Post by Carlotta on Jun 4, 2006 16:13:49 GMT -5
The delays had been many and days had turned into weeks before the shipwright at last set sail one evening from Heathfield's shores. With a crew of twenty-four men, plus Carlotta and two of JD's hired hands they left for Italy. The journey would take them a little over week to reach the shores of Tuscany. The voyage had gone unhindered in time, days filled with sun, a light breeze or passing clouds. Finally on the evening of the tenth day they docked on the village of Orbetello. The men dispersed throughout the village and Zar took Carlotta to the home of his family and introduced the dark haired beauty. Questions arose at first if he'd brought home a bride, but Zar assured his family of Carlotta's position in his life and the only wedding they'd be attending while here was his sister, Gabriella's. Over the week's stay the three ships were prepared for sail and supplies stocked up for the voyage back to Heathfield. On their last evening in port, Zar bid his family farewell. The time had passed to swiftly and long, painful good-byes were not in his taste. The shipwright left with Carlotta and headed back to the docks, boarding once more on the Sea Falcon, now lined up with the three other ships off her port side. Last minute instructions were given to the four sets of crew and though Zar would have preferred to set sail without JD's thugs in tow, they managed to show up and board his ship at the last minute. Four ships set sail that night, leaving behind the small village of Orbetello and the lands of Tuscany. Italy's son would return home another time. Zar stood on the deck of the Sea Falcon, near the main mast while Carlotta settled into her room below. The sun was dipping down over the horizon and soon would slip out of view.
The trip had been more than she anticipated, of that she was greatly delighted. Zar's family welcomed her with open arms, once they got over their shock of her appearance at his side. They would chide her from time to time, of how she should make Zar an honest man. To which she'd laugh and which became the constant reply ... Zar's about as honest as they can get ...at least compared to those she frequently associated with. While Zar seen to his personal duties, she took the time to travel and explore what she could of Italy, whilst there. Such beautiful sights, as were the people, not to mention the food and wine of the native lands. A few men captured her eye, but any interests would be diverted by JD's men; on the men's part, that is. The wedding she attended was beautiful, and Zar's sister was more so, in the gifted gown Zar bought for her. This was the first wedding she had ever attended, and became mesmerized by the ceremony. Too soon, it would all come to an end, and they'd find themselves preparing to return home. She didn't mind the men JD sent with her, they were personal friends in a way. Men who she had served alongside, for over a year upon the Black Swan. Once her belongings were tended to in her cabin, she'd soon make her way upon the deck. The evenings were growing cooler, so an ivory lambs wool shawl was draped about her shoulders, over the copper colored gown of satin worn. Eyes would cast heavenward, she could never get over how vast the night sky was out to sea. A slow stroll that would carry her along, until she made out the silhouette beside the main mast. It would be in his direction she'd head. Only the soft rustling of her gown to be heard with the snapping of the sails captured by the wind, and the sound of lapping water against the ship's bow as they plowed through the water's depths.
Her scent would be the first thing the shipwright would take notice of. Certainly none of the crew smelled so sweet. Earthen hues turned to draw over the lovely visage of his companion and Zar gave her a warm smile. "All settled in?" He asked, stepping up beside her he slipped an arm behind her waist and walked her towards the bow of the ship. Crewmen, six on each ship, a skeleton at that but enough to manage the ships, moved about the deck. Lines were secured and the sails flared out against the wind. Mack helmed one of the ships Zar was bringing back and Cooper skippers the other one. The third was captained by another trusted crew member by the name of Joshua. All trusted and experienced men. Zar lead Carly up to the bow and stopped, glancing off to the port side. "My own fleet, for a short time." The faint smile would follow his gaze down to the woman standing beside him. "Did you enjoy yourself, my dear?"
