Sabrina

By Valerie Michaels

Sabrina narrates the Story of Sabrina Greene von Wetter, an Englishwoman who falls in love with and marries Andreas von Wetter, a German, who is her soulmate.

Sabrina is about Sabrina’s life from the Victorian Era through World War II, where she transfers from England to Germany on more than one occasion.

Sabr

• Language: English
• Publisher: TOPLINK PUBLISHING, LLC
• Release date: Nov 23, 2017
• ISBN: 9781948262408

Valerie Michaels

VALERIE MICHAELS has been writing since just after the birth of her son and writes contemporary as well as historical stories. She has been inspired by her love of history and from being a citizen volunteer at the police department in her city. She tries to be as realistic and factual in her stories as possible and relies on her enjoyment of history and her volunteering as most of her research. Her pseudonym is a combination of her children’s first names, Valerie and Michael. She lives in a small suburb north of Dallas, Texas, with her husband, Steve. l in her stories as possible and relies on her enjoyment of history and her volunteering as most of her research. Her pseudonym is a combination of her children’s first names, Valerie and Michael. She lives in a small suburb north of Dallas, Texas, with her husband, Steve.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Sabrina Alexandra Greene brought the teacup to her lips, briefly admiring the green and pink flowers painted on the white surface. The gold trim circling the brim added to the china’s lovely appeal. She stifled the chuckle threatening to bubble in her throat as her closest friend, Rowena Whitney, relayed a humorous childhood mishap of her brother, Jonathan, Earl Fai rfax.

The women enjoyed visiting in the sitting room due to its cozy atmosphere that the larger rooms and even the front parlor lacked. A baby grand piano sat in one corner and the gold brocade, medallion back sofa that they shared rested on the far edge of the room. Along with various pieces of furniture laid a Persian rug with interestingly the same green and pink flowers painted on the cups and was a lovely contrast to the hardwood flooring as well as the mint green drapes. Rowena claimed it hadn’t been intentional that they match. Sabrina didn’t doubt her since she had come across the same coincidence several times herself. A whatnot rested in another corner with various types of knickknacks, the latter of which her mother called ‘dust collectors’ since other than the obvious, they only served the purpose to look pretty.

Sabrina sipped her tea, enjoying the warmth as it slid down her throat. She listened to her friend’s story, sure she would choke on the liquid if she laughed. She rested the teacup back on the matching plate and set both down on the oak tabletop. Nothing has changed, she smiled with affection. Your brother is quite a character.

A sparkle flashed in the depths of Rowena’s blue eyes as she laughed, her cobalt day dress emphasizing their color and making the sparkle more pronounced. The ensemble was a lovely compliment to her reddish blonde hair, which was gathered at the nape and with soft curls falling into a curtain down her back. Yes, I know, her friend agreed. I’m blessed that he is so wonderful. If only I could find a man with similar qualities. She leaned forward and smiled softly. If I told tell him that, he would constantly remind me of it.

Someone clapped loudly from behind them, drawing their attention to the doorway. Sabrina barely managed to withhold another chuckle as the subject of their conversation strolled into the room with a wide grin curving his lips. Jon Whitney was two inches shorter than six-feet with a somewhat husky build and aqua eyes that sparkled when he smiled. His blonde hair was very short and the navy trousers fitting snugly to his firm thighs were tucked into knee length boots. The white silk shirt fit well to his frame, the sleeves ending at the tips of his wrists. Rowena had always said that with their coloring and personalities, Sabrina and Jon would be a great couple, with her chestnut tresses a lovely contrast to his blondness. She loved Jon as a friend, but she had no interest in anything more.

Thank you, my lovely sister, Jon said with a slight nod her direction. That’s a compliment.

I know I shouldn’t say such things, Rowena snorted. I believe your head would become swelled if you heard them.

Jon placed a hand on his chest, coughing as if insulted. Sabrina nearly burst out laughing when he raised a dark blonde eyebrow her direction.

Surely you don’t agree with my baby sister, Sabrina, he teased.

She couldn’t help chuckling. Of course not, she teased in return. "I know your head will become swelled."

