Fantasy Romance Collection (Paranormal Fantasy Romance Boxed Set)

Fantasy Romance Boxed Set

© 2014, Lexi Lane and Friends

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All rights reserved under the International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, incidents, locations and places are solely the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, including events, organizations, companies, locales, areas and situations is entirely coincidental. All sexually active characters in this work are 18 years of age or older.

This book is for sale to ADULT AUDIENCES ONLY. It contains substantial sexually explicit scenes, graphic language and may be considered offensive by some readers.  Please store your files including this book where they cannot be accessed by minors.

Table of Contents

Forgotten by A. Hayes

Bad Wolf, Be Good by M. Keep

Whatever He Needs Her To Be By Elixa Everett

Prisoner In The Well by Lexi Lane

Cuff The Wolves by Skye Eagleday

The Sorceress And Her Apprentice by Carl East

Forgotten

By A. Hayes

––––––––

A soft, shrill screech pierced in through the open window of the cottage. Lilly knew that sound.

A joyous smile lifted her lips, and she grabbed a shawl, about to skip out the front door, when she heard her father's gruff voice behind her.

And where are you off to, lass? He growled. He was sitting in his chair, a tankard of wine in his grasp. Lilly's heart sank; she'd thought he'd been lulled to sleep by the drink and the warm, blazing fire in the hearth.

I..I must get some herbs from the garden, father, she said, head bowed. She heard him grunt.

Herbs? What need have we of herbs this time of night? Best sit and get back to your knitting; I won't have you hopping about in the dark and risk you being gobbled by goblins!

Lilly's heart sunk even further, as she slowly pulled off her shawl again, and went back to her own chair, where the knitting lay. As she sat, she stared longingly at the far window.

A few minutes later, there came that sound again, louder this time, and she tried not to start guiltily.

What infernal creature makes such a noise! Grumbled her father, as he poured more wine into his cup and slugged it down his throat. Lilly made no sound, head bent to her knitting, her heart heavy. After some time, her head shot up as she heard a snore emanate from her father. Her eyes fell hopefully on his face, and she saw that he had slept, head fallen to the side as the tankard was held precariously in his slack fingers.

She wasted no time, but took the cup from his loose grasp and placed it on his table. She knew from experience that he'd be out till morning. It was all she could do not to dash from the room. Instead, she quietly took up her shawl and tiptoed to the door. She opened it as soft as she could, and escaped into the sweet night air, closing the door carefully after her.

And now, she was free. With a happy inner laugh, she flew from the cottage, down the path that went through the fields and into the moonlit forest. It was not far now. She was now by the brook, and looked around hopefully. But there was no one.

Was she too late? She wondered with a sinking heart. Where was he?

Moments later, she felt two strong arms grab around her waist from behind, making her squeal in delight.

Edward! She cried, turning in his arms and embracing him tightly. I thought you'd grown tired of waiting, and had gone.

His sweet affection beamed down upon her face. Oh ye of fickle faith, he reprimanded, though a grin slashed his handsome face. He pressed tender lips to hers in a kiss that was soft and sweet.

I would have waited all night if need be, for a glimpse of my lovely Lilly.

The maiden's heart swelled with happiness as she looked to her tender lover. How handsome he was, with his jet-black hair that glinted in the moonlight, and his square-cut face, bronzed from many days in the sun tending his fold. He was a shepherd, and she loved him dearly. Alas, her father did not approve, forcing them to meet in secret whenever they could.

Come, my love, he said deeply, drawing back from her lips in reluctance, as he took her hand and began to lead her away. I have a little surprise.

What is it, Edward? She smiled, so happy her heart felt it would burst. She went where he led, past the low-hanging oaks surrounding the brook, and down to a shaded grove.

How beautiful it looked in the light of the moon, like a little pocket of paradise. On the grass he'd spread a blanket, and upon it sat a flagon of wine, a dish of meats, and some fruit in a bowl. Lilly sighed deeply in happiness, as she turned to give him with a grateful smile.

