The Karlova Bride

By Patricia Maki

Having traveled back in time to the 16th century, Tegan Karlova battles with the harsh reality of the world in which she finds herself trapped. She loves her husband and is learning to respect the new brother she has just met, however, she finds it impossible to forget the family that raised her. She's just plain homesick. It doesn't help that this current world is filled with terror, pain, deceit, and isolation.
To top it off she's pregnant and just plain pissed. Her husband Nicolai is off on risky business for her brother who wants to start a war. People keep trying to kill her. The bathroom facilities suck and there's no crème rinse for her hair. So when she finds a letter from her birth mother telling her why she was abandoned in the 20th century, Tegan decides going into a coma-like sleep for a few days might be the only way to escape it all.
Questions torment her. It seems everything is out of control in this strange environment. Who can she trust? Will those she loves survive? Can she endure delivering a baby without medical assistance? Will the superstitions of this time period condemn her if they find out about all her weirdness? Most important of all, when Nicolai needs her the most, will she be able to control this elusive power and find the faith within herself to 'walk the path of time once more'?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Patricia Maki
• Release date: Sep 11, 2012
• ISBN: 9781301108282

Patricia Maki

Patricia Lynn Maki is a retired high school teacher who still likes to spend time in the classroom. The energy generated by active, inquiring minds has always given her a shot of adrenaline that's as important to her health and wellbeing as sunshine. A day-dreamer from an early age, (many grade school report cards considered this a negative state of mind) has encouraged her to put her 'stories' into writing.

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The Karlova Bride

By

Patricia Lynn Maki

Published by Patricia Lynn Maki at Smashwords

Copyright 2012 Patricia Lynn Maki

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy.

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Cover Design @2012

DigitalDonna.com

Note from the Author:

Due to the sexual content, this book is intended for a reader audience over the age of 18. It is a work of creative writing mentioning characters, events, and locations that have been adjusted to fit the context of the story. To those among my readers who are 'Historical Purists', I hope you can enjoy the tale for the fiction it is.

Dedication

I would like to thank my children Tim, Angelie, and Kristen for the new computer and the prod to get back to writing. Next on my list for greatful recognition is my sister Jan, thanks sis for reading my book and telling all your friends to buy it. (They were my first customers. She's very persuasive.) Also a big thank you to my best friend and editor extraordinaire, Sharon, who keeps me from punctuation overload, and making up my own words to express my writing needs. I love you all.

CHAPTER ONE

Floating on a cloud of contentment, Tegan Hauser Karlova burrowed deeper into a familiar, masculine embrace. She reveled in the sensual feel of hot, naked flesh against her back. Cloaking herself within the sheltering arms, she nuzzled the brawny shoulder with a cat-like purr. Simmering passion bubbled as her sleepy mind struggled to respond to the erotic dream. With languid ease, she arched her slender frame. A ragged sigh gave voice to her arousal while soothing male hands gentled the edge of her sexual hunger. Time stood still as her passion grew. She could stand no more teasing, and groaned loudly as rigid flesh penetrated. The invasion shattered her mystic world like an explosion. Ahhh, Nico, you’re such a naughty boy.

A rich chuckle rumbled from the massive torso behind her, 'tis happy I am that my wife appreciates my diligence. The blond giant nestled feather-light kisses behind her ear, trailing them down into the soft curve of her neck.

She shivered.

His roaming hand cradled her still flat stomach.

Tegan smiled at the telling action, sensing his pride over her revelation about the coveted baby.

Are you content to be back in Banya Deva with my sister’s family?

Yawning, she mumbled, Ah-huh. I like Tessa very much, and I’m glad we made it in time for Christmas. Smoky, blue eyes drifted closed, fanning sooty lashes across alabaster skin. I want to sleep, Nico. It’s the middle of the night. Can’t we talk in the morning?

In response, he buried his face in her thick auburn hair, and breathed deeply as if inhaling her fragrance. He lightly nipped her shoulder before kissing the small bite. As you wish, beautiful lady, rest well. I will not wake you again. Even if the siren song I hear in my head seduces me to madness. Adjusting them to a more comfortable sleeping position, the ardent husband closed his eyes to slumber.

