Elizabeth: Pegging is when a woman does with a man what a man might, yes? James: Yes. James: It's what has been alleged about you for some time now. Elizabeth: Have you ever done it? James: No. Elizabeth: Want to try? James: We'll see. I don't know what you would derive from it. Elizabeth: I have gathered you might enjoy it, were it done properly. James: I don't know about that either. Elizabeth: Oh no? James: I don't know. Elizabeth: I mean, I wouldn't force you. But I do think... if it were done properly... with a mind your pleasure.... Elizabeth: And you know how much i love propriety :) Elizabeth: And more sincerely, how much i love your pleasure. James: And what of yours? Elizabeth: You already see to that so beautifully, darling. James: Thank you. Elizabeth: I mean it. Elizabeth: I do enjoy being your king. Elizabeth: But I love being your woman. James: Are you not concerned that we're going to court the resentment of the crew with how much more bathing we get up to by necessity than the rest of them? Elziabeth: James. James. Honestly? That was the best change of subject you had? Elizabeth: You can just say no. James: It's a serious concern. James: We can try, though I'm not sure how. Elizabeth: I just want to dote on you.  I want to be the man for a little while. James: I don't believe I should make a very good woman. Elizabeth: Neither do I, darling. Elizabeth: You don't seem to mind. James: Mind what? Elizabeth: What a poor woman yours is. James: Elizabeth, you are not a poor excuse for a woman. Elizabeth: I'm wearing trousers, but no stays, nor even any jumps, commanding a pirate ship or two, and texting my sweetheart about how much I love engaging in unmarried intercourse with him - it would certainly bar me from polite society. James: That does not make you less of a woman in my estimation. Elizabeth: Well, that is because you enjoy all the spoils of my womanhood, no doubt. James: Indeed. Elizabeth: Do you really think so well of me? James: Of course I do. Do you doubt me? Elizabeth: I don't, but I love to hear you say it. James: I shall be sure to tell you more often, then. Elizabeth: Though I am sure you must know you are biased by proximity. Elizabeth: Proximity and pride. James: Pride? James: Elizabeth, I love you as you are, and I daresay I would continue most easily to love you if you were otherwise as well. Elizabeth: And you would be just as proud, because I would be just as yours. James: I don’t know what otherwise means here, precisely, but whatever it might be, it would not alter my feelings. Elizabeth: I feel the same. James: Thank you. Elizabeth: If we'd married after all and I were stuck with some clean-shaven commodore or if a little more time had passed in Tortuga, before Jack had shown up, and I had been saddled with you drunken and filthy - I am certain eventually we would have found our way here. James: I believe you were likely always headed this way. Elizabeth: Mm, I don't know about being the pirate king, but being in your bed? Your hand between my legs? Yes, it seems so.  Everywhere I've gone, there you've been too. A little stroke of fate. James: Elizabeth. James: I know that this is a great deal removed from what you have described regarding your friend Amelia and the Spanish girl, but on consideration I must concede that I suppose that in some other lifetime where you were your father's son and not his daughter, my feelings would have progressed the same nonetheless. I do not know if that speaks to any broader leanings, or only confirms that I love you- but I cannot conceive of a world in which I would not. [there is a lull in the texting as Elizabeth holds her phone over her heart for a long moment.] Elizabeth: I hope you will forgive me, Captain Norrington, if I say, once again, that I cannot breathe. Elizabeth: Oh, James. I never imagined things could go so far between us. James: I used to hope, but not for some time. Elizabeth: I want to be everything you've ever hoped for. James: You already are. Elizabeth: This is interfering rather drastically with my current duties. I fear the Pirate King is beaming insipidly at her phone in transports of happiness. James: Her dog extends his deepest apologies. Elizabeth: I wish I could say something as romantic back to you. James: It's all right, don't worry. Elizabeth: I'm not worried. I just want to do what you do to me back to you. James: I'm already rather overwhelmed by you. James: In the best of ways. Elizabeth: I've noticed that. I adore it. James: I suppose I'm grateful. James: I love you. Elizabeth: Can we conclude business early tonight? Elizabeth: I need you in my cabin soon. Pressing matters. James: Of course. James: Your Majesty.