How grand it is, Edward! Our very own feast beneath the stars, she said, arms wrapped around his neck in a loving embrace. She felt his hands tighten on her waist as she kissed him tenderly in thanks. She made to draw away, but his arms drew her close again.

I missed you, my sweet maiden, he growled, and his eyes flashed a blazing hazel. Three nights you couldn't come to me. But now we're here, alone with nothing but the trees and night creatures to watch over us. Indeed I will have you now, or burst.

And with those words, he swooped down to capture her lips in a hungry kiss.

Lilly gasped, melting into him as he crushed her soft, slim body against the hard length of his. He kissed her strongly, his hands smoothing up and down her trembling curves. She felt thrilled yet a bit frightened by his ardor. How heated was his touch! She felt his hand dip into her low bodice and cup her young, thrusting breast, which he stroked and squeezed with passion.

Edward, she sighed, her body ignited by his hungered caresses. Her head tipped back as his lips trailed warmly down her arched neck, his tongue lapping at her skin She clutched his strong, muscled arms for support as she felt her knees shiver beneath her as just then, his questing mouth found her exposed nipple. He took it into his mouth, and she moaned, the sound echoing in the silent night air.

By this time she could barely stand, and was indeed glad to be scooped into his powerful arms. He lowered her gently to the blanket, his mouth still latched to her breast. She could do naught but writhe beneath him as he suckled and stroked her heaving mounds. He half crushed her with his weight, but she didn't - couldn't protest, lost in the blissful moment. However, when she felt his hand slip beneath her skirts, she could not help but stiffen.

Easy, my sweet Lilly, Edward said in a soothing tone as he lifted his head from the sweet tip at her breast. I would not hurt you. A fire rages in my loins to claim you as mine, but I promise to be gentle. I will be but a ladle stirring gently within your bubbling honeypot...

And oh, how she bubbled, Lilly realized, as she felt his fingers stroke gently along the slit between her thighs. She fairly flowed with the juices drawn forth by his kisses and caresses. How she quivered beneath his bold touch, her whole body set ablaze by the sweet torture of his knowing fingers probing hungrily past her moistened folds. He slipped one finger, then another into her, and she gasped with pleasure at the tender intrusion.

So tight...so hot and ready for my taking, her lover growled, his face buried in her neck as he inhaled deeply, as if to drink in her very scent. You've bewitched me, sweet Lilly; my heart is yours now and always. Indeed I would give my very soul to have you as mine. Tell me your love is as deep as that which I have for you.

He raised his head to look upon her face, so lovely and mirrored in the moonlight, her long wavy brown hair spilled about her on the blanket. How he wished he could steal her away, take her with him to the other side of the world where no one could come between them.

Her hands lifted to hold the sides of his face, her green eyes filled with adoration. You know it is, Edward. I love you more, far more than anything on this earth, even myself. I think I would die if I lost you.

And you never will, my precious. I am yours till the end of time, he said deeply. So now sweet Lilly, let us seal our vows, and be bound as one before the blessed stars.

With these words, he reached to undo his bulging breeches, but was stilled by the small white hand, which fell over his.

No, Edward, she told him softly, but firmly. She hated to refuse him anything, but caution prevailed upon the wildness of the want, that surged between them.

What is it, Lilly? he asked with tenderness. Do you not trust me? Or maybe... you do not want me?

She chuckled softly, and not unkindly. My very pussy drips with need to be filled to the hilt with your raging cock. But yet, we must wait, dear Edward.

Wait... he echoed, even as his eyes sharpened in suspicion. Could it be that you hold back for that rich cloth merchant your father would have you wed to? Do you keep your maidenhead to give to the highest bidder?

He saw that he had hurt her with his bitter words, saw the shadow come over her beautiful eyes. Edward wished to take it all back, but it had been said. A few moments of silence passed before he spoke again.

I am sorry, Lilly. I know it is not true. And I know that you truly love me. Perhaps the time is not right, and you are not ready. He lifted a hand to cup her cheek, his touch possessive yet kind.

I will prove my love to Lilly, he vowed. What ever it takes; even if I have to slave the hours of day and night, I will prove myself worthy to have you.

