Maiden Voyage: 1

By M.I. Speer

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(Clip: Chapter 15)
"Captain Drake! Captain Drake!"
He looked up…it was Karina, even more, beautiful in the moonlight and coming straight toward him with her arm extended and holding something shiny in her hand that he recognized as the missing gold cufflink. He increased his pace and as he reached for the cufflink with his left hand, the touch ignited him with a sudden desire to feel her soft full lips and in one swift moment, he wrapped his right arm around her waist, arching her back slightly as he covered her lips with his own, the arresting moment caused Karina to let out a small moan as she fell into his fiery embrace. Sensing acceptance the kiss deepened...
"Karina!" Gunther called.
Frightened Karina gasped and broke the embrace.

SYNOPSIS:
(1790) A handsome captain discovers his half-brother's beautiful runaway bride aboard his ship dressed as a cabin boy. As sparks fly between them pirates attack! A romantic 18th-century adventure on the high seas, read now!.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: M.I. Speer
• Release date: Aug 4, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393330936

M.I. Speer

M. I. Speer, born in Chicago, lives in southern California. She is a proud mother of two adult children and four grandchildren. She writes in the evening while listening to inspiring instrumental music. Favorite genres: Young Adult, romance, fantasy, and scify.

Book preview

Prologue

Lord Gunther Harmon a wealthy shipper arrives at Pembroke Hall after being urgently summoned by his dying shipping colleague Lord Charles Pembroke. Charles, an elderly widower near bankruptcy, wishes to protect his only daughter Karina (by his second wife Serafina) from ruin. After the ransom and murder of a colleague's daughter, he has kept Karina hidden from the public eye since childhood. To assure she is not left destitute after he passes away he has given her hand in marriage to the much older Lord Gunther Harmon. The most successful shipper in the area.

(CLIP: CHAPTER 15)

Captain Drake! Captain Drake!

He looked up...it was Karina, even more, beautiful in the moonlight and coming straight toward him with her arm extended and holding something shiny in her hand that he recognized as the missing gold cufflink. He increased his pace and as he reached for the cufflink with his left hand, the touch ignited him with a sudden desire to feel her soft full lips, and in one swift moment wrapped his right arm around her waist, arching her back slightly as he covered her lips with his own, the arresting moment caused Karina to let out a small moan as she fell into his fiery embrace. Sensing acceptance the kiss deepened.

A heated tingling sensation radiated through Karina at the unexpected intimate contact with the handsome Captain, a feeling so intense, unlike anything she ever felt before. Gone was the earlier chill she had felt with the warmth of his body pressed against hers. His lips were warm and smooth and tasted like red wine; she was momentarily frozen in time. Not wanting the euphoric moment to end, she slowly began to respond to his touch, as she shyly placed her hands on his arms. Suddenly she was awakened by a deep male voice calling her name,

Karina! Gunther called.

Frightened Karina gasped and broke the embrace.

CHAPTER 1: The Visit

England, spring of 1790

On a cool Monday morning, Karina Pembroke, who recently celebrated her 18th birthday, was about to go horseback riding with her closest friend Lynnette Adams, the daughter of one of the kitchen staff, when her father, Charles, called her to the study. However, it was unusual for her father to call her while he had company, but not wanting to disobey her elderly ill father she arranged her hair and patted down her long sleeve royal blue riding habit adorned with white lace that fanned across the chest. Karina ran downstairs and knocked on the door to the study.

Come in, Karina, I would like to introduce you to an old friend and colleague of mine, Lord Gunther Harmon.

Gunther stood and turned to greet her. He was a balding man with a gray beard and a powerful build in his mid-fifties. He was immediately impressed by her vibrant beauty and placed a kiss on the back of her hand.

It’s an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear. May I add that you are far more beautiful than I imagined.

Karina smiled coyly but felt awkward not being used to receiving such compliments from men.

You are too kind, Sir. I’m pleased to make your acquaintance as well.

She was breathtaking. Gunther wondered how Charles managed to keep her hidden all these years.

Sit with us a while Karina, Charles said.

