Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 49

Xena's POV

"Have you invited the Darkthorn Pack to the children's gathering?" Dad asked.

"Of course I did. It's the polite thing to do," Martha replied sweetly.

"How could you be so stupid? His son threatened X!" Logan exploded. "Watch who you're talking to!" Martha shrieked, edging closer to my father.

"Martha!" Dad's voice boomed through the room. "This is serious. He threatened to challenge anyone who mates with X. This is a huge problem!"

She noticed Dad's tone and moved to take his hand. "Who knows, maybe he'll be her mate. Besides, she's always wanted to leave, hasn't she? She could go with him. I heard he travels frequently. And having a strong mate would be good for her-"

SLAP!

The room fell silent. Everyone stared in shock.

I wasn't entirely sure what happened. One second I was looking out the window, the next... I'd crossed to Martha, faced her, and slapped her with all my strength.

Arms immediately pulled me back. No one moved to comfort Martha. She lay bleeding on

the floor, but Logan stood between us.

I didn't fight against whoever was holding me, but my fangs and claws were fully extended, ready for battle. Rage filled me, a fury I'd never experienced before burning through my veins. How dare she speak about me like that? Like I was just an object to be

disposed of, a wild animal that needed "taming." Every fiber of my being screamed for me

to lunge at her, but the rational part knew this wasn't the solution.

"Martha, go to the hospital and get checked. I command you not to tell anyone what happened," Dad sighed, still seated.

that Dad wouldn't take her side and left the room

one

glare. Only after she was gone did Dad stand up

me.

1/3

7:41 pm E

Chapter 49

my face with both hands, looking into my eyes. "Calm down. Deep breath." Dad nodded, and whoever

vacated seat.

back; I realized it was Samuel who'd

heart still

we can do right now,"

could trigger a war. We need to appear friendly. See what

unpredictable," Alpha Benedict began.

stronger than them!" William said, cracking

need to handle this correctly. So far, it's just verbal threats. He violated the treaty by entering your shop. I'll call

sighed.

safety?"

with what you're doing. So far, aside from threatening to

She can't go

and

room fell silent as everyone turned to look at me. My voice was calm, but

little girl who needed protection, and I was tired of feeling this way. Maybe I was afraid, but being afraid

me, eager to prove her

frightened little girl. No, I am Alpha Hank's daughter, an Alpha

about this," Samuel

it's like being a girl. Every day we're gendered,