The Wraith of Jack

Part Nine: “A Person’s Touch”

****
With a heavy sigh in order to smother the anxiety, Will opened the door unhurriedly and ventured into the room. He was surprised to find Jack sitting in a chair across the area and facing the window. Fighting the trepidation, Will stalked closer until he was near enough to kneel beside the pirate.

“I brought you some soup,” he spoke quietly.

Jack said nothing and barely moved. He stared hopelessly at the world outside as if he were immersed in another dimension.

“I’ll set it here for you.” Will placed the bowl on the table next to him and returned his gaze to Jack. “Did you get James to carry you or-”
“I’m not completely decrepit, William,” the low voice said shortly. “I can crawl, you know.”
Will was startled by the sudden reaction. “I-I know. I just thought you may be too-”
“Weak? Incompetent? Maybe for some things.”
“Jack, I didn’t mean it like that. I’m trying to help you.”
“Then just stay away from me, Will. Is that so hard?”

Will’s teeth clenched and he shifted to be in front of Jack. “It was awful to see; I won’t deny that. And I know you must see it clear as day in your mind more than you should, but you’re not to blame. It’s not like I think any less of you.”
Jack cocked his head to the side and shut his eyes. “Why do you do this?”
“Do what?”
“Care at all what happens to me?”
“Jack, I…..I-”
“Never mind. It matters not.”

There was no room left for anything else to be said.

With a bothered heart, Will took his leave.

****
Night had fallen, finding James entering the quarters of the captain. He was thrilled to discover that the food had been touched. It was partially emptied, not a lot, but it was a start.

A delighted smile graced his face and he looked to his right to say a kind word, but Jack’s head was tilted back as he slept peacefully. Acting carefully as to not disturb him, James slipped his arms about Jack’s torso and beneath his leg. He lifted him, treaded gently to the bed, and laid him on the furniture. There was an almost inaudible sound that came from the pirate before he turned and snuggled against the nearest pillow.

Without a thought, James’ hand hovered above the man’s visage for a second before caressing the skin. He ran his fingers through the ragged hair, traced a path across his jaw to his neck, and dared to inch downward behind the shirt’s fabric to explore Jack’s chest. A noise that could be taken for recognition of pleasure escaped Jack’s lips.

Will froze the instant he stepped foot into the room. He was shocked and angered as he watched James’ hand wander aimlessly over the slumbering man.

He soon ripped himself from the spot and stormed toward the former Commodore.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” he hissed defensively as he tore the digits away from Jack’s stomach.

James gave him a stunned, irritated expression and responded, “What is with you? I was doing nothing.”
“You were taking advantage of him.”
“What are you talking about? I would never do such a thing.”
“Do you not know, James?”
“Know what?”
“He was…..He was raped; many times while being held captive.” He swallowed a knot in his throat and looked away from the bewildered blue eyes. “I doubt he’d want you touching him when he can’t-”

An unexpected blow to his side made Will cease talking and grab the aching spot. Both men turned their heads and observed Jack prop himself up on his right elbow. A shadow of fury tinged with pure awkwardness settled over his features. His overall appearance looked as if someone had stabbed a knife through him.

“You have no right to tell anyone what you saw,” he growled dangerously.
Will’s mouth moved with no words filtering out of it for a brief moment until at last he formed a coherent thought. “But Jack, I-”
“No right!” he yelled. “You don’t have any idea of what I want!”

The two men were both taken aback when Jack grasped James’ shirt, pulled him down, and slammed his lips to the smooth ones of the younger man. He kissed him erotically as Will looked on in disbelief and envy.

They finally parted their mouths; each had a slightly accelerated heartbeat, though not for the same reasons. Jack’s brown orbs met Will’s and he shook his head. “I thought I could at least trust you,” he said in a hushed tone.

The sentence pierced Will like a bundle of daggers. He tried to respond, but nothing came.

“Get out of here,” Jack ordered firmly.

James and Will exchanged questionable glances, but they knew better than to persuade him otherwise.

Once the two had taken their leave, Jack pressed his fingertips to his lips. He detested the fact that he was quivering and overwhelmed by certain fear.

