Captivation

6: Lady

Lady (noun): a woman of superior social position, esp. one of noble birth.

I wake up to someone softly shaking my shoulder.

“Are you awake?” Bradley asks me.

“Yes.” I murmur.

“How’s your head?” He asks, I hear some type of amusement in his voice.

“Not too great.” I tell him.

“I have water if you want it.” He says.

“Please.” I tell him.

Bradley walks over to the other side of the ship before returning to me with water. I sit up, and then wish I hadn’t. I hold onto my head resting my elbows on my thighs. I hold a hand out and Bradley gives me the water. I take a sip attempting to hold my head up.

“Sorry for trying to choke you to death.” I tell him quietly.

Bradley snorts. “I’m surprised you even remember.”

“Trust me, I wish I didn’t.” I shake my head slightly.

I don’t talk for a while and Bradley eventually leaves.

I lay back down and stare at the clouds. I turn to my left and see Jamison. I realize that he is in need from a apology from me as well. “Hey, Jamison.” I call out to him.

“Hey, Madelyn.” He mimics me, but comes over anyway.

“So about me trying to kill you,” I begin, “It was very rude of me, and I am sorry.”

Jamison nods, trying to look serious, but I tell that he wants to laugh at me. “It’s fine. Henry makes women do stupid things.”

“It was not because of Henry.” I tell him.

“No?” He asks. “Nothing to do with him and Catherine?”

“Oh everything to do with Catherine.” I say, sitting back up and forcing my head to cooperate. “She was way too young to fall so low.”

“Ouch.” Jamison says for Henry.

“I felt so out of place. A raven among doves.” I sigh. “I just had to do something to make myself feel occupied. Drinking was the easiest option. I mean, that or making friends.” I give Jamison a look. “And do I really look like the type to make friends?”

“You did not look like a raven.” Jamison assures me. “And if you’re a raven, and Catherine is a dove, what is Henry?”

“A snake.” I say, unable to keep a tone of disgust out of my voice.

“Ravens eat snakes.” Jamison says with a laugh.

I roll my eyes. “Ravens are smarter than doves.”

“Possibly, or maybe just more vicious.”

I nod my head in agreement. “So where is your precious captain?”

“Angry today.” Jamison sighs. “He’s been off since he woke up about two hours ago.” Jamison now gives me a pointed look. “Probably because you ruined his chance with Catherine last night.”

“Cry me a river.” I murmur.

“Jamison!” Henry calls.

“Wish me luck.” Jamison say standing.

“Good luck.” I tell him, with a mocking half smile.

___