Read Online The Captain by Lynn Collum - Free Book Online Page B

head.
    â€œSorry, I’m not as steady on my feet as I thought. Lead the way.”
    Jacinda watched him swaying and without a word, pulled his arm over her shoulder. “Lean on me, sir.” They made their way up the stairs on the deck. Strangely, she was very conscious of the feel of his well-muscled build through his coat when he leaned against her. This was no Town Tulip, but a man of activity. She pushed the thoughts aside and concentrated on leading him out of danger.
    He swore softly as the gentle rocking of the barge forced him to lean into her support. Intuitively she sensed that he hated that the injury had made him momentarily defenseless. The smell of tobacco and some exotic spice pleasantly teased her nose. She’d never met a man whose scent was so enticing. It tickled at some old memory, but she didn’t have the time to put her mind to the matter.
    After some careful maneuvering of the steps, they stood on deck and the cool evening air was a welcome change from the barge’s stifling heat. Jacinda stepped away from the gentleman, who seemed to be finding his legs. He ran a hand through his hair and then tested the lump at his scalp, winching when his fingers pressed too hard.
    Jacinda’s gaze roved over the waterfront. All the freed men had disappeared into the night. Only Lili and Ben stood watch on the wharf, looking east toward the London Docks. Lili gestured for Jacinda and the gentleman to join them on dry land. “Jack, I can hear the Gangers comin’ back with more captured sailors. Best get Ben and your new friend out of here.”
    â€œWhat about you, Lili?” Jacinda urged the injured gentleman towards the gangway, following close behind, ready to lend a hand should he need her.
    â€œDon’t worry about me. I can make my way home alone.”
    On the wharf, Ben had taken an interest in the unconscious guard. “Is he dead?”
    â€œDon’t be silly,” Lili said. “He’s drugged.” She turned to Jacinda. “I’ll see you back at the rooms. Go, child. I’m in no danger ... just a female out for a walk. I don’t know anythin’ about escaped seamen.”
    Once safely on the wharf, Jacinda eyed the gentleman in the dim light from the street lamp. Again the strange feeling of familiarity came over her. Did she know him? She dismissed the thought as foolish. She could scarcely see him in this light. Besides, she knew no gentlemen in London, especially not one so tall and athletic in build. “Can you walk without assistance, sir?”
    He ran a hand over his waistcoat, tugging the bottom as he swayed slightly, then he gave a shaky laugh. “I’ll make myself to get away from here. I owe you a debt I can never repay. What’s your name, my boy?”
    â€œJack, Jack Trudeau.” She used the name she’d adopted since donning men’s clothing. “You’d best go home, sir. The Gangers are coming back.” In the distance she could hear the approaching Impressment men and their complaining prisoners. Clearly they were too engaged in their task to take notice of those under the street lamp.
    â€œThe problem is,” the man said, still seemingly a bit dazed as he looked about in puzzlement, “I have no home at present save my ship and I don’t know London; I’m captain of the Flying Dragon out of Calcutta. She’s at the East India Docks. I’m Captain—”
    A shout rang out down the wharf. They’d been spotted by the returning Press Gang. Sounds of rapidly approaching footsteps echoed over the water.
    Ben dashed into the shadows of the Tower and Jacinda followed, calling over her shoulder. “Follow us, sir. We’ll lead you safely back to the docks you want.”
    The injured gentleman didn’t need any urging. He loped after the disappearing pair into the dark alley. His steps were a bit uneven, but he trailed his rescuers since his life depended on