He was unable to fall asleep the rest of the night; flashbacks filled his vision and left him paralyzed.

****
A day passed without conversation between James and Will. They eyed one another suspiciously and with contempt. The mention of trust Jack had used concerning Will had made James question the young man’s loyalty as well, though he was not sure why. The same could be said for Will; the instant James kissed back, Will felt somehow betrayed.

The feeling was heightened due to James taking it upon himself to be the one to care for Jack solo for the period of time. Will knew he could not re-enter Jack’s presence so soon, but because James could it caused him to be all the more testy.

The day of solitude from Jack’s quarters was not a complete loss. An idea had come to him: a gift, one that would surely be appreciated. He drew himself a sketch and contemplated how to go about constructing the two pieces. The next time port would be made, he would acquire the needed supplies.

****
Believing that it was finally all right, Will went into the room and paused when Jack looked up from where he sat on the bed. A moment passed between them with nothing being said, each studying the other. Something shifted in Jack’s gaze, which Will took to mean that he was permitted to stalk closer.

He crept onto the bed beside the captain and stared ahead, while Jack paid attention to his restless hands in his lap. Another silence came over them.

There was a deep inhale of breath as Jack raised his head to face Will, yet he kept his eyes downcast. Will had a hunch that Jack would not be the first to talk, and so he did it himself.

“I didn’t think, Jack. You’re right. I was in no position to tell him-”
“It’s okay, Will. It doesn’t matter now.”
“Are you holding up okay?”
“Better than I was before, worse than I used to be.”
“I saw it, Jack.”
The worn eyes finally lifted to gaze at the blacksmith directly. “Saw what?” he asked, entirely confused.
“You were frightened that night you kissed him. When you looked at me, I could see it.”
Jack swallowed and shook his head slightly. He attempted to laugh it off. “No I wasn’t. You should really get your vision checked, love.”
“You don’t have to pretend. You don’t always have to be so strong.”

It was very evident that Jack had been ripped open and was now stitching the mortal wound, but it was taking longer than he expected. Whenever a little was sewn, it never ceased to split open soon after. Every emotion, good and bad, could always be seen on Jack’s face whether he tried to hide it or not. The ability he had had of making one constantly guess what went on within the confines of his supposed maddened mind was not a talent he possessed anymore; at least for the time being.

Jack sniffed and said sadly, “Will, I…..I don’t know who I am anymore. And I don’t know why.”

Will seized the opportunity and placed his arm across Jack’s shoulders, bringing the thin male to rest against him. Jack did not protest from being held.

“This makes no sense either, William.”
“What doesn’t?”
“How can I be afraid to touch or be touched, yet I’m fine with this?”
Will smiled. “You just need…..You just need to be re-taught that a person’s touch can be pleasurable. A slow re-teaching.”
A small chuckle came from Jack. “For once, an idea of yours doesn’t sound completely ridiculous.”
“What are you talking about? I never have ridiculous ideas.”
“Indulge me, love. I am crippled.”
“Oh, you want to be that way now?”
“I’ll be anything ya like.”

He pulled away and for a minute, they stared with uncertainty at each other. Will dared to move his face nearer to take Jack’s lips with his own, but Jack put his hand up to stop him.

“I’m sorry,” he breathed, ashamed.
“No, I’m sorry. I-I shouldn’t have.”

As Will walked quickly out the door, Jack did not fail to notice that his cheeks were tinged with red.

****
It took a few weeks before Jack consented entirely to Will’s advice. At night they would exchange innocent caresses, fully clothed, and no longer than a ten-minute period. Will never pushed; he understood when it was time to quit even if Jack did not say so aloud.

It was important for Jack to be completely comfortable with touching another person. For the first couple of sessions, Will let the pirate explore his face and torso. Though the hands always seemed tremulous, it decreased in intensity as their meetings continued. The night Jack whispered, “I’m ready. I want you to touch me,” Will’s head spun wildly. Progress was indeed being made.

James did not know of the two’s private rendezvous, and Will felt no need to enlighten him of it. It was finally his turn to be the one Jack clung to.

