I laid on the floor by the pool, thinking about what had just happened. I let a young girl touch me like no one ever had. It went against all I was ever taught and believed. Yet, it felt so good that I was still feeling the tiny ripples of pleasure rolling through me. She mentioned she and Christine do this often, I could see why.
I picked myself up off the floor to put on the clothes Eden had left for me. Black Pantaloons, a beige silk blouse, and knee-length boots. I must look like a pirate now or at least a resident of the island.
I made my way back to my room, smiling and greeting the few people I saw. I giggled to myself because I wanted to hug everyone to tell them how good I felt. It was as if my problems had vanished.
I entered my room, and a thought struck me. Maybe I had experienced the 'release into euphoria' or, as the French called it, la petite mort. No wonder the French are such bawdy people. I giggled to myself again, wondering what I could do to thank Christine for such a wonderful experience.
It was still light out when I heard a knock on my door. It was one of the young men who had carried my baggage up, letting me know supper was ready. I thanked him, following him as he led me to the main floor's large dining area.
Christine was already seated, enjoying a glass of wine. She stood, greeting me and complimenting me on the new attire. The young man sat me next to her then asked if I'd care for something to drink. I told him I'd have whatever Mistress Christine was having. He smiled, then poured a glass of wine for me.
Christine was smiling, "You don't have to call me Mistress, Camille."
I grinned, "I've heard you called that several times today. I didn't want to be disrespectful."
"You're my guest now, Camille. Please don't be so formal."
I looked at her with a questioning gaze, "Guest, not a captive?"
Christine's expression took a severe tone. She handed me a letter to read. I opened it, not knowing what to expect. I noticed it had the seal of the Governor of Monserrat affixed to it. She sat quietly, waiting for me to finish.
To Captain Kelly of the Pirate ship Crimson Orchid,
Your ransom request shall not be paid. Colonel Edwards passed away two months before receiving your demand. His considerable debt is now the responsibility of his daughter, Camille Edwards. Should she be turned over to His Majesty's forces unharmed, she will be allowed to pay off the debt. Should she lack funds to do so, she will be imprisoned and made to work off that debt.
Sincerely,
Governor Jacob Walters
I began to cry. My father was indebted and dead. Now I owed that money and had no way to pay. I put the letter down, my tears making small dripping sounds on it. Christine rose to comfort me. She apologized, whispering to me he'd passed away before she's met me.
I slowly regained my composure, wiping the tears from my eyes.
I looked up at her, "You've actually saved me, Christine. Had I arrived as planned, I'd be in prison now or someone's servant paying off that debt or maybe something worse. I don't know what I'll do here, I have nothing of value, nor am I worth anything to you."
Christine looked at me, not with pity, but something more than sympathy. She told me, "You're welcome to stay here in any capacity you wish. I will never take you to Monserrat to work off your debt. When and if we find out how much it may be and the circumstances regarding your father's death, I could arrange for payment. I will have my contacts make inquiries, sweet Camille. Now, let's sit and have a pleasant supper and forgot about this for a while, shall we?"
I looked at her and felt a tugging at my heart. She certainly wasn't the woman her reputation made her out to be. Of that, I was genuinely thankful.
I began blabbering, "Do you think they would come after me? They know you have me, could they find me? I should learn to defend myself. Can someone teach me?"
Christine shushed me, calming me down.
I took a deep breath, my wits about me, "But, yes, you're right, and thank you. What are we having for supper, Christine?"
She smiled, "That's my girl. I can have someone teach you to shoot and use a sword. That can come when you're settled. For now, let's dine on a succulent roast. I haven't had beef in quite a long time. I asked Mama Carmen to prepare a roast for us and the rest of the household. I hope you enjoy it."
I smiled, "I worry too much at times. Yes, in a few days when I'm settled. Thank you, Christine. I can't remember the last time I had beef; it was back home before we left. Thank you so much. I'm sure it will be delicious."
"You're welcome."
I added, blushing, "Before I forget. Thank you for the bath. Eden was quite delightful washing me. I felt so exhilarated when she'd finished."
Christine smiled wickedly, "I'm glad you enjoyed it. She enjoys her work. You must bathe with us next time, Camille."
"I would love that, Christine. I can only imagine how wonderful it would be."
The supper was delicious. We drank nearly two bottles of wine during the course of the meal. I was very silly, from what little I recall. I believe Christine helped me to bed, undressing me and making sure my bug net was in place.