Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 27

Xena's

"For the sake of maintaining peace between Logan and the packs, we need to get along. And protecting you is part of the job." His words stung like a slap across my face.

"Protecting? Job?" I challenged, my voice sharp as a blade.

"Yes," Ryder replied, his expression unreadable.

"Protecting me from what, exactly?" I could feel my pulse quickening, anger spreading through my veins like wildfire.

"Any potential threats."

"Like being ambushed in the women's restroom?" I knew it was a low blow, but he'd pissed me off first. My insides churned with indignation and rage, hating the feeling of being treated like some helpless damsel.

His green eyes narrowed. "Yeah."

Thankfully, my last client of the day walked in just then. The guy was human, so we couldn't continue our wolf pack discussion. Ryder left the shop with clear displeasure written across his face, choosing to wait outside.

My final customer was Dorian, freshly eighteen, who wanted a cross with a sunset background painted on his bike to commemorate his sister who'd died in a car accident. The paint job was already done from our previous session; today was for the final polish.

"This should be our last meeting," I smiled at him as he walked his Honda CB650R into the modification area.

"Great," he replied, his voice tinged with poorly disguised excitement.

Because of my work, I had to deal with this human jock who thought he was God's gift to women. I hated the feeling of being forced to be near a man with an inflated ego.

"Are you going to accept my date invitation now?" He ran his fingers through his golden hair, flashing what he clearly thought was a charming bad-boy smile.

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Chapter 27

what would be a long two hours.

something seemed off. We couldn't communicate through mind link, so I couldn't ask

sanding - was complete, and I

dinner!" Dorian leaned in

I said no." My patience was wearing dangerously thin as I struggled not to lose my temper. In my mind, I was calculating

Dorian's sudden shout snapped me back to reality. The polisher in my hand had created sparks, and I quickly pulled it away, checking if I'd damaged

and let me finish my work, or you'll be leaving with an unfinished bike." I continued

chose to ignore. Internally, I was restless, wanting to finish this quickly and return to my own space, away

was done. "I'll take a

good," Dorian said, examining

turned to leave, but Dorian

believe I said no. Now leave." I yanked my hand away and

choice." He grabbed my arm again, his

thought I'd been merciful enough-but now he needed a

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Chapter 27

the face. Pain tore through my hand, intense enough to momentarily blacken my vision. I fumbled for the counter to steady myself. I heard Ryder throw Dorian out and lock the door. Dorian

down the blinds and turned off

sign.

surprised me. My heart skipped a beat, unsure how to respond to this unexpected

walked to a chair, sitting

confused.

you get guys like that often?"

away." I thought of the men who

"I see."

counter and began working

out his phone while

done. I'll drive you