Title: We Want the Redhead
Author: Bj Jones
Rating: FRAO
Disclaimer: I think we all know I don't own them and the reasons why. They are owned by various executives, producers, writers and studios that have more lawyers than I want to mess with. I'm not making any money just borrowing them for a bit and promise to return them
Summary: The moment Eric bought him, Horatio knew the life he had was over.
Beta: Kay (Joe)
Author’s Note: This was completely inspired by a section in Disney’s ride Pirates of the Caribbean – where it’s political incorrect to chase the woman – but you can still sell them. If you been on the ride you know the scene – the ‘Buy a wench’ the pirates yell out we want the redhead – for the lady of night… you know where my mind went
Warning: Slash – if you don't like it – don't read it
100 Challenges: 100 AU – CSI: Miami

Prompt: #11 – Red

 

~*~
 
“We want the redhead! We want the redhead!” the crowded chanted. 

Eric looked up at the slave auction. The third slave down was an older gentleman, with vibrant red hair and defiant blue eyes. He smiled. He looked over at his companion. “I think Captain would love him.”
 
Tripp looked at Eric. “I thought… I mean... aren’t you and the captain lovers?”
 
“Doesn’t mean I can’t get him a gift,” Eric grinned slyly. “Maybe he’ll let me play.”
 
“I don’t know, Eric.” Tripp shook his head. “He looks like trouble.”
 
“He’s some blue blood that needs to learn his place,” Eric growled. “And you know how much Captain likes redheads.”
 
Tripp shrugged. “Your call. If he keelhauls you don’t come runnin’ to me.”
 
“Bidding on this English trash is Fifty Pounds.” the auctioneer yelled.
 
“Five Hundred Pounds!” Eric called out glaring at anyone who dared cross him. There were advantages to being First Mate to Captain Speedle. No one fucked with you.
 
“Sold.” The auctioneer slammed the hammer down. He looked over at the redhead. “God be with you.”
 
~*~
 
Horatio kept his head down as he was dragged through the street by the two pirates. He tried to come to grips with how he had got into this situation, but his mind was still stuck on the fact he had just been bought and sold – to a pirate.
 
He was dragged onto a ship and towards the main cabin. He took a quick glance around the ship, trying to take in all that he could. He was pulled into, he assumed, the Captain’s Cabin and forced onto his knees. 
 
“Head down,” Eric ordered. “Tripp make sure he doesn’t move, and slave don’t try to bribe Tripp.”
 
Horatio kept his head down; studying the rug he was kneeling on. It was a Persian rug, very expensive by the looks of it. Probably stolen. He wasn’t sure how long he knelt there, but his back was aching, his knees were sore, his neck had a crick in it. Tripp hadn’t said a word the whole time they were in the cabin.
 
He heard the door open. He saw two boots in his line of sight. Horatio tensed, the Captain had arrived.
 
“Eric?” A curious voice.
 
“A gift,” Eric responded.
 
“Look up.” Horatio assumed it was the captain. He looked up and held back a gasp. He was staring into the deepest brown eyes he had ever seen.
 
The Captain was not very tall, at least he was shorter than his first mate. He was wearing soft brown breeches, with black knee high boots. A beige billowy shirt with a leather vest tied up the front. A scarf was wrapped around his forehead keeping windswept dark locks back from his face. A blue silk scarf wrapped around his waist and was used to hold a sword in its scabbard. 
 
Eric slipped his arms around the captain, laying his head on his shoulder. “He’s cute.”
 
The Captain eyed him. “He’s a Lord.”
 
Eric paused then narrowed his eyes at Horatio. “How can you tell?”
 
“That slight contemptuous look on his face.” The Captain moved forward and squatted down in front of him. “Name.”
 
Horatio locked eyes with him. “Lord Horatio Caine.”
 
The Captain smiled. “Lord Caine of Caine Sugar.”
 
“Yes, so you know people will be looking for me,” Horatio said.
 
“Well, people are always looking for me, but haven’t found me yet.” He stood up, circling his new slave. “I want him cleaned and make sure he’s healthy, the pens can kill a healthy man.”

“Where do you want him?” Tripp asked.
 
“Here.” The Captain sat down behind his desk. “Set up bedding over in the corner.”
 
Horatio tried not to cringe at the idea of being subservient to a criminal. The Captain stood back up and moved in front of the slave. He grabbed his hair and pulled back. “Learn this now, I own you.”
 
Horatio was worried when a thread of desire went through him. 
 
The Captain walked out of the cabin. Eric looked down at Horatio. “Welcome to the Ducati.”
 
Horatio gasped. Captain Speedle. He was more myth and legend than reality. No Navy ship had been able to catch him. He had friends who were loyal in every port and who were willing to hide him. If the rumors were true, he protected those loyal to him with ferociously. 
 
And he owned him. Horatio dropped his head in defeat.
 
~*~
 
Horatio had adjusted to his new life quite easily, which like everything else that has happened so far, worried him. He was never a man for leisure so the hard work was refreshing. He could tell from the looks he got from the Tripp and Eric that he had earned some respect. 
 
He had been surprised to see a woman on board. Most ships steered away from having women on board, let alone part of the crew. But the feisty blonde was one he learned quickly not to cross. There was a reason she controlled the arms. She knew her stuff. He had overheard some of the crew talking about her, that her father was a famous gunsmith in London. He wondered what she was doing out in the Caribbean.
 
Eric, the captain’s first mate, was a curious man. It was obvious he wasn’t schooled, but he was very learned. It was his organizational skills and abilities that kept the ship running in top order. No one questioned him. No one crossed him. He knew the ship front to back, side to side. He was able to look out onto the ocean and tell when the winds would come up or if a storm was brewing. If he said a storm was coming from the North, it was coming from the North.
 
The helmsman was a man no one messed with. He ruled the crew with an iron fist. Tripp  was ex-Royal Navy. He explained that he didn’t like the restrictions they Navy had. Horatio could understand. Tripp obviously knew what he was doing, but he doubted he would have been promoted; he didn’t have enough blue blood in him.
 
Horatio flexed his hands before going back to mending the nets. He glanced up to see Captain Speed up on the deck talking with Tripp. Speed confused him. The Captain hadn’t made move on Horatio, hadn’t even touched him except for that first day. 
 
Horatio stayed in the Captain’s cabin and slept on a pretty comfortable pallet by his desk. He wasn’t spoken to, just expected to wait on him. Make sure the Captain got his meals, clean up after him, wash and mend his clothes. It didn’t take long for Horatio to notice certain things about the mysterious man. 
 
He was quiet. He only spoke when needed and then it was straight to the point, no useless words. He was educated. There were books spread throughout the cabin and they were printed in a variety of languages. He recognized five of them, three were foreign to him. The redhead also noticed that The Captain didn’t sleep. He was up at all hours. Many times Horatio would fall asleep on his pallet while Speed was reading at his desk, only to wake hours later to find the pirate still at his desk. 
 
He didn’t know what was going to happen to him, but he did know something was coming. 
 
~*~
 
Horatio jerked awake, not sure what had awoken. He glanced over to the Captain’s desk sitting up in shock when he didn’t see him. Normally Speed was still reading or going over charts. Then he heard the noise that had woken him up. He looked over at the Captain' bed and stared in shock. 
 