He exaggerated a pout, blinking rapidly as if trying to hold back tears. All right, he sniffed. Now I must find Andreas. At least my friend understands me.

The unfamiliar name caught Sabrina’s attention and she found herself brightening. Andreas? she questioned. Who’s Andreas?

Oh my, Rowena gasped as she exchanged glances between her brother and Sabrina. You haven’t met Andreas?

Sabrina had no inkling as to why her friend reacted in such a way. Jon had given nearly no details about Andreas, but she was intrigued merely because of their reactions. Who’s Andreas? she repeated.

Jon chuckled. You haven’t met him, he surmised, as if she believed otherwise.

Rowena raised an eyebrow. Andreas and Jon met at University, she explained. "Andreas’ parents are or should I say were wealthy Germans. Andreas inherited his father’s lucrative shipping business after they died."

Tell me about him, Sabrina thought. I see, she said, becoming more intrigued by the moment. And?

Rowena gave a short clap. We must introduce you to him, she said with glee. He is very charming. Even your father would approve.

Sabrina’s father was Edwin Phillip Greene, Eighth Earl Thornley and Viscount Greene. His first cousin, Giles Stanwyke, was the Twelfth Marquess of Fairhaven, so in the event of his death, Edwin would receive that title since he was Giles’ only heir. Naturally, her father expected her to marry a titled gentleman, but she had no such aspiration. She wanted to marry for love, not to gain a title of her own. Status had never been important to her, which was something her father did not understand. Her mother wished her only to be happy; a most uncommon objective, but it was something for which she was immensely grateful. How so? she found herself asking.

Rowena and Jon smiled as they exchanged a long glance. His great-grandfather was an Earl, Rowena friend explained. His wife had only birthed a daughter and there were no male relatives to pass the title to. He was rather young, I understand. Twenty, I believe.

How terrible to be left a widow at such a young age, Sabrina said in sympathy. The situation was sad, but also scary since she was only a few months older.

Rowena nodded in understanding. It would be devastating to lose the man you love so young, she agreed. Or at any age, for that matter.

Jon winked, drawing them back to the subject at hand. I know titles or lack thereof do not impress you, Sabrina, he half-teased. The story is both interesting and tragic, but unfortunately, it is often true. He breathed a sigh. Now I will try to locate my friend. He has been perusing my newest brood mare and I’m sure he could use a break. We will return soon. With a grin, he whirled out of the room.

Rowena winked. Andreas is a kind man and handsome to boot, she relayed. I’m sure you’ll like him. Everyone does. He is every bit a gentleman.

Sabrina smiled. She had never met a friend of Jon’s that she didn’t like, but she had no interest in marrying any of them. If he’s a friend of your brother’s, I’m sure I will, she agreed.

It seemed only moments after she had finished her statement when someone strolled into the room with Jon in tow. As soon as her gaze landed on the man she assumed to be Andreas, her heart slammed hard between her breasts. He was tall and well-proportioned with short, silky blonde hair and eyes so blue they appeared violet. However, it was the gentleness and warmth in the latter that captured her attention. The sapphire silk shirt under a black and gold shirtwaist emphasized the broad shoulders and the black trousers molded to his thighs, drawing her attention to their long length. His Hessians gleamed bright, their color a dark chocolate brown. Somehow she knew he would look wonderful in anything he chose to wear.

Look who was on the way in as I stepped out? Jon said with a grin.

A smile curved the corners of Andreas’ lush lips and twinkled in the depths of his eyes. Sabrina’s heart flipped as he winked, barely conscious of Jon’s presence as he made the introductions. A wave of pleasure rushed over her as Andreas pressed a warm kiss on the back of her hand.

„Guten Abend, he greeted in a sensual baritone, the accent upper class. It is a pleasure, Lady Sabrina."

A warm smile curved her lips. "Likewise, Herr von Vetter," she returned.

Please call me Andreas, he corrected as he released her hand.

You may call me Sabrina.

Her heart melted as he flashed another smile. „Danke, he returned. I will do so. He raised an eyebrow. Would you be so kind as to save a dance for me at the ball this night, Sabrina?"