Glance up at him, a smile to form upon her lips and a slight nod. "Mmhmm, all homey like." Soft chuckle. Gaze would then divert to the open sea before her. "I had forgotten how beautiful it is out here. Strange it is for me to say this, but....." Glancing back up at him. "...I feel a little homesick for it." Softly laughs. It was then her attention would turn towards the other ships sailing alongside. Their masts with sails billowing in full, back dropped by the evening sky. So dark, it almost made their sails look black, a sight that took her back to another place and time. "Beauties they are, Zar. You have much to be proud of." Slowly her head turned and tilted to gaze up at him, the full warmth of her smile to appear. "I had a wonderful time, thank you. The only complaint that I hold, is there didn't seem to be enough of it to see all there was to see. You have a lovely family, I envy you that." A pang felt within. Many times she would think of her own family she left behind, during times when all would gather. The bantering, even the occasional disagreement, though in her family, they would turn into full blown verbal wars at times. A slow deep breath taken, focus turned back upon the sight of ships at sail. "You're a very lucky man, Zar. I hope you know this."
"Mmm." Nodding in agreement to her observance of being at sea. "I could get used to this again. But alas, I gave that up for something I find I enjoy more." Zar glanced down into Carlotta's eyes. "Do you now?" Referring to her being homesick for the sea. "Thinking about trading in your pen and books for a bunk again?" He gave a deep chuckle and drew her up closer to his side, a gentle squeeze of his arm about her waist. "I'm proud of them. They should fetch a fine price in Heathfield." The two schooners and the brigantine would probably sell within the month. At last he hoped, the business could use the profit they'd bring in to order more supplies for the next ships they'd be building or repairing. "I'm glad you had a wonderful time, Carlotta." His voice lowered, reminiscing their week spent with his family. "Aye, that I do and I'm sure they would have loved to make you part of the family as well." The shipwright looked down at her, slightly grinning. "My mother has been trying to marry me off since the day I began a man. Eh." He rolled his shoulders. "She pines for grandchildren to bounce in her lap." Turning his gaze back out over the bow he quietly replied. "Any man would feel lucky when standing next to a beauty with your intelligence, my dear." The shipwright wore a faint smile, diverting his gaze.
Indicating the brigantine. "I'd be willing to bet that JD might purchase that one. To replace the one lost. I'll be sure to tell her about it." Once more her gaze would rise to meet his and a soft laugh. "They made me feel like a part of your family. They'll forever be in my heart, even if I never see them again." That she meant, such warmth was offered and she would always remember that. Another chuckle. "One day Zar, you'll find some comely lass and have a bounty of children for them to ply their affections on." Even if meant, she was teasing him too, knowing his views. A slow shake of her head, a bit of a chortle as she gazed out over the water. "You're biased in your opinion Zar, being my best friend and all. You have to say things like that to me." Now she was openly teasing, even a slight bump against his side when she emphasized the one word. Arm to slip around his waist, as her head rested back against his shoulder. "As much as I miss this, I still have a dream to see through. The manor should be near completion by now, and soon I'll find my days and nights consumed by clients, and tending to their legal issues."
"They liked you. It was easy to make you a part of their family." Zar shifted his weight and pulled Carlotta around to the front of him, setting her back against his chest so his arms could slide around her and hold her more securely. He was chuckling to the part about him settling down and breeding a brood of children. "Couldn't I just skip that part and one day be a grandfather?" He teased back. "Mhmm. You're probably right, I am biased. But I'm not blind and I don't say things I don't mean." The top of her head was tucked underneath his chin. "We both should have our projects nearing completion. The Northerner should be about done when we dock."
Easy it was to nestle within his arms, it provided more warmth from the chilly damp air. Leaning back against him, gazing out over the moon and star lit surface of the water. Soft was her laughter. "Unfortunately Zar, the only way you'd be able to do that, is to marry a lass who has grown children. Instant family, without the headaches of younger years." A deep breath in took, relishing the fresh air the open sea offered. "Then you'll have another ship in which to sell. Seems the Shipwright business is booming. You'll soon be a wealthier man..." A grin to slowly appear. "...although you're already wealthy, you have me as a friend. That's worth more than a chest full of gold." She couldn't help that teasing nature, it was a large part of who she was.
"You're wrong." He quietly answered. "I could adopt." And here she was supposed to be the barrister. The tease was enjoyed with relish. Suddenly Zar grew quiet, thinking back to past weeks. "Carlotta." He spoke her name with slow care, shifting his head to the side of hers so he could catch a glimpse of her profile. "I haven't asked you yet, but tell me of this relationship with this man. Is it serious?" Fixing her underneath his scrutinizing gaze.