Eric was on his hands and knees in the center of the bed. His tan body glistened with sweat. Speed was kneeling behind him, his hard cock slowly entering the willing body. Horatio’s eyes were glued to the two bodies. Speed pounded into his first mate, head thrown back in pleasure. Eric was moaning as he pressed back against each thrust, taking his captain deeper inside his body. 
 
Speed leaned forward and kissed along Eric’s spine, his hand reaching around him and grasping the hard cock. Horatio’s hand moved down to his own hard member. He was half disgusted with himself for being turned on watching the private scene. He should have turned away and let them have their moment, but the two were beautiful. 
 
Horatio stroked his own member in sync with Speed’s strokes. He heard Eric cry out in passion his semen splattering out all over his stomach and the bedding. A few seconds later Speed pushed in deep and groaned Eric’s name. Horatio bit down on his hand to keep from crying out when he came. He quickly used the blanket to clean himself up and laid back down, not wanting to get caught.
 
Eric tucked Speed into the bed, hoping that he would at least get some sleep. He curled around his captain and promptly fell asleep. 
 
~*~

Horatio stayed on deck most of the day, avoiding both men. His thoughts were in turmoil. He had enjoyed watching them. His body responded to the sight of the two men; he hadn’t come that hard in a long time. The redhead had never entered in a relationship with a male. He had had offers, but none of them interested him. And now he wanted to know what it would feel like to be touched. He shook his head and concentrated on the work he needed to get done. This was no place to have thoughts like those. He was the Captain’s slave, end of story.
 
Later that evening he set Captain Speed’s dinner in front of him. As he turned to leave “Did you enjoy watching?”
 
Horatio froze and turned back around, head down. “I’m sorry if I offended you.”
 
Speed stood up and circled the redhead. “On your knees.”
 
Horatio swallowed, but quickly fell to his knees, head down, waiting for punishment. He bit back a moan when a hand fisted in his hair and pulled his head back. He looked into dark eyes. “Did you like what you saw?”
 
Horatio held eye contact. “Yes.” He could feel the blush creeping across his cheeks.
 
“You’re cute when you blush.” Speed moved in front of him, his hand still holding the red hair tightly. “Have you ever been with a man?”
 
“No sir,” Horatio said.
 
Speed relaxed his grip, a feral grin on his face. “A virgin.” He swooped down and took Horatio’s lips in a deep kiss, forcing his tongue into the warm cavern. Horatio couldn’t help but moan in pleasure. He had never been kissed so thoroughly before. 
 
Speed pulled back and let go. “You sleep in my bed from now on.”
 
Horatio nodded, still kneeling in front of him. He didn’t know what was wrong with him. The kiss was about dominance and control. The Captain was staking his claim, showing his ownership. And Horatio wanted more. He wanted to be claimed, to be owned.
 
~*~
 
Two weeks later and Horatio was extremely frustrated. Speed had demanded that Horatio slept in his bed, but he didn’t make a move on Horatio. There were times Speed would corner the redhead and kiss him strongly and deeply, giving him a taste, but he made no move past that. Horatio didn’t know what to think. Speed rarely slept in his bed. And when he did it was for only a few hours. Most of the time Horatio had already fallen asleep before the captain came to the bed. It was during these times he swore he felt soft touches and whispered words, but the next morning he couldn’t remember if it was a dream or real.
 
Horatio prided himself on being an observer. He had been on the Ducati now a total of four months. The captain wasn’t feared or hated by the crew, matter of fact he was loved and cherished. They weren’t evil, murdering, raping scoundrels. He found out half the crew had families.   Many times he found himself laughing and talking with the rest of the crew. He wasn’t treated as a slave, but as a crew member. 
 
He asked Tripp about it once. “Why don’t they treat me like a slave?”
 
“Cause you’re not one,” Tripp explained.
 
“But, Eric bought me,” Horatio said.
 
“Doesn’t mean you’re his slave,” Tripp retorted.
 
“The Captain…”
 
“Hate’s slavery.” The helmsmen shrugged. “Don’t confuse capt’n wantin’ control for a master.”
 
Horatio frowned and walked towards the captain’s cabin; it was time for his dinner. He set up the table and began to organize the books. Speed needed someone to take care of him. He got so involved in what he was doing most of the time he forgot to eat. If Horatio didn't been bring him his food, the boy would probably starve. 
 
Horatio paused, realizing he wanted to take care of the captain. He sat down in one of the chairs.   He had always been the one that needed to be needed. The captain needed someone to take care of him, but who could follow his orders. But how did Eric fit into this. They two have known each other since childhood according to Calleigh. There’s no one Speed trusts more than Eric. And it was him that had the answers Horatio needed.
 
The redhead cornered the first mate in the bulk storage. Eric stepped back slightly eyeing the ex-Lord. “What do you want?”
 
“Why did you buy me?” Horatio demanded. “And don’t give me some crock about a plaything for Captain Speedle. He hasn’t laid a hand on me.”
 
“Haven’t you figured it out?” Eric shrugged. “I thought you were educated.”
 
“I’m here to take care of him.” Horatio stepped back. “Why?”
 
“I can’t.” Eric ran a hand through his hair. “I’m his first mate. I run this ship for him, I can’t take care of him, it would undermine his authority with the crew.”
 
“But the crew loves him.” The redhead sat down on one of the barrels. 
 
“But they also need to respect and fear him,” Eric pointed out. “Face it he needs taking care of. I can’t get him to sleep more than two hours, he only eats consistently because you bring him the food and sit there and make sure he eats it.”
 
“So you bought me to be his mother.” Horatio eyed him.
 
The first mate smirked. “He’s got one of those and she is a force to be reckoned with. You’ll meet her when we dock.”
 
“We’re docking?” Horatio asked curiously; he hadn’t seen land in four months.
 
“Home base,” Eric nodded. “Need to re–supply.”
 
The redhead stood up. “I… damn it. All of this confuses me.”
 
Eric looked the older man in the eyes. “I saw you and knew. Speed is unique and needs special attention. I knew without a doubt you could give him that. He wouldn’t give you flack for taking care of him and you want…to submit yet have to be needed.”
 
Horatio stepped back, his thoughts and emotions in turmoil. “What do you want from me?”
 
“Simple.” Eric moved towards the door. “Love him.”
 
Horatio stood there in shock. Was it really that simple?
 
~ Private Island – Home Base ~
 
Horatio really didn’t care if he looked like an eager school boy. He couldn’t wait to step onto land, see white beaches, green grass, anything but blue water as far as the eye can see. He looked around the ship; he wasn’t the only one. Much of the crew were barely controlling their excitement. Even Speed seemed eager to land. The redhead looked out towards the approaching dock. There was a small crowd waiting for the ship. In the front was a lovely black woman and Horatio knew at that moment that she was Speed’s mother. Suddenly it made sense. Speed was born of a slave. 
 
Speed was first off the ship and straight into his mother’s arms. She smiled and checked him over, a startled look on her face.  
 
“What?” Speed stepped back.
 
“You’re not thin…well I mean you're always too thin, but …” She looked up at her baby boy. “Eric got you to eat?”
 
Speed rolled his eyes. “Eric isn’t my caretaker, he’s my first mate.”
 
“Then…who got you to actually eat?” His mother looked over at the ship, her eyes falling on the redhead. “Who’s he?”
 
Speed turned and looked at Horatio. “Lord Horatio Caine.”
 
“Of Caine Sugar?” She looked at her son. “Timothy.”
 
“Eric bought him,” Speed quickly pointed out.
 
“Eric.” She looked up the gang plank at her son’s first mate.
 
