Thunder Cruise

~As she looked into the night she couldn’t believe that her mom had let her come alone on this cruise.
It was the maiden voyage for the Celtic Thunder cruise.
Celtic Thunder was her favorite group.
As she looked at her watch she saw that it was getting late and that she should be heading to bed.
She turned around and ran straight into someone.
“Oh, I am so sorry.” She said, “I should have looked where I was going.”
She glanced up from the ground and gasped-for there stood Ryan Kelly one of the principle singers of Celtic Thunder.
“Oh wow.” She said standing up and brushing herself off.
“Hi, I’m Ryan.” He said grabbing her hand and kissing it.
“Nice to meet you.” She said, “I’m Stephanie.”
“So what is a lovely lady like you doing out here alone?” Ryan asked.
“I was just looking at the ocean.” Stephanie said.
“May I escort you back to your cabin?” Ryan asked.
Stephanie didn’t answer right away and she could see it kind of hurt Ryan.
“Sure you can.” Stephanie said, “I would really appreciate that.”
“Good.” Ryan said.
As they started to walk away from the railing they could’ve sworn they heard a noise.
But before either of them could say anything they were grabbed from behind and knocked out.
When he awoke Ryan’s thought immediately flew to Stephanie-where was she and was she okay?
As he started to look around the room he saw he was in the captain’s cabin with the captain lying next to him-dead Ryan assumed.
“Where is Stephanie?” he said aloud.
“You mean the girl who was with you last night?” Came a voice.
“Yes.” Ryan said trying to move his hands.
“No use trying to get away.” The voice said.
“Tell me where Stephanie is.” Ryan said.
“Just look out the window.” The voice said.
Ryan quickly looked out the window and saw Stephanie tied to the flag pole several feet off the ground.
“Oh my gosh!” Ryan exclaimed, “Do you have to leave her up there?”
“She’s going to stay up there ‘till I say so.” Someone said coming in followed by the rest of Celtic Thunder.
“Are you okay, Ryan?” George Donaldson asked.
“I’m fine.” Ryan said, “But Stephanie is not.”
“Who?” Colm Keegan asked.
“Someone I met last night.” Ryan said.
“Where is she?” asked Neil Bryne.
“Look out the window.” Ryan said.
The guys looked out the window and saw a girl tied to the flag pole several feet off the ground.
“Uh-oh.” Emmet Cahill said.
“All of you sit down now.” A man said closing the door.
“What is going on here?” Keith Harkin asked.
“This cruise ship has been taken over by pirates!” the man said sitting behind the desk.
The guys were quiet for a moment.
“Can I ask you a question?” George asked.
“I guess.” The pirate said.
“Why did you put that poor girl on the flag pole?” he asked.
“As an example to everyone.” The pirate said, “Who disobey us.”
“So that’s what happens?” Colm asked.
“What did she do?” Keith asked.
“Wrong place, wrong time.” The pirate said, “Actually it was going to be one of you, but I thought a normal person would be better.”
“Let me change places with her.” Ryan said speaking up.
Colm, Emmet, George, Keith, and Neil looked at him stunned.
“What on earth are you thinking?” Neil asked.
“Sorry no can do.” The pirate said.
“Yes you can.” Ryan said, “Why won’t you?”
The pirate was quiet for a moment.
“I knew she was the one as soon as I saw her.” The pirate finally answered.
Ryan glanced out the window and saw that the wind was starting to pick up.
“You seem genuinely concerned about her.” The pirate said, “She’s more than just a fan isn’t she?”
“What makes you say that?” Ryan asked, “We just met last night.”
“But for you it was love at first sight.” The pirate said.
Ryan tried to look out the window without the pirate noticing, but had no such luck.
“Get her off the pole.” The pirate said.
Ryan gave a sigh of relief.
“And my whip!” The pirate said.
“What?!” Exclaimed Keith and Ryan at the same time, exchanging glances.
“When they bring her in you will all be silent, especially you.” The pirate said pointing a gun at Ryan.
“Here’s your whip sir.” A man said handing the pirate the whip.
“You were serious?!” Emmet exclaimed.
“Of course.” The pirate said, “Now shut up.”
Just then another man walked in with Stephanie tied up and blindfolded.
It took all of Ryan’s self-control not to say anything.
“Now kneel.” The pirate said.
“I will not.” Stephanie said.
“Kneel now!” The pirate said angrily.
“I shall not.” Stephanie said.
With that the man behind her kicked her behind the knee and she collapsed.
George and Neil jumped on Ryan’s lap as the whip went up. The guys all closed their eyes as the whip came down and Stephanie screamed.
It probably happened ten more times.
“Let’s go check on everyone else.” The pirate said, “Don’t even try to escape-I have a guard at the door.”
He cut Ryan’s rope and then left.
The guys looked at him, “After I check on Stephanie.”
