She lifted her eyes to the man that would soon be her husband and felt her breath catch in her throat. There was no denying he was a handsome man, but even at the ball he had not appeared so full of strength. He towered over her petite form, and his wide chest seemed to stretch the material of his tailored coat. The strong set of his jaw and the perfect angles of his face made him appear almost immortal in his appearance. He had chosen a traditional dress for her country, and that gave her some slight relief.
His dark raven hair was pulled back, and unhidden by the white wigs that the court favored, but she found his natural look more enticing. The warmth that filled the deep chocolate of his eyes startled her in contrast to the anger she had seen in them the last time they had met. As if in a daze, she repeated the vows that would join them for life and could barely remember uttering the words.
She felt the fullness of his lips touch hers and gasped at the overwhelming sensation that fluttered inside. Instead of pulling back she found herself wanting to feel his kiss more deeply. Her heart raced in confusion as he pulled away, leaving her eyes widening at the strange feelings moving through her body. Embarrassed at her own condemning thoughts she blushed and lowered her eyes. She was angered at her bodies' betrayal and fought to contain herself.
He read the confusion in the emerald depths before she lowered her head, and could no more stop the smile that found his face, than to stop his own breathing. She would be much easier to tame than he had thought previously, he considered as his hand went under her arm to keep her by his side. It was easily apparent that she had never been kissed before by the way she reacted, the thought pleased him greatly.
There would be no reception because Armon had made arrangements to leave immediately after their ceremony. He allowed her to say her goodbyes as they servants loaded her belongings on several horse-pulled carts. She would belong only to him in a short time and he was not a heartless man, he knew that she would miss her family.
Michaela hugged her aunt tightly, tears finally escaping that she had fought back all morning. "I will miss you greatly Aunt Gertrude," she wished that she were a stronger person and not have allowed the weakness to show in front of her new husband, but there would be time to reflect upon that later. This woman had been more than a mother to her, and the thought of leaving her behind was almost unbearable.
Pulling back from her embrace, Gertrude pulled a handkerchief from her bosom and gently blotted the tears from her niece's face. "No tears dearest heart, remember your strength and go forth with this marriage with purpose." She fought back her own tears and smiled warmly. "I have loved you more than I could have loved my own child, remember that always."
Michaela nodded as she fought back the tears. For the first time in her young life she was uncertain of what the future would bring. She could not allow her fears to overwhelm her, leaving behind all she had ever known was hard enough without succumbing to weakness, she reminded herself. Turning to her Great Uncle she attempted a smile. "Please take care of her, my Lord."
"Have no worries, dearest Michaela, she will be well cared for." Edwin smiled at the courage of his great niece, knowing that most women would be in hysterics at the thought of venturing into a new country with a man she had only met. Pride filled him at how well she was handling this situation.
The last cart had been prepared and Armon walked over to the Baron with a smile firmly in place. "You have my word that she will safe in my care."
Edwin returned the smile respectfully. "If I did not believe that, then I would never entrust her to your care, your Highness." He shook hands with the man and felt that his trust was well-founded from the knowledge of his past. "I will assure myself of her care when I visit."
Knowing that he would respond in such a way if one of his relations was being taken across the sea, he could find no insult in the Baron's words. "I would expect nothing less," he returned the handshake and moved to his wife's side. "It is time we take our leave." He spoke the words calmly, sensing the delicate control his bride had on her own emotions at the moment.
Michaela nodded, unable to speak as the thought of what awaited her filled her mind. Forcing her chin up she allowed him to lead her to the carriage, casting a longing look toward her aunt. She would find the strength to survive this, she told herself firmly as he escorted her into the cabin. As they rode toward the sea, she watched out the window, attempting to memorize every detail to preserve the scene in her mind.
Armon made no attempt to speak as they journeyed on, soon they would have nothing but time and out of respect he allowed her this small respite. In truth he willed back the rebellious girl that had defied him so openly, he was ill-prepared to deal with the emotions of the woman who sat beside him quietly now.
Michaela clenched her hands in her lap attempting to fight back the overwhelming emotions and fear that filled her. The man beside her was a stranger and now had the ability to control every aspect of her life. The thought angered and terrified her both at the same time. She was determined to allow her anger to consume her and not give in to the weakness of fear. She was not some simpering little fool; she told herself, even if she were forced to suffer this marriage, she would not allow him to rule her mind. Lifting her chin defiantly, she prepared herself mentally for the battle to come.
As they pulled into the docks, Armon felt excitement at the upcoming voyage. The sea had always put his mind at ease and the long trip home was one he looked forward to with even more anticipation than usual. He had missed the colorful settings of his homeland over the last few months, and knew that the cook would have all his favorite meals prepared to his liking this night. He enjoyed the trips to other worlds, but nothing compared to the beauty of the land his family had rested on for centuries.
Taking over command, he stepped out of the carriage and ordered the servants to retrieve their belongings. Shaking his head at the overwhelming amount of crates his wife had secured, he thought ahead to the night he would share with her. It had been several weeks since he allowed a woman to pleasure him, and his body responded to that thought before he regained control.