Eric looked at her then grabbed Horatio. “Alexx, this is Horatio Caine. Horatio, Alexx, Captain Speedle’s mother.”
 
“Ma’am.” Horatio bowed his head in respect.
 
Alexx eyed the older man. “Sir, what brings you to my son’s ship?”
 
Horatio smiled slightly. “They gave me an opportunity I just couldn’t refuse.”
 
She smiled brightly. “Come on dinner is being prepared to welcome you home.” She took Speed’s arm. “I like him.” 
 
Speed groaned. “Alexx…”
 
“Don’t you Alexx me.” The older woman eyed him. “This is the first time you’ve actually come back from one your voyages not looking like something the cat wouldn’t drag in.”
 
“I also didn’t run into the Mal Nocha or Commander Stetler,” Speed pointed out.
 
She looked back to see Eric walking with the Lord. “Tell me about him. It’s not like you to buy a slave off the market, even if he is white…very white.”
 
Speed glanced back at the two men. “I didn’t, Eric did.”
 

“That’s even odder,” Alexx sighed. Something was up and she needed to find out what. More importantly she needed to find out more about this Lord Caine.

~ Night – The Grounds ~
 
Horatio couldn’t sleep. He had grown accustomed to sleeping in Speed’s bed. Now that he had his own room, it felt empty. He eased out of bed, slipped into some pants, and a pulled on a shirt. He had pretty much free reign on the island; it wasn’t like he could go anywhere.
 
He had watched the reunions between the crew and their families. It was hard to imagine them as part of a feared pirate crew. During the dinner, Speed had sat next to his mother. Horatio couldn’t help but smile at the love shown between them. He had never had a close relationship with his parents. His father raised him to be a good Lord his mother sat in the corner and played her part. There was no open affection in his home.
 
It was later when Calleigh explained the unique relationship Alexx had with her son. She was born a slave and sold to a sugar plantation in the Caribbean. As she grew up she attracted the Plantation owner’s son. At fifteen she gave birth to Timothy, a son who passed for white, and made it obvious to all those on the plantation, who had fathered him. The plantation owner refused to acknowledge Speed’s parentage and sold them. 
 
Speed was raised in Charleston; Alexx had been bought to be a nanny to a prominent merchant family. As the families’ children were being educated, Speed would sit outside the room and listen in, absorbing as much information as he could. He would ‘borrow’ the books and taught himself to read them. The father of the family made Timothy work down at the docks, he wanted to make sure Speed never realized that he could pass for white.
 
Horatio snorted. Calleigh had laughed herself. As the father tried to keep Speed away from society, he put him on the docks with the sailors, workers, and pirates. Speed learned everything he could about ships. He would talk to every sailor that came into port, studying their maps, listening to their native languages. By the time he was sixteen. Speed could not only pass for white, he could pass for an educated noblemen.
 
It was on those same docks that he met Eric, the bastard son of a Royal Naval Officer. He worked the docks to survive. His mother was a whore and his father denied his existence. The two bonded the moment they met.
 
Speed knew that when he turned sixteen, the family planned on selling him, but he had already devised their escape plan. A week before the auction the family had headed out to their small plantation leaving Alexx to take care of the town home. 
 
Alexx packed the few belongings they had and they left. By the time the family realized they were missing, they were on a boat to the Caribbean. Traveling as Timothy Speedle, and his slave Alexx.   They met up with Eric in Port Royale, and never looked back.
 
Horatio wandered the grounds of the beautiful manor lost in thought, thinking about what Calleigh had told him. Speed had made a home for Alexx to live out her life in luxury to counter the hard life she had had as a slave.   Though he had gotten the story out of Calleigh about Alexx and Speed’s past, he didn’t get the story how Timothy Speedle became Captain Speed.
 
“Enjoying the night?”
 
Speak of the devil. Horatio turned around and smiled at the dark haired captain. “Yes. I admit it's good to be on land again.”
 
“It didn’t take you long to adjust to sea life.” Speed was leaning up against a tree, watching Horatio intently.
 
The redhead shrugged. “Doesn’t mean I didn’t miss land.”
 
“How do you like it here?” The captain stepped away from the tree, moving towards Horatio.
 
“The island is beautiful.” Horatio swallowed. The air was charged, thick with tension.
 
“It is,” Speed agreed. 
 
Horatio’s breath quickened, this was the moment. Two words and his world would forever change. There would be no going back to his old life. Horatio looked into dark brown eyes and whispered, “My Captain.”
 
Speed snuck his hand behind Horatio’s head and pulled him close taking his lips into a passionate kiss. Horatio submitted to the kiss opening up to the brunette letting his tongue sweep though, tasting him. He moaned deep in his throat, his hand slipping around the slim waist and pulling Speed closer. Their bodies flush against each other, the loose pants not hiding their arousal.
 
The captain stepped back taking in gulps of air. “You are mine.”
 
“I have been yours since I knelt in front of you,” Horatio admitted.
 
Speed kissed him hard, his hands tightening, holding the red hair in a fierce grip. He devoured the older man's lips. He pulled back, eyes dilated from lust. “Tonight I’ll claim you.”
 
“Please…” Horatio moaned, pushing his hard cock into Speed’s thigh.
 
The brunette kissed him softly then took his hand and led him back inside. Horatio’s body was humming with energy. Just the simple touch of hands was driving him out of his mind. Speed led them into his room, closing the door behind them. The redhead looked around the large room. He grinned at the lined bookcases against the walls, filled with books.   The large bed was placed so its occupants could look through the French doors and watch the waves crash against the beach.
 
 “Strip.” Horatio pulled off his shirt and pants and stood in the middle of the room stark naked. The soft breeze from the doors was cool over his flushed skin. 
 
“God you're beautiful.” Speed’s eyes were wide as he took in pale soft skin. “How experienced are you?”
 
Horatio blushed. “I’ve had many of lovers just all women.”
 
“Did they please you?” The pirate smiled as he caressed a hand down the hard chest. “Or did you make sure their needs were taken care of?”
 
“None left my bed unsatisfied,” Horatio gasped as Speed’s hand caressed his hard cock.
 
“Ah, but did anyone truly take care of your needs?” The captain went down onto his knees.
 
“My Captain…” Horatio tried to step away. 
 
Speed gripped the redhead’s hips. “Mine. I do what I want with you.”
 
“But…” Horatio looked down.
 
Speed grinned, understanding Horatio’s hesitation. “I do this because I want to. I want to taste you, make you scream my name in pleasure.”
 
Horatio groaned as Speed licked the head. He was soon lost in pleasure as his hard member was taken into the warm mouth. “Please…oh God…” He had not felt such pleasure. His hands slipped into the soft black locks, his hips involuntary thrusting forward. His moan turned to whimper as Speed took him deep. “I can’t… Captain…going to….” And with a quick lick and suck on the head he came with a shout.
 
Horatio looked at the man who owned his heart and soul. Speed smiled, “You taste wonderful.”
 
The redhead moaned. “I…”
 
Speed kissed him, letting his lover taste himself. “I’ll teach you.”
 
Horatio slipped his hands into Speed’s hair. “I want to please you.”
 
“Let me love you.” The captain pushed him towards the bed. “I want to bury myself inside of you.”
 
“Oh God yes…” Horatio moaned as he was laid out on the bed.
 