That caused her to blink and look up at him in surprise. "Serious?" To that she'd slowly shake her head. "Not on my part, and to be honest, I don't think on his either. He was being too pushy and wanting to rush things. I don't trust pushy people. To be honest, I have a feeling inside, I'll never see him again." Small shrug of her shoulders. "Even If I did enjoy times shared with him, but I can honestly say, I don't see me spending the rest of my life with him." Honestly stated. She would find out upon her return, just how right she truly was, on all counts.
He listened to her speak, how her voice changed with her answer. "Ah." He nodded, his eyes unwavering from her face. "No, being pushy will not win the heart, of a keen woman with insight." Again he fell quiet, left in thought. "So there is no man in your life you favor feelings towards?" So the shipwright had a round about way of inquiring of his best friend's inner thoughts and personal relations. He had been rather out of the circle in her life of late.
A moment she'd gaze up at him, a hit of a smile to appear and a slow shake of her head. Gaze to drift back to the ocean. "No, there's no one in my life that's close, Zar. You're the only one that I'm remotely close to." She'd not bring up the one who had, once, and left her cold. No sense in drudging up old memories, there was no purpose in it. "How about you? ... I know that you've said you intend to stay single, but even the most devout bachelor, can have one capture their eye and attentions." Catching up on both parts, it would seem. She missed their nightly talks, that which faded into the background of both their busy lives. Sad it was that they could so easily lose touch, when they lived so close to one another.
His gaze seemed to narrow slightly on her, but he gave a nod and turned to stare out over the see. "Many have captured my eye and attention, my dear Carlotta. But I'd make a lousy husband to any poor lass. I couldn't give her the attention a wife would require, it's my main reason for remaining a bachelor." More than likely JD was jesting with the shipwright, being a savvy protector to her ward.
"Poppy-thingy!" There was that English slang she was prone to. "You'd make a wonderful mate to some lass. You're kind, thoughtful and have a gentle hand. You just need to find the right lass is all, someone who understands and can live with the circumstances of your life." Again she'd tilt her head to gaze up at him. "..I mean, I wouldn't have that problem. I intend to keep my word when I reach fifty after all." That grin to grow more. "Not to mention, you are a fine looking lad. Any woman would consider themselves lucky to be on your arm."
Zar grinned down at her, bringing his face in closer. "I am hardly a lad, Carlotta." He laughed, shaking his head. "No, if I had a wife she'd deserve to be flowered with attention, not left at home and neglected. I could never live with myself to do such a thing to any lass. I'm not the kind of man." A clucking sound passed between his teeth and he straightened back up.
That had a brow to rise. "Who's to say she'd be left at home and neglected? .. What if she was to have a career of her own, that would occupy her time, whilst your career occupied yours? ..Hmm?" A slow shake of her head. "You find excuses Zar, at least make them valid ones, eh?" A light chuckle of her own. "Soon you'll be known for wealth and prestige, I'm sure you'll have to fight your way through the hordes of lasses who'll be applying their attentions upon you. Wanting to be seen at your side at all the grand affairs." Again that grin would appear. "Especially once you kiss them. They'll be done for then." Openly teasing.
"I say, that's who." He replied, with half seriousness. "If I marry I want a real family life, not some...what did you call it? 'Poppy thingy' nonsense with both of us rushing off to famous careers and wealth. I want quiet evenings at home...and." His brows narrowed sharply as he gave her a gruff look. "Now see here woman. I am not marrying, so why are we discussing this? Geez, JD is good." He growled a bit under his breath.
"A quiet evening?" Chuckling. "If there's children involved, you can forget about all of that." Teasing even more. Then she was laughing, she couldn't help it. Turning in his hold to face him, as she gazed up at him. "You brought the subject up my dear friend!" Then both brows rose. "JD? ...She's good about what?" Trying to gain some understanding here.
He seemed to hold that frown, easily gliding his arms about Carlotta as she turned around to face him. "Something she was throwing at me before we left on this trip." A deep sigh resonated from within his chest and Zar shook his head. "She pegged me a fool."
