New Horizons

A gay story: New Horizons Pelaam October 2007.

*

Captain Diego Alverez strolled jauntily through the colourful marketplace. Occasionally a stallholder would call out a greeting and the buccaneer would shout his reply or simply doff his red, feathered hat and affect a sweeping bow. He smiled widely. The financial success from his last cargo had been safely salted away, the swashbuckler retaining only a part to be able to spend freely. His raven-black, glossy hair was securely fastened at the nape of his neck by red ribbon matching the feather in his hat. His thin moustache covered the length of his upper lip and trailed either side of a generous mouth. His breeches were tight, tucked into knee-length, black leather boots and displayed his lower body to good advantage, as the ruffled white shirt did his torso. The buttons were unfastened enough to partially display his tanned, furred chest. The outfit was topped by a red bolero jacket. All in all he knew he looked powerful, masterful and oozed raw masculinity and sexual charisma. He drew admiring glances from men and women alike and revelled in the attention. His intelligent brown eyes caught a flurry of activity at the day’s slave auction. His curiosity piqued, he went to investigate.

He stifled a gasp at what had caused such an interest by those around him. He stared at the young, male slave. The only thing that preserved his modesty was a tiny scrap of material that barely covered his groin. Long, smooth-skinned legs were hobbled by thick rope, the same kind of rope binding his hands tightly in front of him. The boy’s hair was a little shorter and lighter than Diego’s, but they shared the same deep, brown eyes, although the youth’s were currently wide with fear. The buccaneer found himself mesmerised by the expanse of honey-gold skin displayed and then his eyes were drawn to the large dark discs adorning the smooth chest. He wondered how they would taste and licked his lips. Once again he looked at the expressive face. The boy was afraid and with good reason. Diego let his eyes survey the crowd. There were some here he would not even sell his worst enemy to. He shook his head lamenting the circumstances that had brought the youth into such a precarious situation, intending to move on. However, every time he tried, his feet seemed to remain in place and his eyes were drawn to the terrified, angelic visage. Then they opened wide with shock.

“You can see his beauty, ladies and gentlemen and we can also guarantee his virginity. Just think, a blank canvass onto which you can paint you desires. A boy perfect to train to indulge your every whim. Are we ready to commence bidding?” The auctioneer stroked his hand over the youth’s thigh as he spoke, smiling at the futile attempt at evasion, and his question was answered by a roar from the crowd.

Diego was disgusted by the naked lust he could now see in many eyes. His heart ached at the thought of what depravity the chaste young man might face. He gave a frustrated growl of disgust. He had no need of a slave-boy and yet something would not let him walk away and abandon the youth. He fingered the medal he wore around his neck, which hung low enough not to be seen. The bidding was high, but his voyage had been unusually profitable. He gave a trilling whistle that the crowd either failed to hear or chose to ignore. A non-descript man appeared silently and listened to Diego’s precise instructions before scurrying away. Diego smiled as, just a couple of moments later, a blond man, in attire similar to his own, rapidly approached him.

“Why?” the tall, broad blond asked succinctly.

“Because,” Diego shrugged, his fingers playing absently with his medallion. The action was noted by the other man, who nodded.

“What She wants, She gets, my friend,” he smiled. He looked at the youth. “Go and do what you must. He looks like he could do with a decent break.”

Diego waited till the auctioneer had called a price twice before putting in his own bid. It was generously higher than the current price.

The auctioneer caught the dark-eyed gaze and rapidly called the bidding to its conclusion. He was savvy enough to know it didn’t pay to cross Captain Alverez, especially when the seafarer could jeopardise his future business. He pulled the trembling youth from his pedestal and bowed obsequiously to Diego and his companion as he handed over the rope-bound slave.

“A pleasure to do business with you, Captain,” he said, his voice oily. “I’m certain you will be well-pleased. He is a high-quality piece of flesh.”

Diego barely heard the odious man’s words. His eyes were appraising the slender body. The boy needed feeding up and filling out. He thought the youth could perform basic cabin-boy duties to start with and then they would see whether he would make a crewman. He glanced askance at the lithe form. He was certain there was a hint of steel in the slim frame.

“What language does he speak?” the blond asked, seeing Diego’s attention was elsewhere.

“English, Mr Sharpe,” came the reply. “I’m sure your good self and the esteemed captain will train him well.”

Diego gave a snort of disgust and pulled at the rope that was attached to the bound hands.

“Follow us,” he commanded, as he strode away, his blond companion easily matching his pace. “Dios mio! I detest that man, Boro.”

“Let us get the boy safely aboard ‘Maria’, Diego. We are attracting unwanted attention with our silent beauty,” Boro murmured, his eyes darting back and forth and his hand resting near the pommel of his sword.

“Swiftly, boy,” Diego commanded, then cursed himself for his own stupidity. The youth was still hobbled. He unsheathed his sword and sliced easily through the rough hemp. He heard the gasp of fear and clasped the boy’s thin shoulder in what he hoped was a friendly gesture of reassurance. “I will not hurt you. Now let us hasten.”

They boarded his ship, the ‘Santa Maria’ without incident, although the two older men were aware of being followed. Diego headed to his quarters, slave in tow, whilst Boro went to his own cabin. Diego sighed as the young man huddled fearfully, his hands trying to protect his crotch.

“I have said I will not hurt you, boy,” he reminded the youth patiently. He could understand the young man’s fear and did not want to consider what he may have suffered to be so scared. “Let me untie your hands.” He scowled at the abraded wrists. They would need some treatment. He knelt to cut the rope attached to slender ankles and could see these were equally damaged. Up close he could see bruising to the youth’s body that spoke of abuse or futile attempts at resistance. He stood to answer a knock to his door.

“They boy will need clothing,” Boro said, as he thrust an armful of items at Diego. “These either don’t fit or I would not choose to wear them again. He will probably feel better when no longer as good as naked.”

“Gracias, mi amigo,” Diego said, clasping Boro’s arm.

Diego sorted through the myriad clothes, selecting what would be suited to a cabin-boy. He set aside breeches, shirt and a woollen waistcoat. Shoes would have to wait until he could buy the boy a pair. He held them out with a friendly smile.

“Dress yourself,” he said kindly.

“P…Please, sir, may … may I wash?” The question was so quietly spoken Diego barely heard the words.

The older man poured water from a jug into a basin, set the towel where it could be reached and indicated the boy could proceed. The water would be cold, but it was clean. Diego tried not to watch as the youth’s hands traversed the golden sea of silken skin. He especially tried not to watch as the loincloth was removed and lax genitals and creamy mounds were cleansed. As the perfunctory wash was completed, the youth donned the offered apparel. He now looked marginally older, although from his discreet glimpses Diego was certain he was looking at a grown man; a young, beautiful, afraid man.

“You have been purchased by Captain Diego Alverez. I am not in the market for a slave-boy, but could make use of a cabin-boy. You will need to demonstrate your obedience to me before I can permit you to wander freely aboard ‘Maria’. So, firstly, your name?” Diego asked.

“N … Nathaniel,” came the whispered reply.

“I will call you ‘Nat’,” Diego declared. The Spaniard growled his discontent as there was another knock at his door. However, the bearer of news brought something of importance and Diego huffed angrily about having to go and sort something about his next shipment he thought already well in hand.

“You will remain in my cabin,” he said to Nathaniel. “Do not attempt to leave. Food and water will be brought to you and I will send someone to tend to your wounds.”

As he left, Nathaniel watched with a mix of relief and regret. Although the handsome Spaniard had shown him kindness, Nat still didn’t feel able to fully trust him, but neither did he want to be alone. He stared at the cabin that was now his prison. The bunk had pillows and coverlet in crimson damask. The wooden table was highly polished and of good quality. There was a chaise-lounge in red and gold brocade. A shelf held a crucifix and several images of the Virgin. A large, polished chest of wood and bronze was under the porthole. Seeing the small window to the outside world, Nathaniel walked over to peer outside. He stared at the expanse of sea and sky, there was no escape, except by death and Nathaniel wasn’t ready to die. Perhaps Captain Alverez was a man of honour.

True to Diego’s word, an older man came in to clean and dress the damaged flesh at Nathaniel’s wrists and ankles. The chamber pot was pointed out to him with instructions to empty it through the porthole when necessary, then he was left alone again. The man came back twice more; the first time bringing soup and bread, the second with bread, cheese and an apple. On both occasions, Nathaniel received fresh water. Nothing was said about how long Diego would be absent. As the cabin became dark, too afraid to take a cover for himself, Nathaniel simply curled up on the chaise-lounge to sleep.

