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N everland… Peter Pan… Revenge. Neverland… Peter Pan… Revenge… The words cycled through my mind. I closed my eyes and envisioned myself walking along her rocky shores, Peter in a bloody heap behind me. My heart pounded as the wind began to stir the air around us.
“James, it’s working. Look.” Katherine grabbed my hand, gripping it tightly.
I tried to quell my excitement. Focus, damn it. Neverland, Peter Pan, revenge. Neverland, Peter Pan, revenge.
The surrounding water swirled up into a giant maelstrom, aimlessly tossing the ship about like a fallen leaf caught in the wind. With the ruby firmly gripped in my palm, I locked my arms around Kat, trapping her between myself and the mainmast. We were too close to lose now. I wouldn’t allow the growing chaos to tear us from the ship.
Walls of water surrounded us on all sides while an unseen force pulled the ship deeper into the murky depths. Anxious energy coursed through my limbs while my heart pounded against my ribs. Had we made a mistake? Had my obsession gone too far? Had I allowed it to burn too hot? Darkness descended upon us, shrouding us in pitch-black nothingness. The Jolly Roger lurched violently onto its port side, rolling itself over completely moments before shooting up through the vortex of water.
Light spilled over us with calm skies once again above our heads. As quickly as it had begun, it seemed to come to an abrupt end as the ship bobbed calmly along the surface of the water once again.
“Are you okay?” I reached up, brushing the mussed hair from Katherine’s beautiful face. She had been in my arms the entire time we ‘traveled,’ but I couldn’t be too sure. We had no idea what the cost of using the ruby was or what consequences we would face, if any at all.
Kat reached up, grabbed my face and kissed me gently. “I’m fine, James.” She smiled before looking around. “Did it work? Are we back in Neverland?”
Gathering my bearings, I scanned the horizon. Off in the distance, shrouded in storm clouds, was the familiar profile of my beloved island. Either Peter was in a mood, or the island knew I was here to take my revenge. An ominous warning to the natives of the dark days ahead. My heart pounded with excitement, and a wicked grin spread across my face. All my sacrifices, suffering, and relentless desire to return to Pan had finally paid off. Neverland and all her splendors were mere moments away. Peter was about to taste my wrath.
“At last!” I jumped into the air, pounding my fist at the sky before kissing the ruby. “Ha ha! Yes, we did it!” Reaching for her face, I pulled her in for another kiss. “We did it, Katherine.” I picked her up and spun her around in my excitement. “Thank you for finding the Heart of the Divine. This wouldn’t be happening if it weren’t for you.”
“I do believe, Mr. James, that this was all you.” Katherine’s words warmed my heart. It had nearly cost me my life to get back to Neverland, but it had been worth it. Now, the real adventure was about to begin.
“Starkey! Hoist the sails and prepare the ship. We set sail immediately.”
“Aye, aye, Captain. Crew, you heard him. Make haste.”
“Miss Hawkins,” I said playfully, matching her flirtatious use of my formal name. “Join me in the captain’s quarters. While the crew mans the ship, I’ll draw a map to help you find your bearings.”
I clutched Katherine’s hand as I dragged her to our cabin, barely able to contain my excitement. In all its fine velvets, the room felt suffocatingly small with the entirety of Neverland waiting just beyond the walls. I searched the cluttered table in the center of the room, my eyes landing on an old map. “This will suffice.” I flipped it over and quickly sketched out the island, dividing the land into its regions. “We’ll set anchor here—Three Pence Bay. It keeps us fairly close to the Lost Boy’s camp and provides us with the cover of the Viridianwood. It’s unlikely Princess Tiger Lily’s sentries will be actively patrolling this area of the island.”
“Princess Tiger Lily?” Katherine asked, her eyes widening.
“I’ll tell you more about her in a moment. I want to keep our arrival a secret for as long as possible. Finding Pan will be easier if he doesn’t know we’re lurking in the shadows.”
She nodded, focusing intently on every word.
“The Mysterious River leads you into the island, keeping the Viridianwood to your left. Just beyond the end of the river, due east, you’ll find the Lost Boy’s camp.”
“That’s where Pan will be?”
I huffed. “Pan likes to wander the island alone. He’s rarely ever at home.”
“Hmm, that’s going to make it more complicated.”
I chuckled. “Nothing good comes easy.”
“We have the ruby. Maybe we could use it to locate him?”
“It is tempting.” I pondered the idea. With no solid information on the cost incurred from using the relic, I decided it wasn’t worth the risk. “I feel it is best to avoid any ill consequences at this time. The island is small. We’ll find him,” I said, gently dismissing her suggestion, and continued my summary of the regions. “Northwest of the Mermaid Lagoon and due north of the Viridianwood is Tiger Lily’s village.”
“The Princess?”
“Yes, Neverland is governed by fae. Tiger Lily comes from a line of Divine Chosen. She is a nymph—native to the island. Much like Pan, she looks considerably younger than her years.”
“How young?”
“Adolescent.”
“And she’s the ruler here?”