Now that made her blink as that smile slowly faded. "What did she throw at you prior to our departure." She had no knowledge of JD's talk with anyone. "You are no fool Zar, don't say such things. JD is a harsh woman, her tongue can be sharper than any blade. Don't ever take to heart what she tells you. Her views on many things are twisted and distorted."
This would have her pinned underneath his gaze. "She is a shrewd woman and clever." He debated on not touching the subject matter, but then felt Carlotta should at least know what JD was up to. "She implied I was a fool and blind in my ways, misleading you with my charms and that I couldn't see the truth of the matter if it was plainly in front of my face. That you have some deeper feelings in regards to our friendship and relations."
Again she'd blink and slowly pull back from his hold. "What!?!" A look of surprise and shock to rest upon her features. "So you think I've been lying to you about how I honestly feel?" In a way, that hurt within. It also caused a bit of anger to arise, that JD would do such a thing. "It seems I need to straighten some matters out upon my return to Blacks Bay." A glance up at him, then she'd turn to take a few steps away. "Ay Zar, I care for you, as a friend. One whom I can trust with my deepest secrets, but that's it. I know nothing could ever come between us." A glance over at him, then turning away to look out at the ships sailing alongside. A slow shake of her head. "Seems as if those rumors will haunt me always."
How'd this turn around into him being suddenly the scourge here? "Wait a second, hold on there Carlotta." He swiftly closed the steps between them and pulled her around to face him. "I have never implied to you that I feel you are dishonest with me. I was simply telling you that JD saw something deeper in your eyes and she thought I was a fool for not seeing it." He swore underneath his breath. "Carlotta, I care a great deal about you, and I would be fool enough not to see if you held deeper feelings for me. I am rather blind in regards to romance, JD is right there. Yes, the rumors don't help matters. But I do cherish you and believe in you. This I say with all sincerity. Ah, Carlotta. I never want to see you hurt, even by me." Rather she wanted it or not, Zar pulled her into his arms and held her with close affection.
A slow, deep intake of breath to be taken, then released slowly. "You said you were a fool, and thusly agreeing with what JD said." Softly uttered. Her arms would slip around him, as her head rested against his chest. "I promised to always be honest with you Zar, and I meant what I said. JD sees what she wants to see, and mistook my affections to be more than what they are. I care for you greatly Zar, and would do all in power for you..." Head to draw back as she gazed up at him. "...even lay my life down, if it meant to save yours. As much as I respect JD, and feel close to those I work with, with you it's much different. Of that I'll admit. I feel closer to you, able to speak openly without worry. Of that I am guilty of, but the love that I have, is that of great affection for a friend. Not the type of love that's shared between a man and woman on a deeper level. If that makes any sense."
"No, I said JD implied I was a fool. And if I didn't see it, then I would agree. Not by deceit on your part, but by ignorance on mine." His gaze searched her face. "Maybe JD is just looking out for your best interest my dear, as I do." He'd shake his head. "No, I'd not allow that. I do have my honor and though your words are a noble gesture and honorable, never would you lay down your life for me, Carlotta." He whispered, nearing his face towards her. "For I treasure yours above mine. My eyes do admire this beauty, and the love I hold for you transcends beyond this world. Always will you have my devotion, and more." He shouldn't do it, but Zar did. His head lowered and his lips brushed across hers and seared them with a deeper kiss. His hand to cup just underneath her chin. Always he would cherish this one, no matter where their own paths took the other.
Just as she was about to respond, her words would be muted by the conjoining of lips. Eyes closed, a hand to lift and rest lightly against his cheek. The kiss would be returned with equal fev'ver. Zar held a place in her life that no man has in quite a long time. Trust! He held her trust above all things. She would always cherish him in a special way, it was a bond they had created over time, that's lasted even when apart. After a few moments, she'd be the one to break that which was being shared. Slowly lashes would rise as she peered up at him. "No matter what direction we sail in life Zar, I will always view you as a greater part of my life. Your support I cherish, your friendship I shall always revere, never forget that." A light caress of her fingers against his cheek. "You're a very special person Zar, one day you'll see that too."