As dawn bleached the night sky to a dull gunmetal gray, Tegan woke. A knotting sensation twisted in her pelvic region. She rolled over reassured by the wash of nausea. The new bride of six weeks, breathed deep to keep the unpleasant feeling at bay. With infinite care, she moved to a sitting position. Throwing back the red velvet curtains, a wary eye viewed the long descent to the parquet floor. Good thing I don’t suffer from vertigo. Trying not to wake her now sleeping husband, she inched across the oversized four poster to the short steps placed at her bedside.

Sensing movement overhead, her dog came to be stroked. He slobbered a warm, welcoming tongue over her ticklish feet. Through a soft ripple of giggles, she whispered, Down Elvis. Nico doesn’t want you anywhere near the bed. A small hand reached over to pat the big Mastiff affectionately. As fresh morning light slowly colored the polished cherry wood of the walls, Tegan smiled. It felt good to be in Transylvania after the exhausting trip from Severin castle. The full night’s sleep worked a minor miracle; she stretched and yawned while her toes curled into the thick, fawn-colored coat of the hound circling beneath her.

With infinite care, she tallied her newfound blessings, fearing for their permanence. Tegan mused over her recent adventures. Her rational mind jumped to accept the fantastic concept around which her new life centered. Time travel. An innocent journey beginning in a Houston museum in 1999, had miraculously dumped her into the arms of this slumbering warrior sprawled beside her. She caressed him with an adoring gaze, wrapping her happiness tightly around her love for this man. Her new reality, once more, settled quietly into this place, half a world and several centuries, away from her former life. Banya Deva in 1599, who would have thought.

Raising her arms overhead, Tegan flexed her cramped spine once more, a repetitive attempt to work out the kinks in her lower back and the pulsing ache of her belly. Wanting to cry with the ambivalence of this new physical situation, she pooled her resolve, refusing to give in to her secret fear. They both wanted this baby so much, and things weren’t going well. Oh, no. The expectant mother slid to the floor. A sudden, nauseous peak propelled her in the direction of the chamber pot. She hurdled over the huge dog that now lay motionless watching his mistress with solemn eyes.

Awakened by her noise and hasty movement, Nicolai responded. He miraculously appeared to cool her fevered brow with a damp towel before carrying her to bed. Deep lines of concern etched into his face. He absorbed her shudders with the mass of his body as silent tears dampened his chest.

What causes this weeping, dearest? 'Tis not in your nature to be despairing.

I’m scared. Gripping him tighter, I’m so sick all the time. Maybe, I’m going to lose the baby. I know morning sickness is normal, but this is ridiculous. I look like a zombie and feel like an old dish-rag.

He inspected her troubled face with a steady expression before he spoke, Mayhap, you are exhausted from the journey. Cease to fret. We will have our baby. What is important is that you stay strong. He kissed her face. Let me rub your back. That should ease your tension.

Soothed by his no nonsense attitude, Tegan pushed fear away as she shook her head. No, I’m over-reacting. Let me try stretching the cramps out. She wiggled out of his embrace, and slid from the bed.

As you wish, Lady-wife. The indulgent husband followed her exit, going to the wardrobe while his dark blue eyes dogged her movements. She knew from previously voiced comments and this greedy surveillance, he cherished her morning ritual. The graceful movements learned in childhood ballet training never failed to delight him. She flirted and teased him making some of her posturing down right erotic just to keep him off balance.

One raised eyebrow and a smile were her reward. You, beautiful wife, are desirable with slumber softening your features and your hair in wild disarray. He offered her a silken wrapper. 'Tis mad I must be to cover such lush nakedness.

You’re full of it, Karlova. I’m gonna overdose on all the candy-coated sap. Stop staring. You look like the cat that swallowed the canary.

Ah sweet temptress, you wound me with your sharp tongue. 'Tis my right to gaze upon your beauty. I keep hoping my love-making will one day make you mellow. He gave her a critical once over. You do not resemble this zombie you dread. There is a soft glow hovering over you like a veil of mist; 'tis most appealing, my Madonna.

