8
" Yes, they are extremely fucking sexy if you must know,” he said, scarcely believing the words coming out of his mouth. It was simply the truth; somehow the markings enhanced the muscular young man’s beauty in a way that made Jon feel hot inside. “But… What do they mean? Do you know?” he asked. Tom looked down at himself and shrugged. “The lot of it could be pure fancy, love. But… the man who did it, he told me that this here”—Tom put his fingers over Jon’s—“is a map of the Devil’s Isles and beyond. Somethin’ about lost knowledge.” Jon’s breath caught in his throat and he looked at Tom, alarmed. “Gods, Tom. Now you won’t believe me when I tell you what we’re planning,” he said in a hush. Tom was quiet for a long time after Jon told him of their plans and of the captain’s intention to ask him to be first mate again. Jon rested against Tom’s wide shoulder, waiting for the big man to say something. When Tom finally spoke, it was a rumble against Jon’s ear. “If ye don’t mind, love, I’d like a day to think about it before I give ye my answer. Can ye grant me that, lad?” asked Tom, his rough hand coming up to rest against Jon’s bare chest. Jon nodded his head and closed his eyes. "
― Bey Deckard , Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas (Baal's Heart, #1)
9
" Jon’s heart ached. “You enjoyed punishing me?” he asked quietly, reaching out to touch the captain’s cheek. Baltsaros leaned into his hand, smiling. “Oh Jon, very much so. You were exquisite,” he said, his voice affectionate. Baltsaros slid his fingers over the dented, red markings on Jon’s chest, left behind by the tight bindings. “You were perfect,” he said, his voice soft. "
― Bey Deckard , Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas (Baal's Heart, #1)
15
" If you assume that you will die today, you drag death to you as a cold, unforgiving stranger. Instead, embrace death like an old friend, for you will fight side by side with her; and, if death decides to choose you as her champion, you may yet live to fight, and love, another day,” said the captain softly into Jon’s ear. "
― Bey Deckard , Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas (Baal's Heart, #1)