“Well, technically, her father is, but more often than not, he’s gallivanting around the realms on diplomatic missions, leaving Tiger Lily to rule in his stead. But don’t let her youthful appearance fool you. She is a powerful force to be reckoned with. Her people age extremely slowly, even by Neverland’s standards. Time here moves at a snail’s pace.”
“Captain,” Starkey popped his head into the doorframe. “We have arrived and dropped anchor. The rain appears to be passing.”
“Perfect. Prepare to go ashore.”
“Katherine, welcome to our new home.” I ushered her delicate frame over the rocky shores. “Watch your step. The rain has let up, but the rocks will be slippery.”
“It’s beautiful!” she gasped. “More so than I could have ever imagined.”
Neverland welcomed us with its picturesque landscape. The smooth grey stones of the shoreline gave way to the lush, vivid greens of the Viridianwood. The sun peeked out from the clouds, casting glimmers of sparkling light along the surface of the Mysterious River.
“Please allow me the honor of showing you around. We will start our tour along the banks of the river and continue northeast around the island.”
Going straight up the river to Tiger Lily’s village would have made more sense, but curiosity was eating me alive. I had to get eyes on Pan. The sooner, the better. Heading northeast would ensure we would find ourselves within the outskirts of the Lost Boy’s camp, and I could use the Mermaid’s Lagoon as a diversion.
“Shouldn’t we head into the forest?” she asked. “We need to find food and supplies.”
“The Viridianwood is an extremely dangerous place, Kat. Evil lurks between the trees. We’ll be better off taking our chances along the banks of the river.” She looked at me with suspicion. Her eyebrows raised in question.
“Are you sure you’re not just taking us straight to the Lost Boy’s camp?” She grinned. “Maybe you shouldn’t have drawn me a map? Your vendetta against Pan can wait. We need rations.”
“My love, I’m simply taking you to see Neverland’s best. Don’t you want to see the Mermaid’s Lagoon? I’ll send the crew out for rations while we explore.”
Katherine rolled her eyes. “You underestimate me, James. I can see right through your schemes. You’d be wise to remember who I am.”
“Starkey,” I ignored her retort, “appease Miss Hawkins. You, Cecco, and Mason head into the forest. Find us a beast for dinner. Better yet, make it two.”
“Aye, Captain.”
“We’ll return to the ship later this evening. Have something ready for a celebratory feast. We have much to be grateful for.”
“Thank you,” Katherine whispered, placing a chaste kiss on my cheek. “Now, show me this magical lagoon.”
The island seemed smaller than I remembered. The Mysterious River was massive in my mind’s eye. Crossing it would have been a grand feat. Something to brag about to the other Lost Boys. Today, it seemed all too mundane. Completely average in every way.
In my na?ve youth, Neverland was an endless, magical realm of wonder and amusement. Excitement waited around every corner. There was a dullness to it now. As though my years had sullied its perfection, somehow exposing the truth behind the magic. One thing remained the same. Danger still lurked within the shadows, and I wouldn’t stay hidden for long.
I had hoped to catch a glimpse of Pan on our way to the lagoon. Sadly, nothing stirred apart from the never-ending tinkling of faerie chatter. I listened closely, hoping to overhear any mention of Peter, yet the forest continued to veil his whereabouts.
“Are you ready to see the lagoon?” I asked as the whooshing sound of the waterfall grew louder around us. “How are you with heights?” I chuckled, remembering the ten-foot drop just ahead.
“Heights?” Katherine stopped moving as her face paled.
I toed the edge of the cliff face, knocking down a few small rocks. “Don’t worry, you can do this.” I jumped down with ease and reached my arms up to catch her.
“I’m a little worried about seeing mermaids again. The last time wasn’t so… enchanting,” she confessed, hesitating at the edge.
“Come on, jump.”
Kat sighed, sitting on the edge before scooching off into my welcoming arms. Her delicious curves slid along my body, igniting a fire within.
“Nothing to worry about, love. You’re safe with me. If one of them tries to lay a slimy finger on you, we’ll be having sushi for lunch.”
“I like fish,” she smirked, reaching up on her tiptoes, pausing a mere breath away from kissing my lips. “Catch me.”
Kat turned and darted off down the path towards the water’s edge. I immediately gave chase, sprinting after her. Heading straight for her hips, I tossed her over my shoulder, kicking and screaming.
“James!” she squealed. “Put me down.”
“Oh no, little kitty Kat. You started this when you chose to run. I caught you fair and square. I will have my way with you.” I slapped her ample ass, eliciting another satisfying squeal. “You can explore the lagoon when I’m done with you.” I circled the water’s edge and headed straight for the cliff wall.
The grotto was just as beautiful as I remembered. Maybe there was still some magic here in Neverland. The cavern opened up to reveal a large turquoise pool. A single ray of light cascaded down from a small opening in the glittering ceiling, illuminating the water with an ethereal glow. Crystalline stalactites mimicked the night sky in a vain attempt to outshine the stars.
Holding her arms firmly above her head, I pinned Kat against the wall and claimed her delicate lips with my own. I kissed her as if it were our last, taking my time and savoring the delectable taste.
