Jake White The BeginningChapter 8
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Edited by Old Rotorhead
Jake returned to the suite and tapped on the door.
“Who is it?” asked Hermione.
“Jake,” he replied.
There was a click from the lock and the door opened. Gina was obviously behind the door, but Jake’s first sight was down the barrel of a very large revolver, and behind it Hermione.
“I’d forgotten about that gun,” said Jake. “Would you mind waving it elsewhere?
“Well you threw the hat overboard, so I had to keep something as a souvenir,” Hermione grinned. “Now come in so that we can close the door, and you can tell us what happened.”
Jake sat down and explained his conversation with Count Moriarty.
“So,” Hermione began. “There are four people after the plates. This Count Moriarty, du Sang-Frappe, except we think he may no longer be with us, and then there is whoever has the plates, and someone who doesn’t. And we’d like them back too.”
“They won’t be any good,” said Gina.
“Why not?” asked Jake.
“Well...” Gina hesitated. “I expect they’ll have been damaged by light.”
Jake looked at her thoughtfully.
“You said the plates wouldn’t be any good. And then you said you expected they’d be damaged,” he said. “I think you might know more than your telling us.”
“Well I don’t,” Gina stamped her foot. “I just meant they probably got damaged.”
“Where did you go this morning?” Hermione asked Gina.
“What do you mean? N-nowhere,” Gina was caught off balance by the question.
“Yes you did. About first light,” said Hermione. “I thought you were going to the heads, but now that I think about it I must have gone back to sleep. You could have been gone quite a long time.”
“I was quite a long time. I had an upset tummy,” Gina replied, blushing.
“You need to practice lying, Gina,” said Jake. “You’re not very good at it. Now, would you like to tell us what you were doing?”
“I went for a walk,” Gina had a shifty look.
“Where?”
“Round the deck. The sun was just coming up and I wished I was able to photograph it,” Gina smiled. She was on firm ground with the truth.
“I’m sure it looked wonderful,” said Jake. “But something else happened, didn’t it?”
“No!”
Both Jake and Hermione were staring unwaveringly at her and she finally had to drop her eyes.
“Yes,” she said, quietly.
“What?” asked Jake.
“There was a man and a woman. They dragged a man out of a cabin. I recognised him as the Frenchman.”
“du Sang-Frappe?”
“Yes.”
“So you didn’t kill him,” Hermione cut in, the emphasis on ‘you’.
“I’m not a murderer,” Gina raised her voice, indicating that she thought Hermione was.
“And neither am I! Unless you want a bullet from that revolver,” said Hermione, hotly. “The only other time I was being raped! Not that you’d know anything about that!”
“Stop,” said Jake.
The girls looked at him.
“You are both out of order,” said Jake. “Gina, Hermione was protecting you. And Hermione, Gina knows all about rape. Now keep your voices down. So, they dragged him out of the cabin, Gina?”
Hermione looked somewhat chastened.
“Yes.”
“And?”
“They dragged him inside, and downstairs.”
“Down a companionway.”
“If you say so.” said Gina, petulantly. “You know all about these things.”
“And you decided to go into the cabin and see if the plates were there,” Hermione joined in. “They were weren’t they? Those people had their hands full, so they couldn’t carry them. You know that the plates are no good because you exposed them them to the sun.”
There was a pause.
“Yes.”
“And what happened then?” asked Jake. “No, let me guess. You found the prints, and you’ve now got them.”
“Yes.”
“What about the man and woman?”
“They came back while I was there, so I hid in the closet. I couldn’t see anything, but I know they picked up the plates, and he asked if was there anything else and she said no. So they left.”
“Anything else?” asked Jake.
“He called her Min,” said Gina.
“Min,” Jake shook his head. “Means nothing to me,” he looked at Hermione who shook her head.
“Obviously the prints are not in your luggage,” said Jake. “Or whoever was searching would have found them.”
“I’m not that stupid,” said Gina with some feeling.
“You don’t want me to comment on that do you?” said Jake. He turned to Hermione. “I think we should take it in turns to keep watch tonight.”
“Yes,” said Hermione, “I think you’re right.”
“What about me?” asked Gina.
“You, are part of what we’ll be watching,” Jake told her.
“Man that is of woman borne...”
Fitz had thought about taking Mary back to Bristol, but although she had no close relatives living he decided that she was Irish and Ireland was the place for her. The day after her death, her murder, he thought, he had contacted an undertaker, and arranged for her to be interred at a protestant church. His sense of loss was profound, but his navy training kept him on an even keel, and he had at the very least, had the satisfaction of avenging her death. The funeral was attended by the crew of ‘Moonfleet’, with Major Cockburn and Lady Jane, who had asked Fitz for permission to attend. Although he had not actually seen her mutilate her husband, he was well aware of how much she hated him, and was happy for her to be there. Major Cockburn and Lady Jane were clearly well acquainted. It seemed clear to everyone that the date of their wedding depended more on how long Lady Jane was going to go through the farce of mourning her husband than anything else. The other person who attended was Maria O’Brien. Tom stood with his Captain, ready to provide support, but he couldn’t help feeling an urge to cross his legs when he looked at Lady Jane.
The house had been searched by Cockburn’s men under the direction of Lady Jane, but although the cellar had clearly been used to imprison young girls, there were none there. She had told them that there had been groups of girls previously, she thought, probably shipped in the same way. She was uncertain as to what would happen to the house because she anticipated that it would be left to the younger brother of her late husband, who would inherit the title. He was, she told Major Cockburn, equally as depraved as his brother.
Three days later ‘Moonfleet’ slipped her mooring and left Dublin for Bristol. Twenty- four hours later she was warped into her berth in Bristol. As was normal, the first person aboard was Angelica. She was greeted by Tom who drew her aside and told her about Mary.
“I’m sorry, Miss Angelica, but I thought you should know,” he told her.
She thanked him and went below to see Fitz.
