled a shaky breath and stared ahead. “I’m worried about him, Amelia. Not just because he may not return, but if he does….He’ll just continue being remarkably depressed. I don’t know what to do to make him happy.”

Amelia took James’ hand in hers and held it consolingly. He turned to look at her directly.

“He’s lonely, James. And now that he’s ill, it wouldn’t surprise me if that feeling increased. He needs you to be here with him, for him.”
“But work-”
“Take another day off during the week or a couple. It may do you some good too.” She paused briefly before saying, “I’m gonna make you some tea and you just relax. Give him another day to cool off.”
He smiled and said gently, “Thank you, Amelia.”

She grinned and patted his hand. He lay down as she went to the kitchen and closed his eyes.

“One more day,” he uttered decisively.

****
As morning dawned on the third day of Jack’s absence, James was determined to find him. No more time would be allowed to pass.

He had no idea where to begin. An unyielding sense of intuition, however, prodded him to scour the nearby area. He conceded, and began a trek through the damp grass. The pirate’s favored tree was not sheltering him, and so James continued on in the direction in which he started.

“This is pointless,” he mumbled. “Why would he have come out here while it was pouring rain?”

The sound of flowing water grew louder as he treaded toward the stream. He traveled alongside it for a few yards until a huddled figure ahead of him caused him to stop. His eyes strained to make out what the object was from a distance. It moved from an extreme spasm, and James could not breathe.

“Dear lord in heaven, no,” he whispered fearfully.

He sprinted to the being and fell to his knees upon determining who it was. Carefully, he pulled on Jack’s shoulder to have him lie on his back. The pirate’s visage was smeared with mud. His clothes were also soiled by wet dirt, drenched, and stuck to his thin frame. He was wholly motionless, save for the minute shivers that constantly ailed him. The skin was a tad pale and tremendously freezing. James grabbed his cheeks and rubbed them gently.

“Jack. Please, open your eyes. For god’s sakes, open your eyes. Damn you!”

He lifted the unconscious man and slung him over his shoulder. After retrieving the pirate’s crutches, he made his way to the house with all speed.

****
James stripped Jack quickly and laid him on the bed. The pirate was shaking incessantly; his breath came in unsteady rasps and at times, it was as if he could not breathe at all. Amelia brought a bowl of water and several rags for the young man to clean Jack’s face. She gathered the filthy garments on the floor and took them away to be washed later.

James removed the pirate’s bandana and dropped it to the side, covered Jack’s trembling form with the bed sheets, and started to scrub the grime from the older man’s countenance. Jack winced as if the fabric had hurt him, and he began to murmur unintelligibly.

“I brought you some blankets,” Amelia said as she re-entered the room.
“Thank you,” James spoke appreciatively.

She unfolded each one individually and spread them atop Jack. James flew through his task and was done soon after Amelia laid the last one on the trembling man. He draped the sullied cloths over the edges of the murky water bowl and began to shed his attire. She carried the dish to the kitchen and returned seconds later to find James lying on his side beneath the layers of covers with Jack held tightly against his nude body.

“Is there anythin’ else I can do?” she asked, concerned.
“I think we’re all right for now. Thank you.”

She nodded and exited. James rested his chin on the top of Jack’s head and closed his eyes. The man’s skin was exceedingly chilly against his own warm flesh. It made him shudder, though he got used to the icy sensation in a short time.

“You’re going to be fine,” he voiced softly as if to put his own worry at ease. “You’ll be fine.”

Strangled noises came from Jack sporadically as James cradled him. His body convulsed strongly every now and then, causing James to rub his back soothingly.

“I’ll take care of you,” the young man whispered. “You’ll be fine.”