Chapter VI

Hannah dropped the bag on the table and transferred the towels to the dryer. Then she took her dinner and put it on a plate, deciding to sit in the small garden alcove that overlooked the beach and eat by the light of the moon.

The sound of the waves was mesmerizing and she took her time enjoying the spicy island fare. She watched as the moonlight traced a path in the water, and wondered again where it would lead her if she followed it. So absorbed in her thoughts was she that it took a few moments before she became aware of the rhythmic sound of footsteps approaching her.

Strangely, she was not alarmed by the sound. They were sure and steady, not stealthy, and she took comfort in that fact. Obviously it was a native who had wandered too far without realizing they'd crossed the boundary. It didn't dawn on her that the sound was coming from the east and not the west.

She was still eating when the figure emerged and she just looked for a long moment, trying to discern if she'd met the person now standing down from her facing the water. The individual was tall, strength evident in the breadth of the shoulders and the molded leather pants. Dark hair was braided tightly and rested against the strong back.

The figure turned then, and the profile was silhouetted by the moonlight. Hannah drew in a breath. The vision was a woman, and so familiar. Hannah searched her memory, trying to recall the woman's name, but nothing fell into place. The tall woman turned slowly as though searching for something.

"Excuse me, but are you lost?" Hannah called out quietly. Donovan spun on her heel. She couldn't see much of anything... a bare outline from the direction the voice had come from. The Captain didn't answer the question. She was trying to place the soft voice.

"I'm sorry," Hannah said again, "but you are trespassing on private property. Can I help you find something?"

Donovan came to herself then, and shook her head. "I beg your pardon, m'lady. I was not aware this bit of land had been claimed. If you will excuse me...." And the Captain bowed with a flourish and headed back down the beach before Hannah could recover her wits which scattered at the low, rich lilt that had rolled across her hearing when the dark woman spoke.

The blonde ran her hands through her hair in frustration. There was something so familiar in that body, that profile, that voice.... But she couldn't place it and the harder she pushed, the more elusive the memory became.

"I think I need to take a break. I have been trying so hard to solve whatever this mystery is that my brain is on overload. Tomorrow I'm gonna do nothing but relax." She looked in the direction the tall woman had retreated. "Maybe I'll go meet the new neighbor... if I can find her."

************

Donovan strolled back down the shoreline, a preoccupied frown etched on her face. That voice, she was sure that she'd heard it before, but there was no way to be certain without being able to see the owner. She was frustrated. The darkness had made it impossible to follow what she thought was Green Eyes' trail, even by moonlight.

She stopped suddenly. "Wait just a damn bloody minute," she cursed to herself. She turned and glanced back in the direction she'd just come from. "Do you suppose...?" She took two steps back toward that voice before jerking to a halt and shoving her hands in her pockets.

"Waitaminute, Donovan," she muttered. "You do not need to go in there scaring the young lady half to death. If you are right, she might understand. If she has been having the dreams, anyway. But if you are wrong, they will send you to the loony bin for sure." She ran one hand over her head, loosening the braid and letting her hair fly free in the breeze. "You have waited this long. Waiting until it is daylight not going to kill you."

She increased her pace until she was moving at a near run. "Maybe I will see her in my dreams tonight." That thought caused her exuberance to soar and the emotion made her almost giddy. She increased her pace and jumped into the air, doing a lazy somersault before returning her feet to the earth, then running exuberantly all the way home.

She was still smiling when she settled down to sleep.

************

A face slowly began to form around the loving blue eyes. Nothing clear, but a profile which was resolving itself into a familiar shape. Hannah reached up with trembling fingers and gently traced the planes of the Angel face, and sifted her hand through the free-flowing dark hair. She felt large, work-roughened hands grip her gently at the waist, and ran her other hand up the soft, strong chest to wrap in the raven tresses.

Hannah tugged gently on the head in her hands, and was delighted by the twinkle in the blue eyes reflected in the growing smile as the dark head lowered. Then those full smiling lips captured her own, and the blonde lost herself in the passion that ignited between them.

Donovan let her hands wander down from the small waist and over the shapely hips, pulling the lithe body more firmly into her own. She smiled into the kiss as the blonde began massaging her scalp, taking a firmer grip on her hair. The kiss went on interminably until the two were forced to pull away for a lack of air.

Blue and green gazed at each other for long moments, speaking words that their lips did not say. Donovan caressed a smooth cheek, smiling when Hannah closed her eyes and leaned into the touch. "You are very beautiful."

Hannah had no chance to answer the compliment, for Donovan covered her lips again and claimed them passionately. Hannah let her hands wander, loosening the ties she found on Donovan's shirt and sliding her hand inside to touch the soft skin hidden there.

Donovan pulled away from Hannah just slightly, causing a furrow to crease the blonde's brow, until she realized Donovan's intent. The Captain shrugged out of her shirt and returned to the kiss-swollen lips, untying the knot at the neck, then dropping Hannah's dress to the floor. Without breaking the kiss, Donovan lifted Hannah and encouraged her to wrap her strong legs around Donovan's waist. Then the ship's Captain walked them over and tenderly lowered them to the bed together, making their dreams reality once again.

************

Hannah woke up late morning wrapped around a pillow instead of the warm body she'd expected to find there and frowned. It was so real, considering how loved and sated she felt. Then she smiled. I will find you, Blue Eyes. Very soon. She stretched and swung her legs out of the bed. But first I need a shower. And then I'm gonna go meet this new neighbor I seem to have gotten.

It didn't take long. Hannah dressed in the tropical print thong she'd found shopping with Katie, and tied a sarong over her hips. Then she looked through the fridge, putting together a picnic for two from the abundance of things Jack had available. Nodding in satisfaction, she headed out the door and down the beach.

Her thoughts wandered while she walked, reviewing the dream she'd had the night before. Hannah was in quite a state by the time she'd reached the footpath, and stopped a minute just to breathe. Finally feeling herself under control again, she hefted the basket and started down the trail.

"Hello? Hello?" she called. "Is anyone here?" Hannah felt foolish. Her two previous visits had shown her there was no one here, but her logical mind dictated that the woman had to have come from here. It was the only place within reasonable walking distance from this direction. The town itself and all the locals she'd met lived on the other side of Jack's.

"Excuse me," came the lilting voice from the night before from a position high above her. "Are you lost? You are trespassing on private property."

Hannah flushed slightly, remembering these exact words falling from her lips the night before. God, I didn't realize how snotty that sounded. She looked around for the speaker and cleared her throat.

"No, I'm not lost. I'm looking for someone."

"Well, there is no one here but me." The voice was still out of sight, but Hannah detected the slightest hint of a smile in it.

"Perhaps you are the one I am seeking. Could you step out where I can see you, please?"

Donovan rose to her full height then, and stepped to the front of the roof. She'd awakened at dawn so refreshed and full of energy that she'd taken a run. When she'd gotten back to the cottage, the sun had been up, and she'd decided to check the roof. The haze on the horizon meant a storm this afternoon, and Donovan wanted everything tight and cozy before then.

Hannah stared in astonishment at the vision that stood to greet her. The woman was fierce in her presentation, backlit by the sunshine that outlined her sculpted, muscular upper body. She felt her mouth drop slightly, but couldn't seem to tear her eyes away.

Donovan had been almost finished when she'd heard the young woman's approach. She looked down at herself in disgust. She was sweating profusely, and in the rough trousers and shirtless state she'd been working in, she was in no position to receive company.

She snatched up the shirt she'd taken off early in her task, and slid it over her shoulders, leaving it untied, so her breasts were covered, but her muscled abdomen was still visible. She stepped from the eave and slid down the ladder. Donovan landed with a bit of a flourish and turned, freezing when blue eyes met green for the first time.

Hannah moved closer, reaching up a shaking hand to catch the drop of sweat rolling down the dark brow, their gazes locked and searching each other. She stroked the soft skin of the cheekbone, tracing the taller woman's features before sliding her fingers into the damp locks.

Donovan felt her breath catch in her throat as she realized that Green Eyes was finally flesh and blood within her grasp. She watched fascinated as Hannah made the first move to bring them together, almost groaning at the first touch of skin on skin. She forced herself to keep her eyes open while the blonde woman explored her face, unwilling to lose the reality that was becoming hers. Only when Hannah twined her fingers in the raven hair did Donovan finally allow herself to reach out and grasp the slim waist and draw Hannah firmly into her.

No words were exchanged. None were necessary in this first real physical communication between them. Donovan leaned in slowly, offering Hannah the opportunity to pull away if.... Then she felt her head being drawn down and their lips met, and everything except the reality of them melted away into nothingness for a timeless moment.

"Finally," Donovan breathed. "Finally I have you in my arms. I have dreamed of you, you know, since you were a child. I watched you grow up in my dreams." Donovan said quietly when their lips reluctantly parted. "You became my dream."

"And now?"

"And now, I want to make you my reality. I am going to take the time to get to know you personally... to court you the way a lady deserves to be courted. I find you to be a most beautiful woman. I want to know all about you, and I would like to take you home to meet my father and mother."

Hannah gasped slightly. "This is all so sudden. And yet, I've waited a lifetime for you."

"As I have for you, Angel. I have spent my life falling in love with you in my dreams."

"I'd like to do it for real."

"Then you'll come home with me? Meet my parents?"

"I promised Uncle Jack I would stay for the Pirates' Ball. But if you still want me when that is over... yes, I will come home with you and meet your folks. And in the meantime, we can get to know each other outside our dreams."

Blue eyes lit with uncontrolled happiness. "I think I would like that. It is something I have looked forward to for a long time."

Hannah couldn't help the grin that plastered her face. "Me too. So will you join me on a picnic for lunch?"

"Well, that depends," Donovan answered seriously as thunder rumbled ominously in the background. A cool wind followed the sound and Hannah shuddered slightly. Donovan tightened her grip slightly.

"On what?" Hannah asked curiously.

"Will you tell me your name?" The dashing grin on Donovan's face made Hannah blush, and that simply made the grin broaden. "I will go first. I am Donovan Scott."

"Hannah Reilly."

"Well, Hannah Reilly, if you would consent to allow me a few moments to clean up, I would be delighted to join you on a picnic." The thunder rumbled ominously again. "Though we may end up having to eat it in the house."

Hannah smiled, her nose crinkling up in delight. "Well," she started, bending over to retrieve the basket she had dropped when Donovan had stood up on the roof. Donovan slipped it gallantly from her grasp, and extended an arm. Hannah took it as a matter of course and let the taller woman escort her toward the cottage door. "I think I could do that." She smiled impishly, now. "Though a little rain never hurt a body."

Donovan chuckled. "I will remind you of that while we are standing in the middle of the meadow getting soaked together."

Hannah's eyes widened at the implications and she swallowed hard. Donovan missed the expression since she'd moved slightly ahead of the smaller woman to open the door for them to enter the house.

Donovan swung the door open and gestured for Hannah to step in ahead of her. Immediately Hannah was struck by several subtle differences from her visit the previous morning. The first thing she noticed was the abundance of light that shone in the room, and the fresh air that greeted her. The absence of dust coverings was apparent, and she noted that the furniture seem almost new.

Unconsciously, she looked for the two paintings that had so captured her attention the day before, and realized that only one hung in the room now. Her brow furrowed. How very odd, she thought to herself, but found her feet moving to stand before the portrait of her and Donovan on the shore.

Donovan set the basket in the kitchen, and came back out to see Hannah mesmerized by the seascape. She walked up behind the blonde gently, and tenderly laid her hands on Hannah's shoulders.

"I did that one about two years ago," she whispered, her warm breath a caress on Hannah's ear that sent goosebumps skittering along her skin. "After the most incredible dream with you."

Hannah flushed, and knew Donovan could feel the heat. "I remember that," she mumbled, leaning back into the strong body behind her. "It was the first time we made love together in our dreams. And before we left we stood on this shore together, wrapped around one another just like this." She sighed when Donovan's hands slid around her waist and cradled her carefully. "It was so wonderful." Her face scrunched up in thought. Though I thought it was five years ago. Whatever.

"Our first real time will be even more wonderful, I promise." Donovan felt Hannah laugh, and pulled back slightly to peer into her eyes. "What?"

"I'm not sure either of us could survive it," Hannah smiled impishly, watching Donovan's smile light up her whole visage.

"Aye, but what a way to die. Now, if you will excuse me for a moment," she continued without pausing for breath, "I need to clean up before I stink up the place." She placed a light peck on Hannah's cheek. "Be right back."

Hannah heard the water running and sank into the small couch, her eyes again regarding the portrait while her hand rested on the still tingling spot that Donovan's lips had touched. "Whoo boy, I think a cold shower might do me some good too."

Hannah sank into the couch, eyes still focused on the portrait, and letting that visual carry her back to the events that had inspired its creation. That was five years ago... I *KNOW* it was. Because that was the night before my Master's graduation. She shrugged. Not that the *when* actually matters. Nothing is going to change the way that I feel or what we shared. Absently, she stroked the brocade's newness and let her thoughts drift.

A hint of cinnamon reached her nostrils and Hannah smiled in reflex. "Hello, love," she whispered, sighing in contentment as two strong arms wrapped around her from behind. "You smell nice."

Donovan chuckled and sat down, stretching an arm out in invitation. "Better than before then, yes?"

"Well, different." Hannah scooted over until they were touching, sitting side by side. Donovan curled the arm around her, and Hannah turned just slightly in the embrace. "You have a very pleasant natural scent actually, and though I will admit to being partial to the aroma of cinnamon, clean sweat does have its charm."

