Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 53

Xena's POV

The pack house was massive in scale, yet it emanated an ancient charm. The entire

structure was built from natural stone, appearing both raw and beautiful. I found myself drawn to it involuntarily, a strange sense of familiarity washing over me, as if the building itself was calling out to me.

The old wooden floors had recently been refinished, and the smell became more noticeable the deeper we ventured into the house. Warm browns, creams, and whites complemented each other perfectly, and not a single corner harbored cobwebs, telling me his staff was well-trained. In most places, you'd find one or two, but this place was

surprisingly spotless.

A massive chandelier hung over the entryway, but it was made of wooden beads cascading downward, blending seamlessly with the overall atmosphere. The entire place gave off the

impression: we have money, but we don't flaunt it. This understated luxury made

me

appreciate Ryder even more in my heart, completely different from what I'd imagined a

werewolf leader's residence would be like.

"The top floor is reserved for the leadership family and specific guests. You'll be staying

there. My room is right here, and you'll be across the hall. My parents' room is at the end

guest rooms nearby," Ryder said as he opened

room.

decorated in cream and gray, very neutral. Nice but basic. Just a

with a

while the ground floor is specifically for guests. No one else lives in the

upstairs?" I

I can ensure your safety," Ryder's voice carried an undeniable firmness. "Maybe we should fight too, see who can make who submit," I muttered as I walked past him. I didn't actually want to challenge him, just wanted to see his

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Chapter 53

strange tension between us.

heat, my lips instantly went dry. His hand encircled my

won't be an audience," his

think you've got it wrong. I'll be the one on top," I deliberatedly left the double meanin hanging, watching as it registered in his mind. His gaze deepened, and I took a step back might as a knock came at the door. I continued

wanted to join you guys." Ama looked between Ryder and me, sensing the atmosphere. "Are we... interrupting

getting to know some things about me. Continue the tour," I said casually, though my heart was still pounding from that moment of intimacy. William wa trying hard not to laugh, and Ryder gave him a fiiiendly punch on the shoulder. Ama linked her arm

in front off an elegant door. "This

door, and my jaw dropped in surprise. It was beautiful. Bookshelves extended from floor to ceiling. Only one wall

still collecting," Ryder said,, and II moticed a hint of pride in his voice. A

shelves. I'd read most of them, some I hadn't ha the chance to read yet, and othens Id never heard of. Looking at these books, I felt a

unfamiliar environment..

or we'll never finish," Ama said softly. She knew that if it were

Chapter 53

tore my gaze away, following them

and office spaces, they opened each door, giving me