The thought of being held in his arms turned her blood hot and raced her heartbeat, a feeling she hoped she would enjoy often. I would be honored to, Andreas. Someone cleared his throat at the words and when she turned her attention to where the sound had come from, Jon gave her a wide-toothed grin. Yes, Jon, she said, her tone teasingly sarcastic. What is it?

I believe Rowena and I have disappeared.

Sabrina flushed at Andreas’ deep, understanding chuckle and then traded glances between her friends. I’m sorry, she apologized. I didn’t mean to be rude.

Rowena giggled. It’s quite all right, my friend, she assured her. Do we dare ask them to join us for tea?

Yes, yes! Sabrina’s mind shouted. A marvelous idea, Rowena, she agreed instead of relaying her thought. She could just hear her mother saying, ‘It just not ladylike, Sabrina.’

Andreas and I need to discuss some things in private, Jon said with another grin, the words causing her heart to drop from disappointment. You and Sabrina will have time to accost him later.

Sabrina couldn’t help chuckling as her friend did the same. She found herself smiling at Andreas. I look forward to this evening, Andreas, she said.

He returned her smile with a gentlemanly bow. It will be a pleasure, Sabrina.

Chapter 2

Sabrina couldn’t remember having such a wonderful time. Andreas had taught the guests a charming Austrian folk dance called the Laendler and she had enjoyed the warmth of his hand as he touched hers and urged her around him. Her heart raced when he had dropped his gaze to her lips on more than one occasion. Although it certainly wouldn’t have happened in a ballroom full of people, she wouldn’t have protested if he had pulled her into his arms. He would be in England throughout the Season and she was looking forward to spending more time with him. Rowena had said that his room would be adjacent to hers for the weekend and the thought of sleeping in such proximity to him sent a shudder of excitement through her.

Sabrina turned onto her side in an attempt to force the thoughts of Andreas from her mind, but it was keen on holding him there. Breathing a deep sigh, she sat up and tossed aside the lace coverlet. She snatched her green silk wrap from the end of the bed and slid her arms through the sleeves. As she tugged the material up over her shoulders and tied the sash, she breathed another deep sigh. Maybe some fresh air would do her good and relax her brain enough for her to sleep.

The moonlight shined into the room, emphasizing the vivid colors entwined in the Persian rug and the contrasting, soft white furniture, so she didn’t have to scramble her way through the dark. She pushed open the oak and glass French doors and stepped onto the long balcony. She ran her gaze over the grounds, pleased that the moon was still full enough to shed some light over the soft lawn. She breathed deeply, taking in the scent of the variety and colors of flowers in the garden. Although the night was cool, the Season had begun and she would be wishing for the cooler weather in just a few short weeks. As a chilly gust of air blew over her, she drew her wrapper tight across her breasts and crossed her arms to warm herself.

It is a lovely night, yes? someone said to her right. It will be even lovelier when summer is in full bloom.

Startled, Sabrina turned toward the voice. She breathed a sigh of relief when her gaze landed on Andreas, her heart leaping when she caught the twinkle in the depth of his eyes. He was now in his shirtsleeves and had changed back into his casual trousers, but standing on stockinged feet. Yes, it is, she agreed.

Many times I cannot sleep, he sighed. A walk is usually good to clear my head.

Another shiver rushed over her, but the wind was not the cause. Andreas was and her heart fluttered in response. I wanted only a few moments outside, she found herself saying. I cannot sleep either.

He turned to face her and leaned his left forearm on the railing. Is my presence the cause of your nervousness? he teased.

How could you possibly know that? I’m not nervous, she denied as she tightly grasped the railing with her hands.

To her surprise, he rose upright and stepped closer. He tugged her hands from the rail and grasped them in his, his warmth immediately penetrating her. Your hands are trembling, yet they are warm, he said as if making her aware of it.

Sabrina couldn’t hide the fact, not while he cupped her hands with his and caressed the inside of her left wrist with his thumb. She had no doubt he could feel her pulse thumping wildly against the pad, but she couldn’t stop her body from reacting to him. Her knees were quaking as well, threatening to give way. That’s because I was holding onto the railing, she lied.