Donovan grinned, and not for the first time Hannah noticed the roguish sex appeal it held. "Does it now?" she asked, leaning into Hannah just slightly and feeling inordinately pleased when Hannah returned the pressure.

"Um hmm," she answered, leaning even closer and brushing her lips over Donovan's, and the Captain lost no time in returning the kiss. Her arm tightened around Hannah, and she brought her other hand up to cup the blonde woman's face. The embrace deepened, and two sets of breathing had gone ragged before they separated and looked into one another's eyes.

"We don't have to give up the kissing while we do this courting thing, do we?" Hannah asked on a breathless note. Donovan captured her lips again briefly, passionately. "I'll take that as a no," Hannah replied with a smile.

"You would be taking it rightly then," Donovan said, gently stroking the skin underneath her hand, happy when Hannah's eyes closed and she leaned into the touch. "I do not want you to think... I mean, I want to know you... um, I uh...."

Hannah laid her hands on Donovan's chest, feeling the rapid beat of her heart. "Donovan, I am touched that you want to court me. I'd like the chance to do the same... to spoil you a little. And I am looking forward to getting to now you as a person and not just a dream. But nothing, NOTHING is going to change the way that I feel about you. All right?"

Donovan read the sincerity behind the words in Hannah's eyes. "Very well," she nodded. "I just do not want you ever to feel like you are being taken advantage of." She stopped speaking as fingers covered her lips.

"I have never been taken advantage of by you. I have only been well loved." Hannah leaned forward and kissed Donovan lightly on the lips. "Now c'mon," she said, looking out an open window. "The sun is shining, and the thunder is gone, so maybe the storm passed by us. Let's go picnic."

Donovan stood and helped Hannah to her feet. Hannah looked at Donovan who stood casually in cotton trousers and shirt. The shirt had no sleeves and was tied just below her ribcage and Hannah was again impressed with the musculature she could see. "Come," Donovan said quietly, extending a hand out to Hannah.

They walked out through the kitchen, and Donovan snagged the basket Hannah had prepared. Then they walked out the back door, and for the first time, Hannah noticed the stone patio. "Oh, how lovely. I like it here."

Donovan looked around and took a deep breath. "As do I," she smiled. "This is my sanctuary. The men helped me build the basic structure, but I have been working on it every chance I get when we come here."

"How often do you come?"

Donovan shrugged. "For the past four years, a couple weeks, every six months or so. This year has been a little different. This is actually our fourth trip here."

"Why?"

Donovan turned and faced Hannah, and the smaller woman rested her hands lightly on Donovan's hips. The Captain smiled. "I was chasing my destiny. I had a feeling I would find you... I just had to keep trying." Hannah smiled and blushed charmingly. Donovan kissed her on the nose. "Besides, it gave me a chance to get some things done around here."

"Well, I like what you've done here. It's beautiful." Hannah looked around again. "You have very talented hands."

Donovan waggled her eyebrows. "Thank you, my dear," she said with a roguish smile.

Hannah blushed again, and slapped her arm. "Behave, you!" Donovan laughed out loud and they resumed their walk. They didn't go very far... just out of sight of the cottage. Donovan set the basket down, and Hannah retrieved the blanket she'd packed on top.

Donovan took a side and together they laid it on the ground. Then Hannah began unpacking the lunch she'd brought for them to share. The basket had been an old one she'd found at Jack's and it had been quite the challenge to figure out how some of the old-fashioned containers worked. So the first thing she did was pull everything out and set it to one side.

Donovan was investigating the contents of each of the boxes with incredible ease, Hannah noted absently, considering her own difficulty. Then she remembered that this woman had built her own house from the ground up and figured the engineering involved in a picnic basket wouldn't be terribly hard for her.

"What do we have here?" Donovan muttered as she opened the first lid. She sniffed carefully. "Fried chicken?" She looked up at Hannah. "Potatoes, hmmm... I like potatoes. And biscuits... this just keeps getting better." She took the fourth container from Hannah's hands. "You know, these are quite clever. I don't believe I have ever seen anything quite like them."

Hannah nodded her agreement, pulling an old canteen from the bottom of the basket. "Neither had I, actually, but it was all I could find at Uncle Jack's place. I guess he's not big on picnics."

"Maybe he's waiting to find someone special to share them with." She picked up the last container. "Now, what could this be?" The perplexed look did not leave Donovan's face, even when she opened the box. Cautiously she lifted it nearer her nose and inhaled. "Well, it smells pretty good... like chocolate," arching an eyebrow at Hannah. "What is it?"

"Chocolate cake." Hannah's brow furrowed when the brow remained cocked. "You've never had chocolate cake?"

Donovan shook her dark head. "I do not think so. It does not smell like anything I have ever eaten."

Hannah took the container from Donovan, and scooped up a blob of icing on her finger. She lifted the finger to Donovan's lips and waited. Donovan sniffed at it again, then shrugged and extended her tongue to cautiously taste the offering. Very tentatively she tasted the morsel she'd licked from Hannah's finger, then with a primordial growl clasped Hannah's wrist and drew the finger into her mouth, cleaning it thoroughly.

Hannah swooned and nearly fainted from the sensations Donovan was causing to cascade over her body. Donovan looked up and was treated to raw passion and desire flushing Hannah's face and making her eyes darken and glow. Donovan cleared her throat as she slipped the finger from her mouth.

"I uh... I am sorry Hannah. I... that was, um... delicious. And so was the chocolate," muttered under her breath. Hannah heard her though, and she couldn't control the flaring of her nostrils. Donovan caught the look and smiled nervously, suddenly feeling like a rabbit in a cage with a cobra, and she felt a distinct chill skitter across her skin. It wasn't an unpleasant sensation, but it was definitely different than what she was used to or expected. She cleared her throat again and inhaled a shaky breath.

"Maybe we should concentrate on eating lunch?" Donovan suggested in a questioning tone.

Hannah took a deep breath of her own and closed her eyes, willing herself to calmness. When she felt her breathing slow and her heartbeat resume a more measured tempo, she opened her eyes and stared at Donovan. "Maybe we should, because if you play with fire...."

"I know. And I would still like to know you as a person before I get branded for life." This said with a grin that twinkled in the depths of her eyes.

"Oh," Hannah replied with a mischievous smile. "You've been branded. You just don't know it yet." She smirked. "But you will. I promise you will." Hannah handed Donovan a full plate and winked. Donovan got into the spirit of the conversation.

"Guess I had better find a ring and a minister then. I need to make an honest woman out of you. Although actually...." The thought trailed off, and it wasn't until Hannah realized that Donovan was lost in thought that she picked up the thread.

"Actually what?" She lightly prodded Donovan on the leg. The Captain started and began to eat the meal in her hand.

"Oh, um, my father is a ship's captain, or he was until he retired from service. He could marry us."

"Would he, though? It's not like this is an accepted lifestyle by most people."

"I think he would. He has never wanted anything more than for me to be happy. He would understand that you make me happy. Mama on the other hand...." Donovan looked up and let her eyes meet Hannah's. "I do not know how Mama will react. She was not happy when I went to sea with Papa. And she has never been comfortable that as far as the world knows, I am a man." Hannah's eyes grew startled. "Oh, the men of my crew know, of course, as do my parents, but as far as the rest of the world is concerned, Donovan is a man. And that bothers Mama."

"What about you?"

"What about me? Even as progressive a time as we live in, I cannot do what I love to do as a woman. The Royal Navy will not allow me to serve as a Captain. So when my father retired, I became a long-lost nephew who was found to assume his title and command. I had already been serving for four years at that point."

"How do your men feel about the deception?"

Donovan smiled gently. "We all have things to hide, and we have learned to trust one another with our lives and our secrets."

"I'm glad," Hannah said softly. "Do you think I could meet them?"

Donovan shrugged. "I do not see why not. I need to meet up with the ship at some point to get my latest case of books off."

"Good," Hannah replied, taking Donovan's now empty plate from her and placing a thick wedge of chocolate cake on it. "Here," she added, opening the canteen. "You're gonna need this to wash it down with."

Donovan took a small sip and smiled. "Milk? I cannot remember the last time I drank milk."

"Yeah, well, it is the best thing with chocolate cake." Hannah gestured with her fork. "Dig in."

Donovan couldn't contain the moan that welled up in the back of her throat as the first taste hit her tongue. She moaned and growled in turn as she savored each and every bite, going so far as to lick her fork and plate clean. Grabbing the canteen, she chugged the milk down, delighting in its cold, clean taste. "Oh Hannah," she groaned with repletion, leaning back on her elbows and looking up at the canopy of trees surrounding them. "If I wasn't already madly in love with you, you'd have won my heart with your cooking. That was absolutely delicious."

Hannah cleared her throat. "I'm uh... glad you liked it. Would you like my piece as well?" offering Donovan the still untouched slice of cake.

"No, Angel. I am full. But thank you for offering, because it was simply wonderful."

Hannah smiled. "Tell ya what... why don't I put this away for you, and you can have it tonight?" Donovan's eyes shone in delight even as her head shook negatively.

"I could not do that, Hannah. You should have some too."

"Sweetheart, I have more at home. You take this one."

"You are sure?" Donovan questioned. She smiled in appreciation when Hannah nodded. "Thank you, Hannah." She leaned in for a kiss, a little overwhelmed by the ferocity which greeted her, but melting into the touch. The embrace went on for long moments as they explored one another. Only the suddenly nearby, utterly ominous rumble of thunder separated them.

They looked up then, and were pelted with fat, heavy drops of rain. Almost immediately, it went from shower to storm, and they snatched up the basket and blanket and made a mad dash for the cottage.


Chapter VII

Hannah hit the stone patio running, and felt the stupidity of that decision as her feet slid right out from under her. She closed her eyes, bracing for the impact she knew was going to hurt, but it never came. Instead, she found herself caught in strong arms and cradled against a soft chest.

Donovan pushed the kitchen door open and stepped inside before she looked down at the warm wet body in her arms. "Careful there, Angel. That is a sure way to get hurt." Hannah nodded silently, and Donovan lowered her slowly to the floor. "Come. Let me get you a blanket, then I will light a fire and we can talk a bit til this is over."

Hannah smiled, her teeth chattering just slightly from the loss of warmth when Donovan pulled away. Almost immediately Donovan returned and wrapped Hannah in a warm woolen blanket that smelled of cedar. She briskly rubbed her arms then scooped Hannah up like she was a child.

"Ah... but... uh...." Blue eyes twinkled down at her.

"Just hold tight." And Hannah put her head down and closed her eyes, absorbing the warmth Donovan was giving off so abundantly. The taller woman gently set her precious bundle on the couch. "Do not go anywhere now," she said with a wink, moving to the fireplace and picking up her flint and striker.

It didn't take long til a brisk fire was burning and Donovan moved to the small couch to sit next to Hannah. She immediately snuggled up to Donovan, who extended an arm and pulled her closer. Hannah opened the blanket and covered them both partially. Donovan just looked down and smiled.

"There are times when dressing like a native is not always a good thing, hmm?" indicating the expanse of exposed skin on Hannah's body. She felt the unseen blush.

"No, I guess not," came the chagrined answer. "It's just so much easier. Besides," Hannah looked up and her nose crinkled as she smiled. "Who expected it to rain cold in the tropics in the middle of summer?"

"Yes, well technically solstice is not for another few days, and summer does not actually start til then."

Hannah narrowed her eyes at Donovan. "Let me guess... you do good in math too."

Broad shoulders shrugged. "I do all right, I guess. It plays into navigation and such."

"Figures," Hannah muttered. "I always hated math."

"What did you like?"

"Reading, writing... history was interesting. Science was okay, I suppose, but there was so much math intertwined with it, I never was really comfortable with it. And after the chemistry fiasco, I was excused from participating. It was safer for everyone that way."

"What happened?" from Donovan. The only people she knew who did chemistry were doctors, and Hannah did not give her that impression of lordly stuffiness. Besides, women just didn't do that sort of thing. It was considered too complex, though *that* thought made Donovan snort. She knew better.

Hannah blushed, remembering the embarrassment that disaster had caused her. "Um, too much reactive and not enough neutralizer. The uh... explosion was small, but there was a LOT of smoke. Real smelly smoke. The chem lab never smelled the same after that." She could feel the vibrations of laughter running through Donovan's body. Hannah glared up at her, then broke down and laughed. Donovan took her cue and let loose, her hearty laughter ringing like bells in the small cottage.

"I am sorry, Hannah, but that was funny. Most women I know would never TRY something like that, much less admit to failure. Although...." Her thoughts trailed off for a moment. "Depending on what you were trying to achieve, that could have been a very successful experiment."

Hannah cocked her head and thought about it. "That's true, but stink bombs weren't on the agenda."

Donovan chuckled again. "Tell me about your dreams," she said in an abrupt change of subject.

Hannah frowned slightly. "You know about my dreams. You were in them."

"Not really. For a very long time, you were only a set of beautiful, sea green eyes to me. Your face was unclear. Even your body... it wasn't until we made love for the first time that I was certain you were a woman. I suspected, of course...."

"Did it bother you... my being a woman?"

Donovan frowned now, and looked deeply into Hannah's eyes to see where the question was coming from. She cupped Hannah's face in her hands and pulled her in for a kiss. Hannah tangled her hands in the dark hair, and endeavored to draw Donovan closer to her. Only when their breathing grew ragged did Donovan ease back just slightly.

"No, I was not unhappy you were a woman. I was, um... hoping you were, actually. I knew you were out here waiting for me to find you, and I decided once I found you, we would be together, regardless." She waited a beat. "Does it bother you?" nonchalantly, but Hannah felt the heartbeat so close to hers speed up noticeably.