The smoldering, smoky look in his eyes pulled her like a magnet. You silver tongued devil, you. Are you trying to say you’re horny again?

Confused by her question, he frowned, What is this horny? Slowly, comprehension dawned. Ahh, you refer to my horn of plenty. Warming her flesh through the thin silk, he pulled her close to capture her lips in a teasing kiss. With you, Lady-wife, I find I am always horny. It appears to be a permanent affliction. One I shall endure with forbearance.

Giggling, she wiggled out of his embrace and moved to the other side of the bed. Flipping him a saucy grin, she lured him once more with her morning routine. Through the simple, flowing bends and stretches, she found the tension in her lower back relaxing. Covert glances told her, Nicolai’s eager eyes ate up every movement. She felt beautiful and deliciously sensual. On recent mornings, she actually bathed in the tenderness of his visual caress. It soaked through her system like heat. Finishing the routine, she found the pain gone. She expressed her gratitude by giving her husband a brilliant smile. I feel wonderful. I guess I’ll take a rain check on that back rub.

Does this mean I must forfeit the pleasure of rubbing your delectable body with scented oil?

Tegan laughed. I’ll keep your offer in mind and collect on it later. She stood on her tiptoes, kissing the end of his nose.

And, I will forever check the rain for this kiss I am denied. He grinned at her pouting expression. If you are truly feeling better, Magda will bring food to break your fast and nourish my growing spawn. A muscular arm snaked out to grab her. Tegan squealed. With a mock ferocious growl, Nicolai bear-hugged her to his solid chest, his mouth descending in a scorching kiss that left the restrained captive breathless. I find I regret checking your kisses. It leaves me dissatisfied. After a consuming exchange of dueling tongues that left her helplessly weak, he swept her into his arms and carried her to the empty bed for the second time. Try to rest. The holiday feast will be harried and we must depart for Prague the day after Christmas.

Frowning, Tegan grumbled, Why so soon?

The weather is clear and I have important business with the emperor.

You mean my self-appointed brother’s business? You’re running errands for the reigning Prince of Wallachia.

Ano. Yes, Michael. I have news from the borders concerning the Turks. They have fallen back to winter quarters. This means we can reduce the amount of time in the saddle by going through more of Hungary. I want you to be comfortable sleeping in a real bed at night not on the cold, damp ground.

Tegan remembered the horrifying experience of her time-jump to this century. She also recalled the tempestuous time after a certain arrogant aristocrat found her in Slovakia. I don’t mind your tent, Baron Karlova. A wicked, little smirk reminded him, Seems to me, we managed to stay warm and cozy enough.

He raised an eyebrow in disapproval. If you will not consider your own needs, you must think of Janka’s comfort. She is also breeding and farther along than you. Elek has already mapped out the safest route. We must take our leave while the fair weather holds.

But, I want to stay. This feels like home to me. She stretched upward to wrap her arms around his neck.

The elusive man captured her wandering hands and held them still. Your protection comes first. If I had a choice, I would let you visit until after the baby is born, but 'twas never a viable option. You will be safer from Michael's enemies in Prague.

Anger simmered, Just when I get settled and make friends, you plan on taking me to a new place where I’m a stranger again.

My parents are near Prague in Kutna Hora. They will make you feel welcome.

I don’t want to leave yet, we just got here.

Why toss obstacles in this path, he replied. This stubborn position you keep must cease. I promise you will make new friends among my acquaintance. Talk to my sister if you feel uncomfortable. She can reassure you. He attempted to kiss her.

She turned her face away.

He bit her ear instead as he murmured into its depths, I will see you at the noon meal. Have a pleasant day, Lady-wife.

Tegan pushed him away, angry at her body’s shivery response to his closeness. A pillow flew at the door as the solid barrier closed behind him. She had worked herself into a fine fit of temper by the time Magda came in with her breakfast.

What is troubling you, Dama?

Nicolai is moving us to Bohemia the day after Christmas.

The old gypsy nodded. This I have been told.

Tegan continued to sulk, clutching her knees to her chin. I don’t understand why he’s being so pig-headed about my staying with Tessa.

The woman went about her morning routine ignoring her question. The butcher prepared the pork sausages you wanted for the meal on Christmas morn.