Elizabeth had never hosted a party.  She had been the guest of honor at a few parties her father had thrown for her birthday, and that when she was younger - when she was old enough to host her own parties, her friends had largely moved or married out of Port Royal society.  Too proud to ask either James or Giselle for advice this time on how to adapt Port Royal party customs to a quartet of cool pirates, she decided on several basic necessities: food; drink, both alcoholic and otherwise; some kind of rag in case there was a spill; the potential props in order to play games, but kept out of the way so that no one felt obligated; company (so adieu, Captain Norrington, girls only); and, naturally, rules.  She was explaining that to the first arrivals on the scene. Elizabeth (to whom it may concern): Teasing is tolerated, bullying is not.  If you want to behave like one of the men you can go sit with them if you like.  I will be very clear on this point: if anyone wakes in the morning with something written on her head, so help me God, we will find the culprit and we will dunk her."  [mood shifting out of Pirate King mode] ...But I think that covers it.[Giselle puts her hand up] Giselle: Can we write elsewhere? Angelica: Can we write on the guys if/when they fall asleep? Ana: I was gonna suggest no writing on people without permission but I’m in if we are writing on the guys. Elizabeth: [pointing at Giselle] Excellent question! No. [pointing at Angelica, then Ana] Hang on a minute. What guys are going to be here? Angelica: Not here, on the rest of the ship. We can sneak out when it gets dark Elizabeth: I dunno if that's really covered by the all-girl-party rules.  I was just sort of thinking of establishing ground rules - ground here being my cabin.  Outside of it you can do what you like, can't you? Angelica: That sounds fair Angelica: Also I brought wine, if anyone's interested [Giselle gives a thumbs up, already getting into the snacks] Ana: Works for me! And I’ll take a glass. Angelica, pouring wine for Ana: So what do you usually do on a girl's night? Giselle, mouth stuffed full: Not have sex with men. Elizabeth: [poker face] Ana: It was rare we’d ever have one, but I grew up with four older sisters. We would talk shit about the boys around town, do each other’s hair sometimes, drink. Angelica: That sounds lovely Angelica: and not having sex with men can definitely be accomplished Elizabeth: ...yeah, mostly gossip and drink.  Discuss - [cough] - discuss anything you're not supposed to be discussing in mixed company. Angelica: it's okay you can say sex life Angelica: how's the former navy man? [Giselle manifests popcorn] [Anamaria chokes on her drink trying not to laugh] [Angelica sips wine] Elizabeth: [turning red] ..... as he is your captain, I don't know if it would be, hm, civil to discuss it- Angelica: how about we all tell each other a secret, to make things fair for poor lizzie? Giselle: Well it's not like we can't hear it Elizabeth: [loudly whispering] GISELLE Ana: Can’t say I’m not disappointed to not hear that gossip, but we don’t all have to talk about anything we’re not comfortable with. This is supposed to be a fun night, no stress. Ana: Or men. Which is like the same thing. Angelica: cheers to that Elizabeth: [takes a  big swallow of wine and elects to stay silent] Giselle: Well, in terms of secrets, I'm willing to share some Angelica: Oh? Giselle: [takes a delicate sip of wine] i was once part a group of ladies brought in to entertain some fancy pirate lords Elizabeth: [leaning in from where she's decided to sit] Anyone i know? Ana: [gets comfortable, grinning] Oh God here we go! Angelica: I fear the worst Giselle: i think i'm the only one what can claim to have undone both jack sparrow AND his father Elizabeth: Angelica: That might be the worst sentence I've ever heard, are you okay sweetie? Giselle: a bit itchy sometimes but overall alright Angelica: I can imagine Ana: I have no words. I kind of want to high five you and also forget I ever heard that. Angelica: I second that Ana: Does Jack know?? Giselle: don't think they talk much Giselle: kinda want to see his face when he finds out Ana: That’s exactly what I was thinking Angelica: I brought him up once and jack straight up left Angelica: just walked out Ana: Oh. I’ve only ever heard stories about his father, but never from him... Elizabeth: If it's not too forward - how do you know Jack? Angelica: Let's just say it's his fault that I'm not a nun anymore Ana: He DIDN’T. Of course he did. Elizabeth: [unintentionally melodramatic hand-pressed-to-heart reaction] Angelica: I learned the hard way that Spanish monasteries take chastity very seriously Elizabeth: ... I am so sorry. Ana: I swear to God he ruins everything he comes across. [rolls eyes and takes a drink] Elizabeth: I don't have anything even comparable to that, but he did try to trade my hus- [winces, collects herself] He tried to trade my ex-husband to Davy Jones to free his own soul.  And lied to me about it the whole time, letting me think he was doing everything in his power to save the man i loved, who had been cruelly forced into service by Jones.  