The warmth of Andreas’ chuckle heated her blood and tightened her heart. I am sure it is, he teased. Before she could think of a reply, he released a hand and cupped her cheek in his palm. She was barely able to smother a whimper of pleasure as he brushed his thumb over her bottom lip. „Küß mich, Sabrina," he urged softly.

Sabrina was barely conscious of it when he bent his head. The heat of desire whammed her in her chest when he brushed his lips over hers and gently nudged them apart. As he trailed his tongue into her mouth, she flamed to the marrow of her bones and became sensitive with wanting. He expertly entwined her tongue with his, increasing the flames to a new intensity. She nearly released a whimper when he slowly peeled his lips and tongue from hers.

When we make love, I will show you greater pleasures.

His words pulled her from her trance, although her body was still warm from his touch. We will not make love, she denied, although her mind said otherwise.

Andreas merely smiled. „Ja, he corrected. We will. Her heart fluttered when he pressed a gentle kiss on her cheek and released her other hand. I will see you tomorrow, yes?"

Yes, she gulped.

„Gute nacht," he said softly. A heartbeat later, he walked back toward his door and into his room.

Chapter 3

Have I told you how beautiful you are today?

Sabrina’s cheeks warmed at Andreas’ husky tone and she couldn’t help chuckling. You haven’t, but thank you, she smiled. Her heart seemed to stop beating when he grasped her hands in his and lowered his gaze to her lips. His eyes softened as he brought it back to hers. The day was on the cool side, but the sun was bright and added a deceptive warmth to the air. Even if it were blocked by the clouds, she would still be overly warm due to Andreas’ closeness.

I am sure you do not have to be told such, he teased.

Sabrina raised an eyebrow. I am not vain, my lord, she teased in return, deliberately using the incorrect title.

He laughed with affection. I believe I enjoy you calling me ‘my lord’, he said. It is a compliment, yes?

It was her turn to chuckle. Yes, it is, she said.

Andreas grinned as he released her hands. Shall we walk? he asked.

Sabrina smiled as they began walking, briefly eyeing the horses grazing nearby and the nest of trees to their right. She caught a glimpse of her navy riding skirt, billowing out as she took her steps. It was as if Andreas had known she would be wearing the color since he had chosen to wear navy slacks and jacket himself. Changing the subject now, are we? she teased, but then nearly jumped when he slid an arm around her shoulders.

„Ja. Ich bin." I am.

Sabrina flushed. His voice was tremendously sexy when he spoke German, sounding even deeper than usual. Whom are you kidding, Sabrina? His voice is sexy no matter which language he is speaking. I enjoy hearing you speak, Andreas; German or otherwise. When he stopped, she found herself stopping with him. She nearly released a passionate gasp when he turned to face her and tugged her against him.

He slid his fingers through her hair without mussing the upswept style and bent his head. She released a whimper into his mouth as their tongues entwined and she slid her arms around his waist, her insides seemingly melting at his warm hardness. A wave of heat erupted over her body and her breasts tingled, swelling with desire and wanting. They hadn’t addressed lovemaking since the night they met, but she decided that was what she wanted. Her body burned both times he had kissed her and she looked forward to spending time with him. If he wanted to make love to her, she wouldn’t reject him.

Things had progressed farther than she had expected in such a short time, but seemed right in every sense. Although it wouldn’t be considered proper, this couldn’t be anything else. She ached to sensitivity between her thighs as he gently pressed his hardened length against her, but nearly releasing a groan of disappointment when he peeled his mouth from hers.

Andreas dropped his gaze to her lips and brought it back to her eyes, his feelings full in the depths of his. Bedding you in the open would not be proper, he said. It would be rather scandalous.

Sabrina’s heartbeat shot up at the image that flashed through her mind. She could picture herself laying on the ground with her legs parted as he rose on his hands above her and showed her the pleasures of lovemaking. Andreas, she whispered, awed at the feelings he stirred within her.

He cupped her cheek in his palm and pressed a gentle kiss on her lips. I realize we have not discussed such since our first kiss, but I cannot help wanting you, he said. I do not want to rush you and I am sure I know your answer, but I would like you to tell me what it is you are feeling.