“Okay.” George said.
So Ryan ran over to Stephanie untied her and pulled off her blindfold, took off his jacket and wrapped it around her.
As he did she put her head against his chest, and so he pulled her closer to him and now he could hear her crying.
“Don’t worry Stephanie.” Ryan said, “I won’t let anything happen to you.”
She sat up and wiped the tears from her eyes, “Promise?”
“I promise with all my heart and hope to die.” Ryan said.
“Let’s hope you don’t have to die.” Stephanie said.
“I’ll second that.” Ryan said, “Come on over and meet the rest of the lads.”
“Okay.” Stephanie said as Ryan helped her up, but she fell to the floor.
“What’s wrong?” Ryan asked.
“I must still be weak in the knees.” Stephanie said.
So Ryan picked her up in his arms and they headed over to the rest of the group.
He gently sat her down and started to untie the others.
“You know he was worried sick about you.” Emmet said.
“That sure is nice of him.” Stephanie said, “But I’m just a nobody.”
“Not to me you’re not.” Ryan said coming over to sit down next to her.
“We have to get word to the Coast Guard.” Neil said standing up.
“I agree.” Stephanie said, “But how?”
“Does anyone have their cell phones?” George asked.
Everyone searched his pockets but none of them had their cell phone.
“Well there goes the obvious idea.” George said, “Does anybody have a plan B?”
The group was silent.
“Okay so no plan B?” George asked.
“Give us a few minutes.” Colm said.
“We’re all going to die!” Stephanie said.
“No we won’t.” Ryan said putting his arm around her.
She wanted to pull away, but was being pulled to his chest by an un-seen force.
As they sat there Ryan ran his fingers through her hair.
“You know what Stephanie?” he whispered.
“What?” she asked back.
“I think I love you.” Ryan said.
Stephanie immediately pulled away.
  “Is something wrong?” Ryan asked.
“No.” Stephanie said, “I just thought of plan B.”
“Great, what is it?” Keith asked.
“We open a window, I crawl out go out and send out a SOS.” Stephanie said.
“That just might work.” Colm said.
“It will work.” Stephanie said.
“No, I don’t think you should do it.” Ryan said, “What happens if you get caught?”
“I’ll take my chances.” Stephanie said.
She watched as Ryan’s eyes became full of concern.
“Don’t worry I’ll be careful.” Stephanie said.
“Okay I got the window open.” Neil said.
“Wish me luck.” Stephanie said.
But before anyone could say anything she was gone!
“So Ryan what are your feelings for her?” Emmet asked.
But Ryan was silent.
“I think he loves her.” Colm said in a teasing voice.
“Hey let me go!” Came an exclamation from outside the door, “Ouch.”
“I guess she didn’t get that far.” Neil said as the door opened.
In came the pirate with Stephanie in his grasp.
“Okay whose idea was this?” he exclaimed as the door slammed shut behind him.
“It was my idea.” Stephanie said.
“Really.” The pirate said his face inches away from hers.
“Yes.” Stephanie said.
“No it was mine.” Ryan said.
Stephanie gave him a look to try to shut him up.
“Whoever did it didn’t work.” The pirate said throwing Stephanie at Keith.
Keith caught Stephanie before she fell to the floor.
“Thanks.” Stephanie said.
“I will be back.” The pirate said and left. 
“Are you okay?” Keith asked.
“Yeah I’m fine.” Stephanie said, “Thanks for catching me.”
“No problem.” Keith said with a smile.
Stephanie smiled back and then looked at Ryan.
“What were you thinking Ryan?” she asked.
“I didn’t want him to whip you again.” Ryan said.
“Thank you.” Stephanie said sitting down next to him.
“What are we going to do if he comes back and decides to whip her then?” Emmet asked.
“We won’t let him.” Keith said sitting down on the other side of her.
“I agree.” Colm said.
“Me two.” Emmet said.
George and Neil shook their heads in agreement.
“Then we need to come up with an idea on how to protect Stephanie.” Ryan said.
“Well you and Keith can get between the pirate and Stephanie.” Neil said.
“Emmet and Colm can block him from the side.” George said, “And Neil and I will be in front of Keith and Ryan.”
Stephanie put her head on Ryan’s shoulder and closed her eyes.
“Man am I tired.” She said.
Just then the door opened and in came the pirate followed by two others.
Both Keith and Ryan grabbed Stephanie’s hand.
“Now I would like to know who’s idea the escape plan was.” The pirate said looking straight at Stephanie, “So?”
No one answered.
“Well I think it was our lady friend.” The pirate said.
George and Neil stepped in front of Keith, Ryan, and Stephanie.
“So it is her.” The pirate said.
The two other pirates took a step toward the small group.
“Colm and Emmet stood beside George and Neil.
“You guys need to give her up.” The pirate said, “Or else.”