Will entered the room, ready for the similar routine, however he was stunned the moment he gazed at the bed. Jack sat with the sheet covering his lean frame; he held it securely about him and met Will’s eyes shyly. He had no shirt, and Will was certain that trousers were absent as well.

Full of anticipation, the young man crept closer and took a seat in front of him. Jack’s brown orbs darted about the room for a few seconds until he was at last able to settle them on Will’s visage.

“Jack-”
“Please don’t say anything. I just…..I want to feel you.”
“Are you sure? I don’t want you to rush this.”
“I’m sure.” He let the covers fall from his grasp and brushed his fingertips across Will’s cheek. “Take me, William. Have me.”

There was an enormous amount of hesitation Will had, but he could not deny him. The pleading look in Jack’s eyes was everything he needed to do as the man wished.

He removed his clothing and pushed aside the sheet to reveal Jack’s naked form. Jack watched his every move scrupulously; it was how he noticed the flicker of repulsion that swept Will’s countenance when the blacksmith caught sight of the tiny amount that remained of his right leg. The embarrassment Jack had for it made Will silently curse himself.

“I’m sorry, Jack. I didn’t-”
“I understand. You’re disgusted by it…..By me.”
“No. No, Jack. I just…..”

The bruised visage was covered with sadness. Will had no idea to rectify his mistake. He did the first thing that came to mind.

Cautiously, he cupped Jack’s face in his hands and kissed him tenderly. Jack closed his eyes and melted against him. Their lips were eager to work with one another’s – to taste and learn of the other’s passion. Gently, Will eased Jack to lie on his back and he crawled atop the shaking frame. His hands wasted no time at traveling the tanned flesh; they were enthusiastic to explore the exquisite territory. Soft moans filtered from Jack’s mouth and were lost within Will’s.

Portions of Jack’s skin flinched from the mild contact of fingers, making Will smile in delight. He parted from the captain’s mouth and forged a path from his neck to his shoulder. The dark dreadlocks were swept to the side as Will nibbled and kissed the shoulder blade. It did not take long for Jack’s breathing to accelerate wonderfully.

Jack relaxed into the blissful touches; he was wholly lost within a dream world. He at last opened his eyes when he felt Will start to penetrate him.

With extreme care, Will eased himself into Jack. The pirate tensed and began to writhe under him, but the younger man calmed him with soothing words of encouragement. Jack bit his lip and a few tears leaked from his eyes. It was no longer fear that seized him; it was indescribable thrill and desire.

Will commenced thrusting at a leisurely pace. It elicited delicious sounds to escape Jack’s opened mouth. He wrapped his left leg around the male’s back above him and desperately held onto him. His face was contorted in extreme pleasure, causing Will to groan simply from gazing at him.

The propulsions became more powerful and faster, and Jack grew louder. He was in an inferno, one that was made up entirely of enjoyment. His chest heaved up and down as he panted; sweat shined on both of their bodies. He gave a throaty noise as he climaxed across Will’s torso.

Will followed not long after. He shuddered as he ejaculated within the warmth of Jack’s being.

Quaking, breathing heavily, and utterly worn out, Jack lay limp and waited for his friend to take a spot beside him. Will pulled away and rested nearby. He brought Jack into his arms and wiped the falling tears with his thumbs. The older male hugged him as if he were a lifeline and buried his head in the crook of Will’s shoulder.

“Shhh….shhhh….You’re all right. You were fantastic. It’s okay. Shhh……” Will spoke quietly and showered Jack with kisses.

Amid the ragged breathing, Will discerned a tiny, “Thank you.”

They remained in their private sanctuary until the sun’s first rays broke into the room.


Part Ten: “Seeing the Shadow”

****
There was no mistaking the feeling of being alone. He recognized it before he even opened his tired eyes to greet the morning. He glanced behind him and looked about the room, but Will was nowhere.

A sickening notion of abandonment swarmed him, but it died away when he heard footsteps. He smiled happily as Will came into the area. The young male grinned as well and moved to kiss Jack’s forehead.