Speed stripped and climbed onto the bed. He leaned over the quivering body and kissed his new lover softly and sweetly. He pulled back slightly and looked into the emotional blue eyes.   This night was about giving up control and taking it. This was about Speed letting someone love him and care for him. This was about Horatio letting go and giving up control. It was about two souls coming together.
 
Speed reached for the stand by the bed and grabbed the small bottle of oil.   Horatio watched with bated breath as Speed poured oil on his hands and set the bottle back down. He spread his legs, letting his captain settle between them. The brunette ran a slick finger over his opening, caressing, teasing. He leaned down and took the redhead's awakening erection into his mouth as he slipped a finger in. He moaned as tight muscles clamped down on him.
 
“I need you to relax.” Speed’s voice was a soothing.
 
Horatio closed his eyes and relaxed his body. He concentrated on how the finger felt. Slowly he relaxed enough for Speed to thrust the finger in and out of the tight hole. He grinned as he crooked his finger and scraped over that special spot.
 
Horatio’s eyes snapped open as he thrust down on the finger moaning. “What was that?”
 
“You like?” Speed passed over it again.
 
The older man moaned in pleasure. “Yes.”
 
“It just gets better.” The pirate captain worked a second finger into his body. He took his time, switching between thrusting his fingers in and out, sucking on the hard cock, and rubbing that one spot. In time Horatio was whimpering under him.
 
“Please, I need more,” Horatio moaned. “I want to feel you.”
 
Speed pulled his fingers out and grabbed the oil again, this time coating his hard aching cock liberally. “On your knees.”
 
“Can we do it this way?” Horatio leaned up on his elbows. “I want to see you.”
 
Speed nodded. “Put a pillow under your hips.” Horatio complied and lay back. Speed pulled his legs up onto his shoulders and lined up. “Let me know when it becomes too much.”
 
He pressed in slowly, his own control on the edge as the tight heat surrounded him. Horatio moaned in pain and pleasure. The stretching burned, but at the same time he felt whole. Slowly Speed entered him, rocking gently until he was balls deep. Their soft pants were the only sounds in the room. Speed gently pulled out and pushed back in, both moaning in pleasure. Sweat poured off them as the thrusts became faster and harder. Horatio met each thrust, pulling him deeper into his body. He reached for his own aching cock, stroking it in time with Speed’s thrusts. He felt the captain's hand on his, helping him reach completion. Horatio arched upward slamming Speed deep into his body. His head thrown back, he came hard, harder than he had ever come in his life. Horatio’s muscles clamped around Speed, sending him over the edge, his lover's name on his lips
 
Speed lay in Horatio’s arms, panting softly. The redhead soothed him with soft words and touches. He eased out of his lover, checking for any injuries. Horatio smiled brightly at him and got out of the bed to find something to clean them up. Speed let Horatio take care of him. Without complaint he crawled under the covers and into the redhead's arms. He closed his eyes and fell into an easy sleep. Horatio soon followed.
 
~ Morning ~
 
Horatio blinked as the sun filtered into the room, waking him up. He reached out for Speed, but found cold empty sheets. He sat up and looked around the room. His Captain was sitting at his desk reading. Horatio climbed out of the bed, pulling on his pants as he walked across the room.
 
Speed looked up from the charts and smiled at him. “You sleep well?”
 
“I was going to ask you the same.” Horatio eyed him frowning. “Did you sleep at all?”
 
“An hour more than normal.” Speed shrugged.
 
“Three hours of sleep aren’t enough, you know.” He shook his head and moved for the door, grabbing his shirt as he went. “I’m going to go get your breakfast, which you will eat.” Speed rolled his eyes. “Don’t you roll your eyes at me, I’ll get Alexx.”
 
Speed grinned. “Make a pirate out of you yet.”
 
Horatio muttered something under his breath Speed thought suspiciously sounded like ‘smug captains’ but he wasn’t sure. He leaned back in his chair a small smile on his face. Last night had been, amazing. No one looked at him like the way Horatio had. Speed knew that he was loved, even if the redhead didn’t say it. He couldn’t wait to get back to sea. He would have his ship, his first mate, and now his lover.
 
~ Two Days Later ~
 
Horatio sat on the porch and watched Speed walk along the beach. He sighed, resisting the urge to slam his head against a wall in frustration. In truth he wanted to slam Eric’s head into the wall, along with the captain's. They were stubborn pirates who were driving the redhead insane.
 
The morning after, Speed had gone looking for Eric to talk about their departure schedule. He found him with one of the woman working on the plantation. Speed had excused himself and walked off. The moment he had come back into his rooms, Horatio knew something happened. Speed wouldn’t talk about it, instead he buried himself in charts, maps, and books. Horatio had to literally sit on Speed to get him to eat, it had turned into an erotic moment that the redhead was not likely to forget.
 
Later he found out what happened. When he confronted the first mate, Eric told him to back off; his personal life wasn’t the Captain’s whore's business. Horatio had stepped back, the words hurting him more than a physical blow. Speed hearing the conversation, lashed out at Eric. Now they weren’t talking to each other.
 
“My boys are being stupid.” Alexx sat down next to the redhead.
 
“Can I smack them?” Horatio smiled at her.
 
She waved her arm towards Speed. “Go ahead, sweetie. I did and it didn’t seem to help.”
 
“I just don’t understand…I mean…Why is, Eric suddenly pulling away…” Horatio paused then dropped his head. “Men are stupid.”
 
Alexx snickered. “He thinks now that you’re in picture…”
 
“That he needs to step out of the Speed’s personal life.” The redhead stood up. “Alexx it’s been a pleasure.”
 
“Go round up my boys.” She waved.
 
Horatio purposely walked down to the beach. He stepped up to Speed and pulled him into a deep kiss. Speed moaned his hands going into the red locks gripping them, holding Horatio in place as he took over the kiss.
 
“You really like the hair, don’t you?” Horatio said.
 
“It’s getting long, I like it.” Speed ran his fingers through it. “So, what brought that on?”
 
“Follow me.” Horatio pulled him down the beach and towards the house.
 
Speed grinned. “Insatiable aren’t you.”
 
The older man blushed. “I…”
 
The pirate pushed Horatio down the hall and into their room. He kissed him hard and passionately. The redhead pushed back, using his height that he had over Speed and pinning him to the wall. He kissed a path down the scruffy jaw line, sucking on the neck lightly. Horatio focused himself calming his nerves then dropped to his knees. His hands worked open his lover's breeches. He pulled out the already hard, leaking cock. Caressing it softly, amazed at the similarity to yet difference from his own. 
 
Before he could change his mind he licked the head, taking in a drop of pre-cum. The taste exploded on his tongue, salty yet…he couldn’t place it. He looked up to see Speed looking down at him. The pirate’s hand slipped back into the red locks, urging him on lightly. Horatio leaned forward and took the head of the cock into his mouth, his tongue swirling around it. The moans he was hearing encouraged him. He took more of the hard member into his mouth, moving up and down its length, sucking gently. He felt the grip in his hair tighten, just before the cock was thrust deeper into his mouth. The redhead tried not to gag, but ended up choking.
 
Speed pulled back, his cock slipping out of the warm mouth, letting his lover catch his breath. Horatio determinedly took the cock back into his mouth. Using his tongue, he mimicked what Speed had done to him. He tried once again to take him deeper but found he couldn't. He looked up into lust filled yet caring brown eyes. 
 
“Use your hand and mouth,” Speed said.
 