Hannah took a moment to look deeply into the blue orbs that had accompanied her dreams most of her life. She slid a hand out of Donovan's mane and gently traced the smoothness of her decidedly feminine face.

"When I was five years old," Hannah intoned quietly, "I dreamed of you for the very first time. All I saw was blue eyes and long dark hair, and I just assumed you were a woman." She chuckled lightly. "I thought you were a beautiful lady pirate."

Donovan smiled shakily and felt the bands of anxiety constricting her breathing ease up just a bit. Hannah's fingers brushed her lips and she kissed them softly.

"You were very sporadic in my dreams then, though even as a child I always looked forward to seeing you. You were a warm, friendly presence in my dreams, and I always felt loved and protected whenever I saw you." Hannah smiled wistfully. "I wrote about you in my diary every time you came." She paused for breath.

"Fifteen is such an awkward age... too old for children's games, and not yet an adult. And my life was so turbulent then. That is when my father died." Hannah stopped her stroking, and Donovan's eyes slowly opened to me hers. "Did you know about that?"

Donovan's gaze went inward as she focused her thoughts on the past. "Was your father's name Michael?"

Tears welled up in Hannah's eyes even as her head nodded affirmatively. "Yes, it was."

"I thought so. His eyes were so familiar... you have his eyes, you know."

Hannah smiled through her tears. "That's what I've always been told."

"It is true," Donovan agreed. "We did our very best for him, but it was not enough and we all knew it. He wanted to go home to say goodbye, but we found out shortly after he left us that he did not make it. I wanted so much to be able to comfort you, because I saw the sadness in your eyes."

"I saw the compassion in yours, and it was right then I think, that I fell in love with you. I decided that it didn't matter to me whether you were a man or a woman, what your nationality was, what God you believed in or what your skin color was. All that mattered to me was that you were a loving, caring individual... someone I had known since childhood, who protected me."

Hannah looked down and swallowed hard. Her voice grew so soft that Donovan nearly didn't hear her next words. "My biggest fear was that I would never find you. My second biggest fear was that you would not love me."

Donovan smiled. "No worries about that, Angel. I was captured from the very first. Even though I was still a child as well, your eyes betrayed your youth and innocence. So I watched over you, and I waited for us both to grow up."

Donovan took a deep breath. "It seemed like it was taking forever, time was passing so slowly." She smiled wryly. "And it was not like I saw you every night. For a long time, I was not sure if I was cursed or blessed. Then we picked up Michael."

Hannah shuddered and looked up into Donovan's eyes, her own filling with tears. "What happened to him, Donovan?"

"I really cannot say, but I think the weather took him by surprise. We found him after a terrible storm. He was bleeding quite badly, and the priest, who is also our doctor, said he was malnourished and somewhat dehydrated. We did the very best we could for him, Hannah... you have to believe that."

Hannah held Donovan's gaze. "I believe you, love. I would never, ever blame you for that. There was something about this place. He was on a quest, driven by it... searching for something. I was angry with him for a long time after he died."

"He loved you very much, you know," Donovan said softly. "He talked about you quite a bit while he was with us."

"I know he did. But there was something about this place that called to him, and even I couldn't overcome his obsession."

"I think he was doing it for you," Donovan murmured thoughtfully, turning her gaze to the fire. Hannah sat up and pulled herself away from the Captain's warm body.

"Excuse me?"

Donovan shifted slightly so she could regard Hannah directly. "We talked at some length, and more than once I got the distinct impression he was interrogating me. Almost... almost like he knew that you were the Green Eyes of my dreams." She hesitated and looked back at the flames before turning again to Hannah. "Did you ever tell your father about your dreams?"

Hannah chuckled embarrassedly. "Um, no. When I was little, I didn't understand you were real. By the time I understood that, I was almost thirteen, and that was just not something I was ready to tell him." The expression on Hannah's face grew sad. "I was thinking about talking to him that summer. I had about decided to do it when he came home." She drew a short, sobbing breath. "Then we got word of his death, and I never had the chance." Hannah tucked herself back under Donovan's chin and shivered. The taller woman wrapped her arms more securely around Hannah and kissed the top of her blonde head. "I still miss him."

Donovan almost missed the barely whispered words. "I know you do, Angel. Just remember that he loved you very much."

They were silent for a time after that, each absorbed in their own thoughts. The room grew warmer as the rain continued to pour down around them. Hannah let the blanket slide down, but made no effort to move from the heat of Donovan's embrace. As it grew darker outside, the light from the fire seemed to grow. Finally, Donovan cleared her throat to speak.

"Hannah?"

The blonde woman stirred, the peace and security she found in Donovan's arms having lulled her into a state of blissful contentment. "Hmm?" she mumbled sleepily. Donovan smiled down, rubbing her cheek against Hannah's hair.

"What do you think your father would think of us... as a couple, I mean. Would he approve... or at least be happy that you had found happiness?"

"What kinds of questions did he ask you?" Hannah asked suddenly without answering. Donovan frowned at the sudden change of subject and scrambled to kick-start her mind in a new direction.

"Uh... well, he asked a bit about my family, and we discussed my Naval career and my plans for the future." Her brow furrowed. "We talked about art and literature and education, and even a little bit about our hobbies. Almost as though...."

"Almost as though you were a suitor," Hannah finished the thought. "But...." Now her own thoughts trailed off. "I know he and Jack were searching for something out here. Even if their actions didn't prove it, Jack told me as much the other day."

"Do you know what they were looking for?" Donovan asked quietly.

"No. As a child I was never privy to anything like that. And by the time I figured out that they were searching for something, Daddy died." Hannah sighed then continued. "I just started reading the journals about their explorations, but so far it's not really clear on what specifically they were searching for. I asked Jack about it, but he refused to answer. Said I had to figure it out on my own."

"Have you? Figured it out, I mean."

"No, not really. I have some clues, but nothing that makes any sense yet." Hannah shrugged. "It'll fall into place eventually. It's just gonna take a while. But for now, I'm not gonna worry about it." She hugged Donovan hard, pleased with the fervent response she received. "I have you here and that is everything. The rest will wait."

Donovan leaned down, tilting Hannah's chin up to receive her kiss. Hannah didn't hesitate, but deepened it immediately, anxious to convey just exactly how she felt. Donovan moaned, almost overwhelmed by the depth of emotion Hannah was communicating to her soul. She responded in kind, sliding her hand into the blonde hair and pulling Hannah so close that even air couldn't pass between them.

Donovan pulled away from Hannah's mouth to plant kisses along her jaw line, Hannah's warm breath in her ear making her shiver. She reached Hannah's earlobe and bit gently, eliciting a whimper in response. "I cannot begin to tell you," Donovan said in the barest of whispers, "How truly wonderful that makes me feel." She kissed down Hannah's neck, lingering on her jugular and sucking lightly. Hannah's grip on her hair grew almost painful as the smaller woman forced Donovan's head up and captured her lips passionately.

Long moments passed before they came up for air, and still they were close enough to breathe one another's air, foreheads touching. "But I plan on showing you every single day for the rest of our lives," Donovan stated firmly and quietly.

Hannah licked her lips and gazed up into familiar blue eyes. "You'd better be planning on longer than that. This is a forever kind of thing for me, love."

The smile on Donovan's face broadened at those words until it seemed to light the whole room. "I am not sure that forever will be long enough... but it is a good start."

Hannah couldn't contain the happiness that bubbled up and she giggled softly. "I've spent twenty-five years dreaming about you... falling in love with you. I want to spend eternity getting to know you."

The rain had tapered off to less than a drizzle and the cloying smell of wet earth and steam rose to scent the air around them. Hannah stood and Donovan followed suit. "I need to get home... see if Jack is back yet. Will you join us for dinner tonight? Say around sunset?"

Donovan hesitated, not sure she was ready to meet this "Jack", but knowing Hannah had agreed without hesitation to travel home with her to meet her parents, she nodded solemnly.

"He may not even be back yet, but I am anxious for the two of you to meet. We were always close while I was growing up, and when Daddy died, he became like a Dad to me in a lot of ways."

Donovan cleared her throat, but her voice still cracked slightly when she spoke. "Um, do I need to prepare for another interrogation?"

"No, I don't think... I mean... um, well, he might... I mean uh, yeah, maybe.... Oh God!" Hannah dropped her now flushed face into her hands. "Yes, you should probably be prepared for a lot of questions when you meet him."

Donovan groaned.

"Don't worry, though," Hannah answered the unspoken plea. "I'm not leaving your side."

"I am counting on that, Angel. I already told you." She took Hannah's smaller hands in her own. "Are you sure I cannot come with you now?"

Hannah kissed the large hands clasping her own, marveling at the strength so evident in them. "I want to go home, make something sinfully scrumptious for dinner, soak in the tub for a bit, and become beautiful for you."

Donovan smiled. "You already are beautiful for me." She pressed her fingertips to Hannah's lips to halt her speech. "But I know what you mean, and I understand the sentiment." She walked Hannah to the door. "May I keep the picnic boxes? I would like to plan an outing, but I do not have such intriguing containers."

"Sure. Would you like me to take them home and wash them first?"

Donovan rolled her eyes and smiled. "Despite popular belief to the contrary and my mother's firm confidence otherwise, I am capable of doing a few dishes." She mock glowered in Hannah's direction. "However, if you ever feel the need to share that bit of information, I will deny I ever said it and you will be walking the plank."

"You really don't think I am going to share the soft side of you with anyone, do you?" Hannah asked, ignoring the outraged look Donovan was casting her way. "I am a very selfish person... and I don't share well with others."

"Soft??? Did you just call me soft?!?"

"Yeah, I did. You wanna make something of it, tough stuff?"

Donovan stared at the fire sparking from those green eyes and smiled sheepishly, shaking her head. "No ma'am. I know when to surrender."

"Don't worry, love." Hannah said softly as she ran her hands through Donovan's dark hair. "I would never do anything to embarrass you."

"I know...." she reached out and swatted Hannah's backside. "Now go, before I change my mind about letting you go alone."

Hannah stood on tiptoe and pressed a swift kiss to Donovan's cheek. "See you in a few hours, love." And she rushed out the door and down the steps, turning to wave before she disappeared into the foliaged pathway.

Donovan stood at the open door for long moments after Hannah was gone. "My word, I have it bad." She shook her dark head ruefully and went back inside, deciding a hot bath was a pretty good idea, and she whistled while she prepared her water... again.

************

Hannah arrived home rather quickly, and went directly to start the hot water running in the tub. She'd hit another cold patch of air on the way home, and was now distinctly chilled. She took a quick look through the house, noting that there was no sign of Jack's return and letting her shoulder slump just slightly. She was truly looking forward to him and Donovan meeting one another.

She crossed to the refrigerator and pulled a couple of steaks from the small freezer. She shivered again when the cold air blasted her, and she set the packages on the tray to thaw, then moved back towards the bathroom.

Hannah sighed in relief as the warmth of the steam crept into her bones, and she quickly stripped her suit off and slid into the depths of the tub and closed her eyes. Immediately, her thoughts were filled with Donovan, and she felt the smile broaden her lips.

She didn't linger too long in the tub, though the water had cooled considerably and she was quite warm when she exited. She wrapped in a robe and walked back to the kitchen, pleased by the fact that the steaks were nearly thawed. She spiced and marinated them, then stuck them into the fridge. A glance at the clock showed her that she still had a couple hours before Donovan was due, and she decided to lay down for a bit. The events of the day were overwhelming, and she felt the need to consider everything that had happened.

She never even realized when she fell asleep.

************

Donovan was startled from her reverie by a loud pounding on her door, followed by Harold's youthful voice calling out to her.

"Cap'n! Captain Scott! Are you there?"

Donovan groaned, for she knew that Harold's coming to her place of refuge boded no good for her. The men respected her need for privacy in this place, and were loath to disturb her for less than a life or death emergency. She moved to the door and flung it open, towering above the young lad and causing him to become mute for a long moment.

Donovan almost chuckled at the expression on his face. Instead she schooled her features and asked gruffly. "What is it, boy?"

Harold swallowed hard and nodded, remembering the importance of his assignment. "Cap'n, Mr. Merryweather sent me to fetch you, sir. One of the merchant ships, that's been robbin' these folks blind, just pulled into port, sir."

Damn! Damn! Damn! Why here? And why now? Donovan banged her head on the door sill, letting it rest there for a long moment. "Come in, Harold," she stated softly as she walked to the kitchen and moved the water off the stove. "I need you to do something for me."

The boy followed her, trying to be discreet as he studied his surroundings. His Captain was a very private woman, and none of the crew had been out here since the day they had helped her to raise the walls. He waited with his hands stuffed in his pockets while she retrieved a thick sheet of paper, ink and a quill.

Harold stood at the doorway between the kitchen and living area, and found his attention riveted to the portrait on the wall. He recognized the Captain and wondered briefly who the other woman was, and if she was the reason they had been back to the island so much lately. Not that he was complaining, he thought with a smirk. He had met the cutest girl here and had been looking for an opportunity to get to know her a little bit. Harold sighed soundlessly. This turn of events would put all kinds of damper on the plans he had been making in that regard.

He was brought out of his thoughts and back to rigid attention when Donovan rose from the table and
stopped in front of him. "Come with me."

She walked with him to the end of the pathway, and took out her knife, cutting a few of the lovely wildflowers that grew there. She handed the bunch of them and the paper to the cabin boy and caught his eyes with a piercing stare.