At last, she responded, shaking her head as a precious tear spilled from her lowered lids. You are worthy, more than any man of wealth or standing in all the village. Your love for me is true, and I know it. I just need more time. But soon, my love...

Those last four words put the song back in his heart, and he grinned happily, his dark mood dispelled as he planted a quick kiss of tenderness to her lips.

Now, our feast awaits! he said with a flourish, as he poured out their wine. They drank, they ate, and then she settled down beside him on the blankets, held tight in his embrace as they stayed that way till dawn.

***

There was shouting and clamoring all around her. Lilly awoke with a start to find herself surrounded by armed soldiers, the light from their lamps almost blinding her as she sat up on the blankets in alarm. She looked about her, frightened, and saw that three soldiers held her dear Edward, pushing him to his knees as they twisted his arms behind his back.

Don't you dare touch her! Edward roared, struggling against their binds.

Silence, fool! said the head soldier, a hefty and tall figure with squinting eyes that roved over the confused Lilly.

What's...what's going on? she cried, struggling to her feet. We have done nothing wrong! Why do you attack us?

Don't worry, we haven't harmed your dear lover, the soldier mocked. But if you don't come quietly with us, he will be sure to lose a few precious digits. I'm sure he'll miss the use of a finger or two when we're done with him.

No! Don't hurt him, Lilly cried desperately. Just please, tell me what you want with me?

It is not I who want you - but the King!

The King? both Lilly and Edward echoed, sharing a glance of shock and dismay.

Yes, the head soldier snarled. As we speak, your father lies in the palace dungeons, captured this morning. His debt to the realm has been long overdue, and today we came to collect. He made some mighty claims about you, sweet maiden, the soldier said with curling lips. Said you can spin straw into pure gold.

What! Lilly cried, aghast. Oh, what had her drunk and foolish father gotten her into now? Her heart quailed as she faced the hard-eyed group of soldiers. How on earth was she going to get out of this mess?

You waste our time, the head soldier growled. Men, grab her.

At once, two soldiers were at her side, each taking one arm and dragging her roughly. Lilly saw Edward surge forward in fury, only to be knocked down by a blow to the head, from the weapon of the soldier close to him.

She saw him fall senseless to the floor, and let out a cry. The soldiers carried her away, and the last glimpse she had of her dear lover was of him lying face down in the woods.

* * *

His Majesty’s command was simple.

You will be shut in a tower room with nothing but a spinning wheel. Each night, you will be given straw, which must be spun into gold by morning. This you must do for three nights, or be executed.

Those words rang over and over in the maiden’s head as she sat alone in the tower that night, surrounded by a heap of straw, the spinning wheel next to her in the otherwise empty and cold room. There was only one tiny window, which was much too high for her to see through, no matter how she stretched herself to look.

Needless to say, her heart was heavy. She knew not where to start, nor how she was ever going to accomplish the King’s merciless decree. How on earth was she, a simple poor maiden, to spin this mountain of straw into gold, with a mere wooden spinning wheel?

Such tears she shed as she sat there, her body racked by shudders every time she remembered the fate which awaited her by morning, when the King will find out that she had no spun gold waiting for him.

She was not afraid of death. But her soul did cry out at the thought of not seeing her dear Edward, of not knowing if he yet lived. Had that violent blow from the soldier’s truncheon killed him? Could he still be lying helpless and alone in the woods where they had kissed and danced and loved?

How dearly she wished that she had given herself to him last night! It seemed like a century ago now. And she could never go back in time, no matter how much she wanted to.

I’d give anything – oh, anything! – to have this straw spun into gold, she cried out suddenly in desperation, slipping to the floor as she felt overwhelmed by grief. She sobbed helplessly for a full minute, oblivious to the small figure that slipped, just then, into the tower from the open window. It dropped to the floor with a soft thud.

What would you give, sweet maiden, if I could spin your gold for you?

At the sound of that coarse little voice, Lilly’s head shot up from her arms in surprise. She looked upon the impish creature before her in amazement. Who are you?