****

Nathaniel had no idea how long he had slept, but as he awoke he could tell by the motion of the ship they were already at sea. Returning to the porthole, Nathaniel stared at the unending vista of turquoise and azure, then started as Diego breezed into the room.

“We’ve put up sail and are away on our next voyage, Nat,” he said, speaking as though Nathaniel was already a seasoned member of his crew. His mind was immersed in ensuring there was nothing he had forgotten either regarding his cargo, crew, supplies, the tides…that he forgot one vital component.

Nathaniel knew nothing of Diego’s thoughts or expectations. All he had to fall back on was the cruelty he had experienced at the hands of his last ship’s captain. He stared in mounting distress as Diego continued immersed in his own thoughts.

“I need to take you out on deck so you can swear your fealty to me in front of the crew,” he muttered, finding and donning a clean shirt from his chest. “You were a slave, but they need to see what you are now,” he said.

Nathaniel had been dazed to find himself staring at Diego’s broad chest and was dizzied by Diego’s rapid-fire, accented speech. His mind focused on just one thing. He was to be taken before the crew. He began to tremble, his head shaking his denial. He could not … not again. Diego’s voice became a drone that Nathaniel heard buzzing in his ear and was then pulled behind the bigger man as they headed out on deck.

Boro was already stationed at the ship’s wheel. He watched with mounting concern as Diego approached; a vacant-eyed Nat training in his wake. Diego was an excellent seaman and could juggle a multitude of things in his mind, which was an admirable trait as ship’s captain. However, the Spaniard could become so involved with the wider picture he could easily miss important things underneath his nose. As now. Coming to stand close to the blond, Boro tried to take advantage of Diego’s proximity to alert the dark-haired man to Nat’s clear distress, but Diego remained oblivious. Even from the main deck, some of the gathered crewmen were pointing and shaking their heads. Boro groaned in frustration. He indicated for a crewman to come and replace him at the wheel as Diego commenced his speech.

“Our last voyage was a most profitable one,” he declared, receiving a cheer from his crew. “I have a new member to bring before you. Although purchased at the auction, Nat is to be my cabin-boy for the present and I am certain you will welcome him aboard and teach him anything he needs to know. He will now kneel and offer his fealty to me and to ‘Maria’ and those who sail in her. “On your knees, Nat,” he said, his eyes never leaving his crewmen’s faces. When he wasn’t instantly obeyed, Diego simply tightened his grip on Nat’s arm, believing to look at the boy would be perceived as a weakness he couldn’t afford to show.

Boro could see the disaster looming and immediately took steps to avert it.

“Forgive me, Nat,” he murmured to the trembling youth, certain his words would be as unheard as Diego’s had been. Using a move he and Diego had learnt from a Chinaman, Boro gripped tightly at the junction of Nat’s shoulder and neck and, applying pressure, pushed downwards.

With a soft yelp of pain, Nat dropped to his knees and as he did, Boro met the angry gaze from his friend and captain.

“He is petrified,” Boro whispered and then turned to the crew.

“I expect you all to offer Nat any assistance he needs in the future. For now Captain Alverez will teach him his duties as cabin-boy.” Boro looked at Diego to see the concern in dark eyes. “Let’s get him back to your cabin,” he whispered.

Nat followed as unresistingly back as he had out onto the deck. As he was pushed inside, Diego reached to him and was stunned by the scream of abject fear.

“Do not touch me, do not touch me.” Nat huddled at the side of the chest, shaking and crying.

“Nat, please,” Diego tried again. This fear was worse than when he’d brought the boy aboard and he had no idea what he had done. He felt powerless. //How did I fail to see how afeared the boy had become? I promised I wouldn’t hurt him// Diego thought bitterly.

“Diego?” The Spaniard heard Boro call through his door and opened it to let the blond enter.

“He will not let me near. What have I done?” Diego said helplessly.

“Let us see if we cannot find out,” Boro said. He dropped to his knees and inched slowly forward to be closer to the sobbing, shaking youth. “Nathaniel, can you hear me?” he asked softly. His response was a small whimper. “Nathaniel, please look at me.” Boro was pleased at the tiny movement of Nat’s head. “That’s it,” he said holding out his arms. “Come on, son,” he coaxed and was stunned at the reaction.

Nathaniel was terrified. Diego wanted … would … he was just like Le Diable Mal. His thoughts were fractured and circled endlessly in his panicked mind. Slowly he became aware of a soft voice that called to him. He latched onto the sound. At the word ‘son’, all the pent up emotion of the last week surged to the fore. He launched himself into the open arms and clung desperately to the large, warm body seeking warmth, safety and comfort.

“It’s alright, son,” Boro crooned, kissing the top of Nat’s head affectionately. “It’s going to be just fine.”

Diego fought to damp down the jealousy that ignited in his breast at the sight of his friend’s intimacy with the beautiful boy. He reminded himself that Boro was simply comforting the distressed youth. He knelt alongside his companion and stroked Nat’s hair soothingly.

“I swear by the blessed Virgin that you will come to no harm aboard my ship,” he said quietly, but firmly as he turned Nat’s face from Boro’s chest to look him in the eye. “Por favor, Nat, tell us what scared you so much that I can ensure it never happens again.”

Slowly Nathaniel sat back to look from the blond to the dark, both men wearing the same expression of concern. They were not…? His head tilted to one side then the next, reminding Diego and Boro of a confused puppy, then he began to speak.

“I was on a ship with my uncle and aunt,” he said, his voice stronger, but still quiet. “They had been my guardians since the deaths of my parents. They were good enough, but very distant, they knew nothing of being affectionate towards an eight-year-old child. I tried to do all that they required of me and undertook schooling, where I did very well. However, they had no intention of paying for university education. They began canvassing for marriage for me when I was just sixteen and a year ago, not long after my seventeenth birthday, found a lady they thought most suitable. She and I corresponded, although all I really knew of her was her love of poetry and that she was almost ten years my senior. Uncle and aunt were very cautious regarding vetting letters we exchanged. They purchased carriage aboard a small cargo ship. It was a new and wonderful experience. The captain was an elderly man and delighted in my interest, teaching me to use maps and charts.

We were attacked by pirates and it was all over as soon as it began. His crew offered no resistance and yet were slain. When the pirates burst into Captain Kellen’s cabin, my guardians were also amongst the dead. I failed to understand the pirate Captain, Le Diable Mal’s, innuendoes. The captain told him I was an innocent going to meet my betrothed and begged for clemency. Instead Le Diable Mal just laughed as his men slit Captain Kellen’s throat.

They sank my ship and took me aboard theirs where I was instantly taken to the captain’s cabin.” At this point Nathaniel took a deep breath to be able to continue with his tale. “Le Diable Mal lived up to his name. He stripped me and touched me, telling me that if he had weeks rather than days before reaching port he would have taught me how to pleasure men. Instead he would sell me as untouched at auction and command a good price. He spilt his seed on me, lying atop me and grunting like an animal in my ear.”

When he’d pleasured himself enough that way he touched me over and over till my manhood rose and spurted, telling me I was made for pleasure. He made me stroke his flesh till he spilt again. He finally fell asleep with me beneath him tied to his bunk. When he awoke, he took me out on deck. He laughed, as his crew ran their hands over my flesh, before forcing me to my knees and putting his organ in my mouth. I thought I would choke; I could barely breathe. He made me swallow some of his release and let the rest coat my face and hair as his crew laughed and jeered. That became my routine for the next three days. Then he sold me once we landed, swearing my chastity, and the auctioneer insisted on… on checking.” Nathaniel’s voice finally broke as he concluded his tale.

Diego moved to envelop the slender frame in a tight hug.

“I am not that monster, although I have heard the name of the man of whom you speak. You will not be used in that way aboard my ship, Nat. Nothing you do not desire will be done to you. I swear it.”

“As do I,” Boro added.

Nathaniel looked from one man to the other. He could see the sincerity shining in deep brown and earnest blue orbs. He thought back carefully of his time aboard ‘Maria’. Nothing had been done to harm him. He’d been fed, clothed and cared for. Diego was different to Le Diable Mal. It had been his own fear out on deck, neither of the men before him had tried to… hurt him in any way.”

“I … I believe you,” he said slowly. “I just thought … thought … I was so very scared.”

“There is no need to fear either of us, Nat,” Diego promised. He placed a chaste kiss to the smooth brow and cupped the angelic face in gentle hands. “I cannot change my course now, but after this journey is complete I could take you anywhere you wished.”