He was just using all of us to get to the heart of Davy Jones, and he didn't care what became of us along the way. Ana: I...I’m so sorry you were treated that way. He can be a complete bastard. Sometimes he even takes pride in it...but I can’t imagine he’s proud of all that. That doesn’t make what he did any better though. Giselle: ………we should leave him to rot Ana: I sometimes wonder why we don’t. He owes me a debt, at least, is what I say my reason is for going after him. Elizabeth: ...Beckett's got warrants for our - I mean mine, Will's and James' - executions... all because we helped Jack out of his own. Elizabeth: I don't know, I guess if he just dies somewhere it's like it was all for nothing. Angelica: And I thought he fucked my life up Angelica: Are you guys okay? Elizabeth: I'm the Pirate King. I'm fine. [hesitates and chews on her lower lip] ... I don't know about James so much. Angelica: Well he's got the bastard himself pursuing him despite everything Angelica: Can't be much fun Angelica: why are we even talking about him, I thought this was girl's night?Angelica: Can't we shift the conversation to something more uplifting Elizabeth: I mean, it's certainly an icebreaker - he's the one thing we all have in common. Ana: Can you imagine how terrified he’s going to be when he comes back to find we’re all friends? Angelica: God you're right about that Angelica: Must be his worst nightmare Ana: We have to scare the SHIT out of him! Angelica: Honestly the only thing that he'd find worse than this would be if we were dating or something Angelica: So I think we're good to go Ana: [winks] Line up, I’ve got two secret admirers already. Elizabeth: [turns extremely red at that one and crams pretzels into her mouth] Angelica: That you do, any updates on that by the way? Ana: No. One’s a naval officer but it’s not James obviously so who even knows. And the other one’s part of the crew, but God knows who it is. Angelica: Yeah I have no clue to be honest Angelica: What do the rest of you think? Elizabeth: [shrugs broadly] As you put it, Anamaria, I've never had a secret admirer, and I don't know the first thing about them. Ana: Alright. But you or James probably know the crew better than I do, so if you ever have a theory let me know. Angelica: This is like a mystery novel Elizabeth: The real mystery is how any of these men learned how to write poetically. Angelica: How do we know if it's a man? Angelica: I mean the naval officer, obviously Giselle: [defensively] nehemiah's a poet! what with his hashtags and quips Elizabeth: [patting her on the arm] Yes, but he's not writing Anamaria, because he's taken. Giselle: [glances between anamaria and angelica, stuffing popcorn in her mouth - SHE HAS THEORIES] Angelica: [sips wine] I'm just saying Ana: I mean it’s either a guy or one of us, if they’re on the crew. Or they could be lying. Angelica: If it's jack I'm going to throw myself in the sea Ana: Pfffft he would have his work cut out for him if he tried. And it doesn’t seem to be his ghost messages so I think I’m in the clear Angelica: Oh that's right he does That Giselle: you should look for hidden messages Giselle: like them emoji Elizabeth: Like, the emojis being clues to the identity of the sender? Giselle: yes! we're all pirates, we're supposed to do hidden clues and such Angelica: idk guys this doesn't look like it could lead to anything Angelica: pretty normal looking if you ask me Giselle: it's a star Giselle: stars shine bright in the night Giselle: so do…… lighthouses!! it's a lighthouse keeper!!! Elizabeth: [wanting to preserve Giselle's feelings but not on board with this] I think it might just be an emoji they think is very nice. Elizabeth: Maybe you should ask Nehemiah! He knows, I'm sure, lots about emojis. Angelica: do we know any lighthouse keepers? Angelica: It sounds like a Solid theory to me Ana: I’m gonna agree with Elizabeth on this one Elizabeth: If they haven't conveyed their identity yet, I'm sure they have a good reason. Angelica: They might be scared or something idk Elizabeth: When my - it took Will a long time to tell me he loved me.  He had to be sure how I felt about him.  There was... It doesn't matter anymore. Nevermind. Angelica: Aw hun, you don't have to think about that Angelica: Do you want some wine? Elizabeth: Thanks, but I should probably watch how much I drink. Angelica: Fair enough, that means it's more for me Elizabeth: ...anyway. They'll tell you when they're ready, I know it. Angelica: Let's hope they do Elizabeth: They just want to be sure she'll accept them for who they are. Angelica: Oh yes I'm sure Angelica: If you got to choose, who would you want them to be, ana? Ana: I wouldn’t even know, I was always working with family, or just working so much I hardly cared. Never really thought about love. Ana: My dad left my mom when I was really young so I guess I just never thought it was worth enough to go looking for love. I haven’t been unhappy without romance. [shrugs] Angelica: I understand that, though in my experience that's just something that men do Elizabeth: [chatting w giselle about james' clothes lol] Angelica: No offense to you two, liz, Giselle Angelica: I'm sure your boys are fine Elizabeth: ...yeah, I'm usually the guilty party. Angelica: Oh really? Elizabeth: .... Exited an engagement to get engaged to someone else. Annulled that marriage to get with someone else again.  [beat] ...Kissed Jack during the second engagement. But it was to kill him, so, you know.