He helped her down from the carriage and reminded himself that she was not like those trained women from his land or the ladies of pleasure that had given themselves with such wanton freedom in her land. In truth, he looked forward to teaching her to please him. Escorting her to the cabin that would be their home for the month long voyage, he noted the tension in her slender frame and knew he must tread easy.
He considered an innocent to be much like a fine unbroken stallion; they needed to be handled delicately to gain the response of a master's touch. The thought brought a smile to his face, and with firm resolve, his mind considered how we would bend her to his will.
Michaela had been on a few voyages in her young life, but never had she stayed in a cabin as opulent as the one her new husband had led her inside of. The walls were covered in a deep crimson material interlaced with gold. Granted the large bed covered in array of colorful silks took up a large portion of her room, but she refused to let her mind linger on that and continued to survey her surroundings.
A large wooden table, glossed to a bright shine sat under a port window and to her amazement a shelf of expensively bound leather books were placed along the wall across from it. Everything about the room spoke of old money and privilege, but she would have been happy with just the books. A real smile found her face for the first time since this insanity began, if nothing else she thought, she could lose herself within the pages.
"Am I permitted to read your books, your Highness," her eyes trained on the lovely shelf longingly, she could just envision the worlds that awaited her.
The request shocked him somewhat, as did the smile that found her beautiful face. The last thing he expected a lady of her breeding to be enthralled with was his priceless book collection. The jewels that filled the chests she had not yet seen, that would seem reasonable, but reading? He shook his head dumbfounded for the first time in h
is life. "If you address me as Armon, then I will grant the use of them."
Using his names seemed a reasonable exchange for such a luxury and she nodded in acceptance. "I promise I will take great care of them your high... Armon," his name sounded strange on her lips but her focus was not on him at the moment; it was the treasure on the shelf that beckoned her.
He was not accustomed to being overlooked by a female for a book, but he had much work to do to secure the ship and decided it was for the best at the moment. "I will leave you to your perusal, my Lady." He found himself slightly miffed that her attention was not pulled away and made his way out of the cabin. He would get his affairs in order then return to her, so that her training might begin later, he decided.
Michaela carefully lifted one of the books from the shelf as if it were the most precious gem she had ever touched. Walking over to the oversized bed she sat the book down gingerly before unlacing her boots. She wanted to be comfortable as she prepared herself for long hours of reading. After slipping them off, she found her way into the center of the bed and propped herself up on the dozens of pillows and lost herself in the world of fantasy.
Armon gave orders to the servants on where to place their belongings, and then made his way toward the cook he had brought from his own land. He had very extravagant tastes when it came to his meals and would never risk having his palette tainted by someone not trained in the art of preparing food. After the menu was approved he made his way up to the deck, finding the Captain.
"It appears to be a good day for travel, your Highness," Delbert nodded his head in respect. The ship was one of the many the royal family used and he was granted the use of it for private voyages when the Sheikh did not require his service.
"I am pleased to hear this news Captain," Armon glanced over the calm seas before turning back. "I have a new bride and I would choose to arrive in my homeland safely with my prize."
Delbert was an England native but had never regretted signing on with the Sheikh. He found him an enjoyable companion and educated, they had spent many nights in company over the last seven years. The crew he had hired were not the ruffians that most ships depended on, but each of them was skilled in combat and had the ability to maintain a smooth running crew. It filled him with pride to sail the seas with such good men.
"I would hear of your travels when time permits," Armon was not a man to mince words and gave a nod before moving down to the cargo hold. This voyage boasted many treasures for his homeland and he wanted to assure their safe transport. He would not be returning for some time, so it was of great importance that this journey was one free of trouble.
When the last crate was secure he walked back above deck and was shocked to see the sun setting across the horizon. He had not meant to leave his new bride unattended for such a long time, and could only hope she had found some form of entertaining herself. He knew full well that young women needed to be attended too often.
As he made his way back into the cabin his eyes fell upon the beautiful creature asleep in his bed and felt his body respond. It had been entirely too long since he had allowed himself the pleasure he was accustomed to, and she was indeed an enticement he planned to enjoy. He walked over slowly as not to wake her, and lifted the book from her chest carefully. Placing it back on the shelf he allowed himself to gaze down upon her as she rested.
Her hair had escaped the coiffure and long thick auburn curls fell across the silk of her dress. His eyes were drawn to the soft swell of her breasts that were visible just above the low cut of her dress and he bit back a groan at the temptation they presented. Forcing his eyes back to her face, he could find no mar upon her perfect features. Her cheekbones were high, her small upturned nose was adorable, and the fullness of her pink lips demanded to be kissed.