Anxious to leave, Karina replied,

Father you know this is the hour I ride Thunder, Lynnette has already taken him out for me, may I please be excused?

We have a guest, Charles said as he glared at her. It’s all right Charles, let her go. Gunther interrupted. 

I wouldn’t want to impose on your plans for today my dear, there’s plenty of time for us to get better acquainted.

Karina wondered what he meant by that.

Very well Karina, go but return promptly at noon, Lord Harmon will be joining us for the mid-day meal.

Karina nodded and hurried out the door. She could not wait to leave. The man stared at her like she had two heads and his comment about getting better acquainted made her uneasy.

§

So far life had been more than fair, Gunther thought. Health, wealth, and now the possibility of a beautiful young wife with a hefty dowry and a shipping empire at his fingertips! No time to waste. At last, he and Charles were on the same page.

§

Karina hurried to the stables eager to go riding with Lynnette, who was already mounted on Storm and trotting around the stable alongside Thunder. Karina arrived a bit breathless but ready to go.

What took you so long? Lynnette asked. Thunder is getting so impatient.

My father insisted that I meet a colleague of his. He had never done that before, and it made me uncomfortable. The man kept staring at me... it was quite disturbing. Before I left he, commented on having plenty of time to get better acquainted. I wonder what he meant by that. I’m getting a bad feeling about this.

Who is he?

Lord Gunther Harmon.

Is he handsome?

No, he’s gray and thick with more hair on his face than on his head.

Sounds charming,

Very amusing, Lynnette, Karina shot her a sarcastic smile, We better go, I must be back by the noon hour. Our charming guest, Lord Harmon, will be joining us for the mid-day meal.

Perhaps your father has hired him to be your mentor?

Karina mounted Thunder. I hope you’re right! Hyaa!

She tugged on the reins, and both girls rode off. 

CHAPTER 2: The Apple Stand

Afew days earlier ,   The Sea Maiden , one of the largest trade ships available, pulled into a small English harbor. Peter De Marco of Massachusetts, a mate aboard the great ship, was among the first to go on a few days' leave after being on the night watch. Following a boot purchase with a local shoesmith, he ran into his former shipmate and good friend, Ed Long. Ed was a seaman aboard another ship, The Lark, and was about to embark on a two-day journey inland to visit his parents.

After a fervent greeting and light conversation over their plans including Peter’s desire to meet the local fair maidens, Ed chuckles and invites Peter to come along with him to visit his parents inland, 

Same old Peter... well if you have some time, come out to the country with me. It’s beautiful and green, and there are plenty of fair maidens to rescue.

Rescue from what?

Old rich lords they’re doomed to marry, and it’s your chance to save them! Ed joked.

Both laughed and recalled the good times they had together. Then Peter agreed to ride out with his longtime friend and both left the area after making horse arrangements.

They arrived at Ed’s home after nearly two days. Both received a warm welcome from Ed’s parents, Joseph, and Marie Long. The boys bathed and ate and shared their adventures at the dinner table. After plenty of conversation and laughter, Marie bid the boys goodnight but Joseph stayed up with them talking late into the morning hours by the fireplace. 

Ed’s parents were warm, friendly people, being an orphan, Peter felt a deep longing to be part of such a family, Ed was blessed he thought. Someday, he promised himself; he would have a warm family of his own like that, but for now, he would just enjoy the good company. 

Saturday morning, after helping to feed the horses, they had a hearty breakfast and went out for a short horseback ride. 

This is a beautiful place Ed; I’m glad you invited me. And your parents are wonderful. You’re a lucky man.

Thank you, Peter, yes, I am blessed in that regard and that they’re both in good health.

Cheers to that! Too bad you have no sisters. So where are these beautiful maidens you talked about?

Well, they live in the surrounding countryside; most are hidden away till they accompany their chaperons or mothers to the village market. Mother will be going soon, perhaps we should tag along?  

Absolutely, when will she go?

See the horse and cart father is bringing around? She’s about to leave. I’ll tell Father I’ll drive the cart for him instead so he can tend to his blacksmith business.