[avoiding everyone's eyes] And.... even in a good place, I still think about other people. It's. [huff] It's confusing. Angelica: Maybe you're just not meant for monogamy? I've met plenty of people who made alternatives work Elizabeth: [mumbling] I don't think that's it. Giselle: i feel like it's okay to kiss someone outside your engagement if it means jack sparrow dies Angelica: Oh I'm totally with you on that one Giselle: but aside from that, i'm happy with how slow things are going with nehemiah - ain't never met anyone what didn't want to get my knickers off as quick as they could Angelica: But from what I can tell, that's not always the case is it? Ana: One of my older sisters used to say she was “window shopping”—she didn’t feel bad about looking at attractive men as long as she didn’t “make a purchase” while she was with another. Angelica: That's quite the philosophy, and completely understandable Elizabeth: .....Or attractive women. Angelica: Oh cheers to that Angelica: Being attracted to women is 90% of my life honestly Elizabeth: [peeping up at her in relief, and also... more relief] So that's - that's completely normal? Angelica: I mean if you ask me, it totally is Angelica: Maybe you should ask your man if he's up for a threesome? That way you could get in touch with some ladies Elizabeth: [COLORING] That's not really- nevermind. Angelica: It’s not for everyone, I get that Ana: [lets out a breath] I hadn’t even noticed that I found women attractive until someone thought to ask. I’m glad I’m not the only one. Giselle: i mean, threesomes are alright, i ain't never had a problem being with the ladies, but you had to share the money after… Angelica: Thought threesomes would cost extra? Giselle: they do Giselle: they do Giselle: i just don't like sharing my money Angelica: fair enough Elizabeth: [laughs out loud] Ana: [chuckling] I mean, you earned it, I get that. Angelica: [nodding in agreement] You worked hard Elizabeth: ...Giselle, have you ever been in love?  Before Nehemiah, I mean. Giselle: love's a bit of a fool's game in my old line of work, y'know? they start askin for free what you can charge ten shillins for Elizabeth: What'd you charge Jack? Angelica: I could have charged him?? Giselle: [huffs quite loudly and mutters into her wine] not enough considerin Ana: If I’d charged him he probably would’ve stolen it back anyway. Angelica: That's true Angelica: He's tricky like that Angelica: did he leave anything behind when he passed away btw? Anamaria: Whatever, I was using him for sex right back, would’ve evened out if he didn’t take my boat Elizabeth: I don't know how, but I heard Tia Dalma has what's left of him. Ana: Did someone loot the body? Angelica: Isn't she the swamp witch? Feels a little weird to leave a dead body with her Elizabeth: .... was it. Was it any good? Ana: ...I don’t like to talk about it because I hate admitting that it was. He doesn’t need to know that. Elizabeth: [presses her hands over her mouth and lets out a little squeal]  I want to know about it though! Elizabeth: I'm the only woman here who hasn't- you know. Angelica: [nodding] I'm not saying it was worth it but all I'm saying is that his mouth is good for more than talking Angelica: The mustache does tickle tho Elizabeth: [is gonna die] Ana: ...yeah I’m gonna pass that question off to Angelica and Giselle. I only ever did it the once anyway. Angelica: For the record I'd like to inform you all that I'm better than him Elizabeth: [moves her hands from covering her mouth to just burying her entire face in her palms] Angelica: I do hope your little navy man takes good care of you sweetheart Angelica: I always say that if he won't go down on you he's not worth your time Elizabeth: [muffled groan] Angelica: [sips wine] Ana: We could be your wingmen if you need it? I can’t tell if you’re embarrassed or upset because your face is covered. Angelica: I can make a powerpoint if you want Angelica: to show james Ana: He seems in love enough he’d probably do whatever to please you. Elizabeth: [pulling her hands down, composing herself immediately, after a moment to sniff as though she was on the verge of crying] I'm good. It's - we're good. Thank you. Elizabeth: [glances at Anamaria with a particularly fond smile at her statement that James looooves her] [because aww] Angelica: Eating ya girl out is part of being in love, everyone knows this Angelica: Just fyi if anyone here is thinking of dating me Elizabeth: [lifts just one hand to hier brow to make it out like she's scratching her temple but is really just momentarily avoiding Angelica's eyes] Angelica: [sips wine] Ana: Maybe if I did date someone the secret admirers would finally speak up about who they were.. Angelica: That might be uh, that could work maybe possibly Ana: I wouldn’t want to use someone like that, though. I dunno, stupid idea. Elizabeth: [hands end up clasped over her mouth again, but she doesn't say anything much] Angelica: I mean I could help you, if you want Angelica: That's what friends are for, right? Ana: What, like, fake date? You’d be okay with that? Angelica: Yeah, totally! :) If it helps us find the admirer then any tactic is good Angelica: plus it might scare jack Ana: That WOULD be hilarious. I mean, if you’re sure you’re okay with it, it’s worth a shot? Angelica: I don't see why not :)))) as long as you're comfortable with it Ana: Alright. I’m sorry I’ll probably be pretty awkward, I haven’t been in a relationship in ages Angelica: Oh no I'm sure you'll do great ️Angelica: So uh Angelica: Do we announce it? Ana: I guess so...? Elizabeth what did you do when you and James started seeing each other? Elizabeth: I... don't know that there's anything to compare to this. Angelica: If we want the admirer to see it we can't be discreet, right? Ana: I guess not, I just don’t really know what to post. It’s not like tumblr has a relationship status thing Elizabeth: Oh, hell. [laughs, albeit a little tensely] Elizabeth: Actually.  