Never mind that, the imp said, waving a small hand in the air. I asked, what would you give, for me to help spin all that straw into pure gold for the King?

Oh, I would give anything you desire! the desperate maiden said.

He smiled, showing blackened, misshaped teeth. Tonight, I desire...

His beady little eyes strayed over the maiden, and after a blink or two, he added, I desire your little necklace!

Lilly was surprised; it was but a humble locket, given to her by her dead mother. But she didn’t think twice before taking it from her neck and handing it to him at once.

In a trice, it disappeared into his pocket. And now, I spin!

With a quick snap of his knobby legs, he moved to the spinning wheel.

Lilly watched on in amazement, as he seemed to work in a blur of movements. The huge heap of straw grew smaller, and smaller until an hour before dawn, he had finally finished. A comely stack of gold lay spun at his side, and there was not a wisp of straw left on the ground.

Oh thank you, dear imp! Lilly cried, joyous.

She suddenly heard the bars outside her door being lifted, and she glanced at the doorway in fear. Before she could blink, the imp was gone, disappearing through the window. Moments later the door burst open and the King stood in the doorway, several guards surrounding him.

Do you have my gold, maiden? he asked in his booming voice, and Lilly simply nodded, pointing to the glinting pile lying next to the wheel.

The King roared with satisfied laughter, as his men gathered up the gold.

You have two more nights, were the King’s ominous words, before he swept out, followed by the guards.

Soon after, Lilly was brought some food and drink. She thanked the guard who supplied it, and seeing that he had a kind face, drew up courage to ask if her father was all right.

He is doing well enough in his own cell, the guard shrugged, moving to the door. I think he’s far better off than you are at present, fine maiden. So I suggest you worry more about how you’ll be spinning up your next bale of straw.

Even as he spoke, more guards entered with heaps of straw even more plentiful than the one of the night before. Lilly’s appetite fled as once more she was faced with the reality of her dreadful position.

Left alone once again, her heart turned to the thought of her dear Edward. If he was alive, did he miss her? Did he wonder the plight she was in? How she pined for him in that lonely tower room, as she recalled every little kiss from his lips, every touch from his big, gentle hands.

She remembered how his fingers had dunked into her liquid core time and again, questing and tormenting at the same time. She had wanted him so much, and yet, she had denied him. It was a mistake she felt she would rue for the rest of her life. Which wouldn’t be that long anyway, she realized, as she stared in dismay at the mountainous straw before her.

Two more nights...

***

Edward was awoken by the feather-like touch on his cheek. Raising his head, he looked groggily about him, and saw that he was still lying in the forest. It was broad daylight now. A tiny winged creature flitted before his face, causing him to sit up in surprise.

Hello Edward, the fairy said. She was such a small inkling of a person, dressed in wispy folds of apple blossoms.

Who are you?

My name is Meliora, and I am come from Aurora, she said with a smile and a musical laugh. She flew about him, and he turned his head to follow her movement, only to groan aloud as he felt the pain throb at his temple.

Suddenly he remembered everything, about Lilly being taken just as he tried to save her and was knocked down.

Oh no, Lilly! he cried, rushing to his feet. I must find her and help her...

Calm my dear Edward, the fairy Meliora replied, coming to hover before him, and stopping him from dashing off.

She is locked in the palace tower, where you can’t reach her. Already, one night has passed, and she still has two more.

But how on earth...

Be silent, Edward, and listen. You are a kind shepherd, with no harm or foul in her heart. I have come to help but and if you do everything I ask, all will be well...

***

How quickly night came! The hours flew dreadfully by up in that tower, where Lilly sat alone and afraid. The mountain of straw was as high and copious as ever – not one strand had she managed to spin into gold.

Once again, she thought of her sweet love Edward, and how worried he must be for her safety. She was so filled with despair, that she didn’t know when the following words burst frantically from her lips,

I’d give anything – oh, anything! – to have this straw spun into gold!

As if by magic, in came the imp, tumbling from the window.

Lilly jumped to her feet when he appeared, her hands clasped to her chest as she looked hopefully at the little man.