They accompanied Mrs. Long on her trip to the village market. Ed took his father’s place and drove his mother on the horse and cart, but Peter preferred to ride on horseback.

At the market, Mrs. Long went from stand to stand filling her basket. Peter and Ed walked through the marketplace, joking with each other and flirting with every pretty girl they encountered. At 24, Peter was tall, tanned, and muscular with straight dark eyebrows, hazel eyes, and sun-bronzed shoulder-length curly hair. His striking good looks and smile drew a fair share of glances from more than one pretty girl. Ed was shorter with a stocky build, blond hair, and brilliant blue eyes. 

Across from the apple stand, Ed joked with Peter regarding a heavyset woman being his match. As the lady moved away from the stand, she revealed the young beauty she was blocking. Peter was immediately drawn to the young woman’s magnetic charm and moved closer, leaving Ed momentarily confused until he saw why Peter was on the move.

Lynnette stood with her basket picking apples at the stand while Gracie, the Pembroke cook, made her way to the butcher. Dark silky hair parted on the side hid half her beautiful face; the rest fell mid-back in thick layers. Sooty lashes and large green eyes complemented her vanilla skin and full rosy lips. Her partially opened cape revealed her simple attire and outlined an appealing slender figure and a modest bosom. Peter glimpsed a hint of cleavage under a white peasant frock worn under a fitted black vest and long brown skirt. He smiled to himself as he admired her loveliness.

Peter moved through the crowd and as he approached her, another woman holding a child got in his way. Lynnette moved slightly and Peter squeezed in between her and the woman and child. As Lynnette reached for an apple, Peter also reached for the same one, covering her hand with his own.

Hello. Peter greeted.

Lynnette instantly turned toward the voice and then looked up at Peter’s handsome face and playful hazel eyes. Embarrassed, she immediately turned away and withdrew her hand.

Excuse me, I didn’t mean to startle you, I was just wondering if these apples are as delicious as they appear? Peter asked smiling ear to ear.

Thinking Gracie might see him talking to her, she tried to move away but another customer blocked her.

I don’t know, excuse me, Lynnette replied.

Leaving so soon? I was hoping I could help you pick apples.

Peter said leaning over flirtatiously. Lynnette gasped at his forwardness and moved away worried that Gracie might be watching.

I’m sorry. I have enough apples, thank you.

Well then can you help me pick some?

No, I can’t, I’m sorry, I have to go.

Wait! At least tell me your name.

She got so nervous she forgot to pay for her apples and Lynnette started moving away.

Lynnette, dear... are you forgetting something? Sally, the lady from the apple stand, called out.

Lynnette gasped in embarrassment.

Oh, Sally! Please forgive me. Lynnette exclaimed. Feeling embarrassed, she paid the woman for the apples.

Ah, Lynnette... what a lovely name, do you come here often? Peter teased.

Curses, he knows my name now. Lynnette thought as she looked around nervously for Gracie. No, I’m sorry and I’m done buying apples. I must go, Gracie, the lady I came with, will come looking for me soon, and I don’t want her to see us talking.

Why?

Because you’re a stranger... and a man!

Can’t help being a man but let me introduce myself. My name is Peter De Marco, at your service, He took a bow, And now that I know your name is Lynnette, we are no longer strangers, Peter said smiling down at her.

Nonsense, I know nothing else about you nor have I ever seen you around here before. Therefore, you are a stranger, and I’m not supposed to speak to strange men.

I assure you, I am not strange, ‘Love-struck’ perhaps, but not strange. He chuckled

Please go away... if Gracie sees me talking to you, she will tell my mother.

Well, when can I see you again without Gracie?

Never!

Never is a long time.

Please go away. 

Would it be better if Gracie were not present? Would you speak to me then?

No!

Am I so unpleasant to talk to? Lynnette faced away from him. You’re going to break my heart, but if I’m bothering you look me straight in the eye, and I will go away at once!

In defiance, Lynnette turned and stared him straight in the eye, and then Peter started moving away. Curses, why is he so handsome, she thought.

