Chapter 17

Chapter

Seventeen

" W ell, this is a fine way to spend an evening," Mary muttered to herself. "Meeting with an ex-boyfriend under the cover of darkness. What could possibly go wrong?"

After a full day of working on repairs to the replica ship docked in the harbor, Aiden had come home exhausted and fallen asleep on the sofa after dinner.

When she'd pushed, he admitted that he'd done most of the work himself as the man who bought the ship could sail her, but didn't have the knowledge to keep her up and running. He swore it felt good to work instead of lazing about and running to fat. As if. The man had a six-pack that would make Chris Hemsworth jealous.

Sneaking behind his back made her feel awful, but she pushed the guilty feelings aside, knowing how Aiden and Jake butted heads whenever they were within ten feet of each other. And anyway, this was to help Aiden, she reminded herself. He was certain the treasure would aid him in going back to his own time, so here she was, hoping he was right and wouldn't end up lost in time for all eternity.

The wooden planks creaked beneath her feet as the water lapped softly against the posts of the pier. Moonlight painted the world in shades of silver and shadow, transforming the familiar harbor into something almost ethereal. Almost. At least she hadn't seen that damned ghost ship tonight.

The sarcastic smile she'd tried to summon faltered as she spotted a familiar silhouette emerging from the shadows. Her ex sauntered towards her, hands in his pockets, that same smug grin plastered on his face that used to make her roll her eyes. Tonight, it just made her want to push him off the pier and into the water like Aiden did during the jamboree, which she had to admit was pretty funny.

"Mary," he drawled, stopping a few feet away as if remembering the dip in the water, and unsure if she'd push him in or not. "Glad you could make it." With a pointed look, he checked the obnoxious statement watch he always wore. "You're late. I was beginning to think you'd stood me up."

Instead of retorting with something snarky, she crossed her arms over her chest. "Let's get this over with," she said, lifting her chin as the wind blew through her leggings and cream sweater. "Your note said you have something I need." At least the thick sweater kept her top half warm as she stood there, waiting for him to get on with it.

He chuckled, the sound grating against her last nerve. "Straight to business. I always liked that about you."

For a moment, Mary swore a light emanated from the pocket of Jake's jacket as he reached into the pocket, a smirk on his face.

"Word around town is that you've been looking for this bauble." He pulled out a pearl the size of a tennis ball and held it out.

The Mermaid's Tear. "Where did you find it?" She kept staring at the pearl, the iridescent colors swirling in the moonlight, and within the colors were tiny stars.

Clearly pleased with her reaction, he took two steps closer, and it took everything she had not to snatch the treasure and run back to the safety of Aiden and her bookstore.

"Found it while metal detecting at Cape Hatteras before dawn this morning." He waved a hand in the air. "Illegal. Yeah, yeah, I know."

The pearl dimmed as he held it up, looking at it.

"It was with several gold coins that, let's just say, are on their way to a very grateful buyer. When I got off the ferry, I heard two of those old busybodies talking about how you and your?—"

He made a face as if he'd smelled something rotten. "Your boyfriend was looking for a treasure he'd lost. Tell him that he's out of luck for the gold coins, if they were even his to begin with."

Tired of the games, she arched a brow. "What do you want for it?"

His grin widened, shark-like. "Always so astute. Simple, really. I'll trade you this... trinket, in exchange for your bookstore."

Mary blinked, momentarily thrown. "Excuse me?"

"You heard me." He examined the pearl, turning it over between his fingers. "Sell me Read Between the Tides, at fair market value of course, and this fire opal is all yours."

She stared at him, equal parts incredulous and infuriated. "Is this some kind of joke? You want me to hand over my livelihood for a bauble you picked up on one of your treasure hunts?"

"Let's not pretend you don't know exactly what this is." His tone hardened, the veneer of charm slipping. "I've heard whispers about your friend. The one with the old-world charm and the accent. Thinks he's better than me."

"He did beat you in a sword fight for the whole town to see." Not smart. Don't antagonize him. Her stomach tightened.

Jake stepped closer, invading her space. "Word around town is that you and your silly little book club have been chasing legends. The Veil of Tides, time loops, all that supernatural woo woo nonsense. But you and I both know there's value in myths, whether they're real or not."

He held up the pearl.

"Imagine what someone might pay for an old opal paperweight if they think it's the genuine artifact."

"Then why not sell it yourself?" she challenged, refusing to back down.