“Is this what you wanted, kitten?” I asked, placing kisses along her neck. Her breath hitched as I nipped along the curve, making my way to her shoulder. I pulled in a deep breath, savoring her intoxicating scent. She had known telling me to chase her would trigger my baser instincts. She was betting on it. “Did you want me to hurt you?” I growled, pressing my body against hers, ensuring she knew how excited I was.
I didn’t wait for her to answer. I spun her around, making quick work of her laces. I wanted her naked—now. Her dress slid effortlessly down her smooth shoulders and past her hips. I let it pool on the ground before slapping her ass. A beautiful pink bloomed under my hand. “You like it rough, don’t you?”
“Yes,” she mewed, pushing her ass back against me. “Make it hurt.”
“Hands against the wall,” I ordered, taking a step back to admire the view. Her porcelain skin appeared luminescent in the dark cavern. Her generous curves were highlighted against the sparkling wall like a gift from the gods. I slid my hands up her belly, grasped her breasts, and pinched her pebbled nipples hard, drawing out a startled moan. “I’m going to make you purr.” Dropping my breeches, I slid my cock through her cheeks, finding her ready and wanting. “Such a good girl, so wet for me.”
“Please,” she cried out, pushing back against me. “I need to feel you inside me. Please!”
Who was I to keep my lady waiting? I grabbed her hips and thrust myself deep into her core, groaning at the overwhelming sensation of her tight, little pussy stretching to accommodate my length. I wouldn’t last long. Her body was made for me. Every move had me seeking more. I pulled out and slammed back in, sinking myself to the root. “I’m going to make you cum while I’m deep inside you, and then, when you are spent, I’m going to use you for my own pleasure.” I knew the words would trigger her, but deep down, she liked it.
“Yes, Captain,” her voice was meek and laden with want.
My hands slid down her soft belly, making my way to her clit. I memorized every silky inch of her skin, thanking the Divine for giving me such a perfect woman. Her pussy gripped my cock with my touch before opening up to take more of me. “That’s my good girl; take every inch of me,” I praised. Slowly, I stroked her while remaining still sheathed inside. Her breath quickened as she moaned with each stroke.
“More,” she begged.
I sped up my rhythm, and without warning, Katherine cried out. Her pussy pulsing around my cock. “Fuucck, kitten, cum for me.” The sensation of her orgasm gripping tight against me almost pushed me over the edge. I allowed her to ride out her pleasure, stroking her swollen clit until her insides relaxed and her wetness seeped out along my shaft. “My turn.”
I gripped her hips and began thrusting at a punishing pace.
“James!” she cried out. The sound of her voice threw me into an animalistic frenzy. Ecstasy ripped through my body. I lost all control and spilled my seed deep within her. This woman had me in a daze. I pulled out and quickly dropped to my knees. Her beautiful slit was glistening with our love. I reached up, gathering the leaking cum with my fingers, and pushed it back inside. “We taste delectable together,” I groaned, licking my slick fingers.
I arranged our discarded clothing into a makeshift nest, gently pulling Katherine down to the floor and tucking her into the crook of my arm. “I’ll never tire of pleasuring you.” It was true. Making Katherine purr brought me a pleasure like no other. She smiled as I nestled my face into her hair. “Watching you lost in bliss is a Divine gift.”
Her fingers lazily traced along my shoulders, sending shivers through my body. “You, James, are the Divine gift. I thank the stars every day for crossing our paths.”
I paused at her words. Without Katherine, I never would have known love. She was a glimmering ray of light in my darkness. A beacon guiding me to my destiny. I owed the fates my gratitude, yet my mind found a way to slink back into the negative. “I fear the island will take our memories, and I’ll forget how much I’ve enjoyed watching you over the years. The first time I saw your naked perfection,” I groaned, remembering just how enticing she was in Teach’s tub that night on the Queen Anne . “How I longed to worship at your feet.”
She giggled at my compliment while a surge of blush spread across her cheeks. “James, that will never happen. Why would you forget?”
“Oh, but, kitten, it will; it’s only a matter of time.”
Kat looked up at me, her brows furrowed in question.
“For all of its beauty, Neverland has its shortcomings. Time on the island moves much slower than you’re used to. A single day here can equal many days, if not weeks, back in our realm. Along with that, your memories will fade much faster. Your trials with Blackbeard, your parents, and society’s misgivings against you will all soon be gone from your mind.”
“How is that possible?”
“How is anything on this island possible? It just is. You’ll go mad trying to figure out the enigma that is Neverland. Best to just accept it as it is and move on.” I reached for her face, searching her worrisome eyes. “Fear not, my dear. Our love is transcendent.” I gently kissed her soft lips, sealing them with a promise. “We will stand the test of time. You are mine, and I am yours. Neverland can have my memories. My heart—belongs to you.”
“I could never forget you, James. I won’t allow the island to take that from me.” She placed a chaste kiss on my lips before quickly changing the subject. “Shall we go looking for mermaids?”
“That was the plan until you decided to run. Let’s go,” I sighed. “I’m eager to see the joy on your face when you see the magic of the lagoon.”