He rubbed his face. Even then, with how ill she looked, someone might sense something off and look too closely. This kind of sickness—he wasn’t even sure if he could heal it with his gift. It might just take time and care. Perhaps when he dropped his belongings off with Billy, he’d mention that she was unwell, and he was hoping Arawaké’s climate would help her health. That way, he wouldn’t be too shocked by her appearance. But then again, maybe she’d look better after a wash and some rest.

Glancing along the road confirmed no one followed him. Good—best if the Navy didn’t know about this visit to the inn or the other errands he needed to run this afternoon.

He couldn’t take Vee to his Navy suite—that would be leading her into the lions’ den. First, he’d rent a room in the inn, explaining his ill wife was due to arrive late tonight and would need a bath and food.

Then he’d buy the best clothes he could find—there wasn’t time to have something made for her, but pawn shops and second-hand clothes shops would have fine ladies’ cast-offs. Plenty of officer’s wives only wore a gown once or twice, there would have to be a decent stock of such outfits in the city. Vee’s height might be an issue, but she’d have to make do with what he could find.

Rubbing his hands together against the nip in the air, he clenched his jaw. What else?

His gaze crept over the shops and houses of the bustling street, then across to the distant castle towers. Gods, she’d be freezing up there today. His heart clenched. Please say they’d stoked that brazier.

He bit his lip. A warm cloak or coat. And she’d need comfort after the torture of that cage and—and what he’d done.

Goosebumps rose on his flesh, and his stomach turned again.

He swallowed. He didn’t have time to dwell on his monumental mistake. If they got away, he’d have the whole journey to Arawaké to think about it.

Right now, though, he had to focus on tonight. This plan, its perfect planning and completion were all that mattered.

So. He nodded and huffed out a breath. What could he do to bring Vee some small comfort after all she’d been through?

Barnacle was in his rooms, ready to come on their trip, but maybe his budget would stretch to some little extras. He could make sure the undergarments were the softest he could find—they’d be gentle on her tender skin. Medicinal salts for her bath would help, too. Fruit, nuts, cake to help her regain energy. He also had the book—the dragon one he’d bought in Nassau. Yes, that was the kind of thing Vee would appreciate.