His sex strained against the fabric of his pants, and he fought for self-control. He was well-versed in the art of seduction and had no desire to act like some untrained youth. At twenty and two years of age, he considered himself a matured man and would deflower his bride with the skills he had attained. Allowing her to rest, he moved out of cabin only long enough to summon a servant. Quickly he gave the order for their dinner to be served, and a bath drawn. From his experience, a young lady always wanted to be at her best when she enjoyed the sensual delights.
Michaela's eyes fluttered open as aroma of food wafted through the air. She had not eaten since breakfast and her stomach grumbled forcing her to focus. Her eyes fell upon the Sheikh and she gasped before covering her mouth with her hand. His hair was still damp, and he was dressed in a strange robe that defied all her knowledge of fashion. She sat up in the bed attempting to arrange her clothing before gathering her attention.
"You must be famished," he smiled warmly and gestured toward the table covered with food. He found her even more beautiful as she slid her bare feet off the bed and walked toward him timidly. This was how she should always appear with him, he thought to himself.
She sat down awkwardly at the table gazing over the strange fare. Sleep still muddled her mind, and she could only raise her eyes sleepily in question about the meal before her.
"I had our cook prepare a traditional meal from my country," he poured two small glasses of a creamy looking concoction and offered one to her.
Taking the glass in her hands, she lifted it to her nose and inhaled, "This smells delicious, what is it?"
"In my homeland we call it lassi," he took a small sip and watched as she tentatively took a drink, pleased at the small smile that found her face.
The flavor was very pleasing and she could taste the fruit and milk base underneath. "Thank you, this is lovely." She felt so strange enjoying a meal with this stranger who was now her husband and forced her attention to the food instead of allowing her thoughts to ramble. Michaela needed more time to prepare herself for the battle she assumed would take place later when she informed him of her refusal to join their union.
He was enjoying sharing his traditional fare with her and dipped his fork into one of the untouched dishes before lifting it before her lips. It was apparent she had never been fed in such a way from the widening of her eyes and he smiled patiently. "I believe you will enjoy this," he encouraged.
Opening her mouth, the thought of such intimacy shocked her, but as the rich flavors found her tongue, she closed her lips around the taste in delight. Even her own chef could not have created such a heavenly taste. Bringing a napkin to her lips she blotted them carefully. "I have never tasted anything so delectable," she was suddenly ravenous and waited for the next taste of his country.
He chuckled and dipped into the next dish, watching her delight as the flavors pleased her. It was apparent that she truly allowed herself to enjoy the simple pleasures of food, and this gave him great satisfaction. He waited until she had her fill before consuming his own meal. Pouring two cups of coffee from the small pot, he offered her one along with a small plate of dates. "These are dates, a fruit popular in my land." He stood and walked toward the cabin door and opened it, commanding the servant to remove the meal and then leave them in piece to enjoy their coffee.
Michaela carefully bit into one of the dates and smiled at the pleasing taste. There was little doubt in her mind that the food in her husband's country would at least be worthy of this trip. As she thought of him as her husband she shivered. Without warning her stomach knotted in nervousness and the harmony she had felt only minutes before vanished. Pushing back the small plate, her hands moved to her lap and she clenched them together tightly. Lowering her eyes, unable to meet his she nibbled on her lower lip.
Her change of mood was instantly noticeable and he fought back a smile. After this eve she would no longer fear the thought of their joining, he vowed. "I will have a bath drawn for you," he spoke quietly not wishing to prolong her uncertainties. Without waiting for her approval he summoned the servants again. Watching as they quickly worked to bring in fresh water for his bride. He remained silent until they were alone once more.
Her heart raced in her chest as she stared absently at the steaming tub of water. In the past, there had always been a ladies maid to help her undo her stays, and she was unsure how to undress herself without their help. The warm water would give her the confidence she needed to explain her position to her husband, and she needed that more than she cared to admit at the moment. This was uncharted territory for her, and she felt completely helpless.
He was an educated man and understood immediately that she needed assistance, the thought pleased him greatly. "Permit me to serve you," he entreated quietly.
Lifting startled eyes to his, honor demanded that she refuse his offer, but her rational mind argued that there were no options. She stood shakily, feeling more insecure than she could ever recall feeling before and made the decision. With a flush of color on her cheeks she lowered her eyes to the floor and nodded.
With little haste he moved behind her and began unbuttoning the rows of small buttons. He felt her body tense and again smiled at her nervousness, before this night ended she would long for his touch he thought in anticipation. As his fingers brushed against the soft silken skin, he fought back a groan. Focusing on the next layer, he made the decision that the boned corset would never again touch her flesh. He had never understood the tradition of such a contraption, and knew it must be uncomfortable. Unlacing it quickly, he watched her release a breath and shook his head.
"I can finish," she whispered nervously, feeling a strange tingle where his fingers had brushed her flesh and completely unprepared for the sensation.
Stepping back, he nodded more to himself than her since she refused to meet his eyes. "I shall give you a few moments alone." He had considered watching her bathe, but her nervousness reminded him that it was an enjoyment he would consume after they were more acquainted. This night he would allow her some decorum of modesty.
Defying the Sheikh Page 3