Wait! She blurted, instantly regretting it. I meant, late! It’s late! She turned away, closed her eyes, and bit her lower lip. Why did she do that? Peter smiled to himself; after all, he had always charmed the ladies in the past. He started coming toward her again. No! Stay where you are! Do you not understand? You will get me in trouble.

Then introduce me as an old friend.

No, she is aware I have no male friends, and she is not someone I confide to. If she tells my mother, I will not be allowed to come again.

Well, there must be a friend you can come with.

There is a friend I confide with, but she cannot come.

Why not? Peter asked.

Because she is not allowed, Lynnette replied.

Well, bring a friend who is allowed.

I only have one friend and confidant, Karina, and she is not permitted outside of Pembroke Hall. 

Lynnette instantly covered her mouth with her fingers; she had said too much. I must go now. It’s been interesting to meet you, Peter De Marco. Have a good day.

Wait! Peter said.

Lynnette walked away, but he continued to trail behind her at a distance until she stopped,

You must stop following me!

One question, where is Pembroke Hall? Is it far?

That’s two questions. Yes, it’s a large property quite a long way past the woods. So have a nice day and goodbye.

I can follow behind, then why don’t you sneak out and meet me later tonight... alone!

Certainly not, have a good day! Lynnette gasped, annoyed at his audacity.

Peter smiled to himself. Lynnette apparently liked him, she practically gave him directions. He watched as Lynnette met with the older woman she called Gracie. Then both placed their baskets inside and climbed aboard a small horse-drawn cart. Peter went back to meet with Ed for a moment and patted his friend on the back.

She likes me. I shall meet you at your house later.

Peter gave him a conspiratorial wink. Ed gave him a playful shove. Peter followed Lynnette and Gracie at a distance until they arrived at the estate. He watched from behind the trees as they unloaded the baskets and went inside. Once satisfied he knew where to find her, he mounted his horse and headed back to Ed’s home.

CHAPTER 3: Approaching Horseman

After Karina had left her father and Lord Harmon in the study, she and Lynnette rode off on Storm and Thunder racing across miles of green grass. It was a cold, but beautiful Monday morning; sunlight seeped through the trees and the wind blew through Lynnette’s silky dark hair and Karina’s honey-streaked waves. After a while, they began to slow their pace. In the distance, the figure of a man on horseback could be seen approaching them. Lynnette beamed upon recognizing him; Karina remained puzzled.

What brings you out here? Lynnette asked.

You, I told you I wanted to see you, Peter said. Lynnette blushed.

My apologies for my awkwardness the other day, I’m not used to having suitors. Lynnette turned to Karina, still looking puzzled, Karina, this is Peter De Marco. We met at the village market the other day. Peter, this is my friend Karina Pembroke.

Ah yes, the one who never goes to the market with you.

Yes, unfortunately.

Karina felt a twinge of jealousy at Lynnette’s handsome suitor and regretted not being allowed to go to the village market with her and Gracie.

It’s a pleasure to meet you, Peter.        

The pleasure is all mine, Peter said as he took a bow.

Quite a contrast to the man her father introduced her to earlier, she thought, as Peter was tall, lean, and handsome. They dismounted. Lynnette was much more at ease without Gracie’s company.

I’m flattered that you came, Lynnette told him.

I followed you and the older lady until you reached the clearing in the woods. Today is my second attempt. I was starting to lose hope... He said as he reached out to touch a lock of her hair, ...I wanted to see those emerald green eyes of yours again.

Lynnette blushed. Karina came to Lynnette’s rescue and broke the silence.

You’re not a local I gather? Karina asked.

No, I’m just visiting with a friend from the area who told me there were beautiful girls out this way, He leaned forward; ...he was right. The girls laughed. Actually, I’m from Massachusetts but I live and work aboard, The Sea Maiden. We’re getting ready to take another shipment to America.

So you’re leaving? Lynnette asked, sounding disappointed.

Yes, I didn’t want to leave without seeing you again. It will be a while before I return.

