Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 54

Xena's POV

"Whatever you want to call me is fine. Nice to meet you. Your house is beautiful,” I said politely, though my nerves were on fire. Being surrounded by an unfamiliar wolf pack felt more oppressive than I'd imagined. Even with their surface-level warmth, I could feel their scrutinizing gazes.

"Thank you for the compliment. I hear you're quite the busy girl, organizing many activities?" Luna Kestrel continued as the food was being served.

"Yes, ma'am. I'm in charge of all the events organized by the school. Only until graduation, of course," I replied, keeping my voice steady.

"Why haven't I seen your name on any of the lists?" she probed.

"Anonymity was part of our agreement. I do it to help the teachers, to help students who need the extra credit for college applications, and because I like keeping busy," I explained, fighting the urge to fidget under her stare.

"All that, plus a motorcycle shop?" Beta Ophelia asked, her eyebrow slightly raised.

"I plan to continue my business after graduation. It's more than just a hobby for me."

"I think that's wonderful," Luna Kestrel said with a smile, patting my shoulder and effectively ending the interrogation.

"You turn eighteen this Friday. I'm looking forward to your birthday party!" Gamma Saffron said, offering me a warm smile.

be a memorable day for

He bit into a green bean, and the conversation

on top that I was curious about. However, my appetite was practically non-existent. I tried to eat as much as I could out of politeness, but I only managed about half. When the server came to clear our plates, I noticed

1/3

Chapter 54

in the air had my stomach tied in knots, making it

think we'll skip the nightcap and have Ama show Xena where she'll be staying," Ryder said respectfully

Mike, William, Amara, Ryder, and I all stood

very much for dinner and for allowing me to stay here this week. If there's anything

Kestrel smiled at me before we turned

to me once we

drain from my body as I finally relaxed a bit. "Maybe you should learn some manners?" I

off the princess, she'll knock you

I've heard. I'm more curious about what you have planned for Helen," Mike said, racing ahead of us

Me too!"

the pack," I said as we walked into Ryder's room, which was much larger than I'd imagined, decorated in reds and blacks, very masculine and very much Ryder's style. I watched as

for an eye. Alpha Benedict won't be mad," William urged.

point, I won't make a move unless

in hand as he flipped through