Horatio sucked on the head, while his hand stroked the base of the cock. His other hand cupped the pirate’s balls, rolling them. In no time, Speed was panting hard, and was close to the edge. Horatio swirled his tongue around the head, then sucked on it as his finger caressed over Speed’s opening. The pirate yelled out and came, spilling his seed into Horatio mouth. The redhead swallowed what he could, the rest dribbling down his chin.
 
Speed dropped down on his knees in front of his lover, licking the cum off his face and kissing him passionately. “That was amazing.”

“Wasn’t very good at it.” Horatio looked away.
 
“For your first time, you’re a natural.” Speed stood up and pulled his lover up with him. “Now, let's take care of you.” 
 
Horatio blushed even harder as Speed reached down to find that he wasn’t hard. The captain just kissed him deeply, his hand working the soft member, relishing the feel of it growing hard. In no time Speed had him wanting. Horatio laid his forehead against Speed’s shoulder as the pirate worked him to completion and with a muted moan he came all over his lover's hand.
 
Speed pulled his fingers up licking each one clean. Horatio moaned at the sight before finding something to clean them up. 
 
Speed sat down at his desk looking at his lover. “Now, do you want to explain why you dragged me in here?”
 
Horatio smiled. “I thought it was obvious.”
 
“You’re just softening me up,” Speed said.
 
“Eric…”
 
“Don’t want to talk about it.” The pirate got up and headed for the door.
 
“He loves you.” Horatio’s statement stopped him in his tracks. The redhead turned and looked at the pirate. “He thinks that now that you have me…”
 
“But I need him,” Speed whispered.
 
“I know.” Horatio slipped his arms around the smaller man. “And he needs you.”
 
“But then why?” Speed leaned into the embrace.
 
“He thinks you don’t need him,” he said.
 
Speed turned in his embrace. “So, what are we going to do about it?”
 
Horatio grinned.
 
Speed stepped back. “That grin has me worried.”
 
~ At Sea – A Week Later ~
 
Eric wasn’t sure what hit him. He knew the tension between him and Speed was thick, but he didn’t think the crew would turn on him. He was just about ready to collapse in his bunk when Tripp entered his cabin and with Calleigh and two others, who grabbed him, tied his hands behind his back, and blindfolded him. 
 
He could tell he was in the Captain's Cabin, by the soft rug under he knees. He felt a bit exposed wearing only his sleep pants. The blindfold came off he blinked and looked up. His jaw dropped in shock, before him was Speed, and behind him was Horatio in full pirate gear. Leather breeches, soft billowy shirt covered by a leather vest. He guessed the once Lord of a Plantation had gone pirate. 
 
“Horatio?” Speed asked, looking at the bound Eric.
 
“A gift.” He kissed Speed’s neck.
 
Eric blushed at the situation. He remembered quite clearly six months ago, this very scene, but he was the one behind Speed.
 
Speed walked up to Eric is hand slipping into the dark locks. He leaned over and kissed him hard. “You don’t get a choice, Eric.”
 
“My Captain…” Eric’s breathe quickened.
 
“You are mine, as is Horatio. Learn that now.” Speed’s eyes flashed.
 
Eric looked over at Horatio. “You have him now.”
 
Horatio walked behind Eric, kneeling down. “You told me once he needs me to take care of him, but he needs you to watch his back. It's not you or me, it's us.”
 
The first mate looked between the two men. “What does this mean?”
 
Horatio sighed and looked up at Speed.
 
Speed grinned. “Show him.”
 
Horatio untied Eric’s hand and pulled him up and into his arms kissing him deeply. Speed moved in slipping his arms around the taller man kissing his neck, while his hands slid inside his pants stroking the awakening erection.
 
Eric panted his eyes dilated with lust. He looked between them. “Oh God.”
 
“Not quite.” Speed smirked as he pulled the first mate towards the bed. “But close.”
 
Horatio followed, a smile on his face. “He’s overdressed.”
 
“So are you.” Speed cupped the hard cock through the breeches. “I want you both naked and in that bed.”
 
Horatio stripped out of his clothes and moved onto the bed. He took Eric’s face into his hands and gave him a tongue-tangling kiss. Eric wrapped his arms around the redhead pushing him into the bed. He settled between Horatio’s spread legs, rubbing their hard cocks together.
 
Speed undress and joined them in the bed. "Eric take him."
 
Horatio spread his legs in an open invitation to the first mate. Eric reached over and grabbed some oil. He prepped the older man, making sure he was ready. Horatio moaned, thrusting up, pulling the fingers deeper inside of him.
 
"Wanton isn't he," Speed whispered against Eric's ear. "Once he felt my hard cock in him, he couldn't get enough."
 
"Please… Captain…" Horatio moaned.
 
"Take him," Speed demanded. "Hard and deep, bury yourself inside of him."
 
Eric shifted Horatio's legs onto his shoulders and thrust hard into the ex-Lord. Horatio groaned at the sensation of being filled. His hands gripped the headboard as Eric set a brutal pace, pounding into him. 
 
The two were lost in the moment; grunts of pleasure echoed in the room, sweat pouring off of them as they strived for completion. A hand reached down and gripped the base of Horatio's cock stopping the impeding orgasm.
 
"I didn't say you could come." Speed's voice filtered through their passion haze.
 
Eric thrust into the warm body and stilled. "Speed…"
 
"You've been a bad boy." Speed ran a hand down Eric's back. "Why should I let you come?"

"Please…I'm sorry…" Eric panted, his forehead resting against Horatio's shoulder. Both men shaking from need.
 
Speed coated his own aching cock and lined up to Eric's hole. "You promise never to do it again?"

"Yes…I'll never leave…OH GOD! Speed!" Eric cried out as he was filled by his lover. The double sensation of being taken and surrounded by warm tightness. 
 
Horatio groaned as Speed's thrust pushed Eric into him. In time the three set a hot rhythm, Speed pushing into Eric, who pushed into Horatio. The captain reached around his first mate and took Horatio into his hand. Lost in a sea of pleasure it had only taken a few strokes before Horatio arched upward crying out his lover's names. Eric slammed hard into him stilling, crying out his passion as he spilled his seed. Speed thrust a few more times into Eric before burying himself deep inside and coming hard, "Mine."
 
Speed eased out of Eric and lay down next to the redhead. Eric slipped out of Horatio, kissing him sweetly before getting a rag to clean them up. With Horatio's help they got their captain under the covers and curled between them. 
 
For the first time in twenty years he slept through the night.
 
~ Port – Six Months Later ~
 
Horatio watched his two lovers banter back and forth with the merchant. They were haggling over two pennies for some fresh fruit. They had the money; the two were just having fun.
 
"Lord Caine."
 
The three men froze. Horatio didn’t turn around instead ignored the call. 
 
"Horatio?" A young man stepped in front of him. "It is you."
 
"I'm sorry you must be mistaken." Horatio smiled and moved off.
 
"No." The man pulled on his arm. "You're Horatio Caine. I've been looking all over for you."
 
Horatio leaned forward, "Ryan. Please just leave it."
 
"Oh God, what have they done to you." Ryan stepped back his eyes on the two pirates. He pulled his gun, only to be surprised by one in his face. "Horatio…"
 
"I'm sorry Ryan," Horatio held his own weapon taking Ryan's away from him. "Just leave it alone."
 
"But what about your family?" Ryan asked.
 
"Got along without me." Horatio moved towards his lovers. "Just go. You didn't see me."
 
"I can't do that."
 
Horatio closed his eyes, then lashed out and hit the younger man, knocking him out cold. "I'm sorry."
 
