Loved By The Dragon -Book One

By B.A. Rose

Jenna Reynolds just wanted a quiet weekend to write her next book. She didn't expect to find an unconscious naked male in the woods. 

 

Arik Drake needed to get away to shift. Flying in the open area always calmed him until something shot at his dragon.

 

A chance meeting, two different, worlds, and fated mates. Soon, a danger threatens to destroy what they've found in each other.

 

Will Arik be able to stop it or lose Jenna to a century-old grudge?

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: B.A. Rose
• Release date: Jan 17, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224264483

Book preview

Chapter One

Jenna Reynolds looked around the cabin. It was only Friday afternoon and she already wanted to go back to the city. Sighing, she knew this weekend was for her to recuperate and relax. Maybe even get some new ideas. For the last five years, she had been writing non-stop and doing book tours. Proud to have over one hundred books published, she needed a break. So when her best friend and publicity agent, Ashley suggested a cabin upstate surrounded by nature, she agreed to it.

Getting up to refill her cup of coffee she looked at her lab, Charlie. He had been with her since she was a teen. It was the last gift her parents gave her before they died in a terrible car accident. If it hadn’t been for her older sister Amanda and Ashley, her best friend, she didn’t know how she could have gotten through it. Taking a sip, she looked out the window. She wasn’t one of those females who normally liked the outdoors. Still, she had to admit being here was making her relax.

Since this morning she tried to write but wasn’t getting much done so she decided to get some fresh air and take Charlie for a walk. Come on boy. We both need the exercise. Ears perked up, and Charlie got up from the floor, tail wagging. After putting on his leash, Jenna put on a heavy jacket. It was Fall but cooler upstate. Locking the door she took a deep breath of the crisp air and walked down the steps. I guess we both need this. Come on, boy. Charlie barked happily and they began to walk.

Arik *The Brave Heart* Drake flew high above the forest. He needed to shed his human form and let his dragon out. For the last four years, he lived and worked in New York. Receiving news from family in England was on his mind. He learned that a war was brewing with another clan and his father warned that he could be in danger. Growling as he flew, it would be foolish to start with him. A red and golden dragon, he was considered a fierce warrior, and his history proved it. Even though his parent’s clan were warriors they were also kind and only showed their claws when provoked.

His dragon roared, feeling happy to be free. Arik owned a home upstate for this purpose. He had no trouble in his human form but knew his dragon, Valsparus needed out so a few times a week he drove up because it was quiet and deserted. Nobody was around and he could shift and fly as long as he wanted. His mind wandered to the sexy redhead he met last night. She ended up in his bed and from her cries of pleasure, he knew she was satisfied. Early this morning, she had hinted that she wouldn’t mind joining him this weekend but he told her he was catching up on work and wouldn’t be much fun. Frowning, Arik soothed her by taking her in the shower and against the bathroom door. She left his apartment with a smile on her face.

About to turn around and go back to the house, something hit his wing. Howling out into the sky, he tried to turn but his head got fuzzy. Feeling his eyes close as he fell, he hoped he didn’t land in human form.

Jenna was enjoying her walk with Charlie. She had found a stick and threw it while he chased it. She had unclasped the leash so he could run. Laughing at him, she stopped when she heard a loud noise. It sounded like something was in pain. Looking around she didn’t see any wild animals. Charlie started barking and ran off. Charlie, come back! Where are you going? Charlie! Her heart pounding, she chased after him.

Arik had fallen to the ground and shifted back immediately. His dragon took most of the fall but he knew his ankle was broken. It would heal within a day but he felt drowsy. Closing his eyes again he fell asleep.

Charlie was still barking when Jenna caught up to him. Her eyes widened. A naked man was lying on the ground and Charlie was barking at him. Quiet down. It’s alright boy. Slowly walking over, Jenna put the leash back on him and looked at the man’s face. He was gorgeous. Black hair fell over his forehead and she knew he was unconscious. His face was chiseled with high cheekbones, full lips, and long lashes. She tried not to look but her eyes traveled downward. He was tall. Very tall, with broad shoulders and a bit of hair on his chest. His arms were muscular and she looked further to see his manhood. It was huge. Feeling slightly embarrassed, she looked away. She wondered why a naked man was in the woods unconscious.

Moving closer she looked at his legs and noticed one ankle was bent. It was broken. The wind started to blow and she had to do something. On her knees, she leaned down, pressing her ear to his chest. Thankfully, he wasn’t dead. He must have gotten knocked out but how? Why doesn’t he have clothes on? Taking her jacket off she covered him. Um, hello? You have to wake up. I can’t carry you. Jenna had her cell but knew there was no reception in the woods. Turning to Charlie she sighed. What am I going to do? Just then she heard a screech and looked up. Something big and black was circling the sky and seeing her it flew off. It looked like a big bird but what kind of bird had wings like that? Or a tail that looked like a pitchfork?