Jake shrugged, but there was a glint in his eye that she didn't trust. "You're the only one standing in the way of my hotel. Everyone else has finally agreed to sell. Money talks."

He waved a dismissive hand. "So, do we have a deal?"

She hesitated. The Mermaid's Tear was crucial. Aiden believed it was the key to returning home and everyone agreed it might help them with the ritual. But her bookshop … it wasn't just a business. It was her sanctuary, her identity, her home. The walls held memories of late-night reads, laughter with friends, the comforting scent of old pages that greeted her like a hug each morning.

"Tick-tock," Jake sing-songed. "Opportunities like this don't last forever."

"Neither do manipulative ex-boyfriends, but here we are," she snapped.

He smirked. "Bitchy as ever. I find that after you, I prefer a nice quiet woman instead of a loud-mouthed harpy."

Gaze flickering between the pearl and the man holding it hostage, she inhaled and counted to eight.

"Fine," she said finally, the word tasting like ash on her tongue. "Bring me the paperwork, and we'll proceed."

"Excellent choice." He extended the pearl toward her, then pulled back just as her fingers grazed it. "After the papers are signed."

"Of course," she muttered. "Wouldn't expect anything less."

He pocketed the pearl with a satisfied nod. "I'll be in touch. Don't keep me waiting."

As he turned and disappeared into the shadows, Mary staggered, catching herself before she fell.

"Well, that was thoroughly nauseating."

The walk back to the bookstore was a blur, her thoughts a tangled mess of regret and determination. Sacrificing her dream to save Aiden. It was either the most selfless thing she'd ever done or the most foolish. Possibly both.

The soft glow of lamplight cast a warm hue over the cozy space as she slipped quietly up the stairs and into the apartment. Aiden was sprawled on the sofa, one arm draped over his eyes, the steady rise and fall of his chest indicating deep sleep.

"Glad one of us can sleep," she whispered, a wry smile tugging at her lips. For a moment, she lingered, taking in the sight of him. The dark tousled hair, a few charms glinting in the lamplight, the hint of a smile at the corner of his mouth. He looked peaceful, content.

Her heart twisted. Was she really about to give up everything for a man who might vanish as suddenly as he'd appeared?

"Fantastic life choices," she muttered, retreating to her bedroom, where sleep eluded her.

As the first hints of dawn colored the sky, she rose from the window seat, her body sore from sitting in one place for so long. There was a lot to do today, and very little time to do it in. Reaching for the photocopy they'd discovered tucked away in an old journal, she read through it once more, eyes lingering on the words.

The journal didn't explicitly say the pearl went with the time travel legend, but maybe if it was returned to the sea, it would help?

Why hadn't somebody already figured out this whole time travel thing, so she'd know if she'd just made the biggest mistake of her life or not?

July 15th, 1703

I've finally found solid information about the Mermaid's Tear. This legendary pearl, formed from a mermaid queen's crystallized tear, possesses incredible magical properties. When worn as a pendant or amulet, it grants the wearer the ability to cheat death in various ways:

1. Healing: Minor wounds close instantly, major injuries heal rapidly.

2. Poison Immunity: The wearer becomes impervious to all known poisons and venoms.

3. Breath Control: One can hold their breath for hours.

4. Fate Deflection: It bends probability to avoid lethal situations.

5. Compass: Holding the Tear will take the bearer wherever their heart desires.

However, there are limitations. It only works near the ocean, can't reverse aging or cure non-life-threatening diseases, and needs to be recharged in seawater under a full moon.

The legend says it was created when a mermaid queen wept for her human lover who died at sea. Some versions warn that using its power comes at a cost, slowly transforming the wearer into a sea creature.

Known sightings:

1665: Dutch merchant ship off Jamaica

1689: Briefly possessed by pirate William Kidd

1702: Last seen in the Bahamas before vanishing

Could this artifact truly exist? The possibility is both thrilling and terrifying.

With a sigh, she tucked the paper into a book and went to shower. It was time to face the day.

When Aiden finally stirred, padding downstairs freshly showered and shaved, dressed in a pair of jeans and a black long-sleeved T-shirt, a fresh wave of guilt washed over her.

She busied herself straightening up the bookmarks on the wood counter at the front of the shop, wanting to spend every minute in her beloved shop before it was gone.

"Morning, lass," he said, yawning. "You're up early."