Well, maiden, what would you give if I could spin this pile of straw into gold? he asked in his rough and raspy voice.

Anything, oh anything you desire! was her instant reply.

As he had the night before, he roved his black and button-like eyes all over her frame, and with a blink or two, he replied, Tonight, I desire...your precious ring!

Lilly looked down in surprise, and saw that he meant her little gemstone ring, a mere bauble. Without a word, she pushed it into his little hand, not even thinking twice.

And now, to spinning! he announced, right after the ring had vanished within his pockets.

For the second time, Lilly could only watch in wonder, as the imp went quickly through the straw, reducing it to nothing right before her eyes.

Oh, thank you, imp, thank you! she gushed, almost skipping around in glee when she saw the spun gold. This is the second time you have helped me. And I still have one more night. But I’m afraid, tomorrow I will have nothing to offer you, she added, a worried frown creasing her smooth forehead.

She had no more trinkets to give her little helper, and wondered how she could possibly entice him to come the following night.

A sweet maiden such as you will always have something to offer, I think, the imp said, looking at her with such intensity that Lilly was somewhat alarmed.

She searched about herself, looking into her pockets, though she knew there would be nothing. What could this imp mean?

Truly, I have nothing, she said.

Well then; do you know my name? the imp asked, surprising her.

How can I? You never told me, she replied, shrugging.

Good, good. You have till the nightfall of the last day to guess what I’m called. And he turned to jump out of the window.

Wait! Lilly cried. What if I do not succeed in guessing your name?

He already had one leg over the window frame, and he turned to her with an evil, cruel smile. Why then, I will have to take the one thing left of yours that’s of any worth to me.

Lilly looked at him in confusion. But, what could that be?

Why, your virginity, dear maiden, the imp crowed, before letting out a cackling laugh. His eyes were cold like the stone that lined the riverbanks, and his twisted lips were contorted into a sharp and dreadful smile.

Two nights I’ve worked hard and fast to spin your straw, asking for nothing in return but your cheap little trinkets. Well, tomorrow, after I spin your last bale of straw, you will be given three guesses. And if you can not tell me my real name, then your sweet maidenhead shall be pierced and torn beneath my shaft!

Those were the last words she heard from the imp before he scaled out the window.

***

Edward was understandably furious when the fairy Meliora told him the latest development.

I’m going off to the castle right now! the shepherd fumed. And once I get my hands on that nasty little...

Edward, you must calm yourself, Meliora chided. They were in the field, out where Edward watched his flock.

How can I? he growled, the muscles in his arms flexing as he balled his fists, looking ready to smash something. The girl I love is trapped in some tower, at the mercy of a greedy King – and now, a certain imp intends to deflower her before the night is through!

But only if she can’t guess his real name, Meliora reminded him. She’ll have three chances to try.

Well, that’s a chance she can not take not, Edward said bitterly, grinding his teeth. He hadn’t slept or eaten since Lilly was taken. And if that imp succeeded in having his way...

You promised to help me, he said accusingly, turning to the flitting fairy. How can I rescue my dear Lilly from the imp’s evil game?

The fairy paused thoughtfully, Well, I did follow him to find out where he lives...

Can you take me there? Edward pleaded, eyes gleaming with hope. If he could but get his hands around the imp’s neck, he’d...

As if reading his mind, she shook her head at him, her expression reprimanding. Remember, Edward, we still need him to spin the last batch of straw tonight. There’s no way he must guess that we know where he lives.

Edward looked so crestfallen, that she felt desperate to console him. I’ll return to his little hidden cottage and see if I can find out anything. Don’t worry, Edward. We will save your dear maiden.

***

Deep, deep within the forest, at the end of a winding path which no other human feet but his had wended, was the imp’s tiny cottage.

The imp was inside, busy placing logs of wood into the grate that stood in the middle of the small cottage floor. Every few minutes, he rubbed his hands together with glee at the thought of taking the virgin maiden for himself, and his little eyes gleamed with lust.

At last, he had a great fire roaring, warming up the dark and cold little room. In a few minutes, as if unable to contain his inner delight any longer, he began to skip and dance around the