Good. She battered another of Nicolai’s pillows wishing she could smash his domineering, condescending male attitude instead. How will I ever get used to this? I feel like a piece of furniture.

The cook has the flour mixture and the fruit preserves as well. She traded with a caravan merchant for the maple sugar you asked about.

That’s nice. Tegan inwardly continued to fume.

But, the kitchen staff is confused. You will have to give them a demonstration of how to make these ‘flapped jacks’ you requested.

Under Magda’s continuous prodding, Tegan grudgingly gave up her bad temper. Did Stannes and the blacksmith get the device made? The one I left drawings for?

Ano, Dama, but they are having trouble understanding how 'tis used.

Tegan took a deep, calming breath. She got out of bed. I’m going to show Tessa how to make ice cream. It’s my Christmas present to her, Viktor and the kids. Everyone will love it. You’ll see.

The elderly servant furrowed her brow compacting the weathered creases into deep crags. Does eating frozen cow milk sit well on one’s innards?

It goes down fine, unless you happen to be lactose intolerant. She gave the old woman a mischievous grin knowing the servant found most of her ideas bizarre. Stifling a giggle, Tegan remembered their first communication problem. That fiasco revolved around keeping her hound inside the living quarters. Nico had explained the taboo. Some Gypsies couldn’t abide dogs inside the house. After Ivancu Danesti stole Tegan from her bed, and dragged her half way across Wallachia to Severin Castle, the household understood why her husband kept the canine indoors for extra protection. The serious problem of security grew lighthearted as Magda learned to deal with Elvis on a day to day basis.

The old woman stopped pondering and started mumbling again, Janka is finished working from the patterns you left behind. Would you like me to send her upstairs after your bath?

Tegan smiled, her Christmas gifts were prepared even though she had been away from the castle. Thank you, Magda. That would be wonderful. With her meal settling her stomach, she found her day turning brighter. How has Zarek been doing with his lessons? Was Tessa able to keep him busy?

She continued with the books, but he has missed your discussions. The boy is most anxious to see you when you have free time.

Tell him I will visit the schoolroom later. I want Asta to start lessons as well.

That unruly brat would do better in the scullery.

Harsh, Magda. I know it’s not the norm to educate females, but I insist. Why are you so upset with her?

The chit is spoiled. She shirks her duties and puts on airs. You acquired nothing but trouble when you took that one into your household.

She’s had a difficult life. When Asta feels secure in her new home, she’ll come around. You’ll see.

I hope you are not mistaken, Dama.

The expression of disapproval on the wrinkled face told Tegan, Magda still remained unconvinced of the truth in her statement. She watched the old woman open the door to let the servants in with steaming buckets of bath water. A small army filled the copper tub as the women continued to talk. Have your dreams told you she will cause me trouble?

Ne, only mischief and a great deal of worry.

Well, most children manage to do that much. Let’s give her the benefit of our trust, okay?

Magda hustled the troop of servants out of the room, closing the door behind them. As you wish. Now, I will assist you with your bath. The Countess Matei is most anxious to see you when you are available.

Why do I feel I’m being scolded?

Because you let people take advantage of your good nature.

Surely you aren’t suggesting the countess is taking advantage of me?

Never, only the brat.

Frowning at the old gypsy, Tegan slipped out of her silken wrap. The cold air of the chamber puckered her nipples as chills ran fleetingly over her naked skin. The hot tub looked inviting. She slipped into it gingerly without causing a ripple on the mirrored surface. The scent of roses wafted up to tease her nose and please her heightened senses. She sank into the fluid depths with a sigh of delicious gratification. Muscles relaxed to merge with the torrid liquid. Ahh, this is truly bliss. She buried herself in the deep tub soaking her heavy, waist length hair. The heat consumed her. It penetrated her scalp and body. She came to the surface with reluctance. Magda soaped the luxuriant tresses before her magic fingers massaged Tegan’s temples, neck, and scalp. The pampering action worked wonders easing away what remained of her inner turmoil.

The reprieve ended abruptly when the chamber door opened to admit a cold draft and one agitated husband. Nicolai, with a rigid jaw, went directly to the tall wardrobe. With determined methodical movements, he began to take winter clothing from the shelves.

