Tides of deception ✺ Outlander/Stephen Bonnet Fanfic

♤36. Breaking the silence

As dawn light gently spilled through the cabin's windows, Stephen and Maria began to prepare for the day ahead. The air carried a quiet sense of purpose as they packed their belongings with deliberate care. It wasn't the usual fare for their life together-no salt-stained clothes or the hurried packing typical of a ship's voyage. Instead, these items were fine and neatly arranged, fit for the circles they were about to navigate.

Maria moved with focus, folding her clothes with precision and setting aside the finer items they'd need for their stay at the estate. Stephen, catching her eye, smirked slightly as he packed his own things, his hands moving deftly over his jacket, carefully setting aside the formal attire that now felt strangely familiar. Despite his pirate past, he had adapted to London's demands well, his natural charm and sharp mind allowing him to blend easily into this refined world.

Once their bags were ready, Stephen stepped closer, his hand grazing lightly along her shoulder, a comforting touch as they prepared for the complex tasks ahead. "We'll be right back here before long," he assured, though there was a trace of weariness in his voice. He knew just how much was riding on their success.

Together, they walked out onto the deck, the morning fog hovering low over the Thames as the crew moved about with their usual efficiency. Stephen scanned the ship, spotting Declan and Justin deep in conversation near the helm. As the couple approached, Declan straightened, giving a respectful nod.

"Captain, ma'am," he greeted, his tone steady but his expression carrying a hint of intrigue at the new orders. Stephen had briefed him the night before, laying out the plan to retrieve Julie from France and bring her safely to London.

"Declan, I'm leaving the ship in your care," Stephen said, his voice carrying an undertone of trust as he placed his hand on the railing. "You'll sail for France by noon, meet our contact, and return quietly. Justin will assist you as first mate, and the crew will have their orders."

Declan nodded, a faint grin flickering across his face. "Aye, Captain. We'll handle it. She'll be safe with us."

Stephen's expression hardened slightly, a reminder of the importance of discretion. "Keep it quiet, Declan. We don't need word getting out about her arrival or our reasons for it."

Declan gave a firm nod. "Understood, Captain."

Maria, standing beside Stephen, caught Justin's glance and offered him a quick, reassuring smile. She felt a strange weight lifting, knowing Declan would keep a close watch over Julie's safety. With a final nod from Stephen, they left the deck, heading to the carriage waiting for them by the docks.

✺

The ride through London was quieter this time, the carriage's wheels rolling steadily over the cobblestones as they passed the bustling markets and narrow alleyways, alive with early morning activity. Maria gazed out at the passing buildings, feeling the familiar hum of the city, yet knowing the role she was about to play would change everything.

Stephen's hand rested lightly over hers, his gaze intense as he leaned closer. "The estate Bertie arranged for us-it's one of the benefactor's residences, so they'll expect a certain air." His tone softened, a faint smirk curving his mouth. "And with you, I think we'll have just that."

She met his gaze, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement at the thought of entering this new world as a team. "So, a place where privateers and their patrons mingle with society," she mused, "without arousing suspicion."

Stephen nodded, his gaze shifting thoughtfully. "It's a chance for us to slip into their world and play by their rules. The benefactor's estate will give us a front, a way to move unnoticed among the families with close ties to the Hawthornes."