Kennan’s jaw twitched. Would she cast her stone and end the pirate’s life? He wouldn’t blame her if she did, even though the man was already condemned.

As Vane passed with guards on either side, she raised her chin and slapped the rock in her palm. “Ye chose the wrong path and soon ye’ll meet your end.”

Filled with pride, Kennan joined her. “Unfortunate he’s injured, else he might sell well on the auction block.”

She flicked the slingshot around, catching it in her palm again. “I’d never sell any man into bondage, especially that one.”

“Oh?”

“He’s a liar, he’s crafty and smart, and I’ve heard tell he’d kill his own mother if it would make him a farthing. Nay, the only place for Jackson Vane is Fort William’s gallows—just as ye said.”

* * *

Once Vane was in chains below, Kennan gathered his men. “I have an announcement to make.” He grasped Divana’s hand and pulled her beside him. “I’d like you all to formally meet my wife, Lady Cameron.”

There was an immediate uproar of gasps and laughter, and most every man on deck held forth, blurting out congratulations—except Ethan, of course. Interestingly, the man was standing off by himself. Perhaps the allies he’d claimed stood by him no longer.

Kennan returned his attention to the crowd and held up his hands for silence. “I’ve asked Cuthbert MacDonald to take command of the Silver Mermaid on the voyage home. Baltazar MacGee will act as his quartermaster, and I need at least ten volunteers to man the ship.”

A few hands went up, and with a bit of coaxing, Kennan had nine willing seamen. “Come, lads, I need one more.”

Of course, Ethan Crowder was the only tar who raised his hand. In fact, the lout appeared rather eager to join the crew of an untried captain. Kennan had planned to deal with the varlet next, but since he was so anxious to draw attention to himself, it was time to face him. “Sailor, I have a special position in mind for you.”

The man stepped forward, thumping his chest. “Ye hear that, fellas? Ole Ethan’s going to be promoted.”

“I’d save your enthusiasm if I were you.” Kennan said, beckoning Divana beside him, the act making Ethan’s grin disappear.

Before he said another word, he gestured to two trusted Cameron sailors with whom he’d had a wee chat before he’d begun his address. They moved into position behind the scourge.

Kennan grasped Divana’s hand. “Lady Divana, did not this man threaten you?”

“Lies!” Ethan shouted as the two men seized his arms.

“Her Ladyship never lies!” shouted Baltazar, bless him.

“Agreed,” said Kennan. “Now, dear, as you were saying…”

Divana eyed her accuser. “Aye, Ethan threatened me and ye as well, Captain. Told me if I did not give him me share of the takings, he’d expose me secret.”

“And what secret would that be?”

“That I’m a lass and not a lad.” She batted her eyelashes and fanned her face. “Now me secret has been revealed, I would be remiss if I did not say this man also threatened to incite a mutiny against ye.”