“Tom told me,” she said. “He didn’t give any details, but we’ve had trouble over the girls here. I had to shoot Lord Portmahon’s younger brother. I’m on remand at the moment.”
“No problem there,” Fitz told her. “His Lordship has gone down to meet his maker. So he can’t cause you any more trouble.”
Angelica sat down and breathed a sigh of relief. She had been upset at shooting the man, despite everyone praising her for her bravery.
“You’d better have a drink,” said Fitz, reaching for glasses and a bottle of brandy. “And you can tell me what happened.”
It was some time before they got around to discussing the ships manifest, but there were no problems with that, and the work of unloading went on as usual.
When she got home that evening Angelica sought out Lydia, who she found in the nursery. As she entered she was greeted with big smiles and ‘‘‘Lo ‘Gelica” from the four girls. She couldn’t help but smile and say hallo to all of them in turn.
“Did I get all your names right?” she asked them.
The girls all giggled and Mairead confirmed that she had.
Angelica drew Lydia aside and informed her of the news.
“Oh dear,” Lydia said. “This affair has been just dreadful. I didn’t know Mary, but everyone spoke well of her, and poor Fitz!-I hope that everything can be sorted out now. No one will think badly of you, I’m sure.”
There was no doubt that none of the people she worked with considered Angelica as anything other than a heroine, as did the people she met around the docks.
“Do you know,” Lydia went on, “I spend more time here with these girls than I ever did with my own two. I suppose it’s being granny age, but they are such a joy. How could anyone have contemplated doing them harm?”
“I’m afraid there are some wicked people in this world,” said Angelica. “Fitz loved Mary deeply, and she was a lovely person. A firebrand though. Whether he’ll ever recover I don’t know. Time, I suppose.”
Victoria was home in time to change for dinner. Over the meal she told them about the result of the raid on Portmahon House.
“I’m not sure raid is quite the right word for it. They simply knocked on the door and went in. They did a thorough search. The house was built with a chapel, although it certainly wasn’t used to worship God. In the cellar there were cages that could have held children, but they were empty. What they did find was a list of names and addresses. So some people will find themselves answering some awkward questions, although Peter said that some of them would be untouchable.”
“Untouchable?” asked Angelica.
“Yes, very high ranking, a couple of earls he said,” Victoria went on. “Some of them will be investigated, though, and that will put the wind up the others.”
“What is going to happen to the girls,” asked Lydia. “Did he say anything about them? I’m sure that there must be some sort of rules or regulations about them.”
“I’m afraid you are stuck with them Mama,” Victoria told her. “Unless you want to throw them out on the street, of course.”
“Certainly not!” exclaimed Lydia, she looked in horror at Victoria and saw that she was laughing, as was Angelica.
“Oh! That wasn’t funny!”
“Mama, the idea of you parting with those girls is simply ridiculous. We shall have to watch to make sure they aren’t spoilt.”
“I shall not treat them any differently to my grand children,” she paused a moment. “I shall have to get a governess for them.”
“Aunt Lydia,” said Angelica. “I think Ursula might like to do that. She spends a lot of time with them, and their English has improved under her tuition. I think her background is above what you would normally expect for a maid. And Betsy and Maudie have enough to do with the other four.”
“I shall have a talk to her,” said Lydia. “It would mean another new maid to train though.”
Before ‘Moonfleet’ left for Dublin Fitz came to see the girls. Initially they were overawed by him, but they soon got used to him. All was well until Aoife asked a question.
“Where is the nice lady with red hair?”
“Aoife!” said Mairead. “I told you not to ask that.”
Aoife burst into tears. Fitz reach for her and sat her on his knee. She cuddled into him and a tear leaked own his cheek...
“Mairead,” said Lydia. “What do you know about that?”
“I heard what ‘Gelica said, and Betsy and Maudie were talking about it. And I thought we weren’t ‘sposed to know.”
Lydia gathered the other three girls round her.
“My darlings it isn’t something you’re not supposed to know, but it isn’t very nice. We thought it was better that you didn’t know, but I had forgotten that children hear everything. That man who took you away from the nuns killed Mary. And then Captain Fitz killed him.”
“So we are safe now, and those men won’t come for us again?” asked Mairead.
Lydia shook her head. Was there anything you could keep from children?
“That’s right,” Lydia told them. “You are safe, and you will live here with us until you grow up.”
“What will happen then?” asked Clodagh.
“I hope you will all have happy lives doing whatever you want to do,” said Lydia, smiling.
“Will Captain Fitz come and see us again?” asked Aisling.
“Of course I will,” said Fitz.
A now happily smiling Aoife was still hugging him.
Victoria was sitting in her office running things through in her mind. The new collection of dresses was coming along nicely. The only concern that Victoria had was that she had no idea when Hermione would be back. She wanted Hermione to be there as a hostess, and last time Gina had modelled too. Perhaps, she thought darkly, the seamstresses could leave lots of pins in her dresses. She shook her head and smiled, she didn’t really mean that. Siobhan and Roisin would model some of their own creations, they’d use different colourways of the same design for them. That had worked before. Could she get Brigitte to model? Lady Bridget would be helping with hosting, which just meant wandering around chatting. Of course she didn’t have Myfanwy to do the teenage fashion, but what about Bea? She was about the same size. Seizing the moment she went up to the studio to see her.
“Good morning, not daughter,” Victoria greeted Bea.
“Good morning, not mama,” replied Bea giving Victoria a hug.
“I wanted to ask you if you would model a couple of the dresses for me, the ones for younger girls,” said Victoria.
“What, now?”
“No, when we have the show.”
“You mean put the dresses on and walk out in front of all those people?”
“Yes.”
“They’ll all look at me,” said Bea.
“Well that is the general idea,” said Victoria. “You walk along, turn and walk back, and they all look at you.”
“Yes, but they’ll be looking at me. Not the dresses.”
“And what they’ll see is a beautiful girl. Wearing a beautiful dress. A smiling confident girl, with not a care in the world.”
“They’ll see skinny wench quaking in her boots is nearer the mark,” Bea replied. “And they’ll all be thinking is she or isn’t she.”