"Let's go." Eric pulled them away from the gathering crowd. They ran back towards the ship, only to be blocked by soldiers.
 
"Well if it isn't Lord Horatio Caine, back from the dead."
 
"Stetler," Horatio moaned.
 
"Looks like you went native." He tsked at the three men. "Captain Speed, so good of you to drop into port."
 
"Not much here, I was just leaving," Speed smart mouthed back.
 
"I do wish you would stay." Stetler motioned for the guards. "Your crew would love to see you."
 
"Rick…" Horatio stepped up to him.
 
"I will look past your obvious lack of judgment Lord Caine, but do not interfere in Royal Navy dealings," Stetler sneered at him. "Take him to the fort. Take these two the brig."
 
"NO!" Horatio struggled against the guards. He didn't see the blow, sending him into darkness.

 

~ Night ~
 
“Speed…” Horatio opened his eyes and looked around the richly furnished room
 
“Horatio?” A woman’s voice penetrated the fog in his head.
 
He turned and sat up. “Yelina?”
 
“You’re awake; thank God I was getting worried.” She sat down on the bed next to him.
 
“Where am I?” Horatio demanded.
 
“At Commodore Stetler’s home,” she informed him.
 
The redhead moved to get out of the bed. “Where are my clothes?”
 
“I got rid of those horrid things.” Yelina got up and laid out a suit on the bed. “Here you go.”
 
Horatio looked at her. “Thank you.”
 
“I’ll let you change.” She smiled at him and moved for the door. “Ray jr. would love to see his uncle.”
 
“I’ll see him as soon as I’m dressed,” Horatio said. He waited till she was out the door and quickly got dressed. He moved to the balcony. He growled when he saw that the house was far from the actual port, but also surrounded by guards. He had to find a way back to his captain.
 
“Going somewhere?”
 
Horatio turned and glared at the visitor. “Actually, yes.”
 
“I already hung them,” Stetler sneered.
 
The redhead eyes narrowed at the navy officer. “I know you, Rick. You would want to make a show of it. Add on the fact you know it would hurt me to see them die you would make sure I was there.”
 
Rick walked over towards him. “You went native.”
 
“They gave me a better offer.” Horatio refused to back away.
 
“You wouldn't come to my bed, but you would slip into theirs?” Rick touched Horatio’s arm. “I could make arrangements…”
 
The Lord growled. “Remember Commodore I’m a Lord from England. You will treat me with the respect the title deserves.”
 
“I can have you arrested for piracy,” Stetler growled.
 
“Do it.” Horatio dared him. “I would rather hang by their side then welcome you into my bed.”
 
“That can be arranged.” Stetler stormed out of the room.
 
Horatio looked out towards the harbor. “I promise you…”
 
“Horatio?”
 
The redhead sighed his room was busier than the port. “Ryan.”
 
“What’s going on?” Ryan asked. “I…”
 
Horatio closed his eyes, and slumped against the door frame. “I’m sorry Ryan, for hitting you. I couldn’t let you hurt them.”
 
“But they are pirates,” Ryan pointed out confused.
 
The older man turned towards him. “Ryan, you’ve been loyal to the Caine family, and to me.”
 
“It’s been an honor working for you,” he said.
 
“Then please understand this.” Horatio looked him directly in the eyes. “I can’t stay here.”
 
“You want to leave?” The young man asked.
 
“I have to help them, they are my life.” The redhead turned back towards the port.
 
“Stetler gave the darker one to Captain Diablo.” Ryan hesitated.
 
Horatio turned quickly, grabbing the younger man by the arms. “WHAT?”
 
“The first mate, he gave him to the Mal Nocha.” Ryan cringed at the hard grip. “He plans on hanging Captain Speed at dawn.”
 
Horatio stepped back his heart hurt at the thought of what Speed was going through and Eric in the hand of the Mal Nocha. "Ryan do you trust me?"
 
"Yes," the young man answered without hesitation.
 
"Then you must help me." Horatio looked out towards the port. "I need to get Speed out of jail, along with his crew."
 
~ Midnight ~
 
Horatio slipped into the brig with no problem. Actually, a part of him was horrified at the lack of security. Stetler's men were drunken slackers and should be punished. Horatio smiled; at least they were making his job easier.
 
He quickly moved down the stairs towards the cells. As he rounded the corner he came across the only guard who seemed to be doing his job. He smiled at him and then knocked him flat. Grabbing the keys he ran to the cell holding his lover.
 
Speed looked up when heard the rattle of the cell door. He stood up, prepared for another session with the Commodore. His back was on fire from the whipping, it hurt to breath, he had at least a few broken ribs. But what hurt the most was the ache of losing Eric.
 
"Speed…" Horatio stood at the doorway.
 
Speed stared in shock. "Horatio?"
 
The redhead moved into the cell and pulled the smaller man into his arms. Speed held onto him tightly. He had thought he would never see the redhead again. Horatio's grip tightened, the brunette couldn't help but moan in pain. 
 
"You're injured?" Horatio asked concerned.
 
"Nothing much." Speed shrugged. "They took Eric…"
 
"I know." He cupped his lover's face. "At this moment your crew is being freed. There are no guards around the Ducati. The Mal Nocha was heading due east…"
 
"Horatio…" Speed looked at him.
 
The redhead kissed him passionately. "Go save our lover."
 
"What about you?" The pirate held on to him. "Commodore won't take this lightly."
 
"I'll deal with Stetler," Horatio growled. "Go, I'll find you."
 
Speed slipped his hand into short strands. "They cut your hair."
 
"It will grow back." The redhead pulled the captain's hands out of his hair. "Go."
 
"If you don't come to me, I'll hunt you down." Speed kissed him hard before turning and leaving the cell.
 
Ryan watched Lord Caine as he watched the pirate crew of the Ducati slip out of the harbor without being seen. He knew now that the man he knew over a year ago had truly died. This man wasn't Lord Horatio Caine of Caine Plantation, but instead Horatio, pirate.
 
"What now?" the younger man asked.
 
"We go and see Commodore Stetler." Horatio turned and heade back to the Commodore's Mansion. He had a few choice words for Rick.
 
~ Morning ~
 
Stetler growled as he stormed into his office. He couldn’t believe that no one saw the Ducati leave port. He would make sure the guards were punished harshly for letting the pirates escape.
 
He stopped short when he saw who was sitting at his desk. “I guess you had something to do with this?”
 
Horatio pulled up the pistol, aiming directly at Stetler’s chest. “I should just shoot you and be done with it, but I have a mean streak in me and rather see you be humiliated.”
 
“You won’t escape out of the port.” Stetler sneered. “Your lover left without you.”
 
“I found alternative transportation.” The redhead stood up. “I appreciate you loaning me your flagship, and isn't it to bad you sent out your remaining ships in the wrong direction, hunting for the Ducati.”
 
The Commodore growled, “I will hunt you down.”
 
“Of course, you’ll try,” Horatio smiled. “In the meantime, Ryan.”
 
Ryan shoved Stetler into a chair and tied him up, making sure the gag was nice and tight. “Now what?”
 
“We leave.” Horatio moved for the door. “Oh and Rick. I already transferred all of my lands into Ray Jr.’s name. The plantation is being taken care of by a trusted friend until he is old enough. And before your evil mind can figure out any other routes to get to my lands, I’ve made sure Yelina is well provided for, along with Suzy and her daughter Madison. I did have one stipulation, if either woman were to consider marrying you they would be cut off.” Horatio grinned at him.
 
