His gaze burned like a brand, unblinking and cold. “Adventure? You think that’s what this is? It’s a naval mission. A dangerous onewith no room for civilians—something I thought I made abundantly clear the other night.”
“I promise I’ll stay out of the way. You won’t even know I’m here.”
He shook his head. “You’re right. Because you’re going over to theRed Siren. Now. And you will stay there until Christian and Samantha can take you home.”
“But—”
He lifted a hand. “Don’t say another word. I’m in no mood to argue right now, Miss Montclair. Get your things.”
She retrieved her rolled up hammock and followed him up to the main deck where he barked orders to his shocked first officer to call theSirenover. Minutes stretched by as curious crew gathered round. She pushed her hair behind an ear and refused to make eye contact with anyone, especially the man standing rigid next to her.
Mr. Thompson guided the schooner close, his lips twisted in wry amusement. Josephine took a few steps toward the railing. The slap of waves between the hulls drew her gaze down and she swallowed. How was she supposed to get over to theRed Siren? Her eyes scanned the deck, but her heart fell when Samantha was nowhere to be found.
A shadow flashed across the deck, accompanied by the whistle of a rope cutting through the air, and a thump came from behind them. Josephine spun with a gasp as a form rose from a crouch.
“Samantha?” The name came out in a croak as she stared. Gone was the periwinkle dress. Instead, Mr. Thompson’s wife stood in skintight leather breeches with a ruffled white blouse tucked in, showcasing curves any woman would be envious of. Her flaming hair blew loose in the wind under a cavalier hat with a jaunty red feather. A rapier hung from a belt at her waist.
Josephine blinked. Samantha looked like…
She looked like a pirate. Her lips curved as she set a hand on her hip. “I knew I’d like you, Miss Montclair.”
With eyes still wide, Josephine stepped forward. “You…” She glanced toward theSiren, where Mr. Thomspon stood, overseeing his crew as they fastened ropes between the two ships. “He… How?”
“I prefer dressing like this while at sea. It’s much more practical, especially in that it allows for more movement in battle.”
Isaac scowled. “Do not give her any ideas, she’s troublesome enough as it is.”
“Of course, Lieutenant.” Samantha winked at Josephine. “Let’s get back to the ship before we upset him further.”
The crew had slung a rope ladder across the gap between the vessels and Josephine gulped. Lieutenant Caldwell waved her forward. She paused at the railing, panic rearing in her once more.
He cleared his throat. “Make it quick, Miss Montclair, we must be on our way.”
She reached out and took the rope but as soon as her fingers closed around it, she froze. A hand settled on her shoulder and she jumped as Samantha pulled her back.
“Good heavens, Isaac. No need to be a bully after what just happened.” Samantha shot him a dirty look and stepped past Josephine out onto the rope ladder. “Take both sides and follow me. As long as you hold on to the ropes, you’ll be just fine. I’ll be right here to help you.”
Josephine swallowed, but Samantha’s ease helped her take the first step. Though the ladder swayed with the ships, she held tight and focused on getting her feet on each thin wooden rung. Samantha stayed one step ahead of her, encouraging her, until toward the end, a small smile tugged her lips. Not so terrible after all.
Once her feet landed on the deck, the lines were swiftly untied, and the sails unfurled. The ship eased into motion as wind filled the sheets, the mainmast creaking as the schooner turned to open sea.
Mr. Thompson strode down from the quarterdeck. “What were you thinking going up into the rigging? You could have been killed.”
Josephine winced and Samantha swatted his arm. “Oh, don’t be crabby. I’m sure Isaac already gave her an earful.”
Mr. Thompson glanced behind them, where theTempesthad begun to catch up. “Twice in a row. I dare say you’ve put him into quite the mood.”
Josephine rubbed the toe of her boot into the wood decking. “He’s quite upset.”
Mr. Thompson chuckled and glanced at Samantha, his eyes softening. “Wounded pride will cause people to say things they normally wouldn’t. If it makes you feel better, I can vouch for his character. He’s a good man.”
Josephine couldn’t help a small smile. “I knew that the day I met him. Unfortunately, I’m fairly certain he never wants to see me again.”
“I’m sure he’ll come around.” Samantha patted her shoulder. “Let’s get you into my cabin. I’ll move Christian’s things out and you and I will share it.”
“Oh, please don’t do that. I don’t want to inconvenience you two.”
“Don’t worry yourself. You’ll be safest there.” Mr. Thompson dipped his head. “And please, call me Christian.”