“I do not know where my fiancée resided. That was restricted to my guardians, but marriage was not my choice. I have nothing, nobody,” he sighed sadly.

“Then make a choice now,” Diego said, using a finger to lift Nat’s chin. “I offer you freedom and a role aboard my ship. You will receive a good wage and, if we earn it, a share of a bonus. If you chose to remain loyal to me, sail with me again, but if you want to leave at any time, you are free to do so.”

“You paid so much for me,” Nat whispered, remembering the look in the eyes of the man he thought would succeed in purchasing him.

“I will consider that money repaid if you lose your fear of us,” Diego smiled. “Do we have an accord?”

“Yes,” Nat smiled, for the first time in what felt like a very long time.

The three men slowly arose and Boro pulled Nat into a strong embrace.

“You will enjoy being one of the crew,” he said, pulling back and slapping the slim back. “We cannot change what has happened before, but Diego and I will care for you from now on,” he vowed, dropping a kiss to dark tresses.

****

Nathaniel decided to throw himself fully into his role as Diego’s cabin-boy. He quickly leant some of Diego’s likes and dislikes and the times the captain preferred his meals or treats. He knew that Diego liked a glass of ruby port to be served after he had spent time at the wheel or poring over maps. Nat had found Boro easy to talk to and the crew were helpful and would tell him tales he was uncertain were true or tall.

All-in-all, things were going well, yet there was one unexpected cloud on Nat’s horizon; Captain Diego Alverez himself.

It was not that the captain behaved in any way less than a completely honourable man as he had promised. He behaved impeccably. However, Nat found himself stealing glances at the handsome man at every opportunity and, given they shared Diego’s cabin, they were aplenty. Diego slept in his bunk whilst Nat had the chaise-lounge, his small frame fitting perfectly. Time and again Nat found himself with the sight of the broad, tanned, furred chest on open display. Other times, he was gifted a view of the muscular thighs and buttocks and occasionally the heavy sex that hung between Diego’s legs. Nat found the thoughts and emotions disturbing and confusing. He did not feel them for anyone else aboard ‘Maria’, not even the handsome, suave Boro. His golden-skinned chest with its sprinkling of red-gold fur did not arouse the same feelings in his heart, and lower extremities, as did that of Diego. Nat held his head in his hands. He was so confused. In an effort to clear his head, he picked up the dusting cloth and began to polish the cabin’s table with a vengeance.

Diego opened the door to his cabin and stopped dead. Nat was bent over his table, his taut buttocks enticingly displayed in the tight breeches. All of the blood in Diego’s body set a course southerly and the Spaniard felt his britches tighten. Diego felt permanently half-hard in Nat’s company, but there would be no way he could explain his body away should the boy turn and see him. Quickly and quietly he shut the door as he retreated.

Boro lay naked on his bunk. One hand pulled each nipple in turn whilst the other lazily stroked up and down hard flesh, slicking the dusky-rose column with the fluid that seeped from the small slit. He began to pump a little faster.

“Boro, it’s Diego. Let me in, mi amigo.” A disembodied voice called from behind his locked door.

Boro growled discontentedly. At this time Diego should be in his own quarters enjoying his port. Not bothering to robe, Boro opened the door intending to tell Diego to come back another time, but the dark man was pushed past determinedly, his mind clearly elsewhere.

“Diego,” Boro said exasperatedly as he closed over the door. “I was taking care of business.”

Diego’s eyes seemed to suddenly focus and they took in the naked and aroused body. He licked his lips and swayed closer.

“Maybe we can take care of things together, mi amigo,” he husked. He nudged his own erection into Boro’s hip.

“Diego,” the blond moaned as his hardness was captured and expertly stroked by the dark male. They had been friends, companions, and occasionally more, for over fifteen years. Diego knew Boro’s body almost as well as the blond did himself and at the moment the Spaniard was using that knowledge to cloud his brain. It took an effort of will, but Boro put distance between them and then gazed at Diego’s hurt expression. “Diego, you were already hard when you came here. It is not I that you desire and as your friend I would not expect you to treat me in so cavalier a manner. There has always been honesty between us. I would not see that change. Is it Nathaniel?”

“Yes,” Diego murmured. “I simply walked in and saw him. My body reacted and I knew I had to get away.”

“And you came to me,” Boro said, a smile softening his features. “Diego, until you actually approach him you will never know his feelings. If he declines, it may make things easier for you around him. If he does not…”

“He was raped. I fear that if he thinks another man wants him it will make him scared once more. It has been so good to see him come out of his shell. As beautiful as he is to behold, it is his inner beauty that shines so brightly. I promised him …”

“… nothing he does not want. You are not giving him the option of choice, Diego. That was also a promise you made to him.”

“I don’t know how to approach him,” Diego confessed.

“Woo him, my friend,” Boro said with a laugh, guiding the dark male to the door. “Surely a man with such a passionate nature as yourself has not forgotten how to pay court? Let your romantic side take command for a while.”

“You are a good friend, Boro. Forgive me?” Diego asked.

“Of course,” the blond smiled, kissing Diego softly. “Now you have some wooing to do and I have my own business to attend to. Be careful with him, Diego,” he added seriously as the Spaniard departed.

****

Outside his own cabin, Diego took a fortifying breath. //Woo him// he thought wryly. As he stepped inside he noted the drink on the small round table at the head of the chaise-lounge and Nat sitting with a slightly anxious expression at its foot. He realised that the young man was used to him keeping precise hours whenever he could and, having diverted to Boro’s cabin, was now late. Diego gave a warm smile that was instantly reciprocated and felt his heart constrict at the sight. //Por favor, Maria, Madre de Dios, do not let me destroy what we have managed to create// he prayed silently. He poured a second glass of port and sitting next to Nat handed him one whilst picking up his own. He held the glass in a toast.

“Thank you for all that you do, Nat,” he said. “Please, share this drink with me.”

“Um … I’ve never tried port,” Nat confessed. “I was permitted some watered sherry on special occasions,” he added.

Diego smiled as Nat took a tentative sip of the rich, ruby-red elixir. The shy smile he received in return indicating the younger man’s appreciation. Diego told him a little of his past and the drink loosened Nat’s tongue enough for him to speak of the very sheltered, controlled, lonely life he had lived. It saddened Diego to think of the treatment the young innocent before him had endured in pirate’s hands. He knew there were some who never recovered, their minds forever broken. Nat’s resilience seemed to bear out Diego’s initial feelings that Nat was stronger than he appeared. Without conscious thought, his hand reached to caress a smooth cheek.

“You deserve so much better, so much more,” he murmured.

For a moment, time seemed to be suspended. The two men gazed into each other’s eyes. Unconsciously their bodied aligned and slowly came together. Diego’s lips finally closed over Nat’s and time recommenced. The kiss was soft, chaste and gentle and conveyed the love Diego felt. As they parted, Nat stared dazedly at the older man.

“Nothing beyond what you are comfortable with, Nat,” the Spaniard promised, his voice rough with emotion. He inwardly rejoiced as the youth leant forward and this time the kiss was wetter, deeper. At the soft ‘oh’ from Nat’s lips, Diego’s tongue sailed unchallenged into the unknown. He tasted every nuance of the warm, wet cavern, committing the sweet taste to memory. They parted slowly.

“Diego … I cannot … I do not know … ” Nat stuttered. His body screamed for closer contact with the older man and his heart ached for the love he sensed was freely offered, but his young mind shied away.

Diego clasped Nat’s hands tightly, holding them to his own breast.

“I will not try and take what you feel unable to give, Nat,” he swore. “You have suffered much in a short time. However long you need to decide, I will wait.”

“Thank you, Diego,” Nat said sincerely. As they sat, their hands entwined, hope burnt brightly in two hearts.

****

Boro was delighted to see something had changed between Diego and Nat. The Spaniard was seen openly gazing at the beautiful youth who, in turn, offered shy smiles

“So?’ Boro asked, finally cornering Diego where none were around to see or hear.

“We are taking things slowly, as Nat needs,” Diego said, smiling. “I do not wish to rush things when he endured so much, but, Boro, when I hold him in my arms it is like he was born to fit there.”

“It will work out, amigo,” Boro said, confidently.

“It would not have dared to approach him if it were not for your encouragement,” Diego said.

Without thought, the long-time friends embraced and their lips brushed together.

Nat was looking for either Diego or Boro, wondering where the man he was now certain he was in love with and the man he loved as a brother could be. Then he saw them.