Stetler glared at the redhead as he turned and walked out of the office.
 
~ Docks ~
 
Horatio had no idea if his plan would work. He was counting on the fact that anyone who had met Rick Stetler would hate him, especially if they were under his command.
 
“Horatio…” Ryan hesitated.
 
“Don’t worry Ryan, I’ll make sure you're taken care of,” the redhead assured him. “Once I’m back on the Ducati I’ll have the Captain take you where ever you want to go.”
 
“But, what if I want to stay with you?” the younger man asked.
 
Horatio looked at him. “And be a pirate?”
 
He frowned. “I don’t know. I just I can’t go back…I tied up Commodore Stetler.”
 
The older man nodded in understanding. “Let’s go and see the Captain.” Horatio stood on the dock. “Permission to come aboard.”
 
A young blond man looked down at them. “What business do you have?”
 
“Need to speak to the Captain,” Horatio answered.
 
“And you are?” the sailor asked.
 
“Lord Horatio Caine.”
 
“Let him on board.” Another voice came from behind the young man.
 
Horatio walked up the plank onto the ship. “Thank you, Captain.”
 
“Taylor, Mac Taylor.” The Captain shook his hand. “What brings you aboard the HMS Superior”
 
Horatio smiled, “I’m stealing it.”
 
Mac’s eyebrow rose. “Really.”
 
“I need to catch up with the Ducati and the Mal Nocha,” the redhead explained. 
 
“Why?” the Captain asked.
 
“To help Captain Speed take down the Mal Nocha,” Horatio answered honestly.
 
“And why should I help a common criminal,” Taylor demanded.
 
Horatio put his cards on the table. “Because it would piss off Stetler to no end. “
 
Mac looked over to his first mate, who gave a slight nod. Turning to the sailor that had talked to Horatio earlier, the young man also gave him a slight nod. Mac turned back towards the redhead.
 
“One condition.”
 
“Name it,” Horatio said.
 
“The ship is mine afterwards,” Mac’s voice was deadly serious.
 
“Take it, I have no need of it.” Horatio grinned. 
 
Mac turned towards his first mate. “Flack, get the ship prepared we leave on the half hour.”
 
“Yes sir.” Flack moved away yelling at the crew to get moving.
 
Mac smiled at the redhead. “You took a chance.”
 
“I figured if anyone had to be at sea for more than a few weeks under Rick’s command…” Horatio grinned.
 
“Right you were,” Mac laughed. “Anything we should know?”
 
“Stetler was working with Mal Nocha,” Ryan added from the sideline. 
 
Both men looked at the young man. “I heard him talking with the captain before he handed over Captain Speed’s first mate.”
 
Mac grinned. “We can use that information.”
 
~ At Sea ~
 
Horatio paced the deck, worried about his lovers. He had no idea the horrors Eric must be going through. He just hoped Speed caught up with the Mal Nocha in time. He looked back out to sea, his eyes searching the horizon.
 
“No matter how hard you look they won’t magically appear.” Mac stepped up to him.
 
Horatio looked over at the Captain. “How fast do you think we can catch up with them?”
 
“Depends, whether they stopped for the night.” Mac shrugged. “For all we know they could have turned north or south.”
 
“They are out there.” Horatio looked back out to sea. “I have to find them.”
 
“Why?” Taylor asked.
 
“I think you know the answer to that.” The redhead turned back towards him.
 
The ex-Royal officer looked at him. “Was it worth it?”
 
“Yes.”
 
“CAPTAIN!” Danny, the sailor that had questioned Horatio when he boarded, yelled from the lookout. “Two ships up ahead.”
 
Mac grabbed his eye piece and looked out towards the horizon. “I can see the Ducati’s colors. Flack get us closer, but make it look as if we are going to help the Mal Nocha.” He turned towards Lord Caine. “Stay out of sight until we are engaged in battle.”
 
Horatio grabbed Ryan and dragged him into the Captain's Cabin. He closed his eyes and leaned against the hard wood of the door. 'Please' he prayed 'Let them be okay'. 
 
~ Ducati ~
 
“Captain, the Superior is moving in on us,” Tripp informed the pirate. 

Speed glanced towards the approaching ship. The trajectory of the ship was slightly off.   He smiled. “Move the ship close to the Mal Nocha; make it look like we’re running from the Superior.”
 
“Yes, Captain.” Tripp turned the heavy wheel moving the large ship closer to the pirate vessel. 
 
“Men,” Speed called out. “The Mal Nocha has taken one of our own. Will we stand for it?”
 
“NO!” the crew yelled out, thirsty for blood.
 
“The moment we are in range, Calleigh, I want you to open fire. “ Speed pulled his sword. “No mercy. When we board them, kill every man; take what you can and sink the ship.” His eyes flashed as the two ships prepared for battle.
 
~ Mal Nocha ~
 
“Captain the Ducati is coming around, they are arming.” The first mate looked over at the Captain of the Mal Nocha.
 
“Bring out the prisoner,” El Diablo growled. “I’ll give him back his lover.”
 
“Captain the HMS Superior is gaining up on us. They are moving towards the Ducati.” A sailor informed him.
 
The Captain stared at the approaching ship, his eyes narrowed. What was Stetler up to? A crewmember yanked Eric onto the deck. The first mate of the Ducati, though beaten held his head high in defiance. 
 
“Looks like lover boy is trying to save you.” El Diablo cupped Eric’s cheek. “It’s too bad I have to kill you. You gave me so much pleasure.”
 
“He’ll kill you,” Eric spat. “Slowly and painfully showing no mercy.”
 
“Hang him from the mast. Make Speed watch and know he can’t do a thing.” El Diablo walked towards the helm. “And prepare the guns. I want the Ducati destroyed.”
 
“What about the Superior?” the first mate asked.
 
“Let’s see what they are up to.” El Diablo looked out towards the approaching Navy ship.
 
~ HMS Superior ~
 
“Sir.” Flack pulled down his eye piece. “They look like they are preparing to hang someone.”
 
Mac grabbed the scope and viewed the situation. “Damn, man the guns. “ he yelled as he moved towards the helm.
 
Horatio stepped back out onto the deck. “What can we do?”
 
“Lord Caine…”
 
“I won’t watch Eric die.” Horatio glared at the Captain.
 
“There’s nothing we can do,” Mac stated. We are to far out for our guns. A good sniper may be able to take out….”
 
The crack of a shot echoed over the still sea. The crewmember of the Mal Nocha fell to the deck. 
 
Horatio and the crew turned and stared.
 
Ryan pulled the gun up and reloaded; he eased back into position and squeezed the trigger slicing through the rope above the pirate's head.
 
“I’m keeping him.” Mac leaned over toward Flack.
 
“Hell yeah.” Flack agreed.
 
Horatio just stared at the younger man. “Ryan?”
 
He just grinned. “I’m sorry, Captain I think I gave away what side we're on.”
 
“Man the guns, prepare for battle!” Mac yelled. “Flack bring the ship around make sure the Mal Nocha is between us and the Ducati.”
 
~ Ducati ~
 
Speed’s heart raced when the saw them bring Eric up on deck. He could see the defiance in his lover even though it was obvious he had taken a beating. The Mal Nocha would pay with their blood.
 
“Speed.” Calleigh saw their intentions clearly.
 
“Can you get a shot?” he asked.
 