"If you follow the coast for about a mile to the west, you will find a house there." She gestured in the direction he needed to go. "I need you to take this note and these flowers, and deliver them to the woman who lives there. You do not have to say anything to her, just make sure she gets them, all right?"

There were a thousand questions he wanted to ask. He knew better than to give them voice, and simply nodded his acceptance of her statement instead.

"Good lad. This is important." She looked off in the direction that her heart was pulling her, angry that she had to give up her evening with Hannah because of someone else's greed. Donovan closed her eyes and swallowed hard. When she reopened them, Harold noted the sky blue had been replaced with colorless gray and he knew he was now looking at the Ice Princess. It was something the merchants they preyed upon as pirates had nicknamed Donovan when confronted with her cold-hearted fury towards them. It was an apt description.

He brought his attention back to her words when she began speaking again. He knew for all her fairness to her officers and men, she could not abide slovenly work or ineptitude.

"I will take your horse and go to the ship immediately. As soon as you have completed your task, you make all haste on foot to join us. If we are not there, wait on the dock. I do not expect this to take too long. I have better things to be doing with my time tonight."

"Captain?" Harold questioned hesitantly.

"Go boy, and be quick!"

"Aye, sir!" the youth answered with a smart salute, and took off running down the beach as fast as his legs would carry him. Donovan sighed, and moved back in the house to change into her 'other' uniform.

************

Hannah awoke with a start, disoriented, heart pounding. It took a few minutes for her to get her bearings and catch her breath. She wondered briefly at the flashes of image that remained from her dream. Nothing concrete, but oddly terrifying nonetheless. She could still feel the violence... smell the coopery scent of blood... feel the anger and adrenaline.... The memory coaxed a shiver from her body and she rubbed her face with her hands.

"Ugh," she mumbled to herself. "That was bizarre." She looked around the room, suddenly noticing that it was nearly dark outside. "Oh God... I overslept. What is Donovan gonna think?"

She stumbled out of the bedroom looking for any sign that Donovan was waiting for her. She flipped on the lights, noting to her dismay that they didn't respond. "Dammit!" she muttered. Hannah nixed the dress she had planned to wear and slipped into a pair of comfortable shorts and a long silk shirt she left untucked. Then she set out to find some sort of lighting.

Finally, after ten minutes worth of mutterings and cursings, Hannah managed to find a single kerosene lantern and a handful of candles. She stepped out onto the patio, realizing that there'd been another storm while she'd been sleeping and wondering vaguely if that had been what had given her such disturbing dreams. She shook her head, and moved to the woodshed for some wood to stoke the barbeque pit Jack had built. It would suit her needs admirably this evening.

Hannah looked at the sky again, wondering what was keeping Donovan, though she understood it was very likely the other woman had fallen asleep and overslept herself. The power outage tended to throw everyone's timing off.

She built a small fire in the pit and left it to burn while she went back into the house to finish her preparations. "Ya know," she muttered to herself, "You'd think that a man would have at least one flashlight in the house." She set the lantern on the counter and snagged a couple potatoes from the bin, cleaning them and wrapping them in foil with butter, salt and pepper.

She took the steaks and the potatoes and juggled them and the lantern as she eased back outside to the grill. With a glance she saw that the fire was still burning, and Hannah set the potatoes on the back away from the flame. She placed the steaks to one side wanting to wait until Donovan arrived before starting them.

Hannah sat back as the stars began to come out and the moon began to create its own path on the water. After a bit, her eyes followed its path into the yard and she noticed a lump that hadn't been there previously. Curiosity got the better of her and with a glance at the now glowing embers, she grabbed the lantern and moved down the pathway towards the spot.

Her breath caught when she noticed it was a bouquet of wildflowers carefully placed in the center of the path. She brought them to her nose and sniffed, a smile crossing her face. I guess she came and when she didn't get an answer left these for me to find. A frown crossed her face then. Wonder why she didn't leave them on the porch?

She looked back at the barbeque pit and then in the direction of Donovan's cottage, and gave in to the longing to go find the woman.

************

The cottage was dark when Hannah approached and her frown deepened. She knocked but the only reply she received was silence. She walked around the small house, assuring herself that Donovan was nowhere around. Hannah was torn between anger and concern.

Finally, frustrated at herself, at Donovan, at whatever had happened, she turned and made her way back down the beach to Jack's place.

When she got back to the beach house, she removed the now cooked potatoes from the grill and placed the steaks on to cook. Hannah wasn't really hungry, but she didn't see the point in letting the stuff go to waste. She stepped inside and set the potatoes on the counter, seeing that the power had come back on in the interim.

"Good. I'm glad something is finally working right this evening."

Hannah finished cooking up the steaks and scattered the embers to allow them to cool faster while she put the steaks in the house. She walked back out onto the patio, allowing the breeze to riffle through her hair and breathing deeply of the fresh, salty air.

She blew out the lantern and retrieved the wine and a single goblet. She poured a half a glass and sat back listening to the waves rush to the shore. She watched the moon extend its path into the sea as she sipped at the wine. She never felt her eyes slide shut, and she never saw the figure that stood in front of her like a specter hours later.

It was unnerving when she woke up in her own bed at daybreak the following morning.



Chapter VIII

Hannah awoke just as the sun completed its rise over the horizon feeling oddly refreshed, though she looked around her room in confusion with sleepily blinking green eyes. I don't remember coming to bed last night. She sat up and glanced down at herself as the sheet slid down her naked torso. And I certainly don't remember getting undressed. Hannah slid from the bed and stood up stretching, noting that the house was still eerily quiet. Well, either Jack is down at the beach or he didn't get home last night. Surely he didn't....

Hannah shook her head, knowing that Jack would never presume to put her to bed like that. He would simply have awakened her and coaxed her to do it herself. She frowned... it bothered her that she didn't remember what happened. I didn't dream either. Hmm....

She turned toward the mirror and regarded her reflection solemnly. She viewed herself critically, wondering not for the first time how Blue Eyes... how Donovan saw her. Did she find her attractive, beautiful? Or was Hannah too muscular, too short, too.... The blonde head fell back in frustration and the eyes closed. This is ridiculous, and is getting me nowhere fast. There is a perfectly good reason she didn't make it last night. Why not give the woman a chance to explain before you start making assumptions and accusations?

With a nod to herself, Hannah snatched up her robe and up her robe and tied it off. "Let me go start the coffee and then we'll see if I can think a little more clearly."

Flipping the switch on the already prepped pot, Hannah glanced out the patio doors toward the beach, but didn't see any movement. She shrugged and headed in to the bathroom, content that the coffee would be ready when she got out of the shower.

Fifteen minutes later, she stepped out of the bedroom dressed in shorts and a tank top feeling much better. She walked the few steps to the kitchen, stopping short when she saw a cup of coffee sitting ready on the counter. Before she could think about it though, she heard the toilet flush and moments later saw Jack's head pop out of the hallway. They greeted one another with smiles.

"You nearly gave me a heart attack, ya know," Hannah commented to him as she pulled back from their hug. "When did you get in?"

Jack handed her the mug of coffee he'd left fixed on the counter for her and looked at the clock. "Oh about fifteen minutes ago, I guess. You started the shower just as I passed the bathroom door."

"How'd your trip go?"

He shook his head and frowned. "Not well. I'm gonna be spending a lot of time going back and forth in the next few weeks. Pisses me off too, I'll tell ya, because we're supposed to be getting some quality time in together. The timing on this just stinks."

She grabbed the fruit bowl from the fridge and set out two bowls and spoons. Then she seated herself at the bar and motioned for him to do the same. "Can you share?" She helped herself to some fruit and passed him the container. "Or would you prefer not to?"

He scooped a portion of the fruit into the bowl in front of him and spooned some into his mouth, nodding his agreement. "I can share," he said after he swallowed, "but it really won't make much sense."

Jack took another bite and chewed thoughtfully. "Something peculiar is happening to the weather currents suddenly. Something that has no logic behind it, and it seems to be affecting other things as well."

"Like what?" Hannah asked as she continued to eat.

"Like fishing... or any water sport. And attitudes. People are acting more bizarre than they usually do, even for tourists," he added with a smile.

"Bizarre how?"

"Um, well... there was the group of nuns that went gambling in the casino. And the seniors' group that went sunbathing naked. We've had the same group of people doing that particular tour for fourteen years, and they have NEVER been nude sunbathing... especially on a public beach. Then of course there were the college kids that decided to have a prayer meeting in the middle of the road. That particular fraternity has had more overnights in the drunk tank than any other single group of people that have visited the islands."

By now, Hannah's eyebrows were in her hairline. "Okay, Uncle Jack. I think I am getting the picture." She poured them each a second cup of coffee. "What exactly can you do about it though?"

"I'm not sure, but the Triangle and its effects are my areas of expertise. I think if we can figure out the 'why', fixing the problem should be fairly easy." He studied his empty bowl before he looked up to catch her gaze. "Unfortunately, even with my state-of-the-art office, a lot of the equipment is at a research lab on the big island. So it means a lot of back and forthing for me."

"Wouldn't it be easier for you just to stay there? I mean...."

Jack looked into Hannah's face squarely. "Yeah, it would, but that's not right. It's not fair to you that...." He stopped speaking when she covered his lips.

"You go and you do what you need to. It will probably go faster if you just stay there and get it done." She arched a brow at him. "Won't it?" At his nod, she continued. "I've been thinking about your offer... about moving here on a more permanent basis. That idea is becoming more and more appealing the longer I stay here." She smiled when she felt his lips twitch in a grin under her fingertips. She moved them.

"You mean that?"

"Yeah, I do. It would be nice to be near family again."

"And you're sure about being alone for the next couple weeks? Cause I don't know how long this will take."

"Will you be here for the Pirates' Ball?"

"Oh yes!" came the adamant reply. "There are some things that one just does not miss on this island. That would be at the top of the list."

"Go then, with my blessing. Just call me once in a while, will ya? Let me know how things are going?"

"You got it, sweetheart. With any luck this will take less time than I imagined."

"That would be nice."

"All right," he said standing up and taking their dishes to the sink. "Let me go and get done so I can get back." He leaned over and kissed her cheek. "You're a good niece Hannah, and a good friend. I'm glad you're here."

She smiled back at him. "Me too, Uncle Jack. Me too."

************

Within an hour, Jack was showered, shaved and repacked. "I still feel bad about leaving you here alone, Hannah."

"I'm not alone, Uncle Jack, and so many of your friends are becoming mine as well. So it's not a bad thing. Now I'll see you on the twenty-fifth if not before, right?"

"Yep, though I will try to make it home for the weekend... if I don't get caught up in things." He scratched the back of his neck absently.

"Happens a lot, hmm?" Hannah teased gently.

"Yeah... it's gotten me into trouble more than once."

"Just don't forget to call me once in a while, and you'll be fine."

A horn sounded and he moved to the door. "Thanks for calling Harry to pick me up. I'll call you tonight when I get settled in."

"Have fun, Jack. I haven't seen you this excited about a project in years."

It was quiet once he left, and Hannah turned her attention to the day outside. She was debating with herself on whether or not she wanted to go see if she could find Donovan. She still hadn't decided if she was more concerned, angry or upset when Donovan appeared at the end of the path, waiting hesitantly to see what sort of reception she was going to receive.

Hannah stood looking at her for a long moment, and Donovan cocked her head slightly in supplication. The blonde stepped off the patio and moved down the path towards the Captain. Donovan stood stock still, not sure of her welcome.

Hannah stood looking into contrite blue eyes for a minute before reaching out and taking Donovan's hand in her own. "We need to talk, I think." The dark head simply nodded in agreement and Donovan allowed Hannah to lead her to the porch.

"Have a seat," Hannah offered. "I'll get us something to drink."

Donovan glance around at the house she had only til now seen in the darkness. It was nothing spectacular, though she found the use of the natural rock very clever. The patio and several of the seats thereon seemed to be carved from it. She noted the amount of glass windows, and figured that Jack must be a very wealthy man to have used it so lavishly. It had taken her almost a year's wages to buy all the glass she had used in her own cottage, and they were nowhere near the size of the sheet that served as the door that Hannah re-emerged from.

Hannah was relieved of the tray as she stepped across the threshold, and she had to smile at the gallantness of her intrepid companion. Donovan set the glasses down on the rough hewn wooden table very cautiously, and Hannah felt more than heard the sigh of relief she emitted when the chore was complete.

Hannah smiled and spoke softly. "I take my tea unsweetened, but perhaps you like sugar... or... something in yours?"

Donovan shook her head. "Unsweetened is fine. I like to taste the tea."

Hannah nodded and poured a glass. She handed it to Donovan, who accepted it with widened eyes. "What?" she questioned, looking around for a problem.

"You use ice so liberally?"

"Um, yes. It's the best way to drink iced tea that I know of." Hannah realized that it was probably not that common on the rest of the island. "It's just how we always had it growing up."

Donovan took a tentative sip. "That is very cold," was her comment before taking a larger swallow. "I like this." And she gave Hannah a big grin. A grin which faded when it was not returned. "Hannah?" she queried softly.

"What happened to you last night, Donovan? No word, no note, nothing. And I know you weren't home because I went down to check."

Donovan scowled. "Waitaminute. What do you mean... no note or anything? I sent my cabin boy Harold over with specific instructions to give you flowers and a note personally. To put them directly into your hands. You mean to tell me he did not do that??" The Captain stood up full of ire, and started to stomp away. Hannah placed a calming hand on Donovan's forearm, and she halted in her tracks.

"I am sorry, Hannah. I do not blame you for being upset with me. I need to go take care of Harold. My crew knows the penalty for disobedience. I need to find out what happened before I set his punishment."