I think that's nearly the same as this. Ana: [concerned] Elizabeth, are you alright? Elizabeth: I'm fine.  There's just a whole lot of irony going around. Angelica: If you talk about it, maybe you'll feel better? Elizabeth: What's any of you know about James and I? Angelica: Not much, but if we knew more then we might be able to help you Angelica: We just want what's best for you darling Ana: I know you two are very close, he cares about you a lot. That’s about it. Elizabeth: Uh. Well. Elizabeth: James proposed to me in Port Royal the day I was first abducted by pirates.  I accepted him after he rescued me later, but I was in love with somebody else and he let me go. Elizabeth: I didn't mean to end my entire marriage for him.  I wish I could say I did.  But it just sort of happened when Will and I met up and I told him how I was feeling. Elizabeth: Then, you know, James showed up in Tortuga and they tried to lynch him.  I put a stop to that, and - more or less, people thought I was getting some... Use out of him.  So yeah. Elizabeth: [back to business] Same as you, pretty much.  We faked it really.  I was only keeping him in my room since I thought somebody might try to finish hanging him if they got him alone. Angelica: So it was a bit of a coincidence, is what you're saying? Elizabeth: A huge one! Imagine if he'd showed up just a little earlier than I did. I'd have been too late. Angelica: Oh yeah he'd be dead af Ana: So are you saying it’s still kinda fake now? Elizabeth: It's pretty real now.  I just don't know where it's going. Angelica: Well are you happy? Do you love him? Elizabeth: I'm. I'm not sure. Elizabeth: I'm not sure if I've ever really been in love. Elizabeth: [covers her eyes again as though she's getting a headache] Let's not talk about me. Angelica: No but sweetie, we need to solve this Angelica: You look like it's really eating you up [she puts her arms around liz] Elizabeth: [groans, inwardly, outwardly, globally, spiritually, on the astral plane, etc] Elizabeth: I've said I love him, but I don't know what I feel. Except guilt! I feel so much guilt! Angelica: I'm sorry to be the one to say this, but you might need some time to work on yourself darling Angelica: I'm not necessarily saying you should call things quits completely, but it sounds like this could end up being bad for both you and James Elizabeth: I can't do that to him.  I was just talking to him about us. Angelica: Listen, you can't move things too fast if you're not sure about this. Whatever you decide to do, that's one point I cannot stress enough Ana: Sorting through your emotions on your own time, either by yourself or with people you’re comfortable with, doesn’t mean you have to leave James behind, or even go on a break. Elizabeth: Angelica, if i took that advice, I would be on an island in the Caribbean somewhere, starving. With Jack Sparrow. Elizabeth: I've spent the last three years of my life moving too fast. Angelica: Then maybe it's time to calm down a little. Focus on your career or something Elizabeth: But I do care about him. Elizabeth: And it's not Jack that ruined his life, it's me. I did that. Elizabeth: He let Jack go because I stepped in and asked him. Elizabeth: Hell. If I had married him, he might not have chased Jack into a hurricane, either. Elizabeth: I owe him a lot.  And he needs my protection - he worked for Beckett for a year and no one trusts him. Angelica: Sweetie, you can't be in a relationship just because you feel like you owe the guy something. That's not healthy and certainly not fair to him Angelica: With your position I'm sure you can grant him some form of protection, as for what you owe him there are other ways to pay that debt off Elizabeth: [a little stubbornly] It's not the only reason. It's part of the reason. Angelica: A reason still, you should never feel like you owe a significant other anything Angelica: How would you feel if it were the other way around? Elizabeth: If James felt that he owed me? Angelica: exactly Elizabeth: I think he does feel that he owes me. Angelica: Then that's no good either Elizabeth: [desperately] Do we really have to talk about this? Angelica: If it's making you uncomfortable then we don't have to, but I do think you should talk to someone about this Elizabeth: There's nothing to talk about. Angelica: [shrugging] if you say so... Elizabeth: [crossing her arms, but thankfully not evoking either pirate king or captain status to get her way, just sulking] I do. Angelica: Yeah I can tell :) Ana: Well I might be shit at relationship advice but I’m fantastic at changing the subject. We ranted about Jack already but we haven’t dragged Beckett? Angelica: The only thing I know about him is that he's short and a Bitch Giselle: short and obsessed with himself - we all, 'cept cap'n swann, ree-gret-ah-blee have a kom-man-al-ihtee with him Angelica: Oh really? And with that, Girls’ Night amiably returned to slumber-party standards: subjects were changed, wine was had by all, and eventually men’s faces were defaced with mysterious sigils such as approximations of the eggplant emoji and the exotic incantation only known as DEEZ NUTS... and what horrors it summons, none yet live who can speak of it.