“Or else what?” Keith asked.
He grabbed a gun and shot the wall by Colm.
“Next time I shoot one of you.” The pirate said.
Stephanie jumped up even though both Keith and Ryan tried to stop her.
“I did it.” She said as Neil tried to pull her back.
“I knew that would bring you forward.” The pirate said grabbing her.
“Wait.” Ryan said, “What are you going to do?”
“What do you think?” The pirate asked, “Tie her up.”
“No!” Keith and Ryan exclaimed.
“Hold them back.” The pirate said grabbing his whip, “Kneel.”
This time she obeyed.
She glanced back at Ryan and then closed her eyes.
Ryan turned away as the pirate raised his whip.
Keith and the others also turned their heads away.
“Done!” The Pirate said.
As Keith and Ryan looked back they saw Stephanie had blacked out and there was blood.
“Let them go.” The pirate said.
Keith and Ryan ran over to Stephanie.
“We need to find something to cover her up.” Keith said as Ryan untied her.
As he glanced around the room Ryan saw the pirate was watching them intently.
Keith caught sight of the dead captain and ran over to the body as Ryan stayed with Stephanie.
“Is she going to be alright?” Emmet asked.
“I sure hope so.” Colm said as they watched Keith return with the captain’s shirt and put it over Stephanie.
“Now what?” Keith asked.
“Yeah, Ryan now what?” The Pirate asked mocking Keith.
Keith gave the pirate a glare.
Ryan couldn’t think of what to do next, he exchanged glances with George.
Just then Stephanie moaned.
“She’s waking up!” Ryan exclaimed.
“Obviously we didn’t hit her hard enough.” The pirate said taking a step toward them.
Ryan scooped Stephanie up into his arms as Keith stood in front of him.
“You are not going to touch her again.” Keith said as Colm, Emmet, George, and Neil stood beside him.
“And you five think you’re going to stop me?” The Pirate asked drawing his gun.
But the guys stood firm.
Keith glanced behind him at Ryan and Stephanie, Stephanie was on her feet behind Ryan.
“Don’t worry we aren’t moving.” Keith said.
“Thanks.” Stephanie said.
Keith turned his attention back to the pirate.
“Glad you aren’t moving.” The pirate said, “Fine. I won’t do anything.”
The group watched him put his gun away.
“Is this some sort of trick?” George asked.
“No.” The pirate said, “You two grab the body and dump it overboard.”
The other two pirates grabbed the captain’s body and they left.
“I will be back later.” The pirate said, “No more escape plans.”
“Definitely not.”  Neil said.
With that the Pirate left.
Immediately Colm, Emmet, George, Keith, and Neil turned around to look at Ryan.
He had sat down and pulled Stephanie as close to him as possible and was now stroking her hair.
As the group sat down around them they were each in his own thought, well except Keith who was watching Ryan and Stephanie.
Stephanie felt safe when she was near Ryan.
“Try to get some sleep.” He whispered to her.
As she closed her eyes she started to wonder if she was having feelings for Ryan, but she immediately put that thought out of her mind.
But then she remembered that earlier Ryan had said that he loved her, maybe that was just a dream.
She was wishing this whole pirate thing was over and she was back home.
All of a sudden the door burst opened and in came the pirate.
“Now what?” Keith asked.
“The passengers want to know that you’re alive.” The pirate said, “So I told them that I would let you do an hour long concert, now let’s go.”
The group got up and headed out the door but as Ryan and Stephanie were passing he grabbed Stephanie from Ryan.
“Hey!” Ryan exclaimed.
“This is to make sure you guys don’t try anything stupid.” The pirate said, “Now move.”
Stephanie forced a smile as the pirate pushed her forward to make Ryan move.
                                              ****
As the group entered the ballroom the people started to whistle and cheer.
Ryan had to force a smile as he glanced back and saw that the pirate had a gun and was holding Stephanie tight.
“Are you going to be able to do this Ryan?” Neil asked as he tuned his guitar.
“Yeah.” Ryan said unsure.
“Just get into character.” Keith said strumming his guitar.
Ryan glanced back and Stephanie gave him a smile.
“Okay so it is going to be the ‘Mythology’ show.” said David Munro.
“Sound’s good.” George said.
“As ‘Voices’ started the audience clapped and cheered.
Ryan took a deep breath and began to sing.
It seemed like the longest hour of Keith’s life as he was worried about Stephanie also.
As they finished the pirate yelled, “Don’t forget to pick a side of the ballroom.”
“Why?” George asked.
“Not you guys.” The pirate said, “I’ll explain as we leave.”
So the group started to leave the ballroom with the pirate still holding Stephanie.
“So?” George asked.
“All of us pirates voted left or right and as soon as Sharon is done counting, the winning side gets to head to land.” The pirate said.
“Isn’t that a little risky?” Neil asked.
