The Jolly Roger creaked as it rocked gently on the dark waters. Lanterns flickered along the deck, casting long shadows. Jane stood frozen at the edge of the main deck, eyes wide. Peter Pan dangled from the rigging, arms bound, his face pale but defiant.

Hook strutted forward, cane tapping against the wooden planks. His black coat fluttered, the gold buttons catching the lantern light. A sly grin twisted his face.

“Ah, my dear Jane,” Hook purred, bowing slightly. “I must thank you for your… assistance.” He spread his arms theatrically. “You see, your little plan worked perfectly. The boy is mine.”

Jane’s heart pounded. “What… what do you mean? You promised!”

Hook laughed, a low, cruel sound. “Ah yes, a promise. I assured you I would not harm a single hair on Peter Pan’s precious little head.” His hook gleamed as he moved closer, his shadow falling over Peter.

With deliberate care, Hook plucked a single strand of Peter’s hair and held it out between his fingers, letting it glint in the lantern light. He handed it to Jane. “There. One hair, untouched. Consider your reward.”

Peter’s eyes widened, fury flashing. “Hook! You—”

“Silence, boy!” Hook snapped, raising his hook threateningly. Then, leaning closer to Jane, he added with a wicked chuckle: “The rest of him… well, that is mine to do with as I please.”

Jane clutched the single hair in her hand, torn between horror and guilt. Peter hung from the ropes, struggling against the bindings, his grin strained but unbroken.

Hook circled them like a predator, eyes gleaming with triumph. “A literal promise, my dear Jane. I am a man of my word… in my own fashion.”