Erin McGuinness // An Outlander Fanfiction

Chapter Two

I stood at the edge of the ship as we departed the dock. This is the only time I ever really felt truely, truely free. The wind blowing my hair and if not a little bitter and sharp as it hits my face, but overall amazing. I sigh and grip the edge tightly in my hands. 

I look over my shoulder and watch on as the team that Eoin put together for me, comes together and is tidying up the ship and pulling the ropes. My eyes narrow as I watch Cal, still a stranger to me chatter away to one of his own men. I was yet to find out if they are to be trusted yet, wary of betrayal.

"Here." Liam walks over and passes me a glass of whiskey. I give it a sniff and bring it to my lips, cringing slightly at the taste. I still felt a little uneasy from last night but okay none the less. "There will be no more of this for the next few months." I sternly say, lifting the glass. Liam rolls his eyes, "Sure." He smirks.

I can't help but chuckle as Eoin approaches us. "Everything is going well Erin." I give him a look from the corner of my eye. "Captain. I apologise." He stands straight, hands behind his back. I didn't intend to be proper, I've known Eoin for long enough now. The thing is, being the only woman Captain in this day and age, the little respect I receive... I've earned it. 

I give him a small smile. "Thank you." He returns the smile relaxing. I place a hand on his arm, "We've done this long enough. You should know that I trust you, you need to relax."

"Sorry Captain." 

I squeeze his arm tighter and pull away chuckling. Turning to my brother, "Come on, I think this mans earned a drink. Wouldn't you say?" Liam shakes his head. "Of course, Erin." 

Eoin and myself watch on as Liam grabs Eoin a glass and pours the whiskey carefully into it. "Here, Eoin." He passes the drink to Eoin as he returns. 

"So, what are we thinking?" Eoin asks, turning and looking out to see. The clouds were already darkening and the sea was already quite rough. "It's going to be a long one. Isn't it?"

I nod trying not to wince, "my favourite." 

Liam and Eoin laugh. "You'll be fine sister!" Liam smirks, patting my back. I roll my eyes and groan making the men chuckle louder.

"Anyway, it's time for the crew to meet me and understand their expectations." I say, handing Liam back the glass and straightening up. "I'll gather everyone." Eoin turns on his heel after handing the glass to Liam.

As the men talk amongst themselves, I walk up and step onto the platform. I cough loudly, gaining everyone's attention. "As most of you may know by now, I am Captain Erin McGuinness." I say, introducing myself. "Obviously, I'm a woman. I understand that this isn't many of your normal but I have worked hard and earned this title which allows me to stand before you here today. If any of you-" I pause and look amongst them, some of the men looking too relaxed.  "have a problem with this then please feel free to jump overboard. I will not tolerate being disrespected. For the next few months we need to work together. We will become a strong crew and eventually, each other's family." 

I look at Liam for support. He gives me a small smile. Turning back to the crew, "All I ask in return is your respect and trust in me to get you to the America's safely." The men nod and begin to clap. "Back to work!" I declare before walking into my office and slamming the door.

I'm trying so hard not to hurl. I grip the table in front of me tightly. We've barely been on the ship a week and we've already stumbled across our first storm. It never gets any easier.

"Captain." Cal greets me as he strolls over. "Are you alright?"

I force a smile, "fine. Thanks." I grit my teeth.

"Sorry." I say, forcing a smile again.

"Weak stomach?" He chuckles. "Not much of a Captain am I?" I laugh bleakly. Cal laughs along but his face turns serious, "You're better than some of the other ships I've worked on. I'm glad I had taken the chance to work for you." I stare at him for a moment. His face is deadly serious. I am not used to be complimented like this. It makes me a little uncomfortable. "Thank you. Really." I say softly. "It means a lot."

Cal's face lights up as he smiles. He's quite a handsome man really. I've been watching him working and he is very hardworking. His dark hair is pulled neatly into a pony tail and his presence is felt in the room as he enters. I've watched him develop a growing friendship with Liam and I'm slowly beginning to feel like I can trust him. I surprise myself as I find myself blushing at his smile.

"Would you like a drink to take the edge off?" He nudges me with a smirk.

"What?" I gulp. Has he read my thoughts?

"The seasickness?" He asks again, his eyes hopeful. 

I internally groan, embarrassed. "That would be fantastic." I reply with what I hope is a grateful smile.

A few hours later, I find myself slightly drunk as I'm swinging around the deck. 

"To the day of the sea or of the high tides, to follow the voice of the waves!"  I sing, swinging an arm around Cal and Eoin's shoulders. I kick my legs in the area, trusting them to hold me as I swing between them both. "I would follow the voice of the waves!" I think I shriek the last part, instead of sing. Oops.

"Amazing. Truely." Eoin laughs.

I rest my head on his shoulder. "I don't understand how I was so lucky to have you stumble into my life." I sigh. Eoin tenses next to me. "I think you've had a bit too much to drink tonight Captain."

Not enough. I can't help but think.

"It's true." I defend myself. "You're a true friend." I turn to Cal, turning away from Eoin's flushed cheeks. "And you," I smile a true, tired smile. "I'm glad you're on my ship."

Cal laughs, his eyes lighting up. He scoops me up in his arms, "I think it's time to get you back to your room now." I nod. And nod. And nod. "Mhm." I agree, shutting my eyes.