“Of course.” The pirate said as he opened the door to the captain’s quarters, “I’m going to go give the winning side the good news.”
He threw Stephanie in and shut the door.
Both Keith and Ryan caught her.
“What did you think of the show?” Emmet asked.
“It was great.” Stephanie said in between gasps as Keith and Ryan sat her down.
“Glad you enjoyed it.” Colm said.
“So what do you think he is going to do with us?” asked Stephanie as everyone sat down.
“I hope nothing.” Keith said.
“It depends upon what happens with the group he let’s go to land.” George said.
“Hopefully they’ll get help.” Ryan said.
“Yeah.” Stephanie agreed.
Just then they heard loud footsteps coming toward the door.
The group immediately jumped to their feet ready to protect Stephanie if necessary.
The door slammed opened and the pirate came in mumbling, “Both sides, how could it be both sides?”
“What do you mean both sides?” George asked.
“Both sides of the ballroom got to leave.” The pirate said, “That’s what I get for having an even number of pirates.”
There was silence for a minute.
“Stevens.” The pirate called.
“Yes sir?” Stevens asked coming into the room.
Before anyone could say anything the pirate leader grabbed his gun and shot Stevens.
Stephanie screamed and put her head into Keith’s shoulder.
“Now it’s odd.” The pirate said with a grin, “Oh yeah I found a couple of your friends.”
As the group looked toward the door in walked Damian McGinty and Paul Byrom.
“What are you guys doing here?” Neil asked.
“It was a surprise for the fans.” Paul said.
“Yeah after the band played some songs they were going to have us come out and sing.”  Damian said.
Two pirates came in to take care of Stevens’ body as Damian and Paul noticed Stephanie.
“Who is this young lady?” Damian asked, “I’m Damian.” He said extending his hand.
“Nice to meet you.” Stephanie said, “I’m Stephanie and I am a little older then you.”
“And I’m Paul.” Paul said pushing Damian out of the way.
“Hi.” Stephanie said with a small laugh at the way Paul had pushed Damian out of the way.
“Well young lady looks like you have more than one of these young men fancying you.” The pirate said.
Stephanie just blushed.
“You guys better figure out a way to sleep as nighttime is coming.” The pirate said.
The group had been so busy that they had not even noticed it was getting dark.
“Obviously one of us needs to stand guard.” George said.
“I will.” Emmet said.
“Okay.” George said.
“Stephanie you are sleeping with me.” Ryan said.
“Then the rest of us can sleep around you two.” Colm said.
“Why can’t I sleep by myself?” Stephanie asked.
“Yeah guys why can’t she sleep by herself?” the pirate asked.
“That’s why?” Ryan said.
“Okay I agree.” Stephanie said.
So Ryan leaned against the wall as Stephanie put her head against his chest.
Soon afterwards everyone was asleep except Emmet.
                                                     ****
Everyone had been sleeping for a while when Damian accidentally kicked Keith waking him up.
Keith glanced over at Emmet and saw he was asleep.
Then he glanced over to Ryan and Stephanie, he had to blink his eyes.
“Guys Stephanie is gone!” Keith exclaimed.
Colm, Damian, George, Neil, and Paul woke up, but Emmet and Ryan didn’t.
“What’s wrong with them?” Damian asked.
Colm gave Emmet a shake, but he didn’t wake up.
“Is he still breathing?” Paul asked.
“Yes he is.” Colm said, “Is Ryan?”
“Yup.” Keith said.
“What do you think happened?” Neil asked.
Just then Emmet gave a moan.
“What happened?” he asked, “Did I fall asleep while on watch?”
“Yes and no.” George said.
Emmet gave George a questioning look.
“You were forced to fall asleep.” Paul said when he noticed what George was holding.
“You and Ryan were shot by tranquilizer darts.” Neil said.
“Then why hasn’t Ryan woken up yet?” Damian asked.
“That is a good question Damian.” Paul said.
“They must have given him a stronger dose.” Keith said.
Just then there came a groan from Ryan and an exclamation, “Where is Stephanie!!!?”
“Take a deep breath Ryan.” Neil said.
George then explained to him what they thought had happened.
“I hope Stephanie is okay.” Ryan said, “I promised that I would protect her. “
“We know.” Keith said.
“”Did he put her on the pole again?” Ryan asked.
The group ran to the window to look, but saw no sign of Stephanie.
“Whew.” Ryan said, “So what else do you think that creep could have done?”
“We need to get out of here!” Emmet said.
“I agree.” Neil said.
“Not without Stephanie.” Ryan said.
“Come on Ryan now’s our chance.” Paul said, “If he and Stephanie are busy then we can easily get out of here.”
“Paul!” Damian exclaimed.
“What?” Paul asked.
“You were so polite earlier, what happened?” George asked.
