Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Ryder's POV

"Let my mother take you to the bathroom to clean up, then you can join the party," I commanded. Not ideal, but there weren't many options left.

"Come along, dear. My mother wrapped her arm around the girl's shoulder, and we followed behind them. As they entered the women's restroom, Xena and I walked into the men's.

Leonard was washing his hands. His back suddenly straightened as

approached the sinks. "What's that smell?

Xena and I exchanged puzzled glances. "Blood," she shrugged. She was about to place her hands under the faucet when suddenly her back slammed against the wall. Her claws and fangs instantly appeared, a threatening growl escaping her throat.

"Damn it, Leonard, what are you doing?" I asked, preparing to intervene.

Leonard ignored Xena's hand gripping his throat, leaning in to directly scent her palm. That's when it clicked

"Shit." Xena retracted her claws and dragged him out of the bathroom.

Without even knocking, she thrust her head into the women's restroom. My mother looked utterly shocked. "What the hell, Ryder, what are you doing?"

"Bring the girl out," I said, my voice filled with authority. I watched them exchange confused glances before walking toward us. Logan stood nearby, arms crossed. The commotion we'd caused had already stopped the music, drawing a crowd. Xena stepped forward, shock washing over her face when she saw my hand still firmly gripping Leonard's throat.

"Ryder?"

wait. My mother and the girl emerged, and the moment they saw each other, they both exclaimed, "Mate!" Leonard tried to lunge toward her, but she remained frozen in place. I grabbed

outside.

out, probably concerned about what I was planning to do. Unfortunately, the crowd

frustration. Everyone except my mother, Xena, Ama, William, Logan, Penelope,

me go!"

authority was enough to make him stop struggling. The girl just stood there. I released her, maintaining several feet of distance

several people. She's frightened and needs some space,"

already dealt with those people,” Logan stepped

me. Logan nodded at me, and

pack. You'll be

took a few steps toward Leonard. He held out his hand, waiting for her to touch him. Trembling, she stretched out her hand,

1/2

Chapter 106.

was that?" she asked, looking around

forward and

closer until her arms were wrapped around him. Leonard gently pulled her into

here?" Tatum appeared in the

back. few paces,' kneeling before him. had

to keep

she's my Beta's - Leonard's - mate," Logan said