Captured by Beverly Jenkins Read Free Book Online Page B

blearily. Upon seeing Gaspar’s amused eyes, he groused, “One word, and I’ll maroon you on the nearest isle.” Forcing himself to sit upright, he swiped his hands across his weary face and turned his attention to Clare. “You’ve already met Gaspar. This is Richmond Spelling.”
    “Good morning,” she replied.
    Richmond nodded. “Cook sent turtle soup and biscuits. There’s tea here, too.”
    “Thank you.”
    “Just set the tray down and leave us,” Dominic grumbled. “Both of you,” he added pointedly for Gaspar’s benefit.
    In his own defense, Gaspar replied, “I came to give you the report on the gold you asked for last evening.”
    “Later.”
    The two intruders shared knowing looks, then departed, leaving Dominic and Clare alone.
    “Did you sleep well?” Dominic asked her, trying not to wince from the knots in his neck.
    “Yes. And you?”
    “No. Tabletops only make good pillows when you’re too drunk to care.”
    She responded softly, “My apologies for taking your bed.”
    “None needed. It’s the price one pays for being a gentleman.” He stood. “Take care of your needs. I’ll return shortly.”
    Clare was sorry he’d had an uncomfortable night, but not enough to have invited him into the bed.
    Dominic made use of the ship’s facilities, then walked through the gray dawn to let the ocean breeze lighten his mood. He never felt fully awake until he took in his first deep breaths of fresh air, and this morning the assistance was dearly needed. There was a strong wind blowing out of the east, and the sails fluttering high above on the masts were taut and fat. He mumbled good morning to the men he passed while on his rounds. Considering how he felt, engaging in a detailed conversation was out of the question, but none of the crew seemed to mind, and continued with their chores, ranging from mending fishing nets and cleaning weapons, to handling the sails. He stopped for a moment to greet Esteban, who was at his post expertly piloting the Marie through the water.
    “So, how was your night, Captain?”
    “Don’t ask. How far are we from port?”
    “About four, maybe five days.”
    “Good.”
    “How’s the lady?”
    “She’s well. I’ve decided to take her home.”
    Surprised, Esteban asked, “When did this come about?”
    “It doesn’t matter. I’m taking her home.” Dominic could see some of the nearby crew discreetly listening in, but that didn’t matter, either. On a ship there were very few secrets.
    “Where’s her home?”
    “Savannah. I’ll need a small crew.”
    “Give me a few days at Levine’s and I’ll join you.”
    Surprise and disbelief cut through Dominic’s foul mood. “A few days?” He laughed. “Once you’re inside we won’t see you for a week, at least.” Levine’s was a tavern whose ale was almost as well known as its whores.
    The Spaniard shrugged. “The women like me. I can’t help it if it takes the lot of them a while to welcome me home.”
    Dominic chuckled, “When it’s time to set sail, if you’re still of a mind—and can walk—you’re welcome to come along.”
    “I will be. I’m enjoying watching you humbled by the pequeno senora.”
    Dominic rolled his eyes. “I’ll be back up after breakfast.”
    As he walked away, Esteban called out in a voice tinged with humor, “Give her my regards.”
    Dominic ignored him.
    When he entered his quarters, he found her dressed in the blue gown and seated at the table; she was a lovely sight, but the breakfast tray was no longer where he’d seen it last. “Our meal?”
    “In the grate keeping warm. I was unsure how long you’d be away.”
    The soup tureen was perched atop the dying embers of last night’s fire. The teapot was at its side. “Thank you, but you didn’t have to wait for me.”
    “I didn’t want to appear rude.”
    “I would never think that.” He retrieved the items and set them on the table.
    As they began the meal, he told her, “Been some time since I shared