“I guess I just want to get out of here.”  Paul said.
“Then go.” Ryan said, “But I’m waiting for Stephanie.”
“Fine.” Paul said, “I’ll wait to.”
So the group sat back down, though tired none of them fell asleep.
Pretty soon they could see some sunlight pouring in as the sun began to rise on day two of being hostages.
Just then they heard footsteps coming toward the door.
“I hope that’s Stephanie.” Keith said.
“So do all of us.” Neil said as the door opened.
In came Stephanie hands tied behind her back.
In came the pirate captain came in, untied Stephanie and slowly moved his hand down her face.
Stephanie stiffened.
“No telling them our secret.” He said, “Okay?”
Stephanie didn’t answer.
So the pirate slapped her, “Got it?”
“Yes sir.” She said softly.
“Good girl.” He said, “I’ll leave you alone because I guess I got a call from the Coast Guard to go answer.”
And with that the pirate left.
Ryan got up and ran over to Stephanie who was near tears.
He pulled her into his chest as she began to sob.
Ryan could hear the other guys trying to figure out a way to get away from here.
All of a sudden they heard what sounded like a helicopter.
“Do you think that’s help?” Emmet asked.
“I sure hope so.” Damian said as he got up to look out the window, “Nope it’s a news helicopter.”
“So it’s not the Coast Guard?” Stephanie asked as she pulled away from Ryan.
“No it’s not.” Damian said.
“Shoot.” Stephanie said.
“What happened last night?” Paul asked.
“I can’t tell you.” Stephanie said.
“Why not?” Paul asked.
“If I tell you, he’ll kill me.” Stephanie answered Paul.
Just then they heard footsteps coming.
Ryan grabbed Stephanie’s hand and they ran over to where the others were sitting.
As they sat down the door opened and in came the pirate captain.
“Now what do you want?” Keith asked.
“I just want to keep an eye on you guys.” The pirate said.
“You mean an eye on Stephanie.” Neil said.
“No all of you.” The pirate said.
“If you say so.” Neil said, “Why?”
“So you don’t try to escape again.” The pirate said.
“So what did the Coast Guard want?” George asked.
“What do you think?” the pirate asked, “They wanted to know what I wanted for your release.”
“And what did you tell them?” Paul asked.
“Nothing.” The pirate said with a laugh, “Now I want you guys to sing me a song.”  
“And what one would you like to hear?” Colm asked.
The pirate was silent for a moment.
“Do you even know any of our songs?” Ryan asked.
“Of course I do.” The pirate said, “I want you guys to sing ‘Turning Away’.”
“In darkness we do what we can…” Emmet started.
As the guys sang Stephanie noticed the pirate was watching her and not them.
Ryan must have noticed to because he pulled her closer as he sang.
She felt safe in Ryan’s arms.
With that the guys finished.
Damian, Paul, and Stephanie clapped.
“Good job guys.” Paul said.
“That’s my mom’s favorite song.” Stephanie said.
“That was amazing.” Damian said.
“Now you guys sing ‘The Clancy Brothers Medley’.” The pirate said.
“I’ll tell me ma when I get home….” Damian started.
Stephanie couldn’t help but sing along.
Ryan looked at her and said, “You can sing too?”
Stephanie gave a sly smile which made Ryan laugh.
That was the first time she had seen him smile for real since they had been taken hostage.
Then she laughed at Ryan’s laugh as Ryan gave her a hug.
“Okay that’s enough laughing from you two.” The pirate said, “I can’t hear the singing.”
Ryan and Stephanie exchanged smiles and then helped finish the song.
With that the song was over.
“You guys can have a break.” The pirate said, “But be ready to sing again.”
“Okay.” Emmet said.
The pirated started to talk to one of his men.
“So what was so funny?” Damian asked.
“Stephanie can sing.” Ryan said.
“What’s so funny about that?” Paul asked.
“It wasn’t that it was the look she gave me after I mentioned it.” Ryan said with a slight laugh.
“Come on it wasn’t that funny.” Stephanie said.
“Trust me it was.” Ryan said.
“Show was.” Colm said.
“Well okay.” Stephanie said and gave the sly smile again.
And they all laughed.
“Okay someone do it so I can see what’s making it so funny.” Stephanie said.
So Keith gave it a try.
“No it was more like this.” Emmet said doing it a different way causing everyone to laugh out loud.
“No Emmet that’s still not right.” Keith said giving him a friendly nudge.
“I think only Stephanie can do it right.” Ryan said.
“Of course, because it’s mine.” Stephanie said.
“Well I’m glad you guys are all happy.” The pirate said coming up suddenly behind George.
“We need something to keep our spirits up.” Neil said.
“Are we going to be able to eat something today?” asked Stephanie.
“Of course sweetheart.” The pirate said, “I can’t have you getting weak on me.”
“Don’t call me sweetheart!” Stephanie said.
