Claiming A Lady Read online

  Claiming A Lady

  A Night Warriors Short

  By Brenna Lyons

  What are reviewers saying about the Night Warriors series?

  Night Warriors

  “Brenna Lyons is formidable in the art of world building and storytelling. This novel delivers and carries its own creative weight, where the contemporary world meets Teutonic legend. This is not just a tale where a mocking Stone god uses Warriors as weapons against blood drinking monsters; this is about change, never-ending love, family, and devotion.”

  Reviewed by Patrice F. for Joyfully Reviewed

  “The story is rich in Germanic lore and history of the two classes of people. The book is done in sections or parts and I think this gives a richer understanding of the overall story being told here. The world-building is excellent. The Warriors lifestyle is very inventive, as well as the Beasts’. By the end of the [first] story I was seriously on the edge and loving every minute. The ending however shocked the hell out of me. Not what I expected. But the story is fricken fantastic and worth it! The second part of the story starts out years later, and the battle still rages on between Beasts and Warriors. The book could have ended and I’d have been fine, but knowing there is more to come makes me excited to revisit this world! It has vampires, warriors and bad chicks! The sex is hot! The fight scenes while not overly bloody, still kick ass! Don’t let it pass you by!”

  Reviewed by Acquanetta Ferguson for the San Diego Erotica Books Examiner 5 stars! “Highly recommended buy!”

  “Ms. Lyon’s Night Warriors is one of the most intriguing stories I’ve read in a long time. The depth of detail is well complimented by the fully developed characters and Machiavellian twists and turn of the plot. From the enigmatic stone which guides the Night Warriors, to the political power plays the different house Lords enact and most importantly to the risks the warriors and their ladies are willing to take, this saga will have you fascinated with the complexity of the Night Warriors world and their struggle to live, love and protect mankind.”

  Reviewed by Brenda Edde for Romance Junkies 4.5 Ribbons

  “Brenna Lyons has created an amazing fantasy world. My emotions went through a roller coaster; I laughed, I cried, I cringed, and at times, I wanted to scream in agony. I love this world; I love these characters. Brenna Lyons is one of my favourite authors, and so far, Night Warriors is my favourite book of hers. I would not hesitate to recommend it, and her, to everyone.”

  Reviewed by Jaynie for Fallen Angels Reviews 5 Angels

  Will of the Stone

  “There is so much going on, yet it all fits within the confines of the story. The world-building is excellent and it feels so big yet the author contains in 80k words. The lore in the story is totally believable. Great characters and great fight scenes make this a great paranormal read. The love scenes are told in loving detail. Seriously, do not let this one pass you by!”

  Reviewed by Acquanetta Ferguson for San Diego Erotica Books Examiner 5 stars “Highly recommended buy!”

  Remember Me

  “Jorg is one of the most compelling Vampires this reviewer has read about. Lyons herself states that she is not sure if Jorg is the villain or the hero and leaves it to the reader to choose. This reviewer clearly sees him as the hero. Lyons shows us his pain, his vulnerability, his deep undying love for one woman. Jorg’s deep sensuality and sexuality comes through in Ms. Lyons’ writing. She hints at more exotic sexual experience, yet is sensitive to the novice reader. Admittedly, this reviewer enjoys reading about men who are strong, protective, unafraid to show their passionate love yet have vulnerabilities… Jorg is all of this and more.”

  Reviewed by Gina for Love Romances 4 Roses

  “This is definitely not a “feel good” light kind of read. This story is filled with tortured souls, lost love, and the inhumanity of man. It explores the darker part of life, from torture, bought women, and the struggle for power, we gain an insight of how a favored warrior can become a beast. For all you lovers of the darker side of the human soul, this story is one I recommend putting on your TBR list.”