Shuddering, she heard a moan before feeling a hand on her wrist. Gasping she turned to see two blue-Grey eyes looking at her. Are you alright? I think your ankle is broken. Can you try to stand up? Arik looked into her face. It was beautiful. He saw her shiver. She was cold. He looked down to see his lower part covered. If he wasn’t in so much pain, he would have grinned. Jenna flushed lowering her eyes. I covered you. We can’t stay here. If you lean on me, I think we’ll be alright. My cabin isn’t too far away.

Charlie growled at Arik. He heard the female tell the creature to behave. Turning back he let go of her wrist. I can try to lean on my good leg. Do you think you can find a long branch? Jenna liked his accent. It was British. Looking around she shrugged. Not sure but I can try. Just give me a few minutes. Arik nodded and saw her get up. His eyes traveled up and down her body. She was curvy and he watched as she walked. What was she doing here?

Jenna told Charlie to stay and she smiled seeing him lying down with his paws in front of him. Walking a little bit, she looked for something to use as a crutch. Her mind began racing. Was she crazy to take a strange man back to her place? What if he was a serial killer or rapist? His ankle is broken, Jenna. How is he going to chase you? She also wondered what was flying in the sky. Was it some creature from a different universe? You’ve read too many sci-fi books. It was just a large bird. Just as she was about to give up, she nearly tripped. Looking down was a long branch. It wasn’t too thick so she tried pulling it. This was going to be a workout for sure.

Arik sat up and saw the dog looking at him. I’m not going to hurt you or your owner Charlie. You know what I am but I don’t hurt dogs. I promise. Holding out his hand, he saw the dog slowly move toward him. Smiling, Arik put his hand under the dog’s chin and began to rub the fur. He had to find out who the female was and why she was there alone.

Jenna wasn’t cold anymore as she started to perspire. When she saw Arik she stopped. Charlie was on his belly, his tail wagging. ‘Traitor,’ she thought to herself. Bringing it as close as she could she dropped the branch. Arik grinned seeing her flushed face. He wondered if she looked that way having sex. Calling the dog to her, Jenna stood there. We better get back. It’s going to be dark soon. By the way, I’m Jenna.

As she watched, the man pulled the branch as if it was light as a feather and grunting, pulled himself up. Her coat slipped showing his huge manhood and she turned away. You can put it on or wrap it around yourself. Arik grinned. It would hardly fit but I will cover myself so as not to make you uncomfortable. Jenna huffed, rolling her eyes, and moved closer once he was fully covered up.

With Charlie walking in front, they slowly made their way to her cabin. Jenna felt his warm breath on her and smelled his earthy scent. It was like the burning embers of a fireplace and woodsy at the same time. Arik looked down at her. He was a foot taller. I’ve been rude. My name is Arik. Very nice to meet you Jenna even under these circumstances.

Looking up at him she nodded. What happened? How did you end up naked and unconscious with a broken ankle? He wasn’t sure how to explain. Well, I have a house here and sometimes I like to take a swim in the lake. Normally, it’s quiet this time of year so I go naked. Not sure how I got knocked out or broke my ankle but I’m thankful that you found me. What are you doing here?

Jenna didn’t buy that story for a minute. Deciding to let it be she said, I’m taking a much-needed break. I rented a cabin and was enjoying a walk with Charlie. It’s not much farther. She turned away and Arik looked at her profile. Brains and beauty. He knew she didn’t believe him.

When they got to her cabin, she looked up at the steps. Are you going to be able to climb them? Arik had dealt with worse pain than a broken ankle in his fights. It was already hurting less. I think so. Just let me lean on you a bit. I promise not to put my full weight. Jenna nodded and took the leash off of Charlie. Go up, boy. We’ll be there in a bit. Arik held her around and felt her arm go around his waist. It felt warm and his member reacted. ‘Too bad we didn’t meet under other circumstances.’ He would have loved to have her in his bed.

Twenty minutes later, they walked into the cabin. Jenna saw him hobble to the sofa and sit down, leaning his head back. Would you like some coffee or tea? I should call the office to see if they have a doctor. It will take a while to get here but I can tend to your ankle until they do. Arik smiled at her. Thank you. Tea would be fine. I believe the office closes early today. From the chill, a storm seems to be brewing. Do you have a first aid kit? He needed to make himself act more like a human even though the injury would heal on his own.