“Good morning,” he said gently.
“Good morning, darlin’.”
“Did you sleep well? You were twitching quite a bit.”
“Oh? My apologies. I didn’t notice. I slept very well, thank you.”
“Great. I’m glad.”
Jack’s countenance was abruptly overcome by concern, and he stuttered a little before finally speaking. “You haven’t told James, have you?”
Will shook his head. “No. I didn’t think he needed to know.”
“Good. Thanks, mate.”
“You’re welcome…..Listen, there’s someone who’s wanted to speak with you. I’ve kept him away since you didn’t seem to want any other company besides James and myself and because you were recovering. But, you seem well enough now, so would you like to see him?”
Jack nodded. “Sure. Why not, ay?”
“Alright. I’ll go get him.”

Jack sat up and made certain that the sheet covered him from the waist down. Once the man entered, Jack gave a small laugh.

“Robert, mate, how are ya?” he asked friendly as his former cell-neighbor pulled a chair next to the bed.
“I couldn’t be better. And yourself?”
“The same. They takin’ good care of ya?”
“Aye. They be caring for all of us. They’re really kind.”
“Good, good.”
“Jack, I’ve….I’ve been meanin’ to thank ya. We’ve already gave thanks to the others, but you were the one who asked them to go back and free us all. There’s nothin’ I could ever offer ye to satisfy the gratitude I have. It would never be enough.”
“Oh, stop it. You flatter too much.”
Robert chuckled. “I’m serious, Jack. I can’t thank you enough.”
“Well, you’re very welcome.”
“All the men – they’ve been askin’ to see you. I understand you may not want to, but it would mean a lot to them. Most don’t have any idea of who you are or what ya look like.”
“I….I don’t know. Maybe.” His smile faltered slightly, but returned quickly as he continued. “Where are you goin’ now that you’re free again?”
“I’d like to head to New Providence. I got my family to get to.”
“Then be sure to tell them that’s where you want to be dropped off. I said so.”
“Thanks, Jack.”

Robert stood, shook Jack’s hand, and exited. Jack ran his fingers through his hair and exhaled a breath. It was unpleasant to feel guilty; he wanted to meet his fellow captives, yet he was still utterly self-conscious of the losses of his appearance.

He fell back onto the pillows and sprawled out. It was definitely something to think about.

****
“Jack?”

The pirate bolted upright and discovered James stalking towards him. He smiled kindly at the puzzled reaction the former Navy man had at seeing his unclothed torso.

“What’s going on?” James queried.
“Nothing. Nothing whatever. What makes you think something is going on?”
James shrugged. “I don’t know. I just thought-”
“It’s always a dangerous thing to think, is it not?”
“I take it you’re feeling better?”
“Somewhat.”
“Well, you do look it.”
“Is that meant as a compliment?” he asked with a sly grin.
“Indeed it is, Mr. Sparrow.”
“Why thank you, Mr. Norrington.”

James smiled and nodded before he turned his gaze to the side. Jack cocked his head and frowned.

“What is it, Jamie?”
“Oh, nothing. I’ve just been wondering what….what’s to happen. Jack, if you need someone to take the Pearl, I would gladly have her.”
Jack swallowed a knot in his throat and his body went stiff. “Yes, well….I haven’t thought that out meself quite yet.”
“And where are you to go?”
“James-”
“I know it may be hasty to speak of such things, but I would be disappointed to see you turn her over to less capable hands-”
“James,” Jack stated sternly. “Please.”

James took note of the despair in the man’s chestnut orbs and realized he had gone too far.

“Forgive me, Jack.”
“Don’t worry yourself over it.”
“It would simply put me at ease to know that you’ll be cared for.”
“That’s quite sweet of you. But I’ll be fine; I promise you.”

Jack placed a consoling hand on James’ arm and squeezed it gently. He did not believe that such an innocent gesture would result in not quite so pure actions. There was no spoken approval or sliver of uneasiness present between them. They inched closer as if there was an unseen force bringing them together. The instant James’ lips connected with Jack’s, he was sent soaring. Jack entwined his fingers within the male’s hair and pressed his upper body against James.