The sudden chill of unwelcome anxiety caused Tegan to shiver in the hot depths. She submerged to rinse the soap from her hair, wishing the hot water could wash away the sense of dread and impending gloom that entered the chamber along with the man. Magda stood ready with hot towels as Tegan rose.

What’s wrong, Nico? Why are you packing now? After a quick rub, she wrapped herself in a heavy, velvet robe and approached the man who posed a tense, silent back to her question. Quietly coming up behind him, she wrapped her arms snugly around his waist. She buried her worried face into his unyielding back. You’re scaring me. Please tell me what’s wrong?

His body sagged as he turned to gather her into his embrace. Matei just returned from a meeting of boyars in Hunedoara. Phillip of Spain died in September. Viktor received the news after we left for Wallachia on our search for you and the kidnappers.

Tegan frowned as she asked, How does this affect us? Why are you packing?

I must leave for Prague on the morrow before dawn. 'Tis important I get there as soon as possible. I must do what I can for Michael’s cause before the Spanish delegation influences Rudolf. As he looked into her wary expression, he smiled to disguise his apprehension and displeasure with this change in plans. You get your wish, maly Kocka, my little cat. You can stay in Banya Deva a while longer.

She felt the color drain from her face. This isn’t what I wanted. I want you with me, not running off on risky business. How dangerous is this trip?

We will be traveling fast and using the shortest route. Other than that, the only danger will be at court. The Spanish delegates are in transition with a new king to be crowned. Their influence may be weakened. 'Tis imperative Michael’s petition is heard now while things are unsettled.

We've been married less than two months, and you're leaving me. She huffed in frustration, I can't believe I'm saying this, let me go with you. I’m your wife. I belong at your side. Helping Tegan out of the robe, Magda tugged a chemise and petticoat over her head. Tegan struggled with the distraction.

Nicolai looked at her clearly shocked. We will be riding hard and fast without resting. I will not take you on a difficult journey when you are breeding. To put you or the baby at risk is unthinkable. Now, stop glaring like a spoiled child, and let Magda dress you.

Don’t change the subject, Karlova. Tegan slid into the bodice and skirt. It’s Christmas Eve surely Michael’s cause can wait one more day. If he were here instead of heading towards Tirgoviste, I’d make him tell you to stay. She looked up at him through blurry eyes feeling abandoned by this reversal in plans. Can’t you stay a little longer?

Sometimes political causes that affect masses of people must come before personal needs. Ne, Lady-wife. Elek and I will leave on the morrow.

Damn it, Nico, can’t you compromise? Tegan slumped into his chest in defeat, after several seconds, she whispered, How long will you be gone?

He gathered her close and buried his face in her damp hair. I will return in a few months to escort you to Prague. I promise, by the beginning of March we will be on your way to our new home.

He brushed her tears aside with his thumbs, and then kissed her fluttering eyelids. I am here this eve for your sake. Speed is of the essence. Try to understand.

I don’t. The man’s been dead three months already. She felt afraid for Nicolai.

The baron looked at his wife, confusion clouding his expression. Phillip played a hand in the political manipulation of every court in Europe. His death has caused chaos and confusion everywhere.

But, Spain is so far from here. Why press Michael’s cause forward now?

The new, proposed king is weak. He is disinterested in the business of managing the affairs of the crown he is so eager to accept. The Spanish delegates, who were powerful in influencing Rudolf, will not have a firm hand to back up their demands. Either way, the emperor will be agitated. He can be unpredictable even at the best of times.

Walking to the windows, she stared at the garden below. I wish I could remember my history better. I never really listened in class. Now, I have a horrible feeling I’m going to pay dearly for that lack of attention.

He came to her side and turned her body to face him. She refused to meet his eyes. Tegan? He waited for her compliance.

Reluctantly meeting his gaze, she dreaded what she knew he was about to ask. Focusing on the brilliance of the deep blue intelligence shining in the depths of his questioning orbs, she waited.

What know you of these events? His face looked frozen with apprehension. The question of her fore-knowledge had bothered him since Magda had convinced him his wife was a mythical Timewalker. What is it you remember from your history?

