The Mad Treasure and The Stowaway (PIRATE SERIES)

➤ The Grudge

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Chapter 44

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         Entering unannounced, she sought reconciliation with the crew, who accepted her apology without dwelling on past misunderstandings. In their camaraderie, she found a sense of belonging. From Draco's warm smile to Zeki's concerned yet lecturing eyes, and Hakim's playful discipline, she discovered a human connection beneath their rough exteriors. A near mishap during a playful nudge highlighted her newfound strength, prompting laughter instead of conflict. Reflecting on her previous misconceptions, she realized the crew's kindness was not a facade but a genuine aspect of their humanity, proving that even amidst their criminal appearance, they were capable of genuine emotions.

She saw that when Felix greeted her first when she entered the navigation room.

" Hey, come on in. I have a lot to tell you." To say that she was surprised by his welcoming is not an understatement.

" I came to see you." She said, still uncertain about Felix's reaction.

" Aye. I heard that you have been visiting each of them. Tough work." He smiled, and Cordelia questioned whether she deserved that. Felix put a piece of paper on the table, as he motioned her to come closer and take a look. She watches her start to draw some lines and highlight things in the paper that seems to be a map.

" We'll be at Eutheria in a week." He started giving her notes and directions about the distance and days it's going to take for them to take her home. She absolutely understands nothing, but she tried to follow Felix's explanations.

The only thing that she knows is she is going home.

" Based on my calculations and observations, the weather seemed to be unpredictable. A week can be stretched if we find ourselves stuck with the bad weather."

" But you're going to take me there right?" She was concerned about her future.

" Of course, my beauty." He doesn't sound forced or pissed, instead as he draws into the maps he exceeded with happiness. Stating that he is happy when he guides someone to their home using his skills, even going further as saying it's his god—given gift and his mission in life.

He is more willing to guide her home where she truly wants to be. She was happy with the information, the weight that shrouded her shoulders has lifted themselves. Without her realizing she was excluded with immense happiness and excitement. Unknowingly spreading the image of her smiling face everywhere she goes. Into the galley where she tried to look for the quartermaster, she asked the men his whereabouts.

They had nothing but uncertain answers as her smiling face and sparkling eyes awed them. It felt like it was so long ago when they saw her smile like that. It was just two nights where she missed the nightly gossip, but seeing her smile just like before made them feel it was ages. She has nothing else in her mind but the news he received from the trusty navigator. Cordelia couldn't help but feel the excitement and relief inside her.

She just couldn't wait to go home and finally be at ease at the land where she belongs. Through her mind, she still could not shake these people off. Even at the peak of her happiness, she thought of giving them a reward for taking her in. And the only way she could do that is if she returns safely.