For a lengthy period, they knew nothing other than the wonderful sensations from one another’s mouth.

****
Will looked out to the ocean and sighed. The island was in view and it would be just moments before they dropped anchor and went ashore for supplies and whatnot. It was also the destination in which they were to depart with the liberated men. However, something unsettled him. He could not pinpoint it, making it all the more distracting. He absently observed the crew shuffling about and noticed Gibbs gathering the men about him to address them. His eyelids lowered as he scrutinized the congregation. What was it regarding?

The group dissipated, allowing Will his opportunity to converse with Gibbs.

“What was that about?” he questioned curiously.
“Oh that? It’s nothin’ to be concerned about. We just want to be sure that we won’t have a repeat of what happened before.”
“What happened?”
“See, when we made port at Tortuga before Jack was taken, there was a man who showed up on deck the mornin’ we left. None of us thought anythin’ of it; he seemed well enough to be a good member, so we let him alone. Jack didn’t care for him, and I should’ve believed him when he told me that there was something wrong about him. Next time we docked, Jack never showed to leave and neither did that traitorous bastard. We can only assume that he was the one who took Jack prisoner.”

Will listened to this with a heavy heart. He could do nothing other than nod his head. It was a sad realization that Jack drew treacherous men aboard his ship; the biggest example being his First Mate Barbossa long ago.

The freed captives filed onto the deck and gazed at the piece of land with eager eyes. There was a rush of delight that swept through them all, and Will could hear murmurs of Jack’s name.

****
“We’re here,” James said quietly as he turned away from the window.

Jack appeared as if he would be sick, but he moved to the edge of the bed and after a great struggle, he stood. James came to his side and put an arm about his waist as Jack placed his across the man’s shoulders.

“Are you sure you want to do this?”
“Yes, Jamie,” he whispered. “I need to.”

****
The doors of the captain’s cabin opened, causing everyone to turn and see who was coming. Looking unimaginably feeble and ready to collapse, Jack emerged with James supporting him. A deafening hush settled upon them, leaving Jack to feel quite sheepish from the many pairs of eyes studying him. Will glanced from the large band of men to the timid captain, awaiting some sort of reaction. No one did a thing. Silent words were being exchanged that Will could not translate, nor could James.

At last Jack bowed courteously and a tiny smile came to his face. Will observed that the pirate’s leg was shaking enormously and he met James’ gaze to alert him of it. James understood. He said something into Jack’s ear, which Jack nodded in agreement to. As the two began to turn, a voice stopped them by calling Jack’s name.

Robert stepped forward in front of the assembly and made eye contact with Jack’s wearied ones. He grinned sincerely before bowing deeply.

The men followed the action; some removed their hats and held them to their breast. Jack’s mouth opened in wonderment as he attempted to speak as well. Tears danced in his amber orbs as he watched them.

When they stood once more, Robert said, “On behalf of us all, thank you, Captain Sparrow.”

A droplet fell on Jack’s cheek from being addressed as such. He surveyed the happy expressions and the appreciation present within each one of them. He smiled broadly in return and drew in a breath.

“Aye,” he whispered. “Take-” His throat closed suddenly, making him cough to relieve it before continuing. “Take care of yourselves, gentlemen. Good luck to you all.”

“Aye,” was the collected response as they began to cheer.

Jack laughed and for the first time, Will could see true joy shining through the man’s weathered visage.

He had never looked more beautiful in Will’s mind.


Part Eleven: “Choosing”

****
Jack breathed in the refreshing air and closed his eyes as he balanced himself against the railing of the deck. The crew was shuffling off to make their rounds on land, and he was satisfied with staying behind. Will had tried to persuade him otherwise, but he merely smiled and shook his head. The idea of being surrounded by rowdy, lustful men was not something he believed he could handle.

A shadow appeared, making him turn to find James next to him. The former Commodore placed his hand on the pirate’s back and rubbed it soothingly.

“You’re staying, I take it?” he inquired.
“Yes. I’ll leave the fun to them.”
“That doesn’t mean you can’t drink here.”
Jack eyed him deviously. “What do you have in mind, ay?”