"Hold on a minute, Donovan." Hannah tugged on Donovan's arm and pulled the tall woman back down into the seat beside her. "I found some flowers at the end of the path after moonrise last night... but there was no note. They may have been there earlier and I just didn't notice them. I don't know... it's hard to say at this point what happened. Maybe he left the note and it blew away."

"Maybe. But his directions were to give them TO you... not leave them in the path or on the porch. He disobeyed a direct order, and will have to be disciplined accordingly."

"In the meantime, that does not tell me where you were last night." Hannah paused, realizing just how possessive she sounded. She continued in a quieter voice, "I was worried."

Contrite blue eyes glanced down before rising to meet green. "I am sorry to have worried you," Donovan said quietly. "We had an emergency last night, and it had to be dealt with immediately."

Hannah waited, but when no more information was forthcoming, she asked, "Can you share with me? I'd like to understand."

Donovan sighed soundlessly. She trusted Hannah not to betray her, but she was still unsure what the woman's reaction would be to the reality of what they did. "We had to take care of some merchants who were stealing from the tribes here again. They think they can because they have money, but it is not right. So we do not let them."

Truth, as far as it went, just none of the gorier details. That was something Donovan hoped she never had to share.

Hannah thought about that for a while. "That makes sense," she said at last. "They shouldn't be allowed to take advantage of these people and their culture just because they think they can."

Donovan nodded with agreement and sighed with relief. She was glad that Hannah agreed in principle, even if she didn't understand the practice behind it. "I am sorry to have missed dinner with you last night. Do you think we could try again?"

Hannah looked at Donovan, gauging the sincerity in her eyes. "I think we could. I think I can make steak salad and twice baked potatoes from what was supposed to be dinner last night."

"Twice baked potatoes?"

"Go with me on this. It's wonderful... trust me."

"I do." And with those words, Hannah felt her hurt feelings melt away into the warmth of belonging. She gave Donovan a dazzling smile. "What would you like to do today?"

"What I would like to do, and what I am going to do are two entirely different things." The leer she cast in Hannah's direction caused a distinct warming of her whole body with the implications. "I must go speak with Harold first. I cannot let such impudence go unpunished. It is bad for morale, and it is bad for discipline."

Hannah thought about this then nodded her slow agreement. "May I go with you? I won't interfere, but I don't want to give up the day with you." She hesitated then tilted her head and added, "Please?"

Donovan smiled. There was no way she could resist that much adorable thrown directly at her. Truth be told, she didn't really want to. "I think we could do that. It is quite a walk, though. And um, you probably do not want to go dressed like that."

Hannah looked down at her shorts and tank top, then at Donovan's linen trousers and shirt, and her brow furrowed. Donovan caught the look and hastened to explain. "*I* like it, not as much as your native garb," she said with wiggling eyebrows. That got her a smack on her abs. "Oof!" she mock coughed. "Pay a woman a compliment and she beats you black and blue." Hannah snorted.

"Anyway," Donovan continued, "Like I was saying, *I* like it. But I do not want men leering at you. That is my privilege," she said casting another leer in Hannah's direction for emphasis. "My men would probably be the best behaved, but I see no reason to throw temptation deliberately at them. The others I cannot control and I am not sure the world is ready for the consequences."

Hannah caught the burning faraway look in Donovan's eyes, and she shivered at the intensity the Captain was emitting in roiling waves. She took a breath to speak and Donovan turned, her gaze softening as soon as their eyes met. Hannah smiled, relived when Donovan returned the look and reached for her. Hannah pulled the strong hand to her waist and lifted her own hand up to stroke Donovan's smooth face.

"I can see your point, but I don't have much else. Especially since the alternative of going native is probably not a good option. Unless...." She tapered off and Donovan raised a dark brow in question.

"Unless...?" she prompted.

"Uh... wait here a minute. I'll be right back."

Hannah disappeared into the house and Donovan resumed her seat, closing her eyes and frowning slightly as images from the previous evening assaulted her senses. She focused her thoughts and her breathing toward nothingness, and she almost didn't hear Hannah return.

For her part, Hannah stood at the closed door for a long moment just admiring the beauty of the woman who sat on the patio. When she pushed the door aside, Hannah felt and saw those piercing blue eyes turn her way, and she flushed under the frank admiration there. Donovan smiled in true appreciation.

"You are beautiful."

She reached out her hands to Hannah, who accepted them without thought. Donovan looked the smaller woman up and down and nodded her head in approval. She reached a tentative hand out to touch the dark green material, and sighed when she made contact with silk. More and more she was starting to realize the gulf that existed between herself and Hannah. While her family was by no means destitute, and was in fact titled and well-respected, the luxuries she had seen Hannah take for granted were well beyond her means. The thought caused her to withdraw just slightly.

Hannah caught Donovan's hand before it could slide was from her completely. "I don't like that look," she stated frankly. "What are you thinking? Is the outfit not going to work?"

Donovan turned away so her face was to the sea. "It is nothing," she muttered. Hannah wasn't having any of that and moved into her line of sight to confront her.

"No," Hannah said so firmly that Donovan's eyes tracked to her automatically. "No, something is bothering you and I want to know what it is." She paused. "If we are going to be together, love, we're going to have to be honest with one another."

Donovan looked into earnest eyes. "All right, but let us walk... it takes awhile to get to the port from here, and I need to take care of this now."

"Then this outfit is okay?"

The outfit is perfect, though it does not do you justice." She smiled at Hannah's blush. "Come. Walk with me, Angel." She extended a hand that Hannah accepted immediately. With a smile, the two women headed down the path to the beach.

Somewhat to Hannah's surprise, they turned east towards Donovan's cottage. She started to speak, but held her tongue when Donovan's fingers touched her lips. Instead, she licked the appendages and smirked at the growl the action drew from the depths of Donovan's chest.

When they reached the path to the cottage, Donovan turned and pulled Hannah with her. They walked until they reached the steps, and Donovan moved the smaller woman to stand in front of them as they both faced the small home.

"Take a good look," she whispered into the nearby ear. Hannah had to focus on the sight in front of her rather than the feeling of being locked in Donovan's strong embrace. Donovan realized when Hannah's attention shifted from her to the house and she waited a few minutes.

"Now, I want you to think about something... hush and let me finish." Donovan waited for the blonde head to nod compliance before she continued. "I have seen how you live, Hannah. You use glass for your doors and wear yards of silk and use ice so liberally. I cannot provide that for you, much as I would like to." She sighed and took a seat on the stone step she herself had built. "The glass you see in these windows took me almost a year's salary to buy. The two silk shirts I have I only wear on special occasions to keep them from wearing out. I live comfortably, but have nowhere near the means to support you as you have become accustomed to." She looked down at the ground now. "I thought you should know."

Hannah knelt down in front of Donovan, raising her head until their eyes met. "Donovan, do you think so little of me that you believe I would put material possessions before what we share... what we have shared for twenty years?"

"No," came the instant response. "No... I, um... no, not... not really, but, um... I, uh... I wanted you to know the truth upfront. I do not want you to think I am taking advantage of your wealth."

Hannah laughed out loud at this statement, and moved to sit in Donovan's lap. The Captain was surprised but pleased at the action and welcomed Hannah with open arms. "Honey, I appreciate the sentiment, but I'm really not wealthy. Comfortable, like you. Besides, we're partners, right?" She waited for Donovan to process her words and watched the dark head nod agreement. "Right, and that means we share. What's mine is yours, all right?"

"All right," Donovan said emphatically.

Hannah started to get up then sat back down rather abruptly. "Oh, and one more thing...." She caught Donovan's chin in her hand and made sure she had her attention. "I want you to understand this if you don't understand anything else, okay?"

"Okay," Donovan answered softly.

"If all we had was a blanket for shelter, I would be happy as long as we were sheltered together." She stared deep into trusting eyes and willed Donovan to believe. "Now, are we clear on this?"

Donovan kept the gaze up for another long moment before she pulled Hannah's lips to meet her own. "Yes ma'am," she whispered against Hannah's mouth. "We are clear."

Hannah had no opportunity to reply as Donovan took possession of her lips and claimed the very air that she breathed. When they separated, Donovan rose and brought Hannah up with her. "Come," she said on a breathless note. "If we stay here much longer I will not be responsible for what happens to your virtue, and I really need to get to the ship."

Hannah flushed at the brazenness of Donovan's comment, then made one of her own. "You keep kissing me like that and my virtue won't be a problem. I'll make sure there isn't any left."

Donovan's ears turned bright red as she led the way down the path back towards the beach.

"You know, when I was a child there were a lot of nights I did not see your eyes in my dream," Donovan stated quietly moving the conversation into different waters.

Hannah waited silently, knowing there was more.

"On those nights, I was in a meadow very similar to the one here. As a matter of fact, that meadow is the main reason I decided to build here." She sighed. "It was a wonderful place... full of wildflowers and shady trees...."

A gasp. "And a cave that was perfect for exploring on rainy days."

Donovan's head swung abruptly towards Hannah, and her eyes widened. "How did you...?"

"Because I was there. It was generally just the two of us, though there were a few times that I was there alone. We ran and laughed and played together. It was my favorite dream, next to seeing your eyes."

"Waitaminute... that was YOU?? That was us... together?? How come... why didn't we recognize each other?"

"I dunno," Hannah answered slowly. "I don't remember ever seeing your eyes there. I don't think the time was right. We were children together, becoming friends, and making memories without realizing their importance to us until right now."

"So in our dreams we got to grow up together. We got to be friends." Donovan's smile was blinding and Hannah returned it wholeheartedly. She wrapped her arms around the tall woman and squeezed tightly.

"Yeah, we did. And I think that is wonderful. All my most cherished dreams.... You have always been a part of them... a part of my life."

Donovan returned the embraced, leaning down to steal a kiss. "I am just glad that our dreams have finally become reality. The dreams were wonderful, but reality is so much nicer."

Hannah turned in Donovan's arms and laced her hands behind the dark head. "It certainly is, and it's only gonna get better." She urged Donovan's head lower, until they were a mere hairsbreadth apart.

"You sure about that, beloved?" the Captain asked softly. The tickle of warm breath across Hannah's lips started a tingling sensation a lot lower, and she pulled Donovan's mouth into her own.

"Uh huh," she mumbled, and it was the last coherent thought for quite a few minutes. When they separated, Hannah looked down at Donovan's hands that had crept completely up under her top and were now resting considerably higher then her waist. She looked into Donovan's eyes and grinned at the blush that crossed her face.

"Oh, um...." The Captain began to slide her hands away from Hannah's body, when strong arms locked them in place. She looked at Hannah in shocked confusion.

"Don't move them on my account," came the sultry whisper from Hannah's lips.

Donovan cleared her throat. "I am moving them on mine, because I do not want our first time to be in the sand on the beach."

Hannah thought about that and nodded, tying the fastener she'd loosened on Donovan's blouse. "I agree with you on that. Sand is just not my idea of romantic."

Donovan chuckled. "No, not really. It *sounds* romantic I know. But if you spend anytime at all on the beach naked, you learn the fallacy of that idea pretty quickly." She reached for Hannah's hand to start their journey back to the ship, and was surprised when Hannah froze, standing still with her hands on her hips, green eyes glaring slits.

"Um, Hannah?"

"Do I want to know how you know about being on the beach naked?" Her tone was sharp and biting, but she couldn't seem to help it. The sudden surge of jealously she felt was overwhelming.

"It is how I go swimming when I am out here, and the first couple times I just dropped into the sand without thinking about it," was Donovan's quiet response.

"Oh, uh...." Hannah dropped her gaze. "Sorry, I'm not real sure where that came from."

Donovan lifted Hannah's chin until their eyes met. "It is okay. It is actually a little flattering for me. I have never had someone get jealous about me before."

Now Hannah's look turned to one of disbelief. She clasped Donovan's face in her hands and stared hard at her. "You're kidding me right? God, Donovan, you're gorgeous." Donovan blushed at the compliment, but maintained eye contact with Hannah.

"Thank you, Angel. But you are the first person to get close enough to say so. I have always been a bit of a loner. The friends I have would not think to comment on something like that. It would not occur to them."

"Well then," Hannah answered, "I'll make sure to tell you every single day for the rest of our lives."

Donovan had no response to make, so she extended her hand to Hannah once again. When Hannah accepted, she was pulled firmly into Donovan's body. "I love you," Donovan whispered, running her fingers lightly along Hannah's smooth cheekbone. That got her a blinding smile in return.

"I love you too." Their lips met in an exchange that was as much an affirmation of their love as it was of their passion. They broke apart and their foreheads met for a long moment.

"C'mon," Hannah said. "We're not making much progress here."

"No, we certainly are not," Donovan agreed laughingly. She pulled on their linked hands and began jogging down the beach. Hannah squealed and ran to keep up.

************

It took them about half an hour of jogging and walking before they came around the bend in the island that led to the port. Hannah slowed and Donovan took three steps before she realized that Hannah had come to a full stop. She turned and saw the astonished expression and moved swiftly back to Hannah's side. "Angel?"

Hannah's mouth moved soundlessly for a minute before her arm rose and she pointed. "Donovan, that's a British Man o' War."

Donovan turned and glanced proudly at her ship. "Yes ma'am. It certainly is. She is the finest ship in the fleet." Her focus reverted back to Hannah when she felt the small hand clutch at her arm. "Hannah?"

"Donovan," the blonde woman whispered. She swallowed twice, trying valiantly to speak normally. It didn't help. "Donovan," she tried again. What year is it?"

Confusion crossed the tanned features, but she answered the question anyway. "It is the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and fifty-five."