“Yeah, I’m the only one who can.” Ryan said.
“Oh really?” the pirate said.
“Yes.” Stephanie said.
Ryan pulled her closer to him as the rest of the guys got between them and the pirate.
“It’s time to start singing again.” The pirate said, “Let’s see ‘Rocky Road to Dublin’”.
“Hunt the hare and turn her down the rocky road…” Colm, Emmet, George, Neil, and Ryan started to sing.
At the second chorus Damian, Keith, Paul, and Stephanie joined in.
Pretty soon they were done with the song.
“Wish we could have Stephanie join the group.” Keith said.
“Too bad.” The pirate said, “She won’t be able to because you guys are never leaving!”
“We will get out of here!” George said.
“You really think so?” The Pirate asked.
“Of course.” Paul said.
“Yeah.” Neil said.
“You can think whatever you want.” The pirate said, “Now you sing ‘Now we are Free’.”
So Keith started to sing.
Before Stephanie knew it she was asleep.
                                                                                            ****
 “Lunch is here.” Stephanie heard the pirate say as she woke up.
“Are you okay?” Ryan whispered.
“Just tired.” Stephanie said.
“Did you not sleep last night?” he asked.
“Not really.” Stephanie said as she was handed a sandwich.
“What happened last night?” Ryan whispered as he got his sandwich.
“I would tell you but I can’t.” Stephanie said.
“What are you two whispering about over there?” the pirate asked.
“Nothing.” Ryan said.
“Captain the Coast Guard guys are on the radio again.” Said another pirate; coming in.
“Fine.” The captain said, “You stay here and watch them!”
And with that the Captain left.
The guys all exchanged glances.
Colm, Damian, Emmet, George, Keith, Neil, and Paul rushed the pirate and took his gun.
George knocked the pirate out with the gun.
“Come on guys let’s go.” Neil said.
Ryan and Stephanie got up and followed the group out the door.
“Now what?” Stephanie asked.
“We jump.” Keith said.
“You’re joking?!” Stephanie exclaimed.
“Do you want to get out of here?” Paul asked.
“Well yeah.” Stephanie said.
“Then you’re going to have to jump.” Paul said and then jumped. 
 Ryan grabbed her hand and said, “I’ll be right here.”
Stephanie looked around and saw everyone else had jumped.
“Okay.” She said.
So she and Ryan got ready, she took a deep breath as they jumped.
When she hit the water she felt herself sinking.
All of a sudden she was on someone’s back and heading to the surface; as soon as they broke she took a deep breath of fresh air.
She looked down to see who had rescued her and saw it was Keith.
“Thanks Keith.” Stephanie said, “I owe you.”
Just then Ryan’s head popped up out of the water.
“I’m sorry I let your hand go.” Ryan said.
“It’s okay.” Stephanie said.
“Just then they heard a commotion on the deck, so they moved into the shadow of the boat.
“Is everyone here?” Ryan asked.
Stephanie still on Keith’s back looked down the edge of the boat and counted heads.
“Yup all the guys are here.” She said.
“Good.” Ryan said.
“Why did you let them escape?” came the captain’s voice.
“All of the guys jumped me, took my gun, and then one of them knocked me out.” Came the answer, then a gunshot.
“Now he’s back to even.” Stephanie said causing Keith to laugh.
“Shhh.” George said.
“Sorry.” Keith said.
All of a sudden a boat came around the front of the cruise ship and everyone stiffened.
“Are you guys over here?” came a hushed voice, “We saw you jump from the boat on the news camera.”
But no one said anything, instead they exchanged glances.
“Yes we are.” Paul said.
Neil could not believe what Paul had just done.
“Did all of you guys get away or is there still someone on the ship?” came the hushed voice.
“We all got off.” Paul said.
“Great.” The hushed voice said, “So why is no one else talking?”
“I don’t know.” Paul said glancing at the others, George just shook his head.
“Well come on guys before the pirates see us.” Came the hushed voice.
“Yeah guys.” Paul said as he started for the boat.
“Paul, stop!” Damian said finally not able to keep his mouth shut.
“What?” Paul asked.
“How do we know if they are the good guys?” he asked.
“I guess we don’t.” Paul said stopping, “How do we know you are going to help us and not just turn us back over to the pirates.”
“I guess you don’t.” came the hushed voice.
All of a sudden there came a boat around the back of the boat, with a flashing red light and a spotlight.
“Be ready to split.” Neil whispered.
“What is taking so long back here?” came a commanding voice loudly.
“Sorry sir.” Said the first voice, “They didn’t believe us.”
“Well you guys are fine.” The commanding voice said, “The pirates have been captured and arrested.”
“And you might want to get out of the shark infested waters.” Said the first guy.
The group exchanged glances and decided to take a chance because they really didn’t want to be shark food.