Kissing.

Diego and Boro were kissing.

Each other.

The choked gasp had the two men breaking apart and staring with a mixture of guilt, distress and shock at the distraught face of the young man.

“Nat,” Diego husked, desperately reaching for his beloved, but the movement served only to bring the youth out of his shocked trance. Diego heard the sob as the younger man turned and fled. Diego and Boro both made a move to catch him, but in their haste their agility deserted them. As they surged forward, they entangled and fell to the floor. Regaining their feet they raced to Diego’s cabin in the futile hope Nat would have sought refuge somewhere he knew, but the room was empty.

“Where can he be?” Diego asked.

“Anywhere,” Boro snapped, angrier at his own stupidity rather than at Diego. “There are a couple of the men he feels particularly comfortable with,” he continued. “I’ll get them to help us search for him. They need know nothing of why the boy is hiding. They will assume it is to do with Le Diable Mal.”

“See to it,” Diego rapped, already on his way to start his own search.

Nat had descended to a lower deck, his mind in a whirlpool of emotion and distress. He had believed Diego would be patient, the older man making the promise again and again, but he could not deny the truth before his own eyes. Diego had been kissing Boro. Diego was in love with the handsome blond. Nat had nothing with which to compete against the other man. Diego had clearly made his choice and it was Boro. Silent tears slid down pale cheeks as Nat burrowed inconsolably into a small niche in the ship’s hull.

It took longer than Diego liked to find Nat and, as word reached him, he rushed to his cabin where Nat would be waiting.

Nat had allowed himself to be escorted to Diego’s cabin, silently and zombie-like, the comforting words from the crewman who had found him simply washing over him as he was led into the room. The pain of his shattered heart had left him drained and numb and he simply stood, staring sightlessly at the floor, as Diego flew in and began pacing to and fro. He gave a gasp of shock as the older man suddenly dropped to his knees in front of him.

“Boro has been my friend for almost as many years as you have lived,” Diego said hoarsely. “We have shared much over those years and we have a bond that runs deep and true. But as much as I love Boro, it is as a candle to the furnace that blazes for you. ”

“You and Boro love each other,” Nat replied woodenly.

“I love Boro as a beloved brother, but it is you I love as a lover, you I am in love with.” Diego grasped the slim hips and shook Nat to ensure the boy was hearing him. “I love you, Nathaniel.”

The shaking caused Nat to focus more on the Spaniard. He stared at the older man, uncertain he had heard correctly.

“Love … me?” he repeated, the words a tentative whisper.

“I. Love. You.” Diego repeated slowly and forcefully. He stood and guided Nat’s head upwards to ensure the youth could see clearly into his eyes. “I am sorry our embrace hurt you and it will never happen again. I love you, Nat. Forgive me?”

“Diego,” Nat moaned softly. He had longed so much to hear those words. His heart began to beat again and he instinctively leant towards the older man. “Diego.”

“Let me show you,” Diego husked, as he reached to cup the back of Nat’s head and draw the younger man closer. He pressed their lips together in a slow, tender kiss and inwardly rejoiced at the soft whimper of surrender from his lover. He surged forward, pressing Nat down onto the chaise-lounge. He was letting the boy go nowhere beyond the reach of his arms until certain Nat knew just how loved he was. He nudged the slender legs apart with his knee and settled himself between the parted thighs, cradled tight to Nat’s heat. He pressed kiss after kiss to Nat’s lips. They became hotter, wetter, deeper and still Diego continued his loving assault.

Nat was lost in sensual sensation. He did not feel the buttons of his shirt be undone, but gasped as Diego’s mouth kissed down his jaw, along his shoulder, sucking and nipping. Nat arched as the mouth returned to his throat, instinct making him bare the fragile flesh to his dominant mate. He gave an impassioned cry of his lover’s name as warm wetness enveloped an innocent nub. He barely realised the low sounds of want and need spilt from his own red, kiss-swollen lips. His hands slipped around Diego’s head and encountered the ribbon. He pulled it free and carded his hands through the luxuriant tresses, writhing pleasurably at the sensation of his lover at his breast and the silky hair caressing his smooth skin. Heat was building slowly and inexorably in his belly. He recognised it for what it was and could scarcely believe his manhood was aching and throbbing for release without ever being touched.

“Please, Diego,” he begged. “Please, please.”

“I love you, Nathaniel,” Diego said, in a voice thick with pent-up emotion. “I love you,” he repeated as his hand burrowed between their bodied to unlace Nat’s breeches. Hard flesh sprang free, straight into Diego’s eager grasp. He pumped slowly, letting Nat become comfortable with being held, but realised his inexperienced lover was too aroused. His sped up his actions as Nat began to convulse. He rejoiced in the pleasured cry of his name as his mate’s seed flowed. Leaning down, he peppered the angelic face with kisses as he guided Nat through his climax. As Nat finally sagged, the older man tore open his own breeches and with a couple of hard pulls, discharged his own primed weapon over Nat’s softening flesh. He panted harshly, gazing with pride, passion and protectiveness at his replete beloved. He caressed the visage that still glowed from their shared passion and smiled lovingly at the satiated sienna orbs that opened to regard him with undisguised adoration.

“I never dreamt it could be so,” Nat murmured. “I love you, Diego.”

“I will endeavour to ensure it is always so when we make love, my sweet,” Diego vowed. “There are so many ways for us to share pleasure. One magical way will be for you to take me into your body, but our lovemaking will progress at your speed, my heart.”

“Can that truly bring pleasure, Diego?” Nat asked, unbidden memories of rough, unwanted touches making his voice small and doubtful.

“It brings joy to both, my sweet, when done by those who love each other,” Diego assured. “But it must be the desire of both.”

“I love you, Diego,” Nat husked, burying his face into his lover’s arm.

“I love you, Nat. Come, let me clean you and from today we sleep together in my bunk where I can hold you in my arms throughout the night.

Diego cleansed Nat of their combined release. He denuded himself first then knelt to assist Nat remove his clothing, not wanting to have his lover feel threatened in any way by his greater height and breadth. He took his first real look at the exquisite beauty of Nat’s nude body; the perfectly proportioned, smooth sex that hung sated between satin soft thighs and haloed by a lush nest of sable curls. Nat’s breast adorned with the large, dark areolae and cinnamon nubs he was already addicted to and, as the younger man moved towards the bed, the creamy, mounds that protected the hidden harbour that Diego prayed one day to make his own.

He turned back the covers on his bunk and stepped back to allow Nat to precede him. He smiled joyfully as a slender hand immediately reached to draw him into the bed. He slid alongside his lover. Within moments he had Nat enveloped in a warm embrace, a slender thigh pressed between his own and his lover’s head comfortably ensconced on his muscular shoulder. For a long time after Nat has slipped into sleep, Diego simply lay and watched his love.

****

Nathaniel did not let his new-found joy with Diego blind him. He watched quietly and thoughtfully at the interaction between his lover and Boro. He watched as the men reached out to touch, or throw a companionable arm around a shoulder, only to freeze and let the limb drop heavily at their side. As they would turn to smile at each other, the smile would falter and they would turn away. The easy camaraderie was clearly affected and Nat knew Diego missed his friend. In truth Nat also missed Boro as the blond seemed to find ways to avoid ever being near the young man. Nat was nothing if not an honourable man himself. If Diego swore it was he that the Spaniard loved as a lover and Boro as a brother, then Nat believed him. It was time he took action.

“Boro, I would like a private word with you, if you please,” he asked politely, managing to finally approach the blond unseen.

“Nat! I …ah …yes, yes of course,” Boro said. He was unable to come up with a good reason for refusing the serious-faced young man. He’d tried very hard not to be his usual exuberant or tactile self around Diego, promising the Spaniard he would do nothing to disrupt the love building between him and Nathaniel. He could think of nothing he had done to break that promise. They took a few steps away from the ship’s wheel, where Diego stood, but where they could still be seen by the Spaniard.

“Do you love Diego as a lover?” Nat asked, without preamble.

“No!” Boro choked out, caught unawares by the blunt question. “No,” he repeated, more softly. He gazed into warm, intelligent eyes. “I love him as a brother and have for many years. We have shared each other’s joys and sorrows and occasionally, when we needed that which an anonymous body could not provide, we shared more. But we are not, nor ever have been, in love with each other. Diego loves you, Nat, and I am glad to know his love is returned. He has long awaited someone to fully share his life and I wish you both every joy there is,” he said sincerely.