She placed her hands on his chest, making a minute study of the fabric weave in his brown wool tunic. Not much. She shrugged. Bohemia ends up an independent Czech state split off from a small republic previously called Czechoslovakia. Transylvania and Wallachia along with Moldavia end up as one country, Romania.

The baron grinned broadly warming to her statement. So Michael is successful in this venture of his to form a union of the three.

Tegan shook her head negatively. I have no idea. Romania had been behind, what our history called, the Iron Curtain for so long. Not much is really known of its domestic past. Powerful dictators closed the borders. They isolated the populace. Perhaps, even destroyed historical records. These people were still struggling to reclaim their heritage when I left Houston.

What is this Iron Curtain?

There were two world wars fought on European soil. After the second, the Allied forces broke the hold Germany had on most of the Eastern European countries. Romania and Czechoslovakia were taken over by a victorious, more powerful Russia.

Anger and disbelief stunned Nicolai. The Muscovy Tsar took control of Bohemia? I can not believe this atrocity!

Shaking her head once more, she continued, Russia suffered its own revolution. The Tsar and his family were executed. The country was Communist by the time of the second World War.

Nicolai scowled. Whatever this ‘communist’ is, you make it sound most unpleasant. I do not care much for your history. Mayhap, 'tis best you remember less of it.

He looked so fierce in his conviction, Tegan smiled. She wrapped her arms around his waist. Please. Stay one more day.

Throwing back his head, he groaned over the appeal in her voice before returning his gaze to his wife. Cease to ask this of me, maly Kocka. I must go in the early morn. He smoothed back the hair from her brow and lifted her chin for a teasing kiss. Now, let Magda help you dress, Tessa is most anxious to talk about this program you planned with the children.

Disappointed, Tegan walked over to the waiting gypsy as Nico continued his packing. She sat allowing the servant to attach her copper filigree cross to the stomacher of her gown. Through the mirror, she watched her husband leave the room with his travel gear.

She clutched her cross instinctively; then released it remembering Nicolai’s apprehension concerning its presence. Ever since Magda told them about her tribe’s legend of the Timewalker and the cross being a focus for the transfer, the uneasy fear hung over them like a death shroud. He was afraid he would wake up one day and she would be gone, stolen away through time without her consent. Separations made her nervous for the same reason.

*

Hours passed before Tegan made it to the schoolroom. She stopped to see Stannes, the cook, and Tessa before she found time to spend with Janka and the children. Everywhere she went eager faces smiled as busy hands prepared for the Christmas Eve service and the holiday feast to follow. As she approached the open door to the children’s chamber, she heard an angry disagreement shouted by several young voices. She stopped to listen.

I am Joseph and what I say is how it will be.

No one said you could make all the rules. I want to be a Wise Man.

You can not be a Wise Man, you be a girl.

So what. I am just as smart as any dumb boy.

The other children, some of them from the village, stood on the sidelines. They stared at the two combatants in the middle of the chamber, two equally matched opponents who stood, nose to nose, glaring at each other.

After shamefully eaves-dropping, Tegan walked into the tension filled room and asked casually, What’s going on here? Why are you fighting?

A tall, lanky Zarek with his freckled face contorted in masculine rage, glared at the object of his displeasure, then turned to the newcomer. This noisy chit wants to be a Wise Man in the play this night.

Tegan looked at a calm delighted Asta, then at the assortment of children in the room. Where are the nurse and Janka?

The nurse left for her home village a week ago. The countess said the twins are old enough to start working with a tutor, a still angry Zarek snapped at the new baroness.

A chubbier Janka diffused the tension as she puffed into the room carrying a load of brightly colored costumes. Milady, I am pleased to see you safely returned to us, 'tis the answer to my prayers. This project of yours is more than I can handle. The children fight all the time.

So, it isn’t just Asta who’s causing all the trouble. Tegan looked at a subdued Zarek who refused to meet her penetrating gaze. Who has the lead parts?

Zarek is Joseph, Janka answered. "The twins, along with Petric, are wise men. The boys back there are shepherds and Kaati is Mary. The other girls are