Victoria laughed. “How many of them do you think you’ll know?”
“Enough.”
“And how many will you care about?”
“Not one of them,” said Bea, vehemently. “Not one. I’ll do it, I’ll show them I don’t care.”
“That’s my girl,” Victoria said, laughing.
“How are the little Irish girls?” asked Bea.
“Becoming more and more English with every passing day,” said Victoria. “My mother dotes on them. No more than Jake’s children, but they are hard to resist.”
Victoria thought for a moment. “I wonder if I could get them to model dresses for children?”
“Do you think there is a market for such a thing?” asked Bea.
“We have done well with what we call the ‘Young Lady’ market, so it could be worth a try. Wealthy mums showing off their little darlings,” said Victoria, her mind already working overtime on the idea. “I know they tend to keep them in the nursery with nanny, but perhaps we can start a new trend!”
“Will your mother get them a governess?” asked Bea.
“At the moment Ursula, one of the maids, is fulfilling that role,” Victoria replied. “She’s been with us a while, and has been very good. It turns out she comes from a good family that fell on hard times. They’re not local, somewhere on the south coast I believe. So it’s a step up for her. Mother is, naturally, now fretting about getting a new maid, and making sure she does everything exactly how she wants.”
Breakfast was a rather subdued affair, both Hermione and Jake having lost some sleep. A waste as it turned out, but that is the luck of the draw. They were having a last cup of coffee when a familiar figure approach the table.
“Good day, mon ami, may I join you?”
“Please do, Commandant,” said Jake, indicating an empty chair and waving to the waiter to bring more coffee.
“Thank you,” said du Sang-Frappe.
“We missed you, Commandant,” said Jake.
“Yes, it seems I was drugged. I was awakened by a steward after the boat docked. I don’t suppose you have any idea what happened?”
“I met with a Count Moriarty last evening,” said Jake. “We had a discussion, and it seems that there are others who are after the ... merchandise. I said I’d had missed seeing you, but I had no idea what had happened.”
“Ah! Someone else? I have little doubt that that would be Minerva Zábradlie and her lackey Henry Crun. You have heard of them?” asked du Sang-Frappe.
Jake noted that du Sang-Frappe managed to make Henry Crun sound as though he were something that was best left under a flat stone. He shook his head. “ Zábradlie, an odd name.”
“Slovakian. The man is English, I believe. But if they were the ones who drugged me, I have no idea how they did it.”
“Our rooms were searched last evening. They must have bribed someone to get a key. Perhaps they did the same to a steward. I was on my way to complain to the manager when I met with the Count. I believe we saw you talking to him on the ship. Could he have been working with them?”
“The Count is an old sparring partner, but I would think it unlikely that he would work with them.” Du Sang-Frappe finished his coffee and stood. “It has been pleasant talking to you. No doubt we shall meet again, Sir Jacob, Mademoiselles.”
The day passed uneventfully. Jake and Hermione took turns to catch up on their sleep whilst Gina kept herself amused.
They went down to the dining room for their evening meal wondering whether they would see Count Moriarty or du Sang-Frappe, but neither were to be seen. It was fairly busy, and it was not until they were waiting for their main course to arrive that they saw a tall elegant woman accompanied by a rather mousy looking man arrive and take their seats.
“I’ll bet,” said Hermione. “that that is Minerva whatever and Henry Crun. He looks exactly like du Sang-Frappe’s tone of voice suggested.”
The man did indeed look shifty and rather snake like, but his companion was a tall dark haired woman with a very striking appearance, not beautiful in any sense, but handsome nevertheless.
“I don’t know,” replied Jake. “But I’ll not take that bet.”
Their meal finished they made their way to their suite. The layout of the suite was interesting in that there were two entrances, one from the corridor into the main room, and another into one of the bedrooms. The idea, Jake surmised, was that the suite could be let with that bedroom, or the bedroom could be let separately. They decided that it was most likely that they would receive a visitation later in the evening, and worked out their plans accordingly. They settled down to wait.
It was midnight before there was a tap on the door. Jake nodded to Hermione who went into the bedroom with external access. Gina sat watching.
Jake opened the door to reveal the couple that they had guessed might be Minerva Zábradlie, and Henry Crun. Crun was leading and had a revolver in his hand. Jake stepped back and they entered.
Minerva looked at Gina. “Vere is odder beetch?”
“Odder beetch is right behind you,” said Hermione. “Don’t turn round, and drop the gun.”
Minerva looked as though she had swallowed something unpleasant, and Henry hesitated.
“I would, if I were you,” said Jake. “She’s not only a very good shot, but she’s already dispatched Vasilek. Of course, if you want your spine in two pieces ... might not kill you, not immediately anyway. And then she’d have to shoot your girl friend.”
“Girl friend? Don’t be ridic’lous! Put gun down Henry.”
Henry lowered the gun and Jake took it from him, then waved them into the centre of the room.
Hermione stepped into the room and closed the door. She went behind Minerva, lifted her skirt and remove a small pistol from her boot.
“Sit on the floor,” Jake told Minerva.
“Can ve not discuss in a civilised manner?” she asked.
“You come in here waving a gun, and when you lose it you want to ‘discuss’ things,” said Jake. “I’ve spent the last few years fighting the Fenians in Ireland. I don’t like them, they are traitors to the crown, but at least they fight for a cause. You are only interested in your own profit. The answer is no.”
Minerva sat.
Jake indicated that Crun should sit on the floor behind her, back to back. Jake handed his gun to Hermione. Whilst she kept them covered Jake took a pair of silk stocking and tied their hands together on either side. He took another pair, tied one end around Crun’s left ankle forced him to bend his leg and tied it to his wrist. He did the same for Minerva’s right leg and then the same the other side. He stood back to admire his work.
“You vill pay for zis!” Minerva hissed at him.
“You’re right,” said Jake. “Damned silk stockings are expensive, and Hermione only let me have them if I promised to buy her new ones.”