James presented a bottle of Jack’s favorite drink, which Jack graciously took and chuckled at.

“I see your ways,” he said amused. “Care to join me, love?”

James swept Jack into his arms and headed for the captain’s quarters.

****
Will worked diligently on his self-assigned project for the first two days ashore. All that needed to be done to complete them was a bit of sculpting. He was confident that it would be well-received with praise and much appreciation.

He stowed the two pieces away below deck where they would not be tampered with. Shortly after, he meandered into the captain’s cabin and was greeted by faint noises of pleasure. Hurriedly, he entered the adjacent room to find James seated on the bed copulating Jack’s mouth with his tongue. Will’s face flushed as anger, embarrassment, and envy arose within him.

He cleared his throat to announce his presence, and the two men put a halt to their inappropriate behavior to see who had walked in on them. It was obvious that Jack was blushing as he gazed at Will bashfully. James looked rather annoyed.

“Hello, William,” Jack spoke quietly. Will was surprised to detect a hint of shame in the tone.
“I’m sorry to have interrupted.”
“We were just….just….Why don’t you come have a seat, ay?”
“I don’t think-”
“Please, Will.”

The expression of pure resentment James had made Will accept the proposal with a snicker. He would have loved to make a smart comment to the Commodore, but he reined it in.

Contentedly, he sat next to James. For a period the three men glanced from one to another. Jack appeared wholly innocent compared to the extreme possessiveness evident in the others’ eyes. The pirate studied the trait in each of their stares before he at last broke the awkward silence.

“Stop it, the both of you.”
“What do you mean?” James responded.
“I’m not goin’ to be somethin’ you fight over.”

Without another thought, Jack took hold of Will’s face and kissed him passionately. It sent the young man into the reverie of the first night they had slept together. As the pirate continued it, James could do nothing but watch with jealousy.

Finally, Jack pulled away, leaving Will suspended in a haze. The captain proceeded to do the same with James. When they finished he put his hands gently on the men’s backs and slowly eased them toward one another. There was a tiny instant of refusal, yet the seductive smile Jack had encouraged them on. Though it was quick, it was just what was needed to instigate more.

Jack was already shirtless, leaving him to rid Will of his own rapidly; James shed his as well. Will and James inched closer to Jack in order to gain better access to the man’s attractive frame. Jack placed his arms around them as greedy hands started to venture over his torso, hair, neck, and anywhere else they could reach. He leaned his head toward James and their lips hungrily tasted. Will put his to Jack’s chest and made a path to the pirate’s nipple; he licked it – arousing a gasp to come from Jack – before he encompassed it entirely and sucked. He could feel tremors racking Jack’s body as he continued his ministrations.

James released Jack’s mouth to focus on unbuttoning the male’s trousers. Jack titled his head backward and succumbed to the overwhelming ecstasy. He allowed the former Navy man to slide the article of clothing off and soon prodded James to remove his own in turn. Will followed suit, reluctantly breaking contact with the flinching flesh.

The two pushed Jack to lie on his back gently and each tendered to half of his slim body; Will on the right, James on his left. Fantastic moans were sung by Jack as he wordlessly pleaded for more. They nibbled, groped, and fed on the tanned skin. He breathlessly expressed their names and closed his eyes.

James did not consult Will, nor did he search for approval as he situated himself over Jack and straddled him. He caressed the erected member, eliciting a pleased groan from the pirate. Jack’s hips rose from the bed to convey that he desired to be taken.

James did not wait long to follow through.

He entered Jack’s warm, willing body achingly slow and was rewarded with strangled sounds of rapture. It was blissful music to his ears.

Will let out a low growl from witnessing James claim what he declared as his territory, but he returned his focus to the trembling being. As James thrust within him, Jack entwined his fingers securely in Will’s messy hair. A few times he yanked on it from the powerful propulsion James used, making Will grimace; but the blacksmith enjoyed the slight pain.

James’ pace sped until he at length climaxed in Jack. The captain’s back arched upward as he spilt himself across the man’s torso.