[Upon not hearing back from James until after midnight] lizzyswann-turnersuggestions poke norringtonsuggestions I’m sorry, I’m rather slow on the uptake this afternoon. norringtonsuggestions I managed to go through the night without picking a fight. I firmly believe this qualifies as progress. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Just conked out mid conversation. For a while I actually thought you were mad at me. norringtonsuggestions I fell asleep for two hours, and then I could not sleep any further, so I attempted to remedy that, and. Well. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Trying to think of a good endearment to call you by that appropriately conveys sympathy but from me everything is slightly maternal and more than slightly condescending. norringtonsuggestions You don’t need to reassure me of anything. norringtonsuggestions I was unaware until this morning that laudanum is itself a spirit, so the more fool I. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You're so dumb, James, but bless you. norringtonsuggestions It’s tincture of opium, Lizzy, how was I to know it’s also ethylated? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Pat pat. norringtonsuggestions I’m relieved you’re not angry. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Frustrated, but thats to be expected with you on another boat.  norringtonsuggestions I hope to never do that in front of you. I have been vomiting all day and rejecting my nephew’s FaceTime requests. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You are a sadsack, but you're my sadsack. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I would honestly rather be there cleaning up after you than here by myself. norringtonsuggestions As though I would let you! @norringtonsuggestions That’s one convenience of having such little hair that I had forgotten; one cannot get sick in it. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You don't "let" me do anything. norringtonsuggestions I can’t imagine it making good press for the Pirate King to clean up after her dog, and I can’t say I want you to. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions :) Responsible pet ownership lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I feel a little responsible for all of this, actually norringtonsuggestions It’s not your fault. I didn’t fall into my cups through unhappiness last night. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions If you'd been a little happier in Tortuga though it might not have been a problem norringtonsuggestions Oh, I doubt that. Please don’t worry. This was not at all unusual. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions If I had made you a little happier, then. norringtonsuggestions Elizabeth, please. It’s nothing you did or didn’t do.  norringtonsuggestions You’ve never seen me in my cups in a good mood, I know, but it does happen. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I tentatively submit that, in a better place than Tortuga, we should drink together sometime. 😊 norringtonsuggestions I would like that. norringtonsuggestions Very much. norringtonsuggestions [slightly unshaven but thankfully not red-eyed selfie of reassurance, not up to giselle standards but decent to show he’s not completely blasted by the previous night’s events] Here. Hopefully this might convince you. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I'd send you one but I never look as well as you do! norringtonsuggestions I’m sure you look well. I’m relieved to know that you believe I do; I am never certain how I feel of that lately. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Is it the hair? norringtonsuggestions That’s certainly no help.It’s a very general sense of undress and dishevelment. norringtonsuggestions Indecency, you could say. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You measure that on a very different scale than I do.I think you could stand to look a little more disheveled than you do. norringtonsuggestions Is this your way of saying “dirty and bearded once more”? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions The beard was good. The dirt I could do without.  Mostly I think you should never tie your shirt again. norringtonsuggestions You know I haven’t worn a collar since I defected. norringtonsuggestions As per request. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I do approve. I just think you know. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions More is more norringtonsuggestions Consider it brought to my attention. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I love you and don't stop but also why do you talk like that norringtonsuggestions Like what? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I can't even begin to explain. norringtonsuggestions Habit, I suppose. norringtonsuggestions Whatever it is. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I'm fond of it 😄 norringtonsuggestions Thank you... I think. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You've always been like that. norringtonsuggestions I don’t even know what you’re talking about. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions When I was younger I just thought it was because you wanted me to know you were smarter than I was. norringtonsuggestions I only wish to make a good account of myself. norringtonsuggestions Regardless, I’m not exactly lounging about the captain’s quarters gazing dolefully into a mirror, mourning my lost qualities, or anything of that sort. It is more a persistent discomfort, and a fear of giving a poor impression. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I did always like you, even if you talked down to me a little bit. You still paid me more attention than anyone else did. norringtonsuggestions I was always fond of you, you know. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Of course I know. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions That was what I assumed to be the motive of your later attentions, though I did not imagine it to be anything greater than fondness. norringtonsuggestions [selfie with shirt untied, with any potential sext vibes ruined by the very clear THERE. ARE YOU HAPPY NOW. sort of expression on his face] Fine. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions oh my god norringtonsuggestions I am trying. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions James how dare you not be here norringtonsuggestions I miss you too. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I already missed you but now I also miss the rest of you norringtonsuggestions How long do you imagine it will take to get to Cuba? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Week? @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You'd know better than I. norringtonsuggestions I’ll have to check my bearings, but I’ve inherited a rather fine bed. norringtonsuggestions One which you are more than welcome to come investigate. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions [selfie of elizabeth in the corner of the frame and perhaps a bit cropped, grinning and looking to the side as if she is debating some mischief. she is a little flushed. that could be sunburn, of course, though she has a very nice hat on.] come, you say? norringtonsuggestions Elizabeth!  norringtonsuggestions Yes, you may come, if that’s your goal. @norringtonsuggestions So to speak. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions And what's yours? norringtonsuggestions I’m sure I will be delighted to have you. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions But may I have you? norringtonsuggestions Of course. @norringtonsuggestions I would hardly have it otherwise. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I mean. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Next time we meet. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I want to get you back, James. norringtonsuggestions Oh? @norringtonsuggestions In what manner? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions For Tortuga. The beach. norringtonsuggestions You’re still bothered by a little matter like that? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I spend my days working as hard as possible because the moment I pause I think on you and i lapse into being bothered. norringtonsuggestions [sharp, pleased IRL laugh] @norringtonsuggestions It’s gratifying to know that I do not leave an entirely shabby impression behind. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Not in the least. norringtonsuggestions One does worry. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions And I slept so well that night.  Now I barely can, and I can't blame coffee for it. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions In fact, frustration aside, I slept better  in bed beside you in Tortuga than I have any other night on this ship. norringtonsuggestions Glad to have been of service. norringtonsuggestions I do enjoy combining duty and pleasure. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions James! norringtonsuggestions I think we can agree that it’s better to enjoy one’s work, yes? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Stop teasing me I'm being serious norringtonsuggestions As am I. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I may have taken the dog thing a little far, I'm sorry. It isn't your duty to be my dog. norringtonsuggestions Pity. I was looking forward to that part. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions James, I can't tell how serious you are over text. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Barely two nights ago you were complaining about this. norringtonsuggestions In public, certainly. norringtonsuggestions What happens in private is another matter. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Oh. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions In that case norringtonsuggestions Yes?? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I am glad to hear your eagerness to resume your duties is more than mere professional courtesy, Captain Norrington. norringtonsuggestions Naturally, Your Majesty.  