The ship was due to leave at ten o’clock the next morning. Their captives spent an uncomfortable night, and were not happy when, in the morning, they were dragged into a bedroom and gagged. Before she gagged her, Hermione lifted Minerva’s skirt, and put her hand up to the woman’s crotch.
Minerva stiffened. “You bloddy pervert,” she spat.
“No,” said Hermione. “Just settling an argument.”
Minerva, her face bright red, opened her mouth to reply only to have a wad of material rammed in.
Jake had a little problem with Henry until he threatened to use the gun butt to remove his teeth.
They were all happy to be on board the ship when she cast off. The weather was overcast and there was a slight drizzle of rain, but she left precisely on time for which Jake was very thankful. There was no knowing when their captives would be found.
Jake drew his coat tightly about him and went on deck to watch Danzig disappear astern. This ship was rigged as a three masted schooner, having fore and aft sails on all three masts, and square sails only on the foremast. An unusual rig, but he supposed, probably ideal in the confined waters of the Skagerrak. She had a screw propeller, and Jake could see the engine hissing and thumping through an open skylight over the engine room. There was warm air wafting out of the skylight smelling of hot oil, and Jake stood back. He did not want to end up smelling like a stoker. He estimated that she was making ten knots, which meant they would reach Copenhagen about lunchtime the next day. He was staring into space thinking about the problems with Gina when a cheery voice hailed him.
“You are taking an interest in my fine ship, the ‘Valkyrie’. I am Captain Olsen,” the voice concluded by way of introduction.
Jake turned to see the Norwegian captain, a large jovial bearded man who immediately brought to mind George Johnson.
“Sir Jacob White,” Jake replied. “Indeed I am interested, Captain. I’ve not seen this rig before, but I would think it would suit the Skagerrak better than a ship rig.”
“Yes, that’s true. You are obviously a seaman.” the captain stated.
“Master,” Jake replied. “I own two topsail schooners on a regular run between Bristol and Dublin, and an interest in two steam ships.”
“You don’t sail them yourself?”
“I have done, but I’ve other business interests that take me here and there.”
“Would steamships not be better on a regular run like that?” asked the captain.
“One of the schooners is Yankee built, and the other built to the same lines in Wales. They’re fast, I’ll replace them with steam when steamships don’t need sails.”
“You think that day will come?” asked Captain Olsen. He thought for a moment. “Well maybe. You must join me for supper this evening, Sir Jacob. Your ladies too, of course. Now I must return to my duties. It was good talking to you.”
Jake was left on his own again until Hermione came up to join him.
“This is the first time we’ve been on our own since we got Gina,” she said, linking his arm.
“You say that as though she’s some sort of disease,” Jake laughed.
“An affliction would be how I’d describe it,” Hermione replied. “Is it all over now?”
“No,” said Jake. “No, I don’t think it is.”
In Bristol everything had settled down. Lydia was happy with how the girls were getting on, Ursula seemed to have just the touch that they needed, and they were beginning to blossom. The girls always looked after the four smaller children, and played with them, much to everyone’s pleasure. Little Millie was too young yet, but it was fun listening to Jack, little Jacob and Caroline trying to say the girls names, with attempts sounding like Mwade, Fa, Oda, and Sling as they ran around the house and garden shrieking and laughing.
Victoria was now in full flight organising the fashion show. Nerissa’s millinery designs for the show were nearing completion and would undoubtedly be a big hit. Together with her upcoming marriage to Lord Kingswood, Victoria was very happy with her life. The only problem was that Siobhan and Roisin had announced that as soon as the show was over they were going to strike out on their own. This would mean that Myfanwy and Josephine would have to come back from Paris. In itself this was no problem because their six months there was nearly over. Victoria felt duty bound to go there to collect them, but that would mean that she could attend to business there as well. Overall this was no bad thing, four designers were really more than the business required. The only question was whether Kaitlyn would remain with Victoria’s. She had already cut back on the hours she was working now that there were others who could take over the cutting.
Angelica was thoroughly enjoying herself, with a warehouse full of assorted merchandise ready to be shipped to the far side of America. She had had one or two concerns regarding the sheer quantity of stuff, but Dennis had supported her, and in Jake’s absence was able to smooth over any problems either with suppliers or with the bank. The mining equipment for Hiram Maxwell had begun to arrive and was being loaded. There were so many pieces that she hoped he knew how they all went together. Nevertheless, even with everything running perfectly smoothly, she would have preferred to have Jake there, well, just because.
Everyone had, of course, been shocked by Mary’s death, but Bea took it particularly hard. She insisted that she wanted to go to Dublin to pay her respects, something her father was not happy about.
“But Hermione and Jake sorted out the cousins, and their friends, Papa,” she said. “So now there will be no problem.”
However, when ‘Moonfleet’ left for Dublin, the inspector and his sergeant were on board as her body guard. Fitz was partly grateful to her for wanting to go, partly admiring that she had the courage to face down her demons, and amused at the heavily armed escort. Fitz hadn’t seen Bea since she had arrived in Bristol aboard ‘Moonfleet’, and he was pleased to have the company of this lively and confident young lady and her escort. Fitz left Tom in charge of discharging the cargo, and together with Bea and her escort, went to pay their respects at Mary’s grave. Bea stood, head bowed and spoke to Mary.
“Mary, I didn’t know you well, but I know that you were working to find me. I know that Jake, and my father, had the greatest respect for you, and that Fitz loved you deeply. I’m sure I should have too, had I got to know you better.” she looked up at Fitz, her pale blue eyes filled with tears. “I’m sure you’ll meet her again one day, Fitz. But keep living until then, I’m sure that is what she would have wanted.”
Fitz nodded, tears running down his cheeks. Bea reached up and kissed him.
“Have you ordered a headstone, Fitz?” she asked.
Fitz shook his head.
“Then let us go and do that,” said Bea, taking his hand and leading him away. The escort fell in behind them.