His head would pull up soon after their lips parted. Looking down at her with an admiring gaze he slowly began to smile. "You're beautiful. Do you know that?" Zar released a heavy sigh and moved Carlotta around to his side and held her close as they stood at the ship's bow. "I won't forget, I promise." He softly said. "Let's go home, my dear." The shipwright motioned with his head towards the southern horizon, and beyond to their new homeland.
The warmth of that smile to return, as she moved to gaze out over the open waters before them. "Home, and the hustle and bustle of our lives." A light chuckle to sound. "On second thought, let's go back to Italy, it's more relaxed there." Teasing of course. She was quite excited about their return, knowing what was awaiting her there. Her life was changing, to the better. Soon she'll have all she's ever dreamed of, and it can only get better from there.
The trip had been more than she anticipated, of that she was greatly delighted. Zar's family welcomed her with open arms, once they got over their shock of her appearance at his side. They would chide her from time to time, of how she should make Zar an honest man. To which she'd laugh and which became the constant reply ... Zar's about as honest as they can get ...at least compared to those she frequently associated with. While Zar seen to his personal duties, she took the time to travel and explore what she could of Italy, whilst there. Such beautiful sights, as were the people, not to mention the food and wine of the native lands. A few men captured her eye, but any interests would be diverted by JD's men; on the men's part, that is. The wedding she attended was beautiful, and Zar's sister was more so, in the gifted gown Zar bought for her. This was the first wedding she had ever attended, and became mesmerized by the ceremony. Too soon, it would all come to an end, and they'd find themselves preparing to return home. She didn't mind the men JD sent with her, they were personal friends in a way. Men who she had served alongside, for over a year upon the Black Swan. Once her belongings were tended to in her cabin, she'd soon make her way upon the deck. The evenings were growing cooler, so an ivory lambs wool shawl was draped about her shoulders, over the copper colored gown of satin worn. Eyes would cast heavenward, she could never get over how vast the night sky was out to sea. A slow stroll that would carry her along, until she made out the silhouette beside the main mast. It would be in his direction she'd head. Only the soft rustling of her gown to be heard with the snapping of the sails captured by the wind, and the sound of lapping water against the ship's bow as they plowed through the water's depths.
Her scent would be the first thing the shipwright would take notice of. Certainly none of the crew smelled so sweet. Earthen hues turned to draw over the lovely visage of his companion and Zar gave her a warm smile. "All settled in?" He asked, stepping up beside her he slipped an arm behind her waist and walked her towards the bow of the ship. Crewmen, six on each ship, a skeleton at that but enough to manage the ships, moved about the deck. Lines were secured and the sails flared out against the wind. Mack helmed one of the ships Zar was bringing back and Cooper skippers the other one. The third was captained by another trusted crew member by the name of Joshua. All trusted and experienced men. Zar lead Carly up to the bow and stopped, glancing off to the port side. "My own fleet, for a short time." The faint smile would follow his gaze down to the woman standing beside him. "Did you enjoy yourself, my dear?"
Glance up at him, a smile to form upon her lips and a slight nod. "Mmhmm, all homey like." Soft chuckle. Gaze would then divert to the open sea before her. "I had forgotten how beautiful it is out here. Strange it is for me to say this, but....." Glancing back up at him. "...I feel a little homesick for it." Softly laughs. It was then her attention would turn towards the other ships sailing alongside. Their masts with sails billowing in full, back dropped by the evening sky. So dark, it almost made their sails look black, a sight that took her back to another place and time. "Beauties they are, Zar. You have much to be proud of." Slowly her head turned and tilted to gaze up at him, the full warmth of her smile to appear. "I had a wonderful time, thank you. The only complaint that I hold, is there didn't seem to be enough of it to see all there was to see. You have a lovely family, I envy you that." A pang felt within. Many times she would think of her own family she left behind, during times when all would gather. The bantering, even the occasional disagreement, though in her family, they would turn into full blown verbal wars at times. A slow deep breath taken, focus turned back upon the sight of ships at sail. "You're a very lucky man, Zar. I hope you know this."