Jenna put up the kettle and went into the bathroom. Under the cabinet was the kit. Before she came back she went to her room to grab some sweats and a t-shirt for him. They belonged to her ex and sometimes she wore them to remember the good times. Even if they were big on her. Walking into the living room she saw Charlie sitting next to Arik, his head on his lap. Seems my dog has taken a liking to you.

Smiling at her, Arik nodded. Animals and I get along well. I think the kettle is boiling. She heard it whistle and after handing him the clothes, went to fill the mugs. She saw him pulling on the sweats. His back was as sexy as his front. They were a little snug but at least he was dressed. The shirt was tight on him but he didn’t take it off. Handing him a mug she set hers down. She sat on the coffee table. Okay, let’s see what I can do to help you. Opening the first aid kit she put some things aside. Taking his foot she looked up. I’ll move your ankle now. Tell me if it hurts.

Arik watched as she inspected his foot. He liked how gentle she was and how she made sure not to cause more pain. Her face was serious as she moved his ankle. I thought it was broken but now not so sure. It’s swollen though. Going to clean it and then bandage it. I’ll give you a pack of frozen peas to use as an ice pack.

Looking up she saw him grin. What’s so funny? Smiling, with straight white teeth and eyes shining he said, You have frozen peas in your freezer? Jenna gave him a look. I happen to like peas and was going to make stew tonight. Looking down, she began to wash his foot and bandage it. Arik couldn’t stop staring at her. His dragon liked her too. He wished she would touch him everywhere. When she finished she sat back and took a sip of her tea. Okay, you can sleep on the sofa. Unless you have some way of getting to your place.

Arik looked at her. If you don’t mind I take the sofa. Thank you again for helping me. Not sure many would have. Especially a lone female walking in the woods. Jenna stood up, closing the first aid kit. Well, I’m not like other women. Plus, you were hurt so if I ran, how would you even catch up? Arik sipped his tea thinking to himself. ‘I would catch you in a heartbeat.’ Jenna suddenly feeling nervous said, I better start on dinner. Why don’t you relax. Arik nodded, yawning, and moved to lie down. He was so tall his lower legs hung over the arm of the sofa. Jenna laughed quietly and went to the kitchen. Giving him the frozen peas she went back inside to start cooking.

Smells of meat and spices filled the room and Arik opened his eyes to see rain falling steadily. Charlie was on the floor, sleeping next to him. He was starving. Moving his ankle it felt even better. Sitting up he went to stand. Suddenly an arm went around him. Oh no you don’t. Let me help you. Dinner is ready. Jenna was glad she decided to cook. It gave her time to think about this situation. Being a writer of romance and mysteries, she wondered what Arik was hiding. As she cut the vegetables earlier, she looked over to see him sleeping again. He was so handsome. Surely, someone was missing him. His story didn’t add up either. The lake wasn’t nearby and if he did want to swim naked, surely he would have clothes to change into after. No, something was off.

Helping Arik to the table she felt his warm hand on her waist. It sent heat through her body. Since breaking up with her ex, she hadn’t had anyone in her bed. Finding out he had cheated made her more cautious. Now though, she wondered what Arik would be like. She was in thought when she felt him move away to sit down. Feeling her cheeks warm up she turned to get the stew and bring it to the table.

Arik knew she was attracted to him. He felt the same towards her. Her warmth had his dragon growling. He wanted her too. Seeing her face redden proved she was thinking about him. Smiling he saw her bring the food. Taking her hand, her eyes widened. Let me serve you. It’s the least I can do. Smiling, she sat as he ladled out a portion. Placing a slice of bread next to it, he went to serve himself. Jenna was happy she made a lot because he filled his bowl to the brim. She expected he had a huge appetite and wondered if it included the bedroom.

Charlie had his own food and the three began to eat. Jenna watched quietly, as Arik ate. He enjoyed the food and she smiled to herself. She had a healthy appetite herself and she had always been a bit curvier than her sister. Arik knew she was watching him. Looking up he saw her cheeks flush. He smiled wiping his mouth. This stew is delicious Jenna. Where did you learn to cook? She smiled. My mother and father were both chefs. They owned a small restaurant. I would help out in the kitchen when I was a kid. My sister would help serve the customers. Looking down she felt her eyes tearing up. Those were great times. She missed them so much.