She caught Hannah as she crumpled before her body touched the sand.



Chapter IX

"Captain!!" the blonde man called when he saw the tall woman staggering through the sand towards them. He wondered briefly about the green bundle in her arms, but not enough to question it at the moment. Instead he shouted at the crew.

"Mr. MacKensie, Mr. Trilby, see if you can assist the captain." The two men moved down towards the gangplank. Trilby stopped and did an about face, snatching up a litter to make carrying the bundle easier.

MacKensie reached Donovan and gave her a salute that she acknowledged with a nod of her head. Trilby was close behind him, and nudged him with the pallet. Mac turned with a growl, then took the end of the travois. Between them they spread the litter to accept the Captain's burden. Their eyes widened with their first glance at the beautiful woman Donovan carried, then they moved away out of respect.

Donovan smiled. She knew she could count on her men, at least most of them, being gentlemen around Hannah. The few she was worried about... well, those she would take care of if and when the need arose, though she hoped it never did.

She laid Hannah tenderly on the pallet and took the small hand in her own as she accompanied the litter to the ship. The men did not speak, but there was no need. As soon as they reached the deck, Donovan resumed her hold on Hannah and took her below decks to her own quarters. The priest was waiting there for them.

He examined Hannah carefully, under Donovan's watchful gaze. Satisfied, he moved to his Captain's side and spoke in hushed tones.

"I canna find a problem, Cap'n. There's no physical reason for her condition."

"Thank you, Father." She hesitated and he waited. "Could shock or surprise do this, do you think?"

"Aye, sir. I b'lieve it could, if the shock was profound enough."

Donovan sat down in the chair and ran her hands through her dark hair. Then she brought her clasped hands to her lips and let them rest there as she reviewed the last two days detail by detail, searching for the missing clue that would explain Hannah's reaction to the date. She never even noticed when the priest slipped out the door.

************

There was a cool breeze blowing around her, scented with the smells of wet oak and sea water. The soft platform she felt under her was rolling gently. The screech of gulls could be heard nearby and Hannah spent several moments just processing the sounds and smells before green eyes opened mere slits.

There was a porthole above her head that was open, letting in both the breeze and enough light to allow her to observe her surroundings. She eased up on her elbows and took a good look around the small cabin.

It was a neat room, though sparsely furnished. The small cot she lay upon was long and obviously made for a single individual. There was a desk with a very old world map tacked to the wall above it, and several ancient navigation tools upon it. Across from the bed was a long cabinet, and two smaller ones. Underneath the cabinets sat Donovan in the room's only chair, sharp blue eyes focused intently on Hannah.

Hannah gasped and sat bolt upright, clutching her head in her hands. Donovan knelt by her side instantly, glad beyond measure that Hannah did not flinch or try to pull away from her touch.

Hannah leaned into the strong body trying to get her bearings. The hands that caressed her back were soothing and familiar, as was the scent she breathed deeply into her lungs. Donovan continued the light touches, feeling Hannah gradually relax beneath them. Eventually, Hannah felt steady enough to push away slightly so she could look into Donovan's eyes.

Donovan cupped her face gently. "Are you all right, love? You scared me."

Hannah shook her head slightly. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I think I had a blonde moment." She ran a shaky hand through her blonde mane and chuckled nervously.

"How so, Angel?" Donovan was more than a little concerned. It was very apparent that whatever had happened, it had shaken Hannah badly.

"I must have misunderstood you earlier, Donovan. I don't know why, but I imagined you said it was eighteen fifty-five."

Donovan's brow creased. "You did not imagine anything, Hannah. That is what I said. It is June sixteenth, eighteen hundred and fifty-five."

Hannah's hand came up to cover her mouth, and she spent several minutes trying to breathe without hyperventilating. "Donovan, love. That's not possible."

"Um, Hannah... not only is it possible, it is also the truth. Did you hit your head? I thought I caught you before you hit anything but...." She reached her hands towards Hannah's head, only to find them captured in Hannah's.

"My head is fine, sweetheart. Except for the fact that I seem to have crossed into the twilight zone, I mean."

"Twilight zone?" from Donovan, her brows frowning at the unknown reference.

Hannah looked up into clear blue eyes and saw nothing but honest confusion and frustration at the situation that she was having difficulty understanding. She gasped.

"This isn't a joke is it? You're not just toying with me about the date are you?"

"No, Hannah, I am not. Why would I?"

Hannah brought their joined hands to her lips. "Let me see if I can make this make sense for you, 'cause my mind is still spinning." Donovan nodded and squeezed Hannah's fingers.

"Okay. Right here, right now it is the middle of the nineteenth century. It is eighteen fifty-five." Donovan nodded again, wondering where this was leading. "Donovan, I am from the twenty-first century. I will not even be born for more than one hundred years."

Donovan looked deep into her eyes, seeing a truth there that belied the ludicrousness of the statement. "You're serious." A flat statement. The blonde head nodded.

"Oh boy. Though now Harold's statement makes a lot more sense."

Hannah's eyebrow rose in question. "How so? What did he say?"

For answer, Donovan went to the door and signaled a crew member. With a few muttered words to the man, he scurried off and she closed the door. Donovan resumed her seat after moving the chair next to the bed. Within two minutes, a light knock was heard, and in her best Captain's voice, she bade the person to enter.

The door opened and a small lad of about eleven crossed the threshold and stood at attention. "Stand at ease, Harold," Donovan said quietly, and the boy visibly relaxed, though not without several darting glances at the woman in the bed. He waited silently for his Captain to speak.

"Harold, I want you to tell your story to Miss Reilly here. I want you to tell her exactly what you told me earlier."

The youth nodded and swallowed nervously. "Aye, sir." He swallowed again. "Um, after I left you yesterday, I went west, like ya said. I went forever, seemed like, til I saw the town comin' into view, and I knew I musta missed the path. So I headed back t'other way, til I got to your house again." He stopped and cleared his throat. "It was nigh unto dark by now, and I knew I was gonna be in terrible trouble if I didn't find the house, so I started back west, and this time I counted off my steps. When I got to where a mile was, I started looking for the pathway that shoulda been there. T'wasn't nothing there that I could see in the dark, but then the moon lit up a path that led me to the tiniest nitch in the woods. I pushed through the brambles til I come to a clearing that held that rock formation ya spoke of. I never did see no house ma'am, so I laid the flowers on the note and left them at the end of the path."

He looked at Hannah directly for the first time. "I'm sorry ma'am. I dinna know what else to do. I couldn't find ya, cause there was nothing there like the Cap'n said. And I had to get back here." He turned and faced Donovan. "I'm sorry sir. I was gonna tell ya this mornin', but you was gone when I got up."

Donovan nodded. "That will be all for now, Harold. We will discuss your punishment later."

He came to attention. "Aye, sir." He turned and nodded at Hannah. "Ma'am" was all he said, respectfully. Then he slipped out the door before Donovan changed her mind.

Hannah sat quietly absorbing the information he had given them, then finally nodded. "It makes perfect sense, if anything in this whole scenario can."

"What do you mean?" Donovan asked. Her head was beginning to ache trying to wrap her mind around what Hannah was telling her, and what she was slowly trying to accept as the truth of their situation.

"We, you and I can cross time. We have done so for years in our dreams and now that we are physically in the same place, we can also physically cross to share the same time. But no one else would necessarily be able to do that. We've never had others in our dreams. There is no reason why anyone else would need to cross time like that."

Donovan nodded, impressed with her logic, and waiting to see if she would continue. She didn't have long to wait.

"I need to check the journals. It is entirely possible that our answer lies there."

"Why?"

"Donovan, my father and Jack spent their entire lives studying the Triangle. Now that I think about it... now that we have actually met, it occurs to me that what little bit I've read of the journal ties in to us." She shrugged. "It's worth a shot."

Donovan studied Hannah a moment more, then nodded briskly. "Very well." She ran a large hand through Hannah's hair. "How do you feel?"

"Honestly? Physically, I am fine. The rest of me is kinda overwhelmed at the moment."

Donovan gave her a shaky, crooked grin. "We are in agreement there, Angel." She blew out a breath with force enough to lift her bangs. "Would you like to rest a while longer or would you like a tour?"

"I think I would like a tour, Cap'n," Hannah replied with a grin. Donovan rose and smoothed her linen trousers before extending a hand to help Hannah to her feet. "Can I ask you a question first?" Donovan's brow rose and she nodded. "Is there a reason that Harold referred to you as sir? Surely he knows...." Hannah let her thoughts trail into silence.

Donovan put her arms around Hannah's waist and pulled the smaller woman into her so Hannah's back was to her chest. "All the men under my command know I am a woman, Hannah, and they afford me whatever privacy they can because of it. When we are not acting in an official capacity, we are more like family than a captain and crew. However, I *am* still the Captain, and as such I am given the respect due my position, and it is easier for everyone to keep things straight for me to be referred to as sir. It causes less confusion than trying to switch back and forth."

Hannah looked at her confusedly. "Huh?"

Donovan motioned around the tiny cabin, and opened the tall closet. Inside hung a Naval dress uniform complete with sword and plumed hat, and several less ornate uniforms as well. "This is the Captain's cabin on a British Naval vessel... commanded by a man as law and tradition dictates."

Donovan turned Hannah in her arms then and watched as the confusion cleared from green eyes and Hannah's brow rose. "Oh, okay. I gotcha. That way they don't get their sirs and ma'ams mixed up, especially in public."

"Precisely. It is a practice that has served us well."

"I will try to remember that, Captain, sir," Hannah said seriously.

"Hannah, I will be happy to hear you call me Donovan for the rest of my days."

"Oh, I think I can work with that scenario," Hannah said, before reaching up and placing a soft kiss on Donovan's lips. "Now show me your boat."

"Ship, Angel. She is a ship, and the proudest of the fleet." They left the cabin with Hannah's light laughter trailing behind them.

************

Donovan took her time showing Hannah around until she noticed the rocking and rolling of the vessel below decks was causing the blonde woman to turn the shade of her eyes. With a muffled curse, she hastened to get Hannah back above deck and into the fresh air and sunshine.

"Are you all right, Hannah?" Donovan asked solicitously as she rubbed the woman's heaving back. They had barely made it to the railing before everything became too much and Hannah proceeded to lose her breakfast.

The blonde head nodded. "Yes, love. I think everything just finally caught up with me and the motion of the bo... ship made it all come to a head." She chuckled despite herself. "So to speak."

"Well, I think maybe I should take you home, or maybe into town to get something to eat?"

"Maybe just off the ship for a while?" Hannah said piteously. "I think I would just like to feel stable again for a few minutes."

"I think we can arrange that. Mr. Merryweather!" Donovan called, and Hannah stood amazed at the instant change in her companion's voice and demeanor.

"Aye, sir."

"I am very pleased with the progress. You and the rest of the crew make sure you get some shore time while we are here. I will be back later in the week. I would like my books dropped off at the cottage."

"Aye, sir. What of Harold?"

"I am still considering his punishment. I will let you know when I have decided."

"Aye, sir, I'll have your books delivered to the cottage this afternoon. And if I may be so bold, Captain, congratulations. I am glad to see you've found your dream at last."

Ice blue eyes pinned him in place for a long moment and for the first time since their very first fight, John Merryweather was afraid he had stepped where angels feared to tread. That fear melted into a nothing when the blue eyes warmed and Donovan smiled at him.

"Thank you, John," the Captain answered quietly, shocking him with her use of his first name. "I have, though we will have to discuss how you knew of my dreams later."

He nodded and lowered his eyes. "Aye, sir. At your convenience."

"Very well then, Mr. Merryweather. Carry on. I will see you before the end of the week."

The man saluted sharply and Donovan returned the salute before she and Hannah headed down the gangplank to the dock. When they reached the end of the short pier, Donovan tucked Hannah's hand into the crook of her elbow and covered it with her hand. Then she smiled down into sparkling eyes.

"Better, Angel?"

Hannah nodded briskly, still adjusting to the lightning changes in Donovan's deportment. She was amazed at the sheer presence Donovan exuded in her ship's captain persona. So very different from the private person Hannah felt she knew so much better.

Slowly they strolled in the direction of town, and Hannah's first thought was one of amazement at how very similar it was to the one of her own time. There was a trading post that Hannah could see resembled the general store, and the beach area had several canoes and small boats. There was what appeared to be a communal meeting house, and a large pit close to it.

"Where do the sailors stay?" Hannah asked, motioning back to the ship. "I don't see a hot... an inn."

"We are the only ship that stays here longer than overnight anymore, and my men stay on the ship or sleep on the beach. Mostly they stay on the beach, glad just to be on dry land."

"Did there used to be an inn for them? When the other ships came?"

Donovan scratched the back of her neck. "Um, no. We stepped in before that became a possibility. We stumbled on this little island about six years ago."

Hannah was quiet for a bit. They continued walking around the small village, noting the numerous small homes set back in the trees. Donovan took Hannah into the trading post, and she was pleasantly surprised by both its size and the variety of goods available there. Hannah spied what she was looking for along the back wall and clasped Donovan's hand in her own and moved to where the material was stacked on the shelves.

"Captain Scott!" Donovan turned at the hail, and her face broke out in a smile. She opened her arms and the small woman embraced her in a crushing hug. The growl she heard at her back made her smile broaden perceptibly. Donovan loosened her hold on the young native, and the other woman gave her three swift, hard kisses.

Donovan moved completely out of the embrace, and stepped back to wrap herself possessively around Hannah. She felt the blonde woman's struggle with her jealousy, and whispered, "I love you, Hannah." Donovan felt Hannah relax back against her and kissed her ear when Hannah's hands came up to tangle in her own.