Sabrina could only come up with one answer. You had said that night that we would eventually make love and I denied it, but I can no longer do so, Andreas, she admitted, her cheeks burning with a flush. I would love for you to make love to me.

The grin that curved his sensual lips fully reached his eyes, as did his caring for her. How shall we go about this? he asked.

They couldn’t make love at her own home without one of the servants finding out and informing her parents of it. They couldn’t go to the Whitneys for the same reason since Andreas was staying with them. Other than a public inn, there was only one place they could meet. Rowena has her own terraced house in Holland Park, she suggested, referring to what Americans would normally call a townhouse. I trust her to keep it a secret that we’re there. Since we are meeting with her soon, we can discuss it with her.

Are you sure, Sabrina?

I’m sure, Andreas, she said, never more sure of anything in her life.

An hour later, they met with Rowena at her family’s estate house. As Sabrina informed her of their plans, her heart flipped when she realized this was the same room where she and Andreas had met. The afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows, reminding her of her warm glow of happiness. She exchanged a knowing glance Andreas before she began.

Once she had finished, Rowena squealed and hugged her. I am so happy for you, she said.

As she pulled away, Sabrina and Andreas exchanged a smile. Thank you, Rowena, Sabrina said. So we have your blessing?

Rowena chuckled. Of course you do, silly, she teased.

Are you sure it is convenient for you to lend us your townhome? Andreas asked.

Rowena traded glances between them and happily nodded, very beautiful donned in an emerald green gown that complimented her hair. I care deeply for both of you, she said relayed. Any time is convenient.

Perhaps Wednesday? Sabrina suggested. She and Andreas had been invited to a handful of balls that week, with the exception of that evening, so it would be perfect.

Wednesday would be fine. I will dismiss the staff, so you won’t have to worry.

Tears welled in Sabrina’s eyes, knowing she was blessed to have such a wonderful friend. Thank you, Rowena, she said. I love you. She wanted to say those three words to Andreas as well and she would when the time was right.

The women shared a sisterly hug. I love you too, Brie, she returned.

Chapter 4

Sabrina’s heart tightened with guilt at lying to her parents, but she couldn’t come out and tell them she and Andreas were meeting to make love. As far as they knew, they were going to spend an evening with Ro wena.

As you sure you wish to do this, Sabrina? Andreas asked gently as he stepped toward her.

Yes, Andreas, she said. I’m sure.

A mauve silk coverlet laid over the mattress of the mahogany, four-poster and the muslin canopy of the same color were a lovely compliment together. Two bowed lamps with mauve shades rested atop a nearby dressing table and an armoire stood on the other side of the room next to a chaise that matched the ensemble. The velvet cushions had been designed with large pink roses and leaves of various shades of green, which Sabrina had always admired. She and Rowena had spent hours sitting on them as children while they talked about everything that entered their minds. Erasing the brief memory from her mind, she nodded as shivers of anticipation flowed over her.

Andreas grasped under her chin with an index finger and turned her face toward his. Their eyes briefly met just before he lowered his head. When he trailed his tongue over hers, its darting sent an imaginary fist slamming into her midsection and she found herself trailing hers back over his. A sensually soft smacking sounded as he peeled away his mouth. A whimper caught in her throat when he loosened the bow on the front of her gown. The tawny gold silk fit tight around her waist and fell softly to her ankles, flaring outward at the hem. She knew it matched the flecks in her eyes and she always felt her best wearing it.

As he slid his hands around her and released the pearl buttons falling down the length of the spine, chills of pleasure broke out over her skin. He urged the material from her shoulders and down her arms, baring her breasts to him. When he dropped his gaze to them, her nipples tightened into sensitivity. You are so very lovely, Sabrina, he said, his voice hot.

At his words, a blanket of heat spread over her body and her heart melted with emotion. She was glad she had chosen not to wear a corset since it would have delayed his touch. She wanted him so badly, it hurt. Make love to me, Andreas, she urged. Please.

„Ja," he agreed.