Whilst she was in Dublin, Bea decided to go and see Maria O’Brien. She was, of course, accompanied by her escort who came into the store with her. Maria greeted her with a curtsey.
“Oh, don’t bother with that,” said Bea, “I’m just the photographer - call me Bea - and don’t mind my escort, my father insists. Most girls get an older lady,” she giggled. “But I get a couple of strong men. You’ve seen the latest designs?”
“I have,” said Maria, “I’m looking forward to seeing the real thing. But tell me, what happened to Gina?”
“Well,” Bea began, and went on to tell Maria what she had found out. “ ... and so you see, Jake and Hermione went off to Russia to bring her back, but we’ve heard nothing since.”
“That seems to be quite an adventure. Have you no idea when they’ll be back?”
“No, not that anyone is too worried, Jake always seems to land on his feet,” Bea told her. “I came over because I wanted to pay my respects to Mary.”
“Of course,” said Maria. “I went to the funeral ... what happened was truly awful.”
“It was,” Bea agreed.
“You must come to supper,” said Maria. “And bring the brave Captain Fitz with you.”
Whilst they were in Dublin they also had supper with Major Cockburn and Lady Jane Portmahon. The lady was not wearing black, which had caused a small scandal, but as she said, she was not going to mourn that devil’s spawn.
“Now that his brother is dead, I’ve inherited the castle,” she told Fitz and Bea. “And a considerable fortune too. When I’m in Bristol I must thank the young lady who shot his brother. Oh! Not for the inheritance, I’d have done without that, but I certainly wouldn’t have wanted to be at the mercy of the brother. He was equally as bad as my husband,” she shuddered.
Mr Hatherly gave a short laugh. “I’m sure our relationship will continue to be profitable to both of us Mr White,” he said. “I trust that ‘Moonfleet’ is proving useful.” Jake was well aware that Hatherly was referring to the fact that he had acquired the ship at no cost. “Yes,” replied Jake, “she’s in Dublin at the moment.” “Of course, but she’ll be back in about a week, and turned round in a couple of days, I think.” “That would be about right.” “I’d like you to take a passenger for me...
Jake sat for a few minutes after Hatherly had left wondering what he had meant by ‘recognition of your efforts’; surely ‘Moonfleet’ had been sufficient. Still, no point in worrying, and he realised he was worrying rather than speculating, about the future. Maria O’Brien had returned to Dublin on ‘Moonfleet’ with samples of dresses and a draught of an agreement to discuss with her father. He felt sure that there was good business to be had there. Turning his mind to other things, he wondered...
The evening of the day of Victoria’s chastisement both girls looked absolutely lovely at dinner and the flow of conversation showed no sign from either of the girls regarding the day’s events, but only discussions of how things could move forward. Aunt Lydia of course disapproved of business being discussed over dinner but the enthusiasm of the younger members of the family was infectious. After dinner Jake had a short discussion with his uncle before retiring to bed. It was less than half...
It had been several weeks since the evening that Hermione spent with Jake, and which had ended up with the beginnings of her sexual education. She had been very busy between her royal duties, although now that the Queen had become a virtual recluse that had become much less onerous, and being required to spend time with her aunt. Why Aunt Honoria, despite being the Duchess of Skegness, should want to live in a draughty castle on the east coast she could not imagine. Alright, it wasn’t a...
Jake called on the bank and met with his contact. They sorted out the financial aspects of the business, and established lines of credit. Having completed that he hailed a cab and gave the driver the number of the pier where the ‘Rigel’ was berthed. When he arrived he stood for a few minutes looking at the ship. She was rigged as a barquentine, having square sails on the foremast and gaff rigging on the main and mizzen. This would reduce the size of the crew required to sail her. Jake already...
Edited by Old Rotorhead It was an odd thing, thought Jake, but something that he was fairly used to. Both Caroline and Victoria had always been at pains to explain every minute detail of their successful, or sometimes unsuccessful, business deals. He now had Hermione explaining in minute detail everything which had happened on her trip to Newton Abbott. So it must be a woman thing, he supposed. Nevertheless he was happy for her, and for the estate which would benefit from it. She did omit,...
Victoria did indeed prove to be ideal to set up and stock the shop with everything that would be required. Jake blanched at some of the expenditure, but could see that it was necessary. The first thing was premises and here she quickly found what she determined was required; a major corner premises on several floors in the centre of town. Jake was convinced that these were larger than they required, but, as Victoria pointed out, they only needed to outfit the ground floor to start with, and...
Edited by Old Rotorhead Jake was sitting in his office with several large ledgers in front of him. After studying them for some time he sat back and relaxed. There was no doubt that the business, or rather businesses, were in good shape. He had some time ago decided that each division should be accounted separately in order that he could keep an eye on how they were performing. There were profits showing from all the divisions, although some were better than others. The difference was that...
Editing by Old Rotorhead Stunned silence would be the best description of the scene in the studio. Nerissa had run up the stairs after Jake had left. She burst into the studio to give the news to Victoria that Millie had been run over and taken to hospital. Victoria’s reaction had been simply to leave. They could hear her footsteps running down the stairs, and then silence after she went through the front door, leaving the other three looking at each other. Nerissa knew Millie only from a...
Jake returned to Bristol alone the next morning. Victoria was staying for another day or two to make sure that the painters were aware of exactly what she wanted. And, he was quite sure, she would make certain that Annabelle got what Victoria wanted. He arrived back in his office to find that since he was now available to be consulted that was exactly what was happening. “Dennis, what have you been doing for the past few months,” he asked his assistant. “Umm ... well, I’ve been running...
Jake White in India Jake was relaxing in the sitting area of his room in Lady Harmsworth’s parents’ mansion in Bombay gently stroking the neatly trimmed beard he had cultivated on the ship. At least he would have been relaxing, and possibly the stroking was some sort of worry relief, if it had not been for the letter sitting in front of him on the low table. Sooner or later he was going to have to read it, but having got as far as the name of the sender it was something he was not keen on...
