Lady of the Sea

Ch 7

The next morning, as the sun climbed higher, casting a golden hue over the ship, Marina made her way to the quarterdeck, where Jack was navigating the vessel. The guards, stationed at the entrance, promptly blocked her path. "You're not allowed up here," one of them stated sternly.

Before Marina could argue, Robby intervened. "Let her pass," he ordered, giving her a knowing smile. He secretly admired Marina's strong will and the way she handled Jack. He thought she was a strong match for him because she didn't fall at his feet like others. Marina nodded her thanks to Robby and ascended the steps to the quarterdeck.

As she approached, Jack noticed her and raised an eyebrow. "How did you manage to slip past my guards?" he asked with a playful smirk.

Marina shrugged, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I have my ways. Besides, who could say no to the lady of the sea?" she retorted, her tone light but confident.

Jack chuckled, clearly amused. "Of course," he replied, still grinning. He watched as she walked over to the opposite side of the steering wheel, her fingers lightly tracing the smooth wood. She seemed fascinated by it, and Jack noticed.

"Would you like to learn how to steer?" he offered, a glint of intrigue in his eyes.

Marina hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Why not?" she said, moving closer to him.

Jack stepped behind her, placing his hands over hers on the wheel. Marina felt a shiver run down her spine as his breath brushed against her ear. There was a palpable tension between them, a mix of curiosity and attraction. Jack's voice was soft but firm as he explained, "Keep your eyes on the horizon and the front of the ship. It helps to stay straight and maintain your course."

Marina tried to focus on his instructions, but the close proximity made it challenging. She could feel the warmth of his body behind her, and his hands guiding hers felt both comforting and electrifying. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her thoughts.

Jack, noticing her slight distraction, leaned in closer. "It's all about balance and control," he murmured, his voice laced with a hint of amusement.

Marina couldn't help but smirk. "Balance and control, huh? Sounds like a metaphor for something," she quipped, glancing over her shoulder to meet his gaze.

Jack's eyes gleamed with intrigue. "Perhaps," he said, his lips curling into a knowing smile. He didn't elaborate, letting the moment hang between them. The ship continued to glide smoothly through the waters, with Marina's hands on the wheel and Jack's steadying her. They stood like that for a while, the world seemingly shrinking to just the two of them and the vast expanse of the ocean.

Eventually, Jack loosened his grip and stepped back, leaving Marina to steer on her own. He didn't give her back her dagger, still keeping it tucked away as a subtle reminder of their unspoken agreement. Marina knew it wasn't just about the weapon; it was about trust, secrets, and whatever it was they were beginning to build. She continued to steer, the weight of the wheel in her hands, knowing that with each passing moment, her journey was becoming more entangled with his.

As they stood at the helm, Jack's expression grew more serious. "We're approaching the African coast," he began, his tone losing its playful edge. "In about a week or so, we'll be near the continent. That means we might have some encounters with pirates. If that happens I want you to lock yourself in my private quarters."

Marina let out a laugh, "I thought you were going to give me the thrill of adventure, Captain. And now you're asking me to lock myself away when adventure comes knocking?" She tilted her head, her voice carrying a hint of challenge. "Are you starting to care for me, Jack?"

Jack's eyes flickered with a mix of amusement and concern. "I don't want your pretty face getting harmed," he replied, his tone softer than before.

Marina scoffed, folding her arms. "I can perfectly take care of myself."

Jack nodded, conceding her point but not relenting. "These pirates... they're brutal. Once they see a woman, they won't show any mercy. They'll do things you can't even imagine."

A shiver ran down Marina's spine at his words, but she refused to back down. "If I had my dagger back, I'd be safe," she countered, her voice steady.

Jack's lips curved into a faint smile, though it lacked his usual mirth. "I don't want you to misuse the dagger."

Marina narrowed her eyes, feeling a surge of frustration. "So, you don't trust me? You think I can't handle myself?"

Jack sighed, his expression unreadable. "It's not about trust, Marina. It's about keeping you safe."

She felt a sting of anger and disappointment. "Thank you for your lack of confidence," she retorted, turning away from him. She walked off, her steps firm and purposeful, leaving Jack standing at the helm. His gaze followed her retreating figure, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. As she descended to the lower deck, Marina couldn't shake the feeling of being underestimated, and the lingering unease about the dangers ahead. She couldn't deny the gravity of Jack's words, but she resented being treated like someone who needed protection.