Pirate Fantasy, part 10

Carina sulked. She should be happy, she knew, but somehow the thought of being married to a pirate had excited her. Now she was married to a merchant? At least she was free of her "father".  It was a pity that her true father had been kept from her, a man who would have loved her, rather than seen her as a burden.

She watched her mother interact with John Lafitte and smiled. It was as if they were young sweethearts, both of them attentive to each other. Then she looked over at her new husband. She took a bite of delicate fish while she studied him. He was actually a fine looking man with his light brown hair and kind grey eyes. He smiled quite often, which was a pleasant change from the dreariness that had surrounded her at home.

"You have a beautiful smile," Edward commented.

"Thank you." She reached for another bite, but noticed she had finished her food.

"Would you stroll about the deck with me?" He stood and held out his hand.

She took it and followed him outside. It was a beautiful evening. The moon was bright and there were more stars than she had ever seen.

"Evenin', Eddie."

"Cookie, allow me to present Carina Lafitte, my wife."

"A right pleasure it is, Missus."

"Thank you. I'm pleased to make your acquaintance. Cookie? Did you happen make that magnificent feast we had tonight?"

The older man swelled with pride. "I did indeed, ma'am."

"It was the most delicious meal I have ever eaten. Thank you." She impulsively kissed his cheek.

"Aw, now, I'm just doing my job."

"And you do it so well," Edward replied, narrowing his eyes in mock jealousy as he steered his wife away from his friend.. "Have a good evening."

"You, too," Cookie said with a wink.

The newlyweds walked over to the railing. "So...you fear we will not suit?" Edward asked.