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

myself for what would be a long two hours. I sprayed water on the side cover and

back in. From his stance, something seemed off. We couldn't communicate through mind link, so I couldn't ask what was

wet sanding - was complete, and I grabbed the polisher from

on, it's just dinner!"

My patience was wearing dangerously thin as I struggled not to lose my temper. In my mind,

reality. The polisher in my hand had created sparks, and I quickly pulled it away, checking

you'll be leaving with an unfinished bike." I continued

unhappy but managed to limit himself to grumbling under his breath, which I chose to ignore. Internally, I was restless, wanting to finish this quickly and return to my own space, away from these men and their

was done. "I'll take

said, examining

the photo, I turned to leave, but Dorian grabbed my hand. "I'm taking you out.

Now leave." I

one to give up easily. "I'm not giving you a choice." He grabbed my arm again, his grip too tight. I

given him a chance-I thought I'd been merciful enough-but

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Chapter 27

I fumbled for the counter to steady myself. I heard Ryder throw Dorian out and lock the door. Dorian pounded on

I opened my eyes, Ryder had pulled down the blinds and turned

sign.

me, taking my hand in his. His tenderness surprised me. My heart

withdrew my hand and walked to

confused.

you get guys like that

many. My reputation usually keeps men away." I thought of the men

"I see."

counter and began working

the door, taking out his phone

almost done. I'll drive you home," I