"Mmm." Nodding in agreement to her observance of being at sea. "I could get used to this again. But alas, I gave that up for something I find I enjoy more." Zar glanced down into Carlotta's eyes. "Do you now?" Referring to her being homesick for the sea. "Thinking about trading in your pen and books for a bunk again?" He gave a deep chuckle and drew her up closer to his side, a gentle squeeze of his arm about her waist. "I'm proud of them. They should fetch a fine price in Heathfield." The two schooners and the brigantine would probably sell within the month. At last he hoped, the business could use the profit they'd bring in to order more supplies for the next ships they'd be building or repairing. "I'm glad you had a wonderful time, Carlotta." His voice lowered, reminiscing their week spent with his family. "Aye, that I do and I'm sure they would have loved to make you part of the family as well." The shipwright looked down at her, slightly grinning. "My mother has been trying to marry me off since the day I began a man. Eh." He rolled his shoulders. "She pines for grandchildren to bounce in her lap." Turning his gaze back out over the bow he quietly replied. "Any man would feel lucky when standing next to a beauty with your intelligence, my dear." The shipwright wore a faint smile, diverting his gaze.
Indicating the brigantine. "I'd be willing to bet that JD might purchase that one. To replace the one lost. I'll be sure to tell her about it." Once more her gaze would rise to meet his and a soft laugh. "They made me feel like a part of your family. They'll forever be in my heart, even if I never see them again." That she meant, such warmth was offered and she would always remember that. Another chuckle. "One day Zar, you'll find some comely lass and have a bounty of children for them to ply their affections on." Even if meant, she was teasing him too, knowing his views. A slow shake of her head, a bit of a chortle as she gazed out over the water. "You're biased in your opinion Zar, being my best friend and all. You have to say things like that to me." Now she was openly teasing, even a slight bump against his side when she emphasized the one word. Arm to slip around his waist, as her head rested back against his shoulder. "As much as I miss this, I still have a dream to see through. The manor should be near completion by now, and soon I'll find my days and nights consumed by clients, and tending to their legal issues."
"They liked you. It was easy to make you a part of their family." Zar shifted his weight and pulled Carlotta around to the front of him, setting her back against his chest so his arms could slide around her and hold her more securely. He was chuckling to the part about him settling down and breeding a brood of children. "Couldn't I just skip that part and one day be a grandfather?" He teased back. "Mhmm. You're probably right, I am biased. But I'm not blind and I don't say things I don't mean." The top of her head was tucked underneath his chin. "We both should have our projects nearing completion. The Northerner should be about done when we dock."
Easy it was to nestle within his arms, it provided more warmth from the chilly damp air. Leaning back against him, gazing out over the moon and star lit surface of the water. Soft was her laughter. "Unfortunately Zar, the only way you'd be able to do that, is to marry a lass who has grown children. Instant family, without the headaches of younger years." A deep breath in took, relishing the fresh air the open sea offered. "Then you'll have another ship in which to sell. Seems the Shipwright business is booming. You'll soon be a wealthier man..." A grin to slowly appear. "...although you're already wealthy, you have me as a friend. That's worth more than a chest full of gold." She couldn't help that teasing nature, it was a large part of who she was.
"You're wrong." He quietly answered. "I could adopt." And here she was supposed to be the barrister. The tease was enjoyed with relish. Suddenly Zar grew quiet, thinking back to past weeks. "Carlotta." He spoke her name with slow care, shifting his head to the side of hers so he could catch a glimpse of her profile. "I haven't asked you yet, but tell me of this relationship with this man. Is it serious?" Fixing her underneath his scrutinizing gaze.
That caused her to blink and look up at him in surprise. "Serious?" To that she'd slowly shake her head. "Not on my part, and to be honest, I don't think on his either. He was being too pushy and wanting to rush things. I don't trust pushy people. To be honest, I have a feeling inside, I'll never see him again." Small shrug of her shoulders. "Even If I did enjoy times shared with him, but I can honestly say, I don't see me spending the rest of my life with him." Honestly stated. She would find out upon her return, just how right she truly was, on all counts.