Arik saw her face change. Have I said something wrong? I apologize if I did. Wiping a tear away she looked up. No. You’re fine. It made me think of them. Arik put his large hand over hers. Are they gone? Nodding she put her head down again. He wanted to take her in his arms and soothe her. His fingers threaded through hers as his thumb stroked her hand. It’s okay to miss them. They sound like good people. Looking up she wiped her eyes. They were. I miss them a lot. Arik looked into her face. His hand moved up to move a strand of hair away. I’m sorry.

Jenna looked into his eyes which seemed to glow and sighed. You didn’t know. I better clean up unless you want more. There’s plenty left on the stove. Smiling, he knew she wouldn’t tell him what happened. He was a stranger. Not for long though. That would be great if you’re sure you don’t want it for tomorrow? Standing up, she nodded and took her bowl and his to get more stew.

Later that night, with the fireplace blazing, they drank hot chocolate. She asked him a lot of questions and he had to be careful. Being human, she wouldn’t understand what a dragon shifter was. She yawned and he took her mug setting it down. Why don’t you turn in? I’m feeling a lot better. Thank you for everything, Jenna.

Standing up, she smiled and patted for Charlie to follow. Goodnight Arik. If you need anything just call out. I’m a light sleeper. Come on, boy. Let’s get go inside. Walking toward the bedroom, Arik watched, wishing he was going in there with her. He lay back remembering he needed to get in touch with his brother. He would do it in the morning.

Chapter Two

Torin had just shifted back to human form when he heard his brother in his head, calling his name. Growling, he sat on a bench. ‘ Where the hell have you been? I’ve been trying to get in touch with you. I know you like mingling with your little human females but we’re at war. Father should have never allowed you to leave.’ Arik knew his brother had been more worried than angry. Older by a few years, he was always the protector when they were growing up. Still played that role sometimes.

‘I’m not in bed though I am with a female. Not the way you think. I was hit while flying and knocked unconscious. Jenna found me and am at her cabin recuperating.’ Torin growled louder, his eyes turning red. ‘Did you see anything before you fell to the ground? What creature was it brother? You need to return to England. It’s not safe for you to be so far away. Did the human see you in Dragon form? Jenna?’

Arik groaned. He liked living in New York. It was fast-paced and he had a successful business. ‘Yes, her name is Jenna. No, she didn’t. I was naked though and she covered me.’ He chuckled and got a growl for it. ‘You should be fully healed by now little brother. Time to say thank you and leave.’ Hearing a door open, Arik turned to see Jenna walk out smiling. She looked tired. ‘I’ll leave later. Jenna is awake. Can’t talk more. Tell Dad and Mum I’m fine. Later big brother.’ Torin shook his head exasperated. He’s going to be the death of me one day. Standing up he was going to find his parents and inform them that Arik was alright.

Jenna hadn’t slept well. She was having dreams of Dragons and a large Black one flying toward her. Its eyes were crimson red and its claws sharp like razors. It had shaken her so badly that she stayed awake. Charlie padded over to Arik, his tail wagging. Jenna saw him pet the dog and he appeared to be concentrating. What was he thinking about? She had no business knowing. After today, he would be leaving. She turned to fill the coffee maker, thinking it was nice to have male company, even in this strange circumstance.

Arik turned and petted Charlie’s head. Morning boy. How are you today? Giving a lick, Charlie put his head on Arik’s lap. Chuckling he turned to see Jenna pouring coffee grounds into the machine. How are you, Jenna? Sleep well? He knew she hadn’t by the circles under her eyes. I’m okay. Just had a weird dream. How are you feeling? Ankle better? Moving the blanket, he looked down. It was fully healed but he didn’t want her to know as she would get suspicious. Dragons had strong healing powers. Feeling a bit stiff but not swollen. Thank you.

Smiling, she turned back to turn on the coffeemaker feeling his eyes on her. Why did she think he was hiding something? Arik tried to stand and though he could, moved slowly. He didn’t want to leave the female. Something about her called to him. It was the first time in a century that he had felt this way. The last time it was Sela. After her death, he swore never to love again. Taking a seat at the table, he watched her. She was very beautiful and the sunlight made her hair shine. Going to the refrigerator, she bent, looking for food and he held his breath as her curvy ass had him wishing he was grabbing onto it as he thrust into her warmth.

Jenna turned to see him watching, her hands full of eggs, bread, cheese, and milk. The look in his eyes almost made her drop everything. She knew desire when she saw it. Lowering her eyes she walked over to the counter to start cooking. I hope you like eggs. I‘m going to go into town to get some more groceries today. Arik liked how her cheeks flushed and he wondered how her full lips would taste. It’s fine. I can help if you want. I make a mean omelet. Do you have vegetables and breakfast meat? Smiling she turned to take out some tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions. From the freezer, she pulled a pack of sausage.