“I fear that your friendship with Diego has suffered because of me,” Nat replied, holding up a hand to prevent Boro interjecting. “Diego has explained much the same to me and I trust him, and you,” he added with a small smile, “not to lie to me. I love Diego very much and want him happy. Your friendship is important to us both, Boro, and I want you in our lives, as the brother you are to Diego and perhaps, in time, as a brother to me.”

Boro looked with slack-jawed amazement at the young man before him. He had expected distrust, jealousy, doubt and yet Nat was offering him all he could desire. To have the friendship he had always enjoyed with Diego and an offer of the same companionship with the beautiful boy for whom he cared so deeply and who had won the Spaniard’s heart. Grinning like a madman, Boro pulled Nat to him for a rib-crushing hug, easing his grip only at the small squeak from the smiling Nathaniel.

“This means more to me than I can say, Nat, and I will never forget your generosity of heart. As to being a brother someday, you have been such since the day you arrived and will always be so. Boro tipped Nat’s head down to press a kiss to the crown of his head, unwilling to incur Diego’s ire. Releasing the youth, Boro strode forward to where Diego stood and stared and enveloped his friend in a hug that was returned with equal fervour. He gave Diego a swift kiss.

“With the permission and blessing of your beautiful mate, captain,” he said with a wide grin. “You are truly a most fortunate man, Diego, to have found someone such as Nathaniel.”

Diego ran his fingers briefly over Boro’s face and glanced over to where Nat stood, grinning widely and hugging himself, clearly pleased with what was happening.

“I am a blessed man to have two who are so special to me,” Diego said huskily. “Nathaniel,” he called.

Nat walked over, still smiling and was enveloped in a hug by both bigger men who dropped kisses into his hair. He giggled musically and nestled closer to Diego.

“Are we all friends?” he asked from the shelter of his mate’s tight embrace.

“We are thanks to you, my love,” Diego smiled, nipping at Nat’s earlobe and eliciting another giggle and an enticing wriggle. His dark eyes sought out the sky blue orbs of Boro and the blond sighed theatrically.

“It would seem I have an unexpected turn at the wheel,” he laughed. “Go, both of you.”

“Diego!” Nat yelped, as he was swung into strong arms. He blushed and buried his face in Diego’s shoulder at the good-natured jeering and clapping as he was carried across the deck and down to their cabin. Once out of sight of the crewmen, Nat’s sultry look of love and desire matched Diego’s smouldering sienna gaze.

Diego laid his precious bundle on their bed and immediately began to attack the laces and buttons that prevented the skin-to-skin contact he craved. Denuding Nat’s perfect body, he hurriedly shed his own clothing, kissing and touching his lover as he did.

“Let me worship you, my love,” he murmured. He straddled the lithe frame and his mouth found an irresistible chocolate nub. He relished each tender cry of passion as he nipped and suckled until both succulent nubbins were reddened and achingly hard. He kissed his way down the youthful body until he reached his lover’s navel. He thrust his tongue in and out of the tiny indent in imitation of another more intimate act to follow, smiling wolfishly at his writhing young love. His tongue hovered above Nat’s straining erection, the engorged organ seeming to twitch to attain the contact it desired. To a moan of frustration he diverted course to lick at the intoxicating trails of liquid desire at Nat’s toned stomach.

An impassioned cry of his name heralded his engulfing hard, hot flesh. He hollowed his cheeks, head bobbing rhythmically before releasing his prize to lick up and down the rigid rod, nibbling carefully down to the heavy sac before kissing his way back up. He probed insistently at the tiny slit, drinking all his lover could offer. Now, however, he wanted his lover’s living elixir. He pressed Nat’s legs back towards his lover’s slim shoulders. He licked lower, bathing his mate’s sac, and the skin that led to the tightly furled harbour that he one day wished to enter. He blew gently over the small star-like opening to a scream from his lover then took Nat back into his mouth. As he sucked, he teased the damp flesh of his lover’s perineum and entrance with a single fingertip. His reward was Nat almost levitating from the bed and pulse after pulse of his beloved’s nectar filling his mouth. He swallowed greedily and only reluctantly released Nat’s manhood when it began to soften. Diego moved to lie alongside his sated love and they traded gentle, loving kisses.

“I love you, Diego,” Nat murmured, boneless and floating in the afterglow.

“And I love you,” Diego smiled, tenderly stroking sweat-damp hair from Nat’s brow. “Will you stroke me, my love?” he asked, his own shaft aching, longing to be buried in Nat’s tight scabbard. He was surprised at the shake of Nat’s head.

“I want to take you in my mouth,” Nat said determinedly. “Le Diable Mal has haunted our love too long. I wish to exorcise his ghost.”

“We do only what you are comfortable with, love,” Diego insisted, despite the way his cock had surged at the thought of being in Nat’s sweet mouth. He lay on his back and spread his legs wide. “Hold my hips down, beloved,” he urged. “Once I begin to spurt I will be unable to prevent myself thrusting and do not want to cause you discomfort.”

Nat smiled and obeyed his more experienced lover. Once, quite literally, faced with Diego’s manhood, Nat found the unpleasant memories trying to reassert themselves. He sternly reminded himself that this was his lover, Diego, and not the brutal beast that had ravaged him so cruelly. He raised his eyes and smiled at Diego and, taking a fortifying breath, began to lick the solid shaft. He lapped tentatively at the drops oozing from its tip and decided that although salty, they also tasted of Diego himself. Encouraged by the moans and writhing of his bigger mate, he took the head into his mouth and sucked slowly. The low, deep groan emboldened him and his head began to move up and down. He froze for a moment when Diego’s hand reached to caress his head, but when there was no pressure, he relaxed once more.

“So good, my love,” Diego encouraged, his hand slipping through Nat’s brown tresses. “I’m going to spill very soon. You may stroke me if you wish.”

Nat steadfastly continued to suck, determined he would make Diego climax this way. The shout of his name and the jerking of the larger body caught him by surprise and he swallowed gamely, trying to not lose any of his mate’s seed. However, some trickled down to his chin and he had to sit back panting softly as Diego’s flesh pulsed the last of its release. He did not resist as Diego pulled him into a tight embrace and he moaned softly as his lover’s tongue cleansed the seed adorning his face.

“Wonderful,” Diego whispered, kissing Nat over and over. “Sublime, perfect. Thank you, angel. Would you like to rest a while?” he asked, seeing the yawn Nat tried to hide.

“I am a little sleepy,” Nat conceded and snuggled comfortably against his mate.

As Nat slept, Diego watched the beautiful youth.

“I do not know what it was I did to deserve you in my life, Nathaniel,” he whispered. “But I swear, here and now, that I shall do all in my power to keep you safe and loved and ensure your faith in me is well-founded.”

****

Once again Diego and his crew safely delivered their cargo and payment was secured. Diego and Boro then took Nathaniel into the bustling town. Between them the older men bought him clothes, shoes, hats and boots with Nat’s protests regarding expense and extravagance steadfastly ignored. Plainer attire for simply working aboard ‘Maria’ was added before Nat found himself led to a jeweller. Inside Boro bought him a silver thumb ring, inscribed ‘beloved friend’ to match those worn by Diego and himself. Diego selected matching gold rings; placing one on Nathaniel’s wedding finger and insisting Nat do the same to him.

“Now all can see we belong one to another,” Diego smiled, pride and joy evident in his voice and face.

“Diego they are beautiful,” Nat whispered, turning his hand one way then another to admire the glistening ring. “Are … are we married?” he asked shyly.

“I have yet to announce matelotage,” Diego conceded. “I intend to save that for when we are all aboard ‘Maria’ and all are sober,” he added with a wicked grin.

Returning to the ship, Diego cast worried glances at his unusually quiet lover, but each time he saw the young man smiling as he looked at his ring and was assured his mate was happy. They went to their cabin and Nat carefully stowed his new clothing in the now-shared chest. Once the task was complete, he turned to his lover, draped his arms around Diego’s neck and pulled the older man down for a passionate kiss. Stepping back, Nat began to unbutton Diego’s shirt, kissing the furred chest as more of his lover’s body was revealed. He dusted the broad chest with tiny kisses once the shirt was removed.

“Nathaniel,” Diego groaned, as warm wetness enveloped one dark nub and then cooler air breathed over it, tightening and peaking the cinnamon teat.

“If we are married,” Nat whispered, unlacing Diego’s breeches. “Then I am due a consummation.” He stood back, rapidly unfastening and removing his shirt and breeches. “I want you to love me, Diego. I want to take you into my body.”