norringtonsuggestions In private, it does not matter what account I make of myself so long as it is to your approval. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I happen to agree. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions How fortunate I am to bestow my favor on such an amenable person.  I expect you'll be as enthusiastic to accommodate me in Cuba? norringtonsuggestions Of course, Your Majesty. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions But of course I may have to board you before then. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions It's a long journey to be without my dog. norringtonsuggestions It is, as ever, at your whim, Your Majesty. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Don't you have any feelings on the matter? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions If you can offer me your compliance but not your enthusiasm, does it matter that I like how you taste?  I cannot do with merely tolerance. norringtonsuggestions It’s not bloody Tortuga again, so my prior objections are no longer a concern. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions James, I want you. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I just want you to want me. norringtonsuggestions I do. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Then I need you to tell me. norringtonsuggestions I want you, Elizabeth. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Hold that thought for just one second lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Is tomorrow good for you? norringtonsuggestions ...yes. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Hold the thought, then, Captain, until you're holding me. norringtonsuggestions We’ll have to coordinate this, you realize. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Yes. norringtonsuggestions All right. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Do you want to? Really? norringtonsuggestions This an incredible undertaking for the sake of a round in bed, you realize. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Look, we don't have to do it. norringtonsuggestions Of course, I do enjoy a challenge. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions For my own part, I'd risk a lot worse to touch you again. But you are the naval expert here. norringtonsuggestions I’m sorry, I’m not trying to give way to so much distraction, but Joseph is more interested in talking to me now than I think he has in the last four years. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions May I extract a promise from you before we try to be civil and composed again? norringtonsuggestions Yes, of course. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Well, in the absence of my touching you tonight can I trust you to do it for me? norringtonsuggestions Elizabeth! lizzyswann-turnersuggestions That's your majesty, I think, at the moment. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I am asking you to serve me, after all.  norringtonsuggestions ...yes, Your Majesty, but I should find it a poor and even mocking substitute.  lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Do you indeed? @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Would you still if i were to reverse the directive, I wonder? norringtonsuggestions I’m sorry? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Perhaps if you do not enjoy it then I must ask you not to do it? norringtonsuggestions I can manage that. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions If it's too easy for you... norringtonsuggestions What then? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Well, I really must set some challenge for you.  Which would be easier for you - regular practice, or surrendering the privilege to me entirely? Hypothetically speaking. norringtonsuggestions I’m quite accustomed to not acting on urges. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Oh dear. norringtonsuggestions One grows accustomed living communally. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You have a cabin to yourself now. norringtonsuggestions And I did for the past ten years. norringtonsuggestions Cabins are easily barged in upon. One learns to be discreet. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I suppose you'll just have to risk it. norringtonsuggestions And what, keep a log? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You only need to report to me. norringtonsuggestions Of course. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Is this acceptable? norringtonsuggestions Yes, Your Majesty. @norringtonsuggestions Elizabeth. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions James ❤️ @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Only you really had better not lie to me that you're obeying when you aren't. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions You said you'd enjoy a challenge. I expect you to enjoy this one. norringtonsuggestions Of course. lizzyswann-turnersuggestions There's a good boy. norringtonsuggestions Is that all, then? lizzyswann-turnersuggestions I find myself a little distracted thinking about it, so I might have to call it a night. @lizzyswann-turnersuggestions Take care, James.