  Reviewed by Chere Gruver for Sensual Romance

  Veriel’s Tales I: Crossbearer Turned

  “Ms. Lyons has given us another great story, one that answers the questions of why Veriel turned beast. It makes a heart-wrenching tale, to read of the pain he went through. She has once again gripped us by the shirt collar and woven a spell of a fantasy world that has warriors that protect the innocent. It may be that all is not what it seems and that Veriel isn’t as evil as we thought. The love he shows for Regana, her mate and her family shows he is more warrior than beast.”

  Reviewed by Donna for Fallen Angels Reviews 5 Angels

  “The story of love, honor and betrayal unfolding against the ruthless backdrop of the warriors’ lives, mortal risks and immortal souls being at the stake. The blend of romance, drama and mystical lore makes the reading experience quite enjoyable.”

  Reviewed by Daria for Romance Junkies 4 Ribbons

  Opposites Attract: A Lesson In Temperance

  “Brenna has done it again. This book is outstanding and though it’s short, it leaves you completely satisfied. What happens between them is powerful, intense, and ultimately fulfilling for them both. If you want something that makes you sit back after and sigh happily, Opposites Attract - Temperance is the book for you.”

  Reviewed by Cyndi Witkus for In The Library Reviews

  Devon’s Price: Ten of Cups

  “As I read Devon’s Price, I found myself hurting along with Devon, fighting the madness with him. Yet at the same time feeling the conflict Michelle was going through for loving him and wanting to be mated, yet being torn at leaving her family. But the main thing that sold me on this book was Devon. He is a leading Warrior in his family, yet is still sensitive and able to show his feelings.”

  Reviewed by Debbie for Fallen Angels Reviews 5 Angels! Recommended Read!

  The Blade Chaser’s Son

  “I have read Ms. Lyons work, and she has never put out something that I did not enjoy. Maybe I’m just that agreeable . . . but I think she is really just that good. Yeah, she’s just that good.”

  Reviewed By Marissa for Novelspot

  Sweet Jacquine

  “The author has crafted the rival tribes of Beast and Warrior, whose societies combine aspects of both Celtic and Teutonic cultures in refreshing new ways. Appetite whetted by this glimpse into a fascinating new world, I will look for more of Ms. Lyons’ Night Warrior books.”

  Reviewed by Alegria for Reviewer for Coffee Time Reviews 4 Cups

  (Smashwords Digital Version)

  © 2009 Brenna Lyons

  Published by Brenna Lyons at Smashwords

  Cover by Brenna Lyons © 2010

  Discover other titles by Brenna Lyons at Smashwords

  You can find additional Night Warriors series at Phaze.

  Claiming a Lady is a work of fiction from the Night Warriors series. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events is entirely coincidental.

  Thank you for downloading this free e-book. You are welcome to share it with your friends. This book may be reproduced, copied, and distributed for non-commercial purposes, provided the book remains in its complete original form. Reselling of this e-book is strictly prohibited and may be punishable by law.

  If you enjoyed this book, please return to Smashwords or Brenna’s publishers to discover other works by this author. Thank you for your support.

  Gawen paused at the door to Bavin’s home, taking a moment to straighten his tunic. He owed her the courtesy of looking his best when he came for her. He knocked, abruptly aware that his palms were sweating.

  Stand down, he chastised himself. Bavin was an untried mai
d. She’d accepted his kiss. She wore his seal, but she likely wouldn’t share his bed this night. It would be by Tes’s favor alone that she might agree to share it within the month before they were married.

  His frustration stirred that simply, and he forced his jaw to unlock...just in time for the door to swing open.

  Bavin’s father hesitated, then stepped back and waved Gawen in. Was he uncomfortable with the idea that his daughter would soon be experiencing Gawen’s kiss and touch? Or did he disapprove but fear Gawen’s response to such a thing? In truth, the older man had no choice in the matter, but it wouldn’t do to alienate him unnecessarily.

  Gawen offered a tip of his head in greeting. “Is Bavin free to walk with me?” he asked formally.

