A Pirate's Wife

Chapter 3: Finding love.

September 21, 1621

Today Alfonso, cisco's friend, the man who stopped me when I wanted to offer him water, helped us to have a few minutes of privacy on the deck.

It was short but worth it. I simply had to see him. I had to know if he was well. The last two days the captain made him slave away while everyone snickered behind his back. How could they do this to this man?

He is a gentle, kind and a loving man. How could they treat him like that? But I had to make sure he was fine. I had to, before I would finally let go of him.

I begged him to kiss me and at first, he was hesitant. I pressed myself against him and turned my face upward, stretching as high as I could. He was so tall that even if I stood on my tiptoes, I could not reach his face. For a long minute he fought it. I saw the hesitation, the fight for control, but eventually he lowered his head and we kissed for the first time. It was everything I hoped it would be. That one kiss held promises of a future we both knew was futile to hope for. But that kiss told me what he felt.

He felt the same. His breath was warm on my face as his eyes raked over mine. He did not conceal the look of love as he whispered my name. It all told me that he felt the same way.

In that few minutes we allowed ourselves the time to dream, to hope, to love.

I love him. The emotion swept me from my feet, but I was not startled about it. It was a peace that settled deep within me and I know that this is the man I have lost my heart to.

I have no remorse in loving Cisco Almaida.

†††

Cisco - September 21, 1621

It was a mistake. I shouldn't have kissed her. But how can I resist the one woman I truly love? She loves me. That was the most pleasurable wonderful thing that has ever happened to me. This lady, a woman of noble birth, loves me, an ordinary sailor man.

She was worried about me. She kept on repeating that she would do whatever she could to make my life easier. But we both know it was not to be.

Captain Breno is a stern and vicious man. He seldom listens to anyone. Nor does he take advice from a woman, even one as highborn as Qonchita.

What a beautiful name. It suits her. In my arms today, she was far from the “ice queen" others have called her.

I love her.

†††

Qonchita - September 22, 1621

Rosa-Lee was difficult to control yesterday and with all the strength she had she fought against me to be with Cisco. I could not blame her. That is where I want to be. In his arms. I can still feel them around me; still feel the touch of his lips.

When she got away from me, she ran up to him and held him as if her life depended on it. She refused to let go, even with gentle urging from him. She cried so loud that it drew everyone's attention. Captain Breno made it plain he was not impressed with her innocent display. When I finally did get her away, I pleaded for Cisco's life. I was sure the vicious man was going to do something to him. But he said he would not harm his own crew. I really hoped that was the case. But when I tried to get Cisco's attention, he refused to look at me. I am afraid for him.

Faro tried after that to console Rosa-Lee, but she was so scared of him that she sobbed and panicked to get away. He was not pleased about her open disdain towards him. He slapped her and dropped her on the deck. Every eye was on us. I felt so ashamed.

Alfonso came and helped me with her and led me to our cabin. Cisco disappeared, and Faro went back to the Captain's cabin, no doubt.

Today I heard rumours. Some of the slave girls entertained them during the night. One woman, robust and ample in her curves, sneered at me today. High and mighty, she looked down at me as if I am beneath her.

Her dress revealed everything. Her yellow teeth were a sharp contrast against her pale skin. She reeked of alcohol and tobacco, Faro's favorite vices besides women. No doubt she was one of the favorites.

How could he embarrass me like this? He has no respect for me or Rosa-Lee.

I saw Kayla again, briefly. She looked down at me and refused to speak to me. What I did to her I don't know.

†††

September 22, 1621

I cannot believe what I saw today. The captain flogged Cisco like an animal. My heart was ripped in pieces as I watched in horror, that giant of a man sprawled out against the ropes and flogged like a common criminal.

They all laughed and joked around him, and like the man I know he is, he took it silently. His skin split open as blood seeped from his wounds. He was covered in his own blood from the shoulders down. How could he endure it?

I tried to run to him, but someone held me back.

Sobs wracked through me as he arched in pain when the saltwater splashed over him. He roared in agony and four men carried him away. He was limp between them. He had to be unconscious. When I wanted to go to him the captain refused my request.

How can I sit here knowing he is in pain? I must do something.

I need to find away.

I am just glad that Rosa-Lee did not witness this brutality.

My heart aches for her and for him. She searched for him all day, but I simply had no heart to tell her the truth. It would break her heart.

†††

September 23, 1621

Finally, Alfonso managed to get me to Cisco. When I reached him, he had a high fever? I brought some ointment and tended his wounds. He was delirious, calling out my name. I made him as comfortable as I could. For a long time, I sat next to him and watched as he slept. Several times I calmed him down when the fever-induced dreams made him want to get out of the bed. The moment I spoke to him and told him how much I love him he was peaceful and slept. I wanted to stay but Alfonso convinced me it would not be wise for the captain to find me there.

At least I know he will be all right tonight. Alfonso promised me he will stay close and let me know if anything changes.

I miss Cisco.

†††

September 26, 1621

Today the sea was stormy. The clouds formed over us, dark and menacing. But at least Cisco is better. He had his first meal in three days. Alfonso assured me he would be all right. I could only see him for short intervals in the last few days. Alfonso always guarded the door while I am with him.

Cisco is strong. I know that. Soon he will be up. I loved this time. I could attend to him and touch him often. I know I love him. Somehow, I will find a way to be with him always.

But I must admit the weather has me worried. Even the captain is not his usual confident self. I really hope the ship will hold up.

It took a while to get Rosa-Lee to sleep. The motion of the ship was fiercer than what we are used to. It rolls from side to side, the upper decks swaying into the waves. My stomach churns with every motion.

Oh Lord, keep us safe. Help us to find a way to be together.