So they split up between the two boats and were each handed a towel to dry off with.
“I’m glad that’s all done.” Keith said as the driver started the engine.
“Me too.” Ryan said.
“So am I.” Stephanie said giving Colm, Emmet, Keith, and Ryan hugs.
“And what were those for?” Emmet asked.
“For everything you guys did.” Stephanie said, “I’ll have to hug the others when we meet back up.”
“You know we didn’t do that much.” Keith said.
“You guys protected from the pirate and you let me sing with you.” Stephanie said.
“True.” Colm said, “You sounded amazing when you were singing with us.”
“Yes you did.” Emmet said.
“This whole time Ryan had been silent.
“Are you okay man?” Keith asked.
“Ryan are you okay?” Stephanie asked putting her arms around him.
“I just have a bad feeling that’s all.” Ryan said putting his arms around her and kissing her head.
“Like what?” Keith asked.
“I don’t know.” Ryan said, “This just doesn’t feel right.”
“Where are we going?” Keith asked the driver.
“Back to land.” The driver said pointing.
And sure enough there was land.
“Finally.” Emmet said, “I’m never going on a boat again.”
“Me neither.” Colm agreed.
As they got closer they saw Damian, George, Neil, and Paul on the dock waiting for them.
As the group got off the small boat they were all on guard in case something happened.
“We are finally free.” Damian said.
“Are you guys okay?” George asked noticing they weren’t quite relaxed yet.
“Yeah we’re fine.” Colm said.
“What makes you think we’re not?” Emmet asked.
“You don’t seem relaxed.” Paul said.
“We are.” Stephanie said.
“Come on inside.” The leader said.
“If you don’t mind we’d rather stay out here.” Ryan said, “We’ve been locked up in a cabin and we’d like to get some fresh air.”
“Well okay.” The leader said and went inside.
“Okay what’s up Ryan?” George asked.
“I don’t have a good feeling that’s all.” Ryan said.
“About what?” Paul asked.
“All of this.” Ryan said.
“But these are the good guys.” Damian said.
“I sure hope so.” Stephanie said.
“Man am I glad you guys are okay.” A man said coming over to the group.
“Hi, David.” Colm said.
“We’re glad we’re okay too.” Emmet said.
“Who’s the girl?” David asked.
“This is Stephanie.” Ryan said with a huge smile.
All of a sudden Stephanie nudged Ryan, “Look at the second window to the right of the door.”
So Ryan looked at the window and saw the pirate captain staring at them.
“David can I ask you a question?” Ryan asked.
“Shoot.” David said.
“Why is the pirate captain inside the building?” Ryan asked.
“I didn’t know he was.” David said, “Maybe that’s where they are holding him.”
“Okay guys we have our plane tickets to fly us to Miami.” Said a female coming over to the group, “Then we’ll fly home from there.”
“What about Stephanie?” Keith asked.
“Who?” the lady asked.
“Why, the newest member of Celtic Thunder.” Damian said.
All the guys nodded their heads yes.
“I’m Stephanie.” Stephanie said extending her hand.
“Hi I’m Sharon.” The lady said, “Sorry you’ll have to find your own way home darling.”
“Okay.” Stephanie said, “Where do I need to go to get a ticket home?”
“Just go inside and the Coast Guard will help you.” Sharon said.
Stephanie gave each of the guys a quick hug but held onto Ryan the longest.
“Thank you guys. Have a safe trip home.” Stephanie said as she headed away toward the building.
“Sharon with all due respect I can’t let Stephanie leave alone.” Ryan said and ran after Stephanie.
“Me neither.” Keith said taking off after them.
When Ryan entered the building he saw the pirate captain was coming up behind Stephanie.
“Stephanie look out!” Ryan exclaimed.
But he was to late the pirate captain had grabbed Stephanie around the neck as Stephanie let out a scream.
“What are you guys still doing here?” the pirate captain asked surprised as Keith came running in.
“Oh-no.” Keith said.
“Sharon promised me you guys would be gone.” The pirate captain said.
“She must not believe in the power of love.” Ryan said.
“Well it’s too bad for you.” The pirate captain said, “She’s mine!”
“No she’s not!” Keith said.
Stephanie was looking at them both with pleading eyes.
“You guys get any closer and I’ll shoot you both.” The pirate captain said pulling a gun.
“Where are you taking Stephanie?” Ryan asked.
“Come on guys we are going to miss our flight.” Said Sharon coming in.
“We are not going anywhere until you give us an explanation.” Keith said, “Are you working with the pirate?”
“He promised if I gave him the girl….” Sharon began.
“That girl has a name.” Ryan said, “Her name is Stephanie.”
“Fine.” Sharon said, “If I gave him Stephanie he wouldn’t hurt you guys.”
“I can’t believe it.” Ryan said.