  Were Bavin any other woman or Gawen not what he was, her father would be incensed by such a question. Even women promised in marriage were not free to walk unescorted with their future husbands.

  Again, he hesitated. “She is. Will you sit?” Olhardt waved a hand in invitation and turned toward the far reaches of the house.

  Gawen ambled in, closing the door. He was too nervous to sit, so he stared into the fire, hoping not to appear too anxious for his bride’s company. If the man was uncertain about this marriage, eagerness could well push him further.

  He turned at the sound of footsteps on the stone, his mouth going dry at the sight of Bavin, freshly scrubbed and dressed in the same gown she’d worn for the choosing, most likely the best gown she owned. She met his eyes, blushing deeply...most likely at the audacity of being so bold in front of her father.

  Gawen closed the distance between them, offering his hand silently. She took it, her color deepening another notch. He managed another tip of his head to her father and led her out of the house and up a path into the woods.

  It was several long moments before she broke the silence between them. “I am surprised.”

  “Of what? That I came to you so quickly?” Or that I tarried so long? he taunted himself. Though the entire village would know about Resten’s death and Regana’s speedy marriage, there was no excuse for neglecting Bavin so long.

  She smiled up at him, a spring in her step. “That you haven’t kissed me again.”

  His heart pounded in excitement. “Are you inviting it? Would it...make you uncomfortable for me to request such a thing?” The previous night had been ceremony, and though she’d returned his passion in the safety of the crowd, it was a very different thing to accept such intimacy where it might turn to more.

  Bavin seemed to consider that. “Why would it make me uncomfortable, Lord Gawen?”

  That had to end. “I am not your lord, Bavin. You are my bride.”

  She nodded her agreement. “Gawen, then.”

  His name on her lips sent a shiver of delight up his spine and brought his cock up. To his dismay, her gaze locked on the length of him clearly visible through his trews and tunic.

  “How long have you wanted me?” she asked.

  “How long?”

  His mind was mired in visions of her touching the length she found so interesting. As if in answer, her free hand twitched ever so slightly, and he licked his dry lips. Her scent was sublime, her musk rising at her perusal of his ready state, marking her as ready, as well.

  “You were walking the edges of madness when you asked if I still intended to stand.” She didn’t question it.

  “I was,” he admitted. I am.

  “How long have you wanted me in your bed?”

  “In my life...not just my bed,” he corrected her.

  “How long?”

  Was there an answer to that he could quantify? He shook his head. “I know when I noticed you as a woman first. I cannot say when that became the need to make you mine.”

  “When?” There was a note of excitement in her voice that encouraged him to continue.

  “The harvest festival, five years ago. You were cooking with the older women and Kethe. You were barely a woman, only months past the day of your turning. You were smiling, laughing at something one of the others said. Then you turned and looked at me.”

  Her voice was soft and wistful. “And you took the tray from my hands,” she recalled. “You carried it to the table and came back for another...and another.”

  “I had to look again. You were the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen and remain so.”

  “Would you have kissed me?”

  Her question surprised him. “Had it not been against the laws of man and Warrior to touch you? Yes. I would have kissed you.”

  Bavin stopped, and Gawen turned to face her. He didn’t question her purpose. One moment, he was staring into her eyes. The next, their mouths were meshed together, the length of her body pressed to his.

  Gods, but she tasted sweet...and her scent made his head swim. He drank her down, needing all she would give. But how much was that?

  Gawen broke off the kiss slowly, staring down at her. He wanted to ask but feared pushing her too fast for comfort.

  “You haven’t taken release in one of the widows for nearly a week, Gawen.”

  On some level, it shocked him that she knew it. On another, it wasn’t surprising that she did. Knowing he intended to claim her as his own, Gawen’s exploits would be of concern to Bavin. She had the right to her investigation of him.

  “And what else did they tell you?”

  Her face darkened once more. “How talented a man you are,” she admitted. “Will you...”