Not trusting herself to speak, she nodded and handed him a to go cup of coffee from the Ocracoke Coffee Company, their fingers brushing briefly. The contact sent a jolt through her, a stark reminder of everything she stood to lose.

When he went still, watching her every movement, eyes narrowed, reading her like one of her stupid books, Mary held her breath, sure he'd figured out what she'd done last night.

"Something on your mind, poppet?"

"Just the usual. Plotting world domination, contemplating the meaning of life, deciding between scones or muffins for breakfast." She waved a hand around, avoiding meeting his eyes. If she looked at him, she'd cave and tell him everything.

"Hard choices," he agreed, leaning against the counter. "You've been... distant of late."

The books weren't going to rearrange themselves. "Just a lot going on. The ritual, finishing up orders from the jamboree, you know … stuff."

Arms crossed, one booted foot against the counter, he studied her intently. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you've been avoiding me."

"Paranoid much?" Before he noticed, she put her hand behind her back so he wouldn't see how her hands were trembling.

"Mayhap. Or perhaps I can tell when something's troubling ye."

She hesitated, considering confiding in him. But how could she tell him she'd just bartered away her future for a chance to send him home? He'd undo it as soon as he heard, and no matter how much she loved her shop, there was no way Mary would condemn another person to be lost in time for all eternity.

"Really, I'm fine. A little overwhelmed with everything going on. Once I have a few days to rest, I'll be back to myself."

He didn't look convinced, but let it drop. "If you say so."

She forced a smile. "Great. Now, about the ritual preparations..."

The day passed in a haze of activity. It was time to come clean, to face what she had done. Mary called an impromptu book club meeting, gathering the usual motley crew of island eccentrics. They cluttered the shop, flipping through ancient texts and photocopies, chattering excitedly about lunar phases and arcane symbols.

"So, according to this, we need a personal item of great significance," Mrs. Jenkins declared, peering over her spectacles.

"Would a pirate's ego suffice?" Mary muttered under her breath.

Perched atop a rolling ladder, Aiden glanced down with a smirk. "Careful, lass. These ears are sharper than they look."

She rolled her eyes, but a genuine smile tugged at her lips as he winked at her.

"Actually," she announced to the group, avoiding his gaze, "I have news about the Mermaid's Tear."

A collective gasp filled the room.

"Do tell!" Mr. Thompson leaned forward eagerly.

She hesitated. "I can't say much yet. But if all goes well, we'll have what we need soon."

"That's splendid news." Mrs. Jenkins clapped her hands. "I knew fate was on our side."

But one person wasn't so excited. Aiden descended the ladder, his expression unreadable. "And how exactly did ye manage this, poppet?"

"Just called in a favor," she said lightly.

He raised a brow. "From whom?"

Before she could respond, the bell above the door jingled, and Jake strode in, a manila envelope tucked under his arm.

"Speak of the devil," Mary murmured.

"Am I interrupting?" Jake asked, feigning innocence.

"Not at all," she replied coolly. "We were just wrapping up."

The book club members exchanged glances, sensing the tension. "Perhaps we should reconvene later," Mrs. Jenkins suggested tactfully.

As the group filed out, Aiden lingered, gaze darting between her and Jake.

"Are you sure you don't need me to stay?" he asked.

"It's fine," she assured him, avoiding his eyes. "This won't take long."

He hesitated before nodding. "Alright then. I'll be upstairs if you need me."

Once they were alone, Jake wasted no time. "Got the paperwork right here," he said, sliding the envelope across the counter.

"Efficient as always," she replied dryly.

He grinned. "I aim to please."

Mary pulled out the documents, scanning the legal jargon that formalized the sale of Read Between the Tides. Her throat tightened as she ran a sweaty palm down her jeans.

"Everything should be in order," he continued. "Once you sign, the Mermaid's Tear is all yours."

"How generous," she said, picking up the pen.

It was his face that swam before her eyes.

Aiden .

The way he looked at her like she was the most precious thing in the world. The sound of his laughter, the stories he told of his life before, the way he made her feel alive in a way she never had before. And she knew. There was no other choice. If the treasure truly was the key, and she doomed him forever by not doing this, she'd never be able to live with herself.

And if it's not? The voice in her head cried out. Then she guessed she'd be looking for another place to start over.

"Don't look so glum. Think of all the possibilities. You're free now. No strings tying you down to this... quaint little shop."

