Distant Shores 2: Waves Of Time

Oliver's Options

Oliver's Point of View

You're packing the last bit of supplies the Tritons have given you. It seems this adventure is coming to an end. It's time to return home to London; but excitement is not an emotion you're feeling right now.

Your heart feels constricted in your chest. It's hollow and empty, and truthfully you've never felt anything like this before.

Normally completing missions fills you with a sense of accomplishment. Since the curse is broken, Atlantis can remain hidden underneath the waves without needing the barrier. The Tritons also vowed to not sink ships anymore since you've promised to keep all you learned about them a secret.

All's well that ends well, I guess. But I don't feel well....

"Excuse me, sir."

You turn around as Doyle approaches you.

"Yes?"

He straightens his shoulders as he continues to address you.

"We've secured everything and the sails are in top shape. We are ready to leave as soon as you give the word."

"Oh...right. Thank you."

Your gaze shifts to behind you as you notice Coral and Edward getting their ship and crew together as well. Your blue eyes quickly focus in though on Charlie, coming down the Damnation's gangplank.

She's so beautiful, inside and out.

You notice that she is moving slower than normal and she doesn't have her usual playful energy. It's almost like she doesn't want the adventure to be over either.

Edward gently gives Coral a kiss on the top of her head and takes the last crate up the gangplank while she whistles and Robert's parrot comes flying down with a twig with berries in his mouth. He lands on her shoulder, nuzzles her neck, then flies to the ship where Sunset is nesting.

You've been dying to ask Coral for some advice for a while now and it looks like this may be your last chance to do so. Who knows when your paths may cross again. You approach her and she gives you a warm smile.

"Some adventure, eh Commodore?"

"Yes, it's hard to believe it's over."

She sighs in agreement.

"Yeah, but don't worry, Oliver. I promise we'll stay in touch. We can meet at Tiburon once a year."

A year?! I can't be away from Charlie for that long.

"Umm yeah.... maybe more than once a year?"

"Of course! Just send word to some of Charlie's contacts. They'll make sure we get the message when we dock at the ports."

Just say it you coward!

"Actually Coral, speaking of Charlie I wanted to talk to you a little about her."

Coral gives you a knowing grin and jokingly wiggles her eyebrows at you.

"Go on."

"Well, the truth is I have developed feelings for Charlie...and.."

"You don't say?!"

"You knew?"

"Are you kidding? Edward and I talked about it. You two aren't exactly subtle. Hell my crew even took a bet about who would say it first. We're split down the middle, but I know Henry's itching to get his gold back from Kendrick, so you better say something quick."

She chuckles until she realizes you're not joining in. Did Coral just confirm that Charlie has feelings for you as well?

This is the best news ever, but why did it have to come at the worst time?