Battles and Secrets (Queen of Piracy Duology #2)

Chapter 23: The golden storm

Miguel hadn't received the El Dorado title for nothing. He kept his promise. Although I'd heard of his accomplishments four years ago and saw his massive fleet before the Royal Navy sank it, I underestimated him. In a month, we looted so much gold that we had to sell some. The booty wouldn't fit in our cargo hold! Not just gold but also sugar, clothes, jewelry... Everything. I cried every day because of Maartje and Laurens, but what Gálvez and I had done was my consolation. When the two returned, they'd be proud... Assuming we'd find them. My chest hurt when I remembered Wright's attitude and my friends' situation... Why didn't he meet me at the tavern? Were my cousin and her partner alright? I couldn't ask myself those questions without wanting to sob, so let's prioritize the good things. It was raining gold in my vessel... Miguel and I created the golden storm! El Dorado means "The Golden" in Spanish and I'm Storm... You got it. I grinned widely while leaning on the quarterdeck's port side. The sun was stronger than ever.

I turned to a female crewmember, "Have you seen my quartermaster?"

"He's helping Kenneth," the woman pointed at the forecastle deck. "Right there."

I nodded and stopped by the main deck for an instant. Luna, Tess, and Willem wouldn't stop laughing while playing... How could kids have such adorable smiles? I never understood that! Francis wagged his tail excitedly as Luna caressed him.

If Mrs. Campbell arrests my babies again, I'll destroy her.

My eyes bulged as I arrived at the forecastle deck... Gálvez was shirtless while assisting Kenneth with a repair. My jaw dropped to the floor and my mouth watered... Damn! I'd forgotten how well-built Miguel was. Francis walked closer and barked.

I chuckled nervously, "Don't judge me, Francis."

My dog tilted his head to the side, seemingly confused. I was paralyzed like an idiot while staring at Miguel. How could I have such a hot quartermaster? That wasn't fair! Even Francis agreed.

Miguel turned to me, "Is there anything I can help you with, Eva?"

"You're so... I mean, yes!" I glanced away. "Can we talk in private?"

"Of course," Gálvez looked at Kenneth. "We can finish this later."

Kenneth wiped the sweat off his head, "Don't worry, Quartermaster Gálvez. I got this."

The Spaniard nodded and approached me. My hands were sweatier than ever. I was so hypnotized that I didn't blink. Perhaps Dirk told the truth when he said Miguel cast spells... Don't judge me! I wasn't blind.

"It's about the children," I pressed my lips together to stop gaping like a crazy lady. "Are you sure it's a good idea to leave them with your mom?"

"She'll be surprised to find out we had Luna without being married," Miguel bit his lower lip. "Don't worry. Mom will probably say some bad words and stop."

I raised my brows, "That's so reassuring! I'm calmer than a drunken turtle!"

Gálvez chuckled, "I was just teasing you. My mother is nice to everyone."

My lips curled into a weak smile. Although Miguel and Nuria had assured me their mom was good, I had a bad feeling... What if she freaked out and hit the children? Hendrika would never leave my mind, so I couldn't trust a stranger with the kids. Miguel slowly caressed my back, giving me a strange warmth inside.

"I'll miss the kids, but this is temporary. My mom will protect them," Gálvez walked closer. "We're doing this to keep them safe, remember?"

"I know. We'll get the children back after defeating the SHA and... and..." I scowled. "Could you please put your shirt on? I can't concentrate!"