“Dios mio,” Diego said roughly. “I want that so much, but I will not lie to you. Even with the best of intention and you as relaxed as you can be, there may be some pain.”

“I trust you, Diego,” Nat promised. “I want this, please. Make love with me; love me with your body.”

Diego knew that he was lost. It was his heart’s desire to unite with his lover and show him the joy that could be shared. He could no more refuse his lover’s plea than change the movements of the sea. He removed the last of his clothing and led Nat to their bed. He laid the young man back, spreading Nat’s legs wide. Kneeling between the splayed limbs, Diego pushed Nat’s thighs up and outwards, displaying the tiny, pink portal to his loving gaze. He kissed up each satiny inner thigh and licked at his mate’s sac to panting cries of pleasure. He dropped lower to a wail from his beloved as his tongue laid tender siege to the tightly furled flesh of Nat’s secret opening. Long wet licks alternated with swift jabs until Nat was trying to thrash and Diego’s conquering tongue thrust deeply within the silken channel again and again. Reluctantly he pulled away.

“I must now use my fingers, my sweet. You must be stretched and oiled so when I enter you it will cause as little discomfort as possible,” Diego panted, his eyes burning with desire for the golden-skinned angel that lay so trustingly beneath him. “If it becomes too much for you to bear, you must tell me, Nat,” Diego added. At the nod, he reached for the oil that had lain unused since their relationship began. He moved slowly, his finger sliding into the heated depths. He felt Nat tense at the welcome intrusion. “Relax, my love,” he crooned. He rubbed circles over Nat’s belly as he waited for the tenseness to dissipate. As Nat’s body relaxed, he began to thrust his finger tenderly to and fro, encouraging the narrow strait to widen.

“Good boy,” he encouraged. “A second, beloved,” he warned. He poured oil over Nat’s entrance as well as his digit and sailed forth with two into the snug harbour. A soft whimper was Nat’s only response. The channel was still tight, but his lover relaxed a little quicker. Diego refused to hasten his preparations despite the aching rod between his own thighs, its head an angry purple, testimony to the older man’s desire and restraint. Patiently his fingers slipped back and forth, occasionally twisting until Nat was panting and his hips beginning to hitch in instinctive thrusts. “Muy bueno,” he soothed. He carefully added a third and could see already Nat was feeling full. He murmured gently, rubbing soothing circles and stroking his love’s now flaccid flesh. He probed until he found the treasure he sought.

Nat screamed and thrashed as Diego touched something deep inside him that had stars dancing before his eyes. Dulcet bolts low in his belly sent tendrils of heat and pleasure to envelop his slender frame. His head tossed from side to side and his hands fisted the bedding. He wailed with unrestrained passion as Diego caressed the magic spot and stroked his rising manhood.

“You, Diego, ah God, I cannot bear it, you, you, please,” he begged as Diego worked his body until Nat was incoherent with need. Nat felt his legs draped over Diego’s shoulders and his hands were covered by his lover’s. He could not prevent the moan of discomfort when Diego pushed inside him as his mate’s length and girth exceeded that of his fingers and untried flesh protested.

“Nathaniel,” the young man heard Diego’s deep, sinful rasp. “Who is it that loves you?”

“D … Diego,” Nat panted.

“Who is it that seeks to be within you?”

“Diego,” he replied, feeling the pressure ease a little and he tried to relax his body.

“Si, mi amor.” The voice now whispered in Nat’s ear, a tongue slipping inside to a gasp of delight from the younger male. “And who is Diego?”

“My … my husband,” Nat groaned.

A hand teased at one of his sensitive breasts and he moaned, closing his eyes. He felt Diego push forward and still and then push forward again, repeating the motion until with a gasp and wide-eyed look, Nat realised his lover was fully within him. He looked into the intense mocha depths. “I have you,” he whispered hoarsely. “I have you. I feel so full, Diego,” he panted, seeking assurance from the experienced man.

“Yes, my love and it will get better, I swear,” Diego husked, his voice tight with emotion and the strain of resisting simply plunging into the hottest, tightest place his shaft had ever known. That it was the body of his beloved added a delight and a joy that Diego had hitherto never experienced. He wanted this union to be memorable for them both for all the right reasons. It was the consummation of their spiritual love, to become as one in body as they had been in heart and soul. He began a slow, cautious undulation and smiled triumphantly as his shaft nudged Nat’s sweet spot and the youth gasped and writhed, the ripple of the tight sheath making Diego groan low and deep.

The experienced man knew that this time neither of them would be able to resist the pull of completion to be able to draw out their lovemaking, but that there would be many times ahead that he could spend hours loving his angel. A small rocking motion brought the cry of passion he hoped for. Nat’s scabbard was small and his weapon of generous proportions and it was his hope he would be able to easily stimulate Nat’s hidden sweetness. He gave a grunt as a small hand reached to wind in his hair, but the pain was a small price to pay for the look of delight on his mate’s expressive face. Tender cries spilt from kiss-swollen lips as Diego sought to give Nat as much pleasure as he was able. All too soon he knew he would be unable to stop himself from spilling. He reached to caress Nat’s own hard, slick shaft.

“D … Diego,” Nathaniel murmured as his hips tried to pump into his lover’s grasp.

“Let me see you, hear you, my love,” Diego encourage. “Fly for me, I will catch you.”

“Diego!” The cry of his lover’s name was a scream of unbridled joy. A fountain of pearlescent seed flowed to anoint both their bodies and his sheath clenched and contracted around the hard flesh buried in his depths. He felt the organ swell impossibly bigger and, with a wanton moan, Nathaniel’s body was filled with Diego’s hot juices.

Diego had little time to savour the look of ecstasy on Nat’s face. His shaft was milked by the spasming scabbard in which he was sheathed and with a final deep thrust he felt his essence pulse into his beloved, claiming the youth in the most primal of ways. For a moment his vision greyed, and then he leant to press his mouth against Nat’s throat sucking hard. He wanted a visible sign that he had claimed his lover. As Nathaniel lay panting and boneless, Diego continued to languidly thrust, enjoying the sensation of his softening sex moving within the beloved body. As Nat’s eyes opened to regard him with naked adoration, Diego slipped from his harbour and gathered his love into his arms. For long moments the two men traded tender kisses, neither had ever been as happy.

****

Diego was as good as his word. The next day he announced he had taken Nathaniel in matelotage and the younger man had blushed uncounted shades of crimson at the cheering and well wishing the couple received. He was further flustered by some of the men, who had taken a particular shine to the young man, carving and presenting small gifts as wedding tokens for them. Boro had sneaked aboard a barrel of rum and the celebrating continued on and off over two full days.

Nat continued to learn his trade as a seaman. He learnt how to repair sails, the proper way to make knots and how to read the stars. In addition, Boro taught him how to use a pistol. Although Nathaniel had not really wished to have to learn weaponry, his own experiences meant he knew that it was necessary given the dangerous life they led. In truth, he felt the pistol the better choice from bludgeon or stiletto that some of the men had offered to teach him to use. Not to be outdone, Diego insisted on teaching Nat swordsmanship. With his many-faceted learning by day and energetic lovemaking by night, time seemed to be flying by to another successful run by the ‘Santa Maria’.

****

“Pirates!” The shout as Nat was in his cabin turned his bowels to water. He gazed out at the ship bearing down on his own and whimpered in terror.

It was a ship he knew well.

The ship of Le Diable Mal.

He fled the cabin to find his husband.

Diego was already preparing his ship’s defences. ‘Maria’ was well equipped to defend herself and he knew his crewmen would fight hard and well. He saw the ashen-faced Nathaniel racing towards him and his heart clenched.

“Nat,” he said, as the smaller body burrowed into his arms. “I need you to stay below.”

“It’s him, Diego, Le Diable Mal.”

Diego felt an icy fear down his spine. The name of the ship had been of no importance to him. Gripping Nat with one hand he clasped his medallion, sending a silent prayer for the deliverance of his beloved and the rest of his crew. He turned desperate eyes on Boro who had come running.

“Boro,” he said hoarsely, glancing at the shaking figure in his arms.

“I swear it, Diego,” the blond replied. He would defend Nat to his last breath. He also knew what else the older man had left unspoken. If they were unable to successfully defend ‘Maria’, Boro would not let anyone take Nathaniel if Diego himself had fallen. Better to die a quick death at the hands of a friend than endure the living death he would face at the cruel hands of the pirate captain and his crew.

“Please, my beloved,” Diego said, breaking the embrace and swiftly kissing tear-stained cheeks. “Go below and defend from there.”