He listened to her speak, how her voice changed with her answer. "Ah." He nodded, his eyes unwavering from her face. "No, being pushy will not win the heart, of a keen woman with insight." Again he fell quiet, left in thought. "So there is no man in your life you favor feelings towards?" So the shipwright had a round about way of inquiring of his best friend's inner thoughts and personal relations. He had been rather out of the circle in her life of late.
A moment she'd gaze up at him, a hit of a smile to appear and a slow shake of her head. Gaze to drift back to the ocean. "No, there's no one in my life that's close, Zar. You're the only one that I'm remotely close to." She'd not bring up the one who had, once, and left her cold. No sense in drudging up old memories, there was no purpose in it. "How about you? ... I know that you've said you intend to stay single, but even the most devout bachelor, can have one capture their eye and attentions." Catching up on both parts, it would seem. She missed their nightly talks, that which faded into the background of both their busy lives. Sad it was that they could so easily lose touch, when they lived so close to one another.
His gaze seemed to narrow slightly on her, but he gave a nod and turned to stare out over the see. "Many have captured my eye and attention, my dear Carlotta. But I'd make a lousy husband to any poor lass. I couldn't give her the attention a wife would require, it's my main reason for remaining a bachelor." More than likely JD was jesting with the shipwright, being a savvy protector to her ward.
"Poppy-thingy!" There was that English slang she was prone to. "You'd make a wonderful mate to some lass. You're kind, thoughtful and have a gentle hand. You just need to find the right lass is all, someone who understands and can live with the circumstances of your life." Again she'd tilt her head to gaze up at him. "..I mean, I wouldn't have that problem. I intend to keep my word when I reach fifty after all." That grin to grow more. "Not to mention, you are a fine looking lad. Any woman would consider themselves lucky to be on your arm."
Zar grinned down at her, bringing his face in closer. "I am hardly a lad, Carlotta." He laughed, shaking his head. "No, if I had a wife she'd deserve to be flowered with attention, not left at home and neglected. I could never live with myself to do such a thing to any lass. I'm not the kind of man." A clucking sound passed between his teeth and he straightened back up.
That had a brow to rise. "Who's to say she'd be left at home and neglected? .. What if she was to have a career of her own, that would occupy her time, whilst your career occupied yours? ..Hmm?" A slow shake of her head. "You find excuses Zar, at least make them valid ones, eh?" A light chuckle of her own. "Soon you'll be known for wealth and prestige, I'm sure you'll have to fight your way through the hordes of lasses who'll be applying their attentions upon you. Wanting to be seen at your side at all the grand affairs." Again that grin would appear. "Especially once you kiss them. They'll be done for then." Openly teasing.
"I say, that's who." He replied, with half seriousness. "If I marry I want a real family life, not some...what did you call it? 'Poppy thingy' nonsense with both of us rushing off to famous careers and wealth. I want quiet evenings at home...and." His brows narrowed sharply as he gave her a gruff look. "Now see here woman. I am not marrying, so why are we discussing this? Geez, JD is good." He growled a bit under his breath.
"A quiet evening?" Chuckling. "If there's children involved, you can forget about all of that." Teasing even more. Then she was laughing, she couldn't help it. Turning in his hold to face him, as she gazed up at him. "You brought the subject up my dear friend!" Then both brows rose. "JD? ...She's good about what?" Trying to gain some understanding here.
He seemed to hold that frown, easily gliding his arms about Carlotta as she turned around to face him. "Something she was throwing at me before we left on this trip." A deep sigh resonated from within his chest and Zar shook his head. "She pegged me a fool."
Now that made her blink as that smile slowly faded. "What did she throw at you prior to our departure." She had no knowledge of JD's talk with anyone. "You are no fool Zar, don't say such things. JD is a harsh woman, her tongue can be sharper than any blade. Don't ever take to heart what she tells you. Her views on many things are twisted and distorted."
This would have her pinned underneath his gaze. "She is a shrewd woman and clever." He debated on not touching the subject matter, but then felt Carlotta should at least know what JD was up to. "She implied I was a fool and blind in my ways, misleading you with my charms and that I couldn't see the truth of the matter if it was plainly in front of my face. That you have some deeper feelings in regards to our friendship and relations."