An hour later, they were eating large sausage and vegetable omelets with toast. Your whole family lives in England? What made you want to live here? Taking a bite of the food, Arik wiped his mouth. I had been here with my family on holiday when I was a kid and fell in love with New York. The bustle, the noise, even the people. I knew then that I was going to come back. I still go home a few times a year. Jenna sipped her coffee. It felt so natural sitting here with him. Though she just met him yesterday, it didn’t feel that way.

Biting into a slice of toast he looked at her. Have you always lived here? Nodding she put her mug down. Well, not in the city. My family and I lived in New Jersey. I moved to New York permanently after college. It’s the best place to be in my field. Looking at her, he waited to hear what she did for a living. Jenna saw his face and laughed. Sorry, I’m a writer. Actually came up here this weekend to relax and maybe come up with a new story. Decided to take a walk with Charlie and well you know the rest.

Grinning, Arik picked up his mug. Here’s to our interesting meeting. As much as my ankle hurt, I’m very glad we met. He looked at her the same way as before and she smiled, clicking her cup to his. Glad I was there to save you from frostbite. He chuckled, and she laughed. He wanted to know her better. Do you have a boyfriend? Jenna was taken aback for a moment.

Right to the point huh? At the moment I don’t. Those clothes were my ex’s. It’s been a while. I’ve been concentrating on my career. What about you? I’m sure you have loads of females falling at your feet. What do you do for a living? Arik had the decency to look embarrassed. I haven’t been in a relationship for a very long time. There have been some women, but nothing permanent. I have a business. Very profitable. Jenna nodded and took a bite of her omelet. He didn’t tell her what kind of business.

Arik needed to get to know her better. He couldn’t let her go. Leaning forward he placed his hand on hers. Looking up, she was about to speak when his fingers touched her lips. I know we just met but would you like to have dinner with me when we get back to the city? I promise to be a perfect gentleman. He smiled and Jenna felt her heart beating fast. Moving his fingers away he waited for her to speak. Her lips tingled from his touch.

She wondered why he wanted to take her out. He was gorgeous, successful, and very sexy. Standing up, she took her plate to the sink. I don’t know Arik. Not sure it’s a good idea. Why don’t we just stay friends? For now.

He should have felt upset but he didn’t. Wanting to get closer to her he would start as friends. Once she trusted him, hopefully, they would become more. He didn’t care that she was human. He didn’t want to let her go. His Dragon roared and he felt it trying to push out. That’s fine Jenna. If you don’t mind, I think I’ll take a shower. Slowly walking to the bathroom, she watched until she heard the door close. She thought that he accepted her saying no to him too easily. Something was definitely off. She just wished she knew what.

Her cell rang and picking it up saw it was her sister. Hey, Mandy. Everything alright? Hearing her sister sigh, she knew it wasn’t. I haven’t heard from you since yesterday morning. What the hell Jen? Having Arik here she completely forgot to call her. Shit, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to make you worry. There was a situation, and I had to take care of it. Hearing silence she knew Amanda was thinking. Always the more serious one, she had taken over as both parents when theirs died. Only two years apart, Jenna wished she would stop worrying about her. Who is he, Jen? Has to be a guy.

Wanting to laugh, she held back. It’s not like that. I was taking a walk with Charlie and there he was. Unconscious. I couldn’t leave him, and his ankle was broken. Well, seemed broken. Only sprained. Anyway, he spent the night with me. Not with me. Slept on the sofa. Don’t worry. He’s not a serial killer. Even Charlie likes him and you know how he is with strangers. Hearing a groan, she sat down. Amanda loved Jenna but sometimes she was too trusting. I just worry. You’re my baby sister. If anything happened to you, I don’t know what…

Jenna heard the bathroom door opening. I promise you I’m fine. Gotta go. Arik is out of the shower. I promise to call you later. Love you, Mandy. She clicked off before her sister said goodbye and turned, her eyes wide seeing him in a towel, water dripping from his black wavy hair.

In the shower, Arik thought about Jenna. His Dragon had tried to push itself out and that hasn’t happened since Sela. Talking to it, he finally calmed the beast. Dammit! I want her, and one date wouldn’t hurt, but a human mate? It doesn’t bother me but she might have a problem. I could just see it now. Jenna, I’m a dragon shifter. Will you be my mate for eternity? Leaning his head against the wall, he groaned. His mind knew it was out of the question but his body said otherwise. Looking down, he saw his huge erection. Bloody hell. Thankful the bathroom was further down the hall, his hand