Nathaniel knew his skills were as yet untried in such a situation and feared being a hindrance to his lover. He kissed Diego and hugged Boro and ran to obey his captain’s order. In the cabin, Nat prepared the brace of pistols Boro had presented him with. They had been the blond’s wedding gift. He tucked one into the waistband of his breeches and kept the other aimed at the door, primed and ready. The sounds of fighting rang in his ears, cannon-fire, pistol-shots and the screams of the dying or wounded. It became too much for Nat to bear. He slipped from the cabin and sidled towards the main decks. The stench of smoke and blood assailed his nostrils and he prayed fervently for the safety of the ship, the crew, Boro and especially his beloved husband. He peered outside.

Men fought with any weapon to hand; pikes, cudgels, knives. In the chaotic melee, Nat sought out his lover. He saw Diego and Boro standing side-to-side, trying to protect each other as they fought off the invading pirates. However, what they were unable to see were the two other attackers preparing to swing across to join the attack. Nathaniel did not hesitate. He barrelled his way forward as the pirates swung over, his pistol raised and screaming as loud as his lungs would allow.

“Diego, Boro, behind you.”

Even as Nathaniel called frantically to them, the older men moved in perfect harmony to dispatch the pirates before them. They spun apart to face the next threat as a pistol-shot rang out. Boro lunged and ran through his attacker; however Diego’s held a primed pistol which was smoking. Boro’s eyes flew to his life-long friend to see he was unhurt. They returned to the pirate who swayed, as a blood-stain grew in the centre of his chest, and fell. Then both men turned towards the deck. Diego’s scream of pain and denial cut through Boro’s heart more effectively than any cutlass.

For a moment Nat remained standing, a smoking pistol in his left hand and a blossoming stain of red at his right shoulder, then he crumpled to the ground. As Diego flew to his husband’s side, Boro grabbed at a recognised man.

“Take Nathaniel to the cabin he shares with Diego and then find the ship’s sawbones. Whatever he is doing tell him to leave and attend the boy and then protect them with your dying breath.” Boro moved to the grieving Spaniard’s side. Diego cried out as Nat was slung over the crewman’s shoulder, but Boro held him back, snatching Nathaniel’s pistol as the boy was carried away. He shoved the weapon onto Diego’s hand. “If we fail to save ‘Maria’ and he lives, you know his fate. We must deliver the ship.”

“None shall live,” Diego vowed, raising his sword in one hand and the pistol in the other. “For what he has suffered they will all perish.” He gave a rousing cry that held the same trilling quality as his whistle which was picked up by Boro who grabbed at a second sword. As the two men surged forward, their shouts were picked up one-by-one by the crew of ‘Maria’ until all were yelling. Diego and Boro cut down the pirates in their path, uncaring of any danger. Their men fell in behind them as the pirates, discomfited by the renewed confidence of the men they fought, began to fall back or fell to lie unmoving.

Soon only a dozen of the pirates remained along with their captain, a large, ugly, brute of a man whose long, lank locks fell past his shoulders. They were lined up on their own vessel, an equal number of armed men from the ‘Maria’ to guard them. Le Diable Mal stared pugnaciously at Diego.

“You have bested me. Give us a boat and water and my ship is yours.”

His speech was good but heavily accented. He obviously originated from France and Diego simply let his eyes stare dispassionately at him.

“I will show you the same mercy as you showed the captain and crew of the ‘North Star’,” he said coldly. “A full ship’s crew as well as its passengers, all but one, slain at your command. An innocent you brutalised before selling into slavery.

Le Diable Mal’s eyes narrowed as he remembered the ship and the one prisoner he took. His watery-blue eyes looked into merciless ochre depths. He could see death in the expressionless orbs.

“The boy is now one of your crew,” he said shrewdly and then looked again into Diego’s eyes. “No,” he continued. “He is yours.”

“He is indeed mine,” Diego said, holding up his hand for his wedding ring to be seen. “Just as I am his. He honoured me by accepting me in matelotage. I now honour him with vengeance.” Diego’s pistol sounded and the pirate fell. The rest of his crew copied his actions. Diego stared at the dead bodies and then turned to go to his wounded beloved.

Boro stepped forward.

“Search the ship and bring back anything of value. Put all her crew aboard and sink her.” They had earned their deaths and no one would mourn their loss. Knowing the men would carry out his orders, Boro went to join Diego. His stomach knotted at the sight of the unnaturally pale, still form. Nat’s limp hand was held by his husband as though the only thing that anchored him to the world of the living. The blond’s eyes moved to the ship’s doctor who was putting away the tools he had used.

“How bad?” he asked bluntly.

“Could have been worse,” the older man said gravely. “The shot passed through his shoulder, damaged some bone, but at least I didn’t have to dig to get the ball out. If he was one of the more hardened members of the crew I would say he would most likely be as good as new soon enough.” He turned a sympathetic gaze at his Captain. “I just can’t be sure.”

“He *will* live,” Diego’s broken voice husked. “He *must* live.”

****

The next few days crept slowly and painfully by. Nathaniel’s shoulder developed an infection and Diego and Boro stayed at his side. Diego’s heart aching and shattering a little more each time Nat cried out in fever or begged Diego for salvation that the Spaniard longed to provide. The older man talking himself hoarse in the hopes the unconscious young man might be able to hear his words of love and devotion.

Nathaniel felt pain he had never experienced before. He felt as though his very essence was on fire and called again and again for Diego. Sometimes he thought he could hear his beloved’s voice but it seemed so distant and he saw nothing but darkness. A part of him wanted to stop and rest, but the greater part wanted to find his husband. Something told the younger man he was needed. After what felt like an eternity, Nat thought he could try once more to open his eyes. It took strength to force them to open and he blinked against the brightness. He could see his lover, but Diego looked so different. The normally well-trimmed moustache and luxuriant tresses were neglected. The beloved face seemed pale and haggard, with a heavy beard, and there were dark shadows beneath the half-closed eyes. Nat could now feel one of his hands was clasped tightly by his husband and Diego’s other hand was holding his medallion. The older man’s lips moved and Nat could see he was praying to the Virgin.

“D … Diego,” he croaked, shocked by both the weakness and huskiness of his voice.

“Nat? Gracias, Maria, gracias, Dios mio. Nat, Nat,” Diego dropped to his knees and began to kiss his beloved’s face as tears streamed down his own. “You have come back to me.”

“I never wanted to leave you,” Nathaniel vowed.

“Never leave me, amor, never, never leave me,” Diego sobbed, burying his face in the uninjured shoulder as Nat petted awkwardly at his head.

“Never,” Nat vowed, praying he could keep his promise. “Never,” he repeated.

“Diego, is there … Nat!” Boro’s weary voice was transformed by the joyful shout of the younger man’s name and his haggard face lit up in a smile.

“He has come back to us, Boro,” Diego said, raising his head from Nat’s shoulder.

“So he has, my friend,” the blond said, grinning madly. He came and clasped tight to Diego’s shoulder. “So he has.”

For the first time in many days, the older men felt their heavy hearts lifted as a weak but smiling Nathaniel looked up at them.

****

It was a slow process to regain Nat’s strength and get his arm to move once more. It was as a dagger in Diego’s heart each time his young love tried and failed, then as movement increased, to see Nathaniel wince at an action he once took for granted. Worse yet was the ugly, red, puckered scar at his beautiful lover’s shoulder where once the skin had been smooth and unmarred. Yet Nat never once complained trying to assure Diego that the scar served only as a reminder that he had succeeded in saving his husband.

Nathaniel stared angrily at his reflection in a small mirror. He had no doubt that Diego still loved him and loved him dearly, but although he was now fully fit, there had been no resumption of their intimacy. He glowered at the scar. Although Diego was as affectionate and bestowed as many kisses and embraces as Nat could wish for, he had made no attempt to take things further. The young man knew it came down to the scar. Not that Diego thought him any less beautiful because of it, but because it meant two different things to each man. For Nat it proclaimed he had saved the Spaniard and lived, for his husband it was a banner of his failure to protect the younger man and a reminder of how close he came to losing his lover. //This ends now, Diego// Nathaniel thought determinedly as he pulled his shirt back on.

Diego and Boro looked up with surprise as the stern-faced young man strode purposefully towards them. Boro, fairly certain he knew the reason for such a look on the normally placid young man, made a tactful withdrawal to stand away as Nat came to stand alongside his husband.

