Nevercomeback

For a woman Elizabeth ran a pretty tight ship. Even Jack had to admit as much. The crew respected her. Most would die for her, not all of course, they were pirates after all. And a few even loved her. Jack supposed they were the crazy ones but kept it to his lonesome. Since he’d been here, going on three days now, he’d heard no less than 6 crew members report to Lizzy… sorry Captain Turner, about a man named Bill. Jack figured he must be a new crew member or on probation to be kept track of so soundly. Jack, however, had never seen the man. Of course, Jack didn’t really care. He was in the lap of luxury. He wouldn’t hinge a bet on it lasting though.
He wandered the decks without care looking at the sea, glad to be heading to his destination at last. Suddenly a small lad ran around the corner. Without hesitation Jack scooped him up by the collar of his shirt. “You boy, who are ya?”

“Please sir…”

“Ah a stow-away eh?” Jack began half carrying half dragging the boy to Elizabeth… Captain Turner’s quarters. He threw open the door without so much as a knock and dumped the boy’s feet to the floor. “Captain seems you’ve got a stow-away.”

Elizabeth turned to face them and could not seem to sort out her face. “Jack,” she said trying to hold back her amusement. “Jack this is Bill.”

“Bill? That mate everyone keeps telling you about?”

“Yes, Jack.”

“But he’s just a… a…”

“Kid, Jack. Bill is my son.”

“Your….?”

“Lord for an infamous pirate you’re a bit dull aren’t you. Let’s follow the progression. Bootstrap Bill Turner. William Turner. And now my son Bill.” She laughed and Bill ran to her. She mussed his hair.

“This is Will’s son.” Jack said flatly.

“Aye.” She nodded.

“And you’re his mum.” She nodded again.

“Ma did this smelly chap know my da’?” The boy’s voice was rough like a pirate but he hardly seemed to fit the bill. He was far too…

“Pretty,” Jack scoffed aloud.

“Beg your pardon?” Elizabeth looked at Jack quizzically. Then back to Bill. “Oh. Yes, Bill. This is an old friend. Captain Jack Sparrow.” The boy’s eyes lit up as he turned to face the man.

“Really? It’s him? You’re all pulling me leg aren’t ya?”

They both laughed in very different ways. “If only she were, lad. D’ya mind if I talk to your mum for a minute?” The boy shook his head but added, “Just as long as I get a story later.”

“Of course Bill,” Elizabeth sighed, “now sod off and go study your navigations.” And he did just that. As the door closed Jack took a step closer to Elizabeth.

“Obedient lad. I gotta put the pirate spirit in him or he’ll never survive this life.” Elizabeth scoffed. “Pirate spirit? He’s far too young for any rum that’s not properly watered. And if the crew can follow that one than so can you… Jack.” He smiled and took another step then sat himself at the chair beside her.

“So, Lizzy, why not catch me up.”

“What is there to say, Jack. Will and I were married. He was killed, and then made immortal. He had his day on land and took off. Nine months later I had Bill.” She smiled gently and a bit sadly.

“What was all this about how you missed me then?” He was joking but she wasn’t playing. “I did miss you Jack. You and Will… I miss you both everyday.”

“Oh sure you did, love.”

“Oh, didn’t I? The boy’s full name is William Sparrow Turner. Pirate through and through.” She stood and looked down at Jack.

“Lizzy… you love Will. I know you miss him, but don’t go throwing away that love because you’re lonely and certainly not on me.” She was taken aback.

“Why Jack I didn’t know you cared so for Will.”

“Will?” He asked. “You saw what happened to the last immortal pirate who was scorned by a woman. I don’t want that wrath coming down on me.” He held up his hands.

She laughed. “Oh, of course. Well you do have a point; Will isn’t a very understanding sort of fellow.” Scorn and sarcasm dripped from her lips. She turned her back on him and plopped onto her bed, lying down. “Lord, Jack, maybe I’m not looking for love. Maybe I’m just looking for affection.”

His eyes perked up and looked her over. “Affection of the physical variety?” He inquired. She lifted her head and scoffed at him. “Good lord, Jack… what did I ever see in you?” she flopped her head back down and spoke to the ceiling. “I suppose I thought it was impressive, you being a Captain and all. But I suppose the whole being a Pirate King myself has made you a bit boring.”

“Boring?” and in one swift movement he had moved to the bed, pulled her from it, and shoved her against the wall. “Do you remember, Lizzy, the day you kissed me?” He spoke seductively his head swayed slightly his lips close to hers.
“Jack. Stop.” She said firmly. She wiggled but without force.

“You want to remember what it tastes like.” He murmured. “You’re curious.”

“Jack…” she drawled eyes half closed, lips half smiling.

“Yes, Pet?”

“If you don’t let me go… I’ll make you a world of pain. Then I’ll have you thrown overboard.” She smiled and added. “And I’ll keep your hat.” He backed off looking affronted, grabbed the garment upon his head and clutched it protectively to his chest.

“You wouldn’t.”

She simply smiled and she stormed off.