Edited by Old Rotorhead Lord Kingswood strode through Victoria’s office door, his whole demeanour indicating that he was furious. Becky hovered behind him, clearly worried about what was happening. He threw a newspaper down on Victoria’s desk. “What is the meaning of this!” his voice tightly clipped. “What is the meaning of what?”she countered. “This is a copy of The Mercury. I don’t read the scurrilous rag, let alone buy it!” Victoria waved Becky to leave. “Victoria, you have been...
Edited by Old Rotorhead Paris! Gay Paree, city of love and romance and ... to be honest, Victoria wasn’t overly impressed. Oh, there were smart new buildings, street long facades fronted fine apartments, but around the back there were the slums where the poor lived, and the smell on a hot day, well ... not much different to London, or indeed Bristol. There were, rather like London, many churches, and a magnificent cathedral, although she felt on balance that Wren’s masterpiece was better,...
“A little job, Mr Hatherley? So far they seem to have developed into rather more than little.” said Jake. “Oh, this is simple enough. Take a letter over and deliver it to an address I shall give you, and collect a parcel from the same address. No problems, I assure you.” Jake raised an eyebrow. “When?” “I’m not sure. Probably not until ‘Moonfleet’s’ next trip after this one. I expect you’ll have young Fitzherbert with you by then. In fact I’m sure of it. I’ll be in touch. Good day.” “Good...
Editing by Old Rotorhead Florence’s new dress was ready by mid morning, and it would have been impossible to have found a girl who was happier. She was dancing up and down the workshop, and all production ceased as everyone watched her. Kaitlyn had to catch her and wave the women back to work. The dress was one of their finest creations and fitted Josephine perfectly. Whilst Josephine was undoubtedly female, her figure was almost straight up and down, with just a small amount of padding on...
“Well that was remarkably clever,” Hermione broke the immediate silence. The solution to this amazing feat made itself known as two burly men entered the room, both brandishing large calibre revolvers, the leader’s still smoking, and moved to ensure that neither of the men would be a further problem. “Do you think you could possibly give me a hand Jake?” said Hermione. “Oh, yes, of course,” Jake replied, breaking out of the momentary shock Hermione was on tip toe and the rope linking her...
Jake White Continues The next day started far too early for Jake after his exertions the night before, but he was washed, dressed and breakfasted ready to accompany his uncle on their walk down to the chandlery ready for the day’s business. Over the next few months he was to learn about all the items that the chandlery stocked, how they bought and from whom, who they supplied and how, and about the accounting system too. Jake gradually adjusted to life at home too. Dinner was always a...
Edited by Old Rotorhead Jake was naturally worried, and decided that whether Hermione and Susan had been abducted or not, it could do no harm to talk du Sang-Frappe. If they had already been abducted then it would get the hunt underway sooner. Accordingly he set out to find the address he had been given. This turned out to be a nondescript building on an out of the way street. He entered a large foyer with a wide curved staircase ascending to the first floor. He noted that there were two men...
It was fully half an hour before Andrew showed the two artists, Ben and Phil into Victoria’s office. “How did you get on?” she asked them. “Is the equipment suitable?” “Yes,” Ben replied. Victoria had noticed that he was invariably the leader and spokesman. “It seems excellent, better than the college has. You said the previous photographer was a lady.” “Yes, my stepdaughter,” said Victoria. “Lady Beatrice Hatherley.” “Oh! We wondered who took the photographs in the gallery,” said...
Jake was probably one of the most even tempered of men, and it was rare that he regarded a set back as anything other than an opportunity, whether to find a new solution or take a new direction. So it was most unusual to find him sitting behind his desk silently fuming. The reason for his anger was the note grasped in his right hand. He had, some ten days ago, sent a message via the new trans Atlantic telegraph, a cable newly laid under the Atlantic ocean all the way to New York, to enquire...
Jake was sitting deep in thought when Hermione and Susan returned just before lunch. The pair of them were clearly on a high after shopping, a curious state that almost all women seem to enjoy - or should that be suffer from? “We’ve had a wonderful time, Jake,” said Hermione, dropping several bags and boxes. “We did,” said Susan dropping some bags on the pile, twirling around and dropping into a chair. “And we’ve more stuff to be delivered when some alterations have been made,” Hermione...
Bea looked down through the hatch that led to the engine. Zeke had shown her where it was, and then Amanda had called out a question regarding bedding or something. Bea was too absorbed in what lay below the hatch to take too much notice. She told Zeke to attend to Amanda and that she would be fine. She could see that the engine room was accessed by a series of steep stairs, each going down one deck at a time with a landing in between. She made her way down to the first landing where the...
Me and ol' Jed, was sittin' outside the general store one day jus' mindin' ever body else's bidness. It musta been past my dinner time cause my belly was a rumblin' somethin' fierce. I was decidin' which it'd be today, chili beans at Pedro's or beef steak down to Lily's. Now Jed, he was practizin his tobacca spit aim on the old hound dog that was layin in the street. The dog didn't seem to be rightly happy about bein' a target for ol' Jed, he kept growlin' and showin' Jed how...
Victoria left the train at Manchester with hugs and kisses, and the admonition to the girls to behave, and not to get into trouble. The train, with Bea and Amanda, continued to Liverpool where Fitz met them with transport for all their bags and baggage. The next stop was the Cunard steam ship ’SS Russia’. The Purser welcomed them on board and showed them to their cabins. In answer to Fitz’s question he told them there were almost two hundred first and second class passengers, the ship did...
The taxicab pulled up the driveway and Jackie sprinted downstairs to greet her brother. Jake Jr. had been away in school in New York and she hadn't been able to see her brother for over a year. Her heart pounded, as it always did when she saw him. She flung the front door open and the siblings' eyes met. Jackie ran outside and threw her arms around her brother placing kisses all over his face. "Hey, hey," Jake laughed holding his little sister close to him. "I'm so glad you're home!...
