Page 60 of Found at Sea

“Aye,” I answered, now at the rock. I leaned forward until I was only five or so inches away from his face. “I require you to join me this evening. Attire will be laid out for you to wear when you return to the ship.” Fletcher opened his mouth as if to argue, and I put a finger to his lips. “Not a request, boy.” I let my finger stay on his soft lips a moment before withdrawing it and straightening my stance.

Alek gaped at us, and when I caught his eye, he looked away.

After the visit with the seer, he’d been even more paranoid—not only around me, but around everyone. I was disappointed that I hadn’t been able to get him the help he needed. Perhaps I’d been a fool for believing I’d get that sort of help from her, but apart from returning to Black Hallows, I didn’t know of anyone that could guide him.

I went back the way I’d come, hearing nothing but silence behind me as I did. The moment I was out of earshot, I suspected they’d start in again. Once I was back on the path in the trees, I heard a light laugh before water splashed again.

My plan for that evening had been spontaneous, just like my purchasing of the necklace. Romantic whims was a thing I did not possess, and yet, there I was planning to have a nice evening meal with Fletcher where we’d dress in formal attire, enjoy more luxurious dishes, and indulge ourselves with wine.

A courtship of sorts.

I’d already bedded him, but I could no longer deny that I wished for more. It’d also be a great opportunity to discuss where we should set our next course. He knew a lot about the myth ofRan’s roadwhere Triton’s heart should be located.

When I returned to the ship, swimming again, I went to my quarters and stripped off my wet clothes. The finch trinket was still in the pocket of my breeches, and I retrieved it before placing it on the stand beside the bed.

I went into the study and opened one of the cabinets, searching for the materials for that evening—a cloth for the table, candles, and plates that were rimmed in gold. My intention was to make him feel special. I mostly drank rum and mead, but there was wine I kept for special occasions.

Until that night, I’d never had use for it.

However, alone in my cabin and away from the beauty of the island and the carefree spirit that came with it, I remembered who I was—whatI was. No amount of courting or romantic gestures would win over Fletcher. I was vile where he was pure; I was dark where he was light. The boy might not hate me as he’d once said, but I got the impression he didn’t like me.

And why would he? I was far from a good man. I was selfish, oftentimes cruel, demanding, and cursed. I possessed no redeeming qualities.

My gaze landed on the small red flower he’d left beside my breakfast that morning, though, and hope blossomed in my chest once more.

Maybe…just maybe…he saw more in me than I did.