Leisurely, James moved to lie beside Jack. They each panted for breath, perspiration shining on their hot skin. Will’s lips traveled from their location up to the pirate’s mouth to kiss him tenderly. Jack wrapped his arms around him and hugged him snuggly. James pressed against the older man and planted affectionate kisses onto his arm.

Time passed gradually as the three of them took a moment to relax. It was a long while before any fell asleep, for Will’s lust had to be satiated.

After he found release within Jack, Will stretched out next to him. Jack gazed from one man to the other and a sense of complete safety and protection overcame him as he settled down between his rescuers.

Unhurriedly, he permitted his wearied eyelids to close.

****
“Jackie, why don’t you come with me? I swear to you, you will not be harmed.”
“No, Jack. Follow me. Don’t go with him. I can promise you that nothing bad will happen if you pick me.”

He was blatantly puzzled as to which path to choose. Both of them – James and Will – had the most admirable qualities; he owed them his life. But to decide between the two…..

“I don’t….I don’t know,” he admitted, confused.
“Come with me,” James stated and reached for Jack’s arm.
“Don’t you take him. He’s mine,” Will argued, taking hold of Jack’s other limb.

One way. The other. Pull. Take. Have.

He was speechless, unable to find his lost voice. As he glanced from man to man, the respectable people he knew dissipated. In their places stood Johnson and Garner. The surgeon held up his favorite amputation saw and a hellish grin crossed his mouth. Garner’s eyes were tainted with unabashed yearning, the thought of raping Jack again intensifying his greed.

“Please, no,” Jack begged pitifully. “Don’t. Please.”
“How about the other leg? Or perhaps an arm this time?” Johnson inquired pleasantly.
“Or first, let the boys have a round with him,” Garner interjected. “Surely by now with what’s already been taken, no one can find you worth anything anymore.”

Forcefully, Garner ripped Jack away from the doctor and threw him to the ground. Jack crawled only mere feet away before Garner was on top of him, stripping him naked.

“Don’t! Please! Someone!” Jack cried helplessly. “Will! James!”

****
Jack bolted upright with a loud gasp escaping his opened mouth. He was covered with sweat, his face with tears, and shaking tremendously.

A grumble of thunder drew his attention to the window. Air. He needed air.

****
Will’s hand moved a couple of inches to the space beside him, but there was nobody. Wearily, he awoke, concern hurriedly taking over his mind. James was present; however, Jack was not.

He got up, put on his trousers and shirt, and went to the main room of the cabin.

“Jack?” he called softly. There was no answer. He looked about the room. No one.

He opened the doors to be greeted by nature’s cool shower. The rain fell gently, and it drenched the man huddled near the right staircase. His head was bowed, leg held to his unclothed chest, and his soaked dreadlocks obscured his profile.

“Jack? What are you doing?”

The pirate did not acknowledge him in any way as he sat beside him.

“You’re trembling. Come back in and we’ll get you warm.”
Jack shook his head.
“You’re going to become ill if you stay out here.”
“Can I ask you something, William?” The voice was vacant, distant, as if he were elsewhere with no company.
“Of course. Anything.”
“You don’t have to answer right away; I want you to think long and hard about this.”
“Certainly.”
“I trust you, Will. I can only pick one.” He looked up to stare at the young man directly. “You have great potential. I believe you are right for it. I can see the ability and passion in you. William, I….I want you to take her. I want you to be captain of the Black Pearl.”

It would have been a lie to say that Will had not expected the subject to come about, yet he was still caught off guard now that it had. He had not anticipated it to come so soon, or to be the one that Jack offered the prized possession to.

“Jack, it would be an honor, but I-”
“No, no. Don’t do that, Will. Please, think about it.”
“But I don’t-”
“Will…..please.”

Will noted the desperation and grief in Jack’s dark eyes. He withheld any other statement. Instead, he nodded reassuringly and embraced the pirate affectionately.

Before long, Will carried Jack to the bed and they undressed one another. Slightly shivering, they cuddled closely together; the last thing Jack remembered was soft lips pressed against his forehead.