Chapter 14

“Did you talk to him? What did he say?” the captain insisted.

John sat on the edge of the bed and took off his hat, nervously biting his lip.

“Well…I don’t know.”

“What do you mean, you don’t know?” Benjamin found his hand and gave it a firm squeeze.

“He doesn’t remember me. He wasn’t able to help.”

His companion’s sadness was palpable, but deep in his heart, Benjamin didn’t regret the news.

“Iknow who you are. You’re the man I love. And that’s all that matters…”

John’s gaze slowly settled on the tips of his boots. He stared at them silently.

“Did you hear me?” Benjamin continued, gently, but insistently.

John looked up at him, then suddenly kissed him, passionately, desperately. “Benjamin, make love to me…” he murmured, breathlessly.

Benjamin was caught off guard. He didn’t really understand what John was feeling. For months, One-Eyed Jack had represented his only hope. But now, with Benjamin, their love should be enough to clear any fog of uncertainty.