So you’re traveling to America soon? Karina asked.

Yes, a week from this Wednesday but my friend and I leave here tomorrow. He confirmed, Oh, I almost forgot!

He turned and walked over to the horse and started rummaging through his pack. Karina took the opportunity to talk to Lynnette.

Handsome fellow, how did you meet?

At the market by the apple stand while Gracie went to the butchers. I was picking apples, and we both reached for the same one... well I think he did it on purpose.

No doubt. Karina declared.

He was close so I turned and he towered over me. All, I saw, was his neck and then I looked up and saw his incredible smile. My heart skipped a beat and we started talking. Well, he did most of the talking, I mostly shooed him away. I was afraid Gracie might see us and tell Mother. Before leaving, he asked me where I lived, and if he could see me again. I was afraid and said no, but I did tell him I lived past the woods. I didn’t really expect him to come looking for me.

How could you not tell me?

I was afraid I might jinx myself if I told you and I didn’t want you to laugh at me if he didn’t come.

Lynnette you always think that way.

Peter took out a small cloth bag and came back toward them. He turned the small cloth bag over and a shiny gold bracelet fell in his hand, Lynnette gasped and looked up at him.

Please give me your hand.

He took her hand and put the shiny gold bracelet on Lynnette’s wrist.

Oh, Peter! It’s beautiful! I don’t know what to say.

Your smile is enough for me.

Lynnette turned to Karina, who was also smiling.

It looks beautiful on you Lynnette. I feel awkwardly intrusive right now.

Oh please don’t, I doubt I would have been able to see her again to give her this small gift if she didn’t have a riding companion like you to escape from her mother and Gracie. Peter smiled.

How are you sure that I’m all right with this?

Lynnette mentioned she confides all her girlie secrets to you. Peter chuckled.

Karina laughed. They continued talking for a while until Karina reminded Lynnette that they must go back. 

Peter it’s been a pleasure, good luck on your trip and I hope you come by again soon.

Thank you, likewise, and yes... He looked at Lynnette, ...I’ll be back.

He smiled at Lynnette then turned and smiled and waved goodbye at Karina.

To give them some privacy, Karina excused herself, mounted Thunder, and trotted off ahead of Lynnette and Storm. Lynnette continued to speak to Peter for a few more minutes and Karina turned just in time to glimpse Peter ignored Lynnette’s extended hand and instead surprised her with a back-arching kiss. Karina gasped; Lynnette seemed to swoon in his arms. She will be in a daze after this, Karina thought.

Lynnette, I’m leaving early tomorrow, I want you to meet me later today. I can come back and wait for you by the trees behind the stable at sunset.

Peter... I can’t I... wait! How do you know about the trees behind the stable?

Well, I followed you and Gracie more than past the clearing; I followed you all the way to the stables on Saturday. He smiled mischievously.

You did?

Peter nodded, So I can meet you there later today. I will leave this scarf on the fence, and then come look for me behind the trees around sunset.

Lynnette smiled and nodded, All right just for a little while... so we can talk and you can tell me about your travels, but I better go now.

Peter helped her mount Storm and kissed her hand.

Remember, behind the trees by the stables... I’ll leave this blue scarf by the fence... at sunset.

Lynnette nodded and trotted off to catch up with Karina.

CHAPTER 4: Invitation to Harmon Hall

They arrived at the stables and were met by old Jim, the stable hand. Miss Karina, your father, has been asking for you.

Oh, no! Lynnette, I’ll speak to you later.

Moments later,

Ah... all right!

Lynnette answered, still clearly affected by Peter’s kiss. Karina washed her hands at the pump by the well and patted them dry on her dress then rushed to the dining room. Gunther stood up upon her arrival. Charles rebuked his daughter for her tardiness.

Please forgive me Father, Lord Harmon, we lost track of time.

Take a seat, Gunther, and I are famished, we nearly started without you!

Meals were in the process of being served.

I have some news to share with you; Lord Harmon has invited us to attend a social gathering he has next Saturday. He has some announcements to make including his new business venture in France and has requested our presence.

