Page 113 of Seas of Seduction
A flurry of activity filled the deck around them as the crew coiled ropes and fastened cargo in place. Several men climbed into therigging, their movements sure and practiced, and she jerked her gaze down as a flutter ran through her stomach. The subtle rhythm of the ship under her feet sent her pulse quickening, as if theSirenherself were daring her to embrace this world.
Josephine frowned. “It looks like you’re getting ready to sail.”
Samantha didn’t answer as they climbed to the quarterdeck. She examined the wheel, spinning it one way, then the next before meeting Josephine’s eyes.
“I’m going after my wayward husband.” She gave the wheel one last sharp turn. “And I need to check on Abigail.”
“You’re going to New Orleans?”
Her friend nodded.
Josephine blinked. “But won’t Christian be going the opposite way, to Washington? I thought Isaac told Thorne the Rosses went there?”
Samantha set her jaw and stared out over the water. “I’m not sure he said anything of the sort. Thorne’s too clever to fall for that kind of ruse, and Christian knows it—he’s remarkably like his father in that regard. I’d almost guarantee he’s headed for New Orleans.”
A knot curled in Josephine’s gut as the memory of Abigail’s terrified face in the cart flashed before her. That knot turned to icy dread when she thought of the pirate captain’s brutal tactics. If he got his hands on Abigail… She shivered.
“Do you think your uncle will be able to keep her safe?”
Samantha traced a finger over the carved wood of the wheel, eyes on the deck. “He’s the best chance she has.”
A sailor with a graying beard jogged up the steps. “We’re ready, Captain.”
“Very good. Tell the crew to stand by while I get Mrs. Caldwell back to shore.”
He nodded and returned to the main deck, barking orders. Samantha and Josephine followed, making their way toward the gangplank.
“Goodbye for now. Try to keep yourself occupied; it will help the time go by faster.” Samantha nodded a greeting to a passing sailor, her words falling flat.
“I’m sure I’ll keep busy getting settled into the townhome.” Josephine forced a smile and sighed. “Though I wish you didn’t have to go.”
“Hopefully, I won’t be gone long. I’m excited to spend more time with you on my return.”
Josephine’s throat tightened, a lump forming as she swallowed. Though her friend hid it well behind her confident smile, the flicker in her eyes betrayed the quiet hurt she carried. She jerked to a stop at the top of the gangplank and spun.
“Let me come with you.”
Samantha stilled. “No. It’s too dangerous.”
Josephine let out an unladylike snort, arms crossing over her chest. “More dangerous than anything I’ve faced the last month?”
“Yes, you’ve survived a great deal. Still, anytime Thorne is involved, nothing is ever simple or safe.”
With a huff, Josephine squared her shoulders. “I’m not taking no for an answer. If you won’t let me come, you’ll have to drag me off the ship yourself.” Her gaze flicked toward the water. “Or throw me overboard.”
Samantha’s brows drew together, a sly curve tugging at her lips. “Don’t be so dramatic. Besides, I thought stowing away was more your suit.”
A small thrill sparked in Josephine’s chest. “Don’t tempt me.”
Her friend gave a worried glance back at the waiting crew. After a long moment, she let out a resigned exhale. “Very well. But it won’t be easy. If you’re to sail under my command, you’ll need to be properly trained in sword fighting—and how to handle a ship.”
The rush sliding through Josephine’s veins made her breath catch. “I look forward to it.” Somehow, her voice remained steady despiteher pounding pulse.
“Oh.” Samantha let the word hang for a beat. “You still have those breeches of yours?”
Josephine leveled a pointed look at her. “No. But I know who I can borrow some from.”
Samantha’s answering laugh rang out over the river. “I sure am glad I met you.” Her grin faded as she straightened, eyes narrowing on the horizon. “We’ll be sailing hard. Christian has at least a week’s head start on us.”
“Perhaps we’ll reach him before he finds Thorne.” Josephine’s hopeful words made her friend stiffen.
“May it be so.” Samantha’s lips pressed together as her palm settled on the hilt of her rapier. “If not, God help us all.”
The End