The other woman watched the proceedings with interest. She'd never seen the Captain so alive, and she squashed down the jealousy she felt for the blonde woman to rejoice in Donovan's happiness. She extended a hand toward Hannah who naturally reached back.

"How do you do? I am Satosh Nairoah."

"Hannah Reilly. It's nice to meet you." Amazing how easy it was to be gracious to this woman when she was enveloped in Donovan's arms.

"It is a pleasure to meet the woman who brings such joy to Captain Scott's face. I have never seen her so happy." She and Hannah shared a laugh over the deep flush that covered Donovan's skin. "What can I do for you today?"

Hannah hesitated, not sure what Satosh's position was. Donovan sensed the problem and answered the unspoken question.

"Satosh's family operates the trading post. Her father Debendra is the tribe's shaman."

"It is true. So how can I help you, Hannah?"

Hannah looked down at the silk pajamas she was wearing. "I was looking at the material. I need a few more clothes than I originally thought I would. I just... um... I'm not sure.... I can't sew."

"That is not a problem," Donovan said quickly. "Satosh does work that can rival the finest seamstresses on the continent. She does most of my sewing and that of my men."

Hannah felt the jealousy flare again and wondered why she felt that way. Donovan hadn't given her a reason to think there was a need for it. Then she recognized the expression on Satosh's face. Before she could compose herself to comment, the young native woman spoke up.

"I would be most pleased to help you if you wish, Hannah." She motioned to Donovan. "My father wishes to speak to you. Hannah and I can handle this alone."

Donovan gazed into Hannah's eyes for a very long moment before she nodded. "I will be right outside. Call me if you need me."

"I always need you," Hannah confirmed instantly. "But you go on. Satosh and I will be fine."

Donovan brushed a light kiss across Hannah's lips and squeezed her tenderly before letting her go and walking back to the front of the store and out the door. Hannah and Satosh regarded one another for a silent moment, before the blonde decided to lay all the cards on the table.

"You love her," Hannah stated. Satosh held her eyes briefly before she nodded and dropped them to the floor.

"From the moment she rescued me from slavers three years ago." She stepped behind the counter and began lifting down bolts of cloth.

"But you never told her... why?" Hannah started sorting through the bolts, laying those she liked to one side.

Satosh turned from the shelves then and faced Hannah eye to eye. "I knew she was not meant for me, nor I for her. She told Da that her destiny and mine followed different paths. You already owned her heart."

"As she owned mine."

Satosh nodded. "I can see what is between you. It is hard to accept such blunt truth, but I have known it in my heart always. Confronting it face to face is a little different."

Hannah reached out then and covered Satosh's hand with her own. "You will find someone, Satosh."

The younger woman smiled crookedly with tears in her eyes. "You sound like my mother."

Hannah chuckled. "Listen to her. I've been told they know *everything*."

Satosh laughed now and added, "Or they like to think they do anyway. It is scary how they seem to know the minute you decide to misbehave." She caught the melancholy in Hannah's eyes. "Hannah? Have I said something to upset you?"

Hannah shook her head. "No, no... I just... I never knew my mother. She died giving birth to me."

Satosh reached over and squeezed her hands gently. "Then I shall introduce you to mine. She will adopt you much like she did Captain Scott, I expect."

"I'd like that."

Silence fell for several moments as they continued to sort through the material. Satosh restored the ones Hannah did not want to the shelves and then turned back to the stack that was left. "Do you have any ideas on how you would like these made up?"

Hannah thought about it seriously for a bit, knowing she was going to have to fit into clothing and styles of which she had no concept. "I dunno, really. Something along the lines of what Donovan has, I guess. Maybe a dress or two?" She shrugged slim shoulders. "What do you suggest?"

Satosh took a long moment to look Hannah up and down thoroughly. "Undress for me please."

Hannah's brows shot to her hairline. "Excuse me?"

"I need to measure you. I know what to do for you. So remove your clothing please so I can get your measurements and get started."

Hannah looked around at the wide open store. Even though the two of them were alone at the moment, she was not about to chance taking off her clothing where just anyone could walk in and see her. "Um, Satosh... I can't do that here. What if someone walks in?"

The native woman had already turned her attention to the material on the counter, separating it into piles for trousers, shirts and dresses. "What? Oh, I beg your pardon. Come with me." She drew Hannah into a small alcove off the dry goods area. "Let me know when you are ready for me. It will not take us but a few moments."

Hannah ran her hands through her hair, wondering when her life had turned so completely upside down. Then she visualized Donovan's face and relaxed. This will work. It has to.

Satosh was all business when she came back into the changing room. She mumbled to herself, and made notes on a small piece of paper with a stubby little pencil. When she was done, she left without a word and Hannah proceeded to redress herself before stepping back into the store.

"Do you know when Captain Scott is leaving?"

"Not exactly. After the Ball, but...."

"That gives me about ten days. I will ask Mama and Tri to help me."

"Oh, I don't want to put you out or anything."

"It will be our pleasure. Obviously you are in great need. And despite myself and the place you hold in Donovan's heart, I find that I like you, Hannah Reilly."

"I'm glad, Satosh. It would be nice to have another friend." She paused then forged ahead, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Um, can I ask you something?"

"Certainly," Satosh replied. "I can always refuse to answer."

Hannah chuckled. "Good point. I was just wondering about your English. It is perfect... much better than mine. Where did you learn to speak it so well?"

"Captain Scott. Four years ago, the village nursed her and her men back to health after they came into port with a terrible sickness. I do not think my father knows to this day what it was or where it came from. In return, she offered to teach us to read and write English to better enable us to deal with the merchants who came here. It gave us a great advantage in dealing with them, as we could understand them, and they did not know it."

Satosh paused in thought then continued. "It made me angry at first to be learning this odd language. Why did we need it, I thought. I didn't want to be bothered with most of the men that came here, nor did I want their trade. Of course, I was still a child then, and most arrogant."

"Did you feel the same way about Donovan and her crew?"

"No. I was angry at them for introducing the language and forcing its use upon my people. But to their credit, they all learned to speak mine fluently as well. It was the slavers who made me see differently. Because if I had understood their language, I would have known what they were up to."

"So after that...."

"After that, I made sure we ALL learned to speak this odd English language. Come... let us go find my mother, so I can introduce you. It is almost time for lunch, so we will find Da and Donovan wherever she is."

"You sound sure."

"You have not tasted my mother's cooking. Trust me... they will be there."

The two walked out the front door and Satosh closed it firmly behind them. Hannah looked at her. "You don't lock it?"

"There is no need. The door is closed. They know that we are not opened for business." Without another word, Satosh led the way to a cot not far from the trading post. Hannah shook her head in amazement, dreading the day that that sort of trust would disappear from this world and followed without another word.



Chapter X

"You wanted to see me, Debendra?" Donovan extended a hand as she approached the shaman outside of the trading post. He came around the side of the building to receive her greeting then gestured to her towards his home.

"Come. Mama is expecting us, and Satosh will know where to find us when she and Hannah are done."

"No, Debendra. I told Hannah I would wait for her right outside."

"You do not trust Satosh to do her best for Hannah?"

"Hannah was uncomfortable. This is all very new to her." No-nonsense blue eyes pinned the shaman in place.

"Very well. Let us at least wait in the shade though. It is too warm to be standing around in the sun if one is not working."

Donovan nodded, and they moved to one side of the store to sit at the base of a large tree. Donovan could hear the murmur of conversation floating out the open window, and though she could no longer see the front door, she felt comfortable about being able to keep an ear out for Hannah.

Debendra sat quietly for a time, simply observing his young friend, noticing instantly the difference in her demeanor. "You have found her at last, I see. Love becomes you, my friend." Donovan's head snapped around so quickly it was surprising to the older man that it didn't go flying off. Questions burned from the eyes that seared into his and he held up a hand and smiled.

"Calm yourself, Donovan." Her eyes widened further. Only very rarely did anyone outside of her family call her by her given name. "I have known about the dreams for years... since you came to us with the sickness. You called for her. You called for Green Eyes."

"You did not see her eyes. You could not have."

"No, but I can see the difference she has made in you. You have a glow about you now... a peace that was not there before."

Donovan dragged her eyes away from his then, contemplating the truth of his words. She did not realize how self evident the change she felt deep in her soul was to those around her. She wondered if she had made the same difference in Hannah's life.

"Yes, you have," Debendra rumbled softly. Donovan turned to look at him again, her brows furrowed. "You were wondering if you had made such a change for Green Eyes. The answer is yes."

"How did... do…?"

Debendra chuckled. "It was easy to see what you were thinking just following your body language. I simply furthered your train of thought. As for her... well, you will just have to trust that as a shaman, I know these things. I do have to have some secrets, you know."

Donovan smiled. "I can respect that. And her name is Hannah."

"A lovely name... what is its meaning?"

Donovan smiled. This she knew. She had done some searching in the early morning hours after she had returned from her fight with the pirates, hoping it would give her some insight into the woman she had fallen in love with and yet was just learning to know.

"It means favor, grace."

"Then if she is as aptly named as yourself, you are most fortunate, my friend."

Donovan nodded. "I think I would be, even if she was not."

"She has snared you very well."

Donovan shook her head and looked Debendra directly in the eyes. "No, my friend. She did not trap me. I walked willingly to stand at her side. That is my place. It always has been."

"That is good. Now perhaps Satosh will give up her foolish dreams and turn her attention to her own future."

"What?"

"Come now, Donovan. Surely you know she has affection for you. She has never hidden how she feels about you."

"She's always been like a sister to me Debendra. You know that."

"Yes, and now she will realize it as well."

Donovan shifted uncomfortably on the ground before moving to stand. "Maybe I should go back inside. I don't want Hannah...." A large hand on her arm kept her in place and she turned her attention back to the shaman's serious eyes.

"Satosh will not bring dishonor to herself or me by overstepping her bounds. It is a truth she has long known. She is just facing the reality of it now."

"But...."

"Trust, Donovan. If not me or Satosh, trust in Hannah's ability to take care of herself. I think you will be surprised at the outcome."

"You know something?"

"Only the strength of will that I sensed in her. She will call you if she needs you."

Donovan nodded, and they sat silently for a time. Then she turned her attention back to him. "What did you need to see me about?"

"I was simply curious about what happened last night. Were they the same merchants as before?"

The Pirate Captain turned to look at the shaman, and his soul was pierced by the burning fierceness of her stare. He felt amazement at the change so evident in her behavior and wondered again how she could bear the weight of responsibility she carried. He was glad for her decision to accept it though, as it had saved his people and many others from unspeakable atrocities.

"It was Blackthorne again, yes. We are going to have to step up our efforts to stop him."

"Do you think that is wise?" he asked.

"No, but I do think it is necessary."

Debendra nodded. "Do as you think best, my friend, but remember you have the welfare of another to consider now."

Conversation died after that, and they sat wrapped in their own thoughts as the fitful breeze blew around them. It seemed like forever but was in fact only minutes before they heard the door shut, and saw two slight figures come around the corner and stop short. Debendra chuckled, and he and Donovan stood.

"You expected us to be with your mother, young one?" Satosh nodded and he chuckled again. "You know me well. And we would have been, but that Donovan gave her word to Hannah that she would wait right outside. So that is what we did." Debendra turned to Donovan. "Will you introduce me?"

Donovan stepped to Hannah's side, and took her hands. She gazed deep into Hannah's eyes, pleased by what she saw there. Donovan wrapped herself around Hannah and looked at the shaman. "Debendra, permit me to introduce you to Green Eyes... also known as Hannah Reilly. Hannah, this is my friend Debendra Nairoah... Satosh's father and shaman of the island tribe.

"How do you do, Hannah? It is a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Likewise, Mr. Nairoah."

"Who? Oh, Debendra, please. Otherwise I will never remember to answer you. Now come. Mama is waiting, and it is never a good idea to keep Mama waiting when lunch is ready."

Donovan and Satosh both laughed. "That is very true."

Hannah took Donovan's hand in her own as they followed their hosts on the short trip to their cot. She was looking forward to meeting the formidable Mama.

************

Had it not been rude to stare, Hannah felt quite sure that is exactly what she would have done. Mama was the tiniest, spunkiest whirlwind she had ever seen, and she could see precisely why Mama ruled the roost so effortlessly.

As soon as they crossed the threshold, she scattered the rest of the family, insuring that she and Hannah were alone. Hannah felt the stare that drilled into her as Mama studied her, but she bore it as stoically as she could manage. Satosh had been sent to find her sister and Donovan and Debendra had been banished to another part of the small home to wait until called for the meal. Donovan hesitated, but a look from Mama and a nod from Hannah sent her scurrying behind Debendra into the other room.

"I am glad to meet you at last, Hannah," Mama said in her soft, powerful voice. "Donovan has searched for you for a long time." Hannah did not know what to make of that statement and she stayed quiet. "Tell me a little about yourself."

Mama took up a knife and a loaf of bread, and motioned Hannah to the stack of plates and cutlery on the table. Hannah moved obediently to follow the silent request, and started setting the table even as she considered the best way to answer the older woman's question.

"Um, well. There's not a lot to tell really. I, uh... I'm a writer, and I came here with Donovan."

"Your parents approved of this?"

"My parents are not living to disapprove. I only have an uncle left of my immediate family.

"He approves then?"

"I am an adult, so I haven't asked for his permission or approval. I don't need it, but he would be happy that Donovan and I found each other, as would my father were he still living."

"And if he wasn't?"