Karina was not accustomed to attending any of her father’s business functions.

Father, is it necessary that I go?

Yes. It’s nearly a two-day trip so we will need to leave the day after tomorrow.

Displeased, Karina looked down at her plate.

I will explain everything later. You are no longer a child, and there are responsibilities you must be made aware of. We will be traveling the day after tomorrow so I expect you to start preparing. Gunther lives by the harbor so dress warmly.

I see. Father, is it wise for you to travel?

No matter, we will be attending.

But Father, why is it necessary for me to go? Karina insisted.

Charles was getting agitated, and his breathing was getting labored. Father I-

Angry at her insistence Charles cut her off.

No, discussion! We shall be traveling the day after tomorrow so you need to prepare that is all!

The exertion of nearly shouting caused Lord Pembroke to cough. He didn’t want any arguments in front of Gunther. He expected Karina to be difficult but for his plan to succeed, he needed to be firm. Karina sat silently at the table, confused and upset over her father’s sudden change. To ease the tension, Gunther made a suggestion,

Perhaps your riding companion can accompany you and your father, Gunther suggested.

Karina was pleased with the suggestion. She turned to her father in search of his approval... he nodded his acceptance.

Thank you, Lord Harmon.

The idea of Lynnette accompanying her was very comforting and for the moment, she held her peace. Still troubled by the whole thing Karina lost her appetite and a short time later asked to be excused from the table claiming she had a headache. Embarrassed by her behavior, Charles gladly dismissed her, stating it would be good for her to rest awhile. She rose from the table, as did Gunther.

It was a pleasure meeting you, my dear, I hope you feel better and I look forward to having you, your father, and your riding companion as my guests next Saturday.

Karina smiled politely and said, Thank you Lord Harmon; it was nice meeting you also.

Then she left the table. Gunther was undeterred by the visible signs of disapproval in his future bride, in time; she would adjust to her fate just like other young women did when given in marriage.

Karina was disturbed by her father’s determined manner. He had always been so accommodating. Perhaps Lynnette was right. Her father was not well and wanted her to be more informed. She would speak with her father later. She lay down on her bed and soon fell asleep. Sometime later she woke up to quick knocks on her door. It was Lynnette, who said in a low voice,

Karina, Karina, open the door!

It was now close to sunset as viewed through the large balcony window. Karina missed dinner and ignored the knocking. Lynnette continued to knock until she got a response from Karina.

What is it? Is something wrong? Karina asked in a sleepy voice.

As Karina opened the door, Lynnette bolted through closed and locked the door behind her, and then pushed Karina against the bedside, forcing her to sit.

I have something to tell you!

What?

She thought it was probably something to do with Peter.

After you left the table this afternoon, Darlene overheard something while she was cleaning the kitchen.

What?

She heard Lord something, who visited your father, say that the social gathering, he has next Saturday, is perfect timing for announcing the engagement.

You mean Lord Harmon?

Yes.

What engagement?

Yours and his!

What?

He’s announcing his engagement to you! Your father has given your hand in marriage to him. Lynnette declared.

Me! That’s ridiculous Lynnette; that man is three times my age, and my father would never do that to me. Why do you believe they were referring to me? Was my name mentioned?

Well, I don’t know; I wasn’t present, but Darlene was!

Darlene is a gossiper. She probably said this to get attention.

Well, then why not ask her yourself?

Very well I shall.

Both girls went looking for Darlene in the maid’s quarters downstairs. Darlene was a middle-aged woman prone to gossiping and was nearly dismissed because of it once. After Gunther had left, Charles dined alone in his study, and since Karina slept through dinner, the serving staff finished early and retired to their rooms. A few fluttering candles lit the dim hallway to Darlene’s door. Karina knocked.

Darlene! It’s Karina; I’d like to ask you something.

Yes, Miss?

Darlene, I’m sorry to disturb you, but I need you to tell me what you heard this afternoon when my father had a visitor.

Afraid of saying anything that would cause her dismissal, Darlene denied having heard anything.

"I didn’t