“Let’s go.” Sharon said, “He’s gone anyway.”
Keith and Ryan looked to where the Pirate had been standing and sure enough the pirate and Stephanie were gone!
“You distracted us on purpose!” Keith said.
“Shoot.” Ryan said.
Just then they heard a scream, so they took off toward it.
They could hear several more footsteps running behind them.
Then there was another scream this time closer and followed by words, “Please don’t do this.”
Keith and Ryan stopped at a door as there came a reply, “Sorry honey you have no say in the matter. Now shut up.”
“Ryan you get Stephanie. The rest of us will get the pirate.” Paul said coming up behind them.
“In 3, 2, 1.” George said.
Keith opened the door as he, Colm, Damian, Emmet, George, Neil, and Paul ran toward the pirate. Ryan ran over to Stephanie and picked her shaking figure up and rushed out the door.
He dove into a room as he saw Sharon coming.
Ryan and Stephanie sat down in the shadows of the room.
“Is that what happened on the boat?” Ryan asked.
“It was much worse.” Stephanie said.
Ryan heard Sharon getting closer.
“Shh.” Ryan said as Stephanie laid her head on his shoulder.
He gave her a quick kiss.
“Alright guys do you know where Ryan and that chick are?" Sharon asked.
“Most likely Ryan be hiding from Sharon?” Emmet asked.
“It’s her fault Stephanie was back with the pirate.” Keith said and then continued to tell them what Sharon had told him and Ryan earlier.
“Really Sharon?” George asked.
“Yes really.” Sharon said pulling a gun.
“Whoa, Sharon what is that for?” Paul asked.
“You need to let the pirate go and tell me where Ryan is.” Sharon said.
“We are not letting the pirate go.” Keith said.
“We have no clue where Ryan and Stephanie are.” Emmet said, “He was in and then out before we knew it.”
“Yeah.” Neil said. “I don’t even remember seeing him come into the room.”
“Me neither.” Damian said.
“Let’s get this pirate to the local police and then we can leave.” Paul said.
Sharon put the gun away, “Maybe Ryan will come out by himself.”
                                                            ****
As Ryan and Stephanie sat in silence they heard the group walk away.
As soon as the footsteps were far enough away Stephanie asked, “Why did you and Keith come back?”
“We didn’t want you to leave by yourself.” Ryan said.
“I can’t believe Sharon was involved with the pirate.” Stephanie said.
“Me neither.” Ryan said helping Stephanie up, “Now let’s get out of here.”
“Sounds like a good idea.” Stephanie said, “Ryan can I tell you something?”
“Sure.” Ryan said as they exited the room and ran straight into Sharon with a gun.
Ryan quickly stepped between Stephanie and the gun.
“Sharon what do you want?” Ryan asked.
“You to come with me and leave her.” Sharon said.
“I’m sorry Sharon but I can’t leave Stephanie.” Ryan said.
“And why is that?” Sharon asked.
“Because I love her.” Ryan said as he caught sight of Damian and Keith sneaking up behind Sharon.
“And I love him.” Stephanie said grabbing Ryan’s hand.
“Really?” Ryan asked.
“Yes.” Stephanie said.
Ryan wanted to turn around and give her a huge hug but he stayed where he was.
“Isn’t that sweet.” Sharon said, “Come on Ryan let’s go.”
“No!” Ryan said as Damian and Keith reached Sharon and wrestled the gun away from her.
“What made you guys come back?” Ryan asked.
“We noticed Sharon wasn’t with us.” Damian said.
“Okay Sharon time to go to the police station.” Keith said gun pointed at her.
“I wasn’t really going to kill anyone.” Sharon moaned as Damian and Keith escorted her out.
Ryan turned around and gave Stephanie a huge hug, “I love you.”
                                                    ****
A half hour later Colm, Damian, David, Emmet, George, Keith, Neil, and Paul were sitting in the tiny airport waiting for their plane.
“Sharon must have gone crazy.” Paul said.
“It’s too bad.” David said.
“I’m just glad it’s all over.” Colm said.
“Yeah that pirate was really, really mean.” Damian said. 
“Well at least one good thing happened.” George said.
“What’s that?” Emmet asked.
George rolled his eyes over toward where Ryan and Stephanie, who were standing a few feet away.
“I think Keith might be a little jealous.”  Neil said glancing at Keith who was watching Ryan and Stephanie closely.
Then Neil felt a slap on the head.
“That’s a lie.” Keith said, “I am watching to make sure I don’t have to save his butt again.”
“Sure.” Neil said.

“I’m so glad we are done dealing with that pirate.” Stephanie said.
“Me too.” Ryan said, “And I’m glad I met you.”
“I’m glad I met you too.” Stephanie said.
“Come on guys our plane is here.” Called David.
Ryan grabbed Stephanie’s hand and they followed the group onto the plane.

The End?