Again she'd blink and slowly pull back from his hold. "What!?!" A look of surprise and shock to rest upon her features. "So you think I've been lying to you about how I honestly feel?" In a way, that hurt within. It also caused a bit of anger to arise, that JD would do such a thing. "It seems I need to straighten some matters out upon my return to Blacks Bay." A glance up at him, then she'd turn to take a few steps away. "Ay Zar, I care for you, as a friend. One whom I can trust with my deepest secrets, but that's it. I know nothing could ever come between us." A glance over at him, then turning away to look out at the ships sailing alongside. A slow shake of her head. "Seems as if those rumors will haunt me always."
How'd this turn around into him being suddenly the scourge here? "Wait a second, hold on there Carlotta." He swiftly closed the steps between them and pulled her around to face him. "I have never implied to you that I feel you are dishonest with me. I was simply telling you that JD saw something deeper in your eyes and she thought I was a fool for not seeing it." He swore underneath his breath. "Carlotta, I care a great deal about you, and I would be fool enough not to see if you held deeper feelings for me. I am rather blind in regards to romance, JD is right there. Yes, the rumors don't help matters. But I do cherish you and believe in you. This I say with all sincerity. Ah, Carlotta. I never want to see you hurt, even by me." Rather she wanted it or not, Zar pulled her into his arms and held her with close affection.
A slow, deep intake of breath to be taken, then released slowly. "You said you were a fool, and thusly agreeing with what JD said." Softly uttered. Her arms would slip around him, as her head rested against his chest. "I promised to always be honest with you Zar, and I meant what I said. JD sees what she wants to see, and mistook my affections to be more than what they are. I care for you greatly Zar, and would do all in power for you..." Head to draw back as she gazed up at him. "...even lay my life down, if it meant to save yours. As much as I respect JD, and feel close to those I work with, with you it's much different. Of that I'll admit. I feel closer to you, able to speak openly without worry. Of that I am guilty of, but the love that I have, is that of great affection for a friend. Not the type of love that's shared between a man and woman on a deeper level. If that makes any sense."
"No, I said JD implied I was a fool. And if I didn't see it, then I would agree. Not by deceit on your part, but by ignorance on mine." His gaze searched her face. "Maybe JD is just looking out for your best interest my dear, as I do." He'd shake his head. "No, I'd not allow that. I do have my honor and though your words are a noble gesture and honorable, never would you lay down your life for me, Carlotta." He whispered, nearing his face towards her. "For I treasure yours above mine. My eyes do admire this beauty, and the love I hold for you transcends beyond this world. Always will you have my devotion, and more." He shouldn't do it, but Zar did. His head lowered and his lips brushed across hers and seared them with a deeper kiss. His hand to cup just underneath her chin. Always he would cherish this one, no matter where their own paths took the other.
Just as she was about to respond, her words would be muted by the conjoining of lips. Eyes closed, a hand to lift and rest lightly against his cheek. The kiss would be returned with equal fev'ver. Zar held a place in her life that no man has in quite a long time. Trust! He held her trust above all things. She would always cherish him in a special way, it was a bond they had created over time, that's lasted even when apart. After a few moments, she'd be the one to break that which was being shared. Slowly lashes would rise as she peered up at him. "No matter what direction we sail in life Zar, I will always view you as a greater part of my life. Your support I cherish, your friendship I shall always revere, never forget that." A light caress of her fingers against his cheek. "You're a very special person Zar, one day you'll see that too."
His head would pull up soon after their lips parted. Looking down at her with an admiring gaze he slowly began to smile. "You're beautiful. Do you know that?" Zar released a heavy sigh and moved Carlotta around to his side and held her close as they stood at the ship's bow. "I won't forget, I promise." He softly said. "Let's go home, my dear." The shipwright motioned with his head towards the southern horizon, and beyond to their new homeland.
The warmth of that smile to return, as she moved to gaze out over the open waters before them. "Home, and the hustle and bustle of our lives." A light chuckle to sound. "On second thought, let's go back to Italy, it's more relaxed there." Teasing of course. She was quite excited about their return, knowing what was awaiting her there. Her life was changing, to the better. Soon she'll have all she's ever dreamed of, and it can only get better from there.