“All set. According to my monitor here, you have just a small heart murmur. Nothing too concerning, I’ll schedule a follow-up appointment so we can look at it in detail.” Nurse Jackie went over to the large monitor on the wall and pointed to an unusual looking peak on the ECG screen. In a whirlwind of activity, she had printed a number of medical forms and removed her gloves. “Here, I’ll need you to sign these and then we can schedule for next time. Just take it easy on the physical activity,...
FetishJake woke early, having already slept between moments. Time was already a totally different concept to him than it had been before, it seemed. He looked at the clock by the bed, noting that it was only 4 in the morning. Plenty of time to get started on the day. But first, it seemed there was some unfinished business to take care of. Jake had meant to spend some time next door last night, and had got so caught up with Katie that it had slipped his mind. A quick shower to freshen up and an apple...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, ince$t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.----------------------------Breakfast Sunday morning was a lot less awkward than...
Introduction: Again, sorry about the paragraphs. I dont care about the format, I just care about getting the story on here. I am gonna make a series of these two people so yes there will be a second episode. There are hints in this story as to what the second episode is about. Hope you enjoy! Ahhhhhhh! Shouts a young Mrs. Housened. Its just a spider, sweetie. Mr. Housened grabs a paper towel from the kitchen and stands up on the end table to get the creepy crawly. Mr. and Mrs. Housened are...
“It’s just a spider, sweetie.” Mr. Housened grabs a paper towel from the kitchen and stands up on the end table to get the creepy crawly. Mr. and Mrs. Housened are high school sweethearts, married right out of high school. Married a few months after graduation. “Flush it!” Melody Housened demands. “No, I want to keep it as a pet.” Jake Housened jokes. He gets a glass jar from the recycling bin and sticks a piece of lettuce inside. “See, it won’t hurt us.” “NO! FLUSH IT! KILL IT!” she...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, ince$t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.------------------------------------------Sarah got home only a few minutes after...
It's funny how random events can impact our lives. Emma and I had been married less than a year when our marriage sailed into parts unknown. It turned out to be a hell of a detour, but in the end one we're both glad we took. She's 22, and blessed with girl next door good looks. She was a gymnast in high school and college, as well as part of the dance team. At 5'2" and 105 pounds, she is an incredibly fit blue-eyed blonde and prides herself in staying in shape. As a football and soccer jock in...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, ince$t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.-------------Jake walked into the steakhouse with his favorite two women close...
In Jake’s first year of university, he was paired up in residence with a guy named David, who bore such a striking resemblance to Orlando Bloom that everyone on their floor just started calling him Elf. Jake himself was quite good-looking, but never quite saw himself that way. He was in fact deeply insecure about his looks because he’d been a little too nerdy in high school to ever get the attention of girls. He didn’t realize that what had made him unattractive in high school—his bookishness,...
Gay MaleThank you all for being such faithful readers. I love interacting with my fans! If you want to read these faster, please go to my post on voat:https://voat.co/v/TimeStop/comments/138397I post there first, Reddit second, and here last because it's harder to get to through work firewalls and it has that long wait time for posting.After all the excitement and sunshine at the beach, Jake wanted to go somewhere cool and relaxing. Petra agreed with him about the heat, but had other ideas about the...
Carol held her coffee as though it was the elixir of life. It very well looked like it was, too; in the cafe’s more direct light, Jake could make out dark circles under her eyes that hadn’t been there before.“Are you alright?” Jake asked. “You look…”“...like hell,” Petra offered.Carol gave that crooked smile again. Something about it was really familiar. “I’ll be fine. It’s just… really exhausting getting here.”Jake shook his head. “I don’t get it. Getting here? From where? And why?”Carol...
This story is continued from "Daydreaming on the Hardintown Bus" here is a link:http://xhamster.com/user/mooremike/posts/451995.htmlJake walked home from the bus as fast as he could he really wanted nothing more than to jack off and think of Natalie feeling his cock! It had only been an accidental touch but for a teen boy it did not take much!He arrived at home and was alone. He quickly went to the dirty clothes hamper. With two sisters and a mom there was always a pair of used panties to sniff...
Jake winked at Petra as she returned from the bathroom. “Everything alright in there?” he asked. “Just fine, Daddy,” she said. She walked over and leaned in close to where he sat in his recliner. “What did you do? That was hilarious.” Jake chuckled. “Just a little teasing. You want me to keep going?” “Yes, please!” She kissed his cheek, then turned to head upstairs to her room. Halfway up the stairs she flipped up her bathrobe to show off the way her panties hugged her ass. Of course, as...
Jake had been feeling pretty good about himself lately. He had answered two more “summons” as Danica’s “not-Jake” in the last week, and it was starting to make a marked difference in the girl. She was bolder, more outspoken and confident, and smiled a lot more. It was as if some great burden of stress had been lifted from her. Which made sense, because in a way it was true. Danica liked being brought down to the level of an a****l; in fact, she loved it. She’d told him as much after their last...
Jake goes for help Chapter 1 - The first Session Jake Carstairs buzzed the office of the councilors, and went inside when the door unlocked. He went to the receptionist desk, and told the lady his name. "Who are you seeing?" she asked. Jake pulled a piece of paper out of his jeans and read the name. "Jill. I think." "Ah, yes. She's just about done with her current client. Just have a seat. Would you like some coffee?" "Sure." Jake moved into the waiting area,...
Jake and Mari - Part One It had been one of those frustrating evenings. Jake loved his beautiful wife. She had proved to be submissive to him. Over the years they had played at Master and sex slave, but there was always an underlying current of resistance from Mari. Even when they engaged in ?vanilla? sex, she would tend to resist turning loose and enjoying the action. This was one of those evenings. Jake had tied her hands behind her back, and had spanked her delicious ass...
Jake was a twenty year old sophomore in college. He loved the college life, and why shouldn't he? Sure, the workouts for the wrestling team were grueling, but they kept him in fantastic shape. That really paid off at parties, and he could always find at least one party to go to on the weekend. Usually though, he was partying both Friday and Saturday night with knowledge of multiple parties on either night so that he could switch venues if he wasn't making any progress with the available women...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, ince$t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.“And ever since then, you’ve been able to-”“Stop time, yes.”Petra blinked, staring...