She shot him a glare. "Don't pretend you know anything about what this place means to me."

"Touchy," he chuckled. "But business is business."

She exhaled slowly, pen hovering over the dotted line. "You're sure this is what you want?"

"Positive." He leaned closer, the anticipation written across his face.

"Fine." With a deep breath, Mary signed her name, grateful that her hand didn't shake. The scratch of pen on paper seemed impossibly loud in the quiet office.

"Pleasure doing business with you. I'll email copies over to you later today." Jake retrieved the documents, tucking them away. True to his word, he produced the Mermaid's Tear, tossing it to her, as Mary almost had heart failure. It wasn't like she was the sporty type. What if she'd dropped it and it broke?

The Mermaid's Tear, which looked like a giant pearl, was warm against her skin, its inner light pulsing softly. "At least you kept your promise," she muttered.

"Always," Jake replied. "Oh, and Mary?"

She looked up, wary.

"I'll give you two weeks to get out." He curled his lip as he looked around the cozy shop. "I can't wait to tear this eyesore down."

Before he left, he flashed her one last smirk. The bell's cheerful jingle at odds with the heaviness settling in her chest as the door closed behind him.

Alone, she closed her fist around the pearl. "Well, Inky," she said to the cat lounging atop a nearby shelf, "I've officially sold my soul. Or at least, my favorite part of it."

The cat yawned, unimpressed.

She sank into one of the overstuffed chairs, the reality of her decision washing over her.

The sound of footsteps descending the stairs pulled her from her thoughts.

"Lass?" Aiden's voice was cautious.

She hastily wiped the wetness from her cheeks. "Over here."

He strode across the shop, concern etched across his features. "I saw him leaving. Everything alright?"

"Peachy," she replied, forcing a smile.

"You have been weeping." He knelt in front of her. "I'll kill him before midnight."

"I'm not crying. It must be allergies. Don't kill him. Jake isn't worth a single moment of your time."

When he laid a hand on her knee, she cleared her throat and said softly. "We finalized a deal."

His gaze fell to the pearl in her hand. "So it's true."

She nodded. "We have the Tear. Now we can complete the ritual."

"At what cost?" he asked, voice low.

She shrugged, attempting nonchalance. "Just business."

"Don't insult me, poppet," he said, eyes searching hers. "What did you give the bastard?"

She looked away. "It's done. That's all that matters."

"Lass," he warned.

She tilted her head down to meet his eyes. The walls she'd been trying so hard to maintain, crumbling to dust. "I sold the bookstore," she admitted, voice breaking.

"Nay." He ran a hand through his hair. "Bloody hell."

"I had to. It's the only way he'd give me the pearl."

He ran a hand through his hair, disbelief evident. "You sacrificed your home, your livelihood... for me? A pirate. I'm not a good man, lass. Ye shouldn't have done it."

"Yes, you are." She lifted her chin. "Don't be so dramatic."

"It is dramatic," he exclaimed. "You can't just give up everything."

"Well, I did," she snapped. "And I'd appreciate a little less judgment right now."

He stared at her, a mix of frustration and something else. Something that looked a lot like sorrow mixed with love.

"You are infuriating," he said finally.

"So I've been told."

A beat of silence stretched between them.

"I do not acquiesce to your decision," he said. "Tell him no."

"Too bad," she replied. "I acquiesced for us."

He shook his head. "We could have found another way."

"I did what needed to be done," she said, hating how weak and unconvincing she sounded. "To send you home."

For a long moment, he simply stared at her, hurt and confusion warring in his eyes. Then, without another word, he turned and stormed out of the store, the bell jangling angrily in his wake.

Heart breaking, Mary watched him go. She'd known this would be hard, but she hadn't expected it to hurt quite this much.

What was done was done. Mary squared her shoulders. There was no time for self-pity. The ritual awaited, and with it, the culmination of this wild, unexpected chapter of her life.

With a half-snort, half-sob, she looked down at her white shirt. It had a dragon sitting on a pile of books, and said, I read because burning villages is frowned upon. Why couldn't she be a dragon and burn Jake to cinders?

"One last adventure," she told herself. "Let's make it count."

After all, she'd just sold her bookshop to a smarmy ex-boyfriend to help a time-traveling pirate return home. "Talk about setting the bar high for future endeavors," she quipped.

The thought brought a genuine smile to her face.

"Here's to questionable decisions and unforeseen adventures," she whispered.