“Angle is bad. I would end up hitting Eric.” She pulled out her rifle.
 
“Set up. It may be more merciful.” Speed voice was hard and held no emotion.
 
Calleigh moved into position. “Please God, if you take prayers from pirates…”
 
A shot echoed. They watched as the crewmember of the Mal Nocha fell. Speed turned towards the HMS Superior. He smiled. Horatio.
 
“Tripp move us in. The moment we are in range I want full fire. Prepare to board them.” Speed held his ground eyes on the enemy. El Diablo would die at his hands.
 
~ Mal Nocha ~
 
The captain watched as one of his men fell to his death. A second shot rang out and the Ducati’s first mate was free. Stetler had showed his hand.
 
“Prepare for boarding. Show no mercy,” he yelled at his crew as the Ducati bore down on them. “FIRE!!”
 
 
The two ships engaged, cannon fire roared over the still ocean. The Superior was moving in fast, blocking in the Mal Nocha’s escape.
 
As soon as the Ducati was close enough, the crew threw hooks over onto the Mal Nocha’s deck tying the two ships together, it was all out war.
 
Speed swung over to the deck of the enemy ship eyes only for the captain. El Diablo grinned and motioned for him to come and get him. Any crewmember who got in his way died at Speed’s feet.
 
The two captains locked into a fierce struggle. Both seeking blood.
 
Eric shimmied down the mast, barely getting out of the way when one of Ducati’s canon balls tore through it, bringing down the large object. Eric grabbed a sword off the deck and dived into the battle. He was determined to protect Speed’s back. 
 
He sliced the throat of one enemy then turned and engaged two more. He was slowly being pushed back away from his Captain. With a growl he pushed forward once more, only to get caught by a third swordsman.
 
As quickly as the third attacked he was run through. Eric looked up to see Horatio standing there. He smiled and both turned towards the remaining two. 
 
Speed fought hard with the other Captain. The two locked in a fierce battle, swords clashing as the moved along the deck, taking and losing ground. El Diablo got behind Speed and shoved him to the stairs, his sword crashing below deck. Speed turned and kicked out as he scrambled up the stairs.   The two faced off once again on the helm.
 
“You have no sword.” El Diablo advanced towards the pirate.
 
Speed watched the slow approach, he stepped back, moving towards the second set of stairs.
 
“You know your first mate was very tasty. He moaned so nicely as I took him.” he taunted.
 
Speed growled. “You dare touch what is mine.”
 
“Obviously you don’t give the boy enough attention, he so willing spread his legs for me and my crew.” The pirate grinned at Speed’s fury. “You should be thanking me.”
 
“And why is that?” Speed stopped at the edge of the stairs.
 
“If it wasn’t for me you would have never got to taste the redhead.” El Diablo stopped advancing. “Stetler ordered his ship destroyed and Caine killed. But he was worth too much to kill.”
 
As the battle raged around the two captains, Speed closed his eyes briefly, centering himself.
 
“Time for you to die.” El Diablo raised his sword for the killing blow. He gasped and staggered back, staring at the sword in his stomach.
 
“Go to hell,” Speed snarled, shoving the sword into the hilt.
 
El Diablo fell to the deck dead.
 
Speed turned towards the redhead. Horatio smiled at him. “I told you I would come.”
 
~*~
 
Speed eyed the treasure laid out on the decks of the Ducati. He sighed and looked over at Captain Mac Taylor.
 
“I’ll give you thirty percent,” he growled.
 
“If it wasn’t for Ryan…” Mac pointed out.
 
“Thirty.” Speed refused to budge.
 
Mac nodded. “Pleasure doing business.”
 
“Are you going to rename her?” Horatio asked as he glanced over to the Superior.
 
“The name was always so…” Mac sighed.
 
“Haughty,” Flack finished for him.
 
“I’m naming her Stella.” The new pirate smiled at the ship.
 
Flack looked at his Captain. “She’s going to kill you.”
 
“Who?” Eric asked, walking onto deck.
 
“What are you doing up?” Horatio moved past the men. He turned Eric back around and marched him back to the Captain's Quarters. “You need rest and walking around out here isn’t rest. God I’m surprised the two of you survived without me…”
 
Mac moved towards his new ship. “Good luck.”
 
Speed waved. “Don’t be doing anything I would do.”
 
“But that’s no fun.” Mac walked across the plank to his waiting ship only to stop short. “Danny.”
 
“Don’t. You are supposed to be resting. Need I remind you that you have a bullet wound in your leg?” Danny glared at him then turned on Flack. “And you…”
 
Speed smirked. “Good luck.”
 
~ Captain’s Quarters ~
 
Horatio made sure Eric was comfortable in the bed, before going to hunt down his wayward Captain. 'Mister I'm not injured'. Horatio sighed as he walked back out onto the deck.
 
Speed turned and looked at the redhead. He saw it in his eyes. The only reason Horatio wasn't ushering him off was because he was the Captain. Making sure the crew didn't see him as weak.
 
"Drag him off will you?" Tripp growled as he walked by. "He's in pain and being all stoic to make sure the crew feels secure." The helmsmen rolled his eyes.
 
Speed sighed.
 
"Please." Calleigh added. "He's getting annoying."
 
"Hello, Captain." Speed glared at the crew.
 
They all just smiled.
 
"In bed now." Horatio pointed towards the cabin. "If you're good…"
 
"I don’t want to be good." Speed glared, not budging from his spot. 
 
Horatio's eyebrow rose. "I'll have Tripp carry you."
 
"You wouldn't." The Captain's eyes narrowed.
 
"I would," Tripp answered for the redhead.
 
With a growl, Speed limped towards his quarters. "I'll seek my revenge later." He paused and looked at Calleigh. "Calleigh, make sure Ryan knows the rules of the ship, if he's going to be part of the Ducati crew."
 
"My pleasure." She grinned at the young crew member.
 
Ryan frowned, this couldn't be good.
 
Eric looked up as the two men walked back into the cabin. "I see he got you oo."
 
"In to bed," Horatio helped Speed out of his jacket. He sat the pirate down onto the bed and took off his shoes before getting him to lie down. "Both of you have wounds that need rest for them to heal."
 
"I'm fine," they said in unison.
 
Horatio rolled his eyes. "Wasn’t born yesterday. Tripp has already set a course for home, so unless you cooperate with me…"
 
"You're threatening me with my mother?" Speed sat up in bed, staring at the redhead in shock.
 
"She likes me better." Horatio grinned. 
 
"He's right, she does." Eric looked over at the captain. "Actually, I think she feels a kinship with him…"
 
"Shut up Eric," Speed laughed before leaning over and kissing him softly. He looked back at Horatio. "Join us."
 
Horatio slipped off his boots stripped out of his shirt, and climbed between them. He leaned over and took Speed's mouth in a deep loving kiss. Eric moaned, watching the two men. Horatio pulled back just enough to reach over and pull the first mate to him, kissing him as deeply.
 
Eric sat back, trying to hide a yawn.  
 
"Sleep." Horatio got the three of them under the covers. "The ship is being watched over."
 
"What about Commodore Stetler?" Speed asked. "He will seek revenge."
 
"We'll deal with him when the time comes." Horatio pulled his Captain down into his arms.
 
Speed settled into Horatio's arms, sighing with contentment. Eric leaned up along Speed's back, his arms wrapping around him and Horatio. The Captain's eyes drifted shut, as he fell into a peaceful sleep feeling safe and loved. 
 
~ The End ~