“Daddy!” someone whined. “Wake uuuuup!” Jake’s nostrils were filled with a familiar scent of strawberry bodywash. He inhaled deeply and smiled. “I know you’re awake,” Petra complained. “Shoosh,” Jake said, wrapping his arms around the girl who had woken him from his nap by straddling his lap. “sleep time is now.” Petra whined again, pushing her breasts in Jake’s face. He noticed that they were uncovered, and his eyes snapped open. “Petra, your mother-” “She’s out,” Petra said, smiling down...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, ince$t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.------------Jake’s mind was racing as he went through the motions of working. He’d...
Introduction: Amy gets raped by her boss on a business trip Amy had been working for Jake McKnight for two years, a golden opportunity for her. McKnight was the CEO of a Fortune 500 company and she was his Executive Assistant. Amy took care of the high-end, business-related aspects of Jakes life. She was efficient, hard-working, and under-appreciated. She had fantasized about Mr. McKnights cock for months, but the opportunity had never presented itself. Jake McKnight was 45 years old, married...
Jake had just completed his after-school assignments and wanted to take a shower before he went to his part-time job. He noticed that the student’s shower was out of order and he had no other choice but to use the teacher’s shower. He thought in his mind “It should be alright, its after-school and most of the teachers have left.” So he took his clothes off and entered the shower. As he was about to use the shower, he heard an angelic voice say “I think you might be in the wrong shower.” Jake...
For years I had fantasized about watching my wife suck another mans cock. I know I am not alone amongst men in having this fantasy based on many of the stories that I have read over the years on the internet and other various venues. I have even mentioned it to my wife more than once. At times, usually when we are fucking, I have brought it up and she has said she would do it. I think we both knew that she was just saying this a part of the moment and neither of us thought it would ever advance...
Jake McKnight was 45 years old, married to a stay-at-home drunk wench named Karen. Karen didn't put out anymore. And to make matters worse, Karen smelled like alcohol all the time. Jake had taken to sleeping at the corporate suite or on the couch in the den rather than sleep with his slobbering wife. Amy never noticed Jake eyeing her legs wrapped in nylons. Nor did she ever notice the slight movement in his crotch whenever she bent over in front of him, surreptitiously exposing her ample...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of time stop, non-consent/reluctance, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.This is the first chapter of what will become (hopefully) a long story. I'm open to feedback, suggestions, and requests!---ONE---Jacob Stevens was a pretty average guy. 6 feet...
NOTE: This story is intended for adults only. It includes elements of voyeurism, time stop, non-consent/reluctance, i****t, and mind control. If you are offended or upset by this sort of thing, please do not read it. The story is fiction and any resemblance to real persons or events is either coincidental or the result of artistic liberty.Feedback and positive criticism is welcome, as are suggestions and requests.------------------------------Jake uploaded all his work and went to lunch early....
Jake was like a drug for teenage girls. He was attractive, charming, and had a way about him that made girls want his attention. A fun casual friend, but addictive and dangerous in large doses or repeated use. Jake was only and always out for himself. He didn't know what it meant to care for anyone else. To him, women were disposable and only meant for his entertainment and pleasure. Stacey was a beautiful girl who was always seeking to fill the void left by her estranged, deadbeat dad who...
MasturbationJake and Me PartOn and Me PartOne by Dale10 It was my own fault, I suppose that I allowed Jake to lead me down the path to my own complete humiliation degradation and destruction. After all he had just turned eighteen and I was thirty-five. What made me think he would ever be interested in me to begin with? Well, I know the answer. Lonely middle aged gay guys who are in good shape, still prowl dance clubs and bars and malls and streets looking for that sweet young cute "true love" that...
Introduction: Prequel of one of my stories ( Guardian Angel ) During a calm saturday morning, Jake slept peacefully in his room. There was a knocking on the door, and the door was opened slowly and quietly. A boy entered Jakes room, and gently sat next to the sleeping boy. Jake felt someone breathing next to his left ear, and as he opened his eyes, the boy joined his lips with Jakes. After a moment, the kiss was broken: Morning, sleepy head! shouted Hunter, who started laughing and playing...
Jake saw Stacey as he drove up the street towards her house. She was standing outside in the white tennis skirt he had chosen for her last night, but she was covered from the waist up by a large green hoodie, hiding her best features. The baggy hoodie represented resistance to Jake's desires and this annoyed him.As Stacey opened the passenger door to get in he held his hand up to stop her. "Throw your backpack in the back and take off that ridiculous sweatshirt," he barked."What? It's cold...
TeenI keep getting messages saying you love this story. Thank you all! Remember I am always open to comments, criticism and suggestions/requests. And this part is the end of Katie's sleepover, I promise.Katie came hard when Petra flashed her dad’s dick-pic at her. It was completely without warning; one moment she was eagerly anticipating the sight, and the next she was biting her lip and squirming, trying desperately not to moan. She felt empty inside, and she knew exactly how she wanted to fill...
"Morning, sleepy head!" shouted Hunter, who started laughing and playing with Jake's hair. "Hunter! Can't you see I was sleeping?" complained Jake. "Not anymore! C'mon, we got stuff to do!" "Like what?" asked Jake, as he tried to fully wake up and get out of the bed. "You promised we'd go to Mount Gloria today!" shouted Hunter, as he followed Jake, wherever he went in the room, as the boy looked for some clothes to wear. "Mount Gloria?" asked Jake. "Yeah, it's where we...
Jake stretched his legs out in front of him, aware that the bulge between his legs was clearly visible to the woman sitting on the sofa facing him. They were both pretending to watch TV, but Jake knew that she was watching the growing bulge in his pants. As for him, Jake could hardly tear his eyes away from the lovely sight before him. Janie was sitting with one leg pulled up under her, seeming to be unaware that the crotch of her white panties was clearly visible to him.Jake stood up. Janie...