  “Yes?” When she didn’t continue, he did. “Did something they told you concern you? I would do nothing you found troubling. Surely, you know that.”

  “No.” But there was more left unsaid.

  “Bavin?”

  “Will it be that way between us? The way you were with them?”

  “It will be better. You’re my bride, Bavin.”

  “And you didn’t seek them out these past days, because...?”

  His fire lit in need. “Because the memory of your smile as you confirmed you’d stand was in my mind. I couldn’t take solace in another without seeing your face, and I wouldn’t be so faithless to you.”

  Her breathing hitched. Her hand crept beneath his tunic, tracing the ridge of his cock, from base to head.

  Gawen closed his eyes, memorizing every touch. This would have to hold his fire in check until Bavin was ready for more.

  “What do you want, Gawen?” she breathed.

  “You...when you’re ready.” She deserved the truth. “I will wait for you to become comfortable with --”

  Bavin untied one set of laces on his trews, rendering him momentarily mute. “There is no need to be faithless to a willing woman.”

  Gawen leaned to her, parting her lips in a tender kiss. She met him without reservation, and her fingers worked at the tie on the other set of laces.

  He encircled her wrists with his fingers and guided her hands away, breaking off the kiss with a shake of his head. “I will not be faithless, Bavin. I cannot be. Not now.” He wouldn’t return to the widows, and there was no need for her to rush to this to prevent it. “But I will not hurry you. If you need time to --”

  “My body aches for you,” she whispered, her eyes pleading with him. “It has since I knew your intent. No one would dare try to take me from you. This I knew. I have been yours since the moment you asked if I intended to stand.”

  His mind was slow recovering from that. Gawen looked around guiltily. This wasn’t right. “Come to my bed then.” He wouldn’t spill her maiden’s blood here.

  She nodded. “Your bed. Our bed?” There was a hopeful note in that.

  His cock protested the wait. “Our bed,” he agreed.

  The walk to his home -- soon to be their home -- did nothing to cool his blood. If the glances at his raging cock were any indication, it did nothing to cool hers either.

  With the door closed behind them, Bavin rose on her toes and circled her arms around Gawen’s neck. He wrapped his hands around her waist and lifted, marveling at how his big
hands overlapped around her tiny body. He would have to be careful. Bavin was no well-used widow to be subjected to a hard pounding.

  Her lips played at his jawline, spurring Gawen to motion. He stopped at his bedside, indulging in another heated kiss, groaning at Bavin kicking away her low shoes.

  Duty intruded, and he sensed her.

  His growl of frustration brought her head back. “What is it?”

  His mind worked hard at the problem. “I will give you pleasure, Bavin.” Just you. Even spilling on her could result in a child she wasn’t prepared for.

  She smiled at that. “I trust you will, but what is wrong? What makes you grumble and growl? Am I --”

  “No. Never. It is --” She is an innocent. I must watch my words. “Your cycle, Bavin. You are fertile tonight.” If he indulged himself, she’d surely catch pregnant. He wasn’t Veriel. The last thing he’d do would to be force this on his chosen.

  Her smile disappeared. “You don’t wish a child?”

  “Of course I do. What Krieger wouldn’t want a child of his chosen?” The need was ingrained in them.

  Bavin seemed to have problems forming words. “Lay with me and explain. I fear I am lost.”

  Gawen lowered her to the bed and settled next to her, careful to keep his boot soles off the edge. Finding the words to explain his concerns wasn’t easy. It certainly wasn’t how he’d pictured their first words in their shared bed to pass.

  He forced himself on. “If I love you fully tonight, it cannot be undone, and you will likely catch pregnant from it. One doesn’t rush into creating life, Bavin.” He raised a hand to still her rising protest. “Be sure. It is all I ask. Be sure that you wish to carry my child so soon...and I will endeavor to make it a reality.” Just saying it had his cock straining at the loosened laces of his trews.