"It would be his loss. I won't give her up... not for him. Not for anything."

Mama gave her a smile then and a nod of approval. "You are the one in her dreams. You are Green Eyes."

"Yes ma'am. I am, as she is the one in mine."

Mama nodded again, as though she had expected this revelation. She moved to the fire and removed the pot that was sending such enticing odors throughout the small home. Hannah blushed when her stomach rumbled as the scent wafted up to her. Mama chuckled.

"That is a very high compliment. Let me call the family in and we will see if you find the taste as good as the smell."

It didn't take but a minute for the family to gather around the small table, and Debendra seated everyone, putting Hannah near Mama and Donovan between Hannah and himself. With his daughters seated side by side across from Hannah and Donovan, they were ready to eat, and he began to dish up lunch for everyone.

It was quiet for a few minutes as each person applied themselves wholeheartedly to the task of eating. After several mouthfuls, Hannah wiped her lips and turned to Mama. "This is spectacular."

"Mama knows this is my favorite," Donovan said.

"Would you share your recipe with me?" Hannah asked the woman at the head of the table.

Shocked silence blanketed the table, and Hannah looked round in alarm. "What? What did I say wrong?"

Mama chuckled again, and Hannah realized that all the lines in her face were really that... laugh lines, as though she found joy in everything. She smiled expectantly. "I am sorry, Hannah. I do not laugh at you, but at the similar reactions around the table. You see, no one has ever dared to ask for a recipe from me. You are the first brave enough to do so."

Hannah blushed furiously and reached out a hand to Donovan who immediately engulfed the smaller hand in her own. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean any offense."

"Hannah," Mama said, covering the hand that still rested on the table. "I am not offended. I am very pleased... for many reasons, and I would be happy to share this recipe as well as a few of her other favorites with you, if you would like."

"Yes, I would. Very much."

"Good."

Silence again as the family continued to at, then the younger sister finally spoke up, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Hannah?" spoken so softly that Donovan had to squeeze the blonde's hand to get her attention. She cocked an eyebrow in question, and Donovan nodded over towards Tri.

"I'm sorry, Tri. I didn't hear you. Did you ask me something?"

"Well, I was going to." She cleared her throat self-consciously and spoke a little louder. "I was just curious as to where you were from. You do not speak as Donovan or the rest of us do."

Hannah closed her eyes. She'd forgotten about the soft drawl she spoke with, and didn't even hear the lilting brogue Donovan spoke with except for the music it made in her ears. She opened her mouth to say... something... when she heard Donovan answer the question.

"Hannah is from the United States. Her uncle is an American businessman with interests in Bermuda."

Truth, as far as it went. Just not the entire truth. It was enough for Tri and Satosh though. Their brown eyes gleamed with excitement.

"America? That sounds like a wonderful place to live."

"I have to admit that even with all its screw-ups and difficulties, I love it." Hannah felt Donovan tense. "But I would give it up in a heartbeat to stay with Donovan."

The two younger women swooned at the declaration, and Mama chuckled. Hannah felt Donovan uncoil and relax under her touch. Donovan shifted slightly to look at her and the rest of the world faded from their consciousness.

"Would you really?" with aching need in her eyes.

"Where you go, I go, love. You are my home now."

Donovan reached a trembling hand out to Hannah's cheek, caressing it tenderly. Only Debendra's throat clearing brought them back to the present and reminded them of the fact that they were not alone. But they spoke a moment more with their eyes, reassuring one another, and making promises for later.

"So, Hannah... Mama says you are a writer." Hannah's eyebrows went up, wondering when Mama could possibly have shared that bit of information with Debendra. But she acknowledged the truth of the statement.

"I find that most intriguing. What do you write?"

"Um, well... I write a column for the news service and I write books. Uh, books for children and young girls."

"A news column? Is America so progressive then? I was given to understand that the women of your country were expected to be good wives and mothers." This observation from Debendra was simply that, and tainted with nothing except honest curiosity.

"Well, I have always had a forward thinking family, and both my father and my uncle were always very supportive of my choices in life."

"And what of the rest of your society? Would they accept you and Donovan as we do?"

"Can I ask a question here first?" Hannah inquired quietly. At Debendra's nod, she continued, "Why do you accept Donovan and me so easily?"

A large grin broke across the shaman's face and was echoed on those of his household. "We are a very small community here on the island, and there are very few secrets among us. Though we do not always agree or get along, we have learned to be nonjudgmental of those around us unless the situation warrants it. Love between two people does not warrant judgment... it warrants acceptance of a beautiful gift."

The tears streamed silently down Hannah's face, and Debendra grew concerned on the sight of them. "Oh, young one. I did not mean to upset you." He would have spoken further but for the hand she held up to stop his speech.

She shook her head and bit her lip, trying to get her emotions under control. Donovan sat silently with one arm wrapped around Hannah' shoulders and the other holding her hand, stroking it gently. Finally she took a deep breath. "No, Debendra. These are happy tears. Even in America Donovan and I would not find acceptance like we have here. Thank you."

"I wish there was a way we could spread your philosophy," Donovan muttered, "especially where my mother is concerned."

"She will come around, Donovan," Mama assured quietly. "I have faith."

"Rest assured then, my friend," Debendra said, clapping Donovan on the shoulder. "If Mama has faith, it will be so."

"Enough of the sentimentality. I want Hannah to tell about the books she has written."

"Tri!" Mama exclaimed before turning to Hannah with a smile. "The young are always so impatient."

Debendra laughed. "The same can be said for the not-so-young as well."

"Yes, Mama. We all want to hear about it," Satosh said enthusiastically. "We know of so few women writers."

Hannah laughed, as much a tension relief as honest enthusiasm. "Well, I have two young girls that I am writing a series about. It is mostly stories of things that happened to my best friend and me when we were growing up. We uh... we got into a lot of mischief, and that translates well to young readers."

"Oh that sounds so interesting. Do you have any of your books here?"

Hannah shook her head. "No. I uh, I didn't think to bring any with me when I left."

"Perhaps you could tell us one."

"I don't think...."

"Please?"

"Really, I can't tell a story like I write one. My thoughts flow much better when I write them out than when I try to speak them. I'll try to write one out for you to read before we leave."

"Oh, that would be wonderful!"
"Thank you so much. We would be so grateful!" both young women exclaimed together. Hannah smiled broadly at their contagious enthusiasm.

The meal continued for a little while longer, conversation flowing between everyone while Mama served up a luscious dessert. Mama saw the question in Hannah's eyes and nodded imperceptibly. Donovan watched their interaction and smiled. Hannah had made a new friend, and without knowing it, added to her family as well. Once Mama took you in, you were family for life.

"Can we help you clean up, Mrs. ... I mean Mama? Doesn't seem fair for you to do it all."

"Not this time, Hannah, though I appreciate the offer. I think Donovan is ready to leave and I do not want to hold you up."

"We can wait fifteen minutes to help, especially since you cooked *and* ya'll are sewing my clothes."

Mama saw the determination in Hannah's face and relented gracefully. She understood well the need to be accepted as a contributing member of what she now thought of as Donovan's family. Within moments, Hannah and Donovan were standing alone in the kitchen with Hannah washing and rinsing and Donovan drying and putting things away.

Mama and Debendra stood in the doorway silently, watching the tableau unfold before them. Hannah and Donovan operated like a well-oiled machine. The looks and touches were simply an added confirmation of what they so obviously shared together.

"You know, Mama," Debendra whispered into his wife's ear as he nudged her out the door and back towards the trading post. "I never thought we would see Donovan so completely captured."

Mama elbowed him in the stomach. "You just never thought to see Donovan in the kitchen cleaning up, old man."

His merriment rang out across the small village like bells, and the trill of her laughter made a wonderful counterpoint for the sound.

************

The couple pulled the cottage door behind them as they left, and waved to Debendra and Mama as they passed the trading post. There was no need for words, and they remained quiet as they made their way back towards Hannah's with hands clasped together. The breeze was welcome in the afternoon heat and as they neared the beach house, they felt a distinct chill pass over them. It was momentary, but it was distinct enough that they looked to one another to be sure it wasn't imagination.

"You felt that, didn't you?" Hannah asked.

"Yes, and as odd as it was, it was quite refreshing in this heat. I wonder what caused it."

"I don't know. Maybe I should do some more research on it when we get home. It could be a phenomenon that Jack and Daddy studied."

"That might not be a bad idea. I wouldn't mind a little more information if there is some kind of peculiar weather pattern in the area. That could be useful."

Hannah nodded. "All right. I'll see what I can find out. I have their journals with me. I was reading them, comparing them to my diary." She couldn't help the slight blush that colored her face.

Donovan wrapped Hannah in her arms and whispered in her ear. "You are very beautiful when you blush. May I know the reason for it?" She felt Hannah laugh beneath her hands.

"I was just thinking how so many things tie together now. Things that make a lot more sense since I met you... since I understood that we have been meeting across time in our dreams."

"I know what you mean. The fact that we met in our dreams and then found one another in real life is extraordinary. The fact that we did so across time is fantastically unbelievable."

"Ya know what, though?"

"What, Angel?"

"I like having my dream come to life. And I like being a dream come true."

Donovan tightened her hold. "So do I."

They stood wrapped around one another gazing into the horizon for long moments. "Hey," Donovan continued to whisper and Hannah shook her head at the ticklish sensation that skittered across her neck. Donovan chuckled. "You up for a swim?"

"I don't have anything to wear."

"Neither do I, but we're alone. No one will see... except you and me."

Hannah turned in Donovan's arms and clasped her hands behind Donovan's neck. "Can I trust you to protect my virtue?" she asked coyly.

Donovan watched the embers in Hannah's gaze turn to fire before she leaned down and captured the velvety lips and claimed them for her own. Only when their breathing grew ragged did she pull back slightly.

"Hmm," Hannah said on an odd breath as she stepped back slightly out of Donovan's reach. She slowly began to unfasten her top. Donovan froze, her eyes locked on the movements of Hannah's hands. "Was that a yes?" She slid her top off her shoulders and dropped it to the sand. "Or a no?" The pants slipped off with ease, and Hannah wiggled just the slightest bit before she stepped out of them.

She turned her back to Donovan and heard the whimper escape from her throat. Hannah smiled as she reached to unfasten her bra and slid it down slowly, feeling the growl before she felt two large hands at her waist. She released the garment even as she leaned into the touch that was drawing her into the firm body behind her.

"You are a tease, wench!" Donovan complained, then bit lightly into the juncture between Hannah's shoulder and neck. Hannah moaned at the sensation. "And paybacks are bloody hell," Donovan said as she moved away from the warm body in front of her. "Last one in is a rotten egg!" Donovan shouted, and proceeded to strip and make it into the water before Hannah opened her eyes.

She made the mistake of turning around to smirk at Hannah, and got caught by the vision of the woman who stood nearly naked before her. "God, it is a good thing this water is cool," Donovan muttered as she began swimming away from the shore.

By the time Hannah recovered her wits, Donovan was scurrying away her, and Hannah rushed to finish her undressing to join her. The water was refreshingly cool, and after a bit they came together to talk and play a bit. Finally, quite worn out, they walked jointly from the shore to their clothing. Donovan took Hannah's hand before she could grab her clothes and turned the smaller woman to face her.

"You are a very beautiful woman, Hannah Reilly, and I am blessed that you love me."

Hannah couldn't help the blush, but returned the compliment in kind. "You are no more blessed than I am, Donovan Scott, and I am enjoying to getting to know you... in mind, in soul and in body... again." The last was said with a bit of impish tease and a smile.

"As am I, Angel. Now get dressed," she added with a growl, "before I forget the manners my mother tried so hard to instill in me. And the gallantry my father did."

Getting dressed was slow going, as they both were sneaking looks at each other. Finally, though, they managed to be decent, and Hannah took Donovan's hand and led her down the beach to towards the beach house.

When they reached Jack's house, Donovan dropped into a chair on the patio. "It is very nice here. I could stay right here to watch the sun set. Jack chose well when he built here."

Hannah fell into the chair next to her. "Yeah, he did. I'm thirsty. Would you like something?"

Donovan made to stand up and Hannah waved her back to her seat. "I'll get it. Would you like some lemonade?"

"Are you sure?" Donovan didn't feel right about letting Hannah wait on her. But Hannah for reasons she couldn't out her finger on, had little warning tingles running up and down her spine. There was something wrong with this scenario, but she didn't know what it was.

"Yes, love. I'm sure. I'd like the chance to spoil you a little."

Donovan captured Hannah's hand and lifted it to her lips. "Lemonade would be lovely," she acquiesced.

Hannah nodded and pulled away and walked into the house.

She noticed the light was blinking on the answering machine and she pushed the button as she made her way over to the refrigerator. She grabbed the pitcher from the shelf as she listened to Jack's voice, followed by the sound of Katie. She chuckled listening to her best friend gush and ramble, and made a mental note to call her later.

Jack's voiced reminded her to pick up the journal and her diary, and she flipped through the journal, trying to find the entry that was nagging at her. Something about the barrier crossing. Something tied to her father's death that coincided with Donovan's illness four years ago. She rubbed her suddenly throbbing temples.

With her concentration focused elsewhere, Hannah wasn't paying strict attention to what she was doing, and as she reached for the tumblers, one of them slipped from her grasp and crashed to the floor in a shattering of glass.

"Yikes!"

Donovan heard her exclamation and the splintering of glasses, and rushed inside to see if she could help. Just as she crossed the threshold, Hannah looked up, and realization dawned.

"Donovan, NO!"

But it was too late. Donovan was gone.



Continued In Chapter XI