“Diego,” Nathaniel said, his voice as calm but held an underlying edge to it. “I would have you come to our cabin. Now,” Nat added as his husband simply stood and stared.

“The ship … ” Diego began, trying to recover his wits.

“Can be ably piloted by Boro,” Nat replied. “Please, Diego,” he added.

“As you wish,” the Spaniard acquiesced. He was certain he could deal with whatever had disturbed Nat and quickly return to his post.

Once inside their cabin, however, the older man was unprepared for the change in his young lover’s demeanour. He found himself shoved forcefully back to the bed and straddled by the slender man who ground shamelessly into Diego’s crotch, showing how aroused Nat already was.

“I want you to make love with me,” Nat growled attacking Diego’s shirt, tearing it open to latch on a thick, dark nub.

“Your shoulder …” Diego began and then gave a low deep groan as Nat’s teeth worried at the teat.

“My shoulder does not come between us, Diego, it is your fear. I am here, alive,” Nat thrust his erection into Diego’s hardening flesh. Do not let my scar come between us, do not push me away.”

“I failed you,” Diego murmured, burying his face into Nat’s soft, dark curls, inhaling their sweetness. It had been so long since they had made love.

“You did not,” Nat said emphatically, reaching to untie his breeches before fumbling at Diego’s in his haste. “I *chose* to come on deck and I *chose* to come to your aid. I was injured because of *my* choices, Diego, and I would make them again tomorrow and the day after and forever if it meant I kept you safe. Love me, Diego,” Nat pleaded, staring with love and hunger in his expressive eyes.

“I love you so much,” Diego said huskily. “I was afraid you would die and your scar reminds me of how close I came to losing you forever. God above how I want to make love with you.” He touched the reddened tissue tenderly, as if frightened the wound still caused pain.”

“It does not hurt me, Diego,” Nat whispered. “Only you keeping yourself from me gives me pain, gives me an emptiness and only you can make me whole, make us whole. Please, Diego, please,” Nathaniel’s voice held such a soul-deep longing that Diego carefully manoeuvred their bodies to lie himself atop his lover and mated their mouths over and over, between each kiss he vowed to never allow his fear to come between them. Their remaining clothing vanished as quickly as the morning mist and both men groaned deeply at the first real skin-on-skin contact they had enjoyed for weeks.

Diego’s hand reached for their oil as Nat spread his legs wide, hooking the lithe limbs over his arms to open himself fully to his mate, displaying the aching void that only Diego could fill. He moaned as Diego’s head dropped between his thighs, his lover’s lips and tongue reverently caressing the tiny, pink portal that gave him entrance to Nathaniel’s body. As he replaced tongue with fingers, he kissed his way up and down Nat’s straining shaft and then swirled his tongue over the smooth dome to savour his mate’s elixir. He oiled his own engorged flesh as his lover begged to be taken and Nat’s slender legs wrapped around Diego’s body as the older man prepared to enter him.

Nat pushed with his heels, canting his hips upwards as Diego sailed into his tight port. The younger man felt his sheath stretch around the welcome invader and his soft moan of need was echoed by his husband’s of restrained desire.

“I want you, Diego,” Nat said, framing his lover’s face. “I want to taste you when you spill in me. I want you to take me with every ounce of passion you possess and I swear I will meet yours in equal measure.”

Diego growled low and deep at the incendiary words. He began to thrust hard, fast and deep, unerringly hitting Nathaniel’s hidden sweetness to cry after cry of his name. Nat’s hands fisted in his hair and in the bedding, slender hips rising in counterpoint to each motion of Diego’s, small heels digging into his muscular buttocks urging the bigger man on. It was an unspoken command that Diego would not ignore. Diego moved Nat’s legs to drape over his shoulders, allowing his weapon to drive more deeply into his lover’s scabbard. He rained open-mouthed kisses over Nat’s scar, worshipping it for the proof of life it now represented. He gave a guttural groan as Nat valiantly clenched and unclenched his inner muscles in an endeavour to keep his promise. Diego burrowed a hand between their sweat-slickened bodies to stroke his lover’s throbbing manhood.

“Close, close, I love you, I love you, Diego,” Nathaniel wailed his husband’s name as he reached his zenith. He felt his release in every sinew as his body shook and convulsed. At the same time he heard the bellow of his name and Diego’s living essence poured into his channel, filling him with the physical evidence of their love. Nat clutched tightly to the powerful male above him.

“So beautiful, my angel,” Diego husked, as his hips snapped forward ferociously, depositing his seed deep into his lover’s slender body.

When Diego’s organ could no longer remain in Nat’s body, the lovers lay entwined, kissing and touching to show the depths of their love.

“Never forget how much I love you, Diego,” Nat murmured from the shelter of strong, loving arms.

“And I love you, mi corazon,” Diego replied. “Sleep safe in my arms, my beloved. Let me hold you.” The Spaniard dropped soft kisses to Nat’s brow until the younger man was deeply asleep. As he watched his lover slumber, the older man thought long and hard.

****

Nathaniel wandered fascinated around the beautiful island’s marketplace. Although Diego and Boro were not with him, having some business to attend to, the young man was not alone. Two of the crew wandered with him, pointing out things and chatting to him. He pretended not to know there were another two not far away, smiling to himself at the level of protection Diego insisted he have. At the sound of familiar voices, Nat turned smiling to see his lover and their friend marching jauntily towards him. He was caught in one embrace then another, however, the older men insisted on being secretive over where they were taking him.

“It is a magnificent home,” Nat breathed, as he completed his investigation of the small mansion he had been taken to. It had various pieces of furniture dotted around, but was obviously unlived in. His husband and Boro had stood smiling as Nathaniel had wandered around. It had six bedrooms, two bathrooms and storage cupboards upstairs and downstairs were kitchen, scullery, library, a small office, dining room and living room. It was beautifully crafted, boasting a cellar and large gardens and apparently just waiting for life to be breathed into it. Nat took his place at Diego’s side and smiled at his lover.

“Do you like it, Nat?” Diego smiled back as he wrapped an arm around the smaller frame.

“Of course,” Nat replied, waving his hand. “It’s beautiful, who would not like it? But why are *we* looking at it?”

“Because if you like it enough, it is ours,” Diego replied.

For a moment Nat forgot all else in his enthusiasm, then he remembered.

“Truly, Diego? But … but ‘Maria’, the sea, they are your life, your livelihood.”

“Nay, love,” Diego countered. “You are my life and I have money enough to settle if we so choose. I have a buyer for ‘Maria’ and I would need a couple of good men here, the rest can serve the new captain, whoever that might be. The choice, my sweet, is yours.”

Nathaniel looked from his lover’s smiling face to the house behind them. It was a magnificent home and he was certain they could be happy there … but for one thing.

“Boro,” he said, turning to the blond. “What will you do?”

“Well, that really depends upon your decision,” the blond said, aiming for nonchalance and hoping the astute young man was fooled.

“I am not sure I understand,” Nat said guardedly.

“As you have said, the house is very large. Large enough for you and Diego to have your privacy as well as large enough for … a third person. I could buy into the house, but if you prefer …”

Diego laughed as Boro’s words were cut off by a slender brunette launching himself into the blond’s arms.

“You would want to stay here, with us? Not go back to sea?” Nathaniel asked breathlessly.

“I would be very happy to stay here with the two people who are so special in my life,” Boro said softly.

“Then we’ll stay, all of us,” Nat cried happily. “I cannot think of aught better.”

Boro smiled down at the exuberant, young man whose face glowed with happiness. He and Diego would miss the sea, but Nat’s health and happiness were more important. He felt warmth in his soul at being so welcomed into Nat’s life. Whether he missed his old life or not, he was being offered all else he could wish; the continuation of a long-standing and valued friendship with Diego as well as the friendship of Nathaniel. He broke into a wide grin, there were few in life that were as happy and blessed as he was. His eyes moved to Diego as the Spaniard sauntered jauntily forward.

“Diego, Boro will stay with us, too,” Nat said, running to meet his husband and being swung in the bigger man’s arms to a yell of delight.

As Diego let the lithe body slide to the ground in the protective circle of his arms he grinned joyously over at his friend. His own thoughts of happiness were unknowingly echoing the blond’s. He hugged Nat close to his chest as Boro came over and the three men stood smiling, basking in the warmth of a shared love that was brighter that the sun in the cloudless sky above them. It was the end of one life and the beginning of another. Who knew what the future might hold? All Diego could say for certain was that he had new horizons before him and he would meet and greet them with his beloved Nathaniel at his side.